The voice and face of the Los Angeles Dodgers turned 84 years young today.
Vin Scully, the greatest sports broadcaster of all-time, will enter his 63rd season calling Dodger baseball.
It's truly a blessing when the best in the business can do his job at an elite level for that long. It's unheard of. Dodger fans everywhere should be fortunate to hear his calling of a game; it's unrivaled.
So today, think of Vin and all your favorite memories of him. He's simply the best and he won't do this job forever, unfortunately.
Happy birthday, Vin. "Let's get back to this one."
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It's also Assistant General Manager Logan White's birthday.
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MLB Trade Rumors is reporting (yes, actually reporting) the Dodgers are talking to Adam Kennedy.
Kennedy -- he of the .241/.301/.342/.643 combined line the last two seasons. I'd say he makes zero sense for the Dodgers -- which is accurate -- but this is Ned Colletti we're talking about. He can't help but be interested in crappy utility players (see: Jerry Hairston, Aaron Miles, Jack Wilson, et al).
Anything more than a minor league contract is too much for this over-the-hill player.
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Minor League Ball should be releasing its Dodger Top 20 prospect list later this week.
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Mike Petriello of Mike Scioscia's Tragic Illness looks at Colletti's comments on MLB Radio, where he admitted James Loney will be the Dodgers' first baseman in 2012.
I'm not opposed to the move. If he hits anything close to his late-season form, then great. If not, then this would certainly be the last season Loney would don a Dodger uniform.
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Jonathan Broxton signed with the Kansas City Royals today. It's a 1-year, $4 million deal. It can go to $5 million with incentives.
It could be a really good deal for the Royals. If he's back to his pre-June 27, 2010 form, they could have the best 1-2 back-end combo in baseball.
Showing posts with label Jonathan Broxton. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Jonathan Broxton. Show all posts
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Monday, October 24, 2011
2011 Los Angeles Dodgers off-season preview: Dodger free agents
This is the first of a five-part series in previewing the off-season for the Los Angeles Dodgers. It breaks down as follows:
Dodger free agents
C Rod Barajas (Type B)
3B Casey Blake
RHP Jonathan Broxton
INF Jamey Carroll
RHP Jon Garland
RHP Hiroki Kuroda (Type B)
RHP Mike MacDougal
INF Aaron Miles
RHP Vicente Padilla
OF/1B Juan Rivera
Barajas: He was inexplicably signed to a $3.25 million contract last off-season. He is in a similar position this winter -- a Type-B free agent looking for another contract. Will Ned Colletti be foolish enough to give him anything more than a couple million? At that price, he's worth it to come back. He has pop, but not much else. His defense is average. Abritration: Yes
Blake: His option was not exercised by the Dodgers, so there's almost zero chance he'll be back.
Broxton: This one is tough. On a really cheap deal, he'd be a nice risk-reward option. However, he might be done with the Dodgers and the Dodgers might very well be done with him.
Carroll: When Carroll signed two years ago, it seemed like a throw-away deal. However, Carroll was nothing but solid for the Dodgers. He was a trade candidate in July, but the Dodgers kept him. He'd be a solid re-signing, but the Dodgers probably can fill his spot with someone making the league minimum.
Garland: Like Blake, Garland was not retained and will likely not return to the Dodgers.
Kuroda: He was a hot target at the trade deadline, but he ultimately wanted to stay in Los Angeles. I applaud his loyalty. It seems he's either going to pitch for the Dodgers or not pitch in the Majors at all. My gut tells me he'll be back, but we'll see what happens. Arbitration: Yes, without a doubt
MacDougal: He was brought in as a non-roster invitee and gave the Dodgers more than their money's worth. He's in line for a slight pay raise. I think the Dodgers have enough low-salary relievers to rely on without having to use resources on bringing him back.
Miles: Like MacDougal, Miles was a non-roster invitee and exceeded expectations. Like Carroll, the Dodgers have cheaper options to do what Miles does, but I wouldn't be surprised to see him back.
Padilla: He was supposed to be the bullpen utility guy, but that plan failed. Padilla got hurt and threw just 8 2/3 innings for the Dodgers this season. The Dodgers could bring him back, as he'd be a nice insurance policy for Nathan Eovaldi, the projected No. 5 starter (in October, so take that with a grain of salt).
Rivera: He was a surprise acquisition and did a solid job playing left field, right field and first base. I'd have no problem bringing him back as the fourth outfielder, meaning Jerry Sands would (and should) start.
Conclusion
The Dodgers have a couple of decent free agents and Kuroda. I could easily see three or four guys from this list returning. The Dodgers aren't exactly in a position to break the bank, so retaining much of the talent (a word that I use loosely) from the 2011 team could be a realistic option.
Next up: Arbitration-eligible Dodgers
- Dodgers' free agents
- Arbitration-eligible Dodgers
- Free agent position players
- Free agent pitchers
- Trade targets
Dodger free agents
C Rod Barajas (Type B)
3B Casey Blake
RHP Jonathan Broxton
INF Jamey Carroll
RHP Jon Garland
RHP Hiroki Kuroda (Type B)
RHP Mike MacDougal
INF Aaron Miles
RHP Vicente Padilla
OF/1B Juan Rivera
Barajas: He was inexplicably signed to a $3.25 million contract last off-season. He is in a similar position this winter -- a Type-B free agent looking for another contract. Will Ned Colletti be foolish enough to give him anything more than a couple million? At that price, he's worth it to come back. He has pop, but not much else. His defense is average. Abritration: Yes
Blake: His option was not exercised by the Dodgers, so there's almost zero chance he'll be back.
Broxton: This one is tough. On a really cheap deal, he'd be a nice risk-reward option. However, he might be done with the Dodgers and the Dodgers might very well be done with him.
Carroll: When Carroll signed two years ago, it seemed like a throw-away deal. However, Carroll was nothing but solid for the Dodgers. He was a trade candidate in July, but the Dodgers kept him. He'd be a solid re-signing, but the Dodgers probably can fill his spot with someone making the league minimum.
Garland: Like Blake, Garland was not retained and will likely not return to the Dodgers.
Kuroda: He was a hot target at the trade deadline, but he ultimately wanted to stay in Los Angeles. I applaud his loyalty. It seems he's either going to pitch for the Dodgers or not pitch in the Majors at all. My gut tells me he'll be back, but we'll see what happens. Arbitration: Yes, without a doubt
MacDougal: He was brought in as a non-roster invitee and gave the Dodgers more than their money's worth. He's in line for a slight pay raise. I think the Dodgers have enough low-salary relievers to rely on without having to use resources on bringing him back.
Miles: Like MacDougal, Miles was a non-roster invitee and exceeded expectations. Like Carroll, the Dodgers have cheaper options to do what Miles does, but I wouldn't be surprised to see him back.
Padilla: He was supposed to be the bullpen utility guy, but that plan failed. Padilla got hurt and threw just 8 2/3 innings for the Dodgers this season. The Dodgers could bring him back, as he'd be a nice insurance policy for Nathan Eovaldi, the projected No. 5 starter (in October, so take that with a grain of salt).
Rivera: He was a surprise acquisition and did a solid job playing left field, right field and first base. I'd have no problem bringing him back as the fourth outfielder, meaning Jerry Sands would (and should) start.
Conclusion
The Dodgers have a couple of decent free agents and Kuroda. I could easily see three or four guys from this list returning. The Dodgers aren't exactly in a position to break the bank, so retaining much of the talent (a word that I use loosely) from the 2011 team could be a realistic option.
Next up: Arbitration-eligible Dodgers
Sunday, October 9, 2011
2011 Los Angeles Dodgers Season Review: Bullpen
Just like my season preview series, I'll be reviewing each section of the Dodgers' team, starting with the bullpen.
Dodger bullpen by the numbers
17-18 W-L
3.92 ERA
1.32 WHIP
8.0 H/9
0.7 HR/9
3.9 BB/9
8.6 K/9
2.18 K/BB
40 saves
Individual performers
RHP Jonathan Broxton
1-2, 5.68 ERA, 1.89 WHIP, 10.7 H/9, 1.4 HR/9, 6.4 BB/9, 7.1 K/9, 1.11 K/BB, 67 ERA+, 7 saves
- Broxton was supposed to have a bounce-back season, but his injuries finally caught up to him. His average velocity has decreased the last two seasons. In 2009, he averaged 97.8 MPH on his fastball. In 2010, it was down to 95.3 MPH. In 2011, it was 94.1 MPH. There was clearly something wrong with him -- it wasn't that he forgot how to pitch. He is an unrestricted free agent this season and I'd be surprised if he came back to L.A.
RHP Lance Cormier
0-1, 9.88 ERA, 1.98 WHIP, 14.5 H/9, 2.6 HR/9, 3.3 BB/9, 4.6/ K/9, 1.4 K/BB, 39 ERA+
- This was a disaster from the start, but Cormier somehow got into nine games. In those nine games, he was (predictably) horrible.
LHP Scott Elbert
0-1, 2.43 ERA, 1.23 WHIP, 7.3 H/9, 0.3 HR/9, 3.8 BB/9, 9.2 K/9, 2.43 K/BB, 154 ERA+, 2 saves
- Elbert finally found his niche in the majors. While he was really effective against left-handed hitters (.191 BAA, .250 SLG, 2.57 K/BB), he was able to get right-handed hitters out, too (.254 BAA, .305 SLG, 2.29 K/BB). He should be a fixture in the Dodgers' bullpen for at least the next five years.
RHP Javy Guerra
2-2, 2.31 ERA, 1.18 WHIP, 7.1 H/9, 0.4 HR/9, 3.5 BB/9, 7.3 K/9, 2.11 K/BB, 162 ERA+, 21 saves
- Guerra had never pitched at a level above Double-A prior to 2010. He always had ability, but he could never throw enough strikes. However, he got it under control this season. He started off great with the Lookouts and got the call in May and never left the Majors. Guerra stepped in and a did an admirable job as the Dodger closer. His peripherals aren't great (BB/9, K/9, K/BB), but unless he reverts to his previous form, he should be a serviceable reliever for the foreseeable future. Developing a true strikeout pitch would go a long way in helping him have more long-term success in the Majors.
RHP Matt Guerrier
4-3, 4.07 ERA, 1.27 WHIP, 8.0 H/9, 0.5 HR/9, 3.4 BB/9, 6.8 K/9, 2.00 K/BB, 92 ERA+, 1 save
- Guerrier is likely not going to live up to his contract -- which was a colossal mistake. He posted his worst numbers since 2008, when he had a 5.19 ERA, 1.58 WHIP and a number of other poor peripherals. The poor season could be attributed to switching leagues, but switching from the AL to the NL should have --in theory -- helped his numbers. Guess not.
RHP Blake Hawksworth
2-5, 4.08 ERA, 1.17 WHIP, 7.6 H/9, 1.0 HR/9, 2.9 BB/9, 7.3 K/9, 2.53 K/BB, 92 ERA+
- When the Dodgers traded Ryan Theriot to the Cardinals for Hawksworth, the move was praised by many because Theriot was on the way to being non-tendered. To get something even remotely useful for him was a nice coup. Hawksworth pitched well in the first half before suffering a second-half letdown. Still, Hawksworth was useful this season and I could see him back in 2012.
