The Dodgers have been legitimately looking to acquire Padres ace pitcher Jake Peavy since November of 2008. Kevin Towers has failed to trade his reigning NL Cy Young winner several times now. He failed to make a deal with the Atlanta Braves during the Winter Meeting in Las Vegas. The Chicago Cubs came close but a deal couldn't be made, even though Peavy publicy said he had would accept a deal to Chicago. Towers tried to get clever and deal Peavy to the other Chicago team, however Jake Peavy decided to veto the trade that would have landed him with the Chicago White Sox.
Ned Colletti has made it known he was interested in acquiring Peavy, however not at the inflated price that Towers was asking. The Dodgers know that they are going to pay a higher premium for Peavy since it's a trade inside the same division. As ridiculous as this seems it is just the way the GM's think. With the Padres failing to trade Peavy on several occasions now SI's Jon Heyman says the Cubs and Dodgers the Padres best chances. There is no doubt that Peavy's value has dropped significantly since the '08 Winter Meetings, the question is how much? The package the White Sox offered recently compared to the package the Braves offered in November 2008 is significantly less in prospect value and potential.
What would it take for Colletti to bring the prized pitcher to Los Angeles? Three players and a top prospect is the reported current asking price. Who is Colletti willing to part with? Would McDonald, DeWitt, Lambo, and Hoffmann or Paul be enough? Stay tuned Dodger fans I will keep you posted as we can continue to dream about getting Jake "Dodger Killer" Peavy out of a Padres uniform.
Dodgers Injury Updates
Will Ohman is heading to the disabled list with a sore left shoulder, this should put somewhat of an explanation to his 5.84 earned run average in 21 appearances this season. He has struggled the majority of the season and my guess was he wasn't quite ready for baseball when the season began. Hopefully some time to get some rest and get healthy will allow him to produce the rest of the season.
The Dodgers are going to go with a seven man bullpen the next few days as AAA Catcher A.J. Ellis was called up for the series against the Chicago Cubs where he expects to see a few pinch hits. Monday is when the club expects Opening Day starter Hiroki Kuroda back in the rotation. This will give the Dodgers a chance to look at Ellis who may be in line for a chance to be on the late season roster around the September call-ups. This may also be a way of showcasing Ellis in hopes of a possible trade.
Monday is when the club expects Opening Day starter Hiroki Kuroda back in the rotation. Kuroda threw a successful bullpen session Friday and the coaching staff was pleased enough to activate him effective Monday. When Kuroda is activated somebody is going to have come out of the rotation and be inserted into the bullpen. Stults is much more versatile than Milton so I presume we will see Stults get moved.
The Dodgers are going to go with a seven man bullpen the next few days as AAA Catcher A.J. Ellis was called up for the series against the Chicago Cubs where he expects to see a few pinch hits. Monday is when the club expects Opening Day starter Hiroki Kuroda back in the rotation. This will give the Dodgers a chance to look at Ellis who may be in line for a chance to be on the late season roster around the September call-ups. This may also be a way of showcasing Ellis in hopes of a possible trade.
Monday is when the club expects Opening Day starter Hiroki Kuroda back in the rotation. Kuroda threw a successful bullpen session Friday and the coaching staff was pleased enough to activate him effective Monday. When Kuroda is activated somebody is going to have come out of the rotation and be inserted into the bullpen. Stults is much more versatile than Milton so I presume we will see Stults get moved.
Ned Colletti: The Indepth Analysis
Here is a team vs. team comparison of basically what we have given up to get where we are today. Colletti has traded away some of the organizations top prospects at one point and yes at times he got very little in return. Here is my take; Colletti read this thing perfectly and got solid veterans that proved to provide help and depth to the club during the final stretches of the season and during the playoffs. There isn't one player on that Cast Outs that is an upgrade over the current 2009 roster except for Edwin Jackson, maybe.
Team Comparison Download Here
Lets talk about a couple players that are under constant debate Carlos Santana who is now on the Indians and the top 3rd overall catching prospect according to Baseball America. We got Casey Blake for the young stud, and in case you missed it Blake was a key factor in us reaching the NLCS in over 20 years. His 2009 stats are quite impressive as well and on pace for a veteran stud of a season. Santana is blocked by the best catcher in the majors and we have Ellis and May waiting on the farm as well. If Martin wasn't a Dodger this would be as big of a deal as you Colletti haters make it out to be.
Andy Laroche the biggest and most over hyped prospect since Joel Guzman. This guy will never be Evan Longoria or David Wright. With that being said this guy brought over Manny and if anyone tries to dispute the brilliance of this trade you are wasting your time.
The majority of the trades have been complete washes. The majority of the players are no longer on the team. Now just to drive home a point quickly lets just say you take all the key prospects we have casted out for just three players, Manny, Blake, and Ethier. Colletti wins guys face it, he has revamped a losing team into a dominant force to be taken seriously.
Colletti is not some superhero who has saved the day either. I think when it comes to trades Colletti gets an "A" hands down. Now let's evaluate signings and releases for a moment. Jason Schmidt, Andruw Jones, and Juan Pierre have cost over 1 billion dollars. This is a complete failure and most fans and critics can't seem to let it go. Unless a World Series ring comes under the Colletti Era this is what he will be remembered for. Not Manny, and not the 2008 NLCS, this trio of players that could have been the demise of the Dodgers for several years. How McCourt has been able to swallow that and turn this team into a contender is beyond me. We have also lost Jayson Werth and Joel Hanrahan and this is due to a bad judgement call on Colletti's part. Werth would be a solid 4th starter and Hanrahan would be an upgrade to anyone but Wade in the bullpen. Ned has brought in guys like Nomar, Furcal, Saito, and Kuroda as well. This one is much harder to decipher, but when the dust settles here Ned gets a C and this could have been much worse.
Overall Colletti has lowered payroll somehow and put a championship caliber team on the field simultaneously. This team is leaps and bounds better than the team from 2005 that cost DePodesta his job. Sure some mistakes have been made along the way along with several bad judgement calls. The bottom line is the Dodgers are a winning team and showing early signs of repeating as NL West champs. Colletti is not the best GM in baseball but he deserves some credit and slack from the critics and fans. The question has to be asked what would our team look like if Colletti wasn't GM? Thoughts anyone?
Team Comparison Download Here
Lets talk about a couple players that are under constant debate Carlos Santana who is now on the Indians and the top 3rd overall catching prospect according to Baseball America. We got Casey Blake for the young stud, and in case you missed it Blake was a key factor in us reaching the NLCS in over 20 years. His 2009 stats are quite impressive as well and on pace for a veteran stud of a season. Santana is blocked by the best catcher in the majors and we have Ellis and May waiting on the farm as well. If Martin wasn't a Dodger this would be as big of a deal as you Colletti haters make it out to be.
Andy Laroche the biggest and most over hyped prospect since Joel Guzman. This guy will never be Evan Longoria or David Wright. With that being said this guy brought over Manny and if anyone tries to dispute the brilliance of this trade you are wasting your time.
The majority of the trades have been complete washes. The majority of the players are no longer on the team. Now just to drive home a point quickly lets just say you take all the key prospects we have casted out for just three players, Manny, Blake, and Ethier. Colletti wins guys face it, he has revamped a losing team into a dominant force to be taken seriously.
Colletti is not some superhero who has saved the day either. I think when it comes to trades Colletti gets an "A" hands down. Now let's evaluate signings and releases for a moment. Jason Schmidt, Andruw Jones, and Juan Pierre have cost over 1 billion dollars. This is a complete failure and most fans and critics can't seem to let it go. Unless a World Series ring comes under the Colletti Era this is what he will be remembered for. Not Manny, and not the 2008 NLCS, this trio of players that could have been the demise of the Dodgers for several years. How McCourt has been able to swallow that and turn this team into a contender is beyond me. We have also lost Jayson Werth and Joel Hanrahan and this is due to a bad judgement call on Colletti's part. Werth would be a solid 4th starter and Hanrahan would be an upgrade to anyone but Wade in the bullpen. Ned has brought in guys like Nomar, Furcal, Saito, and Kuroda as well. This one is much harder to decipher, but when the dust settles here Ned gets a C and this could have been much worse.
