WIB World News

Season 5 Draft Review: Picks 25-32

2008-10-22T20:50:00.000-07:00

Pick 25: Fresno Special Sauce selects

Donatello Osting
Fresno
Special Sauce
Age: 22	B/T: R/R
Born: San Angelo, TX
Position(s): 2B/1B/LF/DH
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

The Vanderbilt Commodore flies around the basepaths faster than most SEC fratboys can shotgun a Miller Lite - and for those of you unaware, that is pretty fast. That being said, the question becomes, where do you put Donatello? Will he field well enough to put out at second or center, or will he be forced to patrol the traditional slugger's domain in left? All we know, however, is that Donatello does machines, and perhaps he can make one that trains his glove - but given that he's already 22, signs point to no.

Grade: B

Pick 26: P Bob Cedeno

[Photo Not Available; Scouting Unknown to Me]

Pick 27: Cincinnati Skyline selects

Jerome Aldridge
Cincinnati
Skyline
Age: 22	B/T: R/R
Born: Vinemont, AL
Position(s): 2B/1B/LF/DH
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Aldridge carries the banner of being the first ever alumnus of Oakland City University (in Indiana) to be selected in the amateur draft. The Mighty Oak honed his craft while competing in the little-known NCCAA (National Christian College Athletics Association), and he will need the help of the Lord to become a ML-caliber 2B. Boasting a current glove rating of 49 and already 22 years old, Aldridge may never develop into a middle infielder, but he will be a solid ML stick.

Grade: B-

Pick 28: New York Yankees select

Jayson Franklin
New York
Yankees
Age: 20	B/T: R/R
Born: Miles City, MT
Position(s): P (ClA)
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

The local boy from Miles City, MT, who stayed home at Miles Community College, will certainly be introduced to the bright lights of the big city, in a big way. A native of a town of 8,500 will have to get used to having that many drunken bleacher fans serenading him during warm-ups if he makes it to the majors. That said, Franklin has the stuff and the make-up to succeed - but his low durability and stamina combination will severely limit his innings.

Grade: C-

Pick 29: St. Louis Strongmen select

Eric Hudson
St. Louis
Strongmen
Age: 19	B/T: S/R
Born: Hazlet, NJ
Position(s): P (ClA)
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

The rubber-armed Hudson can certainly take the hill every night if you ask him; the question becomes - do you ever want to be in a position to want to call on Hudson. Despite his high control and two quality pitches, his low splits render it dubious whether Hudson will ever be more than a AAAA player.

Grade: D

Pick 30: Chicago ShyTowners select

Don Elarton
Chicago
ShyTowners
Age: 19	B/T: R/R
Born: Merced, CA
Position(s): SS/IF/OF/DH
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Elarton, a graduate from the Vladimir Guerrero School of Plate Discipline, could be a valuable utility player for the ShyTowners in a few years. Though not a fan of seeing multiple pitches, Elarton has a Vlad-like ability to put the bat on the ball, which makes him a serviceable utility player and pinch hitter for the right team.

Grade: B+

Pick 31: Minnesota Maulers select

Carlos Seanez
Minnesota
Maulers
Age: 22	B/T: S/R
Born: Bath, MI
Position(s): P (P)
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

a3morey continues his reloading process with a terrific late-round pick on Seanez. Armed with a repertoire of four quality pitches, Seanez dazzles righties and isn't bad against lefties. Although Seanez stands only 5-10, which leg-drive and velocity have earned multiple comparisons to a right-handed Billy Wagner. Mauler fans hope Seanez can come close.

Grade: A-

Pick 31: Hartford Aristocrats select

Victor Dickey
Hartford
Aristocrats
Age: 22	B/T: R/R
Born: Staten Island, NY
Position(s): SS
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

The WIB world juggernaut rounded out the first round with a solid, but not spectacular pick of projected 3B Victor Dickey. Although Dickey is solid in all respect, he doesn't possess the type of power to hold down a corner infield or outfield position at Welch Park. As such, Dickey is likely to be dealt before he sees any significant playing time at the ML level.

Grade: B

Season 5 Draft Review: picks 17-24 (jmcgarry)

2008-10-22T20:44:00.000-07:00

Thanks to jmcgarry for the analysis of picks 17-24

Pick 17: Boston Red Sox select

Todd Payton
Boston
Red Sox
Age: 19	B/T: L/L
Born: Lincoln, NE
Position(s): P (ClA)
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Was not made available to my scouting department at the time of the draft. Bad news is this guy wont be able to hit one bit in the Big’s. Good news, he wont have to. Very promising young closer prospect has good health, makeup & nice durability/stamina combo. Two very strong pitches & immense control should offset the relatively weaker splits. GB ratio bit of a concern for a closer, hate to give up late walk-off’s, but overall a very sound selection.

Pick 18: Texas Primetimers select

Vinny Wise
Texas
Primetimers
Age: 18	B/T: R/R
Born: Terryville, CT
Position(s): SS
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

We did get to scout this prospect. Already a polished defender for his age Mr. Wise will earn his keep in that arena for many years to come. With stellar durability & good health, the respectable contact / power numbers and solid vL split are a bonus considering the glove. Writing as myself, we look to eye & vR as strong ranking factors and here in lies the blemish. That being said, this is about where we had him slotted, so again a solid pick.

Pick 19: Charlotte Audacity selects

Chico Moya
Charlotte
Audacity
Age: 18	B/T: R/R
Born: Dixon, IL
Position(s): SS
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Another player we had a chance to see, Mr. Moya will most likely see time at 3b in the majors or perhaps a GG/AS RF’er. We had him slotted at #4 overall and must of missed on him due to our signability setting. Immense power and very respectable splits and decent eye should offset the relatively weaker contact rating. Absolute steal at this point of the round, Painful though it may be, this gives victorzhao some ammunition in his daily banter with shucky following his Santana / Turner picks at #2 overall last 2 drafts. Great pick.

Pick 20: Philadelphia Greyhounds select

Terry Webber
Philadelphia
Greyhounds
Age: 18	B/T: R/R
Born: Newport News, VA
Position(s): SS/3B/2B/CF
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Continuing the trend of early defensive selections is Mr. Webber. Not available to our scouting department at draft time, I’d love to be able to rip this pick so my cousin can get defensive and pester me endlessly with IM Chats touting his boy. Valuable glove man with strong vR split, very respectable contact/power combo offset the relatively weak eye. High 70’s durability and single digit vL split probably insures a platoon situation to some degree. Good speed/base running a bonus. With the predominance of righty pitchers however this is probably a 120 game player at ML level, but very effective for those starts & could always appear late as defensive replacement vL starters. Coming as 2nd pick in the round, grudgingly have to say Greyhounds are building a good stack of prospects.

Pick 21: Scranton Blue Devils select

Sid Bynum
Scranton
Blue Devils
Age: 18	B/T: L/L
Born: Burnside, IA
Position(s): CF
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Jesus, did we scout anybody? Another new face to our department Mr. Bynum does just about everything relatively well. Strong speed/base running ratings carry over to range as well. A better glove would really make this young man an extremely valuable addition, as it is I wonder what his position grades out to in the majors….interesting consideration as he seems initially to be a “tweener” not strong enough glove for 2b/CF, and not quite strong enough offense for COF (3b maybe?). That being said, I believe this is about where we would slot him.

Pick 22: Santa Cruz Banana Slugs select Rey Ray, RF Age18

[Photo Not Available]

As of this analysis, this is the lone unsigned member of my review group. A player I had rated higher than this slot where he was taken (no doubt signability concern induced). About as durable as you can get, with immense vR split, solid vL , power & eye offset relatively low contact. Darryl Green type speed (oh, I’m dating myself) with high base running cause for concern for catchers in the show. Very respectable defensive player as well. If he signs, real nice pick, if not….Vic wins again, but then again shucky’s got some prospects already right?

Pick 23: Fresno Special Sauce selects

Shane Dreifort
Fresno
Special Sauce
Age: 18	B/T: R/R
Born: Tonganoxie, KS
Position(s): C
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

At least I’m feeling better we are now seeing guys I saw, Mr. Dreifort has an uncanny resemblance to Dave Clement, but I digress. Studly offensive ratings when viewed as whole, superb contact, vR & above average for the rest of the “big 5”. Has average arm & accuracy to throw out base runners and weak pitch calling projections. Durability & health ratings are likewise a concern. We had him as 2nd rated catcher behind Gerrit Cornelius (who went at 90 to NYP) and slotted on fringes or 1st rd. Seems destined for DH.

Pick 24: Anaheim Angels select

Gerald Martin
Anaheim
Angels
Age: 18	B/T: R/R
Born: Carlyle, IL
Position(s): P (SP1)
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

My final installment, Mr. Martin was also scouted by our department and was rated as 5th best arm (thanks to pesky Jayson Franklin who I couldn’t seem to shake out of my top 4 – but I saw very different stamina…I’m digressing again). Love the 4 pitch ability, very nice set of numbers there. Very nice vR, control & big stamina a plus. Low GB & vL split cause for dropping a bit (still have no idea if velocity makes a damn bit of difference in this game) but at the 24th selection I think i'd have been very pleased indeed if his name came up when the podium mike came on.

Season Five: 1st Round Draft Analysis, picks 1-16

2008-10-21T22:14:00.000-07:00

A brief analysis of picks 1-16 of the first round of the Season Five Amateur Draft.
Pick 1: Los Angeles Dodgers select:

Sven Cerda
Los Angeles
Dodgers
Age: 18	B/T: R/R
Born: Kennewick, WA
Position(s): P (SP1)
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Sven Cerda, the 18-year-old phenom from Washington should be a front-of-the rotation starter for the Dodgers after some time in the minors. Cerda has stud control, splits, and velocity. The only real knocks on him are he has only one true “out” pitch, and his health may give rise to untimely injuries that could stunt his growth.
Grade: A+

Pick 2: Vancouver Canucks select:
[Photo not available]
Bernard Cedeno, a 19-year-old SS. Cedeno has lightning-fast speed, a big arm and glove, and is a plus-hitter across the board. His range may keep him from being an elite SS, and the health is a bit of a concern. Still a nice pick.
Grade: A+

Pick 3: Wichita Tornadoes select:

Matt Sizemore
Wichita
Tornadoes
Age: 18	B/T: S/R
Born: Hialeah, FL
Position(s): SS
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Sizemore, simply put, is the Tornadoes’ SS of the future. The health is a little low, and he is not a base-stealing threat, but he is solid in the field and at the plate.
Grade: A+

Pick 4: Atlanta Gold Club select:
[Not Scouted]
Rob Nicholson, an 18-year-old 2B.

Pick 5: Fargo Freeze select:

Rob Drew
Fargo
Freeze
Age: 21	B/T: L/L
Born: Ogden, UT
Position(s): RF
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Rob Drew, a junior RF from the University of Nebraska. Drew possesses tolerable fielding skills, but his strength is at the plate, where he is one of the best power-hitters in the draft.
Grade: A+

Pick 6: San Juan Lobos select:

Terrell Bold
San Juan
Lobos
Age: 22	B/T: S/L
Born: Fitchburg, MA
Position(s): P (SP1)
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Terrell Bold, an Oklahoma State grad, is one of the top SPs in the draft. His health is a little lower than desired, but he has stud control and velocity, great splits, fb/gb, and a pair of out pitches. Bold should be a mainstay in the Lobos rotation for many seasons.
Grade: A+

Pick 7: Philadelphia Greyhounds select:

Todd Henry
Philadelphia
Greyhounds
Age: 19	B/T: R/R
Born: Castleton, NY
Position(s): 2B/OF
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Todd Henry, a 19-year-old 2B. The defensive skills and batting skills both warrant a top-10 selection. This was one of the safest and surest picks of the first round.
Grade: A+

Pick 8: Seattle Slowballers select:
[Photo Not Available]
Vladimir Diaz, a high school SS. The glove might not be strong enough to play SS, but he has a cannon for an arm, and the range to play anywhere on the diamond. Diaz can fly. And at the plate, while he won’t win any home run contests, he has probably the best eye and contact in the draft. An excellent pick...if he signs.
Grade: Because I think he’ll sign, A+

Pick 9: Oakland A’s select:
[Photo Not Available]
Alving Cordero, a Jr. at the University of Arkansas. Cordero is listed as a SS, and, while he won’t be an elite SS, he could field the position, but might find another spot on the diamond. A fast baserunner, Cordero has a very good eye and will rake against lefties, while holding his own against righties.
Grade: Because I expect him to sign, A

Pick 10: New York Paladins select:

C.C. Webster
New York
Paladins
Age: 18	B/T: S/R
Born: Rochester, NY
Position(s): 2B
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

CC Webster, a high-school 2B, has solid defensive skills. But his value is at the plate, where he has plus ratings across the board, including one of the best power strokes in the draft. The only knock against Webster is his durability, but he should stay in the lineup enough to make this a good pick for the Paladins.
Grade: A+

