AL South
It sure appears that Nashville has taken full control of this division. They've now won the division four straight seasons and last season took it one step further and won the World Series. Tampa Bay, a franchise that dominated the division the previous seven seasons has now taken a back seat to the World champs in the south. They have just missed out on the post season four straight seasons now, even though they have put up some very good win totals. The New Orleans franchise owned this division the first four seasons of the league, but have only seen the playoffs twice since. They have put up respectable win totals in their rebuild process and aren't a bad team. They just haven't been playoff caliber. The franchise in Austin has only made the post season one time and that was as a wild card team. They have finished in the basement of the division seven seasons in a row and have been hovering around the 60 win mark for the past five. This team is in need of a really good season to show the fans that they are doing the right things.
Nashville Nalas
Season 15 record- 112-50(AL South Champs, World Series Champs)
5 year record- 490-320
Offense- Average-1st(.292), OBP-1st(.369), Slg-1st(.473), Runs-1st(1064), HR-5th(236), SB-14th(66)
Defense- Fielding %-2nd(.987), Plus Plays-1st(83), Minus Plays-1st(12)
Pitching- ERA-4th(3.94), OAV-3rd(.247), SO-3rd(1092), Saves-2nd(47/53)
Key Additions-None
Key Losses-3B Omar Siqueiros(FA)
Guys, here is your season 15 World Champion. This team dominated from day 1 last season and never let up. Ownership has really built a champion and they should continue to challenge for seasons to come. Last season was an impressive, 8th straight season in which the team improved their record from the previous season. Ownership is excited about what this team has to offer and have big plans of defending the championship and repeating. This is a very young team that will be tough to knock from their perch over the next few seasons. Offensively, this team was matched by none other last season. The only thing they lack is speed and it doesn't hurt them at all. They should be right where they were last season offensively if not better. The addition of slugging rookie John Pong will make this team a true power house. The defense was also among the best in the league. I don't think that will change much either. The defense is very good. The pitching may have been the weakest link on this team, but that's not saying much since they were also among the best in the league in pitching. The rotation is very good and the bullpen is very solid. They may not be great, but the pitching is still a top 5 in the league. My prediction is that this team will be very tough to beat this season and they are my early favorite to win the championship.
Tampa Bay Thunder
Season 15 record- 85-77
5 year record- 440-370
Offense- Average-4th(.274), OBP-4th(.338), Slg-9th(.432), Runs-7th(803), HR-11th(202), SB-4th(180)
Defense- Fielding %-8th(.983), Plus Plays-15th(31), Minus Plays-14th(58)
Pitching- ERA-7th(4.54), OAV-6th(.264), SO-2nd(1119), Saves-7th(44/60)
Key Additions-None
Key Losses-LF Justin Walters(FA)
This has been one of the more impressive franchises in Pine Tar. They've never had a losing record and have posted eight 90 win seasons. The franchise has missed the post season each of the last 4 seasons even though they have been one of the better teams in the AL. It seems like so long ago that this team was in 4 out of 5 World Series and winning 2 of them. Ownership still has that winning mentality though and will try to get this team back to the top. Offensively this team was built on contact and speed and finished last season toward the top of the league in both categories. They didn't show much power and finished pretty average in runs. It's pretty much the same thing heading into this season. The defense last season was average to below average. The team made no real changes here. The defense is average at best. The team was also average in pitching last season. The rotation is good and they have some good relievers as well. I think the defense hurts the pitching staff as I believe they are a good staff. The team should challenge for the post season again this season, but I don't think they are on Nashville's level and don't have much a shot at winning the division. I think they can win close to 90 games and if they can improve the defense they could finish even better.
New Orleans Nighthawks
Season 15 record- 75-87
5 year record- 381-429
Offense- Average-5th(.271), OBP-10th(.327), Slg-7th(.444), Runs-5th(831), HR-8th(220), SB-3rd(184)
Defense- Fielding %-10th(.982), Plus Plays-10th(50), Minus Plays-4th(27)
Pitching- ERA-12th(5.08), OAV-11th(.278), SO-12th(1012), Saves-7th(44/53)
Key Additions-2B Jeremy Stanley(FA), RP John Chen(FA), RP Ron Bowen(FA), RP Victor Daly(FA)
Key Losses- CF-Louie Caballero(FA), RP Vitas Perez(FA)
Last season the Nighthawks appeared to be on their way up. They improved their record and showed improvement from the previous season. Youngster Sam Slotnick added some life to this team and made them respectable offensively. The team still has some older players around that will help them out, but they have brought in some youth that will help them out. Last season this team was average to slightly above offensively. The addition of Stanley will help them out some. They aren't a very good contact team, but they have a little power and plenty of speed. The offense should be a bit above average this season. The defense was below average last season. I like the shortstop Hernandez, and the defense isn't bad. I think the defense will be decent and won't hurt the team. The pitching for this team was bottom of the league last season. They made some moves in the off season to upgrade it, but mostly to help the bullpen. The rotation isn't very good, but the bullpen is pretty good. It will be interesting to see how it plays out with this staff. If the starters hold up enough the bullpen should get them through the game. I think this is a decent team that has made some improvements. They should be able to win 80 games this season and could be a few starting rotation additions away from being a playoff team.
