This comes only days after the last notebook, but hopefully I will have the time to get back to a weekly report. With a 6-3 win over Detroit today, the Bucs completed a 17 day grind without a day off at 9-7 (with one rain out). That's not bad baseball folks.
At 30-33, the Pirates have played good baseball for the better part of the season. If you eliminate the only horrid stretch of the season, an eleven game span where they went 1-10, then this is a team that's over .500. I'm not one of these guys that sees .500 as a successful season, but this team just has a different feel to it.
This team can compete, night in and night out. They get good starting pitching on most night's (anyone not named Ian Snell will do) and they bullpen has bounced back and can be counted on most nights. The main reason why this team can compete though is their defense. These guys catch everything hit at them. They are currently third in the NL in fielding percentage. for as many runs that the Bucco offense leaves on base, the defense has saved just as many.
The infield is tremendous. After a rough first week, Andy Laroche has turned into a solid defensive third basemen. Jack Wilson is playing at a high level and while I don't really like Freddy Sanchez's range at second, he catches everything he gets to and the Bucs are very good up the middle. Adam Laroche is also a very underrated defensive first basemen.
The outfield has been just as good. Nyjer Morgan doesn't have much of an arm but has been a huge surprise in left. The addition of Andrew McCutchen gives the team two legit center fielders again and take away most shots in the gaps at PNC Park. He can cover a ton of ground in center and after 11 games, it seems as if he is already taking better routes to balls. McCutchen adds a rifle in center and in right Brandon Moss has figured it out defensively.
Add all that up and good pitching and good defense should win games. Hey, I like the offense as well, but this team is better off when they prevent runs as much as when they can score them (which isn't often). Remember that even he best offensive players are expected to fail 7 out of 10 times. Great defensive players are expected to succeed 10 out of 10 times.
Other Notes
- It's time to get Delwyn Young regular at bats at the expense of Brandon Moss. I know I am the guy that said stick with Moss no matter what, but in the last 30 days, Young is hitting .339. All he does is hit and John Russell should stick with the hot bat. In the same time frame, Moss is hitting .268 and that is only helped by a torrid 2 week stretch. Moss has all the tools to be good, but he has to start driving runs in soon.
-Could the Pirates have 2 all-stars? A case can be made for both Sanchez and Zach Duke. Sanchez is hitting a solid .315 and should make it at a weak second base position. Chase Utley is a lock as could be the case with Orlando Hudson. Right now I would probably give Sanchez the nod over Brandon Phillips.
I will make the case for Duke as well. He has 7 wins, and a great ERA at 3.10. He should have 9 wins already at this point. If he gets to 9 or 10 wins before the all-star game, he should also be picked.
-Give Huntington credit for some of the minor moves he has made in his 2 seasons. Ryan Doumit has missed 50 games now and the Jaramillo/Diaz combination has held it's own hitting .296 combined. Another guy that he took a shot on is Steven Jackson. he will get the ball more often as he gets ground balls in key spots. I always wondered why the Yankees never gave him a shot, especially with their pen. Jackson has good stuff.
-Speaking of the pen, Gorzo did a good job down there while he was up. i was just scanning the bullpen ERA's and they were impressive, other than Capps (Meek 3.48, Chavez 2.63, Burnett 2.93, Grabow 3.72). Those are encouraging numbers.
-Charlie Morton's second start has been pushed back a couple days until the team heads to Colorado. I still don't like young guys having to pitch there, but even though it was only 1 inning, I liked what i saw from Morton. The guy hits his spots. fastball was 93-95, pitched inside and his curve ball breaks a ton. let's see what he can do over the next month, but I think he has a good make up about him.
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Bucco Notebook
-I know everyone is still pissed at the McClouth deal, but Andrew McCutchen looks like a stud. Defense will improve, but the man can fly and is exciting to watch. He also doesn't seemed over matched at the plate. Wait about a month until the scouting report comes out and see how he adjusts. I think he will be fine.
-Charlie Morton may get the start tomorrow vs. Atlanta. I'd like to see him do well. An upgrade over Jeff Karstans would be nice. Morton had success in his first start with Indianapolis throwing 7 shutout innings.
-I thought the Bucs did well with their first round selection of Tony Sanchez. Scouts like him and say he is the closest thing to big league ready. I've seen him play and he can handle himself behind the plate, which scouts rave about his defense. seems like he will be more of a gap to gap line drive hitter. Hopefully Hunnington can hit on 2 drafts in a row. The Bucs will spend cash to sign picks, which they demonstrated last season
- Speaking of first round picks, Brad Lincoln looks to be headed to AAA. he is throwing the ball very well at the AA level. A small chance he sees Pittsburgh in August or September.
-Very tough way to lose to the Braves two nights in a row. Especially the extra inning game.
-Nyjer Morgan seems to have hit a bit of a snag. His average is down to .265. He needs to get back to drawing walks and getting on base. Having Morgan and McCutchen at the top of the order will be tough for teams to deal with if they can consistantly reach base.
-The lack of power on this team is very concerning. The regular starting outfield has a combined 1 hr. The waiting period is getting close to over with Moss. Gotta see the power emerge. It's not like they were a power hitting team with McClouth though.
-Odd stat of the week is that Jack Wilson has scored only 13 runs, despite playing nearly every day. Ramon Vasquez who doesn't play much has scored 10 and Eric Hinske has score 15. Very odd for a regular to have only crossed the plate 13 times.
-The Pirates have been praised by MLB Netwok and ESPN for their approach to the draft. While Sanchez may have been a reach at 4, the Bucs have been very aggressive in drafting guys most teams are staying away from because of the asking price. If the Pirates sign 8 of their top 10, most experts say they will have the best draft of any team. Very good news to hear.
-Charlie Morton may get the start tomorrow vs. Atlanta. I'd like to see him do well. An upgrade over Jeff Karstans would be nice. Morton had success in his first start with Indianapolis throwing 7 shutout innings.
-I thought the Bucs did well with their first round selection of Tony Sanchez. Scouts like him and say he is the closest thing to big league ready. I've seen him play and he can handle himself behind the plate, which scouts rave about his defense. seems like he will be more of a gap to gap line drive hitter. Hopefully Hunnington can hit on 2 drafts in a row. The Bucs will spend cash to sign picks, which they demonstrated last season
- Speaking of first round picks, Brad Lincoln looks to be headed to AAA. he is throwing the ball very well at the AA level. A small chance he sees Pittsburgh in August or September.
