Because we just haven't gotten our fill of making incredibly inaccurate predictions, we've decided it's time to compile all those season previews and write out a proper predictions post. Or maybe we just wanted the chance to write that little bit of alliteration. SPRING BREAK!
Ahem. Onward and upward. Teams will be listed in their predicted order of divisional finish, and we'll throw out our projected record and beer choice for each. Think of it as a handy reference guide to all those other posts. Joke's on you if you read them all, we guess.
NL East:
1. Phillies: 91-71, Samuel Smith's Imperial Stout
2. Braves: 88-74, Yuengling
3. Marlins: 79-83, Abita Christmas Ale
4. Mets: 76-86, Dos Equis
5. Nationals: 69-93, Schlitz
NL Central:
1. Cardinals: 89-73, Stone Face Ale
2. Cubs: 84-78, Lumpy Dog Light Lager
3. Reds: 82-80, Abita Amber
4. Brewers: 77-85, Miller High Life
5. Astros: 71-91, Lone Star
6. Pirates: 69-93, Steel Reserve 211
NL West:
1. Rockies: 93-69, Coors
2. Dodgers: 87-75, Anchor Summer Beer
3. Diamondbacks: 82-80, PBR (we already regret this pick as Brandon Webb is struggling to get healthy)
4. Giants: 82-80, Cuddly Panda Porter
5. Padres: 65-97, Blue Moon
NL Divisional Round: Rockies over Braves, Phillies over Cardinals
NL Championship: Rockies over Phillies
AL East:
1. Yankees: 95-67, Westvleteren 12
2. Rays: 94-68, Natural Ice
3. Red Sox: 93-69, Samuel Adams Boston Lager
4. Blue Jays: 78-84, Alexander Keith's IPA
5. Orioles: 70-92, Oak Aged Dark Lord Imperial Stout
AL Central:
1. Twins: 87-75, Molson Canadian Lager
2. Tigers: 83-79, Heineken
2. White Sox: 83-79, Goose Island Honker's Ale
4. Indians: 68-94, Great Lakes Brewing Co's Blackout Stout
5. Royals: 62-100, Negra Modelo
AL West:
1. Mariners: 86-76, Fat Tire
2. Rangers: 85-77, Shiner Bock
2. Angels: 85-77, Stone's Arrogant Bastard Ale
4. A's: 77-85, Sam Adams Light
AL Divisional Round: Yankees over Mariners, Rays over Twins
AL Championship Series: Rays over Yankees
World Series: Rockies over Rays
As we were writing the Rockies preview, we got progressively more excited about their chances. They can pitch (a legit ace in Ubaldo Jimenez, the return of groundballer Aaron Cook, the possible return of former ace Jeff Francis, an improving Jorge de la Rosa, and a very strong bullpen even without Huston Street) and hit (there's a good chance that they can best league average at all 8 spots on the diamond, with a few possible star turns from guys like Troy Tulowitzki and the young outfielders) with anyone. We don't like the Yankees' lack of depth, but admit that they're still the clear favorite to take it all this year, and, again, have a like fetish for the Rays. So now you know exactly why we'll be wrong, instead of the less definitive 'oh, you were wrong.' Oh, and for fun, let's take a crack at the seasonal awards, so we can dig an even deeper prognosticative hole:
AL MVP: Evan Longoria (runners up: M. Teixeira, A. Rodriguez, K. Youkilis)
AL Cy Young: Felix Hernandez (runners up: Z. Greinke, J. Lester, B. Anderson)
AL RoY: Brian Matusz (runners up: S. Sizemore, W. Davis)
AL Manager: Don Wakamatsu (runners up: J. Maddon, R. Gardenhire)
NL MVP: Albert Pujols (runners up: T. Tulowitzki, J. Werth, J. Upton)
NL Cy Young: T. Lincecum (runners up: D. Haren, R. Halladay, J. Johnson)
NL RoY: Jason Heyward (runners up: B. Posey, S. Strasburg)
NL Manager: Bobby Cox (runners up: T. LaRussa, C. Manuel)
Showing posts with label colorado rockies. Show all posts
Showing posts with label colorado rockies. Show all posts
4/4/10
3/13/10
Season Preview: Colorado Rockies
Well we've got 22 days left until Opening Day, which means it's season preview time. We'll be running it down team by team, with an added new wrinkle this time around: the beer of choice for fans of the team to enjoy whilst watching their team take the field! Nothing like that to help get you through a baseball season, especially if you're from Pittsburgh. Up next: the Colorado Rockies.
Lineup: We are huge believers in this lineup. The outfield is insanely talented, going five-deep with good bats. Carlos Gonzalez, Dexter Fowler, Brad Hawpe, Seth Smith and Ryan Spilborghs? Yes please. Troy Tulowitzki is the best thing at shortstop this side of Hanley Ramirez, and Ian Stewart and Chris Iannetta both have big power. Todd Helton, the veteran presence here, just signed a new contract after looking like a rejuvenated man last season, and Clint Barmes, while not especially good, should play well at second base. Overall, there is not much at all to dislike about the hitters that the Rox are running out there.