RHP Kenley Jansen
2-1, 2.85 ERA, 1.04 WHIP, 5.0 H/9, 0.5 HR/9, 4.4 BB/9, 16.1 K/9, 3.69 K/BB, 131 ERA+, 5 saves
- Jansen had a quite the season. He set the Major League record for strikeouts per nine innings (16.1), a record that the Cubs' Carlos Marmol set last season (15.99). On April 21, he gave up five runs to the Braves in 1 2/3 innings. Since from that date on, Jansen was downright dominant, posting a 1.20 ERA, 0.82 WHIP, .113 BAA and 83 strikeouts in 45 innings, good for a 16.6 K/9 rate. Jansen probably won't get any recognition for NL Rookie of the Year, but he should.
LHP Hong-Chih Kuo
1-2, 9.00 ERA, 1.74 WHIP, 8.0 H/9, 1.3 HR/9, 7.7 BB/9, 12.0 K/9, 1.57 K/BB, 42 ERA+
- Kuo was historically good last season and was quite awful this season. Kuo, who made the All-Star team in 2010, just never got on track this season. While he still struck out hitters with ease, he didn't do much else. He's up for arbitration and said recently he could retire instead of returning to the Dodgers. When he's healthy, he's nearly unhittable. Unfortunately, he wasn't this season, which was disappointing. Like Broxton, Kuo's average velocity dropped considerably from '10 to '11 -- from 94.3 MPH on his fastball to 92.5. His slider velocity also dropped (86.8 to 83.7).
RHP Josh Lindblom
1-0, 2.73 ERA, 1.04 WHIP, 6.4 H/9, 0.0 HR/9, 3.0 BB.9, 8.5 K/9, 2.80 K/BB, 138 ERA+
- There was talk in 2009 of Lindblom making the Dodgers' bullpen out of Spring Training. When that didn't happen, he was sent back to the minors to give the rotation another shot. When that failed, the Dodgers finally moved him back to the 'pen, which is where he belonged the whole time. He put up solid numbers in limited action and should be a source of cheap, quality innings for the next few years.
RHP Mike MacDougal
3-1, 2.05 ERA, 1.46 WHIP, 8.5 H/9, 0.5 HR/9, 4.6 BB/9, 6.5 K/9, 1.41 K/BB, 182 ERA+, 1 save
- MacDougal was a non-roster invitee to Spring Training and pitched well enough to make the squad. But don't let his shiny ERA and ERA+ fool you -- he wasn't nearly that good. MacDougal provided some quality innings, but they were not without concern. A high WHIP and BB/9 coupled with a low K/9 and K/BB ratio is one way to get lit up. Somehow, MacDougal only gave up more than one run in a game twice on the season (both times just two runs). It wouldn't surprise me to see him back, but I wouldn't be in favor of it.
RHP Vicente Padilla
0-0, 4.15 ERA, 1.38 WHIP, 7.3 H/9, 0.0 HR/9, 5.2 BB/9, 9.3 K/9, 1.80 K/BB, 93 ERA+, 3 saves
- Padilla was signed to be the "swingman" in the 'pen -- a spot starter, long reliever or even closer. Things were going OK until he injured his forearm in May. If not for his injury, Guerra might not have gotten his shot to close games. Padilla could still be a quality performer out the bullpen in 2012, if the Dodgers decide to bring him back.
RHP Ramon Troncoso
0-0, 6.75 ERA, 1.85 WHIP, 15.1 H/9, 2.0 HR/9, 1.6 BB/9, 5.6 K/9, 3.50 K/BB, 56 ERA+
- A once quality bullpen arm is now a mop-up man. Troncoso pitched in 18 games this season -- 13 of which he finished, a stat that tied him for third with the Dodgers. However, he didn't pitch any meaningful games -- and for good reason. He was simply not effective, evidenced by his WHIP and grotesque H/9 rate.
Starters who made relief appearances
(Numbers as relievers)
Rubby De La Rosa (3 games)
1-0, 1.80 ERA, 0.80 WHIP, 5 IP, 3 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 0 HR, 1 BB, 5 K
- Got his first Major League win out of the bullpen.
Nathan Eovaldi (4 games)
0-0, 10.13 ERA, 2.25 WHIP, 2 2/3 IP, 3 H, 3 R, 3 ER, 0 HR, 3 BB, 0 K
- Pitched rather poorly out of the bullpen, but might ultimately end up there if he doesn't improve his off-speed offerings.
John Ely (4 games)
0-0, 2.57 ERA, 1.43 WHIP, 7 IP, 6 H, 2 R, 2 ER, 0 HR, 4 BB, 8 K
- The shine of Elymania is long gone. He'll bounce between Triple-A and the Majors as a spot-starter for the duration of his career.
Bullpen MVP: Jansen
- While many would choose Guerra because he stepped in as the closer, Jansen was the most dominant reliever in the Dodger pen -- and all of baseball. Despite a "slow" start this season, Jansen turned it up and was Mr. Dependable for the Dodgers.
Bullpen LVP: Cormier
- This one is tough. It could go to Kuo for his utter inability to get anyone out without giving up runs or it could go to Troncoso for his wretched numbers (especailly the 15.1 H/9), but Cormier takes the cake. At least Kuo and Troncoso had past success with the Dodgers. Cormier had no business being on a Major League roster.
Next up: Rotation
Dodger bullpen by the numbers
17-18 W-L
3.92 ERA
1.32 WHIP
8.0 H/9
0.7 HR/9
3.9 BB/9
8.6 K/9
2.18 K/BB
40 saves
Individual performers
RHP Jonathan Broxton
1-2, 5.68 ERA, 1.89 WHIP, 10.7 H/9, 1.4 HR/9, 6.4 BB/9, 7.1 K/9, 1.11 K/BB, 67 ERA+, 7 saves
- Broxton was supposed to have a bounce-back season, but his injuries finally caught up to him. His average velocity has decreased the last two seasons. In 2009, he averaged 97.8 MPH on his fastball. In 2010, it was down to 95.3 MPH. In 2011, it was 94.1 MPH. There was clearly something wrong with him -- it wasn't that he forgot how to pitch. He is an unrestricted free agent this season and I'd be surprised if he came back to L.A.
RHP Lance Cormier
0-1, 9.88 ERA, 1.98 WHIP, 14.5 H/9, 2.6 HR/9, 3.3 BB/9, 4.6/ K/9, 1.4 K/BB, 39 ERA+
- This was a disaster from the start, but Cormier somehow got into nine games. In those nine games, he was (predictably) horrible.
LHP Scott Elbert
0-1, 2.43 ERA, 1.23 WHIP, 7.3 H/9, 0.3 HR/9, 3.8 BB/9, 9.2 K/9, 2.43 K/BB, 154 ERA+, 2 saves
- Elbert finally found his niche in the majors. While he was really effective against left-handed hitters (.191 BAA, .250 SLG, 2.57 K/BB), he was able to get right-handed hitters out, too (.254 BAA, .305 SLG, 2.29 K/BB). He should be a fixture in the Dodgers' bullpen for at least the next five years.
RHP Javy Guerra
2-2, 2.31 ERA, 1.18 WHIP, 7.1 H/9, 0.4 HR/9, 3.5 BB/9, 7.3 K/9, 2.11 K/BB, 162 ERA+, 21 saves
- Guerra had never pitched at a level above Double-A prior to 2010. He always had ability, but he could never throw enough strikes. However, he got it under control this season. He started off great with the Lookouts and got the call in May and never left the Majors. Guerra stepped in and a did an admirable job as the Dodger closer. His peripherals aren't great (BB/9, K/9, K/BB), but unless he reverts to his previous form, he should be a serviceable reliever for the foreseeable future. Developing a true strikeout pitch would go a long way in helping him have more long-term success in the Majors.
RHP Matt Guerrier
4-3, 4.07 ERA, 1.27 WHIP, 8.0 H/9, 0.5 HR/9, 3.4 BB/9, 6.8 K/9, 2.00 K/BB, 92 ERA+, 1 save
- Guerrier is likely not going to live up to his contract -- which was a colossal mistake. He posted his worst numbers since 2008, when he had a 5.19 ERA, 1.58 WHIP and a number of other poor peripherals. The poor season could be attributed to switching leagues, but switching from the AL to the NL should have --in theory -- helped his numbers. Guess not.
RHP Blake Hawksworth
2-5, 4.08 ERA, 1.17 WHIP, 7.6 H/9, 1.0 HR/9, 2.9 BB/9, 7.3 K/9, 2.53 K/BB, 92 ERA+
- When the Dodgers traded Ryan Theriot to the Cardinals for Hawksworth, the move was praised by many because Theriot was on the way to being non-tendered. To get something even remotely useful for him was a nice coup. Hawksworth pitched well in the first half before suffering a second-half letdown. Still, Hawksworth was useful this season and I could see him back in 2012.
RHP Kenley Jansen
2-1, 2.85 ERA, 1.04 WHIP, 5.0 H/9, 0.5 HR/9, 4.4 BB/9, 16.1 K/9, 3.69 K/BB, 131 ERA+, 5 saves
- Jansen had a quite the season. He set the Major League record for strikeouts per nine innings (16.1), a record that the Cubs' Carlos Marmol set last season (15.99). On April 21, he gave up five runs to the Braves in 1 2/3 innings. Since from that date on, Jansen was downright dominant, posting a 1.20 ERA, 0.82 WHIP, .113 BAA and 83 strikeouts in 45 innings, good for a 16.6 K/9 rate. Jansen probably won't get any recognition for NL Rookie of the Year, but he should.
LHP Hong-Chih Kuo
1-2, 9.00 ERA, 1.74 WHIP, 8.0 H/9, 1.3 HR/9, 7.7 BB/9, 12.0 K/9, 1.57 K/BB, 42 ERA+
- Kuo was historically good last season and was quite awful this season. Kuo, who made the All-Star team in 2010, just never got on track this season. While he still struck out hitters with ease, he didn't do much else. He's up for arbitration and said recently he could retire instead of returning to the Dodgers. When he's healthy, he's nearly unhittable. Unfortunately, he wasn't this season, which was disappointing. Like Broxton, Kuo's average velocity dropped considerably from '10 to '11 -- from 94.3 MPH on his fastball to 92.5. His slider velocity also dropped (86.8 to 83.7).
RHP Josh Lindblom
1-0, 2.73 ERA, 1.04 WHIP, 6.4 H/9, 0.0 HR/9, 3.0 BB.9, 8.5 K/9, 2.80 K/BB, 138 ERA+
- There was talk in 2009 of Lindblom making the Dodgers' bullpen out of Spring Training. When that didn't happen, he was sent back to the minors to give the rotation another shot. When that failed, the Dodgers finally moved him back to the 'pen, which is where he belonged the whole time. He put up solid numbers in limited action and should be a source of cheap, quality innings for the next few years.
