Rookies 2006

                                                                                                                        
 


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  Pitching Line = IP H R ER BB SO       

 

02 April, 2006

    ST action ...  Gavin Floyd PHI 4.0 5 4 4 2 2, 3.16 ... Jonathan Papelbon BOS 1.0 2 1 1 0 1, 5.48 ... Ian Snell PIT 5.0 10 7 6 1 3, 5.27 ... Prince Fielder MIL 0-3, .291 ... Daniel Cabrera BAL 4.0 5 3 3 4 8, 5.40 ... Nick Markakis BAL 3-4, 8th double, .358 ... Matt Cain SF 5.0 4 5 5 1 7, 7.99 ... Dewon Brazelton SD 5.0 6 5 2 2 2, 1.77 ... Josh Barfield SD 2-3, .433 ... Taylor Buchholz HOU 7.0 5 0 0 0 6, 1.50 ... Chad Billingsley LAD 5.0 4 0 0 3 4, 2.51 ... Jeff Mathis LAA 2-3 double, .306 ...

" ...  Anthony Reyes ... combined with four Redbirds relievers on a Spring Training no-hitter against visiting Norfolk, beating the Tides, 5-3, on Saturday. Reyes was efficient over the first five innings, retiring the Tides on just 52 pitches while striking out seven and walking one. The right-hander compiled a 7-6 record and a 3.64 ERA with Memphis last season. He also went 1-1 in four games and made one start for St. Louis." (MLB.com)

   Troop Movements ...  ARZ - placed Brandon Medders on the 15-day DL, assigned Casey Daigle, Jerry Gil and Carlos Quentin to minor league camp (MLC)  ...

ATL - purchased the contracts of Brian Jordan and Mike Remlinger, placed LHP Mike Hampton on the 15-day DL  ...

CHN - optioned Ryan Theriot to Triple-A, purchased the contract of Wade Miller and placed him on the 15-day DL ...

CIN - optioned Ryan Wagner to Triple-A, assigned Brian Buchanan, Quinton McCracken, Jacob Cruz and Frank Menechino to minor league camp (MLC), recalled Chris Denorfia from Triple-A,  placed Jason LaRue, Paul Wilson  on the 15-day disabled list, signed Darrell May to a minor league contract, purchased the contract of Andy Abad, designated Dane Sardinha for assignment, assigned Dewayne Wise to MLC ...

FLO - assigned Tom Wilson to MLC ...

HOU - purchased the contract of Eric Munson, assigned Kevin Orie to MLC ...

LAD - placed Jayson Werth on the 15-day DL, optioned Oscar Robles, Russell Martin to Triple-A ... 

NYN - assigned Joe Hietpas to MLC ...

PHI - -optioned Chris Roberson to Triple-A, acquired David Dellucci from TEX for Robinson Tejeda and  Jake Blalock ...

PIT - Brandon Duckworth, C.J. Nitkowski and Terry Adams assigned to MLC ...

STL - assigned Alan Benes, Brian Falkenborg to MLC, placed outfielder Larry Bigbie, Rick Ankiel on the 15-day DL  ...

SD - purchased the contract of Brian Sweeney, placed Doug Brocail, Ryan Klesko, Mike Cameron on the 15-day DL, reassigned Justin Leone, Eric Junge and Eric Valent to MLC ...

SF - optioned Kevin Correia, Elizer Alfonzo, Todd Linden to Triple-A, assigned Kevin Frandsen and Abraham Nunez to MLC, purchased the contract of Todd Greene, designated Angel Chavez for assignment, placed Armando Benitez on the 15-day DL ...

WAS - placed Pedro Astacio on the 15-day DL, recalled Jay Bergmann ...

BAL - placed Todd Williams, John Parrish  on the 15-day DL, assigned John Halama, Cory Morris, Eddy Rodriguez, Tyler Yates, Eddie Rogers and Brandon Marsters to MLC, optioned Eli Whiteside to Triple-A ...

" ...  The Orioles made their final cuts on Saturday and elected to keep Nick Markakis on board ...   "They weren't saying much. They just left me out there, playing hard every day," said Markakis, who had three hits on Saturday. "Good things happen when you do that." Markakis was one of the team's hottest hitters all spring, notching a .333 batting average with a .427 on-base mark. Despite his success, his lack of upper-level experience was a constant talking point. The former first-round pick has only played 33 games at the Double-A level, but Perlozzo said his knowledge of the strike zone is as good as anyone on the roster."  (MLB.com)

BOS - placed David Wells, Hee Seop Choi on the 15-day DL ...

CHA - signed Jose Contreras to a three-year,contract extension, placed Dustin Hermanson on the 15-day disabled list, purchased the contract of Boone Logan.  ...

CLE - purchased the contracts of Danny Graves, Todd Hollandsworth, designated Brandon Phillips, Kazuhito Tadano for assignment, optioned Jason Davis, Jason Dubois to Triple-A,  assigned Tim Laker to MLC ...

DET - purchased the contracts of Bobby Seay, Ramon Santiago, designated Frankyn German, Rob Bowen for assignment, placed Craig Dingman on the 15-day DL, placed Troy Percival on the 60-day DL

KC - purchased the contracts of Steve Stemle and Luke Hudson, placed Zack Greinke on the 60-day DL, placed Mike MacDougalMark Redman, on the 15-day disabled list, optioned Runelvys Hernandez, Joel Peralta to Triple-A , designated Steve Andrade for assignment ...

LAA - purchased the contract of Tim Salmon, designated Scott Dunn for assignment, optioned Dallas McPherson, Kendry Morales, Mike Napoli and Kevin Gregg to Triple-A, assigned Brian Specht, Jered Weaver, Curtis Pride to MLC ...

MIN - optioned Terry Tiffee to Triple-A,  assigned Jason Tyner to MLC ...

NYA - placed Carl Pavano, Aaron Small, Octavio Dotel on the 15-day DL, assigned Ramiro Mendoza, Matt Childers, Jose Veras, Omir Santos, Russ Johnson and Damian Rolls to MLC,  optioned Matt Smith, Felix Escalona to Triple-A, released Luis Garcia. ...

OAK - optioned Bobby Kielty, Santiago Casilla, Ron Flores to Triple-A ...

SEA - purchased the contract of Roberto Petagine, optioned Rene Rivera and Emiliano Fruto to Triple-A, placed Chris Snelling on 15-day DL, designated Marcos Carvajal for assignment ...

TB - purchased the contracts of Jason Childers, Ruddy Lugo and Luis Ordaz, optioned Edwin Jackson, Kevin Cash to Triple-A, assigned Russell Branyan, Greg Norton to MLC, placed Rocco Baldelli, Sean Burroughs on the 15-day disabled list, placed Shinji Mori on the 60-day DL, designated RHP Tim Corcoran for assignment  ...

TEX - signed John Wasdin to a minor league contract, placed  Adam Eaton, Gary Matthews Jr.  on the 15-day DL, designated Erasmo Ramirez for assignment, optioned Robinson Tejeda and John Rheinecker to Triple-A, assigned Adam Hyzdu to MLC, purchased the contracts of Antonio Alfonseca, Adrian Brown and D'Angelo Jimenez.  ...

TOR - designated Vince Perkins for assignment, placed A.J. Burnett on the 15-day disabled list, purchased the contracts of Jason Phillips and Brian Tallet ...

    Dewon Brazelton SD, on the rebound :

" ...  Brazelton was awarded a spot in the Padres rotation... sending veterans Woody Williams and Chan Ho Park to the bullpen for at least the first two weeks of the season ... “I feel like I've accomplished something. Not impossible, but the cards were stacked against me.” Brazelton, the third player selected in the 2001 draft, was Tampa Bay's Opening Day starter last year. But he finished the season 1-8 with a 7.61 ERA over 20 games (eight starts) to fall to 8-23 with a 5.98 ERA for his career. He also took a leave of absence to deal with personal problems. “I made mistakes, yes,” Brazelton said. “But I'm only 25. It's not right to give up on anyone at such a young age. I don't want to blow this out of proportion, but I did accomplish something and it should be applauded. I don't think you can have a worse year than I did last year.”   (San Diego Union Tribune)

    Andrew Miller continues to impress :

                 IP  H  R ER BB SO  NP
Andrew Miller   7.0  4  0  0  1  9 108

" ...  One week after shutting down No. 4 Georgia Tech for seven innings ... North Carolina left-hander Andrew Miller did the same to top-ranked Florida State Friday ... Over seven innings, Miller (6-0) allowed four hits - just one out of the infield - and walked one. He fanned nine and now has 22 strikeouts in his last 14 innings. The Gainesville, Fla., lefty gave up just two hits over the first six innings before FSU threatened in the seventh on back-to-back, two-out infield singles. On the season, Miller now has 61 strikeouts and just 10 walks in 47 innings. His fourth shutout performance of six innings or more this season, Friday's win was the 20th of Miller's career."   (UNC)

    In a report from the International League, a preview of some of the young guns who might figure in some Triple-A time this summer.