Pick 11: Monterrey Dragon Fish select:

Christopher Corsi
Monterrey
Dragon Fish
Age: 19	B/T: L/L
Born: Sewickley, PA
Position(s): P (SP2)
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Christopher Corsi, a young pitcher. The control and splits are solid, he will induce a lot of ground balls, and has one very good out pitch and a couple of other solid pitches. But he doesn’t really excel in any aspect of his game, and the health is a concern. A nice pitcher, but this may have been a bit of a reach this high in the round, as there seem to be a number of better players still on the board at this point in the draft.
Grade: B-

Pick 12: Houston Hot Dogs select:
[Photo Not Available]
Rich Jefferies, a 21-year-old position player. His glove and range might not be adequate to play SS/CF, but he should excel at just about any other position on the diamond. His bat is solid and he’s a very good baserunner. Provided he signs, this was a solid pick.
Grade: A

Pick 13: Richmond Rip Romp Rounders select:
[Photo Not Available]
Larry Sheffield, a very good SP. Sheffield has solid control, vR, and gb/fb; great velocity; and two or three solid pitches. He won’t likely be a dominant ACE, but should fill the back of a rotation or a key bullpen role nicely for Richmond.
Grade: A-

Pick 14: Salt Lake City Stealers select:

Bob Horton
Salt Lake City
Stealers
Age: 19	B/T: R/R
Born: Cowiche, WA
Position(s): P (SP1)
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Bob Horton, a 19-year-old pitcher. Considering the point in the round, this may have been one of the best picks of the draft to this point…he was third on my draft board. The splits are very solid, great fb/gb, and the control is off the charts. He’s got two outstanding pitches, and two very solid pitches.
Grade: A++

Pick 15: Rochester Comets select:

Kirt Taylor
Rochester
Comets
Age: 18	B/T: R/R
Born: Little Silver, NJ
Position(s): SS
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Kirt Taylor, a high school SS. One of the best defensive SS in the draft, Taylor has outstanding vL and vR, and solid contact. The power and eye aren’t the greatest, but are serviceable.
Grade: A

Pick 16: Montgomery Rebels select:

Al Merritt
Montgomery
Rebels
Age: 22	B/T: R/R
Born: Long Beach, CA
Position(s): 1B/LF
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Al Merritt, a collegiate 1B/LF. Defensively, he is limited to 1B/LF, but should be above-average at those positions. At the plate, he may struggle some against lefties, but the vR and eye are solid, the contact is very good, and the power is nearly off the charts. A solid pick in the middle of the first round.
Grade: A

September Q&A with jmcgarry

2008-09-23T15:46:00.000-07:00

Welcome back to another season of HBD in the WIB. Perhaps motivated by seeing his division-mate - the Milwaukee Cheese Curds - win the World Championship last season, jmcgarry cleaned house in the offseason - literally. He cleaned out PNC Park and took his team to Salt Lake City. In a nod to apparent SLC tradition, jmcgarry kept the team name - which meant the Stealers made about as much sense as the Jazz. But did he ever clean house in other respects as well. As of press date, jmcgarry has made moves to acquire two perennial CY candidates in Kent Hermansen and Wilt Kydd, and brought along centerfielder Jimmie Colome from the American League. jmcgarry took a break from the phones to answer a few questions for us.

1. Please tell us where you're from and what you do.
My real name is Eric, I am now 41 yrs old & originally from the Bronx NY. I sold pretzels at Yankee Stadium in High School during the Mattingly, Henderson & Winfield era & it's still the best job i ever had. I am an Architect doing corporate interiors & now live out on South Beach in Miami.

2. So I guess you're familiar with the HBD trading tools... please tell us the thought process behind your decision to raid your farm system in the offseason to acquire the most prized veterans on the trade market.
To be 100% honest it began as spur of the momment & grew to "lets go for it". Kind of the culmination of my season 2 tear down .... stock up on a lot of young bargaining chips & wait for the right time to strike, hopefully it works out. I saw our pitching staff as set for the forseeable future & took a chance on dealing the guys who werent going to crack the lineup with us.

3. You moved your team from Pittsburgh to Salt Lake in the offseason, and now your nickname doesn't even make sense - why?
LOL, you wouldnt believe the combination of cities & team names i went through....hard to find something regional for Utah that i could live with. In the end the alliteration factor of the original name won out. Our team has been very solid pitching for a while but we havent scored runs. The SLC Park offers a chance to up that a bit more now that the kids on offense have grown up some. Hopefully it doesnt reverse the pitching performances as well.

4. As of this writing, you've acquired Jimmie Colome and two of the most decorated hurlers in the history of this World - Wilt Kydd and Kent Hermansen, would you say you're the prohibitive favorite to win the world series?
No, but i think we'll be very competitive & could win....if i dont screw it up. Our division is ridiculous, like the SEC in football so ther are no gaurantees with these 3 other quality teams to reckon with.

5. If I gave you even odds, would you be on your team to win?
I'm no Pete Rose but i'd bet on us...sure...take a check?

6. To acquire Kydd, you had to give up the no. 1 overall pick in season 3, Javier Garrido - was it difficult to part with Garrido?
Yes & no. The aquisition makes the price easier to digest. Garrido will be an extremely effectiive pitcher soon, but Kydd is there now, doesnt appear to be slipping at all & I wouldnt discount the Ordonez part of that trade either, so in context I feel good about it. Until he totally shuts us down in a big spot & then i'll moan.

7. How did you first get into WIS and HBD?
kgmakai my cousin turned me on to Sim Baseball a few years ago & i was hooked there. Fox Sports gave me a promotional code, for playing their regular fantasy baseball, for HBD. I joined "Sharkeys World" with it & then about 8 others, including Ford & Mordecai using several alias usernames i loved it so much. After i made all the moves in season 2 & experiencing the dysfunctional chat/trade/smack of other worlds i felt this lg was my home to really build a team in. Im very happy i stayed this is by far the best ive been in.

8. You have now joined two worlds in addition to WIB, how is WIB different from the other two worlds that you have joined?
The main difference is twofold. Primarily as said the poeple here seem genuine & interested in the community of WIB as a whole & not just their own team & i think that's rare or a devilishly clever ruse. Secondly in every other world i have inherited other managers teams/mistakes/glory...this one is all my doing good or bad.

9. Your division is particularly tough, with reddman, bscoresby and last season's champ a3morey all having a proven record of success, wouldn't you rather be in a less competitive division?
Actually no, who wants a cakewalk, wheres the fun in that. I like the competition we have. After 54 wins in season 2 we made the playoffs the following year w/ 89 wins...we were right there again last year before our team bus crash of injuries. Since then i've taken a page from Redd & the commish & tried revise the team w/ an eye towards better health & durability.

10. For the next few seasons, other than the Charlotte Audacity, who do you perceive to be your biggest threat in the National League.?
You are right Victor, the Charlotte Audacity is the best team in this world; and Santa Cruz is by far the worst. But other than that, the 3 teams in my division....and Hartford to the best of my knowledge hasn't quit.... Jeez there's a lot of good teams. Our dream is someday we get to thoroughly trounce the Greyhounds in the series & re-establish family dominance for our IM Chats. [Editor's note, jmcgarry did not actually write the 1st sentence of his answer to this question]

July Q&A with auburnfan

2008-07-17T04:53:00.000-07:00

The July Q&A features everyone's favorite draft critic - auburnfan. His Montgomery Rebels have the misfortune of being stuck in the most competitive division in WIB and are currently battling tooth and nail with Charlotte for the top spot with a sub .500 record. Nevertheless, with a stocked minor league system (combined MiL record of 155-89), the Rebels appear poised to break out and become an annual contender in the National League sooner rather than later. Thanks for the humorous, entertaining and insightful read auburnfan.

(1) Please let us know where you're from; and what you do.
I live in Montgomery Alabama, and have a beautiful wife and two great children (approaching the ages of 7 & 2). I am an attorney with an intermediate appellate state court in Alabama, and I should probably warn everyone that, as an attorney and history major, I tend to be rather verbose at times, so please, don’t read this while operating heavy machinery or tending to small children, as it may cause drowsiness.

(2) So how have you filled your time the last two days with the WIS shutdown?
What do you mean the WIS shutdown…I just thought the sim was running slowly…no wonder I’ve been more productive working at the office! In all seriousness, I did an analysis of the first round of the recently completed WIB Season Four Amateur Draft for the blog. And I’ve second, third, and fourth guessed my decision to draft a signability-risk with the third overall pick, no matter how good his projections are. And I’ve spent a lot of time fretting over my gameplan for my next Gridiron Dynasty game against one of my main conference rivals. And I think my wife and children have begun to wonder why I haven’t been spending as much time on the computer tinkering with my HBD and GD teams.

(3) Given your alias, how disappointed were you that you could not locate a team in Auburn, Alabama? and why did you name your team Montgomery Rebels, and not Montgomery Tigers (as it is the mascot of your alias-sake)?
I would probably have taken Montgomery even if Auburn were an option. Living in Montgomery my family and I see probably 25-35 games a season at Riverwalk Stadium (home of the Tampa Bay Rays AA affiliate). As an aside from the question, we’ve seen some great young talent over the past 4 seasons (current Montgomery Biscuits players that will be in the majors in a season or two are ace starting pitchers David Price and Jake McGee, another front-line SP Wade Davis has moved up to AAA this week, and current young ML stars Evan Longoria, Scott Kazmir, James Shields, Andy Sonnanstine, BJ Upton (all with Tampa Bay), Delmon Young (MIN) all played for the home team, and a bunch of visiting stars like Justin Upton (AZ), Joey Votto (CIN), and Matt LaPorta (the centerpiece of the recent CC Sabathia trade), just to name a few). If you are a true baseball fan, go to a minor-league game, particularly at the AA level, as the play on the field is excellent and most of the players, even the can’t miss stars, are nearly all approachable and will happily sign autographs or chat about just about anything.Back to the original question, the name “Rebels” comes from the old Montgomery Rebels, who were the Detroit Tigers AA team for several decades up until the early 1980s. As a youngster I saw many Tiger greats like Alan Trammel, Lou Whitaker, and Lance Parrish.

(4) How did you discover WIS? and HBD?
I discovered WIS via a promo they ran, if I recall correctly, at foxsports.com back in the winter of 2006 for WIS’ college football dynasty game (Gridiron Dynasty). I have another id (swooft01) that I use for GD where in 16 seasons at DIII Huntingdon in Warner World I have compiled a 218-36 record with 6 Conference Championships in the #1 rated D-III conference in that world. I haven’t won a National Title yet, but have lost in the quarterfinals five times, the semifinals twice, and the national title game once. I remain hopeful though, as my team is currently 12-0 and ranked #2 in the WIS poll (which determines playoff seeding). I may be calling on gaheel84 (won 10 NCs) and obiewon777 (won 1 NC) to share some tips for winning the big game depending on how my playoff run shapes up. Being a big baseball fan, I started reading about HBD a year or so ago to learn more about it before finally taking the plunge when the original owner of my franchise decided he was quitting. He posted on the HBD classified board looking for a replacement and gave the team to me.

(5) Who would you say is the Tecmo Bowl Bo Jackson of your franchise? (By that I mean, the best computer-generated fake player on your team?)
Although this really is an unfair question because, suffice it to say, there simply doesn’t exist in WIB any one fake player who approaches the sheer dominance of Tecmo Bo, on my team the closest is probably a toss-up between my ML SS Fred Darr and my current AA CFer Glen Harvey. Arguably, the best comparison would be a combination of Dallas Blume’s pitching from season 3, Larry Dellaero’s hitting from season one or two (and his current .405 batting average this season), Luke Stone’s 174 stolen bases in 176 attempts for the NY Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles in season 3, and the fielding of my two-time NL Gold Glove SS Macbeth Andrews, but even that combination pales by comparison to Tecmo Bo as Blume occasionally lost, Dellaero made a handful of outs, Stone was caught stealing twice, and Andrews made an occasional error.

(6) You have a bit of a reputation for acquiring, and trying to acquire, players from Auburn University regardless of their actual talent level - to what extent does your fandom affect the way you GM/Manage?
The Auburn link is really the only type of player I like to acquire for “fandom” purposes (although I suppose if a player with my name appeared, or something like that, that could spark my interest). And while I will try to keep those guys floating around the low minors for as long as possible, I won’t promote any to AAA/ML unless their talent legitimately warrants such a promotion. There are still two (that I know of) players from Auburn that I have been unable to acquire, but rest assured that one day Nicholas Harville (San Juan) and Rigo Morales (Santa Cruz) will be Rebels…they might be 38 years old and in wheelchairs, but they will be mine.