Overall Colletti has lowered payroll somehow and put a championship caliber team on the field simultaneously. This team is leaps and bounds better than the team from 2005 that cost DePodesta his job. Sure some mistakes have been made along the way along with several bad judgement calls. The bottom line is the Dodgers are a winning team and showing early signs of repeating as NL West champs. Colletti is not the best GM in baseball but he deserves some credit and slack from the critics and fans. The question has to be asked what would our team look like if Colletti wasn't GM? Thoughts anyone?
Dodgers In Search For Relief Help?
Peter Gammons has this to say about the Dodgers in his latest blog post.
"The Dodgers are on the prowl for relievers; so are the Indians, Yankees and Twins. But the teams holding pitchers expected to be available believe the market will only get increasingly bullish. And few teams are ready to throw up white towels."
"The Dodgers are on the prowl for relievers; so are the Indians, Yankees and Twins. But the teams holding pitchers expected to be available believe the market will only get increasingly bullish. And few teams are ready to throw up white towels."
"Among the list of relievers expected to be available are Houston's Jose Valverde, Colorado's Huston Street, Oakland's Russ Springer, Pittsburgh's John Grabow and Baltimore's Danys Baez. Boston might be willing to move Manny Delcarmen, who might be able to close in the National League, but they'd trade him only for a significant bat. Incidentally, one scout says Ramon Ramirez may be the best trade of the offseason. He could easily close if anything happened to Jonathan Papelbon."
The Dodgers need some help in the bullpen without a doubt. They also have the pieces to swing a deal in their way. Everyone knows the excess depth and talent they have at several positions. Chin-lung Hu, Blake DeWitt, Juan Pierre, Xavier Paul, and Jason Repko all figure to be available. Juan Pierre obviously gets really complicated because of his salary, but I could see a deal to Colorado, Oakland, or Pittsburgh getting worked out. We have matched up well in the past with Pittsburgh's Huntington on several trades.
I can see a deal for Hu and Grabow going down. That is actually a great fit for both teams, as Pittsburgh gets an heir to Jack Wilson. This would enable them to make a trade for another piece to their puzzle. Pierre going back to Colorado makes sense on several levels, and Street is a great fit for Los Angeles even if it is on a rental. The one player I have to rule out completely is Baez, we tried this guy before in 2006 and it blew up in our faces. Don't look for Colletti to make the same mistake twice, no matter how good of a season Baez is having.
Manny Ramirez Back At Dodger Stadium
Ken Gurnick has an update on Manny Ramirez being back at Dodger Stadium and working out while the team is on the road. Here are a couple highlights from the article.
"Outfielder Manny Ramirez worked out at Dodger Stadium on Monday morning for the first time since he was suspended for violating the MLB drug policy on May 7.
"Outfielder Manny Ramirez worked out at Dodger Stadium on Monday morning for the first time since he was suspended for violating the MLB drug policy on May 7.
With his teammates in Denver to face the Rockies in a Memorial Day game, Ramirez returned to California from his Florida home and apparently will continue working out at Chavez Ravine while the club is out of town through the week, playing in Colorado, then in Chicago against the Cubs.
MLB rules allow suspended players to work out with their clubs, but they must be off the field by the time stadium gates open.
Suspended players also are allowed to serve a 10-day Minor League rehabilitation assignment at the end of their suspension to assure they are in game shape for their return, and Ramirez is expected to agree to that."
The great news here is Manny is getting in shape and ready for his return in July. The Dodgers have also managed to gain an extra game in the division despite Manny's abscence. Manny will be healthy and ready for the playoff push that comes after the trade deadline. This also shows the teams depth and despite injuries the team is able to react and find ways to win. Injuries have derailed this team from the playoffs for the last decade or so, and it is great to see this team pulling together.
Dodgertown In St. Louis
Dodger fans it that time of year again, time for the mid-summer classic. This year the MLB All-Star Game will be held at Busch Stadium in St. Louis. Joe Torre is already headed to St. Louis to join Phillies manager Charlie Manuel on his National League all-star staff.
Orlando Hudson is probably the largest favorite for a starting spot on the roster in July. He is definitely the most deserving as he leads team regulars in average, runs, hits, doubles and most important hasn't missed a game. He also recently became the first Dodger to hit for the cycle in 39 years.
You can vote for your favorite Dodgers or players to take part in the 2009 All-Star game by clicking here.
Orlando Hudson is probably the largest favorite for a starting spot on the roster in July. He is definitely the most deserving as he leads team regulars in average, runs, hits, doubles and most important hasn't missed a game. He also recently became the first Dodger to hit for the cycle in 39 years.
In the most recent fan balloting, Hudson ranks third among National League second basemen, with 314,103 votes, behind Philadelphia's Chase Utley and Milwaukee's Rickie Weeks. Weeks however doesn't really stand a chance at making the team, as he was just announced to miss the rest of the season due to injury.
You can vote for your favorite Dodgers or players to take part in the 2009 All-Star game by clicking here.
Peavy Vetoes Trade To White Sox
4:09pm: The Chicago Sun Times is reporting that sources close to Peavy have been informed that Jake Peavy will exercise his no trade clause and veto the trade to the White Sox. Peavy discussed the situation with his family and ultimately has decided against a move to the Chicago White Sox. This is coming after various reports throughout the day that the White Sox were searching for ways to convince Peavy to accept the trade. I can't blame Peavy on this one as if I was him I would have vetoed the trade myself as well. The White Sox are questionable when it comes down to their ability to compete in upcoming years. Dodger fans we can't be too surprised, but we have every right to be dissapointed. Peavy's value will now continue to drop with a potential of four or five deals not taking place for various reasons. The longer this continues the more this falls out of the Padres favor. Maybe the Dodgers can make a play for Peavy if the price tag drops enough.
Along that note, Diamond Leung passes along an interview between Ned Colletti and Dan Patrick today. Colletti apparently discussed a trade with Padres GM Kevin Towers as recently as a month ago. The reason the asking price was too high, no surprise here.
9:52am: Jerry Crasnick from ESPN.com talked to Barry Axelrod who is Jake Peavy's agent, he gave the impression that Peavy is leaning against accepting the trade:
6:45am: Rumors are swirling early this morning that Jake Peavy may be a member of the Chicago White Sox by the end of the day. The San Diego Tribune has the full story and this one could be a good one. Chicago is reportedly offering four players for Peavy. What is the asking price for a reigning National League Cy Young winner? The answer is the price tag for Peavy will be substancial. The price tag during the 2008 Winter Meetings in Las Vegas was so high the Cubs, Dodgers, any team for that matter couldn't make a deal. What's changed? The Padres are moving towards full rebuilding mode and Peavy doesn't figure to be a part of it. The White Sox are motivated to win and I can't wait to see some of the possible players in the deal as this story continues. The possible deal breaker is Jake Peavy has a full no trade clause.
I know you are wondering why I am talking about the Padres and White Sox on dodgersrumors.com right? We can start with by saying Jake Peavy is arguably the most dominant pitcher to every pitch against the Dodgers from the NL West. Peavy has compiled a sensational 13-2 record with a 2.30 earned run average against Los Angeles. His prescence is the on the Padres will simply not be missed. The Padres are going into rebuilding mode and I look forward to watching the Dodgers capitilize on the opportunity. I will keep you posted throughout the day as the story develops further.
Along that note, Diamond Leung passes along an interview between Ned Colletti and Dan Patrick today. Colletti apparently discussed a trade with Padres GM Kevin Towers as recently as a month ago. The reason the asking price was too high, no surprise here.