Buffalo, CLE  " ... 3B Andy Marte becomes the heir apparent to Aaron Boone at the hot corner in Cleveland ... 1B Ryan Garko is a former catcher making the full-time transition to first base. Like Marte, his bat is ready for the Major Leagues; he's in Triple-A to polish his defensive skills...OF Ben Francisco and Franklin Gutierrez are speedy outfielders who need another year in Triple-A at the plate, but could see time with Cleveland this season."

Ottawa, BAL " ...  In 2005, RHP Hayden Penn skipped Triple-A and went straight to Baltimore from Double-A Bowie, going 3-2 in eight starts with the Orioles. At Double-A, Penn posted a 7-6 mark with a 3.83 ERA in 19 starts...OF Val Majewski is looking to rebound after missing all of 2005 with a shoulder injury ... RHP Sandy Rleal could be the Lynx closer if he doesn't make the Major League club out of spring training ... Expect to see OF Nick Markakis make his Major League debut with the Orioles this season, but before that, he may spend time in a Lynx uniform. Markakis is rated the Orioles' top prospect by Baseball America ... 6'6" LHP Adam Loewen made his mark pitching for Team Canada at the World Baseball Classic ... went 10-8 with a 4.12 ERA and 146 strikeouts in 142 innings at Class-A Frederick last season."

Pawtucket, BOS  " ...  23-year-old LHP Abe Alvarez is beginning his second year at Triple-A, after a 2005 season that included an appearance in the Triple-A All-Star Game and two promotions to Boston ... LHP Jon Lester was Boston's 2005 Minor League Pitcher of the Year. He led the Double-A Eastern League in ERA (2.61), complete games (3), and strikeouts (163). His fastball tops out at 95 MPH ... Boston's 2005 Minor League Offensive Player of the Year was 2B Dustin Pedroia. Over his first two pro seasons, Pedroia has fanned only 50 times in 617 at-bats. He's equally comfortable playing second base or shortstop ... RHP Craig Hansen is Boston's closer of the not-too-distant future. Last season he became the first player in Red Sox history to reach the Major Leagues in the same year he was drafted."

Rochester, MIN  " ... [Both top prospects made the Twins' rosters but could see time in Rochester during the season.]  ...  Francisco Liriano ...  flame-throwing lefty led all of Minor League Baseball in strikeouts last year...OF Jason Kubel is the Twins' #2 prospect. He won the IL batting title (.343) and was named Rookie of the Year in 2004, but missed all of last season after injuring his knee in October 2003 at the Arizona Fall League. ...LF Alex Romero hit .301 for New Britain and was named to the Eastern League's postseason All-Star team in 2005."

Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, PHI  " ...  LHP Dan Haigwood spent 2005 in the White Sox organization, going an amazing 14-3 with a 2.82 ERA between Class-A Winston-Salem and Double-A Birmingham ...  It's very likely the Red Barons will welcome Philadelphia's top overall prospect, LHP Cole Hamels, into the fold this season. An assortment of injuries has limited Hamel to just 28 appearances over his first three professional seasons ... OF Michael Bourn adjusted well last season to a jump from low Class-A to Double-A, where he was voted as the Eastern League's most exciting player after leading the circuit in stolen bases (38)  ... LHP Gio Gonzalez went 8-3 with a 3.56 ERA last year after a promotion to Class-A Carolina. He's gained attention among scouts for his 95-MPH fastball."

Syracuse, TOR " ...  RHP Dustin McGowan is rated as Toronto's top overall prospect by Baseball America. He jumped from Double-A New Hampshire to Toronto last year after missing most of 2004 following Tommy John surgery ... RHP Josh Banks, Toronto's #5 rated prospect, is one of the best control pitchers in the Minor Leagues. He recorded 145 strikeouts and just 11 walks for New Hampshire in 2005 ... RHP Casey Janssen, Toronto's #6 prospect, was a two-way player for three years at UCLA who slipped to the fourth round in the 2004 draft, but he's moved quickly through the Blue Jays' chain."

Columbus, NYA   " ... 1B Eric Duncan ...  first round draft pick in 2003 hit 19 home runs last year for Double-A Trenton, and followed that up by being named MVP of the Arizona Fall League ...  RHP Phil Hughes, the top Yankees draft choice in 2004, is considered to be the top prospect in the organization. The 19-year-old flamethrower will likely start the season at Class-A Tampa, but should work his way up the ladder quickly."

Indianapolis, PIT  " ...  3B Jose Bautista hit .283 with 23 HR and 90 RBI for Double-A Altoona last season before being promoted to Indianapolis on August 23 ... LF Rajai Davis hit .281 and stole 45 bases for Altoona in 2005 ... Slugger Brad Eldred hit 40 HR between Altoona, Indianapolis, and Pittsburgh in 2005. He'll start this season in the Minor Leagues as he works on cutting down his number of strikeouts."

Louisville, CIN  " ...  OF Chris Denorfia is the Reds' reigning Minor League Player of the Year. He hit .330 in 46 games in Double-A and .310 in 91 Triple-A games last year before a brief big league trial ... RHP Homer Bailey, the organization's top prospect, will probably start in Double-A. The Reds have big plans for the 19-year-old, who went 8-4 with a 4.43 ERA and 125 strikeouts in his first full professional season."

Toledo, DET  " ...  With RHP Justin Verlander and Joel Zumaya making the Detroit roster in spring training, the Mud Hens will not have a single top ten prospect on the opening day roster."

Charlotte, CHA  " ...  RF Ryan Sweeney played through a wrist injury last season, his first at the Double-A level ... modest numbers, hitting .298 with 1 HR and 47 RBI. The 21-year-old has moved quickly through the Chicago farm system  ... 3B Josh Fields... top draft pick for the White Sox in 2004. Last year for Double-A Birmingham Fields hit .252 with 16 HR and 79 RBI, but also struck out 142 times."

Durham, TB  " ...  OF Delmon Young, who was the Topps Minor League Player of the Year for 2005 ... top prospect in all of baseball. Young combined to hit .315 with 26 HR and 99 RBI last season between Double-A Montgomery and Durham ... B.J. Upton ... first-round pick in 2002 ...a tendency to commit errors in bunches, which is why he hasn't stuck in the Major Leagues yet. The best news was that the IL All-Star has never taken his fielding woes to the plate ...OF Elijah Dukes, a five-tool prospect, got the No. 20 prospect ranking in the Southern League last season ... DH Wes Bankston ... hit .292 with 12 HR and 47 RBI in 301 at-bats for Montgomery last season after opening the year by hitting .387 at Class-A Visalia ... RHP Jeff Niemann, the Devil Rays' first-round pick (fourth overall) in 2004, had 11 outings in Visalia and Montgomery last season."

Norfolk, NYN  " ...  OF Lastings Milledge is a five-tool player ... batted .318 with 8 HR and 29 SB combined in stops at Class-A St. Lucie and Double-A Binghamton last year ... RHP Mike Pelfrey was New York's top draft choice in 2005 out of Wichita State. The 6'7" righty throws in the mid-90's."

Richmond, ATL  " ...  RHP Anthony Lerew went 10-6 between Double-A and Triple-A last season before making his Major League debut ... SS Tony Pena Jr. looks to improve upon his first season at the Triple-A level after hitting .249 with 5 HR, 40 RBI, and 17 SB for the 2005 R-Braves ... 20-year-old C Jarrod Saltalamacchia is among the best catching prospects in Minor League Baseball. In 2005 playing for Myrtle Beach of the Carolina League, he hit .314 with 19 HR and 81 RBI. He is likely to start the season at Double-A Mississippi."

    KC's Double-A club with some promising recruits :

" ... four No. 1 draft picks are on the roster -- third baseman Alex Gordon and outfielders Billy Butler, Chris Lubanski and Mitch Maier. Gordon, who played at Nebraska and was the college player of the year, was the No. 2 overall pick in June for the Kansas City Royals."  (Wichita Eagle)

    If you've wondered about what happened to Blake Hawkesworth ...

" ... Hawksworth is trying to overcome his health demons ...   In Hawksworth's mind, this is a make-or-break season. But St. Louis' player development staff won't go so far as to place such an unnecessary burden on the right-hander's surgically repaired shoulder. Vying for a starting role with the Springfield Cardinals most of camp, Hawksworth instead will open the year as a starting pitcher at High-A Palm Beach, Fla. The hope is that he throws so well that he garners a late-season promotion to Springfield. "He's got to prove he can stay healthy for a full year," veteran pitching coordinator Mark Riggins said. "He's got to throw 150 innings. That's what we're hoping for. You at least want him to get in 100 innings." That, of course, would appear to be some task for Hawksworth. He has thrown only 24 2/3 innings the past two seasons ...  now 23 and almost four years removed from being drafted in the 28th round ...  It was just two years ago, too, when Baseball America magazine ranked Hawksworth as the Cardinals' top prospect. "   (Springfield News-Leader)


01 April, 2006

  No April Fools' Day stuff here ... except to note George Plimpton's story on Sidd Fitch in SI was among the best of the AFD pranks ... (I think I still have a copy of that issue of Sports Illustrated). 

