This week, Scott and Kevin break down the Carlos Pena signing and what it means for the Rays' 2012 outlook, run down their AL East top 25 prospect lists, preview the Durham, Montgomery, Charlotte, and Bowling Green rotations, and wrap up by discussing how the Yu Darvish signing affects the balance of power in the American League.
Questions or comments? E-mail podcast@raysprospects.com
Music is from Isle of Q
mp3 Download (43.2 MB; 0h47m12s)
RSS Feed
iTunes Feed - If you subscribe through iTunes, please rate and review!
(This episode will not show up in the preview link right away, but if you subscribe it will download automatically)
Sunday, January 22, 2012
Saturday, January 21, 2012
The Rays Lineup and who could end up with the Bulls
What a couple of days for the Rays organization. 10 days ago the Rays signed Luke Scott as their primary DH, 8 days later the Rays anounced three minor league signings with Will Rhymes (2B/UT), Jesus Feliciano (CF) and Romulo Sanchez (RHRP) and yesterday Carlos Pena agreed to play another year on the Florida Gulf Coast.
After predicting the Bulls lineup a couple of weeks ago, I'm going to look at the influence of these last moves on the Bulls 2012 season. Therefore, I have to analyze the '12 Rays roster first. The Rays seem to start with Molina and Lobaton as the catching group (outside shot for Robinson Chirinos), with Pena, Longoria, Zobrist, Rodriguez and Brignac in the infield and with Jennings, Upton, Joyce and Scott in the outfield as well as at DH. This leaves two more spots open. Main candidates for these spots are Brandon Guyer (R/OF), Russ Canzler (R/1B/LF), Elliot Johnson (S/UT) and Will Rhymes (L/UT). Lets take a look at this:
(Click at the image for a larger view)
The Rays have added Carlos Pena and Luke Scott. Both give excellent depth to the middle of the Rays lineup against RHP. Against LHP, especially Pena should get the one or other day off. And despite Zobrist/Longoria cruising against LHP even more than against RHP, the lineup against lefties lacks depth behind them. Luke Scott and Sean Rodriguez are solid options in order to round out the top 6, but Pena and Joyce are no solid options against lefties. Therefore, if I'm the Rays, I'd give one of the remaining two roster spots to a player who can hit left handed pitching well. If the Rays want Brandon Guyer to take a Matt Joyce-like path, they will start him in AAA in order to give him lots of AB's. Otherwise he should be (and I'd have him) on the Rays 25-man roster come opening day as he should get lots of PA's against LHP and also some against righties. Other options: Russ Canzler and maybe (with an outside shot) Juan Miranda. I could also see the Rays trading a SP for a RH-bat like Jesus Guzman, Kyle Blanks, ... .
The 2nd opening should go to a player who can bring the Rays some versatility, defensive backup and speed. Candidates: Sam Fuld, Elliot Johnson and Will Rhymes. I'd go with Sam Fuld as I think he is the best of those three. Sean Rodriguez gives the Rays enough flexibility for the defensive infield, making Elliot Johnson and Will Rhymes expandable. And while the same goes for Sam Fuld in the outfield, he is a solid baserunning and defensive replacement (especially for Matt Joyce) option for the innings 7 to 9. One of Johnson/Rhymes should be in the majors as soon as one infielder (not named Los Penos) gets hurt. The 13th position player won't see a ton of PA's, though.
So, I'd give the roster spots 24 and 25 to Brandon Guyer and Sam Fuld. This would leave Elliot Johnson, Justin Ruggiano (I expect both to clear waivers), Juan Miranda and Will Rhymes in Durham. The Bulls MIF should be crowded in this case with Tim Beckham, Cole Figueroa, Sean O'Malley, Johnson and Rhymes. They, therefore, should also rotate into the 3B and DH (maybe even some OF) role.
Monday, January 16, 2012
The Week That Was
Teammate Mark Thomas has caught fire since the calendar turned, hitting .333/.389/.576 in eight ABL games in 2012. In addition to the five remaining regular-season games, Thomas may see action in the ABL playoffs. The Cavalry are currently in a three-way tie for 3rd place, 12 games behind Perth, but only a game out of second. The top four finishers will make the ABL playoffs.
In other ABL news it sounds like attendance has been disappointing:
The ABL is backed by Major League Baseball, which has agreed to support the first five seasons of the league, but the sight of empty rows of seats is not encouraging for the team. Despite boasting 685 season ticket-holders, Balfour revealed average membership attendance at games was just 211. Some 83 members have yet to attend their first game of the season.The 'Balfour' mentioned above is Sydney Blue Sox general manager David Balfour, father of ex-Rays reliever Grant. This is the Rays first year participating in the ABL, sending Kiermaier, Thomas, Ty Morrison and Todd Glaesmann to each play in part of the ABL season with Canberra.
The Rays have re-signed minor league free agent RHP Richard De Los Santos, who has been in the organization since 2005. He was limited to two April starts for Durham last season due to injury. Here are his career stats:
Year Age Team W L ERA G GS IP BB SO WHIP H/9 HR/9 BB/9 SO/9 2003 19 Burlington 3 4 6.41 12 0 39.1 10 40 1.398 10.3 0.7 2.3 9.2 2004 20 Mahoning Valley 1 5 5.26 13 9 51.1 19 45 1.403 9.3 0.4 3.3 7.9 2005 21 Hudson Valley 1 0 0.93 6 0 9.2 2 8 0.828 5.6 0.0 1.9 7.4 2005 21 Southwest Michigan 3 0 0.66 15 0 41.0 18 49 0.805 3.3 0.2 4.0 10.8 2006 22 Visalia 5 3 3.44 41 0 68.0 19 49 1.338 9.5 0.1 2.5 6.5 2007 23 Montgomery 5 4 2.75 40 3 72.0 15 38 1.139 8.4 0.4 1.9 4.8 2007 23 Durham 1 1 7.20 6 0 15.0 3 5 1.600 12.6 1.8 1.8 3.0 2008 24 Montgomery 5 5 3.42 14 12 79.0 24 39 1.253 8.5 0.5 2.7 4.4 2009 25 Hudson Valley 2 0 2.81 8 0 16.0 6 13 1.125 6.8 0.0 3.4 7.3 2009 25 Charlotte 2 0 0.79 13 0 22.2 4 21 0.662 4.4 0.0 1.6 8.3 2010 26 Montgomery 0 0 4.50 1 0 2.0 0 1 1.000 9.0 4.5 0.0 4.5 2010 26 Durham 14 5 3.52 28 23 148.1 48 90 1.362 9.3 0.4 2.9 5.5 2011 27 Durham 0 1 6.00 2 2 6.0 4 4 1.833 10.5 0.0 6.0 6.0 9 Seasons 42 28 3.50 199 49 570.1 172 402 1.248 8.5 0.4 2.7 6.3
Added:
RHSP Richard De Los Santos - re-signed
RHSP Matt Torra - re-signed
1B Juan Miranda - from the Arizona Diamondbacks
RHRP Jhonny Nunez - from the Chicago White Sox
Lost:
RHSP Brian Baker - to Milwaukee Brewers
OF Matt Carson - to Minnesota Twins
RHRP Rob Delaney - to Florida Marlins
RHRP Mike Ekstrom - to Colorado Rockies
IF Ray Olmedo - to Chicago White Sox
RHRP Adam Russell - to Atlanta Braves
2011 Rays minor leaguers still available:
RHRP Joe Bateman
RHRP Lance Cormier
IF J.J. Furmaniak
1B/DH Dan Johnson
OF John Matulia
RHRP Deivis Mavares
3B Daniel Mayora
RHRP Paul Phillips
Speaking of Dan Johnson, Joe Christensen had a nice article on Johnson's search for a new team and some of the obstacles he's overcome in his career:
A former hockey player at Blaine High School, he blossomed into an elite power hitter at Nebraska. The Oakland Athletics drafted him in the seventh round in 2001, and made him their starting first baseman in 2005, replacing Scott Hatteberg of "Moneyball" fame.
But after a promising rookie season, Johnson's luck completely changed. On the last day of spring training in 2006, Johnson went to spray sunscreen on his arm and accidentally shot it into his right eye. He had trouble seeing breaking pitches all year, and it wasn't until the season ended that he was diagnosed with double vision.
The next spring, after months of vision therapy, Johnson could see clearly again. But one day, he went to throw the ball around the horn after a double play, and the runner charging down the first baseline clipped his leg, tearing Johnson's hip labrum.
The Montgomery Biscuits and the City of Montgomery will hold a press conference on Wednesday at 5 p.m. regarding the new scoreboard. Speakers will include Mayor Todd Strange and Biscuits Co-Owner Sherrie Myers. It will be at Riverwalk Stadium’s Club Car Bar. The public is invited (enter through the RF gate) and complimentary beverages and ballpark popcorn will be served.
The Princeton Rays have announced the start times for their 2012 home games: Monday-Saturday games at 7:05 p.m. except doubleheaders which begin at 5:30 p.m.; all Sunday games at 3:00 p.m.; and July 24th will be at 11:00 a.m.
"You're treated like a big leaguer for a week as far as where you stay, when you wake up, the breakfasts, the meals," Dietrich said. "The workouts are first class, on the field and in the weight room, with all the coordinators and staff in this organization. It's a great opportunity for me and the others to see the instructors and for them to see us and for them to see how our progress is during the offseason. We're away for four months and everyone is working at becoming a better player for the team, and it's valuable for them to be able to see our progress and see what we need to do."
There were a couple of Rays-related prospect Q & A's at milb.com last week. Ashley Marshall interviewed shortstop Tim Beckham:
MiLB.com: How would you say you handled yourself at the higher levels and in the Arizona Fall League?
Beckham: I feel like I handled it pretty well and I feel like I handled my own. I did pretty well and I'm happy. I actually got a leg kick this year, so I worked on that. I just tried to take advantage of the hitter's counts as far as 0-0 or 2-0 or 3-1 and counts like that. What I changed the most was that I was a lot more aggressive on hitters' counts this year than what I was in the past.
The second Q & A was by Robert Emrich with RHSP Chris Archer:
MiLB.com: What was the biggest difference in the second half for you?
Chris Archer: At the beginning of the season, I think I was trying to do too much and got out of character. I was trying to make too many perfect pitches instead of letting my stuff just play in the strike zone. I was trying to make perfect pitches like a back-door slider and when you try to become too fine in this game you make little misses. I just said, "I'll go back to being myself."
Former Hudson Valley Renegades general manager (1999-2003) Steve Gliner has been named President of the Fort Myers Miracle by the Goldklang Group, which owns both teams.
John Lembo spoke with 2011 2nd round pick Granden Goetzman about the transition from high school to professional baseball:
Goetzman batted .173 in 25 games last summer for the GCL Rays. And while a groin injury he suffered during one of his first days with the team didn’t help, Goetzman said most of his problems were mental rather than physical.
“My average wasn’t too hot, but I was swinging at bad pitches, pitches I shouldn’t be swinging at,” Goetzman said. “This year, I’ll be comfortable and swinging at strikes and at pitches I can handle...Just be myself.”
