Hall of Fame-Frank Martin
In season 16 here at Pine Tar, the owners chose to vote just one player into the Hall of Fame and that player is Frank Martin. Martin becomes the fourth member of the Hall and he surely had the career to back up the selection. He displayed power, pure hitting ability and patience at the plate. He won many awards and was part of championship teams. Let me tell you a little more about our latest inductee.
Frank Martin got his career started back in season 1 with Washington, when he made a splash in half of a season with a .349 average, 14 homeruns, 54 rbi, 52 runs, and 54 walks compared to just 18 strike outs. A trip to the 60 day DL curtailed a season in which he very well could have won his first MVP award. That first MVP award, however came in season 2, when he hit at a .338 clip, with 34 homers, 133 rbi, 128 runs and 140 walks with just 41 strikeouts. That would also be the season in which he won his first World Series ring. Martin would play the next 2 seasons in Washington, until the franchise moved to Hartford. After 6 seasons with the same franchise, his option for season 7 was declined and he became a free agent. That season he was signed to a 5 season deal with a player option by Milwaukee. That was where he would stay until season 12 when he once again became a free agent. This time he signed a 2 year deal with Charleston. After his contract expired in season 14 he resigned with the team for 1 more season. In season 15, Martin signed a 1 season contract to play for Minnesota and never had an impact there. He retired after the season.
Martin finished his career with 389 homeruns, and had 8 straight seasons with more than 30. The most he hit in one season was in season 6 when he hit 50. He also finished his career with 1344 RBI's. He had 8 seasons of more than 100, and his most came in season 6 with 171. Martin had 1318 runs scored, and 8 seasons of more than 100 with his most coming in season 6 with 143. Martin put up the power numbers, but he was much more than that. He finished his career as a .330 hitter. He batted over .300, twelve times with a high of .367 in season 6. He also had a .460 career OBP. He finised season 6, with an unheard of .501 OBP. He had 1431 walks and drew more than 100 walks ten times.
Martins numbers could have been even more had he not spent so much time on the DL. He lost half of season 1 to an injury. He also spent parts of seasons 3, and 8 on the DL. Season 10 was a completely lost season as he spent the majority of it on the DL and only played 7 games.
There aren't many players that have an awards case as big as Martins. Martin had many accolades throughout his career, led by his 3 World Series rings. His first came back in season 2 with Washington. His second ring was with the same franchise, but this time they were in Hartford in season 6. The final ring was won in season 12 with Charleston. The personal awards start with his 4 MVP awards. As stated earlier, his first was season 2 with Washington. The second was in season 5 in Hartford. The third was his stellar season 6 campaign with Hartford as well. The final MVP was won in season 9 with Milwaukee. The biggest surprise with Martin, is that he only made the all star game 4 times in his career. Seasons 5, 6, 7, and 9 were the only seasons that he was elected to the team. He also won 7 silver slugger awards and even won 1 gold glove in RF.
Martins season 6 batting average of .367 still ranks 4th all time. His .501 OBP from that season is 1st all time and he actually holds the top 4 spots in single season OBP. His 1.240 OBP+SLG is 1st all time. He also holds the top 3 spots in single season walks. For career ranks, he is #3 in batting average, #1 in OBP, #2 in OBP+SLG, #4 in Slg, and #2 in walks.
Frank Martin had a phenomenal career and I believe the voters got it right by electing him into the Hall of Fame. A great career and one that will be put up for all to see on his Pine Tar Hall of Fame plaque.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Monday, June 27, 2011
NL West Season 16 Preview
NL West
Well my division is always hard for me to predict. Of course, I have a bias toward my team, but I also don't want to over value them in my previews. I guess I under valued them last season as I didn't even think I had a playoff team. Seattle shocked me in the regular season by having the best record in the NL, only to have a let down in the playoffs when they came back to earth. Scottsdale was the defending division and World Champion but fell off last season and missed out on the playoffs entirely. It was a disappointing season for the champs as they were more talented than they played. Oklahoma City made major strides last season and challenged for the division title for parts of the season. This has been a franchise moving up the ladder in the NL and should be challenging for the division title for seasons to come. Colorado Springs moved backwards again by dropping in victories for a second consecutive season. They continued to rebuild and look to the future with the hopes of getting back to the top of the division sooner rather than later.
Seattle Strikers
Season 15 record- 98-64(NL West Champ)
5 year record- 477-333
Offense- Average-4th(.270), OBP-4th(.339), Slg-15th(.368), Runs-5th(804), HR-16th(86), SB-1st(390)
Defense- Fielding %-2nd(.985), Plus Plays-1st(90), Minus Plays-1st(19)
Pitching- ERA-1st(3.42), OAV-1st(.236), SO-10th(1089), Saves-13th(39/51)
Key Additions-None
Key Losses-SP Wayne Perez(tr-Hel), SP Jose Bravo(tr-LA), 3B Rafael Cervantes(tr-LA), C Antonio Zhang(FA)
Well this team shocked me last season by winning the division. They were a good team, but I didn't think they could win the division and somehow they even locked up the #1 playoff spot. They did however suffer an upset loss in their first series of the post season. So with so many players going to free agency, the team decided now was the time to cut salary and rebuild. They loaded up on compensation picks from free agency and traded away some key players for prospects. Last season this team boasted one of the best offenses in the NL. They played to their strengths as they were a good hitting team with very little power, but tons of speed. They lost most of the offense, but still have some good hitters and still have plenty of speed. They may hit even less homers this season as the power just isn't there. The defense has been a staple at the top of the league for a while now and was again last season. I'd be surprised if they weren't again. The defense is very good still. The pitching was also the best in the league last season. This is where the team is hurting this season. The rotation isn't close to what it was and the bullpen isn't very strong at all. I'd be surprised if they finish in the top half of the league in pitching. This is still a good team, but the pitching will kill them. My prediction is that they'll win just north of 70 games this season.