   Looking for a few good men and/or women ... to help provide prospect coverage during the minor league season ... 30-40 minutes a day checking box scores for a specific league ... if interested, please let me know (less than a week before the games begin) ... 

   ST action ...  Joel Zumaya DET 1.0 0 0 0 0 3, 5.52 ... Adam Wainwright STL 1.0 0 0 0 1 1, 0.57 ... Prince Fielder ML 1-4, triple ... Jeff Bannon CIN 2-4, homer ... Zach Duke PIT, not providing much confidence, 5.0 10 5 5 0 2, 7.62 ... Ryan Zimmerman WAS 2-3, 2 doubles, 8th error, .359 ... Boone Logan CHA 1.0 0 0 0 0 2, 0.69 ... Blaine Boyer ATL 1.0 1 0 0 0 0, 0.00 ... Chuck James ATL 2.0 2 0 0 0 1, 3.52 ... Kameron Loe TEX 4.0 3 1 1 2 2, 3.68 ... Mike Jacobs NYN 2-3, homer, .292 ... Ian Kinsler TEX 1-2, double, .236 ... Casey Kotchman LAA 1-3, 6th double, .442 ...

   Troop Movements ...  ARZ - released Luis Terrero ...  BOS - optioned Dustan Mohr to Triple-A ...  TB - optioned Chad Orvella to Triple-A, assigned Justin Miller, Al Reyes, Mike Rose, Luis Rivas to minor league camp (MLC), sent Chad Harville outright to Triple-A ... OAK - acquired Juan Dominguez from TEX John Rheinecker, Freddie Bynum (Bynum sent to CHN for John Koronka & PTBNL)  ... NYN - optioned Heath Bell, Yusaku Iriki to Triple-A, assigned Jose Lima to MLC, released Matt Perisho, Mike Venafro, Jeremy Hill and Kole Strayhorn, re-signed Mitch Wylie to a minor league contract. ... SEA - returned Luis Gonzalez, a Rule 5 pick, to LAD, claimed Guillermo Quiroz off waivers from TOR .. CIN - released Tommy Phelps, placed Grant Balfour on the 60-day disabled list, claimed Jon Coutlangus off waivers from SF ... TOR - placed Gregg Zaun on the 15-day disabled list ... HOU - placed Raul Chavez on waivers (claimed by BAL) .. PIT - optioned Jody Gerut to Triple-A, assigned Brandon Duckworth to MLC, purchased the contract of Jose Hernandez, placed Bryan Bullington on the 60-day disabled list ... MIN - optioned Jason Bartlett to Triple-A ... TEX - placed Josh Rupe, C.J. Wilson, Frank Francisco, Marshall McDougall on the 15-day disabled list ... COL - designated Jaime Cerda for assignment ... LAD - acquired Wilson Valdez from KC for Jarod Plummer ... BAL - released Desi Relaford ... FLO - placed Michael Megrew on the 15-day disabled list ... ATL - optioned Joey Devine, James Jurries to Triple-A, sent Brad Baker outright to Triple-A, placed Macay McBride, Kelly Johnson, John Foster on the 15-day disabled list  ...  CLE - assigned Einar Diaz and Steve Karsay to MLC ...

" ... Minnesota Twins pitcher Francisco Liriano was arrested and charged with drunken driving, but his team said he still could begin the season with the club. The 22-year-old left-hander was released on $500 bond, the Lee County Jail said. He is to return to Cape Coral for a court date that has not yet been set." (AP)

   David Regan, RotoAmerica, highlights the PIT system :

" ...  #2 Andrew McCutchen ...  debut was impressive, as he showed an advanced approach at the plate. Should eventually develop 30 HR power as he fills out and develops. Very good speed (think 40 steals in his prime) and solid defense. Arm is average, but he should be able to handle CF with his athleticism. He's talented and advanced, so after starting 2006 in Low A, he could advance quicker than expected."

" ... #1 Neil Walker ...  a switch-hitting catcher capable of hitting for both average and power. He projects as a .300/30/100 type middle-of-the-order threat and could eventually provide Jason Bay some legitimate protection in the Pittsburgh lineup. As a catcher, he has a very strong arm but shows some inconsistency with his footwork and throwing mechanics. Some scouts feel that he'll eventually move to the outfield or 3B, a position that he's actually taken some practice at in the Arizona Fall League. "

   Jonathan Mayo, MLB.com, reviews the WSox farm :

" ...  Josh Fields ...  As good an athlete as Fields is, he's a better person. All he needs to be ready for the big leagues is more at-bats, as he's just a few years removed from being a two-sport college star. He's got 25-homer, 100-RBI potential once he refines his hitting approach. His defense may be a touch behind his bat, but he shouldn't have any problems staying at third. He'll spend the year in Charlotte, knowing that Joe Crede's contract is up at the end of the year."

" ... Ray Liotta ... The 2004 draftee has all the tools to succeed as a left-hander at the upper levels. His curve has the potential to be a Major League out pitch, Liotta just needs to find more consistency with it. His fastball is at least Major League average for a lefty, maybe a tick above. His development last year made it easier for the White Sox to deal two other talented lefties in the Jim Thome trade. He'll continue his quick march to the big leagues by starting the year in Double-A Birmingham."

    Jorge Arangure Jr., Washington Post, on Sendy Rleal BAL:

" ...   A complete unknown five weeks ago, the 25-year-old Rleal (pronounced ray-AL) is on the verge of making the big league team ... Last season he had a 2.04 ERA for Class AA Bowie and saved 16 games after Ray was called up to the majors. A wicked change-up has made him a sensation this spring. Though Rleal throws 91-93 mph, relatively tame by major league standards, he deceives hitters with the change-up, a pitch he can throw for a strike in any count. Rleal is fearless with the pitch. "It doesn't matter what the count is, I'll throw it," Rleal said ... Rleal's potential has put Orioles Manager Sam Perlozzo in a bind this spring. "It's been one of the toughest things to put together," Perlozzo said of his bullpen."

    Chris Kline, Baseball America, on Fausto Carmona CLE :

" ...  Carmona, 22, separated himself this spring with outstanding command of his 95 mph fastball, and he has tightened up his slider. He might not ever rack up huge strikeout numbers, but Carmona gets outs by consistently pounding the zone and keeping the ball down. "He really put himself in a different place with the way he pitched this spring as far as poise, command and control and just the way he went about his business," Shapiro [general manager Mark Shapiro] said. "There wasn't any outward sign of how old he is or how much experience he had coming in. That said, because he's so young and because we have quality pitching at the big league level not only with who we brought in during the offseason, but with the homegrown pitchers here--he needs some more time in Triple-A."

    COL's Double-A infield quite a quality quartet :

" ...  the opening day roster will include the top two prospects in the Colorado Rockies minor league system. Number one prospect Ian Stewart will begin the year as the starting third baseman. The soon to be 21-year-old was one of the top hitters for the Rockies during Major League camp this spring. Stewart hit .396 in 48 at-bats and led the Rockies with 5 home runs and 14 runs batted in. He will be joined on the left side of the Tulsa infield by shortstop Troy Tulowitski. Tulowitski was Colorado's first pick in the June draft last year out of Long Beach State. He hit .266 with 4 homers for Class A Modesto. He has only 22 games of professional baseball experience. A pair of returnees will join Stewart and Tulowitski on the infield. Matt Macri will start at second base, and Joe Koshansky will begin the season at first base. After playing in 64 games for Modesto, Macri played in only one game for the Drillers last season before a wrist injury ended his season. Koshansky came to Tulsa late in 2005 and hit .267 with 2 home runs in 12 games "  (Tulsa Drillers)


31 March, 2006

   Looking for a few good men and/or women ... to help provide prospect coverage during the minor league season ... 30-40 minutes a day checking box scores for a specific league ... if interested, please let me know (less than a week before the games begin) ... 

   ST action ... Joey Devine ATL 1.0 2 1 0 1 3, 2.45 ... Sendy Rleal BAL 2.0 1 0 0 0 0, 0.75 ... Nick Markakis BAL 3-4, double, walk, .344 ... Matt Kemp LAD 0-4, .103 ... Matt Moses MIN, making the most of a turn in the lineup, 3-4, homer ... Jason Kubel MIN 2-3, double, .268 ... Anderson Hernanez NYN 3-5, .295 ... Edwin Jackson TB 5.2 4 3 3 3 3, 5.16 ... Rich Hill CHN 2.0 2 2 2 4 3, 7.20 ... Dallas McPherson LAA 0-2, .195 ... putting an exclamation mark on his spring campaign, Josh Barfield SD 4-4, 11th double, 18th RBI, .436 ... Ian Kinsler TEX 0-3, .226 ... Gerald Laird TEX 1-1, homer, .343 ... Jered Weaver LAA 5.0 2 0 0 1 4 ... Kenji Johjima SEA 1-3, 2nd homer ... Joe Borchard SEA 0-3, 2 Ks, .288 ... 