-Very tough way to lose to the Braves two nights in a row. Especially the extra inning game.
-Nyjer Morgan seems to have hit a bit of a snag. His average is down to .265. He needs to get back to drawing walks and getting on base. Having Morgan and McCutchen at the top of the order will be tough for teams to deal with if they can consistantly reach base.
-The lack of power on this team is very concerning. The regular starting outfield has a combined 1 hr. The waiting period is getting close to over with Moss. Gotta see the power emerge. It's not like they were a power hitting team with McClouth though.
-Odd stat of the week is that Jack Wilson has scored only 13 runs, despite playing nearly every day. Ramon Vasquez who doesn't play much has scored 10 and Eric Hinske has score 15. Very odd for a regular to have only crossed the plate 13 times.
-The Pirates have been praised by MLB Netwok and ESPN for their approach to the draft. While Sanchez may have been a reach at 4, the Bucs have been very aggressive in drafting guys most teams are staying away from because of the asking price. If the Pirates sign 8 of their top 10, most experts say they will have the best draft of any team. Very good news to hear.
My Notebook for the week
- I've been really into the NBA Playoffs again this year. Very odd because I don't watch as much in the regular season anymore (maybe because I'm a Knicks fan). Is there a better broadcast team in any sport than Mike Breen, Mark Jackson and Jeff van Gundy? Breen is the best play by play guy around. Jackson can analyze anything and Van Gundy can do the same but adds a lot of humor and one liners to the telecast. The three are tremendous together and really make the game entertaining to watch. I love Van Gundy. I hope he doesn't want to get back into coaching and stays where he is.
-I watched the MLB Draft today. How nice it is to have only 4 minutes between first round picks. You get all the information you need and it's on to the next pick.
-If the Nationals give Strausberg 50 mil, expect the MLB to push for slotting, similar to the NBA Draft. All sports should do that. How insane would it be for members of the Nationals to have this kid making more than any veteran on the team. Did i mention Scott Boras is his agent
-Out of the 4 major sports networks, MLB Network is hands down the best channel.
- I think it's odd to see Chad Johnson's name spelled Chad Ochocinco. Wouldn't it be great if he finally got his wish and got traded, but to a team with someone already wearing 85 and refused to give it up.
-Can't wait for the US Open. After Tiger's comeback last week. He could be ready for the Open. He won it last time it was at Bethpage.
-87 Homers hit at Yankee Stadium compared to 20 in San Francisco and 24 in Atlanta.
- How fitting that Tim Flyod turns down the Arizona job to return to USC and resigns from USC after allegedly being part of the Oj Mayo recruiting scandal. My theory has always been to assume all college football and basketball coaches are cheating until proven otherwise. The NCAA needs to take a stand with instances like this. USC could be put on probation, but Flyod will wind up coaching another team next season. It's time to drop the hammer on the coaches that get caught.
-I watched the MLB Draft today. How nice it is to have only 4 minutes between first round picks. You get all the information you need and it's on to the next pick.
-If the Nationals give Strausberg 50 mil, expect the MLB to push for slotting, similar to the NBA Draft. All sports should do that. How insane would it be for members of the Nationals to have this kid making more than any veteran on the team. Did i mention Scott Boras is his agent
-Out of the 4 major sports networks, MLB Network is hands down the best channel.
- I think it's odd to see Chad Johnson's name spelled Chad Ochocinco. Wouldn't it be great if he finally got his wish and got traded, but to a team with someone already wearing 85 and refused to give it up.
-Can't wait for the US Open. After Tiger's comeback last week. He could be ready for the Open. He won it last time it was at Bethpage.
-87 Homers hit at Yankee Stadium compared to 20 in San Francisco and 24 in Atlanta.
- How fitting that Tim Flyod turns down the Arizona job to return to USC and resigns from USC after allegedly being part of the Oj Mayo recruiting scandal. My theory has always been to assume all college football and basketball coaches are cheating until proven otherwise. The NCAA needs to take a stand with instances like this. USC could be put on probation, but Flyod will wind up coaching another team next season. It's time to drop the hammer on the coaches that get caught.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Breaking Down the Nate Mclouth Trade
On Thursday, the Pirates traded the face of their franchise, Nate McClouth to the Atlanta Braves. In the four days since, I have heard it all. "Same old Pirates," basically is what the public thinks. The casual baseball fan has never heard of Charlie Morton, Gorkys Hernandez or Jeff Locke (the players the Bucs received). The casual baseball fan is very upset at the move, but I'm here to tell you why the move makes sense. Look, the facts are this. The Pirates are at least two years away, if that. No knock on Nate, but if McClouth is your best player then you have too many holes.
First, the timing of the move. While the announcement did come out of no where, it was a trade Neil Hunnington had to make and probably wouldn't have gotten a better offer had he held onto McClouth until the trading deadline. Looking back at trades teams have made over the last ten seasons, most teams tend to hold onto prospects as the deadline approaches. The public will say that we were only four games under .500 at the time. It's not Hunnington's job to get to .500, his job is to put together a team that can eventually compete year in and year out. If it takes two more years of stockpiling young talent, then i say keep sticking to the plan.
Secondly, being the best player on a bad team doesn't make you anything more than that. McClouth is a very good player, but not a full fledged superstar. On the season, he is hitting only .251 with 9 homers and 35 RBI. In addition, McClouth is only a .260 hitter for his career, hardly superstar like. He is a great guy and will be missed in Pittsburgh, but if you give me three young players who can possibly make an impact in Pittsburgh in the next couple seasons, then I have to pull the trigger on the deal. I give Hunnington credit on dealing while McClouth's value is high.
Next, is Andrew McCutchen had to get to Pittsburgh some way. When is the last time the Pirates made a deal, when they replaced the player they gave up with someone with equal or in this case, even more talent. McCutchen will go through some growing pains, but will be very fun to watch. The guy can hit, maybe not for the power of McClouth, but he can get on base and will utilize his speed. Defensively, while McClouth did win a gold glove, he just had sub par range. Between McCutchen and Nyjer Morgan, they will cover a ton of ground. The funny part is that the new outfield of Morgan, McCutchen and Brandon Moss has a combined one home run on the season. It's way to early to give up on Moss by the way, he has been playing very well after a slow start, so as it looks, this outfield should be productive.
