T.R. Sullivan on the 25 man roster
by Adam J. Morris on Jan 19, 2009 3:25 PM CST
113 comments
T.R. Sullivan makes a guess as to what the 25 man roster will look like to start the season.
The only real disagreement I have with him is in the bullpen, where I think either Willie Eyre or Derrick Turnbow (probably Eyre) will start the season out there, instead of Warner Madrigal.
Otherwise, I think his list matches mine, with the possible exception of Frank Catalanotto not making it in lieu of German Duran.
0 recs |
113 comments
|
Email
Print
Comments
The Long Relief
What will be the difference in Josh Rupe’s role out of the bullpen if Dustin Nippert is going to be long relief this season? He showed some good stuff last year but I don’t think he really got a whole lot of opportunities in key middle relief situations.
by aggierangerfan00 on Jan 19, 2009 3:28 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Blalock?
He doesn’t list Blalock on there anywhere. Does that mean that neither of you think he’ll be on the 25 Opening Day?
by Athos on Jan 19, 2009 3:29 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
He doesn't list DH either.........
"My mother always taught me that if the only thing you have to say is,
‘(Expletive) Dave Samson,’ then don’t say anything at all.
So I’m not going to say anything at all.
Is my mother the greatest or what?"
- Mariners GM Bill Bavasi, after signing Ichiro to a $90 million contract
by tyd3311 on Jan 19, 2009 3:30 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Blalock is the DH
I assumed he just inadvertantly omitted that.
by Adam J. Morris on Jan 19, 2009 3:31 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
what's the situation with gabbard
is he a lock to start in the pen? is that solely based on the hand he throws with? im just not crazy about him.
also id rather see byrd playing everyday in the outfield than murphy
by Smoakin in the Boys Room on Jan 19, 2009 3:31 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
AJ Murray will be his competition
Is AJ healthy?
"My mother always taught me that if the only thing you have to say is,
‘(Expletive) Dave Samson,’ then don’t say anything at all.
So I’m not going to say anything at all.
Is my mother the greatest or what?"
- Mariners GM Bill Bavasi, after signing Ichiro to a $90 million contract
by tyd3311 on Jan 19, 2009 3:31 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
nah
he is never healthy and his control and stuff is below average after 3-4 surgeries; he’s got zero chance IMO. I think Joe Torres is a dark horse for the left role…otherwise they sign a vet.
by Goyogringo on Jan 19, 2009 5:01 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Byrd and Murphy...
…will likely platoon, I imagine, with Byrd also starting from time to time against righties when Cruz sits.
Gabbard would be the second lefty in the pen, and I think he’s out of options.
by Adam J. Morris on Jan 19, 2009 3:35 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
So you see Murphy taking AB's away from Nelly Cruz?
I’m gonna go pour salt in my eyes.
This sucks.
The 40 Trumps All!!!
I hate Michael Young.
"There are no weak opinions with the dirkatron, it’s all scream-across-the-parking-lot echelon." -hightowersmith
by thedirkatron on Jan 19, 2009 4:12 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
If Cruz is the cleanup hitter to break up the lefties
I don’t personally see how Murphy is going to be denting his playing time, myself. That would be dumb even for Ron Washington.
That Gold Glove for Young was the worst thing that could have happened to Texas - now the guy really believes he's good at short. - Keith Law
by lonestarJon on Jan 19, 2009 4:20 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
What are your problems with R-Was again?
I really don’t understand all the hate for him.
The 40 Trumps All!!!
I hate Michael Young.
"There are no weak opinions with the dirkatron, it’s all scream-across-the-parking-lot echelon." -hightowersmith
by thedirkatron on Jan 19, 2009 4:42 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
He's one of those classic "baseball guys" (AKA DUsty Baker types)
Who just doesn’t have a clue. I hate those types.
That Gold Glove for Young was the worst thing that could have happened to Texas - now the guy really believes he's good at short. - Keith Law
by lonestarJon on Jan 19, 2009 5:44 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
It is hard to not like RW
but I agree with Jon, when he is out there during game time there is no logic to many of his moves.
I have nothing to say
by rldwb on Jan 19, 2009 6:07 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
re: "Who just doesn’t have a clue."
Yah, I’ve figured out that you don’t think he has a clue, but I’m asking what he’s done to make you feel that way.
The 40 Trumps All!!!
I hate Michael Young.
"There are no weak opinions with the dirkatron, it’s all scream-across-the-parking-lot echelon." -hightowersmith
by thedirkatron on Jan 19, 2009 7:00 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
His in-game management, mainly
Plus things like his man-love for vets like Sosa, the way he handled the catching platoon, and the idea he has that Chris Davis can’t hit any higher than 7th.
It’s hard to go back through and dig up a collective of things to point to, especially with his in-game management, but after watching the guy for two years I’m fairly convinced he’s a dunce when it comes to the actual management part of his job. His only saving grace is that the players love him, which, I suppose counts for something. We could admittedly do worse for the managerial position, but we could also do, much, much better.
