Not to inflate my own ego or anything, but I just wan't to rub in that fact that I was right about Brian Burres. Congratulations on winning the 5th starter spot Brian. You pitched a helluva spring. Matt Albers is sticking as the long relief.
Also the pitching staff has been announced and I was able to nail it down. Scroll down and look for my predictions post because it is long winded and I don't want to type it again.
Jay Gibbons suspension has been put on hold for 10 days. That means he will not start the season on suspension. Atleast the first few games anyways. This gives the MLB and the Major League Players Association more time to reach an agreement on revisions to the sport's drug policy. I'm not really sure if I wan't to tackle this issue or not... Okay I will. It happened, let him serve his time, it's over. Done. Odds are that they will reach an agreement and Jay won't serve a day of his suspension. Let's just get this over with.
Baltimore's new scoreboard is done. Take a look at this article with video. Courtesy of The Baltimore Sun.
Spring Training has come to an end folk. The Orioles have left Ft. Lauderdale and are flying home as I type. They play tomorrow against the Nationals in the new Nationals ballpark. You can catch the game on MASN. Home opener on Monday at 3:00!!! Bring it!!
Friday, March 28, 2008
What's that smell? America's smelliest past-time.
This is a little long winded, sorry. I think you may enjoy it if you choose to read the whole thing. If not, just read the first paragraph, it gave me the most trouble. :)
So, I was cutting my lawn for the first time this year just the other day when I realized that a big part of the game of baseball is the smells. I didn't come to understand this by myself, just in case you were wondering. I had a little help from a four legged friend. As I'm riding through my yard on the lawn mower it became apparent to me that I missed a few piles of dog poop when I wen't through the yard with a shovel, specifically for dog poop removing purposes. That's when it hit me. The smell, not the actual poop.
There is nothing quite like the smell of fresh cut grass in the morning. Saturday mornings in the Summer as a kid were my favorite. Waking up early in the morning, for a kid, and riding my bike out to the ball field for Saturday morning baseball practice. The smell of the fresh cut ball field stuck in my nose as I ran down lots of fly-balls. Those really were some good times and smells.
Monday after noons were always the best though, because it was game day. Waiting for dad to come home from work so we could go to the game together was very painful. I thought he would never make it home on time. As we pull up to the ball field it was pretty obvious it was game day. The smell of hotdogs and nachos struck me in the nose almost immediately.
There really is no difference going to a little league, Shorebirds, or Baltimore Orioles game. The smell of the asphalt parking lot, fresh cut grass, and good food. An Orioles game is the exception though, because there is no smell like Boog's BBQ. That is a sweet sweet smell that cannot be replicated. I guess there isn't any dog poop to smell at Camden Yards either.
Enjoy one of America's smelliest past-times.
So, I was cutting my lawn for the first time this year just the other day when I realized that a big part of the game of baseball is the smells. I didn't come to understand this by myself, just in case you were wondering. I had a little help from a four legged friend. As I'm riding through my yard on the lawn mower it became apparent to me that I missed a few piles of dog poop when I wen't through the yard with a shovel, specifically for dog poop removing purposes. That's when it hit me. The smell, not the actual poop.
There is nothing quite like the smell of fresh cut grass in the morning. Saturday mornings in the Summer as a kid were my favorite. Waking up early in the morning, for a kid, and riding my bike out to the ball field for Saturday morning baseball practice. The smell of the fresh cut ball field stuck in my nose as I ran down lots of fly-balls. Those really were some good times and smells.
Monday after noons were always the best though, because it was game day. Waiting for dad to come home from work so we could go to the game together was very painful. I thought he would never make it home on time. As we pull up to the ball field it was pretty obvious it was game day. The smell of hotdogs and nachos struck me in the nose almost immediately.
There really is no difference going to a little league, Shorebirds, or Baltimore Orioles game. The smell of the asphalt parking lot, fresh cut grass, and good food. An Orioles game is the exception though, because there is no smell like Boog's BBQ. That is a sweet sweet smell that cannot be replicated. I guess there isn't any dog poop to smell at Camden Yards either.
Enjoy one of America's smelliest past-times.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Spring Updates--Buress pitching good.
Brian Buress threw 5.1 innings of 6 hit, scoreless ball today. He also struck out 4. Apparently one of the hits was a bunt single and one should have been scored an error. His spring ERA is now down to 2.77. He has pitched better than Matt Albers and in my opinion should win the 5th starter spot. However, Baltimore Sun Orioles Blogger Roch Kubatko seems to think that Matt Albers has it won. With that coming from Roch I have the tendancy to believe it because he has been with the Orioles camp all spring long.
The ONLY reason why I see that Baltimore would pick Albers long term over Buress is because Brian has been with the team. They know how he pitches over an extended period of time. Either way he has rightfully earned the 5th spot. If he doesn't get it, he will still be with the team as a long reliever.
Melvin Mora continues his war path, hitting a triple and a double today in his only two at-bats. He is hitting .457 this spring. Big contract or not, he has earned the starting 3B spot.
The ONLY reason why I see that Baltimore would pick Albers long term over Buress is because Brian has been with the team. They know how he pitches over an extended period of time. Either way he has rightfully earned the 5th spot. If he doesn't get it, he will still be with the team as a long reliever.
Melvin Mora continues his war path, hitting a triple and a double today in his only two at-bats. He is hitting .457 this spring. Big contract or not, he has earned the starting 3B spot.
Rob Neyer, Sports blogger?
When I started The Byrd's Nest I told myself that I would stay away from controversy. I really couldn't help but take notice of a blog on ESPN from Rob Neyer. First, I wan't to give you the link of the article that I read. Now I will show you a clip from the article that I found interesting:
I found that quote very interesting. For one, Miguel Tejada is still a shortstop. Miguel Tejada's skills may be in decline with age, but he is still a shortstop. Rob is correct about ARod and Nomar, they are no longer shortstops. At first I wondered if he ment that Miggy was no longer a true shortstop because of his declining skills, but then it became obvious that he actually thought that he was no longer a shortstop by assigned position.
Rob Neyer is a respected journalist, as he works for ESPN and has written three books. In my opinion I think he is a good journalist, but maybe he should research a little before he posts.
Even his employer, ESPN, has Miggy listed as a Shortstop. Link.
My, how things have changed in the Wonderful World of Shortstops. Remember
five years ago, when Derek Jeter, Alex Rodriguez, Nomar Garciaparra and perhaps Miguel Tejada all looked like Hall of Fame shortstops? Today, only Jeter remains a shorstop and only he and Rodriguez remain future Hall of Famers. - Rob Neyer
I found that quote very interesting. For one, Miguel Tejada is still a shortstop. Miguel Tejada's skills may be in decline with age, but he is still a shortstop. Rob is correct about ARod and Nomar, they are no longer shortstops. At first I wondered if he ment that Miggy was no longer a true shortstop because of his declining skills, but then it became obvious that he actually thought that he was no longer a shortstop by assigned position.