Austin Tumbleweeds
Season 15 record- 62-100
5 year record- 307-503
Offense- Average-11th(.262), OBP-14th(.321), Slg-11th(.419), Runs-12th(761), HR-13th(193), SB-1st(232)
Defense- Fielding %-16th(.976), Plus Plays-16th(16), Minus Plays-16th(66)
Pitching- ERA-13th(5.16), OAV-12th(.279), SO-1st(1151), Saves-15th(35/55)
Key Additions-None
Key Losses-None
The team in Austin has now been in a stretch of losing for 7 seasons. By now they should be making a turn for better times and bringing in some youth that they've built up through the draft over this time. They do have a younger roster as only 3 players are 30 or older. The team does have some young talent on the roster. Is this the season that the fans in Austin finally have reason for hope? Offensively last season this team was in the bottom portion of the league in all but stolen bases. They finished first in steals and have plenty of team speed. The team lacks real contact throughout the lineup though and have little power to threaten with. The defense last season was just awful. Without a real shortstop or centerfielder I have no reason to believe that will change. The pitching staff was one of the worst in the league as well last season. Looking at what they have, I believe they may have the worst pitching in the AL. The team doesn't look good for this season, but they do have some young talent coming through the minor leagues and could be just a season or two away from making a push up the ladder. It will be a long season again in Austin, but if the stick to the course, it shouldn't be long until they are able to compete.
Predictions
Nashville is a very tough team and should run away with the division this season. They are the reigning world champs and could very well repeat as champions. Tampa is a good team and could be a playoff team. New Orleans appears to be making strides and could be much better with a few moves during the season if they are competing. Austin isn't a team that will do much this season but they at least have some hope for the future.
1. Nashville
2. Tampa Bay
3. New Orleans
4. Austin
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Saturday, June 18, 2011
AL East Season 16 preview
AL East
Atlanta has had control of this division for the past couple of seasons with impressive leads. They won the division by 19 games last season, after winning it by 33 games the season before. Durham made a nice improvement last season and showed signs of getting back in this division title picture. New ownership came in and brought a team to Boston. The team had a lot of work to do to get that team back on track and in doing so were still respectable. Chicago took some steps backward after finishing second in the division in season 14 to finish at the bottom last season. If things hold in this division then we won't see any interesting finishes this season, but let's take a look at what each team looks like before settling for any predictions.
Atlanta Red Tide
Season 15 record- 95-67(AL East Champ)
5 year record- 428-382
Offense- Average-14th(.254), OBP-10th(.327), Slg-8th(.442), Runs-9th(786), HR-4th(252), SB-11th(92)
Defense- Fielding-5th(.986), Plus Plays-3rd(76), Minus Plays-4th(27)
Pitching- ERA-2nd(3.72), OAV-3rd(.247), SO-16th(954), Saves-2nd(47/58)
Key Additions-LF Nap Clements(FA)
Key Losses-LF Alvin Reed(FA)
This team in Atlanta, after 7 seasons of below 500 ball, have moved into the upper class of the AL. A second straight division title last season wrapped up the teams 5th title in their history. Unfortunately, the success hasn't followed them into the post season. For the second straight season they lost in the first round of the post season. The weakness of the club last season, the hitting needed to be upgraded and the team brought in Nap Clements to help that cause. That is surely an upgrade from Alvin Reed, whom they lost, even though Reed was a pretty good hitter. The team has some really good young hitters in Stratton and North and the teams top power hitter Tommy Parker returns. The offense should be better than it was last season, but I don't think it is a strength. The defense was in the top half of the league last season and I don't think that will change. They have a pretty good fielding team. The pitching staff was one of the best in the AL last season. The pitching talent by looks is average, and I think the fielding helped the pitchers over achieve. They do have some really good pitchers though, so it's not like the pitching on the team is all average. I still think this team is a playoff team and should win over 90 games again. I don't think they made the moves to make this team the team to beat in the AL though.
Durham Doormats
Season 15 record- 76-86
5 year record- 364-446
Offense- Average-7th(.268), OBP-7th(.331), Slg-4th(.456), Runs-8th(800), HR-1st(273), SB-16th(11)
Defense- Fielding %-2nd(.987), Plus Plays-3rd(76), Minus Plays-12th(39)
Pitching- ERA-11th(5.04), OAV-12th(.279), SO-10th(1022), Saves-5th(46/63)
Key Additions-None
Key Losses-SP Tony Ramirez(FA)
Durham took some big steps forward last season, improving their win total by 10 games and finishing second in the division. The team hasn't had a winning record since season 10, even though they won the division in season 13. They have a very young roster that should continue to get better. Last season, the offense was just above average in the AL, and actually finished first in homers. The team only stole 11 bases last season and could use a little bit of a threat on the base paths. They didn't make any major moves in the off season to upgrade the offense, but with a young team, that isn't really necessary. The hitting on this squad appears to be pretty much the same as last season, close to average. They have some power, but so will most teams when they come to Durham to play. The homerun totals were definitely aided by the park. Last season this team finished near the top of the league in fielding. There are some good fielders on this team and Faulk is a young and very good shortstop. I'm not sure this is a top 3 fielding bunch but they are good and should finish in the upper half of the league again. The pitching staff was not very good last season, but as with the offense, it's tough to be good in Durham. They have some good pitchers, especially in the bullpen, on this team. The rotation could use a couple good arms, but the bullpen is the strength on this staff. As bad as the pitching was last season, they finished fifth in saves. The problem I see is that they don't have many groundball pitchers and that will hurt a team that plays in a hitters ballpark. This team isn't bad, but I don't think they have what it takes to move into the top spot of the division. I think they'll struggle to break 80 wins, but it's not out of the question.