That Gold Glove for Young was the worst thing that could have happened to Texas - now the guy really believes he's good at short. - Keith Law
by lonestarJon on Jan 19, 2009 7:09 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Dirk
I know that many of us feel like we could manage this team and may not be objective. But Ron Washington has done things that are mind boggling, lineups and pitching changes in particular.
No one is perfect and Ron Washington has his strengths, but they call that position Manager for a reason and that is where RW is weak.
I have nothing to say
by rldwb on Jan 19, 2009 10:27 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Cruz isn't likely to play 162 games
by Adam J. Morris on Jan 19, 2009 4:29 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Are you talking about regular rest to protect against fatigue and injuries, or sitting Cruz a lot against righties?
Cause regularly scheduled days off aren’t a bad thing, but benching a guy who could theoretically be part of the long term solution because we want to get AB’s for some trumped up replacement player would seriously give me the red ass.
The 40 Trumps All!!!
I hate Michael Young.
"There are no weak opinions with the dirkatron, it’s all scream-across-the-parking-lot echelon." -hightowersmith
by thedirkatron on Jan 19, 2009 4:36 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Unless Lucas' site is dated
Gabbard has one option so he will likely be in AAA
by Goyogringo on Jan 19, 2009 5:02 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
so who do you see
as the 2nd lefty? I assume someone who is not yet with the org…
by clark on Jan 19, 2009 5:07 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
yeah I would hope
I like Denys Reyes, Beimel, shouse, and Ohman but I guess we get stuck with EddieG. Joe Torres is a dark horse. Gabbard has to prove he can pitch out of the bullpen, prove he’s healthy, and show that he has regained his control though his “control” is a bit of a myth if you look at his bb rates in the minors.
by Goyogringo on Jan 19, 2009 8:18 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Cruz
I have a feeling alot of people around here are gonna be pissed how much he sits this year. Unless he comes out on fire at the plate I don’t see him playing in more than 120 games. Hamilton will probably play 40-60 games in RF to keep him fresh over the course of the season. Hamilton has said he doesn’t like to DH so I don’t see him doing much if any of that this year. When Hamilton slides over to RF Byrd will slide to CF. I believe Murphy will play LF in this alignment with Cruz sitting the bench.
Bryan Smith (12:17:17 PM PT): Justin Smoak and Josh Hamilton. The AL West might just have found their Bash Brothers, v. 2.0.
by bigsteve on Jan 19, 2009 5:12 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Pitching Depth
The Rangers were never interested in Freddy Garcia but still think they will add either Jason Jennings or somebody else for pitching depth.
“Pitching depth” seems to me to indicate an NRI-type guy rather than somebody you slot into the rotation at the start of the season.
by Excel Hearts Choi on Jan 19, 2009 3:35 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
I guess that is why they went to his throwing session...?
They’ll be at Benson’s this week too, but i guess that means they are not interested, and Cordero’s last week…
by Goyogringo on Jan 19, 2009 5:06 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
This doesn't make much sense to me
Still think that the Rangers have to give Brandon McCarthy one more shot. But only one more.
Why? He hasn’t been bad, he’s been hurt. If he gets hurt again, then the Rangers won’t be able to give him another chance. But if he’s healthy, there is absolutely no reason whatsoever not to give McCarthy every chance to succeed this year.
That Gold Glove for Young was the worst thing that could have happened to Texas - now the guy really believes he's good at short. - Keith Law
by lonestarJon on Jan 19, 2009 3:36 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
It sure would be nice
if they could get rid of Cat for a LHB middle infielder that can hit. Otherwise, replace him with Duran and put Feldman in the pen, Hurley in the rotation and dump Nippert.
Elvis Andrus - 2009 AL Rookie of the Year
by RangerMad on Jan 19, 2009 3:39 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
One problem
There’s only 24 players on that roster. Did he unintentionally leave off Blalock?
"Was this really necsarry?" - cowpoke/hurler hurley
by trza on Jan 19, 2009 4:05 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
yep
He forgot Blalock:
http://trsullivan.mlblogs.com/archives/2009/01/oopsblalock.html
"Was this really necsarry?" - cowpoke/hurler hurley
by trza on Jan 19, 2009 6:43 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
an idea for a trade
Looking around the league, I noticed the Detroit Tigers’ roster was pretty righty dominant, and I started wondering if they might be an ideal landing place for a left handed specialist like Cat. Now Cat, as we all know, has zero to negative trade value, so I started looking around their roster to see what sort of swap might make sense. One name that stands out on their end might be LHP Nate Robertson, who on the surface probably elicits a chorus of moans on your part. But Robertson is a groundball inducing lefty who was hurt by playing in front of a horrible infield defense last year, leading to a BAA that is not in line with other stats. This article makes a decent case that he might be a strong rebound candidate, albeit a candidate set to make $17M over the next two years. He is currently listed no higher than 7th on their rotation depth chart, so I have a feeling they find him expendable. If they were to throw some money our way (perhaps two to three million) it might make sense on our part.