Rob Neyer is a respected journalist, as he works for ESPN and has written three books. In my opinion I think he is a good journalist, but maybe he should research a little before he posts.
Even his employer, ESPN, has Miggy listed as a Shortstop. Link.
Redsux Nation..Of course they won.
I woke up to a pleasent suprise this morning. I had forgotten that it was opening day for Boston and Oakland as was greeted by ESPN with the game. The first thing I saw was Daisuke Matsuzaka throw a borderline breaking ball and it was called a ball by the umpire. My initial reaction was to jump up and shout "Oh $#%t!" Thinking nothing of it I sat back down to watch the game. Apparently my girlfriend heard the scream and me jump to my feet. She then came running out of the bedroom expecting there to be a major problem. Yeah.. I'm not allowed to watch baseball at 6:30 in the morning anymore... Ohwell.. What she doesn't know won't hurt her. What she does know, will hurt me though.
Oh, by the way the Sox took that game 6-5 in 10 innings. Oakland led most of the game, but you know how that goes. If it's the Redsux or the Yankees, your chances of winning drop dramatically.. Actually I think Oakland would have won that game if their outfield didn't make so many blunders.. and I mean blunders. It was Little League type of stuff! Errgghh..
Oh, by the way the Sox took that game 6-5 in 10 innings. Oakland led most of the game, but you know how that goes. If it's the Redsux or the Yankees, your chances of winning drop dramatically.. Actually I think Oakland would have won that game if their outfield didn't make so many blunders.. and I mean blunders. It was Little League type of stuff! Errgghh..
Monday, March 24, 2008
Bedard/Santana trades.. Who got the better deal?
This is something that I have not touched on until now. Two ace's, two trades. Who got the better deal on their staff ace? Baltimore or Minnesota? The poll is on the right, find it and vote.
Seattle's haul:
Erik Bedard - 28 years old, will be 29 very soon. Career W/L 40-34, 3.83 ERA, and 639 K's in 114 games. Definite #1 top of the rotation starter. He is a young guy, but in baseball years he is middle aged. Baltimore traded him to Seattle for 5 players.
Baltimore's haul:
Adam Jones (CF) - 22 years old, and he won't even be 23 until August. 6'2, 210lbs, bats and throws right. Supposed to have an above average arm, good speed, and 30+ homerun potential. It may take 2 more years for his full potential and power to get here.
George Sherill (P) - 30 years old, a left-handed reliever who has posted a career 3.65 ERA, W/L record of 10-8, and 138 strike outs. Should be some much needed help for this bullpen. Seattle plucked him from an independent league. Good find Seattle.
Chris Tillman (P) - 19 years old, projected to be a starter. Standing at 6'5 and 195lbs, he has raw talent. Still a few years away from the big leagues but his arm should fully develope in the Orioles pitching-rich farm system. Expect to see him pitch in AA this year, working on his mechanics. With a 10- 14, 4.93 line, he needs to change something. He has time.
Anthony Butler (P) - 20 years old, a south-paw projected to be a starter. Standing at 6'7 205lbs. I think this guy is a sleeper. Minor league 7-9, 3.95ERA, in 34 games. Those look like reliever numbers. Look for him to work on and change his mechanics. Alot of potential here.
Kam Mickolio (P) - 23 years old, a righty that stands at 6'9 256lbs. A monster. He was converted into a reliever last year. Minor league career W/L 7 -4, 2.72 ERA, in 50 or so games. He won't be in Norfolk long. He will be in Baltimore by June.
That's Baltimore's haul for Bedard.. Not too shabby eh?
New York Mets haul -
Johan Santana (P) - Probably the most feared pitcher in the game besised Steve Traschel.. OK Just kidding. Trax isn't scary at all, but Johan Santana is. Very scary.
Career W/L 93-44, 3.22 ERA, 1381 K's in 251 career games. Holy crap thats good.
Minnesota's haul -
Philip Humber (SP)- MINOR league career W/L 18-19, 4.11 ERA, 266 K's in 54 games.. Better than I could do. With better hitting in the big leagues, this guy better learn to pitch better or change something up.
Carlos Gomez (OF) - Minor league career .278 BA in 338 games. Not a lot of power but he has the ability to hit the ball and get on base. K's alot and doesn't appear to be patient at the plate. He will be a solid, serviceable outfielder.
Kevin Mulvey (SP) - Career 12 - 11, 3.02 ERA, in 31 Minor League games.. Wow he blew right through the Minors. He looks really good.
Deolis Guerra (SP) - Career 9 - 14, 3.28 ERA, in 40 Minor League games. I will admit that I do not know much about Deolis. His W/L record is not so hot but looking at his ERA (3.28) it looks like he has bad hitting protecting him. Much like all the no descisions the Jeremy Guthrie suffered at the hands of aging veterans last year.
Well there you have it folks. The two big trades last offseason. I know, call me partial to Baltimore all you wan't but they simply got the better deal. Johan Santana is a better pitcher, actually I believe he is just a more established pitcher then Bedard. Baltimore, in my opinion, got a far better deal than Minnesota did.
WINNER : BALTIMORE
Now this one is pretty simple too. Seattle pretty much wiped out their entire farm system to give to Baltimore. Do you think Bedard is going to sign an extension or resign in 2 years? Good luck! That Canadian will be Toronto bound. Sure Seattle is close to Canada, but it's on the opposite end.
For New York it was simple. Win now. Buy everybody you can. They have no farm system at all. They somehow managed to land the hottest pitcher in the game AND signed him to an extension worth atleast 137.5 MILLON DOLLARS. OUCH!
WINNER : NEW YORK METS
The poll is on the right folks.
Seattle's haul:
Erik Bedard - 28 years old, will be 29 very soon. Career W/L 40-34, 3.83 ERA, and 639 K's in 114 games. Definite #1 top of the rotation starter. He is a young guy, but in baseball years he is middle aged. Baltimore traded him to Seattle for 5 players.
Baltimore's haul:
Adam Jones (CF) - 22 years old, and he won't even be 23 until August. 6'2, 210lbs, bats and throws right. Supposed to have an above average arm, good speed, and 30+ homerun potential. It may take 2 more years for his full potential and power to get here.
George Sherill (P) - 30 years old, a left-handed reliever who has posted a career 3.65 ERA, W/L record of 10-8, and 138 strike outs. Should be some much needed help for this bullpen. Seattle plucked him from an independent league. Good find Seattle.
Chris Tillman (P) - 19 years old, projected to be a starter. Standing at 6'5 and 195lbs, he has raw talent. Still a few years away from the big leagues but his arm should fully develope in the Orioles pitching-rich farm system. Expect to see him pitch in AA this year, working on his mechanics. With a 10- 14, 4.93 line, he needs to change something. He has time.
