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46-42, Game Notes
4 hours ago
Monday, December 1, 2008
Ibanez offered Arb.
Oh Thank You Jack.
Now if Ibanez accepts, its not a big deal we get him for relatively cheap for a year and if he declines we have a great chance of grabbing two draft picks from the team he signs with.
Great news.
Now if Ibanez accepts, its not a big deal we get him for relatively cheap for a year and if he declines we have a great chance of grabbing two draft picks from the team he signs with.
Great news.
Minor League Goal Sheets.
The Mariners have needed to implement a system like this for years. Our top prospects need to be given a sheet of goals that they must complete by the end of the season in order to advance within the organization. By giving our them these lists you let them know in writing exactly what you expect from them and what you expect them to improve on. Most of our top prospects all seem to have some big flaws in their games and its becoming worrisome. Organizations that have to build their teams from the farm (A's, Diamondbacks, Twins) have systems like this and have great success in having farm players make an immediate impact.
Here are some examples.
Greg Halman 2009 Goals
You get the point. All of our top prospects, not named Dennis Raben, have serious issues with walking. Greg Hunter could have been part of the problem, thus his demotion. Goal Sheets like this (more in depth) need to be part of our minor league system. Our prospects would need to come close or complete the goals given to them in order to advance through the system.
Alot of these goals would push Halman and Triunfel into uncharted waters. Neither of them knows what it is to walk more than 6% of the time. Asking Halman to not strike out but 20% of the time is going to extremely hard for him. But these are things they have to learn. We don't want them to make it to the Major Leagues and still have glaring problems.
Here are some examples.
Greg Halman 2009 Goals
- Post a 9% or higher Walk Rate
- Post a 25% or less Strike out Rate
- Post an On Base Percentage .050 points higher than your Batting Average
- Create 75 or more runs
- Steal 20 or more bases
- Ground into less than 20 double plays
- Maintain or Improve 2008 Slugging Percentage.
- Post a 9% or Higher Walk Rate
- Create 70 or more Runs
- Increase upon 2008 Slugging Percentage by .050
- Steal 25 or more bases
- Post an On Base Percentage .050 pointer higher than Batting Average
- Ground into less than 15 Double Plays
You get the point. All of our top prospects, not named Dennis Raben, have serious issues with walking. Greg Hunter could have been part of the problem, thus his demotion. Goal Sheets like this (more in depth) need to be part of our minor league system. Our prospects would need to come close or complete the goals given to them in order to advance through the system.
Alot of these goals would push Halman and Triunfel into uncharted waters. Neither of them knows what it is to walk more than 6% of the time. Asking Halman to not strike out but 20% of the time is going to extremely hard for him. But these are things they have to learn. We don't want them to make it to the Major Leagues and still have glaring problems.
Friday, November 28, 2008
Filling the Gaps
Bench, and DH
Bench
The Mariners bench going into next year is iffy at best. Hulett will probably land himself a role as a infielder and Reed may land himself a spot as a 4th outfielder. Morse will probably find himself out of luck, and Rob Johnson is likely to see another year in AAA. So how upgrade the bench? One option is Mike Hessman, a power hitting 30 year old currently in the Tigers organization. Hessman has played 1B, 3B, SS RF, and LF throughout his college and minor league career but at the Big league level Hessman would probably be limited to infield duties and likely never see the outfield. Hessman would be a possible power bat off the bench, something Bloomquist, Cairo and Reed cannot claim to be. The Mariners sorely need a bat like this. Hessman could pinch hit in late innings or give a everyday player a break, without costing the team power, and Detriot has him cheap, and available. Hessman last year in the minor leagues hit .271/ .365/ .602 and 34 Home Runs.
Next there is Tim Raines Jr. Raines had somewhat of a minor league breakout season last year with a .311/ .435/ .530 line. Raines did benefit from a some what high BABIP, but wouldn't necessarily be on the bench for his bat. Raines would be more of a speed asset. Raines stole 28 bases last year, 21 in 2007 and 30 in 2006. Raines would offer a decent bat off the bench, with the legs to get himself into scoring position. Raines can play any outfield position.
Hulett, Reed and Morse could battle it out for the other open bench spot, and I imagine the only two catchers on the roster will be Johjima and Clement.
