The sixth week of power rankings saw some big jumps and falls this week. The New Britain Fisher Cats made the biggest jump of 10 spots this week while the Louisville Grumbling Groundhogs saw the biggest drop of 15 spots. Two new teams entered into the top ten this week the Fisher Cats and Pioneers while the Bobcats and Grumbling Groundhogs fell out of the top ten. The National League South is still the hardest division to play in so far going 206-158 against teams outside there division with the Gullah's having the only losing record against teams outside there division (34-57). The National League West is still the weakest division to play in going 153-211 against teams outside there division with only two teams in the division with winning records outside the division. The Stars had the best week going 16-4 while the Groundhogs had the worst week going 4-16. The Stars are on pace to hit 443 homeruns this season while the Pioneers are on pace to hit 110. It looks like a lot of records will fall this season in the league both pitching and hitting. The count down for division leaders and wildcard teams will start next week. Good luck to all the teams down the stretch run.
1. Monterrey Stars (80-32) (Previous Week – 1)
The Stars went 16-4 during the week and remained in the top spot for the sixth straight week. The Stars lead the league in runs (832), homeruns (306), RBI’s (814) and slugging (.589). They have also scored over one hundred more runs then the next team.
2. Houston Hitmen (74-38) (Previous Week – 3)
The Hitmen went 12-8 during the week and moved up one spot this week. The Hitmen lead the league in triples (30), they also have the best record at home (39-16 .709) and the best record in one-run games (24-8 .750).
3. Atlanta Brave Vawts (66-46) (Previous Week – 9)
The Brave Vawts went 15-5 during the week and moved up six spots this week. The Brave Vawts have made the fewest errors in the league (56) and the best field percentage (.987).
4. Jackson BlaZers (70-42) (Previous Week – 4)
The BlaZers went 13-7 during the week and remained in the same spot this week. The Blazers have walked the fewest batters in the league (285) and the team has the third best record in the National League.
5. New Britain Fisher Cats (64-48) (Previous Week – 15)
The Fisher Cats went 14-6 during the week and moved up 10 spots this week. The Fisher Cats made the biggest jump during the week moving up the 10 spots to bring themselves back into the top 10.
6. Milwaukee Bucks (71-41) (Previous Week – 2)
The Bucks went 10-10 during the week and fell six spots this week. The Bucks have a four game lead in there division but an average week is what made them fall this week in the ratings.
7. Chicago Blackhawks (67-45) (Previous Week – 7)
The Blackhawks went 12-8 during the week and remained in the seventh spot this week. The Blackhawks hitters are the most patience team in the league by walking 444 times this season. The team is also inching every closer to the division leaders every week.
8. Tacoma Pioneers (65-47) (Previous Week – 11)
The Pioneers went 14-6 during the week and moved up three spots this week. The Pioneers lead every pitching category expected for saves, save opportunities and fewest walks and they also lead the league in stolen bases (204).
9. Cincinnati Highlanders (64-48) (Previous Week – 8)
The Highlanders went 12-8 during the week and fell one spot this week. Highlanders are in a very tough battle in the American League East to control who will win the division and it could go till the end of the season to find out a winner.
10. Anaheim Beefpound (60-52) (Previous Week – 6)
The Beefpound went 10-10 during the week and fell four spots this week. The Beefpound have really been a the bi-polar team in the league this season as one week there playing great ball then the next week there struggling then right back again to winning the next week hopefully the team can finish the season with a high note.
11. Kansas City Bobcats (63-49) (Previous Week – 10)
12. Ottawa Crawdaddies (60-52) (Previous Week – 14)
13. Tucson Chupacabras (59-53) (Previous Week - 21)
14. Columbus Pride (54-58) (Previous Week – 18)
15. Arizona Sting (58-54) (Previous Week – 16)
16. St. Louis Cornerstone (61-51) (Previous Week – 12)
17. Durham Bulls (53-59) (Previous Week – 24)
18. Scranton Beet Farmer's (52-60) (Previous Week – 25)
19. Pittsburgh Pirates (53-59) (Previous Week – 13)
20. Louisville Grumbling Groundhogs (57-55) (Previous Week – 5)
21. Toledo Boltz (57-55) (Previous Week – 20)
22. Boston Braves (53-59) (Previous Week – 17)
23. Portland Landports (53-59) (Previous Week – 23)
24. Colorado Rockies (47-65) (Previous Week – 22)
25. Minnesota Milfoils (47-65) (Previous Week – 19)
26. Jacksonville RAIDERS (49-63) (Previous Week – 26)
27. Cheyenne Xpress (45-67) (Previous Week – 29)
28. New York Fighting Molars (48-64) (Previous Week – 28)
29. Charleston Gullah's (41-71) (Previous Week – 30)
30. Boise Hurricanes (41-71) (Previous Week – 27)
31. Salem Gangstas (30-82) (Previous Week – 31)
32. Philadelphia HeadHunters (30-82) (Previous Week – 32)
Thursday, March 26, 2009
WEEK 6 POWER RANKINGS
Friday, March 20, 2009
National League East Draft
St. Louis Cornerstone
The Cornerstone selected right-fielder Slick Peters as there first round pick. Peters is a young power hitter with some great speed to go with it. Peters is going to be an All-Star type player once he makes it to the major leagues. The question about Peters is how long it will take him to make it to the majors since he is still just 18 years old. Ranking A+
The Cornerstone had also selected catcher Jim Kent as there fifth round pick. Kent is one of the rare catchers that could hurt you with his legs as he has an average bat and defense for a catcher. Kent is the third best catcher in the draft this season. The question about Kent is that he may start to lose his speed as he really can’t play another position besides catcher. Ranking B-
The Cornerstone did a good job finding a superstar in the first round and then getting three role type players after with the only low point of there picks being the pitcher they selected. Ranking A-
Toledo Boltz
The Boltz selected shortstop Brendan Wright as there first round pick and the first overall pick in the draft. Wright is without question the best player in the draft this season as his hitting, power, speed and defense are some of the best in the draft. Wright is the best shortstop and overall best player in the draft this season and will see a lot of All-Star appearances once he makes it to the majors. The question about Wright is some times he swings at pitches he really should let go. Ranking A+
The Boltz also selected center-fielder Tony Pearson in the second round. Pearson has a good mix of hitting and power and his defense is one of the best for his position. Pearson is the best centerfielder in the draft this season and will be an All-Star very soon. The question about Pearson is how quickly he can make it to the majors. Ranking A
The Boltz did a great job with there first two picks and they will really be the foundation of the organization for years to come. Ranking B+
New York Fighting Molars
The Fighting Molars selected third basemen Felipe Lee as there first round pick. Lee is a great power hitter that will have no problems adjusting to major league pitching and his defense will make the fans in New York even happier. Lee will see a lot of All-Star appearances during his career. The question about Lee is how long he will be ready before he can make it to the majors. Ranking A+
The Fighting Molars also selected second basemen Henry Fick as there second round pick. Fick is another power type hitter that the Fighting Molars picked that can really hit left-handers hard. Fick is the 4th best second basemen in the draft this season. The question about Fick is that he is kind of slow for a second basemen. Ranking A
The Fighting Molars did a great job with there first two picks and then they went after pitching and found nobody like a lot of other teams did in the draft. Ranking B-
Pittsburg Pirates
The Pirates haven’t signed any one of the picks.
