1. Oakland Knightmare
Current record 55-33
Two words. William DeJean. This pitcher is the early CY favorite. This stud is leading the AL in ERA, Wins, WHIP, OBP, and SLG. He's 12-1 with a 1.97 ERA. Wow. He's not the only reason the Knightmare are tops on our power rankings. The pitching as a whole are among the AL leaders in key stats and are a main reason for the teams success. But if you think that pitching is the only weapon the Knightmare bring, think again. This offense is scary good and as a whole are second in every single stat. CF Jaun Dominguez leads the AL in OBP, OPS and Walks and will be in the MVP race. Joining him is 1B Ramon Shin. He is tops in the AL in HR, and RBI. Couple those guys with Doubles machine and AL Runs leader Mark Ramsey and you can see why this team leads the list and will be a force in the AL all season.
2. Huntington yankdawgs
Current record 54-34
Offense, offense, offense. Where do you even begin? Huntington is number two on our AL power rankings only because of current record. The yankdawgs lead the AL in almost every single offensive stat: Runs, Hrs, RBI, Walks, SLG, OBP. These guys should change their name to the OPS Gang. The starting lineup reads like an All-Star lineup. DH Angel Rosado will be in the MVP race. This slugger is hitting .331 and has an 1.059 OPS with 26 HR and 68 RBI. RF Russell Hobbs is having an outstanding season. He is second in the AL in SB and Walks and has over 100 hits to go along with his AL leading 30 Doubles and is hitting .315 with a .433 OBP. We could throw out names all day: Davey Navarro, Timothy Evans, Mariano Johnson. All having solid seasons. The yankdawgs pitching staff comes at you hard and is second in the AL in Strike Outs and Wins and are led by ace Pat Kirk who is 10-2 with a 3.45 ERA. It's going to be hard to stop this team.
3. Salt Lake City Sundance Kids
Current record 52-36
Salt Lake City maybe the best all-around team in the AL. They definitely bring dominate pitching to the table. listen to this rotation: 4 time CY winner Richard O'Neill is 7-7 with a 3.01 ERA and 3 CG, Strikeout machine Louie Guapo is 8-2 witha 2.98 ERA and Richard Prieto is 9-3 with a 3.24 ERA. Unstoppable is this group. The Pitching as a whole lead the AL in major stats: ERA, WHIP, SLG, OBP and have only given up 287 ER and 713 hits, both tops in the AL. If you manage to still be in the game at the end, you have to deal with Danys Mesa who is only 16 of 17 in Saves with a 2.17 ERA. Quite a challenge. But Pitching isn't the only thing opposing teams have to worry about. This offense can hit. They can hit so good, they lead the AL in Hits and AVG, making the Kids one tough nut to crack. This team is very dangerous and commands respect. Expect this team to be in contention at the end.
4. Boston Patriots
Current record 52-36
The Patriots are a tough group of baseball players. Though they have to contend with the mighty yankdawgs as division rivals, this team is flourishing and are number 4 in our power rankings. Let's start with pitching as to why this team is successful. The staff ace Brandon Murphy is having a solid season and is 9-3 with a 2.94 ERA. The ageless Bump Milliard has 26 saves already and may be in the Fireman discussion if he lowers his ERA a bit. The pitching as a whole, though not tops in any major categories, are right up there and are solid enough to not hurt this team as the season continues. Similar story with offense. With everyone looking at Huntington's and Oakland's offensive numbers, the Pats are surprising the AL with how great they are. They are right there behind the bigs in almost all key stats. Super Stud David Manuel leads this offense hitting .318 with a .397 OBP. He is among the AL leaders in everything: Hits, Runs, Walks, SLG, OPS and has the 3rd longest hitting streak this season at 21 games. It doesn't stop there. Slugger Marino Camacho has 25 bombs and is 2nd in the AL with 82 RBI. Hit brothers Raul Tatis and Dick Hamels have 115 and 117 hits respectively, with Tatis also leading the AL with 40 SB and is hitting .300. Amazing. This team will give Huntington all they can handle.
