When you think of pitchers who are 5-0 in their first five starts you think pitchers like C.C. Sabathia from the New York Yankees, Roy Halladay from the Philadelphia Phillies, Tim Lincecum from the San Francisco Giants, Felix Hernandez from the Settle Mariners, and even Johan Santana from the New York Mets, but you would never think Ubaldo Jimenez from the Colorado Rockies would be 5-0 in his first 5 starts.
Jimenez who this year already threw his, the clubs, and the year’s first no hitter of the 2010 season won his 5th straight game last night against the Arizonan Diamondbacks and Jimenez stands alone with 5 wins in 5 starts in the MLB. There were few pitchers who were trying to match Jimenez and they were Roy Halladay who got his first lost of the season on Monday night and Tim Lincecum who got a no dissension on Wednesday afternoon. Lincecum in fact is still 4-0 on the year and when he gets his fifth win of the year it won't be is fifth straight in a row. Now there is still one player left who will be going for his fifth win of the season on May 1st and that's Mike Pelfrey from the New York Mets who is 4-0 with a 0.69 ERA. Pelfrey also have a save on the year when they played the Cardinals in that 20 inning game and who knows if it wasn't for that game he could easily be 5-0 with Jimenez.
More about Jimenez, I mean this kid is a beast and how can you not say he’s not in the top 5 best pitchers in the NL and in the top 10 best pitchers in baseball. The guy is clearly the Rockies number one starting pitcher with an ERA of 0.79 with 31 strikeouts. He is a guy who 2 years ago people looked at him and said he’s an okay pitcher not a guy you would your number 1, but boy I'll tell you something he has really stepped up his game in 2010. I know it’s early in the season to say but he could be your next NL CY Young Award winner if he keeps pitching like this to earn his first one of his career. Jimenez will go for win number 6 on May 3rd against division rival and division leaders the San Diego Padres and he will look to be the only pitcher in the major’s leagues to have 6 straight wins in the 2010 season. For Ubaldo Jimenez this is a story that just keeps on getting better.
For Beyond Baseball I'm Seth Lempert.
BEYOND BASEBALL - Where you live, read, and die baseball.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Phils Have Some Bull Pen Issues!!!
Tuesday night game between the Phillies and Braves was all Phillies in till the bull pen got involved. Let's just make things nice and short, they didn't do their jobs very well.
Pitching for the Phillies was the young Kyle Kendrick who in his last two starts didn't look like he knew how to pitch coming into the game had an ERA of 17.42. So this game was very important for him to pitch well against this strong Braves lineup. Also the pitcher he was going against was the hard thrower Tommy Hanson who's ERA is a 2.81. Well we starts things off in the bottom of the 9th inning where the Phillies were up 3-0. Kendrick had pitched a great 8 innings of work giving up 4 hits and 2 walks, and got 14 ground ball outs. He just shut down the Braves offenses. In the 9th inning manager Charlie Manuel takes out Kendrick because he had 106 pitches thrown, so he figured let the bull pen get some work in. Well if he would have known what was coming he would have probably stuck with Kendrick. They bring in closer Ryan Madson to wrap this game up with a 3-0 lead, he gets the first 2 outs, then gives up a single to Chipper Jones, no big deal. Next batter is Troy Glaus who was 0-3 in the game so far, he hadn't done much to this point until Madson gave him a big fat cheese ball right down the middle of the plate and Glaus made him pay for his mistake by taken him deep and making this a one run ball game. Okay its 3-2 Phillies 2 outs, next up to bat is the young stud rookie Jason Heyward who was also 0-3 in the game to this point. So like his good friend Glaus hitting in front of him he's saying to himself I want some action and BAM he takes Madson's 94 mph fastball deep to tie the game and all this coming with 2 out yet. I know Heyward is a rookie but this guy has a lot of pop in his bat and told people before the season started, he's not like any other rookie that is going through the change of the game; he knows how to play in big leagues for a 20 year old kid. So there should have been no reason for Madson to throw a fastball right down the middle of the plate when you just gave up a bomb to the batter before him and its sad to stay a rookie hitter beat a pitcher who has been in this game for what 7 years now? That's when you know you have a problem, but to Madsons created it's also the catcher Carlos Ruiz fault for allowing Madson to throw that pitch to a guy like Heyward who is going be the next best hitter in the NL someday. Alright so now that all the 9th inning drama is over we move to the bottom of the 10th inning and the Phillies bring in Jose Contreras who hasn't been too bad for the Phils in the pen. He would face Nate McLouth who was 0-2 in the game; his batting average is only like .124 coming into play. Contreras miss's with his pitch and gives up a game winning home run in the 10th inning and the Braves would come back in the 9th and 10th innings to win it by a score of 4-3.
So as we can see the Phillies bull pen is very very weak and just not that good and I saw this becoming a problem before the season even started. Kyle Kendrick pitched one hell of a game on Tuesday and was very good in this one looking for win number one in the 2010 season. Instead he would earn a no discussion pitching 8 scoreless innings. This whole game had to do with management once again, if I see my pitcher is dealing weather his pitch count is high or not I would have let Kendrick finish the game off because you know your bull pen isn't what it used to be like it was back in 2008. Clearly this Phillies bull pen needs some work, whether it's having Lidge and J.C. back I don't know, but I think in the offseason the Phillies could have picked up some better guys then what they did pick up. Madson's ERA is now a 7.71, Contreras's ERA is a 2.45, David Herndon's ERA is a 7.71, Danys Baez's ERA is a 7.71, Nelson Figueroa and Antonio Bastardo both have ERA's of 2.45 and Chad Durbin's ERA is 0.00. So there really are not a whole lot of pitchers you can choice from to pitch in the later innings because you don't know what they're going to bring to the table. The Phillies have lost three straight games, for a team that started off very hot has now cooled off and this road trip is only going to get worst when they play the D-Backs who aren't that bad and when they go against the best pitching rotation in the NL the Giants it's only going to get harder.
The Phillies will play game two of this three game series tomorrow night at 7:05 on ESPN part of Wednesday Night Baseball. On the hill for the Phillies it will be their ace Roy Halladay (ERA 1.13, 3 wins, 0 losses, and 21 strikeouts) who will try to help the Phillies break their losing streak and put them one game up in the NL East. For the Braves they send out Tim Hudson (ERA 2.84, 1 win, 0 losses, and 2 strikeouts) who will try to help the Braves move in front in the NL East for the first time since 2005. This Phillies - Braves rivalry is still much alive!!
I'm Seth Lempert for Beyond Baseball,
Goodnight everyone.
Pitching for the Phillies was the young Kyle Kendrick who in his last two starts didn't look like he knew how to pitch coming into the game had an ERA of 17.42. So this game was very important for him to pitch well against this strong Braves lineup. Also the pitcher he was going against was the hard thrower Tommy Hanson who's ERA is a 2.81. Well we starts things off in the bottom of the 9th inning where the Phillies were up 3-0. Kendrick had pitched a great 8 innings of work giving up 4 hits and 2 walks, and got 14 ground ball outs. He just shut down the Braves offenses. In the 9th inning manager Charlie Manuel takes out Kendrick because he had 106 pitches thrown, so he figured let the bull pen get some work in. Well if he would have known what was coming he would have probably stuck with Kendrick. They bring in closer Ryan Madson to wrap this game up with a 3-0 lead, he gets the first 2 outs, then gives up a single to Chipper Jones, no big deal. Next batter is Troy Glaus who was 0-3 in the game so far, he hadn't done much to this point until Madson gave him a big fat cheese ball right down the middle of the plate and Glaus made him pay for his mistake by taken him deep and making this a one run ball game. Okay its 3-2 Phillies 2 outs, next up to bat is the young stud rookie Jason Heyward who was also 0-3 in the game to this point. So like his good friend Glaus hitting in front of him he's saying to himself I want some action and BAM he takes Madson's 94 mph fastball deep to tie the game and all this coming with 2 out yet. I know Heyward is a rookie but this guy has a lot of pop in his bat and told people before the season started, he's not like any other rookie that is going through the change of the game; he knows how to play in big leagues for a 20 year old kid. So there should have been no reason for Madson to throw a fastball right down the middle of the plate when you just gave up a bomb to the batter before him and its sad to stay a rookie hitter beat a pitcher who has been in this game for what 7 years now? That's when you know you have a problem, but to Madsons created it's also the catcher Carlos Ruiz fault for allowing Madson to throw that pitch to a guy like Heyward who is going be the next best hitter in the NL someday. Alright so now that all the 9th inning drama is over we move to the bottom of the 10th inning and the Phillies bring in Jose Contreras who hasn't been too bad for the Phils in the pen. He would face Nate McLouth who was 0-2 in the game; his batting average is only like .124 coming into play. Contreras miss's with his pitch and gives up a game winning home run in the 10th inning and the Braves would come back in the 9th and 10th innings to win it by a score of 4-3.
So as we can see the Phillies bull pen is very very weak and just not that good and I saw this becoming a problem before the season even started. Kyle Kendrick pitched one hell of a game on Tuesday and was very good in this one looking for win number one in the 2010 season. Instead he would earn a no discussion pitching 8 scoreless innings. This whole game had to do with management once again, if I see my pitcher is dealing weather his pitch count is high or not I would have let Kendrick finish the game off because you know your bull pen isn't what it used to be like it was back in 2008. Clearly this Phillies bull pen needs some work, whether it's having Lidge and J.C. back I don't know, but I think in the offseason the Phillies could have picked up some better guys then what they did pick up. Madson's ERA is now a 7.71, Contreras's ERA is a 2.45, David Herndon's ERA is a 7.71, Danys Baez's ERA is a 7.71, Nelson Figueroa and Antonio Bastardo both have ERA's of 2.45 and Chad Durbin's ERA is 0.00. So there really are not a whole lot of pitchers you can choice from to pitch in the later innings because you don't know what they're going to bring to the table. The Phillies have lost three straight games, for a team that started off very hot has now cooled off and this road trip is only going to get worst when they play the D-Backs who aren't that bad and when they go against the best pitching rotation in the NL the Giants it's only going to get harder.
The Phillies will play game two of this three game series tomorrow night at 7:05 on ESPN part of Wednesday Night Baseball. On the hill for the Phillies it will be their ace Roy Halladay (ERA 1.13, 3 wins, 0 losses, and 21 strikeouts) who will try to help the Phillies break their losing streak and put them one game up in the NL East. For the Braves they send out Tim Hudson (ERA 2.84, 1 win, 0 losses, and 2 strikeouts) who will try to help the Braves move in front in the NL East for the first time since 2005. This Phillies - Braves rivalry is still much alive!!
I'm Seth Lempert for Beyond Baseball,
Goodnight everyone.
Saturday, April 17, 2010
First No Hitter in The 2010 Season!!
This will be a night that Ubaldo Jimenez will never forget in his career as he has made history and team history by throwing his first ever no hitter and also the Rockies first ever team no hitter against a strong Atlanta Braves lineup. Jimenez will join the 263 pitchers who have thrown a no hitter through 1876 to now 2010. Jimenez on Saturday pitched like a super-star and did a fantastic job on the mound, but also don't forget the players behind him helped him alot. Dexter Fowler made an outstanding diving catch in the seventh inning off of Troy Glaus, who smoked the ball in center field. Jimenez threw 128 pitches in 9 innings of work and his fastball was clocked at 97-98 mph, that’s some heat. Remember I told everyone to look out for the Rockies and Jimenez this year. So far he is 3-0 with a 1.29 ERA and 20 strikeouts on the year. Keep an eye on him.
Ubaldo Jimenez had 7 strikeouts but also had 6 walks, but none the less did a great job pitching. In the start of this game he was a little off with his pitches but in the sixth inning he went from the wined up to the straight and from there he started to pitch like a number 1 starting pitcher should. Besides Jimenez's no hitter his teammates came through and put up 4 runs on the broad. Troy Tulowitzki hit an RBI sac fly (6) on the year making it 1-0 Rockies. In the fourth Jimenez did a little do it yourself with an RBI single to put the Rockies up 2-0 and later in the inning Carlos Gonzalez would hit a two run RBI double (5) on the year for him and that would close the game and help Ubaldo Jimenez throw his first no hitter by winning the game 4-0 over the Braves.
Jimenez is the first pitcher in 2010 season to throw a no hitter since Mark Buehrle threw a perfect game last year. Jimenez has made his way in the history books at the age of 26 years old and did so this early in the year. This kid is a gamer!!
I’m Seth Lempert for Beyond Baseball,
Goodnight everyone.
Ubaldo Jimenez had 7 strikeouts but also had 6 walks, but none the less did a great job pitching. In the start of this game he was a little off with his pitches but in the sixth inning he went from the wined up to the straight and from there he started to pitch like a number 1 starting pitcher should. Besides Jimenez's no hitter his teammates came through and put up 4 runs on the broad. Troy Tulowitzki hit an RBI sac fly (6) on the year making it 1-0 Rockies. In the fourth Jimenez did a little do it yourself with an RBI single to put the Rockies up 2-0 and later in the inning Carlos Gonzalez would hit a two run RBI double (5) on the year for him and that would close the game and help Ubaldo Jimenez throw his first no hitter by winning the game 4-0 over the Braves.
Jimenez is the first pitcher in 2010 season to throw a no hitter since Mark Buehrle threw a perfect game last year. Jimenez has made his way in the history books at the age of 26 years old and did so this early in the year. This kid is a gamer!!
I’m Seth Lempert for Beyond Baseball,
Goodnight everyone.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Kendrick Isn't The Answer, Phils Still Win Big With A Bang!!!
Once again the Phillies offense kicks in and helps then win their 7th game of the year by beating the Nationals, although in the beginning it really didn't seem that way. Pitching for the Phillies was the right hander Kyle Kendrick who got the Phillies their first lost a week ago and pitching for the Nationals was Craig Stammen who wasn’t any better than Kendrick.
We start in the 1st where Kendrick gave up 3 runs to put the Nats up 3-0. Then in the bottom of the 1st the Phillies bats went right to work as Howard singled in a pair of runs, then Dobbs knocked in an RBI double and Howard would move to third to tie the game at 3. Ibanez would later bring in Howard on a sac fly to put the Phils up 4-3. Now in the top of the 2nd Kendrick would allow 2 more runs to put the Nats back up 6-4 and that would be the end for Kyle Kendrick who went 1.2 innings, 6 hits, 6 runs, 3 walks, 1 strikeout, and now has an ERA of 17.47. So people who dont like Cole Hamels, well I guess Kyle Kendrick is your answer for your number 3 starter? Coming in for Kendrick was Nelson Figueroa who really saved this game for the Phillies and held the Nats in check and only gave up 1 earn run through 3.1 innings and coming in to follow him was Chad Durbin who allowed no runs through 2 innings pitched. Phillies bull pen is looking very nice right now with an ERA of 1.78 ERA. But the stars of this game were second baseman Chase Utley who went 2 for 4 with 2 home runs (3,4) and 4 RBI's and center fielder Shane Victorino who had a break out game, he went 4 for 5 with a home run (2), a triple, and 5 RBI's and the Philles beat the Nationals 14-7, good football score.
But the issue is now is Kyle Kendrick ready to pitch in the big leagues? To be honest and I said this before....no. He clearly just isn't ready and the Phillies better make a change because when your middle pitcher in the rotation has an ERA of 17.42 that's a problem and that will only get worst in till Blanton returns. But who's to say that he will be 100%? If you were to ask me I think the Phillies need to find someone else and that guy I think they should bring back is Pedro Martinez who I thought they should have signed in the offseason. Last year Martinez did a pretty good job with the Phillies after signing him around the trade dead-line and I think he liked it here in Philly, he fit in well with the ball club and we all know that he knows how to win and wants to win. He may not be the same pitcher he was with the Red Sox but still he's gotta be a whole lot better than Kendrick. I mean I know it's only the second week of the season but Kendrick will at least make 5-6 maybe 7 starts or more before Blanton comes back. So the Phillies better get this in odder because the Phillies can't always put up these types of numbers in games like this when you face better teams and better pitching.
None the less the Phillies still won 14-7 and have the best record in baseball with 7 wins and 1 loses on the year so far. The Phillies will wrap up this three game series tomorrow afternoon at 3:05 p.m. Pitching for the Phillies will be the young left hander J.A. Happ who is 1-0 with 5 strikeouts with 0.00 ERA and for the Nationals they will send out the left hander Scott Olsen who in 2009 had an ERA of 6.03, 2 wins, 4 losses, and 42 strikeouts. Also the Phillies will receive their 2009 National League Rings and that will start at 2:30 p.m. So don't miss that, it will be a good time.
I'm Seth for Beyond Baseball, Goodnight everyone.
We start in the 1st where Kendrick gave up 3 runs to put the Nats up 3-0. Then in the bottom of the 1st the Phillies bats went right to work as Howard singled in a pair of runs, then Dobbs knocked in an RBI double and Howard would move to third to tie the game at 3. Ibanez would later bring in Howard on a sac fly to put the Phils up 4-3. Now in the top of the 2nd Kendrick would allow 2 more runs to put the Nats back up 6-4 and that would be the end for Kyle Kendrick who went 1.2 innings, 6 hits, 6 runs, 3 walks, 1 strikeout, and now has an ERA of 17.47. So people who dont like Cole Hamels, well I guess Kyle Kendrick is your answer for your number 3 starter? Coming in for Kendrick was Nelson Figueroa who really saved this game for the Phillies and held the Nats in check and only gave up 1 earn run through 3.1 innings and coming in to follow him was Chad Durbin who allowed no runs through 2 innings pitched. Phillies bull pen is looking very nice right now with an ERA of 1.78 ERA. But the stars of this game were second baseman Chase Utley who went 2 for 4 with 2 home runs (3,4) and 4 RBI's and center fielder Shane Victorino who had a break out game, he went 4 for 5 with a home run (2), a triple, and 5 RBI's and the Philles beat the Nationals 14-7, good football score.
But the issue is now is Kyle Kendrick ready to pitch in the big leagues? To be honest and I said this before....no. He clearly just isn't ready and the Phillies better make a change because when your middle pitcher in the rotation has an ERA of 17.42 that's a problem and that will only get worst in till Blanton returns. But who's to say that he will be 100%? If you were to ask me I think the Phillies need to find someone else and that guy I think they should bring back is Pedro Martinez who I thought they should have signed in the offseason. Last year Martinez did a pretty good job with the Phillies after signing him around the trade dead-line and I think he liked it here in Philly, he fit in well with the ball club and we all know that he knows how to win and wants to win. He may not be the same pitcher he was with the Red Sox but still he's gotta be a whole lot better than Kendrick. I mean I know it's only the second week of the season but Kendrick will at least make 5-6 maybe 7 starts or more before Blanton comes back. So the Phillies better get this in odder because the Phillies can't always put up these types of numbers in games like this when you face better teams and better pitching.
None the less the Phillies still won 14-7 and have the best record in baseball with 7 wins and 1 loses on the year so far. The Phillies will wrap up this three game series tomorrow afternoon at 3:05 p.m. Pitching for the Phillies will be the young left hander J.A. Happ who is 1-0 with 5 strikeouts with 0.00 ERA and for the Nationals they will send out the left hander Scott Olsen who in 2009 had an ERA of 6.03, 2 wins, 4 losses, and 42 strikeouts. Also the Phillies will receive their 2009 National League Rings and that will start at 2:30 p.m. So don't miss that, it will be a good time.
I'm Seth for Beyond Baseball, Goodnight everyone.
Monday, April 12, 2010
Remember #34. Remember The Voice.
It was one year ago were the baseball world lost two of its biggest names. One who just starting his career and the other who was living his dream. It was on April 9, 2009 and April 13, 2009, two days that Angel’s fans and Phillies fans would never forget.
We start with the Anaheim Angels starting pitcher Nick Andenhart who was making his 4th major league debut on April 8, 2009 as the Angles third starting pitcher in the Angels rotation. He was pitching against the Oakland Athletics where he did a great job pitching and showed coaches and his father that he was ready to play in the big leagues. Andenhart went 6 innings, allowed no runs, and struck out 5 batters. But sadly did he know it would be the last game he would ever pitch in his short career. Later that night shortly after 12 a.m. on April 9, 2009 Andenhart and a few friends went out to celebrate his great pitching performance where he was in a horrifying car cash and two of his friends were killed intently. Adenhart and friend Jon Wilhite would be rushed to the hospital, but by the time they arrived at the hospital Nick Adenhart's life was already taken. His friend Jon Wilhite had to go under 5 hours of surgery to save his life. None the less Adenhart and two others were killed in this accident, police said that a drunk driver (no names) who already had a suspended license hit Adenhart's car as he went through a red light and hit his car that hit a telephone pole that split the car in half. After this tragic moment the Angels had to have a press conference about the death of their young pitcher. Coaches, players, fans, people around the United States were stunted after they heard the news. Players and coaches couldn't help but cry after they lost a close friend. Outside of Angel’s stadium the fans made a memorial for a man that barely knew or got to know for just 6 innings of work. The Angles coaches and players would then wear a patch with the #34 on the uniformers to remember Adernahart and would bring his jersey in dugout to every game and keep his locker in the locker room the same as if he was still part of the team. Also they would bring his things to away games and set up his locker. Also no Angles player will ever wear the number 34 ever again as they retired the number in favored of of Nick Adenhart to be the only Angels player to ever wear that number. The Angels in 2009 would win their division and win the ALDS over the Boston Red Sox and they said it was all for Nick, as Angels outfielder Torii Hunter said "Nick's up there smiling down and saying hey! Let’s get a win today." As the Angels season came to a close in the ALCS against the New York Yankees, it was still be a year to remember as the Angels played their hearts out for Nick every step of the way in 2009. Nick's life ended at the age of 22; although his life is gone it will never be forgotten as the kid who grew up in Silver Spring, Maryland lived out his dream to play as a major league baseball player. Nick Andenhart #34 (August 24, 1986 - April 9, 2009) R.I.P.