What do you think?
by clark on Jan 19, 2009 4:15 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
We've already got Nate Robertson on this team
He’s going under Kason Gabbard.
That Gold Glove for Young was the worst thing that could have happened to Texas - now the guy really believes he's good at short. - Keith Law
by lonestarJon on Jan 19, 2009 4:18 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
the key difference
is that Robertson has a history of being a durable, healthy starting pitcher. Gabbard has a history of annual injuries, so I think he is destined for the bullpen.
by clark on Jan 19, 2009 4:22 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I was kind of assuming you wanted Robertson for the bullpen, actually
There’s no way I would put Nate Robertson in our rotation over anyone we currently have.
That Gold Glove for Young was the worst thing that could have happened to Texas - now the guy really believes he's good at short. - Keith Law
by lonestarJon on Jan 19, 2009 4:23 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I think
in front of a potentially strong infield and outfield defense, Robertson could return to an ERA between 4 or 4.5. There was clearly something amiss last year in Detroit, as every one of their starters saw their numbers tumble from the year before. To give you some peace of mind, here is the laughably ubiquitous article talking about his offseason training regimine after a down year.
by clark on Jan 19, 2009 4:30 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Pilates
He and Millwood seem to love tose odd conditioning programs
by BEW on Jan 19, 2009 4:51 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Why is pilates odd?
The 40 Trumps All!!!
I hate Michael Young.
"There are no weak opinions with the dirkatron, it’s all scream-across-the-parking-lot echelon." -hightowersmith
by thedirkatron on Jan 19, 2009 7:01 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I can't find a word "pilates"
I have nothing to say
by rldwb on Jan 19, 2009 10:32 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Just my opinon
Maybe its OK. But I’m an old dude thats been following the game since the 60’s. Like Nolan I’m old school
by BEW on Jan 20, 2009 7:39 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
i think we should give our young pitchers a chance.
Stability is key, and JD is a Beast.
Jindal - 2012
The Wrestler
by Longhorn on Jan 19, 2009 4:20 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
if he has a statistical rebound like I expect.
a la Kyle Lohse, then I would propose that we trade him at the deadline, when some of our younger pitchers may be ready to step in.
by clark on Jan 19, 2009 4:40 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Nate Robertson
I’d be alright with him for Cat, I guess.
"Was this really necsarry?" - cowpoke/hurler hurley
by trza on Jan 19, 2009 4:20 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Cat
He’s owed $6 million right now, if you flat release him.
Robertson is owed $17 million.
If Robertson were a free agent right now, and the Rangers signed him to a 2 year, $11 million deal, I’d be furious.
If they signed him to a 2 year, $6 million deal, I’d be furious.
He’s not good.
by Adam J. Morris on Jan 19, 2009 4:32 PM CST up reply actions 1 recs
in my OP
i said that the Tigers would probably need to add some money to make the deal make sense for us. Reading various articles, they appear pretty anxious to get rid of him, so adding two to three million might be feasible. At that point, it is essentially a 2 year, 8-9M dollar deal for a league average pitcher who has historically been healthy.
I am not in love with the idea, but it was just a thought. Slow day, I guess.
by clark on Jan 19, 2009 4:38 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
He's not a league average starter
The park-adjusted baseline for his career is 4.45. His career FIP is 4.75. And he’s had pretty extreme home/road splits for his career, suggesting he may benefit more than usual from his home park.
That notwithstanding, I don’t want the Rangers adding league average starters for multiple years at $4-5 million per year, even for two years. If the choice is between that and letting Eric Hurley, Matt Harrison, Scott Feldman, et al take some lumps, give me option 2.
by Adam J. Morris on Jan 19, 2009 4:43 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
speaking of last year
his FIP of 4.99, which was a career worst by a pretty wide margin, would have been second best among Rangers starters, second only to Millwood.
Besides, this whole scenario is under the assumption that we are not able to land Sheets. If that is the case, with Millwood and Padilla likely coming off the books, Robertson might be nice to have around in a contract year in 2010 at a reasonable rate.
by clark on Jan 19, 2009 4:51 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
+1
That Gold Glove for Young was the worst thing that could have happened to Texas - now the guy really believes he's good at short. - Keith Law
by lonestarJon on Jan 19, 2009 5:45 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I think Nate Robertson is a bad pitcher
And I want nothing to do with him.
by Adam J. Morris on Jan 19, 2009 4:29 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
+1
"No... JD has been exposed as a kid who trades his remote-controlled helicopters for paper airplanes, then fails to consider the feelings of the paper airplane when he refolded it into a hat." -Telegraph.
by Kinslerhomer on Jan 19, 2009 4:31 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm confused
On the one hand, you said “he’s not good.” Then you said “Robertson is a bad pitcher.” Which is it?