Ranking F
Thursday, March 19, 2009
WEEK 5 POWER RANKINGS
The fifth week of power rankings saw some big jumps and falls this week. The Tacoma Pioneers biggest jump of 11 while the Fisher Cats saw the biggest drop of 11 spots. Three new teams entered into the top ten this week the Grumbling Groundhogs, Beefpound and Highlanders while the Cornerstone, Pirates and the Fisher Cats fell out of the top ten. The National League South is still the hardest division to play in so far going 183-141 against teams outside there division with the Gullah's having the only losing record against teams outside there division (28-53). The National League West is still the weakest division to play in going 133-191 against teams outside there division with the Pioneers the only team with a winning record outside there division (43-38). The Bucks had the best week of any team so far going 16-1 while the HeadHunters of any team so far going had the worst week going 1-16. The Hitmen are the best team in one-run games going 20-5 (.800 WPCT) while the Gangstas have the worst record going 8-18 (.308 WPCT. The Hitmen also have the best home record 36-14 (.720 WPCT) while the HeadHunters have the worst record at 10-33 (.233 WPCT). The Stars have the best record on the road going 31-11 (.738 WPCT) while the HeadHunters have the worst record going 11-38 (.224 WPCT)
1. Monterrey Stars (64-28) (Previous Week – 1)
The Stars went 12-5 during the week and remained in the top spot for the fifth straight week. The Stars have opened a seven game lead in the division and look to be on there way to another playoff appearance.
2. Milwaukee Bucks (61-31) (Previous Week – 8)
The Bucks went 16-1 during the week and moved up six spots this week. The Bucks have been on a great role the last week and have opened of a six game lead in there division and look they will make the playoffs as well.
3. Houston Hitmen (60-30) (Previous Week – 2)
The Hitmen went 10-7 during the week and fell one spot this week. The Hitmen have the biggest lead of any team in the league with an eight game lead over the next team in there division and will probably see the playoffs again.
4. Jackson BlaZers (57-35) (Previous Week – 5)
The BlaZers went 10-7 during the week and moved up one spot this week. The Blazers have the third best record in the National League even though there in second place in there division
5. Louisville Grumbling Groundhogs (53-39) (Previous Week – 13)
The Groundhogs went 12-5 during the week and moved up eight spots this week. The Groundhogs see themselves in third place in there division and will probably be the fighting for the last playoff spot as the year comes to an end.
6. Anaheim Beefpound (50-42) (Previous Week – 14)
The Beefpound went 11-6 during the week and moved up eight spots this week. The Beefpound find them in a situation that they have never been in, teams are extremely close to taking the division lead from them this season.
7. Chicago Blackhawks (55-37) (Previous Week – 7)
The Blackhawks went 10-7 during the week and remained in the seventh spot this week. The Blackhawks have been battling for the division lead all season and could really make the National League very interesting this season.
8. Cincinnati Highlanders (52-40) (Previous Week – 15)
The Highlanders went 12-5 during the week and moved up seven spots this week. The Highlanders find themselves in first place this late in the season for the first time since season 1. It’s going to be a tough battle down the stretch.
9. Atlanta Brave Vawts (51-41) (Previous Week – 6)
The Brave Vawts went 8-9 during the week and fell three spots this week. A sub .500 week really hurt the Vawts with losing the division lead and falling in the rankings. I guess Nunez is going to be called on even to bring the Vawts back to the top.
10. Kansas City Bobcats (54-38) (Previous Week – 3)
The Bobcats went 7-10 during the week and fell seven spots this week. The Bobcats really looked tired heading into the All-Star break so let’s hope a little rest will turn the team around for a good stretch run.