9:52am: Jerry Crasnick from ESPN.com talked to Barry Axelrod who is Jake Peavy's agent, he gave the impression that Peavy is leaning against accepting the trade:
"If I had to make a bet on it, I would guess that Jake would say he's not ready to take that step today. But he wouldn't necessarily preclude it at any time in the future."
This should not come as a surprise as Peavy maintains his strong preference for the NL.
6:45am: Rumors are swirling early this morning that Jake Peavy may be a member of the Chicago White Sox by the end of the day. The San Diego Tribune has the full story and this one could be a good one. Chicago is reportedly offering four players for Peavy. What is the asking price for a reigning National League Cy Young winner? The answer is the price tag for Peavy will be substancial. The price tag during the 2008 Winter Meetings in Las Vegas was so high the Cubs, Dodgers, any team for that matter couldn't make a deal. What's changed? The Padres are moving towards full rebuilding mode and Peavy doesn't figure to be a part of it. The White Sox are motivated to win and I can't wait to see some of the possible players in the deal as this story continues. The possible deal breaker is Jake Peavy has a full no trade clause.
I know you are wondering why I am talking about the Padres and White Sox on dodgersrumors.com right? We can start with by saying Jake Peavy is arguably the most dominant pitcher to every pitch against the Dodgers from the NL West. Peavy has compiled a sensational 13-2 record with a 2.30 earned run average against Los Angeles. His prescence is the on the Padres will simply not be missed. The Padres are going into rebuilding mode and I look forward to watching the Dodgers capitilize on the opportunity. I will keep you posted throughout the day as the story develops further.
The Dodgers In 2012
What will the Dodgers look like in 2012? Will they stay the course of the youth movement? I can't predict the future, however I can do my homework and make some very educated attempts. Of course this is purely speculation, however I am sure it will come across informative for most of you. Maybe in 2012 we will take a moment to look back and see how I did. I want to give credit to Ed Price from Baseball America as I used his ratings of the Dodgers top prospects for this post.
What will the Dodgers look like without Joe Torre, Manny Ramirez, Rafael Furcal and others? Some big names and big contracts look to come off the books between now and the end of the 2011 season. Furcal will be gone for sure which leaves us without a shortstop and leadoff hitter. Manny Ramirez will be creeping on 40 and figures to be playing DH in the AL. Subtract huge contract, starpower, and big stats. Orlando Hudson, Casey Blake, Jason Schmidt, Juane Pierre, and Hiroki Kuroda are all goners. The six biggest contracts all gone along with some great players that posted solid numbers.
Now that we have discussed who won't be here let's look at some of the great players down in the minors waiting to make a name for themselves. It's time to dive in and take a look at what's in store the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2012.
Devaris Gordon is probably the best pure athlete the Dodgers have in the minor league system. He is in a world class league when it comes to his natural speed and defense. He is a natural fit for the Dodgers batting leadoff, and playing second base. Josh Bell is a switch hitter and has natural power. He should compete with Pedro Baez for the starting job at third base. Ivan DeJesus Jr. is possibly the best prospect in the Dodgers system right now, however he recently suffered a major injury and he will have to bounce back well to make it to the bigs. The Dodgers have the future of the pitching staff set with all the great young arms they have in the minors. Ethan Martin, Josh Lindblom, Chris Withrow, and Nathan Eovaldi. I am going to go off the assumption that the Dodgers stick with the youth movement and don't trade or sign any big name players.
Some players who aren't even on the top prospect radar that I could see competing in 2012 are Trayvon Robinson is a switch hitting centerfielder with tremendous speed and a natural eye for the ball. I predict him to be the future centerfielder but not till 2013, he may see time sometime in the second half of the 2012 season. There is also a name I am just starting to get familar with Kyle Russell. This guy is a stud and has unbelievable power, however I can't see him making the big league roster with so much talent already in place.
Projected 2012 Starting Lineup
2B-Devaris Gordon
RF-Andre Ethier
CF-Matt Kemp
1B-James Loney
C-Russell Martin
3B-Josh Bell
LF-Xavier Paul
SS-Ivan DeJesus Jr.
Bench
1B/OF-Andrew Lambo
IF-Pedro Baez
C-A.J. Ellis
OF-Jamie Hoffmann
Pitching Rotation
SP-Chad Billingsley
SP-Clayton Kershaw
SP-Josh Lindblom
SP-James McDonald
SP-Eric Stults
LR-Ramon Troncoso
RP-Scott Elbert
RP-Travis Schlichting
RP-Brent Leach
SU-Cory Wade
CL-Jonathon Broxton
What will the Dodgers look like without Joe Torre, Manny Ramirez, Rafael Furcal and others? Some big names and big contracts look to come off the books between now and the end of the 2011 season. Furcal will be gone for sure which leaves us without a shortstop and leadoff hitter. Manny Ramirez will be creeping on 40 and figures to be playing DH in the AL. Subtract huge contract, starpower, and big stats. Orlando Hudson, Casey Blake, Jason Schmidt, Juane Pierre, and Hiroki Kuroda are all goners. The six biggest contracts all gone along with some great players that posted solid numbers.
Now that we have discussed who won't be here let's look at some of the great players down in the minors waiting to make a name for themselves. It's time to dive in and take a look at what's in store the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2012.
Devaris Gordon is probably the best pure athlete the Dodgers have in the minor league system. He is in a world class league when it comes to his natural speed and defense. He is a natural fit for the Dodgers batting leadoff, and playing second base. Josh Bell is a switch hitter and has natural power. He should compete with Pedro Baez for the starting job at third base. Ivan DeJesus Jr. is possibly the best prospect in the Dodgers system right now, however he recently suffered a major injury and he will have to bounce back well to make it to the bigs. The Dodgers have the future of the pitching staff set with all the great young arms they have in the minors. Ethan Martin, Josh Lindblom, Chris Withrow, and Nathan Eovaldi. I am going to go off the assumption that the Dodgers stick with the youth movement and don't trade or sign any big name players.
Some players who aren't even on the top prospect radar that I could see competing in 2012 are Trayvon Robinson is a switch hitting centerfielder with tremendous speed and a natural eye for the ball. I predict him to be the future centerfielder but not till 2013, he may see time sometime in the second half of the 2012 season. There is also a name I am just starting to get familar with Kyle Russell. This guy is a stud and has unbelievable power, however I can't see him making the big league roster with so much talent already in place.
Projected 2012 Starting Lineup
2B-Devaris Gordon
RF-Andre Ethier
CF-Matt Kemp
1B-James Loney
C-Russell Martin
3B-Josh Bell
LF-Xavier Paul
SS-Ivan DeJesus Jr.
Bench
1B/OF-Andrew Lambo
IF-Pedro Baez
C-A.J. Ellis
OF-Jamie Hoffmann
Pitching Rotation
SP-Chad Billingsley
SP-Clayton Kershaw
SP-Josh Lindblom
SP-James McDonald
SP-Eric Stults
LR-Ramon Troncoso
RP-Scott Elbert
RP-Travis Schlichting
RP-Brent Leach
SU-Cory Wade
CL-Jonathon Broxton
Dodgers Continue To Roll
The Dodgers continued their winning ways yesterday and got the win to take the series from the Phillies yesterday. With the win yesterday it put the Dodgers record at a league best 24-12 with a .667 winning percentage. Loney took a ball in the dirt and launched it over the right-center field wall for his second home run of the season. Billingsley turned in another dominant performance but was unable to get the win when Broxton blew the save in the 9th. Broxton ended up with the win when the Dodgers pulled ahead in the 10th inning. Billingsley looks like the best pitcher in the National League right now, and I am picking him to start for the National League All-Stars. He looks like the early Cy Young winner canidate.
The Dodgers are simply dominant and their chemistry continues to play a big part in their success. The Dodgers lead the National League in almost every single offensive category, and they lead the majors in pitching in wins and they are tied with Kansas City for the league best ERA. Let's take a look at some of the standouts who have helped keep this team dominating in the National League.