It was a tough decision for Hunnington to part ways with McClouth, but good teams take those kind of risks and make them pay off. Fan reaction has been very negative towards Hunnington. I believe legendary basketball coach Bobby Knight once said "If you make decisions based on the fans reaction, pretty soon you will be sitting with the fans."
If Pirate fans have anyone to blame, it's Dave Littlefield. Look at the farm system when Hunnington took over. The cupboard was bare. The top prospects in the system were McCutchen and Neil Walker. That's it. With Hunnington's moves the last two seasons, not only through trades but actually drafting for talent instead of budget, Walker is now the 14th ranked prospect in the organization. The farm system was in dire need of repair and this is the way to do it. Now the list of prospects include: Brad Lincoln, Jose Tabata, Pedro Alvarez, Brian Friday, Hernandez, Locke, Morton, etc.. Now will all of them pan out? Not a chance, but if most do the light at the end of the tunnel may be in sight.
The positive thing is that this was truly a baseball trade. It was not finacially motivated. There was no Aramis Rameriz for Bobby Hill deal here. However with the excess cash saved, it would be nice to see the Bucs lock up Dominican shortstop Miguel Angel Sano.
Pirate fans probably are sick of hearing about a 3 year plan or a 5 year plan. So am I, but despite hearing that for the last 16 seasons, that hasn't happened. What the Pirates have had was 15 years of bad management, so I am willing to give Hunnington the benefit of the doubt for now. Tomorrow, if he has a strong draft, Hunnington would have done more for this franchise than anyone in the last 16 seasons. I say stick to the plan and watch it pay off. If that means dealing Sanchez, Adam Laroche and Wilson, so be it.
My only problem is the payroll. If they continue to draft quality youngsters, eventually the payroll will have to increase. Comparing market sizes, there is no reason the Brewers should have an 80 milion dollar payroll when the Pirates struggle to hover around 50 mil. Until the Nutting family decides to get in the 70-80mil range, the only way to build is through trades and the draft. No qualiy player in his right mind would want to come play here. That has to change.
Will this turn out to be a good trade? Time will tell, but I like what Hunnington has been able to do so far.
Potential Lineup Opening day 2011 (baring trades)
c Ryan Doumit
1b Pedro Alvarez
2b Shelby Ford
3b Andy Laroche
ss Brian Friday
LF Gorkys Hernadez
CF Andrew McCutchen
RF Jose Tabata
SP Brad Lincoln, Paul Maholm, Zach Duke, Charlie Morton
First, the timing of the move. While the announcement did come out of no where, it was a trade Neil Hunnington had to make and probably wouldn't have gotten a better offer had he held onto McClouth until the trading deadline. Looking back at trades teams have made over the last ten seasons, most teams tend to hold onto prospects as the deadline approaches. The public will say that we were only four games under .500 at the time. It's not Hunnington's job to get to .500, his job is to put together a team that can eventually compete year in and year out. If it takes two more years of stockpiling young talent, then i say keep sticking to the plan.
Secondly, being the best player on a bad team doesn't make you anything more than that. McClouth is a very good player, but not a full fledged superstar. On the season, he is hitting only .251 with 9 homers and 35 RBI. In addition, McClouth is only a .260 hitter for his career, hardly superstar like. He is a great guy and will be missed in Pittsburgh, but if you give me three young players who can possibly make an impact in Pittsburgh in the next couple seasons, then I have to pull the trigger on the deal. I give Hunnington credit on dealing while McClouth's value is high.
Next, is Andrew McCutchen had to get to Pittsburgh some way. When is the last time the Pirates made a deal, when they replaced the player they gave up with someone with equal or in this case, even more talent. McCutchen will go through some growing pains, but will be very fun to watch. The guy can hit, maybe not for the power of McClouth, but he can get on base and will utilize his speed. Defensively, while McClouth did win a gold glove, he just had sub par range. Between McCutchen and Nyjer Morgan, they will cover a ton of ground. The funny part is that the new outfield of Morgan, McCutchen and Brandon Moss has a combined one home run on the season. It's way to early to give up on Moss by the way, he has been playing very well after a slow start, so as it looks, this outfield should be productive.
It was a tough decision for Hunnington to part ways with McClouth, but good teams take those kind of risks and make them pay off. Fan reaction has been very negative towards Hunnington. I believe legendary basketball coach Bobby Knight once said "If you make decisions based on the fans reaction, pretty soon you will be sitting with the fans."
If Pirate fans have anyone to blame, it's Dave Littlefield. Look at the farm system when Hunnington took over. The cupboard was bare. The top prospects in the system were McCutchen and Neil Walker. That's it. With Hunnington's moves the last two seasons, not only through trades but actually drafting for talent instead of budget, Walker is now the 14th ranked prospect in the organization. The farm system was in dire need of repair and this is the way to do it. Now the list of prospects include: Brad Lincoln, Jose Tabata, Pedro Alvarez, Brian Friday, Hernandez, Locke, Morton, etc.. Now will all of them pan out? Not a chance, but if most do the light at the end of the tunnel may be in sight.
The positive thing is that this was truly a baseball trade. It was not finacially motivated. There was no Aramis Rameriz for Bobby Hill deal here. However with the excess cash saved, it would be nice to see the Bucs lock up Dominican shortstop Miguel Angel Sano.
Pirate fans probably are sick of hearing about a 3 year plan or a 5 year plan. So am I, but despite hearing that for the last 16 seasons, that hasn't happened. What the Pirates have had was 15 years of bad management, so I am willing to give Hunnington the benefit of the doubt for now. Tomorrow, if he has a strong draft, Hunnington would have done more for this franchise than anyone in the last 16 seasons. I say stick to the plan and watch it pay off. If that means dealing Sanchez, Adam Laroche and Wilson, so be it.