Other than that, I try to manage the organization as much like a true baseball organization as possible within the confines of the system. I have probably been a little slower than necessary in promoting young players, and have been making a few more rapid promotions to move some talent up the ladder this season. One thing I have a hard time with (both with being willing to overpay a little for the novelty of Auburn guys and just in trading in general) is evaluating trade offers. Each owner has his/her own ideas about which attribute(s) are more important than others, some owners look only at overall rating, others look only at on-the-field statistics, some place added value on certain positions, some are looking to add/shed depth by trading one for multiples while others are not willing to trade one player for multiple players, some are looking to dump salary, many people weigh salary differently in coming up with a suitable trade, and everybody sees a different (sometimes drastically different) set of projections. I’ve tried a number of different approaches (posts on the message board, trade chat, trade block, trade needs, or just making unsolicited offers to a bunch of teams) and found varying results with each. I really appreciate those owners who take the time to respond to trade offers/chats explaining why they aren’t interested, as that has helped me gain insight into the mind set of how some of the veteran owners evaluate trades, and has helped me make better offers in the future.

(7) You took over this franchise in season 2 from "autigers96," is this franchise limited to owners touting Auburn allegiance in their alias?
Autigers96 is actually another username I set up when I first started with WIS, so that was still me. As I mentioned above, I took over the franchise midseason in season one when the original owner, after making a number of trades that really stripped most of the higher quality veterans and prospects from the organization, decided to abandon the league. When I first started playing WIS, I didn’t realize at the time you could have more than one team under the same id (in different worlds, of course), so I took on a GD team in five or six different worlds, and set each one up as a different id. I don’t even remember what most of the other ids were, as I narrowed my focus to Huntingdon in GD. With the autigers96 id, I used it to take on several abandoned teams in different leagues to learn more about HBD, and to find a world where I liked most of the owners. I quickly decided that WIB was my favorite, and I decided to use my auburnfan id as my primary HBD id.

(8) How does it feel to be 28-34 and be within spitting distance of 1st place in your division?
I actually led the division until about a day before the WIS shutdown, but my make-believe players did the same thing that the real-life Tampa Bay Rays did going into the all-star break with a lengthy losing streak to fall out of the division lead. But hey, the NL South is the most competitive division in WIB!!! Unfortunately much of that competition has been for top-10 draft picks, as the division has had two or three teams selecting in the top 10 each of the past three seasons. Even more remarkable is that at one point late last season I was something like 30 games under .500 and less than 10 games back.

(9) We've seen your write-ups of your MiL prospects (and know that your farm teams all sport glimmering records), when should WIB owners expect to see your team become World Series contenders?
I have made a couple of trades I wish I could take back, but the overwhelming majority of deals I have made have drastically improved my team -- my timeline would be drastically improved if I could take back even a couple of the trades my predecessor made early in season one because although he did acquire a few quality players in return, the overall results were handily negative for the organization. I was, and still am, hopeful that I could be a legitimate contender for the division this season, but whether that happens remains to be seen. I intend to bring up several more young players this season to join the other youngsters already on the squad. If some of the players in my farm system are as good as I think they can be, then it could be as early as next season if I can add a couple of pieces via trade or free agency and everyone performs up to expectations.

(10) How does it feel to know that, regardless of how well you GM and manage, you will always have the second best franchise in the NL South, after the Charlotte Audacity?
Yawn...oh, sorry, that was rude of me, what were you asking? Oh yes, that’s right, I remember the question now. I guess all I can say about that is that we all know that games aren’t played on paper in Q&As, they are played on the field...or...well...in computer simulators, whichever the case may be.

And as you were the king of mediocrity in season 3, and currently lead our internally competitive division by 2 games, I guess until I prove it in the sim, I’ll just have to fall back on the time that I jump ship in Hong Kong and make my way over to Tibet, and I get on as a looper at a course over in the Himalayas. A looper, you know, a caddy, a looper, a jock. So, I tell them I’m a pro jock, and who do you think they give me? The Dalai Lama, himself. Twelfth son of the Lama. The flowing robes, the grace, bald, striking. So, I’m on the first tee with him. I give him the driver. He hauls off and whacks one – big hitter, the Lama – long, into a ten-thousand foot crevasse, right at the base of this glacier. Do you know what the Lama says? Gunga galunga… gunga, gunga-galunga. So we finish the 18th and he’s gonna stiff me. And I say, “Hey, Lama, hey, how about a little something, you know, for the effort, you know.” And he says, “Oh, uh, there won’t be any money, but when you die, on your deathbed, you will receive total consciousness.” So I got that goin’ for me, which is nice, even if I can’t overtake the mighty-mediocre-Charlottevillians.

Season Four Amateur Draft: First round analysis

2008-07-16T18:28:00.000-07:00

A brief analysis of the first round of the Season Four Amateur Draft.
Pick 1: Vancouver Canucks select:

Hardball Dynasty's

Vernon Smith

Vernon Smith, a 21-year old SP from UNC-Chapel Hill, should be an ace for the Canucks soon. He has outstanding control of his four-pitch arsenal, and looks like he will be outstanding, particularly against right-handed batters.
Grade: A+

Pick 2: Santa Cruz Banana Slugs select:

Hardball Dynasty's

Von Turner

Rarely do you see the team picking second celebrate when the team picking ahead of them drafts a potential ace, but shucky has to be thrilled that Von Turner, a once-in-a-lifetime catcher, fell to him at #2. His fielding/pitch calling look to be above-average, but his hitting projects to be nothing short of amazing. Extremely healthy, he should drastically improve his durability over the years and be an everyday backstop. Only 18 and with outstanding makeup, he should hit his projections and be a force for the next decade for the Banana Slugs.
Grade: A+

3. Montgomery Rebels select:
[Photo not available]
Vic Mondesi, an 18-year old starting pitcher. Although he is nowhere near as polished as some of the other top SPs in the draft, Mondesi projects to be just as good as any of them. His agent assured the Rebels that Mondesi would sign if taken in the first round, but whether the Rebels get burned for drafting the signability risk at this spot remains to be seen. If he signs, he could anchor the Rebels rotation for years to come.
Grade: A if he signs, F- if he doesn't.

4. Fargo Freeze select:

Hardball Dynasty's

Ken Wood

Ken Wood, a 20-year old flame-throwing closer. Conventional wisdom says you don’t taken a reliever this high, but Wood is one of the most polished players on the board, has a wealth of upside, and could probably contribute at the ML-level immediately. The Freeze will probably let him have some time in the minors to improve before bringing him up to be the lockdown closer of the future.
Grade: A-

5. Oakland A’s select:
[Photo not available]
Sid Walton, an 18-year old CFer with adequate speed. He looks to be a solid fielder who should hit for a high-OBP, but won’t provide many homeruns. A solid player, but the A’s might have left some value on the board here, and he is also a signability risk.
Grade: B if he signs, F- if he doesn’t.

6. San Juan Lobos select:
[Photo not available]
Daryle Hewson, a 20-year old SP. After getting burned by signability issues with their 1st round pick last season (Ted Lomansey), the Lobos went with a slot-guy here. Hewson’s pitches leave a little something to be desired with the 6th pick, and he might have some control issues, but he should be an innings-eater and very effective against lefties and righties alike.
Grade: B-

7. Texas Primetimers select:

Hardball Dynasty's

Jon Caufield

Jon Caufield, a speedy CFer, has already signed and reported to AA. Whether he becomes an average defender in CF or a gold glover in LF/RF, Caufield will find a place to play to get his bat in the lineup. Good eye and contact against lefties and righties, Caufield wowed the scouts with his amazing power. A healthy player with good patience and makeup, but might need to take a game off here or there to rest. Caufield will patrol the outfield in Texas for many seasons.
Grade: A

8. Los Angeles Dodgers select:
[Photo not available]
John Lombardi, a high school SS, is another signability risk. If the Dodgers can get him under contract, he will be good value at this spot in the draft. Unpolished, he should be at least an average SS, or a gold glove 3B, and his bat is slightly above-average across the board in all facets. Like many high schoolers, he should improve his mediocre durability to match his stellar health.
Grade: A- if he signs, F is he doesn’t.

9. Florida Hammerheads select:
[Photo not available]
Brad Robinson won’t be a SS, but has a great future at 3B. His contact and vs. lefties is average, he’s slightly above average vs. righties, and has an above-average eye, but the kid has a ton of power. He’ll need frequent rests due to some durability issues, but should be a solid player for the Hammerheads, if he doesn’t decide to finish his collegiate career with Siena.
Grade: A if he signs, D if he doesn’t.

10. Houston Hot Dogs select:

Hardball Dynasty's

Kelvim Koch

Kelvim Koch, a dominant high-school closer. With pinpoint control, he is above average vs. righties and will mow down lefties with ease. Pitch one is off the charts, and pitch two is above average. You might want something more than a quality RP with the 10th overall pick, but Koch was a safe pick.
Grade: B+

11. Charlotte Audacity:

Hardball Dynasty's

Ignacio Cervantes

Ignacio Cervantes, an 18-year old pitcher. The positives: his control is off the charts, he has two elite pitches and two more that are above average, he has stellar health, patience, and makeup, and he has already signed and reported to the rookie league team. The negatives: the stamina may not allow him to fill a spot in the major league starting rotation, and the splits are only average.
Grade: B

12. Cleveland Indians (Dot not Feather) select:
[NOT SCOUTED]
Alex James, an 18-year old high school pitcher.
Grade:

13. New York Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles select:

Hardball Dynasty's

Luke Downs

Luke Downs, a home-state starting pitcher. A workhorse with very good control, Downs will be above-average against lefties, but is only average against right-handed hitters. Two above average pitches to go with two below average pitches, Downs should find a spot in the back of the Turtles starting rotation.
Grade: B

14. Philadelphia Greyhounds select:

Hardball Dynasty's

Dan Walls

Dan Walls should be a solid 2B for Philly. His contact is only average, but his power and splits are slightly above average, and his eye is phenomenal. There is some question about his health and durability, but if he can stay on the field, he will produce.
Grade: A-

15. Richmond Raconteurs select

Hardball Dynasty's

Tanner Gragg

Tanner Gragg will either be a slightly below average 2B or a gold-glove LFer. His speed, contact, vs. left, and eye are all above average, and his vs. righties is slightly above average. He only has average power, but his other ratings are sufficient to overcome the lack of home runs. As was the case with pick #14, Gragg, may spend more time in the trainer’s room and/or on the disabled list than the average player, but when healthy, he’ll contribute to Richmond at the plate and in the field.
Grade: B

16. Boston Red Sox select:

Hardball Dynasty's

Brutus Moreno

Brutus Moreno has already reported to low-A. His range and glove may come up just short of expectations in CF, but he could still stick there or become an all-world RFer. A phenomenal eye at the plate, Moreno should be slightly above average vs. lefties and righties alike. He’ll hit for average power, and has above-average speed, but isn’t a big base-stealing threat. If a couple of earlier players were injury risks, then Moreno is a train-wreck waiting to happen. Not very durable, his health is dreadful.
Grade: C+

17. Philadelphia Greyhounds select:

Hardball Dynasty's

Hugh Chamberlain

Hugh Chamberlain, a high-school pitcher with borderline health and stamina. His control should be slightly above average, and he throws four pitches, the worst two of which will only be slightly below average. His splits vs. lefties and righties are both amazing, and should compliment his other attributes to make him a quality ML SP. A very nice pick for the Greyhounds second of two first-round selections.
Grade: A

18. Seattle Slowballers select:
[NOT SCOUTED]
Gary Gibbs, a high school pitcher,
Grade:

19. Rochester Comets select:
[Photo not available]
Grant Mench, a high school starting pitcher, should help replenish the Comet’s pitching depth. The splits are only slightly above average, but he’ll eat a lot of innings, has very good control, and throws several quality pitches. Even though only 18, Mench is more polished than many of his teenaged counterparts, and should be able to rise quickly through the minors. Now the question for Rochester is whether Mench will sign a pro contract or take his game to the collegiate level.
Grade: B+ if he signs, C if he doesn’t, as the risk of only getting a comp pick next season is outweighed by the kid’s upside if he does sign.

20. Minnesota Maulers select:
[Photo not available]
Clarence Glynn, a 21-year old right hander from Chadron State, has slightly above-average splits, very good control, and will be able to pitch deep into the game with his stamina. The pitch quality isn’t great, but he should find a spot in the middle/back of the Maulers rotation, unless he decides to play professional football…5’ 10”, 198 lbs, must be a kicker….
Grade: B if he signs, C- if he doesn’t, as this was a worthwhile risk at this point in the round.