RHP Mike MacDougal
3-1, 2.05 ERA, 1.46 WHIP, 8.5 H/9, 0.5 HR/9, 4.6 BB/9, 6.5 K/9, 1.41 K/BB, 182 ERA+, 1 save
- MacDougal was a non-roster invitee to Spring Training and pitched well enough to make the squad. But don't let his shiny ERA and ERA+ fool you -- he wasn't nearly that good. MacDougal provided some quality innings, but they were not without concern. A high WHIP and BB/9 coupled with a low K/9 and K/BB ratio is one way to get lit up. Somehow, MacDougal only gave up more than one run in a game twice on the season (both times just two runs). It wouldn't surprise me to see him back, but I wouldn't be in favor of it.
RHP Vicente Padilla
0-0, 4.15 ERA, 1.38 WHIP, 7.3 H/9, 0.0 HR/9, 5.2 BB/9, 9.3 K/9, 1.80 K/BB, 93 ERA+, 3 saves
- Padilla was signed to be the "swingman" in the 'pen -- a spot starter, long reliever or even closer. Things were going OK until he injured his forearm in May. If not for his injury, Guerra might not have gotten his shot to close games. Padilla could still be a quality performer out the bullpen in 2012, if the Dodgers decide to bring him back.
RHP Ramon Troncoso
0-0, 6.75 ERA, 1.85 WHIP, 15.1 H/9, 2.0 HR/9, 1.6 BB/9, 5.6 K/9, 3.50 K/BB, 56 ERA+
- A once quality bullpen arm is now a mop-up man. Troncoso pitched in 18 games this season -- 13 of which he finished, a stat that tied him for third with the Dodgers. However, he didn't pitch any meaningful games -- and for good reason. He was simply not effective, evidenced by his WHIP and grotesque H/9 rate.
Starters who made relief appearances
(Numbers as relievers)
Rubby De La Rosa (3 games)
1-0, 1.80 ERA, 0.80 WHIP, 5 IP, 3 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 0 HR, 1 BB, 5 K
- Got his first Major League win out of the bullpen.
Nathan Eovaldi (4 games)
0-0, 10.13 ERA, 2.25 WHIP, 2 2/3 IP, 3 H, 3 R, 3 ER, 0 HR, 3 BB, 0 K
- Pitched rather poorly out of the bullpen, but might ultimately end up there if he doesn't improve his off-speed offerings.
John Ely (4 games)
0-0, 2.57 ERA, 1.43 WHIP, 7 IP, 6 H, 2 R, 2 ER, 0 HR, 4 BB, 8 K
- The shine of Elymania is long gone. He'll bounce between Triple-A and the Majors as a spot-starter for the duration of his career.
Bullpen MVP: Jansen
- While many would choose Guerra because he stepped in as the closer, Jansen was the most dominant reliever in the Dodger pen -- and all of baseball. Despite a "slow" start this season, Jansen turned it up and was Mr. Dependable for the Dodgers.
Bullpen LVP: Cormier
- This one is tough. It could go to Kuo for his utter inability to get anyone out without giving up runs or it could go to Troncoso for his wretched numbers (especailly the 15.1 H/9), but Cormier takes the cake. At least Kuo and Troncoso had past success with the Dodgers. Cormier had no business being on a Major League roster.
Next up: Rotation
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Most disappointing 2011 Dodgers' hitters and pitchers
In the final part of most surprising and disappointing series, we look at the most disappointing Dodgers' hitters and pitchers.
This list will have no trouble being populated, as this has been one of the most disappointing seasons in the last 20 years.
The most disappointing person in the organization, obviously, is Frank McCourt. But myself and hundreds of others have wasted too much time and too many words on this joke of an owner.
But the play on the field has been so poor that it almost overshadows the debacle that is Frank McCourt.
Most disappointing hitters
1. Andre Ethier
- Ethier started 2010 off on fire and looked like he was about to take full advantage of his prime years. Then he fractured his pinkie and he wasn't the same hitter. He still finished with a .292/.364/.493 line with 23 home runs, 82 RBI and 33 doubles. He had a nice start to 2011, including a 30-game hitting streak. However, there's been a complete power outage from Ethier. He has 10 home runs and 28 doubles, good for a .411 slugging percentage. Most of his traditional numbers are in line with his career numbers, except for the power.
He is hitting ground balls at a career-high rate (1.45 GB/FB, 44.3 GB percent), but he's also hitting line drives at a rate, 25.1 percent (sixth-best in baseball), bested only once in his career (2008, 26.6 percent). He is struggling mightily against sliders this season, as his Slider Runs Above Average (wSL) is at -9.1, which is third-worst in the majors.
And now he tells The L.A. Times' T.J. Simers that he'll need off-season knee surgery, which could explain his second-half slump and season-long power disappearance.
2. James Loney
- We all know Loney is never going to become a 20-home run hitter -- well, unless he plays in Colorado or Arizona for half the season -- but he was expected to do a lot more than he has this season. As was the case with Leon Landry, Loney is on a hot streak right now, including hitting the game-tying home run yesterday. His batting average is as high as it's been since July 8 (.274) and his on-base percentage is as high as it's been since July 5 (.323). His slugging percentage is as high as it's been all season, save for the first game. He's not even hitting doubles this season (17 in 423 ABs). That's how bad it's been for Loney this season. His .694 OPS isn't going to cut it from first base, no matter how good his defense is. The Dodgers were expecting -- and needed -- more from Loney in 2011.
3. Casey Blake
- It's kind of hard to be disappointed in a 38-year-old guy who should be a part-time player, but I'm a little down on The Beard. Even in his limited time, he hasn't put up good numbers: .254/.345/.371 in 61 games. The on-base percentage is good, but like Ethier and Loney before him, the power is all but gone. He has nine doubles, one triple and four home runs. His walk rate is back to his 2009 form (11.1 percent) and his strikeout rate is down just more than 4 percent from last season, but his Isolated Power (ISO, slugging - batting average) is down to .117 (.159 last season and .188 the two seasons before that). Blake's 2009 is a distant memory.
Now, I bet you're wondering why Juan Uribe isn't on this list. Well, I'm not saying I expected him to put up a .557 OPS, but I had a sneaking suspicion that he wouldn't come anywhere close to the 24 HRs he hit last season or the .824 OPS he put up in 2009. He is the worst free agent signing of the Ned Colletti era, and that's saying something considering this is the guy who signed the Jason Schmidt to a $47 million contract knowing full well he had a bum shoulder, Andruw Jones to an $18.1 million a year contract (thankfully only two years) and the noodle-armed wonder and out machine Juan Pierre to a 5-year deal.
Honorable mentions: Tony Gwynn, Dioner Navarro, Marcus Thames
Most disappointing pitchers
1. Hong-Chih Kuo
- A season ago, Kuo was an All-Star and arguably the best left-handed reliever in baseball. Now, he can't get anyone out without giving up a ton of runs in the process. His ERA is 10 runs higher than it was last season. That isn't a typo. He had a 1.20 ERA in 2010 and owns a 11.21 ERA in 2011. In fact, all his rate numbers are through the proverbial roof. All except his K/9, which is actually a career-best right now (13.2). He's dealt with injuries this season, but Kuo has never gotten on track. I wouldn't be surprised if he was non-tendered this off-season.
2. Jonathan Broxton
- Broxton caught a lot of heat last season for being a horrible pitcher after June 27. However, I was still in his corner and as expecting (hoping?) he'd be back to his previous form. He got a chance right off the bat. With a two-run lead, he gave up a solo home run to Pat Burrell but picked up the save. Some folks freaked out, some folks didn't. He started off the season with five consecutive saves (giving up a single run in two of those outings). He wasn't right physically, though, as his average velocity on all his pitches was down from previous years. His fastball clocked in at 94.1 MPH, his slider at 86.5 MPH and his changeup at 88 MPH. In fact, his velocity had been trending down since 2009. I was hoping a restful offseason would get him back on track, but it wasn't enough. He's been out since May 3 and isn't expected to pitch again this season. He might have thrown his last pitch for the Dodgers.
3. Chad Billingsley
- This spot could have gone to Ted Lilly, but I didn't expect Lilly to be all that good this season. I've always been a Billingsley backer, which is why it's tough to watch what he's doing this season. His peripherals aren't that out of sorts from his career numbers, but he's striking guys out at a career-low rate (7.5 K/9). In 2008, Billingsley had a 9.0 K/9 (201 strikeouts) and he's trended down every season since (8.2, 8.0, 7.5). I'm fine with him pitching more to contact, but coming off career-bests in WHIP, HR/9 and BB/9, I was expecting more out of Billingsley this season, especially after signing a long-term deal in Spring Training. He's a good No. 3 starter, but he'll likely not be the ace people were expecting back in 2006. He needs to throw more strikes to pitch deeper into games. He's at 6.12 IP/start, which isn't terrible, but could be better.
Honorable mentions: Lilly, Jon Garland, Vicente Padilla
This list will have no trouble being populated, as this has been one of the most disappointing seasons in the last 20 years.
The most disappointing person in the organization, obviously, is Frank McCourt. But myself and hundreds of others have wasted too much time and too many words on this joke of an owner.
But the play on the field has been so poor that it almost overshadows the debacle that is Frank McCourt.
Most disappointing hitters
1. Andre Ethier
- Ethier started 2010 off on fire and looked like he was about to take full advantage of his prime years. Then he fractured his pinkie and he wasn't the same hitter. He still finished with a .292/.364/.493 line with 23 home runs, 82 RBI and 33 doubles. He had a nice start to 2011, including a 30-game hitting streak. However, there's been a complete power outage from Ethier. He has 10 home runs and 28 doubles, good for a .411 slugging percentage. Most of his traditional numbers are in line with his career numbers, except for the power.
He is hitting ground balls at a career-high rate (1.45 GB/FB, 44.3 GB percent), but he's also hitting line drives at a rate, 25.1 percent (sixth-best in baseball), bested only once in his career (2008, 26.6 percent). He is struggling mightily against sliders this season, as his Slider Runs Above Average (wSL) is at -9.1, which is third-worst in the majors.
And now he tells The L.A. Times' T.J. Simers that he'll need off-season knee surgery, which could explain his second-half slump and season-long power disappearance.
2. James Loney
- We all know Loney is never going to become a 20-home run hitter -- well, unless he plays in Colorado or Arizona for half the season -- but he was expected to do a lot more than he has this season. As was the case with Leon Landry, Loney is on a hot streak right now, including hitting the game-tying home run yesterday. His batting average is as high as it's been since July 8 (.274) and his on-base percentage is as high as it's been since July 5 (.323). His slugging percentage is as high as it's been all season, save for the first game. He's not even hitting doubles this season (17 in 423 ABs). That's how bad it's been for Loney this season. His .694 OPS isn't going to cut it from first base, no matter how good his defense is. The Dodgers were expecting -- and needed -- more from Loney in 2011.
