Season 8 First Round Draft Review

1. Boston – Donatello Aspromonte/SS – Fulton County HS

Not much is known about the switch-hitting shortstop from rural Kentucky, but thus far he remains unsigned. This has to be considered a strange number one pick for Boston, particularly considering the incredible depth that already exists at shortstop in the Clydesdales system. One has to assume that either he projects to a different position, or he was just too much of a can’t miss prospect to pass up. Either way, until the enigmatic Aspromonte signs, he just a guy with a painter’s name.

2. San Antonio – Rich Parris/2B – University of Maine

San Antonio grabbed the Dallas native with the second pick in the draft, and while yet unsigned, he seems likely to sign considering his draft slot. The former Maine Black Bear has great contact against both right and left handed pitchers, superb speed, solid range in the field, and an unmatchable work ethic that could lead to him exceeding expectations. Provided he gets signed, he could soon add an important piece to the Slugs’ lineup, although the Slugs are having trouble with a few of their early picks.

3. Louisville – Bunny Osborn/CF – Hannah-Pamplico HS

With the third pick, Louisville took a big chance on the high schooler from South Carolina, and the Bunny has yet to be signed. Osborn has scholarship offers from several powerhouse colleges, and seems highly unlikely to sign. Osborn is projected by some as a centerfielder, and some as a shortstop, and we have to assume that Louisville was looking at him as the former, with super prospect Bob Daly sitting at Triple A. Osborn is very strong defensively and possesses a good bat, but if he doesn’t get signed, it’s a big blow for the Sluggers.

4. Portland – Jayson Neilsen/SS – Johnson County Community College

With the fourth pick, the Wet Streaks grabbed the promising shortstop from Platte City, MO. Neilsen looks to have all the tools to be a successful shortstop, with an excellent glove, decent range, a good throwing arm, and a good bat with solid contact and power. With current shortstop Sammy Espinosa still failing to meet expectations, Neilsen will likely be given a good shot to take over the starting job before long.

5. Madison – Richard Berry/P – University of Arkansas-Little Rock

The Muskies moved immediately to address their pitching concerns by grabbing the senior pitcher. Berry has excellent control and velocity, but his lack of a top-flight pitch could be a concern. Still, Berry is one of the most prepared pitchers in the draft, and will be expected to contribute to the Madison rotation soon, hopefully helping fill one of the holes in the Muskie staff.

6. Atlanta – Desi James/P – Shady Side Academy

The Stars only had one pick in the first three rounds, and they took a flier on the high schooler from the shady side of the street. Actually, the superb athlete from Pittsburgh could turn into a great pitcher, or he could do a lot of other things. We here at the Blog don’t even know his height or much else. Let’s just say this pick won’t be good until he gets signed and we can take a guess at it.

7. Las Vegas – Michael Carter/RF – Grace Christian HS

The Jarshalls have made no effort to sign any of their picks yet, so I think we have to assume that the owner is passed out under a blackjack table at Caesar’s Palace. This is why we don’t put professional sports franchises in Las Vegas. You have to feel for the poor 18-21 year olds who find out they might be moving to Vegas, and then get a dead cell phone whenever they try to call to negotiate. Honestly, somebody move this team already. What about Seattle? Seattle’s nice. Let’s move this team to Seattle. Oh, don’t know anything about Carter. Let’s say he’s a nice guy.

8. Detroit – Skip Romero/SS – Magnolia HS

Detroit is another franchise that is having a nightmare of a time signing draft picks. Their top three picks remained unsigned, and the Renegade have to hope that a couple more of these picks sign, or they could end up with a very empty draft. Romero is another prospect we know very little about, which is quickly leading the Blog to believe we may have to replace our scouting staff with a series of trained penguins.

9. Toledo – Cristian Fordham/2B – Blue Ridge HS

The Illini have only signed two of their picks thus far, and among the unsigned is the hotshot second baseman from Virginia. Fordham is a good talent, with an average bat and solid defensive skills, but may end up without a position with the rapidly emerging Felipe Guzman in front of him in the depth chart.

10. Philadelphia – Morrie McCartney/2B – Ezra Academy

With a promising young pitching staff already in place, Philadelphia took a flier on the young talent from New Jersey. An excellent contact hitter with nice speed and a good eye, McCartney could provide an excellent on-base percentage and help with the Phantoms run production. McCartney is still a raw talent, but definitely has the talent to become a fixture in Philly before long.

11. Cincinnati – John Patterson/LF – Redwood Valley HS

Cincinnati reached deep into the Minnesota prairie to emerge with the short and squat left fielder. Patterson hits with good contact and decent power, and is particularly devastating to lefties. He lacks arm strength, but has a decent glove and good range for a corner outfielder. Patterson projects as a long term contributor, and with good coaching could provide a solid hitter for the Red Doggs.

12. Pittsburgh – Sammy Allen/P – Ballston Spa HS

Pittsburgh has run into budget concerns regarding their draft picks, but hopefully they’ll be able to sign the young righthander. Allen has good stuff, with a major league four-seamer and cut fastball. His control and velocity are both quite good, and he could provide quite a boost for Gryphons rotation. A very solid pick that could be unfortunately derailed by economics.

13. Durham – Poseidon Linebrink/P – University of South Carolina

While it’s always an interesting decision to spend a first round pick on a relief pitcher, Durham has had bullpen woes, and will be counting on the God of the Ocean to be the lights-out closer that any contender needs. The pitcher some call Neptune has wicked stuff, and could contribute soon in the bullpen. The Sea Dogs will be hoping that Linebrink can provide not only the back end of the bullpen, but a really cool entrance video as well.

14. Kansas City – David Stein/3B – Miami-Dade College

The Royal Flush drew the third baseman from south Florida, and Stein looks to have the potential to be a big bat in the Kansas City lineup. He is a solid defensive infielder, and has serious big league power already. His speed is average, and he looks to be a very solid first round pick. Kansas City won’t need to rush him, and in a few years the long balls may begin raining off of Stein’s bat at Kauffman Stadium.