Anthony Butler (P) - 20 years old, a south-paw projected to be a starter. Standing at 6'7 205lbs. I think this guy is a sleeper. Minor league 7-9, 3.95ERA, in 34 games. Those look like reliever numbers. Look for him to work on and change his mechanics. Alot of potential here.
Kam Mickolio (P) - 23 years old, a righty that stands at 6'9 256lbs. A monster. He was converted into a reliever last year. Minor league career W/L 7 -4, 2.72 ERA, in 50 or so games. He won't be in Norfolk long. He will be in Baltimore by June.
That's Baltimore's haul for Bedard.. Not too shabby eh?
New York Mets haul -
Johan Santana (P) - Probably the most feared pitcher in the game besised Steve Traschel.. OK Just kidding. Trax isn't scary at all, but Johan Santana is. Very scary.
Career W/L 93-44, 3.22 ERA, 1381 K's in 251 career games. Holy crap thats good.
Minnesota's haul -
Philip Humber (SP)- MINOR league career W/L 18-19, 4.11 ERA, 266 K's in 54 games.. Better than I could do. With better hitting in the big leagues, this guy better learn to pitch better or change something up.
Carlos Gomez (OF) - Minor league career .278 BA in 338 games. Not a lot of power but he has the ability to hit the ball and get on base. K's alot and doesn't appear to be patient at the plate. He will be a solid, serviceable outfielder.
Kevin Mulvey (SP) - Career 12 - 11, 3.02 ERA, in 31 Minor League games.. Wow he blew right through the Minors. He looks really good.
Deolis Guerra (SP) - Career 9 - 14, 3.28 ERA, in 40 Minor League games. I will admit that I do not know much about Deolis. His W/L record is not so hot but looking at his ERA (3.28) it looks like he has bad hitting protecting him. Much like all the no descisions the Jeremy Guthrie suffered at the hands of aging veterans last year.
Well there you have it folks. The two big trades last offseason. I know, call me partial to Baltimore all you wan't but they simply got the better deal. Johan Santana is a better pitcher, actually I believe he is just a more established pitcher then Bedard. Baltimore, in my opinion, got a far better deal than Minnesota did.
WINNER : BALTIMORE
Now this one is pretty simple too. Seattle pretty much wiped out their entire farm system to give to Baltimore. Do you think Bedard is going to sign an extension or resign in 2 years? Good luck! That Canadian will be Toronto bound. Sure Seattle is close to Canada, but it's on the opposite end.
For New York it was simple. Win now. Buy everybody you can. They have no farm system at all. They somehow managed to land the hottest pitcher in the game AND signed him to an extension worth atleast 137.5 MILLON DOLLARS. OUCH!
WINNER : NEW YORK METS
The poll is on the right folks.
Spring updates.. Guthrie opening day starter.
Congrats to Jeremy Guthrie on being selected as the Orioles 2008 opening day starter. Well deserved. Good luck Jeremy.
The 5th starter is still undetermined.. No mention yet from Trembley.. Still down to Burres and Albers.
Dave Trembley made three more cuts. The Orioles have reassigned Mike Costanzo, Omir Santos and Luis Terrero to Norfolk. Don't expect Costanzo to stay down too long.
Jay Gibbons is having a HORRIBLE spring, suprise, he is batting .172 with no home runs. They owe him $11.9 million dollars. What a great contract! I really hope whoever replaces him during his 15 game suspension beats the tar out of the ball and forces Baltimore to eat his contract. I like you Jay, sorry, but your just not good any more.
The 5th starter is still undetermined.. No mention yet from Trembley.. Still down to Burres and Albers.
Dave Trembley made three more cuts. The Orioles have reassigned Mike Costanzo, Omir Santos and Luis Terrero to Norfolk. Don't expect Costanzo to stay down too long.
Jay Gibbons is having a HORRIBLE spring, suprise, he is batting .172 with no home runs. They owe him $11.9 million dollars. What a great contract! I really hope whoever replaces him during his 15 game suspension beats the tar out of the ball and forces Baltimore to eat his contract. I like you Jay, sorry, but your just not good any more.
Thanks WMDT.
Just like to thank WMDT for their support. Thanks Kathleen, maybe this will be the exposure I need!
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Juan Uribe?
Here is a link from the Chicago White Sox website practically stating that Juan Uribe is on the waiver wire. Due to MLB rules, they cannot outright say it. But that sums it up pretty good.
For those unfamiliar with Juan Uribe, here is his career stats from MLB's website. For some reason MLB's site has him listed as a second baseman when he is actually a shortstop. I haven't followed that closely with the White Sox offseason so maybe they have promoted or signed someone for the shortstop position.
If the White Sox have placed him on the waiver wire, a team has 72 hours to claim him. If they do, they must pay his salary for the next year. In Uribe's case it would be $4.5 million dollars for 1 year.
Would it be wise for the Orioles to take a shot at him?
Why not? It's not like $4.5 million for a one year stop gap player will break the Orioles bank. They are one of the richest teams in baseball with the lowest payroll right now. Think about it. Luis Hernandez isn't gonna hit much better than about .230. Now I'm not saying that Juan Uribe will either but atleast he's got some power. He put up 20 dingers last year. Luis Hernandez and Brandon Fahey do not have power and will not hit anywhere close to that many homers. He is a decent fielding shortstop with some pop.. Hello?? What are we waiting for. If I am Andy MacPhail and I know he is on waivers, I would be burning up the White Sox GM's phone right now.
Now of course this could be a ploy by the White Sox to see who is interested in him. They can always take him off waivers before the 72 hours is up. That would be the smarter thing to do on their part because then they can try to negotiate a trade.
We will see.. IF he is on waivers, I would think that he will be on our OD roster.. Now I could be wrong, but it's a thought.
For those unfamiliar with Juan Uribe, here is his career stats from MLB's website. For some reason MLB's site has him listed as a second baseman when he is actually a shortstop. I haven't followed that closely with the White Sox offseason so maybe they have promoted or signed someone for the shortstop position.
If the White Sox have placed him on the waiver wire, a team has 72 hours to claim him. If they do, they must pay his salary for the next year. In Uribe's case it would be $4.5 million dollars for 1 year.
Would it be wise for the Orioles to take a shot at him?
Why not? It's not like $4.5 million for a one year stop gap player will break the Orioles bank. They are one of the richest teams in baseball with the lowest payroll right now. Think about it. Luis Hernandez isn't gonna hit much better than about .230. Now I'm not saying that Juan Uribe will either but atleast he's got some power. He put up 20 dingers last year. Luis Hernandez and Brandon Fahey do not have power and will not hit anywhere close to that many homers. He is a decent fielding shortstop with some pop.. Hello?? What are we waiting for. If I am Andy MacPhail and I know he is on waivers, I would be burning up the White Sox GM's phone right now.
Now of course this could be a ploy by the White Sox to see who is interested in him. They can always take him off waivers before the 72 hours is up. That would be the smarter thing to do on their part because then they can try to negotiate a trade.
