Newsline

Welcome to the Season 17 of the USMLB.

Friday, May 30, 2008

USMLB Manager of the Year - Semifinals

The first round of voting for the USMLB Manager of the year is in the books, and the following teams/managers have made it to the semi-finals:

Anaheim Beefpound - beefpac
Texas Talley Whackers - awilley14
New York Highlanders - yanksrule11
Atlanta Brave Vawts - vawt
Tacoma Pioneers - tomjames
Colorado Sky Sox - knucklebones
New Britain Fisher Cats - jway11
Detroit Demolition - yanks0218

The manager write-ups for these managers are accumulated below. The team records and other changes over the past week have been updated. Semi-final voting will select the final four from among these managers.


ANAHEIM BEEFPOUND – beefpac
Team records
ML: 82-58
AAA: 79-61
AA: 73-67
HiA: 74-66
LowA: 64-76
Rookie: 20-54

GRADES

ML team: A- Anaheim should win the AL West. They are a team bound for the playoffs, and will fight for a first round bye. Veteran closer Hank Epstein continues to blow hitters away, and is tied for the AL lead with 38 saves.
Minors: B The minor league teams for Anaheim are having solid years. Their AAA team is a lock for playoffs, while solid teams at LowA, HiA, and AA are in position to make runs at postseason berths.
Draft: C-
DRAFT GRADE REVIEW
Trades: A Anaheim was one of the more active traders this season, and came out on the positive end of many moves. Young SP Herbert Brandt is a huge acquisition for Anaheim, and is the current E.R.A. leader in the A.L. Anaheim also hit the jackpot bringing in SP Gil Ventura. SS Juan Amaro, RP Carson Shaw, and RP Lyle Myatt are very nice additions. Anaheim will miss DH Kenneth Bryant, 1B Erubiel Sanchez, SP Bernie Castillo, and 3B AJ West.
Player acquisitions: B RP Darryl Schmidt is a solid pick up for the Beefpound in the Rule 5 draft. Free agent signee Francisco Manto is having a great season. Signee Harold Morton is having a disappointing season, but comes off the books after this year. Anaheim also nabbed international free agent SP John Wang. Wang looks to have great splits and average pitches.
Player development: C+ The Anaheim franchise is loaded with young talent. While slumping a bit this season, RF/1B Vin Cordero is a future superstar. Similarly, SP Miguel Martinez has yet to live up to his potential, but huge things are expected for the hurler. Young SS Junior Lui is having a very solid season, and big things are expected ahead. At 12-1, SP Delino Maduro is a Cy Young candidate this year, and Beefpound fans hope this season will be the start of a long successful career.
Record compared to talent: B+ Anaheim has one of the most talented teams in the majors, and along with it, has one of the top records in the game as well. The biggest challenge for Anaheim in the future will be making wise economic decisions with their young talent in arbitration and free agency.
Coach hot seat ranking: Green


TEXAS TALLY WHACKERS – awilley14

Team records
ML: 88-52
AAA: 77-63
AA: 82-58
HiA: 64-76
LowA: 77-63
Rookie: 38-36

GRADES

ML team: A Texas is battling it out with Atlanta and Colorado for the top record in the Majors.
Minors: B+ The minor league teams for the Tally Whackers are having respectable campaigns. The best of the group is the AA team, which looks to go deep in the playoffs.
Draft: D
DRAFT GRADE REVIEW
Trades: B- Texas got solid RP Ernie Torres in their only trade of the season.
Player acquisitions: B+ International free agent Jimmie Navarre is a solid pick up and projects to be a future everyday RF. 30 year old free-agent LF Grant Barker has been an excellent catalyst for Texas for this season. Free agent SP Yamil Guzman was one of the biggest signings in the offseason and Guzman has delivered for Texas with 13 victories.
Player development: B Already in his 3rd year in the big leagues at 21, OF Glenn Matheson is becoming one of the best pure hitters in baseball. After a .389 batting average and an injury last season, 2B Tim Rooney was the subject of a lot of talk this offseason. Rooney has responded with a solid, but unspectacular campaign. Texas fans anticipate bigger things ahead for Rooney. Texas fans look for great things from SS Henry Anderson, who made his ML debut this season.
Record compared to talent: B+ With a $90.9 million payroll, Texas is having an outstanding season. Everyone expected the Tally Whackers to be the class of the AL South, but few expected them to battle for the best record in baseball.
Coach hot seat ranking: Green


NEW YORK HIGHLANDERS – yanksrule11

Team records
ML: 83-57
AAA: 76-64
AA: 64-76
HiA: 61-79
LowA: 76-64
Rookie: 36-38

GRADES

ML team: A- The Highlanders find themselves as one of the best teams in the AL, but looking up at Atlanta in the standings. Still, they should make the playoffs with ease. Veteran 1B Luis Nunez is having an MVP caliber season, and continues to be one of the best sluggers in the game. Along with Nunez, 2B Bobby Henry helps to form one of the top hitting tandems in the game. RP Ryan Figueroa is one of the best setup men in the game.
Minors: C- New York’s minor league teams are average. The AAA team is the best of the bunch and leads the East in the playoff race. Aside from HiA, teams at other levels have some work to do if they want to make the postseason. The HiA team is out of the race.
Draft: A- DRAFT GRADE REVIEW
Trades: C+ The Highlanders just acquired SS Cy Ryan for a couple of prospects. If Ryan can help NY go deep in the playoffs, this will be a good move. If not, the $29 million over 4 years is a gamble for someone that to this point has been solid but unspectacular.
Player acquisitions: B+ While they haven’t been active, NY did sign one of the top international free agents this year. Signee Jorge Rojas projects as a future all-star slugger in RF.
Player development: B 25 year old SP Tracy Bowie is building upon the start he had last season, and is among the top pitchers in the AL this season. After starring in AAA for more than 2 years, SP Mark Kwon has made it into the big league rotation. Fans are excited about his potential. AAA closer Donne McClellan continues to dominate minor league hitting, and is poised to make his ML debut soon.
Record compared to talent: A- With a $78.1 million payroll and a mix of talented players, the Highlanders have exceeded expectations this season. Nunez and Henry are carrying the team on their back, and fans are excited about the team’s chances in the playoffs.
Coach hot seat ranking: Green