11. Tacoma Pioneers (51-41) (Previous Week – 22)
12. St. Louis Cornerstone (53-39) (Previous Week – 10)
13. Pittsburgh Pirates (47-45) (Previous Week – 9)
14. Ottawa Crawdaddies (50-42) (Previous Week – 11)
15. New Britain Fisher Cats (50-42) (Previous Week – 4)
16. Arizona Sting (48-44) (Previous Week – 18)
17. Boston Braves (45-47) (Previous Week – 21)
18. Columbus Pride (43-49) (Previous Week – 12)
19. Minnesota Milfoils (42-50) (Previous Week – 24)
20. Toledo Boltz (47-45) (Previous Week – 23)
21. Tucson Chupacabras (46-46) (Previous Week - 16)
22. Colorado Rockies (41-51) (Previous Week – 19)
23. Portland Landports (46-46) (Previous Week – 20)
24. Durham Bulls (39-52) (Previous Week – 26)
25. Scranton Beet Farmer's (39-52) (Previous Week – 25)
26. Jacksonville RAIDERS (41-50) (Previous Week – 17)
27. Boise Hurricanes (34-58) (Previous Week – 28)
28. New York Fighting Molars (40-52) (Previous Week – 27)
29. Cheyenne Xpress (34-57) (Previous Week – 30)
30. Charleston Gullah's (31-61) (Previous Week – 29)
31. Salem Gangstas (24-68) (Previous Week – 32)
32. Philadelphia HeadHunters (21-71) (Previous Week – 31)
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
National League West Draft
Tacoma Pioneers
The Pioneers selected center-fielder Cam LaRocca as there other pick in the first round. LaRocca is one of the best slap hitters in the draft this season with good speed and a good glove for the outfield. The question about LaRocca is that he has no power in his bat what so ever and will really have to rely on getting the ball through the infield to get on base. Ranking B+
The Pioneers had also selected left-fielder Bobby Donnelly as there first round pick. Donnelly is another good contact hitter with little power but he has a great eye and one of the fastest runners in the draft. Donnelly is the third best left-fielder in the draft this season. The question about Donnelly is that he has no power and struggles sometimes against right-handed pitching. Ranking B+
The Pioneers really went after speed, contact and defense this draft, will have to wait and see what that will do to the future of the team. Ranking A-
Salem Gangstas
The Gangstas selected pitcher Ramiro Johnson as there first round pick and third overall. Johnson is going to be a great power pitcher with his devastating fastball that at times can approach 100 mph and once he learns to control is off-speed pitches he will be deadly. Johnson is the best pitcher in the draft this season and will see a lot of All-Star appearances once he makes it to the majors. The question about Johnson is how quickly he can learn a decent off-speed pitch and once he does that he will be in the majors real quick. Ranking A+
The Gangstas also selected center-fielder Vince Watkins in the third round. Watkins is one of the best centerfielders in the draft this season with a good mix of power and defense. Watkins is the second best centerfielder in the draft this season. The question about Watkins is how quickly he can make it to the majors. Ranking A
The Gangstas did a really good job finding the position players but fell short on the couple of pitchers they went after. Ranking B
Tucson Chupacabras
The Chupacabras selected pitcher Jarred Ducey as there first round pick. Ducey has got great control over every pitch that he throws and can just make any hitter look silly with his off-speed stuff. Ducey is the second best pitcher in the draft this season. The question about Ducey is will he be in the bullpen or will he be a starter has he could both. Ranking A
The Chupacabras also selected pitcher Donnie Lawson as there other first round pick. Lawson rare combination of control and power with his pitches. Burke is the 15th best pitcher in the draft this season. The question about Lawson sometimes loses focus and can be real hittable after that. Ranking C+
The Chupacabras really after pitching during the draft and besides finding a couple good pitchers they really didn’t get anyone that could be worth anything. Ranking B-
Boise Hurricanes
The Hurricanes selected left-fielder Lewis Hague in the first round. Hague is going to be a big power hitter and will put some fear in some pitchers once he makes it to the majors. Hague is the best left-fielder in the draft this season. The question about Hague is how quickly he will be rushed to the major leagues. Ranking A+
The Hurricanes also selected pitcher Desi Cruz as there other first round. Cruz is a good power pitcher that has the ability to really paint to the corners or have you swinging for the heat. Cruz is the 28th best pitcher in the draft this season. The question about Cruz is how effective will he be once you gets through the first couple of time in the order. Ranking C (unsigned)
The Hurricanes really went of pitching during the draft but like a lot of teams that went after pitching it really didn’t turn out so well for the team. Ranking C-
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
National League South Draft
Jackson Blazers
The Blazers selected left-fielder George Morris as there first pick in the first round. Morris is one of the best pure hitters in the draft this season with some pop in there as well. Morris will most likely be an All-Star sometime during his career. The question about Morris is that he is really set on going to college and it doesn’t matter what the Blazers offer him it doesn’t look like he will this season. Ranking A (unsigned)
The Blazers had also selected right-fielder Michael Rath also in the first round. Rath has some has a great bat and will destroy left-handers during the season and Rath will also make pitchers very nervous when he’s on base. Rath is the second best right-fielder in the draft this season. The question about Morris is that he has some struggles in the field and will struggle against good right-handed pitching. Ranking A-
The Blazers did a great job a finding some good offensive players and with seven picks during the first five rounds they really found some talent that will help in the future. Ranking B+
Monterrey Stars
The Stars selected pitcher Nerio Taylor as there first round pick. Taylor is going to be scary on the mound as he can just make you look extremely silly with his off-speed pitches. Taylor is the seventh best pitcher in the draft this season. The question about Taylor is the lack of power in his arm going to hurt him as a closer. Ranking A-
The Stars also selected pitcher Luther Pritchett in the second round. Pritchett is another junk ball pitcher that has the ability to make you pound the balls into the ground. Pritchett is the 10th best pitcher in the draft this season. The question about Pritchett is that he’s another soft throwing reliever and it makes you wonder how long he can survive that. Ranking B+
The Stars is one of the few teams that were able to find good pitching during the draft even though it was relievers that they found. Ranking B
Louisville Groundhogs
The Groundhogs selected catcher Gordon McGlinchy as there first round pick. McGlinchy is going to be scary at the plate during his career as he has great bat control, pop and an excellent eye when he’s standing at the plate. McGlinchy is the best catcher in the draft this season. The question about McGlinchy is that he’s only an average catcher but he won’t hurt you there as well. Ranking A+
The Groundhogs also selected shortstop Todd Burke in the second round. Burke was selected in the second round for his great defense and that is the only thing that could be considered great about him. Burke is the 8th best shortstop in the draft this season. The question about Burke is how bad is he going to hurt you at the plate and will that be enough to justify him in the lineup. Ranking B+