We will see.. IF he is on waivers, I would think that he will be on our OD roster.. Now I could be wrong, but it's a thought.
Guthrie, apparently is a big Markakis fan..
Either Jeremy is a big Nick fan or he lost a bet and has to be Nick's caddie for a day. Mormons don't bet do they? By the way, isn't that a golf bag? I would love to hear the story behind this photo. Photo is courtesy of the Baltimore Sun.
Time to play the guessing game.
Lets take a look at what we have left now and see if we can guess the pitching staff. I'm assuming we will have a 12-man pitching staff. This is what I think it will be, barring a Brian Roberts trade:
SP - Jeremy Guthrie
SP - Adam Loewen
SP - Daniel Cabrera
SP - Steve Trachsel (I REALLY hope he is out of the rotation by June 1 and I REALLY REALLY hope he doesn't get the opening day nod. Jeremy is having a far better spring and deserves it.)
SP - Brian Burress (Yes, I predict he beats Albers)
Chad Bradford
Jamie Walker
George Sherrill
Dennis Sarfate (Has to. He is out of MiL options)
Greg Aquino (No MiL options either.)
Matt Albers (I don't think he stays long.)
Drum roll please....tdtdtdtdtdtdtdtdtd...
Randor Bierd. Somehow you knew that was coming didn't you?
This looks to be it if we don't trade Brian Roberts before opening day. The good lord only knows what would happen then. It's hard NOT to get excited about the bullpen this year. I just have that gut feeling that I haven't had since 97.
Let's play the guessing game. What do you guys think?
SP - Jeremy Guthrie
SP - Adam Loewen
SP - Daniel Cabrera
SP - Steve Trachsel (I REALLY hope he is out of the rotation by June 1 and I REALLY REALLY hope he doesn't get the opening day nod. Jeremy is having a far better spring and deserves it.)
SP - Brian Burress (Yes, I predict he beats Albers)
Chad Bradford
Jamie Walker
George Sherrill
Dennis Sarfate (Has to. He is out of MiL options)
Greg Aquino (No MiL options either.)
Matt Albers (I don't think he stays long.)
Drum roll please....tdtdtdtdtdtdtdtdtd...
Randor Bierd. Somehow you knew that was coming didn't you?
This looks to be it if we don't trade Brian Roberts before opening day. The good lord only knows what would happen then. It's hard NOT to get excited about the bullpen this year. I just have that gut feeling that I haven't had since 97.
Let's play the guessing game. What do you guys think?
Spring is springing, and the arms are being sprung.
The Orioles had an off day on St. Patricks day and so did I. Well, I had minor surgery, what's their excuse? Lol.
Okay, seems as if the 5th man race is down to two players now. ALbers and Burress. I guess I was wrong about Olson. He was sprung. Looks like the Norfolk rotation may be better than the Orioles! Apparently Olson can't control his fastball. When you pitch in the high 80's and sometimes low 90's you NEED to hit your spots. He must learn to control his fastball and sneak it in on the corners. I think a little more time in AAA will help him. As with Hayden Penn, Olson will be a big league pitcher, just not now. He will earn a call up.
Randor Bierd continues to impress. He came in as a situational guy and faced two batters, sitting them down in order, lowering his spring ERA to 2.35. Ladies and germs, we have a rule 5 winner. Thanks Detroit.
Okay, seems as if the 5th man race is down to two players now. ALbers and Burress. I guess I was wrong about Olson. He was sprung. Looks like the Norfolk rotation may be better than the Orioles! Apparently Olson can't control his fastball. When you pitch in the high 80's and sometimes low 90's you NEED to hit your spots. He must learn to control his fastball and sneak it in on the corners. I think a little more time in AAA will help him. As with Hayden Penn, Olson will be a big league pitcher, just not now. He will earn a call up.
Randor Bierd continues to impress. He came in as a situational guy and faced two batters, sitting them down in order, lowering his spring ERA to 2.35. Ladies and germs, we have a rule 5 winner. Thanks Detroit.
Sunday, March 16, 2008
O's send Liz down to Norfolk.
Orioles link.
I have no problems with this. He has a little more to show and should shine in Norfolk. He will make them call him up soon. Actually I kinda hope Hayden and Radhames both force Baltimore for a call-up.
I have not included Olson because he has not been sent down. Yet. I just don't think it's his time yet. It will come.
Norfolk's rotation looks pretty darn good.
I have no problems with this. He has a little more to show and should shine in Norfolk. He will make them call him up soon. Actually I kinda hope Hayden and Radhames both force Baltimore for a call-up.
I have not included Olson because he has not been sent down. Yet. I just don't think it's his time yet. It will come.
Norfolk's rotation looks pretty darn good.
The enigma.
Daniel Cabrera threw 5 and a third innings today, striking out 5 and walking 1. He was hitting his spots and his breaking ball seemed to be working. If you watched this game you may have noticed the same thing I did. The guy is HUGE. I don't know if new Pitching Coach Rick Kranitz has been coaching him to stand taller or not. He's huge. I wouldn't want to face a 94 - 97MPH fastball from the lochness monster, let alone a lochness monster who can't hit the strike zone very often. I don't know what I feel worse for, the maple bat or the plastic helmet.
I think I have figured this guy out. He either has a GREAT game or a terrible game. You have got to beat him in the first few innings or you will not beat him at all. If you get to him early, you mess with his head and he starts throwing the ball straight as an arrow with no movement to the right or the left. You just better hope when he gets wild that he hits you with a changeup and not his fastball. I'm with the majority who wishes and prays that he puts it together this year. Speaking of which, this has got to be his last shot. But is it all really his fault? How many pitching coaches has been coached by? Kranitz, Mazzone, Miller, and on and on and on. Do you see where I'm going with this? He may just need some stability. Different coaches have different ways of teaching, but at the same time these are/were very knowledgable instructors. Somewhere along the lines you have to learn something from someone. I just don't think he gets another shot after this. We have plenty of young guns in the system developing.
By the way it seemed that just about everyone had a good day at the plate. Birds WIN 11 - 3. Great game to watch. I'm glad I didn't miss it.
I think I have figured this guy out. He either has a GREAT game or a terrible game. You have got to beat him in the first few innings or you will not beat him at all. If you get to him early, you mess with his head and he starts throwing the ball straight as an arrow with no movement to the right or the left. You just better hope when he gets wild that he hits you with a changeup and not his fastball. I'm with the majority who wishes and prays that he puts it together this year. Speaking of which, this has got to be his last shot. But is it all really his fault? How many pitching coaches has been coached by? Kranitz, Mazzone, Miller, and on and on and on. Do you see where I'm going with this? He may just need some stability. Different coaches have different ways of teaching, but at the same time these are/were very knowledgable instructors. Somewhere along the lines you have to learn something from someone. I just don't think he gets another shot after this. We have plenty of young guns in the system developing.
By the way it seemed that just about everyone had a good day at the plate. Birds WIN 11 - 3. Great game to watch. I'm glad I didn't miss it.