Honorable Mentions: Greg Norton, Reggie Abercombie
Designated Hitter
Jason Kubel is probably one of the most underrated player on the Twins baseball team. Kubel had one of the best seasons of his career last year, which included 28 AB's against Seattle and a .607/ .621/ 1.071 clip. Small sample size? Of course, but Kubel's bat is built for SafeCo Field and could be an excellent option to plug up an outfield spot or the DH. Kubel over all last year put in a .272/ .335/ .471 line, with an average BABIP (.301) and good LD% at 19%. Kubel is my number one trade candidate for the Mariners this offseason. He hits for power, gets on base, fits into our plans, and is still young. Kubel might not be available, but if the Mariners are looking to deal Beltre and the Twins are still interested, Kubel should be included in the deal.
Next of course is Milton Bradley. I will get the negative out of the way first. Milton Bradley is not going to put up a .321/ .436/ .563 line, without having half his games in Arlington hitting behind Josh Hamilton, it just isn't going to happen. At home he posted .358/ .466/ .679 in 129 at bats. Out side of luxurious baseball launching pads those numbers are difficult to repeat. Not to mention Bradley's 24% LD%, .396 BABIP and his 21% HR to FB rate are not going to be repeated. But put aside the fact that he isn't going to put up another monster year, Bradley is a great hitter who has great on base skills, and power to go with. Bradley is looking for a two year deal and is tired of the one year contracts. If the Mariners are willing to give him a multiple year contract, they could become the leader in gaining his services. Bradley could easily put up a .300/ .380/ .490 line for the Mariners with a double digits in Home Runs.
Honorable Mentions: Jason Giambi, Frank Thomas
Coming Soon: Short Stop, and Third base
Bench
The Mariners bench going into next year is iffy at best. Hulett will probably land himself a role as a infielder and Reed may land himself a spot as a 4th outfielder. Morse will probably find himself out of luck, and Rob Johnson is likely to see another year in AAA. So how upgrade the bench? One option is Mike Hessman, a power hitting 30 year old currently in the Tigers organization. Hessman has played 1B, 3B, SS RF, and LF throughout his college and minor league career but at the Big league level Hessman would probably be limited to infield duties and likely never see the outfield. Hessman would be a possible power bat off the bench, something Bloomquist, Cairo and Reed cannot claim to be. The Mariners sorely need a bat like this. Hessman could pinch hit in late innings or give a everyday player a break, without costing the team power, and Detriot has him cheap, and available. Hessman last year in the minor leagues hit .271/ .365/ .602 and 34 Home Runs.
Next there is Tim Raines Jr. Raines had somewhat of a minor league breakout season last year with a .311/ .435/ .530 line. Raines did benefit from a some what high BABIP, but wouldn't necessarily be on the bench for his bat. Raines would be more of a speed asset. Raines stole 28 bases last year, 21 in 2007 and 30 in 2006. Raines would offer a decent bat off the bench, with the legs to get himself into scoring position. Raines can play any outfield position.
Hulett, Reed and Morse could battle it out for the other open bench spot, and I imagine the only two catchers on the roster will be Johjima and Clement.
Honorable Mentions: Greg Norton, Reggie Abercombie
Designated Hitter
Jason Kubel is probably one of the most underrated player on the Twins baseball team. Kubel had one of the best seasons of his career last year, which included 28 AB's against Seattle and a .607/ .621/ 1.071 clip. Small sample size? Of course, but Kubel's bat is built for SafeCo Field and could be an excellent option to plug up an outfield spot or the DH. Kubel over all last year put in a .272/ .335/ .471 line, with an average BABIP (.301) and good LD% at 19%. Kubel is my number one trade candidate for the Mariners this offseason. He hits for power, gets on base, fits into our plans, and is still young. Kubel might not be available, but if the Mariners are looking to deal Beltre and the Twins are still interested, Kubel should be included in the deal.
Next of course is Milton Bradley. I will get the negative out of the way first. Milton Bradley is not going to put up a .321/ .436/ .563 line, without having half his games in Arlington hitting behind Josh Hamilton, it just isn't going to happen. At home he posted .358/ .466/ .679 in 129 at bats. Out side of luxurious baseball launching pads those numbers are difficult to repeat. Not to mention Bradley's 24% LD%, .396 BABIP and his 21% HR to FB rate are not going to be repeated. But put aside the fact that he isn't going to put up another monster year, Bradley is a great hitter who has great on base skills, and power to go with. Bradley is looking for a two year deal and is tired of the one year contracts. If the Mariners are willing to give him a multiple year contract, they could become the leader in gaining his services. Bradley could easily put up a .300/ .380/ .490 line for the Mariners with a double digits in Home Runs.
Honorable Mentions: Jason Giambi, Frank Thomas
Coming Soon: Short Stop, and Third base
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Happy Thanksgiving
Engorge yourself on Turkey, Green Bean Casserole and Pumpkin Pie.
Maybe sit down and watch the Seahawks, or the Titans. Its a day off with family, enjoy yourself.