Key Contributors
Orlando Hudson is off to have the best season of his career. He is on pace to post career numbers in every category. He is the best free agent bargain of the 2009 free agent class hands down. Nobody saw him as the person that would be leading the offensive way for the Dodgers. This team would be in a completely different position without Hudson on the team.
Matt Kemp is also on pace to post a career year as well. Kemp is gonna steal more than 40 bases and probably get over the 25 mark in home runs. He is one three bagger away from tying his single season best and currently leads the league with 4 triples.
Chad Billingsley is the best pitcher in the National League right now hands down. The Dodgers have finally found their true ace they have been searching for. Does anyone remember the last time we had a true ace standing on the mound? Bills is on his way to his first all star game and possibly his first Cy Young award. His 5-1 record and very impressive 2.30 ERA is simply too impressive to overlook.
Some honorable mentions are Jonathon Broxton, Andre Ethier, Juan Pierre, and the big surprise Eric Stults. Hopefully Russell Martin and James Loney can continue down the road they are on after the slow start in April. It is time for Rafael Furcal to get hot after his very dissapointing start to the 2009 season.
The Dodgers are simply dominant and their chemistry continues to play a big part in their success. The Dodgers lead the National League in almost every single offensive category, and they lead the majors in pitching in wins and they are tied with Kansas City for the league best ERA. Let's take a look at some of the standouts who have helped keep this team dominating in the National League.
Key Contributors
Orlando Hudson is off to have the best season of his career. He is on pace to post career numbers in every category. He is the best free agent bargain of the 2009 free agent class hands down. Nobody saw him as the person that would be leading the offensive way for the Dodgers. This team would be in a completely different position without Hudson on the team.
Matt Kemp is also on pace to post a career year as well. Kemp is gonna steal more than 40 bases and probably get over the 25 mark in home runs. He is one three bagger away from tying his single season best and currently leads the league with 4 triples.
Chad Billingsley is the best pitcher in the National League right now hands down. The Dodgers have finally found their true ace they have been searching for. Does anyone remember the last time we had a true ace standing on the mound? Bills is on his way to his first all star game and possibly his first Cy Young award. His 5-1 record and very impressive 2.30 ERA is simply too impressive to overlook.
Some honorable mentions are Jonathon Broxton, Andre Ethier, Juan Pierre, and the big surprise Eric Stults. Hopefully Russell Martin and James Loney can continue down the road they are on after the slow start in April. It is time for Rafael Furcal to get hot after his very dissapointing start to the 2009 season.
Injury Update On Jason Schmidt
Andy Jasner from mlb.com has an update on Jason Schmidt and his road back to the majors. The veteran righty threw 94 pitches in most recent Class A outing. This is a huge breakthrough in my opinion, he has the arm strength and stamina to throw 94 pitches again. The details of the outing in regards to his command and movement are not mentioned however. Here are some of the highlights from the report.
Schmidt, who had major shoulder surgery 23 months ago and a second procedure seven months ago to remove the arthritic tip of the clavicle, threw 94 pitches for Class A Inland Empire in five-plus innings Tuesday.
Schmidt then flew to Arizona to the Dodgers' training complex and was scheduled to throw a bullpen session Thursday.
"It's been a very trying time for him, because he's been frustrated knowing the pitcher that he once was," Dodgers manager Joe Torre said.
Torre continues to receive daily reports on the hard-throwing right-hander and is staying close to the situation.
"He's continuing to build momentum," Torre said. "Obviously, we get reports regularly. ... There may be a time we have to explore it. I think he's still a ways away."
Schmidt is in the final year of his large multi-million dollar deal, and will be a free agent at the end of the season. It seems that Schmidt may still pitch in the majors this season. It is still to early to tell the condition Schmidt is truly in. I am not sure how much Schmit will be able to contribute if he reaches the major league level again. However if he can even get up to a reliable 4th or 5th starter again that would be a major win-win for everyone. You have got to admire this guys attitute and work ethic. He could be sitting at home collecting his pay check, not this guy he is out trying to get back to Chavez Ravine every single day.
Manny To Meet With Team Today
John Schlegel from mlb.com confirms what I previously speculated, Manny Ramirez will likely meet up with his fellow Dodger teammates today in Florida. This was more of an educated guess at the time since Manny makes his offseason home in Miami. When and where the meeting will take place is still unknown, however it should happen sometime today as the Dodgers start off their series against the Marlins later today.
As you all remember Manny was suspended by Major League Baseball for 50 games on May 7 for using a banned substance, Ramirez met with Dodgers owner Frank McCourt last Sunday, and McCourt made it clear he feels it necessary for Ramirez to speak to the team and the fans.
Frank McCourt had this to say after meeting with Ramirez. "If Manny takes the steps that I'm hopeful he will, I think this will be something that won't damage this franchise at all," McCourt said Sunday. "We all make mistakes, and it's how we deal with those mistakes that really differentiates one from the other. And if Manny does with others what he did with me yesterday, I think we'll be on the road to full recovery."
Since the suspension Manny has not addressed the public regarding the 50 game suspension. I believe McCourt is right in that Manny needs to address his team and his fans to get on the road to full recovery. Ramirez is doing the right thing by collecting his thoughts and not being "Manny" for a change. He needs to handle this professionally and delicately or this situation could blow up in his face and never go back to Mannywood.
As you all remember Manny was suspended by Major League Baseball for 50 games on May 7 for using a banned substance, Ramirez met with Dodgers owner Frank McCourt last Sunday, and McCourt made it clear he feels it necessary for Ramirez to speak to the team and the fans.
Frank McCourt had this to say after meeting with Ramirez. "If Manny takes the steps that I'm hopeful he will, I think this will be something that won't damage this franchise at all," McCourt said Sunday. "We all make mistakes, and it's how we deal with those mistakes that really differentiates one from the other. And if Manny does with others what he did with me yesterday, I think we'll be on the road to full recovery."
Since the suspension Manny has not addressed the public regarding the 50 game suspension. I believe McCourt is right in that Manny needs to address his team and his fans to get on the road to full recovery. Ramirez is doing the right thing by collecting his thoughts and not being "Manny" for a change. He needs to handle this professionally and delicately or this situation could blow up in his face and never go back to Mannywood.
Dodgers' Torre To Coach All-Stars
Joe Torre is headed to St. Louis to join Phillies manager Charlie Manuel on his National League all-star staff. The managers of the two teams that play in the previous World Series are the All-Star managers. Each gets to pick two managers to serve as coaches.
Torre's last appearance in an all-star game was in 2004 when he led the American League team to victory. Torre is 5-0-1 as a manager in the summer games. Torre also managed the New York Yankees from 1996-2007, winning four World Series titles and six AL pennants.
Torre may have quite a few of his players at Busch Stadium on July 14, 2009 when the all-stars take the field. Chad Billingsley and Jonathon Broxton are almost guaranteed to be in the pitching rotation. Orlando Hudson is off to one of his best seasons ever and has a good shot of starting second base for the National League. Russell Martin, Matt Kemp, and Andre Ethier should be in the running for all-star spots as well. Manny Ramirez was almost certainly guaranteed a spot on the roster. With the possiblity still remaining, the more likely the 50 game suspension eliminates any shot of his first National League appearance.
You can vote for your favorite Dodgers or players to take part in the 2009 All-Star game by clicking here.
Torre's last appearance in an all-star game was in 2004 when he led the American League team to victory. Torre is 5-0-1 as a manager in the summer games. Torre also managed the New York Yankees from 1996-2007, winning four World Series titles and six AL pennants.
Torre may have quite a few of his players at Busch Stadium on July 14, 2009 when the all-stars take the field. Chad Billingsley and Jonathon Broxton are almost guaranteed to be in the pitching rotation. Orlando Hudson is off to one of his best seasons ever and has a good shot of starting second base for the National League. Russell Martin, Matt Kemp, and Andre Ethier should be in the running for all-star spots as well. Manny Ramirez was almost certainly guaranteed a spot on the roster. With the possiblity still remaining, the more likely the 50 game suspension eliminates any shot of his first National League appearance.