Doing my research.. / MASN anger.
The name of Dennis Oil Can Boyd popped in my head this morning.. Very interesting player. I think we can have a little fun with this guy. Remember him? I will have a nice post up on him later today once I get everything organized.
Don't forget you can catch the O's take on the nats today on MASN 1 at 1:05 PM. HOPEFULLY we get to see a sneak peak at the big bat/defensive outfield today of Markakis, Jones, and Scott. The last time a spring training game was televised this year neither one played. Either way that was a good game and the birds routed Boston.. Maybe that was because Boston was playing with a split-squad and only had like 3 regulars there. Either way we beat the tea party crashers! O' by the way if I were you I would try my hardest to watch this game because there is only one more ST game to be televised and thats on 3/29. MASN is only televising 3 ST games this year. Humph.. I wan't more baseball. They are the Orioles network for crying out loud. I don't want to see ladies basketball, I wan't to see Orioles baseball on the ORIOLES NETWORK.
Don't forget you can catch the O's take on the nats today on MASN 1 at 1:05 PM. HOPEFULLY we get to see a sneak peak at the big bat/defensive outfield today of Markakis, Jones, and Scott. The last time a spring training game was televised this year neither one played. Either way that was a good game and the birds routed Boston.. Maybe that was because Boston was playing with a split-squad and only had like 3 regulars there. Either way we beat the tea party crashers! O' by the way if I were you I would try my hardest to watch this game because there is only one more ST game to be televised and thats on 3/29. MASN is only televising 3 ST games this year. Humph.. I wan't more baseball. They are the Orioles network for crying out loud. I don't want to see ladies basketball, I wan't to see Orioles baseball on the ORIOLES NETWORK.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
3/13 Spring training-- O's cut Hayden Penn
The O's routed the twinkies today 3-1. Baltimore's pitching looked good again today. 1 run on seven hits. The twinkies actually threw a better game. Baltimore tagged Minnesota starter Blackburn pretty early, putting up 3 runs on 2 hits.
The only pitcher that gave up a run for the O's was George Sherrill. He has been outstanding this spring which has come as a suprise. Georgie has a career ERA of around 10.00 during the spring. His ERA this spring so far? 3.00. Nothing to laugh at.
Hayden Penn was cut today. I mentioned him as a long shot and my personal favorite to make the 5th man in the rotation this year. I was right about hte long shot. He will be starting for AAA Norfolk this year. Let's hope he can put last year behind him. Appendectomy, sprained ankel, shoulder injury... Yeah sucks to be him. I like him though. He WILL be a big league pitcher.
Garrett Olson's long shot just shorter. Today he threw 3 innings of NO HIT ball, striking out one and walking two. His ERA this spring? 1.29... Yeah.. Won't stay there much longer, but I like him and his future is in his hands. Since Penn has been sent down Garrett is my favorite for the 5th man now.
The only pitcher that gave up a run for the O's was George Sherrill. He has been outstanding this spring which has come as a suprise. Georgie has a career ERA of around 10.00 during the spring. His ERA this spring so far? 3.00. Nothing to laugh at.
Hayden Penn was cut today. I mentioned him as a long shot and my personal favorite to make the 5th man in the rotation this year. I was right about hte long shot. He will be starting for AAA Norfolk this year. Let's hope he can put last year behind him. Appendectomy, sprained ankel, shoulder injury... Yeah sucks to be him. I like him though. He WILL be a big league pitcher.
Garrett Olson's long shot just shorter. Today he threw 3 innings of NO HIT ball, striking out one and walking two. His ERA this spring? 1.29... Yeah.. Won't stay there much longer, but I like him and his future is in his hands. Since Penn has been sent down Garrett is my favorite for the 5th man now.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Spring training update 3/12
Jeremy Guthrie threw 4 innings of 3 hit ball, only giving up 1 run. The most important thing, he didn't walk a soul and threw 44 of 59 pitches for strikes. O' by the way the Orioles still lost 6 - 2. Classic bullpen meltdown. Actually Ryan Bukvich surrendered a two-run homer. Who is this guy? I can't find anything on him, not that I am even trying. Sounds like a non-roster invite. Greg Aquino, had his own problems in the eighth when he allowed a run scoring double and single. So it wasn't actually a classic meltdown. It was a non roster invitee and a long shot to make the team.
The Orioles scored their two runs when Jay Gibbons was batted in by Aubrey Huff and Oscar Salazar drove in one off of a single.
By the way Adam Jones went 1 - 3 with a double. So far this Spring he is batting .450. Erik who?
Luis Hernandez with ANOTHER error today. It was a throwing error which in my opinion is worse than a fielding error. Why? Somebody could get hurt!. That's 4 errors in this short spring. Yes I know it's only spring training but when do you get better? Does someone magically get better in two more weeks? His fieldingf range looks to be pretty good, just gotta duck when he throws. Gives new meaning to nose bleed seats. I think his real problem is the fact that he is nervous, he knows he is it for this team. Last year we had Miggy, and when Miggy was hurt Luis got the nod at SS. He played very good and in my opinion he had nothing to lose except for his job when Miggy got better so it didn't matter to him. He just relaxed and played good ball. I'm not saying I could do any better. Also if I were Branden Fahey I would step my game up because just maybe he will find himself in the SS spot..
Oh I hope the devine powers, ahem Andy MacPhail, make a trade for a shortstop really soon.
The Orioles scored their two runs when Jay Gibbons was batted in by Aubrey Huff and Oscar Salazar drove in one off of a single.
By the way Adam Jones went 1 - 3 with a double. So far this Spring he is batting .450. Erik who?
Luis Hernandez with ANOTHER error today. It was a throwing error which in my opinion is worse than a fielding error. Why? Somebody could get hurt!. That's 4 errors in this short spring. Yes I know it's only spring training but when do you get better? Does someone magically get better in two more weeks? His fieldingf range looks to be pretty good, just gotta duck when he throws. Gives new meaning to nose bleed seats. I think his real problem is the fact that he is nervous, he knows he is it for this team. Last year we had Miggy, and when Miggy was hurt Luis got the nod at SS. He played very good and in my opinion he had nothing to lose except for his job when Miggy got better so it didn't matter to him. He just relaxed and played good ball. I'm not saying I could do any better. Also if I were Branden Fahey I would step my game up because just maybe he will find himself in the SS spot..
Oh I hope the devine powers, ahem Andy MacPhail, make a trade for a shortstop really soon.
Sprrriiiiiinnngggg is here!
THIS IS VERY LONG. BEWARE. Good reading though. I hope. lol.
Sorry! I know it's been a while since I posted. You have to understand that I threw this blog together in about a day. I was just playing around with blogger one day and decided to have some fun. I just moved into a new house and I have been unpacking and fixing waaaaay too much stuff. Just got the internet and everything hooked up. I'm back for the long haul. Hey maybe I can even stir-up some controversy! Either way I'm back. ;)
With Erik Bedard gone and the new guys in lets take a look at spring training.