15. Richmond – Harry Gomez/CF – Clarendon College

The Colonials filled a huge need in their organizations by taking the center fielder from California. Gomez is an excellent contact hitter with good speed, and has very good range in the outfield. He is a high character selection, and with some development, could make a major impact both at the top of the Richmond batting order and out in center field.

16. Anaheim – Glenallen McGrady/C – Arizona Western College

Catcher is one of those difficult positions to find through the draft, and the Waves came away as the only team to select a catcher in the first round. McGrady was easily the best catching prospect in the draft, with a solid bat and solid arm. He brings a fiery attitude to the game, but possesses a good sense of how to call a game and can be a big asset to the Waves. The pick may have been a slight reach, but was at a position were talent is at a premium, and provides an insurance policy against a decline by current starter Jorge Velazquez.

17. Pawtucket – Kerry Redman/P – St. Elizabeth HS

The high school pitcher from California was the pitcher selected to try to help end the Piranha’s pitching woes. A solid groundball pitcher with good stuff, Redman looks to be a long-term project for Pawtucket. He has a way to go in terms of developing control, and it will be a few years before we see Redman in the big leagues. He has the stuff, it’ll be entirely dependent on his development as to the success of this pick.

18. Arizona – Steve Wright/SS – Hitech HS

The Cocopahs found a gem with the young shortstop from San Diego. Wright turned down an academic scholarship to MIT to join the Arizona organization, he brings with him a wealth of talent. Wright is an incredibly talented defensive shortstop, possessing great range and a bazooka for an arm. His bat is more than equal to the task, and he projects to be a major part of the Arizona infield. Arizona has to be very happy with this pick.

19. Colorado – Rico Montana/P – Silver Bluff HS

The Rocky Mountain Defenders selected the high school from South Carolina, who is still trying to decide between a scholarship offer to play basketball at Davidson or to sign with Colorado. Montana is a solid potential starter with good control and three good pitches, including a screwball, but his lack of velocity and propensity for flyballs could be a concern in the mile high air, if Colorado can keep him off the hardwood.

20. Honolulu – Stuart Powell/P – Motlow State Community College

The nineteen year old Powell headlines an excellent draft class of pitchers for the Tsunamis. Powell has three good pitches and excellent control and stamina, and could turn into a workhorse for the Tsunamis. His excellent control and command will have to make up for a sever lack of velocity though, but if his maintains that control, he could develop into an excellent pitch-to-contact starter.

21. Helena – Charlie Gragg/P – Kirkwood Community College

If you can’t count on the squad in Helena for good pitching, who can you count on? The Urbanites went for the lefty from Iowa in the first round, and Gragg projects as a good groundball pitcher with good control. Gragg has a plus fastball, although lacks good velocity, so he won’t be counted on for big strikeout games. He has average stamina, so there is the potential he may end up in the bullpen, but a solid pick for the boys from Montana.

22. Baltimore – Kevin West/SS – Clarinda HS

Baltimore has only managed to sign one of their first sixteen picks thus far. The eighteen year old shortstop from Iowa remains unsigned as well. Shortstop was not necessarily a need position for the Crab Cakes, but what does the Blog know? Half the time we don’t even have the positions right. This guy could be Cal Ripken, he could be Pat Listach, or he could be Pat Sajak. We got nothing. One has to wonder why so many of the Crab Cakes’ draft picks remain unsigned though.

23. Boise – Matthew Knepper/3B – University of Texas

The Boozehounds took a flier on the highly touted Longhorn junior, but he seems highly unlikely to sign. Going to Texas only after turning down scholarship offers from Lake Superior State University and Michigan Tech after breaking Oklahoma state club hockey records as a left-wing in high school, he has once again turned to the ice, and is highly considering a minor league contract with the Dallas Stars. The third baseman seems very unlikely to sign, and that has to be a blow to a Boise team desperately trying to get over the hump.

24. Wichita – Ken Jenkins/1B – Capitol HS

The Wichitards move to fill a hole in the system by taking the young infielder from just outside Helena. Jenkins has a very good eye, and solid power with hits to all fields. His range is good for a first baseman, but his glove leaves something to be desired. He has blazing speed, and if he develops his baserunning skills he could be a huge asset on the bases. Jenkins may appear as a bit of a reach, but he projects as a solid players.

25. Helena – Brendan Barber/P – University of Nevada-Reno

The Urbanites continue to gobble pitching up like Thanksgiving turkey, and the college standout looks to be another excellent selection. Barber is a nasty groundball pitcher, with excellent velocity and control. He supplements his plus fastball with a nasty forkball. He appears much more prepared to contribute, and we could easily see American League hitters bouncing his pitches to the shortstop in short order.

26. Florida – Marvin Jeter/SS – Valdosta State University

Jeter will fill an important role as a strong defensive shortstop if Florida can convince him to play baseball. The former Blazer running back was a Divison II All-American twice, and is considered a possible mid-round pick in the NFL Draft. If he joins the Fever, look for him to a consistent bat, great range, and a solid arm. Florida has also had a great deal of trouble signing their early picks, so time will tell if this becomes an issue.

27. New Orleans – Jon Gonzalez/3B – University of Delaware

The Canes selected the former Blue Hen, who looks like a long-term possibility to start at third down in the Big Easy. Gonzalez is solid defensively, possesses good speed, and has solid power. Several organizations had Gonzalez projected as the best third baseman in the draft. Without a good option at third right now, the Canes have to hope Gonzalez can contribute in short order.