5. Kansas City Burnt Ends
Current record 50-38
The Burnt Ends come in at number 5 in the power rankings. Though they lack a real slugger, they make up for it by hitting for AVG. Tom Nady, Gustavo Infante and Willie Alomar are all hiting above .300 and are solid. If we are talking about K.C.'s offense, then we need to talk about Cristobal "crystal ball" Terrero. he is second in the AL in AVG hitting .348 and also second with a .447 OBP. This MVP contender is among the leaders in Walks, Doubles, SLG and OPS and is the top dog on this offense which also leads the AL in Doubles and are second with 106 Stolen Bases. Impressive. Now the Pitching. The Burnt Ends have a couple of quality starters in Mike Benard who is 6-3 with a 2.87 ERA and Howie Sosa who is 6-2 with an incredible 1.32 ERA. These guys bring it every time they are on the mound and always give K.C. a chance to win. Perhaps more impressive than the starters, are the Burnt Ends bullpen. Closer Thomas Benitez has 14 saves with a 2.79 ERA. This is only the beginning. To get to the closer, opposing teams have to face Neil Howe and his 1.71 ERA and Vinny " pass the" Ducey "on the left hand side" and his 1.93 ERA! Incredible. You had better get to this team early, or you have no shot at winning. The pitching staff as a whole are second in the AL in ERA and ER, third in WHIP and OBP and fourth in SLG. Very tough team to beat. K.C. have their hands full with div rival and number 6 on our list Chicago.
6. Chicago Death Panel
Current record 49-39
It goes to show how tough the AL is this year when a team like the Death Panel are number 6 on the power rankings. The Panel's offense ranks 3rd in the AL in many stats: AVG, SLG, OPS, HRs and doubles and are 4th in Hits. Brian Sanders is very good. This stud is hitting .329 with a .380 OBP, and leads the AL with 124 Hits. Other players are hitting excellent as well: Jamie "shannon" Dougherty is hitting .308, Vin Martin is hitting .306 and Gill Martin is hitting .300. Quite a lineup there. If this team had any kind of speed at all, they'd be unstoppable, ranking second to last in SB with only 27. But as good as the offense is, the strength of the Death Panel is their pitching. This staff leads the AL with 681 Strikeouts and are 3rd in SLG and Hits and are among the leaders in ERA, WHIP, OAV and ER. Todd Sullivan has 20 saves, 4th best in the AL. The rotation is very tough to beat. Francisco Duran is 7-3 with a 3.30 ERA. Alex Sanders is 7-4 with a 2.95 ERA. But the ace is Raymond Forbes. This flamethrower and Cy Young contender is leading the AL with 121 Strikeouts and is 11-4 with 3.51 ERA and is the main reason why Chicago is on the power rankings. K.C. cant let up at all or this team will overtake them. This team could surprise many in the AL when the post season hits.
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
Sunday, April 1, 2012
Join the Horrorshow and Lewis Standridge for the Countdown to 2,500!
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The Rochester Horrorshow want all of their remaining fans to come out to Frontier Field and root on Lewis Standridge to his 2,500th hit! The countdown stands at just 5 hits to go!
Tickets are still available for the Horrorshow's upcoming homestand, featuring four games against the Iowa City Rockhoppers and three games against the Salt Lake City Sundance Kids!
Game One of the Rockhoppers series features Rochester Tourism Council Henry Bravo Bobblehead Night, available to our fans 15 and younger!
Game Three of our Rockhoppers series will be the ever-popular 80's Night, brought to you by the Rochester Record Depot! Come remember when!
Game Four of the Rockhoppers series will be the annual Rochester Fire Department Fireworks Night! Always a blast!
The Rochester Horrowshow wish all condolences to the family of "Henny the Horrorshow Heifer," who passed away Friday night following her recent bout with Mad Cow Disease. The Horrorshow will be holding a Henny the Horrorshow Heifer Memorial Night during Game Two of our series with the Sundance Kids. All in attendance will receive a black velvet portrait of our favorite heifer in all her glory, sponsored by the Rochester Beef Council.
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
NL 1st quarter power rankings
1. Dover Destroyers
Current record 34-15
Life is good in Dover this season. The Destroyers, coming off their first division title in Dover last season, are sitting atop the NL power rankings. Deservedly so.The Dover pitching staff is leading the NL in Wins and Strikeouts. The bullpen has been stellar so far with newly acquired Fernando Mercedes having a dominating season. He is 7-0 with a 2.81 ERA coming out of the pen. His bright light could only be shadowed by super closer and early NL Fireman Award favorite Luther Riggs, who is a perfect 18 for 18 in Save opportunities with a .52 ERA and a "don't mess with me" attitude. The Destroyers have another standout this season in Early ROY frontrunner Jose "taco" Toca who has 22 bombs and 50 RBI while hitting .289. Dover has their hands full with Div. rival and number 2 on our NL power rankings Toronto.