The Rays signed controversial free agent outfielder Luke Scott to a $5 million one-year contract. The deal includes a $6 million option for 2013 or a $1 million buyout. His career numbers in the majors:
Year Age Team AB H 2B 3B HR RBI SB CS BB SO BA OBP SLG OPS OPS+ 2005 27 HOU 80 15 4 2 0 4 1 1 9 23 .188 .270 .288 .557 46 2006 28 HOU 214 72 19 6 10 37 2 1 30 43 .336 .426 .621 1.047 165 2007 29 HOU 369 94 28 5 18 64 3 1 53 95 .255 .351 .504 .855 118 2008 30 BAL 475 122 29 2 23 65 2 2 53 102 .257 .336 .472 .807 111 2009 31 BAL 449 116 26 1 25 77 0 0 55 104 .258 .340 .488 .828 114 2010 32 BAL 447 127 29 1 27 72 2 0 59 98 .284 .368 .535 .902 144 2011 33 BAL 209 46 11 0 9 22 1 1 24 54 .220 .301 .402 .703 92 7 Seasons 2243 592 146 17 112 341 11 6 283 519 .264 .349 .494 .843 121
I'm not sure how many teams have openings on their 40-man rosters, but of those who do I would be surprised if any decide to add Ashley. He hasn't spent much time at AAA yet, and in his 39 AAA games he's only hit .208/.259/.304 in 125 at-bats. Assuming no other teams claim him, Ashley will remain an important part of the Rays organization, with only Jose Molina, Jose Lobaton, and Robinson Chirinos ahead of him on the catching depth chart. Here are his career numbers:
Year Age Team AB H 2B 3B HR RBI SB CS BB SO BA OBP SLG OPS 2006 21 Princeton 153 51 8 1 4 28 7 3 21 40 .333 .440 .477 .917 2007 22 Columbus 429 120 13 8 12 60 20 8 49 92 .280 .354 .431 .785 2008 23 Vero Beach 327 77 12 1 4 26 5 6 49 79 .235 .348 .315 .663 2009 24 Charlotte 200 48 7 3 2 21 7 4 22 47 .240 .343 .335 .678 2009 24 Montgomery 118 25 7 1 1 15 0 0 18 31 .212 .331 .314 .644 2010 25 Montgomery 341 87 14 3 7 45 4 2 34 76 .255 .333 .375 .709 2010 25 Durham 24 4 0 0 1 2 1 0 1 7 .167 .200 .292 .492 2011 26 Montgomery 279 78 15 2 6 33 2 3 36 66 .280 .387 .412 .799 2011 26 Durham 101 22 1 1 2 15 0 1 5 29 .218 .273 .307 .580 6 Seasons 1972 512 77 20 39 245 46 27 235 467 .260 .353 .378 .731
And finally, while we wait for news on Ashley, make sure to visit his wife's photography website. She even has a small section dedicated to baseball, which includes a nice shot of the top prospect in baseball during his time with the Biscuits. If you're in the Evansville area and need a photographer give her a call, she does nice work at very reasonable rates.
Sunday, January 15, 2012
Future Considerations Podcast (Episode 13: Special Guest Jim Callis)
Executive editor of BaseballAmerica Jim Callis (@jimcallisBA) answers some questions about the Rays farm system, the effects the new CBA will have on the club, and how he got started at BA. After the break, Kevin and Scott talk about the Luke Scott signing and the Jesus Montero-Michael Pineda deal.
Questions or comments? E-mail podcast@raysprospects.com
Music is from Isle of Q
mp3 Download (53.0 MB; 0h57m58s)
RSS Feed
iTunes Feed - If you subscribe through iTunes, please rate and review!
(This episode will not show up in the preview link right away, but if you subscribe it will download automatically)
Questions or comments? E-mail podcast@raysprospects.com
Music is from Isle of Q
mp3 Download (53.0 MB; 0h57m58s)
RSS Feed
iTunes Feed - If you subscribe through iTunes, please rate and review!
(This episode will not show up in the preview link right away, but if you subscribe it will download automatically)
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
The Minor League lineups: Bowling Green Hot Rods (A)
After finishing the positional runthrough I'm going to take a look at the projected lineups of each of the Rays minor league affiliates.
Next: The Bowling Green Hot Rods
1 2B Ryan Brett (S)
2 3B Taylor Motter (R)
3 CF Kes Carter (L)
4 1B Jeff Malm (L)
5 DH Cameron Seitzer (L)
6 RF Drew Vettleson (L)
7 C Matt Rice (R)
8 LF Craig Lyerly (R)
9 SS Juniel Querecuto (S)
Bench:
C Alejandro Segovia (R)
C Kyle Holloway (R)
3B Leonardo Reginatto (R)
3B Riccio Torrez (R)
CIF Junior Rodriguez (R)
2B Raymond Church (R)
LF/CIF Nicholas Schwaner (L)
OF Joel Caminero (R)
Filled with college picks of last years' as well as some high school picks of next-to-last years' draft, this lineup is very, very deep. Ryan Brett and Taylor Motter are leadoff types with speed and a very patient approach while some combination of Kes Carter, Cameron Seitzer, Jeff Malm, Drew Vettleson and Riccio Torrez provides enough power and hitability for a decent 3 to 6 in the lineup. Overall, the abundance of quality infielders bolsters the lineup while also the catching and outfield is very capable and talented. Another very sound and potent lineup.
Next: The Bowling Green Hot Rods
1 2B Ryan Brett (S)
2 3B Taylor Motter (R)
3 CF Kes Carter (L)
4 1B Jeff Malm (L)
5 DH Cameron Seitzer (L)
6 RF Drew Vettleson (L)
7 C Matt Rice (R)
8 LF Craig Lyerly (R)
9 SS Juniel Querecuto (S)
Bench:
C Alejandro Segovia (R)
C Kyle Holloway (R)
3B Leonardo Reginatto (R)
3B Riccio Torrez (R)
CIF Junior Rodriguez (R)
2B Raymond Church (R)
LF/CIF Nicholas Schwaner (L)
OF Joel Caminero (R)
Filled with college picks of last years' as well as some high school picks of next-to-last years' draft, this lineup is very, very deep. Ryan Brett and Taylor Motter are leadoff types with speed and a very patient approach while some combination of Kes Carter, Cameron Seitzer, Jeff Malm, Drew Vettleson and Riccio Torrez provides enough power and hitability for a decent 3 to 6 in the lineup. Overall, the abundance of quality infielders bolsters the lineup while also the catching and outfield is very capable and talented. Another very sound and potent lineup.
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
More on the 2012 Stone Crabs Staff
As Doug mentioned earlier, the Stone Crabs coaching staff is remaining the same as last season. Jim Morrison returns for his fourth season as the manager of the Stone Crabs. Morrison has a career 214-201 record as the skipper of the Stone Crabs, leading them to the playoffs in two of the three first seasons. Morrison is in his seventh year in the Rays organization.
Joe Szekely has been by Morrison's side since the inaugural season, returning for his fourth season as the hitting coach for the Stone Crabs. This is his eighth season in the Rays organization.
Steve "Doc" Watson returns for his sophomore season in Port Charlotte. He is the only pitching coach to make a repeat with the Stone Crabs so far in their short history. It is also his second year in the organization after spending time with the Orioles and Reds minor league systems.
Trainer Scott Thurston is the lone newcomer to the field staff of the Stone Crabs. He joins the Stone Crabs after serving as the trainer for the Bowling Green Hot Rods for the past three seasons. This is his fifth season in the Rays organization.
The Stone Crabs will also have a new general manager to be announced in the future. Joe Hart has been announced as the new president of the South Bend Silver Hawks. Hart has been with the Stone Crabs since the beginning and has built the franchise into what it is today. He was instrumental in securing the 2012 FSL All-Star Game for Port Charlotte. His efforts have been rewarded as he was named the Executive of the Year for the FSL in 2011. Ripken Baseball is currently seeking applicants for the GM role of the Stone Crabs.
Opening day for the Stone Crabs is scheduled for Thursday April 5 at home against Fort Myers.
The Minor League lineups: Charlotte Stone Crabs (A+)
After finishing the positional runthrough I'm going to take a look at the projected lineups of each of the Rays minor league affiliates.
Next affiliate lineup I'm looking at is the Charlotte Stone Crabs:
1 3B Robby Price (L)
2 SS Derek Dietrich (L)
3 CF Mikie Mahtook (R)
4 1B Philip Wunderlich (L)
5 RF Todd Glaesmann (R)
6 LF Cody Rogers (L)
7 DH Julio Cedeno (R)
8 C Lucas Bailey (R)
9 2B Hector Guevara (R)
Bench:
C Keith Castillo (S)
C Mayobanex Acosta (R)
MIF Robi Estrada (S)
CF Kevin Kiermaier (L)
LF/1B Steven Tinoco (R)
The Stone Crabs roster seems to be very balanced with some speedy guys as well as some all-around talents and power hitters. This combination makes it possible to form a potent and sound lineup top-to-bottom. The Hot Rods roster was above average offensively last year and with most of the talented roster moving up to Port Charlotte I see this roster remaining above average. Mid-season additions like Cameron Seitzer, Taylor Motter, Jeff Malm, Kes Carter or Riccio Torrez could bolster the roster even further. Additional note: It could very well be that Derek Dietrich and Mikie Mahtook hit 3rd/4th in the lineup. I just put Dietrich 2nd as he was mostly used in this position last year (if I remember correctly).
Next affiliate lineup I'm looking at is the Charlotte Stone Crabs:
1 3B Robby Price (L)
2 SS Derek Dietrich (L)
3 CF Mikie Mahtook (R)
4 1B Philip Wunderlich (L)
5 RF Todd Glaesmann (R)
6 LF Cody Rogers (L)
7 DH Julio Cedeno (R)
8 C Lucas Bailey (R)
9 2B Hector Guevara (R)
Bench:
C Keith Castillo (S)
C Mayobanex Acosta (R)
MIF Robi Estrada (S)
CF Kevin Kiermaier (L)
LF/1B Steven Tinoco (R)
The Stone Crabs roster seems to be very balanced with some speedy guys as well as some all-around talents and power hitters. This combination makes it possible to form a potent and sound lineup top-to-bottom. The Hot Rods roster was above average offensively last year and with most of the talented roster moving up to Port Charlotte I see this roster remaining above average. Mid-season additions like Cameron Seitzer, Taylor Motter, Jeff Malm, Kes Carter or Riccio Torrez could bolster the roster even further. Additional note: It could very well be that Derek Dietrich and Mikie Mahtook hit 3rd/4th in the lineup. I just put Dietrich 2nd as he was mostly used in this position last year (if I remember correctly).
Monday, January 9, 2012
The Minor League lineups: Montgomery Biscuits (AA)
After finishing the positional runthrough I'm going to take a look at the projected lineups of each of the Rays minor league affiliates.
Next affiliate lineup I'm looking at is the one of the Biscuits:
1 SS Hak-Ju Lee (L)
2 CF Isaias Velasquez (R)
3 2B Tyler Bortnick (R)
4 RF Brett Nommensen (L)
5 C Mark Thomas (R)
6 3B Gregory Sexton (R)
7 1B Michael Sheridan (L)
8 DH Anthony Scelfo (L)
9 LF Ty Morrison (L)
Bench:
C Craig Albernaz (R)
C David Wendt (R)
IF Matthew Hall (R)
IF Omar Luna (R)
OF Chris Murrill (L)
The Biscuits have enough lead-off hitter types for at least 3 lineups. Hak-Ju Lee (who will bat leadoff most of the time), Isaias Velasquez (typical leadoff type), Tyler Bortnick (also great skill-set for leading off, but I put him 3rd in order to work on his power in addition to the exceptionally great approach on the plate) and Ty Morrison (I play him 9th as additional leading-off type in front of the top-of-the-order). Also Brett Nommensen is best suited as a #1/#2 hitter. On the other side, heart-of-the-lineup hitters are nowhere to be found. Having Mark Thomas and Greg Sexton (can he finally handle AA pitching?) near the power positions in the lineup is a must, despite them also (especially Sexton) not being power hitters. Overall, this will be a tough year for the Biscuits offensively.
Next affiliate lineup I'm looking at is the one of the Biscuits:
1 SS Hak-Ju Lee (L)
2 CF Isaias Velasquez (R)
3 2B Tyler Bortnick (R)
4 RF Brett Nommensen (L)
5 C Mark Thomas (R)
6 3B Gregory Sexton (R)
7 1B Michael Sheridan (L)
8 DH Anthony Scelfo (L)
9 LF Ty Morrison (L)
Bench:
C Craig Albernaz (R)
C David Wendt (R)
IF Matthew Hall (R)
IF Omar Luna (R)
OF Chris Murrill (L)
The Biscuits have enough lead-off hitter types for at least 3 lineups. Hak-Ju Lee (who will bat leadoff most of the time), Isaias Velasquez (typical leadoff type), Tyler Bortnick (also great skill-set for leading off, but I put him 3rd in order to work on his power in addition to the exceptionally great approach on the plate) and Ty Morrison (I play him 9th as additional leading-off type in front of the top-of-the-order). Also Brett Nommensen is best suited as a #1/#2 hitter. On the other side, heart-of-the-lineup hitters are nowhere to be found. Having Mark Thomas and Greg Sexton (can he finally handle AA pitching?) near the power positions in the lineup is a must, despite them also (especially Sexton) not being power hitters. Overall, this will be a tough year for the Biscuits offensively.
Sunday, January 8, 2012
Weekend Catch All
Matt Eddy had two Rays minor league transactions from over the holidays: LHRP Josh Satow was released and SS Joel Barroso was signed. Other than a few youtube videos there isn't much information out there on Barroso. Expect to see the 21 year-old shortstop on one of the Rays U.S.-based short-season rosters this summer.