Just for everyones information the flu bug has hit the Orioles spring training camp pretty hard. I don't know how this is going to effect the opening day line-up, if at all. How can it effect anything? Players sitting out a week, getting behind everyone else... Hmm... I think this is pretty much the only injury/bug Jay Gibbons has been able to avoid. Just a joke, just a joke, I like Jay.
So far this Spring (3/12) Baltimore has posted a 6-5 record... BALTIMORE? A WINNING RECORD? Too bad it's spring training and it's meaningless. :)
First I wan't to break down every player and thier chances to make the team. Let's break it down by position as well. Also please keep in mind that I do not have exact up to date stats on everyone so I won't be giving any numbers out on their stats. I follow this stuff everyday so I will use my terribl... err.. good memory.
OUTFIED:
Adam Jones - (CF) - This guy was meat and potatoes of the Bedard trade. He will be the Orioles everyday Center fielder barring an injury or horrible slump. So far this spring he is mashing the ball. He has misplayed a few balls in the early spring, but keep in mind that he is 22 years old and is nervous. The entire offseason was pretty much focused on him. The only real problem so far is his strike outs. But it's all a part of the learning process. He will be good.. Very good. As far as this year goes, look for him to put up decent numbers but don't look for him to have a Nick Markakis year just yet. Maybe next year, he needs time to develope.
Nick Markakis - (RF) - How can anybody NOT be excited about this guy?! Nick the Stick! Kakes! Nick is a notorious slooow starter so far in his career, even during spring training. Right now Nick is playing like he is in mid-season form. Look for a MONSTER year. Im going out on a limb here and calling for a .300 BA , 25 - 30 hrs, 100 + rbi. The only problem that I forsee is no Miguel Tejada this year. What does that mean? That means pitchers have been more afraid to throw to Miggy who was in the #4 hole so they threw to Nick who was in the #3. Now with Miggy being gone Nick might get the Barry Bonds treatment and get ALOT of walks. Nick avoided the Sophomore curse, let's just hope he can avoid the junior curse as well. I know I made that up.
Luke Scott - (LF) - For those who don't know him, he came over from Houston for Miggy. Look for this guy to produce some power this year. He tagged 18hr's last year, same as Miggy, in LESS games. He only played about 130 or so. He is young and was a good pick up. Not going to make any predition on this guys stats. I wan't to see him play first. He is one of the unfortunant ones to go down with the flu this spring. Before he came down with it, he was mashing folks.
Jay Gibbons - (OF) - Jay's biggest problem, 15 day suspension. The next biggest problem, he is not a good outfielder. The next problem, the position he plays best is being manned by a kid named Nick Markakis.. Good luck Jay. So far,he is hitting the ball really hard. I like Jay, just don't know how much longer the Orioles will deal with him. Only crappy thing is, he has almost 12 million left for two more years on his contract. Highest paid bench warmer in the leaugue!
Jay Payton - (OF) - Barring any kind of trade (ahem Roberts, Payton to Cubs, ahem) Jay will be the platoon guy in the outfield. The 4th outfielder. When eitehr of the outfielders goes down, look for Jay to fill in. He is a decent defender and can hit a little. Not a bad guy to keep on the bench. He is getting older, but is in better shape then just about anybody on the team.
Tike Redman - (OF) - Hmm.. Not sure if he is going to make the cut this year. If Payton is dealt and we don't get an outfielder back for him, Tike makes the team. Look for him to start in Norfolk this year.
CATCHERS :
Ramon Hernandez - (C) - Let's hope he has a better year this year. His first year with the birds he put up career highs and was a good pick-up. Last year he well.. kinda stunk.. But he was hurt most of the year. Look for some solid numbers out of him this year. O' by the way he show up and camp this in in arguably the best shape of his life..
Guillermo Quiroz - (C) - He was pretty much the only good talent Baltimore picked up at the winter meetings this year. Former first rounder I think.. Could be wrong. He has been solid all spring and will be 92348902384902 times better then Paul Bako this year! Hell yeah!
INFIELDERS :
Brian Roberts - (2B) - The man needs no introduction. Brian is going to be an all star for the Orioles again.. If he isn't traded. Is it windy where your at Brian? I hear Chicago can get pretty windy.
Melvin Mora - (3B) - If this guy still an Orioles? Yeah.. Mora has been on the decline for several years now. It will be very interesting to see how he is without his friend Miguel. Another over the hill ball player that makes too much money. What's even worse, he has a NO trade clause! Ever see the movie Babe with John Goodman? Remember in the end, he would hit the ball and when he made it to first base he had a substitute runner take over. Yeah.. That's Melvin in the year 2030 when he is still on the Orioles. I like Melvin, but he is officially making too much money and blocking younger talent from playing. Scott Moore, Costanzo.. No not George Contanza. Mike Costanzo.
Aubrey Huff - (1B, 3B, DH) - Slooooooowwww starter. As we say back home, this guy is slower then molasses running down hill in January. He put up decent numbers last year but they came in the final couple of months! Over the hill. Let the kids play.
Kevin Millar - (1B, DH) - I wanna see the Ray Lewis dance again this year! No, seriously. I wanna see it. Great attitude and undertanding of the situation. He will get his playing time and hits in. He may sit a few games in favor of the youngins..
Luis Hernandez (SS) - People are comparing him to Aparicio. Not a chance. No bat, all glove. So far this spring he has made 3 errors. He is just nervous. He is an upgrade with the glove or Miguel. But not the bat.
Brandon Fahey (UT) - Long shot to make the team. If he does he will have to beat out Luis and Freddie "Boom Boom" Bynum. Very small guy.. Actually judging by spring training pictures I have seen so far this year, he has put on some weight.
Scott Moore (UT) - Find some pictures of him! He looks like Jim Thome. Long shot to make the team. Good power. He has a few people to beat out to make the team.. Mike Contanzo, Freddie Boom Boom.. He will be up this year at some point if he doesn't make the team initially.
Mike Costanzo (UT) - Former first rounder I think? Came here along with Adam Scott for Miggy. If he makes this team it will be because of his bat. Not much to look at on the field.
PITCHERS :
Ok. I'm not going into too much detail over everybody on the staff as it is really early in the morning and there are too many. I will make some interesting points though.. Hopefully.
Jeremy Guthrie (SP) - I think this guy is going to get the opening day nod. Rule 5 pick up last year and turned out good. He only truly projects to be a # 4 or 5 starter at best. Although I hope last year wasn't a fluke for him. He is a good religous kid who prepares hard. He shows a good 2 seamer that Moose had. It starts outside and drifts back in on the hands. Look for him to put up decent numbers. Very level headed.
Daniel Cabrera (SP) - This has got to be it for him this year. Break out or get out. Very tall flame thrower. So far this spring his walks are still up.. So are his strike outs though. He is pitching in the 3's so far. Don't know how long he can hold it down though with all those walks.