Scottsdale Scorpions
Season 15 record- 86-76
5 year record- 411-399
Offense- Average-2nd(.273), OBP-2nd(.341), Slg-1st(.460), Runs-2nd(886), HR-1st(251), SB-11th(89)
Defense- Fielding %-10th(.982), Plus Plays-15th(29), Minus Plays-16th(87)
Pitching- ERA-10th(4.50), OAV-11th(.271), SO-7th(1113), Saves-10th(42/60)
Key Additions-None
Key Losses-RP Archie Goldman(FA)
After winning the World Series in season 14 this team took some steps backwards last season. They only dropped 2 wins from the previous season, but didn't make a push for the division crown. I felt like this was the team to beat in the division last season but that just never materialized. The offense was one of the best in the NL if not the best. That shouldn't change much this season. They still have a pretty good offense with contact and power. They also have guys that will take a walk to get on base. They won't steal many bases though. The defense was this teams weakness last season. They lacked range and the gloves were in the bottom half of the league. This team doesn't appear to be bad defensively this season and Lopez could be a great shortstop, but his lack of hitting will likely keep him on the bench. I'd say this is an average fielding team at least. The pitching last season wasn't very good either but they were close to being an average staff. The rotation is solid if not good and the bullpen has some good arms in it. The park obviously affects this group as I'd say they are a good staff of pitchers. I think this team has the offense to be one of the best teams in the NL, but the defense will hurt them. I think they could win over 90 games this season.
Oklahoma City Prairie Dogs
Season 15 record- 84-78
5 year record- 371-439
Offense- Average-11th(.264), OBP-5th(.337), Slg-12th(.405), Runs-7th(764), HR-14th(164), SB-7th(124)
Defense- Fielding %-12th(.980), Plus Plays-14th(30), Minus Plays-7th(42)
Pitching- ERA-8th(4.24), OAV-10th(.266), SO-12th(1054), Saves-7th(45/54)
Key Additions-3B Murray Mahaffey(FA)
Key Losses-None
This team took big strides last season by winning 12 games more than season 14's total. It was the teams first season with a winning record since winning the division back in season 10. They battled but couldn' pull out a wild card spot. The team has only made the playoffs twice in franchise history and would like to add to that this season. They didn't make many moves in the off season and return pretty much the same group. With a fairly young roster, that isn't a bad thing. Last season this team was pretty average offensively. They didn't hit much but found ways to get on base. They didn't have much power but had speed and stole bases. This seasons club will likely follow that mold. They do have some power, but not a lot. They really only have a couple guys that will steal bases so they aren't a real threat on the bases. The offense appears to be just below average. Defensively this team was not good last season. They were in the bottom half of the league. They have a potential gold glove shortstop in Alcantara, but he isn't a good hitter. The defense looks better, but I can't say they are great. They still should be an above average defensive team. The pitching was pretty average last season. The pitching doesn't appear to be bad, but they lack a starting pitcher that can eat innings. The bullpen though, is full of arms that can eat innings as most of the pitchers on this staff could start. Overall though this is an average pitching staff. It seems the theme for this team is that they are just about average. That leads me to believe this team should win 80 games, plus or minus. I don't think they'll challenge for the division title or wild card spot, but should have a decent season.
Colorado Springs Night Watchmen
Season 15 record- 66-96
5 year record- 371-439
Offense- Average-16th(.247), OBP-15th(.315), Slg-14th(.393), Runs-15th(643), HR-12th(183), SB-9th(108)
Defense- Fielding %-12th(.980), Plus Plays-11th(48), Minus Plays-13th(65)
Pitching- ERA-13th(5.00), OAV-13th(.278), SO-15th(978), Saves-12th(41/58)
Key Additions-SS Ramon Martin(tr-Hel), LF Alvin Reed(FA), SP Greg DeJean(FA)
Key Losses-2B Julian Martinez(FA)
The Night Watchmen fell off in victories again last season. A couple seasons removed from a wild card and this team hasn't gotten close since. After winning the division 6 times in the first 8 seasons, the team has only made the post season once in the past 7 seasons. So the team went out and made some moves in the off season to try and change that. Last season the offense was one of the worst in the league. The offense doesn't appear to be that bad. If anything this is an average offense and maybe an above average. They don't have a lot of power, but they have guys that can get on base. The also have a little bit of speed as well. The defense was a bottom of the half group last season. The trade for Martin gives them a big boost. The infield should be good this season, but the outfield is not so much. This is still an above average group. The pitching killed them last season as well and needed a boost. The signing of DeJean will help. The rotation is average, and the bullpen has a few good arms in it. The staff should be improved and closer to average and maybe just above average, but not very deep. This team should be much improved from last season and should win over 80 games. I'm not sure they have what it takes to win the division but they could challenge for the top spot. Management thinks this team has a good shot at a wild card, and I can't discount that. They could be a couple moves from locking that assumption up.
Prediction
Seattle brings a completely different team to play this season and after winning the division last season will struggle to do so again. While not a bad team, they aren't one of the better teams in the division. Scottsdale didn't do so well last season and have a talented group. This team would surprise me to have another season like the last. Oklahoma City made a jump last season, but I'm not sure they have what it takes to take the next step. Colorado Springs improved in the off season and shouldn't repeat last seasons efforts.
1. Scottsdale
2. Colorado Springs
3. Oklahoma City
4. Seattle
Well my division is always hard for me to predict. Of course, I have a bias toward my team, but I also don't want to over value them in my previews. I guess I under valued them last season as I didn't even think I had a playoff team. Seattle shocked me in the regular season by having the best record in the NL, only to have a let down in the playoffs when they came back to earth. Scottsdale was the defending division and World Champion but fell off last season and missed out on the playoffs entirely. It was a disappointing season for the champs as they were more talented than they played. Oklahoma City made major strides last season and challenged for the division title for parts of the season. This has been a franchise moving up the ladder in the NL and should be challenging for the division title for seasons to come. Colorado Springs moved backwards again by dropping in victories for a second consecutive season. They continued to rebuild and look to the future with the hopes of getting back to the top of the division sooner rather than later.