I need to think something lasts forever, and it might as well be that state of being that is a game; it might as well be that, in a green field, in the sun.
by WyoRanger on Jan 19, 2009 4:36 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm no Nate Robertson lover, don't get me wrong
But he potentially has a heck of a lot more value to this team than Cat does. I take that 1-for-1 swap every day of the week and twice on Sunday.
Pitcher with not great upside but possibility of some value > Hitter with not great upside and no possibility of value (considering our other offensive options
Keith Law: (1:45 PM ET ) I think Michael Young should shut his mouth and move to third base.
by WestTxAg06 on Jan 19, 2009 4:53 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
ehhh
replacing a specialty hitter off the bench that can’t play defense well with a “special lefty” that can’t really pitch well but would block our future starters from gaining valuable time at the ML level is a bad move. especially if Nate’s contract is that bad.
"Hang-Dai, Wu...Hang-Fu$&ing-Dai"
by Walter Sobchak on Jan 19, 2009 10:44 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I can't believe they put T.R. on the 25 man...
couldn’t they have figured out a way to leave him off and add a pitcher? Stupid Jon Daniels.
by TxStCa on Jan 19, 2009 4:57 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Why
do yall hate David Murphy? Before he was injured he was leading most rookies in most offensive categories.
by Schultzy on Jan 19, 2009 4:59 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
He was leading in window dressing categories, not being the best hitter.
by Brett Perryman on Jan 19, 2009 5:18 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
A .321 OBP
probably has a little to do with it. I don’t think anyone “hates” him. They just realize he’s not a everyday outfielder.
by BHill on Jan 19, 2009 5:19 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
vs. RHP, Murphy posted a .282/.333/.502 (.835 OPS)
vs. LHP, Murphy posted a .258/.290/.379 (.669 OPS)
Byrd and Murphy have posted similar numbers against RHP, but Byrd is significantly better against LHP (.841 OPS in 2008 and .826 OPS in 2007 against LHP)
They are both good defensive players. It is just pretty clear that Murphy would be best utilized as a platoon player, ideally with Byrd. If you platoon Murphy and Byrd, you will probably get above average production in LF. If you only play Murphy, you will have a slightly below average outfielder. Murphy is valuable, but he needs to be used properly.
by Stephen Rushin on Jan 19, 2009 5:20 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
This.
That Gold Glove for Young was the worst thing that could have happened to Texas - now the guy really believes he's good at short. - Keith Law
by lonestarJon on Jan 19, 2009 5:48 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I would prefer a rotation of Millwood, Padilla, Harrison, McCarthy, and Hurley with Feldman as the long reliever and Nippert designated for assignment. Feldman doesn’t miss enough bats, in my opinion, to be a successful starter. I don’t think he has a ceiling higher than a #5-type starter/swingman. And, I think Hurley, despite his recent struggles, has a higher ceiling and should get the first look in the rotation in a rebuilding year. I’d like to give Hurley and Harrison every chance to start in the majors next season in hopes of being competitive in 2010.
Maybe I am wrong on Feldman, though. He did do a nice job last season, given his limited experience as a starter. But we will not have the same five starters for the entire season, so even if he does start the season in the pen, he see some time in the rotation.
by Stephen Rushin on Jan 19, 2009 5:29 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I have no idea why this got posted here...
I definitely clicked reply to the Hurley post below this by j-r-d.
by Stephen Rushin on Jan 19, 2009 5:30 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
This too.
That Gold Glove for Young was the worst thing that could have happened to Texas - now the guy really believes he's good at short. - Keith Law
by lonestarJon on Jan 19, 2009 5:49 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
exactly
I’ve been preaching this for months. C’mon BigSteve, time to see the light. :)
Elvis Andrus - 2009 AL Rookie of the Year
by RangerMad on Jan 19, 2009 5:59 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
About what?
Feldman? Ive never said he has a higher ceiling than BMac, Hurley, or Harrison. But I do think he could become a very nice #5 starter for this club going forward. Hes only 26 years old. Last season was his first as a starter as a pro. Heck he came into spring training last year still as a reliever before being switched and had all of about a month in the minors before becoming a starter in the majors. And his stats bear out that the manager mismanaged his innings last year. He was simply left in too long. Some may argue thats because batters caught on or whatever. I believe it was more of him not being used to throwning 100 pitches every 5 days. He was simply tired. I don’t think he did anything last year to warrant being relegated to bullpen duty this year.
Between Harison and Hurley I would give Harrison the edge but only slightly. A good spring by Hurley could put him above Harrison I believe. Either way the other can go to AAA and continue developing. They have both broke their ML cherry so to speak. Now we just need space in the rotation. Right now they are depth guys and if injury or trade happens they are more than capable of coming up and contributing
Bryan Smith (12:17:17 PM PT): Justin Smoak and Josh Hamilton. The AL West might just have found their Bash Brothers, v. 2.0.
by bigsteve on Jan 19, 2009 6:22 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
higher upside
If you believe Harrison and Hurley have higher upside than Feldman, why do you want to give Feldman a rotation spot at the expense of one of them? Also, have you factored in that Feldman has bullpen experience and H & H do not. H & H in the rotation and Feldman in the pen beats H or H and Feldman in the rotation and Nippert in the pen.