21. Fresno Special Sauce selects:

Hardball Dynasty's

Miguel Armas

Miguel Armas looks to be a top-notch relief pitcher for the Sauce. He has the stamina to pitch a lot of innings from the pen; his splits and control are excellent; he’ll induce a bunch of ground balls; and he throws three pitches, two of which are slightly above average with his top pitch being phenomenal. He has already reported to rookie league, and was excellent value at pick number 21.
Grade: A

22. Oakland A’s select:

Hardball Dynasty's

Armando Molina

Armondo Molina, the 2nd of the A’s first round picks, is a high school starting pitcher. Molina will be a workhorse in the rotation, has above-average control and vs. righties, and four of his five pitches are above average. He’ll struggle some vs. lefties, but this was a very nice pick at number 22.
Grade: A

23. Pittsburg Stealers select:

Hardball Dynasty's

Edgardo Diaz

Edgardo Diaz, a 22-year-old position player. Very polished, he may not see time in the majors at SS, but can play just about any other position on the field. The health/durability are not stellar, and the contact/eye are only average. But the power is above-average, and he will pound lefties and hit above-average against righties. A nice pick at this point in the round.
Grade: B+

24. St. Louis Strongmen select:

Hardball Dynasty's

Candy Davenport

Candy Davenport, a right handed workhorse with above average control, slightly above-average splits, and a four pitch arsenal, has already signed a contract and reported to the team’s rookie league. Davenport’s health is a concern, and two of his pitches are sub par. But overall a decent pick here.
Grade: B

25. Arizona Diamondbacks select:
[Photo not available]
Paul Ramsey, a high school pitcher from Colorado. The health is a little concerning, and the patience and makeup are average. But he should be an innings-eater at the back of the rotation with phenomenal stamina. His splits and control are average, but he has two average pitches, one slightly above-average pitch, and one excellent pitch in his five different pitches in his repertoire.
Grade: B-

26. Scranton Blue Devils select:
[NOT SCOUTED]
Nerio Wall, an 18-year old pitcher.
Grade:

27. Kansas City Kings select:
[Photo not available]
Adam Cash, an 18-year old hurler from Ohio. Cash’s health is only average, but he has good makeup and patience. His stamina is off the charts, and the splits are solidly in the above-average range. A four-pitch pitcher, his #1 pitch is outstanding, his #2 pitch is slightly above average, and his last two pitches are serviceable. Cash’s main problem appears to be his inability to find the strike zone, but if he can fix that flaw, he will be a solid ML player.
Grade: C

28. New York Yankees select:

Hardball Dynasty's

Birdie Stein

Birdie Stein, a college SS, may have trouble making a name for himself at the position in the big leagues, but he should easily find a spot on the diamond somewhere. His eye, splits, and power are average, but his ability to make contact with the ball is a little above average. His health is a bit of a concern as well.
Grade: C+

29. Chicago White Sox select:

Hardball Dynasty's

Yorrick Rigby

Yorrick Rigby, an unrefined 21-year-old reliever with very good upside. His control, splits, velocity, and first pitch all project to be outstanding. His second pitch is average and third pitch serviceable. He should be a solid RP for the Chi-Sox for many seasons.
Grade: B

30. Cincinnati Skyline select:

Hardball Dynasty's

Dan Martin

Dan Martin, a high schooler who will likely end up in a COF spot, 1B, or possibly as a slightly below-average 3B. Martin’s power is slightly subpar, but his eye, contact, and vs. righties are all above average, and he will feast on left-handed pitching. He has decent speed and base stealing ability, and was an excellent pick this late in the round.
Grade: A

31. Anaheim Angels select:

Hardball Dynasty's

Ralph Helms

Ralph Helms, a very solid SP. Helms has great control and stamina. His splits are average, and he has a decent four-pitch arsenal at his disposal.
Grade: B-

32. Hartford Aristocrats select:

Hardball Dynasty's

B.J. Baxter

B.J. Baxter, a high school pitcher, is a very nice signing to close out round 1. His control is excellent, his splits are well above-average, and he looks to be healthy. Of his four pitches, two are above average, one is average, and only the fourth pitch is any sort of liability. One question about Baxter is whether his stamina will allow him to fit into the starting rotation, or whether he’ll be better suited for the bullpen. Either way, this was an excellent value at pick 32.
Grade: A

AL Preview (Part 1)

2008-06-25T19:14:00.000-07:00

Alright fellas, here's my preview of the AL. A couple disclosures before I begin: this analysis was very surface-based. I looked at hitting ratings and pitching ratings, without taking into consideration things such as fielding, durability and coaching/managerial ability. Also, I'm sure I'll forget some of your good prospects, but it takes a long time to find them all. My apologies at the outset. For my "prospects" I only included guys who I think can be above average Major Leaguers. Hopefully, noone will have their feelings hurt with this analysis. My main motivation was to try to gain a better undertanding of the league and to do my part in contributing to the league. Also: don't add up the win totals to see if they come out right. I assure you they won't. So without further adieu.....

AL SOUTH

1. Chicago Shytowers (Last year: 98-64)
-Batting: A
-Pitching: A-
-Overall: Chicago has an absolute squad. Luis Amaro is a perennial MVP candidate. Add in Guillermo Vidal, Chance Taylor, and Ivan Cortez and you have a quartet that is as good as anyone's. The staff is rock solid, with the only negative being the lack of a clear blue chip No. 1. That said, right now, Chicago is my pick to win the AL.
-Minors: C+
-Five-Star Prospects: 1. Bob Blake (CF)
-Four-Star Prospects: 1. Tony Lee 2. Lariel Espinosa 3. Apollo Coles 4. Bricardo Ontiveros
-Projected win total: 106

2. Scranton Blue Devils (Last year: 91-71)
-Batting: B+
-Pitching: B
-Overall: Very, very solid lineup led by Ira Fitzgerald, Cesar Bautista and Jerome Hunt. The pitching staff has the same concerns as Barack Obama: leaning too far to the left. They'll dominate left-handed hitting lineups, but struggling against righties could be their downfall.
-Minors: C+
-Five-Star Prospects: 1. Raul Osuna (SP) 2. Neifi Tejada (2B)
-Four-Star Prospects: 1. Roy Flynn (SP) 2. Lonny Marquez (SP)
-Projected win total: 91

3. K.C. Kings (Last year: 92-70)
-Batting: B
-Pitching: B+
-Overall: KC's lineup isn't flashy, but it will get the job done. If Jumbo Reyes is Batman, Al Valentin and Hiram Hasegawa will fill in admirably as Robin. Al Lopez is a solid No. 1 and Ivan Osuna and Joaquin Mendez are way above average No. 2 and 3's.
-Minors: A- (note: KC has one of the best (if not the best) combinations of minor league and major league talent).
-Five-Star Prospects: 1. Andres Fabregas (LF) 2. Billy Strange (CF) 3. Ricky DePaula (3b) 4. Greg Wall (SP)
-Four-Star Prospects: 1. Vinny Paige (LF) 2. Albert Espinosa (SS) 3. Cristobal Cruz (SP) 4. Nate Adams (RP) 5. Harry Guzman (SP)
-Projected win total: 90.

4. Fargo Freeze (Last year: 63-99)
-Batting: D+
-Pitching: B-
-Overall: This team's offense is nearly as bad as victorzhao's new hair cut (just kidding, Zhao, well, kind of). Low slugging and low OBP--which leads to not a lot of runs. The pitching staff is adequate but not overwhelming. Cy Cashman is clearly the ace of this staff. He'll need to be exceptional if this team is going to compete with the big boys.
-Minors: B
-Five-Star Prospects: 1. Stephen Newman (LF) 2. Valerio Benitez (SP) 3. Theo Thomas (2B)
-Four-Star Prospects: 1. Stan Van Hekken (SP)
-Projected win total: 61

AL EAST

1. New York Yankees (Last year: 94-68)
-Batting: B
-Pitching: B+
-Overall: I wonder if frp is an army vet because this team is all about the platoon. Allen Swann, Bob Naulty, Leon Farly, and Chad Mahay are all guys whose ratings are 30+ points higher from one side of the plate. If frp can roll out his troops right, they should produce runs. John Payton and Charlie Mattes lead a balanced staff that is anchored by an excellent bullpen.
-Minors: D- (This is the first of several teams that have a sign flashing above them saying: I MAY SOON BE ABANDONED ... I MAY SOON BE ABANDONED. Let's hope note).
-Five-Star Prospects: None.
-Four-Star Prospects: 1. Neifi Oivares (SP) 2. Delanor Thomas (RP)
-Projected win total: 97.

2. Boston Red Sox (Last year: 79-83)
-Batting: C+
-Pitching: A-
-Overall: This is WIB's version of the 2005 Astros--all pitching and no offense. The problem on offense is there are no standouts. Malachi Andeson and Randall McNamara add a little punch but not enough to scare anyone. The same cannot be said about the pitching. Santiago Samuel, Hottie Bryant, and Trevor Starr as good a 1-2-3 combo as there is in the league. Closing tight 2-1 games, however, may be a concern.
-Minors: D- (Flashing light, flashing light.....).
-Five-Star Prospects: None.
-Four-Star Prospects: 1. Mitch Raines (SP) 2. Greg McEnery (RP) 3. Dean Bush.
-Projected win total: 91

3. Rochester Comets (Last year: 84-78)
-Batting: A
-Pitching: C+
-Overall: If you combine Rochester's hitting with Boston's pitching, you'd have a heck of team. Of course, if you gave victorzhao some game and got him off whatifsports.com for five minutes he might get a date. Then again, we don't live in la-la land. Seriously, the Comets are stacked 1-9. Rivera, Cook, Aven, Hernandez, Butler, and Corcoran can all flat out rake. This team will have no problem scoring (unlike victor). The pitching, on the other hand, is lacking in star quality. Starting five No. 3's may be enough to contend for a playoff spot but won't win you anything come post-season time.
-Minors: D- (Heck, this entire division is flashing).
-Five-Star Prospects: None.
-Four-Star Prospects: 1. Reid Johnson (CF) 2. Chico Guzman (SP)
-Projected win total: 88

4. Philadelphia Greyhounds (77-85)
-Batting: C+
-Pitching: B-
-Overall: The Greyhounds have about as much power as Brad Ausmus does to right-centerfield. This team has two guys with power ratings over 60. Two. That will not get it done. Unfortuately, the pitching isn't a ton better, but Les Swift, Dale Lombart, and Kevin Lukasiewicz should keep them in some games.
-Minors: A- (Turn the lights off!).
-Five-Star Prospects: 1. Brian Tanaka (SP) 2. Pedro Vega (SP) 3. Ray Bell (3B)
-Four-Star Prospects: 1. Pepe Trevino (RP) 2. Donn McLaughlin (RP) 3. Sean Allen 4. Robert Hayes (2b) 5. Albert Scott.
-Projected win total: 71

That's it for now fellas. Hopefully, I can get to the other two divisions within the next couple days.

Montgomery Rebels season 4 top prospects

2008-06-21T14:23:00.000-07:00

Hardball Dynasty's

Glen Harvey

For the second season in a row, CFer Harvey occupies the top slot on the Rebels' position prospect list. The #3 overall pick in the season 2 amateur draft, Harvey can flat out rake at the plate. He projects to be above-average in range, glove and arm strength, but his arm accuracylooks to be a little below average. Harvey has blazing speed, but is not a great basestealer. There is some internal debate in the organization as to whether his future lies at CF, where he has struggled some, or at 2B. But whichever position he mans, he will likely be at AAA around midseason, with a Sept. callup to the big club when the rosters expand.

2.

Hardball Dynasty's

Trevor Williams

Williams, the 7th overall pick in the season 3 amateur draft, slides into the 2nd spot on the Rebels list. He is slated to spend a few weeks in High A before moving to AA around midseason. He is limited to either 1B or LF in the field. Williams can fly, and projects to be a decent baserunner. But this kid's strength is at the plate, and he projects to be an All-Star caliber hitter. The Rebels would love to get him up for a cup of coffee this season, but he likely won't debut in the bigs until sometime in season 5.

3.

Hardball Dynasty's

Keith Graham

SP Graham, a season-one first round pick, was acquired by the Rebels in a season two trade, and the team's patience in developing the youngster should be rewarded soon. Although he doesn't have eye-popping pitch ratings, Graham's stellar projected splits and gb/fb ratio are topped only by his spectacular projected control and velocity. The organization feels that Graham could become the ace of the big-league rotation, and it looks like he'll get his shot sometime later this season.

4.

Hardball Dynasty's

Fausto Bocachica

Bocachica, the Rebels' first round pick in season 1, could see ML action late this season, but will almost certainly be in the big-league rotation by season 5. Pinpoint control and three plus pitches are his strengths, and he should elicit a lot of ground balls. His splits, while not great, are above average.

5.