Seattle Strikers
Season 15 record- 98-64(NL West Champ)
5 year record- 477-333
Offense- Average-4th(.270), OBP-4th(.339), Slg-15th(.368), Runs-5th(804), HR-16th(86), SB-1st(390)
Defense- Fielding %-2nd(.985), Plus Plays-1st(90), Minus Plays-1st(19)
Pitching- ERA-1st(3.42), OAV-1st(.236), SO-10th(1089), Saves-13th(39/51)
Key Additions-None
Key Losses-SP Wayne Perez(tr-Hel), SP Jose Bravo(tr-LA), 3B Rafael Cervantes(tr-LA), C Antonio Zhang(FA)
Well this team shocked me last season by winning the division. They were a good team, but I didn't think they could win the division and somehow they even locked up the #1 playoff spot. They did however suffer an upset loss in their first series of the post season. So with so many players going to free agency, the team decided now was the time to cut salary and rebuild. They loaded up on compensation picks from free agency and traded away some key players for prospects. Last season this team boasted one of the best offenses in the NL. They played to their strengths as they were a good hitting team with very little power, but tons of speed. They lost most of the offense, but still have some good hitters and still have plenty of speed. They may hit even less homers this season as the power just isn't there. The defense has been a staple at the top of the league for a while now and was again last season. I'd be surprised if they weren't again. The defense is very good still. The pitching was also the best in the league last season. This is where the team is hurting this season. The rotation isn't close to what it was and the bullpen isn't very strong at all. I'd be surprised if they finish in the top half of the league in pitching. This is still a good team, but the pitching will kill them. My prediction is that they'll win just north of 70 games this season.
Scottsdale Scorpions
Season 15 record- 86-76
5 year record- 411-399
Offense- Average-2nd(.273), OBP-2nd(.341), Slg-1st(.460), Runs-2nd(886), HR-1st(251), SB-11th(89)
Defense- Fielding %-10th(.982), Plus Plays-15th(29), Minus Plays-16th(87)
Pitching- ERA-10th(4.50), OAV-11th(.271), SO-7th(1113), Saves-10th(42/60)
Key Additions-None
Key Losses-RP Archie Goldman(FA)
After winning the World Series in season 14 this team took some steps backwards last season. They only dropped 2 wins from the previous season, but didn't make a push for the division crown. I felt like this was the team to beat in the division last season but that just never materialized. The offense was one of the best in the NL if not the best. That shouldn't change much this season. They still have a pretty good offense with contact and power. They also have guys that will take a walk to get on base. They won't steal many bases though. The defense was this teams weakness last season. They lacked range and the gloves were in the bottom half of the league. This team doesn't appear to be bad defensively this season and Lopez could be a great shortstop, but his lack of hitting will likely keep him on the bench. I'd say this is an average fielding team at least. The pitching last season wasn't very good either but they were close to being an average staff. The rotation is solid if not good and the bullpen has some good arms in it. The park obviously affects this group as I'd say they are a good staff of pitchers. I think this team has the offense to be one of the best teams in the NL, but the defense will hurt them. I think they could win over 90 games this season.
Oklahoma City Prairie Dogs
Season 15 record- 84-78
5 year record- 371-439
Offense- Average-11th(.264), OBP-5th(.337), Slg-12th(.405), Runs-7th(764), HR-14th(164), SB-7th(124)
Defense- Fielding %-12th(.980), Plus Plays-14th(30), Minus Plays-7th(42)
Pitching- ERA-8th(4.24), OAV-10th(.266), SO-12th(1054), Saves-7th(45/54)
Key Additions-3B Murray Mahaffey(FA)
Key Losses-None
This team took big strides last season by winning 12 games more than season 14's total. It was the teams first season with a winning record since winning the division back in season 10. They battled but couldn' pull out a wild card spot. The team has only made the playoffs twice in franchise history and would like to add to that this season. They didn't make many moves in the off season and return pretty much the same group. With a fairly young roster, that isn't a bad thing. Last season this team was pretty average offensively. They didn't hit much but found ways to get on base. They didn't have much power but had speed and stole bases. This seasons club will likely follow that mold. They do have some power, but not a lot. They really only have a couple guys that will steal bases so they aren't a real threat on the bases. The offense appears to be just below average. Defensively this team was not good last season. They were in the bottom half of the league. They have a potential gold glove shortstop in Alcantara, but he isn't a good hitter. The defense looks better, but I can't say they are great. They still should be an above average defensive team. The pitching was pretty average last season. The pitching doesn't appear to be bad, but they lack a starting pitcher that can eat innings. The bullpen though, is full of arms that can eat innings as most of the pitchers on this staff could start. Overall though this is an average pitching staff. It seems the theme for this team is that they are just about average. That leads me to believe this team should win 80 games, plus or minus. I don't think they'll challenge for the division title or wild card spot, but should have a decent season.
Colorado Springs Night Watchmen
Season 15 record- 66-96
5 year record- 371-439
Offense- Average-16th(.247), OBP-15th(.315), Slg-14th(.393), Runs-15th(643), HR-12th(183), SB-9th(108)
Defense- Fielding %-12th(.980), Plus Plays-11th(48), Minus Plays-13th(65)
Pitching- ERA-13th(5.00), OAV-13th(.278), SO-15th(978), Saves-12th(41/58)
Key Additions-SS Ramon Martin(tr-Hel), LF Alvin Reed(FA), SP Greg DeJean(FA)
Key Losses-2B Julian Martinez(FA)
The Night Watchmen fell off in victories again last season. A couple seasons removed from a wild card and this team hasn't gotten close since. After winning the division 6 times in the first 8 seasons, the team has only made the post season once in the past 7 seasons. So the team went out and made some moves in the off season to try and change that. Last season the offense was one of the worst in the league. The offense doesn't appear to be that bad. If anything this is an average offense and maybe an above average. They don't have a lot of power, but they have guys that can get on base. The also have a little bit of speed as well. The defense was a bottom of the half group last season. The trade for Martin gives them a big boost. The infield should be good this season, but the outfield is not so much. This is still an above average group. The pitching killed them last season as well and needed a boost. The signing of DeJean will help. The rotation is average, and the bullpen has a few good arms in it. The staff should be improved and closer to average and maybe just above average, but not very deep. This team should be much improved from last season and should win over 80 games. I'm not sure they have what it takes to win the division but they could challenge for the top spot. Management thinks this team has a good shot at a wild card, and I can't discount that. They could be a couple moves from locking that assumption up.
Prediction
Seattle brings a completely different team to play this season and after winning the division last season will struggle to do so again. While not a bad team, they aren't one of the better teams in the division. Scottsdale didn't do so well last season and have a talented group. This team would surprise me to have another season like the last. Oklahoma City made a jump last season, but I'm not sure they have what it takes to take the next step. Colorado Springs improved in the off season and shouldn't repeat last seasons efforts.