The release of the 26 year-old Satow might seem a bit of a surprise after his 2.26 ERA and 55-14 strikeout-to-walk ratio in 55.2 innings for Charlotte last summer. But Satow really struggled in 2010 when he was promoted to Montgomery for half the year (6.85 ERA, 32-28 SO-BB in 44.2 IP), started back at Charlotte in 2011, and never made it back to Montgomery despite solid numbers across the board. He was originally picked in the 25th round of the 2008 draft out of Arizona State and ends his four-year Rays career with a 2.90 ERA and 242 strikeouts in 232.2 innings. I wouldn't be surprised him make someones AA roster out of spring training. Here are his stats broken down by season and affiliate:
Year Age Affiliate W L ERA G GS SV IP BB SO WHIP H/9 HR/9 BB/9 SO/9 2008 22 Hudson Valley 3 0 1.23 19 0 2 36.2 17 46 1.309 7.6 0.0 4.2 11.3 2009 23 Bowling Green 4 0 2.29 44 0 20 63.0 15 65 1.000 6.9 0.3 2.1 9.3 2009 23 Charlotte 0 0 0.00 2 0 0 2.0 1 2 2.000 13.5 0.0 4.5 9.0 2010 24 Charlotte 4 1 1.76 22 0 9 30.2 9 42 0.880 5.3 0.3 2.6 12.3 2010 24 Montgomery 1 4 6.85 23 2 1 44.2 28 32 1.858 11.1 0.4 5.6 6.4 2011 25 Charlotte 4 5 2.26 45 0 13 55.2 14 55 1.060 7.3 0.8 2.3 8.9 4 Seasons 16 10 2.90 155 2 45 232.2 84 242 1.221 7.7 0.4 3.2 9.4
2012 Minor League Staffs
The Rays unveiled the 2012 coaching staffs for all seven U.S.-based affiliates. The biggest change to me is R.C. Lichtenstein moving up to become Montgomery's pitching coach, switching places with Bill Moloney. We've talked about the importance of Lichtenstein before, in particular with Wade Davis, Jake McGee and Matt Moore. It should be interesting to see how he helps the pitchers handle the wall many hit at AA after three years with Bowling Green working on the transition to full-season ball. I've included how many seasons each manager has been in their current position in parenthesis, notice the continuity.
Durham Bulls (International League):
Manager - Charlie Montoyo (6th)
Pitching Coach - Neil Allen
Coach - Dave Myers
Athletic Trainer - Matt Rankin
Montgomery Biscuits (Southern League):
Manager - Billy Gardner Jr. (6th)
Pitching Coach - R.C. Lichtenstein
Coach - Ozzie Timmons
Athletic Trainer - Kris Russell
Charlotte Stone Crabs (Florida State League):
Manager - Jim Morrison (4th)
Pitching Coach - Steve Watson
Coach - Joe Szekely
Athletic Trainer - Scott Thurston
Bowling Green Hot Rods (Midwest League):
Manager - Brady Williams (3rd)
Pitching Coach - Bill Moloney
Coach - Manny Castillo
Athletic Trainer - Jeremy Spencer
Hudson Valley Renegades (New York-Penn League):
Manager - Jared Sandberg (3rd)
Pitching Coach - Kyle Snyder
Coach - Dan DeMent
Athletic Trainer - Brian Newman
Princeton Rays (Appalachian League):
Manager - Michael Johns (3rd)
Pitching Coach - Darwin Peguero
Coach - Reinaldo Ruiz
Athletic Trainer - Nick Flynn
GCL Rays (Gulf Coast League):
Manager - Paul Hoover (1st)
Pitching Coach - Marty DeMerritt
Coach - Wuarnner Rincones
Coach - Hector Torres
Athletic Trainer - Chris Tomashoff
Minor League Coordinators:
Field Coordinator - Jim Hoff
Field Coordinator - Bill Evers
Pitching Coordinator - Dick Bosman
Pitching Coordinator - Dewey Robinson
Hitting Coordinator - Steve Livesey
Hitting Coordinator - Matt Quatraro
Outfield/Baserunning Coordinator - Skeeter Barnes
Catching Coordinator - Jamie Nelson
Medical Training Coordinator - Joe Benge
Rehabilitation Coordinator - Joel Smith
Strength and Conditioning Coordinator - Trung Cao
Equipment Manager - Tim McKechney
Assistant Equipment Manager - Shane Rossetti
Winter Development Program
The Rays third winter development program begins Monday. Here are the 28 players expected to attend the three-day event according to Stacy Long:
Pitchers: Jeff Ames, Alex Colome, Jake Floethe, Taylor Guerrieri, Jesse Hahn, Lenny Linsky, Parker Markel, Wilking Rodriguez, Enny Romero, Blake Snell, Albert Suarez, and Jake Thompson
Catchers: Luke Bailey and Justin O'Conner
Infielders: Ryan Brett, Derek Dietrich, Johnny Eierman, Tyler Goeddel, Jake Hager, and Brandon Martin
Outfielders: Kes Carter, Granden Goetzman, James Harris, Mikie Mahtook, Ty Morrison, Cody Rogers, Josh Sale, and Drew Vettleson
Fernando Rodney Signed
The Rays have signed RHRP Fernando Rodney to a $1.75 million major league contract for 2012 with a team option for $2.5 million in 2013 or a $250,000 buyout. Here is what the team had to say:
Rodney, 34, went 3-5 with a 4.50 ERA (32-IP, 16-ER) in 39 relief appearances for the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim in 2011. He held opponents to a .224 (26-for-116) batting average and recorded 26 strikeouts. A strained upper back forced him to spend 35 games on the disabled list from June 9–July 21, and he pitched in just two of the Angels final 29 games to end the season.And here are what the numbers have to say:
“Fernando’s pure stuff is top-notch and can beat hitters both in and out of the strike zone,” said Rays Executive Vice President of Baseball Operations Andrew Friedman. “We feel he will be able to maximize his ability with us to further strengthen our bullpen.”
Year Age Team W L ERA G GS SV IP BB SO ERA+ WHIP H/9 HR/9 BB/9 SO/9 2002 25 DET 1 3 6.00 20 0 0 18.0 10 10 72 1.944 12.5 1.0 5.0 5.0 2003 26 DET 1 3 6.07 27 0 3 29.2 17 33 72 1.753 10.6 0.6 5.2 10.0 2004 27 Did not play 2005 28 DET 2 3 2.86 39 0 9 44.0 17 42 150 1.273 8.0 1.0 3.5 8.6 2006 29 DET 7 4 3.52 63 0 7 71.2 34 65 130 1.186 6.4 0.8 4.3 8.2 2007 30 DET 2 6 4.26 48 0 1 50.2 21 54 108 1.322 8.2 0.9 3.7 9.6 2008 31 DET 0 6 4.91 38 0 13 40.1 30 49 92 1.587 7.6 0.7 6.7 10.9 2009 32 DET 2 5 4.40 73 0 37 75.2 41 61 104 1.467 8.3 1.0 4.9 7.3 2010 33 LAA 4 3 4.24 72 0 14 68.0 35 53 94 1.544 9.3 0.5 4.6 7.0 2011 34 LAA 3 5 4.50 39 0 3 32.0 28 26 85 1.688 7.3 0.3 7.9 7.3 9 Seasons 22 38 4.29 419 0 87 430.0 233 393 102 1.463 8.3 0.8 4.9 8.2
RP Notes
And finally a couple of site notes. Over the holidays I added links to the Depth Chart. If you click on a player's name his baseball-reference page will open in a new tab on your browser. Not a big deal, but much easier than using bbref's search engine, especially for players with common names.
I also updated the Prospect WebRing. The WebRing is designed to help you find info on other organizations prospects and minor leaguers from sites similar to RaysProspects. It's amazing how many good sites have gone out of business the last few years, so I did the best I could with what I could find. If you know of a better site than any of the ones I have listed please leave a comment or drop me a line at dougmilhoan@raysprospects.com. Sites have to be free (no pay walls) and preferably with a focus on an organization's minor league teams and prospects.
Future Considerations Podcast (Episode 12: Free Agent Signings, Trades, and Other Things the Rays Haven't Done)
In the first show of 2012, Kevin and Scott break down all the moves that teams have made over the winter, all the moves the Rays haven't made, and where the remaining free agents might wind up.
Questions or comments? E-mail podcast@raysprospects.com
Music is from Isle of Q
mp3 Download (41.4 MB; 0h45m19s)
RSS Feed
iTunes Feed - If you subscribe through iTunes, please rate and review!
(This episode will not show up in the preview link right away, but if you subscribe it will download automatically)
Questions or comments? E-mail podcast@raysprospects.com
Music is from Isle of Q
mp3 Download (41.4 MB; 0h45m19s)
RSS Feed
iTunes Feed - If you subscribe through iTunes, please rate and review!
(This episode will not show up in the preview link right away, but if you subscribe it will download automatically)
Friday, January 6, 2012
The Minor League lineups: Durham Bulls (AAA)
After finishing the positional runthrough I'm going to take a look at the projected lineups of each of the Rays minor league affiliates.
I'll start with the Durham Bulls:
1 2B Cole Figueroa (L)
2 SS Tim Beckham (R)
3 CF Brandon Guyer (R)
4 1B/DH Juan Miranda (L)
5 DH/1B Russ Canzler (R)
6 LF Stephen Vogt (L)
7 3B Matt Mangini (L)
8 C Robinson Chirinos (R)
9 RF Kyeong Kang (L)
Bench:
C Nevin Ashley (R)
MIF Shawn O'Malley (S)
1B/3B Henry Wrigley (R)
LF/1B Leslie Anderson (L)
I'll start with the Durham Bulls:
1 2B Cole Figueroa (L)
2 SS Tim Beckham (R)
3 CF Brandon Guyer (R)
4 1B/DH Juan Miranda (L)
5 DH/1B Russ Canzler (R)
6 LF Stephen Vogt (L)
7 3B Matt Mangini (L)
8 C Robinson Chirinos (R)
9 RF Kyeong Kang (L)
Bench:
C Nevin Ashley (R)
MIF Shawn O'Malley (S)
1B/3B Henry Wrigley (R)
LF/1B Leslie Anderson (L)
OF John Shelby (R)
OF Emeel Salem (L)
The lineup of the Bulls seems to be very impressive once again. Even without further additions to the roster (which I think will come) it is very potent. Cole Figueroa, Tim Beckham and Shawn O'Malley (maybe even Emeel Salem) are very good fits for the top of the order with decent on-base rates (Figueroa and O'Malley already, Beckham hopefully improving) and above average speed. The power hitters Brandon Guyer, Juan Miranda, Russ Canzler and Stephen Vogt are the heart of the lineup while players like Matt Mangini, Robinson Chirinos and Kyeong Kang are way better with the bat then their lineup-position (7-9) in my projection indicates.
OF Emeel Salem (L)
The lineup of the Bulls seems to be very impressive once again. Even without further additions to the roster (which I think will come) it is very potent. Cole Figueroa, Tim Beckham and Shawn O'Malley (maybe even Emeel Salem) are very good fits for the top of the order with decent on-base rates (Figueroa and O'Malley already, Beckham hopefully improving) and above average speed. The power hitters Brandon Guyer, Juan Miranda, Russ Canzler and Stephen Vogt are the heart of the lineup while players like Matt Mangini, Robinson Chirinos and Kyeong Kang are way better with the bat then their lineup-position (7-9) in my projection indicates.
Thursday, January 5, 2012
Projecting the Full-Season Ball Rosters for 2012: Relief Pitching
In this series I'm going to take a quick look at the probable roster of each full season minor league affiliate at the beginning of the 2012 season. I'm going through it position by position. Keep in mind that these projections are very much subject to change (trades could happen, Rays could be more aggressive/conservative with some players, ...). We are going to do more in-depth pieces about the final roster for each affiliate when they are set. This is only to give you a short peek. For more information on the current state of the Rays Depth Chart, check out Doug's great work.
The position I'm going to look at today is Relief Pitching.
As it is right now I see 6 locks in the Rays bullpen: Kyle Farnsworth, Joel Peralta, Jacob McGee, J.P. Howell, Fernando Rodney and Burke Badenhop. As I fully expect one starter to be traded between now and Spring Training, I don't see any of the starters moving to the pen. Therefore, there is 1 more opening. Right now I go with my intuition and say that Brandon Gomes gets the final spot in the pen (does Cesar Ramos have an option left? I thought not, but I see right now that he has? If not, I see the Rays giving him the 7th spot in the pen).