Boston Pilgrims
Season 15 record- 68-94
5 year record- 353-457
Offense- Average-10th(.263), OBP-9th(.328), Slg-10th(.421), Runs-14th(748), HR-10th(206), SB-13th(75)
Defense- Fielding %-10th(.982), Plus Plays-8th(53), Minus Plays-6th(29)
Pitching- ERA-14th(5.23), OAV-16th(.293), SO-8th(1043), Saves-13th(39/58)
Key Additions-None
Key Losses-RP Phillip Allen(FA)
After many seasons of ups and downs, and many trades and signings, that had this team looking like they had no direction at all, new ownership came in last season and appears to have put a plan in place for this team. This team has had many owners and has never really had any direction at all. Aside from winning the division with the franchises only winning season back in season 12, this franchise has been a disaster. The new ownership seems to be taking a different approach and didn't go out and trade away all of the future for a couple good players that won't put them on top of the division for long. They stayed quiet in free agency, and made no trades at all. The only player they lost of any value was an aging relief pitcher. The team has a really young roster of players as only 4 players are above the age of 30. Last seasons big IFA signing, Rico Tatis, should make a push for rookie of the year and they have some other good youngsters to mix with him. Last season this offense was just below average and close to the bottom of the league in scoring runs. I think they should be a little better this season and possibly closer to the above average crowd. The thing that hurts them is the depth. After the top hitters on this team there isn't much. The fielding was close to average last season and it probably will be again. The fielding doesn't impress me much and could use an upgrade here or there. The pitching ranked near the bottom of the league last season. The starting pitching isn't very good, but they do have a few good arms in the pen. Overall, this is a below average staff and possibly close to the bottom of the league. This season, the team will continue to rebuild and work it's way toward hopefully a brighter future. They have some of the tools in place and with a few more seasons could get to that point.
Chicago Wind Tunnel
Season 15 record- 59-103
5 year record- 358-452
Offense- Average-12th(.259), OBP-12th(.326), Slg-15th(.396), Runs-10th(769), HR-16th(169), SB-2nd(205)
Defense- Fielding %-15th(.978), Plus Plays-12th(44), Minus Plays-13th(52)
Pitching- ERA-15th(5.32), OAV-14th(.283), SO-14th(984), Saves-11th(40/56)
Key Additions-None
Key Losses-None
Last season was a new low for this franchise, winning a franchise low 59 games. After many seasons of being at the top of the division, this franchise has fallen on hard times recently. The good thing for this franchise is that they are young and inexpensive, which gives the team the funds to try and rebuild. The ownership has put many of their funds into the draft scouting and should be able to find some good players and build through the draft. Last season the teams offense ranked in the bottom half of the league. The team did finish second in steals. The offense will probably be about the same this season. Their strength is in speed, and they should be able to finish near the top again in steals. The defense was just bad last season. I don't see any reason to believe that will change. They still lack a true shortstop and the team is just not very good with the gloves. The pitching was also pretty bad last season. I don't think that will change this season either. The pitching staff is loaded with average to below average talent. Hopefully for this team, the money spent in the draft will start paying off soon as the fans in Chicago, while used to losing teams, won't settle for losing much longer.
Predictions
I believe this is still Atlanta's division to lose. Atlanta appears to be the only real playoff contender in the division and the other teams are just playing for respectability. Durham is improving and could push Atlanta for some of the season. Boston doesn't appear to be a contender, but I don't think they are very far off from being one. Chicago should struggle again this season as they continue to rebuild.
1. Atlanta
2. Durham
3. Boston
4. Chicago
Atlanta has had control of this division for the past couple of seasons with impressive leads. They won the division by 19 games last season, after winning it by 33 games the season before. Durham made a nice improvement last season and showed signs of getting back in this division title picture. New ownership came in and brought a team to Boston. The team had a lot of work to do to get that team back on track and in doing so were still respectable. Chicago took some steps backward after finishing second in the division in season 14 to finish at the bottom last season. If things hold in this division then we won't see any interesting finishes this season, but let's take a look at what each team looks like before settling for any predictions.
Atlanta Red Tide
Season 15 record- 95-67(AL East Champ)
5 year record- 428-382
Offense- Average-14th(.254), OBP-10th(.327), Slg-8th(.442), Runs-9th(786), HR-4th(252), SB-11th(92)
Defense- Fielding-5th(.986), Plus Plays-3rd(76), Minus Plays-4th(27)
Pitching- ERA-2nd(3.72), OAV-3rd(.247), SO-16th(954), Saves-2nd(47/58)
Key Additions-LF Nap Clements(FA)
Key Losses-LF Alvin Reed(FA)
This team in Atlanta, after 7 seasons of below 500 ball, have moved into the upper class of the AL. A second straight division title last season wrapped up the teams 5th title in their history. Unfortunately, the success hasn't followed them into the post season. For the second straight season they lost in the first round of the post season. The weakness of the club last season, the hitting needed to be upgraded and the team brought in Nap Clements to help that cause. That is surely an upgrade from Alvin Reed, whom they lost, even though Reed was a pretty good hitter. The team has some really good young hitters in Stratton and North and the teams top power hitter Tommy Parker returns. The offense should be better than it was last season, but I don't think it is a strength. The defense was in the top half of the league last season and I don't think that will change. They have a pretty good fielding team. The pitching staff was one of the best in the AL last season. The pitching talent by looks is average, and I think the fielding helped the pitchers over achieve. They do have some really good pitchers though, so it's not like the pitching on the team is all average. I still think this team is a playoff team and should win over 90 games again. I don't think they made the moves to make this team the team to beat in the AL though.