My only problem is the payroll. If they continue to draft quality youngsters, eventually the payroll will have to increase. Comparing market sizes, there is no reason the Brewers should have an 80 milion dollar payroll when the Pirates struggle to hover around 50 mil. Until the Nutting family decides to get in the 70-80mil range, the only way to build is through trades and the draft. No qualiy player in his right mind would want to come play here. That has to change.
Will this turn out to be a good trade? Time will tell, but I like what Hunnington has been able to do so far.
Potential Lineup Opening day 2011 (baring trades)
c Ryan Doumit
1b Pedro Alvarez
2b Shelby Ford
3b Andy Laroche
ss Brian Friday
LF Gorkys Hernadez
CF Andrew McCutchen
RF Jose Tabata
SP Brad Lincoln, Paul Maholm, Zach Duke, Charlie Morton
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Stanley Cup Finals Prediction
Penguins vs Red Wings round two. I really want to say the Pens will overcome last seasons finals loss and hoist the cup, but I just don't think I can say that. Fact i9s the Red wings are better than last season and I don't know for sure if the Penguins are.
What gives the Wings the edge is overall talent one through twenty on the roster. They are better on the blue line and will run four good lines out. So will the Pens though. I like the way that they have been playing of late which will give them a better chance.
1. Sid and Malkin are playing out of their mind
2. I just feel that experiencing the loss last season in the finals that the Pens are more prepared to take down the Wings this time around.
3. Fluery won't take a tumble taking the ice this time around.
4. Malkin won't disappear this time around.
If there was ever a time to win a series, it's now. The Wings are very beat up, Datsyuk won't play game one and just don't have the depth that the Pens do. Lindstrom is also hurt and if he misses anytime, then advantage Pens.
if the Pens stick to the plan, play up-tempo and attack for 60 minutes, then advantage Pens. They have to stay out of the box and capitalize on Power plays.
With all that, the Wings are the better team. The head says take the Wings again in 6.
BUT the best team doesn't always win and I just keep seeing this situation play out. Game 7 in overtime, a Marian Hossa turnover leads to a Crosby series winner. How sweet would it be for Hossa to be on the ice for the game winning goal (I still have a feeling he will score it though).
I'm not a guy that hates Hossa. I respect his decision to leave Pittsburgh and feel if he left to win a cup, he made the right choice, but it would still be sweet to see.
Time for the prediction. As much as the head says take the Wings in 6, the heart says Marc-Andre Fluery becomes a household name and is the reason the Pens will hoist the Cup, so all the wannabe hockey fans can get off his back for good.
My pick is the Penguins in 7.
What gives the Wings the edge is overall talent one through twenty on the roster. They are better on the blue line and will run four good lines out. So will the Pens though. I like the way that they have been playing of late which will give them a better chance.
1. Sid and Malkin are playing out of their mind
2. I just feel that experiencing the loss last season in the finals that the Pens are more prepared to take down the Wings this time around.
3. Fluery won't take a tumble taking the ice this time around.
4. Malkin won't disappear this time around.
If there was ever a time to win a series, it's now. The Wings are very beat up, Datsyuk won't play game one and just don't have the depth that the Pens do. Lindstrom is also hurt and if he misses anytime, then advantage Pens.
if the Pens stick to the plan, play up-tempo and attack for 60 minutes, then advantage Pens. They have to stay out of the box and capitalize on Power plays.
With all that, the Wings are the better team. The head says take the Wings again in 6.
BUT the best team doesn't always win and I just keep seeing this situation play out. Game 7 in overtime, a Marian Hossa turnover leads to a Crosby series winner. How sweet would it be for Hossa to be on the ice for the game winning goal (I still have a feeling he will score it though).
I'm not a guy that hates Hossa. I respect his decision to leave Pittsburgh and feel if he left to win a cup, he made the right choice, but it would still be sweet to see.
Time for the prediction. As much as the head says take the Wings in 6, the heart says Marc-Andre Fluery becomes a household name and is the reason the Pens will hoist the Cup, so all the wannabe hockey fans can get off his back for good.
My pick is the Penguins in 7.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Down on the farm- Bucco's Minor league report
Let's take a look at how some of the Pirates prospects have been doing.
Indianapolis (AAA) (17-19)- Prized prospect Andrew McCutchen has really picked it up the last week. He has been on a tear, once again driving the question, When will we see Cutch in a Bucco uniform? Cutch is hitting .290 with a homer and 13 RBI's to go along with 8 steals 8 doubles and 8 triples. Steve Pearce leads the Indians in HR and RBI, with 6 and 27 and his hitting a respectable .288.
Two others that are considered prospects continue to struggle as Neil Walker is hitting .233 and Shelby Ford is hitting only .193. On the hill, Daniel McCutchen is 2-2 with a 3.90 ERA. The guy that is likely to get the first call if the Bucs need a starter is Virgil Vasquez. he has struggled a bit wit a 2-2 record and a 4.97 era.
Altoona (AA) - Shorstop Brian Friday is tearing up the league hitting over .500, only 2 homers though. Second baseman Jim Negrych is considered to have a big bat, but doesn't have a homer, but is hitting at about a .300 clip. Prized prospect Jose Tabata has been injured but got off to a good start.
On the hill for the curve, Brad Lincoln has been good despite the 0-3 record. His era is at 2.87. Jared Hughes has been even better with a 1-3 record but an era at 1.91. Daniel Moskos has 2 wins but is getting shelled with a 4.95 era/
Lynchburg (A)- Pedro Alvarez has shown power with 7 homers but has lacked plate discipline hitting around .220. Maybe Pedro just needs to hit off Moskos?
West Virginia (A)- First baseman Calvin Anderson has shown some power with 7 homers and 28 RBI's, also hitting .324. Rudy Owens has been the Power's best starter, going 4-1 with a 3.17 era.
Neil Hunnington has been busy this week, continuing to stockpile minor league players. The Bucs claimed right handed reliever Steven Jackson from the Yankees. Jackson is a hard thrower who has had good results in AAA, but hasn't gotten much of a chance at the MLB level. He was originally in the Randy Johnson deal that brought both him and Ross Ohlendorff to the Yanks.
The Bucs acquired another Yankee right hander in starter Eric Hacker, who pitched well in the past, but is off to a slow start this season. They also acquired Boston outfielder Jeff Coraletti and Indians pitcher Randy Newsom. I like the fact that Hunnington is doing this. Keep adding talent to the organization. Is this major league help? Probably not, but take a shot on people and once you might hit the lottery.