2. Toronto Elite Thunder Bolts
Current record 33-16
Toronto fans have every reason to be happy this season. Though the team had off year last season, the Bolts are proving it was just an anomaly, bringing back the pride the team has seen because of 90+ wins in 7 of the last 9 seasons and three straight Div crowns in seasons 10-12. The fans are loving the fact that their team are among the NL leaders in SB, Doubles, Triples, Walks, ERA, Whip, ER, Wins, and lead the NL in Saves. This formula has made the Bolts " Bad Muddas" not to be taken lightly and have been giving opposing teams headaches because of the many ways they can beat you. This team will not go quietly into the night and has put the NL on notice " We will put you on your ass, so you better bring it". Dover beware.
3. Anaheim Angels
Current record 31-18
The Angels has lived up to the Pre-season hype. Though if you ask anyone walking the streets in Anaheim, they will tell you it's business as usual. This team has won 4 straight Div. crowns and 5 straight 90+ win seasons. The strength of the Angels is their NL leading Fielding % defense and dominating pitching staff, which as a whole are leading the NL in ERA, WHIP, SLG, and OBP. Quite impressive. At the top of this staff is the three-headed monster of Al Terrero, Jimmie Wright, and Andrea James. Opposing teams can never catch a break with this rotation. Terrero is having a Cy Young caliber year. He is a perfect 8-0 and leads the NL with an amazing 1.89 ERA. He is also tops in OBP and shares the NL lead in WHIP with Wright. Wright is second only to Terrero in OBP, and has a perfect 5-0 record. And if that wasnt enough to cause opposing fans to jump off the Vincent Thomas Bridge, The Angels come at you with James who is 5-3 with a 2.25 ERA. Suicide help lines across the National League are experiencing a higher than normal volume of calls.
4. Pawtucket Paw Sox
Current record 29-20
Pawtucket has it all. Hugh Adams is a stud. The early Cy Young favorite is kicking ass. He is an incredible NL leading 10-1 with a 2.19 ERA. Adams leads the NL with 3 complete games. But it doesnt stop there. Oh no. Weldon Hughes is solid again this year. The two-time CY winnner is 5-3 with a 3.41 ERA. Couple that with an offense that is leading the NL in AVG, OBP, Triples, Doubles, and Hits, and is second in RBI and Runs scored, and what you get is a recipe for disaster for the rest of the National League. Former 2 -time MVP and GG CF Jose Rosado is an early MVP contender again. He is flat-out raking it and leads the NL AVG (.370) amd Hits (70). He is also second in the NL in OPS and is among the NL leaders in SLG, OBP, Walks, RBI, HR, and Doubles. Rosado also has the top current hitting streak, hitting safely in the last 10 games. Despite a semi-slow start and injuries, Pawtucket has everyone's number, and won't be stopped. Look for this team to top the power rankings in the future.
5. Durham Nuke LaLoosh's
Current record 29-20
Durham is not phased at all by Pawtucket. The attitude in the clubhouse all season has been "screw Pawtucket, those bastards can write us off if they want to, but we are not afraid of the dirty Sox". SP Octavio Marin is doing his part and is a CY contender. He is 8-1 with a 2.99 ERA. He is second in the NL in IP, and Strikeouts. Marin also leads the NL with 2 Shutouts. Durhams pitching staff as a whole are with the NL leaders in ERA,WHIP, SO, and Saves. Perhaps more remarkable is the season former MVP 1B Benji Marquez is having. This stud is a MVP favorite and is first in the NL with 27 HR, 60 RBI, 46 Runs scored and is SLG .735. Marquez is 3rd in OPS and among the NL leaders in AVG, OBP,Walks, and Hits. The Nuke LaLoosh's have another weapon in Josh Ryan who has 20 SB, and is leading the NL in Triples. This team has a "die trying" attitude and will not back down from anyone. Least of all the mighty Paw Sox. Watch out.
6. Jackson BigAss Trucks
Current record 27-22
The biggest surprise in the power rankings this season are the Trucks. "We have been on nobody's radar, and we like it that way" says Cf Phillip Morgan. " we embrace the underdog label and take great joy in shoving our success down the throats of the powerhouses. The Trucks are on the map baby, no one should takes us lightly". This feeling abounds in the clubhouse, as the Trucks continue to show the NL that the rebuild is over and that Jackson is for real. The team has no real superstud allstars, but are successful by being a solid all-around team. The fans have responded as well, packing Boon Stadium every night, and causing ownership to commit to a new era of winning baseball from here on out. The Trucks are a big FA or two away from really contending but are on the right course and should be taken seriously. Nice work Sjstapleton.