   Troop Movements ... DET - optioned Roman Colon to Triple-A ... CHN - optioned Roberto Novoa to Triple-A ... PIT - assigned Giovanni Carrara to minor league camp (MLC) ... WAS - released Michael Tucker, assigned Kevin Gryboski, Alberto Castillo to MLC, sent Travis Hughes outright to Triple-A, purchased the contract of Wiki Gonzalez ... HOU - acquired Cody Ransom from SEA, Joe McEwing from KC ... SD - released Andy Ashby, signed Brian Sikorski to a minor league contract and assigned to Triple-A ... NYA - assigned Scott Erickson to MLC ... TOR - assigned Lee Gronkiewicz, Kevin Barker to MLC ... MIL - placed Ben Sheets on the 15-day disabled list, optioned Mike Adams to Triple-A ...TEX -  assigned Jon Leicester outright to Triple-A ... ARZ - waived Luis Terrero, optioned Jeff Bajenaru to Triple-A ... MLB - suspended Julian Tavarez BOS 10 days ... 

   Only the Top 10 left to go as Aaron Gleeman, The Hardball Times, updates his Top 50.

" ...  11) Daric Barton  ... made the full-time switch from catcher to first base in 2005. He's reportedly still rough around the edges defensively, but Barton's outstanding hitting didn't miss a beat. He hit .318 at Single-A and .316 at Double-A, combining for 13 homers, 52 total extra-base hits, and 97 walks in 135 games. The most impressive parts of Barton's game are his ability to post big batting averages (.311 in 279 pro games) and his remarkable plate discipline and strike-zone control (171-to-203 strikeout-to-walk ratio), and the biggest question mark is whether or not his power will develop significantly. Right now Barton looks capable of 15-20 homers per year in the majors, which along with the great on-base skills would make him an excellent player (think Nick Johnson without the injuries). However, the fact that he doesn't turn 21 years old until August gives some hope that he can eventually generate 30-homer power and become an offensive monster."

" ... 13) Chris Young  ...  tends to get overlooked because his batting average leaves a lot to be desired and he strikes out a lot ...  if you look beyond batting average you will see a player who does just about everything else extremely well. Young is a well-regarded defensive center fielder, draws tons of walks for someone so young, has outstanding power, and has 63 steals at an 81 percent clip over the past two years ...  when it comes to name recognition he might be the most underrated top prospect in baseball."

   Jason Ratliff, MLB.com, has a look at the CLE farm headed by such luminaries as Jeremy Sowers and Andy Marte.  Here's a couple of under-the-radar guys :

" ...  Stephen Head ...  got his rookie season off to a blistering start by hitting six home runs in his first 10 games at Mahoning Valley before being bumped up two steps to High-A Kinston. The 6-foot-3, 220-pound first baseman more than held his own there, too, batting .286 with four homers and 36 RBIs in 47 games. Overall, he hit .308/.349/.513 with 10 roundtrippers and 50 RBIs. Based on that success, Head could have a monster year as he returns to the Carolina League to start 2006."

" ... Brad Snyder ...  Through his first three professional seasons, Snyder's extra-base hit and home run numbers have increased each year, and he's averaged over 15 stolen bases for every 100 games played. His tools and athleticism are as good as those of any offensive player in the Indians' system. The one glaring area of concern is the left-hander's propensity to swing at pitches out of the strike zone ... His primary area of focus heading into the 2006 season, fittingly, is improving his two-strike approach in order to cut down on his strikeouts (158 in 133 games in '05) and reduce the number of times he gets himself out."

   Jim Callis, Baseball Amercia, on Neil Walker PIT :

" ...  For now, I'd do what the Pirates are going to: let him catch. In almost every case, it behooves a team to try a player at a more difficult defensive position until he proves he can't handle it. He has the tools to catch and he's more athletic than most backstops, but he can get sloppy with his throwing mechanics and his blocking skills. If he can smooth out that part of the game and make it as a catcher, Walker will be more valuable than he would be at third base. However, my gut feel is that when we hear that a young player may have to shift positions, that usually comes true. If defensive shortcomings are evident against inferior competition, they're going to be more glaring in the major leagues. Also, as Ian notes, catching would take away from Walker's bat. Some scouts project him as a .300 hitter with 25-30 homers annually, and that would make him a star at third base. My guess is in the long run, he winds up moving from behind the plate."

   Ken Rosenthal, FOXSports.com, with his picks for 2006 ROY awards:

" ...  Prince Fielder ... Favorite race of 'em all — Marlins right fielder Jeremy Hermida, Nationals third baseman Ryan Zimmerman and Diamondbacks first baseman Conor Jackson are among the other legitimate candidates. Fielder figures to draw more attention playing for a team on the rise, and also figures to hit for the most power — though D-Backs manager Bob Melvin predicts that Jackson will be a "monster."

" ... Brian Anderson ...  It's difficult to go against a player at an up-the-middle position, though Anderson faces unique pressure taking over center for the defending World Series champions. Mariners catcher Kenji Johjima could join Hideo Nomo, Ichiro and Kazuhiro Sasaki among Japanese winners of the rookie award, but as a catcher he faces a more profound adjustment. Look out for Indians third baseman Andy Marte if he arrives at midseason — not to mention the Twins' latest left-handed wonder, Francisco Liriano."

   Zack Greinke KC, Dustin Pedroia BOS, light at the end of the tunnel.

" ...  “He’s progressing nicely at this point,” general manager Allard Baird said Wednesday. “He sounds happy, but there is still no official timetable for when he will return.” ... Several sources told The Star that Greinke recently underwent a formal psychological evaluation to determine the specific nature of his emotional issues. Those same sources said treatment through medication is likely ...   “He seems to be doing better,” manager Buddy Bell said. “He’s beginning to talk about coming back. That’s a good sign.” A best-case scenario now calls for Greinke to return in mid-April to extended spring training ... before starting a rehab pitching assignment in the minors that can last up to 30 days."  (Kansas City Star) 

" ... Highly-touted prospect Dustin Pedroia will stay in extended Spring Training as he continues to recover from a strained left shoulder. "I'm going to stay down here and get 25, 30 at-bats," said Pedroia. "I think I'm going to miss 12 games, 10 games, something like that, then I'll catch up with Pawtucket in Durham. It will be good. I haven't had any at-bats since my first swing [of Spring Training]."  (MLB.com)


30 March, 2006

   ST action ...  Jason Kubel MIN 1-3, 1st homer, 3 RBI, .245 ... in relief, Francisco Liriano MIN 3.0 4 3 3 0 3, 6.43 ... Hanley Ramirez FLO 2-4, 4th SB, .328 ... Jeremy Hermida FLO 1-2, walk, .258 ... Brandon Phillips CLE 1-3, 3rd homer, .316 ... Kelly Shoppach CLE 0-4, .156 ... Blaine Boyer ATL 0.1 2 0 0 1 0, 0.00 ... Chris Coste PHI, 33-year-old with a chance to stick on the opening day roster, 2-4, double, .474 ... Russ Martin LAD 1-2, double, .333 ... Ryan Zimmerman WAS 2-3, 2 walks, .342 ...  Brandon Wood LAA 2-4, homer ... Mike Napoli LAA 2-2, homer ... Juan Cruz ARZ 3.0 0 0 0 1 3 ... Conor Jackson ARZ 1-2, double, walk, .438 ... maybe he'll win a spot after all, Joe Borchard SEA 2-4, 4th homer, .290 ... Josh Barfield SD 2-3, double, 2 RBI, .392 ... 

   Troop Movements ...  CLE - signed Grady Sizemore to a 6-year contract ... DET - optioned Nook Logan to Triple-A, assigned Mark Woodyard, Hector Mercado, Don Kelly, Alexis Gomez to minor league camp (MLC), claimed Rob Bowen off waivers from MIN, announced Carlos Pena cleared waivers, making him a free agent ... MIN - assigned Dennys Reyes, Shawn Wooten, Glenn Williams to MLC, returned Rule 5 selection, Jason Pridie, to TB (assigned to Triple-A) ... SEA - optioned Clint NageotteMike Morse to Triple-A, assigned Kevin Appier, Scott Atchison, Francisco Cruceta, Greg DobbsAdam Jones, Corky Miller to MLC ... TEX - optioned Juan Dominguez to Tripe-A, assigned Jose Silva to MLC, released John Wasdin ... CHN - optioned Rich Hill to Triple-A, assigned Michael Restovich to MLC ... CIN - optioned William Bergolla, Matt Kata, Brian Shackelford to Triple-A ... FLO - released Lenny Harris, Kerry Ligtenberg, assigned Matt Cepicky, Mike Kinkade to Triple-A, optioned Scott Olsen to Triple-A ...  LAD - signed Jeff Kent on a one-year contract extension, recalled Tim Hamulack, placed Cesar Izturis on the 15-day disabled list   ... PHI - released RHP Ricardo Rodriguez ... PIT - assigned Scott Strickland, Britt Reames, Mike Edwards to MLC, optioned Jose BautistaRonny Paulino to Triple-A ... KC - optioned Aaron Guiel to Triple-A, Leo Nunez to Double-A, assigned Joe McEwing to MLC ... BAL - released Geromino Gil ...  NYA - assigned  Keith McDonald to MLC ... HOU - released Steve Sparks ... PHI - optioned Robinson Tejeda, Eude Brito to Triple-A, placed Chris Booker on the 15-day disabled list ... NYN - released Tike Redman ... LAD - released Brian Meadows ... MIN - placed Dave Gassner on the 15-day disabled list ... LAA - optioned Chris Bootcheck, Reggie Willits to Triple-A ... STL - released Deivi Cruz, optioned John Gall, Chris Duncan to Triple-A ... SF - purchased the contract of Jamey Wright, designed Jon Coutlangus for assignment ... 