Durham Bulls:
Cesar Ramos (L), Dane De la Rosa (R), Josh Lueke (R), Jhonny Nunez (R), Jay Buente (R), Matt Bush (R), Marquis Fleming (R), Zachary Quate (R), Ryan Reid (R)
This projection is very much subject to change as Ramos, De la Rosa and Lueke could very well start the season in the majors as injuries can and probably will happen. The lack of left handed relievers behind Cesar Ramos (I left Frank De los Santos, Sergio Espinosa and Neil Schenk in AA) should also be addressed. Ramos, De la Rosa, Lueke, Nunez and Buente provide high quality depth for the majors while I'm eager to see how Matt Bush progresses as a pitcher and how Fleming, Quate and Reid handle AAA. If the Rays sign 1-2 more pitchers for Durham, I see Quate and Reid starting in AA once again.
Montgomery Biscuits:
Alex Koronis (R), Merrill Kelly (R), Scott Shuman (R), Kirby Yates (R), Ricky Orta (R), Neil Schenk (L), Sergio Espinosa (L), Chad Thall (L), Adam Liberatore (L)
If you remember this post, I've projected the '12 Biscuits rotation as a combination of Colome-Thompson-Cruz-Lobstein-Dyer-De los Santos. This leaves Alex Koronis and Merrill Kelly out of the rotation. As I think that their futures will be in the pen, they'll start their road (hopefully) to the majors as full-time-relievers in 2012. I could even see Alex Koronis being used in high leverage situations next to Scott Shuman, Kirby Yates and Neil Schenk or Josh Satow. Overall, the bullpen is full of a bit older prospects who all have performed well at some point. With their experience, they should do very well next season in AA. UPDATE: Josh Satow was released by the Rays.
Charlotte Stone Crabs:
Lenny Linsky (R), Matt Stabelfield (L), Chris Rearick (L), Jimmy Patterson (L), Nate Garcia (R), Austin Hubbard (R), Felix Fuentes (R), Stephen Hiscock (R), Eliazer Suero (R), Victor Mateo (R)
The Rays won't have any difficulties finding relief pitchers for their affiliate in the Florida State League. I counted 14 possible candidates for those spots, listing 10 of them up there. Bowling Green standouts Chris Rearick, Nate Garcia and Jimmy Patterson will handle high leverage situations together with Matt Stabelfield and Lenny Linsky. I see Linsky - who projects as a high leverage reliever in the majors - as the closer. Austin Hubbard, Felix Fuentes, Stephen Hiscock, Eliazer Suero and Victor Mateo (long man?) round out a crowded pen. Other candidates for the Stone Crabs BP include: Justin Woodall (I've him in Bowling Green), Drew Leary and Jairo de la Rosa (injured all of '11 ... does anybody know something new?)
Bowling Green Hot Rods:
Justin Woodall (L), Matt Ramsey (R; ready come Spring?), David Kubiak (R), Jacob Partridge (L), Charlie Cononie (R), Robert Dickman (L), Theron Geith (L), Garret Smith (R), Shay Crawford (L), Stayton Thomas (R), Daniel Bream (R), Wilmer Almonte (R; injured all of '11), Matt Spann (L), Jason McEachern (R)
So, that's tough. I've about 17-19 pitchers who should be considered for a role in the Hot Rods pen. I've trimmed it down a bit to 14 but even of those 14 some might start in Hudson Valley while others might be released. Justin Woodall, Matt Ramsey (if healthy) and David Kubiak should be used in high leverage situations while Wilmer Almonte (healthy?), Matt Spann and Jason McEachern could all see some starts during the season. If coming out of the pen, especially Matt Spann could be used in high leverage situations as well. Other possibilities for the BG pen could be: Lucas Irvine (R), Jesse Hahn (R), Jeff Ames (R), Matt Swilley (R), Pedro Silvestre, Ian Kendall (R) or Roberto Gomez (R).
The position I'm going to look at today is Relief Pitching.
As it is right now I see 6 locks in the Rays bullpen: Kyle Farnsworth, Joel Peralta, Jacob McGee, J.P. Howell, Fernando Rodney and Burke Badenhop. As I fully expect one starter to be traded between now and Spring Training, I don't see any of the starters moving to the pen. Therefore, there is 1 more opening. Right now I go with my intuition and say that Brandon Gomes gets the final spot in the pen (does Cesar Ramos have an option left? I thought not, but I see right now that he has? If not, I see the Rays giving him the 7th spot in the pen).
Durham Bulls:
Cesar Ramos (L), Dane De la Rosa (R), Josh Lueke (R), Jhonny Nunez (R), Jay Buente (R), Matt Bush (R), Marquis Fleming (R), Zachary Quate (R), Ryan Reid (R)
This projection is very much subject to change as Ramos, De la Rosa and Lueke could very well start the season in the majors as injuries can and probably will happen. The lack of left handed relievers behind Cesar Ramos (I left Frank De los Santos, Sergio Espinosa and Neil Schenk in AA) should also be addressed. Ramos, De la Rosa, Lueke, Nunez and Buente provide high quality depth for the majors while I'm eager to see how Matt Bush progresses as a pitcher and how Fleming, Quate and Reid handle AAA. If the Rays sign 1-2 more pitchers for Durham, I see Quate and Reid starting in AA once again.
Montgomery Biscuits:
Alex Koronis (R), Merrill Kelly (R), Scott Shuman (R), Kirby Yates (R), Ricky Orta (R), Neil Schenk (L), Sergio Espinosa (L), Chad Thall (L), Adam Liberatore (L)
If you remember this post, I've projected the '12 Biscuits rotation as a combination of Colome-Thompson-Cruz-Lobstein-Dyer-De los Santos. This leaves Alex Koronis and Merrill Kelly out of the rotation. As I think that their futures will be in the pen, they'll start their road (hopefully) to the majors as full-time-relievers in 2012. I could even see Alex Koronis being used in high leverage situations next to Scott Shuman, Kirby Yates and Neil Schenk or Josh Satow. Overall, the bullpen is full of a bit older prospects who all have performed well at some point. With their experience, they should do very well next season in AA. UPDATE: Josh Satow was released by the Rays.
Charlotte Stone Crabs:
Lenny Linsky (R), Matt Stabelfield (L), Chris Rearick (L), Jimmy Patterson (L), Nate Garcia (R), Austin Hubbard (R), Felix Fuentes (R), Stephen Hiscock (R), Eliazer Suero (R), Victor Mateo (R)
The Rays won't have any difficulties finding relief pitchers for their affiliate in the Florida State League. I counted 14 possible candidates for those spots, listing 10 of them up there. Bowling Green standouts Chris Rearick, Nate Garcia and Jimmy Patterson will handle high leverage situations together with Matt Stabelfield and Lenny Linsky. I see Linsky - who projects as a high leverage reliever in the majors - as the closer. Austin Hubbard, Felix Fuentes, Stephen Hiscock, Eliazer Suero and Victor Mateo (long man?) round out a crowded pen. Other candidates for the Stone Crabs BP include: Justin Woodall (I've him in Bowling Green), Drew Leary and Jairo de la Rosa (injured all of '11 ... does anybody know something new?)
Bowling Green Hot Rods:
Justin Woodall (L), Matt Ramsey (R; ready come Spring?), David Kubiak (R), Jacob Partridge (L), Charlie Cononie (R), Robert Dickman (L), Theron Geith (L), Garret Smith (R), Shay Crawford (L), Stayton Thomas (R), Daniel Bream (R), Wilmer Almonte (R; injured all of '11), Matt Spann (L), Jason McEachern (R)
So, that's tough. I've about 17-19 pitchers who should be considered for a role in the Hot Rods pen. I've trimmed it down a bit to 14 but even of those 14 some might start in Hudson Valley while others might be released. Justin Woodall, Matt Ramsey (if healthy) and David Kubiak should be used in high leverage situations while Wilmer Almonte (healthy?), Matt Spann and Jason McEachern could all see some starts during the season. If coming out of the pen, especially Matt Spann could be used in high leverage situations as well. Other possibilities for the BG pen could be: Lucas Irvine (R), Jesse Hahn (R), Jeff Ames (R), Matt Swilley (R), Pedro Silvestre, Ian Kendall (R) or Roberto Gomez (R).
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Projecting the Full-Season Ball Rosters for 2012: Outfield
In this series I'm going to take a quick look at the probable roster of each full season minor league affiliate at the beginning of the 2012 season. I'm going through it position by position. Keep in mind that these projections are very much subject to change (trades could happen, Rays could be more aggressive/conservative with some players, ...). We are going to do more in-depth pieces about the final roster for each affiliate when they are set. This is only to give you a short peek. For more information on the current state of the Rays Depth Chart, check out Doug's great work.
The position I'm going to look at today is the Outfield.
It more and more looks as if B.J. Upton will stay with the Rays ... at least for the start of the season. This puts Desmond Jennings, Matt Joyce, Sam Fuld and him into the Rays outfield. As the Rays are looking for impact bats, lots of additional COF/DH types could land with the Rays until Spring Training (Kyle Blanks, Jesus Guzman, Luke Scott, Kendry Morales, Johnny Damon, ...). I expect one addition of the COF/DH mold (+ one 1B) happening. This would mean that either Elliot Johnson, Justin Ruggiano or Brandon Guyer will get spot #25 on the roster. Knowing the Rays I think they'll give the spot to Johnson in order of having Guyer playing every day in Durham. And if an additional spot with projected limited playing time is open I expect them to go with Ruggiano.
Durham Bulls:
Stephen Vogt (L/LF), Kyeong Kang (L/mostly RF), Leslie Anderson (L/LF), Brandon Guyer (R/RF and CF), John Shelby (R/CF), Emeel Salem (L/CF)
Having said this, the Durham corner outfield positions should look decent, even if Guyer starts in the majors. Stephen Vogt, Kyeong Kang and Leslie Anderson should be in Durham come Spring Training. With Brandon Guyer in Durham, no additional COF depth signings for the majors are needed. Regarding CF: John Shelby should start in Durham while I have no update on Emeel Salem's knee injury. Behind them, I'd start Isaias Velasquez in Montgomery. I could see an additional signing for the Bulls outfield. Maybe one of Ruggiano (if not in majors)/Matulia will be signed to a MiL deal?
Montgomery Biscuits:
Ty Morrison (L/CF), Isaias Velazquez (R/CF), Chris Murrill (L/LF and RF), Brett Nommensen (L/RF), Anthony Scelfo (L/LF)
Ladies and Gentleman, this might just be the fastest minor league outfield in Rays history. The 5 players add up to (114+70+41+100+76) 401 SB in their pro careers. Breaking it down position by position, both, Morrison and Velazquez, should see time in center field with both playing some COF as well. Brett Nommensen should be the primary RF while Chris Murrill and Anthony Scelfo should play most of the time in left field. Additionally I see Scelfo filling in at 2B and 3B and all outfielders rotating into the DH role as well. This gives all five of them enough plate appearances and adds even more speed to a roster that also features Hak-Ju Lee and Tyler Bortnick. On the other side, I don't see much in the power production sector in Montgomery this year as Mark Thomas might be the only power bat in the lineup (assuming Henry Wrigley moving up and no minor league free agents added).
Charlotte Stone Crabs:
Mikie Mahtook (R/RF and CF), Kevin Kiermaier (L/OF), Cody Rogers (L/OF), Todd Glaesmann (R/RF) and Steven Tinoco (R/LF and RF)
Man do the Rays have speed in their A+ and AA outfields. Kevin Kiermaier and Cody Rogers are two more very speedy guys with Mikie Mahtook being very fast as well. This leads to another lineup with multiple guys being capable of playing an adequate center fielder. Therefore, I see the Rays moving Tood Glaesmann to RF full time leaving Mahtook, Kiermaier and Rogers as CF possibilities. Mikie Mahtood should spare Todd Glaesmann in RF and play as the primary CFer in order to receive more than 500 PA's. Cody Rogers should play regularly in LF while providing excellent depth for CF as well as RF and Kevin Kiermaier should mostly play CF while providing depth for the corners. Steven Tinoco (who could also see some time at 1B) adds even more depth to Left and Right Field. All 5 should rotate into the DH spot as well. Overall, while Charlotte has a very speedy OF as well, these 5 are much more powerful hitters than the 5 in Montgomery. Especially Mahtook, Glaesmann and Rogers are can-do-it-all forwards in the making.