3. Casey Blake
- It's kind of hard to be disappointed in a 38-year-old guy who should be a part-time player, but I'm a little down on The Beard. Even in his limited time, he hasn't put up good numbers: .254/.345/.371 in 61 games. The on-base percentage is good, but like Ethier and Loney before him, the power is all but gone. He has nine doubles, one triple and four home runs. His walk rate is back to his 2009 form (11.1 percent) and his strikeout rate is down just more than 4 percent from last season, but his Isolated Power (ISO, slugging - batting average) is down to .117 (.159 last season and .188 the two seasons before that). Blake's 2009 is a distant memory.
Now, I bet you're wondering why Juan Uribe isn't on this list. Well, I'm not saying I expected him to put up a .557 OPS, but I had a sneaking suspicion that he wouldn't come anywhere close to the 24 HRs he hit last season or the .824 OPS he put up in 2009. He is the worst free agent signing of the Ned Colletti era, and that's saying something considering this is the guy who signed the Jason Schmidt to a $47 million contract knowing full well he had a bum shoulder, Andruw Jones to an $18.1 million a year contract (thankfully only two years) and the noodle-armed wonder and out machine Juan Pierre to a 5-year deal.
Honorable mentions: Tony Gwynn, Dioner Navarro, Marcus Thames
Most disappointing pitchers
1. Hong-Chih Kuo
- A season ago, Kuo was an All-Star and arguably the best left-handed reliever in baseball. Now, he can't get anyone out without giving up a ton of runs in the process. His ERA is 10 runs higher than it was last season. That isn't a typo. He had a 1.20 ERA in 2010 and owns a 11.21 ERA in 2011. In fact, all his rate numbers are through the proverbial roof. All except his K/9, which is actually a career-best right now (13.2). He's dealt with injuries this season, but Kuo has never gotten on track. I wouldn't be surprised if he was non-tendered this off-season.
2. Jonathan Broxton
- Broxton caught a lot of heat last season for being a horrible pitcher after June 27. However, I was still in his corner and as expecting (hoping?) he'd be back to his previous form. He got a chance right off the bat. With a two-run lead, he gave up a solo home run to Pat Burrell but picked up the save. Some folks freaked out, some folks didn't. He started off the season with five consecutive saves (giving up a single run in two of those outings). He wasn't right physically, though, as his average velocity on all his pitches was down from previous years. His fastball clocked in at 94.1 MPH, his slider at 86.5 MPH and his changeup at 88 MPH. In fact, his velocity had been trending down since 2009. I was hoping a restful offseason would get him back on track, but it wasn't enough. He's been out since May 3 and isn't expected to pitch again this season. He might have thrown his last pitch for the Dodgers.
3. Chad Billingsley
- This spot could have gone to Ted Lilly, but I didn't expect Lilly to be all that good this season. I've always been a Billingsley backer, which is why it's tough to watch what he's doing this season. His peripherals aren't that out of sorts from his career numbers, but he's striking guys out at a career-low rate (7.5 K/9). In 2008, Billingsley had a 9.0 K/9 (201 strikeouts) and he's trended down every season since (8.2, 8.0, 7.5). I'm fine with him pitching more to contact, but coming off career-bests in WHIP, HR/9 and BB/9, I was expecting more out of Billingsley this season, especially after signing a long-term deal in Spring Training. He's a good No. 3 starter, but he'll likely not be the ace people were expecting back in 2006. He needs to throw more strikes to pitch deeper into games. He's at 6.12 IP/start, which isn't terrible, but could be better.
Honorable mentions: Lilly, Jon Garland, Vicente Padilla
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Dodgers' bullpen hit hard by injuries
Kenley Jansen was placed on the 15-day disabled list today, with the Dodgers calling up Josh Lindblom from Double-A and designating Travis Schlichting for assignment.
The top four (arguably) Dodger bullpen arms are all on the DL: Jansen, Jonathan Broxton, Hong-Chih Kuo and Vicente Padilla.
If you had the Dodger bullpen shaping up like this on May 29...
Rubby De La Rosa, Scott Elbert, Javy Guerra, Matt Guerrier, Lindblom, Mike MacDougal, Ramon Troncoso
...I'd like to get the lottery numbers from you.
Lindblom will be the third Dodger pitcher to make his debut this season (De La Rosa, Guerra). With Blake Hawksworth suffering a setback in his rehab, this could be the bullpen for the foreseeable future.
This puts pressure on the starting pitchers with a largely untested bunch of youngsters. Guerrier is the most dependable of the bunch, while De La Rosa has the most upside. So far, Elbert and Guerra have been great. MacDougal's low ERA is quite deceiving and Troncoso is, well, Troncoso (not the 2009 Troncoso either).
We'll see if manager Don Mattingly challenges his starters to throw deeper into games. Clayton Kershaw, who's pitching as I write this, has thrown 84 and 85 pitches (11 IP) in his last two outings. That's not nearly enough for the staff ace (averaging 100.8 per start). Ted Lilly, despite his struggles, has thrown more than 100 pitches just once this season (102 on May 20 at the White Sox). He's averaging 88.1 pitches per start (higher than his career average of 87.7). He could stand to pitch a bit more, if he isn't too busy giving up home runs. Chad Billingsley leads the staff in pitches per start (101.5) and has thrown 100 pitches or more in five consecutive starts and seven of his last eight starts. Hiroki Kuroda is averaging 97.7 pitches per start, while Jon Garland is averaging 92.5 pitches per start.
The rash of injuries this team has suffered is abnormal, but it's the reality of baseball (and all professional sports).
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Zach Lee, making his first start today in three weeks, was roughed up. He pitched 2/3 innings, giving up three hits, six runs, one home run, two walks while striking out one. I just hope he's rusty from the time off. The last thing the Dodgers want to do is rush this kid back -- especially from an elbow injury.
The top four (arguably) Dodger bullpen arms are all on the DL: Jansen, Jonathan Broxton, Hong-Chih Kuo and Vicente Padilla.
If you had the Dodger bullpen shaping up like this on May 29...
Rubby De La Rosa, Scott Elbert, Javy Guerra, Matt Guerrier, Lindblom, Mike MacDougal, Ramon Troncoso
...I'd like to get the lottery numbers from you.
Lindblom will be the third Dodger pitcher to make his debut this season (De La Rosa, Guerra). With Blake Hawksworth suffering a setback in his rehab, this could be the bullpen for the foreseeable future.
This puts pressure on the starting pitchers with a largely untested bunch of youngsters. Guerrier is the most dependable of the bunch, while De La Rosa has the most upside. So far, Elbert and Guerra have been great. MacDougal's low ERA is quite deceiving and Troncoso is, well, Troncoso (not the 2009 Troncoso either).
We'll see if manager Don Mattingly challenges his starters to throw deeper into games. Clayton Kershaw, who's pitching as I write this, has thrown 84 and 85 pitches (11 IP) in his last two outings. That's not nearly enough for the staff ace (averaging 100.8 per start). Ted Lilly, despite his struggles, has thrown more than 100 pitches just once this season (102 on May 20 at the White Sox). He's averaging 88.1 pitches per start (higher than his career average of 87.7). He could stand to pitch a bit more, if he isn't too busy giving up home runs. Chad Billingsley leads the staff in pitches per start (101.5) and has thrown 100 pitches or more in five consecutive starts and seven of his last eight starts. Hiroki Kuroda is averaging 97.7 pitches per start, while Jon Garland is averaging 92.5 pitches per start.
The rash of injuries this team has suffered is abnormal, but it's the reality of baseball (and all professional sports).
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Zach Lee, making his first start today in three weeks, was roughed up. He pitched 2/3 innings, giving up three hits, six runs, one home run, two walks while striking out one. I just hope he's rusty from the time off. The last thing the Dodgers want to do is rush this kid back -- especially from an elbow injury.
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Rubby De La Rosa's debut a succes, but is that good?
Rubby De La Rosa was recalled on Tuesday and made his Major League debut in the eighth inning of a 5-4 game (the Dodgers were ahead).
He came in and didn't look like a kid making his debut. Despite running the count full to Hunter Pence, he struck him out with a 97 MPH fastball on the outer-half of the plate. He then got Carlos Lee to break his bat on a grounder to short (great pick by James Loney to save an error by Rafael Furcal). Finally, he got Brett Wallace to strike out on a breaking pitch after throwing a nasty changeup to get strike two.
He seemed to throw four pitches: a heavy, sinking fastball in the mid-to-upper-90s; a devastating changeup; a slider (which needs some work) and a curveball (which he got Wallace out on swinging).
To say I'm excited about this is an understatement. De La Rosa was dominant and of course that's a good thing. However, I fear the Dodgers will be enticed to use him primarily out of the bullpen in the future.
Some prospect experts have speculated he could end up at the back of the bullpen because he lacks a true third pitch (right now, at least), but he needs to be tried as a starter before making him a reliever.
It's a similar situation to Neftali Feliz, who was the Rangers' top prospect a year ago. They contemplated trying him in the rotation in the spring, but ultimately ended up keeping him as the closer. While he's great in that role, it makes me wonder, "What might have been?" if they tried him as a starter.
It wouldn't be the first time something like this happened. When Jonathan Papelbon had success as a closer in 2006 (0.92 ERA, 0.78 WHIP, 9.9 K/9, 5.77 K/BB), he was still projected to be a starting pitcher. Boston left him in the closer's role in 2007 and, up until last season, he was really good at it.
The difference between Boston and Texas is Boston had starting pitching depth in 2007. It had just added Daisuke Matsuzaka to a rotation that featured Josh Beckett, Jon Lester, Tim Wakefield and Curt Schilling. The Red Sox needed help in the bullpen desperately.
The Rangers have gotten surprisingly good contributions from Matt Harrison, Colby Lewis and Alexi Ogando (who was a reliever last year), so keeping Feliz in the bullpen makes a little more sense than it did in Spring Training. After losing Cliff Lee, though, I thought it was a no-doubter that Texas would at least give Feliz a shot at starting.
The Dodgers don't exactly need starting pitching right now, as all five projected starters are healthy. So if De La Rosa pitches out of the 'pen this year, that's fine with me and wouldn't be surprising in the least. But come 2012, he should be given a shot to start. If he can be as good as some think, it'd be foolish to get only 70 innings a year out of him instead of 180-plus.
The Dodgers do have a dire need for bullpen arms, as Jonathan Broxton, Hong-Chih Kuo and Vicente Padilla are all on the disabled list.
Mike Axisa of FanGraphs wrote an article speculating whether De La Rosa could be the next Dodgers' closer. I have no problem with De La Rosa ending up as the Dodgers' closer -- in the future. The Dodgers need to not fall in love with him out of the 'pen before giving him a legitimate shot as a starter. If he fails in that role, the Dodgers can always move him back to the 'pen. It's not a bad problem to have.
Ultimately, I think Kenley Jansen ends up as the Dodgers' closer -- even if De La Rosa fails as a starter -- as Broxton isn't long for this team.