The Groundhogs did a really good job finding good players during there first two picks but going after pitching once again hurt another team. Ranking B-
Charleston Gullah's
The Gullah’s selected shortstop Harry Long in the second round. Long just has an average bat with some pop in there but it’s his defense that people will be talking long after he has left baseball. Long is the fourth best shortstop and the best defense shortstop in the draft this season. The question about Long is how quickly he will be rushed to the major leagues because I think he might need some time in the minors. Ranking A
The Gullah’s also selected pitcher Vinny Watkins in the first round. Watkins has a really live arm that seems to be ready to pitch when ever you need him to pitch after that he’s an average pitcher with great command. Watkins is the 21st best pitcher in the draft this season. The question about Watkins is that he can get real predictable as he has a couple of great pitches but nothing special after that. Ranking C
The Gullah’s had a good draft not a great one it might have been a great one if they didn’t go after so much pitching. Ranking C-
USMLB FIRST-HALF AWARDS
AMERICAN LEAGUE FIRST-HALF MVP:
Other Finalist:
Luis Nunez
Darren Higginson
Alex Lee
Carmen Garcia
NATIONAL LEAGUE FIRST-HALF MVP:
Other Finalist:
Bobby Henry
Wes Withem
Rondell Lowe
Eric Flynn
AMERICAN LEAGUE FIRST-HALF CY YOUNG:
Other Finalist:
Larry Rath
Magglio Salinas
Cliff Sheets
Donne McClellan
NATIONAL LEAGUE FIRST-HALF CY YOUNG:
Other Finalist:
Greg Flanagan
Raymond Pavlov
Ed Jefferson
Wilson Fisher
AMERICAN LEAUGE ROOKIE OF THE FIRST HALF:
NATIONAL LEAUGE ROOKIE OF THE FIRST HALF:
AMERICAN LEAUGE FIREMAN OF THE FIRST HALF:
NATIONAL LEAUGE FIREMAN OF THE FIRST HALF:
BEST TEAM:
Monterrey Stars
WORST TEAM:
Philadelphia HeadHunters
MOST IMPROVED TEAM:
Ottawa Crawdaddies
MOST DISAPPOINTING TEAM:
Durham Bulls
MOST IMPROVED POSITION PLAYER:
MOST DISAPPOINTING POSITION PLAYER:
MOST IMPROVED PITCHER:
MOST DISAPPOINTING PITCHER:
BEST HITTING TEAM:
Monterrey Stars
WORST HITTING TEAM:
Salem Gangstas
BEST PITCHING TEAM:
Tacoma Pioneers
WORST PITCHING TEAM:
Philadelphia HeadHunters
BEST FIELDING TEAM:
Louisville Grumbling Groundhogs
WORST FIELDING TEAM:
Toledo Boltz
BEST DIVISION:
NATIONAL LEAGUE SOUTH
WORST DIVISION:
NATIONAL LEAGUE WEST
PLAYOFF RACES TO WATCH FOR:
NATIONAL LEAGUE EAST DIVISION RACE (St. Louis Cornerstone, Pittsburgh Pirates and Toledo Boltz)
NATIONAL LEAGUE WEST DIVISION RACE (Tacoma Pioneers and Tucson Chupacabras)
NATIONAL LEAGUE WILDCARD RACE (Chicago Blackhawks, New Britain Fisher Cats, Pittsburgh Pirates, Jackson BlaZers and Louisville Grumbling Groundhogs)
AMERICAN LEAGUE NORTH DIVISION RACE (Ottawa Crawdaddies, Portland Landports, Minnesota Milfoils and Scranton Beet Farmer's)
AMERICAN LEAUGE EAST DIVISION RACE (Cincinnati Highlanders, Atlanta Brave Vawts, Boston Braves and Columbus Pride)
AMERICAN LEAGUE WEST DIVISION RACE (Anaheim Beefpound and Arizona Sting)
AMERICAN LEAUGE WILDCARD RACE (Atlanta Brave Vawts, Kansas City Bobcats and Arizona Sting)
Monday, March 16, 2009
American League West Draft
Colorado Rockies
The Rockies selected second basemen Ivy Zagone as there first pick in the first round. Zagone has a great bat with a decent amount of power behind it and a great eye that will bring a lot of contact with the bat. Zagone is the second best second basemen in the draft. The question about Zagone is that sometimes he struggles a little with right handed power pitching. Ranking A+ (unsigned)
The Rockies had also selected right-fielder Johnnie Conine also in the first round. Conine has some great pop in his bat and will probably hit for a high average to go with it. Conine is the best right-fielder in the draft this season. The question about Conine is that he could really hurt the team with his defense and may be better suited as a DH in the American League. Ranking A (unsigned)
The Rockies did a great job a finding some good offensive players during the draft and if he would have signed his first too picks he would have had the best draft of any team this season. Ranking A-
Anaheim Beefpound
The Beefpound selected third basemen Troy Green as there fourth round pick. Green is going to be known more for his defense then offensive as he can be a vacuum at third base but his bat might struggle at times. The question about Green is that his power those have some pop to it but will it be good enough to play third base. Ranking B+
The Beefpound also selected shortstop Harvey Barber in the fifth round. Barber is one the best defense shortstop in the draft this season and will quickly become a pitcher best friend. Barber is the 19th best shortstop in the draft this season. The question about Barber is the defense good enough to make up for the butchery that he displaces at the plate. Ranking C+
The Beefpound really did a good job with finding some very good defense players but like a lot of teams they went after pitching in the first rounds and that hurt them in the overall ranking. Ranking B-
Arizona Sting
The Sting selected shortstop Jim Franklin as there first round pick. Franklin has a good amount of pop in his bat, quick speed around the base paths and defense that very few shortstops will ever play at. Franklin is the third best shortstop in the draft this season. The question about Franklin is that can he get on base enough to really take advantage of his speed. Ranking A+
The Sting also selected shortstop Chick Raben in the second round. Raben is equal to Franklin in the defense category but lacks the pop in his bat that Franklin has but will still be good hitter in his own right. Meacham is the 13th best shortstop in the draft this season. The question about Raben is that he may need to find another position to play or be traded down line as Franklin may be blocking him to the majors in the future. Ranking B
The Sting did a really good job of finding some good defense players to play the middle of the field and Franklin could really be a great find for them. Ranking C+
Cheyenne Xpress
The Xpress selected shortstop Walter Houston in the third round. Houston could really just become an average player as everything about him is average from his bat, eye and defense. Houston is probably better off playing second base during his career then shortstop. The question about Houston is that he may go through long struggles at the plate followed by some hot streaks. Ranking B-
The Xpress also selected pitcher Vincenzo Scharein in the first round. Scharein has great control and is just deadly to any left hander at the plate to face him. Scharein is probably the best set-up man in the draft as he doesn’t have the stamina to be a starter and right hander’s can hit hard at times to become a long term closer. The question about Scharein is that he worth being a first round pick just to be a set-up type of pitcher? Ranking B-
The Xpress had a good draft not a great one but a good one that could see a couple players at the major league level in the future. Ranking C-
Friday, March 13, 2009
American League North Draft
Scranton Beet Farmer’s
The Beet Farmer’s selected pitcher Pat Kennedy as there first pick in the first round. Kennedy has great control and knows how to throw many different pitches that are effective in getting hitters out. Kennedy is the fifth best pitcher in the draft and the best starting left-hander in the draft. The question about Kennedy is that he’s only 18 years old, so how long will the fans have to wait to see him in the majors. Ranking A