The Bucs are also seem to have the inside track on Dominican top prospect Miguel Angel Sano. The price tag is high but if this kid (only 16) is legit like everyone in baseball says. Show him the money. Not only will a top notch talent help the Bucs now, it will go a long way in signing Dominicans in the future. Without the need for a reality show.
That's a Bucco's minor league report. Hopefully some of these guys will have huge seasons and we can see them at PNC Park in the next couple of years
Indianapolis (AAA) (17-19)- Prized prospect Andrew McCutchen has really picked it up the last week. He has been on a tear, once again driving the question, When will we see Cutch in a Bucco uniform? Cutch is hitting .290 with a homer and 13 RBI's to go along with 8 steals 8 doubles and 8 triples. Steve Pearce leads the Indians in HR and RBI, with 6 and 27 and his hitting a respectable .288.
Two others that are considered prospects continue to struggle as Neil Walker is hitting .233 and Shelby Ford is hitting only .193. On the hill, Daniel McCutchen is 2-2 with a 3.90 ERA. The guy that is likely to get the first call if the Bucs need a starter is Virgil Vasquez. he has struggled a bit wit a 2-2 record and a 4.97 era.
Altoona (AA) - Shorstop Brian Friday is tearing up the league hitting over .500, only 2 homers though. Second baseman Jim Negrych is considered to have a big bat, but doesn't have a homer, but is hitting at about a .300 clip. Prized prospect Jose Tabata has been injured but got off to a good start.
On the hill for the curve, Brad Lincoln has been good despite the 0-3 record. His era is at 2.87. Jared Hughes has been even better with a 1-3 record but an era at 1.91. Daniel Moskos has 2 wins but is getting shelled with a 4.95 era/
Lynchburg (A)- Pedro Alvarez has shown power with 7 homers but has lacked plate discipline hitting around .220. Maybe Pedro just needs to hit off Moskos?
West Virginia (A)- First baseman Calvin Anderson has shown some power with 7 homers and 28 RBI's, also hitting .324. Rudy Owens has been the Power's best starter, going 4-1 with a 3.17 era.
Neil Hunnington has been busy this week, continuing to stockpile minor league players. The Bucs claimed right handed reliever Steven Jackson from the Yankees. Jackson is a hard thrower who has had good results in AAA, but hasn't gotten much of a chance at the MLB level. He was originally in the Randy Johnson deal that brought both him and Ross Ohlendorff to the Yanks.
The Bucs acquired another Yankee right hander in starter Eric Hacker, who pitched well in the past, but is off to a slow start this season. They also acquired Boston outfielder Jeff Coraletti and Indians pitcher Randy Newsom. I like the fact that Hunnington is doing this. Keep adding talent to the organization. Is this major league help? Probably not, but take a shot on people and once you might hit the lottery.
The Bucs are also seem to have the inside track on Dominican top prospect Miguel Angel Sano. The price tag is high but if this kid (only 16) is legit like everyone in baseball says. Show him the money. Not only will a top notch talent help the Bucs now, it will go a long way in signing Dominicans in the future. Without the need for a reality show.
That's a Bucco's minor league report. Hopefully some of these guys will have huge seasons and we can see them at PNC Park in the next couple of years
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Bucco Notebook- What's Wrong with Matt Capps?
After dropping 10 of 11 and looking like the Pirates we have expected, the Bucs have rebounded to take two straight series from the Cardinals and Rockies, winning two out of three from both. The two games they dropped last week just showed what glaring weaknesses this team still have.
- What's wrong with Matt Capps? He can't be healthy. His fastball jumped back to the 93-95mph range Saturday vs the Rockies, but in the five outings before that, Capps has only been hitting 88mph on the gun. The more glaring problem for him is that Capps has no control over his pitches at the moment. Matt Capps has made a living with his command, without it he just isn't that good. He is a piece that Neil Hunnington could deal later on, so it would be nice to see Capps regain it, even if that means shutting him down for a bit.
- This is such a light hitting team. A collection of singles hitters. take note in the 5-1 loss vs. the Cardinals, the Bucs had 12 hits- 11 of them singles. They also drew four walks. So out of the 16 base runners, they scored 1 run. They can't play station to station baseball. Sometimes guys need to get big hits.
Now for some positives.
- Brandon Moss has heated up. Maybe since Adam Laroche had a decent April, Moss felt he could tank it, but in the last 7 games, Moss is hitting at a .589 clip, finally hitting his first dinger. Like I said when Andy Laroche was struggling, let him play everyday. I may be among the few that think Moss can be an everyday player, but there is only one way to see what he can do. Play him through his struggles.
-On that note, please quit telling me that Monroe and Hinske should play more in right field. they are bench players and should stay that way. The Bucs actually have a good bench, which is great, but these guys shouldn't get regular playing time over Moss.
- Nyjer Morgan continues to play well, even though he tweaked his hammy. We always say that the lead off hitter needs to get on base. Well he's been doing it. The guys behind him need to start driving him in.
-Looks like May is the new April for Adam Laroche.
- Andy Laroche is starting to look like a decent big leaguer. I would like to see a little more power out of both him and Moss, but Andy is starting to drive in a few runs.
- Delwyn Young has continued to surprise. He has done nothing but hit and it was good to see him get a few starts. I would like to see him in the lineup a little more.
- J.R. has started batting Robinson Diaz 5th in the order. Good move, Diaz can swing the bat a little. Both he and Jaramillo had pretty good weeks with the bat, but did you see Diaz's base running blunder vs. St. Louis. A big play that had an impact on the game.
-The last 6 games, the pitching has been pretty good. The starters have all thrown pretty well, especially Maholm's last outing and the bullpen, other than Capps has bounced back after struggling for 2 weeks. I really like the progress Evan meek and Jessie Chavez have made, especially Meek. I also like that Russell has shown confidence in the two youngsters, using them in more meaningful situations.
-I've also heard a lot of bitching about Russell taking Maholm out. He managed the game right, by today's standards. He got the ball to his closer with a lead. Plus, Maholm isn't overpowering, it's no guarntee that he would have had sucess the fourth time through the order. Get off J.R.'s back, he's doing and ok job with what he has.