Maybe sit down and watch the Seahawks, or the Titans. Its a day off with family, enjoy yourself.
Monday, November 24, 2008
Can Jim Street be next?
Since Jack Zduriencik took over, he has already fired or demoted several names including Bob Fontaine, Benny Looper, Greg Hunter, and Jim Riggleman. My question is why can't Jim Street be next?
Obviously I know that Gmz has no control over mlb.com employees, it's more of a rhetorical question. I read Jim Street's mailbag today and I have to say, that he continues his fine tradition of terrible journalism and un-researched opinion.
Here are some highlights of Jim Streets most recent mailbag.
Q: I wish nothing but the best for Yuniesky Betancourt, but I am tired of his constant mental lapses and lack of plate discipline. What about trading him for some outfield help and moving Mike Morse back to short? Morse has a great bat, is a very serviceable shortstop and plays outfield like he's got stage fright. It seems like the humane thing to do would be to give Yuni a change of scenery, and let Morse play where he's more comfortable.
A: While Betancourt does have occasional mental lapses -- as do most players -- and lacks plate discipline, he is the best-fielding shortstop the Mariners have had since Omar Vizquel in the early and mid-1990s. It would weaken the team by trading him.
Obviously I know that Gmz has no control over mlb.com employees, it's more of a rhetorical question. I read Jim Street's mailbag today and I have to say, that he continues his fine tradition of terrible journalism and un-researched opinion.
Here are some highlights of Jim Streets most recent mailbag.
Q: I wish nothing but the best for Yuniesky Betancourt, but I am tired of his constant mental lapses and lack of plate discipline. What about trading him for some outfield help and moving Mike Morse back to short? Morse has a great bat, is a very serviceable shortstop and plays outfield like he's got stage fright. It seems like the humane thing to do would be to give Yuni a change of scenery, and let Morse play where he's more comfortable.
A: While Betancourt does have occasional mental lapses -- as do most players -- and lacks plate discipline, he is the best-fielding shortstop the Mariners have had since Omar Vizquel in the early and mid-1990s. It would weaken the team by trading him.
Yuni is just 25 years old and is learning the job at the Major League level. He probably always will be an aggressive hitter, but I would rather have him on my team than someone with less range in the field who walks a lot.
Furthermore, Morse has not played shortstop in several years, and would, in my opinion, help the team a lot more at first base.
...What!? Betacnourt the best defender since Omar Vizquel? Can I just issue a nationwide ban on that comparision from now on? From 2006 - 2008 Yunieski Betancourt has been -32 on the Plus/Minus system. Know what that means Mr. Street? Take away Betancourt and insert a average SS and that average SS would get to 32 more balls than Yunieski Betacnourt got to. Betancourt is also not 25 he is 26 and nearly 27. I haven't even got to Betancourt at the plate.
The fact is this is just poor journalism and poor research on Streets part. Street still believes Betacnourt is a good defender and it just hasn't been true since 2005. Street believes that Betacnourt is just a young aggressive hitter. But Betancourt posted the worst walking percentage (3%) in baseball last year. Betancourt's WPA is -2.76, and his BW sits around -30.
Jim Street also had this to say.
...and I'm not sure what value there would be in signing Vizquel. He is a Hall of Fame shortstop in my book, but Betancourt is much younger and more productive on offense.
The Mariners are moving foward, so do us a favor Jim and retire, you're about to be left behind.
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Filling the Gaps
The Mariners have many problems they have to fix going into the 2009 season and they are going to have to decide if they want a stop gap player or a player who can become a fixture at his possition.
1st base Options
Eric Hinske and Dallas McPherson top my list. Hinske is a role player on most teams but on a rebuilding Mariner club, he has alot to offer. Hinske posted a .266 GPA last year, while getting on base fairly well and providing the Rays with a bit of power (.465 SLG%). Hinske also suffered from a bit of a low BABIP which can be expected to return to normal in 2009.
McPherson doesn't have any major league data to go off of, but he destroyed the minor leagues last year. Dallas hit 42 home runs and slugged .618. He still strikes out way to much, and some believe he is just a AAAA player. But with a team that probably isn't going to compete, the risk is worth it. Both Hinske and McPherson would serve as stop gaps for Dennis Raben.
Rumors have already sprouted about revisiting the Butler for Betancourt trade. In all likelihood we probably wouldn't be able to get Bulter for just Betancourt, the Mariners should try and hash out a deal for him anyways. Bulter is still very young and is expected to have a break out season next year. Plus the Royals are said to be offering him for cheap, and they need to get rid of at least one of the 1B/DH types. The Mariners could really use Bulter. Don't let last seasons numbers fool you, Bulter is a great option at 1B. If the Royals are unwilling to part with Bulter, the Mariners should attempt Kila Ka'aihue instead.