Bowling Green Hot Rods:
Drew Vettleson (L/RF), Kes Carter (L/CF and RF), Craig Lyerly (R/LF and CF), Joel Caminero (R/OF), Nicholas Schwaner (L/LF)
I could see Drew Vettleson (in right), Kes Carter (in center) and Craig Lyerly (in left) being the primary starters for the Bowling Green Hot Rods. Joel Caminero (at all 3 positions) and Nick Schwaner (in left field and at 1B/3B) are the only backups I can think of for the Hot Rods (as the Renegades OF has been released and as I don't see, while not being surprised if it happens, Josh Sale moving up to Bowling Green at the start of the season). These outfielders won't rotate into the DH role either as the Hot Rods have a much more crowded infield.
The position I'm going to look at today is the Outfield.
It more and more looks as if B.J. Upton will stay with the Rays ... at least for the start of the season. This puts Desmond Jennings, Matt Joyce, Sam Fuld and him into the Rays outfield. As the Rays are looking for impact bats, lots of additional COF/DH types could land with the Rays until Spring Training (Kyle Blanks, Jesus Guzman, Luke Scott, Kendry Morales, Johnny Damon, ...). I expect one addition of the COF/DH mold (+ one 1B) happening. This would mean that either Elliot Johnson, Justin Ruggiano or Brandon Guyer will get spot #25 on the roster. Knowing the Rays I think they'll give the spot to Johnson in order of having Guyer playing every day in Durham. And if an additional spot with projected limited playing time is open I expect them to go with Ruggiano.
Durham Bulls:
Stephen Vogt (L/LF), Kyeong Kang (L/mostly RF), Leslie Anderson (L/LF), Brandon Guyer (R/RF and CF), John Shelby (R/CF), Emeel Salem (L/CF)
Having said this, the Durham corner outfield positions should look decent, even if Guyer starts in the majors. Stephen Vogt, Kyeong Kang and Leslie Anderson should be in Durham come Spring Training. With Brandon Guyer in Durham, no additional COF depth signings for the majors are needed. Regarding CF: John Shelby should start in Durham while I have no update on Emeel Salem's knee injury. Behind them, I'd start Isaias Velasquez in Montgomery. I could see an additional signing for the Bulls outfield. Maybe one of Ruggiano (if not in majors)/Matulia will be signed to a MiL deal?
Montgomery Biscuits:
Ty Morrison (L/CF), Isaias Velazquez (R/CF), Chris Murrill (L/LF and RF), Brett Nommensen (L/RF), Anthony Scelfo (L/LF)
Ladies and Gentleman, this might just be the fastest minor league outfield in Rays history. The 5 players add up to (114+70+41+100+76) 401 SB in their pro careers. Breaking it down position by position, both, Morrison and Velazquez, should see time in center field with both playing some COF as well. Brett Nommensen should be the primary RF while Chris Murrill and Anthony Scelfo should play most of the time in left field. Additionally I see Scelfo filling in at 2B and 3B and all outfielders rotating into the DH role as well. This gives all five of them enough plate appearances and adds even more speed to a roster that also features Hak-Ju Lee and Tyler Bortnick. On the other side, I don't see much in the power production sector in Montgomery this year as Mark Thomas might be the only power bat in the lineup (assuming Henry Wrigley moving up and no minor league free agents added).
Charlotte Stone Crabs:
Mikie Mahtook (R/RF and CF), Kevin Kiermaier (L/OF), Cody Rogers (L/OF), Todd Glaesmann (R/RF) and Steven Tinoco (R/LF and RF)
Man do the Rays have speed in their A+ and AA outfields. Kevin Kiermaier and Cody Rogers are two more very speedy guys with Mikie Mahtook being very fast as well. This leads to another lineup with multiple guys being capable of playing an adequate center fielder. Therefore, I see the Rays moving Tood Glaesmann to RF full time leaving Mahtook, Kiermaier and Rogers as CF possibilities. Mikie Mahtood should spare Todd Glaesmann in RF and play as the primary CFer in order to receive more than 500 PA's. Cody Rogers should play regularly in LF while providing excellent depth for CF as well as RF and Kevin Kiermaier should mostly play CF while providing depth for the corners. Steven Tinoco (who could also see some time at 1B) adds even more depth to Left and Right Field. All 5 should rotate into the DH spot as well. Overall, while Charlotte has a very speedy OF as well, these 5 are much more powerful hitters than the 5 in Montgomery. Especially Mahtook, Glaesmann and Rogers are can-do-it-all forwards in the making.
Bowling Green Hot Rods:
Drew Vettleson (L/RF), Kes Carter (L/CF and RF), Craig Lyerly (R/LF and CF), Joel Caminero (R/OF), Nicholas Schwaner (L/LF)
I could see Drew Vettleson (in right), Kes Carter (in center) and Craig Lyerly (in left) being the primary starters for the Bowling Green Hot Rods. Joel Caminero (at all 3 positions) and Nick Schwaner (in left field and at 1B/3B) are the only backups I can think of for the Hot Rods (as the Renegades OF has been released and as I don't see, while not being surprised if it happens, Josh Sale moving up to Bowling Green at the start of the season). These outfielders won't rotate into the DH role either as the Hot Rods have a much more crowded infield.
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
Projecting the Full-Season Ball Rosters for 2012: Second Base
In this series I'm going to take a quick look at the probable roster of each full season minor league affiliate at the beginning of the 2012 season. I'm going through it position by position. Keep in mind that these projections are very much subject to change (trades could happen, Rays could be more aggressive/conservative with some players, ...). We are going to do more in-depth pieces about the final roster for each affiliate when they are set. This is only to give you a short peek. For more information on the current state of the Rays Depth Chart, check out Doug's great work.
The position I'm going to look at today is Second Base.
A major league position can't be more set than it is with the Rays and 2B. Ben Zobrist is one of the primere Second Baseman in the majors both offensively and defensively. And while the Rays could switch him to RF or even 1B, I don't see that happening as his defense is much more valueable in the middle infield. In addition to Zobrist, the Rays have Sean Rodriguez and Elliot Johnson. Both are more than capable of playing 2B, at least defensively.
Durham Bulls:
Cole Figueroa (L)
With Elliot Johnson in Tampa Bay in this projection, I predict Cole Figueroa (starter) and Shawn O'Malley (backup for SS and 2B) playing at 2B for Durham. Both are nice prospects in my eyes with the possibility of becoming a utility player in the majors. Figueroa's ceiling might even be a little bit higher.
Montgomery Biscuits:
Tyler Bortnick (R)
Tyler Bortnick is one of my favourite prospects in the Rays system. He has an exceptional approach at the plate with an excellent eye-bat connection. Together with Hak-Ju Lee he once again will be the heart of the teams' defensive and offensive formation. It's very interesting to see how he manages the jump from A+ to AA. I keep my fingers crossed for him.
Charlotte Stone Crabs:
Hector Guevara (R), Robby Price (L)
With Bortnick and Lee gone from the Stone Crabs MIF, I see the Bowling Green MIF of '11 being the Port Charlotte MIF of '12. This means that Hector Guevara (primary) and Robby Price (also at 3B) will handle most of the duties at Second in '12. Depending on how much Price also plays 3B, Robi Estrada will fill in and provide depth at Second. The combination of Guevara's youth and projection with Price's very refined approach is very interesting to watch and it should give the Stone Crabs a solid duo at 2B.
Bowling Green Hot Rods:
Ryan Brett (S), Raymond Church (R)
The Hot Rods infield will be very crowded in '12. Unless one or two of Jeff Malm, Riccio Torrez, Cameron Seitzer or Taylor Motter starts in A+, the Hot Rods' infield consists of Jeff Malm, Cameron Seitzer and Junior Rodriguez (1B), Juniel Querecuto and Taylor Motter (SS), Riccio Torrez and Leonardo Reginatto (3B) and Ryan Brett as well as Raymond Church for 2B. These players will also rotate into the DH-role, but that's 9 players for 5 spots. Nevertheless, I do project all of them to start in A-ball while giving Riccio Torrez the highest probability of playing in A+ at the start of the season. Focusing on 2B, I think Ryan Brett is a very nice prospect. He has a great approach at the plate and is very fast. He only lacks some power and a defensive home in order to become one of the top prospects in the system. Raymond Church provides depth at 2B while I could also see him being released before the start of the season.
The position I'm going to look at today is Second Base.
A major league position can't be more set than it is with the Rays and 2B. Ben Zobrist is one of the primere Second Baseman in the majors both offensively and defensively. And while the Rays could switch him to RF or even 1B, I don't see that happening as his defense is much more valueable in the middle infield. In addition to Zobrist, the Rays have Sean Rodriguez and Elliot Johnson. Both are more than capable of playing 2B, at least defensively.
Durham Bulls:
Cole Figueroa (L)
With Elliot Johnson in Tampa Bay in this projection, I predict Cole Figueroa (starter) and Shawn O'Malley (backup for SS and 2B) playing at 2B for Durham. Both are nice prospects in my eyes with the possibility of becoming a utility player in the majors. Figueroa's ceiling might even be a little bit higher.
Montgomery Biscuits:
Tyler Bortnick (R)
Tyler Bortnick is one of my favourite prospects in the Rays system. He has an exceptional approach at the plate with an excellent eye-bat connection. Together with Hak-Ju Lee he once again will be the heart of the teams' defensive and offensive formation. It's very interesting to see how he manages the jump from A+ to AA. I keep my fingers crossed for him.
Charlotte Stone Crabs:
Hector Guevara (R), Robby Price (L)
With Bortnick and Lee gone from the Stone Crabs MIF, I see the Bowling Green MIF of '11 being the Port Charlotte MIF of '12. This means that Hector Guevara (primary) and Robby Price (also at 3B) will handle most of the duties at Second in '12. Depending on how much Price also plays 3B, Robi Estrada will fill in and provide depth at Second. The combination of Guevara's youth and projection with Price's very refined approach is very interesting to watch and it should give the Stone Crabs a solid duo at 2B.
Bowling Green Hot Rods:
Ryan Brett (S), Raymond Church (R)
The Hot Rods infield will be very crowded in '12. Unless one or two of Jeff Malm, Riccio Torrez, Cameron Seitzer or Taylor Motter starts in A+, the Hot Rods' infield consists of Jeff Malm, Cameron Seitzer and Junior Rodriguez (1B), Juniel Querecuto and Taylor Motter (SS), Riccio Torrez and Leonardo Reginatto (3B) and Ryan Brett as well as Raymond Church for 2B. These players will also rotate into the DH-role, but that's 9 players for 5 spots. Nevertheless, I do project all of them to start in A-ball while giving Riccio Torrez the highest probability of playing in A+ at the start of the season. Focusing on 2B, I think Ryan Brett is a very nice prospect. He has a great approach at the plate and is very fast. He only lacks some power and a defensive home in order to become one of the top prospects in the system. Raymond Church provides depth at 2B while I could also see him being released before the start of the season.
Monday, January 2, 2012
Projecting the Full-Season Ball Rosters for 2012: Shortstop
In this series I'm going to take a quick look at the probable roster of each full season minor league affiliate at the beginning of the 2012 season. I'm going through it position by position. Keep in mind that these projections are very much subject to change (trades could happen, Rays could be more aggressive/conservative with some players, ...). We are going to do more in-depth pieces about the final roster for each affiliate when they are set. This is only to give you a short peek. For more information on the current state of the Rays Depth Chart, check out Doug's great work.
The position I'm going to look at today is Shortstop.
The most bleak locking position right now in the majors is shortstop. Reid Brignac is above average defensively but a liability on offense while Sean Rodriguez shouldn't see any righty and thus should only play short (he is better at 2nd and 3rd) against lefties and Elliott Johnson looks like a major league utility player at best. The best options in the farm system (Lee and Beckham) are at least one year away of the majors as well. Nevertheless, the Rays don't seem to bring in new talent at short with all viable FA options gone and only the Nationals possibly coming to my mind as trade partner (Ian Desmond ... but that would mean a trade of B.J. Upton).
Durham Bulls:
Tim Beckham (R), Shawn O'Malley (S)
Right now it seems as if Joe Maddon and Andrew Friedman want to carry Reid Brignac, Sean Rodriguez AND Elliot Johnson once again on their 25 man roster in order to have defensive flexibility. Thus, and because Ray Olmedo and J.J. Furmaniak are gone, the shortstop duo in Durham will be Tim Beckham and Shawn O'Malley. O'Malley, who is a very capable defender will be the back-up at both middle-infield positions with Tim Beckham handling the starting role. While we all have hoped for more when Beckham was drafted 1st overall, he has been improving his defense and offense every year. I'm very eager to see what he can do in Durham next year.