Rotation: It's a similar story in the rotation; solid throughout, with some star-level players for good measure. Ubaldo Jimenez is an ace, and Aaron Cook, if healthy, is a sinkerballer par excellence. Jorge de la Rosa is a premier strikeout pitcher, Jason Hammel - while he's lost some of the sheen of his top prospect status from a few years ago - should be a serviceable #4 in the weak-hitting NL West, and Jeff Francis was, once upon a time, the best pitcher on this team. We figure that Jimenez and de la Rosa are going to take a step forward this season and be the best two pitchers they have, but a lot rests on whether Francis can regain his old form after a myriad of arm troubles in the past. There's not a lot of depth here, so if Francis falters and the organization remains committed to having Franklin Morales in the 'pen, then we're not really sure what they're going to do.
Bullpen: Huston Street and the aforementioned Morales are a dynamite duo in the back of the 'pen, and while we think the Rockies overpaid for Street on his extension and are making a mistake keeping Morales there, there's no denying that it's one of the better setup/closer combos going. Rafael Betancourt, Taylor Buchholz, and Manny Corpas are also likely to provide plenty of value in the 'pen, making this a strong unit from top to bottom.
Overall: This team looks scary good. They underachieved in the first half of last season, which took some of the veneer of a very solid club, but we fully expect them to dominate this season. They can hit, they can run, they can field (except for Brad Hawpe, who is, like, historically bad with the leather), they can pitch, and they can do all of those things very well. Definitely a team to watch out for in 2010.
Predicted Record: 93-69, 1st place NL West
Beer: We didn't want to do it this way, but the beer has to be Coors, right? Coors Field, taste the Rockies...there really isn't much of a choice. And, yes, we know that Colorado has a proud group of microbreweries that are probably all better choices than Coors, but the fit is just too perfect. Also, we guess you can go with Coors Light if you can't find regular Coors. Which we never can.
Lineup: We are huge believers in this lineup. The outfield is insanely talented, going five-deep with good bats. Carlos Gonzalez, Dexter Fowler, Brad Hawpe, Seth Smith and Ryan Spilborghs? Yes please. Troy Tulowitzki is the best thing at shortstop this side of Hanley Ramirez, and Ian Stewart and Chris Iannetta both have big power. Todd Helton, the veteran presence here, just signed a new contract after looking like a rejuvenated man last season, and Clint Barmes, while not especially good, should play well at second base. Overall, there is not much at all to dislike about the hitters that the Rox are running out there.
Rotation: It's a similar story in the rotation; solid throughout, with some star-level players for good measure. Ubaldo Jimenez is an ace, and Aaron Cook, if healthy, is a sinkerballer par excellence. Jorge de la Rosa is a premier strikeout pitcher, Jason Hammel - while he's lost some of the sheen of his top prospect status from a few years ago - should be a serviceable #4 in the weak-hitting NL West, and Jeff Francis was, once upon a time, the best pitcher on this team. We figure that Jimenez and de la Rosa are going to take a step forward this season and be the best two pitchers they have, but a lot rests on whether Francis can regain his old form after a myriad of arm troubles in the past. There's not a lot of depth here, so if Francis falters and the organization remains committed to having Franklin Morales in the 'pen, then we're not really sure what they're going to do.
Bullpen: Huston Street and the aforementioned Morales are a dynamite duo in the back of the 'pen, and while we think the Rockies overpaid for Street on his extension and are making a mistake keeping Morales there, there's no denying that it's one of the better setup/closer combos going. Rafael Betancourt, Taylor Buchholz, and Manny Corpas are also likely to provide plenty of value in the 'pen, making this a strong unit from top to bottom.
Overall: This team looks scary good. They underachieved in the first half of last season, which took some of the veneer of a very solid club, but we fully expect them to dominate this season. They can hit, they can run, they can field (except for Brad Hawpe, who is, like, historically bad with the leather), they can pitch, and they can do all of those things very well. Definitely a team to watch out for in 2010.
Predicted Record: 93-69, 1st place NL West
Beer: We didn't want to do it this way, but the beer has to be Coors, right? Coors Field, taste the Rockies...there really isn't much of a choice. And, yes, we know that Colorado has a proud group of microbreweries that are probably all better choices than Coors, but the fit is just too perfect. Also, we guess you can go with Coors Light if you can't find regular Coors. Which we never can.
2/11/10
MLB Jam: NL Round 2
Sorry for the delay, folks. Let's pretend that it's because of...snowstorms! Yeah, that's it. No one could make it out to the court because there was just too much snow. Happens, y'know? In any event, let's get hoppin to make up for the delay. As always, games to 21, win by 2, 2's and 3's, call own fouls.