Just after a few days after Adenharts death, back on the East Cost the Phillies lost a close friend in the family and a legend if that. On April 13, 2009 in Washington D.C. where the Phillies would host the Natioanls and before the game started The Voice, The One and Only Harry Kalas had passed away of heart disease. Before the game began, Kalas' death was announced to the crowd, his picture was displayed on the scoreboard, and the stadium observed a minute of silence for the remembrance of him. The Phillies beat the Nationals by a score of 9-8. Center fielder Shane Victorino also saluted Kalas after hitting a solo home run by pointing up to the press box where Kalas would have called the game. Back home in Philly the fans made a memorial outside the stadium hosting around a Mike Schmidt statue to remember The Voice of the Philadelphia Phillies. It was then when coaches and players wore a "HK" patch on their uniformers to honor him and in the dugout of every home or away game they would bring Harry's baby-blue blazer and white loafers to make sure he was always with them. After a Phillie would hit a home run Harry's famous "OUTTA HERE" was played and after a Phillies win his favorite song was played "HIGH HOPES". Harry Kalas wasn't just a baseball broadcaster for the Phillies he would also do NFL Films and T/V commercials because he just had that voice that everyone loved oh so much. Harry was inducted to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2002 and will always be remembered. People that grew up listening to Harry knew that no one called a game like Harry did. Harry was a guy who would come over and sit down and talk to fans about different things and I know from hands on from meeting him back in 2003 that he was a great man and loved to talk about his love for the game and would always do a voice call for the people. The Phillies in 2009 won their division for the third straight year and won back to back National League Pennants but in the 2009 World Series their magic season came to an end after losing to New York Yankees. "The season was Harry no matter what" said Phillies shortstop Jimmy Rollins. Harry Kalas died at the age of 73 and will always be remember as The Legend, The Hero, The Voice! Harry Kalas "HK" (March 26, 1936 - April 13, 2009) R.I.P.
Harry's memorable calls:
Harry's Home Run Call
"Swing ... and a long drive, and this ball is ... outta here! Home run
Kalas made, arguably, his most memorable call on April 18, 1987, when Mike Schmidt hit his 500th career home run.
Swing and a long drive, there it is, number 500! The career 500th home run for Michael Jack Schmidt!
In 1980, after the Phillies won the World Series, Kalas and the rest of the Phillies' radio crew re-created the call that Kalas probably would have made when Tug McGraw struck out Willie Wilson to win Game 6 and the World Series between the Phillies and the Kansas City Royals.
65,000 plus on their feet here at Veterans Stadium. The Tugger needs one more ... Swing and a miss! Yes, he struck him out! Yes, they did it! The Phillies are world champions! World champions of baseball! It's pandemonium at Veterans Stadium! All of the fans are on their feet. This city has come together behind a baseball team! ... Phillies are world champions! This city knows it! This city loves it!
Another memorable call by Kalas was his description of Mitch Williams's strikeout of Bill Pecota for the final out of Game 6 of the 1993 National League Championship Series between the Phillies and Atlanta Braves:
Swing and a miss! Struck him out! The Phillies ... are the '93 ... National League Champions!!!
On June 14, 2004, Kalas called the 400th home run hit by Jim Thome, using the call he used in later years when it was uncertain whether the ball would clear the fence:
Could it be...could it be...it...is...OUTTA HERE! Number 400 for Jim Thome!
On August 9, 2006, Kalas called a close play at the plate as Chase Utley scored from second base against the Atlanta Braves:
Chase is going to keep going and he's safe at home plate! Chase Utley, you...ARE...the...man!
Here is Kalas's call of Brett Myers' strikeout of Washington's Wily Mo Pena to clinch the 2007 National League East division title for the Phillies on the last day of the season, completing a comeback as they erased a seven-game deficit behind the New York Mets in early September:
Myers ... has the sign from Chris Coste ... curveball, struck him out! The Phillies are National League East champions! Look at the scene on the field! Look at the scene on the stands! This is incredible! The Phillies are the National League East champions and will go to the postseason for the first time since 1993! Wow!
Kalas' call on the Phillies' victory in Game 5 of the 2008 NLCS:
The 3–2 pitch ... Swing, and a pop-up, this game is gonna be over ... Carlos Ruiz squeezes it, and the Phillies are the National League champions! The Phils move on to the World Series!
On October 29, 2008, Kalas was finally able to call a Phillies' championship-winning moment in the World Series when Brad Lidge struck out Eric Hinske to win the 104th Fall Classic
One strike away; nothing-and-two, the count to Hinske. Fans on the their feet; rally towels are being waved. Brad Lidge stretches. The 0-2 pitch — swing and a miss, struck him out! The Philadelphia Phillies are 2008 World Champions of baseball! Brad Lidge does it again, and stays perfect for the 2008 season! 48-for-48 in save opportunities, and let the city celebrate! Don't let the 48-hour wait diminish the euphoria of this moment, and the celebration. And it has been 28 years since the Phillies have enjoyed a World Championship; 25 years in this city that a team that has enjoyed a World Championship, and the fans are ready to celebrate. What a night!
Kalas made his final call on April 12, 2009, during the Phillies game against the Colorado Rockies:
Bouncing ball to Chase Utley, this should be the game, Chase throws him out and that will be it as the Phils win 2 out of 3 here at Coors Field, coming back to take this one by a score of 7 to 5.
This Is Beyond Legends, This Is Beyond Baseball.
Seth Lempert
We start with the Anaheim Angels starting pitcher Nick Andenhart who was making his 4th major league debut on April 8, 2009 as the Angles third starting pitcher in the Angels rotation. He was pitching against the Oakland Athletics where he did a great job pitching and showed coaches and his father that he was ready to play in the big leagues. Andenhart went 6 innings, allowed no runs, and struck out 5 batters. But sadly did he know it would be the last game he would ever pitch in his short career. Later that night shortly after 12 a.m. on April 9, 2009 Andenhart and a few friends went out to celebrate his great pitching performance where he was in a horrifying car cash and two of his friends were killed intently. Adenhart and friend Jon Wilhite would be rushed to the hospital, but by the time they arrived at the hospital Nick Adenhart's life was already taken. His friend Jon Wilhite had to go under 5 hours of surgery to save his life. None the less Adenhart and two others were killed in this accident, police said that a drunk driver (no names) who already had a suspended license hit Adenhart's car as he went through a red light and hit his car that hit a telephone pole that split the car in half. After this tragic moment the Angels had to have a press conference about the death of their young pitcher. Coaches, players, fans, people around the United States were stunted after they heard the news. Players and coaches couldn't help but cry after they lost a close friend. Outside of Angel’s stadium the fans made a memorial for a man that barely knew or got to know for just 6 innings of work. The Angles coaches and players would then wear a patch with the #34 on the uniformers to remember Adernahart and would bring his jersey in dugout to every game and keep his locker in the locker room the same as if he was still part of the team. Also they would bring his things to away games and set up his locker. Also no Angles player will ever wear the number 34 ever again as they retired the number in favored of of Nick Adenhart to be the only Angels player to ever wear that number. The Angels in 2009 would win their division and win the ALDS over the Boston Red Sox and they said it was all for Nick, as Angels outfielder Torii Hunter said "Nick's up there smiling down and saying hey! Let’s get a win today." As the Angels season came to a close in the ALCS against the New York Yankees, it was still be a year to remember as the Angels played their hearts out for Nick every step of the way in 2009. Nick's life ended at the age of 22; although his life is gone it will never be forgotten as the kid who grew up in Silver Spring, Maryland lived out his dream to play as a major league baseball player. Nick Andenhart #34 (August 24, 1986 - April 9, 2009) R.I.P.
Just after a few days after Adenharts death, back on the East Cost the Phillies lost a close friend in the family and a legend if that. On April 13, 2009 in Washington D.C. where the Phillies would host the Natioanls and before the game started The Voice, The One and Only Harry Kalas had passed away of heart disease. Before the game began, Kalas' death was announced to the crowd, his picture was displayed on the scoreboard, and the stadium observed a minute of silence for the remembrance of him. The Phillies beat the Nationals by a score of 9-8. Center fielder Shane Victorino also saluted Kalas after hitting a solo home run by pointing up to the press box where Kalas would have called the game. Back home in Philly the fans made a memorial outside the stadium hosting around a Mike Schmidt statue to remember The Voice of the Philadelphia Phillies. It was then when coaches and players wore a "HK" patch on their uniformers to honor him and in the dugout of every home or away game they would bring Harry's baby-blue blazer and white loafers to make sure he was always with them. After a Phillie would hit a home run Harry's famous "OUTTA HERE" was played and after a Phillies win his favorite song was played "HIGH HOPES". Harry Kalas wasn't just a baseball broadcaster for the Phillies he would also do NFL Films and T/V commercials because he just had that voice that everyone loved oh so much. Harry was inducted to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2002 and will always be remembered. People that grew up listening to Harry knew that no one called a game like Harry did. Harry was a guy who would come over and sit down and talk to fans about different things and I know from hands on from meeting him back in 2003 that he was a great man and loved to talk about his love for the game and would always do a voice call for the people. The Phillies in 2009 won their division for the third straight year and won back to back National League Pennants but in the 2009 World Series their magic season came to an end after losing to New York Yankees. "The season was Harry no matter what" said Phillies shortstop Jimmy Rollins. Harry Kalas died at the age of 73 and will always be remember as The Legend, The Hero, The Voice! Harry Kalas "HK" (March 26, 1936 - April 13, 2009) R.I.P.
Harry's memorable calls:
Harry's Home Run Call
"Swing ... and a long drive, and this ball is ... outta here! Home run
Kalas made, arguably, his most memorable call on April 18, 1987, when Mike Schmidt hit his 500th career home run.
Swing and a long drive, there it is, number 500! The career 500th home run for Michael Jack Schmidt!
In 1980, after the Phillies won the World Series, Kalas and the rest of the Phillies' radio crew re-created the call that Kalas probably would have made when Tug McGraw struck out Willie Wilson to win Game 6 and the World Series between the Phillies and the Kansas City Royals.
65,000 plus on their feet here at Veterans Stadium. The Tugger needs one more ... Swing and a miss! Yes, he struck him out! Yes, they did it! The Phillies are world champions! World champions of baseball! It's pandemonium at Veterans Stadium! All of the fans are on their feet. This city has come together behind a baseball team! ... Phillies are world champions! This city knows it! This city loves it!
Another memorable call by Kalas was his description of Mitch Williams's strikeout of Bill Pecota for the final out of Game 6 of the 1993 National League Championship Series between the Phillies and Atlanta Braves:
Swing and a miss! Struck him out! The Phillies ... are the '93 ... National League Champions!!!
On June 14, 2004, Kalas called the 400th home run hit by Jim Thome, using the call he used in later years when it was uncertain whether the ball would clear the fence:
Could it be...could it be...it...is...OUTTA HERE! Number 400 for Jim Thome!
On August 9, 2006, Kalas called a close play at the plate as Chase Utley scored from second base against the Atlanta Braves:
Chase is going to keep going and he's safe at home plate! Chase Utley, you...ARE...the...man!
Here is Kalas's call of Brett Myers' strikeout of Washington's Wily Mo Pena to clinch the 2007 National League East division title for the Phillies on the last day of the season, completing a comeback as they erased a seven-game deficit behind the New York Mets in early September:
Myers ... has the sign from Chris Coste ... curveball, struck him out! The Phillies are National League East champions! Look at the scene on the field! Look at the scene on the stands! This is incredible! The Phillies are the National League East champions and will go to the postseason for the first time since 1993! Wow!
Kalas' call on the Phillies' victory in Game 5 of the 2008 NLCS:
The 3–2 pitch ... Swing, and a pop-up, this game is gonna be over ... Carlos Ruiz squeezes it, and the Phillies are the National League champions! The Phils move on to the World Series!
On October 29, 2008, Kalas was finally able to call a Phillies' championship-winning moment in the World Series when Brad Lidge struck out Eric Hinske to win the 104th Fall Classic
One strike away; nothing-and-two, the count to Hinske. Fans on the their feet; rally towels are being waved. Brad Lidge stretches. The 0-2 pitch — swing and a miss, struck him out! The Philadelphia Phillies are 2008 World Champions of baseball! Brad Lidge does it again, and stays perfect for the 2008 season! 48-for-48 in save opportunities, and let the city celebrate! Don't let the 48-hour wait diminish the euphoria of this moment, and the celebration. And it has been 28 years since the Phillies have enjoyed a World Championship; 25 years in this city that a team that has enjoyed a World Championship, and the fans are ready to celebrate. What a night!
Kalas made his final call on April 12, 2009, during the Phillies game against the Colorado Rockies:
Bouncing ball to Chase Utley, this should be the game, Chase throws him out and that will be it as the Phils win 2 out of 3 here at Coors Field, coming back to take this one by a score of 7 to 5.
This Is Beyond Legends, This Is Beyond Baseball.
Seth Lempert
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Top 12 Teams To Win The 2010 World Series.
So what top 12 teams have been picked to win the 2010 World Series? It’s needless to say some would say the New York Yankees will repeat as World Champs, and others would say “Phillies all day!!” Then you throw in the Boston Red Sox and Atlanta Braves and you just get really confused on who might be the winner in 2010, that’s why I have picked my top 12 teams to break down to you on to who might be the maker and breaker of 2010.
12
Texas Rangers
(American League West)
The Texas Rangers last year were a surprise story coming very close to winning AL West Division but came up short in the end. The Rangers are a team that could do some damage but not whole lot. We start off with the pitching staff. Clearly there number one starter has to be Scott Feldman, this guy right here is a gamer and isn’t scared to come at guys and put’em away. His number in 2009 weren’t too bad with an ERA of 4.08, 17 wins, 8 losses, and 113 strikeouts. Then you have Rich Hardern a new comer who the Rangers got in the offseason. Hardern isn’t the same pitcher he was when he was with the A’s and his spring training number aren’t that great but you never know what life can hand you in a baseball. In 2009 Hardern was hurt for most of the year but still managed to have a 4.09 ERA, 9 wins, 9 losses, and 171 strikeouts.
Now we move over to the Rangers hitters, who in the past aren’t too bad. They have a really good second baseman in Ian Kinsler who has always done well at the plate and hits for power and RBI’s. In the 2009 campaign he put up some pretty good numbers with a batting AVG of .253, 31 HR, and 86 RBI’s. Then across the diamond they have Michael Young who at third base has always filled his roll pretty well and has been part of this Rangers line-up for a long time. This will be his 10th year with the club since he joined them back in 2000 and in 09 he did a great job as always. His AVG was .322, 22 HR, and 68 RBI’s. Outfielders might be the strong part of this line-up with adding former right fielder and all-star Vladimir Guerrero. Guerrero for who the Rangers picked up in the offseason from the American League West Division Camps the Los Angeles Angels did an alright job, but most of the time he was the Angles DH and will probably be doing the same duties for the Rangers this year. His AVG was .295, 15 HR, and 50 RBI’s in 2009. He’s always one of those guys who still scare’s you on the mound because he can hit and put the ball anywhere you throw it. Back to right field who the Rangers already have a solid fielder and hitter in Nelson Cruz. This guy just has pop in his bat and can take any pitcher deep if you make you a mistake. Last year with his 4th year with the Rangers had a good numbers year with a .260 AVG, 33 HR, and 76 RBI’s. Now who could be the last guy we could talk about on this team that is always a threat? I would have to say Josh Hamilton, now here’s a guy that has power, I don’t think anyone can forget all the home runs he hit in the 2008 run home derby. But last year wasn’t the year for Hamilton, after being hurt and missing a little part of the year his AVG was only .268, 10 HR, and 54 RBI’s. But still you must fear him as a guy who can just fate out hit.
The Rangers in 2010 don’t look as bad as you think, they still have to work on their pitching but I think this team may surprise everyone in the end.
11
San Francisco Giants
(National League West)
Well now everyone in their mother’s knows the Giants for to 2 time NL CY Young Award winner Tim Lincecum. Well if you don’t then you shouldn’t be reading this. The Giants last year were one of those teams the people said can they make the playoffs? Well in 2009 they sadly didn’t and I think the reason for that was the pitching wasn’t there when they needed it besides Lincecum. Also their lack of run support late in games cost them a trip to the postseason. But in 2010 I think they might have found a way to get there.
Pitching is one of the biggest keys for the Giants and when you have a 1-2 punch in Tim Lincecum and Matt Cain it’s a good feeling. Lincecum in 2009 put up great number as he did the previews year in 2008 winning his second straight NL CY Young Award in 2009. His ERA was 2.48, 15 wins, 7 losses, and 261 strikeouts, the most in the NL! Then the number two starter is his good friend Matt Cain who is a guy that just knows how to pitch and is very smart. In 2009 he finished with an ERA of 2.89, 14 wins, 8 losses and 171 strikeouts. Now we have the number three starter in Jonathan Sanchez who everyone remembers he threw his first no-hitter last year in AT&T Park. After that happened people started to realize this pitching staff isn’t that bad. Sanchez is a good pitcher and is a guy who can take his team deep into the game and always gives his team a chance to win and last year his ERA was 4.24, 8 wins, 12 losses, and 177 strikeouts. To their number four starter and that is Barry Zito. Zito in the first half of the season of last year just wasn’t on top of his game and that’s what might have hurt the Giants. But the second half of 2009 he tried to put together some good outings and finished the year off with a 4.03 ERA, 10 wins, 13 losses, and 154 strikeouts. Now the Giants back end of their bull pen is pretty good with closer Brain Wilson who everyone said “who’s this guy”? Wilson in 2008 had 41 saves and in 2009 he would pick up 38 saves with an ERA of 2.74 and 83 strikeouts.
The Giants hitters aren’t that bad but they weren’t that good in 2009, but I think in 2010 they might be somewhat better and hope they put all the mar balls together. We start off with their best hitter “Kung Fo Panda” Pablo Sandoval. Now I don’t really remember any other good hitters for the Giants besides Barry Bonds but that’s a whole different story. Sandoval is one of those players that everyone wants to have on their team. He plays at the hot corner and he could also play first base at times. Kung Fo Panda numbers in 2009 were really good for his second year in the majors with a AVG of .330, 25 HR, and 90 RBI’s. Now we move over to second base that has a few problems with Freddy Sanchez starting the 2010 season on DL, Sanchez last year hit .293, 7 HR, and 41 RBI’s. But no need to worry coming in the replace him is Juan Uribe. Uribe isn’t that same player he was but he still knows how fill his roll and will fit well in this line-up. Last year he hit .289, 16 HR, and 55 RBI’s. Sanchez is going to be missed but only for a little bit but I think Uribe will do just fine, he’s a guy with power and is still a good hitter and pretty good fielder as well. The shortstop roll will be given to Edgar Renteria who I think still has pop in his bat, yes he’s not the guy who he was when he won the World Series back in 2003 with the Marlines, but he’s a guy who knows his possession really well and is given a chance to play every day. In 2009 his AVG was .250, 5 HR, and 48 RBI’s. The catcher roll for the Giants is their big gun Bengie Molina. Molina is one of your premier catchers and always has been. In 09 he put up some solid number batting .265, 20 HR, and 80 RBI’s. The outfield is what I think might be the Giants biggest key. In the offseason the Giants got former third baseman Mark DeRosa who will now take left field come opening day. DeRosa to me is much underrated player. I mean this guy is just a good all around player, he may not hit for average but he still fills the number 5 or 6 roll in the line-up pretty well. DeRosa in 09 did a fair job hitting .250, 23 HR, and 78 RBI’s. Last but not least on this Giant line-up is Aaron Rowand and let me tell you something about this player, me being a Phillies fan and seeing this guy play was just amazing and a great hitter and fielder as we all know. A guy who isn’t scared to put is body out there to make a catch. Also a good solid hitter, Rowand last year hit .261, 15 HR, and 64 RBI’s. This guy knows what its take to win and knows how to win being part of the White Sox World Series team back in 2005.
So look out for the Giants in 2010, I don’t think they will win the NL West, but I do think they will be in a tight spot in the NL Wild Card with the Dodgers and Braves. But hey stranger things have happened in this game and could possible walk away with the division. I think all the Giants really care about is making it to the postseason come this October.
10
Minnesota Twins
(American League Central Division Champions)
Now who can forget last year’s one game playoff to decide who take home the American League Central Division? Well the “Twin Killing” came out with guns blazing and wrapped up the AL Central against the Detroit Tigers and went on to the postseason. The Twins wouldn’t last long in the playoffs after losing 3 straight games to the New York Yankees. Although 2009 was a great success story I’m sure the “Twin Killing” will be back for some more in 2010.
We start off with the Twins pitching staff in which I still think needs some work, I mean it’s not bad but some of the pitchers they have are very questionable? Like Francisco Liriano and Carl Pavano? Also how good will the Twins be without their number 1 closer Joe Nathan who will be on the DL for the rest of year? The Twins have named Liriano their fifth starter, the guy isn’t bad but in the past he hasn’t been able to get his stuff together. In 2009 his ERA was 5.80, 5 wins, 13 losses, and 122 strikeouts. But now Liriano may be spending some time in the pen as their closer since Nathan won’t be able do his duties. Now we talk about Carl Pavano who might be their number 4 starter or might be in the bull pen. No one can really figure out what his roll is on this pitching staff. Pavano isn’t a bad pitcher but I think you just go with what you see. Last year he finished the season off with a 5.10 ERA, 14 wins, 12 losses, and 147 strikeouts. Now we move to Joe Nathan, who’s a huge lost to the Twins bull pen, as this guy was the Twins bull dog last year and knew when it was crunch time. He will definitely be missed in the pen. Nathan in 2009 had a fine season with an ERA of 2.10, 47 saves and 89 strikeouts. Let’s talk about the Twins front end of the pitching rotation with Scott Baker, Kevin Slowey and Nick Blackburn. This isn’t a bad 1, 2, 3 punch if I might add. Scott Baker is their go to guy and is probably their best pitcher on their staff with a 4.37 ERA, 15 wins, 9 losses, and 162 strikeouts. Then with Kevin Slowey you never know what you’re going to get with him. He’s a fine pitcher but in the past is a guy who loses control of his pitches and then the problems start to come in from there. In 2009 his ERA was 4.86, 10 wins, 3 losses, and 75 strikeouts. Now over to Nick Blackburn who I think is a decent pitcher and is a guy who is always on target. Blackburn has filled in the relief pitcher roll and starting pitching roll. No easy test, Blackburn would close the 2009 season with a 4.03 ERA, 11 wins, 11 losses, and 98 strikeouts.