In 1993, Pedro Martinez pitched 65 games for the Dodgers -- 63 of which came out of the bullpen (2.65 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, 10.0 K/9). When he was traded to Montreal, the Expos wasted no time making him a starter. I'd say that was the right move. Here's hoping De La Rosa follows suit, minus the whole being traded for a slappy second baseman.
He came in and didn't look like a kid making his debut. Despite running the count full to Hunter Pence, he struck him out with a 97 MPH fastball on the outer-half of the plate. He then got Carlos Lee to break his bat on a grounder to short (great pick by James Loney to save an error by Rafael Furcal). Finally, he got Brett Wallace to strike out on a breaking pitch after throwing a nasty changeup to get strike two.
He seemed to throw four pitches: a heavy, sinking fastball in the mid-to-upper-90s; a devastating changeup; a slider (which needs some work) and a curveball (which he got Wallace out on swinging).
To say I'm excited about this is an understatement. De La Rosa was dominant and of course that's a good thing. However, I fear the Dodgers will be enticed to use him primarily out of the bullpen in the future.
Some prospect experts have speculated he could end up at the back of the bullpen because he lacks a true third pitch (right now, at least), but he needs to be tried as a starter before making him a reliever.
It's a similar situation to Neftali Feliz, who was the Rangers' top prospect a year ago. They contemplated trying him in the rotation in the spring, but ultimately ended up keeping him as the closer. While he's great in that role, it makes me wonder, "What might have been?" if they tried him as a starter.
It wouldn't be the first time something like this happened. When Jonathan Papelbon had success as a closer in 2006 (0.92 ERA, 0.78 WHIP, 9.9 K/9, 5.77 K/BB), he was still projected to be a starting pitcher. Boston left him in the closer's role in 2007 and, up until last season, he was really good at it.
The difference between Boston and Texas is Boston had starting pitching depth in 2007. It had just added Daisuke Matsuzaka to a rotation that featured Josh Beckett, Jon Lester, Tim Wakefield and Curt Schilling. The Red Sox needed help in the bullpen desperately.
The Rangers have gotten surprisingly good contributions from Matt Harrison, Colby Lewis and Alexi Ogando (who was a reliever last year), so keeping Feliz in the bullpen makes a little more sense than it did in Spring Training. After losing Cliff Lee, though, I thought it was a no-doubter that Texas would at least give Feliz a shot at starting.
The Dodgers don't exactly need starting pitching right now, as all five projected starters are healthy. So if De La Rosa pitches out of the 'pen this year, that's fine with me and wouldn't be surprising in the least. But come 2012, he should be given a shot to start. If he can be as good as some think, it'd be foolish to get only 70 innings a year out of him instead of 180-plus.
The Dodgers do have a dire need for bullpen arms, as Jonathan Broxton, Hong-Chih Kuo and Vicente Padilla are all on the disabled list.
Mike Axisa of FanGraphs wrote an article speculating whether De La Rosa could be the next Dodgers' closer. I have no problem with De La Rosa ending up as the Dodgers' closer -- in the future. The Dodgers need to not fall in love with him out of the 'pen before giving him a legitimate shot as a starter. If he fails in that role, the Dodgers can always move him back to the 'pen. It's not a bad problem to have.
Ultimately, I think Kenley Jansen ends up as the Dodgers' closer -- even if De La Rosa fails as a starter -- as Broxton isn't long for this team.
In 1993, Pedro Martinez pitched 65 games for the Dodgers -- 63 of which came out of the bullpen (2.65 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, 10.0 K/9). When he was traded to Montreal, the Expos wasted no time making him a starter. I'd say that was the right move. Here's hoping De La Rosa follows suit, minus the whole being traded for a slappy second baseman.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Clayton Kershaw, Matt Kemp come up big in Opening Day win
Clayton Kershaw, making the first of many Opening Day starts in his career, was absolutely dominant tonight against the Giants, throwing seven innings, allowing four hits, one walk and nine strikeouts in a 2-1 Dodger victory.
He threw 96 pitches in his seven innings. I thought Don Mattingly might send him out to start the eighth inning, he elected to go with Hong-Chih Kuo who was a little rusty, but came away unscathed. If it was August or September, Kershaw probably would have been sent out there.
I've written in the past about how Kershaw needs to be considered an ace -- not just a future ace. Well, this performance should only help that cause. The only reason I didn't pick him to win the NL Cy Young was because I didn't want to look like a homer. If he can be as dominant as he was tonight, he might run away with it.
OK, I'm sure guys like Tim Lincecum, Roy Halladay and Josh Johnson will have something to say about that.
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Jonathan Broxton got into the game and gave up a home run to Pat Burrell. That sent folks into a tizzy on Twitter, message boards, et al. However, he was aggressive with his pitches and threw more sliders in one outing than he ever has (note: I have no numbers to back this up; it just seemed that way). His fastball was at 96-98 MPH and his slider was sitting comfortably at 90 MPH. A few had nice bite and he wasn't afraid to throw it to a lefty or righty.
So, people are going to focus on the home run allowed, but Broxton was behind in the count 2-1 and couldn't afford to either go 3-1 and potentially end of walking Burrell. I applaud the fact he went right after the hitters tonight -- something he didn't do a lot of after June 26 last season.
I'm not saying he's 100 percent back, but he's certainly not where he was during the second half of 2010.
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The other great part about the win was Matt Kemp. He went 1-for-1 with a career-high three walks, a stolen base and scored the Dodgers' two runs. He drew a four-pitch walk against Lincecum in his second at-bat and worked the count very nicely in his third AB, laying off a couple of nasty changeups. He's still going to have his fair share of strikeouts, but his plate discipline seems to be improving, even if it's just one game. Quite encouraging for the Dodgers and their fans.
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Don Mattingly also earned the first win in his managerial career. Congratulations to him. Hopefully it's the first of many.
He threw 96 pitches in his seven innings. I thought Don Mattingly might send him out to start the eighth inning, he elected to go with Hong-Chih Kuo who was a little rusty, but came away unscathed. If it was August or September, Kershaw probably would have been sent out there.
I've written in the past about how Kershaw needs to be considered an ace -- not just a future ace. Well, this performance should only help that cause. The only reason I didn't pick him to win the NL Cy Young was because I didn't want to look like a homer. If he can be as dominant as he was tonight, he might run away with it.
OK, I'm sure guys like Tim Lincecum, Roy Halladay and Josh Johnson will have something to say about that.
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Jonathan Broxton got into the game and gave up a home run to Pat Burrell. That sent folks into a tizzy on Twitter, message boards, et al. However, he was aggressive with his pitches and threw more sliders in one outing than he ever has (note: I have no numbers to back this up; it just seemed that way). His fastball was at 96-98 MPH and his slider was sitting comfortably at 90 MPH. A few had nice bite and he wasn't afraid to throw it to a lefty or righty.
So, people are going to focus on the home run allowed, but Broxton was behind in the count 2-1 and couldn't afford to either go 3-1 and potentially end of walking Burrell. I applaud the fact he went right after the hitters tonight -- something he didn't do a lot of after June 26 last season.
I'm not saying he's 100 percent back, but he's certainly not where he was during the second half of 2010.
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The other great part about the win was Matt Kemp. He went 1-for-1 with a career-high three walks, a stolen base and scored the Dodgers' two runs. He drew a four-pitch walk against Lincecum in his second at-bat and worked the count very nicely in his third AB, laying off a couple of nasty changeups. He's still going to have his fair share of strikeouts, but his plate discipline seems to be improving, even if it's just one game. Quite encouraging for the Dodgers and their fans.
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Don Mattingly also earned the first win in his managerial career. Congratulations to him. Hopefully it's the first of many.
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Los Angeles Dodgers' 2011 season outlook
This time of year is great. March Madness is in full swing, the NFL Draft is a month away and, most importantly, Opening Day is here.
While the Dodgers have given me reason to be optimistic for the last three or four years, I'm not so confident in their chances for 2011. The division is no longer the "NL Worst," with three teams finishing above .500 last season (yes, I'm intentionally not mentioning you know what).
The division also houses my pick for National League MVP in Troy Tulowitzki, while the Giants have some of the best pitching in baseball. I don't see the Padres or Diamondbacks being huge threats, but they'll be pesky whenever the Dodgers play them (they always are).
The homer in my could come out and say everything will be fine and they'll be a 90-95 win team
Too many questions:
So what is a realistic scenario? Maybe Kemp puts up MVP-caliber numbers and Broxton returns to form, but that leaves too many unanswered questions.
The guys at True Blue L.A. chimed in with their prognostications. The predictions are actually a little more optimistic than I thought. Nothing wrong with that.
My prediction: 83-79
This team absolutely collapsed in the second half, finishing at 80-82. I know this team, even with its question marks, is a .500-plus team, but it isn't much better than that. Here's hoping something happens with the ownership situation. Bill Shaikin has an article on the L.A. Times which states the McCourts are "quietly" working on a settlement. I wouldn't expect anything anytime soon.
Unless the questions are answered by in-house options, the trade route is the only other way to improve this club. With Ned Colletti's track record, I wouldn't hold my breath.
It pains me to write this, as there is no sport I love more than baseball. But I must ground myself in reality and see that this is a team that's going to hover around .500 unless significant changes are made.
That isn't going to stop me from watching as much Dodger baseball as possible. Hey, at least we still have the immortal and irreplaceable Vin Scully to make things better.
Go Blue!
While the Dodgers have given me reason to be optimistic for the last three or four years, I'm not so confident in their chances for 2011. The division is no longer the "NL Worst," with three teams finishing above .500 last season (yes, I'm intentionally not mentioning you know what).
The division also houses my pick for National League MVP in Troy Tulowitzki, while the Giants have some of the best pitching in baseball. I don't see the Padres or Diamondbacks being huge threats, but they'll be pesky whenever the Dodgers play them (they always are).
The homer in my could come out and say everything will be fine and they'll be a 90-95 win team
Too many questions:
- Will Matt Kemp return to form?
- Will Andre Ethier hit left-handers well enough?
- Will Rafael Furcal play a quality 140-150 games?
- Will James Loney improve on last season's dreadful second half?
- Will catcher and second- or third base not be complete black holes?
- Will Juan Uribe really be worth his contract?
- Will Jonathan Broxton return to the pitcher he was before June 27?
- Will the back end of the rotation stay healthy?
- Will the middle relief be good enough?
- Will the Dodgers make the necessary move to get over the hump if they're close?
- Will the players buy into Don Mattingly's new philosophy?
So what is a realistic scenario? Maybe Kemp puts up MVP-caliber numbers and Broxton returns to form, but that leaves too many unanswered questions.
The guys at True Blue L.A. chimed in with their prognostications. The predictions are actually a little more optimistic than I thought. Nothing wrong with that.
My prediction: 83-79
This team absolutely collapsed in the second half, finishing at 80-82. I know this team, even with its question marks, is a .500-plus team, but it isn't much better than that. Here's hoping something happens with the ownership situation. Bill Shaikin has an article on the L.A. Times which states the McCourts are "quietly" working on a settlement. I wouldn't expect anything anytime soon.