Elvis Andrus - 2009 AL Rookie of the Year
by RangerMad on Jan 19, 2009 6:42 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Feldmans options
Hes out of them. His experience in the pen has no affect on my decision. Hes a starter in my eyes and I think thats the way the Rangers view him also. But just because Hurley and Harrison have higher upside doesn’t mean I want to lose a guy like Feldman simply so they can possibly show that upside. If Feldman puts up 180-200+ innings of 4.5 ERA baseball as our #5 starter for the next 5 years I think most would be very very happy.
Bryan Smith (12:17:17 PM PT): Justin Smoak and Josh Hamilton. The AL West might just have found their Bash Brothers, v. 2.0.
by bigsteve on Jan 19, 2009 6:44 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Not necessarily to argue with you
But if Feldman is capable of posting a 4.5 ERA for for the next five years while pitching half of his games in Arlington, then he should be considered a legit #2-#3 caliber starter. He would probably be the Rangers best starter next year if he put up those kinds of numbers.
Nevertheless, I am not convinced that he is capable of that kind of production, for a couple of reasons. First, I don’t think his success last season (5.29 ERA, 5.41 FIP, 5.25 xFIP, 77 tRA+) indicates that he is anything more than a typical #5 type starter or swingman. An average #5 starter posts a tRA+ of 76, for instance.
Second, his stuff doesn’t seem to be as good as Hurley or Harrison. Admittedly, there isn’t always an objective way to measure this. But, one way might be looking at command (BB/9) and ability to miss bats (K/9), as well as K/BB ratio. Feldman’s K/BB ratio was pretty poor (1.32) and he didn’t miss a lot of bats (4.41 K/9). Very few starters are capable of succeeding without having a K/9 above 5, even if they are sinkerballers. Hurley is generally seen as having above average stuff and Harrison improved his K rate as the season progressed (his K/9 rate was 4.51 overall, compared to 5.76 in the last two months of the season). Harrison and Hurley also showed better command. Although making conclusions about “stuff” can be tenuous, I would definitely argue that Harrison and Hurley have better stuff and a higher upside.
Third, Feldman didn’t improve a lot as the season went on. That isn’t necessarily a big deal, and is probably explainable by the fact that he was starting for the first time and was likely tiring. But, Harrison, for instance, posted very similar peripherals to Feldman. He had a 5.49 ERA, 5.20 FIP, 5.12 xFIP, and a 72tRA+. But, unlike Feldman, he got better as the season went on, especially in terms of his K/BB ratio.
I wouldn’t be upset to see Feldman start in the rotation over Hurley or Harrison. In fact, I think that is almost certainly what will happen. But, I think there can be a pretty strong argument for Feldman starting the season in the pen with Hurley and Harrison in the rotation. They are younger, seem to have better stuff, and have a higher upside. I just don’t see much evidence that Feldman is anything more than a #5 starter who will post an ERA around 5.00-5.25. That isn’t bad, but I think Hurley (and definitely Harrison) could do better.
Oh and I guess I think Feldman might be best suited as a swingman since he has experience in both the pen and rotation. Plus, I would like to see the Rangers give Harrison and Hurley as many major league starts as possible to see if they can develop into mid-rotation starts to help us contend in 2010.
by Stephen Rushin on Jan 19, 2009 7:26 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Oh and one last thing
I don’t think Feldman starting in the pen means that he still won’t start 20 or so games next year. We won’t have the same 5 starters all season in 2009. Someone (probably at least 2 starters) will be hurt or ineffective for some period of time. Similarly, I think that if Hurley or Harrison started the year at AAA, they would inevitably start 15-20 games or so by the end of year.
It seems like a matter of who gets the first chance, I suppose.
by Stephen Rushin on Jan 19, 2009 7:37 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Feldman in the pen
If the Rangers wanted Feldman to be a long man in the bullpen then I don’t see any reason why they switched him to starter last year. Its not like Harrison or Hurley weren’t expected to be in the mix for 2009 to begin with. We knew we would have these guys fighting for rotation spots and decided to switch Feldman anyway. Because of that I don’t see us moving him back now simply to give one of those guys a spot.
Like you said there will be plenty of starts available due to injury for the guy who loses out. The reason I slot him as a #5 starter even though I think he could provide #3 type stats is the lack of pure strikeout pitch. Ks are nice and help alot but I think sometimes people fall so in love with K rates they can’t see past it. Feldman isn’t going to go all Kerry Wood and K 20 in a game but he can get the job done. As he showed last year he can be relied upon to go out every 5th day and give you 5+ innings.