Game 1: (1) Los Angeles Dodgers vs. (9) Milwaukee Brewers
Players: Matt Kemp/Jon Broxton vs. Carlos Gomez/Yovani Gallardo
The famed OF/RHP combinations butt heads here, and like with the Brewers' first-round matchup, it really comes down to whether or not Carlos Gomez can use his speed to beat the burly Kemp/Broxton duo. Unfortunately, Kemp is far faster than Carlos Zambrano or Sean Marshall, and Jon Broxton...is a large man. Gallardo is effective from deep since Broxton can't close out on him, but Kemp shuts down Gomez and scores on a few sweet alley-oops. Dodgers win, 22-16.
Game 2: (4) St. Louis Cardinals vs. (12) Houston Astros
Players: Albert Pujols/Adam Wainwright vs. Michael Bourn/Evan Engelbrook
Oddsmakers loved the Cardinals before this one (what, what we have to make money off this somehow), by virtue of Mr. Pujols. But Michael Bourn had more success than Carlos Gomez with the speed game, since Matt Kemp is more fleet of foot than Pujols. The 6'9'' Engelbrook held it down on the blocks, blocking Wainwright time and time again, and a cold streak from Pujols saw his team down double digits early. But they came roaring back on the strength of a few three-pointers and timely boards to tie the game at 19. All the momentum was on the Cards' side...until Bourn crossed Pujols out of his shoes and hit a pretty finger roll for the shocking clincher. Astros win, 21-19.
Game 3: (3) Colorado Rockies vs. (11) San Diego Padres
Players: Dexter Fowler/Greg Reynolds vs. David Eckstein/Kyle Blanks
The Padres established themselves as a duo that was not to be trifled with in the wake of their 6/11 upset, and things started well for them again when Eckstein dove for consecutive loose balls and hit Blanks in the post for a quick four points. It was then that the Rockies realized the key to beating the Padres was simply to not let the ball hit the ground, thereby denying Eckstein the chance to show off his grit and determination. The Padres would never score again, and Greg Reynolds scored the last point after yo-yoing the ball over Eckstein's head like a cat toy. Because Greg's a dick. Rockies win, 21-4.
Game 4: (10) Cincinnati Reds vs. (2) Philadelphia Phillies
Players: Danny Ray-Herrera/Willy Taveras/Chris Sabo vs. Shane Victorino/Ryan Howard
The weirdness continues for the Reds, who, as you may remember, were forced to play sans Taveras and plus Sabo last round. Oddly, this worked, but after some hushed discussions and a few dollars changing hands, it was ruled that Sabo was ineligible as well, since he's as much a Red as Taveras. So Dr. H (get it??) had to go it alone, which wouldn't be so bad if he weren't 5'6'' in his Reebok Pumps (he's an old school doctor). Victorino and Howard make short work of the minute medicine man, but let's all consider it a victory for him that Herrera managed to throw one down over Howard's head. Sure, he was on Victorino's shoulders, but it was still touching. Phillies win, 21-2.
Well now if you don't think that was thrilling, you don't have a pulse. Never mind the fact that losing teams scored a combined 6 points in the last two games, if you don't mind - what matters is that we're down to the Elite 8 (trademarked? No? Good.) (but if it is, don't tell us). Not long to go now, folks! Allow us to play you out with the updated bracket:
Game 1: (1) Los Angeles Dodgers vs. (9) Milwaukee Brewers
Players: Matt Kemp/Jon Broxton vs. Carlos Gomez/Yovani Gallardo
The famed OF/RHP combinations butt heads here, and like with the Brewers' first-round matchup, it really comes down to whether or not Carlos Gomez can use his speed to beat the burly Kemp/Broxton duo. Unfortunately, Kemp is far faster than Carlos Zambrano or Sean Marshall, and Jon Broxton...is a large man. Gallardo is effective from deep since Broxton can't close out on him, but Kemp shuts down Gomez and scores on a few sweet alley-oops. Dodgers win, 22-16.
Game 2: (4) St. Louis Cardinals vs. (12) Houston Astros
Players: Albert Pujols/Adam Wainwright vs. Michael Bourn/Evan Engelbrook
Oddsmakers loved the Cardinals before this one (what, what we have to make money off this somehow), by virtue of Mr. Pujols. But Michael Bourn had more success than Carlos Gomez with the speed game, since Matt Kemp is more fleet of foot than Pujols. The 6'9'' Engelbrook held it down on the blocks, blocking Wainwright time and time again, and a cold streak from Pujols saw his team down double digits early. But they came roaring back on the strength of a few three-pointers and timely boards to tie the game at 19. All the momentum was on the Cards' side...until Bourn crossed Pujols out of his shoes and hit a pretty finger roll for the shocking clincher. Astros win, 21-19.