ATLANTA BRAVE VAWTS – vawt

Team records
ML: 86-54
AAA: 58-82
AA: 68-72
HiA: 72-68
LowA: 77-63
Rookie: 38-36

GRADES

ML team: A Atlanta’s success is led by great pitching, and veteran SP’s Ray Jackson and Larry Rath are having great seasons. At the plate, budding superstar Frank Surtain gets most of the attention in Atlanta, but veteran RF Nick Collins has quietly put up what may be his best season yet. Collins is among the league leaders in AVG, OBP, and OPS.
Minors: C Atlanta’s minor league system matches that of a team trying to win it all this season. The best players have made it to the big league club, while younger guys are developing at lower minor league levels. They are in the running for a playoff spot at most levels.
Draft: A
DRAFT GRADE REVIEW
Trades: B+ Atlanta made a great trade to bring in veteran SP Howard King and add depth to an already solid pitching staff.
Player acquisitions: D+ No significant acquisitions this season
Player development: A- After a successful rookie season last year, 23 year old 3B Frank Surtain has improved this season and lays claim to being one of the top young hitters in the game. Atlanta fans have been expecting great things from 25 year old SP Andruw Dunston. While Dunston is having a solid season and could reach a new career high in wins, Brave Vawt fans still wait for him to put together an all star campaign. On the mound, Phil Nitkowski is one of the best young hurlers in the game and is just dominating hitters this season.
Record compared to talent: B+ With a $90.1 million payroll and a lot of talent at the ML level, Atlanta is right where many expected this season – leading their division and battling for the best record in the league.
Coach hot seat ranking: Green


TACOMA PIONEERS – tomjames

Team records
ML: 70-70
AAA: 78-62
AA: 82-58
HiA: 93-47
LowA: 72-68
Rookie: 30-44

GRADES

ML team: B- The Pioneers are on the outside looking in for a playoff berth. Still, fans are happy with new management this season and a significant increase in wins.
Minors: A- Outside of a poor showing in the Rookie team, the Tacoma minor league teams are having excellent seasons. They are in the running for a playoff spot at every other level. The HiA team has been particularly good this season, and looks to make a deep run in the playoffs.
Draft: B-
DRAFT GRADE REVIEW
Trades: B Tacoma has been one of the more active traders this season, seeing lots of players move in 9 different deals. Most of the deals have involved moving veterans for prospects, and a whole lot of money has come off the books. RP Lonnie Rizzo is the best addition to the club, and projects as a top closer.
Player acquisitions: A- Peter Baek is all smiles this season after going from the pitching wasteland in Santa Fe to the huge park in Tacoma. Baek was the top free agent off the board this offseason, and has delivered for Tacoma with excellent numbers this season. With a strong finish, he’ll be in the running for the Cy Young. Veteran closer Nicholas Fox was signed in the offseason, and has come out of nowhere to rank among the lead leaders in saves. International signee C/DH Miguel Marquez is a nice addition and projects to be a very good offensive catcher.
Player development: B+ CF Ray Hines has seen the ML club in parts of three seasons, and with his recent promotion, hopes he is up to stay. Hines tore up AAA pitching, and is off to a good start in the majors so far. While Baek got most of the attention in the off-season, young hurler Tommie Relaford has actually been the best starter for Tacoma this season, and he will be in the Cy Young race with a good finish. 25 year old SP Peter Webster has been a tough luck pitcher all season. Webster has posted a losing record, despite good peripheral numbers and great stuff. Tacoma fans expect Webster to be one of the top pitchers in their rotation for years to come. 3B Brook Diaz is having an excellent year in his first full season in the majors. 1B Victor Cruz has tormented pitchers his entire career in the minors. Fans are excited about his recent promotion to the ML club, and expect him to be in the middle of the order for a long time.
Record compared to talent: B Tomjames has been delivering all year in his first season for Tacoma, and has turned over the roster to young talented players. The future is bright for the Pioneers. Oh, and his work on the blog is pretty impressive as well.
Coach hot seat ranking: Green


COLORADO SKY SOX – knucklebones

Team records
ML: 91-49 (top record in the league)
AAA: 59-58
AA: 55-62
HiA: 43-74
LowA: 39-78
Rookie: 32-21

GRADES

ML team: A Colorado is fighting with Atlanta and Texas for the top record in the ML. Veterans RF Earl Williams, 3B Vicente Domino, LF Tony Armas, and SS Gus Wilkins are all having monster seasons at the plate. Several of these guys will be in the running for the MVP. When you post an E.R.A. below 4.00 in Colorado, you’re doing something special. That’s exactly what SP Gil Henson is doing this season for the Sky Sox. While he may not have the numbers for the hardware at the end of the season, Henson is having a Cy Young type season in Colorado.
Minors: D+ Colorado’s rookie team is the best of the bunch, and should make the playoffs with ease. AAA and AA clubs are having average seasons, and teams at HiA and LowA are among the worst teams at those levels.
Draft: A-
DRAFT GRADE REVIEW
Trades: B+ Colorado has made several trades to help their team this season. C Ricardo Ramirez was off to an incredible start until he got injured. 2B Odalis Montanez was a huge addition and is having an excellent season all-around. SS Rickey Mitchell and C Davey Calvo will be missed.
Player acquisitions: Free agent C Max Ransom was signed to a small deal. In limited action, Ransom has performed admirably.
Player development: C- In his sophomore campaign, C Frank Cooper is having a huge season at the plate, and fans are excited about his potential. RF Manny Vanguri is having a solid rookie season.
Record compared to talent: A Ownership made a great decision to move the franchise to Colorado this season. With a veteran group of great hitters, the team is taking full advantage of the Rocky Mountain air. Colorado is among the most talented teams in the league this season. With their $84 million payroll, and $15 million invested in coaches, fans expected a good season and the team is delivering. Colorado can make a run in the playoffs if the pitching can hold up at all.
Coach hot seat ranking: Green


NEW BRITAIN FISHER CATS – jway11

Team records
ML: 75-65
AAA: 89-51
AA: 95-45 (top record in AA)
HiA: 66-74
LowA: 88-52
Rookie: 45-29