-Talk about a team needing a few breaks, the Bucs got them in their 10 run seventh inning against the Rocks on Sunday. What's even more surprising is that they took advantage of them. Hopefully that can get the bats going. it will be very disappointing if they don't beat up on the Nationals puss pitching staff this week.
-Tom Gorzallany was recalled when they put Tyler Yates on the 15 day DL. Don't get excited, a source of mine said he will likely only be up for a few days and is only up because he had a fresh arm and the pen was taxed after Saturday. The same source said Gorzo has no future here because J.R. just doesn't like him or the way he pitches. The only way to get into J.R.'s good graces is to start throwing strikes, something he is still struggling with at Indianapolis.
-Finally MLB Traderumors reported the Bucs and Mariners are talking a Jack Wilson for Yuniesky Betancourt swap. Wilson has a little over 6mil owed to him while Betancourt has about 10mil coming. Wilson is a much better defensive shortstop, but Betancourt can be an exciting player. Both guys probably would do good with a change of scenery. I say if it's true then do it.
Until next week let's go Bucs
- What's wrong with Matt Capps? He can't be healthy. His fastball jumped back to the 93-95mph range Saturday vs the Rockies, but in the five outings before that, Capps has only been hitting 88mph on the gun. The more glaring problem for him is that Capps has no control over his pitches at the moment. Matt Capps has made a living with his command, without it he just isn't that good. He is a piece that Neil Hunnington could deal later on, so it would be nice to see Capps regain it, even if that means shutting him down for a bit.
- This is such a light hitting team. A collection of singles hitters. take note in the 5-1 loss vs. the Cardinals, the Bucs had 12 hits- 11 of them singles. They also drew four walks. So out of the 16 base runners, they scored 1 run. They can't play station to station baseball. Sometimes guys need to get big hits.
Now for some positives.
- Brandon Moss has heated up. Maybe since Adam Laroche had a decent April, Moss felt he could tank it, but in the last 7 games, Moss is hitting at a .589 clip, finally hitting his first dinger. Like I said when Andy Laroche was struggling, let him play everyday. I may be among the few that think Moss can be an everyday player, but there is only one way to see what he can do. Play him through his struggles.
-On that note, please quit telling me that Monroe and Hinske should play more in right field. they are bench players and should stay that way. The Bucs actually have a good bench, which is great, but these guys shouldn't get regular playing time over Moss.
- Nyjer Morgan continues to play well, even though he tweaked his hammy. We always say that the lead off hitter needs to get on base. Well he's been doing it. The guys behind him need to start driving him in.
-Looks like May is the new April for Adam Laroche.
- Andy Laroche is starting to look like a decent big leaguer. I would like to see a little more power out of both him and Moss, but Andy is starting to drive in a few runs.
- Delwyn Young has continued to surprise. He has done nothing but hit and it was good to see him get a few starts. I would like to see him in the lineup a little more.
- J.R. has started batting Robinson Diaz 5th in the order. Good move, Diaz can swing the bat a little. Both he and Jaramillo had pretty good weeks with the bat, but did you see Diaz's base running blunder vs. St. Louis. A big play that had an impact on the game.
-The last 6 games, the pitching has been pretty good. The starters have all thrown pretty well, especially Maholm's last outing and the bullpen, other than Capps has bounced back after struggling for 2 weeks. I really like the progress Evan meek and Jessie Chavez have made, especially Meek. I also like that Russell has shown confidence in the two youngsters, using them in more meaningful situations.
-I've also heard a lot of bitching about Russell taking Maholm out. He managed the game right, by today's standards. He got the ball to his closer with a lead. Plus, Maholm isn't overpowering, it's no guarntee that he would have had sucess the fourth time through the order. Get off J.R.'s back, he's doing and ok job with what he has.
-Talk about a team needing a few breaks, the Bucs got them in their 10 run seventh inning against the Rocks on Sunday. What's even more surprising is that they took advantage of them. Hopefully that can get the bats going. it will be very disappointing if they don't beat up on the Nationals puss pitching staff this week.
-Tom Gorzallany was recalled when they put Tyler Yates on the 15 day DL. Don't get excited, a source of mine said he will likely only be up for a few days and is only up because he had a fresh arm and the pen was taxed after Saturday. The same source said Gorzo has no future here because J.R. just doesn't like him or the way he pitches. The only way to get into J.R.'s good graces is to start throwing strikes, something he is still struggling with at Indianapolis.
-Finally MLB Traderumors reported the Bucs and Mariners are talking a Jack Wilson for Yuniesky Betancourt swap. Wilson has a little over 6mil owed to him while Betancourt has about 10mil coming. Wilson is a much better defensive shortstop, but Betancourt can be an exciting player. Both guys probably would do good with a change of scenery. I say if it's true then do it.
Until next week let's go Bucs
NHL Conference Finals Preview
Here's looking ahead to the conference finals. I nailed all but the Carolina win last round even though I liked them going in. All four teams remaining are the NHL's first 12 franchises.
Eastern Conference
4. Pittsburgh Penguins vs 6. Carolina Hurricanes- This is a very tough one for me to predict. The teams are so similar. Since Feb. 15, only the Canes have had a better record than the Pens. The story line are a plenty as well. Staal vs. Staal, even Bill Cowher, now a Hurricane fan is being talked about.
In net is a spectacular match up. Fluery vs. Ward. First of all, get off Fluery's back. He's the main reason the Pens are playing still today. While Fluery gives the Pens huge saves at huge moments, Cam Ward is the best goaltender in the playoffs right now. Edge to the Canes. Ward has NEVER lost a playoff series. I give the forwards advantage to the Pens. Eric Staal has been amazing for the Canes, but Sidney Crosby is playing like the best player in the world and the Pens just have more talent top to bottom.
Give the Canes the edge on the blue line. Way to many defensive breakdowns for the Guins in the post season. Coaching is a push. Both coaches took over mid season and turned their teams around. the series will be won by the special teams. Huge edge to the Pens. The power play has gotten better and the penalty kill has been very good against two potent power plays in Philadelphia and Washington. The Canes are skilled but just aren't as skilled as the Penguins.