Montgomery Biscuits:
Hak-Ju Lee (L), Matthew Hall (R), Omar Luna (R)
Hak-Ju Lee is excellent defensively. He is nearly complete and very advanced offensively. And he gives excellent interviews. Lee and Tyler Bortnick once again (after '11 in Port Charlotte) will be the bright spots in their teams' infield. With an excellent '12 season, Lee could advance to Durham by mid-season, sharing the MIF with Tim Beckham and Cole Figueroa. Matt Hall and Omar Luna are very valueable players to the Rays because they add defensive flexibility to a roster. Both have already played in AAA and both played most of last season in A+. They will once again add defensive flexibility to the roster, backing Lee, Bortnick and Sexton up at SS, 2B and 3B.
Charlotte Stone Crabs:
Derek Dietrich (L), Robi Estrada (S)
Derek Dietrich is one of the best prospects in the Rays farm system (ranked 20th on the combined prospect list). He projects to have above average power while his play at short (most see him as a 3B/2B-man in the majors) and his ability to limit strikeouts (23.8 K% in '12) will determine his role in the future. Robi Estrada is going to move up to A+ after playing in Bowling Green for 3 years now. He'll back Dietrich up at short.
Bowling Green Hot Rods:
Taylor Motter (R), Juniel Querecuto (S)
Juniel Querecuto, a bonus baby out of Venezuela, and Taylor Motter will handle short for the Hot Rods. Querecuto is very young (19.3 years today) and could very well also play one more season in extended spring training, but I think that the Rays will stay aggressive with him, assigning him to full season ball. Taylor Motter was assigned to Princeton after being drafted last year where he dominated the mostly younger opposing pitching. Together they should complement each other very well and form a potent group.
The position I'm going to look at today is Shortstop.
The most bleak locking position right now in the majors is shortstop. Reid Brignac is above average defensively but a liability on offense while Sean Rodriguez shouldn't see any righty and thus should only play short (he is better at 2nd and 3rd) against lefties and Elliott Johnson looks like a major league utility player at best. The best options in the farm system (Lee and Beckham) are at least one year away of the majors as well. Nevertheless, the Rays don't seem to bring in new talent at short with all viable FA options gone and only the Nationals possibly coming to my mind as trade partner (Ian Desmond ... but that would mean a trade of B.J. Upton).
Durham Bulls:
Tim Beckham (R), Shawn O'Malley (S)
Right now it seems as if Joe Maddon and Andrew Friedman want to carry Reid Brignac, Sean Rodriguez AND Elliot Johnson once again on their 25 man roster in order to have defensive flexibility. Thus, and because Ray Olmedo and J.J. Furmaniak are gone, the shortstop duo in Durham will be Tim Beckham and Shawn O'Malley. O'Malley, who is a very capable defender will be the back-up at both middle-infield positions with Tim Beckham handling the starting role. While we all have hoped for more when Beckham was drafted 1st overall, he has been improving his defense and offense every year. I'm very eager to see what he can do in Durham next year.
Montgomery Biscuits:
Hak-Ju Lee (L), Matthew Hall (R), Omar Luna (R)
Hak-Ju Lee is excellent defensively. He is nearly complete and very advanced offensively. And he gives excellent interviews. Lee and Tyler Bortnick once again (after '11 in Port Charlotte) will be the bright spots in their teams' infield. With an excellent '12 season, Lee could advance to Durham by mid-season, sharing the MIF with Tim Beckham and Cole Figueroa. Matt Hall and Omar Luna are very valueable players to the Rays because they add defensive flexibility to a roster. Both have already played in AAA and both played most of last season in A+. They will once again add defensive flexibility to the roster, backing Lee, Bortnick and Sexton up at SS, 2B and 3B.
Charlotte Stone Crabs:
Derek Dietrich (L), Robi Estrada (S)
Derek Dietrich is one of the best prospects in the Rays farm system (ranked 20th on the combined prospect list). He projects to have above average power while his play at short (most see him as a 3B/2B-man in the majors) and his ability to limit strikeouts (23.8 K% in '12) will determine his role in the future. Robi Estrada is going to move up to A+ after playing in Bowling Green for 3 years now. He'll back Dietrich up at short.
Bowling Green Hot Rods:
Taylor Motter (R), Juniel Querecuto (S)
Juniel Querecuto, a bonus baby out of Venezuela, and Taylor Motter will handle short for the Hot Rods. Querecuto is very young (19.3 years today) and could very well also play one more season in extended spring training, but I think that the Rays will stay aggressive with him, assigning him to full season ball. Taylor Motter was assigned to Princeton after being drafted last year where he dominated the mostly younger opposing pitching. Together they should complement each other very well and form a potent group.
Friday, December 30, 2011
Projecting the Full-Season Ball Rosters for 2012: Third Base
In this series I'm going to take a quick look at the probable roster of each full season minor league affiliate at the beginning of the 2012 season. I'm going through it position by position. Keep in mind that these projections are very much subject to change (trades could happen, Rays could be more aggressive/conservative with some players, ...). We are going to do more in-depth pieces about the final roster for each affiliate when they are set. This is only to give you a short peek. For more information on the current state of the Rays Depth Chart, check out Doug's great work.
The next position I'm going to look at is Third Base.
The Rays are very well set at 3B for years to come (at least until 2016) with Evan Longoria being above average offensively and even more impressive defensively at the hot corner. Nevertheless, they need to develop talent at third base in order to continue having long-term talent there after the Longoria-era and in order to having depth in case of an injury. The Rays have enough 3B-depth already within their current major league roster with Sean Rodriguez and Elliott Johnson being able to play very well at 3rd behind Longoria.
Durham Bulls:
Matt Mangini (L)
The Bulls will have a very good starting Third Baseman in 2012 with Matt Mangini and his very good hit-tool providing depth for the majors. Behind him, Russ Canzler and especially Henry Wrigley provide excellent depth while a versatile player like Cole Figueroa also being able to help out. Overall, the Bulls are very well set at the infield corners.
Montgomery Biscuits:
Greg Sexton (R)
With Dan Mayora gone and Cole Figueroa (hopefully) moving up to AAA it's Gregory Sexton who will be handling 3B most of the time. He moved up to AA mid-way last season (for the 2nd time) and should play in AA all season long. The versatile Matt Hall, Omar Luna and Anthony Scelfo could give him some time off at the hot corner as Sexton might have to help out at First as well.
Charlotte Stone Crabs:
Julio Cedeno (R)
It's very tough to predict who is going to play most of the time at third in Port Charlotte. After Sexton moved up to Montgomery midway last season, the position was mostly handled by Omar Luna and Matt Hall. I, however, see both of them providing depth in Montgomery next season. Therefore, Julio Cedeno and Bobby Price should be handling most of the 3B-duties in Port Charlotte next season. Riccio Torrez, a 2011 draftee, could also be a dark horse to start in A+, while I see him starting in A-ball before eventually being promoted mid-season. Another possibility to get some playing time at third is Derek Dietrich. Most scouts think that he'll eventually have to move to the hot corner. In 2012, however, I think that he will - at least mostly - stay at short.
Bowling Green Hot Rods:
Riccio Torrez (R), Leonardo Reginatto (R)
Riccio Torrez, Leonardo Reginatto and Taylor Motter (mostly at short) should handle 3B for the Hot Rods in 2012. And even if Reginatto, who is one of the first Brasilian players in the Rays organization, doesn't improve upon his mediocre '11 season, the Hot Rods should be very well represented at third. Torrez (4th round pick last year) and Motter (17th round pick; impressive '11) look to be impact bats in a very potent Hot Rods lineup which could feature Jeff Malm, Cameron Seitzer, Ryan Brett, Drew Vettleson, Kes Carter and Alejandro Segovia next to them.
The next position I'm going to look at is Third Base.
The Rays are very well set at 3B for years to come (at least until 2016) with Evan Longoria being above average offensively and even more impressive defensively at the hot corner. Nevertheless, they need to develop talent at third base in order to continue having long-term talent there after the Longoria-era and in order to having depth in case of an injury. The Rays have enough 3B-depth already within their current major league roster with Sean Rodriguez and Elliott Johnson being able to play very well at 3rd behind Longoria.
Durham Bulls:
Matt Mangini (L)
The Bulls will have a very good starting Third Baseman in 2012 with Matt Mangini and his very good hit-tool providing depth for the majors. Behind him, Russ Canzler and especially Henry Wrigley provide excellent depth while a versatile player like Cole Figueroa also being able to help out. Overall, the Bulls are very well set at the infield corners.
Montgomery Biscuits:
Greg Sexton (R)
With Dan Mayora gone and Cole Figueroa (hopefully) moving up to AAA it's Gregory Sexton who will be handling 3B most of the time. He moved up to AA mid-way last season (for the 2nd time) and should play in AA all season long. The versatile Matt Hall, Omar Luna and Anthony Scelfo could give him some time off at the hot corner as Sexton might have to help out at First as well.
Charlotte Stone Crabs:
Julio Cedeno (R)
It's very tough to predict who is going to play most of the time at third in Port Charlotte. After Sexton moved up to Montgomery midway last season, the position was mostly handled by Omar Luna and Matt Hall. I, however, see both of them providing depth in Montgomery next season. Therefore, Julio Cedeno and Bobby Price should be handling most of the 3B-duties in Port Charlotte next season. Riccio Torrez, a 2011 draftee, could also be a dark horse to start in A+, while I see him starting in A-ball before eventually being promoted mid-season. Another possibility to get some playing time at third is Derek Dietrich. Most scouts think that he'll eventually have to move to the hot corner. In 2012, however, I think that he will - at least mostly - stay at short.
Bowling Green Hot Rods:
Riccio Torrez (R), Leonardo Reginatto (R)
Riccio Torrez, Leonardo Reginatto and Taylor Motter (mostly at short) should handle 3B for the Hot Rods in 2012. And even if Reginatto, who is one of the first Brasilian players in the Rays organization, doesn't improve upon his mediocre '11 season, the Hot Rods should be very well represented at third. Torrez (4th round pick last year) and Motter (17th round pick; impressive '11) look to be impact bats in a very potent Hot Rods lineup which could feature Jeff Malm, Cameron Seitzer, Ryan Brett, Drew Vettleson, Kes Carter and Alejandro Segovia next to them.
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Australian Baseball League Update
The Australian Baseball League resumed last night following an eight-day break for Christmas and the All-Star Game. The ABL plays a 45-game regular season schedule, beginning in early November and ending in late January. This is the first year the Rays have participated in the league, sending five players along with Princeton Rays Manager Mike Johns as a coach. Todd Glaesmann, Ty Morrison, Mark Thomas, Kevin Keiermaier and Johns are members of the Canberra Cavalry, while Darryl George is with the Melbourne Aces. Glaesmann and Morrison were scheduled to play in the first half of the season (11/4 - 12/20), followed by Thomas and Kiermaier primarily in the second half (12/29- 1/22). Some thoughts so far:
Todd Glaesmann - The 21 year-old outfielder only played in 74 games last summer due to injury, so winter ball gives him a chance to make up for lost time. In 22 ABL games Glaesmann hit .310/.385/.476 over 84 at-bats. Seven of his 26 hits were for extra bases, including three home runs, and he stole seven bases in nine attempts. Strikeouts continued to be a concern, ending 20% of his ABL at-bats, but still an improvement over his 40% k-rate for Bowling Green in 2011.
Overall it was an excellent performance, culminating in him being named to the roster for the December 21st All-Star Game. Unfortunately he was unable to participate due to an injury a few days before game, described as either a broken hand or a fractured right wrist. According to Marc Topkin he will be healed in time for spring training.
Ty Morrison - Like Glaesmann, Morrison needed work in winter ball after playing in only 67 games for the Charlotte Stone Crabs in 2011. For Canberra he hit .245/.330/.363 in 102 at-bats with nine stolen bases. The 21 year-old outfielder struggled towards the end of his ABL stint, hitting only .176 (6-34) over his final eight games. Morrison replaced Glaesmann on the World Team roster for the All-Star Game, going 0-5 with an RBI.
Mark Thomas - The 23 year-old catcher didn't begin ABL play until December 16th after undergoing off-season surgery. In three games so far he's one for eleven with a double. After a full season of catching for Charlotte and then surgery, simply coming back healthy would a successful trip in my opinion.