28. Honolulu – Ivan Santiago/CF – Chipola Junior College

Honolulu grabbed the versatile center fielder from Tallahassee, FL. Santiago can play a number of positions, and possess outstanding range on defense. He has good speed, and a good eye at the plate. His hitting is average, but in a weak draft for center fielders, Santiago stands out as a value pick for the Tsunamis, and looks to eventually fill the spot currently held by the aging Max West.

29. Chicago – Andres Velazquez/P – Minnesota State University – Mankato

The Cubs selected the enigmatic Velazquez, who stays in the Midwest after four strange years in Mankato. The twenty-two year old Velazquez possesses an excellent fastball and good control overall, although he has a tendency to keep the ball in the air, and his velocity leaves something to be desired. He could emerge as a workhorse now, and his college experience leaves him in a position to contribute sooner rather than later.

30. Cleveland – Casey Gray/1B – Southside HS

Cleveland fans have to be excited about the long term potential of Casey Gray. The first baseman from South Carolina can flat-out rake, with incredible contact and big league power. His eye is excellent, and he has good speed to add to the package. The big question will be his fielding, as he has little range and a questionable glove, so his long term projection will be interesting. Still, the Keggers have to be toasting themselves with an excellent first round pick.

31. Columbus – Germany Ledee/LF – Pinewood Christian Academy

Columbus reached out and grabbed the strangely named left fielder from Georgia with their first pick. Ledee appears to be a prototypical corner outfielder, with decent range and glove, average speed, but a very good bat. Ledee looks to be a solid contributor down the road to a Cannibals team that needs to help at some offensive positions. Ledee’s pick is also strengthened by the poor level of talent in the outfield in the draft.

32. Jackson – Woody Griffith/CF – Scottsdale Community College

The Nine never seem like they even need to bother drafting, but short of videotaping the other team’s walkthroughs, they still get their picks, and Jackson continued to build depth by taking the top rated center fielder on many teams’ boards. Griffith has excellent power for a center fielder, and a good bat in most facets. He doesn’t have great range in the field or great speed though, so his long term prospects may lie at a different position, but a good value pick for the Nine.

NL Early Season Pre-Review

And now for the National League, and then a pot of coffee.

NL East
Wichita Wichitards

Wichita has come out of the gate hot, and they have done it with outstanding performances by their pitching staff. The 2.60 team ERA leads the NL. Staff ace and three-time All-Star Al Merced has boasted a 1.04 ERA and 32 Ks, and Miquel Mendoza and Howard Abbott have started strong early this season as well. The bats have been a mixed bag, as the team has shuffled lineups a great deal looking for a spark to go with the ridiculous performances of the pitching staff, and if the Wichitards can find the hitting to go with their pitching, they will be a major contender in the NL.

Chicago Cubs

The Cubs have staggered out of the blocks thus far as they attempt to defend their World Series title. Slow starts by shortstop Cal Maxwell and free-agent acquisition Max Rojas has left the Cubs looking for a spark on offense, although an eleven-game hitting streak by young outfielder Ruben Torres has given cause for optimism. The pitching staff has also had trouble keeping opposing teams off the scoreboard, although Dominican youngster Willie Santos has managed a 2.08 ERA and a 2-1 record in the early going, giving the Cubs a potential go-to guy if Garrett Niekro doesn’t settle down. The Cubs need to get more out of the main performers if they expect to be in it later this season.

Pittsburgh Gryphons

Pittsburgh has to expect more out of the second-highest payroll in the major leagues, but so far the team has struggled, particularly at the plate. A .239 team batting average and only fifteen longballs has put a serious burden on the pitching staff. Legendary slugger J.T. Crosby, claimed off waivers from Chicago, has only managed two homers so far this season, and centerfielder Earl Perez has started off horribly after a solid rookie campaign, batting only .102 thus far. This has squandered some good starts out of a solid pitching staff, particularly all-star Brian Brown, who is 2-0 in 4 starts despite a 1.16 ERA, including a three-hit complete-game shutout against Florida. Pittsburgh needs the bats to wake up if they stand a chance this season.

Toledo Illini

Toledo was primed for a poor season after being rebuffed for realignment into the “Ohio Divison”, but have come out in decent fashion thus far for a young team with only four players on the major league team older than 27. 23 year old catcher Ruben Duranzo leads the offense, batting .292 with five homers thus far, assisted by six homers by Christopher Bruske. The pitching staff, however, has left something to be desired. Austin, TX native Mack Sheldon has been the main man so far, with a 2-0 record and a 3.13 ERA. On the flip side has been the horrible start by Phil Mantei, who is 0-3 with a 9.82 ERA and is allowing opponents to bat .358 against him. The bullpen has been inconsistent, and Toledo needs to get that staff solidified for the bats to be able to make a difference.

NL North
Columbus Cannibals

After finally breaking through and capturing the division title last year, the Cannibals have come out of the gates with a eat all prisoners mentality. The offense has been led by the Venezuelan sensation Miquel Amaral. The slugger who has never hit less than thirty home runs in a season has eight already this year, to go along with 25 RBI. This has been assisted by the gap-toothed Francis Fordyce. The rookie leadoff hitter has swiped eleven bags already, and it another reason for the solid offense thus far. The trio of Tony Li, Orlando Oliva, and Quilvio Merced has covered for an inconsistent start from staff ace Warren Sisler, and if this team continues to click like they have, they have to be considered the favorite to win the division again.

Cleveland Keggers

However, Cleveland is going to have some very strong feelings about a Columbus repeat. The Keggers have a team batting average of .305, and have particularly relied on the hitting of young right fielder Ricardo Santiago, who is belting it at a league-leading .397 clip, with a 1.137 OPS. Derrin Gipson also contributes with a .343 average and had a ten-game hitting streak earlier this season. That has signaled game over when Don Trammel is on the mound. The two-time All-Star has gone 3-1 with a 2.43 ERA and 31 Ks to lead the team in those categories. The struggle for the Keggers has been the bottom half of the rotation, which has been fair at best. They need another starter to emerge as a shutdown player, and they can run down the maneaters ahead of them.