Durham Doormats
Season 15 record- 76-86
5 year record- 364-446
Offense- Average-7th(.268), OBP-7th(.331), Slg-4th(.456), Runs-8th(800), HR-1st(273), SB-16th(11)
Defense- Fielding %-2nd(.987), Plus Plays-3rd(76), Minus Plays-12th(39)
Pitching- ERA-11th(5.04), OAV-12th(.279), SO-10th(1022), Saves-5th(46/63)
Key Additions-None
Key Losses-SP Tony Ramirez(FA)
Durham took some big steps forward last season, improving their win total by 10 games and finishing second in the division. The team hasn't had a winning record since season 10, even though they won the division in season 13. They have a very young roster that should continue to get better. Last season, the offense was just above average in the AL, and actually finished first in homers. The team only stole 11 bases last season and could use a little bit of a threat on the base paths. They didn't make any major moves in the off season to upgrade the offense, but with a young team, that isn't really necessary. The hitting on this squad appears to be pretty much the same as last season, close to average. They have some power, but so will most teams when they come to Durham to play. The homerun totals were definitely aided by the park. Last season this team finished near the top of the league in fielding. There are some good fielders on this team and Faulk is a young and very good shortstop. I'm not sure this is a top 3 fielding bunch but they are good and should finish in the upper half of the league again. The pitching staff was not very good last season, but as with the offense, it's tough to be good in Durham. They have some good pitchers, especially in the bullpen, on this team. The rotation could use a couple good arms, but the bullpen is the strength on this staff. As bad as the pitching was last season, they finished fifth in saves. The problem I see is that they don't have many groundball pitchers and that will hurt a team that plays in a hitters ballpark. This team isn't bad, but I don't think they have what it takes to move into the top spot of the division. I think they'll struggle to break 80 wins, but it's not out of the question.
Boston Pilgrims
Season 15 record- 68-94
5 year record- 353-457
Offense- Average-10th(.263), OBP-9th(.328), Slg-10th(.421), Runs-14th(748), HR-10th(206), SB-13th(75)
Defense- Fielding %-10th(.982), Plus Plays-8th(53), Minus Plays-6th(29)
Pitching- ERA-14th(5.23), OAV-16th(.293), SO-8th(1043), Saves-13th(39/58)
Key Additions-None
Key Losses-RP Phillip Allen(FA)
After many seasons of ups and downs, and many trades and signings, that had this team looking like they had no direction at all, new ownership came in last season and appears to have put a plan in place for this team. This team has had many owners and has never really had any direction at all. Aside from winning the division with the franchises only winning season back in season 12, this franchise has been a disaster. The new ownership seems to be taking a different approach and didn't go out and trade away all of the future for a couple good players that won't put them on top of the division for long. They stayed quiet in free agency, and made no trades at all. The only player they lost of any value was an aging relief pitcher. The team has a really young roster of players as only 4 players are above the age of 30. Last seasons big IFA signing, Rico Tatis, should make a push for rookie of the year and they have some other good youngsters to mix with him. Last season this offense was just below average and close to the bottom of the league in scoring runs. I think they should be a little better this season and possibly closer to the above average crowd. The thing that hurts them is the depth. After the top hitters on this team there isn't much. The fielding was close to average last season and it probably will be again. The fielding doesn't impress me much and could use an upgrade here or there. The pitching ranked near the bottom of the league last season. The starting pitching isn't very good, but they do have a few good arms in the pen. Overall, this is a below average staff and possibly close to the bottom of the league. This season, the team will continue to rebuild and work it's way toward hopefully a brighter future. They have some of the tools in place and with a few more seasons could get to that point.
Chicago Wind Tunnel
Season 15 record- 59-103
5 year record- 358-452
Offense- Average-12th(.259), OBP-12th(.326), Slg-15th(.396), Runs-10th(769), HR-16th(169), SB-2nd(205)
Defense- Fielding %-15th(.978), Plus Plays-12th(44), Minus Plays-13th(52)
Pitching- ERA-15th(5.32), OAV-14th(.283), SO-14th(984), Saves-11th(40/56)
Key Additions-None
Key Losses-None
Last season was a new low for this franchise, winning a franchise low 59 games. After many seasons of being at the top of the division, this franchise has fallen on hard times recently. The good thing for this franchise is that they are young and inexpensive, which gives the team the funds to try and rebuild. The ownership has put many of their funds into the draft scouting and should be able to find some good players and build through the draft. Last season the teams offense ranked in the bottom half of the league. The team did finish second in steals. The offense will probably be about the same this season. Their strength is in speed, and they should be able to finish near the top again in steals. The defense was just bad last season. I don't see any reason to believe that will change. They still lack a true shortstop and the team is just not very good with the gloves. The pitching was also pretty bad last season. I don't think that will change this season either. The pitching staff is loaded with average to below average talent. Hopefully for this team, the money spent in the draft will start paying off soon as the fans in Chicago, while used to losing teams, won't settle for losing much longer.
Predictions
I believe this is still Atlanta's division to lose. Atlanta appears to be the only real playoff contender in the division and the other teams are just playing for respectability. Durham is improving and could push Atlanta for some of the season. Boston doesn't appear to be a contender, but I don't think they are very far off from being one. Chicago should struggle again this season as they continue to rebuild.
1. Atlanta
2. Durham
3. Boston
4. Chicago
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Season 16 preview-AL North
Here we go again. Another season has begun, off season is pretty much over and each and every team is tied for best record in the league again. After a season in which I really slacked on the blog, my plan this season is to get back to what is acceptable with this thing. I know, everyone can't wait to see what I have to say about their teams so they can call me an idiot and try to prove that I don't know what I'm talking about. I would like to point out that I did a pretty good job in the AL last season though. I predicted 3 of 4 division winners and gave a pretty good prediction of each divisions finishes. I was 12 for 16 on division finishes in the AL. Take that to the bank and cash it. Seriously though, I hope everyone enjoys reading these as much as I enjoy writing them. Um, actually I hope you enjoy reading these much more than that because writing these can be a pain in the ass. One last thing I have to add. I would like to thank all the owners that have been a part of this league, especially those that have been here for quite a while, for making this league so much fun for me. I would also like to thank the few new owners for joining and hope that you guys can find as much fun as I have in this league and stick around a while. I hope everyone has an enjoyable season and gets their teams going in the right directions.