Kevin Kiermaier - The third of the three 21 year-old outfielders the Rays sent to Australia, Kiermaier began play on December 15th. In five games he's gone three for 17 (.176) with two doubles, including 0-3 last night in the first game of the second half. He and Thomas are expected to play for Canberra for the rest of the ABL season, which ends January 22nd.
Darryl George - George is the youngest of the Rays Australian contingent at only 18 years old, and the only one not with Canberra, playing instead for the Melbourne Aces. He is also the only player in the Rays organization from Australia, born in Carlton in 1993.
After signing for a $100,000 bonus in May of 2010, George hit .243/.360/.284 with three doubles in 74 at-bats for the 2011 Gulf Coast League Rays in his professional debut. So far in the ABL the third baseman has a .230/.288/.295 line with four doubles in 61 at-bats over 23 games. Despite his youth, George's power upside is beginning to be a bit of a concern: in 135 at-bats between the GCL and ABL he has yet to hit a triple or a home run (he has seven doubles).
Overall it was an excellent performance, culminating in him being named to the roster for the December 21st All-Star Game. Unfortunately he was unable to participate due to an injury a few days before game, described as either a broken hand or a fractured right wrist. According to Marc Topkin he will be healed in time for spring training.
Ty Morrison - Like Glaesmann, Morrison needed work in winter ball after playing in only 67 games for the Charlotte Stone Crabs in 2011. For Canberra he hit .245/.330/.363 in 102 at-bats with nine stolen bases. The 21 year-old outfielder struggled towards the end of his ABL stint, hitting only .176 (6-34) over his final eight games. Morrison replaced Glaesmann on the World Team roster for the All-Star Game, going 0-5 with an RBI.
Mark Thomas - The 23 year-old catcher didn't begin ABL play until December 16th after undergoing off-season surgery. In three games so far he's one for eleven with a double. After a full season of catching for Charlotte and then surgery, simply coming back healthy would a successful trip in my opinion.
Kevin Kiermaier - The third of the three 21 year-old outfielders the Rays sent to Australia, Kiermaier began play on December 15th. In five games he's gone three for 17 (.176) with two doubles, including 0-3 last night in the first game of the second half. He and Thomas are expected to play for Canberra for the rest of the ABL season, which ends January 22nd.
After signing for a $100,000 bonus in May of 2010, George hit .243/.360/.284 with three doubles in 74 at-bats for the 2011 Gulf Coast League Rays in his professional debut. So far in the ABL the third baseman has a .230/.288/.295 line with four doubles in 61 at-bats over 23 games. Despite his youth, George's power upside is beginning to be a bit of a concern: in 135 at-bats between the GCL and ABL he has yet to hit a triple or a home run (he has seven doubles).
Projecting the Full-Season Ball Rosters for 2012: First Base
In this series I'm going to take a quick look at the probable roster of each full season minor league affiliate at the beginning of the 2012 season. I'm going through it position by position. Keep in mind that these projections are very much subject to change (trades could happen, Rays could be more aggressive/conservative with some players, ...). We are going to do more in-depth pieces about the final roster for each affiliate when they are set. This is only to give you a short peek. For more information on the current state of the Rays Depth Chart, check out Doug's great work.
The next position I'm going to look at is First Base.
Right now one of Russ Canzler/Juan Miranda seems to be the best choice for the 1st Base job in the majors. But, that will almost definitely change till Spring Training with the Rays needing an adequate First Baseman as well as depth in the minors. Candidates include some Padres sluggers (Blanks, Rizzo, Guzman, Alonso), two Angels (Morales PLEASE, Trumbo PLEASE NOT) as well as some Free Agents or other trade targets (Pena, Kotchman, Barton, ...). Therefore I'm projecting Canzler and Miranda to be in Durham come Spring Training.
Durham Bulls:
Russ Canzler (R), Juan Miranda (L), Henry Wrigley (R)
Durham seems to be very well set once again at First Base. Russ Canzler will almost definitely see some time in the Majors in 2012 but unless the Rays only sign one more 1B/DH I don't see him being part of the big league club out of the Spring (barring injuries of course). In Durham, he, Juan Miranda and Henry Wrigley (let's see what he can do in AAA) should share 1B while also rotating into 3B (mostly Wrigley), LF (mostly Canzler) and DH (all three of them). I expect the Rays to sign one more power bat for major league depth (Nick Johnson, please) who will share the 1B/DH/3B/LF duties with Canzler, Miranda, Wrigley, Vogt, Mangini and Leslie Anderson. If then no major leaguer is injured by the start of the season, I could even see Henry Wrigley starting back in AA again. He'd then have his back packed all the time as he should be the first player called up if an injury occurs. But even without this additional bat the Bulls are very well represented at 1B.
Montgomery Biscuits:
Michael Sheridan (L)
That's where it becomes tricky. If Wrigley moves up to AAA the only true First Baseman now within the organization and whom I can imagine being in AA next year is Michael Sheridan. The 2008 5th round draftee was well regarded for his hit tool at the time of the draft but that didn't translate into pro ball (yet). Since Matt Sweeney was picked up by Baltimore in the minor league portion of the rule 5 draft I can only imagine a) Henry Wrigley also starting in AA and manning 3B/1B with Sheridan and Gregory Sexton, b) Gregory Sexton playing some 1B as well and versitale players like Matthew Hall helping out at 3B or c) the Rays bringing in a minor league free agent.
Charlotte Stone Crabs:
Philip Wunderlich (L)
The First Base picture in Port Charlotte should be the same as last year in Bowling Green. Philip Wunderlich will play there most of the time with Steven Tinoco (mostly in the OF) and possibly also Nick Schwaner (also a primarily outfielder) filling in on his days off. Another possibility could be the Rays being aggressive in promoting Jeff Malm or Cameron Seitzer to advanced A. And while I could see both of them playing in Port Charlotte in 2012, I don't think it will be by the start of the season.
Bowling Green Hot Rods:
Jeff Malm (L), Cameron Seitzer (L), Junior Rodriguez (R)
While Montgomery and Charlotte lack high-end 1B prospects, the Hot Rods have two very interesting prospects on their roster come 2012. Jeff Malm was drafted with high praise for his power and while he disappointed in his first two stints in rookie ball, he showed a bit of what he can do last year. His plate approach is solid and he has HR power. Now, he is step-by-step facing better pitching, which will test his hit-tool. Cameron Seitzer was very impressive last year after being drafted in round 11. He should start in A-ball as I think that a jump from Princeton to Port Charlotte might be too steep. Nevertheless, I'm not surprised if Jeff Malm joins his fellow '09 draftees Luke Bailey and Todd Glaesmann in A+ next season, nor if Cameron Seitzer mans 1B in Port Charlotte anywhen in 2012. Junior Rodriguez hit well in limited action last year and seems to be a back-up for both corner infield positions in Bowling Green.
The next position I'm going to look at is First Base.
Right now one of Russ Canzler/Juan Miranda seems to be the best choice for the 1st Base job in the majors. But, that will almost definitely change till Spring Training with the Rays needing an adequate First Baseman as well as depth in the minors. Candidates include some Padres sluggers (Blanks, Rizzo, Guzman, Alonso), two Angels (Morales PLEASE, Trumbo PLEASE NOT) as well as some Free Agents or other trade targets (Pena, Kotchman, Barton, ...). Therefore I'm projecting Canzler and Miranda to be in Durham come Spring Training.
Durham Bulls:
Russ Canzler (R), Juan Miranda (L), Henry Wrigley (R)
Durham seems to be very well set once again at First Base. Russ Canzler will almost definitely see some time in the Majors in 2012 but unless the Rays only sign one more 1B/DH I don't see him being part of the big league club out of the Spring (barring injuries of course). In Durham, he, Juan Miranda and Henry Wrigley (let's see what he can do in AAA) should share 1B while also rotating into 3B (mostly Wrigley), LF (mostly Canzler) and DH (all three of them). I expect the Rays to sign one more power bat for major league depth (Nick Johnson, please) who will share the 1B/DH/3B/LF duties with Canzler, Miranda, Wrigley, Vogt, Mangini and Leslie Anderson. If then no major leaguer is injured by the start of the season, I could even see Henry Wrigley starting back in AA again. He'd then have his back packed all the time as he should be the first player called up if an injury occurs. But even without this additional bat the Bulls are very well represented at 1B.
Montgomery Biscuits:
Michael Sheridan (L)
That's where it becomes tricky. If Wrigley moves up to AAA the only true First Baseman now within the organization and whom I can imagine being in AA next year is Michael Sheridan. The 2008 5th round draftee was well regarded for his hit tool at the time of the draft but that didn't translate into pro ball (yet). Since Matt Sweeney was picked up by Baltimore in the minor league portion of the rule 5 draft I can only imagine a) Henry Wrigley also starting in AA and manning 3B/1B with Sheridan and Gregory Sexton, b) Gregory Sexton playing some 1B as well and versitale players like Matthew Hall helping out at 3B or c) the Rays bringing in a minor league free agent.
Charlotte Stone Crabs:
Philip Wunderlich (L)
The First Base picture in Port Charlotte should be the same as last year in Bowling Green. Philip Wunderlich will play there most of the time with Steven Tinoco (mostly in the OF) and possibly also Nick Schwaner (also a primarily outfielder) filling in on his days off. Another possibility could be the Rays being aggressive in promoting Jeff Malm or Cameron Seitzer to advanced A. And while I could see both of them playing in Port Charlotte in 2012, I don't think it will be by the start of the season.
Bowling Green Hot Rods:
Jeff Malm (L), Cameron Seitzer (L), Junior Rodriguez (R)
While Montgomery and Charlotte lack high-end 1B prospects, the Hot Rods have two very interesting prospects on their roster come 2012. Jeff Malm was drafted with high praise for his power and while he disappointed in his first two stints in rookie ball, he showed a bit of what he can do last year. His plate approach is solid and he has HR power. Now, he is step-by-step facing better pitching, which will test his hit-tool. Cameron Seitzer was very impressive last year after being drafted in round 11. He should start in A-ball as I think that a jump from Princeton to Port Charlotte might be too steep. Nevertheless, I'm not surprised if Jeff Malm joins his fellow '09 draftees Luke Bailey and Todd Glaesmann in A+ next season, nor if Cameron Seitzer mans 1B in Port Charlotte anywhen in 2012. Junior Rodriguez hit well in limited action last year and seems to be a back-up for both corner infield positions in Bowling Green.
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Projecting the Full-Season Ball Rosters for 2012: Catching
In this series I'm going to take a quick look at the probable roster of each full season minor league affiliate at the beginning of the 2012 season. I'm going through it position by position. Keep in mind that these projections are very much subject to change (trades could happen, Rays could be more aggressive/conservative with some players, ...). We are going to do more in-depth pieces about the final roster for each affiliate when they are set. This is only to give you a short peek. For more information on the current state of the Rays Depth Chart, check out Doug's great work.
The position I'm going to look today is Catching.
Right now Jose Molina and one of Jose Lobation/Robinson Chirinos seem to handle the catching in St. Petersburg. I think that, barring any trade or acquisition, Lobaton will be Molina's back-up as he seems to be out of options and as he is more sound defensively than Chirinos.
Durham Bulls:
Robinson Chirinos (R), Nevin Ashley (R), Stephen Vogt (L)
The Bulls seem to have an above average catching due/trio once again in 2012. Robinson Chirinos has a bat that is major league ready but he has more work to do defensively. Nevin Ashley finally should be allowed to play a full season in Durham as his defense is excellent and his bat adequate (at least for AAA). Stephen Vogt's calling card is his bat while most people don't think he'll be able to play behind the dish in the majors. He'll spend time in the outfield (LF), at DH as well as occasionally behind the plate.
Montgomery Biscuits:
Mark Thomas (R), Craig Albernaz (R), David Wendt (R)
Mark Thomas seems to be having made great strides defensively as BA named him the best defensive catcher in the Rays system (ahead of good defensive catchers like Nevin Ashley and Jose Lobaton). His arm is excellent (48% CS) and his bat once was very well regarded. This is me hoping for him improving his hit-tool. The power is above average for a catcher anyway. With Jake Jefferies being traded to the Marlins (for Burke Badenhop ... and excellent trade by the way), the back-up catching job in Montgomery is up for grabs. Craig Albernaz in his role as an upper-level insurance catcher, David Wendt, Alejandro Torres, Mayobanex Acosta and Keith Castillo seem like options for this catching opening in Montgomery.