Unless the questions are answered by in-house options, the trade route is the only other way to improve this club. With Ned Colletti's track record, I wouldn't hold my breath.
It pains me to write this, as there is no sport I love more than baseball. But I must ground myself in reality and see that this is a team that's going to hover around .500 unless significant changes are made.
That isn't going to stop me from watching as much Dodger baseball as possible. Hey, at least we still have the immortal and irreplaceable Vin Scully to make things better.
Go Blue!
Thursday, February 10, 2011
2011 Los Angeles Dodgers Season Preview: Bullpen
In the first of a nine-part series, I preview the Los Angeles Dodgers' bullpen heading into the 2011 season.
RHP Ronald Belisario
- I made a post about Belisario nine days ago, saying I think he'd have a bounce-back season. He could end up being an important 6th- or 7th-inning reliever for the Dodgers. His stuff is nasty and his ability to get ground balls (58.5 percent for his career) is crucial when the Dodgers need a double play.
RHP Jonathan Broxton
- We all know Big Bad Jon struggled mightily after June 27. He still made the All-Star team and closed out the win for the National League. We all know what happened in the World Series. Anyway, I'm one of the only people left in Broxton's corner, it seems. He's the No. 1 scapegoat of all the Dodger pitchers -- even more than the "gutless" Chad Billingsley (love ya, Chad!). I haven't made many predictions, but I'm predicting Broxton gets back to his 2006 through the first three months of the 2010 season. He will make folks forget about the horrific 29 2/3 innings last year. He will re-establish himself as one of the game's best closers.
RHP Matt Guerrier
- In one of the biggest head-scratchers of the off-season, the Dodgers have Guerrier a 3-year contract. The guy is durable, which is a plus. However, if that's his best quality, the Dodgers definitely overpaid. He was consistent in Minnesota. Coming to the National League should help him, but that isn't always the case. He'll be a 7th-inning guy for the Blue.
RHP Kenley Jansen
- Jansen was dominant at every stop he made last season. With an electric fastball and a nasty slider, Jansen will be a key player in the Dodger 'pen. He'll serve as a 7th- and 8th-inning guy for the Dodgers, with the chance to snake a save opportunity from Hong-Chih Kuo and Jonathan Broxton every once in a while.
LHP Hong-Chih Kuo
- Kuo had one of the greatest seasons any Dodger reliever has ever had. He was rewarded with an All-Star berth and the chance to take over for Broxton when he faltered in 2010. Kuo's inability to pitch on consecutive days is the only thing keeping him from being mentioned among the league's best relievers (even though he still is). He could step in as the part-time closer, if needed.
RHP Vicente Padilla
- Padilla re-signed with the Dodgers in the off-season, despite not being guaranteed a spot in the rotation. He was the team's 2010 Opening Day starter (for some reason). Padilla got on a role in 2010. From April 16 to Aug. 10 (12 starts, due to injury), Padilla went 6-2 with a 2.42 ERA, 0.88 WHIP and a .188 BAA. He was flat-out dominant.
However, he's slated for long relief this season with the Dodgers -- a role in which he could thrive. There's even talk of him getting a save opportunity every once in a while. He has the stuff, but the Dodgers have a few other relievers capable of closing.
Guys in the mix
The 25-man roster is far from being set, so here are some guys competing for the last bullpen spot (assuming the Dodgers go with a 12-man pitching staff, as they're prone to do).
LHP Scott Elbert
- Elbert had a tumultuous season in 2010, which ended when he took a leave of absence from the Albuquerque Isotopes. He had a great Arizona Fall League showing and was primed to lock up the last spot in the Dodger 'pen. However, the signing of Mahay could spell the end of that. Elbert, like Troncoso, will likely begin the season in Triple-A because he has options remaining.
RHP Blake Hawksworth
- Hawksworth was acquired from the Cardinals for Ryan Theriot. At the time, we all knew it was amazing a team gave up anything for "The Riot," but to get a potential decent (which I use loosely) reliever was good for the Dodgers. However, he's out of options and isn't exactly the favorite to win the last opening. If he's to remain a Dodger, he'll have to be lights out in Spring Training or slip through waivers -- neither of which I see happening.
LHP Ron Mahay
- Mahay was signed just last week and could steal the last bullpen spot. He's a veteran LOOGY and had a decent season with the Twins in 2010. I'd bet a large amount of money he's the last guy to make the Dodger 'pen.
RHP Ramon Troncoso
- Troncoso had a decent debut in 2008 before having a better 2009 (though, not as good as some may think) before falling down a little in 2010. He isn't going to blow you away with his stuff, but his ability to get grounders is vital to his success. He had a bout with the home run ball, giving up seven last season. While that may not sound like a lot, just consider he gave up just five home runs in his first two seasons -- combined. His HR/9 rate jumped from 0.3 in 2009 to 1.2 in 2010. He'll likely start the season in Triple-A, as he has an option remaining. He could get a midseason call-up.
Analysis
The Dodgers are shaping up to have one of the best bullpens in baseball. However, that's contingent on everyone -- or almost everyone -- playing up to his potential. If Broxton returns to form, Kuo stays healthy and Jansen continues his dominance -- Kuo's health being biggest question mark of the three -- the Dodgers could boast the best bullpen back end in the majors.
Next up: Starting Rotation
RHP Ronald Belisario
- I made a post about Belisario nine days ago, saying I think he'd have a bounce-back season. He could end up being an important 6th- or 7th-inning reliever for the Dodgers. His stuff is nasty and his ability to get ground balls (58.5 percent for his career) is crucial when the Dodgers need a double play.
RHP Jonathan Broxton
- We all know Big Bad Jon struggled mightily after June 27. He still made the All-Star team and closed out the win for the National League. We all know what happened in the World Series. Anyway, I'm one of the only people left in Broxton's corner, it seems. He's the No. 1 scapegoat of all the Dodger pitchers -- even more than the "gutless" Chad Billingsley (love ya, Chad!). I haven't made many predictions, but I'm predicting Broxton gets back to his 2006 through the first three months of the 2010 season. He will make folks forget about the horrific 29 2/3 innings last year. He will re-establish himself as one of the game's best closers.
RHP Matt Guerrier
- In one of the biggest head-scratchers of the off-season, the Dodgers have Guerrier a 3-year contract. The guy is durable, which is a plus. However, if that's his best quality, the Dodgers definitely overpaid. He was consistent in Minnesota. Coming to the National League should help him, but that isn't always the case. He'll be a 7th-inning guy for the Blue.
RHP Kenley Jansen
- Jansen was dominant at every stop he made last season. With an electric fastball and a nasty slider, Jansen will be a key player in the Dodger 'pen. He'll serve as a 7th- and 8th-inning guy for the Dodgers, with the chance to snake a save opportunity from Hong-Chih Kuo and Jonathan Broxton every once in a while.
LHP Hong-Chih Kuo
- Kuo had one of the greatest seasons any Dodger reliever has ever had. He was rewarded with an All-Star berth and the chance to take over for Broxton when he faltered in 2010. Kuo's inability to pitch on consecutive days is the only thing keeping him from being mentioned among the league's best relievers (even though he still is). He could step in as the part-time closer, if needed.
RHP Vicente Padilla
- Padilla re-signed with the Dodgers in the off-season, despite not being guaranteed a spot in the rotation. He was the team's 2010 Opening Day starter (for some reason). Padilla got on a role in 2010. From April 16 to Aug. 10 (12 starts, due to injury), Padilla went 6-2 with a 2.42 ERA, 0.88 WHIP and a .188 BAA. He was flat-out dominant.
However, he's slated for long relief this season with the Dodgers -- a role in which he could thrive. There's even talk of him getting a save opportunity every once in a while. He has the stuff, but the Dodgers have a few other relievers capable of closing.
Guys in the mix
The 25-man roster is far from being set, so here are some guys competing for the last bullpen spot (assuming the Dodgers go with a 12-man pitching staff, as they're prone to do).
LHP Scott Elbert
- Elbert had a tumultuous season in 2010, which ended when he took a leave of absence from the Albuquerque Isotopes. He had a great Arizona Fall League showing and was primed to lock up the last spot in the Dodger 'pen. However, the signing of Mahay could spell the end of that. Elbert, like Troncoso, will likely begin the season in Triple-A because he has options remaining.
RHP Blake Hawksworth
- Hawksworth was acquired from the Cardinals for Ryan Theriot. At the time, we all knew it was amazing a team gave up anything for "The Riot," but to get a potential decent (which I use loosely) reliever was good for the Dodgers. However, he's out of options and isn't exactly the favorite to win the last opening. If he's to remain a Dodger, he'll have to be lights out in Spring Training or slip through waivers -- neither of which I see happening.
LHP Ron Mahay
- Mahay was signed just last week and could steal the last bullpen spot. He's a veteran LOOGY and had a decent season with the Twins in 2010. I'd bet a large amount of money he's the last guy to make the Dodger 'pen.
RHP Ramon Troncoso
- Troncoso had a decent debut in 2008 before having a better 2009 (though, not as good as some may think) before falling down a little in 2010. He isn't going to blow you away with his stuff, but his ability to get grounders is vital to his success. He had a bout with the home run ball, giving up seven last season. While that may not sound like a lot, just consider he gave up just five home runs in his first two seasons -- combined. His HR/9 rate jumped from 0.3 in 2009 to 1.2 in 2010. He'll likely start the season in Triple-A, as he has an option remaining. He could get a midseason call-up.
Analysis
The Dodgers are shaping up to have one of the best bullpens in baseball. However, that's contingent on everyone -- or almost everyone -- playing up to his potential. If Broxton returns to form, Kuo stays healthy and Jansen continues his dominance -- Kuo's health being biggest question mark of the three -- the Dodgers could boast the best bullpen back end in the majors.
Next up: Starting Rotation
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Dodger happenings: McCourts, Fielder, Padilla, Diaz, Gwynn
It's been a busy couple of days at the MLB Winter Meetings in Orlando, Fla. The Dodgers have been involved in a few things. Here's a quick recap.
The potentially big news is the judge in the McCourt v. McCourt case ruled in favor of Jamie, meaning Frank does not own the Dodgers completely.
Josh Fisher of Dodger Divorce has everything you need to know regarding the case, including the court document.
This is good news if you want Frank to sell the team. However, it virtually ensures it will be a long, drawn-out battle.
Steve Dilbeck of the Los Angeles Times says the ruling is reason enough for Major League Baseball to force the McCourts to sell the team. That would be splendid.
#####
On Monday, Tony Jackson of ESPN LA first reported (later updated) the Dodgers and Brewers were talking about a James Loney and Jonathan Broxton for Prince Fielder trade. It was shot down by a lot of other sources.
The Dodger blog, Dodger Rumors, made an interesting argument to try to find validity in the initial report. I'm sure there was some validity originally, but reporters are told false information by sources all the time. I'm not buying the rumor, mostly because it's too good to be true.