Basically I don’t feel like either Hurley or Harrisons potential is so much higher than Feldmans to warrant moving him or releasing him for either of them. If those guys were TOR guys then yeah I could see sacrificing a bottom feeder for. But Hurlkey and Harrison both profile as middle of the rotation guys at best and given Feldmans situation I don’t see that as being enough to move him out of that spot.
Bryan Smith (12:17:17 PM PT): Justin Smoak and Josh Hamilton. The AL West might just have found their Bash Brothers, v. 2.0.
by bigsteve on Jan 19, 2009 8:54 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Missing Bats
For his career, Feldman gets a strike from a batter swinging and missing 14% of the time (Santana’s rate is 21). While Feldman does not have the most deceptive stuff, inducing ground balls can make up for this. Prior to last season, Feldman had ground ball rates of 54.8, 59.1, and 58.8. Last season, Feldman only induced ground balls at a rate of 43.5%. I have no idea if the large jump in IP accounted for the reduction ground balls (did he get tired?), but I think Feldman’s success hinges on how often get can get ground balls.
If you think some of the younger guys can miss more bats (not just K’s but physically missing the bat), then they probably should get the nod for the starting rotation at the beginning of the season.
by Excel Hearts Choi on Jan 19, 2009 8:08 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
The fact that he completely changed his mechanics before last season makes it really hard to make any sort of long term trend based analysis of Feldman.
What we saw out of him last year wasn’t all that encouraging, but, again, it was his first year pitching as a starter and his first year pitching with those (vastly different) mechanics.
If he meh’s it up again next year, then I think we can fully write him off a Scrubby McScrubberson.
But for now he’s a guy I can’t really make any definitive statements about.
The 40 Trumps All!!!
I hate Michael Young.
"There are no weak opinions with the dirkatron, it’s all scream-across-the-parking-lot echelon." -hightowersmith
by thedirkatron on Jan 19, 2009 9:38 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Good point about the mechanics
I had forgot he switched arm slots and his mechanics. The fact hes out of options and did pretty good last year under the circumstances. I would hate to see him in the pen when we could have a solid rotation piece on our hands. IMO that would be worse than letting Galarraga go and see him succeed for one year elsewhere.
Bryan Smith (12:17:17 PM PT): Justin Smoak and Josh Hamilton. The AL West might just have found their Bash Brothers, v. 2.0.
by bigsteve on Jan 19, 2009 9:41 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Hurley
He pitched well in the few starts he had last year. Why is Feldman/Harrison penciled in above him? I hope Hurley pitches well in ST and ends up in the rotation. Of those three, he seems to have the biggest upside potential.
by j-r-d on Jan 19, 2009 5:03 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Andrus
I don’t care what’s been said by management I just don’t see Andrus as our opening day SS, and there’s no way he’s on the bench.
I don’t even think they beleive he’ll be the opening day starter.
by gr7070 on Jan 19, 2009 5:18 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
He'll be the assumed starter in spring training
with a guy like Omar Vizquel in camp as well. Either Elvis does well, at which point he gets the job, or he struggles, and they decide to go into the season with the veteran. Seems like a classic “we don’t know yet, we’ll see how he does in camp” situation.
by JBImaknee on Jan 19, 2009 5:20 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Starting SS...
Seems to me that Elvis needs to go to AAA whether he does well or not. No reason not to take the extra year of control when we have the ability to. Even if it’s only for 2 weeks (probably more like 6-8 weeks), there’s no reason he needs to start for the Rangers on Opening Day.
by Topgun22 on Jan 19, 2009 6:04 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
what if he can handle it?
what if he provides above average range, commits a few errors but not an enormous amount, hits .250/.340/.370 with quite a bit of stolen bases? isn’t that more important getting his feet wet if he can handle it, than the same offense from Vizquel but a little better defense?
"Hang-Dai, Wu...Hang-Fu$&ing-Dai"
by Walter Sobchak on Jan 19, 2009 10:48 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
They do know.
>>>we don’t know yet, we’ll see how he does in camp<<<
I actually think they do know. I don’t beleive they intend today or even if he does well in camp to start him in the majors this spring.
It’s a bad move for the club in 2009. It’s a bad move for the club w/r to free agency. It’s a bad move for the club and Andrus developmentally. I suspect they feel similarly and it just won’t happen.
I also don’t buy into the BS about spring numbers making personnel decisions.
by gr7070 on Jan 20, 2009 9:18 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
ot: Adam Dunn a 5MM/yr player?
somewhere Steve Phillips is grinning from ear to ear…
Stability is key, and JD is a Beast.
Jindal - 2012
The Wrestler
by Longhorn on Jan 19, 2009 5:20 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Huh?
Why would Steve Phillips be grinning?
The 40 Trumps All!!!
I hate Michael Young.