The Twins offence has always helped them in the long run and I think in 2010 it will be better than ever. First of all they have the best catcher in the game and first time MVP Winner Joe Mauer! Mauer is probably one the best catchers, players, hitters, fielders I have ever seen. This guy can just do it all and he is the heart and soul of this Twins team, also being from Minnesota may have something to do it. He is a home town hero. In 2009 Mauer started the year on the DL and missed a month of the season but when he came back for his first game he hit a home run and showed people that the “Twin Killing” is back and ready to go. 2009 was a year to remember with an AVG of .365 the best in the MLB, 28 HR, and 96 RBI’s. With him on your team you have to feel like you always have a chance to win. At first base you have another great hitter and fielder in Justin Morneau who in 2006 won the AL MVP. Morneau is a dangerous hitter in the home run and RBI field. Also he is a great field and has a few gold gloves. For Morneau 2009 was also a year to remember hitting 100 RBI’s, 30 HR, and an AVG of .274. Next door to Morneau is the “O-Dog” Orlando Hudson. The O-Dog I think is a guy who hits for average and has great speed. Also he’s not a bad second baseman to have on your team. Hudson last year hit .283, 9 HR, and 62 RBI’s. Next door to Hudson is J.J. Hardy at shortstop and I think this guy has something to prove to everyone and I think he will win comeback player of the year in 2010. Hardy has had a few problems in the past but is always a guy who likes to play the game the right way and just likes to have fun. He’s an ok hitter but a great fielder on the diamond. Hardy’s AVG in 2009 was .229, 11 HR, and 47 RBI’s. The Outfield to me is the strongest part of the “Twin Killing”. In left you have Delmon Young, in right you have Michael Cuddyer, and in center you have Denard Span. We start with Delmon Young, who is young and has speed. Also this guy could hit for power someday down the road. Young in 09 hit .284, 12 HR, and 60 RBI’s. Now over to right with Michael Cuddyer and everyone said is this guy the answer in right field after playing second base. As a fielder he does a nice job at right, but as a hitter that doesn’t change a thing. Cuddyer is another part of the “Twin Killing” and is their big time power hitter. His AVG finished at .276, 32 HR, 94 RBI’s. In center we have another guy in the “Twin Killing” with Denard Span. Span is a guy who has speed and is much underrated as a fielder and a player, but that’s what makes him so much better. He isn’t the best, he isn’t the worst, he’s just right for the job. I like this guy a lot and I think he’s the further of this team. For Span it was a year to remember for him as well hitting .311, 8 HR, 68 RBI’s.
The Twins I think are best team in the American League Central and will yet again win their division. All I think they might need is some better pitching they will make it deep in the playoffs. But other than that I don’t think any team will catch up to them in the American League Central in 2010.
9
Los Angeles Dodgers
(National League West Division Champions)
Well if you were to ask me I think the Dodgers in 2010 won’t be as good as everyone makes them out to be, for some reason I just don’t see it. Their pitching is weak and their infield just isn’t there. The strongest part of this Dodgers team is the outfield and when you’re playing teams like the Phillies, Giants, Rockies, Braves, and Cardinals in the NL you’re going to need a little more than an outfield.
Pitching for the Dodgers in 2010 just won’t cut it this year I think. Chad Billingsley for the Dodgers this year just isn’t the answer. He’s an average pitcher who throws heat but he’s not someone who you call a number one, but I guess that’s all the Dodgers have to offer. Billingsley’s numbers in 2009 looked like this, an ERA of 4.03, 12 wins, 11 losses, and 179 strikeouts. Now to Clayton Kershaw who to me just hasn’t developed into the pitcher he was supposed to be. His ERA is the best on the team with 2.79, 8 wins, 8 losses, and 185 strikeouts. I still think he needs work. Then you have Vicente Padilla who will be the Dodgers number one pitcher and last year came over from the Rangers did an ok job and pitched well in the playoffs last year, but he’s still not the answer for the team. His ERA finished at 4.46, 12 win, 6 losses, and 97 strikeouts. The Dodgers closer Jonathan Broxton is probably one the best in the NL but in the postseason he’s known as the breaker in Game 5 of the NLCS against the Phillies. In the past two years he has giving up two of the Phillies biggest postseason hits in history in the same series back to back years. 2008 gave up a boom that still hasn’t landed in LA to Matt Stairs and last year in 2009 gave up a line drive game winning hit to Jimmy Rollins. The Phillies clearly have his number in the postseason. But in 2009 he did his job to get his club to win the NL West Division for the second straight year with an ERA of 2.61, 36 saves, and 114 strikeouts.
The infield of this Dodger team isn’t there beside James Loney at first base. Loney is a great solid hitter and fielder. He can hit for power and can drive in runs. In 2009 he hit .281, 13 HR, and 90 RBI’s. The second best hitter in this infield is Casey Blake, very surprised. Blake is a good hitter and has a great eye, also plays a tough possession at third base. Blake is a guy that just knows what he has to do to get the job done. He hit .280, 18 HR, and 79 RBI’s. The third best hitter in this infield is second baseman Ronnie Belliard another surprised one. Belliard is an ok fielder not the best I would say, but a good hitter and knows how drive the ball and has some speed. I think he might have to step his game up in 2010, after batting .277, 10 HR and drove in 39 RBI’s in 2009. The fourth best hitter is shortstop Rafael Furcal. Furcal will be entering his 10th year in the majors and his 5th year with the Dodgers. Furcal has always been a good player even when he was with the Atlanta Braves. Furcal is an excellent fielder and solid hitter. He finished the 2009 season with a .269 AVG, 9 HR, 47 RBI’s. Now to the last infield hitter in catcher Russell Martin, in 2009 I don’t think this was one of his best years and in 2010 I think he’s going to be somewhat a better hitter. Now fielding he’s got no problem at. Martin in 2009 hit .250, 7 HR, and drove in 53 RBI’s. Now this is where the Dodgers team really kicks in at. The outfield is the heart of this team and is a big time threat. With Andre Ethier in right, big Manny Ramirez in left, Garret Anderson who will be on the bench but will have some playing time in right and left field, and Matt Kemp in center. We start with Ethier who is a part of this power house Dodger team, who in 2009 had an awesome year and filled his role in right field really well. He is a cutlet hitter and has a lot of pop in his bat, hitting .272, 31 HR, and 106 RBI’s. Then there’s Garret Anderson who the Dodgers picked up from the Braves. Anderson will most likely be on the bench, but is a great leader and is a guy who can teacher these players really well. Also he’s not a bad hitter coming off your bench. He batted .268, hit 13 HR, and drove in 61 RBI’s. Then there’s Matt Kemp who has made his name out in center. Kemp is at least in your top 5 best outfielders, the guy hits for power, speed, and average. He hit .297, 26 HR, and hit over 100 RBI’s with 101. Also he’s an awesome fielder and soon will have himself a gold glove. Now it’s Manny time, the biggest threat of this Dodgers power house outfield. Ramirez in the first 50 games was suspended for steroid use and got strikeout 1 of the 3 strike rule in baseball. But when his suspending was up he helped his team take home the NL West Division by hitting .290, 13 HR and 63 RBI’s.
So the Dodgers this year I think won’t win their division only because their pitching and infield just isn’t there. I thought the Dodgers should have held on to left handed pitcher Randy Wolf. He a guy who can maybe win you 10-15 games with the right team and it looked like he was a good fit for “BIG BLUE” I think the Dodgers will be in the race to win the NL Wild Card against their rival San Francisco Giants and The Atlanta Braves in 2010.
8
Seattle Mariners
(American League West)
If you were to say that the Seattle Mariners are in this top 12 you would probably laugh or you would say I’m lying, but no it’s the truth. Yes the Mariners are my number 8 team on this list for two reasons. First reason is well they have one of the best pitchers on their team “King” Felix Hernandez and they added former CY Young Award winning Cliff Lee in the mix. The other reason is that they have a pretty strong line-up with adding Gold Glover, Chone Figgins at third base.
So it’s safe to say the Mariners have a great 1 – 2 punch in their pitching staff and most people think this team will win their division. Well why not? When you have a guy like Felix Hernandez on your team who is good enough this year to maybe win 20 – 23 games with the line-up he has this year. Last year’s number were even good enough for him to win the AL CY Young Award with an ERA of 2.49, 19 wins, 5 losses, and 217 strikeouts and I think this year he will be the 2010 AL CY Young Award winner. The guy has a great fastball that just sets up the rest of his pitches. He’s a guy that will be around this game for a long time and people are going to see him as a further hall of famer if he stays healthy. Now here you have a former CY Young Award winning in Cliff Lee who will be on the DL in till the end of May, but still when he comes back look for him to come up big. Lee last year with the Phillies came over from Cleveland and helped the Phils get back to the World Series in 2009 but came up short in the end. In the offseason the Phillies traded away Lee for former CY Young Award winner Roy Halladay and Lee was sent back to the American League. Lee in the first half of the year with Cleveland had an ERA of 3.14, 7 wins, 9 losses and 107 strikeouts. The second half of the year with Philadelphia had an ERA of 3.39, 7 wins, 4 losses, and 74 strikeouts. His stats at the end of the year added up like this, his ERA was 3.22, 14 wins, 13 losses, and 181 strikeouts. Between Hernandez and Lee together they should have 30-35 wins combined. The front of this rotation looks pretty nice right about now. The “M’s” third starter is Erik Bedard who in the past has had a lot of problems and this year he will start the year on the DL with a bad shoulder and no one really knows when he will be back pitching. Bedard hasn’t really ever been a great pitcher but he’s not a bad guy to have on your team when he’s healthy. His ERA was 2.82, 5 wins, 3 losses, and 90 strikeouts. Then their fourth pitcher comes in with Ryan Rowland-Smith who is someone that the Mariners don’t really know how good he is. I think he will do just fine and will feed off Lee and Hernandez if he’s the M’s put him as their third starting pitcher. Last year his ERA was 3.74, 5 wins, 4 losses, and 52 strikeouts.
Now to the Mariners line-up which is pretty solid to begin with. They have a pretty decent catcher with Kenji Johjima. Johjima I give him created for being behind the plate to catch Hernandez’s fastball. The guy is a pretty good hitter, not a power hitter or an RBI hitter, just a guy who gets on base. Last year he hit .247, 9 HR, and 22 RBI’s. At first base they have Casey Kotchman who isn’t that bad. The guy is a good solid fielder and an average hitter. In 2009 he hit .268, 7 HR, and 48 RBI’s. Next to him is who I think is their big gun power hitter Jose Lopez who came into his own last year. This guy is one of your premier players and is a great fielder and a strong hitter and could do some deep damage this year. Last year he batted .272, hit 25 HR, and drove in 96 RBI’s. Look out for him this year. At shortstop you have old timer Jack Wilson who has always put up good number and always come through when needed. The guy knows his possession better than anyone at short and will be a big key for this M’s line-up. Wilson’s numbers weren’t too bad hitting .255, 5 HR, and 39 RBI’s. Next to him is one of the other big time guys the Mariners got in the offseason Chone Figgins. I have always liked this guy; he’s got speed, power, and is never scared to lay down a bunt for a hit. He’ll probably be hitting in the second hole behind Ichiro or he might be leading off. Figgins last year with the Angles had a good year with an AVG of .298, 5 HR, and 54 RBI’s. Now to the outfield which is pretty good if I might add. They got Milton Bardley, Franklin Gutierrez, Ken Griffey Jr. who will probably be their DH but will still have some playing time, and of course Ichiro Suzuki. We start out in left field with Bardley who is a pretty good fielder and yes he does strikeout a lot but still he’s not bad to have on your team as an outfielder. Last year with the Cubs he hit .257, 12 HR, and 40 RBI’s. Now over to center to where they another good power hitter in Franklin Gutierrez who does strikeout a lot as well but this being his second year with the team he’s not bad to have. I think he’s a guy who you can rely on in center he also has some speed. He’s someone that reads the ball well and will always get a jump. Hitting he’s got pop in bat but he will have to work on picking out his pitches. Last year with the M’s he hit .283, hit 18 HR, and drove in 70 RBI’s. Now to the DH spot where Ken Griffey will be spending most of time and with that being said this might be his last year as a big leaguer. Griffey is guy who has been in this game for 24 years and knows what takes to win and knows that it’s a grind to play every day. If he never had gotten hurt in his previews years I think he would have been the one to break to all time home run record and he would have done it the right way. His AVG last year was .214, 19 HR, and 57 RBI’s. Griffey already has 630 career home runs under his bleat and I’m sure he will be looking for more in 2010. Now to our last “M” who has played with team for his whole career and will be entraining his 10th year with the club and he has never let anyone down before, yes it’s Ichiro Suzuki. He’s some that hardly strikeouts and is a good left handed hitter. Also has a lot of speed on the bases and plays right field really well. Last year his numbers were once again were solid and the second best batting average in the MLB hitting .352, 11 HR, and 46 RBI’s in 2009.
So the M’s find themselves in a spot where they can do a lot of damage and I think this year they will walk away with American West Division and go into the playoffs. I’m not sure how good they’ll fair off in the postseason. They might hit a speed bump between the Red Sox or Yankees. But I think the goal is set and they know what they have to do to make it to the postseason this year.
7
Colorado Rockies
(National League West/NL Wild Card Winner)
Well the NL West is probably going to be tight spot between winning the division and the NL wild card. I mean you have the back to back division champs the Dodgers, then you have the hungry Giants who just want it to make the playoffs, then you even have the D-Backs who can always come through and surprise you. Then you have the Colorado Rockies who just broke through in this game 3 years ago. In 2007 it was one of the best stories for the club. They won the NL Wild Card and were the first team since the 2003 Florida Marlins to make it to the World Series, but came up short and lost to the Boston Red Sox. In 2009 they once again won the NL Wild Card but in the NLDS lost to a better Phillies team and their season came to an end. But I think in 2010 they might be looking for something more.
Pitching might be a factor for Rockies in 2010 but they their number one starting pitcher Ubaldo Jimenez can help them bring home a Division Championship. Jimenez was one of those guys you questioned a lot and said I don’t know if he’s ready to take on the big leagues, but in 2009 he kind of proved everyone wrong. In 2008 and 2007 his number weren’t that good and wasn’t going to be a big time pitcher. Last year he came back showed everyone what kind of pitcher he was by having an ERA of 3.47, 15 wins, 12 losses, and 198 strikeouts. The only problem is he’s a head case and if you get into his head the problem roll in from there. Now we move on to Aaron Cook who is a gamer. The guy is a strong pitcher and gives you a good 6 or 7 solid innings of work. He might even fill in the number one starting pitching roll if things don’t work as planned. Cook’s ERA in 2009 finished at 4.16, 11 wins, 6 losses and 78 strikeouts. Then there’s Jeff Francis who last year missed the whole year being on the DL and no one knows what he will bring to the table. In 2007 his stats were pretty amazing with an ERA of 4.22, 17 wins, 9 losses, and 165 strikeouts. In 2008 that’s when the problems started to come in where he had an ERA of 4.74, 4 wins, 10 losses, and 94 strikeouts. A big difference from 2007, they hope he can come back with the same numbers he put up in 07 or they might have some trouble. Now to the Rockies bull pen where they have set up man Rafael Betancourt and closer Huston Street who will start the 2010 year on the DL. When he comes back between these two guys they should be able to pick up their starting pitchers and their fellow relief pitchers. Betancourt’s numbers in 2009 were not too bad with an ERA of 2.73, 20 HLD, and 61 strikeouts. Huston Street has always been a good hard working closer even when he was with the A’s and in 2009 he did a fine job of putting away hitters. His ERA was 3.06, 35 saves, and 70 strikeouts. Look out for him to have another strong year if he stays healthy
The Rockies as we know have a really strong infield and outfield as well and this is what’s going to help this team in the long run. At catcher you have Chris Iannetta and backup catcher Miguel Olivo. Iannetta is a pretty solid catcher behind the dish but isn’t a good hitter and that’s where Olivo falls in for the Rockies, also he can come off the bench and hit in a tight spot. Iannetta numbers last year were ok hitting .228, 16 HR, and drove in 52 RBI’s. Olivo is the guy who brings the power to the catchers spot hitting .249, 23 HR, and 65 RBI’s. Now at first base we have veteran Todd Helton who has a tune of power and is always a guy you have to be careful with when pitching to him. Last year he hit .325, 15 HR, and 86 RBI’s. Over at second you have a young power hitter in Ian Stewart who is a pretty good fielder and a good hitter, he might need a little work but I think if he gets some work he could hit around .260 - .270 by the end of this year. Stewart last year did pretty well at the plate batting .228, hit 25 HR, and drove in 70 RBI’s. Stewart could also play at third from time to time. At shortstop you have the second or third best on your team with Troy Tulowitzki. Let me tell you something this kid has so much power at a young age and has speed. He’s only been in the majors for 4-5 years now and has made it to the top 3 of shortstops in the NL and in the top 5 in the MLB. To me that’s amazing that you can be that good in that little of time. The young shortstop hit .297, 32 HR, and 92 RBI’s. Next to him is the old timer that the Rockies got in offseason from the O’s Melvin Mora. Mora may not be as good as he once was but still he’s a guy who hits and gets on base and has a few gold gloves at third. His AVG got up to .260, 8 HR, and brought home 48 RBI’s. On to the Rockies outfield, where most of their speed and power comes in at! In center they have a young speed threat in Dexter Fowler who is a player that hits to get on base and cause’s base drama in stealing base’s and reading pitchers pick off moves, even though he struck out a lot in 2009 with 121 strikeouts I think he has worked on reading the ball better, with this being his third year in the pros he hit .266, 4 HR, and drove in 34 RBI’s. Now to right field with their big power guy Brad Hawpe who is someone that just knows how to hit well. He’s a good fielder in right and shares duties with Seth Smith who sometimes can play in left field. Hawpe and Smith are to big time hitters. Hawpe hit .285, 23 HR, and 86 RBI’s and Smith hit .293, 15 HR, and 55 RBI’s. Now over in left we have to great players, first Ryan Spilborghs who is a good left fielder and is a good solid hitter probably hitting in the 6 or 7 hole when he plays. His AVG was .241, 8 HR, and 48 RBI’s. Now to our finial player on this Colorado Rockies team, who other then Carlos Gonzales. What a player this young kid is! Only two year in the pros and boy he has made a name for himself as one of the premier players in the game. The guy just has everything you look for in a hitter and fielder at a young age. Last year Gonzales did a great job in the postseason for the first time and I can’t forget how he rocked the Phillies pitching in the NLDS last year. The Phillies pitching just couldn’t get this guy out and I think this year he will have an outbreak year leading off for the Rockies and will get a lot more chances to steal by playing every day. In 2009 just his second year he hit .284, 13 HR, and 29 RBI’s.
I like the Colorado Rockies in 2010 and I think they will do more than win the NL Wild Card. In 2010 look for them to be my pick to win the National League West Division and will be a dangerous team in the regular and postseason.
6
Boston Red Sox
(American League East/AL Wild Card Winner)
Now people say the Boston Red Sox might have one of the best pitching staffs in baseball with Josh Beckett, Jon Lester and new pitcher John Lackey. The only thing I don’t like about this Red Sox team is their infield and outfield. I think it’s weak in some spots and could have done better to improve their team. Because when you’re playing in a division with the Yankees and Rays you need some good hitting all around.
The Red Sox pitching in AL East might be the best and the best in the MLB. With the 3 J’s they call them in Boston they should be a very strong pitching staff. We start with Josh Beckett who is the Sox’s number one pitcher and is a guy who has two World Series titles under his belt, one with the Marlins in 2003 and the other with the Red Sox in 2007. He knows what it takes to win and I’m sure he wants to win again. After last year carrying this team on his shoulders to win them the AL wild card and getting them to postseason had to be an honor. But in 2009 his season ended early by getting knocked out by the Angles in the ALDS. Beckett numbers were pretty good with a 3.86 ERA, 17 wins, 6 losses and 199 strikeouts. Good CY Young numbers besides the ERA. Then we have their number two starter in Jon Lester who was their go to guy in 2007. This guy’s story is amazing after fighting cancer no one knew if he would ever play baseball ever again. When he came back to the game he threw a no-hitter and showed the baseball Gods that he’s ready to take whatever life throws at him. It’s been 3 years later since that story and in 2009 his numbers very good with a 3.41 ERA, 15 wins, 8 losses, and 225 strikeouts. Then we have their number three starter in the “Big Texan” big John Lackey who the Red Sox got in the offseason from the Angels. The Sox’s know what they are going to get out of him after seeing him in the postseason a year ago. Big John helped the Angels win the AL West Division and I think this year he might do the same. His ERA was 3.38, 11 wins, 8 losses, and 139 strikeouts in 2009. Now to their number four starter in Daisuke Matsuzaka who last year was hurt and just didn’t do a good job with an ERA of 5.76, 4 wins, 6 losses, and 54 strikeouts? He might not even be the Sox’s fourth starter it might be Clay Buchholz who right now is their number fix starter but I’ll tell what though this kid might be their number four starter. He’s young and showed that he’s got what it takes to become a big time pitcher. Last year he did a good with an ERA of 4.21, 7 wins, 4 losses, and 68 strikeouts. Now to the Sox’s bull pen with Hideki Okajima as their set up man and the dominant closer Jonathan Papelbon. Okajima last year was a great set up man for the Sox’s last year and filled his roll really well with his ERA being 3.39, having 24 HLD, and striking out 53 batters. Now on to Pepalbon who is probably the second or third best closer in the AL. This guy is the Sox’s bull dog in the pen. His ERA in 2009 was a 1.85, 38 saves, and 76 strikeouts. Bull dog I tell you!