You can vote for your favorite Dodgers or players to take part in the 2009 All-Star game by clicking here.
James Loney Hits First Homerun
James Loney just hit his first homerun off Jamie Moyer just moments ago. It was quite amusing, Loney hits a solid deep pop fly, Loney has a look of dissapointment on his face as he heads to first base. Jayson Werth is retreating to the wall, and loses track of the ball just as it goes over the wall for a three run shot by Loney. It was great to see Werth as he is about thirty feet away from the ball, had the ball not gone over the wall. The wind had a lot to do with this play and you could see a look of disgust on Jamie Moyer's face, it was classic.
Dodgers Rumors Has Changed
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Dodgers Rumors Now On Twitter
Despite my better judgment I am hopping on to Twitter. You can find me here www.twitter.com/dodgersrumors see you there...
Mannywood On Vacation
The shock factor has seemed to die down finally after news of Manny Ramirez's and his 50 game suspension. I have taken the last few days to decide what may be next for Manny Ramirez and his never ending quest of Manny being Manny.
My hope is that Manny will take the opportunity to get healthy, let his ailing hamstring finally get some adequate time to get rested. Priority one should be get healthy and clean from any and all substances he may have been using that are prohibited in the MLB. Priority two is to get in the best baseball shape of his life. He has had some minor injury issues popping up, and those issues need to be dealt with. Manny has a proven history of not using illegal substances. Man-Ram is a genetic freak and there is not a soul on the planet that can prove otherwise, despite the recent developments. Manny needs to get in better shape, work on his conditioning and hit the gym hard and get ready to do what he did last summer, the 2008 summer that Dodger fans will never forget.
If Manny can maintain his focus and work ethic, when he shows up on July 3rd he will be ready to get the team in playoff mode. Manny has changed the Dodgers forever, and he does not want to go down like Bonds did in San Francisco. I just don't see this situation going any further than it has already, despite what the media may try and do. Look for Manny to rebound quickly, he will likely meet up with the team in Florida on the next road trip and smooth things over. Then get down to business and prepare for his return to Chavez Ravine. The Dodgers will miss Manny's presence over the next 6 weeks but will be able to hold down the fort till Man-Ram returns.
My hope is that Manny will take the opportunity to get healthy, let his ailing hamstring finally get some adequate time to get rested. Priority one should be get healthy and clean from any and all substances he may have been using that are prohibited in the MLB. Priority two is to get in the best baseball shape of his life. He has had some minor injury issues popping up, and those issues need to be dealt with. Manny has a proven history of not using illegal substances. Man-Ram is a genetic freak and there is not a soul on the planet that can prove otherwise, despite the recent developments. Manny needs to get in better shape, work on his conditioning and hit the gym hard and get ready to do what he did last summer, the 2008 summer that Dodger fans will never forget.
If Manny can maintain his focus and work ethic, when he shows up on July 3rd he will be ready to get the team in playoff mode. Manny has changed the Dodgers forever, and he does not want to go down like Bonds did in San Francisco. I just don't see this situation going any further than it has already, despite what the media may try and do. Look for Manny to rebound quickly, he will likely meet up with the team in Florida on the next road trip and smooth things over. Then get down to business and prepare for his return to Chavez Ravine. The Dodgers will miss Manny's presence over the next 6 weeks but will be able to hold down the fort till Man-Ram returns.
Manny Ramirez The Complete Story
Mark Fainaru-Wada and T.J. Quinn from ESPN.com have shed some light on the complete story regarding Manny and his suspension last week. The story highlights the details of exactly how things went down and what led up to the suspension. The story shows Manny wasn't entirely truthful and may not be as innocent in this as he would like us to believe. I will let you read the story and come to your own conclusion.
Manny Ramirez Fantasy Fallout
Fantasy Baseball players if you own Manny Ramirez check out the latest on my fantasy recommendations. You can check it out at my latest project Rotowire Daily where Manny Ramirez becomes the first in the What To Do With Series.
Manny Ramirez Break Down
The dust has settled a bit on the Manny suspension news that broke earlier today. Something about this is just not sitting right and I am going to take a moment to look at the facts and reflect. I am sure more news will break as the reporters try to dig deeper on the situation. I will post any news as I get it on this situation.
I find this all very unfortunate for Manny, the thought of him "cheating" is just ridiculous to me. There is no way that a guy that has been tested 15 times is all the sudden going to start using PEDS. I think Manny has a legitimate personal health issue and received a prescription from his doctor without fulling knowing what he was taking. I am a true Dodger fan and yes I am always thinking and bleeding blue, so I am not saying this just because I am a Dodger fan. Manny is a freak of nature and 1 + 1 just don't equal 2 here.
I think this is more than "Manny being Manny" and I truly hope some facts can come out and support the true story here. The fact remains that Manny is owning up to his mistake which is not knowing what you are putting into your own body. Doctors are doctors and are just as human as you and I. I fully expect Manny's character and reputation as one of the most dominant creatures to ever step into a batters box to remain intact at full capacity.
Now let's take a look how this impacts Manny and the Dodgers directly impacts the current number one overall team in baseball.
There is nothing wrong with Juan Pierre see my thoughts on him here. He should start every day with Xavier Paul getting his fair share of time and Pierre will likely bat 8th. He could move up to the top of the order to switch things up a bit and maybe give Furcal his spark back.
Could the $7MM be used on a free agent pitcher like Sheets or Pedro. We can only hope the Dodgers don't throw money down the toilet. I would love to see us take the opportunity to use the money to add a premier player via trade. We got all the tools and pieces to pull off any trade. Otherwise pocket the money and see what happens in July.
I find this all very unfortunate for Manny, the thought of him "cheating" is just ridiculous to me. There is no way that a guy that has been tested 15 times is all the sudden going to start using PEDS. I think Manny has a legitimate personal health issue and received a prescription from his doctor without fulling knowing what he was taking. I am a true Dodger fan and yes I am always thinking and bleeding blue, so I am not saying this just because I am a Dodger fan. Manny is a freak of nature and 1 + 1 just don't equal 2 here.
I think this is more than "Manny being Manny" and I truly hope some facts can come out and support the true story here. The fact remains that Manny is owning up to his mistake which is not knowing what you are putting into your own body. Doctors are doctors and are just as human as you and I. I fully expect Manny's character and reputation as one of the most dominant creatures to ever step into a batters box to remain intact at full capacity.
Now let's take a look how this impacts Manny and the Dodgers directly impacts the current number one overall team in baseball.
- Ramirez loses between $7-8MM in salary this year.
- There is not a GM under any circumstance that is going to match the money that Ramirez stands to make in the second year of his deal" ($20MM next season). So Manny will not opt out of his deal if he is smart and doesn't listen to Boras's garbage.
- The Dodgers, have gotten the short end of the stick once again. Kevin Brown, Darren Dreifort, Jason Schmidt, Andruw Jones...you get the point. This is what happens when you sign a prominent player to high dollars. This is the risk you take and the Dodgers organization knew full well what they were doing.
- He'll miss 50 games and is eligible to return July 3. That is a lot of production to replace so it is time for the youth movement to step it up. Martin and Furcal need to get out of their early season slumps immediatley.
There is nothing wrong with Juan Pierre see my thoughts on him here. He should start every day with Xavier Paul getting his fair share of time and Pierre will likely bat 8th. He could move up to the top of the order to switch things up a bit and maybe give Furcal his spark back.
Could the $7MM be used on a free agent pitcher like Sheets or Pedro. We can only hope the Dodgers don't throw money down the toilet. I would love to see us take the opportunity to use the money to add a premier player via trade. We got all the tools and pieces to pull off any trade. Otherwise pocket the money and see what happens in July.