GRADES

ML team: B- Even with a solid record, New Britain finds themselves looking up at Detroit and Fargo in the NL North. Veteran 1B Hoss Boone is putting together another solid season. With Boone and Erik West in the lineup, the Fisher Cats are a threat to put up big offensive numbers every game. Veteran Closer Cameron Holt has a career high in saves this season.
Minors: A- Throughout the minors, the Fisher Cats have solid teams. Aside from an average club in HiA, their minor league teams should make the playoffs at every level. The Richmond AA team is particularly impressive, with the best record in the league.
Draft: A-
DRAFT GRADE REVIEW
Trades: D+ None
Player acquisitions: C New Britain signed a handful of free agents this season, but none look to be difference makers. Rule 5 SP’s Ricardo De La Vega and Carmen Leiter are having a solid season for the Fisher Cats, and are solid pick-ups.
Player development: B+ For New Britain, it all begins with C/DH Erik West. West is having an MVP-type season, and is among the league leaders in HR’s and RBI’s in only his third season. The future is bright for West and fans expect him to be a force in the middle of the lineup for a long time. RF Kevin Montgomery provides help to West in the lineup, as he is on pace to exceed 100 RBI’s for the 3rd straight season. In his second full season in the ML, SP Horacia Segui is coming into his own and is having a great season. Fisher Cat fans are excited about what he will bring to the rotation in the future.
Record compared to talent: A- With a payroll among the lowest in the league, New Britain is having an outstanding season at the ML level. They also have a good amount of talent developing in the minor leagues. The future is bright in New Britain.
Coach hot seat ranking: Green

DETROIT DEMOLITION – yanks0218

Team records
ML: 84-56
AAA: 66-74
AA: 78-62
HiA: 77-63
LowA: 78-62
Rookie: 47-27

GRADES

ML team: A- Detroit is among the top teams in the game this season. Veteran SP Luis Encarnacion is having another solid campaign in the Detroit rotation. Closer Roger Newfield leads the league in saves, and is having a great season for the Demolition.
Minors: A- Detroit’s minor league teams are solid throughout. With the exception of the AAA level team, every level is a lock for the playoffs and has a chance to advance.
Draft: B
DRAFT GRADE REVIEW
Trades: B-
The Demolition have completed 7 different trades this season. Matt Corey has been a huge addition for Detroit. Corey is hitting .400 so far in his time in the Motor City, and looks to be in the middle of the order for a long time. SP prospect Dickie Wells is a great addition, and figures into future plans in the rotation. RP prospect Domingo Estrella should become a nice piece in the bullpen. Detroit will miss CF Heath Fitzgerald, SP Mitch Epstein, and 3B Rex Ross.
Player acquisitions: C+
Free agent SS Vinny Menechino has been a solid performer for the Demolition so far. SP Gerald Wallace got a 4 year deal with Detroit, and has had a very solid season.
Player development: A-
After two good seasons, young SP Raymond Pavlov has put it all together this season and is among the league leaders in wins, WHIP and ERA. He is the odds on favorite to win the Cy Young award in the NL and should be a dominant pitcher in Detroit for a long time. After an injury last season, 24 year old Cookie Valdes has stayed healthy this season and is putting together an incredible year. Valdes is among the league leaders in batting average.
Record compared to talent: B+
Led by young SP Raymond Pavlov, the Demolition are among the best teams in the league this season. With a $91.2 payroll, fans are happy to see their team headed for the playoffs. They have a solid mix of veterans and youngsters at the ML level. Detroit has a lot of young talent, and should be a force in the NL for many years to come.
Coach hot seat ranking: Green

Wednesday, May 28, 2008

USMLB WEEKLY

Welcome to the sixth edition of the USMLB Weekly as there have been a lot of things going on with the league for the last week. The trade deadline has gone with very little activity at the end and the playoff pictures are looking more and more formed down the stretch.

Starting next week I will start doing profiles on the MVP candidate and the Cy Young candidate. If you would like me to do ones for the Rookie of the Year and the Fireman of the Year please let me know and I can do that.

AL MVP Award Candidates

Luis Nunez Highlanders
Bobby Henry Highlanders
Nick Collins Brave Vawts
Glenn Matheson Talley Whackers
Eric Sisk Sidewinders

NL MVP Award Candidates

Frank Jacobsen GaToRs
Erik West Fisher Cats
Earl Williams Sky Sox
Vicente Domingo Sky Sox
Nick Ball Woodchippers

AL Cy Young Award Candidates

Phil Nitkowski Brave Vawts
Tracy Bowie Highlanders
Larry Rath Brave Vawts
Tito Ramirez SaberCats
Hank Epstein Beefpound

NL Cy Young Award Candidates

Raymond Pavlov Demolition
Gil Henson Sky Sox
Bey Dillon BlaZers
Vernon Bolton Melders
Brendan Cora Woodchippers

AL Rookie of the Year Award Candidates

Phil Shigetoshi Beet Farmer's
Herbert Brandt Beefpound
Lewis Shouse Featherwound
Dave James Lasers
Henry Anderson Talley Whackers

NL Rookie of the Year Award Candidates

David Cota Cornerstone
Ronn Hoyt Cornerstone
A.J. Balfour Woodchippers
Jesus Mendoza Fisher Cats
Jorel Seo Woodchippers

AL Fireman of the Year Award Candidates

Hank Epstein Beefpound
William Hanson Dirt Bags
Louie Gibson Featherwound
Larry Ellenwood Lasers
Boots Gaetti Kings of Kumbia

NL Fireman of the Year Award Candidates

Roger Newfield Demolition
Nicholas Fox Pioneers
Ed Jefferson Cornerstone
Vernon Bolton Melders
Kane Hines BlaZers

AL Silver Slugger Award Candidates

DH Adrian Duncan Featherwound
C Guy Williams Sidewinders
1B Luis Nunez Highlanders
2B Bobby Henry Highlanders
3B Jose Espinoza SaberCats
SS Rich Hale Barons
LF Rob Cooper Barons
CF Richard Evans Talley Whackers
RF Nick Collins Brave Vawts

NL Silver Slugger Award Candidates

P Keith Donovan Zone
C Erik West Fisher Cats
1B Cookie Valdes Demolition
2B Chief Martin Stars
3B Vicente Domingo Sky Sox
SS Darby Thomas GaToRs
LF Frank Jacobsen GaToRs
CF Nicholas Herndon Fisher Cats
RF Earl Williams Sky Sox

AL Gold Glove Award Candidates

P Ray Jackson Brave Vawts
C Donte Cashman Crawdaddies
1B Alvin Silva Talley Whackers
2B Michael Long Xpress
3B Chris Juden Featherwound
SS Eddie Erstad Beet Farmer's
LF Marc Rivera Beet Farmer's
CF Bum Clarkson Beefpound
RF Glenn Matheson Talley Whackers

NL Gold Glove Award Candidates

P Rafael Machado Fisher Cats
C Ricky Gibbons Woodchippers
1B Tony Lanier Cornerstone
2B Claude Marshall Bulls
3B P.T. Martinez Bulls
SS Kennie Sexson Fisher Cats
LF Clem Barkley Demolition
CF Haywood Matthews Zone
RF A.J. Balfour Woodchippers


Useless information:

Luis Nunez will need 123 more at bats to break his own homerun record of 73 homeruns in a season. At Nunez current pace of .750 slugging percentage will fall well short of his own record of .793 slugging percentage.