Now the weakest part of this 2010 Red Sox team is their hitters and fielders. I mean we have a few good ones here and there, not in any way shape or form are they ready to get back to the World Series with this line-up. At the catchers roll I probably like the most with having Victor Martinez as their backup catcher/first baseman/DH. To me that’s the best hitter on the club. His AVG was .303, 23 HR, and 108 RBI’s the most on the team. With that being said he also came over from Cleveland and with them he hit .284, 15 HR, and 64 RBI’s with the Indians for the first half of the year. Now with their captain and veteran catcher in Jason Varitek who will be entraining his 14th year with the club and has always done well but how long will it last? Last year the captain hit .209, 14 HR, and 51 RBI’s. The Sox’s other hitter I like the most at first base is Kevin Youkilis. Here’s a guy who is a great all around player. Also he’s a strong hitter. This guy is the power house of this team hands on deck. He hit .305, 27 HR, and 94 RBI’s. At second of course you got 5’9 kid Dustin Pedroia and he’s a great fielder and a good hitter for a short guy. I mean this kid is just one of them second baseman that just knows what to do. I think in 2010 he will try to have a better year after in 2008 winning the AL MVP Award he didn’t really live up to the hype. Well that’s what I saw in my eyes. Take a look at his numbers from 2008 and 2009 and tell me what you think? 2008 – AVG .326, 17 HR, and 83 RBI’s. 2009 – AVG .296, 15 HR, and 72 RBI’s, a big difference in his average and RBI’s. At third base they have Mike Lowell who is old but isn’t that bad. He still hits for average and will probably be a DH here and there. Lowell hit .290, 17 HR, and 75 RBI’s. Then they have another third baseman in Adrian Beltre who is another old player. I mean the guy was great when he came up but injuries have really taken a toll on him as a player, but still has a few gold gloves at third and his bat isn’t too bad. Last year he hit .265, 8 HR and 44 RBI’s. Then you still got “BIG PAPA” yes big man David Ortiz as their DH. Last year in the first half of the season looked like he never picked up a bat before. In the second half of the 2009 season he started to hit somewhat better and drove in the ball. But as some would say still an off year hitting .238, 27 HR, and 99 RBI’s, Ortiz is still a big time power hitter and is still a threat but I don’t know how good he’ll be this year. Now the outfield of this team is ok. You have Jacoby Ellsbury in center, J.D. Drew in right, between Jeremy Hermida and Mike Cameron in left. Ellsbury is probably their number one speed guy that hits for speed and can steal bases and he hit .301, 8 HR and 60 RBI’s. Now to Drew who is their power guy in right field and is always a guy you have to be smart to when you pitch to him. He hit .279, hit 24 HR and drove in 68 RBI’s. Now Mike Cameron came over from the Brewers and Jeremy Hermida came over from the Marlins. Cameron is a power hitter and has speed but no knows what he will do. He strikes out a lot and his average hasn’t been that good in the past 4 year. Last year he only hit .250, hit 25 HR and drove in 70 RBI’s. With Hermida it’s the same story. Last year hit .259, 13 HR and 47 RBI’s but with the fish he put in his time and now will see how he does in the American League.
I think the Boston Red Sox will be a breaker in 2010 only because their line-up isn’t that strong but for some reason I also see them making a run for the AL Wild Card between division rival the Tampa Bay Rays. I just don’t see them winning the American League East Division over the New York Yankees and it will be a tight squeeze for the AL wild card this year.
5
St. Louis Cardinals
(National League Central Division Champions)
So the Red Birds last year won their division by so much last year and everyone picked them to go deep into the playoffs but their hitting and pitching let them down. But I do have to say the Cardinals do have really nice 1 -2 punch in the beginning of the pitching rotation with Carpenter and Wainwright. Also they probably have one of the best hitters in game with Albert Pujols. I think the 2010 season is going to be a year where the Cardinals will get down the business and do work.
The pitching staff is one of the strongest parts of this team with Chris Carpenter as their number one big gun and Adam Wainwright as their number two big gun. Carpenter last year put up CY Young numbers and was in line to possible win another CY Young Award but came up a little short. Other then that he helped his club wrap up the National League Central Division and pitch liked the old Carpenter like he once was. In 2009 his ERA was 2.24, 17 wins, 4 losses, and 144 strikeouts. The second pitcher on this team is former bullpen relief pitcher Adam Wainwright who everyone said is this guy ready to step up his game and in 2009 proved that he had what takes and he also put up CY Young numbers as well. Wainwright was also was in line for the NL CY Young Award but he also didn’t win it, but he still was one of the big keys of success for winning the division last year with an ERA 2.63, 19 wins, 8 losses and 212 strikeouts. Look out for this guy in 2010 to be in line to maybe win the NL CY Young Award. With these two great pitchers there’s the 31 year old, right handed pitcher, Kyle Lohse who falls in the mix. Lohes has had his ups and down in his career but this guy is a hard working pitcher who is always ready to try to do more to improve his game. His ERA in 2009 was a 4.74, 6 wins, 10 losses, and 77 strikeouts. Now to the Red Birds bullpen with Trever Miller and closer Ryan Franklin who is now probably one of the best closers in the National League. Miller last year did a pretty good job pitching out of the pen and being successful with his fastball and getting guys out. In 2008 Millers ERA was over 4 and I guess you can call that an off year? In 09 he turned it around and his ERA was 2.06, 14 HLD, and 46 strikeouts. Now to Ryan Franklin who I have no idea where he came from. If I was to tell you that he would have 38 saves in 2009 you would probably laugh. But in 2009 he really stepped up his game and did what he had to and filled in the closer roll really well with an ERA of 1.92, 38 saves and 44 strikeouts.
The Cardinals offence is another big key of this team and knows how to hit. At catcher they have one of the best Yadier Molina who is probably on the best hitting catchers in the NL and is a great fielder. As a catcher he hit .293, 6 HR, and 54 RBI’s. Molina is also a great fielder behind the dish and is a guy who isn’t sacred to take a hit. Now of course the Cardinals have one of the best power hitters in the game and 3 times NL MVP Winner, Albert Pujols! I can’t even explain the power this guy has; it’s just unbelievable how far he hits the ball. Not only that but he’s one power hitter who rarely strikes out. He always put the ball in play weather it’s a pop fly or a ground ball if it’s still in play, the guy will always hit. Pujols hit .327, 47 HR, and 135 RBI’s the second most in the NL behind Ryan Howard from the Philadelphia Phillies. The Cardinals have a good young shortstop in Felipe Lopez and this kid can do it all. Lopez is a good player that has great speed on the bases and has a great arm, also has a little bit of pop in his bat after hitting .310, 9 HR, and 57 RBI’s. Look for him to be a big key for the Red Birds this year. Now we have Skip Schumaker at second base, which isn’t that bad of a fielder. Hitting wise he isn’t that bad at either, the guy knows how to hit. He doesn’t hit for power but he guy gets on base a lot. His AVG last year was .303, 4 HR, and 35 RBI’s. Now we go to the Cards outfield which is pretty good, with big time hitters Matt Holliday in left and Ryan Ludwick in right, then Colby Rasmus in center field. These three outfielders are what probably makes this team go, besides having Pujols at first base. All three of these outfielders all hit for average and are all good solid hitters. Holliday hit .313, hit 24 HR, and drove in 109 RBI’s. Ludwick hit .265, hit 22 HR, and drove in 97 RBI’s. Rasmus hit .251, hit 16 HR, and drove in 52 RBI’s.
So in 2010 look for the Cardinals to have another strong season and I think no team in the National League Central will come close to catching them for the division and they will win their division easily for the third straight year. In the playoffs also look for this them to get past the first round and make it to the 2010 NLCS and see where they will go from there. Things for the Cards look pretty nice in 2010.
4
Tampa Bay Rays
(American League East)
Who could forget the Rays magical season in 2008, a team that went from worst to first in the American League East? A team that really had no fan base and a team that people for years laughed at. Well in 2008 they were a team that had so much to prove and in 08 won their division over the Boston Red Sox and the New York Yankees. The Rays would end up beating the Red Sox in the ALCS and would move on to the World Series for the first time in team history, but would lose to the Philadelphia Phillies. In 2009 the Rays would have a down season only losing the AL Wild Card by 3 games but I think in 2010 look for this team to have another break out year like they in 2008.
The Rays pitching is going to be a big factor if their going to have any success playing in this division because the pitching for the Yankees and Red Sox has only gotten better. The Rays pitching staff and team is really young but some my say this will only be better for the further. The Rays number one pitcher is probably going to be either Matt Garza or James Shields who in 2008 were the Rays big guns. Garza in 2009 didn’t really live up to the pitcher he was in 2008, having an ERA of 3.95, 8 wins, 12 losses, and 189 strikeouts. Not that great. Shields on the other hand didn’t really have a good year either with an ERA of 4.14, 11 wins, 12 losses, 167 strikeouts. So if the Rays want to have any shot of making the postseason they will need these two work horses to come through big. Next on this pitching staff is a guy who really surprised people last year and that is Jeff Niemann who in 2009 really had an out break year and help his club by pitching really decent and coming through for the Rays. Last year Niemann probably put up his best numbers in his career with an ERA of 3.44, 13 wins, 6 losses, and 125 strikeouts. Definitely a year to remember as in 2010 he will try to come out with the same aspect. Then there’s young David Price who a lot people don’t think this kid has enough for it takes to be a starting pitcher. In 2009 Price didn’t have bad numbers for his second year playing in the big leagues with an ERA of 4.42, 10 wins, 7 losses, and 102 strikeouts. The Rays bullpen isn’t that bad with two pretty good closers in J.P. Howell and new comer Rafael Soriano who will probably be the Rays new closer and not Howell this year. J.P. Howell did a nice job filling the closer roll which isn’t a easy job, everyone knows the hardest job in this game is to get those final three outs of a ball game, the test never comes easy. Howell’s ERA in 2009 was 2.84, 17 saves, and 79 strikeouts. As for Rafael Soriano who came over from the Braves knows his roll pretty well and is a good pitcher who could be a closer, set up man, or a middle of relief pitcher. But I’m sure his roll might be a closer for the Rays in 2010. Last year with the Braves, his ERA was 2.97, 27 saves, and 102 strikeouts.
Now we get to the Rays strong side and people know that this team but score runs no problem. With two pretty good catchers in Dioner Navarro and backup catcher Kelly Shoppach, I mean both catchers aren’t the greatest of hitters but they how to drive in runs and good behind the plate. Navarro hit .218, 8 HR, and 32 RBI’s. Shoppach’s number area slight better then Navarro’s. Shoppach hit .214, 12 HR, and 40 RBI’s. So you know what you’re getting out of these two guys. At shortstop you have young Jason Bartlett who is someone that always puts up good numbers even when he’s have a bad night. His AVG got up to .320; he hit 14 HR and drove in 66 RBI’s in 09. For one of the Rays DH’s they picked up Hank Blalock who may play in the outfield and at second from time to time, but Blalock is good pick up. Great power hitter and RBI man, in 2009 he had an ok year hitting .234, 25 HR, and RBI’s. Now we get the third base and everyone knows Gold Glover and all-star Evan Longoria. Longoria to me is the best third baseman in the American League. Sorry A-Rod you’re not better than him. This guy is one of the best I’ve seen play third base in a long time. He’s got power, speed; he hustles, and plays hard to earn his pay check as a player. Last year his AVG was .281, knocked in 33 HR, and brought home 113 RBI’s. Now at first base you have another power hitter in Carlos Pena who has really helped this team out a lot in the 4th hole. He has proven that he’s the man for the job. With his average being low at .227 he still managed to hit 39 HR, and drive in 100 RBI’s last season. Now to second base where I must say I am very impressed with Ben Zobrist. Man this kid is your next Chase Utley of the American League. Even with 104 strikeouts last year, he still hit .297, 27 HR, and 91 RBI’s Also his glove is very nice at second and I see this kid soon winning a gold glove. The DH spot is where former Phillie and 2008 World Series winner Pat “The Bat” Burrell steps in. Seeing this guy playing with the Phillies for most of my teenage life was amazing and we all knew his time in Philly was going to come to a close but in 2009 he did his best be a pretty good DH hitting .221, 14 HR, and 64 RBI’s. Not that bad for the old timer. Now the Rays outfield which to me is good accept for one player in right field and that is Gabe Kapler. To me this guy is ok in hitting and fielding I mean he’s ok. Well I really don’t know, sorry Gabe. In 09 he hit .239, 8 HR, and 32 RBI’s. Now is where the speed and power comes in at with Carl Crawford in left and B.J. Upton in center. Crawford is one of the original Rays who first joint this team back in 2002 when they were a laughing matter. This guy is the heart and soul of this team and stayed with this club for his whole career, where other players would have probably asked their agent to get them off this team. But Crawford stayed with this team through thick and thin and finally saw a division title in 2008 and in 2009 tried to help his by hitting .305, 15 HR and 68 RBI’s also in 2009 Crawford had 60 stolen bases, a career high for him. I think in 2010 Crawford might do even more to help this team he loves so much to get back to the postseason. Now to the last player on this roster in B.J. Upton who has really became one of the top outfielders in the American League. After being hurt in 2009 and not being part of the Rays offences really hurt him as he only hit .241, 11 HR, and 55 RBI’s. Look for him to come back and do what he does best, which is steal bases. In 2008 he stole 44 bages and in 2009 he stole 42 bags.
So the Rays in 2010 don’t look bad, yes their young and don’t have a great pitching staff but everyone said the same thing in 2008 and they won their division and went to the World Series. So don’t think this team doesn’t have what it takes, I mean I don’t think they will win their division over the New York Yankees but will definitely be racing the Red Sox to win the American League Wild Card and when everything is said and done I think Rays might have a shot to be back in the postseason in 2010.
3
Atlanta Braves
(National League East)
If you’re a Phillies fan you must still hate this team, and I’m talking to fans that have been Phillies fans for through the late 1980’s and early 1990’s and remembered how these two teams use to hate each other. The Braves back then were the team to beat in the NL winning 13-14 division titles and were and still are the Phillies biggest rival. But over the past few years the Braves have fell off the map and haven’t really came close to winning the National East League Division, its been the Marlins, Mets and Phillies for the last 8 years. In 2010 in manager Bobby Cox final year I think this will be the Braves best shot to make a run for the division or the NL wild card and put back that bitter sweet rivalry between the Phillies and Braves.
The Braves pitching staff this year isn’t that good but its good enough when you look at numbers. They do have a big lose in losing Javier Vazquez who last year was the Braves ace. This year they throw Derek Lowe, Jair Jurrjens, Tommy Hanson, and Tim Hudson at you. Not a bad staff besides Hudson who is coming off a year where he was hurt most of the year. Hudson who used to pay with the A’s has had a few problems after coming over to the Braves and really hasn’t proven his stuff to the NL hitters. Hudson still is one those guys when can go a good 6 innings of work. His ERA last year was 3.61, 2 wins, 1 loss, and 30 strikeout. Then there’s the young Tommy Hanson who has really helped this staff out a lot last year with the loss of Hudson who no one really knew who Hanson was. Look for him to be a good solid pitcher in 2010, with last years ERA at 2.89, 11 wins, 4 losses, and 116 strikeouts. Now to Jair Jurrjens who to me is probably the Braves best pitcher. He has enough to go a full game and is a good inning eater and works fast. But is a head case at time and can lose control of his pitches when he gets knocked around a bit. Jurrjens ERA in 2009 was a 2.60, 14 wins, 10 losses, and 152 strikeouts. Now to Derek Lowe who is a guy where you never know what your going to get out him, one start he could look like he’s lights out on the mound and in the next start he could like he never knew how to pitch. Nonetheless he is still a guy who works hard and is a good low-ball pitcher and gets guys to hit ground balls. Also he has a great sinker ball that fool’s a lot of hitter and that’s where the ground ball and pop fly outs come in place. Lowe’s ERA last year was 4.67, 15 wins, 10 losses, and 111 strikeouts. The Braves pen this year isn’t as good as it was last year losing some key players, but did pick closer Billy Wagner who knows this division best playing with the Mets and Phillies also pitching against the Marlins and Nationals. Wagner last year was put on the free agent list after being hurt and the Mets got rid of him and was soon put into a Red Sox uniform as their set up man. As the Sox set up man he helped them get to the postseason with an ERA of 1.72, 6 HLD, 26 strikeouts. I think Wagner, as the Braves closer will be a big key for the Braves, as he knows how to do this job best before being a closer with previews teams.
The Braves lineup I might say is pretty decent and it kind of scares me. They have a few bumps here and there but all around great contact hitters. Their catcher Brian McCann is probably a great hotter all around and knows how hit for power. Also is a Gold Glover behind the plate. His AVG last year was .281, 21 HR, and 91 RBI’s. At shortstop they have another good contact and power hitter in Yunel Escobar. This kid has to be in the top 5 of best shortstops in the NL. He hit .299, 14 HR, and 76 RBI’s. Look for him to be a big time threat. At first they have good solid hitter in Eric Hinske who isn’t a power hitter but still the guy gets on base and being part of the Rays World Series run back in 2008 he knows what it takes to get there. Hinske hit .242, 8 HR, and drove in 25 RBI’s. At second base the Braves have a decent hitter and fielder in Omar Infante who always hits for average and is always on base. His AVG in 2009 was .305, 2HR, and 27 RBI’s. At third base is of course is Chipper Jones who has been with this team for 17 years and knows all about the bitter sweet rivalry with the Phillies winning the NL East Division almost ever year and winning a few World Series titles as well. Last year was probably one of Jones’s worst years playing and told reporters if he has the year he had in 2009 and if the Braves don’t make the postseason he may think about stepping down from baseball and retiring with the Braves along with Bobby Cox. Jones last year hit .264, 14 HR, and 71 RBI’s. The Braves outfield isn’t that bad with Melky Cabrera in left, Matt Diaz in right, Nate McLouth in center and playing in right, and the Braves best outfield prospect Jason Heyward in center. We start in left with Cabrera who is former New York Yankee and won the title last year with the Yanks. Cabrera is guy hot hit for contact and is a good left fielder and will get to play almost every day. Last year with the Yanks he hit .274, 13 HR, and 68 RBI’s. Next in right field with Matt Diaz and Nate McLouth, two very good hitters but I think McLouth might start over Diaz only because he has better speed but Diaz has better power and doesn’t strikeout a lot. So this is the part where you just have to go with your glut feeling of who should start, also you still have speed or power who ever Cox starts sitting on their bench. McLouth last year hit .256, 20 HR, and 70 RBI’s. Diaz last year hit .313, 13 HR, and 58 RBI’s. Now to center field where lies young 20 year old Jason Heyward who is the Braves top outfield prospect. This kid I think is going to the Braves next best thing and for me to say that for this kids age must mean he’s that good. Chipper Jones was asked what do you think of Heyward and he said “This kid reminds me of a young Andrun Jones of when he first came up back in 1996. He’s got every thing that Jones had I see this making it big in the majors.” I think Heyward will live up to be the player he’s expected to be and could possible win the NL Rookie of the year award in 2010.
So the Atlanta Braves this year look pretty good but I don’t know if their pitching will hold up against the Phillies this year for the Braves to win the National League East Division, but I do think they have a good shot of winning the NL Wild Card, but it won’t come easy going against the Giants and the Dodgers. The Braves hold their own destiny in 2010 and will see what happens come this October.
2
Defending 2009 World Series Champions New York Yankees
(American League East Division Champions)
So what can I say about the New York Yankees if I’m a Phillies fan? I guess I will have to say in 2009 they were pretty damn good and in 2010 I think me a little bit better. After winning their 27th World Series title last year and winning over 100 games people believe the Yankees have another shot to repeat a World Champions. I will say the Yankees hitting did come in time when need in the postseason and their pitching I thought was so so, could have been better. But hey they won and that’s all that really matter at the end of the day. In 2010 look for the Yankees to be the team to beat in the AL East.
The Yanks pitching last year was a pretty good pitching staff and in the beginning of 2009 they were a little rocky and in 2010 look for them to be a little better. They still have their number big gun left handed ace C.C. Sabathia who is 2009 put up CY Young type numbers and definitely help his new ball club very well. Sabathia who is 6’7, 290 lbs looks like he should be a football player, but I’ll tell you what though this guy is a bull dog. His fast ball is very hard to hit. It clocks out about 93-96 mph. But Sabathia is also a big time head case and we all know that the Phillies have his number when those problems start to roll in. Besides winning his first World Series in 2009 his numbers in the regular season were 3.37 ERA, 19 wins, 8 losses, and 197 strikeouts. A.J. Burnet what can I say about this player? I will say that he definitely did his roll filling the 1 – 2 punch for the Yanks. Burnet joining his new ball club and also winning his fist World Series put up an ERA of 4.04, 13 wins, 9 losses and 195 strikeouts. Look for him to have another good solid year in 2010. Then there old veteran left hander Andy Pettitte who had a good solid year and did his job to win his 5th World Series title as a New York Yankee. Pettitte is someone that of course knows what it take to win and knows that it’s a great feeling. I mean what do say after winning 5 rings? Does it ever get old? Well I guess not, I mean who doesn’t like to win? Pettitte finished the 2009 season with an ERA of 4.16, 14 wins, 8 losses, and 148 strikeouts. Now we have former pitcher and now back with the team Javier Vazquez who when he was with the Yankees I must say wasn’t that good. But with the Braves last year did a fine job and the Yankees hope he can fill the number four roll in the pitching rotation nicely. Vazquez last year had an ERA of 2.87, 15 win, 10 losses, and 238 strikeouts. The Yankees number fix starter I’m not so hot about but I guess that why he’s their fifth starter and that is Phil Hughes. I think Hughes could either be a starter or a bull pen pitcher. His ERA last year was a 3.08, 8 wins, 3 losses, and 98 strikeouts. Now to Yankees bull pen which last year wasn’t that good and this year it’s the same story. They have Joba Chamberlain new comer Chan Ho Park and of course the greatest closer of all time Mariano Rivera. We start with Jaba who last year played both rolls as a starting pitcher and a relief pitcher. The Yankees this year have the big guy in the pen as their set up man and his ERA last year was a 4.75 with 133 strikeouts. Now to Chan Ho Park who last year did an awesome job in the pen for the Phils last year but the Phillies sent him packing because he wanted to be a starting pitcher. But funny how the Yankees offer him more money to be in the pen and he signs for them? Another way of the Yanks buying their team, but then again it’s another example of how money has changed the game. Park last who went to World Series with the Phillies had an ERA of 4.43, 13 HLD, and 73 strikeouts. Now we get to the man who has been the best closer in the game and another Yankees player who won his 5th World Series title, yes its Mariano Rivera. Rivera for the past 15 year has been the best pitcher in the postseason and it took his club 9 years for them to get him back to the World Series to get him is 5th one as a Yankee. I mean how could you not trust this guy to be your closer in the postseason? He has the most saves in postseason history. Last year Rivera won the relief closer’s award by putting up an ERA of 1.76, 44 saves and 72 strikeouts.