Manny Ramirez Suspended 50 Games
4:46 pm PST:Peter Gammon's from ESPN.com has this to say about Manny taking illegal substances. He believes the positive test was derived from a personal medical issue, not HGH or steroids. Similar to the post from Yahoo reporters earlier. This is coming from one of the best sports reporters in the business, this stance on the Manny situation seems to be gaining some steam. Gammons also spoke with a Red Sox official who doesn't believe "for a second" that Manny cheated.
12:30 pm PST: The updates are pouring in and I will post a couple links that may shed some more information on the Manny news from today. I will add this note with all the allegations against Bonds, ARod, and Clemens this news today puts Manny in a long list of stars that have been implicated in the use of performance-enhancing drugs, Ramirez is the most prominent suspended under the drug policy players and owners put in place in 2002.
T.J. Quinn and Mark Fainaru-Wada from ESPN say the drug was HCG - "a women's fertility drug typically used by steroid users to restart their body's natural testosterone production as they come off a steroid cycle. It is similar to Clomid, the drug Bonds, Giambi and others used as clients of BALCO."
A source with intimate knowledge of steroids told ESPN that a male athlete usually uses HCG after a cycle of steroids because steroids often shut down the testosterone-making ability of the testicles. HCG restores their capacity to make testosterone. The source said that some males may use HCG in lieu of steroids also. HCG by itself can provide a substantial boost in the body's own testosterone, and this may provide some performance-enhancement benefits.
Ramirez had scheduled an appeal and MLB officials were in Los Angeles to meet with him on Wednesday, a source familiar with the matter told ESPN. Ramirez, however, withdrew the appeal Wednesday and accepted the suspension. Under the union agreement, the drugs major league players test positive for are not released by MLB or the players' union.
Manny played this out perfectly, whatever the substance is and whether or not he knew becomes irrelevant. The worse thing he could do is deny and file an appeal. Manny does not want to go down that road. Look at Bonds and Clemens they are trying to protect what they have done through their careers. All the asterisk talk and erase the stats etc. Manny does not want that in any shape or form. Manny is taking this like a man and even though a prescription was issued he is accepting blame. He does not want to put his character or future in jeopardy so hopefully he rides this thing out.
11:45 am PST: Yahoo writers Tim Brown and Steve Henson have this to add to the Manny suspension today. A source close to Manny Ramirez said Thursday that the illegal substance for which the Los Angeles Dodgers slugger tested positive was not “an agent customarily used for performance enhancing.”
According to Bill Shaikin and Dylan Hernandez of the L.A. Times, Dodgers star Manny Ramirez "tested positive for performance-enhancing drugs and will be suspended for 50 games starting today." The journalists have word on Manny's defense:
12:30 pm PST: The updates are pouring in and I will post a couple links that may shed some more information on the Manny news from today. I will add this note with all the allegations against Bonds, ARod, and Clemens this news today puts Manny in a long list of stars that have been implicated in the use of performance-enhancing drugs, Ramirez is the most prominent suspended under the drug policy players and owners put in place in 2002.
T.J. Quinn and Mark Fainaru-Wada from ESPN say the drug was HCG - "a women's fertility drug typically used by steroid users to restart their body's natural testosterone production as they come off a steroid cycle. It is similar to Clomid, the drug Bonds, Giambi and others used as clients of BALCO."
A source with intimate knowledge of steroids told ESPN that a male athlete usually uses HCG after a cycle of steroids because steroids often shut down the testosterone-making ability of the testicles. HCG restores their capacity to make testosterone. The source said that some males may use HCG in lieu of steroids also. HCG by itself can provide a substantial boost in the body's own testosterone, and this may provide some performance-enhancement benefits.
Ramirez had scheduled an appeal and MLB officials were in Los Angeles to meet with him on Wednesday, a source familiar with the matter told ESPN. Ramirez, however, withdrew the appeal Wednesday and accepted the suspension. Under the union agreement, the drugs major league players test positive for are not released by MLB or the players' union.
Manny played this out perfectly, whatever the substance is and whether or not he knew becomes irrelevant. The worse thing he could do is deny and file an appeal. Manny does not want to go down that road. Look at Bonds and Clemens they are trying to protect what they have done through their careers. All the asterisk talk and erase the stats etc. Manny does not want that in any shape or form. Manny is taking this like a man and even though a prescription was issued he is accepting blame. He does not want to put his character or future in jeopardy so hopefully he rides this thing out.
11:45 am PST: Yahoo writers Tim Brown and Steve Henson have this to add to the Manny suspension today. A source close to Manny Ramirez said Thursday that the illegal substance for which the Los Angeles Dodgers slugger tested positive was not “an agent customarily used for performance enhancing.”
At least not on the baseball diamond. The source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the substance is supposed to boost sex drive.
“The substance is not a steroid and it is not human-growth hormone,” the source said.
Ramirez, the source said, acquired the substance through a prescription from a doctor in Miami for his medical condition. The source intimated that Ramirez might bring legal action against the physician.
Anonymous sources to me is typically erroneous information. At this point to me somebody is trying to break a story and get lucky or just throw out random information just to get publicity. Similar to the ARod allegations involving steroids currently. However this situation could be a little different and it should be interesting to watch this thing play out. Check out the full article it has some pretty interesting things to say.
Recently I saw a physician for a personal health issue. He gave me a medication, not a steroid, which he thought was okay to give me. Unfortunately, the medication was banned under our drug policy. Under the policy that mistake is now my responsibility. I have been advised not to say anything more for now. I do want to say one other thing; I've taken and passed about 15 drug tests over the past five seasons.
According to Bill Shaikin and Dylan Hernandez of the L.A. Times, Dodgers star Manny Ramirez "tested positive for performance-enhancing drugs and will be suspended for 50 games starting today." The journalists have word on Manny's defense:
Ramirez is expected to attribute the test results to medication received from a doctor for a personal medical issue, according to a source familiar with the matter but not authorized to speak publicly.
Manny was hitting .348/.492/.641 and 6 HRs in 120 plate appearances and in his absence Juan Pierre figures to get significant playing time starting in leftfield. Ramirez will be eligible to return July 3rd, and the Dodgers are already up 6.5 games in the division. The Dodgers will be fine with or without Manny and this certainly will be an issue for Manny and his contract situation. He has to decide in November whether to opt out of his $20MM 2010 salary. Also, Manny will lose nearly $8MM in salary.
An Early Look: Dodgers 2010 Free Agency
To see the updated outlook on the Dodgers upcoming free agency period click here.
The hot stove is a bit on the quiet side as we begin the second month of the season. While I am certainly enjoying the Dodgers having the best record in the majors currently, I can't hold back this need to look ahead.
Dodgers 2010 Free Agent Class
Brad Ausmus (C)
Doug Mientkiewicz (1B)
Orlando Hudson (2B)
Mark Loretta (UTIL)
Manny Ramirez (LF) $20MM player option
Jason Schmidt (SP)
Randy Wolf (SP)
Guillermo Mota (RP)
Will Ohman (RP) - $2.2MM club option with a $200K buyout
Let's start with Schmidt his $47MM comes off the books and we can all start to try and forget this signing ever happened. The exception of course is if Schmidt is somehow able to make it back to the majors by July and pitch a solid second half. More likely Colletti sweeps this thing under the rug and looks to move on and Schmidt retires or takes a minimal 1 year deal with incentives. This will take off about $12MM to dedicate elsewhere in 2010.
Wolf, Mota, Mientkiewicz, and Ausmus figure to go elsewhere or retire unless a solid season is put forth. Loretta is questionable and can still contribute as a solid utility/PH type guy. I figure him to stay a Dodger till he calls it quits. That's roughly $10MM assuming Loretta stays and the aforementioned don't re-sign. Ohman has an option that I have to figure will be exercised figuring of course Ohman doesn't have a disastrous season.