The Brewers would more than likely acquire a quality young starting pitcher in a deal for Fielder, which is why the rumor doesn't exactly pass the smell test. One can hope, though.
#####
The Dodgers have indeed re-signed RHP Vicente Padilla to a 1-year, $2 million contract with performance incentives.
The Dodgers have been rumored for nearly a week to be interested in Padilla's services. He's likely to serve as a swingman and potentially a late-inning reliever.
I'm not sure how I feel about the latter part of the above statement. Padilla has some nasty stuff but I'm not sure he's cut out for late-inning duties. This could be a precursor to a Broxton trade, as he is available, said CBS Sportsline's Scott Miller.
Having Padilla back as insurance for the rotation is great -- and at a great price.
#####
Finally, the ESPN's Molly Knight tweeted yesterday that former Tampa Bay Devil Ray (they were still the Devil Rays then), Kansas City Royal and Atlanta Brave Matt Diaz was the Dodgers' No. 1 priority for left field. Jackson followed it up with a story saying it was down to Diaz, Scott Podsednik and a "mystery" third outfielder.
Today Knight tweets that Diaz-to-LA could happen "sooner rather than later."
This would be a great get. Diaz absolute kills left-handed pitching, boasting a career .907 OPS against southpaws. He would be the ideal platoon partner for Jay Gibbons and/or Xavier Paul. Word is if Diaz is signed, Paul would be available via trade as he is out of Minor League options.
Update (2:51 p.m.): This just came across the wire: The Dodgers signed Tony Gwynn, Jr., to a 1-year deal, Major League contract, tweeted Tom Krasovic of Fanhouse. Dylan Hernandez of the L.A. Times confirmed the report. This is probably nothing more than filler (fifth outfielder) and shouldn't take the Dodgers out of the Diaz running.
#####
Finally, many thanks to the Dodger blog, Dodgerbobble, for a mention in his most recent post. :)
The potentially big news is the judge in the McCourt v. McCourt case ruled in favor of Jamie, meaning Frank does not own the Dodgers completely.
Josh Fisher of Dodger Divorce has everything you need to know regarding the case, including the court document.
This is good news if you want Frank to sell the team. However, it virtually ensures it will be a long, drawn-out battle.
Steve Dilbeck of the Los Angeles Times says the ruling is reason enough for Major League Baseball to force the McCourts to sell the team. That would be splendid.
#####
On Monday, Tony Jackson of ESPN LA first reported (later updated) the Dodgers and Brewers were talking about a James Loney and Jonathan Broxton for Prince Fielder trade. It was shot down by a lot of other sources.
The Dodger blog, Dodger Rumors, made an interesting argument to try to find validity in the initial report. I'm sure there was some validity originally, but reporters are told false information by sources all the time. I'm not buying the rumor, mostly because it's too good to be true.
The Brewers would more than likely acquire a quality young starting pitcher in a deal for Fielder, which is why the rumor doesn't exactly pass the smell test. One can hope, though.
#####
The Dodgers have indeed re-signed RHP Vicente Padilla to a 1-year, $2 million contract with performance incentives.
The Dodgers have been rumored for nearly a week to be interested in Padilla's services. He's likely to serve as a swingman and potentially a late-inning reliever.
I'm not sure how I feel about the latter part of the above statement. Padilla has some nasty stuff but I'm not sure he's cut out for late-inning duties. This could be a precursor to a Broxton trade, as he is available, said CBS Sportsline's Scott Miller.
Having Padilla back as insurance for the rotation is great -- and at a great price.
#####
Finally, the ESPN's Molly Knight tweeted yesterday that former Tampa Bay Devil Ray (they were still the Devil Rays then), Kansas City Royal and Atlanta Brave Matt Diaz was the Dodgers' No. 1 priority for left field. Jackson followed it up with a story saying it was down to Diaz, Scott Podsednik and a "mystery" third outfielder.
Today Knight tweets that Diaz-to-LA could happen "sooner rather than later."
This would be a great get. Diaz absolute kills left-handed pitching, boasting a career .907 OPS against southpaws. He would be the ideal platoon partner for Jay Gibbons and/or Xavier Paul. Word is if Diaz is signed, Paul would be available via trade as he is out of Minor League options.
Update (2:51 p.m.): This just came across the wire: The Dodgers signed Tony Gwynn, Jr., to a 1-year deal, Major League contract, tweeted Tom Krasovic of Fanhouse. Dylan Hernandez of the L.A. Times confirmed the report. This is probably nothing more than filler (fifth outfielder) and shouldn't take the Dodgers out of the Diaz running.
#####
Finally, many thanks to the Dodger blog, Dodgerbobble, for a mention in his most recent post. :)
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Still backing Broxton... for now
I haven't written many, if any, blogs about the polarizing Jonathan Broxton. I figured after tonight's meltdown, now is the time.
I've been on the supporting side of the Broxton debate. He had the numbers to warrant such support. From 2006-2009, he was flat-out dominant: 2.79 ERA, 1.13 WHIP, 11.8 K/9, 6.8 H/9 and a 3.49 K/BB ratio. The 2010 season started off great for Broxton, as he didn't allow a single run in nine April appearances, posting a 14:1 K/BB ratio and a .133 opponents batting average. Broxton gave up four runs (three earned) in 14 May appearances and was still his dominant self: 21:2 K/BB ratio and a 1.84 ERA to go along with 12 saves. He was still rolling along in June (9 1/3 innings, 8 hits, 13:2 K:BB, 3 saves).
Then June 27 came around. That was the infamous "Yankee" game. He entered the game with a four-run lead only to allow the Bronx Bombers to tie it. The Dodgers would lose the game in the 10th inning.
Since that time, Broxton has been downright awful. He's 1-3 with 7.90 ERA, .308 opp. BA and a 12:11 K:BB ratio.
Some argue Broxton doesn't have the mental toughness to be a top flight closer. I don't buy into that theory. That is one aspect of closing that is completely overblown by the fans and media alike.
Broxton has been a top flight closer since he took over for the injured Takashi Saito in 2008. He was a top flight closer for the better part of three months this season. In this day of "What have you done for me lately?" people seem to forget all the good Broxton has done.
As for his postseason struggles, well, that boils down to two pitches (the one to Stairs and the one to Rollins). Kind of a small sample size, wouldn't you say? But fans and the media will focus on that because it was in the playoffs -- right or not.
Despite my backing and positive thinking when it comes to Broxton, I cannot defend him tonight. While he didn't get much help from his 'mates (I'm looking at you Ronald Belisario and Casey Blake), he was still staked to a three-run lead facing a depleated Philadelphia lineup. Broxton did not record a single out while giving up four runs and the game. He hadn't pitched since Saturday, so I'm almost certain Broxton would take the mound regardless of the situation -- it just happened to be a save opportunity. I mean, when you walk Mike Sweeney by throwing a 3-2 slider that was nowhere near the strike zone, you knew it wasn't going to be a good night.
Dodger fans were spoiled for nearly 6 years with the closing combination of Eric Gagne and Saito. That is definitely a part of why people are so quick to criticize Broxton when he as a bad game. However, there aren't many, if any, who can defend him after this debacle.
Having said all that, Broxton is still the best closer option on this team. If Hong-Chih Kuo had the ability to pitch two or three days in a row, things might be different. Unfortunately, Broxton has lost the command on his pitches. When he's bad, he's baaaad. His velocity dipped a little in the middle of the season, but he was hitting 98 mph on the gun tonight, so we know he isn't hurt. His slider did not have the kind of bite it needed. While he's throwing slightly more sliders this season, he has completely abandoned the changeup. But none of that matters if he can't throw strikes with his fastball.
With all pitchers, though, it always comes back to command and location. Broxton simply does not have it right now.
I've been on the supporting side of the Broxton debate. He had the numbers to warrant such support. From 2006-2009, he was flat-out dominant: 2.79 ERA, 1.13 WHIP, 11.8 K/9, 6.8 H/9 and a 3.49 K/BB ratio. The 2010 season started off great for Broxton, as he didn't allow a single run in nine April appearances, posting a 14:1 K/BB ratio and a .133 opponents batting average. Broxton gave up four runs (three earned) in 14 May appearances and was still his dominant self: 21:2 K/BB ratio and a 1.84 ERA to go along with 12 saves. He was still rolling along in June (9 1/3 innings, 8 hits, 13:2 K:BB, 3 saves).
Then June 27 came around. That was the infamous "Yankee" game. He entered the game with a four-run lead only to allow the Bronx Bombers to tie it. The Dodgers would lose the game in the 10th inning.
Since that time, Broxton has been downright awful. He's 1-3 with 7.90 ERA, .308 opp. BA and a 12:11 K:BB ratio.
Some argue Broxton doesn't have the mental toughness to be a top flight closer. I don't buy into that theory. That is one aspect of closing that is completely overblown by the fans and media alike.
Broxton has been a top flight closer since he took over for the injured Takashi Saito in 2008. He was a top flight closer for the better part of three months this season. In this day of "What have you done for me lately?" people seem to forget all the good Broxton has done.
As for his postseason struggles, well, that boils down to two pitches (the one to Stairs and the one to Rollins). Kind of a small sample size, wouldn't you say? But fans and the media will focus on that because it was in the playoffs -- right or not.
Despite my backing and positive thinking when it comes to Broxton, I cannot defend him tonight. While he didn't get much help from his 'mates (I'm looking at you Ronald Belisario and Casey Blake), he was still staked to a three-run lead facing a depleated Philadelphia lineup. Broxton did not record a single out while giving up four runs and the game. He hadn't pitched since Saturday, so I'm almost certain Broxton would take the mound regardless of the situation -- it just happened to be a save opportunity. I mean, when you walk Mike Sweeney by throwing a 3-2 slider that was nowhere near the strike zone, you knew it wasn't going to be a good night.
Dodger fans were spoiled for nearly 6 years with the closing combination of Eric Gagne and Saito. That is definitely a part of why people are so quick to criticize Broxton when he as a bad game. However, there aren't many, if any, who can defend him after this debacle.
Having said all that, Broxton is still the best closer option on this team. If Hong-Chih Kuo had the ability to pitch two or three days in a row, things might be different. Unfortunately, Broxton has lost the command on his pitches. When he's bad, he's baaaad. His velocity dipped a little in the middle of the season, but he was hitting 98 mph on the gun tonight, so we know he isn't hurt. His slider did not have the kind of bite it needed. While he's throwing slightly more sliders this season, he has completely abandoned the changeup. But none of that matters if he can't throw strikes with his fastball.
With all pitchers, though, it always comes back to command and location. Broxton simply does not have it right now.
Friday, July 30, 2010
If the Dodgers were sellers...
Let me preface this by saying these absolutely no way the Dodgers end up selling, even though it would be the right move. Here is what I would do if I were the Dodgers. It won't be pretty for the rest of this season, but it would set the Dodgers up for future success.
Untouchable players: Clayton Kershaw
- Other than Kershaw, everyone else is up for grabs. However, that doesn't mean the Dodgers would or should trade the likes of Andre Ethier, Chad Billingsley or Matt Kemp.