Hardball Dynasty's

Rolando Valentin

Valentin remains the #3 position player for the second season in a row. Acquired in a season 2 trade, Valentin should hold down the CF spot for the Rebels for many seasons. His range and glove are above-average, while his AA and AS are slightly below average, but still adequate to hold down the position in the bigs. His plus speed and baserunning ability compliment his above-average contact, power, l/r splits, and eye. There was some thought that he could make the big club out of spring training, but with a glut of OFers on the current roster, he will likely remain at AAA for a few weeks, which could help the team delay his arbitration-eligibility by a season.

6.

Hardball Dynasty's

Karl Burke

Burke, acquired in a season two trade, suffered a devistating labrum tear in season two that set his development back a full season. Since then, he has remained healthy and is finally beginning to show flashes of the promise that led the team to acquire him. His low velocity is more than offset by his great control and splits, excellent gb/fb ratio, and two plus pitches. If all goes well, Burke should get some big-league action this season, and become a fixture in the starting rotation next season.

7.

Hardball Dynasty's

Lazy Nelson

Another season two trade acquisition, Nelson dominated HiA in season 3, winning the Cy Young in the process. With excellent stamina, control, splits, gb/fb ratio, and two plus pitches, Nelson is slated to spend little time in AA before moving up to AAA by the All-Star break. Look for him to try and join the rest of the young guns in the majors sometime in season 5.

8.

Hardball Dynasty's

Jesus Tavarez

Tavarez was picked up in a season one trade. Pinpoint control and two plus pitches are his strengths, and his splits are adequate. Look for Tavarez to spend very little time in AAA this season before making the jump to the show for good.

9.

Hardball Dynasty's

Alfredo Lee

The Rebels' 2nd round pick in the season 2 amateur draft, Lee has been the model of consistency at the plate, hitting nearly .350 (including topping .400 in season 2), and has been even better in the postseason, upping his average to .391 (bolstered by his .455 clip in season 2). The team thought he was their 2nd baseman of the future when they drafted him, but Lee's glove, which has been adequate in the minors, might not be enough for the big leagues. Currently in AA, Lee is expected to move up to AAA sometime this season, and will be with the big club by season 5 if not sooner. If he can't handle 2B but is instead relegated to 1B/LF, his value drops a bit, but he is still counted on to be a big part of the team's future.

10.

Hardball Dynasty's

Paxton Garcia

Garcia will have a hard time cracking the big-league starting rotation when he makes his debut sometime in late season 4 or midseason 5, but he will find a way to contribute out of the bullpen as a long reliever/spot starter. His stamina is less than desirable for a starter, and his control looks to top out in the low-mid 60s, which is a concern. However, three plus pitches, solid splits, and good velocity merit inclusion on the list. And if that isn't enough, we'd have to put him here on the strength of his dominating season 3 performance in AA, when he won the Cy Young, going 22-0 with a 2.35 ERA and 1.19 WHIP, followed up by his 4-0 postseason mark leading to the AA World Series crown.

June Q&A 2: kgmakai

2008-06-21T08:13:00.000-07:00

Veteran SimLeague baseball owner kgmakai had taken a months-long sabbatical from WhatIfSports (wish I knew how to do that) before deciding to dip his feet into the HBD waters for the 1st time this season. He has been an active owner thus far, picking up 3 players in the Rule V draft and trading 40-40 man Bernie Carrasquel for stellar pitching prospect Pedro Vega. Will his SimLeague dominance - 1304-897 record with 2 career championships - translate to HDB? Perhaps this Q&A will shed some light.

(1) Please tell us, what is kgmakai and what does he do?
I am an independent financial advisor living and working in the South Jersey/ Philly area. I also do employee benefits such as group health/dental insurance, 401k plans etc. Before joining Whatifsports I used to play ESPN Classic Fantasy Baseball, which was my first foray into online SIM games. That was a terrific game (and actually more realistic than Whatif regarding injuries and other issues), and I did well there winning a championship and making the playoffs every season which I played. When the ESPN game was sadly discontinued I switched over to Whatif to satisfy my Sim addiction, and have been here ever since.

(2) are you prepared for the dramatic changes the HBD will make to your internet habits?
Haha yeah I've noticed a big drain on my time already. Its OK though, I enjoy it very much so I don't mind the time commitment. Oh, and my girlfriend and I broke up, so I have plenty of time now for the game LOL

(3) You've had sustained success in SimLeague Baseball but this is your 1st foray to HBD, what is the biggest difference between HBD and SimLeague baseball?
For me the biggest difference is trying to make sense of the ratings, which in some instances seem to contradict one another. For example, you can have a pitcher with high stamina and low durability, and vice-versa. What does this mean? I guess I will find out. Some pitchers may have horrible control and horrible righty/lefty ratings, but yet also may have excellent individual pitch ratings. Again, what does this mean? I won't know until I play and experience it for myself. In the regular SIM league, you know exactly what you are getting with each player you pick.

(4) What has been the biggest challenge in learning HBD thus far?
Understanding the little things like learning about the differences between waiving and releasing players, rule 5 stuff, options, contract negotiations, budgeting etc. This is all new to me, so I wanted to be real careful that I didn't screw my franchise with a bloated contract or anything. That and understanding the various player ratings.

(5) What went behind the thinking to locate the franchise in Philadephia and name it the Greyhounds?
Well I live in the Philly area, and I figured the Philly fans deserved a title. They can be very tough, but will support your team 100% if they play hard. I have a greyhound, an ex-racer who I adopted a few years ago, so I love the breed and figured it would be an appropriate name for my team.

(6) What were your initial impressions of your franchise?
Unfortunately I was not overly impressed with the talent, other than some of the first round picks. The major league team did not look competitive at all when compared to some of the other franchises. Plus the minor league teams were mismanaged by the prior owner, as all of them had very poor records, so I'm not sure if the young talent is any good either. Also, the previous owner has saddled me with some poor long term contracts. Yuck.

(7) You took 3 young hurlers in the Rule V draft - Jack Clark, Jim Keisler and Banjo Hines; was there a focus on pitching in compiling your list?
Yes, the whole organization seemed to be very low on pitching talent. On some of my minor league squads I didn't see one half-decent pitcher on the roster. To me that seemed to be the first big hole that needed to be addressed in taking over this franchise.

(8) There's no trading (as far as I know) in SimLeague, but you made a big splash in the trade market by moving 40-40 man Bernie Carrasquel for a fill-in outfielder and potential staff ace Pedro Vega, tell us about your first experience with the HBD trade winds? (in the interest of full disclosure, I also made an offer for Carrasquel)
Well as I mentioned earlier, I concluded that my team did not look competitive, so I figured it was time to let go of some of my better established major leaguers to bring in some young talent. Bernie was my main offensive weapon, but he had to go. I enjoyed the trade process, it is a fun part of the HBD game, and I like checking out other team's rosters.

(9) What is your initial assessment of HBD?
Well my cousin Eric had been raving about HBD and begging me to play for about a year now, so i finally broke down and joined. I had taken about a 7-8 month sabbatical from Whatifsports, but I felt rejuvenated and ready to take the plunge. I was a bit scared at first about managing all levels of an organization... just because I was very successful managing in SIMleague baseball didn't necessarily mean I would be a good GM! LOL But now I am hooked already. I love it! I enjoy all the details, the little things. I hope they keep adding to the game to make it more and more realistic.

(10) How many more wins this season will you have than your cousin jmcgarry and his Pittsburgh Stealers?
Hmmm, at least 5 more. And of course I will dominate him head to head. ;-)

June Q&A with obiewon777

2008-06-04T18:57:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the 1st installment of the June Q&A with the owner of the American League Champion Anaheim Angels, obiewon777. Obiewon touts an impressive resume that speaks for itself, racking up 17 playoff appearances in 26 seasons, including a championship in the Guiness World just a week ago (and nearly a second one a few days ago in WIB)! He joins me (effectively Jim Gray, standing outside the losing team's locker room waiting for an interview)

1. Please tell us who you are and what you do?

I am a father of 7 and grandfather of 9 and live with my wife in Southern California. I am currently a real estate agent and frequent HBD user.

2. How disappointing was it to get within 1 game of your second HBD Championship and fall short?

Ouch does not come close to how I felt and to lose it by only 2 runs, double ouch ! I think what hurt the most was that my ace and Cy young award winner Marty Blauser got hurt and was not able to pitch that all important game for me and the pitcher I chose only went on three days rest and it showed.

3. What would have happened if Blauser had not gotten hurt?

I think he would have made the diffence in that all important 7th game and we would have won. But that is part of the game players getting hurt so you accept it and move on.

4. How did you feel when you logged in after that sim cycle and saw that "Matty Blauser - injured" message in your inbox?

I was praying it was only for a few days, but not only did it take him out of the rest of the world series but he now has been set back and will not be the same next season. So it impacted much more than just one game, it may cost me a chance to get back to world series this next season. So it was the most devastating injury I have ever had in HBD. If there is any good news he is 33 years old and this next season will be his last under contract. I won't have him eating up payroll after this next season , and I did trade for some young pitchers. I think we will have his replacement ready to go by the time season 4 is over.

5. Should Dennis Catallanato have won the MVP? Why or why not?

You would think hitting .346 with 50 home runs and driving in 134 runs would make you a MVP but what can you say about the season Luis Amaro had 64 home runs is unreal and with an top averge and driving in 157 runs he was the right choice.

6. You play in the same division with my good friend shucky. If you could play his Banana Slugs for all 162 games on the schedule this season, would you have won...(a) 159 games (b) 160 games(c) 161 games or (d) 162 games?

That is a good question I'll take choice e.) none of the above

7. You have quite an HBD resume, how has HBD changed your internet habits, if at all?

Well I was in GD for more seasons than HDB but that just took too much time so I switched to HBD because it is easier for me to play and manage the teams. I have three now but I will be dropping one more to just manage two this next season as it is taking too much time with three teams. I find between my laptop and palm I check in several times a day to see what the teams are doing. This is much more than I used to do with the internet or with GD. So I would have to say that What if Sports has increased my internet habits and HBD increased it ten fold.

8. Your record of success speaks for itself, what is the biggest key to building a successful franchise over the long haul?

Finding the right combination of young ballplayers and veterns. You can't have all veterns because of the payroll and you can't have all young players becasue of the lack of production so you need to find the right players and trade for a couple and build the minors for the future.

9. So an HBD championship and almost another one within a week, is this game getting too easy for you?

Not at all. What is exciting for me is that each season there are new challenges and decisions so it is never dull or easy.

10. What should Anaheim fans be anticipating from the management in the offseason? Will they be seeing "change"? or will it be the fourth obiewon777 term?

I'm here to stay as this team is one of my favorites. I am hoping to make another trip to the WS but I will be looking at a couple more trades in key areas to get back as there are some good teams with very good young talent just a season or two away.

May Q&A with Commissioner ck1909

2008-05-25T22:43:00.000-07:00

The second May Q&A features our Commissioner ck1909. His Hartford Aristocrats won the President's Trophy with a world-best 113 wins in season 3. But ck1909 is no stranger to success - in 40 seasons, he has 16 playoff appearance, 10 division titles, and 2 world championships. ck1909 also participates in two of the elite worlds in WIS - Moonlight Graham and Moneyball. Over Memorial Day, he took a break from his 8 teams to answer 10 questions.

1. You're in 8 different worlds - so what is it that you do where you have so much free time (and where are you situated, standard questions)!?

I work as a Quality Control Coordinator for a fortune 500 company in the flood zone research industry, located in Austin TX. I am on a computer all day at work which allows me plenty of opportunity to check on my teams during down time at work. It's funny, on one occasion I have actually changed my lineups while on a conference call with FEMA...LOL!

2. What was the most important factor in the Aristocrats' 113 win season?

I think overall, there were several moves over the past three seasons that helped build this team, but I think the most significant move was moving from Florida to Hartford. This team is a very power heavy team and a hitters park better suits my team. I must say that I am totally shocked that this team lead the league in ERA while playing in this park.

3. You gave Rafael Villano a 5 year, 45 million contract in winning one of the bigger FA battles in the offseason - would you do it again with the benefit of hindsight?

for 62 HR's and 140+ RBI's, and the best record in the league...YES!

4. As Commissioner, what are some of the things you look for in new owners should the world have vacancies after roll over?

I look for owners that know what they are doing. I am commish of FIeld of Dreams also. That world has some entry guidelines that this league doesn't but what I look for is usually the same. I prefer to get owners that have played the game before, but I don't shy away from new owners for this league, but I still am pretty selective when it comes to noob's. I look for how long do I think the owner will stick with the league, what is the likelyhood of that owner getting ripped off in a trade (something that happened a lot in season 1).

5. You have some interesting team names - "Fortius," "Creole Voodoo," "Inbred Jeds," "Mullets," etc. - what goes into the team name decision?

when picking a team name I usually go one of two routes. Either I pick a team name that makes me laugh ala Huntinton, WV Inbred Jeds, Madison Mullets or I go with a word that pertains to that region ala New Orleans Creole Voodoo, Salt Lake City Fortius (Olympics reference). I chose the Aristocrats after I just watched the movie the Aristocrats.