1. Scottsdale
2. Colorado Springs
3. Oklahoma City
4. Seattle
Friday, June 24, 2011
NL South Season 16 Preview
NL South
Charleston has dominated this division for quite some time and that hasn't allowed for many division titles for the other teams. Jackson has been one of those teams that hasn't had much success in the division due to this. They ended a run of 9 seasons of being left out of the post season by winning the division last season. Since the last time the franchise won the division, back in season 5, Charleston has won 7 division titles. The season Jackson put together leads me to believe that this team is poised to become the team to beat in the South. Charleston put together another good season even though they didn't win the division. They ended up with a Wild Card, but wasn't able to do much in the post season. The team in Monterrey struggled early in the season as the previous owner disappeared and new ownership took over almost midway through the season. The new owner did a great job in getting things going and finished with a respectable record. In the off season the new ownership group moved the team from Monterrey to Charlotte. The team formerly in Texas struggled out of the gates last season and chose to go the rebuild route by trading most of the good major leaguers for prospects, but still finished with a decent record considering. Instead of seeing the rebuild through, the previous owner left and the team was bought by a new owner that moved the franchise to Louisville.
Jackson Juggernauts
Season 15 record- 97-65(NL South Champ)
5 year record- 353-457
Offense- Average-3rd(.271), OBP-7th(.332), Slg-2nd(.457), Runs-3rd(862), HR-2nd(242), SB-3rd(224)
Defense- Fielding %-1st(.986), Plus Plays-2nd(83), Minus Plays-2nd(25)
Pitching- ERA-3rd(3.68), OAV-4th(.250), SO-1st(1168), Saves-6th(46/63)
Key Additions-None
Key Losses-None
Jackson is pretty much the same team that they fielded last season. They made very few moves in the off season and none that were major moves. They didn't really need to make any though. They don't have even one player on their roster over the age of 29 and this is a very talented and young squad. As a franchise they have improved their win total in each of the last four seasons and improved by 14 games last season. The franchise won just their second division title and made the playoffs for just the second time in their history. They have seen many different owners through the years and it seems that they finally have an owner in place that is moving this team to the top. Last season this team was one of the best in the NL offensively. They ranked near the top of the league in all the key categories. They had speed, power and good hitting. They still do and they are pretty deep offensively. The defense was quite possibly the best in the league. They don't have any great defensive players, but they do have many players that are really good at their positions defensively. They should be very good again. The pitching was also among the best in the NL. They boast a very solid rotation that isn't great but still good. The bullpen is good as well, but nobody stands out as a dominant pitcher. The strength of this staff is the depth of good pitchers. My guess for this team is that they finish with more than 90 wins again and should be near the top of the division. If they don't win the division then they are a sure bet for a wild card spot.
Charleston Riverdogs
Season 15 record- 93-69(Wild Card)
5 year record- 484-326
Offense- Average-7th(.267), OBP-3rd(.340), Slg-5th(.435), Runs-12th(736), HR-4th(226), SB-14th(81)
Defense- Fielding %-6th(.984), Plus Plays-10th(53), Minus Plays-7th(42)
Pitching- ERA-2nd(3.67), OAV-2nd(.246), SO-3rd(1140), Saves-1st(53/66)
Key Additions-SP Valerio Duran(FA), P Desi Fernandez(FA)
Key Losses-None
Charleston is a team that always seems to finish near or at the top of this division. After 6 straight division titles things have calmed down some for this franchise. They've only won the division once in the past four seasons. Still one of the better teams in the NL they made the playoffs for a tenth season in a row last season. Even though this team has an older roster they still have some good young players in the majors and should continue to keep the proud tradition going for some time. Last season this team was a mix on offense. They hit ok, they found ways to get on base, they had some good power, but didn't steal very much. They have a couple players that can really hit the ball, and plenty of power on the team. They will take a walk which well help the OBP. They have a couple guys that are threats to steal as well. This is an above average offense. The defense was average last season. Overall the defense isn't great, but they do have some players that are pretty good fielders. The defense shouldn't hurt this team. The pitching was among the best in the league last season. This is a really good pitching staff. They have plenty of really good hurlers and the rotation is among the best in the league. Once again this season, Charleston should be at or near the top of the division. This is a pretty good team that will be tough to beat. I'm guessing that they will at the very least keep their playoffs streak alive for another season.
Charlotte Bad News
Season 15 record- 68-94
5 year record- 438-372
Offense- Average-5th(.269), OBP-11th(328), Slg-7th(.428), Runs-10th(744), HR-5th(218), SB-10th(95)
Defense- Fielding %-15th(.979), Plus Plays-13th(35), Minus Plays-12th(52)
Pitching- ERA-14th(5.09), OAV-12th(.277), SO-8th(1097), Saves-13th(39/60)
Key Additions-3B Omar Siqueiros(FA), SP Miguel Morlan(FA)
Key Losses-3B Murray Mahaffey(FA)
This team took on new ownership in the middle of last season and things were a complete disaster when the owner came in. They did a great job of righting the ship and actually had a pretty good finish to the season. To build on that the team upgraded an already good offense with the addition of Siqueiros and brought in a reliable innings eater in Morlan. Those were 2 big upgrades for this team. They also added some quality bullpen help and didn't really lose much in the off season. It should be interesting to see if this team has what it takes to get back into the division race or if it will be another tough season. Last season the team was good offensively but didn't score the runs to show it. They could hit and hit for power, but they lacked the OBP to put up the runs. The hitters on this team are average to just above average heading into this season. The defense last season was pretty bad. They should be much improved this season. I don't think they will be great defensively but this doesn't look like a team that is bad at flashing the leather. The pitching really hurt this team last season, but most of that happened when the pitchers were over used and unrested early in the season. They still upgraded in this area and actually look like a good pitching staff. The rotation should be good, as they have a couple really good starters in Osterbrock and Jacquez. The bullpen, while not as strong should be solid. This season, I can see an improvement coming from this team, but I'm not sure it's enough to get into the top spot of the division. It should still be a much better season for this franchise and winning 80 plus games is a possibility.