   Gavin Floyd PHI, a starting role :

" ...  The talented right-hander put his 2005 ills firmly in the rear-view mirror and showed he belongs in a Major League rotation. His performance has many in the organization convinced that he's poised to live up to the potential of a former No. 4 overall draft pick. "He's had a good spring. He's done a good job," said general manager Pat Gillick. "Coming into Spring Training, I didn't really have any expectations for him because he didn't have a good 2005 season and didn't pitch particularly well in Puerto Rico. He exceeded my expectations because he wasn't a guy who would have even been considered for somewhere in the pitching staff." Floyd as the No. 5 starter sets off a chain reaction in which one of the Ryans -- Madson or Franklin -- shifts to the bullpen."  (MLB.com) 

   A spring surprise for the Mets' Brian Bannister :

" ...  Bannister will become the third rookie starting pitcher to begin a season with the Mets in a four-season span ... . last season, when he seamlessly moved from Double-A to Triple-A. He won nine of 13 decisions in 18 starts with Binghamton and four of five decisions with Norfolk. He didn't necessarily "put Triple-A behind him" as Bobby Valentine used to say. But this spring, as Yogi Berra used to say, "he exceeded expectations and more." Bannister's 1-2 record meant nothing, and really, neither did the 0.95 ERA he produced in five games (three starts) and 19 innings ... What impressed his manager and coaches was his ability to control his pitches and his emotions. General managers and their player development staff like to see how a player handles adversity. Bannister endured an ugly second inning against the Astros on Sunday. He hit a batter and walked in a run. But he minimized the damage -- one run -- and subsequenly retired 10 of 12 batters."  (MLB.com)

   A pair of once highly-rated first baseman are included in the "make or break" chart by Dayn Perry and FOXSports :

" ...  3. James Loney, ...  has a picture-perfect swing, quick wrists through the zone and good raw-power skills. On the downside, he's been hurt often, and, in a related matter, he's yet to produce on an extended basis. Still, Loney picked up the pace in the second half last season, and he's a Gold Glove-caliber defender at first. This spring, he tore it up in Grapefruit League play (32 ABs, .438 AVG, .625 SLG). If he's able to avoid injury, then Loney might have that long-awaited breakout season. Keep in mind he's still only 21."

" ... 6. Michael Aubrey ...  Most scouts thought Aubrey was the second-most gifted college hitter in the 2003 draft (behind only Rickie Weeks). He's occasionally shown flashes of that promise, but overall Aubrey has been a bit of a disappointment. Aubrey is a skilled defender, and he can hit for average. However, the secondary skills are lacking. He's been unable to command the strike zone or hit for power in the high minors, and he also missed time with a back injury last season. He could be John Olerud, or he could be Rico Brogna. The 2006 season will help us figure out which one."

   Jason Ratliff, MLB.com, includes a pair of 2005 underachievers in his MIN prospect report :

" ... Matt Moses ...  the 21-year-old third baseman tapered off after an All-Star first half in the Florida State League. The former first-round pick hit .306/.376/.453 with seven homers, 42 RBIs and 13 stolen bases in 73 games for Class A Fort Myers before struggling through 48 games at New Britain. Not only did his average drop nearly 100 points to .210, but his walk-to-strikeout ratio jumped from 1:2 to nearly 1:4. And it only got worse in the hitter-friendly AFL, where he walked just once while striking out 16 times in 69 at-bats while batting .275. He'll get another crack at Eastern League pitching in '06 and, with a good showing, could be in line for the Twins' third base job after Tony Batista's one-year deal expires."

" ... Glen Perkins ...  started out like gangbusters at Class A Fort Myers before dropping off in the second half at New Britain and then finishing the season in the Arizona Fall League. The 6-foot left-hander was 3-2 with a 2.13 ERA, .205 OPP AVG and 66 strikeouts in 55 innings for the Miracle before going 4-4 with a 4.90 ERA for the Rock Cats, with Eastern League hitters batting .263 off him. Perhaps the most impressive portion of Perkins' season was in the Arizona Fall League, where he was one of only six pitchers to record an ERA below 3.00 and led the circuit in strikeouts with 39 in 32 innings."

   Hmmmm. Feeling old.  Seems it was just yesterday when he was a hot prospect.

" ...  Ryan Minor is ready to walk away from his playing days ... The third baseman, who played for the Lancaster Barnstormers last season, has announced his retirement and has accepted a coaching position with the Road Warriors ... Minor was a two-sport star at the University of Oklahoma and was drafted by both the Baltimore Orioles and Philadelphia 76ers in 1996. After choosing baseball over basketball, he ascended quickly through the Orioles’ system. He played 142 games in the majors from 1999-2001, but struggled at the plate batting .177."  (Lancaster Intelligencer Journal)


29 March, 2006

   ST action ... Kyle Davies ATL 5.0 8 3 3 2 5, 1.89 ... Chuck James ATL 2.0 2 1 1 0 1, 4.05 ... Joel Zumaya DET 1.0 1 0 0 0 1, 5.93 ... Scott Baker MIN 6.0 4 3 3 1 2, 3.52 ... Jason Kubel MIN, RF, 1-3, double, .240 ... Reggie Abercrombie FLO 1-2, even a walk, .386 ... Sendy Rleal BAL 1.0 0 0 0 0 1, 0.90 ... Nick Markakis BAL 0-3, .321 ... Paul Maholm PIT 5.0 2 3 3 3 5, 7.83 ... Boone Logan CHA 1.0 0 0 0 0 1, 0.79 ... Angel Pagan CHN 2-4, 4th homer, .405 ... Joe Borchard SEA, a short-lived opportunity (see below) 2-3, .276 ... Dewon Brazelton SD  3.1 1 0 0 0 1, 1.17 ... Josh Barfield SD 1-4, homer, 3 RBI, .375 ... Dallas McPherson LAA 0-2, .200 ... another TEX starter tries to pitch himself off the roster, Juan Dominguez 4.0 5 4 4 3 1, 8.44 ... Ian Kinsler TEX 1-3, double, .234 ... Bill Bray WAS 1.0 1 0 0 0 0, 6.23 ... Ryan Zimmerman WAS 2-4, 6th & 7th homers, 3 RBI, 7th error, .329 ...  could be the beginning of a breakout, Prince Fielder MIL 3-4, homer, .304 ... 

   Troop Movements ... BAL - purchased the contract of Jim Brower, assigned Napoleon Calzado, Howie Clark, Vic Darensbourg, Eddy Garabito, Esix Snead to minor league camp (MLC), placed Aaron Rakers on the 60-day disabled list  ... CLE - signed Felix Heredia to a minor league contract ... KC - claimed Tony Graffanino off waivers from BOS and Steve Andrade from SD, designated Chip Ambres for assignment, placed Bobby Madritsch on the 60-day DL ... LAA - assigned Jason Bulger, Scott Dunn to MLC ... TOR -  assigned James Baldwin to MLC ... CHN - acquired Lincoln Holdzkom and Zach McCormack from FLO for Todd Wellemeyer, announced the retirement of Marquis Grissom, placed Kerry Wood, Mark Prior on the 15-day disabled list, optioned Angel Guzman, Jae Kuk Ryu and David Aardsma to Triple-A, assigned C Casey Kopitzke to MLC ... COL - optioned J.D. Closser, Jeff Baker to MLC, assigned Jose Acevedo, Miguel Asencio, Carlos Rivera and Ian Stewart to MLC ... ATL - optioned Brayan Pena, Tony Pena Jr. to Triple-A ...  LAD - optioned outfielder Joel Guzman, Willy Aybar to Triple-A  ...  CIN - acquired Ryan Jorgensen from FLO for Carlos Piste ... WAS - optioned Ryan Church to Triple-A , purchased the contracts of Royce Clayton, Daryle Ward, transferred Brian Lawrence, Luis Ayala from the 15-day to the 60-day disabled list, optioned Jay Bergmann, Brendan Harris to Triple-A, assigned Bill Bray to MLC .... TB - assigned Wayne Franklin to MLC, optioned Tim Corcoran to Triple-A ... ARZ - assigned Randy Choate to MLC ... SD - acquired Aquilino Lopez from PHI for Matt Thayer and Trey Johnston ... BOS - optioned Craig Hansen, Manny Delcarmen to Triple-A ... MIL - waived Kane Davis ... NYN - placed Kaz Matsui on the 15-day disabled list, optioned Jeff KeppingerRoyce Ring to Triple-A, assigned Tike Redman, Lastings Milledge, Sandy Martinez and Todd Self to MLC ... 