Manny and Hudson are on a quest to prove their value on the on the market. I don't see Manny going anywhere otherwise he wouldn't have signed with Dodgers. I see his option being declined for 2010, testing the market again and eventually signing a 2-3 year deal at $20MM plus per season with the Dodgers. Hudson is arguably the Dodgers MVP to start the season and I see no signs of slowing by Hudson. Hudson displaced the very talented Blake DeWitt from 2nd base and the gamble has paid off nicely. I could see Hudson's situation go either way at the end of the season. I see him leaving on a nice multi-year deal to Chicago or St. Louis when all is said and done. However if Hudson is resigned DeWitt is a goner and will likely be packaged in some sort of a trade.
If the season were to end today and all the scenarios above played out exactly and we spent zero dollars on free agents our 2010 team would look like this.
Starting Lineup
SS-Rafael Furcal
RF-Andre Ethier
LF-Manny Ramirez
CF-Matt Kemp
1B-James Loney
C- Russell Martin
3B-Casey Blake
2B-Blake DeWitt
Bench
OF-Juan Pierre
IF-Ivan DeJesus Jr.
UTIL-Mark Loretta
IF-Chin Lung Hu
Starting Rotation
Chad Billingsley
Clayton Kershaw
Hiroki Kuroda
James McDonald
Stults/Weaver/Minor League Stud
Bullpen
Troncososo
Belisario
Elbert
Kuo
Wade
Ohman
Broxton
2010 Free Agents With Possible Fits
Mark DeRosa- Utility guy with perfect versatitly and a great leader, would fit in nicely.
Jason Bay- I see him being a Yankee or Red Sox, however if Manny departs this is our guy.
Rich Harden- He may be the guy we go after to solidify our rotation if a trade doesn't happen.
I could also see a combination of one or two of these veterans coming on board to shape out the young roster. Tony Clark, Nick Johnson, Rich Aurillia, Joaquin Benoit, Jason Isringhausen, and if Manny leaves we could see Vladimir Guerrero or Bobby Abreu added as well.
In closing it is great to see this over achieving young team progress. Kemp, Loney, Ethier and Martin have established themselves as the Fantastic Four of this team. I would like to see Colletti get aggressive at getting these guys under long term deals. The core of our team is established and defined and now Colletti simply needs to add a few pieces each season. Our rotation will continue to get stronger with the great young arms down on the farm. We have some depth at a few positions to even pull off a trade for a guy like Peavy, Halladay etc. It's going to be a great year so let's get back to 2009.
The hot stove is a bit on the quiet side as we begin the second month of the season. While I am certainly enjoying the Dodgers having the best record in the majors currently, I can't hold back this need to look ahead.
Dodgers 2010 Free Agent Class
Brad Ausmus (C)
Doug Mientkiewicz (1B)
Orlando Hudson (2B)
Mark Loretta (UTIL)
Manny Ramirez (LF) $20MM player option
Jason Schmidt (SP)
Randy Wolf (SP)
Guillermo Mota (RP)
Will Ohman (RP) - $2.2MM club option with a $200K buyout
Let's start with Schmidt his $47MM comes off the books and we can all start to try and forget this signing ever happened. The exception of course is if Schmidt is somehow able to make it back to the majors by July and pitch a solid second half. More likely Colletti sweeps this thing under the rug and looks to move on and Schmidt retires or takes a minimal 1 year deal with incentives. This will take off about $12MM to dedicate elsewhere in 2010.
Wolf, Mota, Mientkiewicz, and Ausmus figure to go elsewhere or retire unless a solid season is put forth. Loretta is questionable and can still contribute as a solid utility/PH type guy. I figure him to stay a Dodger till he calls it quits. That's roughly $10MM assuming Loretta stays and the aforementioned don't re-sign. Ohman has an option that I have to figure will be exercised figuring of course Ohman doesn't have a disastrous season.
Manny and Hudson are on a quest to prove their value on the on the market. I don't see Manny going anywhere otherwise he wouldn't have signed with Dodgers. I see his option being declined for 2010, testing the market again and eventually signing a 2-3 year deal at $20MM plus per season with the Dodgers. Hudson is arguably the Dodgers MVP to start the season and I see no signs of slowing by Hudson. Hudson displaced the very talented Blake DeWitt from 2nd base and the gamble has paid off nicely. I could see Hudson's situation go either way at the end of the season. I see him leaving on a nice multi-year deal to Chicago or St. Louis when all is said and done. However if Hudson is resigned DeWitt is a goner and will likely be packaged in some sort of a trade.
If the season were to end today and all the scenarios above played out exactly and we spent zero dollars on free agents our 2010 team would look like this.
Starting Lineup
SS-Rafael Furcal
RF-Andre Ethier
LF-Manny Ramirez
CF-Matt Kemp
1B-James Loney
C- Russell Martin
3B-Casey Blake
2B-Blake DeWitt
Bench
OF-Juan Pierre
IF-Ivan DeJesus Jr.
UTIL-Mark Loretta
IF-Chin Lung Hu
Starting Rotation
Chad Billingsley
Clayton Kershaw
Hiroki Kuroda
James McDonald
Stults/Weaver/Minor League Stud
Bullpen
Troncososo
Belisario
Elbert
Kuo
Wade
Ohman
Broxton
2010 Free Agents With Possible Fits
Mark DeRosa- Utility guy with perfect versatitly and a great leader, would fit in nicely.
Jason Bay- I see him being a Yankee or Red Sox, however if Manny departs this is our guy.
Rich Harden- He may be the guy we go after to solidify our rotation if a trade doesn't happen.
I could also see a combination of one or two of these veterans coming on board to shape out the young roster. Tony Clark, Nick Johnson, Rich Aurillia, Joaquin Benoit, Jason Isringhausen, and if Manny leaves we could see Vladimir Guerrero or Bobby Abreu added as well.
In closing it is great to see this over achieving young team progress. Kemp, Loney, Ethier and Martin have established themselves as the Fantastic Four of this team. I would like to see Colletti get aggressive at getting these guys under long term deals. The core of our team is established and defined and now Colletti simply needs to add a few pieces each season. Our rotation will continue to get stronger with the great young arms down on the farm. We have some depth at a few positions to even pull off a trade for a guy like Peavy, Halladay etc. It's going to be a great year so let's get back to 2009.
Dodgers Ready To Make History
Coming off a milestone evening at Dodger Stadium where the Dodgers won 3-1 over the D-backs. Which gave the Dodgers their 12th consecutive victory at home to start the 2009 season, matching the modern-day record of the 1911 Detroit Tigers.
The Dodgers look to break the all time modern-day record, by going 13-0 at home against Daniel Cabrera and his last place team in the majors, Washington Nationals. The Nationals enter the game with a 7-17 record to take on the southpaw Clayton Kershaw and the sizzling Dodgers. Kershaw is coming off a dominant performance last week against Peavy and the Padres. The Dodgers enter the game leading the majors with a 20-8 record and are off to the best start as a team since the magical 1988 Dodgers.
The Dodgers look to break the all time modern-day record, by going 13-0 at home against Daniel Cabrera and his last place team in the majors, Washington Nationals. The Nationals enter the game with a 7-17 record to take on the southpaw Clayton Kershaw and the sizzling Dodgers. Kershaw is coming off a dominant performance last week against Peavy and the Padres. The Dodgers enter the game leading the majors with a 20-8 record and are off to the best start as a team since the magical 1988 Dodgers.
No Love For Juan Pierre?
Can somebody please explain to me what is so wrong with Juan Pierre? I want to see some facts or cases supported by stats on this supposed terrible player. I see it on blogs, websites, and I even hear it at his home Dodger Stadium. I will say Juan Pierre is not the best Dodger player ever. He is also not the best player on the current roster. He is not even the best outfielder on the current roster. However despite what this guy does for this team, he gets no respect and not even a small dosage of love.
Sure he is signed to a lucrative contract (which he signed during a very inflated offseason) and yes he requested a trade. I don't blame him, I would to if I knew I could contribute for close to a dozen teams somewhere else as a starter. Now he has accepted his role as a fourth outfielder and still making things happen.