AL North
By now everyone that is not a part of this division is tired of seeing me put in print how great of a division this is and seeing the stats and info to back it up. Well guys, I'm sorry but I'm going to do it again. I think most divisions wish they could put together what this division has. In each of the past 5 seasons, the AL North has put 3 teams in the post season. They have 34 post season appearances in all. As a matter of fact, you have to go all the way back to season 6, to see an ALCS without a team from this division in it. They have 2 World Champs, and 4 World Series appearances. The division has produced thirteen 100 win seasons and each team has accomplished that feat at least twice. Last season was much of the same in the AL North. Syracuse won the division for the fifth straight season, with Milwaukee and Ottawa securing the Wild Card spots. Milwaukee, found themselves in the ALCS for the second time in four seasons after finishing third in this grueling division.
Syracuse Snow Pirates
Season 15 record- 109-53(AL North Champs)
5 year record- 550-260
Offense- Average-5th(.271), OBP-4th(.338), Slg-3rd(.461), Runs-4th(856), HR-3rd(262), SB-15th(24)
Defense- Fielding %-1st(.991), Plus Plays-1st(83), Minus Plays-2nd(25)
Pitching- ERA-1st(3.46), OAV-1st(.239), SO-6th(1065), Saves-1st(58/72)
Key Additions-None
Key Losses-RF Rob Lee(FA), 3B Rob McNamara(FA)
After back to back World Series appearances, a threepeat as AL champs wasn't meant to be. The defending World Champs really had nowhere to go but down, but I doubt management expected a 3 games to 1 loss to division rival Milwaukee in the DCS. Arguably one of the best teams in the AL during the regular season just couldn't carry that success into the playoffs. It seems they are content with what they have and didn't make any big moves to bring in some help. They did however lose a couple key players that have been big parts for this team the past few seasons in Lee and McNamara. Those are blows to the offense for sure. The team has been at the top of the rankings offensively for quite some time and while they slipped a bit last season they were still a tough team to pitch to. The team does still have some good hitting and shouldn't drop too much in the rankings if at all. The team was atop the league defensively again last season and heading into season 16, not much has changed. They are still an elite defensive team. One of the best pitching teams for years, this group should continue to be among the best group of arms in Pine Tar. I think this is still an elite team without the losses or adding anything to it, just maybe not as elite as they were. I have no doubt that this team will finish near the top of the league once again this season.
Ottawa Otters
Season 15 record- 97-65
5 year record- 491-319
Offense- Average-3rd(.283), OBP-3rd(.345), Slg-5th(.455), Runs-3rd(908), HR-7th(226), SB-6th(134)
Defense- Fielding %-2nd(.987), Plus Plays-12th(44), Minus Plays-7th(30)
Pitching- ERA-3rd(3.93), OAV-2nd(.244), SO-5th(1084), Saves-16th(30/47)
Key Additions-3B Freddy Cuddyer(FA)
Key Losses-SP Greg DeJean(FA), LF Nap Clements(FA), 2B Jeremy Stanley(FA)
Ottawa has been another really tough team for quite a while now. They've been close to the top of the league but just not good enough to take over the top spot in the division from Syracuse. The team put together a very impressive regular season in season 15, but got to the playoffs and ended their season with a 3 games to 2 loss to Los Angeles in the Wild Card round. So what did they do in the off season? They went and took one of LA's top players as the teams only major addition. They declined the options on a few of their own top players and seen them go to other teams in free agency. Is this a sign of decline or just a few moves that needed to be made? Well offensively Ottawa was one of the better teams in the AL last season and looking at the roster it seems they will be again. They still have good contact hitters and a couple guys that will hit some homers. They should get some steals out of Presley to add a threat of speed, but besides that the team will probably not be stealing a lot of bases. The fielding on this team is impressive and should finish near the top of the league again. The pitching should be good again this season as well. The rotation is good and they have some good arms in the bullpen as well. They should finish toward the top of the AL in pitching. This team is going to be good again this season, but a slip in win total wouldn't surprise me. I doubt this is a 100 win team, but I also doubt they are below a 90 win team. Ottawa should challenge for a wild card spot as I don't think they have the talent to take the top spot in the division this season.
Milwaukee Cream Citys
Season 15 record- 88-74(ALCS runner up)
5 year record- 480-330
Offense- Average-2nd(.286), OBP-2nd(.350), Slg-2nd(.462), Runs-2nd(916), HR-9th(218), SB-8th(99)
Defense- Fielding %-14th(.979), Plus Plays-6th(62), Minus Plays-11th(37)
Pitching- ERA-6th(4.43), OAV-6th(.264), SO-9th(1027), Saves-11th(40/54)
Key Additions-SP Russell Wheeler(FA)
Key Losses-SP John Ashley(FA)
Here is the example of a team that under achieved in the regular season and turned it on in the playoffs. Already a dangerous squad with a top offense, the team lacked defense and elite pitching. They finished near the top of the league in pitching but well off the pace of the top teams in the AL. The team was much more successful in season 14 during the regular season but found no success in the post season that season. Last season was the exact opposite. The question will be this season if they can get to the top. The offense, while not losing any major pieces is still intact. They don't have much power and they aren't the best contact hitters but they produce quality at bats. They can steal some bases but are not real threats on the bases. The pitching rotation is fairly average if not a bit below average. Wheeler will help some as he is the only player that I label as a key addition. The loss of the aging John Ashley won't really hurt the team. The bullpen is decent but not in the upper part of the league. The defense wasn't a bright spot of this team last season and I doubt they will be again. My prediction for this team is that they won't match the success from last season. I think the are going to struggle to make the post season this time around and don't really match up well with the top teams in this division.