The Yankees lineup from top to bottom is probably the best in the AL and don’t see any other team matching them. At catcher they have another guy who won his 5th World Series title as a Yankee in Jorge Posada. Posada over the past few years has had to battle with some injuries but still, he’s a great catcher and solid hitter. Also he’s a great leader and knows that he will go down as one the Yankees best catchers in history and that’s an honor at its self. Last year Posada hit .285, 22 HR, and drove in 81 RBI’s. At first base they have the powerful hitter in Mark Teixeria who in 2009 won his first World Series with his new club. Teixeria is a Gold Glover and has always been a great hitter even when he was with the Rangers and Braves. Last year he hit .292, 39 HR, and 122 RBI’s. At second they have the much underrated Robinson Cano who I think last year should have made the MLB All-Star team but you have the fans to thank for that. Cano is a great hitter and is not bad to have as your number 7 hitter in the lineup. Cano hit .320, 25 HR, and 85 RBI’s in 2009. At shortstop you have who we would call the Michael Jordan of baseball the Yankees captain Derek Jeter. Jeter is our final guy who won his 5th World Series title as a Yankee. Jeter I can’t explain how good he is, he has so many gold gloves and is probably the best shortstop in the AL and will soon be the best of our time. Hitting wise he has never had a problem with. Jeter doesn’t hit for power or RBI’s but he definitely hits for average every year. Last year he hit .334, 18 HR, and drove in 66 RBI’s. At third the Yankees have the other powerful hitter Alex Rodriguez who started the 2009 season on DL. Also came out and admitted of using steroids back in 2003. Other than that A-Rod’s 2009 year was one to remember, winning his first ever World Series title and that was something he had been waiting for ever since he signed with the Yankees back in 2004. A-Rod is a great hitter and always comes up big when you need him to. Just when you think the Yankees are out he brings them back to life. In 2009 he hit .286, 30 HR, and 100 RBI’s. The Yankees DH’s this year aren’t okay, I mean I think they could have done better, I mean with all the players they could have bought they settled for Nick Johnson and Randy Winn and don’t me wrong Nick Johnson is a great hitter always was and Winn is just another old player they have one their team. Johnson who can also play first base is a solid hitter who hit .291, 8 HR, and 62 RBI’s in 2009. Winn who can play first base and left field for time to time hit .262, 2 HR, and 51 RBI’s in 2009. In the outfield the Yankees have underrated Nick Swisher in right, the speed threat Brett Gardner who can anywhere in the outfield but will most likely be in left because who the new comer and power hitter and speed threat in Curtis Granderson. Swisher who in 2009 a lot people said I don’t know if the Yankees could settle for him but he proved everyone wrong and came through big in the postseason and helped the Yanks out a lot. He hit .249, 30 HR, and 82 RBI’s in 2009. Gardner who last year finally got the call to start in center and boy he filled his roll very well by hitting .270, 3 HR, and 23 RBI’s. Now to Granderson who started the year on the DL for the Tigers but when he came back he still managed to hit .249, 30 HR, 71 RBI’s. I think Granderson will fit this lineup very well by hitting second and is a great center fielder.
So the defending 2009 World Series Champions are going to try to defend their crown and to be honest I don’t see any team in the American League beating them in the postseason and they will once again win their division and will go back to World Series. Winning it? Haha I don’t know? They might be stopped by the best team in the National League and it will probably be a rematch of the 2009 World Series. But none the less this Yankees team is going to good once again and will probably win over 100 games this year again. But in the end of October or the beginning of November will find out if this team will live up to its hype.
1
2008 and 2009 National League Champions Philadelphia Phillies
(National League East Division Champions)
So who are the Phillies? I mean the Phillies were only the worst team in baseball about 10 years ago. But over the past few years the Phillies have made a name for themselves and have proven almost ever sports writer including me wrong. I mean I have always loved this team only because I love baseball and my team. I have rooted for them ever since I was about 6 years old and remember when they were so bad. But in 2007 something magical was about to happen and it was the start of something that might not end for the next 4-5 years. In 2007 the Phillies won their division for the first time since 1993, and in 2008 won the World Series for the first since 1980, and in 2009 won the National Pennants back to back years for the first time in team history, and in 2010 look for the same thing maybe even more.
In the offseason on 2009 the Philadelphia Phillies did one of the biggest buck buster trades in baseball. The Phillies traded their World Series ace Cliff Lee who was a fan favorite in Philly for one of the best pitchers in baseball and the guy that they have wanted since the trade dead-line in 2009 Roy “DOC” Halladay. I mean when this went down I think everyone heard about this trade weather you were a baseball fan or not, everyone knew about it. I mean every team in baseball would kill to have this guy on his team. He’s a guy that is just that good and knows the game. I mean he has had a lot of bad luck playing with a last place team and it was just time to leave Torino and now that he’s a Phillie just makes things so much better for the Phillies. Tim Lincecum who is a back to back CY Young Award winner might have to move over because the “DOC” is in town and he won’t be leaving anytime soon. Halladay hasn’t ever been in the postseason but think with this lineup and how good this team is I think he will have no problem doing what he always does best and that’s pitch his game knowing that his team mates will pick him up. Halladay’s numbers in 2009 were pretty good considering he was with a last place team. His ERA was a 2.79, 17 wins, 10 losses and 208 strikeouts. Next on the Phillies pitching staff is the young Cole Hamels who is 2008 had a breakout year and in 2009 he didn’t quite live up to the hype Hamels after winning the 2008 World Series MVP Award. Hamels you would say people really wouldn’t care if he left Philly only because of what he said in the 2009 World Series. “I’m just really tired and I just wanna go home. It’s been to long of a season.” That’s one thing you never say if you’re playing for a Philadelphia team because then people in Philly will just never like you again. But besides of that drama Hamels is their number two pitcher and we will need him to come up big in 2010 if we’re going to have any chance of winning another World Series. Last year Hamels ERA was 4.32, 10 wins, 11 losses, and 168 strikeouts. The Phillies number three pitchers are Joe Blanton and Kyle Kendrick. Blanton who will be on the DL for 3-6 weeks was probably the Phils most consistent pitcher last year before Cliff Lee came over. Blanton is an inning eater and always take his team deep. His ERA was 4.05, 12 wins, 8 losses, 163 strikeouts. Kendrick on the other hand I have no idea how good he will be. I mean he did a great job last year at the end of the season but he ready to replace Blanton? Well really who else do the Phillies have? That’s where I think the Phillies should have gotten another decent pitcher in the offseason, but hey I guess will have to deal with Kendrick for time being. Kendrick ERA last year was 3.42 with 15 strikeouts. Now we have a guy who almost came close to winning the NL Rookie of the year award that is J.A. Happ. Happ last year did a great job pitching and Happ started the 2009 season in the bull pen. He proved everything the Phillies hoped he is and last year he put up an ERA of 2.93, 12 wins, 4 losses and 119 strikeouts as a rookie and in 2010 I think he will try to have the same mo or even better. To Phillies number fix starter in Jamie Moyer who everyone really doesn’t know if the old timer still has what it take. In 2008 he had 14 wins but then again he hasn’t hurt. In the offseason Moyer went under two surgery’s, yet in 2009 he still managed to put up 12 wins, 10 losses, 94 strikeout, and an ERA of 4.94. The Phillies bull pen last year was a mess, between Brad Lidge, Ryan Madson, and J.C. Romero not playing their A game the Phils had a few problems. But in 2010 the Phillies got former closer Danys Baez and former World Series pitcher Jose Contreras, but still the table for Lidge and Romero are the same as their closer and set up man will start the year on the DL. Also the Phillies still have Chad Durdin who is healthy and ready to go and they have a better Ryan Madson who will be the Phillies closer for the time being. We start with Baez and Contreras, Baez who played with the seconds to last place team the Orioles last year did alright job, but this guy can be used for a closer if needed. Last year, his ERA 4.02, 15 HLD and 40 strikeouts. Contreras who is a bull dog and can be used as a starter or a closer as well knows what it takes to win. After being the starting pitching for the 2005 World Series White Sox and being part of the Rockies club last year, he knows all the right moves. His ERA last year was 4.92, 1 HLD, and 106 strikeouts. Now to Chad Durdin who for a little bit was hurt last year and didn’t play in as many game and he was one of those guys who helped the Phillies win the World Series in 2008 and in 2010 he try to be that same guy. Durdin’s ERA was 4.39, 8 HLD, and 62 strikeouts in 2009. Then there’s the starter, relief pitcher, set up man, closer yes he has played every roll in his career Ryan Madson. In 2009 it wasn’t a year to remember for him after coming off a great 2008 season. The bull dog had 7 blown saves and was a guy that you didn’t know who was going to show up out of the pen. Madson ERA is 2009 was a 3.36, 26 HLD, and 78 strikeouts. Look for him to have a lot better year in 2010. Now get to J.C. Romero who started the 2009 season suspended for 50 games for steroid use in baseball and got strike 1 out of the 3 strike rule in baseball. After he came back he then got hurt and was put on the DL and really didn’t play much after that. It was a big loses for the Phils as this was their go to guy in 2008 and their left handed set up man in the pen. Although his ERA was a 2.70, 6 HLD, and 12 strikeouts, when he played in 2009, this year he will yet start the year in active. Now the biggest issue in the Phillies bull pen is their closer Brad Lidge, who in 2008 was perfect on the year 48/48 in saves and help the Phillies win their first World Series title since 1980, 80/08. In 2009 Brad Lidge would have a year that he would probably like to forget for the rest of his career, blowing 12 saves and having one of the worst ERA’s in the game. Lidge just couldn’t find rhythm. The problem was he hurt his knee at the end of the 2008 season probably after Howard took him down like a football player, but still the problems would keep rolling for him. In the offseason it seemed that he has some arm issues as well and would have arm surgery along with the knee surgery and that would send him on the DL for the start of the 2010 season. Phillies pitching Rich Dubbe said that “Lidge looks good and strong, but he’s not 100% better. He will need more time and throw a few more bull pens.” His ERA last year was the worst in his career with a 7.21, but still did have 31 saves and 61 strikeouts. In the end I think when Lidge comes back I think he will be better than ever, remember he started the 2008 season on the DL, so maybe this a sign that he will have a great year, let’s hope.
To the Phillies line up that are the best in the NL and maybe the best in baseball. This team just knows how to put up runs when need and if one guy on the team doesn’t come through the guys behind him will pick him up. This club is probably the best to play for. You have the skipper Charlie Manuel who has really become a rock star in this city. It’s funny how the people in this city can hate you at first then love you the next, but that’s just how this city works. Ask Donovan McNabb or Jimmy Rollins and they will tell you. From top to bottom this lineup has to be the best at every spot. At catcher the Phillies have Carlos Ruiz and backup catcher Brain Schneider, Ruiz who has really made himself an everyday catcher and has proven to be in the top 10 of catchers in the NL. The guy has a great arm behind the plate and is a solid hitter. He has a chance to one day win a gold glove the way he keeps playing and has always come up big in the postseason. Last year Ruiz hit .255, 9 HR, and 43 RBI’s. Brian Schneider who came over from the Mets is great hitter, although in 2009 he didn’t have a great year but still he is an upgrade from Paul Bako. Schneider is a good solid catcher behind home plate and will be sharing duties with Ruiz. Last year Schneider hit .218, 3 HR, and 24 RBI’s Next on our list in the probably the second best first baseman in the NL and in the top 3 of first baseman the big guy Ryan Howard! Boy this player is just unbelievable good. He has so much power and is the guy you want up in a tight spot. Howard does tend to strikeout a lot like every power hitter, but also hits singles and doubles and even triples at times. He will also steal a few bags from time to time. But he’s known for the long ball and boy does he hit a lot of those. Last year Howard led the league in home runs and RBl’s and was second in batting average behind Albert Pujols. Howard also is getting a lot better on his fielding at first and could someday win a gold glove, but in his career he has won the Rookie of the year award, the NL MVP Award, the Hank Aaron Award, the Silver Slugger Award, the Home Run Derby Award, 3 times an All-Star, and of course a World Series Title. Howard has proven that he knows how to win and to win big. Last year he carried this team on his shoulders when needed and it paid off in the end by winning back to back National League Pennants and going back to World Series for second straight time in team history, although his numbers in the 2009 World Series weren’t that great but he has made it loud and clear that the Phillies have some unfinished business in 2010. Howard’s numbers in 2009 looked like this, AVG .279, 45 HR, and 141 RBI’s. Right next door to him is by far the best second baseman in baseball, like in all of baseball and that’s Chase Utley. I mean he has made it known that second baseman do have power and can hit over 25-30 home runs in a year. The kid has won a Gold Glove, 3 Silver Slugger Awards, 3 times an All-Star and a World Series Title as well. But other than that he has done his job but filling in the number three hole in the lineup and has really taken his game to the next level. Utley is a player who has all 3 great things which are speed, power, and a great arm. He is also one of the other reasons why this team has been so successful over the past 4-5 years. Utley in 2009 hit .282, 31 HR, and 93 RBI’s. Look for him to put up the same number or even better in 2010. At shortstop the Phillies have the heart and soul of this team, words can’t even explain how this guy loves this team and have stayed with this team through thick and thin and is Jimmy Rollin. Rollins has been part of this team since 2000 and is the oldest remaining Philly player to still be on a Philadelphia team. When this team was at its worst Rollin could have said I had an enough of this team and could have gone elsewhere, but no Rollins stayed with the team that gave him a chance and that’s why he is the leader in the club house. It’s been shown and said that when Rollins goes everyone goes. In 2007 Rollins made a statement by saying “WE ARE THE TEAM TO BEAT IN THE NL EAST” after the Mets won their division a year ago and in the end he was right. After winning 3 straight division title, two back to back National League Pennants, and a World Series Title his words have fit the table and he still say the Phillies are still the team to beat. Rollins has won a few Gold Glove Awards, NL MVP Award, 4 times an All-Star and a World Series ring. Rollins has played for the Phillies his whole career and it will probably end that way, there will never be a better leader then this guy right here. Last year in 2009 he had a slow start bit still hit .250, 21 HR, and 77 RBI’s. At third base the Phillies got back former Phillie and second baseman Placido Polanco or as Charlie Manuel likes to call him Polly Polanco. Polanco is a guy who is great hitter and never ever strikeout that much. His highest strikeouts in a season were 46 in 2009. He isn’t really a third baseman but he has choice to come back and play for the Phillies at third base. I mean it’s a thing in Philly where before no one wanted to come and play for the Phillies and now everyone wants play for them because they know they’re a team that can win and has proven it and they hear great things about this team. Poloanco knows what it’s like to play as a Phillie but not a winning Phillie and it’s a whole different ball club then when he played. Yes there’s still Rollins and Utley that he remembers but both those guys know how to win. Poloanco last year for the Tigers hit .285, 10 HR, and 72 RBI’s and has a few Gold Gloves in his day at second but I think third base is the new place for him. To the Phillies outfield which over the years was never really that good and I think the Phillies have found those three outstanding stars and each one of them made it to All-Star game last year. In center the Phillies have Shane Victorino, in right the Phillies have Jayson Werth, and in left the Phillies have Raul Ibanez. Two guys who are great power hitters and RBI guys and one who has speed and a great arm and is a great hitter as well. We start with Shane Victorino who no knew what this kid wasn’t going to bring to the plate. After coming over from the Dodgers with Werth, Victorino didn’t really start out his first year in center because at the time the Phillies had Aaron Rowand so he would play in left or right. But when the Phils got rid of Rowand it was clear he would be taking over in center field. Victorino has become a fan favorite here in Philadelphia and it because the way he plays the game, he hustles, he’s not scared to run into a guy, and he has that mood where you put everything on the line no matter what. In 2009 he hit .292, 10 HR and 62 RBI’s. Over to right field with “The Wolf Man” Jayson Werth, who has also made a name for himself here in Philly. Werth who came over from the Dodgers was hurt and the Dodgers let him not knowing what kind of player he would develop into. Werth is that guy who looks like one of the guy who played on ’93 Phillies team, long hair, beard, and just a hard working player. The guy has had a few bad breaks in his career but he has shown everyone that he a great player. Werth has put the right handed pop in the lineup and has made a name for him to all pitchers facing him He’s got speed and hits for average. In 2009 he hit 2009 he hit .268, 36 HR and 99 RBI’s. Now to Raul Ibanez who last year came over from Settle and a lot people didn’t really want to see Pat Burrell leave but when they saw how they’re new left fielder would hit, many people forgot about Burrell. Raul put up great first half season numbers. In the second half of the season Raul would be put on the DL and would do as great, but still this guy helped carried this team early in the year in 2009 and fitted in just fine. The fans started to call him RAULLLLLLLLL!!!!! Every time he would come up to bat or when he would play left field. He has made a name for himself in the City of Brotherly Love. In 2009 Raul hit .272, 34 HR, and 93 RBI’s. Last but least on this team and who else but the rock star himself skipper Charlie Manuel. Manuel when he first came here in 2005 was booed by fans because he wasn’t a winning coach and people have to understand that winning just takes time. But in Philadelphia people were hungry for a championship. Manuel has really won the people hearts in this city and brought back the baseball town in people that it once was. For year people would look toward the Eagles or the Flyers and I myself did the same. People would laugh about the Phillies and never come out to games. But in past 4 years its funny how so much has changed. From the Vet to World Series home of Citizens Bank Park the fans have loved Manuel so much. Manuel will be this year’s All-Star coach once again and will hope to try to win over the American League for home field in the World Series. I mean look at what he has brought to this city in such little time, three division titles, back to back National League Pennants, and World Series Title. He is the guy who is just right for the job! THIS IS FOR PHILADELPHIA!!!!!!!
So the Phillies in 2010 are my team to win the World Series not because I’m a fan, well maybe a little bit but because they have an awesome team that I think will also win over 100 games. The Phillies have made all the right moves, yes I think they should have kept Cliff Lee but in the end it just wasn’t meant to be. I think the Phillies have the test team on paper and on the field. They are the team to beat in the MLB and the sky’s the limit for them in 2010.
12
Texas Rangers
(American League West)
The Texas Rangers last year were a surprise story coming very close to winning AL West Division but came up short in the end. The Rangers are a team that could do some damage but not whole lot. We start off with the pitching staff. Clearly there number one starter has to be Scott Feldman, this guy right here is a gamer and isn’t scared to come at guys and put’em away. His number in 2009 weren’t too bad with an ERA of 4.08, 17 wins, 8 losses, and 113 strikeouts. Then you have Rich Hardern a new comer who the Rangers got in the offseason. Hardern isn’t the same pitcher he was when he was with the A’s and his spring training number aren’t that great but you never know what life can hand you in a baseball. In 2009 Hardern was hurt for most of the year but still managed to have a 4.09 ERA, 9 wins, 9 losses, and 171 strikeouts.
Now we move over to the Rangers hitters, who in the past aren’t too bad. They have a really good second baseman in Ian Kinsler who has always done well at the plate and hits for power and RBI’s. In the 2009 campaign he put up some pretty good numbers with a batting AVG of .253, 31 HR, and 86 RBI’s. Then across the diamond they have Michael Young who at third base has always filled his roll pretty well and has been part of this Rangers line-up for a long time. This will be his 10th year with the club since he joined them back in 2000 and in 09 he did a great job as always. His AVG was .322, 22 HR, and 68 RBI’s. Outfielders might be the strong part of this line-up with adding former right fielder and all-star Vladimir Guerrero. Guerrero for who the Rangers picked up in the offseason from the American League West Division Camps the Los Angeles Angels did an alright job, but most of the time he was the Angles DH and will probably be doing the same duties for the Rangers this year. His AVG was .295, 15 HR, and 50 RBI’s in 2009. He’s always one of those guys who still scare’s you on the mound because he can hit and put the ball anywhere you throw it. Back to right field who the Rangers already have a solid fielder and hitter in Nelson Cruz. This guy just has pop in his bat and can take any pitcher deep if you make you a mistake. Last year with his 4th year with the Rangers had a good numbers year with a .260 AVG, 33 HR, and 76 RBI’s. Now who could be the last guy we could talk about on this team that is always a threat? I would have to say Josh Hamilton, now here’s a guy that has power, I don’t think anyone can forget all the home runs he hit in the 2008 run home derby. But last year wasn’t the year for Hamilton, after being hurt and missing a little part of the year his AVG was only .268, 10 HR, and 54 RBI’s. But still you must fear him as a guy who can just fate out hit.
The Rangers in 2010 don’t look as bad as you think, they still have to work on their pitching but I think this team may surprise everyone in the end.
11
San Francisco Giants
(National League West)
Well now everyone in their mother’s knows the Giants for to 2 time NL CY Young Award winner Tim Lincecum. Well if you don’t then you shouldn’t be reading this. The Giants last year were one of those teams the people said can they make the playoffs? Well in 2009 they sadly didn’t and I think the reason for that was the pitching wasn’t there when they needed it besides Lincecum. Also their lack of run support late in games cost them a trip to the postseason. But in 2010 I think they might have found a way to get there.
Pitching is one of the biggest keys for the Giants and when you have a 1-2 punch in Tim Lincecum and Matt Cain it’s a good feeling. Lincecum in 2009 put up great number as he did the previews year in 2008 winning his second straight NL CY Young Award in 2009. His ERA was 2.48, 15 wins, 7 losses, and 261 strikeouts, the most in the NL! Then the number two starter is his good friend Matt Cain who is a guy that just knows how to pitch and is very smart. In 2009 he finished with an ERA of 2.89, 14 wins, 8 losses and 171 strikeouts. Now we have the number three starter in Jonathan Sanchez who everyone remembers he threw his first no-hitter last year in AT&T Park. After that happened people started to realize this pitching staff isn’t that bad. Sanchez is a good pitcher and is a guy who can take his team deep into the game and always gives his team a chance to win and last year his ERA was 4.24, 8 wins, 12 losses, and 177 strikeouts. To their number four starter and that is Barry Zito. Zito in the first half of the season of last year just wasn’t on top of his game and that’s what might have hurt the Giants. But the second half of 2009 he tried to put together some good outings and finished the year off with a 4.03 ERA, 10 wins, 13 losses, and 154 strikeouts. Now the Giants back end of their bull pen is pretty good with closer Brain Wilson who everyone said “who’s this guy”? Wilson in 2008 had 41 saves and in 2009 he would pick up 38 saves with an ERA of 2.74 and 83 strikeouts.