Current record 34-15
Life is good in Dover this season. The Destroyers, coming off their first division title in Dover last season, are sitting atop the NL power rankings. Deservedly so.The Dover pitching staff is leading the NL in Wins and Strikeouts. The bullpen has been stellar so far with newly acquired Fernando Mercedes having a dominating season. He is 7-0 with a 2.81 ERA coming out of the pen. His bright light could only be shadowed by super closer and early NL Fireman Award favorite Luther Riggs, who is a perfect 18 for 18 in Save opportunities with a .52 ERA and a "don't mess with me" attitude. The Destroyers have another standout this season in Early ROY frontrunner Jose "taco" Toca who has 22 bombs and 50 RBI while hitting .289. Dover has their hands full with Div. rival and number 2 on our NL power rankings Toronto.
2. Toronto Elite Thunder Bolts
Current record 33-16
Toronto fans have every reason to be happy this season. Though the team had off year last season, the Bolts are proving it was just an anomaly, bringing back the pride the team has seen because of 90+ wins in 7 of the last 9 seasons and three straight Div crowns in seasons 10-12. The fans are loving the fact that their team are among the NL leaders in SB, Doubles, Triples, Walks, ERA, Whip, ER, Wins, and lead the NL in Saves. This formula has made the Bolts " Bad Muddas" not to be taken lightly and have been giving opposing teams headaches because of the many ways they can beat you. This team will not go quietly into the night and has put the NL on notice " We will put you on your ass, so you better bring it". Dover beware.
3. Anaheim Angels
Current record 31-18
The Angels has lived up to the Pre-season hype. Though if you ask anyone walking the streets in Anaheim, they will tell you it's business as usual. This team has won 4 straight Div. crowns and 5 straight 90+ win seasons. The strength of the Angels is their NL leading Fielding % defense and dominating pitching staff, which as a whole are leading the NL in ERA, WHIP, SLG, and OBP. Quite impressive. At the top of this staff is the three-headed monster of Al Terrero, Jimmie Wright, and Andrea James. Opposing teams can never catch a break with this rotation. Terrero is having a Cy Young caliber year. He is a perfect 8-0 and leads the NL with an amazing 1.89 ERA. He is also tops in OBP and shares the NL lead in WHIP with Wright. Wright is second only to Terrero in OBP, and has a perfect 5-0 record. And if that wasnt enough to cause opposing fans to jump off the Vincent Thomas Bridge, The Angels come at you with James who is 5-3 with a 2.25 ERA. Suicide help lines across the National League are experiencing a higher than normal volume of calls.
4. Pawtucket Paw Sox
Current record 29-20
Pawtucket has it all. Hugh Adams is a stud. The early Cy Young favorite is kicking ass. He is an incredible NL leading 10-1 with a 2.19 ERA. Adams leads the NL with 3 complete games. But it doesnt stop there. Oh no. Weldon Hughes is solid again this year. The two-time CY winnner is 5-3 with a 3.41 ERA. Couple that with an offense that is leading the NL in AVG, OBP, Triples, Doubles, and Hits, and is second in RBI and Runs scored, and what you get is a recipe for disaster for the rest of the National League. Former 2 -time MVP and GG CF Jose Rosado is an early MVP contender again. He is flat-out raking it and leads the NL AVG (.370) amd Hits (70). He is also second in the NL in OPS and is among the NL leaders in SLG, OBP, Walks, RBI, HR, and Doubles. Rosado also has the top current hitting streak, hitting safely in the last 10 games. Despite a semi-slow start and injuries, Pawtucket has everyone's number, and won't be stopped. Look for this team to top the power rankings in the future.