Minnesota PeaceFrog
Season 15 record- 68-94
5 year record- 339-451
Offense- Average-15th(.252), OBP-15th(.318), Slg-12th(.417), Runs-15th(731), HR-6th(233), SB-10th(93)
Defense- Fielding %-6th(.985), Plus Plays-5th(66), Minus Plays-7th(30)
Pitching- ERA-9th(4.88), OAV-10th(.272), SO-15th(955), Saves-14th(36/62)
Key Additions-C Stretch Wilkinson(Rule V)
Key Losses-None
This once proud franchise continued the rebuild process last season and found themselves in last place of a tough division for a fifth consecutive season. The team did improve upon the previous seasons win total and showed some positive signs as they continue to move forward. The offense finished in the upper half of the league in homers and the defense was at the top of the league as well. Committed to the process, ownership has chose not to make any splash signings in free agency and stick to the plan. Offensively, the team was bad for the most part last season, even though they did hit some bombs to keep the crowds excited. It looks to be pretty much the same this season as the team surely has some power but not much contact and overall hitting abilities. The fielding on the team is good, but not great. I can see this being the strength of the team, but they aren't among the best in the league. The starting rotation is solid and should eat up some innings. The bullpen isn't too bad either. I think they will improve upon last seasons numbers and should get some good pitching this season. To sum up this team, I think they will finish at the bottom again, but it won't be long until they are challenging once again. They have some players in the minors that should be ready to help out this club soon and get this team back to being one of the better teams in the AL.
Prediction
I don't see a whole lot of improvement across the division as the teams chose to stay with what they have. That isn't really a bad thing though. Syracuse should be the team to beat once again with Ottawa right behind them. Milwaukee is the team that has me puzzled. I'm not sure if they have the team to challenge for the division but they could be a playoff team again. I'm just not sure. Minnesota will continue to rebuild, but I think they are closer this season and will start to make a real push next season.
1. Syracuse
2. Ottawa
3. Milwaukee
4. Minnesota
AL North
By now everyone that is not a part of this division is tired of seeing me put in print how great of a division this is and seeing the stats and info to back it up. Well guys, I'm sorry but I'm going to do it again. I think most divisions wish they could put together what this division has. In each of the past 5 seasons, the AL North has put 3 teams in the post season. They have 34 post season appearances in all. As a matter of fact, you have to go all the way back to season 6, to see an ALCS without a team from this division in it. They have 2 World Champs, and 4 World Series appearances. The division has produced thirteen 100 win seasons and each team has accomplished that feat at least twice. Last season was much of the same in the AL North. Syracuse won the division for the fifth straight season, with Milwaukee and Ottawa securing the Wild Card spots. Milwaukee, found themselves in the ALCS for the second time in four seasons after finishing third in this grueling division.
Syracuse Snow Pirates
Season 15 record- 109-53(AL North Champs)
5 year record- 550-260
Offense- Average-5th(.271), OBP-4th(.338), Slg-3rd(.461), Runs-4th(856), HR-3rd(262), SB-15th(24)
Defense- Fielding %-1st(.991), Plus Plays-1st(83), Minus Plays-2nd(25)
Pitching- ERA-1st(3.46), OAV-1st(.239), SO-6th(1065), Saves-1st(58/72)
Key Additions-None
Key Losses-RF Rob Lee(FA), 3B Rob McNamara(FA)
After back to back World Series appearances, a threepeat as AL champs wasn't meant to be. The defending World Champs really had nowhere to go but down, but I doubt management expected a 3 games to 1 loss to division rival Milwaukee in the DCS. Arguably one of the best teams in the AL during the regular season just couldn't carry that success into the playoffs. It seems they are content with what they have and didn't make any big moves to bring in some help. They did however lose a couple key players that have been big parts for this team the past few seasons in Lee and McNamara. Those are blows to the offense for sure. The team has been at the top of the rankings offensively for quite some time and while they slipped a bit last season they were still a tough team to pitch to. The team does still have some good hitting and shouldn't drop too much in the rankings if at all. The team was atop the league defensively again last season and heading into season 16, not much has changed. They are still an elite defensive team. One of the best pitching teams for years, this group should continue to be among the best group of arms in Pine Tar. I think this is still an elite team without the losses or adding anything to it, just maybe not as elite as they were. I have no doubt that this team will finish near the top of the league once again this season.
Ottawa Otters
Season 15 record- 97-65
5 year record- 491-319
Offense- Average-3rd(.283), OBP-3rd(.345), Slg-5th(.455), Runs-3rd(908), HR-7th(226), SB-6th(134)
Defense- Fielding %-2nd(.987), Plus Plays-12th(44), Minus Plays-7th(30)
Pitching- ERA-3rd(3.93), OAV-2nd(.244), SO-5th(1084), Saves-16th(30/47)
Key Additions-3B Freddy Cuddyer(FA)
Key Losses-SP Greg DeJean(FA), LF Nap Clements(FA), 2B Jeremy Stanley(FA)
Ottawa has been another really tough team for quite a while now. They've been close to the top of the league but just not good enough to take over the top spot in the division from Syracuse. The team put together a very impressive regular season in season 15, but got to the playoffs and ended their season with a 3 games to 2 loss to Los Angeles in the Wild Card round. So what did they do in the off season? They went and took one of LA's top players as the teams only major addition. They declined the options on a few of their own top players and seen them go to other teams in free agency. Is this a sign of decline or just a few moves that needed to be made? Well offensively Ottawa was one of the better teams in the AL last season and looking at the roster it seems they will be again. They still have good contact hitters and a couple guys that will hit some homers. They should get some steals out of Presley to add a threat of speed, but besides that the team will probably not be stealing a lot of bases. The fielding on this team is impressive and should finish near the top of the league again. The pitching should be good again this season as well. The rotation is good and they have some good arms in the bullpen as well. They should finish toward the top of the AL in pitching. This team is going to be good again this season, but a slip in win total wouldn't surprise me. I doubt this is a 100 win team, but I also doubt they are below a 90 win team. Ottawa should challenge for a wild card spot as I don't think they have the talent to take the top spot in the division this season.