The Giants hitters aren’t that bad but they weren’t that good in 2009, but I think in 2010 they might be somewhat better and hope they put all the mar balls together. We start off with their best hitter “Kung Fo Panda” Pablo Sandoval. Now I don’t really remember any other good hitters for the Giants besides Barry Bonds but that’s a whole different story. Sandoval is one of those players that everyone wants to have on their team. He plays at the hot corner and he could also play first base at times. Kung Fo Panda numbers in 2009 were really good for his second year in the majors with a AVG of .330, 25 HR, and 90 RBI’s. Now we move over to second base that has a few problems with Freddy Sanchez starting the 2010 season on DL, Sanchez last year hit .293, 7 HR, and 41 RBI’s. But no need to worry coming in the replace him is Juan Uribe. Uribe isn’t that same player he was but he still knows how fill his roll and will fit well in this line-up. Last year he hit .289, 16 HR, and 55 RBI’s. Sanchez is going to be missed but only for a little bit but I think Uribe will do just fine, he’s a guy with power and is still a good hitter and pretty good fielder as well. The shortstop roll will be given to Edgar Renteria who I think still has pop in his bat, yes he’s not the guy who he was when he won the World Series back in 2003 with the Marlines, but he’s a guy who knows his possession really well and is given a chance to play every day. In 2009 his AVG was .250, 5 HR, and 48 RBI’s. The catcher roll for the Giants is their big gun Bengie Molina. Molina is one of your premier catchers and always has been. In 09 he put up some solid number batting .265, 20 HR, and 80 RBI’s. The outfield is what I think might be the Giants biggest key. In the offseason the Giants got former third baseman Mark DeRosa who will now take left field come opening day. DeRosa to me is much underrated player. I mean this guy is just a good all around player, he may not hit for average but he still fills the number 5 or 6 roll in the line-up pretty well. DeRosa in 09 did a fair job hitting .250, 23 HR, and 78 RBI’s. Last but not least on this Giant line-up is Aaron Rowand and let me tell you something about this player, me being a Phillies fan and seeing this guy play was just amazing and a great hitter and fielder as we all know. A guy who isn’t scared to put is body out there to make a catch. Also a good solid hitter, Rowand last year hit .261, 15 HR, and 64 RBI’s. This guy knows what its take to win and knows how to win being part of the White Sox World Series team back in 2005.
So look out for the Giants in 2010, I don’t think they will win the NL West, but I do think they will be in a tight spot in the NL Wild Card with the Dodgers and Braves. But hey stranger things have happened in this game and could possible walk away with the division. I think all the Giants really care about is making it to the postseason come this October.
10
Minnesota Twins
(American League Central Division Champions)
Now who can forget last year’s one game playoff to decide who take home the American League Central Division? Well the “Twin Killing” came out with guns blazing and wrapped up the AL Central against the Detroit Tigers and went on to the postseason. The Twins wouldn’t last long in the playoffs after losing 3 straight games to the New York Yankees. Although 2009 was a great success story I’m sure the “Twin Killing” will be back for some more in 2010.
We start off with the Twins pitching staff in which I still think needs some work, I mean it’s not bad but some of the pitchers they have are very questionable? Like Francisco Liriano and Carl Pavano? Also how good will the Twins be without their number 1 closer Joe Nathan who will be on the DL for the rest of year? The Twins have named Liriano their fifth starter, the guy isn’t bad but in the past he hasn’t been able to get his stuff together. In 2009 his ERA was 5.80, 5 wins, 13 losses, and 122 strikeouts. But now Liriano may be spending some time in the pen as their closer since Nathan won’t be able do his duties. Now we talk about Carl Pavano who might be their number 4 starter or might be in the bull pen. No one can really figure out what his roll is on this pitching staff. Pavano isn’t a bad pitcher but I think you just go with what you see. Last year he finished the season off with a 5.10 ERA, 14 wins, 12 losses, and 147 strikeouts. Now we move to Joe Nathan, who’s a huge lost to the Twins bull pen, as this guy was the Twins bull dog last year and knew when it was crunch time. He will definitely be missed in the pen. Nathan in 2009 had a fine season with an ERA of 2.10, 47 saves and 89 strikeouts. Let’s talk about the Twins front end of the pitching rotation with Scott Baker, Kevin Slowey and Nick Blackburn. This isn’t a bad 1, 2, 3 punch if I might add. Scott Baker is their go to guy and is probably their best pitcher on their staff with a 4.37 ERA, 15 wins, 9 losses, and 162 strikeouts. Then with Kevin Slowey you never know what you’re going to get with him. He’s a fine pitcher but in the past is a guy who loses control of his pitches and then the problems start to come in from there. In 2009 his ERA was 4.86, 10 wins, 3 losses, and 75 strikeouts. Now over to Nick Blackburn who I think is a decent pitcher and is a guy who is always on target. Blackburn has filled in the relief pitcher roll and starting pitching roll. No easy test, Blackburn would close the 2009 season with a 4.03 ERA, 11 wins, 11 losses, and 98 strikeouts.
The Twins offence has always helped them in the long run and I think in 2010 it will be better than ever. First of all they have the best catcher in the game and first time MVP Winner Joe Mauer! Mauer is probably one the best catchers, players, hitters, fielders I have ever seen. This guy can just do it all and he is the heart and soul of this Twins team, also being from Minnesota may have something to do it. He is a home town hero. In 2009 Mauer started the year on the DL and missed a month of the season but when he came back for his first game he hit a home run and showed people that the “Twin Killing” is back and ready to go. 2009 was a year to remember with an AVG of .365 the best in the MLB, 28 HR, and 96 RBI’s. With him on your team you have to feel like you always have a chance to win. At first base you have another great hitter and fielder in Justin Morneau who in 2006 won the AL MVP. Morneau is a dangerous hitter in the home run and RBI field. Also he is a great field and has a few gold gloves. For Morneau 2009 was also a year to remember hitting 100 RBI’s, 30 HR, and an AVG of .274. Next door to Morneau is the “O-Dog” Orlando Hudson. The O-Dog I think is a guy who hits for average and has great speed. Also he’s not a bad second baseman to have on your team. Hudson last year hit .283, 9 HR, and 62 RBI’s. Next door to Hudson is J.J. Hardy at shortstop and I think this guy has something to prove to everyone and I think he will win comeback player of the year in 2010. Hardy has had a few problems in the past but is always a guy who likes to play the game the right way and just likes to have fun. He’s an ok hitter but a great fielder on the diamond. Hardy’s AVG in 2009 was .229, 11 HR, and 47 RBI’s. The Outfield to me is the strongest part of the “Twin Killing”. In left you have Delmon Young, in right you have Michael Cuddyer, and in center you have Denard Span. We start with Delmon Young, who is young and has speed. Also this guy could hit for power someday down the road. Young in 09 hit .284, 12 HR, and 60 RBI’s. Now over to right with Michael Cuddyer and everyone said is this guy the answer in right field after playing second base. As a fielder he does a nice job at right, but as a hitter that doesn’t change a thing. Cuddyer is another part of the “Twin Killing” and is their big time power hitter. His AVG finished at .276, 32 HR, 94 RBI’s. In center we have another guy in the “Twin Killing” with Denard Span. Span is a guy who has speed and is much underrated as a fielder and a player, but that’s what makes him so much better. He isn’t the best, he isn’t the worst, he’s just right for the job. I like this guy a lot and I think he’s the further of this team. For Span it was a year to remember for him as well hitting .311, 8 HR, 68 RBI’s.
The Twins I think are best team in the American League Central and will yet again win their division. All I think they might need is some better pitching they will make it deep in the playoffs. But other than that I don’t think any team will catch up to them in the American League Central in 2010.
9
Los Angeles Dodgers
(National League West Division Champions)
Well if you were to ask me I think the Dodgers in 2010 won’t be as good as everyone makes them out to be, for some reason I just don’t see it. Their pitching is weak and their infield just isn’t there. The strongest part of this Dodgers team is the outfield and when you’re playing teams like the Phillies, Giants, Rockies, Braves, and Cardinals in the NL you’re going to need a little more than an outfield.
Pitching for the Dodgers in 2010 just won’t cut it this year I think. Chad Billingsley for the Dodgers this year just isn’t the answer. He’s an average pitcher who throws heat but he’s not someone who you call a number one, but I guess that’s all the Dodgers have to offer. Billingsley’s numbers in 2009 looked like this, an ERA of 4.03, 12 wins, 11 losses, and 179 strikeouts. Now to Clayton Kershaw who to me just hasn’t developed into the pitcher he was supposed to be. His ERA is the best on the team with 2.79, 8 wins, 8 losses, and 185 strikeouts. I still think he needs work. Then you have Vicente Padilla who will be the Dodgers number one pitcher and last year came over from the Rangers did an ok job and pitched well in the playoffs last year, but he’s still not the answer for the team. His ERA finished at 4.46, 12 win, 6 losses, and 97 strikeouts. The Dodgers closer Jonathan Broxton is probably one the best in the NL but in the postseason he’s known as the breaker in Game 5 of the NLCS against the Phillies. In the past two years he has giving up two of the Phillies biggest postseason hits in history in the same series back to back years. 2008 gave up a boom that still hasn’t landed in LA to Matt Stairs and last year in 2009 gave up a line drive game winning hit to Jimmy Rollins. The Phillies clearly have his number in the postseason. But in 2009 he did his job to get his club to win the NL West Division for the second straight year with an ERA of 2.61, 36 saves, and 114 strikeouts.
The infield of this Dodger team isn’t there beside James Loney at first base. Loney is a great solid hitter and fielder. He can hit for power and can drive in runs. In 2009 he hit .281, 13 HR, and 90 RBI’s. The second best hitter in this infield is Casey Blake, very surprised. Blake is a good hitter and has a great eye, also plays a tough possession at third base. Blake is a guy that just knows what he has to do to get the job done. He hit .280, 18 HR, and 79 RBI’s. The third best hitter in this infield is second baseman Ronnie Belliard another surprised one. Belliard is an ok fielder not the best I would say, but a good hitter and knows how drive the ball and has some speed. I think he might have to step his game up in 2010, after batting .277, 10 HR and drove in 39 RBI’s in 2009. The fourth best hitter is shortstop Rafael Furcal. Furcal will be entering his 10th year in the majors and his 5th year with the Dodgers. Furcal has always been a good player even when he was with the Atlanta Braves. Furcal is an excellent fielder and solid hitter. He finished the 2009 season with a .269 AVG, 9 HR, 47 RBI’s. Now to the last infield hitter in catcher Russell Martin, in 2009 I don’t think this was one of his best years and in 2010 I think he’s going to be somewhat a better hitter. Now fielding he’s got no problem at. Martin in 2009 hit .250, 7 HR, and drove in 53 RBI’s. Now this is where the Dodgers team really kicks in at. The outfield is the heart of this team and is a big time threat. With Andre Ethier in right, big Manny Ramirez in left, Garret Anderson who will be on the bench but will have some playing time in right and left field, and Matt Kemp in center. We start with Ethier who is a part of this power house Dodger team, who in 2009 had an awesome year and filled his role in right field really well. He is a cutlet hitter and has a lot of pop in his bat, hitting .272, 31 HR, and 106 RBI’s. Then there’s Garret Anderson who the Dodgers picked up from the Braves. Anderson will most likely be on the bench, but is a great leader and is a guy who can teacher these players really well. Also he’s not a bad hitter coming off your bench. He batted .268, hit 13 HR, and drove in 61 RBI’s. Then there’s Matt Kemp who has made his name out in center. Kemp is at least in your top 5 best outfielders, the guy hits for power, speed, and average. He hit .297, 26 HR, and hit over 100 RBI’s with 101. Also he’s an awesome fielder and soon will have himself a gold glove. Now it’s Manny time, the biggest threat of this Dodgers power house outfield. Ramirez in the first 50 games was suspended for steroid use and got strikeout 1 of the 3 strike rule in baseball. But when his suspending was up he helped his team take home the NL West Division by hitting .290, 13 HR and 63 RBI’s.
So the Dodgers this year I think won’t win their division only because their pitching and infield just isn’t there. I thought the Dodgers should have held on to left handed pitcher Randy Wolf. He a guy who can maybe win you 10-15 games with the right team and it looked like he was a good fit for “BIG BLUE” I think the Dodgers will be in the race to win the NL Wild Card against their rival San Francisco Giants and The Atlanta Braves in 2010.
8
Seattle Mariners
(American League West)
If you were to say that the Seattle Mariners are in this top 12 you would probably laugh or you would say I’m lying, but no it’s the truth. Yes the Mariners are my number 8 team on this list for two reasons. First reason is well they have one of the best pitchers on their team “King” Felix Hernandez and they added former CY Young Award winning Cliff Lee in the mix. The other reason is that they have a pretty strong line-up with adding Gold Glover, Chone Figgins at third base.
So it’s safe to say the Mariners have a great 1 – 2 punch in their pitching staff and most people think this team will win their division. Well why not? When you have a guy like Felix Hernandez on your team who is good enough this year to maybe win 20 – 23 games with the line-up he has this year. Last year’s number were even good enough for him to win the AL CY Young Award with an ERA of 2.49, 19 wins, 5 losses, and 217 strikeouts and I think this year he will be the 2010 AL CY Young Award winner. The guy has a great fastball that just sets up the rest of his pitches. He’s a guy that will be around this game for a long time and people are going to see him as a further hall of famer if he stays healthy. Now here you have a former CY Young Award winning in Cliff Lee who will be on the DL in till the end of May, but still when he comes back look for him to come up big. Lee last year with the Phillies came over from Cleveland and helped the Phils get back to the World Series in 2009 but came up short in the end. In the offseason the Phillies traded away Lee for former CY Young Award winner Roy Halladay and Lee was sent back to the American League. Lee in the first half of the year with Cleveland had an ERA of 3.14, 7 wins, 9 losses and 107 strikeouts. The second half of the year with Philadelphia had an ERA of 3.39, 7 wins, 4 losses, and 74 strikeouts. His stats at the end of the year added up like this, his ERA was 3.22, 14 wins, 13 losses, and 181 strikeouts. Between Hernandez and Lee together they should have 30-35 wins combined. The front of this rotation looks pretty nice right about now. The “M’s” third starter is Erik Bedard who in the past has had a lot of problems and this year he will start the year on the DL with a bad shoulder and no one really knows when he will be back pitching. Bedard hasn’t really ever been a great pitcher but he’s not a bad guy to have on your team when he’s healthy. His ERA was 2.82, 5 wins, 3 losses, and 90 strikeouts. Then their fourth pitcher comes in with Ryan Rowland-Smith who is someone that the Mariners don’t really know how good he is. I think he will do just fine and will feed off Lee and Hernandez if he’s the M’s put him as their third starting pitcher. Last year his ERA was 3.74, 5 wins, 4 losses, and 52 strikeouts.
Now to the Mariners line-up which is pretty solid to begin with. They have a pretty decent catcher with Kenji Johjima. Johjima I give him created for being behind the plate to catch Hernandez’s fastball. The guy is a pretty good hitter, not a power hitter or an RBI hitter, just a guy who gets on base. Last year he hit .247, 9 HR, and 22 RBI’s. At first base they have Casey Kotchman who isn’t that bad. The guy is a good solid fielder and an average hitter. In 2009 he hit .268, 7 HR, and 48 RBI’s. Next to him is who I think is their big gun power hitter Jose Lopez who came into his own last year. This guy is one of your premier players and is a great fielder and a strong hitter and could do some deep damage this year. Last year he batted .272, hit 25 HR, and drove in 96 RBI’s. Look out for him this year. At shortstop you have old timer Jack Wilson who has always put up good number and always come through when needed. The guy knows his possession better than anyone at short and will be a big key for this M’s line-up. Wilson’s numbers weren’t too bad hitting .255, 5 HR, and 39 RBI’s. Next to him is one of the other big time guys the Mariners got in the offseason Chone Figgins. I have always liked this guy; he’s got speed, power, and is never scared to lay down a bunt for a hit. He’ll probably be hitting in the second hole behind Ichiro or he might be leading off. Figgins last year with the Angles had a good year with an AVG of .298, 5 HR, and 54 RBI’s. Now to the outfield which is pretty good if I might add. They got Milton Bardley, Franklin Gutierrez, Ken Griffey Jr. who will probably be their DH but will still have some playing time, and of course Ichiro Suzuki. We start out in left field with Bardley who is a pretty good fielder and yes he does strikeout a lot but still he’s not bad to have on your team as an outfielder. Last year with the Cubs he hit .257, 12 HR, and 40 RBI’s. Now over to center to where they another good power hitter in Franklin Gutierrez who does strikeout a lot as well but this being his second year with the team he’s not bad to have. I think he’s a guy who you can rely on in center he also has some speed. He’s someone that reads the ball well and will always get a jump. Hitting he’s got pop in bat but he will have to work on picking out his pitches. Last year with the M’s he hit .283, hit 18 HR, and drove in 70 RBI’s. Now to the DH spot where Ken Griffey will be spending most of time and with that being said this might be his last year as a big leaguer. Griffey is guy who has been in this game for 24 years and knows what takes to win and knows that it’s a grind to play every day. If he never had gotten hurt in his previews years I think he would have been the one to break to all time home run record and he would have done it the right way. His AVG last year was .214, 19 HR, and 57 RBI’s. Griffey already has 630 career home runs under his bleat and I’m sure he will be looking for more in 2010. Now to our last “M” who has played with team for his whole career and will be entraining his 10th year with the club and he has never let anyone down before, yes it’s Ichiro Suzuki. He’s some that hardly strikeouts and is a good left handed hitter. Also has a lot of speed on the bases and plays right field really well. Last year his numbers were once again were solid and the second best batting average in the MLB hitting .352, 11 HR, and 46 RBI’s in 2009.
So the M’s find themselves in a spot where they can do a lot of damage and I think this year they will walk away with American West Division and go into the playoffs. I’m not sure how good they’ll fair off in the postseason. They might hit a speed bump between the Red Sox or Yankees. But I think the goal is set and they know what they have to do to make it to the postseason this year.
7
Colorado Rockies
(National League West/NL Wild Card Winner)
Well the NL West is probably going to be tight spot between winning the division and the NL wild card. I mean you have the back to back division champs the Dodgers, then you have the hungry Giants who just want it to make the playoffs, then you even have the D-Backs who can always come through and surprise you. Then you have the Colorado Rockies who just broke through in this game 3 years ago. In 2007 it was one of the best stories for the club. They won the NL Wild Card and were the first team since the 2003 Florida Marlins to make it to the World Series, but came up short and lost to the Boston Red Sox. In 2009 they once again won the NL Wild Card but in the NLDS lost to a better Phillies team and their season came to an end. But I think in 2010 they might be looking for something more.
Pitching might be a factor for Rockies in 2010 but they their number one starting pitcher Ubaldo Jimenez can help them bring home a Division Championship. Jimenez was one of those guys you questioned a lot and said I don’t know if he’s ready to take on the big leagues, but in 2009 he kind of proved everyone wrong. In 2008 and 2007 his number weren’t that good and wasn’t going to be a big time pitcher. Last year he came back showed everyone what kind of pitcher he was by having an ERA of 3.47, 15 wins, 12 losses, and 198 strikeouts. The only problem is he’s a head case and if you get into his head the problem roll in from there. Now we move on to Aaron Cook who is a gamer. The guy is a strong pitcher and gives you a good 6 or 7 solid innings of work. He might even fill in the number one starting pitching roll if things don’t work as planned. Cook’s ERA in 2009 finished at 4.16, 11 wins, 6 losses and 78 strikeouts. Then there’s Jeff Francis who last year missed the whole year being on the DL and no one knows what he will bring to the table. In 2007 his stats were pretty amazing with an ERA of 4.22, 17 wins, 9 losses, and 165 strikeouts. In 2008 that’s when the problems started to come in where he had an ERA of 4.74, 4 wins, 10 losses, and 94 strikeouts. A big difference from 2007, they hope he can come back with the same numbers he put up in 07 or they might have some trouble. Now to the Rockies bull pen where they have set up man Rafael Betancourt and closer Huston Street who will start the 2010 year on the DL. When he comes back between these two guys they should be able to pick up their starting pitchers and their fellow relief pitchers. Betancourt’s numbers in 2009 were not too bad with an ERA of 2.73, 20 HLD, and 61 strikeouts. Huston Street has always been a good hard working closer even when he was with the A’s and in 2009 he did a fine job of putting away hitters. His ERA was 3.06, 35 saves, and 70 strikeouts. Look out for him to have another strong year if he stays healthy
The Rockies as we know have a really strong infield and outfield as well and this is what’s going to help this team in the long run. At catcher you have Chris Iannetta and backup catcher Miguel Olivo. Iannetta is a pretty solid catcher behind the dish but isn’t a good hitter and that’s where Olivo falls in for the Rockies, also he can come off the bench and hit in a tight spot. Iannetta numbers last year were ok hitting .228, 16 HR, and drove in 52 RBI’s. Olivo is the guy who brings the power to the catchers spot hitting .249, 23 HR, and 65 RBI’s. Now at first base we have veteran Todd Helton who has a tune of power and is always a guy you have to be careful with when pitching to him. Last year he hit .325, 15 HR, and 86 RBI’s. Over at second you have a young power hitter in Ian Stewart who is a pretty good fielder and a good hitter, he might need a little work but I think if he gets some work he could hit around .260 - .270 by the end of this year. Stewart last year did pretty well at the plate batting .228, hit 25 HR, and drove in 70 RBI’s. Stewart could also play at third from time to time. At shortstop you have the second or third best on your team with Troy Tulowitzki. Let me tell you something this kid has so much power at a young age and has speed. He’s only been in the majors for 4-5 years now and has made it to the top 3 of shortstops in the NL and in the top 5 in the MLB. To me that’s amazing that you can be that good in that little of time. The young shortstop hit .297, 32 HR, and 92 RBI’s. Next to him is the old timer that the Rockies got in offseason from the O’s Melvin Mora. Mora may not be as good as he once was but still he’s a guy who hits and gets on base and has a few gold gloves at third. His AVG got up to .260, 8 HR, and brought home 48 RBI’s. On to the Rockies outfield, where most of their speed and power comes in at! In center they have a young speed threat in Dexter Fowler who is a player that hits to get on base and cause’s base drama in stealing base’s and reading pitchers pick off moves, even though he struck out a lot in 2009 with 121 strikeouts I think he has worked on reading the ball better, with this being his third year in the pros he hit .266, 4 HR, and drove in 34 RBI’s. Now to right field with their big power guy Brad Hawpe who is someone that just knows how to hit well. He’s a good fielder in right and shares duties with Seth Smith who sometimes can play in left field. Hawpe and Smith are to big time hitters. Hawpe hit .285, 23 HR, and 86 RBI’s and Smith hit .293, 15 HR, and 55 RBI’s. Now over in left we have to great players, first Ryan Spilborghs who is a good left fielder and is a good solid hitter probably hitting in the 6 or 7 hole when he plays. His AVG was .241, 8 HR, and 48 RBI’s. Now to our finial player on this Colorado Rockies team, who other then Carlos Gonzales. What a player this young kid is! Only two year in the pros and boy he has made a name for himself as one of the premier players in the game. The guy just has everything you look for in a hitter and fielder at a young age. Last year Gonzales did a great job in the postseason for the first time and I can’t forget how he rocked the Phillies pitching in the NLDS last year. The Phillies pitching just couldn’t get this guy out and I think this year he will have an outbreak year leading off for the Rockies and will get a lot more chances to steal by playing every day. In 2009 just his second year he hit .284, 13 HR, and 29 RBI’s.