5. Durham Nuke LaLoosh's
Current record 29-20
Durham is not phased at all by Pawtucket. The attitude in the clubhouse all season has been "screw Pawtucket, those bastards can write us off if they want to, but we are not afraid of the dirty Sox". SP Octavio Marin is doing his part and is a CY contender. He is 8-1 with a 2.99 ERA. He is second in the NL in IP, and Strikeouts. Marin also leads the NL with 2 Shutouts. Durhams pitching staff as a whole are with the NL leaders in ERA,WHIP, SO, and Saves. Perhaps more remarkable is the season former MVP 1B Benji Marquez is having. This stud is a MVP favorite and is first in the NL with 27 HR, 60 RBI, 46 Runs scored and is SLG .735. Marquez is 3rd in OPS and among the NL leaders in AVG, OBP,Walks, and Hits. The Nuke LaLoosh's have another weapon in Josh Ryan who has 20 SB, and is leading the NL in Triples. This team has a "die trying" attitude and will not back down from anyone. Least of all the mighty Paw Sox. Watch out.
6. Jackson BigAss Trucks
Current record 27-22
The biggest surprise in the power rankings this season are the Trucks. "We have been on nobody's radar, and we like it that way" says Cf Phillip Morgan. " we embrace the underdog label and take great joy in shoving our success down the throats of the powerhouses. The Trucks are on the map baby, no one should takes us lightly". This feeling abounds in the clubhouse, as the Trucks continue to show the NL that the rebuild is over and that Jackson is for real. The team has no real superstud allstars, but are successful by being a solid all-around team. The fans have responded as well, packing Boon Stadium every night, and causing ownership to commit to a new era of winning baseball from here on out. The Trucks are a big FA or two away from really contending but are on the right course and should be taken seriously. Nice work Sjstapleton.
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Horrorshow Announce Call-Up
The Rochester Horrowshow announced today that they have recalled star prospect Juan Jacquez to the majors. Jacquez, a 26-year-old catching prospect, will assume the Designated Hitter position effectively immediately. Jacquez hit 10 home runs and 22 RBI with a 1.066 OPS in just 28 games this season in AAA. "We wish we could have called Juan up at the beginning of the season, Horrorshow management said today, "but we needed to keep our eye on the economic realities of the arbitration system. We welcome Juan to Frontier Field, and look for good things." The Horrorshow announced that Jacquez's promotion would cause the move of the legendary Lewis Standridge into a role as pinch-hitter and occasional 1B. Standridge stands just 25 hits shy of the 2,500 hit mark. "We remain committed to seeing Lewis attain the 2,500 hit mark as a member of the Horrorshow. That momentous mark will stand as one of the highlights of this long season." The Horrowshow also expressed their thanks to the Little Sisters of the Poor Grammar School for their continued prayers to St. Jude Thaddeus, Patron Saint of lost causes. "It warms our hearts to hear of their continued devotion in these troubled times. We pray that the Horrorshow is respectable for their children's children."
Thursday, March 8, 2012
Season 14 AL playoff predictions
1. Salt Lake City Sundance Kids
Last season's record- 105-57
Notable transactions
Resign- P Phil Aoki, SS Carlos Borbon, 1B Tom Nickle
FA losses- DH Trenidad Castillo, P Rudy Matusz, 2B Cam Gutierrez
Promoted- Darren Spencer
Option pick-up- P Richard O'Neill
Traded for C Mickey Orie and P Pepe Amaral from Chicago.
The Kids had a very busy offseason. Amaral should shore up an already great pitching staff. Retaining O'Neill was huge along with the promotion of Spencer. The offense, though lefty dominated, should be more than enough for this staff to win. Expect this team to be great. The Kids win total will probably drop slightly from last season because of a more competitive AL.
Season 14 prediction- 103-61
2. Huntington yankdawgs
Last season's record- 102-60
Notable transactions
FA losses- 2B Edgardo Torres
Promoted- 2B Heinie Ramirez, P Rico Feliz
Huntington had a quiet offseason with most transactions being handled through arbitration. While the loss of Torres is huge, the dawgs couple a young power hitting offense with a good staff. The rivalry this season with Boston will be intense and cost the yankdawgs a chance to compete for the 1 seed. The dawgs will win the div. and the number two seed at the end.
Season 14 prediction- 99-63
3. Texas Coyotes
Last season's record- 91-71
Notable transactions
Resign-3B Lyle Pearson, P Greg Franco
Option pick-up- P Albert Castillo
The Coyotes didnt do much this offseason, but they didnt have too. They are solid enough on offense though they lack a real power slugger and have the best pitching staff in their div. Though Jacksonville will be better this season, the Coyotes should easily win their div and the number 3 seed.