Milwaukee Cream Citys
Season 15 record- 88-74(ALCS runner up)
5 year record- 480-330
Offense- Average-2nd(.286), OBP-2nd(.350), Slg-2nd(.462), Runs-2nd(916), HR-9th(218), SB-8th(99)
Defense- Fielding %-14th(.979), Plus Plays-6th(62), Minus Plays-11th(37)
Pitching- ERA-6th(4.43), OAV-6th(.264), SO-9th(1027), Saves-11th(40/54)
Key Additions-SP Russell Wheeler(FA)
Key Losses-SP John Ashley(FA)
Here is the example of a team that under achieved in the regular season and turned it on in the playoffs. Already a dangerous squad with a top offense, the team lacked defense and elite pitching. They finished near the top of the league in pitching but well off the pace of the top teams in the AL. The team was much more successful in season 14 during the regular season but found no success in the post season that season. Last season was the exact opposite. The question will be this season if they can get to the top. The offense, while not losing any major pieces is still intact. They don't have much power and they aren't the best contact hitters but they produce quality at bats. They can steal some bases but are not real threats on the bases. The pitching rotation is fairly average if not a bit below average. Wheeler will help some as he is the only player that I label as a key addition. The loss of the aging John Ashley won't really hurt the team. The bullpen is decent but not in the upper part of the league. The defense wasn't a bright spot of this team last season and I doubt they will be again. My prediction for this team is that they won't match the success from last season. I think the are going to struggle to make the post season this time around and don't really match up well with the top teams in this division.
Minnesota PeaceFrog
Season 15 record- 68-94
5 year record- 339-451
Offense- Average-15th(.252), OBP-15th(.318), Slg-12th(.417), Runs-15th(731), HR-6th(233), SB-10th(93)
Defense- Fielding %-6th(.985), Plus Plays-5th(66), Minus Plays-7th(30)
Pitching- ERA-9th(4.88), OAV-10th(.272), SO-15th(955), Saves-14th(36/62)
Key Additions-C Stretch Wilkinson(Rule V)
Key Losses-None
This once proud franchise continued the rebuild process last season and found themselves in last place of a tough division for a fifth consecutive season. The team did improve upon the previous seasons win total and showed some positive signs as they continue to move forward. The offense finished in the upper half of the league in homers and the defense was at the top of the league as well. Committed to the process, ownership has chose not to make any splash signings in free agency and stick to the plan. Offensively, the team was bad for the most part last season, even though they did hit some bombs to keep the crowds excited. It looks to be pretty much the same this season as the team surely has some power but not much contact and overall hitting abilities. The fielding on the team is good, but not great. I can see this being the strength of the team, but they aren't among the best in the league. The starting rotation is solid and should eat up some innings. The bullpen isn't too bad either. I think they will improve upon last seasons numbers and should get some good pitching this season. To sum up this team, I think they will finish at the bottom again, but it won't be long until they are challenging once again. They have some players in the minors that should be ready to help out this club soon and get this team back to being one of the better teams in the AL.
Prediction
I don't see a whole lot of improvement across the division as the teams chose to stay with what they have. That isn't really a bad thing though. Syracuse should be the team to beat once again with Ottawa right behind them. Milwaukee is the team that has me puzzled. I'm not sure if they have the team to challenge for the division but they could be a playoff team again. I'm just not sure. Minnesota will continue to rebuild, but I think they are closer this season and will start to make a real push next season.
1. Syracuse
2. Ottawa
3. Milwaukee
4. Minnesota
Friday, June 3, 2011
Owner of the Year-Season 15
Time to vote for the owner of the year for this past season. Once again, I had to go through and decide who to include and who to leave out. There are some owners that got left off the list that had good seasons, but I didn't want to go over 10 choices. The list leaves off some owners that made the post season and has an owner that didn't, but I had good reasons. I'll explain why I think each owner that was included is on the list.
prezuiwf (Syracuse)
Being included on this list is routine for prez. Each season, putting out one of the best teams in the world. Once again, Syracuse was a force in Pine Tar. Finishing 109-53 was good for the second best record this season. The team did miss out on a third consecutive World Series appearance, but that doesn't take away from the fact that this team dominated for 162 games of the regular season. In what is the best division in the league, pulling off a 100 win season and another division title is once again impressive.
jquick1 (Milwaukee)
jquick1 may have finished 3rd in the division this season, but that didn't stop them from making it to the ALCS. This team finished 88-74, and finished 3rd in the division, but this is a brutal division. jquick1 can be over looked sometimes being in such a tough division and never winning the division title, but this owner has produced in the post season. 2 of the last 4 seasons jquick1 has been in the ALCS and has now made 5 straight post season appearances. Just another something to keep in mind when voting.
radkison (Atlanta)
radkison has now ran the team in Atlanta for 5 seasons and has brought this team back to prominence. After posting an impressive 104 wins a couple seasons ago, they followed it up with 95 wins this season. Winning the division by 19 games, radkison has dominated the division for the past 2 seasons now. They haven't taken that next step in the post season yet, but that shouldn't deter you from voting for this owner that has got this team on the map. The team is right up there as one of the best in the league.
bnags (Nashville)
bnags has done something very impressive in this world, and it's not the fact that they are the current World Champs. Nashville has now improved their record for 8 straight seasons. With 112 wins this season, I think they can possibly do it again next season. What a run for this franchise? Now having won 4 consecutive division titles the team finally reached the top of the mountain and added that World Championship. Any other reasons to vote for this team? This is one heck of a team that bnags has put together.
bobswagger91 (LA)
In his first season running this franchise, bobswagger91 found a way to get them into the post season for the 3rd time in franchise history. They improved the win total from the previous season by an impressive 24 games and won the division for just the second time in franchise history. With an 88-74 record, it may be the lowest total of teams to make the list, but based on the history of this franchise, it is very worthy of some votes.