   Ooops ... SEA now reports Jeremy Reed might be in the Opening Day lineup :

" ... An intensive series of tests performed on the broken right wrist of Mariners center fielder Jeremy Reed has found that the wrist is not broken. The initial X-ray picked up a fracture that team trainer Rick Griffin said could have been 12 or 18 years old. ''However old the fracture is, it's completely healed,'' Griffin said Tuesday morning ... There is a chance he could be in the Opening Day lineup, but that seems unlikely. However, there's a much better chance that he won't go on the disabled list."  (SEA Post-Intelligencer)

   Jonathan Mayo, MLB.com, checks in with his Top 50.  Had to slip down into the 30's before there's any hint of a sleeper (Delmon, Jeremy, Brandon 1-2-3).  

" ...  30 Philip Hughes ...  jumps onto the fast track this season with a leap up to Double-A. It's not out of the question he'll see the Bronx by September, then challenge for a rotation spot next spring."

' ... 31 John Danks ...  One of the vaunted "DVD" trio, Danks usually dominates a level, gets promoted, then struggles. He then goes back to that level the next year and dominates. He should then be ready by midseason 2007."

" ... 34 Scott Elbert ... His progression last year helped the Dodgers part with Chuck Tiffany. LA hasn't hesitated in pushing young pitchers, but with depth ahead, Elbert can proceed at regular speed."

" ... 50 Fausto Carmona ... Knocking on the door to the big leagues, Carmona has the stuff, but perhaps not quite the consistency, to be in the big leagues right now. He had an outstanding spring and join Sowers in an outstanding Buffalo rotation."

   Aaron Gleeman, The Hardball Times, creeps up to No. 16 on his Top 50.

" ... 16) Chad Billingsley ... very similar to Cain. Both are big right-handers who throw hard and rack up tons of strikeouts. They were both first-round picks out of high school who were born in late 1984 and both have moved relatively quickly through the minor leagues. Cain reached the majors last season and has a rotation spot locked up for 2006 while Billingsley's last stop was Double-A, but I actually like Billingsley slightly more over the long haul. Most reports have his secondary pitches ahead of Cain's at this stage in their development, he doesn't have the same sort of checkered injury history, and he made a lot of progress with his control last season while Cain was walking a batter every other inning. They're both extremely good prospects, of course, but those are the sorts of seemingly minor differences that cause one guy to be ranked 20th and another to be ranked 16th."

" ...  21) Andy LaRoche ...  with Guzman making the switch to the outfield this spring the path has been cleared for Andy LaRoche to be the Dodgers' third baseman of the future. LaRoche has smacked 53 homers and 114 total extra-base hits in 260 pro games, including 21 homers in 63 games at Single-A and another nine in 64 games at Double-A last season to cement his standing as one of baseball's top power-hitting prospects. His relatively low strikeout rate makes him anything but an all-or-nothing slugger and LaRoche is a former shortstop who is considered a good defender at third ...  If LaRoche spends the bulk of the year teeing off on Triple-A pitching at hitter-friendly Las Vegas, his power numbers will be scary good."

   Take the 5th ... 

" ...  The Cubs' No. 5 job is still completely up in the air, with all three candidates continuing to pitch well. I think that even if Sean Marshall performs admirably the rest of the way, he'll get sent down since he hasn't pitched more than a handful of games above Class A. That leaves Angel Guzman and Rich Hill. My money's on Guzman. His upside is much higher than Hill's, and if he continues to prove that he's healthy, he's the best option they've got. It may not be determined until right before one of them is needed on April 15." (Mayo, MLB.com)

   Andrew Miller, North Carolina, named the Pitcher of the Week in the Atlantic Coast Conference.  

Player          ERA W-L GS CG  IP   H  R ER BB SO   
Andrew Miller  1.58 5-0  6  0 40.0 27 10  7  9 52  

28 March, 2006

   ST action ... seems to have turned the corner, Gavin Floyd PHI (4-0, 2.08) 6.0 4 1 1 0 1 ... Daniel Cabrera BAL, a hot commodity in many drafts this year, 4.0 5 3 3 4 6, 4.91 ... Josh Willingham FLO 2-2, 3rd & 4th homers, 3 RBI, walk, .448 ... a little breakout, Jeremy Hermida FLO 3-4, double, .250 ... Taylor Buchholz HOU 6.0 2 0 0 1 5, 1.96 ... Justin Verlander DET 5.0 5 3 3 5 4, 3.38 ... Jason Kubel MIN 0-2, .234 ... Russ Martin LAD 0-2, 2 walks, .324 ... Joel Guzman LAD 1-3, walk, .296 ... Matt Cain SF, could he be headed for some time in the minors?, 5.1 8 5 5 3 3, 7.71 ... Joey Devine ATL 1.0 1 0 0 0 0, 2.70 ... Ian Snell PIT 5.0 5 4 4 2 4, 4.03 ... Ian Stewart COL 2-5, .396 ... Prince Fielder MIL 0-3, .262 ... Dallas McPherson LAA 2-2, double, homer, .212 ... Edinson Volquez TEX, this should guarantee he starts the season in the minors, 3.0 7 6 6 2 2, 8.36 ... Joe Borchard SEA, this won't help win the CF spot, 0-4, 3 Ks, .255 ... Laynce Nix TEX 3-4, double, 2 homers, 7 RBI, ..239

   Troop Movements ... SD - released Brian Sikorski, Jason Anderson & Walter Young outright to Triple-A, optioned Pete Laforest to Triple-A, assigned Seth Etherton, Jon Adkins, Ryan Meaux, Ricky Gutierrez and Jack Cust to minor league camp (MLC) ... NYN - released Mitch Wylie ... CHA - assigned Javier Lopez, Tim Redding to MLC ... CIN - reassigned Jake Robbins to MLC, released Stephen Smitherman ... KC - assigned Chris Clapinski, Benji Gil, Wilson Valdez, Mike Coolbaugh, Alex Gordon to MLC, Paul Phillips to Triple-A ... WAS - placed Robert Fick, Cristian Guzman, Ryan Drese, Luis Ayala, Brian Lawrence on the 15-day disabled list ... HOU - assigned Carlos Hernandez to MLC, optioned Humberto Quintero to Triple-A ... ARZ - optioned Dustin Nippert, Stephen Drew, Alberto Callaspo and Scott Hairston to Triple-A,  assigned Mike Koplove, Juan Brito and Brian Barden to MLC ... LAD - assigned Kelly Wunsch to MLC, optioned Tim Hamulack, D.J. Houlton and Jonathan Brazoban to Triple-A  ... SF - assigned Pedro Liriano to MLC, optioned Brad Hennessey, Merkin Valdez and Daniel Ortmeier to Triple-A  ... FLO - optioned Nate Bump to Triple-A ...  TEX - released Erubiel Durazo ... PHI - optioned Cole Hamels to Single-A Clearwater; assigned Aquilino Lopez, Yoel Hernandez to MLC ... NYA - optioned Colter Bean to Triple-A , assigned Mark Corey, Dusty Bergman to MLC ... 

   One more installment in Aaron Gleeman's Top 50 at The Hardball Times.

" ...  30) Jarrod Saltalamacchia ...  broke out in a big way at high Single-A last year. He batted .314/.394/.519 with 19 homers and 55 total extra-base hits in 129 games, establishing himself as perhaps the catching prospect with the highest ceiling in all of baseball. A switch-hitter, Saltalamacchia combines the ability to post big batting averages with elite power potential and quality plate discipline ... There are two reasons why I don't have Saltalamacchia ranked even higher. One is that I try to be conservative with catchers who haven't yet advanced past the low minors. The other reason, specific to Saltalamacchia, is that by the time he gets to the majors it may not be as a catcher. While considered a solid defender behind the plate, Saltalamacchia is 6-foot-4 and adding more bulk as he matures may force a move to first base ... Plus, the Braves already have an extremely promising young catcher in Brian McCann, who made a great impression as a rookie after ranking as the #41 prospect on this very list last year."