Louisville ARF ARF ARF ARF's
Season 15 record- 66-96
5 year record- 366-444
Offense- Average-9th(.266), OBP-9th(.330), Slg-9th(.421), Runs-6th(772), HR-9th(202), SB-4th(152)
Defense- Fielding %-6th(.984), Plus Plays-3rd(73), Minus Plays-6th(37)
Pitching- ERA-15th(5.27), OAV-15th(.285), SO-11th(1085), Saves-7th(45/69)
Key Additions-SP Dock King(FA)
Key Losses-None
This is a franchise that started a rebuild last season and then got turned over to new ownership. The new owner may have different plans as evidence by the huge signing of King in the off season. The franchise looked to be making a move up in the division a couple seasons ago, but then fell off badly last season. So maybe it was time for a change in ownership. The last time this franchise won the division was way back in season 1 and have only made the playoffs once since. Well last season this was a pretty average group offensively that used speed to keep them in games. The look like a below average group of hitters with a couple guys that will hit some homers and not much speed now. The defense was above average last season and look like a group that is average. The good thing for the defense is that they are solid all around. The pitching was just terrible last season. The addition of King will help quite a bit, but the rotation is still in need of a couple other good pitchers. The bullpen is average to just below average. It could be a long season for this team as the last owner left the cupboard bare in the majors, but they seem to be moving in the right direction. If they win 80 games that will be a sign of success for these guys, but they are moving forward.
Predictions
This is a pretty tough division. None of the teams are bad and it should be later in the season before the division starts to take shape. That makes it pretty tough to predict. I'm not confident in any of my predictions of finish for this division as any team could switch spots. Jackson is a tough, young team that seems to be getting better every season. They won the division last season and very well could again. Even if they don't, I think they would get one of the wild card spots for sure. Charleston is a team that can never be discounted. They have a really good roster of players and should be battling for the top spot all the way to the end. If they don't win the division then they get a wild card. Charlotte is a tough team to predict. They aren't a bad team and you never know, they could have the right mix of players and make a push this season. Right now I'm sticking with them being on the outside looking in. Louisville doesn't appear to have what it takes to challenge for the top spot in the division, but they have some good players that could change the season for them. Not to mention, if they end up making some moves during the season, this could end up being a good team as well. Like I said, tough division to predict.
1. Charleston
2. Jackson
3. Charlotte
4. Louisville
Charleston has dominated this division for quite some time and that hasn't allowed for many division titles for the other teams. Jackson has been one of those teams that hasn't had much success in the division due to this. They ended a run of 9 seasons of being left out of the post season by winning the division last season. Since the last time the franchise won the division, back in season 5, Charleston has won 7 division titles. The season Jackson put together leads me to believe that this team is poised to become the team to beat in the South. Charleston put together another good season even though they didn't win the division. They ended up with a Wild Card, but wasn't able to do much in the post season. The team in Monterrey struggled early in the season as the previous owner disappeared and new ownership took over almost midway through the season. The new owner did a great job in getting things going and finished with a respectable record. In the off season the new ownership group moved the team from Monterrey to Charlotte. The team formerly in Texas struggled out of the gates last season and chose to go the rebuild route by trading most of the good major leaguers for prospects, but still finished with a decent record considering. Instead of seeing the rebuild through, the previous owner left and the team was bought by a new owner that moved the franchise to Louisville.
Jackson Juggernauts
Season 15 record- 97-65(NL South Champ)
5 year record- 353-457
Offense- Average-3rd(.271), OBP-7th(.332), Slg-2nd(.457), Runs-3rd(862), HR-2nd(242), SB-3rd(224)
Defense- Fielding %-1st(.986), Plus Plays-2nd(83), Minus Plays-2nd(25)
Pitching- ERA-3rd(3.68), OAV-4th(.250), SO-1st(1168), Saves-6th(46/63)
Key Additions-None
Key Losses-None
Jackson is pretty much the same team that they fielded last season. They made very few moves in the off season and none that were major moves. They didn't really need to make any though. They don't have even one player on their roster over the age of 29 and this is a very talented and young squad. As a franchise they have improved their win total in each of the last four seasons and improved by 14 games last season. The franchise won just their second division title and made the playoffs for just the second time in their history. They have seen many different owners through the years and it seems that they finally have an owner in place that is moving this team to the top. Last season this team was one of the best in the NL offensively. They ranked near the top of the league in all the key categories. They had speed, power and good hitting. They still do and they are pretty deep offensively. The defense was quite possibly the best in the league. They don't have any great defensive players, but they do have many players that are really good at their positions defensively. They should be very good again. The pitching was also among the best in the NL. They boast a very solid rotation that isn't great but still good. The bullpen is good as well, but nobody stands out as a dominant pitcher. The strength of this staff is the depth of good pitchers. My guess for this team is that they finish with more than 90 wins again and should be near the top of the division. If they don't win the division then they are a sure bet for a wild card spot.
Charleston Riverdogs
Season 15 record- 93-69(Wild Card)
5 year record- 484-326
Offense- Average-7th(.267), OBP-3rd(.340), Slg-5th(.435), Runs-12th(736), HR-4th(226), SB-14th(81)
Defense- Fielding %-6th(.984), Plus Plays-10th(53), Minus Plays-7th(42)
Pitching- ERA-2nd(3.67), OAV-2nd(.246), SO-3rd(1140), Saves-1st(53/66)
Key Additions-SP Valerio Duran(FA), P Desi Fernandez(FA)
Key Losses-None
Charleston is a team that always seems to finish near or at the top of this division. After 6 straight division titles things have calmed down some for this franchise. They've only won the division once in the past four seasons. Still one of the better teams in the NL they made the playoffs for a tenth season in a row last season. Even though this team has an older roster they still have some good young players in the majors and should continue to keep the proud tradition going for some time. Last season this team was a mix on offense. They hit ok, they found ways to get on base, they had some good power, but didn't steal very much. They have a couple players that can really hit the ball, and plenty of power on the team. They will take a walk which well help the OBP. They have a couple guys that are threats to steal as well. This is an above average offense. The defense was average last season. Overall the defense isn't great, but they do have some players that are pretty good fielders. The defense shouldn't hurt this team. The pitching was among the best in the league last season. This is a really good pitching staff. They have plenty of really good hurlers and the rotation is among the best in the league. Once again this season, Charleston should be at or near the top of the division. This is a pretty good team that will be tough to beat. I'm guessing that they will at the very least keep their playoffs streak alive for another season.