Cincinnati Red Doggs

The division’s “other” Ohio team is still attempting to break the two-team strangehold up top, but it’s going to be an uphill climb to do it. The bright spot on offense has been the rookie season of Rickey Terry, the former first round pick, who is batting .300 with five homers, and gives hope that after a couple of strong years in AAA that he will live up to his incredible potential. The rest of the offense has left much to be desired, with a .224 team batting average. The pitching staff is a similar story, with the rookie season of Rico Urbina. Urbina was the AAA Pitcher of the Year last year, posting a ridiculous 25-3 record, and so far has lived up to the hype, going 2-1 with a 2.42 ERA and a healthy 0.96 WHIP. If the youngsters can perform to their potential, the Ohio Division is going to be a three-horse race before long.


Philadelphia Phantoms

Contrary to world belief, Philadelphia is still in Pennsylvania, and the perennial NL North cellar dwellers do not appear to be ready to break out yet. The offense has been at best average, with no hitters particularly standing out, and only one everyday player, veteran Phillip Strickland, batting over .270. Ironically, contrary to general league trends, this has squandered a few solid starts from pitchers Floyd Tracy and Homer Andrews. This is still, for the most part, a young team, but they have to do something to find some bats to help out the young and talented pitchers at the top of the rotation, or the Phantoms are unlikely to match their twelve game improvement from last year.


NL South
Florida Fever

Last year’s NL South champions have come out of the gate well again this year, and they’ve done it with a balanced squad that hits for average and has been pitching well. The offense has been led by Will Arnold. The former rookie of the year is healthy again after missing last season with a damaged nerve, and has come out like gangbusters with a .293 average, seven homers and 18 RBI. The pitching staff has also been quite solid, but still could take another step up. Notable has been the play of pitcher Phil Chen. The veteran from Kansas has posted a 0.38 ERA thus far this year in four starts. If the top two starts can start to gain some consistency and Arnold can stay healthy, this team looks promising to repeat.

Atlanta Stars

The Atlanta Stars have come out hitting the ball, led by Albert Flores, who has been spraying the ball all over the field with a .375 average, six homers, 26 RBI, and with a fourteen-game hitting streak earlier this year. The team hits for average quite well, with five everyday players above .300 so far. The Achilles’ heel so far has been the pitching staff. Rookie Tom Edwards has been strong, going 2-1 with a 2.30 ERA, but the rest of the staff sports ERAs over 6.00, and they need to have a couple more options on the mound, including stronger play by number one starter Osvaldo Liriano. If the arms match the bats, Atlanta can make a run.

Durham Portland Sea Dogs

Money can’t buy everything, and that includes early season success. The highest payroll in the majors has been a bit flat out of the gate, especially for a team as talented as the Sea Dogs. There have been bright spots. The play of second baseman Kirk Green has led a solid offense, as he has posted a .324 average with seven homers. Free agent acquisition Ned Hartgraves has hit five homers, but needs to improve on his .237 average. On the mound, the Sea Dogs have been able to rely on ace Wolf Grace. The two-time All-Star has gone 3-0 with a 1.97 ERA to lead the team. The rest of the starters have been solid, but the bullpen has woefully underperformed, particularly closer Edwin Beck, who has been shelled in recent outings. If the bullpen can protect a very good rotation, the Sea Dogs have the tools to contend in the South.

San Antonio Slugs

Last year’s Durham franchise has now moved to San Antonio, but they still haven’t figured out how to get out of the NL South cellar. The team is last in the National League in many offensive categories, batting only .210 as a team, and that is with the great start by rookie left fielder Chris Chiasson, a rule 5 selection from Oakland, who is hitting .297 with seven homers. Several of the everyday players are not producing at the plate though, notably right fielder Peter Spivey. The Fall Creek, WI native is batting a pathetic .104 thus far. The staff has been adequate, but with the woeful performance on offense, the records have not shown it. Notable is Jeffrey Zambrano’s performance, clocking an admirable 2.92 ERA in four starts this season. Closer Turner Rose has converted all three save opportunities without surrendering a run. If the Slugs can start hitting, they can do some damage, but it looks like they are still a couple of years away.


NL West
Arizona Cocopahs

Arizona finished third in the West last year despite a record that was ten games over .500, and they have come out on fire this year, starting with the pitching staff. Free agent acquisition Darron Gordon has started off strong, with a 3-0 record and a 3.28 ERA. Rico Barajas has also been strong, going 2-2 with a 2.36 ERA and 30 Ks. The staff ends with rookie closer Henry Phillips. The righthander from Eastern Kentucky University has converted all six save opportunities without surrendering a run. This staff has made up for a weak start at the plate for Arizona. Veteran Will Thornton leads the team with 20 RBI. The Cocopahs need more production out of their lineup to support the pitching staff, or they will be faced with a struggle out in the desert.

Colorado Rocky Mountain Defenders

When we’re talking the Defenders, we’re talking the long ball. The mile high air has had its predictable results, with forty homers from Colorado as a team thus far, paced by seven each from Dave Cyr and Alex Toca. The team is batting over .300 as a squad, and is always going to be a force to be reckoned with at the plate, particularly at home. Of course, that same advantage has led to some high totals from the pitching staff, who have to battle with the same launching pad that the offense benefits from. All of the starters have ERAs over 4.00, and the staff as a whole have surrendered forty homers thus far. Marty Linden has been the strongest starter, holding opponents to a .186 batting average thus far. The big question is if Colorado can produce on the road this season. If they can, they can contend.