Adam Loewen (SP) - Remember him? He actually projects to be an ACE.. Like our departed Erik. Hopefully he can come back from elbow surgery. Look for him to reestablish himself this year. May be wild at times. He will get it though.
Steve Traschel (SP) - Hope I spelled his name right. If I didn't oh well.. Let just call him the Trashman. He was actually solid for us last year before he was traded. Don't look for him to be around past the all star break unless our kids meltdown.. Like last year!
Dennis Sarfate - Young guy. Big. Look for him to be on the opening day roster in the bullpen. Came over from Houston.
Jamie Walker - Over worked by Perlozzo last year. Look for him to go back as a 8th innning set-up guy. Should be good. Having a decent spring.
George Sherrill - Came over from Seattle. He has been almost PERFECT this spring. Will be here opening day. Look for good things from him.
Hayden Penn - Remember him? He had terrible luck last year. Appendicitis and surgery on his arm. He was out most of the year. Look for him to fight for the 5th starter spot. In my own opinion I want to see him get it. He projects as a #2 - 3 starter. Also, he is still very young and has time to develope.
Garrett Olsen- Promoted last year. Was very shaky. Shows good stuff. Fighting for the #5 spot. Look for him to start in Norfolk. Projects as a #3 starter at best.
Bob McCrory - Don't know much about him. Fighting for a bullpen spot. Hardest thrower so far this spring 95 - 97. If he winds up in Norfolk, he won't be there long.
Radhames Liz - Very interesting. He is fight for either a bullpen slot or the 5th started spot. Shows some good heat and he is young. He was a bit wild last year when he got promoted. Although he was almost untouchable in AA ball. May need more time to develope. Had some funky mechanics last year. Apparently he worked on that and his wind up looks better this year. He has a natural problem with his collar bone. Everytime he throws it pops really loud. Doctors say it is nothing to worry about though. So if he pitches this year and you hear funny noises, it's not your tv, and your popcorn is probably burning in the microwave.
Jim Johnson - Not sure on this guy. Don't think he will be around this year.. Maybe.. maybe not.
Jim Hoey - Big kid. Fighting for a bullpen slot. Look for him to pitch in Norfolk. Not for long though.
Rocky Cherry - Came over last year for the trashman. Pitching outstanding this spring. He may be here opening day.
Brian Burres - Look for him to be long relief this year and maybe even a spot starter. I like this guy personally. I saw him throw 9 or 10 KO's last year at the yard.
Chad Bradford - Same as last year. Dependable submariner. Set-up man.
Randor Bierd - Interesting. Probably going to get a shot at the bullpen this year. Rule 5 pickup from Detroit. Apparently he learned a pitch from Pedro Martinez that no one can hit. It's like a change-up / split finger that he hides really well with his delivery and no one can hit it. They are calling it a "Split-Up". I did not make that up, you know who you are.
Greg Aquino - Don't know much about him. Apparently he is throwing good this spring. Looks like he is going to make the bullpen.
Matt Albers - Fighting for the 5th spot. Look for him in Norfolk this year. I tell you what, Norfolk should be pretty good this year. ;)
Okay that about wraps everything up from player to player. I will post again soon on the staff.
The birds have the potential to be a VERY good team this year. Just depends on this kindsa breaking out.. WHY NOT?
Sorry! I know it's been a while since I posted. You have to understand that I threw this blog together in about a day. I was just playing around with blogger one day and decided to have some fun. I just moved into a new house and I have been unpacking and fixing waaaaay too much stuff. Just got the internet and everything hooked up. I'm back for the long haul. Hey maybe I can even stir-up some controversy! Either way I'm back. ;)
With Erik Bedard gone and the new guys in lets take a look at spring training.
Just for everyones information the flu bug has hit the Orioles spring training camp pretty hard. I don't know how this is going to effect the opening day line-up, if at all. How can it effect anything? Players sitting out a week, getting behind everyone else... Hmm... I think this is pretty much the only injury/bug Jay Gibbons has been able to avoid. Just a joke, just a joke, I like Jay.
So far this Spring (3/12) Baltimore has posted a 6-5 record... BALTIMORE? A WINNING RECORD? Too bad it's spring training and it's meaningless. :)
First I wan't to break down every player and thier chances to make the team. Let's break it down by position as well. Also please keep in mind that I do not have exact up to date stats on everyone so I won't be giving any numbers out on their stats. I follow this stuff everyday so I will use my terribl... err.. good memory.
OUTFIED:
Adam Jones - (CF) - This guy was meat and potatoes of the Bedard trade. He will be the Orioles everyday Center fielder barring an injury or horrible slump. So far this spring he is mashing the ball. He has misplayed a few balls in the early spring, but keep in mind that he is 22 years old and is nervous. The entire offseason was pretty much focused on him. The only real problem so far is his strike outs. But it's all a part of the learning process. He will be good.. Very good. As far as this year goes, look for him to put up decent numbers but don't look for him to have a Nick Markakis year just yet. Maybe next year, he needs time to develope.
Nick Markakis - (RF) - How can anybody NOT be excited about this guy?! Nick the Stick! Kakes! Nick is a notorious slooow starter so far in his career, even during spring training. Right now Nick is playing like he is in mid-season form. Look for a MONSTER year. Im going out on a limb here and calling for a .300 BA , 25 - 30 hrs, 100 + rbi. The only problem that I forsee is no Miguel Tejada this year. What does that mean? That means pitchers have been more afraid to throw to Miggy who was in the #4 hole so they threw to Nick who was in the #3. Now with Miggy being gone Nick might get the Barry Bonds treatment and get ALOT of walks. Nick avoided the Sophomore curse, let's just hope he can avoid the junior curse as well. I know I made that up.
Luke Scott - (LF) - For those who don't know him, he came over from Houston for Miggy. Look for this guy to produce some power this year. He tagged 18hr's last year, same as Miggy, in LESS games. He only played about 130 or so. He is young and was a good pick up. Not going to make any predition on this guys stats. I wan't to see him play first. He is one of the unfortunant ones to go down with the flu this spring. Before he came down with it, he was mashing folks.
Jay Gibbons - (OF) - Jay's biggest problem, 15 day suspension. The next biggest problem, he is not a good outfielder. The next problem, the position he plays best is being manned by a kid named Nick Markakis.. Good luck Jay. So far,he is hitting the ball really hard. I like Jay, just don't know how much longer the Orioles will deal with him. Only crappy thing is, he has almost 12 million left for two more years on his contract. Highest paid bench warmer in the leaugue!
Jay Payton - (OF) - Barring any kind of trade (ahem Roberts, Payton to Cubs, ahem) Jay will be the platoon guy in the outfield. The 4th outfielder. When eitehr of the outfielders goes down, look for Jay to fill in. He is a decent defender and can hit a little. Not a bad guy to keep on the bench. He is getting older, but is in better shape then just about anybody on the team.