Game 3: (3) Colorado Rockies vs. (11) San Diego Padres
Players: Dexter Fowler/Greg Reynolds vs. David Eckstein/Kyle Blanks
The Padres established themselves as a duo that was not to be trifled with in the wake of their 6/11 upset, and things started well for them again when Eckstein dove for consecutive loose balls and hit Blanks in the post for a quick four points. It was then that the Rockies realized the key to beating the Padres was simply to not let the ball hit the ground, thereby denying Eckstein the chance to show off his grit and determination. The Padres would never score again, and Greg Reynolds scored the last point after yo-yoing the ball over Eckstein's head like a cat toy. Because Greg's a dick. Rockies win, 21-4.
Game 4: (10) Cincinnati Reds vs. (2) Philadelphia Phillies
Players: Danny Ray-Herrera/
The weirdness continues for the Reds, who, as you may remember, were forced to play sans Taveras and plus Sabo last round. Oddly, this worked, but after some hushed discussions and a few dollars changing hands, it was ruled that Sabo was ineligible as well, since he's as much a Red as Taveras. So Dr. H (get it??) had to go it alone, which wouldn't be so bad if he weren't 5'6'' in his Reebok Pumps (he's an old school doctor). Victorino and Howard make short work of the minute medicine man, but let's all consider it a victory for him that Herrera managed to throw one down over Howard's head. Sure, he was on Victorino's shoulders, but it was still touching. Phillies win, 21-2.
Well now if you don't think that was thrilling, you don't have a pulse. Never mind the fact that losing teams scored a combined 6 points in the last two games, if you don't mind - what matters is that we're down to the Elite 8 (trademarked? No? Good.) (but if it is, don't tell us). Not long to go now, folks! Allow us to play you out with the updated bracket:
2/2/10
MLB Jam: NL 1st Round
After an action-packed first day of the epic tournament known far and wide as MLB Jam - and hopefully MLB Properties doesn't sue me for calling it that! - it's time for the senior circuit to have their day of first-round glory. And, hey, it comes on their 134th birthday! We've never been fond of postponing birthday celebrations, so let's get right to the hoopin' action. Games to 21, 2's and 3's, win by 2, call own fouls and we're off!
Game 1: (1) Los Angeles Dodgers vs. (16) Washington Nationals
Players: Matt Kemp/Jon Broxton vs. Adam Dunn/Nyjer Morgan
This game is probably the closest 1/16 matchup that's ever happened. You're essentially looking at the same team - Kemp and Morgan and Broxton and Dunn are essentially analogs. Morgan's got a big more speed than Kemp, but Broxton has a size (both height and weight) advantage on Dunn. Ultimately, though, we think Kemp channels some LeBron and drives the lane for a game-winner over Morgan. Dodgers win 21-19.
Game 2: (8) Chicago Cubs vs. (9) Milwaukee Brewers
Players: Carlos Zambrano/Sean Marshall vs. Carlos Gomez/Yovani Gallardo
Lots of Latin flavor in this matchup! Zambrano and Marshall are a fairly plodding group, while Gomez is one of the fastest players in the league. We think Gomez does a little A.I. impression, scampering all over the court underneath and around Big Z and Medium M. Yovani hits a three-ball here and there to keep them balanced, and the Brewers cruise. Brewers win 21-14.
Game 3: (4) St. Louis Cardinals vs. (13) New York Mets
Players: Albert Pujols/Adam Wainwright vs. Gary Matthews, Jr/Mike Pelfrey
Matthews is old and washed-up and Pelfrey is tall. Pujols is a Hall of Famer in his prime and Wainwright is tall. You can guess what happens here. Cardinals win 21-6.
Game 4: (5) San Francisco Giants vs. (12) Houston Astros
Players: Pablo Sandoval/Tim Lincecum vs. Michael Bourn/Evan Engelbrook
Shocking that the Giants pulled a 5 seed, we know. Also shocking is the inclusion of Engelbrook, whose existence remains unconfirmed to us. But if the man exists, he stands a whopping 6'8'', which we're fairly sure (we don't believe in research, so you can fact check this yourself) is taller than Sandoval and Lincecum put together. Plus, neither Sandoval nor Lincecum is capable of keeping up with Bourn's wheels. And, if you like cheap shot jokes, feel free to imagine Lincecum taking a mid-game smoke break then partaking in a team buffet with the Panda. Whether you do or not, the game doesn't go well for the Giants. Astros win, 21-10.
Game 5: (3) Colorado Rockies vs. (14) Arizona Diamondbacks
Players: Dexter Fowler/Greg Reynolds vs. Justin Upton/Dan Haren
Another matchup where the two teams are very even. Fowler and Upton are both uber-athletic guys, and Reynolds and Haren are both commanding post presences. Well, you know, for purposes of this game, they are. Buuut the Rockies do enjoy a size advantage here, with the 6'4'' Fowler and 6'7'' Reynolds both standing taller than their respective analogs, which is the difference in a tight contest. Rockies win, 21-17.