Starbuckdc (Fargo)
A season after not winning the division for the first time, this team took it's place atop the division once again. Surely the most impressive franchise in league history, this owner continually finds ways to make a mark in the league. The runner up for the Championship, this team participated in their 5th World Series this season. At 90-72 during the regular season, Fargo didn't look like the team to beat in the post season, but everyone should have known better. 10 times this team has made the NLCS now.
qtip32 (Trenton)
This is the only team on the list that didn't make the post season. With a record of 89-73, the team improved their record by 28 games this season. It was also only the second time in franchise history that they finished second in the division and third time posting a winning record. qtip32 has done a great job at setting this team up to challenge for the division title. They finished 1 game behind Fargo this season and was very close to making sure that Fargo didn't even have a chance to make the World Series. A pretty good season any way you look at it.
greygoose123 (Jacksonville)
This team appeared to be on the decline a couple seasons ago, but they came back and improved their record by 19 games this season and finishing 93-69. Making it back to the top of the division once again after a 1 season layoff, this team has now won 9 division crowns and 5 of the last 6. They fell just short of the World Series, losing to Fargo in the NLCS. It was their fifth trip to the NLCS. greygoose123 did a great job again this season in getting this team back into the upper class of the league.
bobbyj7 (Jackson)
In his third season bobbyj7 got this team to win just their second division title and second post season appearance. Improving 14 games from season 14 they finished 97-65 for a franchise best record. Taking over a franchise that has seen many owners through the seasons, bobbyj7 seems to have brought some stability to this embattled franchise. This is another owner that is well deserving of some consideration as owner of the year.
ghutton9 (Seattle)
Seriously, do not vote for me. The only reason I included myself was because I had to. After having the best regular season record in the NL with a 98-64 record, this team once again disappointed in the post season. Getting handled by Fargo in the DCS was enough to not include me, but I didn't feel right about it after getting the #1 seed. Still a good season, but their are many more deserving candidates.
prezuiwf (Syracuse)
Being included on this list is routine for prez. Each season, putting out one of the best teams in the world. Once again, Syracuse was a force in Pine Tar. Finishing 109-53 was good for the second best record this season. The team did miss out on a third consecutive World Series appearance, but that doesn't take away from the fact that this team dominated for 162 games of the regular season. In what is the best division in the league, pulling off a 100 win season and another division title is once again impressive.
jquick1 (Milwaukee)
jquick1 may have finished 3rd in the division this season, but that didn't stop them from making it to the ALCS. This team finished 88-74, and finished 3rd in the division, but this is a brutal division. jquick1 can be over looked sometimes being in such a tough division and never winning the division title, but this owner has produced in the post season. 2 of the last 4 seasons jquick1 has been in the ALCS and has now made 5 straight post season appearances. Just another something to keep in mind when voting.
radkison (Atlanta)
radkison has now ran the team in Atlanta for 5 seasons and has brought this team back to prominence. After posting an impressive 104 wins a couple seasons ago, they followed it up with 95 wins this season. Winning the division by 19 games, radkison has dominated the division for the past 2 seasons now. They haven't taken that next step in the post season yet, but that shouldn't deter you from voting for this owner that has got this team on the map. The team is right up there as one of the best in the league.
bnags (Nashville)
bnags has done something very impressive in this world, and it's not the fact that they are the current World Champs. Nashville has now improved their record for 8 straight seasons. With 112 wins this season, I think they can possibly do it again next season. What a run for this franchise? Now having won 4 consecutive division titles the team finally reached the top of the mountain and added that World Championship. Any other reasons to vote for this team? This is one heck of a team that bnags has put together.
bobswagger91 (LA)
In his first season running this franchise, bobswagger91 found a way to get them into the post season for the 3rd time in franchise history. They improved the win total from the previous season by an impressive 24 games and won the division for just the second time in franchise history. With an 88-74 record, it may be the lowest total of teams to make the list, but based on the history of this franchise, it is very worthy of some votes.
Starbuckdc (Fargo)
A season after not winning the division for the first time, this team took it's place atop the division once again. Surely the most impressive franchise in league history, this owner continually finds ways to make a mark in the league. The runner up for the Championship, this team participated in their 5th World Series this season. At 90-72 during the regular season, Fargo didn't look like the team to beat in the post season, but everyone should have known better. 10 times this team has made the NLCS now.
qtip32 (Trenton)
This is the only team on the list that didn't make the post season. With a record of 89-73, the team improved their record by 28 games this season. It was also only the second time in franchise history that they finished second in the division and third time posting a winning record. qtip32 has done a great job at setting this team up to challenge for the division title. They finished 1 game behind Fargo this season and was very close to making sure that Fargo didn't even have a chance to make the World Series. A pretty good season any way you look at it.
greygoose123 (Jacksonville)
This team appeared to be on the decline a couple seasons ago, but they came back and improved their record by 19 games this season and finishing 93-69. Making it back to the top of the division once again after a 1 season layoff, this team has now won 9 division crowns and 5 of the last 6. They fell just short of the World Series, losing to Fargo in the NLCS. It was their fifth trip to the NLCS. greygoose123 did a great job again this season in getting this team back into the upper class of the league.
bobbyj7 (Jackson)
In his third season bobbyj7 got this team to win just their second division title and second post season appearance. Improving 14 games from season 14 they finished 97-65 for a franchise best record. Taking over a franchise that has seen many owners through the seasons, bobbyj7 seems to have brought some stability to this embattled franchise. This is another owner that is well deserving of some consideration as owner of the year.
ghutton9 (Seattle)
Seriously, do not vote for me. The only reason I included myself was because I had to. After having the best regular season record in the NL with a 98-64 record, this team once again disappointed in the post season. Getting handled by Fargo in the DCS was enough to not include me, but I didn't feel right about it after getting the #1 seed. Still a good season, but their are many more deserving candidates.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)