Michael Long has a good chance of having 162 stolen bases by the end of the season.

Vicente Domingo at his current pace will finish with 244 hits breaking the record of 225 held by Darren Higginson.

Khoury Glass current pace of 4.73 at bats per game, Glass will finish the season with 714 at bats breaking Tony Roberts record of 686. At Glass’s current pace of a 1.16 runs per game he will finish the season with 175 runs scored breaking the record of 172 held be Ed Houston.

If Tony Armas plays every game the rest of the season he will need to hit .431 to break Darren Higginson record of .384 batting average in a single season.

Earl Williams at his current pace will break the record of Darren Higgenson .487 on base percentage with his .491 on base percentage. Williams could end the season with 139 walks breaking the record of 130 held by Freddie Adcock.

Luis Johnson will need 53 more hits to break the doubles record of 58 held by Freddie Adcock.

Erik West at his current pace of 1.21 RBI’s per game will finish the season with 196 RBI’s falling short of the record held by Ed Houston at 207 RBI’s.

Raymond Pavlov at his current pace will have to win every start to have a shot of breaking record for victories of 21 held by Louis Kolb.

Roger Newfield at his current pace can finish the season with 51 saves breaking the record of 49 which is held by Christopher Newhan and Ed Jefferson.

William Woo at his current pace of 7.17 innings per start will finish the season with 251 innings pitch falling just short of the record of 255 innings pitched held by Ned Frazier.

Bey Dillion will fall short of his own record of 30 quality starts this season.

Jim Boyd is tied with Willie Hernandez with 20 loses which is the most losses in a season and with one more start should break the record with 21 loses.

Tito Stone current pace of 5.37 walks per game will allow him to finish the season at 177 walks well short of the record of 204 held by Ray Jones.

Peter Baek will need to improve his pace of 6.24 strikeouts per game as he will probably finish the season with 218 strikeouts short of the record of 224 held by Wilson Fisher.

Raymond Pavlov current ERA of 2.39 is well behind the record of 1.91 held by Bey Dillon.

Tom Moss at his current pace will end up with 92 game pitched falling short of the record of 107 held by Charlie Hill.

Buzz Jones will need to improve of his 9.06 strikeouts per 9 innings to break the record of 9.28 strikeouts per 9 innings held by Gil Lefebvre.

Mark Barkett has a WHIP of 1.07 will need to improve down the stretch to break the record of 1.04 held by Jim Buckley.

Raymond Pavlov has a WHIP of 1.07 will need to improve down the stretch to break the record of 1.04 held by Jim Buckley.


The push for the playoffs are making every game important for every team.

Magic Number to be eliminated or to make the playoffs (from this mornings games)

Colorado Sky Sox – 8 games from making the playoffs

Texas Talley Whackers – 11 games from making the playoffs

Anaheim Beefpound – 15 games from making the playoffs

Atlanta Brave Vawts – 15 games from making the playoffs

New York Highlanders – 18 games from making the playoffs

Fargo Woodchippers – 20 games from making the playoffs

Detroit Demolition – 20 games from making the playoffs

Jackson BlaZers – 23 games from making the playoffs

Kansas City Dirt Bags – 23 games from making the playoffs

St. Louis Cornerstone – 26 games from making the playoffs

Durham Bulls – 27 games from making the playoffs

Madison Lasers – 27 games from making the playoffs

Ottawa Crawdaddies – 27 games from being eliminated from the playoffs

New Britain Fisher Cats – 27 games from being eliminated from the playoffs

Florida GaToRs – 26 games from being eliminated from the playoffs

Milwaukee Melders – 26 games from being eliminated from the playoffs

Louisville Colonels – 26 games from being eliminated from the playoffs

Tacoma Pioneers – 22 games from being eliminated from the playoffs

Santa Fe Sidewinders – 21 games from being eliminated from the playoffs

San Antonio Stars – 21 games from being eliminated from the playoffs

San Jose SaberCats – 19 games from being eliminated from the playoffs

Cheyenne Featherwound – 18 games from being eliminated from the playoffs

Scranton Beet Farmer's – 15 games from being eliminated from the playoffs

Las Vegas Zone - 15 games from being eliminated from the playoffs

Cleveland Barons – 13 games from being eliminated from the playoffs

Richmond Wrecking Crew – 13 games from being eliminated from the playoffs

Tucson Xpress – 12 games from being eliminated from the playoffs

Toledo Tornados – 10 games from being eliminated from the playoffs

Houston Kings of Kumbia – 9 games from being eliminated from the playoffs

Chicago Legionaires - 7 games from being eliminated from the playoffs

San Diego Friar Power – 7 games from being eliminated from the playoffs

Iowa City Raiders – Been eliminated from the playoffs

Will’s Opinion:
I hope that everyone participates in picking the coach of the year which will add a lot of creditability to this league making even more of a hot league to join when this season is over. I’m still looking for ideas about the logo for the beet farmer’s logo as I just can’t find anything that is even close to being a beet farmer or a farmer for that matter. I’m still working on making the blog better and adding things that will have more information about are league and teams. At the end of the year I will be adding spreadsheets links on the stats of this season so that we don’t lose that information since WIS seems to get rid of previous year’s stats when the world turns over. If you have any suggestions on what you might like to see on the blog or what you don’t like please let me know as I would like to improve so that everyone will enjoy it.

Tuesday, May 27, 2008

USMLB ROOKIE PITCHER OF THE WEEK


Benjamin Connelly of the Santa Fe Sidewinders is the USMLB Rookie Pitcher of the Week for the week of 5/20/08-5/27/08 since William Woo got the Pitcher of the Week. Connelly had a record of 3-1 during the week in 4 games. He gave up only 5 runs in 23.1 IP for an ERA of 1.95. He had 21 strikeouts against only 5 walks as he only gave up 23 hits and had a WHIP of 1.21.