Charlotte Bad News
Season 15 record- 68-94
5 year record- 438-372
Offense- Average-5th(.269), OBP-11th(328), Slg-7th(.428), Runs-10th(744), HR-5th(218), SB-10th(95)
Defense- Fielding %-15th(.979), Plus Plays-13th(35), Minus Plays-12th(52)
Pitching- ERA-14th(5.09), OAV-12th(.277), SO-8th(1097), Saves-13th(39/60)
Key Additions-3B Omar Siqueiros(FA), SP Miguel Morlan(FA)
Key Losses-3B Murray Mahaffey(FA)
This team took on new ownership in the middle of last season and things were a complete disaster when the owner came in. They did a great job of righting the ship and actually had a pretty good finish to the season. To build on that the team upgraded an already good offense with the addition of Siqueiros and brought in a reliable innings eater in Morlan. Those were 2 big upgrades for this team. They also added some quality bullpen help and didn't really lose much in the off season. It should be interesting to see if this team has what it takes to get back into the division race or if it will be another tough season. Last season the team was good offensively but didn't score the runs to show it. They could hit and hit for power, but they lacked the OBP to put up the runs. The hitters on this team are average to just above average heading into this season. The defense last season was pretty bad. They should be much improved this season. I don't think they will be great defensively but this doesn't look like a team that is bad at flashing the leather. The pitching really hurt this team last season, but most of that happened when the pitchers were over used and unrested early in the season. They still upgraded in this area and actually look like a good pitching staff. The rotation should be good, as they have a couple really good starters in Osterbrock and Jacquez. The bullpen, while not as strong should be solid. This season, I can see an improvement coming from this team, but I'm not sure it's enough to get into the top spot of the division. It should still be a much better season for this franchise and winning 80 plus games is a possibility.
Louisville ARF ARF ARF ARF's
Season 15 record- 66-96
5 year record- 366-444
Offense- Average-9th(.266), OBP-9th(.330), Slg-9th(.421), Runs-6th(772), HR-9th(202), SB-4th(152)
Defense- Fielding %-6th(.984), Plus Plays-3rd(73), Minus Plays-6th(37)
Pitching- ERA-15th(5.27), OAV-15th(.285), SO-11th(1085), Saves-7th(45/69)
Key Additions-SP Dock King(FA)
Key Losses-None
This is a franchise that started a rebuild last season and then got turned over to new ownership. The new owner may have different plans as evidence by the huge signing of King in the off season. The franchise looked to be making a move up in the division a couple seasons ago, but then fell off badly last season. So maybe it was time for a change in ownership. The last time this franchise won the division was way back in season 1 and have only made the playoffs once since. Well last season this was a pretty average group offensively that used speed to keep them in games. The look like a below average group of hitters with a couple guys that will hit some homers and not much speed now. The defense was above average last season and look like a group that is average. The good thing for the defense is that they are solid all around. The pitching was just terrible last season. The addition of King will help quite a bit, but the rotation is still in need of a couple other good pitchers. The bullpen is average to just below average. It could be a long season for this team as the last owner left the cupboard bare in the majors, but they seem to be moving in the right direction. If they win 80 games that will be a sign of success for these guys, but they are moving forward.
Predictions
This is a pretty tough division. None of the teams are bad and it should be later in the season before the division starts to take shape. That makes it pretty tough to predict. I'm not confident in any of my predictions of finish for this division as any team could switch spots. Jackson is a tough, young team that seems to be getting better every season. They won the division last season and very well could again. Even if they don't, I think they would get one of the wild card spots for sure. Charleston is a team that can never be discounted. They have a really good roster of players and should be battling for the top spot all the way to the end. If they don't win the division then they get a wild card. Charlotte is a tough team to predict. They aren't a bad team and you never know, they could have the right mix of players and make a push this season. Right now I'm sticking with them being on the outside looking in. Louisville doesn't appear to have what it takes to challenge for the top spot in the division, but they have some good players that could change the season for them. Not to mention, if they end up making some moves during the season, this could end up being a good team as well. Like I said, tough division to predict.
1. Charleston
2. Jackson
3. Charlotte
4. Louisville
Thursday, June 23, 2011
NL East Season 16 Previews
NL East
This division was a bit of a surprise to me last season. Jacksonville was a team that appeared to be rebuilding, but they came back from a fourth place finish in season 14 to take a 9th division title and 5th in the last 6 seasons. They also made it to a fifth NLCS only to lose to NL champ Fargo. Cincinnati's reign atop the division lasted just one season as they fell to second and secured a wild card spot. It was the third straight 90 win season for the franchise. New York, remained in third place for a second straight season as they were respectable, but not good enough to compete with the top teams. Kansas City was the team that disappointed the most in this division. After a second place finish a couple seasons ago, they fell back to fourth last season and watched their win total decrease by 8 games.
Jacksonville Juice
Season 15 record- 93-69(NL East Champ)
5 year record- 467-343
Offense- Average-12th(.262), OBP-7th(.332), Slg-6th(.432), Runs-4th(848), HR-6th(214), SB-5th(136)
Defense- Fielding %-12th(.980), Plus Plays-8th(56), Minus Plays-5th(35)
Pitching- ERA-6th(3.92), OAV-6th(.259), SO-14th(1001), Saves-5th(48/62)
Key Additions-RP Phil Gardner(FA), RP Samuel Dellaero(FA)
Key Losses-RP Ron Bowen(FA)
Just a couple seasons ago this team was starting a rebuild and finished in fourth in the division for the first time in team history. The rebuild didn't take or last long. Last season this team was right back on top of the division again and even made the NLCS where they lost to Fargo. In the off season ownership wanted to land a top line starting pitcher, which they feel is the one glaring weakness on the squad, but that didn't happen. They instead chose to promote youngster Figureoa which should add a boost to the rotation. Ownership has stated that anything short of the NLCS again is a disappointing season for this group. Last season this team had an above average offense. They stole bases, hit homeruns and scored runs, but were in the bottom half of the league in batting average. I think we'll likely see pretty much of the same this season. The team was below average with the glove. I just think this team lacks a good shortstop and centerfielder and probably won't finish any better defensively. The pitching finished in the upper half of the league last season. The bullpen on this team is really good. The starting rotation isn't bad, but it's not really good either. I think the rotation is good enough that it won't hurt the team though. This season should be another good season for Jacksonville as I think they win close to 90 games. The talent on the team is good but not great and I think they should be in the running for the division title and if not then a wild card is also a possibility.