Las Vegas Jarshalls

Las Vegas has been inconsistent out of the gate, relying on some decent hitting to support a weak pitching staff. The offense has been paced by Haywood Myette. The third baseman from San Francisco has started batting .291 with six homers. Bobby McEnroe opened the season on a seventeen-game hitting streak to assist. The pitching staff has been inconsistent, although Edgardo Tejera has been a bright spot with a 3-1 record. If Vegas can get their bats and pitching on the same page, they can make some noise in the West.

Oakland Banjo Boys

Oakland is only two years removed from a World Series title, although it took place back in Tacoma, but they have come out of the blocks flat. The older lineup seems to be declining. None of the everyday starters are hitting above .275, led by right fielder Geoff Alexander right at that mark. The pitching staff has also been rocked early, with only ace Jose Marquez recording more than one win. The staff still has some sold players, but they are going to be pressured to produce with the lack of offensive firepower on the roster.

Coming soon: More Dorklike fun about players and such.

Early Season AL Analysis

While it is difficult to predict a season in the first eighteen games or so, the major players and trends are beginning to emerge. The four divisions in the American League are broken down here in order of their current standings, and do not denote any future predictions. Feel free to comment, although realize I'm a newbie and doing this just because I'm a dork. This mostly denotes who have been the main performers for each team, and any trends that seem particularly obvious.

AL East

Pawtucket Piranhas

The Piranhas have come out strong, particularly in the friendly confines of McCoy Stadium. The big bat of designated hitter Charlie Griffith has led the offense, hitting .382 with 4 HRs, while Enrique Tavarez has been a pleasant surprise leading off, with an OBP of .434 and 9 SBs. The pitching has been good enough to win thus far, with Randy Charleston emerging as the strongest starter thus far, and the lights-out play of closer Josh Douglas has given the Piranhas the extra edge to grab the early lead in the AL East, converting all five of his save opportunities thus far without surrendering a run. However, the Piranhas’ pitching staff as a whole has not overpowered, relying on some excellent play in the field thus far with the second best team defense in the AL. If they can continue to support their pitching staff with good glovework, Pawtucket has to remain the favorite in the East.

Baltimore Crab Cakes

The newly relocated Baltimore franchise has come out of the gate in solid fashion. Albert Yount has come out of the gate in spectacular fashion, dominating the competition to race out to a 4-0 record and a 2.35 ERA. Sandy Robinson and Marv McKinley have provided a great one-two punch in the Crab Cakes order, combining for 14 HR and 39 RBI so far. The Crab Cakes are going to need a second consistent option emerge in the rotation to support Yount if they are to contend in the AL.

Boston Clydesdales

The Clydesdales have come out swinging away, and it has kept them afloat through the first two weeks. Second baseman Richard Kirkland has started the season hitting .366 with 10 HR, converting a ridiculous 1.241 OPS, leading the majors in that category. The long ball has made up for some inconsistent hitting out of the offense so far, and it’ll be interesting to see if the offense can gain some consistency. The pitching staff has been all over the place early this season. Journeyman Charles White has gone 3-0 in his first chance to shine at the major league level, but the rest of the staff has had trouble, allowing opposing teams to hit .300. If Boston can find some arms to keep scores down, the teams’ power could easily emerge out of the East.

Louisville Sluggers

The fourth team in the early mixed bag of the East is Louisville. First baseman Fred Drabek, a Rule 5 draft pick from Pittsburgh, has led the offense so far with a .343 average and six homers, including a fourteen-game hitting streak already this season. The rest of the offense has been solid, but the pitching staff is an example of extremes. On one end is veteran pitcher Chad Anderson, who is 3-0 with a 2.96 ERA and 19 Ks in four starts. However, expected staff ace Gregg Huff has been rocked so far, going 0-3 with an appalling 11.29 ERA. Louisville is going to have to find some consistency out of its staff to compete this year, but if Huff can get his stuff turned around, Louisville will be able to compete.

AL North

Chicago Ravens

The three-time defending divison champs are on top once again early, and have to be considered the favorite to run the streak to four. Solid all-around play has denoted the early season Ravens, led by rookie center fielder Darren Wilkerson has led the offense out of the gate with a .386 average, while Fritz O’Brien has launched eight homers thus far. The pitching staff has produced well, with a surprising start from young Dominican left-hander Julian Gonzales mowing down the competition with a 3-0 start, with a 1.15 ERA and 25 Ks. The staff has a whole has been consistent, with most pitchers performing solid enough to stake an early lead to the Ravens. If this kind of balanced production continues, the Ravens should roll to another AL North title.

Portland Wet Streaks

If a team is going to be able to step up to Chicago, it’s going to have to be Portland. The Streaks have come out of the gate hitting well as a team, with a .286 team average and 33 HRs. Young catcher Bob Minor has an eighteen-game hitting streak, and is hitting .380 thus far to lead the consistent Portland offense. The pitching staff has been adequate, but has really not gotten the production they need, with none of the starters really emerging as a go-to guy on the mound. One starter to watch is Neifi Nunez. The nineteen-year old Mexican can deal smoke, and if he can emerge as a major starter, Portland can begin to close the gap on the Ravens.

Madison Muskies

The franchise that never unpacks has arrived in Madison, and continues to be a rebuilding project. The offense has looked very good so far, even away from the launching pad of Bessire Ballpark, led by nine homers by designated hitter Frank Ross. The pitching has been completely pathetic thus far, and was further crushed by the loss of pitchers Fred Sparks and Luis Rivera to injuries and a dearth of pitching talent throughout the farm system. The defense has been feast or famine, suffering the worst fielding percentage in the AL, but leading the league in double plays. The Muskies will be entertaining this year, particularly at home where the runs will come fast and furious, but are still a couple of years from contention.