USMLB ROOKIE PLAYER OF THE WEEK


Henry Anderson of the Texas Talley Whackers the USMLB Rookie Player of the Week for the week 5/20/08-5/27/08. He had 26 hits in 81 at bats for an average of .321. He also hit 6 homeruns, had 19 RBI's and 16 runs scored. He also had a OBP of .396 and OPS of 1.025, 5 doubles and 1 triple.

USMLB RELIEVER OF THE WEEK


Vernon Bolton of the Milwaukee Melders is the Reliever of the Week for the week of 5/20/08-5/27/08. Bolton had a 7 saves in 7 chances. He gave up 0 runs in 8 IP for an ERA of 0.00. He also gave up only 2 hits and had 9 strikeouts against 2 walks and a WHIP of 0.50.

USMLB PITCHER OF THE WEEK


William Woo of the Durham Bulls is the Pitcher of the Week for the week of 5/20/08-5/27/08. Woo had a record of 3-0 during the week in 4 games started. He gave up only 7 runs in 33.2 IP for an ERA of 1.90. He had 29 strikeouts against only 4 walks and a WHIP of 0.68. He aslo pitched 3 complete games and 1 shutout.

USMLB PLAYER OF THE WEEK


Luis Nunez of the New York Highlanders the USMLB Player of the Week for the week 5/20/08-5/27/08. He had 28 hits in 70 at bats for an average of .400. He also hit 10 homeruns, had 20 RBI's and 22 runs scored. He also had a OBP of .494, SLG of .900 and OPS of 1.394, 5 doubles.

Sunday, May 25, 2008

USMLB MOY - NL NORTH

NEW BRITAIN FISHER CATS – jway11

Team records
ML: 62-55
AAA: 76-41
AA: 80-37 (top record in AA)
HiA: 56-61
LowA: 75-42
Rookie: 29-23

GRADES

ML team: B- Even with a solid record, New Britain finds themselves looking up at Detroit and Fargo in the NL North. Veteran 1B Hoss Boone is putting together another solid season. With Boone and Erik West in the lineup, the Fisher Cats are a threat to put up big offensive numbers every game. Veteran Closer Cameron Holt has a career high in saves this season.
Minors: A- Throughout the minors, the Fisher Cats have solid teams. Aside from an average club in HiA, their minor league teams should make the playoffs at every level. The Richmond AA team is particularly impressive, with the best record in the league.
Draft: A-
DRAFT GRADE REVIEW
Trades: D+ None
Player acquisitions: C New Britain signed a handful of free agents this season, but none look to be difference makers. Rule 5 SP’s Ricardo De La Vega and Carmen Leiter are having a solid season for the Fisher Cats, and are solid pick-ups.
Player development: B+ For New Britain, it all begins with C/DH Erik West. West is having an MVP-type season, and is among the league leaders in HR’s and RBI’s in only his third season. The future is bright for West and fans expect him to be a force in the middle of the lineup for a long time. RF Kevin Montgomery provides help to West in the lineup, as he is on pace to exceed 100 RBI’s for the 3rd straight season. In his second full season in the ML, SP Horacia Segui is coming into his own and is having a great season. Fisher Cat fans are excited about what he will bring to the rotation in the future.
Record compared to talent: A- With a payroll among the lowest in the league, New Britain is having an outstanding season at the ML level. They also have a good amount of talent developing in the minor leagues. The future is bright in New Britain.
Coach hot seat ranking: Green

MILWAUKEE MELDERS – brewfranks

Team records
ML: 62-55
AAA: 56-61
AA: 69-48
HiA: 62-55
LowA: 58-59
Rookie: 25-27

GRADES

ML team: B- Even with a solid year and a winning record, Milwaukee finds themselves at the bottom of the NL North. Veteran closer Vernon Bolton continues to dominate hitters, and is among the league leaders in saves.
Minors: B- Milwaukee’s minor league clubs are solid all around. Each level is in the running for a playoff berth. The AA team, in particular, is having a great season, and looks to go deep into the playoffs.
Draft: B-
DRAFT GRADE REVIEW
Trades: D+ None
Player acquisitions: B Veteran SP Ebaneezer Canseco was signed to a 3 year deal for Milwaukee. Canseco is having a very good year for the Melders, and if he can continue to pitch anywhere close to the same level, this will be an excellent signing. RF signee Mitchell Pickett is also a solid addition and at 32, is having the best season of his career. Pitcher Pablo Montero, another free agent signed by the Melders, has split time between the rotation and the bullpen, and has put up solid but unspectacular numbers. International signee 1B Bartolo Mesa projects to be an everyday 1B in the majors.
Player development: B+ Young 3B Wesley Stanley is having a great season for the Melders. Fans expect Stanley to be a top slugger in the middle of the lineup for many years ahead. 26 year old LF Julian Hartley is quietly having a very good season and teams up with Stanley to terrorize pichers. Fans in Milwaukee are excited about the recent promotion and ML debut of 2B Sal Moore. Moore has terrorized minor league pitchers and should be in the middle of the Melder lineup for a long time.
Record compared to talent: B+ Fueled by a $62.6 million payroll, and 3 free agent signees that have performed well this season, Milwaukee is exceeding expectations. New management has brought an excitement to Milwaukee, and fans are hoping for the team’s first playoff berth. It looks to be an uphill battle in the loaded NL North. Regardless of the outcome of this season, the future is bright in Milwaukee.
Coach hot seat ranking: Green