" ... 26) Justin Huber ...  made the full-time switch to first base in 2005. While he would have been more valuable as a catcher and is now a work in progress defensively at first base, Huber has more than enough potential offensively to be an impact player there. Huber began last season at Double-A, where he hit .343/.432/.570 with 16 homers and 74 RBIs in 88 games before a promotion to Triple-A. He continued to put up big numbers there, hitting .274/.374/.531 with seven homers in 32 games, but then struggled in a 25-game stint with the Royals ... Regardless of the Royals' ineptitude and assuming they realize what they have in Huber at some point, he's one of the game's best hitting prospects."

   Jonathan Mayo, MLB.com, posts a preview of the Royals' young guns and includes a couple of guys not named Butler or Gordon :

" ...  Chris Lubanski ...  When drafted in 2003, Lubanski looked like a speedster who might have some power. Now he looks like a guy who's going to have a lot of power with some speed to boot. He tied for second in the Minor Leagues with 116 RBIs and hit 28 homers while finishing with a .301 average. He certainly took advantage of the friendly confines in High Desert, hitting .359, with 19 of his homers coming at home ... capped that off by going 13-for-15 in the playoffs. His basestealing skills improved at the same time as he was thrown out just once in 15 attempts all year ... He'll be Wichita's center fielder to start the season."

" ... Jeff Bianchi ... The high school shortstop got only 98 at-bats in the rookie-level Arizona League due to a lower back strain. The back isn't a long-term worry and the Royals are looking forward to getting a longer look at him this year. Bianchi's got terrific speed and can make the plays at short, despite not having the strongest arm. He generates fair power with good bat speed. With Chris McConnell ahead of him, Bianchi likely will hang back in extended Spring Training before heading to Idaho Falls."

   At Inside The Dugout, Terry Borning offers a PHI prospect report :

" ...  2-Gio Gonzalez ...   impressive in three different minor league stops. He is a three pitch pitcher who throws a fastball in the low 90s, a good changeup, and a hammer curveball. One drawback is that he is on the smallish side (5'11"). He came over from the White Sox in the Jim Thome deal, and should move up to AA this season, with a possible callup sometime in 2007."

" ... 4-Michael Bourn  ... Bourn's game is speed, he is the fastest player in the Phillies organization. A 4th round draft pick, Bourn's stock soared with his 2004 campaign in the SAL, hitting .317 with 57 steals and a .433 OBP, drawing 85 walks to 88 steals. Upon advancing to AA Reading last year, Bourn's numbers faded while not disappointing. His K/BB ratio ballooned to 123/63 and his average fell to .268, while his steals were still an impressive 38. The decline in numbers is attributed to a two-level jump, he should start in AA again this year to gain confidence. His defense is a plus, and he profiles somewhat similarly to Kenny Lofton."


27 March, 2006

   ST action ... Blaine Boyer ATL 1.0 0 0 0 0 1, 0.00 ... Craig Hansen BOS 2.0 0 0 0 1 0, 0.00 ... Adam Stern BOS 2-4, double, .367  ... Edwin Encarnacion CIN 0-3, K, 2 errors, .418 ...  Ryan Zimmerman WAS 2-5, 4th & 5th homers, 4 RBI, .318 ... is it time to worry? -  Zach Duke PIT 4.0 11 8 6 1 0, 7.29 ... Guillermo Quiroz TOR 0-4, .107 ... Scott Olsen FLO 5.1 3 1 1 2 4, 2.75 ... Jeremy Hermida FLO 0-2, walk, .214 ... Dan Uggla FLO 2-3, double,, .283 ... Joe Zumaya DET 1.0 1 2 2 1 0, 6.39 ... Kameron Loe TEX Loe 6.0 6 3 3 2 3, 4.22 ... Prince Fielder MIL 0-4 ... Jeff Mathis LAA 2-3, 2 doubles, 3 RBI, .360 ... Casey Kotchman LAA 3-3, 2 doubles, 3 runs, .452 ... Joe Borchard SEA 1-4, .275 ... 

" ... Felix Hernandez, who has been experiencing some right leg pain, has been scratched from his Wednesday start. Hernandez has developed a mild case of shin splints, and the Mariners want to make sure their 19-year-old No. 5 starter doesn't get any worse ...The injury is not considered serious."  (Seattle Post-Intelligencer)

" ... Jeremy Sowers, Andrew Brown and Ben Howard combined on a five-hit shutout as the Bisons defeated the Toledo Mud Hens, 8-0 ... Sowers earned the victory with five innings of work ... allowed just three hits and collected a pair of strikeouts ... Andy Marte went 1-3 with 2RBI, a walk and a run scored in his first game as a Bison."  (Buffalo Bisons)

   Troop Movements ... HOU - optioned RHP Ezequiel Astacio, Luke Scott, Josh Anderson, Charlton Jimerson and Hector Jimenez to Triple-A, assigned Joe Valentine, Dave Borkowski to minor league camp (MLC) ... MIL - optioned Nelson Cruz to Triple-A,  assigned Jason Kershner, Justin Thompson, Allan Simpson, Mike Rivera, Brent Abernathy to MLC ...  DET - Carlos Pena, unconditional release ... SEA - optioned RHP Jesse Foppert to Triple-A ... OAK - traded Juan Cruz to ARZ for Brad Halsey, optioned Charles Thomas, Chad Gaudin, John Rheinecker, Jeremy Brown, Mike Rouse, Matt Watson to Triple-A  ... MIN - released Darrell May ... CHN - optioned Felix Pie to Triple-A ... PIT - assigned Jorge Vasquez, J.J. Furmaniak to MLC ... FLO - optioned Travis Bowyer, Robert Andino, Jason Stokes to Triple-A,  assigned Mark Little, Ryan Jorgensen to MLC ... STL - released Jeff Nelson ... NYA - optioned Kevin Thompson, Kevin Reese to Triple-A, assigned Ben Davis to MLC ... CHA - optioned Sean Tracey to Triple-A, assigned Armando Almanza, Andy Gonzalez, Robert Valido, Ryan Sweeney were reassigned to MLC ... 

   Aaron Gleeman, Hardball Times, continues with his 2006 Top 50. A couple of the selections so far :

" ...  31) Jeff Clement ...  USC ... had an outstanding three-year career there, winning the Johnny Bench Award as the nation's top catcher in 2005 and hitting 46 career homers in 171 games. Clement was taken by the Mariners with the third overall pick in last June's draft, hit .315/.387/.508 with six homers and 12 total extra-base hits in 34 games between two levels of Single-A, and then batted .269/.347/.487 in the Arizona Fall League. Clement's biggest asset is his elite left-handed power ... What makes him a special prospect is that the potentially dominating offensive package also comes along with solid catching skills, which could combine to make Clement a frequent MVP candidate down the road."

" ...  36) Dustin Pedroia ...  hit .357 between two levels of Single-A in his pro debut and then made the jump to Double-A last year. Pedroia hit .324/.409/.508 in 66 games there, showing off tremendous plate discipline and strike-zone judgment along with surprising power. His numbers after a promotion to Triple-A were disappointing, but it's worth noting that they were accumulated while Pedroia played through a nagging wrist injury ...  played second base last season, but he was a shortstop in college and may move back there now that Hanley Ramirez is in Florida. If the Red Sox are convinced he can handle the position defensively Pedroia will be their long-term answer there, and if not he'll eventually replace Mark Loretta at second base ... I think he can smack 10-15 homers a year while racking up plenty of doubles. Pedroia is only 22, but he's a league-average middle infielder whenever and wherever the Red Sox decide they need him."

" ... 39) Josh Barfield ...   Back when he won the California (Single-A) League MVP with a breakout season in 2003, Josh Barfield was considered a hitter first and a defensive player second ...  he slumped at Double-A in 2004, but while doing so seemed to impress people with an improved glove at second base. The 2005 season saw things come together, as Barfield bounced back offensively with an excellent year at Triple-A—hitting .310 with 15 homers and 20 steals in 137 games—and continued his transformation defensively ...  has a chance to be one of the position's top hitters."

   Over at RotoAmerica, the folks offer a full range of stuff, including a 2006 draft kit, some free, some subscription.  A taste of the goodies - David Regan with a few of his 2006 breakout picks :

" ... Ryan Sweeney ...  has all the tools. So far though, he’s hit just 10 home runs in over 1,000 minor league at-bats. I expect to change this year as he is fully recovered from a wrist injury that sapped his power last year. A 20 home run season is within his grasp and he could do it in either AA or AAA while still at the tender age of 21. Power is often the last tool to develop, and when it does for Sweeney, he’ll rise quickly on prospect ranking lists."

" ... Wade Davis ...  a hard thrower who posted a solid 10.2 K/9 rate in the NY-Penn league last year. At age 20, he’s ready for full season ball and could rocket up the charts with a solid year in the Low-A Midwest League."

" ... Adam Loewen ...   has been a disappointment since being drafted #4 overall back in 2002, but there signs pointing to a breakout 2006. Since 2002 he’s shown flashes of brilliance, but Ankiel-like command has resulted in a BB/9 rate of 5.6. Down the stretch in 2005 he did show much improvement, and a trip to the Arizona Fall League resulted in a league-best 1.67 ERA in 27 IP (though he did walk 14). Loewen should start in AA this year, where I’ll be looking for a breakout year."