Tike Redman - (OF) - Hmm.. Not sure if he is going to make the cut this year. If Payton is dealt and we don't get an outfielder back for him, Tike makes the team. Look for him to start in Norfolk this year.
CATCHERS :
Ramon Hernandez - (C) - Let's hope he has a better year this year. His first year with the birds he put up career highs and was a good pick-up. Last year he well.. kinda stunk.. But he was hurt most of the year. Look for some solid numbers out of him this year. O' by the way he show up and camp this in in arguably the best shape of his life..
Guillermo Quiroz - (C) - He was pretty much the only good talent Baltimore picked up at the winter meetings this year. Former first rounder I think.. Could be wrong. He has been solid all spring and will be 92348902384902 times better then Paul Bako this year! Hell yeah!
INFIELDERS :
Brian Roberts - (2B) - The man needs no introduction. Brian is going to be an all star for the Orioles again.. If he isn't traded. Is it windy where your at Brian? I hear Chicago can get pretty windy.
Melvin Mora - (3B) - If this guy still an Orioles? Yeah.. Mora has been on the decline for several years now. It will be very interesting to see how he is without his friend Miguel. Another over the hill ball player that makes too much money. What's even worse, he has a NO trade clause! Ever see the movie Babe with John Goodman? Remember in the end, he would hit the ball and when he made it to first base he had a substitute runner take over. Yeah.. That's Melvin in the year 2030 when he is still on the Orioles. I like Melvin, but he is officially making too much money and blocking younger talent from playing. Scott Moore, Costanzo.. No not George Contanza. Mike Costanzo.
Aubrey Huff - (1B, 3B, DH) - Slooooooowwww starter. As we say back home, this guy is slower then molasses running down hill in January. He put up decent numbers last year but they came in the final couple of months! Over the hill. Let the kids play.
Kevin Millar - (1B, DH) - I wanna see the Ray Lewis dance again this year! No, seriously. I wanna see it. Great attitude and undertanding of the situation. He will get his playing time and hits in. He may sit a few games in favor of the youngins..
Luis Hernandez (SS) - People are comparing him to Aparicio. Not a chance. No bat, all glove. So far this spring he has made 3 errors. He is just nervous. He is an upgrade with the glove or Miguel. But not the bat.
Brandon Fahey (UT) - Long shot to make the team. If he does he will have to beat out Luis and Freddie "Boom Boom" Bynum. Very small guy.. Actually judging by spring training pictures I have seen so far this year, he has put on some weight.
Scott Moore (UT) - Find some pictures of him! He looks like Jim Thome. Long shot to make the team. Good power. He has a few people to beat out to make the team.. Mike Contanzo, Freddie Boom Boom.. He will be up this year at some point if he doesn't make the team initially.
Mike Costanzo (UT) - Former first rounder I think? Came here along with Adam Scott for Miggy. If he makes this team it will be because of his bat. Not much to look at on the field.
PITCHERS :
Ok. I'm not going into too much detail over everybody on the staff as it is really early in the morning and there are too many. I will make some interesting points though.. Hopefully.
Jeremy Guthrie (SP) - I think this guy is going to get the opening day nod. Rule 5 pick up last year and turned out good. He only truly projects to be a # 4 or 5 starter at best. Although I hope last year wasn't a fluke for him. He is a good religous kid who prepares hard. He shows a good 2 seamer that Moose had. It starts outside and drifts back in on the hands. Look for him to put up decent numbers. Very level headed.
Daniel Cabrera (SP) - This has got to be it for him this year. Break out or get out. Very tall flame thrower. So far this spring his walks are still up.. So are his strike outs though. He is pitching in the 3's so far. Don't know how long he can hold it down though with all those walks.
Adam Loewen (SP) - Remember him? He actually projects to be an ACE.. Like our departed Erik. Hopefully he can come back from elbow surgery. Look for him to reestablish himself this year. May be wild at times. He will get it though.
Steve Traschel (SP) - Hope I spelled his name right. If I didn't oh well.. Let just call him the Trashman. He was actually solid for us last year before he was traded. Don't look for him to be around past the all star break unless our kids meltdown.. Like last year!
Dennis Sarfate - Young guy. Big. Look for him to be on the opening day roster in the bullpen. Came over from Houston.
Jamie Walker - Over worked by Perlozzo last year. Look for him to go back as a 8th innning set-up guy. Should be good. Having a decent spring.
George Sherrill - Came over from Seattle. He has been almost PERFECT this spring. Will be here opening day. Look for good things from him.
Hayden Penn - Remember him? He had terrible luck last year. Appendicitis and surgery on his arm. He was out most of the year. Look for him to fight for the 5th starter spot. In my own opinion I want to see him get it. He projects as a #2 - 3 starter. Also, he is still very young and has time to develope.
Garrett Olsen- Promoted last year. Was very shaky. Shows good stuff. Fighting for the #5 spot. Look for him to start in Norfolk. Projects as a #3 starter at best.
Bob McCrory - Don't know much about him. Fighting for a bullpen spot. Hardest thrower so far this spring 95 - 97. If he winds up in Norfolk, he won't be there long.
Radhames Liz - Very interesting. He is fight for either a bullpen slot or the 5th started spot. Shows some good heat and he is young. He was a bit wild last year when he got promoted. Although he was almost untouchable in AA ball. May need more time to develope. Had some funky mechanics last year. Apparently he worked on that and his wind up looks better this year. He has a natural problem with his collar bone. Everytime he throws it pops really loud. Doctors say it is nothing to worry about though. So if he pitches this year and you hear funny noises, it's not your tv, and your popcorn is probably burning in the microwave.
Jim Johnson - Not sure on this guy. Don't think he will be around this year.. Maybe.. maybe not.
Jim Hoey - Big kid. Fighting for a bullpen slot. Look for him to pitch in Norfolk. Not for long though.
Rocky Cherry - Came over last year for the trashman. Pitching outstanding this spring. He may be here opening day.
Brian Burres - Look for him to be long relief this year and maybe even a spot starter. I like this guy personally. I saw him throw 9 or 10 KO's last year at the yard.
Chad Bradford - Same as last year. Dependable submariner. Set-up man.
Randor Bierd - Interesting. Probably going to get a shot at the bullpen this year. Rule 5 pickup from Detroit. Apparently he learned a pitch from Pedro Martinez that no one can hit. It's like a change-up / split finger that he hides really well with his delivery and no one can hit it. They are calling it a "Split-Up". I did not make that up, you know who you are.
Greg Aquino - Don't know much about him. Apparently he is throwing good this spring. Looks like he is going to make the bullpen.
Matt Albers - Fighting for the 5th spot. Look for him in Norfolk this year. I tell you what, Norfolk should be pretty good this year. ;)
Okay that about wraps everything up from player to player. I will post again soon on the staff.
The birds have the potential to be a VERY good team this year. Just depends on this kindsa breaking out.. WHY NOT?
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