Then there is Micah Hoffpauir currently blocked in the Cubs organization by Derek Lee, and with no DH in the NL, Micah might be movable. Micah has torn apart AAA pitching, slugging .752 last year. Micah post a great minor league GPA of .367 last year, while hitting 25 HR's and creating 87 runs. Micah might need time to adjust to the Major leagues, but would be considered a long term option at 1B or DH.
Brad Nelson is largely endorsed by USSM and Bleeding Blue and Teal, and rightfully so. Nelson is currently killing the Dominican Winter league .306/ .375/ .750 line. Nelson also enjoyed his time during the regular minor league season (.286/ .380/. 480) hitting 18 home runs and 36 doubles. Nelson if blocked in the Brewers organization by Prince Fielder and wouldn't cost the Mariners much of anything. The great thing about Nelson is that he walks nearly as much and he strikes out. The Mariners don't have many prospects in their system that can say the same thing.
According to Prospect Insider (comment 20) the Mariners have been in talks with the Cardinals and the Diamondbacks. The Mariners are mostly likely in talks with the Cardinals about Chris Duncan. Duncan has been goofing around in the outfield for a few seasons now because Albert Puljos blocks first base. But Duncan is horrible out there and needs to move back to first. Oh what do you know the Mariners have first base open. Duncan is good for about .260/ .350/ .460
Honarable Mentions: Jason Giambi, Jeff Clement
Outfield Options
Matt Kemp. Whats not to like. You get speed, power, and on base skills. So whats the problem? He isn't going to be cheap, and the Dodgers seem to keep changing their mind on if hey want to trade him or not. If Matt Kemp is available, the Mariners should be getting their foot in the door. Kemp created 95 runs last year, though he was rather lucky with his BABIP, at .363. Kemp also happens to be a good defender, something the Mariners had a hard time finding last year. Reed is was ok in Center, as was Ichiro, and Wlad was Terrible, but Kemp is actually good.
Chris Young. As I mentioned above, the Mariners have been talking to the Diamondback about trade possibilities. The Diamondbacks are probably talking about their second base void while the Mariners could be asking about Chris Young. Young is great option who brings along great defense and a swing with a few holes in it. But Zduriencik is a man who values defense and young is good out their. Even with Young's tendency to strike out a lot, he still takes a few walks (62) only Raul Ibanez took more as a Mariner last year. Young isn't great with his on base skills, but he still creates runs (89), he can still drive the ball (19% LD%), and he hits for power well (.443 SLG% and .195 ISO). Young has plenty of issues with plate discipline, but he would be a good piece to have for a few years untill Halman or Saunders are ready.
Honerable Mentions: Mike Cameron, Jim Edmonds, Jeremy Hermida.
Coming Soon: DH, 3rd Base, Bench, 2nd Base, Short Stop
1st base Options
Eric Hinske and Dallas McPherson top my list. Hinske is a role player on most teams but on a rebuilding Mariner club, he has alot to offer. Hinske posted a .266 GPA last year, while getting on base fairly well and providing the Rays with a bit of power (.465 SLG%). Hinske also suffered from a bit of a low BABIP which can be expected to return to normal in 2009.
McPherson doesn't have any major league data to go off of, but he destroyed the minor leagues last year. Dallas hit 42 home runs and slugged .618. He still strikes out way to much, and some believe he is just a AAAA player. But with a team that probably isn't going to compete, the risk is worth it. Both Hinske and McPherson would serve as stop gaps for Dennis Raben.
Rumors have already sprouted about revisiting the Butler for Betancourt trade. In all likelihood we probably wouldn't be able to get Bulter for just Betancourt, the Mariners should try and hash out a deal for him anyways. Bulter is still very young and is expected to have a break out season next year. Plus the Royals are said to be offering him for cheap, and they need to get rid of at least one of the 1B/DH types. The Mariners could really use Bulter. Don't let last seasons numbers fool you, Bulter is a great option at 1B. If the Royals are unwilling to part with Bulter, the Mariners should attempt Kila Ka'aihue instead.
Then there is Micah Hoffpauir currently blocked in the Cubs organization by Derek Lee, and with no DH in the NL, Micah might be movable. Micah has torn apart AAA pitching, slugging .752 last year. Micah post a great minor league GPA of .367 last year, while hitting 25 HR's and creating 87 runs. Micah might need time to adjust to the Major leagues, but would be considered a long term option at 1B or DH.