Shall we look at the stats? In 2008 he stole 40 bases in 375 at bats. In 2007 he stole 64 bases in 668 at bats. He has a career average of .301 and has never hit below .280, not to mention his career .347 on base percentage. He is not a power hitter by any means although he does have 13 in his career. This guy will have his fair share of doubles and triples and steal 30 bases with his eyes closed. Have you seen this guy lay down a bunt? He is the bunt single king and may be the best of the best.
His defense is average maybe slightly above. Pierre doesn't have a Matt Kemp type of arm, but he will get to some balls that others will not because of his speed. Did I mention his career fielding percentage is .990? Pierre has a heart of a champion and never gives less than 100%. He has only fallen victim to the disabled list once in his career and it was a brief stint. We have one of the best if not the best fourth outfielder in all of baseball. His versatility to steal bases, score runs, and put the ball in play whether starting in the outfield, or coming off the bench. I'll break it down give him some credit for doing exactly what he is paid to do. He is one of the most consistent ball players in the majors currently. Anyone got a case to support otherwise?
Sure he is signed to a lucrative contract (which he signed during a very inflated offseason) and yes he requested a trade. I don't blame him, I would to if I knew I could contribute for close to a dozen teams somewhere else as a starter. Now he has accepted his role as a fourth outfielder and still making things happen.
Shall we look at the stats? In 2008 he stole 40 bases in 375 at bats. In 2007 he stole 64 bases in 668 at bats. He has a career average of .301 and has never hit below .280, not to mention his career .347 on base percentage. He is not a power hitter by any means although he does have 13 in his career. This guy will have his fair share of doubles and triples and steal 30 bases with his eyes closed. Have you seen this guy lay down a bunt? He is the bunt single king and may be the best of the best.
His defense is average maybe slightly above. Pierre doesn't have a Matt Kemp type of arm, but he will get to some balls that others will not because of his speed. Did I mention his career fielding percentage is .990? Pierre has a heart of a champion and never gives less than 100%. He has only fallen victim to the disabled list once in his career and it was a brief stint. We have one of the best if not the best fourth outfielder in all of baseball. His versatility to steal bases, score runs, and put the ball in play whether starting in the outfield, or coming off the bench. I'll break it down give him some credit for doing exactly what he is paid to do. He is one of the most consistent ball players in the majors currently. Anyone got a case to support otherwise?
The Dodgers Rotation
Anyone worried about the starting rotation that is currently facing some 5+ ERA's and several low inning occurrences. Kershaw has yet to get out of the 5th inning alive, and the list continues. The critics and Dodger haters will take every chance they can to count out this young pitching staff. Nobody even wants to give these guys a chance? Really? That's right you guys all want us to sign Freddy Garcia and Pedro Martinez so we are guaranteed to have the best starters right?
There will always be the argument over the proven veteran over the young rookie. I have watched the Dodgers fail miserably with proven veterans countless times. Fred McGriff, Kevin Brown, Bill Mueller, Jason Schmidt, Andruw Jones. Not one of those players pulled even half their weight or earned half the salary they were paid. You add Pedro or Freddy to this equation and money will go down the toilet and the pitching staff will be worse, as they join Schmidt on the disabled list. You can't buy a championship just ask the Yankees, look at the numbers my how they have tried. You factor in aging veterans with proven injury risk and this thing gets uglier and uglier.
Torre is doing this thing right by adding a guy like Weaver to help round out the staff and provide experience to a young but very bright futured rotation. Kuroda is down and a few weeks away but his experience and character is perfect for this ball club. Once he returns I have no doubt the West is ours if this rotation can stay healthy. Billingsley is looking like an NL Cy Young candidate and proving he is the ace that the Dodgers have been searching for. Kershaw is young but has anyone seen all the Koufax references? Well try getting out from under the rock and watch this kid pitch. He has been called a sleeper for Cy Young as well and with good reason and when is all said and done Billingsley and Kershaw will be the best 1 2 punch in the National League. Stults, McDonald, Elbert, all major league ready have a couple rough outings. Stults pitched his first two games up from AAA like they were his last and has a rough outing and suddenly became the worst pitcher to ever put on Dodger blue. Young pitchers are often inconsistent but McDonald and Stults will be better than Garcia and Pedro in 2009 and any year to follow. The best part is through the struggles millions of dollars are not going down the drain.
The Dodgers are sticking it out and moving along the youth movement. This is the way to go in my opinion scout and draft well. Look at The Rays, Dbacks, Marlins and Phills. The Rays and Marlins are going the homegrown route and it has led to great success at league low payrolls. The Dbacks and Phillies have gone the scouting and drafting well route with adding in veterans to add depth and experience. The Dodgers have one of the most underated pitching rotations and farm system in the league right now and putting a championship caliber team on the field.
If a pitcher like Peavy, Halladay, Webb become available this season via trade and it's a big if, should the Dodgers get involved? The answer is of course, but the price will likely be steep. Sabathia cost the Brewers top level prospects and they didn't even make the playoffs and now have nothing to show for it. Trades are just as risky as free agency however proven guys like the aforementioned don't grow out of the ground. If you can add one of these guys without depleting your depth and risking the near future you better believe I would pull the plug. If names like Kemp, Kershaw, Billingsley, start coming up in discussions it is a dead issue.
Any scenarios that fans and readers can offer up I wouldn't mind starting a thread on this topic.
There will always be the argument over the proven veteran over the young rookie. I have watched the Dodgers fail miserably with proven veterans countless times. Fred McGriff, Kevin Brown, Bill Mueller, Jason Schmidt, Andruw Jones. Not one of those players pulled even half their weight or earned half the salary they were paid. You add Pedro or Freddy to this equation and money will go down the toilet and the pitching staff will be worse, as they join Schmidt on the disabled list. You can't buy a championship just ask the Yankees, look at the numbers my how they have tried. You factor in aging veterans with proven injury risk and this thing gets uglier and uglier.
Torre is doing this thing right by adding a guy like Weaver to help round out the staff and provide experience to a young but very bright futured rotation. Kuroda is down and a few weeks away but his experience and character is perfect for this ball club. Once he returns I have no doubt the West is ours if this rotation can stay healthy. Billingsley is looking like an NL Cy Young candidate and proving he is the ace that the Dodgers have been searching for. Kershaw is young but has anyone seen all the Koufax references? Well try getting out from under the rock and watch this kid pitch. He has been called a sleeper for Cy Young as well and with good reason and when is all said and done Billingsley and Kershaw will be the best 1 2 punch in the National League. Stults, McDonald, Elbert, all major league ready have a couple rough outings. Stults pitched his first two games up from AAA like they were his last and has a rough outing and suddenly became the worst pitcher to ever put on Dodger blue. Young pitchers are often inconsistent but McDonald and Stults will be better than Garcia and Pedro in 2009 and any year to follow. The best part is through the struggles millions of dollars are not going down the drain.
The Dodgers are sticking it out and moving along the youth movement. This is the way to go in my opinion scout and draft well. Look at The Rays, Dbacks, Marlins and Phills. The Rays and Marlins are going the homegrown route and it has led to great success at league low payrolls. The Dbacks and Phillies have gone the scouting and drafting well route with adding in veterans to add depth and experience. The Dodgers have one of the most underated pitching rotations and farm system in the league right now and putting a championship caliber team on the field.
If a pitcher like Peavy, Halladay, Webb become available this season via trade and it's a big if, should the Dodgers get involved? The answer is of course, but the price will likely be steep. Sabathia cost the Brewers top level prospects and they didn't even make the playoffs and now have nothing to show for it. Trades are just as risky as free agency however proven guys like the aforementioned don't grow out of the ground. If you can add one of these guys without depleting your depth and risking the near future you better believe I would pull the plug. If names like Kemp, Kershaw, Billingsley, start coming up in discussions it is a dead issue.
Any scenarios that fans and readers can offer up I wouldn't mind starting a thread on this topic.
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