Game 6: (6) Florida Marlins vs. (11) San Diego Padres
Players: Josh Johnson/Sean West vs. Kyle Blanks/David Eckstein
The Marlins are, collectively, the tallest team in this contest by a long shot, with their guys measuring in at 6'7'' and 6'8'' respectgively. Blanks, however, is also 6'7'' and is relatively speedy for a 300 pounder. Plus...he's got an afro that clearly channels the spirit of Dr. J. Shockingly, the modestly-sized-if-we're-being-kind Eckstein grits and grinds and hustles his way to 15 of the team's 21 points, and dives for no fewer than 26 loose balls. What a gamer, that guy. Makes even us abandon the height favoritism we showed in just the last capsule we wrote. Padres win, 22-18.
Game 7: (7) Atlanta Braves vs. (10) Cincinnati Reds
Players: Tommy Hanson/Yunel Escobar vs. Danny Ray-Herrera/Willy Taveras/Chris Sabo
Ooof...and this is why you don't set lineups early. Since Taveras was traded - and DFA'd - yesterday, he is no longer eligible to play. But then! Just when DRH is getting ready to play singlehanded, who should walk through the door but Chris Sabo! The onetime Red with the goofy goggles, Sabo's inspiring entrance completely deflates the Braves squad - particularly since the goggles rend Sabo invincible to Escobar's mounting frustrations and cheap shots. Esco eventually storms off the court in anger, leaving Hanson to fend for himself. Unsurprisingly, it doesn't go well. Reds win, 21-11.
Game 8: (2) Philadelphia Phillies vs. (15) Pittsburgh Pirates
Players: Shane Victorino/Ryan Howard vs. Andrew McCutchen/Garrett Jones
Easily the most entertaining contest of the first round, Victorino and McCutchen trade running floaters and in the lane and dazzling moves on the perimeter while Howard and Jones counter with jump hooks, ferocious dunks, and powerfully swatted shots. Victorino earns his nickname in overtime, though, as the Hawaiian-bred baller flies over McCutchen's head for a posterizing finish to an epic battle. Phillies win, 30-27.
So let's check out that bracket now:
Lookin good! And a couple of big upsets, to boot - how 'bout that Eckstein fellow! First round MVP, eh? Tomorrow we'll have a couple of exciting divisional matchups in the AL side...can the upstart Rays topple the formidable Yankees? Can Seattle dethrone the Angels? We'll be on hand to tell you exactly what happens in those battles and more!
Game 1: (1) Los Angeles Dodgers vs. (16) Washington Nationals
Players: Matt Kemp/Jon Broxton vs. Adam Dunn/Nyjer Morgan
This game is probably the closest 1/16 matchup that's ever happened. You're essentially looking at the same team - Kemp and Morgan and Broxton and Dunn are essentially analogs. Morgan's got a big more speed than Kemp, but Broxton has a size (both height and weight) advantage on Dunn. Ultimately, though, we think Kemp channels some LeBron and drives the lane for a game-winner over Morgan. Dodgers win 21-19.
Game 2: (8) Chicago Cubs vs. (9) Milwaukee Brewers
Players: Carlos Zambrano/Sean Marshall vs. Carlos Gomez/Yovani Gallardo
Lots of Latin flavor in this matchup! Zambrano and Marshall are a fairly plodding group, while Gomez is one of the fastest players in the league. We think Gomez does a little A.I. impression, scampering all over the court underneath and around Big Z and Medium M. Yovani hits a three-ball here and there to keep them balanced, and the Brewers cruise. Brewers win 21-14.
Game 3: (4) St. Louis Cardinals vs. (13) New York Mets
Players: Albert Pujols/Adam Wainwright vs. Gary Matthews, Jr/Mike Pelfrey
Matthews is old and washed-up and Pelfrey is tall. Pujols is a Hall of Famer in his prime and Wainwright is tall. You can guess what happens here. Cardinals win 21-6.
Game 4: (5) San Francisco Giants vs. (12) Houston Astros
Players: Pablo Sandoval/Tim Lincecum vs. Michael Bourn/Evan Engelbrook
Shocking that the Giants pulled a 5 seed, we know. Also shocking is the inclusion of Engelbrook, whose existence remains unconfirmed to us. But if the man exists, he stands a whopping 6'8'', which we're fairly sure (we don't believe in research, so you can fact check this yourself) is taller than Sandoval and Lincecum put together. Plus, neither Sandoval nor Lincecum is capable of keeping up with Bourn's wheels. And, if you like cheap shot jokes, feel free to imagine Lincecum taking a mid-game smoke break then partaking in a team buffet with the Panda. Whether you do or not, the game doesn't go well for the Giants. Astros win, 21-10.