"There are no weak opinions with the dirkatron, it’s all scream-across-the-parking-lot echelon." -hightowersmith
by thedirkatron on Jan 19, 2009 7:04 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I think
Harrison has much more upside than Hurley. He had seven starts where he got to the 6th inning or farther.
by Schultzy on Jan 19, 2009 5:21 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
I think if Harrison can improve if he learns to
not crumble under the pressure of a ump with a small strike zone. He could be a very good pitcher, a 2 or 3. IMO
I have nothing to say
by rldwb on Jan 19, 2009 6:17 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
look at it this way, Harrison's progression through 2008 at the ML level:
K to BB ratio
July: 4-to-14
August: 18-to-9
September: 20-to-8
ERA
July: 7.40 in 24.1 innings during 5 starts
August & September: 4.71 with exactly 29.2 innings during 5 starts in each month
In high pressure situations, he beat the Angels, the Yankees, Red Sox, destroyed Tampa Bay and completely owned Oakland on the road (beat them 3 times total). Harrison’s minor league record suggests a good strikeout-to-walk ratio and a great ERA. If he keeps learning at the ML level, keeps progressing, I think he can be a VERY good # 3 starter for us.
"Hang-Dai, Wu...Hang-Fu$&ing-Dai"
by Walter Sobchak on Jan 19, 2009 10:55 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
yeah if you look
at his progression you have to be encourages. I think he can reach his #3 ceiling. I wouldnt be surprised if he put up 180ip/4.2 era next year.
by Goyogringo on Jan 20, 2009 4:35 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I would love for Harrison to come through
Besides the obvious reason that Harrison developing into a reliable pitcher would be a good thing, it would be great because he was basically like a freebie in that Teixeira deal. The Rangers weren’t all psyched about getting him, and the Braves seemed anxious to include him (at least as an alternative to others), and as much as I’ve touted that deal to friends, the idea of getting a mid-roto guy, in addition to what Feliz, Andrus and Saltalamacchia might be, is pretty nice. Two mid-front roto guys and two regular starters at key positions, wow.
by Brett Perryman on Jan 20, 2009 5:15 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
And possibly a good middle reliever.
"No... JD has been exposed as a kid who trades his remote-controlled helicopters for paper airplanes, then fails to consider the feelings of the paper airplane when he refolded it into a hat." -Telegraph.
by Kinslerhomer on Jan 20, 2009 6:33 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
methinks
we sign Chad Cordero and/or Eddie Guardado. I really want Chad though.
Bobby Jindal '12
by dstar442005 on Jan 19, 2009 5:26 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
concur.
"Hang-Dai, Wu...Hang-Fu$&ing-Dai"
by Walter Sobchak on Jan 19, 2009 10:56 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
You may be right
but I have to admit that I love every day Eddie. Maybe its just every other day Eddie by now. It could be that I just like cool nicknames and C.C. is already taken
by BEW on Jan 20, 2009 7:46 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Sign me up on the Everyday Eddie bandwagon
One of the highlights of 2008 was watching Eddie’s reactions on the mound. My dad loved watching an “old fat guy out there.” Plus, he seemed like a great veteran influence on our young pitchers.
I’d be 110% in support of bringing Eddie back in a 7th/8th inning mentor-type role.
Keith Law: (1:45 PM ET ) I think Michael Young should shut his mouth and move to third base.
by WestTxAg06 on Jan 20, 2009 10:11 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Over at minorleagueball there all saying that Davis will suck:
http://www.minorleagueball.com/2009/1/19/728242/if-chris-davis-was-still-a
"No... JD has been exposed as a kid who trades his remote-controlled helicopters for paper airplanes, then fails to consider the feelings of the paper airplane when he refolded it into a hat." -Telegraph.
by Kinslerhomer on Jan 19, 2009 5:47 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Considering the source, just about every one of those douches is AL West/WC oriented. And they’re literally the same guys who were saying he was a flash in the pan when he was lighting up A+ and then AA.
by Brett Perryman on Jan 19, 2009 5:53 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
yep.
"No... JD has been exposed as a kid who trades his remote-controlled helicopters for paper airplanes, then fails to consider the feelings of the paper airplane when he refolded it into a hat." -Telegraph.
by Kinslerhomer on Jan 19, 2009 5:56 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Also
Paul Thomas, for example, wasn’t really off base in saying that it depends on how he adjusts. If he doesn’t adjust to adjustments to him, he won’t be that great of a hitter. I think most of us have said that all along. It’s the others who have read two or three stat lines, think they have him figured out, and assume that he won’t be a good major league hitter that annoy me.
by Brett Perryman on Jan 19, 2009 5:56 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
true dat.
"No... JD has been exposed as a kid who trades his remote-controlled helicopters for paper airplanes, then fails to consider the feelings of the paper airplane when he refolded it into a hat." -Telegraph.
by Kinslerhomer on Jan 19, 2009 6:07 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
go ask Alan Embree
if Davis is able to make adjustments.