Detroit Renegades

Detroit has stumbled a bit out of the gate, but has a consistent offense that could do them well down the stretch. Veteran second baseman Alex Gonzalez has knocked in 15 RBI thus far to lead a balanced attack, with several batters hitting above .270. The pitching staff has been better than the results would show, but struggles in the bullpen have resulted in a 3-6 record in one-run games, which leaves the Renegades’ record much lower than their play should warrant. A search for a consistent closer continues at Comerica Park, but if the bullpen settles down, the play of the starters has been solid enough to make Detroit a team to keep an eye on.

AL South

Jackson Nine

What can be said about Jackson that already hasn’t been? Last year’s playoff disappointment has led to a Furious Nine coming out of the gate with wild abandon. The explosive Jackson offense has been led thus far by Pablo Acosta, whose .382 average has led the team thus far. The scary part has been the effectiveness of the offense despite a slow start by defending AL MVP Wayne Hill, who could heat up at any time. The pitching staff has been especially effective, led by 3-0 starts by Pedro Molina and Todd Mateo. The staff is protected by the best defense in the AL. All together, the Nine are going to be a force to be reckoned with all season, and have to be considered the favorite in the AL.

Kansas City Royal Flush

Kansas City has drawn to an inside straight with Jackson in their division. The team has talent, but it will have to perform at a high level to be able to run with the Nine. The offense has been dead last thus far in many offensive categories. Any spark has to start with rookie second baseman David Mendez, who leads the team in homers but is batting a paltry .224, particularly with all-star shortstop Harry Segui out with a sprained MCL for a couple weeks. The team needs to hit to be able to keep pace, and to protect a solid pitching staff. In particular, the lack of offense has squandered some excellent starts by young fireballer Dernell Sierra, and the excellent play of closer Luis Rodriquez, who is perfect in save situations. The Flush have the young talent to make some noise, but are probably a few pieces away from contention in the South.

Richmond Colonials

The Colonials finished over .500 last year, and have the capability to do it again. The offense has provided plenty of power, with the duo of Clay Donatello and rookie Pat Baldwin combining for thirteen homers thus far to lead the dinger parade. Batting average has been a concern with only one batter over .300 on the season thus far. Much like the Flush, the Colonials pitching staff has played well enough to win, particularly staff ace Oscar McMillan, who has had good numbers thus far but only managed a 1-2 record. The Colonials have the pitching to be effective, but have to get more consistent from the plate to support the staff.

New Orleans Canes

The young Canes are an interesting team to watch. The majority of their roster is under 27 years of age, and they show sparks of potential. This is a fast team, and leads the AL in stolen bases, led by second baseman Torey Rodgers with ten. The other bright spot on the offense has been the play of 23 year old Cole Davis, who has build on a solid last season with a .313 average with five homers thus far. However, the young offense has the worst average in the league thus far. The pitching staff has had its ups and downs. Pedro Rosado has been rocked in all three starts thus far, and as a whole none of the pitchers have emerged as a bona-fide ace. This is going to be a year of testing for the Canes, attempting to determine which of the youth movement will be here for the long run.

AL West

Honolulu Tsunamis

If there is a team that looks like they may be able to the Nine this year, it’s the defending AL Champions out on Oahu. This is the rare team that has the pitching to battle with anyone. Led this season by a strong top three of Matthew Sweeney, Vince Duran, and Marlon Post, the Tsunamis staff has the best ERA in the AL. Couple that with a four-for-four performance thus far by veteran closer Ryan Rodriguez, and you have a staff that can hurl with the best of them. So far, the offense has been able to produce, led by rookie right-fielder Trevor Holmes, who has followed up a masterful season at AAA last year with a .300 average with eight homers early this season. Add six homers each by all-star Jeff Valentin and Rudy Ramsey, and they have the bats to contend as well.

Helena Urbanites

Behind the scenes, the quiet squad from Montana has produced a very solid ball club, and one to watch for this season. It all starts with staff ace Tom Matheson. The six-time All-Star has come out hotter than ever, with a 4-0 record and a phenomenal 1.16 ERA and 31 Ks. Along with Enrique Espinoza, the Urbanites have a one-two punch as good as anyone in the majors. With that kind of production from the top of the staff, the bats only need to produce some to get wins, and so far they have been up to the task. Former number-one overall pick Victor Diaz has led the offense with a .300 average, six homers, and 25 RBI. The offense has a few rough spots, but if they can get production from the lineup, this team could sneak up on people.

Boise Boozehounds

Meanwhile, just to the west, the Boozehounds have built another solid team. Led by all-star first baseman Leonardo Montgomery, who has come out of the gate on fire with a .386 average and six home runs, Boise can rake, and this helps defend a middle-of-the-pack pitching staff. Fortunately, the staff thus far has been able to rely on Iowa native Corky Stevenson. The three-time All-Star has continued to impress, going 3-0 with a 2.51 ERA, including a masterful complete-game shutout of Helena in the rivalry game. This has covered for a weak start by Jeremy Lidle early this season. If Lidle comes around, the Boozehounds staff can matchup well, and Boise cannot be counted out.

Anaheim Waves

Anaheim is another interesting team in a fascinating AL West. The bats have been solid early this season, led by designated hitter Enrique Arrojo, who is hitting .357 this season. A few of the every starters have not met expectations yet, particularly perennial Silver Slugger winner Chad Green, who needs to produce from the shortstop position for Anaheim to keep pace in this division. With the pitching in this division, Anaheim’s staff has to keep pace. Most of the starters have ERAs above 4, although the starters have allowed low opposing batting averages, and have not been the beneficiary of timely hitting. With a bit of luck and more consistency from the primary players, Anaheim is in a position to finish above .500 for the third year in a row.

We shall see how the season shakes out in the American League as the inevitable slumps and injuries take their savage toll on the teams. Coming soon: the National League.

Mid Season Power Rankings

The Best
1) Jackson Nine - Unstoppable, dominant, don't want to face them in the playoffs, all describe the Jackson Nine right now. With a win % hovering near .800 it'll be a daunting task to take them out.