Game 5: (3) Colorado Rockies vs. (14) Arizona Diamondbacks
Players: Dexter Fowler/Greg Reynolds vs. Justin Upton/Dan Haren
Another matchup where the two teams are very even. Fowler and Upton are both uber-athletic guys, and Reynolds and Haren are both commanding post presences. Well, you know, for purposes of this game, they are. Buuut the Rockies do enjoy a size advantage here, with the 6'4'' Fowler and 6'7'' Reynolds both standing taller than their respective analogs, which is the difference in a tight contest. Rockies win, 21-17.
Game 6: (6) Florida Marlins vs. (11) San Diego Padres
Players: Josh Johnson/Sean West vs. Kyle Blanks/David Eckstein
The Marlins are, collectively, the tallest team in this contest by a long shot, with their guys measuring in at 6'7'' and 6'8'' respectgively. Blanks, however, is also 6'7'' and is relatively speedy for a 300 pounder. Plus...he's got an afro that clearly channels the spirit of Dr. J. Shockingly, the modestly-sized-if-we're-being-kind Eckstein grits and grinds and hustles his way to 15 of the team's 21 points, and dives for no fewer than 26 loose balls. What a gamer, that guy. Makes even us abandon the height favoritism we showed in just the last capsule we wrote. Padres win, 22-18.
Game 7: (7) Atlanta Braves vs. (10) Cincinnati Reds
Players: Tommy Hanson/Yunel Escobar vs. Danny Ray-Herrera/Willy Taveras/Chris Sabo
Ooof...and this is why you don't set lineups early. Since Taveras was traded - and DFA'd - yesterday, he is no longer eligible to play. But then! Just when DRH is getting ready to play singlehanded, who should walk through the door but Chris Sabo! The onetime Red with the goofy goggles, Sabo's inspiring entrance completely deflates the Braves squad - particularly since the goggles rend Sabo invincible to Escobar's mounting frustrations and cheap shots. Esco eventually storms off the court in anger, leaving Hanson to fend for himself. Unsurprisingly, it doesn't go well. Reds win, 21-11.
Game 8: (2) Philadelphia Phillies vs. (15) Pittsburgh Pirates
Players: Shane Victorino/Ryan Howard vs. Andrew McCutchen/Garrett Jones
Easily the most entertaining contest of the first round, Victorino and McCutchen trade running floaters and in the lane and dazzling moves on the perimeter while Howard and Jones counter with jump hooks, ferocious dunks, and powerfully swatted shots. Victorino earns his nickname in overtime, though, as the Hawaiian-bred baller flies over McCutchen's head for a posterizing finish to an epic battle. Phillies win, 30-27.
So let's check out that bracket now:
Lookin good! And a couple of big upsets, to boot - how 'bout that Eckstein fellow! First round MVP, eh? Tomorrow we'll have a couple of exciting divisional matchups in the AL side...can the upstart Rays topple the formidable Yankees? Can Seattle dethrone the Angels? We'll be on hand to tell you exactly what happens in those battles and more!
10/2/09
Why Your Team Will Blow it in the Playoffs: Colorado Rockies
Forget the regular introduction. If you've been reading this series at all, you know that we're previewing this year's playoff teams, and telling you why they're going to fail. Our target this time? The Colorado Rockies.
Biggest Strength: The lineup. This is a very patient team, with only three guys that get regular playing time posting sub-10% walk rates (Carlos Gonzalez, 9.1%, Clint Barmes, 5.1%, Ryan Spilborghs, 8.5%). Troy Tulowitzki, Todd Helton, Seth Smith, Carlos Gonzalez, and Brad Hawpe have each been studly this year, with the lowest OPS among that group being Gonzalez's .886. Chris Iannetta has great power for a catcher, and Ian Stewart and Clint Barmes have demonstrated good power despite low batting averages. Dexter Fowler, the speedy rookie, has shown a plate approach beyond his years, as his OBP is a full 100 points above his BA. Basically, this is a lineup that's skilled from top to bottom, and boasts great depth throughout all the positions. Oh, and this is unrelated, but...Ubaldo Jimenez has been pitching like a superstar. He's the second best pitcher in the NL West (Lincecum, Tim - get familiar), but he's not far behind Carpenter and Wainwright out in St. Louis in terms of performance.
But wait a minute!
Um...well...ok, we're sort of at a loss. This sort of seems like a team without a chink in the armor. They're top 10 in MLB in both runs scored and prevented (6th and 8th, respectively), and with good reason: all of their starters has had a very good and - with the exception of Aaron Cook missing some time - very healthy seasons. This has been a team with amazing continuity among their rotation ranks. Their lineup has been very good, despite Garrett Atkins' having forgotten how to play baseball effectively. They've coaxed a banner year out of oft-injured Huston Street, and Franklin Morales has been exceedingly effective in Street's absence.