Elvis Andrus - 2009 AL Rookie of the Year
by RangerMad on Jan 19, 2009 6:12 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
The Issue
Is that is true for every young player. For them to say he needs to make adjustments is obvious. Players who dont adjust always suck. They dont need to bring it up.
You can only base your judgments off of the info that you have, they seem to have forgotten that…
by Horns130 on Jan 19, 2009 7:32 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Again, these are the names that came up as comps to Davis in some form or another
Kevin Maas, Mike Jacobs, Jeff Francouer, Jack Cust minus the walks but with better contact rates, Mike Hessman, Josh Fields
And again, Wow
Don't you ever damn call here again
by SaltyDawg on Jan 19, 2009 8:15 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
There are plenty
of FA relievers who might be had for peanuts shortly.
Also, the thought of Kason Gabbard in the bullpen (or starting for that matter) ruined my day.
by Randy Richardson on Jan 19, 2009 5:49 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Verducci on Hot Stove
Mets interested in Sheets
Rangers want Vizquel on minor league deal.
Larkin and Reynolds don’t have a clue. Hey Harold, GG means nothing.
Elvis Andrus - 2009 AL Rookie of the Year
by RangerMad on Jan 19, 2009 6:17 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Close with Omah
Freddie King rules faces.
by Ryin A on Jan 19, 2009 10:10 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Madrigal is a lock
to make the 25-man roster.
by Mike E on Jan 19, 2009 10:37 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Why?
He has options, makes him a lock to be sent down if the last spot is between him and someone who doesn’t.
G G G E-flat_______ F F F D__________....
by t ball on Jan 19, 2009 11:05 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yep...
I personally would have him on the opening day roster, but I think the fact that he has options while Feldman and Nippert don’t means he opens in OKC.
"The only good is knowledge and the only evil is ignorance."-Socrates
by slc ranger on Jan 19, 2009 11:07 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Nippert vs Madrigal
Hasn’t Nippert proven the he can’t pitch at the ML level? Options shouldn’t matter. If he gets beat out by Madrigal, Diamond or whomever, send him packing. He probably won’t last the year anyhow.
Elvis Andrus - 2009 AL Rookie of the Year
by RangerMad on Jan 20, 2009 12:10 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Nippert has proven he can pitch
He just hasn’t proven that he’s got the control to have a lot of success in the Majors. In the second half of the season last year, Nippert started throwing more strikes and having some improved control which makes me want to see him get some more time to see if he finally figured it all out.
By 2028, Mark Teixeira will be in the HOF.
-The Outlaw
by Gdawg on Jan 20, 2009 11:54 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah
And he has what is hard to teach. A 97 mph fastball. he was put in a lot of situations last year that it was hard to show success in. The guy is young and has a lively fastball. If it comes down to he and madrigal you better utilize the options you are afforded with Madrigal and send him down and keep Nippert.
Bryan Smith (12:17:17 PM PT): Justin Smoak and Josh Hamilton. The AL West might just have found their Bash Brothers, v. 2.0.
by bigsteve on Jan 20, 2009 12:23 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
97 with zero movement
by Goyogringo on Jan 20, 2009 4:41 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
97 coming from a guy his height
Doesn’t need any movement. If he can just learn to control it its a lethal pitch
Bryan Smith (12:17:17 PM PT): Justin Smoak and Josh Hamilton. The AL West might just have found their Bash Brothers, v. 2.0.
by bigsteve on Jan 20, 2009 6:29 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
maybe
but then it hasnt been to date…
by Goyogringo on Jan 20, 2009 6:34 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
It has been a bit
When Nippert is locating his pitches and challenging hitters, he’s looked great.
By 2028, Mark Teixeira will be in the HOF.
-The Outlaw
by Gdawg on Jan 20, 2009 6:38 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
How
the hell does Willie Eyre deserve a bullpen spot over Mad dog?
the guys young with a good arm and actually pitched pretty well at times last year. Almost looks like a mini FX2.
by blalock84 on Jan 20, 2009 12:23 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
Fixed
the hell does Willie Eyre deserve a bullpen spotover Mad dog?
That Gold Glove for Young was the worst thing that could have happened to Texas - now the guy really believes he's good at short. - Keith Law
by lonestarJon on Jan 20, 2009 12:26 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Comments For This Post Are Closed
Secondary Sidebar
FanPosts
Community blog posts and discussion.
Recommended FanPosts
Recent FanPosts
Big League Stew - MLB - Yahoo! Sports
- D12: Whee! The Y! fantasy baseball operation is armed and ready
- Create-a-Caption: Albert wants to become one with the gun
- Be like Lincecum: Little Leaguer copies Timmy's windup
- Stewards Debate! Does Bud Selig deserve a Miller Park statue?
- Ask Alex: Will Ben Zobrist replicate his outstanding '09 season?
Certain photos copyright © 2010 by Associated Press or Getty Images. Any commercial use or distribution without the express written consent of Associated Press and Getty Images is strictly prohibited.