Season 14 prediction 89-73
4. Chicago Death Panel
Last season's record- 81-81
Notable transactions
Resign- LF Tyler Fingers
FA losses- RF Dizzy Murphy, 3B Victor Candelaria
Promoted- Francisco Duran
Traded for SS Kevin Smith from SLC
The loss of Candelaria will certainly hurt the Panel this year, but the trade for Simpson makes up for it. The promotion of Duran shores up the back end of this rotation and gives the Panel one of the better pitching staffs in the AL. The battle for the division and 4 seed will be one to watch this season with Chicago, K.C., and Buffalo battling it out. Though the rivalry will be intense, the Death Panel will pull away and secure the 4 seed.
Season 14 prediction- 87-75
5 wildcard. Boston Patriots
Last season's record- 96-66
Notable transactions
FA signing- LF Pepper James
Resign- P Bump Milliard
Contract extension- David Manuel
The Patriots are a stacked team with good offense and pitching. If not for being in Huntington's division, this team could easily be a number 2 seed. They took care of in-house business this offseason resigning Milliard and locking up ace David Manuel for the next 3 seasons. The Pats will challenge Huntington for the division, but will just fall short at the end and will end up the top Wildcard spot.
Season 14 prediction- 98-64
6 wildcard. Oakland Knightmare
Last season's record- 90-72
Notable transactions
Fa signing- P Karim Farr, SS Clint Hudek
FA losses- P Jimmie Wright, 2B Joel Schofield
Contract Extension- 1B Ramon Shin, LF Jeffrey Fitzgerald.
The Knightmare have a potent offense and good pitching and will suffer from being in SLC's division. They locked up key players Shin and Fitzgerald this offseason and brought in Farr to help stem the loss of Wright. Though they will be challenged by K.C., the Knightmare will win the final WC spot.
Season 14 prediction- 88-74
Wildcard contenders
Kansas City Burnt Ends
Season 14 prediction- 84-79
Las Vegas Legends
Season 14 prediction- 83-78
Buffalo Sabres
Season 14 prediction-81-81
Last season's record- 105-57
Notable transactions
Resign- P Phil Aoki, SS Carlos Borbon, 1B Tom Nickle
FA losses- DH Trenidad Castillo, P Rudy Matusz, 2B Cam Gutierrez
Promoted- Darren Spencer
Option pick-up- P Richard O'Neill
Traded for C Mickey Orie and P Pepe Amaral from Chicago.
The Kids had a very busy offseason. Amaral should shore up an already great pitching staff. Retaining O'Neill was huge along with the promotion of Spencer. The offense, though lefty dominated, should be more than enough for this staff to win. Expect this team to be great. The Kids win total will probably drop slightly from last season because of a more competitive AL.
Season 14 prediction- 103-61
2. Huntington yankdawgs
Last season's record- 102-60
Notable transactions
FA losses- 2B Edgardo Torres
Promoted- 2B Heinie Ramirez, P Rico Feliz
Huntington had a quiet offseason with most transactions being handled through arbitration. While the loss of Torres is huge, the dawgs couple a young power hitting offense with a good staff. The rivalry this season with Boston will be intense and cost the yankdawgs a chance to compete for the 1 seed. The dawgs will win the div. and the number two seed at the end.
Season 14 prediction- 99-63
3. Texas Coyotes
Last season's record- 91-71
Notable transactions
Resign-3B Lyle Pearson, P Greg Franco
Option pick-up- P Albert Castillo
The Coyotes didnt do much this offseason, but they didnt have too. They are solid enough on offense though they lack a real power slugger and have the best pitching staff in their div. Though Jacksonville will be better this season, the Coyotes should easily win their div and the number 3 seed.
Season 14 prediction 89-73
4. Chicago Death Panel
Last season's record- 81-81
Notable transactions
Resign- LF Tyler Fingers
FA losses- RF Dizzy Murphy, 3B Victor Candelaria
Promoted- Francisco Duran
Traded for SS Kevin Smith from SLC
The loss of Candelaria will certainly hurt the Panel this year, but the trade for Simpson makes up for it. The promotion of Duran shores up the back end of this rotation and gives the Panel one of the better pitching staffs in the AL. The battle for the division and 4 seed will be one to watch this season with Chicago, K.C., and Buffalo battling it out. Though the rivalry will be intense, the Death Panel will pull away and secure the 4 seed.
Season 14 prediction- 87-75
5 wildcard. Boston Patriots
Last season's record- 96-66
Notable transactions
FA signing- LF Pepper James
Resign- P Bump Milliard
Contract extension- David Manuel
The Patriots are a stacked team with good offense and pitching. If not for being in Huntington's division, this team could easily be a number 2 seed. They took care of in-house business this offseason resigning Milliard and locking up ace David Manuel for the next 3 seasons. The Pats will challenge Huntington for the division, but will just fall short at the end and will end up the top Wildcard spot.