But hey, we're here to hate on Roxtober. So let's point out this extreme oddity: only eight (8) pitchers on their entire roster have thrown 40+ innings. And that includes five (5) starters. So manager Jim Tracy trusts only three (3) of his relievers: Huston Street, Franklin Morales, and...wait...no...seriously? Josh Fogg? You've got to be kidding us. Josh Fogg, of the 5.05 career ERA? The guy who's had 1,158 innings to prove that he's a below league-average pitcher? We demand an invite to the next Rockies tryout.
Speaking of guys who have demonstrated a remarkable turnaround since coming to Coors Field, how about Jason Marquis? Let us be up front here: we have no good feelings for Jason Marquis. We wish nothing but ill upon him. First a petulant prospect for the Braves, then an underperforming, overpaid starter for the Cubs, Marquis has done just about everything he can to win his way out of our hearts. And yet...he comes to the most famous hitters' haven in recent memory, and becomes a stud? Not on our watch, buddy. Let us show you why he's going to be a fairly epic failure in October: he can't strike anybody out (4.75 K/9). He can't control his pitches (3.31 BB/9). He's stranding a below-league average 70.7% of baserunners. His FIP this season is .72 runs below his career average. He's barely approached his 212 IP this season since 2005's 207 IP. And he posted a 6.02 ERA in 33 starts with the Cardinals! WHY ISN'T HE REMEMBERING THAT HE'S AN AWFUL PITCHER?! Our prediction is that he'll do precisely that in the playoffs. And since he's been among the league leaders in wins, Jim Tracy will likely be only too happy to stick him in the rotation ahead of a more deserving pitcher - any of Aaron Cook, Jorge de la Rosa, or Jason Hammel.
And for that matter, Aaron Cook could fail just as easily as Marquis. For a couple years now, he's proven that he can be effective in Coors Field thanks to his extreme groundball tendencies. But the guy can't stay healthy, and he's gotten in just two starts since a recent shoulder strain. He's looked sharp in those two starts, but do you trust him in the playoffs? Can he stay healthy for a prolonged run, especially given that his shoulder's already been weakened? And how about Jason Hammel, a Rays' castoff? He has been very good this year, though this is the first time he's thrown over 100 IP (174 this year)in his MLB career. He's been hittable (201 H in 174 IP), though he has demonstrated above-average control (3.12 K:BB). Unfortunately for him, many of those hits have been dongers - he's got a .88 HR/9 this year, and a career rate of 1.11. Someone's going to hit a key gopher ball off of him. And as for Jorge de la Rosa, he's quite adroit at missing bats (9.35 K/9), but he doesn't really have a feel for his command (4.1 BB/9, 1.40 WHIP).
Honestly, if we didn't dislike them so much for beating out the Braves for the Wild Card (as it was said in Happy Gilmore, you will NOT sweep the Dodgers, ya JACKASSES! Or something like that. It's been awhile since we've seen it.), we'd be jumping all over this bandwagon. We can't fathom how their pitchers have managed to be so effective this year, but...they have. They've got depth in their lineup that no team in the National League can match. Their rotation has been healthy and effective, which most teams merely dream of. Their bullpen, though little-used, has enough talent not to squander games. They...well, they scare us. We don't know if we're ready for another Roxtober so soon. So, um, if Jason Marquis, Jason Hammel, and Jorge de la Rosa could go ahead and revert to their old, ineffective forms...well, that'd be just great.
6/22/09
Trimester Checkup: NL West
Last one of these bad boys. Enough prologue, let's get crackin'.
1. Los Angeles Dodgers, 46-24
2. San Francisco Giants, 37-31
3. Colorado Rockies, 36-33
4. San Diego Padres, 30-38
5. Arizona Diamondbacks, 29-41
Biggest Surprise: Every team in this division has a good candidate for this award, so let's go in order. The Dodgers' Orlando Hudson has had a surprisingly strong year at .309/.382/.453; the second baseman is known mostly for his glove, but this year he's increased all his triple slash numbers to go along with his sturdy leather. People knew Pablo Sandoval was good, but not this good, this fast; the dude's putting up a star-caliber .338/.386/.543 line. He's not the most patient guy at the plate, but his ability to put the bat on the ball is outstanding. Oh, and Barry Zito has been serving notice that he's not actually dead yet. For the Rockies, we're going to give it to Jason Marquis. He always seemed like the weak link on the Cubs rotations of the last two years and his 3-year/$21 million dollar deal looked incredibly foolish coming off a season where he'd posted a plus-6.00 ERA. After two years of utter average-ness (100 ERA+) in the Windy City, he was traded to Colorado, where mediocre pitchers traditionally go to die. And yet...Marquis has thrived. He's posting a 123 ERA+, which would be a career best if not for 120 innings of 128 ERA+ ball he threw 8 years ago. Adrian Gonzalez deserves mention for his work in San Diego. He's been one of the most underrated players in the lig for the last few years, but OPSing 1.000+ while in one of the Majors' toughest hitting environments has drawn attention, as has his 23 HR. For the DBacks, Justin Upton has put up a performance commensurate with his status as one of the most talented prospects in recent history. Only 21, he's flashed the power (near-1.000 OPS) and speed (9/11 SB) that makes him a 30/30 - or even 40/40 - threat.