The Rest
2) Chicago Cubs - The best all around team in the NL with a lineup to fear and a pitching staff to match. I'll be eating crow for saying Cleveland would dominate the NL...

3) Columbus Cannibals - So much for them being lil Cleveland or Cleveland Lite. The Cannibals took the division lead a while back and have Cleveland in their rear view now...

4) Colorado Rocky Mountain Defenders - Once again, I didn't see this one coming, but Colorado has maintained a heathly lead in the NL West and is one of the elite teams in either league.

The Contenders
5) Cleveland Keggers - The loss of two good arms in the pitching staff could present problems down the road, but there's no counting out this team until the fat lady starts singing.

6) Honolulu Tsunamis - Been a very up and down season so far and the Tsunamis have fought their way back into the AL West lead. It'll be rough as Boise is very very good too.

7) New Orleans Canes - Tough to be 20+ games over .500 and still 10 games back in the division. Have really turned the corner this year and are looking good to be in the playoffs.

8) Boize Boozehounds - Apparently the addition of a Jack Daniels filled water fountain has really helped relax the pitching staff and they're finally pulling their weight. Not a team you'll want to face in the first or second rounds. Well not really a team you want to face at all with a 3 time MVP showing up every day.

9)Chicago Ravens - Making good trades everyday pushes you to the top of a bad division.

10) Wichita Wichitards - I don't watch the NL much, but they're looking good. (sorry i'm AL biased)

The Pretenders
11) Arizona will fight Tacoma and Wichita for that final wildcard spot mark my words.
12) Tacoma (see 10)
13) Kansas City Royal Flush - A good team, but a brutal division. Sorry.
14) Richmond Colonials - Spanked the Tsunamis, but stuck at the bottom of the Nasty AL South.
15) Charlotte Lumbee Warriors - Leading their division for the first time I can remember. Usually always a bridesmaid, never a bride. Good luck holding on, the Pirahanas are pretty good.
16) Pawtucket Pirahanas - Breathing down Charlotte's neck.
17) Anaheim Waves - Still improving, but Boise and Honolulu are the class of a down year AL West.
18) Florida Fighting Flamingos - A division leader this low?! Yeah its a weak division and whoever ends up winning will face Cleveland in the first round. Great fun there...
19) Atlanta Kamakazis - See 17
20) Loisville Freezer Monkeys - Marked improvement for the 3rd straight year, but still a sub .500 team.
21) Helena Urbanites - Rebuilding I guess.

Next year will be our year (The Cubbies Mantra)
22) Philadelphia Phantoms
23) Toledo Illini
24) Detroit Renegade
25) Cincinnatti Red Doggs
26) Nashville Sound
27) Los Angeles Stars
28) Trenton Falcons

Fighting For that #1 Selection
29)St Louis Lunatics
30)Boston Clydesdales
31)Portland Wet Streaks
32)Durham Bulls

Struggles in Cleveland Continue

Although the Cleveland Keggers boast a record of 40-28 as of Feb 24, pm2 cycle, there is not much laughter in the clubhouse. Trailing their longtime rival Columbus Cannibals by 5 games, this is not the season Worion1 (owner/gm/headcoach) was expecting. The offseason addition of perennial Cy Young candidate Don Trammell led to many to believe Cleveland would be bringing back the World Series this year. If possible, Worion1 stated if he could he would fire the entire coaching staff midseason, but since this hasnt been added to HBD yet, my players can only look at themselves to find the winning ways. In order improve, Omar Martin , Marlon Reynolds will be keys to get the offense going, both are hitting about 70 points lower than last season. Closer Tommy Patterson must also return to his Allstar form and find a way to close the door in the ninth inning after already blowing 4 saves this season with a 8+ ERA.

Season 7 Draft in Review

Some would call draft time the most exciting of the year. However, those with such enthusiasm were not to be found this year as the quality of the incoming players was much maligned. As always though, you can never evaluate a player pool until they make the long, arduous trek to the Majors. For some that may never happen, for others it may be a quicker transition than we think. Either way, no harm in snap judgements.

1st Round Results

1. Colorado Rocky Mountain Defenders - No real suprise here. Rightfielder Tony Kinney out of Rice University was the most talented positional player available with a phenomenal speed and power combination rarely seen. He projects to be average in the field. The only possible question in his game appears to be whether he'll learn to use his speed. If Kinney and his coaches can develop his baserunning skill, Im sure this player could go down as one of the best weve seen playing in that Rocky Mountain Air.

Tony Kinney Colorado Rocky Mountain Defenders Age: 21 B/T: L/L Born: Burlington, ON Position(s): RF/1B/LF/DH View Hardball Dynasty Profile

2. Louisville Freezer Monkeys - Lawrence Tomlinson
It didnt take long for the first questionable selection of the draft to take place. While Lawrence projects to be an excellent defensive center fielder with great speed, his offensive game appears to be severely lacking, even at the highest projected level. It is true, however, that he was the best centerfield option available so if that was your need than I suppose you cant be faulted. It also couldnt of hurt that he shares the same father as the other LT. Illegitimate all the way. Alot of more talented players were passed on though that probably couldve helped in a much bigger way down the road.



3. Portland Wet Streaks - Andrew Michaels (2B)
As of this moment, Michaels has yet to sign. Greedy bastards, kids that think they might like to play another sport, or kids that think school is more important than making the big bucks get no write ups from me. Sign your damn contract.


4. Philadelphia Phantoms - Esteban Fernandez
Esteban, Esteban, Esteban. If everything goes right for this kid, he'll be one of the leagues top pitchers for years to come. His stuff is not the best with his two best pitches projected at 79 and 76 respectively. However, that hardly matters when he has 93/97/97/95 control/splits/velocity ratings. The GM of the Phantoms has been quoted recently as saying "All this losing is getting very old." But this GM is certain that as long as he sticks around to see this kid develop along with Chris Wolf and Floyd Tracy, he should have no problem putting together a winner.