Cincinnati Firestorm
Season 15 record- 91-71(Wild Card)
5 year record- 421-389
Offense- Average-1st(.282), OBP-1st(.355), Slg-3rd(.445), Runs-1st(910), HR-8th(207), SB-15th(55)
Defense- Fielding %-2nd(.985), Plus Plays-5th(60), Minus Plays-4th(32)
Pitching- ERA-12th(4.60), OAV-9th(.265), SO-8th(1097), Saves-10th(42/56)
Key Additions-None
Key Losses-RP Bernard Hoffman(FA)
This team has put together three straight 90 win seasons. They made it to the post season as a wild card team last season and just missed out on the division title. They are pretty much the same team heading into this season. They didn't make any major signings in the off season but did sign a couple free agents and drafted a couple rule 5 players. Last season, this team was at the top of the league offensively. They scored a lot of runs and hit the ball very good. They lacked power and speed but that didn't hold them back. The offense should be close to the same this season. I'm not sure they have the best offense in the league, but it is a team that should finish near the top of the league. Defensively this team was really good last season. They should be just as good this season. This team has a very good defense and probably one of the better teams in Pine Tar with the glove. The pitching was a weakness for this team last season. It hasn't changed much and will struggle again this season. They lack front end of the rotation starters and the bullpen isn't very strong. The team should still be pretty good this season and could win close to 90 games again. They will challenge for the division title again and could be a wild card team if not. The offense will make or break this team. If any of them struggle this season then it could change that prediction to a below 80 win season.
New York Moneymaker
Season 15 record- 76-86
5 year record- 398-412
Offense- Average-6th(.268), OBP-6th(.334), Slg-10th(.418), Runs-12th(736), HR-10th(201), SB-12th(85)
Defense- Fielding %-2nd(.985), Plus Plays-16th(27), Minus Plays-9th(43)
Pitching- ERA-9th(4.38), OAV-8th(.263), SO-5th(1121), Saves-4th(51/69)
Key Additions-None
Key Losses-RP Samuel Dellaero(FA), C Jorge Johnson(FA)
New York is a team that needs a big season. This team has been just about average for the past 4 seasons and haven't made a real push for the post season since season 11. They didn't make any major moves in the off season and chose to stick the course. Last season this team was just below average offensively. They hit but didn't score many runs as they lacked power or speed. They do have some good hitters on this team, but not much depth. They aren't a team that will hurt you with the long ball and the only real speed threat is Whitfield, but he doesn't reach base enough. The defense was good, but lacked the range to make plays. They have about the same defense this season. Their shortstop is pretty good, but he's a light hitter that will struggle to stay in the lineup. The pitching last season was just average. It still is. The rotation isn't a strength on this team and I'd actually put them in the below average group of the league. The bullpen isn't much better, but they do have a couple nice arms in the pen. This team isn't a team that I can see making a run for the division title this season. I think they'll still end up under 500 for the season and could possibly struggle to win 70 games.
Kansas City Kardinals
Season 15 record- 68-94
5 year record- 389-421
Offense- Average-13th(.261), OBP-13th(.322), Slg-11th(.411), Runs-14th(712), HR-11th(189), SB-13th(83)
Defense- Fielding %-2nd(.985), Plus Plays-6th(57), Minus Plays-11th(45)
Pitching- ERA-11th(4.59), OAV-13th(.278), SO-13th(1044), Saves-15th(37/61)
Key Additions-None
Key Losses-None
Kansas City is a franchise that has been struggling the past four seasons now. While they haven't been bad, they have not made a push for a playoff spot in this time. Last season was the low point in this span as they won their fewest games since season 2 with 68 wins. They chose to not spend much money in free agency and made no major signings to help that. In season 15 this team was near the bottom of the league offensively. I don't think this team is that bad on offense, but they aren't an above average team by any means. They do have a few players that can hit homeruns and most of the players in the lineup will take a walk. Even though they didn't change much, I think they should be better than last season. The defense was among the best in the league last season. They do still have a very good defense. I really like their shortstop and a good shortstop goes a long way for a defense. The pitching was not very good for this team in season 15. They do have a few good starters, but the bullpen is their weakness. This team should be better than last season. I still don't think they challenge for the division title, but 80 wins is a sure possibility. With a few moves this team could be competing in this division.
Predictions
Jacksonville won the division last season and always seem to be a pretty good team. They will be tough to knock from the top of this division. Cincinnati boasts one of the better offenses in the NL but I'm not sure the pitching staff can win them games. They are a good team that could challenge for the division title and the playoffs, or they could just fall flat on their faces and not even contend. Cincy is a tough team to predict. New York doesn't seem like a team that can win enough games to take this division or even make the post season. Kansas City looks better to me than last season and I don't think they are as bad as the record showed. This team could make a move up the ladder this season.
1. Jacksonville
2. Cincinnati
3. Kansas City
4. New York
This division was a bit of a surprise to me last season. Jacksonville was a team that appeared to be rebuilding, but they came back from a fourth place finish in season 14 to take a 9th division title and 5th in the last 6 seasons. They also made it to a fifth NLCS only to lose to NL champ Fargo. Cincinnati's reign atop the division lasted just one season as they fell to second and secured a wild card spot. It was the third straight 90 win season for the franchise. New York, remained in third place for a second straight season as they were respectable, but not good enough to compete with the top teams. Kansas City was the team that disappointed the most in this division. After a second place finish a couple seasons ago, they fell back to fourth last season and watched their win total decrease by 8 games.