Season 14 prediction- 98-64
6 wildcard. Oakland Knightmare
Last season's record- 90-72
Notable transactions
Fa signing- P Karim Farr, SS Clint Hudek
FA losses- P Jimmie Wright, 2B Joel Schofield
Contract Extension- 1B Ramon Shin, LF Jeffrey Fitzgerald.
The Knightmare have a potent offense and good pitching and will suffer from being in SLC's division. They locked up key players Shin and Fitzgerald this offseason and brought in Farr to help stem the loss of Wright. Though they will be challenged by K.C., the Knightmare will win the final WC spot.
Season 14 prediction- 88-74
Wildcard contenders
Kansas City Burnt Ends
Season 14 prediction- 84-79
Las Vegas Legends
Season 14 prediction- 83-78
Buffalo Sabres
Season 14 prediction-81-81
Thursday, March 1, 2012
The International
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The Jackson BA Trucks made the first International prospect signing of the year when they inked Ireland's Brayan Jennings to a minor league contract, including a $12.9 million signing bonus. The 20 year old second baseman, will report to Jackson's rookie league camp to start season 14.
Jennings has all the tools to become an everyday major leaguer. He shows good patience at the plate and will make good contact. He should have the power to hit 15-20 homeruns in the majors as he fills out in the coming years. The one concern scouts have is with his defense. He's shown good enough range to perhaps stay at second base, but his glove may end up being better suited for the outfield once he hits the majors.
While he has been assigned to rookie camp, he is expected to move through the lower levels of the minors fairly quickly. I would expect to see him make his major league debut by season 17.
Season 14 NL Playoff Predictions
1. Pawtucket Paw Sox
Last seasons record- 105-57
Notable transactions
FA signings- 2B Edgardo Torres
Resign (via FA)- P Felipe Domingo, CF Jose Rosado
Option pick-up- P Jose Gonzalez
The Paw Sox are poised to do it again, and are pre season favorites to win the National League. With the addition of Torres, the Paw Sox's offense should roll. Though the team is getting older, they still have what it takes with enough pitching to see them through.
Season 14 prediction- 101-61
2. Anaheim Angels
Last seasons record- 97-65
Notable transactions
FA signings- 3B Victor Candelaria, P Jimmie Wright
FA losses- P Felipe Melo, P Tony Rivera, P Doug Hunt
Option pick-up- P Andrea James
Traded for- P Al Terrero from Cheyenne
The Angels had a very busy offseason losing many notable pitchers, but with the additions of Wright and Terrero, have more than made up for it and should compete with the Paw Sox for the number 1 seed. With the addition of Candelaria at the hot corner, the Angels should improve from their 97 wins a season ago.
Season 14 prediction- 100-62
3. Richmond Flying Squirrels
Last seasons record- 87-75
Notable transactions
FA signings- P Mike Ramsey, P Patrick Leary
FA losses- P David Frias, 1B Benito Lopez
Traded for- 2B Bernard Hayes from Oakland
The Flying Squirrels did not have a busy offseason, but made impact moves. Hayes should more than fill the hole at 2B and be a productive contributor. The FA additions of pitchers Ramsey and Leary should shore up the bullpen and give the Squirrels one of the better pitching staffs in the NL. The team should improve from 87 wins and achieve the number 3 seed.
Season 14 prediction- 93-69
4. Dover Destroyers
Last seasons record- 86-76
Notable transactions
FA signings- P Fernando Mercedes, P Hub Moriarty
FA losses- P Albert Kingsdale, P Sammy Myette
Traded for-C Lou Clapp from Fargo, P Cody Parrish from OK City, P Stu Bryant from Rochester
The Destroyers have made many changes to the pitching staff with lots of turnover. All for the good. The addition of lefty slugger Lou Clapp should help the Destoryers improve upon their 86 wins and beat out Fargo for the number 4 seed.
Season 14 prediction- 90-72
5 Wildcard. Boise Half Horse
Last seasons record- 87-75
Notable transactions
FA signings-P Felipe Melo
Resign- P Matty Cruz
FA losses- P Don Martin, LF Diego Sanchez
The Half Horse are a solid team that could be a number 4-3 seed if not for the fact that they are in the same division as Anaheim. Though they could improve their pitching, the Half Horse offense should propel them to the top WC spot.