Biggest Disappointment: For all the excellent performances the division's seen thusfar, there must be some pretty bad ones to explain the low quality of this fivesome. And, indeed, there are! In LA, Russell Martin's been shoddy, slugging .302 and, according to scouts, looking pained and slow on the basepaths and behind the plate. Edgar Renteria was supposed to be rejuvenated by a return to the NL; if rejuvenation means .249/.312/.311, then we shudder to think what he might look like in the AL. Well, actually, we might have a perfect example right in the division: Brian Giles has been the worst player in MLB so far, with a .191/.277/.271 line that makes him almost 2 full wins worse than your average minor leaguer. Garrett Atkins was supposed to be a star at third base for the Rox; his numbers the last few seasons suggested that he was one of the better regulars at the position. This year, however, he's tumbled to a .207/.288/.310 showing. As for the Diamondbacks...well, anyone besides Dan Haren and Justin Upton is a good choice. Brandon Webb's been hurt, but that in and of itself is a diappointment for one of the most consistent pitchers in the league. Chris Young has done a lot to make us believe that his near-30/30 campaign two years ago was a fluke; .204/.272/.380 will do that to a promising young talent. The offense as a whole has been horrendous all year; only Upton and Mark Reynolds save it from being epochally awful.
Moves That Should Be Made
- The Dodgers can just sit pretty. They've got the league's best run prevention unit, have one of its best sluggers coming back from suspension soon, and have a stacked lineup from top to bottom that'll only get better if Russell Martin bounces back. There's a reason they have the best lineup in baseball.
- The Giants have no shot of catching the Dodgers. Let's just be honest. The pitching's been as expected with Lincecum, Cain, and, yes, Zito holding down the fort. The lineup has been predictably bad, though Sandoval, Aaron Rowand, and Bengie Molina have been producing very well. But, given GM Brian Sabean's past transgressions in the trade and free agent market, we'd rather they not do anything than to do something rash. They're not competitors, but there's no need to disband.
- The Rockies went on an 11-game winning streak and still found themselves 10 games out of the division. That says a lot about them and the teams they're chasing. They'd be best served to trade Huston Street to a team with bullpen issues. The Indians don't have much to give back, but they're in a winnable division and have a chance to upgrade their biggest weakness.
- We don't even know where to start with the Padres. They lost the chance to trade off their best asset in Jake Peavy since he's probably out for the year. We suppose their next best trade chip is closer Heath Bell, who's been superb. But, as with the Rockies, this team is not good enough to need an elite closer. We say, trade him to the Phillies for Lou Marson. The Pads need a catching prospect, and the Phils are going to need some help at the back end of their bullpen unless they believe Brad Lidge is totally healed up. Call us skeptics, but we don't think all is well in Philly's pen.
- Speaking of the WFC, if you're into Philly coverage, check out phoulballz.com. Nice site, lots of good stuff on it.
- There's not much the DBacks can really get up to, trading-wise. They're not about to trade guys like Dan Haren or Brandon Webb, Max Scherzer's too young/good, Upton's untouchable, and their other hitters/pitchers just aren't that good. We suppose Jon Garland might fetch some organizational arms if a contender needs an innings eater at the back of their rotation, but that's really all we can offer.
Prognostication:
The Dodgers are the clear favorites here. There's almost no shot that they lose their death grip on the division title. The Giants have made strides this year, that's for sure, but until they get some lineup help, this is just not going to be a super-competitive team. Great pitching only takes you so far. The Rockies have the lineup pieces, and Dexter Fowler's going to be a stud, but beyond Ubaldo Jimenez, Aaron Cook, and, yes, Jason Marquis, there's not a lot going right for them pitching-wise. Manny Corpas is getting elbow surgery, further thinning their pen that already lost one of its more talented members in Taylor Buchholz; they need to flip Street for some high-upside arms. The Padres are just awful everywhere except at first base and left field. Adrian Gonzalez is one of the best players in the division, and we still hold out faith for Chase Headley and Kyle Blanks, the newly called-up 6'8'' 280-pound manchild. Unfortunately, when your only good players play first base, left field, and closer, you're a team in trouble. The Diamondbacks are troubled by a similar lack of talent. They expected their pitching triumvirate of Haren, Webb, and Scherzer to keep them in games, but no amount of great pitching can hold up this bad of an offense for a full season. Add in Webb's injury, and you're talking about a disaster of a season. That said, we think they still have more going for them than the Padres, so at least they won't finish in the cellar.
Final Standings:
1. Los Angeles Dodgers
2. San Francisco Giants
3. Colorado Rockies
4. Arizona Diamondbacks
5. San Diego Padres
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