Brad Nelson is largely endorsed by USSM and Bleeding Blue and Teal, and rightfully so. Nelson is currently killing the Dominican Winter league .306/ .375/ .750 line. Nelson also enjoyed his time during the regular minor league season (.286/ .380/. 480) hitting 18 home runs and 36 doubles. Nelson if blocked in the Brewers organization by Prince Fielder and wouldn't cost the Mariners much of anything. The great thing about Nelson is that he walks nearly as much and he strikes out. The Mariners don't have many prospects in their system that can say the same thing.
According to Prospect Insider (comment 20) the Mariners have been in talks with the Cardinals and the Diamondbacks. The Mariners are mostly likely in talks with the Cardinals about Chris Duncan. Duncan has been goofing around in the outfield for a few seasons now because Albert Puljos blocks first base. But Duncan is horrible out there and needs to move back to first. Oh what do you know the Mariners have first base open. Duncan is good for about .260/ .350/ .460
Honarable Mentions: Jason Giambi, Jeff Clement
Outfield Options
Matt Kemp. Whats not to like. You get speed, power, and on base skills. So whats the problem? He isn't going to be cheap, and the Dodgers seem to keep changing their mind on if hey want to trade him or not. If Matt Kemp is available, the Mariners should be getting their foot in the door. Kemp created 95 runs last year, though he was rather lucky with his BABIP, at .363. Kemp also happens to be a good defender, something the Mariners had a hard time finding last year. Reed is was ok in Center, as was Ichiro, and Wlad was Terrible, but Kemp is actually good.
Chris Young. As I mentioned above, the Mariners have been talking to the Diamondback about trade possibilities. The Diamondbacks are probably talking about their second base void while the Mariners could be asking about Chris Young. Young is great option who brings along great defense and a swing with a few holes in it. But Zduriencik is a man who values defense and young is good out their. Even with Young's tendency to strike out a lot, he still takes a few walks (62) only Raul Ibanez took more as a Mariner last year. Young isn't great with his on base skills, but he still creates runs (89), he can still drive the ball (19% LD%), and he hits for power well (.443 SLG% and .195 ISO). Young has plenty of issues with plate discipline, but he would be a good piece to have for a few years untill Halman or Saunders are ready.
Honerable Mentions: Mike Cameron, Jim Edmonds, Jeremy Hermida.
Coming Soon: DH, 3rd Base, Bench, 2nd Base, Short Stop
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Dayan Viciedo White Sock
I suggested earlier that the Mariners take a look into Dayan Viciedo, a talented Cuban free agent, for their 1st base vacancy.
Dayan signed with the White Sox today, taking him off the free agent market. Dayan currently plays 3rd base, and might stick it at the hot corner for a while, considering the Sox don't intend to re-sign Crede. Dayan profiles more as a first basemen though, due to his lackluster defense and body conerns.
As it turns out the deal is worth 11 million dollars, not exactly making him a bargain. The White Sox took a large risk in giving him a major league deal, though they have been rewarded to a certain level with Ramirez and Contreras. Either way, it will be interesting to see how it pans out for the Sox. 11 million is alot of money to give to a player that some scouts believe has movtivation and weight issues.
I suggested the Mariners, go after Viciedo, but not for 11 million dollars.
Dayan signed with the White Sox today, taking him off the free agent market. Dayan currently plays 3rd base, and might stick it at the hot corner for a while, considering the Sox don't intend to re-sign Crede. Dayan profiles more as a first basemen though, due to his lackluster defense and body conerns.
As it turns out the deal is worth 11 million dollars, not exactly making him a bargain. The White Sox took a large risk in giving him a major league deal, though they have been rewarded to a certain level with Ramirez and Contreras. Either way, it will be interesting to see how it pans out for the Sox. 11 million is alot of money to give to a player that some scouts believe has movtivation and weight issues.
I suggested the Mariners, go after Viciedo, but not for 11 million dollars.
Eric O’Flaherty to the Braves
Eric O’Flaherty has been claimed off waivers by the Atlanta braves today.
No big deal, just some minor league cleansing of spare parts. Eric O had a terrible 2008 season, giving up 15 earned runs in 6.7 innings. It was brutal watching him throw slider after slider early in the year.
He still probably has a future as a lefty specialist somewhere, but its obviously not going to happen in Seattle.
No big deal, just some minor league cleansing of spare parts. Eric O had a terrible 2008 season, giving up 15 earned runs in 6.7 innings. It was brutal watching him throw slider after slider early in the year.
He still probably has a future as a lefty specialist somewhere, but its obviously not going to happen in Seattle.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
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