The Beet Farmer’s had also selected left-fielder Davey Sherman in the second round. Sherman has a great bat with some decent pop in it. Sherman is probably better suited for first base or a DH spot then in the outfield. The question about Sherman is that he really can’t play in the outfield and may be stuck at first base or a DH spot if he would like to make it to the majors. Ranking B-
The Beet Farmer’s the a great job a finding a great pitcher in the first round as the pitching class was weak this season and it will help them out in the long run. Ranking B+
Portland Landports
The Landports selected left fielder Jesse Walker as there fourth round pick. Walker has got a great bat and great speed on the base paths. Walker is really in a hard position for any team as he really doesn’t have the defense to play the outfield but doesn’t have the power to be a first basemen or DH. The question about Walker is that he really struggles against left-handed pitching which could make him a platoon player. Ranking C+
The Landports also selected shortstop Zephyr Meacham in the fifth round. Meacham may never see the majors as he has a below average bat and below average defense. Meacham is the 26th best shortstop in the draft this season. The question about Meacham is that he may spend his whole career in the minors. Ranking C (unsigned)
The Landports really just had average draft, not really getting anyone that has a long term future with the team but not really getting anyone that will hurt the minor league system as well. Ranking C+
Ottawa Crawdaddies
The Crawdaddies selected first basemen Hub Gordon as there first round pick. Gordon has got a great bat, with some decent pop to go with and an understanding of the strikeout zone that few hitters have in the draft. Walker is probably going to be an All-Star sometime during his career. The question about Gordon is that he may be better suited as a DH as his defense needs some work. Ranking A
The Crawdaddies also selected centerfielder Octavio Furcal in the third round. Furcal has a decent bat but his strength is his speed and defense. Meacham is the 3rd best centerfielder in the draft this season. The question about Furcal is that he doesn’t have any power in his bat and will have to rely on a lot of balls getting by the infielders. Ranking B
The Crawaddies really got some good picks with there first three picks but they went after pitching after that and it hurt them the rest of the draft. Ranking C+
Minnesota Milfoils
The Milfoils selected left fielder Trace Peterman in the first round. Peterman is about as average and vanilla you’re going to find in the outfield with decent hitting, power, speed and defense. Peterman is the 4th best left fielder in the draft this season. The question about Peterman he’s not going to be any special for a first round pick. Ranking B-
The Milfoils also selected right fielder Benny O’Malley in the fourth round. O’Malley has no problem pounding the ball over the fence as he’s got some good power in his bat and an eye that should get him a lot of looks at a pitcher. O’Malley is probably best suited in a DH position as he could be a big liability in the outfield. The question about O’Malley is that he may hit a decent amount of homeruns but he will probably strikeout about every other at bat as well, also he could be the first player to be thrown out at first base if the left fielder as a good arm, he’s that slow. Ranking C+
The Milfoils where plagued in the this draft like a lot of other teams when they started going after pitching which brought there ranking down. Ranking C
Thursday, March 12, 2009
National League North Draft
New Britain Fisher Cats
The Fisher Cats selected catcher basemen Ben Scalicias as there first pick. Scalicias is one of the best pure in the draft this season, as he will produce some huge offensive number once he makes it to the majors. Peterson is going to be a DH no matter what level he plays at. The only question about Scalicias is that he can really only play in the American League if he wants to make it to the majors. Ranking A+
The Fisher Cats also selected shortstop Emmett Rasmussenin the fourth round. Rasmussenin has great defense abilities that could help him make it to the majors some day. Rasmussenin is the 12th best shortstop in the draft and the 7th best defense shortstop in the draft. The only question about Rasmussenin is that he really needs some help at the plate. Ranking B+
The Fisher Cats got three solid picks during the first five rounds, with the pitching selections lacking a little bit. Ranking A-
Milwaukee Bucks
The Bucks selected second basemen Neil Wilson as there fourth round pick. Wilson as got a decent bat and glove but his main attraction is his speed and his ability to get on base. Wilson is the 7th best second base in the draft this season. The only question about Wilson is that he is probably better suited in the outfield then second base. Ranking B+
The Bucks also selected second basemen Glenallen Davis in the third round. Davis is just a solid prospect with good contact and a little pop in his bat. Davis is the 12th best second basemen in the draft this season. The question about Davis is just like Wilson is that he might be better suited for the outfield. Ranking C+
The Bucks went after pitching there first couple rounds but found there best prospects during the next two. Ranking B-
Philadelphia HeadHunters
(Subject to change once a new owner comes in and signs there draft picks) Ranking F
Chicago Blackhawks
The Blackhawks selected pitcher Vic Michaels in the first round. Michaels has got great control over the few pitches that he throws and will make batters look silly with the junk that he throws. Michaels is the 17th best pitcher in the draft and could really be one the best set-up men in this draft. The question about Michaels is that he doesn’t really throw had enough to be a closer or have enough pitches to be an effective starter. Ranking C+ (Unsigned)
The Blackhawks also selected pitcher Elmer Dessens in the fifth round. Dessens has great control and some heat to go with it. Dessens is the 79th best pitcher in the draft this season. The question about Dessens is that he really gets down on himself if things don’t go his way and then his performance really starts break down. Ranking D-
The Blackhawks only had four picks during the first five rounds and they went after pitching which might have been a mistake as pitching was really weak this season. Ranking D+
Power Rankings Week 4
Th fourth week of power rankings saw some big jumps and falls this week. The Cornerstone and the RAIDERS had the biggest jumps of 12 while the Pioneers saw the biggest drop of 12 spots. Three new teams entered into the top ten this week the Blackhawks, Pirates and Cornerstone while the Grumbling Groundhogs, Beefpound and the Pioneers fell out of the top ten. The National League South is still the hardest division to play in so far going 148-112 against teams outside there division with the Gullah's having the only losing record against teams outside there division (25-40). The National League West is the weakest division to play in going 104-156 against teams outside there division with not one team having a winning record outside the division The Bobcats and Fisher Cats had the best week out of any team going 12-4 while the HeadHunters had the worst week going 3-13. The American League went 98-94 against the National League this season with the Bobcats and Fisher Cats having the best record of 9-3 while the HeadHunters had the worst record of 2-10.