Ryan Atkins, in his "safe-bets" for 2006 column, offers notes on some guys just below that category but bound for MLB time this season : 

" ... Daric Barton ...  Oakland’s top prospect looks to be a safe bet to reach the majors and become a solid major league player, but the comparisons to John Olerud have to worry A’s fans. His power skills were missing last year and the road to the majors is blocked as of right now, but expect to see Barton in September at the latest, and monitor where he plays, because if he moves back behind the plate his value will skyrocket. At worst he should be a solid first baseman who can post .300/.380/.480 numbers with 15-20 home runs annually."

" ... Jon Lester ...  With the trade of Andy Marte to Cleveland, Lester is now the Red Sox top prospect. In AA last year Lester struck out 163 batters in 148 innings while posting a 2.61 earned run average. He will likely be in AAA to start the season but once he heads to Boston, he is likely to stick in their rotation. Bronson Arroyo has already been traded to the Reds clearing out one more arm in front of Lester."

" ... Jeremy Sowers ...   doesn’t wow people with his stuff, his command and mental focus has carried him through the minors with ease. The Vanderbilt product struck out 145 batters while walking only 28 last season. Sowers reached AAA last year and that is likely where he will begin, but the Indians are confident he is ready to be a winner in the big leagues. Don’t be scared by his prospect ranking, expect Sowers to make it to the bigs sometime in the second half of the season, and he should be a fixture in the Indians rotation for years to come."

Chuck Richter offers his Top 35 Fantasy Baseball Prospects for 2006 :

" ... Matt Cain ... a bit of an enigma in 2005 as at times he looked good in Triple-A but other times he got pounded. Be that as it may, the true test was pitching in the big leagues and he didn’t disappoint going 2-1, 2.33 ERA and 30 K’s in 46.1 innings ... think Rich Harden but on the other side of the bay!"

" ... Ian Kinsler ... good for 20+ Hr’s, 80-90 Rbi’s and a solid BA in Texas. Could match Soriano’s #’s this year (since he’s a Nat) with ease. Oh and Kinsler can actually play a little defense so he’ll stick around!"

" ... Justin Verlander ... Should overtake Jeremy Bonderman as the team ACE before long. Look for a good amount of K’s and ERA if he can improve his mechanics. Win total depends on how well the overall team plays, defense and offense."

   Kevin T. Czerwinski, MLB.com, features the FLO system in his latest team prospect preview :

" ...  Chris Volstad ...  16th overall pick in last season's draft had a solid debut, going 4-3 with a 2.22 ERA while splitting 13 starts between the Gulf Coast and New York-Penn Leagues. The Marlins like his fantastic attitude and makeup, not to mention his low-90s fastball and strong off-speed stuff. Look for him to begin the year in Class A Greensboro, but with a strong showing there, he could be in Jupiter before long. "He's just about everything that you want," Fleming said. "He's 6-foot-7 and has tremendous body control. He has three present pitches and a tremendous feel for pitching. He's aggressive and isn't afraid of contact. Young pitchers have a tendency to want to strike everyone out, but he just wants to get them out."

" ... Gaby Hernandez ... was dominant in the Gulf Coast and South Atlantic Leagues but when it came time to move up in competition to the Florida State League last season, he struggled. He'll start the season in the FSL this year, where he will work on his off-speed stuff, a much-needed complement to his low-90s fastball. Hernandez has guts and doesn't back down on the mound, relying on great mechanics and a good game plan."

   Josh Willingham FLO bound for time both behind the dish and in left :

" ...  with an unsettled left field spot, the Marlins feel it is best to give Willingham outfield work. "They said I'm going to play both places," Willingham said. "It's not like I'm done catching. I'm going to play some in left. "I've worked hard behind the plate, so obviously I want to play back there. They want me to get a lot of at-bats. Playing in both places will help keep me fresh and keep me in the lineup every day." Considering Willingham has not spent a full season in either the big leagues or Minor Leagues catching, the organization wants to give the 27-year-old from Florence, Ala., every chance to be productive ...  "He's still going to catch," Girardi said. "But we believe he will be more productive if he doesn't catch six days a week." The plan for now appears to go with Willingham in left field, with Miguel Olivo likely as the Opening Day catcher."  (MLB.com)

   Jim Callis, Baseball America, on some guys who could make a big jump up the prospect charts next season :

" ...  It won't be a huge jump, but I think Diamondbacks outfielder Carlos Gonzales (No. 32 on this year's list) will be in the top 10 next year. He's going to be a .300-hitting, 30-homer right fielder with a strong arm, and he's going to put up monster numbers in the high Class A California League in 2006. My other breakout candidates, all from the bottom half of the Top 100: Dodgers lefthander Scott Elbert (No. 55) and third baseman Blake DeWitt (No. 82), Reds outfielder Jay Bruce (No. 76), Cubs lefty Mark Pawelek (No. 85), Angels righty Nick Adenhart (No. 90), Orioles outfielder Nolan Reimold (No. 99) and Twins righty Anthony Swarzak (No. 100). As a bonus, I'll give you two more guys I like who just missed the Top 100 cut. Shortstop Reid Brignac and righty Wade Davis, both Devil Rays, are going to make bigger names for themselves in 2006."

   Tony Pente, Orioles Hangout, on Nick Markakis BAL :

" ...  After ... 4-for-4, two double performance, his spring line now sits at .356/.464/.556. If that’s not impressive enough for you, add in the fact that he’s drawn 10 walks while striking out four times, and you have a prospect who’s actually forcing his way onto the roster. Add in the fact that Markakis could be the first real rookie of the year candidate the Orioles have had since Gregg Olson won it in 1989, and you have another reason to keep him, fan excitement ...  if my research is correct, he would be the first rookie to open the season with a starting position in the opening day lineup since Geronimo Gil in 2002. "

   Jason Kubel MIN, good chance he's on the opening day roster :

" ... With lingering uncertainty over whether Michael Cuddyer (strained oblique) and Ruben Sierra (strained quad) will be ready to start the season, Gardenhire mentioned the possibility of right fielder Jason Kubel making the club in a platoon roll. In that scenario, Kubel, coming back from knee surgery, would probably get starts against righthanders, with Lew Ford starting against lefties. If Kubel took over, he would probably play every day, Gardenhire said."  (Star Tribune)

   Carlos Pena ... what happened?

2001, ESPN, John Sickels, TEX Top 10   " ... 1) Carlos Pena, 1B: Outstanding combination of power, patience, batting average and defense. Will play Triple-A in '01, then take over first base in '02 (if the Rangers have any sense)."

2001, CBS, Top 100  " ... 6. Carlos Pena, 1B, Rangers Pena came into his own in his third season as a pro, ripping 36 doubles and 28 jacks last year. He took his plate discipline to another level by drawing 101 walks. A smooth-swinging left-handed hitter, he could produce in the majors immediately, but will hone his skills in Triple-A with Andres Galarraga blocking his path."

Baseball Weekly, AL West  " ... CARLOS PENA (1B): The 10th overall selection in the 1998 draft, Pena improved his plate discipline, added 44 points to his batting average and increased his run production at Double-A Tulsa. The 22-year-old opened the season with a six-RBI game. Pena reached base safely in 45 consecutive games and was consistent at home (.303) and on the road (.294). He led the Texas League in runs (117), finished second in RBI (105) and tied for third in home runs (28). After batting just .159 against lefties in 1999, Pena posted a .304 mark against southpaws this past season. Born in the Dominican Republic, Pena is a product of Northeastern University. The 6-2, 210-pounder hits to all fields and even beat out 15 infield hits this past season."

Baseball America, TEX Top 10  " ... 1. Carlos Pena ... more than an all-or-nothing power hitter. He reached base in 45 consecutive games last season. He also can run, legging out 36 doubles and stealing 12 bases without being caught. Defensively, Pena is excellent at first base. He brings the intangible of outstanding character as well. He's smart and hard-working, and he has an advanced understanding of how to play the game. He can be a franchise centerpiece on and off the field. "

BBHQ, TEX Top 10  " ... 1. Carlos Pena ...  hit like everyone knew he would, improving his power and OBP. A fundamentally sound player who should be an All-Star in short time. He could probably handle major league pitching, but the Rangers will likely give him some AB's in Triple-A."

The Sporting News, 2002 Top 100   " ... 5. Carlos Pena ... one of the best hitting prospects in baseball because he combines the ability to hit for both average and power while drawing a significant number of walks. He has Gold Glove potential at first base, where the A's hope he can help make up for the loss of Jason Giambi. After an extremely slow start at Class AAA last season, Pena rebounded to hit .288 with 23 home runs, 11 steals and a .958 OPS (On-base plus slugging). He is one of the top candidates for the American League Rookie of the Year award for 2002."
 

 
 

    
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