5. Boston Clydesdales - Jim Benard
Although Bernards position of choice is listed as SS, he lacks the skills to play there in the majors and he looks to be moved to 3rd at some point. Offensively, he looks very solid. A 25-90 type that could also provide you with 10-15 steals. A good pick for a franchise desperately needing help on the hot corner.



6. Durham Bulls -

Henry Springer Durham Bulls Age: 20 B/T: L/R Born: Philadelphia, PA Position(s): 2B View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Springer was a guy that looked worse pre-draft in my eyes than after he signed. I guess we didnt scout him well enough, because he certainly is going to be a major player for years to come. Great D at second, not much speed, but great power. He should team up well with last years first rounder Hank O' Malley down the road to give this Durham lineup a major boost.


7. Trenton Falcons - Giomar Rivera (1B). See number 3.

8. St. Louis Lunatics - Rube Eckstein
=/

Nice enough third basemen, but not this early.


9. Los Angeles Stars - Mikey Spencer
This shortstop from Weyerhaeuser, WI should prove to be the long term solution at short for the Stars.


10. Detroit Renegade - Wilbur Gross (2B). See number 7.

11. Arizona Cocopahs -

Kiki Olivares Arizona Cocopahs Age: 18 B/T: R/R Born: Uniontown, OH Position(s): P (SP1) View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Gotta love a man named Kiki...I guess. Regardless of the name though, this pictcher could definitly develop into a staff ace. He has everything you could want.


12. Charlotte Lumbee Warriors - Jolbert Carrara (P) See 10.

13. Richmond Colonials - Greg Anderson (P) See 12. And Damnit.

14. New Orleans Canes - Brendan Maxwell
Maxwell was a bitter sweet selection for the Canes. When surveying the draft beforehand, the New Orleans GM had hoped that pitcher Greg Anderson would fall to thier spot. And that dream almost became reality. Almost. Maxwell is no slouch though. He lacks the glamourous high overall rating, however, thats basically due to his lack of stamina at this point in his young career. All of his other stats are superb.


15. Wichita Wichitards - Thomas Leon
This was another slection that raised a few eyebrows. Leon has well documented control issues and his stuff has best been described as average. The Witchita faithful were not pleased with this selection. To that, the GM had this to say: "Ive got the authority here and the experiance. Thats what counts. Not fans uneducated opinions."


16. Toledo Illini - Vicente Polanco (SS). See 13.

17. Tacoma Typhoons - Duane Francis
Tacoma adds another very good young reliever to its store of up and comers.


18. Anaheim Waves -

Benny Nunez Anaheim Waves Age: 19 B/T: R/R Born: Buffalo Center, IA Position(s): 2B View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Nunez, famous for his patented shades worn whether day or night, is another case of a draftee who will need to make a position switch at some point. He prefers second base, but looks to be at 3rd or one of the corner outfield slots.


19. Kansas City Royal Flush - Luke Cox (1B) See 16.

20. Atlanta KAMIKAZES - Dallas DeHart
Closer with a great name and good stuff, who at 22, looks to join the up and coming Kamikazes sooner rather than later.


21. Chicago Ravens -

Gus Heving Chicago Ravens Age: 20 B/T: L/L Born: Baldwinsville, NY Position(s): CF View Hardball Dynasty Profile

"Mustache Gus," as his friends call him, is one of those players that everyone undervaules, but is solid in every area. Plus, he's from some random ass community college. So Im sure he'll feel a need to prove himself.


22. Florida Fightin' Flamingos - Harold Kearns (CF). See 19.

23. Tacoma Typhoons - Elmer Wallace
The second of the Typhoons first round picks, Elmer Wallace is your prototypical masher first basemen. Great hitter, slow as (insert whatever cliche phrase you want). Could eventually definitly replace the venerable Rick Rolle.


24. Pawtucket Piranhas - Alex Calles
I guess if you need a reliever, you need one. It would just be very hard for me to take someone I see projected as a 66 overall in the first round. But Pawtucket has won many more games than my franchise, so who am I to question?


25. Cincinnati Red Doggs - Steven Faulk (SS). See 22.

26. Helena urbanites -

Johan Hogan Helena urbanites Age: 18 B/T: L/L Born: Mandan, ND Position(s): P (SP1) View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Its hard to believe Mr. Hogan fell this far down. He does have some control issues, but everything else is so good, I think he can overcome them if used correctly.


27. Nashville Sound - Norm Blanton (SS). See 25.

28. Jackson Nine - Spud Hudler (CF). See 26. I would like to start a petition that Jackson can no longer have draft picks by the way. They dont need them.

29. Columbus Cannibals - Odalis Jose
Odalis is one of those guys that gets thier high rating almost solely based on his high stamina which projects at 100. He does have a couple good pitches though. If anyone can manage him to success though, Im sure its the Columbus franchise.


30. Chicago Cubs -

Hardball Dynasty's

Bryan Simmons

Simmons is very good value at the end of the first round given how many teams lack solid catching. Admittedly, his pitch calling is below average, but he is an excellent excellent hitter.


31. Honolulu Tsunamis - Timo Van Pelt (SS). See 28. Even if this guy doesnt sign, Rob O' Connor is amazing. You also shouldnt have draft picks Honolulu.

32. Cleveland Keggers - Jack Easley
Another Mustache Gus type of player...solid in all areas of the game. These are the type of guys that fill in and help to get you the best record in the league.


Overall, the quality of this draft probably wasnt as bad as everyone initially felt. Every team needs those filler guys like Heving and Easley as I mentioned and there were still bonified stars out there like Kinney and Fernandez. That being said, heres hoping next seasons draft allows teams 16-32 to get a little higher quality of player. Until then.