6. A lot of your players were upset with your decision to move the team from South Beach to that northern players' paradise - Hartford - care to explain that to your players?

we improved from 92 wins to 113 wins. Shut up and play!

7. Though you've completed 40 HBD seasons to date - this has been your best regular season - record wise - is this the best team you've ever had?

No, I had a team in Pete Rose world also called the Madision Mullets that were dominant and also had 113 wins that lost in game 7 of the WS. I left that league after watching a large amount of stupid trades go down.

8. You're in two of the more discussed worlds on the forums - Moonlight Graham and Moneyball - where does WIB stack up with some of the other worlds in which you participate in terms of competitiveness?

Moonlight Graham is by far the most competetive league out there. All 32 owners are very good at this game and the league bulletin board is very controversial. Moneyball is kindof an All-Star league where all the owners were handpicked. there is a rule in that league where if you have two consecutive seasons that have an a cumulative record of below .400 you have to leave the league so that is a very competetive world as well. I would say that WIB is not in the league of those two worlds as there is a pretty big disparity between the haves and have nots, but I feel this leage is more competitive than in Season 1 and continues to get better.

9. Who is your favorite player on the Aristocrats? Why?

Dallas Blume 23-1 record, under 2.00 ERA, in an extreme hitters park.

10. Despite having a long history in HBD, you have yet to participate in any other WIS game. Ever feel intrigued, at least, by some of the other games WIS offers?

the only other game that appeals to me is the SIM baseball game. I have been playing a similar game on Stats.com's site called DIamond Legends that I feel is a superior game and it is cheaper to play.

NY Cy Young Analysis

2008-05-25T07:38:00.000-07:00

Dallas Blume
Hartford
Aristocrats
Age: 29	B/T: L/L
Born: Dearborn, MI
Position(s): P (SP1)
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Acquired last season with a package that included Pittsburgh's up-and-coming SS Dave Clement, ROY candidate closer Johnny Patel, and trade bait Aaron Johnson, Blume delivered in a big way this season. Pitching in a hitters' heaven in Hartford, Blume was absolutely sensational in 198 innings of work, compiling a 0.79 WHIP, a 1.68 ERA, a K to BB ratio of 7 to 1, and averaging roughly 10 strikeouts every 9 innings. Most amazingly, in 33 starts, Blume made 1 start in which he gave up more than 3 runs.

Wilt Kydd
Atlanta
Crackers
Age: 32	B/T: S/R
Born: Floydada, TX
Position(s): P (SP1)
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

One of the most dominant starters in this world's history turned in another sensational effort this season. Kydd worked 250 1/3 innings, and compiled a WHIP of 0.88 and an ERA of 2.22. While Kydd did turn 32 this season, opposing hitters did not notice - hitting for a paltry .181 against Kydd. Nevertheless, with the Wild Card hanging in the balance, the Crackers sent Kydd out for his last start of the season against the slugging Aristocrats and Kydd fell short, allowing 4 runs in 8 innings (though he did strike out 12) and his team lost a pivotal game 159 by a score of 6-3.

Jake Moriarty
Hartford
Aristocrats
Age: 30	B/T: S/R
Born: Rockport, ME
Position(s): P (ClA)
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

The Aristocrats' closer was one of the few Aristocrats who welcomed the move from South Beach to Hartford - being closer to his home in Maine - and it showed in his performance. The veteran righty worked 84 and one-third innings and saved 49 games in 52 opportunities, including 21 in a row to start the season.

Kent Hermanson
Milwaukee
Cheese Curds
Age: 25	B/T: L/L
Born: San Francisco, CA
Position(s): P (SP1)
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

The fireballing Cheese Curds lefty electrified the Miller Park hopeful with a career-best 2.39 ERA in 241 innings. In the process, Hermansen delivered five route-jobs and held opposing hitters to a .558 OPS against. Unfortunately, playing in the tough NL North, Hermansen could not propel his team to the upper reaches of the standings.

Pat Mirabelli
Hartford
Aristocrats
Age: 31	B/T: R/R
Born: San Diego, CA
Position(s): P (SP2)
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

The Aristocrats' No. 2 starter was, most definitely, their no. 2 starter. Mirabelli, who vigorously opposed the club's move from the sunshine of Florida to Hartford, still managed to turn in a terrific effort - including a career best 3.15 ERA. Nevertheless, Mirabelli is a distant no. 2 to Blume in the Hartford rotation.
The Verdict
In a 2 horse race between Kydd and Blume, the nod goes to Blume for his performance in the best hitters' park in this world.

NL MVP Analysis

2008-05-24T14:39:00.000-07:00

The Candidates

Larry Dellaero
Arizona
Diamondbacks
Age: 32	B/T: R/R
Born: Monaca, PA
Position(s): 1B
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Dallaero was signed to a monstrous 5 year, $102 million contract a season ago and has spent the last two seasons proving that he's worth every penny. Playing in a slight hitter's park, Dallaero racked up a monster 1.203 OPS, with a career low 64 homers and 145 RBIs. In the field, Dallaero was equally flawless, playing nearly 1,200 innings at 1B without making an error. With Dallaero planted in the middle of its lineup, the Diamondbacks held off the defending world champion San Diego Ticos for the NL West Title.

Donovan McMillon
Cincinnati
Skyline
Age: 26	B/T: L/L
Born: Olive Hill, KY
Position(s): LF/1B/RF
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

McMillon has been a fixture in the Skyline franchise since WIB's inauguration, and proved last season's 60+ HR season was no fluke by ripping 59 more in the homer-friendly Great American Ballpark. For the season, McMillon posted a career-best 1.053 OPS and drove in 134 runs to propel the Skyline to a franchise record 105 win season and the NL North championship. In the field, McMillon patrolled left field and had no minus players the entire season in nearly 1,200 innings in the outfield.

Rafael Villano
Hartford
Aristocrats
Age: 31	B/T: L/L
Born: Los Llanos, DO
Position(s): 1B
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Signed to a 5 year deal prior to Season 3, Villano worked hard for the money - playing in all 162 of his team's games. And Villano wasn't just doing it, he was doing it, doing, and doing it well - to the tune of 1.040 OPS, 62 homers and 145 RBIs. Though Villano may have benefited from hitting behind fellow slugger TJ Brock in the bandbox that is Welch Field all season, he actually saved his best performances away from those friendly confines, compiling on higher OPS on the road than at home.

Gene Sirotka
St. Louis
Strongmen
Age: 25	B/T: R/R
Born: Atlanta, GA
Position(s): 1B/LF/DH
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Playing in the least hitter-friendly environs among the top MVP contenders, Sirotka nonetheless turned in the most complete season of any of the candidates, and perhaps the best. Sirotka not only compiled a .985 OPS and a league leading 152 RBIs, but he swiped 36 bags in 51 attempts. But to throw some icing on the cake, Sirotka took home the NL Gold Glove with an errorless season at first in more then 1,400 innings in the field. Sirotka's play helped the Strongmen hold off the Crackers and the Ticos in a furious finish in the NL Wild Card race.

Ben Whitney
St. Louis
Strongmen
Age: 27	B/T: R/R
Born: Craryville, NY
Position(s): LF/3B/2B/RF/DH
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

While Sirotka may have been the engine of the Strongmen offense, Whitney was its spark plug. Set in the lead-off hole, Whitney filled the role with aplomb - stealing 108 bags in 114 attempts. In addition, Whitney brought a little Rickey - actually a lot of Rickey - to the role with 38 bombs and an OPS of .864. His all out play, however, may have cost his team down the stretch as Whitney played out the stretch run and the playoffs at around 85% and went 1 for 13 in his team's 3 game exit from the playoffs.

The verdict

It's tough to not vote for Dallaero, but my vote goes to Gene Sirotka for his production at the plate in pitcher-friendly Busch, his defense, and his work on the base paths.

May Q&A with bscoresby

2008-05-13T11:29:00.000-07:00

bscoresby is an original owner of the St. Louis Strongmen in the NL; however, he cut his teeth on WIS in Hoops Dynasty, where he touts a career record of 792-361 with 2 National Championships thrown in. In HBD, he has made the playoffs three times in nine seasons and is currently in a 3 way tie with the Pittsburgh Stealers and the San Diego Ticos for the last wild card spot in the National League. Thanks bscoresby!

1) First, we'd like to know a bit more about bscoresby, tell us where you're from and what do you do.

I'm a 27 year old 4th year optometry student from Ohio, now living in Memphis.

2) Many of us heard about your trip to Mexico, can you tell us a bit more about your involvement with the group that organized the trip and what you learned from it.

The group is called SVOSH (Student Volunteers in Optometric Service to Humanity) and most of the 17 optometry schools have a chapter. During the year we fundraised 800 dollars, collect glasses and read prescriptions in the glasses to have supplies ready. Our chapter goes after the academic school year ends. Lion's Clubs abroad host our group because we share the same vision (pun intended) for people.

My wife and I have learned a lot about serving people- namely anyone can do it. My wife spend a semester volunteering in an orphanage in Quito, Ecuador with a group for 4 months, so we really do think anyone can do it. The people in the countries that we serve are very appreciative of the service given.

3) The pundits are all wondering about the slide in the standings this year following last year's division championship season, what was the biggest reason for the slide?

Cincinnati made some great moves and got hot, but don't worry a wild card bid might be what the doctor ordered to get St. Louis firing on all cylinders.

4) You also play in the Big Sky Alumni World, can you tell us what you enjoy in particular about your experience in WIB?

I enjoy the fact that I only have myself to blame for what goes wrong in St. Louis. Nobody has ever had a hand in the St. Louis deals, and I think it makes me a better owner knowing I can't pass blame for previous owners messing stuff up.That and the NL is just ridiculous. Too much parity to ever feel confident that a certain team will win it all.

5) How did you first hear about and subsequently get involved with WhatIfSports?

I forget how I found it, but I remember my first team was in DIII of HD in the world Iba. That must have been about 3 years ago. I started HBD about 9 months ago.

6) You're also involved with Hoops Dynasty - what do you enjoy the most about both HBD and HD? Any preference?

I enjoy HD because I've had success there, especially at DIII Bowdoin in Crum. The game has changed slightly since I won back to back NT and played the the NC game the next year. I'm looking forward to rebounding though- I have a tough squad next year. HBD has helped my knowledge of baseball grow lot- it's fairly complicated and I'm always learning new stuff.

My preference is probably for HD, but HBD is definately better than GD, which I hated.

7) Who is your favorite player or prospect on the Strongmen?

That's a 3 way toss up for Ben Whitney, Joe Neal and Gene Sirotka. 3 major league bashers.

8) Why did you pick St. Louis for your home park?

The ballpark effects in St. Louis help me temper out teams that are very good HR hitting teams with low batting averages. I have several guys whose splits are high- this allows them to get on base a fair amount. I still hit a lot of home runs though because of the big bats in the lineup.

9) Will St. Louis fans see a rebound from the Strongmen next season?

Next season? You know we are still in the hunt for this season.

10) Describe your GM style, and are there any real life GMs that you pattern yourself after?

I'm a hands off GM- the same with HD as the coach. I set stuff and just make minor changes through the season. Most of the time it works. I don't make a ton of trades, only if the real need presents itself. I don't follow baseball enough to know any of the GM's except for Omar Minaya, and I'm definitely not him.

AA streak ends

2008-05-03T08:34:00.000-07:00

In the 5/3 AM game, the Rebels' AA team sent

Paxton Garcia
Montgomery
Rebels
Age: 22	B/T: R/R
Born: Lebanon, IN
Position(s): P (SP2)
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

to the mound as the starting pitcher for the 23rd time this season. However, something happened that had not happened in his first 22 starts...the team lost. Garcia, with a 1.17 WHIP, 2.45 ERA and 119 Ks in 132 innings, was 18-0 with 4 no decisions (which the team won all three) going into the game. However, after leaving the game in the 6th with the score tied 3-3, the bullpen gave up 3 runs in the 9th to lose 6-3. After the game Garcia was quoted as saying "Wow. That sucks." The organization hopes that he can continue his success, and they are debating whether to promote him to AAA, or leave him at AA for the remainder of the season to allow him to try and bring home the AA Cy Young award.

Season 3 Diamonds in the Rough

2008-04-27T08:18:00.000-07:00

Obviously not everyone felt inclined to share their DITRs, and understandably so, the following summary of the top 3 DITRs is only based on the information posted.

3.

George Creek
New York
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
Age: 23	B/T: R/R
Born: Varnado, LA
Position(s): P (SuA)
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Previously resigned to a career toiling around AA bus stops, Creek was fixing the team bus on one of those bus-stops when suddently the jolt went through his arm. When he came to, Creek suddenly found a devastating fastball and curveball in his arsenal. That jolt of lightning could potentially propel Creek into a bullpen role in the majors. That ascension, however, may still ride on whether Creek can keep the ball in the yard.