Charlotte Stone Crabs:
Lucas Bailey (R), Keith Castillo (S), Mayobanex Acosta (R)
Count me in as one of the last believers in Luke Bailey. But, if he doesn't show some promise in Port Charlotte even I have to give by. Together with 2 of Keith Castillo, Mayobanex Acosta and Kyle Holloway he'll form the Stone Crabs catching group.
Bowling Green Hot Rods:
Matt Rice (R), Alejandro Segovia (R), Kyle Holloway (R)
With highly coveted prospects Justin O'Conner and Jake DePew struggling heavily in rookie ball, I don't see them making the jump to full-season ball in 2012. Nevertheless, the catching group in Bowling Green is one to look out for. Matt Rice played very solid upon being drafted and adds leadership to the Hot Rods team. International prospects Alejandro Segovia and Gerardo Oliveras (UPDATE: Selected by the Red Sox in the AA portion of the Rule 5 Draft ... forgot about that, sorry!) are slated in behind Rice. Especially Segovia, who dominated in the Liga Paralela this off-season, is a very interesting prospect to follow. A possible third catching job could be filled by the catcher who doesn't get a job in Port Charlotte.
The position I'm going to look today is Catching.
Right now Jose Molina and one of Jose Lobation/Robinson Chirinos seem to handle the catching in St. Petersburg. I think that, barring any trade or acquisition, Lobaton will be Molina's back-up as he seems to be out of options and as he is more sound defensively than Chirinos.
Durham Bulls:
Robinson Chirinos (R), Nevin Ashley (R), Stephen Vogt (L)
The Bulls seem to have an above average catching due/trio once again in 2012. Robinson Chirinos has a bat that is major league ready but he has more work to do defensively. Nevin Ashley finally should be allowed to play a full season in Durham as his defense is excellent and his bat adequate (at least for AAA). Stephen Vogt's calling card is his bat while most people don't think he'll be able to play behind the dish in the majors. He'll spend time in the outfield (LF), at DH as well as occasionally behind the plate.
Montgomery Biscuits:
Mark Thomas (R), Craig Albernaz (R), David Wendt (R)
Mark Thomas seems to be having made great strides defensively as BA named him the best defensive catcher in the Rays system (ahead of good defensive catchers like Nevin Ashley and Jose Lobaton). His arm is excellent (48% CS) and his bat once was very well regarded. This is me hoping for him improving his hit-tool. The power is above average for a catcher anyway. With Jake Jefferies being traded to the Marlins (for Burke Badenhop ... and excellent trade by the way), the back-up catching job in Montgomery is up for grabs. Craig Albernaz in his role as an upper-level insurance catcher, David Wendt, Alejandro Torres, Mayobanex Acosta and Keith Castillo seem like options for this catching opening in Montgomery.
Charlotte Stone Crabs:
Lucas Bailey (R), Keith Castillo (S), Mayobanex Acosta (R)
Count me in as one of the last believers in Luke Bailey. But, if he doesn't show some promise in Port Charlotte even I have to give by. Together with 2 of Keith Castillo, Mayobanex Acosta and Kyle Holloway he'll form the Stone Crabs catching group.
Bowling Green Hot Rods:
Matt Rice (R), Alejandro Segovia (R), Kyle Holloway (R)
With highly coveted prospects Justin O'Conner and Jake DePew struggling heavily in rookie ball, I don't see them making the jump to full-season ball in 2012. Nevertheless, the catching group in Bowling Green is one to look out for. Matt Rice played very solid upon being drafted and adds leadership to the Hot Rods team. International prospects Alejandro Segovia and Gerardo Oliveras (UPDATE: Selected by the Red Sox in the AA portion of the Rule 5 Draft ... forgot about that, sorry!) are slated in behind Rice. Especially Segovia, who dominated in the Liga Paralela this off-season, is a very interesting prospect to follow. A possible third catching job could be filled by the catcher who doesn't get a job in Port Charlotte.
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Projecting the Full-Season Ball Rosters for 2012: Starting Pitching
In this series I'm going to take a quick look at the probable roster of each full season minor league affiliate at the beginning of the 2012 season. I'm going through it position by position. Keep in mind that these projections are very much subject to change (trades could happen, Rays could be more aggressive/conservative with some players, ...). We are going to do more in-depth pieces about the final roster for each affiliate when they are set. This is only to give you a short peek. For more information on the current state of the Rays Depth Chart, check out Doug's great work.
The first position I'm going to look at is Starting Pitching.
Right now I'm projecting the following 6 starting pitchers to start in the majors in 2012: James Shields, David Price, Jeremy Hellickson, Matt Moore, Wade Davis and Jeff Niemann. Come March I think one of these 6 will be traded. Nevertheless, this leaves Alex Cobb and Alex Torres in Durham.
Durham Bulls:
Alex Cobb (R), Alex Torres (L), Chris Archer (R), Nick Barnese (R), Matt Torra (R), Jim Paduch (R)
The rotation in Durham should be very solid in 2012. Alex Cobb, Chris Archer and Alex Torres provide the Bulls with three prospects who are projected to end up in a major league rotation (with Cobb and Torres (nearly) being major league ready) and Nick Barnese is a solid prospect on his own. The rotation will be filled out with a bit older minor leaguers like Matt Torra, Jim Paduch and whomever I'm missing or will be signed in recent months. Shane Dyer (R) and Frank De los Santos (L) could be other possibilities.
Montgomery Biscuits:
Alex Colome (R), Jacob Thompson (R), Joseph Cruz (R), Kyle Lobstein (L), Shane Dyer (R), Frank de los Santos (L)
Alex Colome is the big name here in the rotation. It will be interesting to see whether he can take the next step in his development (offspeed pitches). Joseph Cruz is coming off an injury plagued season while showing solid results and stuff in years past. Kyle Lobstein has transformed into a nice pitchability guy. We'll see whether he'll hit the AA-wall. Jacob Thompson, Merrill Kelly and Alex Koronis seem to be better suited for the pen. Nevertheless, I think at least Thompson will be tried out in the rotation at the beginning of the season. Shane Dyer and Frank de los Santos are a bit older and could be slated into the end of the Bulls rotation as well. Overall, I don't see this rotation dominating the Southern League in 2012. Come midseason, though, help could be on its way to Montgomery (especially Albert Suarez and Wilking Rodriguez).
Charlotte Stone Crabs:
Enny Romero (L), Albert Suarez (R), Wilking Rodriguez (R), C.J. Riefenhauser (L), Braulio Lara (L), George Jensen (R)
I'm much more looking forward to the Stone Crabs' compared to the Biscuits rotation. Enny Romero is the most intriguing SP prospect in full season ball (with Moore in the bigs and Guerrieri in SS-ball) in my eyes and I'm looking forward to seeing him grow. Albert Suarez and Wilking Rodriguez had injury plagued seasons but are very much liked by the Rays. I hope and think that we see why in 2012. C.J. Riefenhauser was excellent in Bowling Green and I'm very much looking forward to see what he can do in Port Charlotte and Braulio Lara has intriguing stuff while not showing it on the mound (yet). George Jensen, Victor Mateo (R) or Jason McEachern (R) add depth to the rotation.
Bowling Green Hot Rods:
Parker Markel (R), Ryan Carpenter (L), Felipe Rivero (L), Andrew Bellatti (R), Grayson Garvin (L), Jake Floethe (R)
This will be another very intriguing rotation in 2012. Parker Markel (can he pitch according to the scouting reports?), Ryan Carpenter (can he re-gain some velocity) and Felipe Rivero (I think he'll make the jump over Hudson Valley) are very interesting prospects. Andrew Bellatti showed no weaknesses on the mound as well and he is very young. And Grayson Garvin is another highly anticipated prospect who might start his professional career in Bowling Green. Jake Floethe and Jason McEachern (can he finally show in BG what he did in the NY-P League?) give even more depth to the rotation while 2011 1st. supp. pick Jeff Ames, Matt Spann or Ian Kendall could join Felipe Rivero and move up from Princeton to Bowling Green. If they do, they (especially Spann and Kendall) seem to be unlikely to crack the rotation, though. Jesse Hahn (R), who had TJS before being drafted in 2010, could start his professional career in Bowling Green as well while I think that the Rays will take it slow with him, letting him throw in extended spring training before starting for the Renegades. Hudson Valley could have some very high draft picks coming their way in '12. Josh Sale, Taylor Guerrieri, Jesse Hahn, Jake Hager and Justin O'Conner are only some names who could play in Wappinger Falls next year.
The first position I'm going to look at is Starting Pitching.
Right now I'm projecting the following 6 starting pitchers to start in the majors in 2012: James Shields, David Price, Jeremy Hellickson, Matt Moore, Wade Davis and Jeff Niemann. Come March I think one of these 6 will be traded. Nevertheless, this leaves Alex Cobb and Alex Torres in Durham.
Durham Bulls:
Alex Cobb (R), Alex Torres (L), Chris Archer (R), Nick Barnese (R), Matt Torra (R), Jim Paduch (R)
The rotation in Durham should be very solid in 2012. Alex Cobb, Chris Archer and Alex Torres provide the Bulls with three prospects who are projected to end up in a major league rotation (with Cobb and Torres (nearly) being major league ready) and Nick Barnese is a solid prospect on his own. The rotation will be filled out with a bit older minor leaguers like Matt Torra, Jim Paduch and whomever I'm missing or will be signed in recent months. Shane Dyer (R) and Frank De los Santos (L) could be other possibilities.
Montgomery Biscuits:
Alex Colome (R), Jacob Thompson (R), Joseph Cruz (R), Kyle Lobstein (L), Shane Dyer (R), Frank de los Santos (L)
Alex Colome is the big name here in the rotation. It will be interesting to see whether he can take the next step in his development (offspeed pitches). Joseph Cruz is coming off an injury plagued season while showing solid results and stuff in years past. Kyle Lobstein has transformed into a nice pitchability guy. We'll see whether he'll hit the AA-wall. Jacob Thompson, Merrill Kelly and Alex Koronis seem to be better suited for the pen. Nevertheless, I think at least Thompson will be tried out in the rotation at the beginning of the season. Shane Dyer and Frank de los Santos are a bit older and could be slated into the end of the Bulls rotation as well. Overall, I don't see this rotation dominating the Southern League in 2012. Come midseason, though, help could be on its way to Montgomery (especially Albert Suarez and Wilking Rodriguez).
Charlotte Stone Crabs:
Enny Romero (L), Albert Suarez (R), Wilking Rodriguez (R), C.J. Riefenhauser (L), Braulio Lara (L), George Jensen (R)
I'm much more looking forward to the Stone Crabs' compared to the Biscuits rotation. Enny Romero is the most intriguing SP prospect in full season ball (with Moore in the bigs and Guerrieri in SS-ball) in my eyes and I'm looking forward to seeing him grow. Albert Suarez and Wilking Rodriguez had injury plagued seasons but are very much liked by the Rays. I hope and think that we see why in 2012. C.J. Riefenhauser was excellent in Bowling Green and I'm very much looking forward to see what he can do in Port Charlotte and Braulio Lara has intriguing stuff while not showing it on the mound (yet). George Jensen, Victor Mateo (R) or Jason McEachern (R) add depth to the rotation.
Bowling Green Hot Rods:
Parker Markel (R), Ryan Carpenter (L), Felipe Rivero (L), Andrew Bellatti (R), Grayson Garvin (L), Jake Floethe (R)
This will be another very intriguing rotation in 2012. Parker Markel (can he pitch according to the scouting reports?), Ryan Carpenter (can he re-gain some velocity) and Felipe Rivero (I think he'll make the jump over Hudson Valley) are very interesting prospects. Andrew Bellatti showed no weaknesses on the mound as well and he is very young. And Grayson Garvin is another highly anticipated prospect who might start his professional career in Bowling Green. Jake Floethe and Jason McEachern (can he finally show in BG what he did in the NY-P League?) give even more depth to the rotation while 2011 1st. supp. pick Jeff Ames, Matt Spann or Ian Kendall could join Felipe Rivero and move up from Princeton to Bowling Green. If they do, they (especially Spann and Kendall) seem to be unlikely to crack the rotation, though. Jesse Hahn (R), who had TJS before being drafted in 2010, could start his professional career in Bowling Green as well while I think that the Rays will take it slow with him, letting him throw in extended spring training before starting for the Renegades. Hudson Valley could have some very high draft picks coming their way in '12. Josh Sale, Taylor Guerrieri, Jesse Hahn, Jake Hager and Justin O'Conner are only some names who could play in Wappinger Falls next year.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)