FARGO WOODCHIPPERS – calolson

Team records
ML: 68-49
AAA: 71-46
AA: 65-52
HiA: 58-59
LowA: 72-45
Rookie: 23-29

GRADES

ML team: A- Fargo is having an excellent season, and is bunched among the leaders in the NL North. Even if they don’t win the North, they are in great shape for a wildcard berth. Veteran 1B Nicky Duran is helping to lead the way, as he is having a great season at the plate for the Woodchippers.
Minors: B+ In the minors, Fargo has some talent and solid teams all around. Outside of the rookie level, every other team is within fighting distance of the playoffs. Teams at AAA, AA, and Low A all look to go deep in the playoffs.
Draft: B-
DRAFT GRADE REVIEW
Trades: B- Tommie Romero is the biggest addition for the Woodchippers. Since coming over, Romero is having a huge season for Fargo. C/DH Joaquin Ozuna will be a great hitter at the ML level. RP prospect Jim Taylor looks to be a solid part of the future bullpen in Fargo. SP prospects Edgardo Romero and Walt Cortes will be missed.
Player acquisitions: B- Free agent signee 1B Nicky Duran is having a huge season for the Woodchippers. Nicky is in the middle of the lineup and is one of the top run producers on the team. SP David Torres is a value pickup, but has far exceeded expectations with a solid season.
Player development: B SP Brandon Cora continues to put up great numbers for Fargo. With a solid finish, Cora will be in the mix for the NL Cy Young. Cora will be at the top of the Fargo staff for many years to come. SP Jim Little was off to a very good start to the season, but had elbow problems and was put on the DL. If he can stay healthy, Little will join Cora to form yet another solid young starting pitching tandem in the NL. Young 3B Nick Ball has rebounded from a disappointing season last year with great numbers this time around. Fans in Fargo have put their hopes in Ball to become one of the best hitters in the game.
Record compared to talent: B+ With a $60.7 payroll and $18.5 million invested in the coaching staff, Fargo fans expected a solid season from their team. They are exceeding those expectations and are in great position to make a run for the playoffs.
Coach hot seat ranking: Green

DETROIT DEMOLITION – yanks0218

Team records
ML: 70-47
AAA: 58-59
AA: 65-52
HiA: 65-52
LowA: 67-50
Rookie: 34-18

GRADES

ML team: A- Detroit is among the top teams in the game this season. Veteran SP Luis Encarnacion is having another solid campaign in the Detroit rotation. Closer Roger Newfield leads the league in saves, and is having a great season for the Demolition.
Minors: A- Detroit’s minor league teams are solid throughout. With the exception of the AAA level team, every level is a lock for the playoffs and has a chance to advance. The AAA team can make the playoffs with a solid finish.
Draft: B
DRAFT GRADE REVIEW
Trades: B- The Demolition have completed 7 different trades this season. Matt Corey has been a huge addition for Detroit. Corey is hitting .400 so far in his time in the Motor City, and looks to be in the middle of the order for a long time. SP prospect Dickie Wells is a great addition, and figures into future plans in the rotation. RP prospect Domingo Estrella should become a nice piece in the bullpen. Detroit will miss CF Heath Fitzgerald, SP Mitch Epstein, and 3B Rex Ross.
Player acquisitions: C+ Free agent SS Vinny Menechino has been a solid performer for the Demolition so far. SP Gerald Wallace got a 4 year deal with Detroit, and has had a very solid season.
Player development: A- After two good seasons, young SP Raymond Pavlov has put it all together this season and is among the league leaders in wins, WHIP and ERA. He is the odds on favorite to win the Cy Young award in the NL and should be a dominant pitcher in Detroit for a long time. After an injury last season, 24 year old Cookie Valdes has stayed healthy this season and is putting together an incredible year. Valdes is among the league leaders in batting average.
Record compared to talent: B+ Led by young SP Raymond Pavlov, the Demolition are among the best teams in the league this season. With a $91.2 payroll, fans are happy to see their team headed for the playoffs. They have a solid mix of veterans and youngsters at the ML level. Detroit has a lot of young talent, and should be a force in the NL for many years to come.
Coach hot seat ranking: Green

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USMLB MOY - NL EAST

TOLEDO TORNADOS – mab444

Team records
ML: 39-78
AAA: 59-58
AA: 51-66
HiA: 66-51
LowA: 72-45
Rookie: 29-23

GRADES

ML team: F With twice as many losses as victories, it’s been a long season in Toledo. Toledo is one of the youngest teams in the league, and it has shown this year.
Minors: B Aside from a poor campaign at AA, the Toledo minor league teams are having solid seasons at every level. The HiA and LowA teams in particular look to make deep runs in the playoffs.
Draft: C
DRAFT GRADE REVIEW
Trades: B+ Toledo wins the award as the most active trader this year, with 16 trades and 50 total players moving around. The biggest moves for the Tornadoes included getting rid of huge salary veterans like DH Todd Borkowski and SP Howard King. SP Willis Howell, SP Benjamin Ross, 3B Felix Davenport are nice additions. Among those that will be missed include SP Benjamin Connelly, SP Eduardo Rivera, and C Peter Holmes.
Player acquisitions: B Brandon Blanton was among the best prospects in the Rule 5 draft, and was claimed off waivers by Toledo. Blanton has struggled this season, but projects to be a contributor in the future. Toledo was able to claim some players this season and then get value for them in trades. International free agent signee Pasqual Blanco is a very good addition, and projects as a solid RP for the Tornadoes.
Player development: C While most of the ML team is new this season, 1B Terry Ward has been with the franchise for a while. He is having a solid rookie campaign. 2B Geraldo Santana has been promoted to the big league club this year, and is performing well. Fans expect Santana to be one of the top 2B in the league.
Record compared to talent: C With little talent at the big league level and a $64.5 million payroll, fans didn’t expect a whole lot for Toledo this season. New management has been active and serious about rebuilding the franchise. Some veteran players with big contracts have been moved and new prospects have been added. While still a few years away from competing at the highest level, fans are happy to see the immediate work toward that end that has begun this season.
Coach hot seat ranking: Green

ST. LOUIS CORNERSTONE – kk73

Team records
ML: 57-60
AAA: 77-40 (top record in AAA)
AA: 79-38
HiA: 80-37
LowA: 80-37 (top record in LowA)
Rookie: 38-15