1. Monterrey Stars (52-23) (Previous Week – 1)
The Stars went 10-6 during the week and remained in the top spot for the fourth straight week. As we almost enter the mid-way point of the season Mike Bonds looks like he will be the first-half MVP for the team hitting .324, 34 homeruns, 93 RBI’s and 78 runs scored.
2. Houston Hitmen (52-23) (Previous Week – 2)
The Hitmen went 10-6 during the week and remained in the second spot this week. As we almost enter the mid-way point of the season Geraldo Rodriguez looks like he will be the first-half MVP for the team hitting .304, 20 homeruns, 60 RBI’s and 55 runs scored.
3. Kansas City Bobcats (47-28) (Previous Week – 5)
The Bobcats went 12-4 during the week and moved up two spots this week. As we almost enter the mid-way point of the season Eric Sisk looks like he will be the first-half MVP for the team hitting .294, 24 homeruns, 76 RBI’s and 71 runs scored.
4. New Britain Fisher Cats (44-31) (Previous Week – 7)
The Fisher Cats went 12-4 during the week and moving up three spots this week. As we almost enter the mid-way point of the season Hoss Boone looks like he will be the first-half MVP for the team hitting .316, 25 homeruns, 67 RBI’s and 69 runs scored.
5. Jackson BlaZers (47-28) (Previous Week – 4)
The BlaZers went 11-5 during the week and fall one stop this week. As we almost enter the mid-way point of the season Ken Lincoln looks like he will be the first-half MVP for the team hitting .298, 25 homeruns, 71 RBI’s and 54 runs scored.
6. Atlanta Brave Vawts (43-32) (Previous Week – 3)
The Brave Vawts went 7-9 during the week and fell three spots this week. As we almost enter the mid-way point of the season Luis Nunez looks like he will be the first-half MVP for the team hitting .369, 32 homeruns, 95 RBI’s and 67 runs scored.
7. Chicago Blackhawks (45-30) (Previous Week – 11)
The Blackhawks went 11-5 during the week and moved up four spots this week. As we almost enter the mid-way point of the season Nick Ball looks like he will be the first-half MVP for the team hitting .332, 20 homeruns, 63 RBI’s and 49 runs scored.
8. Milwaukee Bucks (45-30) (Previous Week – 8)
The Bucks went 9-7 during the week and remained in the eighth spot this week. As we almost enter the mid-way point of the season Danny Harding looks like he will be the first-half MVP for the team hitting .262, 27 homeruns, 68 RBI’s and 57 runs scored.
9. Pittsburgh Pirates (38-37) (Previous Week – 17)
The Pirates went 10-6 during the week and moved up eight spots this week. As we almost enter the mid-way point of the season Chief Martin looks like he will be the first-half MVP for the team hitting .285, 21 homeruns, 55 RBI’s and 49 runs scored.
10. St. Louis Cornerstone (42-33) (Previous Week – 22)
The Cornerstone went 11-5 during the week and moved up 12 spots this week and tied for biggest jump for any team this week. As we almost enter the mid-way of the season Carlos Alvarez looks like he will be the first-half MVP for the team hitting .283, 19 homeruns, 47 RBI’s and 43 runs scored.