If the Pens play their game, an up tempo one and focus on getting the puck to the net and creating traffic in front of Ward , they should be fine. If not, Cam Ward will win this series. My pick is the Penguins in 6
Western Conference
2. Detroit Red Wings vs 4. Chicago Blackhawks- This could be a very fun series to watch. No team is more fun to watch than the Hawks. They just get after it and play 100mph for 60 minutes. The Hawks can match the Wings tempo and may even set the tempo for the series. The one thing the Hawks won't be able to match is the Wings playoff experience. The Wings in the playoffs are just a different animal to deal with.
Even though both net minders have won the Stanley Cup, Chris Osgood will be the difference. He has been here so many times before. Talk about a guy that never gets the credit he deserves. Osgood is top 10 all time in victories and has hoisted the cup on numerous occasions. The Wings talent and experience will carry them.
My pick is Detroit in 6 and that is very bad news for the Penguins.
Eastern Conference
4. Pittsburgh Penguins vs 6. Carolina Hurricanes- This is a very tough one for me to predict. The teams are so similar. Since Feb. 15, only the Canes have had a better record than the Pens. The story line are a plenty as well. Staal vs. Staal, even Bill Cowher, now a Hurricane fan is being talked about.
In net is a spectacular match up. Fluery vs. Ward. First of all, get off Fluery's back. He's the main reason the Pens are playing still today. While Fluery gives the Pens huge saves at huge moments, Cam Ward is the best goaltender in the playoffs right now. Edge to the Canes. Ward has NEVER lost a playoff series. I give the forwards advantage to the Pens. Eric Staal has been amazing for the Canes, but Sidney Crosby is playing like the best player in the world and the Pens just have more talent top to bottom.
Give the Canes the edge on the blue line. Way to many defensive breakdowns for the Guins in the post season. Coaching is a push. Both coaches took over mid season and turned their teams around. the series will be won by the special teams. Huge edge to the Pens. The power play has gotten better and the penalty kill has been very good against two potent power plays in Philadelphia and Washington. The Canes are skilled but just aren't as skilled as the Penguins.
If the Pens play their game, an up tempo one and focus on getting the puck to the net and creating traffic in front of Ward , they should be fine. If not, Cam Ward will win this series. My pick is the Penguins in 6
Western Conference
2. Detroit Red Wings vs 4. Chicago Blackhawks- This could be a very fun series to watch. No team is more fun to watch than the Hawks. They just get after it and play 100mph for 60 minutes. The Hawks can match the Wings tempo and may even set the tempo for the series. The one thing the Hawks won't be able to match is the Wings playoff experience. The Wings in the playoffs are just a different animal to deal with.
Even though both net minders have won the Stanley Cup, Chris Osgood will be the difference. He has been here so many times before. Talk about a guy that never gets the credit he deserves. Osgood is top 10 all time in victories and has hoisted the cup on numerous occasions. The Wings talent and experience will carry them.
My pick is Detroit in 6 and that is very bad news for the Penguins.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Round 2 Thoughts- Evegeni Malkin Needs To Step Up
I can't count how many times I hear it during the playoffs, but the phrase "Your best Players have to be your best players" always seems to be true. Along with the Pens 2-0 hole, the team has to wonder if Evgeni Malkin will play like the elite player he is for the remainder of the playoffs. We have seen this disappearing act before, remember this time last season when Penguin Nation had nothing good to say about it's Russian superstar. Right on cue, it's happening again, like a little case of deja-vu.
Does Malkin need to step it up? Of course. That's the obvious. The team has other glaring weaknesses at the moment, so don't pile up on Geno just yet. He has 11 points in 8 playoff games so far, but my criticism of Malkin comes at the other end of the ice. He is a minus 3 right now and has not put forth the effort at the defensive end. Three times this series alone, he has been caught napping while his man went by him and crashed the net. All three instances resulted in goals. When Malkin dedicates himself at both ends of the ice, he is an unstoppable freight train. When he doesn't, he often just looks like a by standard just waiting for a breakout. This isn't hammering Malkin as much as it is the entire team. Fluery can't do it by himself. Things have to tighten up in their own end.
Another man who has come under a lot of heat after last night's game has been Sergei Gonchar. Something was wrong with him the last two games. He seemed to have no legs at all. I don't know if the heavy workload has caught up to him, but he is another that needs to up his game. Especially since Kris Letang, who I felt skated very well last night, looks to be lost for the series.
The powerplay scored twice last night, but in the end it was that same powerplay that cost them. With the score tied at 2, the Pens had a golden opportunity to take the lead, but a 2 minute powerplay in which they couldn't even maintain the offensive zone, much less get shots on goal changed the momentum. Malkin's penalty didn't help matter out either.
With everything to complain about, the Pens have a chance to take care of business at home and get right back in the series. They can start by crashing the net at every opportunity. Having the last change will help on Ovechkin as well. I have faith that they will. For that to happen though, Evgeni Malkin needs to become that freight train again and the Pens will be fine.
Does Malkin need to step it up? Of course. That's the obvious. The team has other glaring weaknesses at the moment, so don't pile up on Geno just yet. He has 11 points in 8 playoff games so far, but my criticism of Malkin comes at the other end of the ice. He is a minus 3 right now and has not put forth the effort at the defensive end. Three times this series alone, he has been caught napping while his man went by him and crashed the net. All three instances resulted in goals. When Malkin dedicates himself at both ends of the ice, he is an unstoppable freight train. When he doesn't, he often just looks like a by standard just waiting for a breakout. This isn't hammering Malkin as much as it is the entire team. Fluery can't do it by himself. Things have to tighten up in their own end.
Another man who has come under a lot of heat after last night's game has been Sergei Gonchar. Something was wrong with him the last two games. He seemed to have no legs at all. I don't know if the heavy workload has caught up to him, but he is another that needs to up his game. Especially since Kris Letang, who I felt skated very well last night, looks to be lost for the series.
The powerplay scored twice last night, but in the end it was that same powerplay that cost them. With the score tied at 2, the Pens had a golden opportunity to take the lead, but a 2 minute powerplay in which they couldn't even maintain the offensive zone, much less get shots on goal changed the momentum. Malkin's penalty didn't help matter out either.