I like the Colorado Rockies in 2010 and I think they will do more than win the NL Wild Card. In 2010 look for them to be my pick to win the National League West Division and will be a dangerous team in the regular and postseason.
6
Boston Red Sox
(American League East/AL Wild Card Winner)
Now people say the Boston Red Sox might have one of the best pitching staffs in baseball with Josh Beckett, Jon Lester and new pitcher John Lackey. The only thing I don’t like about this Red Sox team is their infield and outfield. I think it’s weak in some spots and could have done better to improve their team. Because when you’re playing in a division with the Yankees and Rays you need some good hitting all around.
The Red Sox pitching in AL East might be the best and the best in the MLB. With the 3 J’s they call them in Boston they should be a very strong pitching staff. We start with Josh Beckett who is the Sox’s number one pitcher and is a guy who has two World Series titles under his belt, one with the Marlins in 2003 and the other with the Red Sox in 2007. He knows what it takes to win and I’m sure he wants to win again. After last year carrying this team on his shoulders to win them the AL wild card and getting them to postseason had to be an honor. But in 2009 his season ended early by getting knocked out by the Angles in the ALDS. Beckett numbers were pretty good with a 3.86 ERA, 17 wins, 6 losses and 199 strikeouts. Good CY Young numbers besides the ERA. Then we have their number two starter in Jon Lester who was their go to guy in 2007. This guy’s story is amazing after fighting cancer no one knew if he would ever play baseball ever again. When he came back to the game he threw a no-hitter and showed the baseball Gods that he’s ready to take whatever life throws at him. It’s been 3 years later since that story and in 2009 his numbers very good with a 3.41 ERA, 15 wins, 8 losses, and 225 strikeouts. Then we have their number three starter in the “Big Texan” big John Lackey who the Red Sox got in the offseason from the Angels. The Sox’s know what they are going to get out of him after seeing him in the postseason a year ago. Big John helped the Angels win the AL West Division and I think this year he might do the same. His ERA was 3.38, 11 wins, 8 losses, and 139 strikeouts in 2009. Now to their number four starter in Daisuke Matsuzaka who last year was hurt and just didn’t do a good job with an ERA of 5.76, 4 wins, 6 losses, and 54 strikeouts? He might not even be the Sox’s fourth starter it might be Clay Buchholz who right now is their number fix starter but I’ll tell what though this kid might be their number four starter. He’s young and showed that he’s got what it takes to become a big time pitcher. Last year he did a good with an ERA of 4.21, 7 wins, 4 losses, and 68 strikeouts. Now to the Sox’s bull pen with Hideki Okajima as their set up man and the dominant closer Jonathan Papelbon. Okajima last year was a great set up man for the Sox’s last year and filled his roll really well with his ERA being 3.39, having 24 HLD, and striking out 53 batters. Now on to Pepalbon who is probably the second or third best closer in the AL. This guy is the Sox’s bull dog in the pen. His ERA in 2009 was a 1.85, 38 saves, and 76 strikeouts. Bull dog I tell you!
Now the weakest part of this 2010 Red Sox team is their hitters and fielders. I mean we have a few good ones here and there, not in any way shape or form are they ready to get back to the World Series with this line-up. At the catchers roll I probably like the most with having Victor Martinez as their backup catcher/first baseman/DH. To me that’s the best hitter on the club. His AVG was .303, 23 HR, and 108 RBI’s the most on the team. With that being said he also came over from Cleveland and with them he hit .284, 15 HR, and 64 RBI’s with the Indians for the first half of the year. Now with their captain and veteran catcher in Jason Varitek who will be entraining his 14th year with the club and has always done well but how long will it last? Last year the captain hit .209, 14 HR, and 51 RBI’s. The Sox’s other hitter I like the most at first base is Kevin Youkilis. Here’s a guy who is a great all around player. Also he’s a strong hitter. This guy is the power house of this team hands on deck. He hit .305, 27 HR, and 94 RBI’s. At second of course you got 5’9 kid Dustin Pedroia and he’s a great fielder and a good hitter for a short guy. I mean this kid is just one of them second baseman that just knows what to do. I think in 2010 he will try to have a better year after in 2008 winning the AL MVP Award he didn’t really live up to the hype. Well that’s what I saw in my eyes. Take a look at his numbers from 2008 and 2009 and tell me what you think? 2008 – AVG .326, 17 HR, and 83 RBI’s. 2009 – AVG .296, 15 HR, and 72 RBI’s, a big difference in his average and RBI’s. At third base they have Mike Lowell who is old but isn’t that bad. He still hits for average and will probably be a DH here and there. Lowell hit .290, 17 HR, and 75 RBI’s. Then they have another third baseman in Adrian Beltre who is another old player. I mean the guy was great when he came up but injuries have really taken a toll on him as a player, but still has a few gold gloves at third and his bat isn’t too bad. Last year he hit .265, 8 HR and 44 RBI’s. Then you still got “BIG PAPA” yes big man David Ortiz as their DH. Last year in the first half of the season looked like he never picked up a bat before. In the second half of the 2009 season he started to hit somewhat better and drove in the ball. But as some would say still an off year hitting .238, 27 HR, and 99 RBI’s, Ortiz is still a big time power hitter and is still a threat but I don’t know how good he’ll be this year. Now the outfield of this team is ok. You have Jacoby Ellsbury in center, J.D. Drew in right, between Jeremy Hermida and Mike Cameron in left. Ellsbury is probably their number one speed guy that hits for speed and can steal bases and he hit .301, 8 HR and 60 RBI’s. Now to Drew who is their power guy in right field and is always a guy you have to be smart to when you pitch to him. He hit .279, hit 24 HR and drove in 68 RBI’s. Now Mike Cameron came over from the Brewers and Jeremy Hermida came over from the Marlins. Cameron is a power hitter and has speed but no knows what he will do. He strikes out a lot and his average hasn’t been that good in the past 4 year. Last year he only hit .250, hit 25 HR and drove in 70 RBI’s. With Hermida it’s the same story. Last year hit .259, 13 HR and 47 RBI’s but with the fish he put in his time and now will see how he does in the American League.
I think the Boston Red Sox will be a breaker in 2010 only because their line-up isn’t that strong but for some reason I also see them making a run for the AL Wild Card between division rival the Tampa Bay Rays. I just don’t see them winning the American League East Division over the New York Yankees and it will be a tight squeeze for the AL wild card this year.
5
St. Louis Cardinals
(National League Central Division Champions)
So the Red Birds last year won their division by so much last year and everyone picked them to go deep into the playoffs but their hitting and pitching let them down. But I do have to say the Cardinals do have really nice 1 -2 punch in the beginning of the pitching rotation with Carpenter and Wainwright. Also they probably have one of the best hitters in game with Albert Pujols. I think the 2010 season is going to be a year where the Cardinals will get down the business and do work.
The pitching staff is one of the strongest parts of this team with Chris Carpenter as their number one big gun and Adam Wainwright as their number two big gun. Carpenter last year put up CY Young numbers and was in line to possible win another CY Young Award but came up a little short. Other then that he helped his club wrap up the National League Central Division and pitch liked the old Carpenter like he once was. In 2009 his ERA was 2.24, 17 wins, 4 losses, and 144 strikeouts. The second pitcher on this team is former bullpen relief pitcher Adam Wainwright who everyone said is this guy ready to step up his game and in 2009 proved that he had what takes and he also put up CY Young numbers as well. Wainwright was also was in line for the NL CY Young Award but he also didn’t win it, but he still was one of the big keys of success for winning the division last year with an ERA 2.63, 19 wins, 8 losses and 212 strikeouts. Look out for this guy in 2010 to be in line to maybe win the NL CY Young Award. With these two great pitchers there’s the 31 year old, right handed pitcher, Kyle Lohse who falls in the mix. Lohes has had his ups and down in his career but this guy is a hard working pitcher who is always ready to try to do more to improve his game. His ERA in 2009 was a 4.74, 6 wins, 10 losses, and 77 strikeouts. Now to the Red Birds bullpen with Trever Miller and closer Ryan Franklin who is now probably one of the best closers in the National League. Miller last year did a pretty good job pitching out of the pen and being successful with his fastball and getting guys out. In 2008 Millers ERA was over 4 and I guess you can call that an off year? In 09 he turned it around and his ERA was 2.06, 14 HLD, and 46 strikeouts. Now to Ryan Franklin who I have no idea where he came from. If I was to tell you that he would have 38 saves in 2009 you would probably laugh. But in 2009 he really stepped up his game and did what he had to and filled in the closer roll really well with an ERA of 1.92, 38 saves and 44 strikeouts.
The Cardinals offence is another big key of this team and knows how to hit. At catcher they have one of the best Yadier Molina who is probably on the best hitting catchers in the NL and is a great fielder. As a catcher he hit .293, 6 HR, and 54 RBI’s. Molina is also a great fielder behind the dish and is a guy who isn’t sacred to take a hit. Now of course the Cardinals have one of the best power hitters in the game and 3 times NL MVP Winner, Albert Pujols! I can’t even explain the power this guy has; it’s just unbelievable how far he hits the ball. Not only that but he’s one power hitter who rarely strikes out. He always put the ball in play weather it’s a pop fly or a ground ball if it’s still in play, the guy will always hit. Pujols hit .327, 47 HR, and 135 RBI’s the second most in the NL behind Ryan Howard from the Philadelphia Phillies. The Cardinals have a good young shortstop in Felipe Lopez and this kid can do it all. Lopez is a good player that has great speed on the bases and has a great arm, also has a little bit of pop in his bat after hitting .310, 9 HR, and 57 RBI’s. Look for him to be a big key for the Red Birds this year. Now we have Skip Schumaker at second base, which isn’t that bad of a fielder. Hitting wise he isn’t that bad at either, the guy knows how to hit. He doesn’t hit for power but he guy gets on base a lot. His AVG last year was .303, 4 HR, and 35 RBI’s. Now we go to the Cards outfield which is pretty good, with big time hitters Matt Holliday in left and Ryan Ludwick in right, then Colby Rasmus in center field. These three outfielders are what probably makes this team go, besides having Pujols at first base. All three of these outfielders all hit for average and are all good solid hitters. Holliday hit .313, hit 24 HR, and drove in 109 RBI’s. Ludwick hit .265, hit 22 HR, and drove in 97 RBI’s. Rasmus hit .251, hit 16 HR, and drove in 52 RBI’s.
So in 2010 look for the Cardinals to have another strong season and I think no team in the National League Central will come close to catching them for the division and they will win their division easily for the third straight year. In the playoffs also look for this them to get past the first round and make it to the 2010 NLCS and see where they will go from there. Things for the Cards look pretty nice in 2010.
4
Tampa Bay Rays
(American League East)
Who could forget the Rays magical season in 2008, a team that went from worst to first in the American League East? A team that really had no fan base and a team that people for years laughed at. Well in 2008 they were a team that had so much to prove and in 08 won their division over the Boston Red Sox and the New York Yankees. The Rays would end up beating the Red Sox in the ALCS and would move on to the World Series for the first time in team history, but would lose to the Philadelphia Phillies. In 2009 the Rays would have a down season only losing the AL Wild Card by 3 games but I think in 2010 look for this team to have another break out year like they in 2008.
The Rays pitching is going to be a big factor if their going to have any success playing in this division because the pitching for the Yankees and Red Sox has only gotten better. The Rays pitching staff and team is really young but some my say this will only be better for the further. The Rays number one pitcher is probably going to be either Matt Garza or James Shields who in 2008 were the Rays big guns. Garza in 2009 didn’t really live up to the pitcher he was in 2008, having an ERA of 3.95, 8 wins, 12 losses, and 189 strikeouts. Not that great. Shields on the other hand didn’t really have a good year either with an ERA of 4.14, 11 wins, 12 losses, 167 strikeouts. So if the Rays want to have any shot of making the postseason they will need these two work horses to come through big. Next on this pitching staff is a guy who really surprised people last year and that is Jeff Niemann who in 2009 really had an out break year and help his club by pitching really decent and coming through for the Rays. Last year Niemann probably put up his best numbers in his career with an ERA of 3.44, 13 wins, 6 losses, and 125 strikeouts. Definitely a year to remember as in 2010 he will try to come out with the same aspect. Then there’s young David Price who a lot people don’t think this kid has enough for it takes to be a starting pitcher. In 2009 Price didn’t have bad numbers for his second year playing in the big leagues with an ERA of 4.42, 10 wins, 7 losses, and 102 strikeouts. The Rays bullpen isn’t that bad with two pretty good closers in J.P. Howell and new comer Rafael Soriano who will probably be the Rays new closer and not Howell this year. J.P. Howell did a nice job filling the closer roll which isn’t a easy job, everyone knows the hardest job in this game is to get those final three outs of a ball game, the test never comes easy. Howell’s ERA in 2009 was 2.84, 17 saves, and 79 strikeouts. As for Rafael Soriano who came over from the Braves knows his roll pretty well and is a good pitcher who could be a closer, set up man, or a middle of relief pitcher. But I’m sure his roll might be a closer for the Rays in 2010. Last year with the Braves, his ERA was 2.97, 27 saves, and 102 strikeouts.
Now we get to the Rays strong side and people know that this team but score runs no problem. With two pretty good catchers in Dioner Navarro and backup catcher Kelly Shoppach, I mean both catchers aren’t the greatest of hitters but they how to drive in runs and good behind the plate. Navarro hit .218, 8 HR, and 32 RBI’s. Shoppach’s number area slight better then Navarro’s. Shoppach hit .214, 12 HR, and 40 RBI’s. So you know what you’re getting out of these two guys. At shortstop you have young Jason Bartlett who is someone that always puts up good numbers even when he’s have a bad night. His AVG got up to .320; he hit 14 HR and drove in 66 RBI’s in 09. For one of the Rays DH’s they picked up Hank Blalock who may play in the outfield and at second from time to time, but Blalock is good pick up. Great power hitter and RBI man, in 2009 he had an ok year hitting .234, 25 HR, and RBI’s. Now we get the third base and everyone knows Gold Glover and all-star Evan Longoria. Longoria to me is the best third baseman in the American League. Sorry A-Rod you’re not better than him. This guy is one of the best I’ve seen play third base in a long time. He’s got power, speed; he hustles, and plays hard to earn his pay check as a player. Last year his AVG was .281, knocked in 33 HR, and brought home 113 RBI’s. Now at first base you have another power hitter in Carlos Pena who has really helped this team out a lot in the 4th hole. He has proven that he’s the man for the job. With his average being low at .227 he still managed to hit 39 HR, and drive in 100 RBI’s last season. Now to second base where I must say I am very impressed with Ben Zobrist. Man this kid is your next Chase Utley of the American League. Even with 104 strikeouts last year, he still hit .297, 27 HR, and 91 RBI’s Also his glove is very nice at second and I see this kid soon winning a gold glove. The DH spot is where former Phillie and 2008 World Series winner Pat “The Bat” Burrell steps in. Seeing this guy playing with the Phillies for most of my teenage life was amazing and we all knew his time in Philly was going to come to a close but in 2009 he did his best be a pretty good DH hitting .221, 14 HR, and 64 RBI’s. Not that bad for the old timer. Now the Rays outfield which to me is good accept for one player in right field and that is Gabe Kapler. To me this guy is ok in hitting and fielding I mean he’s ok. Well I really don’t know, sorry Gabe. In 09 he hit .239, 8 HR, and 32 RBI’s. Now is where the speed and power comes in at with Carl Crawford in left and B.J. Upton in center. Crawford is one of the original Rays who first joint this team back in 2002 when they were a laughing matter. This guy is the heart and soul of this team and stayed with this club for his whole career, where other players would have probably asked their agent to get them off this team. But Crawford stayed with this team through thick and thin and finally saw a division title in 2008 and in 2009 tried to help his by hitting .305, 15 HR and 68 RBI’s also in 2009 Crawford had 60 stolen bases, a career high for him. I think in 2010 Crawford might do even more to help this team he loves so much to get back to the postseason. Now to the last player on this roster in B.J. Upton who has really became one of the top outfielders in the American League. After being hurt in 2009 and not being part of the Rays offences really hurt him as he only hit .241, 11 HR, and 55 RBI’s. Look for him to come back and do what he does best, which is steal bases. In 2008 he stole 44 bages and in 2009 he stole 42 bags.
So the Rays in 2010 don’t look bad, yes their young and don’t have a great pitching staff but everyone said the same thing in 2008 and they won their division and went to the World Series. So don’t think this team doesn’t have what it takes, I mean I don’t think they will win their division over the New York Yankees but will definitely be racing the Red Sox to win the American League Wild Card and when everything is said and done I think Rays might have a shot to be back in the postseason in 2010.
3
Atlanta Braves
(National League East)
If you’re a Phillies fan you must still hate this team, and I’m talking to fans that have been Phillies fans for through the late 1980’s and early 1990’s and remembered how these two teams use to hate each other. The Braves back then were the team to beat in the NL winning 13-14 division titles and were and still are the Phillies biggest rival. But over the past few years the Braves have fell off the map and haven’t really came close to winning the National East League Division, its been the Marlins, Mets and Phillies for the last 8 years. In 2010 in manager Bobby Cox final year I think this will be the Braves best shot to make a run for the division or the NL wild card and put back that bitter sweet rivalry between the Phillies and Braves.
The Braves pitching staff this year isn’t that good but its good enough when you look at numbers. They do have a big lose in losing Javier Vazquez who last year was the Braves ace. This year they throw Derek Lowe, Jair Jurrjens, Tommy Hanson, and Tim Hudson at you. Not a bad staff besides Hudson who is coming off a year where he was hurt most of the year. Hudson who used to pay with the A’s has had a few problems after coming over to the Braves and really hasn’t proven his stuff to the NL hitters. Hudson still is one those guys when can go a good 6 innings of work. His ERA last year was 3.61, 2 wins, 1 loss, and 30 strikeout. Then there’s the young Tommy Hanson who has really helped this staff out a lot last year with the loss of Hudson who no one really knew who Hanson was. Look for him to be a good solid pitcher in 2010, with last years ERA at 2.89, 11 wins, 4 losses, and 116 strikeouts. Now to Jair Jurrjens who to me is probably the Braves best pitcher. He has enough to go a full game and is a good inning eater and works fast. But is a head case at time and can lose control of his pitches when he gets knocked around a bit. Jurrjens ERA in 2009 was a 2.60, 14 wins, 10 losses, and 152 strikeouts. Now to Derek Lowe who is a guy where you never know what your going to get out him, one start he could look like he’s lights out on the mound and in the next start he could like he never knew how to pitch. Nonetheless he is still a guy who works hard and is a good low-ball pitcher and gets guys to hit ground balls. Also he has a great sinker ball that fool’s a lot of hitter and that’s where the ground ball and pop fly outs come in place. Lowe’s ERA last year was 4.67, 15 wins, 10 losses, and 111 strikeouts. The Braves pen this year isn’t as good as it was last year losing some key players, but did pick closer Billy Wagner who knows this division best playing with the Mets and Phillies also pitching against the Marlins and Nationals. Wagner last year was put on the free agent list after being hurt and the Mets got rid of him and was soon put into a Red Sox uniform as their set up man. As the Sox set up man he helped them get to the postseason with an ERA of 1.72, 6 HLD, 26 strikeouts. I think Wagner, as the Braves closer will be a big key for the Braves, as he knows how to do this job best before being a closer with previews teams.
The Braves lineup I might say is pretty decent and it kind of scares me. They have a few bumps here and there but all around great contact hitters. Their catcher Brian McCann is probably a great hotter all around and knows how hit for power. Also is a Gold Glover behind the plate. His AVG last year was .281, 21 HR, and 91 RBI’s. At shortstop they have another good contact and power hitter in Yunel Escobar. This kid has to be in the top 5 of best shortstops in the NL. He hit .299, 14 HR, and 76 RBI’s. Look for him to be a big time threat. At first they have good solid hitter in Eric Hinske who isn’t a power hitter but still the guy gets on base and being part of the Rays World Series run back in 2008 he knows what it takes to get there. Hinske hit .242, 8 HR, and drove in 25 RBI’s. At second base the Braves have a decent hitter and fielder in Omar Infante who always hits for average and is always on base. His AVG in 2009 was .305, 2HR, and 27 RBI’s. At third base is of course is Chipper Jones who has been with this team for 17 years and knows all about the bitter sweet rivalry with the Phillies winning the NL East Division almost ever year and winning a few World Series titles as well. Last year was probably one of Jones’s worst years playing and told reporters if he has the year he had in 2009 and if the Braves don’t make the postseason he may think about stepping down from baseball and retiring with the Braves along with Bobby Cox. Jones last year hit .264, 14 HR, and 71 RBI’s. The Braves outfield isn’t that bad with Melky Cabrera in left, Matt Diaz in right, Nate McLouth in center and playing in right, and the Braves best outfield prospect Jason Heyward in center. We start in left with Cabrera who is former New York Yankee and won the title last year with the Yanks. Cabrera is guy hot hit for contact and is a good left fielder and will get to play almost every day. Last year with the Yanks he hit .274, 13 HR, and 68 RBI’s. Next in right field with Matt Diaz and Nate McLouth, two very good hitters but I think McLouth might start over Diaz only because he has better speed but Diaz has better power and doesn’t strikeout a lot. So this is the part where you just have to go with your glut feeling of who should start, also you still have speed or power who ever Cox starts sitting on their bench. McLouth last year hit .256, 20 HR, and 70 RBI’s. Diaz last year hit .313, 13 HR, and 58 RBI’s. Now to center field where lies young 20 year old Jason Heyward who is the Braves top outfield prospect. This kid I think is going to the Braves next best thing and for me to say that for this kids age must mean he’s that good. Chipper Jones was asked what do you think of Heyward and he said “This kid reminds me of a young Andrun Jones of when he first came up back in 1996. He’s got every thing that Jones had I see this making it big in the majors.” I think Heyward will live up to be the player he’s expected to be and could possible win the NL Rookie of the year award in 2010.