Jacksonville Juice
Season 15 record- 93-69(NL East Champ)
5 year record- 467-343
Offense- Average-12th(.262), OBP-7th(.332), Slg-6th(.432), Runs-4th(848), HR-6th(214), SB-5th(136)
Defense- Fielding %-12th(.980), Plus Plays-8th(56), Minus Plays-5th(35)
Pitching- ERA-6th(3.92), OAV-6th(.259), SO-14th(1001), Saves-5th(48/62)
Key Additions-RP Phil Gardner(FA), RP Samuel Dellaero(FA)
Key Losses-RP Ron Bowen(FA)
Just a couple seasons ago this team was starting a rebuild and finished in fourth in the division for the first time in team history. The rebuild didn't take or last long. Last season this team was right back on top of the division again and even made the NLCS where they lost to Fargo. In the off season ownership wanted to land a top line starting pitcher, which they feel is the one glaring weakness on the squad, but that didn't happen. They instead chose to promote youngster Figureoa which should add a boost to the rotation. Ownership has stated that anything short of the NLCS again is a disappointing season for this group. Last season this team had an above average offense. They stole bases, hit homeruns and scored runs, but were in the bottom half of the league in batting average. I think we'll likely see pretty much of the same this season. The team was below average with the glove. I just think this team lacks a good shortstop and centerfielder and probably won't finish any better defensively. The pitching finished in the upper half of the league last season. The bullpen on this team is really good. The starting rotation isn't bad, but it's not really good either. I think the rotation is good enough that it won't hurt the team though. This season should be another good season for Jacksonville as I think they win close to 90 games. The talent on the team is good but not great and I think they should be in the running for the division title and if not then a wild card is also a possibility.
Cincinnati Firestorm
Season 15 record- 91-71(Wild Card)
5 year record- 421-389
Offense- Average-1st(.282), OBP-1st(.355), Slg-3rd(.445), Runs-1st(910), HR-8th(207), SB-15th(55)
Defense- Fielding %-2nd(.985), Plus Plays-5th(60), Minus Plays-4th(32)
Pitching- ERA-12th(4.60), OAV-9th(.265), SO-8th(1097), Saves-10th(42/56)
Key Additions-None
Key Losses-RP Bernard Hoffman(FA)
This team has put together three straight 90 win seasons. They made it to the post season as a wild card team last season and just missed out on the division title. They are pretty much the same team heading into this season. They didn't make any major signings in the off season but did sign a couple free agents and drafted a couple rule 5 players. Last season, this team was at the top of the league offensively. They scored a lot of runs and hit the ball very good. They lacked power and speed but that didn't hold them back. The offense should be close to the same this season. I'm not sure they have the best offense in the league, but it is a team that should finish near the top of the league. Defensively this team was really good last season. They should be just as good this season. This team has a very good defense and probably one of the better teams in Pine Tar with the glove. The pitching was a weakness for this team last season. It hasn't changed much and will struggle again this season. They lack front end of the rotation starters and the bullpen isn't very strong. The team should still be pretty good this season and could win close to 90 games again. They will challenge for the division title again and could be a wild card team if not. The offense will make or break this team. If any of them struggle this season then it could change that prediction to a below 80 win season.
New York Moneymaker
Season 15 record- 76-86
5 year record- 398-412
Offense- Average-6th(.268), OBP-6th(.334), Slg-10th(.418), Runs-12th(736), HR-10th(201), SB-12th(85)
Defense- Fielding %-2nd(.985), Plus Plays-16th(27), Minus Plays-9th(43)
Pitching- ERA-9th(4.38), OAV-8th(.263), SO-5th(1121), Saves-4th(51/69)
Key Additions-None
Key Losses-RP Samuel Dellaero(FA), C Jorge Johnson(FA)
New York is a team that needs a big season. This team has been just about average for the past 4 seasons and haven't made a real push for the post season since season 11. They didn't make any major moves in the off season and chose to stick the course. Last season this team was just below average offensively. They hit but didn't score many runs as they lacked power or speed. They do have some good hitters on this team, but not much depth. They aren't a team that will hurt you with the long ball and the only real speed threat is Whitfield, but he doesn't reach base enough. The defense was good, but lacked the range to make plays. They have about the same defense this season. Their shortstop is pretty good, but he's a light hitter that will struggle to stay in the lineup. The pitching last season was just average. It still is. The rotation isn't a strength on this team and I'd actually put them in the below average group of the league. The bullpen isn't much better, but they do have a couple nice arms in the pen. This team isn't a team that I can see making a run for the division title this season. I think they'll still end up under 500 for the season and could possibly struggle to win 70 games.
Kansas City Kardinals
Season 15 record- 68-94
5 year record- 389-421
Offense- Average-13th(.261), OBP-13th(.322), Slg-11th(.411), Runs-14th(712), HR-11th(189), SB-13th(83)
Defense- Fielding %-2nd(.985), Plus Plays-6th(57), Minus Plays-11th(45)
Pitching- ERA-11th(4.59), OAV-13th(.278), SO-13th(1044), Saves-15th(37/61)
Key Additions-None
Key Losses-None
Kansas City is a franchise that has been struggling the past four seasons now. While they haven't been bad, they have not made a push for a playoff spot in this time. Last season was the low point in this span as they won their fewest games since season 2 with 68 wins. They chose to not spend much money in free agency and made no major signings to help that. In season 15 this team was near the bottom of the league offensively. I don't think this team is that bad on offense, but they aren't an above average team by any means. They do have a few players that can hit homeruns and most of the players in the lineup will take a walk. Even though they didn't change much, I think they should be better than last season. The defense was among the best in the league last season. They do still have a very good defense. I really like their shortstop and a good shortstop goes a long way for a defense. The pitching was not very good for this team in season 15. They do have a few good starters, but the bullpen is their weakness. This team should be better than last season. I still don't think they challenge for the division title, but 80 wins is a sure possibility. With a few moves this team could be competing in this division.
Predictions
Jacksonville won the division last season and always seem to be a pretty good team. They will be tough to knock from the top of this division. Cincinnati boasts one of the better offenses in the NL but I'm not sure the pitching staff can win them games. They are a good team that could challenge for the division title and the playoffs, or they could just fall flat on their faces and not even contend. Cincy is a tough team to predict. New York doesn't seem like a team that can win enough games to take this division or even make the post season. Kansas City looks better to me than last season and I don't think they are as bad as the record showed. This team could make a move up the ladder this season.
1. Jacksonville
2. Cincinnati
3. Kansas City
4. New York
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