* do a find for "sparkplug" on the link

2.

Stan Bottalico
Arizona
Diamondbacks
Age: 21	B/T: S/R
Born: Willard, OH
Position(s): P (SP5)
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Though Creek benefited from a sparkplug jolt, Stan Bottalico had no such eureka moment - he made his advance the old fashioned way - by working. George Creek spent day after day with his AA pitching coach and discovered a forkball. The discovery potentially elevates Creek's career prospects to that of a 7th inning guy in the Majors or a guy who could come in and get the groundball double play.

1.

Tarrik Strong
Charlotte
Bankers
Age: 19	B/T: R/R
Born: Brockville, ON
Position(s): C
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Drafted in the 6th round last season, Strong was previously projected to become an offensive catcher at the AAA level would could be a stop gap solution at the majors. Now, however, Strong projects to be a strong platoon option in the Show. I know, at the minimum, this owner anxiously await his arrival!

Draft Round Up Picks 25 - 32

2008-04-23T16:15:00.000-07:00

Pick 25 - The Angels select Larry Lee

Larry Lee
Anaheim
Angels
Age: 18	B/T: R/R
Born: Thousand Oaks, CA
Position(s): SS
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Lee possesses some fine tools to be a very good ML player in the future, but based on his fielding performance so far in the rookie league (5 errors in 20 games), SS may not be the best position for him. He has good power and contact, but projects to weak against righties. A solid but average pick.

Grade B-

Pick 26 - The Raconteurs select Reid Johnson

Reid Johnson
Richmond
Raconteurs
Age: 22	B/T: R/R
Born: Glens Falls, NY
Position(s): 2B/CIF/OF/DH
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Johnson has the tools that Richmond was looking for with this pick; a defensive 2B/OF who will be a singles/doubles hitter. What he lacks in power will be offset with his blazing speed and baserunning ability. 50+ steals should be easily attainable. Starting him off in AA had some pundits scratching thier heads, but at 22, he so far has shown he has the maturity to excel at the level.

Grade B+

Pick 27 - The Strongmen select Alexander Giles

Alexander Giles
St. Louis
Strongmen
Age: 19	B/T: L/R
Born: Pekin, IN
Position(s): 3B
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

St. Louis might have the sleeper of the first round. Giles is above average in all offensive categories. The only chink in the armor comes on the defensive side, where his future may lie somewhere other than 3B. He has above average speed and ML potential at the plate.

Grade A

Pick 28 - Diamondbacks select Alfredo Cruz

Alfredo Cruz
Arizona
Diamondbacks
Age: 18	B/T: R/R
Born: Bloomington, MN
Position(s): P (SP1)
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Cruz, while a solid pick at 28, doesn't blow me away with great ML potential. He has the stamina to be a innings eater, but his control is average at best, and while he projects to have two good pitches, the other three are what scare me...and not in a good way. Could possibly be a future No. 4 or 5 starter, but will need to reach his full potential to attain that.

Grade C-

Pick 29 - The Crackers select Alexander McPherson

Alexander McPherson
Atlanta
Crackers
Age: 18	B/T: R/R
Born: Fayetteville, WV
Position(s): P (ClA)
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

McPherson has a bright future in the ML, and that future will be as a closer. Blessed with outstanding control, great splits, and a excellent trio of pitches, McPherson could be a dominant closer or based on his stamina, a excellent setup guy. Probably one of the best picks someone could get at pick 29

Grade A

Pick 30 - The Ticos select Kareem Paige

Kareem Paige
San Diego
Ticos
Age: 18	B/T: L/L
Born: W Palm Beach, FL
Position(s): 1B
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

The Ticos got a future offensive monster in Paige, with his remarkable power/contact numbers to go along with his outstanding splits. The only dilemma for the Ticos is that Paige is a AL teams dream...on a NL squad. A defensive liability on the field. Paige has a great future as a DH. A possible trade to the Al may be in Paige's future.

Grade A

Pick 31 - The Shy Towners select Tony Lee

Tony Lee
Chicago
ShyTowners
Age: 22	B/T: L/L
Born: Kalamazoo, MI
Position(s): P (SP4)
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Lee is another possible steal of the draft. Tremendous control and outstanding splits make him a sure fire future ML. His stamina may hinder him from being an effective starter, but in a long relief position or spot starter, Lee may be dominant.

Grade A

Pick 32 - The Ashes select Bill Perkins

Bill Perkins
Philadelphia
Ashes
Age: 22	B/T: R/R
Born: Burbank, WA
Position(s): 2B
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Perkins projects to be a top notch ML 2B. He possesses above average offensive stats, and will not hurt you defensively at second. The slow footed Perkins may not be swiping many bags, but you couldn't ask for a better late first round pick.

Grade A-

Draft Roundup: Picks 17-24

2008-04-21T17:19:00.000-07:00

*writer's note: a3morey was gracious enough to contribute the 1st two write-ups, I (victorzhao) filled in on the final 6 selections.

Pick 17: Houston Hot Dogs select Brook Cosby

[Picture not available]

Still unsigned and contemplating whether or not to play college baseball, Cosby projects as a shortstop with limited range. For a shortstop, Cosby brings some offensive punch. However, with his limited range, it wouldn't be a surprise to see him line up next to 3rd base at some point down the line. Either way, he should be a very solid player in the majors.

Grade: B-

Pick 18: Texas Primetimers Select

Horace Hernandez
Texas
Primetimers
Age: 19	B/T: R/R
Born: Hamburg, PA
Position(s): P (SP4)
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Currently signed and playing at Low A, Hernandez projects as a #2-#3 starter in the majors. He has good control and is especially difficult on righties. His individual pitches could use some fine-tuning with the right pitching coach, but with his work-ethic and make-up that shouldn't be a problem for Hernandez.

Grade: B

Pick 19: Milwaukee Cheesecurds select Quentin Surhoff

[Picture not available]

After being selected by Milwaukee, Surhoff showed up to the 1st negotiating session wearing his Ricky Vaughn style goggles and handed a slip of paper across the desk to Milwaukee owner a3morey. He had scrawled across that sheet of paper a figure somewhere north of $4 million dollars. a3morey promptly fainted - yep, the 19th overall pick was demanding no. 1 overall pick money. Though the control artist certainly has the control and the makeup to be a top of the rotation starter, his straight-forward attitude has rubbed some in the Milwaukee front office the wrong way right off the bat. When reached at home, Surhoff said simply, "Hey, I know what my value is; I have no problems sitting here at home in Pennsylvania, working out, and getting out the vote for Barack. Though after tomorrow, I'll have some free time on my hands. So when Milwaukee wants to talk, I'll be here listening."

Grade: B+

Pick 20: Cincinnati Skyline select

Deivi Guerrero
Cincinnati
Skyline
Age: 18	B/T: R/R
Born: Hartford, KY
Position(s): LF/1B
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Growing up on a horse farm on the outskirts of Hartford, Kentucky, Guerrero understood the value of training. Starting from a very young age, Guerrero worked on all aspects of his game: power, speed, hitting, base-running, fielding, etc. As a result, there is nothing on a baseball field that he can't do, and there's nothing that he can't do well. "I'm ready to play, " Guerrero would say to anyone who would listen. "And I've got a horse here who can probably beat Chad Johnson!"

Grade: A-
*This was originally the Florida Hanging Chads' selection, transferred to the Skyline when the Chads signed shortstop Alex Johnson. Through 81 games, Johnson is hitting .302 with a surprising 14 HRs and 54 RBIs.

Pick 21: Seattle Slowballers select

Cap Banks
Seattle
Slowballers
Age: 18	B/T: L/L
Born: Folsom, CA
Position(s): P (ClA)
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Banks always understood the stares from everyone else. After all, not every 9 year-old bronco league pitcher ices down his elbow after every start - except Banks. Though one wouldn't know it watching Banks breeze his low 90s heater by other high schoolers, orthopedic surgeons told Banks at a very young age that his arm would have difficulty bouncing back after long outings. The determined Banks was undeterred, and so began the deep icing program in bronco league. Fast forward almost a decade, and Banks is projected as a potential closer should his continue to progress. And no one who's seen a young Banks dip his elbow in that bucket of ice would doubt the hard-throwing lefty's future.

Grade: B-

Pick 22: Cincinnati Skyline select

Bernie Ortiz
Cincinnati
Skyline
Age: 20	B/T: R/R
Born: Madison, SD
Position(s): P (ClA)
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

With their 2nd ction in the last 3 picks, the Skyline opted for pitching and selected the submarining reliever Ortiz. On a recent visit to Ortiz's home, this reporter discovered a poster of.... Justin Duchscherer... in Ortiz's room. When questioned, Ortiz smiled and said, "hey, for a kid from South Dakota, there aren't that many heroes to look up to. Right now, all the kids have is Justin, or Mark Ellis. So all the kids are As fans. Hopefully, I can turn some of them into Skyline fans soon, and maybe, some of the kids can have my posters up in their rooms." With the way that Ortiz eviscerated righties in high school ball, chances are, he may wind up on at least a few posters.

Grade: B+

Pick 23: New York Yankees select

Neifi Olivares
New York
Yankees
Age: 20	B/T: R/R
Born: Brackettville, TX
Position(s): P (SP4)
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Although Olivares commands an impressive 5 pitch repertoire with commendable control for a 20 year-old, the question most scouts pose to Olivares as soon as they finish reading his bio is. "No seriously, Bracketville? That's the name of a real city? I thought it was just a campsite populated by Jay Bilas, Dick Vitale and Clark Kellogg every March." [rimshot]. Olivares invariably rolls his eyes and says, "Yes, the town's real name is Brackettville; it's a Texas border town just north of the Rio Grande." Olivares, of course, hopes that his pitching will silence those scouts and their guffaws soon enough.

Grade: A-

Pick 24: Scranton Blue Devils select Mark Sanders

[Picture Not Available]

With their 2nd pick of the 1st round, the Blue Devils rolled the dice and it came up craps. Although Sanders is a blur on the base paths and strikes out about as often as a John McCain audience gets excited listening to the Straight Talk Express, he has severe limitations with his arm strength, his glove, and his ability to hit for power. Asked why he is demanding more than $3 million in negotiations, Sanders responds, "Hey, the scouts say I need to hit for power, and HGH is getting more expensive with all the supply points being shut down." So Scranton loses Rafael Villano and all they get in return is this wisecrack? Hmm.

Grade: D-

*This was originally the Hartford Aristocrats' selection, transferred to the Blue Devils when the Aristocrats signed 1st baseman Rafael Villano. Through 81 games, Villano is hitting .260 with 26 HRs and 61 RBIs.

Draft Roundup: Picks 9-16

2008-04-15T16:34:00.000-07:00

Pick 9: San Antonio Matadors select

Diego Santana
San Antonio
Matadors
Age: 19	B/T: R/R
Born: Rayland, OH
Position(s): SS
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Without a single legitimate shortstop in their minor league system, the Matadors select the top SS in the draft with the 9th selection. Trouble is, however, whether Santana's arm will allow him to play short remains to be seen. While his bat would be a sensational asset as a SS, it is merely good for a centerfielder or a second baseman and above average as a third baseman. That, however, may be the ultimate attribute for Santana - the versatility to play anywhere and fill in at short when necessary.
Grade: B+

Pick 10: The San Francisco Bay Bombers select Lyle Hanson

[Picture Not Available]

Hanson is still contemplating his future; though regardless of his leaning, his future appears bright. Though he won't light up any radar guns in the near future, the workhorse Hanson works the black of the plate with his four-pitch arsenal and should be a solid front of the rotation starter for the Bombers should he decide to sign.
Grade: A-

Pick 11: The Oakland As select

Dave Shaw
Oakland
A's
Age: 22	B/T: R/R
Born: Maple Heights, OH
Position(s): P (SP1)
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

The Pride of Cal Poly brings his work horse mentality and a gifted arm to the table. Trouble is, aside from raw velocity, Shaw's stuff doesn't scare anyone and he makes Woody Williams seem like a ground ball pitcher. While he may have some success in a big park like Oakland, Shaw seem destined for the back of the rotation or a swingman spot in the bullpen.