Season 14 prediction- 90-72
6 Wildcard. Fargo Funky Flamingos
Last seasons record- 84-78
Notable transactions
FA signings- SS Troy Norton, RF Yamil Henriquez
Resign- P Miguel Manzanillo, C Chuck Jorgensen
FA losses- 2B Hawk Lambert, P Patrick Leary
Waiver claim- P Dorio Hubbard
The Flamingos signaled last season that the rebuild was over winning 84 games and earning WC honors. This season, the competition with Durham fpr the final WC spot should be intense with the Flamingos just beating them out and making the post season.
Season 14 prediction 87-75
Wildcard contenders
Durham Nuke LaLoosh's- Season 14 prediction- 86-76
Toronto Elite Thunder Bolts- Season 14 prediction- 85-77
Cheyenne Primetimers-Season 14 prediction- 85-77
Last seasons record- 105-57
Notable transactions
FA signings- 2B Edgardo Torres
Resign (via FA)- P Felipe Domingo, CF Jose Rosado
Option pick-up- P Jose Gonzalez
The Paw Sox are poised to do it again, and are pre season favorites to win the National League. With the addition of Torres, the Paw Sox's offense should roll. Though the team is getting older, they still have what it takes with enough pitching to see them through.
Season 14 prediction- 101-61
2. Anaheim Angels
Last seasons record- 97-65
Notable transactions
FA signings- 3B Victor Candelaria, P Jimmie Wright
FA losses- P Felipe Melo, P Tony Rivera, P Doug Hunt
Option pick-up- P Andrea James
Traded for- P Al Terrero from Cheyenne
The Angels had a very busy offseason losing many notable pitchers, but with the additions of Wright and Terrero, have more than made up for it and should compete with the Paw Sox for the number 1 seed. With the addition of Candelaria at the hot corner, the Angels should improve from their 97 wins a season ago.
Season 14 prediction- 100-62
3. Richmond Flying Squirrels
Last seasons record- 87-75
Notable transactions
FA signings- P Mike Ramsey, P Patrick Leary
FA losses- P David Frias, 1B Benito Lopez
Traded for- 2B Bernard Hayes from Oakland
The Flying Squirrels did not have a busy offseason, but made impact moves. Hayes should more than fill the hole at 2B and be a productive contributor. The FA additions of pitchers Ramsey and Leary should shore up the bullpen and give the Squirrels one of the better pitching staffs in the NL. The team should improve from 87 wins and achieve the number 3 seed.
Season 14 prediction- 93-69
4. Dover Destroyers
Last seasons record- 86-76
Notable transactions
FA signings- P Fernando Mercedes, P Hub Moriarty
FA losses- P Albert Kingsdale, P Sammy Myette
Traded for-C Lou Clapp from Fargo, P Cody Parrish from OK City, P Stu Bryant from Rochester
The Destroyers have made many changes to the pitching staff with lots of turnover. All for the good. The addition of lefty slugger Lou Clapp should help the Destoryers improve upon their 86 wins and beat out Fargo for the number 4 seed.
Season 14 prediction- 90-72
5 Wildcard. Boise Half Horse
Last seasons record- 87-75
Notable transactions
FA signings-P Felipe Melo
Resign- P Matty Cruz
FA losses- P Don Martin, LF Diego Sanchez
The Half Horse are a solid team that could be a number 4-3 seed if not for the fact that they are in the same division as Anaheim. Though they could improve their pitching, the Half Horse offense should propel them to the top WC spot.
Season 14 prediction- 90-72
6 Wildcard. Fargo Funky Flamingos
Last seasons record- 84-78
Notable transactions
FA signings- SS Troy Norton, RF Yamil Henriquez
Resign- P Miguel Manzanillo, C Chuck Jorgensen
FA losses- 2B Hawk Lambert, P Patrick Leary
Waiver claim- P Dorio Hubbard
The Flamingos signaled last season that the rebuild was over winning 84 games and earning WC honors. This season, the competition with Durham fpr the final WC spot should be intense with the Flamingos just beating them out and making the post season.
Season 14 prediction 87-75
Wildcard contenders
Durham Nuke LaLoosh's- Season 14 prediction- 86-76
Toronto Elite Thunder Bolts- Season 14 prediction- 85-77
Cheyenne Primetimers-Season 14 prediction- 85-77
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