GRADES

ML team: C- The NL East is the place to be this season for St. Louis. Despite their losing record, they are within reach of the playoffs in the East. Veteran Closer Ed Jefferson is having one of the best seasons of any pitcher in the game. He is simply mowing hitters down and has a miniscule 0.82 WHIP this season.
Minors: A+ Not only are the Cornerstone teams successful at every level of the minor leagues, they are absolutely dominant. Their AAA and LowA clubs have the best records in baseball. Clubs at other levels are not far behind. Look for the Cornerstone minor league teams to go deep into the playoffs at every level.
Draft: B-
DRAFT GRADE REVIEW
Trades: C- In their only trade of the season, St. Louis exchanged lower level players with Cleveland.
Player acquisitions: B SS Melvin Howard was a very good signing for the Cornerstone. Howard is signed to a reasonable contract and is a leader on the field and in the dugout. St. Louis claimed 1B Donaldo Felix off waivers. Felix was a Rule 5 draftee and is having a solid season.
Player development: B+ SP Ronn Hoyt was one of the top candidates for Rookie of the Year until an injury. Still, he has shown that he is one of the top young hurlers in the league. 25 year old SP Mark Barkett is among the league leaders in WHIP and ERA, but has been a hard luck pitcher this season with a 10-10 record. Barkett and Hoyt combine to form one of the best young pitching tandems in the game. In his 3rd full season, SP P.T. Ramirez is having a disappointing season all around. Fans hope he will get back on track next year. LF Jason Frazier looks like he could develop into a solid run producer in the middle of the St. Louis lineup for years to come. Cornerstone fans look forward to the ML debut of catcher Gabe Serafini, who should be ready sometime next season.
Record compared to talent: B With a $52.1million payroll and a lot of talent developing in the minor leagues, I don’t know if St. Louis really expected to be a playoff team this season. However, in the NL East, anyone that can get to .500 is a contender for the division. If the Cornerstone can finish strongly, they could find themselves in the playoffs. They also have the pitching to do well in the playoffs, so making a run is not out of the questions. With or without the postseason, there is a lot of young talent and the future in St. Louis is bright.
Coach hot seat ranking: Green

RICHMOND WRECKING CREW – jasonguru

Team records
ML: 41-76
AAA: 55-62
AA: 39-78
HiA: 53-64
LowA: 54-63
Rookie: 12-40

GRADES

ML team: F With a mix of prospects and veterans, Richmond is struggling at the ML level this season. Veteran SP Stu Doster is a bit below his career numbers this season, but is still a solid player at the top of the Richmond rotation.
Minors: D+ Richmond minor league teams are typically a little bit below average. The clubs at AAA, HiA, and LowA are still in the race, but probably longshots to reach the playoffs. Their rookie and AA clubs are having terrible seasons.
Draft: D+
DRAFT GRADE REVIEW
Trades: B Richmond has been an active trader this season, with 7 different deals made. The big name of the group is Todd Borkowski, who was added in a move that saw salary trading on both sides. Borkowski can still hit, but at 35, he has seen his best days pass, and is owed a lot of money in the next 2 years. Richmond was able to acquire SP McIntosh and P Tuck Erdos in the deal, and both are solid prospects. CF Max Wood was also added. Wood is a solid hitter from the CF position, but is owed a lot of money over 4 years. He is still young enough to be productive throughout his contract. C Josh Bunning and SP Heath Thomas are nice additions as well. 2B Matt Corey will be missed.
Player acquisitions: A- SP Emmanuel Navarro was claimed off waivers this season, and has filled his spot in the rotation admirably. International free agent SS Juan Alomar is a huge pick up. He projects to be a top SS, and is possibly best position player among the IFA’s this season.
Player development: B In his first full season at the ML level, 1B Bill Rain is having a great year at the plate and is a solid run producer in the middle of the lineup. In his second full season, SS Patsy Lincoln is improving upon the solid numbers he put up last season and should be a solid part of the lineup for years to come. Super prospect SP Wilson Fisher is having a terribly disappointing season in his sophomore campaign. After a promising rookie season, Richmond fans were sky high on Fisher. Even with his struggles this season, he projects as one of the top SP prospects in the league.
Record compared to talent: C- New management assumed a lot of salary this season, with a payroll of $100.2 million. With that much money invested in veterans, the season has been a disappointment at the ML level. Many players have underperformed for their talent level. Management has looked to some younger guys and is slowly beginning to focus on rebuilding.
Coach hot seat ranking: Green

LOUISVILLE COLONELS – brentblades

Team records
ML: 57-60
AAA: 11-106 (worst record of any team in any league)
AA: 33-84
HiA: 29-88
LowA: 43-74
Rookie: 26-27

GRADES

ML team: C- Louisville is right in the thick of things in the NL East, even with a losing record. Veteran pitchers Sidney Musial and Jim Buckley are both in the final year of their contracts, and have been solid this season. They will each leave Louisville with a difficult decision about whether to resign them.
Minors: F While Louisville teams are struggling at every level, their AAA club takes ineptitude to a whole new level. With only 11 wins in 117 games, it’s amazing that they continue to even put a team out there. What’s even worse? They have mostly road games left this season, where they have been even worse than they are at home. They are on pace for a truly historic season.
Draft: D+
DRAFT GRADE REVIEW
Trades: D+ None
Player acquisitions: D+ None
Player development: x Young C Phil Takada continues to punish ML pitching in his 3rd season. Takada has proven that he is one of the best young offensive catchers in the game. Closer Magglio Salinas is one of the best young closers in the game. Salinas is having a decent season, but fans expect him to become one of the best closers in the game.
Record compared to talent: B- With an $87.4 million payroll, Louisville finds themselves with a mediocre record. Still, they are right in the middle of the division race in the NL East. New management this season has followed the path in place for them from last season. Fans are a little bit concerned about the terrible AAA record, and a perceived lack of moves. However, if they can make the playoffs, it will be a good season for Louisville.
Coach hot seat ranking: Yellow

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USMLB MOY - NL SOUTH

SAN ANTONIO STARS – goldie1973

Team records:
ML: 60-57
AAA: 74-43
AA: 74-43
HiA: 72-45
LowA: 72-45
Rookie: 41-11 (top Rookie record)

GRADES

ML team: C+ San Antonio is having an average season at the ML level. Veteran 2B Chief Martin continues to hit, and is one of the better offensive 2B in the league. Veteran closer Lyle Taft continues to get people out, and at 35, is on pace for a career high in saves this season.
Minors: A+ San Antonio is one of only two teams with a winning record at every level, and their minor league teams are simply dominant at every level. They will make the playoffs and have a chance to go deep with each team.
Draft: B- DRAFT GRADE REVIEW
Trades: B- In their 2 trades, the most significant move for San Antonio was the acquisition of SP Mitch Epstein for C Josh Bunning. Both players look to be solid contributors when they reach the ML teams.
Player acquisitions: B+ Free agent signee Mike Baxter is an incredibly signing for the Stars. Not only is he an incredible value with a one year deal, he will provide draft picks after this season should the Stars choose to not resign him. International signee SP Harry Morales IFA is a very good pick up for San Antonio, and projects as a #2 pitcher in the rotation. Signee Dennys Chang projects as a very good RP.
Player development: A- San Antonio has an incredible supply of young talented pitchers. In his 3rd season, 25 year old SP Brandon Ellis continues to post great numbers. Ellis will be a fixture in the Stars pitching staff for a long time. CF 26 year old RF Brian Turner is having his best season yet for the Stars, and a bright future is ahead for Turner. Future superstar Santiago Alfonzo is making a run at a .400 batting average in AAA. Sean Foster is having a monster season at AA, and fans are excited for the time he makes it to the big leagues. With all of the young talent in the organization, the future is bright in San Antonio.
Record compared to talent: B+ With a $48 million payroll, San Antonio is clearly building for the future, and have a wealth of talent in the minor leagues. They look to be a year away at the big league level. Once their young talent reaches the big leagues, look for San Antonio to be good for a long time.
Coach hot seat ranking: Green