11. Ottawa Crawdaddies (41-34) (Previous Week – 16)
12. Columbus Pride (38-37) (Previous Week – 13)
13. Louisville Grumbling Groundhogs (41-34) (Previous Week – 9)
14. Anaheim Beefpound (39-36) (Previous Week – 6)
15. Cincinnati Highlanders (40-35) (Previous Week – 14)
16. Tucson Chupacabras (39-36) (Previous Week - 12)
17. Jacksonville RAIDERS (34-41) (Previous Week – 29)
18. Arizona Sting (38-37) (Previous Week – 19)
19. Colorado Rockies (34-41) (Previous Week – 21)
20. Portland Landports (38-37) (Previous Week – 20)
21. Boston Braves (33-42) (Previous Week – 28)
22. Tacoma Pioneers (39-36) (Previous Week – 10)
23. Toledo Boltz (38-37) (Previous Week – 25)
24. Minnesota Milfoils (33-42) (Previous Week – 15)
25. Scranton Beet Farmer's (34-41) (Previous Week – 18)
26. Durham Bulls (31-44) (Previous Week – 24)
27. New York Fighting Molars (34-41) (Previous Week – 23)
28. Boise Hurricanes (26-49) (Previous Week – 26)
29. Charleston Gullah's (28-47) (Previous Week – 27)
30. Cheyenne Xpress (27-48) (Previous Week – 30)
31. Philadelphia HeadHunters (20-55) (Previous Week – 31)
32. Salem Gangstas (20-55) (Previous Week – 32)
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
American League East Draft
Boston Braves
The Braves selected second basemen Brent Turner as there first pick. Turner is one of two players that were drafted that will be considered a six-tool player, a rare combination of power, hitting and speed. Peterson is the best pitcher second basemen in the draft and the second overall player. He will probably be an All-Star as soon as he makes the majors. The only question about Turner that he may be better suited for a corner outfield position. Ranking A+
The Braves also selected shortstop Jon Eaton in the second round. Eaton has great defense abilities and with a decent bat to go with his defense. Eaton is the 6th best shortstop in the draft and will probably be a solid major league shortstop with a long career. The only question about Eaton is can his offense keep up with his defense. Ranking A-
The Braves got four solid major league players with there first five picks and the only problem I had was there fifth pick as I thought there where better pitching options out there. Ranking A-
Atlanta Brave Vawts
The Vawts selected catcher Butch Betancourt as there fourth round pick. Betancourt is going to be a sold hitter with some decent power as he is nothing but a pure hitter. Betancourt is going to be a DH no matter what level he plays at. The only question about Betancourt is that he can really only play in the American League if he wants to make it to the majors. Ranking C (Unsigned)
The Vawts also selected catcher Ossie Martin in the second round. Martin is going to be a big power catcher that can spray the ball around all over the field. Martin is the 2nd best catcher in the draft and will probably be an All-Star real soon. The question about Martin is sometimes he has trouble hitting some right handed pitching. Ranking A
The Vawts went after pitching and catching during the first five rounds with some decent results with Martin being the star. Ranking C+
Cincinnati Highlanders
The Highlanders selected pitcher Odalis Maduro in the second round. Maduro has really great control of the few pitches he has with some good movement. Maduro is the 14th best pitcher in the draft and could become a good closer one day. The question about Maduro is that he doesn’t really throw that hard and with only two pitches he throws that could hurt him. Ranking C+
The Highlanders also selected pitcher Dean Iorg in the first round. Iorg is a decent starting pitcher with great control with average stuff. Iorg is the 35th best pitcher in the draft and could become a back end of the rotation type pitcher. The question about Iorg if he can make it to the majors how long can he survive with his average stuff. Ranking C-
The Highlanders got a couple pitchers that could find there way the major league club but it could be a while before the fans see them. Ranking C-
Columbus Pride
The Pride selected shortstop Al Brito in the second round. Brito is going to be a speed demon on the base paths with a decent glove and hitting to go with it. Nash is the 10th best shortstop in the draft and could be a solid shortstop for any team in the future. The question about Brito is that he really doesn’t have a good sense of the strikeout zone and swings at almost everything. Ranking B+ (Unsigned)
The Pride also selected pitcher Stone Punto in the first round. Punto has great control of his pitches and has an arm that seems like can pitch every day. Punto is the 32nd best pitcher in the draft this season. The question about Punto is that he doesn’t have the velocity to make mistakes in the strikeout zone are he’s going to get hammered. Ranking C- (Unsigned)
The Pride have only signed one of there first five picks and that’s being the fifth pick which is really hurting them for the future. Ranking F
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
American League South Draft Ranking
Houston Hitmen
The Hitmen selected pitcher Andrew Peterson as there first pick. Peterson has good control with a devastating fastball and the ability to induce a ground every time he pitches. Peterson is the 6th best pitcher in the draft and will probably be an All-Star before his career is over. The only question about Peterson is can he go long enough in the games before tiring out. Ranking A-
The Hitmen also selected pitcher Paul Witt in the second round. Witt has great control and will rely on his movement over power and will have hitters pounding the dirt all game. Witt is the 8th best pitcher in the draft and will probably be an All-Star before his career is over. The only question about Witt is can he go long enough in the games before tiring out. Ranking A-
The Hitmen got four solid major league players with there first five picks and with all but one player being signed the Hitmen had the best draft of any team this season.
Ranking A
Jacksonville RAIDERS
The RAIDERS selected pitcher Keith Pavlik as there first pick and second overall. Pavlik is going to be a workhorse; he has a great fastball and great control over all his pitches. Pavlik is the 20th best pitcher in the draft and could become an All-Star one day. The only question about Pavlik is sometimes he losses focus and his control goes with it and then he’s very hittable. Ranking C+
The RAIDERS also selected pitcher Kip Bishop still in the first round. Bishop is going to be another workhorse for the team, with a decent fastball and control. Bishop is the 56th best pitcher in the draft and will probably be and back-end of the rotation pitcher. The question about Bishop is how well he will do during the second and third time around the order as he is limit in the pitches he throws. Ranking D+
The RAIDERS only got one lineament major league player during the draft which might hurt them in the long run.
Ranking C-
Durham Bulls
The Bulls selected pitcher Paul Horton as there third round pick. Horton has master every pitched that he knows how to through and as excellent control to go with every one of them. Horton is the 16th best pitcher in the draft and could become a good closer one day. The question about Horton is that he doesn’t throw very hard and we really don’t know how that will affect his ability to close games. Ranking C+
The Bulls also selected pitcher Pedro Franco in the second round. Franco is a junk ball pitcher that loves to get ground balls every time the hitter touches the ball. Franco is the 25th best pitcher in the draft and could become a middle of the rotation type pitcher. The question about Franco is can he stay long enough in games to be really effective. Ranking C
The Bulls haven’t signed there number one draft pick Gregory Mayne but with a C- ranking it might be a good idea to let him go.