So the Atlanta Braves this year look pretty good but I don’t know if their pitching will hold up against the Phillies this year for the Braves to win the National League East Division, but I do think they have a good shot of winning the NL Wild Card, but it won’t come easy going against the Giants and the Dodgers. The Braves hold their own destiny in 2010 and will see what happens come this October.
2
Defending 2009 World Series Champions New York Yankees
(American League East Division Champions)
So what can I say about the New York Yankees if I’m a Phillies fan? I guess I will have to say in 2009 they were pretty damn good and in 2010 I think me a little bit better. After winning their 27th World Series title last year and winning over 100 games people believe the Yankees have another shot to repeat a World Champions. I will say the Yankees hitting did come in time when need in the postseason and their pitching I thought was so so, could have been better. But hey they won and that’s all that really matter at the end of the day. In 2010 look for the Yankees to be the team to beat in the AL East.
The Yanks pitching last year was a pretty good pitching staff and in the beginning of 2009 they were a little rocky and in 2010 look for them to be a little better. They still have their number big gun left handed ace C.C. Sabathia who is 2009 put up CY Young type numbers and definitely help his new ball club very well. Sabathia who is 6’7, 290 lbs looks like he should be a football player, but I’ll tell you what though this guy is a bull dog. His fast ball is very hard to hit. It clocks out about 93-96 mph. But Sabathia is also a big time head case and we all know that the Phillies have his number when those problems start to roll in. Besides winning his first World Series in 2009 his numbers in the regular season were 3.37 ERA, 19 wins, 8 losses, and 197 strikeouts. A.J. Burnet what can I say about this player? I will say that he definitely did his roll filling the 1 – 2 punch for the Yanks. Burnet joining his new ball club and also winning his fist World Series put up an ERA of 4.04, 13 wins, 9 losses and 195 strikeouts. Look for him to have another good solid year in 2010. Then there old veteran left hander Andy Pettitte who had a good solid year and did his job to win his 5th World Series title as a New York Yankee. Pettitte is someone that of course knows what it take to win and knows that it’s a great feeling. I mean what do say after winning 5 rings? Does it ever get old? Well I guess not, I mean who doesn’t like to win? Pettitte finished the 2009 season with an ERA of 4.16, 14 wins, 8 losses, and 148 strikeouts. Now we have former pitcher and now back with the team Javier Vazquez who when he was with the Yankees I must say wasn’t that good. But with the Braves last year did a fine job and the Yankees hope he can fill the number four roll in the pitching rotation nicely. Vazquez last year had an ERA of 2.87, 15 win, 10 losses, and 238 strikeouts. The Yankees number fix starter I’m not so hot about but I guess that why he’s their fifth starter and that is Phil Hughes. I think Hughes could either be a starter or a bull pen pitcher. His ERA last year was a 3.08, 8 wins, 3 losses, and 98 strikeouts. Now to Yankees bull pen which last year wasn’t that good and this year it’s the same story. They have Joba Chamberlain new comer Chan Ho Park and of course the greatest closer of all time Mariano Rivera. We start with Jaba who last year played both rolls as a starting pitcher and a relief pitcher. The Yankees this year have the big guy in the pen as their set up man and his ERA last year was a 4.75 with 133 strikeouts. Now to Chan Ho Park who last year did an awesome job in the pen for the Phils last year but the Phillies sent him packing because he wanted to be a starting pitcher. But funny how the Yankees offer him more money to be in the pen and he signs for them? Another way of the Yanks buying their team, but then again it’s another example of how money has changed the game. Park last who went to World Series with the Phillies had an ERA of 4.43, 13 HLD, and 73 strikeouts. Now we get to the man who has been the best closer in the game and another Yankees player who won his 5th World Series title, yes its Mariano Rivera. Rivera for the past 15 year has been the best pitcher in the postseason and it took his club 9 years for them to get him back to the World Series to get him is 5th one as a Yankee. I mean how could you not trust this guy to be your closer in the postseason? He has the most saves in postseason history. Last year Rivera won the relief closer’s award by putting up an ERA of 1.76, 44 saves and 72 strikeouts.
The Yankees lineup from top to bottom is probably the best in the AL and don’t see any other team matching them. At catcher they have another guy who won his 5th World Series title as a Yankee in Jorge Posada. Posada over the past few years has had to battle with some injuries but still, he’s a great catcher and solid hitter. Also he’s a great leader and knows that he will go down as one the Yankees best catchers in history and that’s an honor at its self. Last year Posada hit .285, 22 HR, and drove in 81 RBI’s. At first base they have the powerful hitter in Mark Teixeria who in 2009 won his first World Series with his new club. Teixeria is a Gold Glover and has always been a great hitter even when he was with the Rangers and Braves. Last year he hit .292, 39 HR, and 122 RBI’s. At second they have the much underrated Robinson Cano who I think last year should have made the MLB All-Star team but you have the fans to thank for that. Cano is a great hitter and is not bad to have as your number 7 hitter in the lineup. Cano hit .320, 25 HR, and 85 RBI’s in 2009. At shortstop you have who we would call the Michael Jordan of baseball the Yankees captain Derek Jeter. Jeter is our final guy who won his 5th World Series title as a Yankee. Jeter I can’t explain how good he is, he has so many gold gloves and is probably the best shortstop in the AL and will soon be the best of our time. Hitting wise he has never had a problem with. Jeter doesn’t hit for power or RBI’s but he definitely hits for average every year. Last year he hit .334, 18 HR, and drove in 66 RBI’s. At third the Yankees have the other powerful hitter Alex Rodriguez who started the 2009 season on DL. Also came out and admitted of using steroids back in 2003. Other than that A-Rod’s 2009 year was one to remember, winning his first ever World Series title and that was something he had been waiting for ever since he signed with the Yankees back in 2004. A-Rod is a great hitter and always comes up big when you need him to. Just when you think the Yankees are out he brings them back to life. In 2009 he hit .286, 30 HR, and 100 RBI’s. The Yankees DH’s this year aren’t okay, I mean I think they could have done better, I mean with all the players they could have bought they settled for Nick Johnson and Randy Winn and don’t me wrong Nick Johnson is a great hitter always was and Winn is just another old player they have one their team. Johnson who can also play first base is a solid hitter who hit .291, 8 HR, and 62 RBI’s in 2009. Winn who can play first base and left field for time to time hit .262, 2 HR, and 51 RBI’s in 2009. In the outfield the Yankees have underrated Nick Swisher in right, the speed threat Brett Gardner who can anywhere in the outfield but will most likely be in left because who the new comer and power hitter and speed threat in Curtis Granderson. Swisher who in 2009 a lot people said I don’t know if the Yankees could settle for him but he proved everyone wrong and came through big in the postseason and helped the Yanks out a lot. He hit .249, 30 HR, and 82 RBI’s in 2009. Gardner who last year finally got the call to start in center and boy he filled his roll very well by hitting .270, 3 HR, and 23 RBI’s. Now to Granderson who started the year on the DL for the Tigers but when he came back he still managed to hit .249, 30 HR, 71 RBI’s. I think Granderson will fit this lineup very well by hitting second and is a great center fielder.
So the defending 2009 World Series Champions are going to try to defend their crown and to be honest I don’t see any team in the American League beating them in the postseason and they will once again win their division and will go back to World Series. Winning it? Haha I don’t know? They might be stopped by the best team in the National League and it will probably be a rematch of the 2009 World Series. But none the less this Yankees team is going to good once again and will probably win over 100 games this year again. But in the end of October or the beginning of November will find out if this team will live up to its hype.
1
2008 and 2009 National League Champions Philadelphia Phillies
(National League East Division Champions)
So who are the Phillies? I mean the Phillies were only the worst team in baseball about 10 years ago. But over the past few years the Phillies have made a name for themselves and have proven almost ever sports writer including me wrong. I mean I have always loved this team only because I love baseball and my team. I have rooted for them ever since I was about 6 years old and remember when they were so bad. But in 2007 something magical was about to happen and it was the start of something that might not end for the next 4-5 years. In 2007 the Phillies won their division for the first time since 1993, and in 2008 won the World Series for the first since 1980, and in 2009 won the National Pennants back to back years for the first time in team history, and in 2010 look for the same thing maybe even more.
In the offseason on 2009 the Philadelphia Phillies did one of the biggest buck buster trades in baseball. The Phillies traded their World Series ace Cliff Lee who was a fan favorite in Philly for one of the best pitchers in baseball and the guy that they have wanted since the trade dead-line in 2009 Roy “DOC” Halladay. I mean when this went down I think everyone heard about this trade weather you were a baseball fan or not, everyone knew about it. I mean every team in baseball would kill to have this guy on his team. He’s a guy that is just that good and knows the game. I mean he has had a lot of bad luck playing with a last place team and it was just time to leave Torino and now that he’s a Phillie just makes things so much better for the Phillies. Tim Lincecum who is a back to back CY Young Award winner might have to move over because the “DOC” is in town and he won’t be leaving anytime soon. Halladay hasn’t ever been in the postseason but think with this lineup and how good this team is I think he will have no problem doing what he always does best and that’s pitch his game knowing that his team mates will pick him up. Halladay’s numbers in 2009 were pretty good considering he was with a last place team. His ERA was a 2.79, 17 wins, 10 losses and 208 strikeouts. Next on the Phillies pitching staff is the young Cole Hamels who is 2008 had a breakout year and in 2009 he didn’t quite live up to the hype Hamels after winning the 2008 World Series MVP Award. Hamels you would say people really wouldn’t care if he left Philly only because of what he said in the 2009 World Series. “I’m just really tired and I just wanna go home. It’s been to long of a season.” That’s one thing you never say if you’re playing for a Philadelphia team because then people in Philly will just never like you again. But besides of that drama Hamels is their number two pitcher and we will need him to come up big in 2010 if we’re going to have any chance of winning another World Series. Last year Hamels ERA was 4.32, 10 wins, 11 losses, and 168 strikeouts. The Phillies number three pitchers are Joe Blanton and Kyle Kendrick. Blanton who will be on the DL for 3-6 weeks was probably the Phils most consistent pitcher last year before Cliff Lee came over. Blanton is an inning eater and always take his team deep. His ERA was 4.05, 12 wins, 8 losses, 163 strikeouts. Kendrick on the other hand I have no idea how good he will be. I mean he did a great job last year at the end of the season but he ready to replace Blanton? Well really who else do the Phillies have? That’s where I think the Phillies should have gotten another decent pitcher in the offseason, but hey I guess will have to deal with Kendrick for time being. Kendrick ERA last year was 3.42 with 15 strikeouts. Now we have a guy who almost came close to winning the NL Rookie of the year award that is J.A. Happ. Happ last year did a great job pitching and Happ started the 2009 season in the bull pen. He proved everything the Phillies hoped he is and last year he put up an ERA of 2.93, 12 wins, 4 losses and 119 strikeouts as a rookie and in 2010 I think he will try to have the same mo or even better. To Phillies number fix starter in Jamie Moyer who everyone really doesn’t know if the old timer still has what it take. In 2008 he had 14 wins but then again he hasn’t hurt. In the offseason Moyer went under two surgery’s, yet in 2009 he still managed to put up 12 wins, 10 losses, 94 strikeout, and an ERA of 4.94. The Phillies bull pen last year was a mess, between Brad Lidge, Ryan Madson, and J.C. Romero not playing their A game the Phils had a few problems. But in 2010 the Phillies got former closer Danys Baez and former World Series pitcher Jose Contreras, but still the table for Lidge and Romero are the same as their closer and set up man will start the year on the DL. Also the Phillies still have Chad Durdin who is healthy and ready to go and they have a better Ryan Madson who will be the Phillies closer for the time being. We start with Baez and Contreras, Baez who played with the seconds to last place team the Orioles last year did alright job, but this guy can be used for a closer if needed. Last year, his ERA 4.02, 15 HLD and 40 strikeouts. Contreras who is a bull dog and can be used as a starter or a closer as well knows what it takes to win. After being the starting pitching for the 2005 World Series White Sox and being part of the Rockies club last year, he knows all the right moves. His ERA last year was 4.92, 1 HLD, and 106 strikeouts. Now to Chad Durdin who for a little bit was hurt last year and didn’t play in as many game and he was one of those guys who helped the Phillies win the World Series in 2008 and in 2010 he try to be that same guy. Durdin’s ERA was 4.39, 8 HLD, and 62 strikeouts in 2009. Then there’s the starter, relief pitcher, set up man, closer yes he has played every roll in his career Ryan Madson. In 2009 it wasn’t a year to remember for him after coming off a great 2008 season. The bull dog had 7 blown saves and was a guy that you didn’t know who was going to show up out of the pen. Madson ERA is 2009 was a 3.36, 26 HLD, and 78 strikeouts. Look for him to have a lot better year in 2010. Now get to J.C. Romero who started the 2009 season suspended for 50 games for steroid use in baseball and got strike 1 out of the 3 strike rule in baseball. After he came back he then got hurt and was put on the DL and really didn’t play much after that. It was a big loses for the Phils as this was their go to guy in 2008 and their left handed set up man in the pen. Although his ERA was a 2.70, 6 HLD, and 12 strikeouts, when he played in 2009, this year he will yet start the year in active. Now the biggest issue in the Phillies bull pen is their closer Brad Lidge, who in 2008 was perfect on the year 48/48 in saves and help the Phillies win their first World Series title since 1980, 80/08. In 2009 Brad Lidge would have a year that he would probably like to forget for the rest of his career, blowing 12 saves and having one of the worst ERA’s in the game. Lidge just couldn’t find rhythm. The problem was he hurt his knee at the end of the 2008 season probably after Howard took him down like a football player, but still the problems would keep rolling for him. In the offseason it seemed that he has some arm issues as well and would have arm surgery along with the knee surgery and that would send him on the DL for the start of the 2010 season. Phillies pitching Rich Dubbe said that “Lidge looks good and strong, but he’s not 100% better. He will need more time and throw a few more bull pens.” His ERA last year was the worst in his career with a 7.21, but still did have 31 saves and 61 strikeouts. In the end I think when Lidge comes back I think he will be better than ever, remember he started the 2008 season on the DL, so maybe this a sign that he will have a great year, let’s hope.
To the Phillies line up that are the best in the NL and maybe the best in baseball. This team just knows how to put up runs when need and if one guy on the team doesn’t come through the guys behind him will pick him up. This club is probably the best to play for. You have the skipper Charlie Manuel who has really become a rock star in this city. It’s funny how the people in this city can hate you at first then love you the next, but that’s just how this city works. Ask Donovan McNabb or Jimmy Rollins and they will tell you. From top to bottom this lineup has to be the best at every spot. At catcher the Phillies have Carlos Ruiz and backup catcher Brain Schneider, Ruiz who has really made himself an everyday catcher and has proven to be in the top 10 of catchers in the NL. The guy has a great arm behind the plate and is a solid hitter. He has a chance to one day win a gold glove the way he keeps playing and has always come up big in the postseason. Last year Ruiz hit .255, 9 HR, and 43 RBI’s. Brian Schneider who came over from the Mets is great hitter, although in 2009 he didn’t have a great year but still he is an upgrade from Paul Bako. Schneider is a good solid catcher behind home plate and will be sharing duties with Ruiz. Last year Schneider hit .218, 3 HR, and 24 RBI’s Next on our list in the probably the second best first baseman in the NL and in the top 3 of first baseman the big guy Ryan Howard! Boy this player is just unbelievable good. He has so much power and is the guy you want up in a tight spot. Howard does tend to strikeout a lot like every power hitter, but also hits singles and doubles and even triples at times. He will also steal a few bags from time to time. But he’s known for the long ball and boy does he hit a lot of those. Last year Howard led the league in home runs and RBl’s and was second in batting average behind Albert Pujols. Howard also is getting a lot better on his fielding at first and could someday win a gold glove, but in his career he has won the Rookie of the year award, the NL MVP Award, the Hank Aaron Award, the Silver Slugger Award, the Home Run Derby Award, 3 times an All-Star, and of course a World Series Title. Howard has proven that he knows how to win and to win big. Last year he carried this team on his shoulders when needed and it paid off in the end by winning back to back National League Pennants and going back to World Series for second straight time in team history, although his numbers in the 2009 World Series weren’t that great but he has made it loud and clear that the Phillies have some unfinished business in 2010. Howard’s numbers in 2009 looked like this, AVG .279, 45 HR, and 141 RBI’s. Right next door to him is by far the best second baseman in baseball, like in all of baseball and that’s Chase Utley. I mean he has made it known that second baseman do have power and can hit over 25-30 home runs in a year. The kid has won a Gold Glove, 3 Silver Slugger Awards, 3 times an All-Star and a World Series Title as well. But other than that he has done his job but filling in the number three hole in the lineup and has really taken his game to the next level. Utley is a player who has all 3 great things which are speed, power, and a great arm. He is also one of the other reasons why this team has been so successful over the past 4-5 years. Utley in 2009 hit .282, 31 HR, and 93 RBI’s. Look for him to put up the same number or even better in 2010. At shortstop the Phillies have the heart and soul of this team, words can’t even explain how this guy loves this team and have stayed with this team through thick and thin and is Jimmy Rollin. Rollins has been part of this team since 2000 and is the oldest remaining Philly player to still be on a Philadelphia team. When this team was at its worst Rollin could have said I had an enough of this team and could have gone elsewhere, but no Rollins stayed with the team that gave him a chance and that’s why he is the leader in the club house. It’s been shown and said that when Rollins goes everyone goes. In 2007 Rollins made a statement by saying “WE ARE THE TEAM TO BEAT IN THE NL EAST” after the Mets won their division a year ago and in the end he was right. After winning 3 straight division title, two back to back National League Pennants, and a World Series Title his words have fit the table and he still say the Phillies are still the team to beat. Rollins has won a few Gold Glove Awards, NL MVP Award, 4 times an All-Star and a World Series ring. Rollins has played for the Phillies his whole career and it will probably end that way, there will never be a better leader then this guy right here. Last year in 2009 he had a slow start bit still hit .250, 21 HR, and 77 RBI’s. At third base the Phillies got back former Phillie and second baseman Placido Polanco or as Charlie Manuel likes to call him Polly Polanco. Polanco is a guy who is great hitter and never ever strikeout that much. His highest strikeouts in a season were 46 in 2009. He isn’t really a third baseman but he has choice to come back and play for the Phillies at third base. I mean it’s a thing in Philly where before no one wanted to come and play for the Phillies and now everyone wants play for them because they know they’re a team that can win and has proven it and they hear great things about this team. Poloanco knows what it’s like to play as a Phillie but not a winning Phillie and it’s a whole different ball club then when he played. Yes there’s still Rollins and Utley that he remembers but both those guys know how to win. Poloanco last year for the Tigers hit .285, 10 HR, and 72 RBI’s and has a few Gold Gloves in his day at second but I think third base is the new place for him. To the Phillies outfield which over the years was never really that good and I think the Phillies have found those three outstanding stars and each one of them made it to All-Star game last year. In center the Phillies have Shane Victorino, in right the Phillies have Jayson Werth, and in left the Phillies have Raul Ibanez. Two guys who are great power hitters and RBI guys and one who has speed and a great arm and is a great hitter as well. We start with Shane Victorino who no knew what this kid wasn’t going to bring to the plate. After coming over from the Dodgers with Werth, Victorino didn’t really start out his first year in center because at the time the Phillies had Aaron Rowand so he would play in left or right. But when the Phils got rid of Rowand it was clear he would be taking over in center field. Victorino has become a fan favorite here in Philadelphia and it because the way he plays the game, he hustles, he’s not scared to run into a guy, and he has that mood where you put everything on the line no matter what. In 2009 he hit .292, 10 HR and 62 RBI’s. Over to right field with “The Wolf Man” Jayson Werth, who has also made a name for himself here in Philly. Werth who came over from the Dodgers was hurt and the Dodgers let him not knowing what kind of player he would develop into. Werth is that guy who looks like one of the guy who played on ’93 Phillies team, long hair, beard, and just a hard working player. The guy has had a few bad breaks in his career but he has shown everyone that he a great player. Werth has put the right handed pop in the lineup and has made a name for him to all pitchers facing him He’s got speed and hits for average. In 2009 he hit 2009 he hit .268, 36 HR and 99 RBI’s. Now to Raul Ibanez who last year came over from Settle and a lot people didn’t really want to see Pat Burrell leave but when they saw how they’re new left fielder would hit, many people forgot about Burrell. Raul put up great first half season numbers. In the second half of the season Raul would be put on the DL and would do as great, but still this guy helped carried this team early in the year in 2009 and fitted in just fine. The fans started to call him RAULLLLLLLLL!!!!! Every time he would come up to bat or when he would play left field. He has made a name for himself in the City of Brotherly Love. In 2009 Raul hit .272, 34 HR, and 93 RBI’s. Last but least on this team and who else but the rock star himself skipper Charlie Manuel. Manuel when he first came here in 2005 was booed by fans because he wasn’t a winning coach and people have to understand that winning just takes time. But in Philadelphia people were hungry for a championship. Manuel has really won the people hearts in this city and brought back the baseball town in people that it once was. For year people would look toward the Eagles or the Flyers and I myself did the same. People would laugh about the Phillies and never come out to games. But in past 4 years its funny how so much has changed. From the Vet to World Series home of Citizens Bank Park the fans have loved Manuel so much. Manuel will be this year’s All-Star coach once again and will hope to try to win over the American League for home field in the World Series. I mean look at what he has brought to this city in such little time, three division titles, back to back National League Pennants, and World Series Title. He is the guy who is just right for the job! THIS IS FOR PHILADELPHIA!!!!!!!
So the Phillies in 2010 are my team to win the World Series not because I’m a fan, well maybe a little bit but because they have an awesome team that I think will also win over 100 games. The Phillies have made all the right moves, yes I think they should have kept Cliff Lee but in the end it just wasn’t meant to be. I think the Phillies have the test team on paper and on the field. They are the team to beat in the MLB and the sky’s the limit for them in 2010.
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