JACKSON BLAZERS – bodean

Team records
ML: 67-50
AAA: 69-48
AA: 58-59
HiA: 64-53
LowA: 55-62
Rookie: 18-34

GRADES

ML team: B+ Jackson is having another successful season at the ML level and hope to win the NL South for the third straight season. 2-time Cy Young winner SP Bey Dillon is having another excellent season. While he probably won’t get to 20 wins again this season, he is the guy you want on the mound in a big game, and is a dangerous component of a playoff team. Veteran closer Kane Hines has some of the nastiest stuff in the game. While he won’t match the 49 saves from a year ago, he continues to be a dominant force in the Blazer bullpen.
Minors: C Jackson has a solid mix of minor league teams, particularly at the higher levels. The AAA team is the best of the bunch, and looks to go deep in the playoffs. AA and HiA teams will battle for playoff berths, while teams at LowA and the Rookie level are struggling this season.
Draft: C- DRAFT GRADE REVIEW
Trades: B- C/DH Kenneth Bryant is the best piece of the Blazers only trade of the season. Bryant will definitely hit once he makes it to the ML.
Player acquisitions: B+ Jackson hasn’t made a lot of moves, but the ones that they have made look good on paper. LowA 1B Derek Hull is a great minor league signing for the Blazers, and projects to be a solid ML player. International signee Mark Chang projects as a possible all-star at 2B, and is a great addition.
Player development: B- In his rookie season, fans have been expecting great things from SP Wilt Frank. Frank hasn’t had a huge season, but has shown the flashes of brilliance that show why management thinks he will become a top pitcher. In his 3rd season, 2B Donatello Carpenter continues to hit well, and will be an integral part of the lineup for many years to come.
Record compared to talent: A- With a $72 million payroll and a solid mix of talent, Jackson is in a great position to make the playoffs. Management has done a great job of balancing veterans with young talent. Fans are hopeful that this year the team will advance deep in the playoffs.
Coach hot seat ranking: Green

FLORIDA GATORS – gatorbum

Team records
ML: 62-55
AAA: 61-56
AA: 63-54
HiA: 55-62
LowA: 57-60
Rookie: 26-26

GRADES

ML team: B- The Gators are within striking distance of the playoffs, but still find themselves looking up at Durham and Jackson in the NL South. LF Frank Jacobson has been a fixture in the Gator lineup for years now, and has shown why he is one of the best hitters in the game this season. Jacobson is becoming a Hall of Fame-caliber player. Veteran SS Darby Thomas is having the best season of his career, and is among the team leaders in many offensive categories. SP Albert Jose is also having a career year, and is among the lead leaders in WHIP.
Minors: C Florida’s minor league teams are in the middle of the pack at every level. They have some talented players in the minors, but no dominant teams. Still, management has done a good job at every level to develop a competitive team that has a shot at the playoffs.
Draft: F DRAFT GRADE REVIEW
Trades: D+ None
Player acquisitions: B- Veteran SP Tony Hernandez was a great free agent signing for Florida this season. Hernandez has been one of the better pitchers in the rotation for Florida. Florida has signed many other free agents and several international free agents this season, but none look to be difference makers.
Player development: C Young pitcher Jason Burns has bounced back and forth between the starting rotation and the bullpen. Burns has disappointed somewhat this season, but fans have high expectations for his future. 2B Roberto Gonzalez hasn’t met expectations this season either. Gonzalez is still young enough to become a star for Florida, but fans are trying to temper their enthusiasm with him. Fans are excited about CF prospect Edgar Tejada, who is having a great season in AAA. He looks poised to make his debut with Florida’s ML team next season.
Record compared to talent: C- With a $102.4 payroll, Florida came into the season hoping to finally get over the hump and make the playoffs. And while they still have a chance to do so, they are a bit of a longshot. If they can’t get over the hump, at some point management will have to decide when to focus on developing younger players.
Coach hot seat ranking: Green

DURHAM BULLS – eric9930

Team records
ML: 65-52
AAA: 60-57
AA: 53-64
HiA: 60-57
LowA: 62-55
Rookie: 23-29

GRADES

ML team: B Veteran RF Joseph Kim is quietly having an excellent season at the plate for Durham, and is among the team leaders in many offensive categories. Although his power numbers are down a bit this season, 3B PT Martinez continues to be a solid fixture in the middle of the lineup for Durham.
Minors: x The minor league teams for the Bulls are mostly in the middle of the pack. Teams at AAA, HiA, and LowA look to fight for playoff berths. AA and Rookie teams are on the outside looking in.
Draft: B DRAFT GRADE REVIEW
Trades: D+ None
Player acquisitions: C Free agent signee C Mike Sewell was signed to a reasonable contract this season for Durham, and is having a solid season. Pitcher Phil Milliard was signed this season to a 4 year deal, but is so far having a disappointing campaign. Milliard will have to improve over the next 3 years to make this a good signing. 2B Louis Perez got a 3 year deal, but is currently working through his struggles at AAA.
Player development: B 1B Brian Kim is second cousin to Joseph in RF, but won’t be second in any other category for long. In his second full season, the younger Kim is showing why many consider him one the best young 1B in the game. In his sophomore campaign, SP Buzz Jones is having a solid campaign. Still, with the incredible expectations that Durham fans have for Jones, they were hoping for more. SP Greg Turner is having a solid season in his second ML season, but still hasn’t shown the same incredible success he had in the minor leagues.
Record compared to talent: B+ With a $67.7 payroll, Durham is balancing expectations at the ML level and those with player development. However, with solid pitching and young talent at the ML level, they look to make the playoffs, and may have a chance to make a run if a couple of pitchers get hot.
Coach hot seat ranking: Green

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