With everything to complain about, the Pens have a chance to take care of business at home and get right back in the series. They can start by crashing the net at every opportunity. Having the last change will help on Ovechkin as well. I have faith that they will. For that to happen though, Evgeni Malkin needs to become that freight train again and the Pens will be fine.
Monday, May 4, 2009
Today's Notebook- A-Rod Book Not Worth Buying
A little time on my hands so here are some thoughts for today
- Did you see the book on Ster-Rod, I mean A-Roid, I mean A-Rod has come out early. Right on time with his return. Don't buy the book. It says that A-Rod lied during his interview with Peter Gammons. (Like we needed a book to know that). It says A-Rod used steroids back in high school as well and also he continued using with the Yanks. My thoughts are Who Cares? I'm tired of the steroid stories already. Keep him out of the Hall of Fame and that is the ultimate punishment. If you are gonna keep Bonds out, no way A-Rod can get in.
- The one thing that bothers me though about the book is the allegations of pitch tipping. This bothers me a lot. In essence that is the equivalent to point shaving. Ask any baseball player if they would rather have the unfair advantage of steroids or know every pitch coming. Every single hitter would choose knowing the pitch. Do I believe the allegations? Hell, Why not? Especially with A-Rod being the most fragile superstar of all-time.
- It seems like everyone forgot about the other 103 names on that failed drug test. I really wanted to see them, but would that mean 103 more books? I don't need to know that bad, but it would sure be nice.
- I hope you got to catch some of the Bulls-Celtics series. I don't devote much space to the NBA, but this series is worth mentioning. A great 7 game series that had it all. I really enjoyed watching Ben Gordon and Ray Allen, 2 of my favorite players, go at it. I can only imagine what the pickup games are like when the alumni visit U Conn.
- The Bucs are now sitting at .500 after dropping 5 of 6 to the Brewers and Reds. Lack of hitting the whole week caught up to them and the bullpen let them down on a couple occasions. Like I said before, this trend will continue all year. Good pitching will beat this team all year. Not being able to beat the Brewers in over two years is very disturbing though.
- Another case of you don't know what you have til it's gone with Jack Wilson. I have never been the biggest Wilson supporter, but Brian Bixler looks over matched in the big leagues. The same Bixler that tears it up in spring training and in AAA, just can't put the bat on the ball in the big leagues. After a very nice debut in which he had a two run double, Bixler has looked lost at the plate ever since. At least he hasn't taken his struggles into the field with him this season. Until he can hit MLB pitching, he looks to be a Mr. March candidate.
- Mark Eaton has 3 post season goals, which is more than everyone on the team not named Crosby or Malkin. It's great for Eaton. The team needs scoring from the blue line. It's bad for the Pens though. If they don't start getting scoring from their wingers, then the Pens will be on the wrong end of a short series.
- Finally, let's discuss the Pens power play. Ha, What power play? I don't want to make myself angry by thinking about it. The Pens are 4 for 37 with the man advantage in the playoffs. Remember 3 of those gaols came in the first two games. Gotta get it fixed.
- Almost forgot to hand out my player of the month awards. National League honors go to Albert Puljos and the Pitcher of the month goes to Chad Billingsly, who has had a fantastic 5-0 start to the season. In the American League, Carlos Pena's 11 HR gives him the nod and Zack Grienke has been the most dominant pitcher in the game so far, so he gets the award.
- Did you see the book on Ster-Rod, I mean A-Roid, I mean A-Rod has come out early. Right on time with his return. Don't buy the book. It says that A-Rod lied during his interview with Peter Gammons. (Like we needed a book to know that). It says A-Rod used steroids back in high school as well and also he continued using with the Yanks. My thoughts are Who Cares? I'm tired of the steroid stories already. Keep him out of the Hall of Fame and that is the ultimate punishment. If you are gonna keep Bonds out, no way A-Rod can get in.
- The one thing that bothers me though about the book is the allegations of pitch tipping. This bothers me a lot. In essence that is the equivalent to point shaving. Ask any baseball player if they would rather have the unfair advantage of steroids or know every pitch coming. Every single hitter would choose knowing the pitch. Do I believe the allegations? Hell, Why not? Especially with A-Rod being the most fragile superstar of all-time.
- It seems like everyone forgot about the other 103 names on that failed drug test. I really wanted to see them, but would that mean 103 more books? I don't need to know that bad, but it would sure be nice.
- I hope you got to catch some of the Bulls-Celtics series. I don't devote much space to the NBA, but this series is worth mentioning. A great 7 game series that had it all. I really enjoyed watching Ben Gordon and Ray Allen, 2 of my favorite players, go at it. I can only imagine what the pickup games are like when the alumni visit U Conn.
- The Bucs are now sitting at .500 after dropping 5 of 6 to the Brewers and Reds. Lack of hitting the whole week caught up to them and the bullpen let them down on a couple occasions. Like I said before, this trend will continue all year. Good pitching will beat this team all year. Not being able to beat the Brewers in over two years is very disturbing though.
- Another case of you don't know what you have til it's gone with Jack Wilson. I have never been the biggest Wilson supporter, but Brian Bixler looks over matched in the big leagues. The same Bixler that tears it up in spring training and in AAA, just can't put the bat on the ball in the big leagues. After a very nice debut in which he had a two run double, Bixler has looked lost at the plate ever since. At least he hasn't taken his struggles into the field with him this season. Until he can hit MLB pitching, he looks to be a Mr. March candidate.
- Mark Eaton has 3 post season goals, which is more than everyone on the team not named Crosby or Malkin. It's great for Eaton. The team needs scoring from the blue line. It's bad for the Pens though. If they don't start getting scoring from their wingers, then the Pens will be on the wrong end of a short series.
- Finally, let's discuss the Pens power play. Ha, What power play? I don't want to make myself angry by thinking about it. The Pens are 4 for 37 with the man advantage in the playoffs. Remember 3 of those gaols came in the first two games. Gotta get it fixed.
- Almost forgot to hand out my player of the month awards. National League honors go to Albert Puljos and the Pitcher of the month goes to Chad Billingsly, who has had a fantastic 5-0 start to the season. In the American League, Carlos Pena's 11 HR gives him the nod and Zack Grienke has been the most dominant pitcher in the game so far, so he gets the award.
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