Ranking D+
Kansas City Bobcats
The Bobcats selected pitcher Rodney Nash in the first round. Nash is a hard throwing right-hander with good control and the ability to keep the ball down. Nash is the 26th best pitcher in the draft and could become a middle of the rotation type pitcher. The question about Nash is that beyond his fastball he’s really an average pitcher with nothing special. Ranking C
The Bobcats selected catcher Theo McGowan in the second round. McGowan is a defense catcher with a little pop in his bat when he makes contact with the ball. McGowan is the 158th best position player but is the best defense catcher in the draft. McGowan is going to be wizard behind the plate and will help any pitcher become a master but will the lack of offensive really hurt him in making the majors. Ranking C-
The Bobcats really went down hill after there first two picks really not picking up any one that will help them in the long run.
Ranking D-
Friday, March 6, 2009
Week 3 Power Rankings
WEEK 3 POWER RANKINGS
The third week of power rankings saw some big jumps and falls this week. The Chupacabras and the Beet Farmer's had the biggest jumps of ten while the Crawdaddies saw the biggest drop of 13 spots. The Express final see there way out of the 32nd spot this week. Two new teams entered into the top ten this week the BlaZers and Pioneers while Highlanders and Crawdaddies fell out of the top ten. The National League South is the hardest division to play in so far going 114-82 against teams outside there division with the Gullah's having the only losing record against teams outside there division (20-29). The National League West is the weakest division to play in going 82-114 against teams outside there division with the Pioneers having the only winning record against teams outside the division (27-22). The Blazers had the best week out of any team going 13-3 while the Crawdaddies had the worst week going 3-13. The American League is the hardest league to play in so far this season.
1. Monterrey Stars (42-17) (Previous Week – 1)
The Stars went 10-6 during the week and remained in the top spot for the third straight week. The Stars now have every starter with 10 or more homeruns already this season and the lowest average for a starter is .270. That’s a big reason why the Stars have the best offensive in the league.
2. Houston Hitmen (42-17) (Previous Week – 2)
The Hitmen went 11-5 during the week but it wasn’t enough to move them into the number one spot this week. I like the philosophy of the Hitmen so far this season, play very well at home (25-5 record) and let your two big starters carry the load (33% of the teams victories have come from Cliff Sheets and Mac Nakamura).
3. Atlanta Brave Vawts (36-23) (Previous Week – 5)
The Brave Vawts went 10-6 during the week and move up two more spots. The Brave Vawts already have 3 starters with more then 5 victories and will probably have all five starters getting more then 10 victories this season. The Brave Vawts are also one of the two teams with a top ten ranking in pitching (4th), hitting (8th) and fielding (1st).
4. Jackson BlaZers (36-23) (Previous Week – 11)
The BlaZers went 13-3 during the week to have the best record during the week which allowed them to jump up seven spots this week for a big jump in the rankings this week. The starters for the Blazers average 6.5 innings per start which is a big reason for the starters going 25-17 so far.
5. Kansas City Bobcats (35-24) (Previous Week – 6)
The Bobcats went 10-6 during the week and moved up one spot this week. The Bobcats have scored the second most runs in the league with 425 with 8 players scoring more then 30 runs so far this season.
6. Anaheim Beefpound (33-26) (Previous Week – 7)
The Beefpound went 10-6 during the week and moved up one spot this week. The Beefpound is one of the most constant team in the league as they are one of the two teams that have a top ten ranking in pitching (9th), hitting (6th) and fielding (3rd).
7. New Britain Fisher Cats (32-27) (Previous Week – 10)
The Fisher Cats went 10-6 during the week and moving up three spots this week. The Fisher Cats right now are very happy that Raymond Pavlov is pitching for them as he is already 9-1 and is back into his Cy Young form he was a couple seasons ago.
8. Milwaukee Bucks (36-23) (Previous Week – 4)
The Bucks went 8-8 during the week and that was a big reason for the team dropping four spots this week. The season has been very up and down so far for the Bucks going 13-8 versus the top five teams in the National League (including 5-2 against Monterrey Stars) while going 11-8 versus the bottom five teams.
9. Louisville Grumbling Groundhogs (33-26) (Previous Week – 9)
The Grumbling Groundhogs went 9-7 during the week and stayed in the ninth spot for the second straight week. Louisville is finding out exactly how hard the National League South is this season as there already seven games over .500 but nine games behind the divisional leader already as well.
10. Tacoma Pioneers (34-25) (Previous Week – 15)
The Pioneers went 10-6 during the week which really helped them move up five spots this week. The Pioneers are all about pitching this season as the have the best pitching staff in the league but they also have the second worst offensive in the league as well, which would explain them going 4-14 when they allow more then 5 runs and 15-3 when they score more then 5 runs while going 15-8 when both teams score less then 5 runs.
11. Chicago Blackhawks (34-25) (Previous Week – 12)
12. Tucson Chupacabras (31-28) (Previous Week - 22)
13. Columbus Pride (30-29) (Previous Week – 14)
14. Cincinnati Highlanders (33-26) (Previous Week – 8)
15. Minnesota Milfoils (27-32) (Previous Week – 24)
16. Ottawa Crawdaddies (32-27) (Previous Week – 3)
17. Pittsburgh Pirates (28-31) (Previous Week – 19)
18. Scranton Beet Farmer's (27-32) (Previous Week – 28)
19. Arizona Sting (30-29) (Previous Week – 20)
20. Portland Landports (30-29) (Previous Week – 21)
21. Colorado Rockies (27-32) (Previous Week – 16)
22. St. Louis Cornerstone (31-28) (Previous Week – 13)
23. New York Fighting Molars (27-32) (Previous Week – 25)
24. Durham Bulls (25-34) (Previous Week – 18)
25. Toledo Boltz (31-28) (Previous Week – 17)
26. Boise Hurricanes (21-38) (Previous Week – 29)
27. Charleston Gullah's (23-36) (Previous Week – 23)
28. Boston Braves (23-36) (Previous Week – 26)
29. Jacksonville RAIDERS (23-36) (Previous Week – 27)
30. Cheyenne Xpress (19-40) (Previous Week – 32)
31. Philadelphia HeadHunters (17-42) (Previous Week – 30)
32. Salem Gangstas (16-43) (Previous Week – 31)