Grade: D

Pick 12: The New York TMNTs select

Gregg Munson
New York
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
Age: 22	B/T: S/R
Born: Indianola, MS
Position(s): 2B
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

When he wasn't hitting bombs or swiping bags in his senior season at Northwestern, the cerebral Munson was starting a book club devoted to intellectual history. While he feels home in the coffee shops around Evanston, Munson is equally comfortable on the diamond, possessing the coveted combination of speed, power and a keen batting eye. Though Munson probably doesn't have the arm to play his college position (3B) nor the range to play his currently slotted position (2B), he should anchor the TMNTs right field for years to come.
Grade: A

Pick 13: The Rochester Comets select Napoleon Aven

[Picture Not Available]

Named after the dimunitive French general, Aven conquered eastern Massachusetts high school ball and the hearts of the co-eds at Newton South H.S. with his stylish goatee. Although Aven will presumably move on to professional baseball groupies once he signs with contract with Rochester, there is little doubt that he will continue to dominate the mound his repertoire of four plus pitches and the ability to paint the corners.
Grade: A

Pick 14: The Scranton Blue Devils select

Neifi Tejada
Scranton
Blue Devils
Age: 19	B/T: S/R
Born: Black River Fls, WI
Position(s): 2B
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Although his glove may be a question mark at second base (or center), there is little doubt why Tejada merits a 1st round selection - his stick. Fortunately for Blue Devils fans, Neifi Tejada's offensive prowess resembles Miguel Tejada much moreso than Neifi Perez. And as an added bonus, he is a speed demon on the base paths, and has yet to be implicated in the Mitchell Report.

Grade: A-

Pick 15: The Boston Red Sox select

Mitch Raines
Boston
Red Sox
Age: 18	B/T: S/R
Born: Wichita, KS
Position(s): P (SP1)
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Though his fastball tops out in the low to mid 90s, Raines features a package of slop as his primary out pitches. And while that M.O. has worked in high school, there is some doubt as to whether his stuff will translate to hitter-friendly Fenway. At this point, it seems that Raines will be a solid No. 3 or No. 4 starter, and nothing more.

Grade: B

Pick 16: The Kansas City Kings select

Billy Strange
Kansas City
Kings
Age: 18	B/T: L/L
Born: Clayton, NJ
Position(s): LF
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

With a dearth of OF prospects in the system, the Kings turned predictably to Billy Strange when it came to their selection. Strange won't impress the scouts in any one category, but does hold the unique distinction of having never missed an inning, ever - not in tee ball, not in little league, not in high school. It's hard to imagine a player going through his entire career without so much as jamming a finger, but Strange is pretty much indestructable.

Grade: B

Draft Roundup Picks 1-8 (Updated)

2008-04-15T10:31:00.000-07:00

A quick look and analysis of the first 8 selections in this years draft:

Round 1, Pick 1. Pittsburg Stealers draft:

Javier Garrido
Pittsburgh
Stealers
Age: 19	B/T: R/R
Born: Gulf Breeze, FL
Position(s): P (SP1)
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Javier Garrido is going to be the backbone of a pitching staff one day in the future, which bodes well for Pittsburg who is in the middle of a youth movement at the moment.

Grade: A

Round 1, Pick 2. Santa Cruz Banana Slugs draft:

Marino Santana
Santa Cruz
Banana Slugs
Age: 18	B/T: R/R
Born: Pullman, WA
Position(s): RF
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Marino Santana is a scary power hitter, especially for right handed pitchers. No concerns in the field as he is a potential periennal Gold Glover. A concern though for his slightly lower than normal health, but not enough to change the grade of the pick for this slugger.

Grade: A

Round 1, Pick 3. Los Angeles Dodgers draft:

Roger Strickland
Los Angeles
Dodgers
Age: 21	B/T: S/R
Born: Liberty, TX
Position(s): 2B
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Roger Strickland has an average glove for a second baseman, slightly above average bat, and some minor health concerns. He should be an excellent player, but you gotta wonder... why did the Dodgers draft him 3 when they have Hipolito Romero who slightly better at High A.

Grade: B-

Round 1, Pick 4. Fargo Freeze drafts:

Stephen Newman
Fargo
Freeze
Age: 18	B/T: R/R
Born: Queens Village, NY
Position(s): LF
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Excellent bat, excellent glove potential for the position, excellent pick by the Freeze.

Grade: A

Round 1, Pick 5. Charlotte Bankers draft:

Alex Bennett
Charlotte
Bankers
Age: 18	B/T: L/L
Born: Tipton, IN
Position(s): P (SP1)
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Although he can mow down the lefties with easy, right handed batters will still have a tough time against Bennett. The question is, will he be healthy enough to last a season in the bigs?

Grade: A-

Round 1, Pick 6. Baltimore Orioles draft:

Ray Bell
Baltimore
Orioles
Age: 20	B/T: R/R
Born: Jasper, IN
Position(s): SS
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

There is no way Ray Bell plays shortstop in the majors. 0, zilch, nada. He will make an excellent third baseman, which slugging power to show. Drafted at 6, a steal.

Grade: A+

Round 1, Pick 7. Montgomery Rebels draft:

Trevor Williams
Montgomery
Rebels
Age: 22	B/T: L/L
Born: Trail, BC
Position(s): LF
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

An excellent pick here for a power hitter. Excellent durability and health, along with the power bat that Williams brings will make opposing pitchers fear him.

Grade: A

Round 1, Pick 8. San Juan Lobos draft:

Ted Lomansey. The problem is Ted doesn't know if 7 million in a signing bonus is going to be enough. We will report back pending the contract situation, but Lomansey should be servicable with his sinker and slider being killer pitches. One area of concern is his lack of control.

Not going to sign: Grade D-. With the 8th pick, take a for sure player!

Update: Ted is not going to sign. That being said, SJU gets a mighty pat on the back and an A for the 36th pick:

Richie Beard
San Juan
Lobos
Age: 19	B/T: R/R
Born: Parma, ID
Position(s): P (ClA)
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Rebels Rookie Report

2008-04-09T19:55:00.001-07:00

After a promising Spring Training, the Rebels opened the season with a 7-22 start. Since then, the team has shown signs of life, going 11-8 in their last 19 games. Two big reasons for the improved play has been the recent big-league promotion of two of the Rebels' most high-profile prospects.

Pedro Mendez
Montgomery
Rebels
Age: 24	B/T: R/R
Born: Villa Mella, DO
Position(s): C/DH
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Mendez was listed in The Dude's March 31 post as the top Catcher in AAA, and was rated by the Rebels as their number 4 overall position prospect. The organization wanted to keep him down in AAA until the All-Star break for more seasoning, but decided that it could wait no longer due to the poor performance of the big league catchers. Mendez hit safely in his first six games, including a home run in each of his first three games. He has appeared in 15 games, hitting safely in 11 of the 13 games he started, and also going 2-2 in pinch hitting appearances. He is currently hitting .340 with 3 HR. Behind the plate, which was assumed to be his weak spot, Mendez sports a respectible 4.05 C-ERA, but has thrown out only 5 of 21 baserunners for a .238 CS percentage.

Fred Darr
Montgomery
Rebels
Age: 23	B/T: R/R
Born: Barnesville, GA
Position(s): SS/IF/OF/DH
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Darr, listed in The Dude's March 31st post as the top SS in AAA and rated by the Rebels as their number 2 overall position prospect, was also called up about 15 games ago. He has been nearly flawless in the field, posting a 1.000 fielding percentage with a respectible 5.68 RF, and only has one (-) play. At the plate, however, Darr has struggled to hit big league pitching. In 15 games he is hitting a mere .167 with 1 HR.

It is clear that the Rebels have a lot of holes to fill before being legitimate contenders in even the weak NL South, but there is hope as the kids are coming to play.

Making The Most Of It

2008-04-09T18:26:00.000-07:00

Fritz Boyer
San Juan
Lobos
Age: 27	B/T: R/R
Born: Mclean, VA
Position(s): 1B/DH
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Fritz Boyer of the San Juan Lobos is taking an opportunity and making the most of it. Although limited in playing time Boyer is fast becoming the Lobos pinch hitter of choice these days.

In 23 at bats so far this season, Boyer has 3 homers, 10 ribbys, and a .348 average. The first baseman has hit 2 pinch hit round trippers, the lastest coming off of San Diego's Josh Doerr. The Tico's record after that game was still impressive, with an era of 2.81 and a .204 oav.

Boyer is not expected to break into the starting Lobos lineup. But his bat off the bench is a welcome addition to this contender wanna be franchise.

Minor League Mis-Management becoming epidemic

2008-04-08T13:28:00.000-07:00

I am currently active in 5 worlds in HDB, some with good success, some... well not so much. A growing trend I have been seeing throughout all the worlds, including WIB is owners fielding decimated minor league pitching staffs, to the point of having a whole staffs at all levels sporting a 0/0 next to their names. I usually do not have a problem with the way owners run their teams (i.e. trades, waivers, sacrifice future for win now), but what does irk me is this inattention impact my teams, by skewing the outcome and statistical results of the SIM. When I see a box score that reads 22-3, 9 times out of 10 it's a 0/0 staff pitching. I know it's just a game and you paid your 20 something dollars, but it takes a bit of the fun out of it for me, because I believe it hurts the league as a whole competitively. Just my 2 cents. Love to here your opinions!

TEN Q's

2008-04-07T18:17:00.000-07:00

Victorzhao claimed the Charlotte Bankers franchise this season. He also owns the Burlington Blue Devils in Mike Squires World and the Durham Blue Devils in Riley World. He has won a Division Championship in both and has an overall record of 276 - 210 for a winning percentage of .568.

Ten Q's with Victorzhao

1. Your franchise was in last place in the division when you took control. What condition did you find the organization as a whole?

I know it comes as a shocking surprise, but this last place team (in a not so competitive division I might add) did not seem to have a discernible character to it - in short, it seemed like a random collection of parts, and many of those parts are those I would never buy, let alone stock up on. By way of example only, the team carried 4 Cs - and none of them had PCs > 60. That was ... perplexing. The MiL system had some bright pitching prospects, but its stable of hitters looked about as good as Barry Zito's contract.

2. How much importance do you place on a coaching staff?

I would say that, other than medical, it's the most unimportant aspect of my budget. I look for the same core ratings as everyone else, but will not go out of my way to get a coach. Ultimately, it comes down to your players. Having been in Houston for about 20 years now, I am more familiar with the NL Central than any other division; and I would say that the difference between the smartest manager (Tony LaRussa) and the [ahem] manager at the other end of the spectrum (Phil Garner) is about 2 wins a year. I apply the same philosophy to coaches - mediocrity is good enough.

3. What would you consider your best trade this season?

I"ll caveat this by saying that we all think we get the best end of a bargain in a trade - otherwise, we wouldn't offer it or accept it; so that my applauding a trade is merely my opinion - and certainly no denigration of the other owner's ability. I was thrilled to get Quinn Fitzgerald in exchange for Clyde Reed, a solid reliever. I like this trade because Fitzgerald fits almost perfectly into what I want in a catcher - good power, high PC, and one good split (so I can platoon the player). To get a great prospect like that for a player that wasn't in my future plans was terrific. That being said, Boston got themselves a great reliever - but I'm hoping this becomes my Andersen for Bagwell trade.

4. What are your impressions of the WIB?

Phenomenal game - but I hope that, in the end, folks remember that it's a game and don't take it too seriously. It's incredibly dorky to explain to others who aren't into it, but that has not dampened my addiction.

5. How do you evaluate a hitter?

Usually by opening his player profile page.

6. Do you promote minor league players during the season?

Not unless a prospect (as opposed to a player) is absolutely dominating his level. I usually try to have good MiL teams and most of my squads will make the playoffs. Once a team is eliminated from the playoffs, I'll promote players from that level that I would otherwise promote prior to next season to participate in the higher level's playoffs (if that's still ongoing). This hopefully discourages retirements.

7. Which player in your organization would you project to have a great career?

Tony Mitchell, SP (AAA), should have a terrific career in Charlotte once he debuts in about 3 seasons.

8. Do you ever sign a player from tryout camp?

Only if my autodraft screws up and doesn't draft enough pitchers.

9. What if anything would you change right now in your budget?

I would have bumped advanced scouting higher this season because I knew I would make a ton of moves.

10. How much time do you spend evaluating players available in the Rule 5 Draft?

I import the ratings into a spreadsheet, so it's relatively painless from that point forward. I would say it takes about an hour for the import, review and rank process for the Rule V. I take more time with the amateur draft, obviously.
Thanks for doing this. It may also help to create more of community if we let everyone else know some basic info about all of us who play. I'll go first. I'm a 29 year old attorney in Houston and a lifelong Astros fan.

Thanks Victorzhao for taking the time to answer my TEN Q's.

Rod33

Angels are flying high

2008-04-02T18:22:00.000-07:00

The Angels have made a few moves that positions them for a run at the world series over the last two seasons and the addition of the vetern short stop Chris Cannon & Ryan Courtney may have been the missing pieces that were needed. Anchored In the first part of the season Chris is hitting .307 and has scored 25 runs while Ryan has hit 8 home runs and 28 RBI's. So far this season the Angels are hitting .292 with an OBP .371 and several of the up and coming regulars are getting up to speed. There is a long season ahead but the Angels are off and running and flying high to start the season

NEXT UP ANGELS TOP PROSPECTS