Deals I would make
To Yankees: RHP Jonathan Broxton
To Dodgers: C Jesus Montero, LHP Jeremy Bleich
- This works because the Yankees are looking for a guy to bridge the gap to Marino Rivera. New York was rumored to have offered Montero for Soria. Broxton is a free agent after 2011 (making $7M next season) and a third-place team should sell high on an elite closer. Broxton is the Dodgers' most valuable trade piece this side of Kershaw.
To Rays: OF/DH Manny Ramirez
To Dodgers: LHP Jacob McGee
- I alluded to this in an earlier blog posting. The Rays are looking for a bat, as they've been rumored to be after Adam Dunn. The sticking point here would be Ramirez's inability to play. Ramirez has been on the disabled since early July and hasn't proved he's healthy. However, that doesn't mean a trade couldn't be reached after the July 31 deadline. McGee might be too much to get in return, but I'm aiming high.
To Red Sox: SS Rafael Furcal and C Russell Martin
To Dodgers: INF Jed Lowrie, RHP Manny Delcarmen, 1B Anthony Rizzo, C Luis Exposito
- Furcal is riding quite the hot streak and if the Dodgers were ever going to trade him, they'd do it now. He's owed $12 million next season with a $12 million club option for 2012 (vests with 600 plate-appearances in 2011). With Montero, the Dodgers could afford to move Martin, who is firmly entrenched in a three-year slump. He still has solid on-base abilities and is a decent defender behind the dish. The move would allow the Red Sox to put Victor Martinez at 1B (when he comes back) and move Youkilis over to 3B. The Dodgers would get Lowrie, who would bridge the gap to Dee Gordon, a bullpen arm in Delcarmen, a solid 1B prospect in Rizzo and catching depth in Exposito.
To Twins: 3B Casey Blake, cash ($1.25M to cover 2012 buyout)
To Dodgers: 1B/OF Chris Parmalee
- The Twins were the Dodgers' only other competitior for Blake's services in the winter of 2008. Minnesota currently has 25-year-old Danny Valencia playing at 3B. He's doing well, but he's a rookie. Blake would provide them a veteran at the corners (infield & outfield) in case some younger guys falter. Parmalee is a big kid, but hasn't quite lived up to his potential (Twins' 2006 first-round pick). A change of scenery could work for him.
To Cardinals: RHP Hiroki Kuroda
To Dodgers: LHP Sam Freeman, C Bryan Anderson
- The Cards are looking at Jake Westbrook, but Kuroda would be a much better acquisition. Kuroda can be a free agent after the season. A 1-4 of Wainwright-Carpenter-Garcia-Kuroda could do some damage in the playoffs. There's no guarantee he's going to stay in the states, so the Dodgers should look to get something for him. Also, the minor league catching depth has been addressed in these trades. Freeman is strictly a reliever. Looks like a potential LOOGY.
Like I said, it wasn't going to be pretty. The Dodgers would be moving a bunch of quality veterans and replacing them with unproven youngsters. But that's what rebuilding is all about. Not only that, the Dodgers would free up some money, which would make McCourt happy, but could also lead to more activity in the free agent market (perhaps a run at Carl Crawford in the winter).
Not only that, but it strengthens a weak minor league system (ranked No. 24 by Baseball America coming into the season).
You might be saying to yourself, "This is something Royals or Pirates would do, not the Dodgers." The reality is, the Dodgers aren't much better than the Royals or Pirates as an organization right now. The owner and general manager are treating this time like it's in a small market. This is the sad, sad reality.
So, to totally go against what I just wrote, the Dodgers will likely waste resources (prospects) on a Ted Lilly or Paul Maholm and a reliever in the next 21 hours.
Untouchable players: Clayton Kershaw
- Other than Kershaw, everyone else is up for grabs. However, that doesn't mean the Dodgers would or should trade the likes of Andre Ethier, Chad Billingsley or Matt Kemp.
Deals I would make
To Yankees: RHP Jonathan Broxton
To Dodgers: C Jesus Montero, LHP Jeremy Bleich
- This works because the Yankees are looking for a guy to bridge the gap to Marino Rivera. New York was rumored to have offered Montero for Soria. Broxton is a free agent after 2011 (making $7M next season) and a third-place team should sell high on an elite closer. Broxton is the Dodgers' most valuable trade piece this side of Kershaw.
To Rays: OF/DH Manny Ramirez
To Dodgers: LHP Jacob McGee
- I alluded to this in an earlier blog posting. The Rays are looking for a bat, as they've been rumored to be after Adam Dunn. The sticking point here would be Ramirez's inability to play. Ramirez has been on the disabled since early July and hasn't proved he's healthy. However, that doesn't mean a trade couldn't be reached after the July 31 deadline. McGee might be too much to get in return, but I'm aiming high.
To Red Sox: SS Rafael Furcal and C Russell Martin
To Dodgers: INF Jed Lowrie, RHP Manny Delcarmen, 1B Anthony Rizzo, C Luis Exposito
- Furcal is riding quite the hot streak and if the Dodgers were ever going to trade him, they'd do it now. He's owed $12 million next season with a $12 million club option for 2012 (vests with 600 plate-appearances in 2011). With Montero, the Dodgers could afford to move Martin, who is firmly entrenched in a three-year slump. He still has solid on-base abilities and is a decent defender behind the dish. The move would allow the Red Sox to put Victor Martinez at 1B (when he comes back) and move Youkilis over to 3B. The Dodgers would get Lowrie, who would bridge the gap to Dee Gordon, a bullpen arm in Delcarmen, a solid 1B prospect in Rizzo and catching depth in Exposito.
To Twins: 3B Casey Blake, cash ($1.25M to cover 2012 buyout)
To Dodgers: 1B/OF Chris Parmalee
- The Twins were the Dodgers' only other competitior for Blake's services in the winter of 2008. Minnesota currently has 25-year-old Danny Valencia playing at 3B. He's doing well, but he's a rookie. Blake would provide them a veteran at the corners (infield & outfield) in case some younger guys falter. Parmalee is a big kid, but hasn't quite lived up to his potential (Twins' 2006 first-round pick). A change of scenery could work for him.
To Cardinals: RHP Hiroki Kuroda
To Dodgers: LHP Sam Freeman, C Bryan Anderson
- The Cards are looking at Jake Westbrook, but Kuroda would be a much better acquisition. Kuroda can be a free agent after the season. A 1-4 of Wainwright-Carpenter-Garcia-Kuroda could do some damage in the playoffs. There's no guarantee he's going to stay in the states, so the Dodgers should look to get something for him. Also, the minor league catching depth has been addressed in these trades. Freeman is strictly a reliever. Looks like a potential LOOGY.
Like I said, it wasn't going to be pretty. The Dodgers would be moving a bunch of quality veterans and replacing them with unproven youngsters. But that's what rebuilding is all about. Not only that, the Dodgers would free up some money, which would make McCourt happy, but could also lead to more activity in the free agent market (perhaps a run at Carl Crawford in the winter).
Not only that, but it strengthens a weak minor league system (ranked No. 24 by Baseball America coming into the season).
You might be saying to yourself, "This is something Royals or Pirates would do, not the Dodgers." The reality is, the Dodgers aren't much better than the Royals or Pirates as an organization right now. The owner and general manager are treating this time like it's in a small market. This is the sad, sad reality.
So, to totally go against what I just wrote, the Dodgers will likely waste resources (prospects) on a Ted Lilly or Paul Maholm and a reliever in the next 21 hours.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Dodger All-Star recap
The National League finally snapped a 13-year winless drought against the American League on Tuesday, defeating the Junior Circuit 3-1.
The Dodgers had four representatives, all of whom had some impact (positive and negative) on the game.
Andre Ethier: He started in right field. He struck out in his first at-bat against Yankees' LHP Andy Pettitte. He singled sharply to right field in his second at-bat against RHP Justin Verlander with a runner on second and one out. The runner was unable to score, though. He was lifted for pinch-hitter Chris Young in the seventh inning against White Sox LHP Matt Thornton. He made one putout in center field.
Hong-Chih Kuo: He started the fifth inning by walking Rays' 3B Evan Longoria after getting ahead 0-2. He then made the game's only error on a comebacker by Twins' catcher Joe Mauer. He grabbed the ball and threw it over Adrian Gonzalez's head, giving the AL runners on second and third with one out. Yankees' 2B Robinson Cano hit a sacrifice fly to give the AL a 1-0 lead. Kuo got Rays' LF Carl Crawford to ground into a fielder's choice, which ended Hunchy's night.
Rafael Furcal: Entered in the sixth inning as a defensive replacement. He walked in the seventh inning in his only plate appearance after Braves' catcher Brian McCann's game-winning 3-run double. He made a nice stretch on the pop fly fielder's choice by Blue Jays' catcher John Buck, which was the second out of the ninth inning.
Jonathan Broxton: He was asked to close the game by the NL. Broxton's first pitch was ripped to right field by Red Sox DH David Ortiz. Broxton prompted to strike out Red Sox 3B Adrian Beltre on four pitches. Then he battled Buck to a full count. Buck swung at ball four and hit a blooper to right field. Cubs' OF Marlon Byrd let the ball drop instead of diving for it, which allowed him to throw out Ortiz at second in perhaps the biggest play of the game (save McCann's double). He then got Rangers' 2B Ian Kinsler to fly out to center field on the first pitch, earning the save.
It was nice to see The Blue represented at the Midsummer Classic. Here's hoping to many more appearances for this quartet and their teammates.
Go Blue!
The Dodgers had four representatives, all of whom had some impact (positive and negative) on the game.
Andre Ethier: He started in right field. He struck out in his first at-bat against Yankees' LHP Andy Pettitte. He singled sharply to right field in his second at-bat against RHP Justin Verlander with a runner on second and one out. The runner was unable to score, though. He was lifted for pinch-hitter Chris Young in the seventh inning against White Sox LHP Matt Thornton. He made one putout in center field.
Hong-Chih Kuo: He started the fifth inning by walking Rays' 3B Evan Longoria after getting ahead 0-2. He then made the game's only error on a comebacker by Twins' catcher Joe Mauer. He grabbed the ball and threw it over Adrian Gonzalez's head, giving the AL runners on second and third with one out. Yankees' 2B Robinson Cano hit a sacrifice fly to give the AL a 1-0 lead. Kuo got Rays' LF Carl Crawford to ground into a fielder's choice, which ended Hunchy's night.
Rafael Furcal: Entered in the sixth inning as a defensive replacement. He walked in the seventh inning in his only plate appearance after Braves' catcher Brian McCann's game-winning 3-run double. He made a nice stretch on the pop fly fielder's choice by Blue Jays' catcher John Buck, which was the second out of the ninth inning.
Jonathan Broxton: He was asked to close the game by the NL. Broxton's first pitch was ripped to right field by Red Sox DH David Ortiz. Broxton prompted to strike out Red Sox 3B Adrian Beltre on four pitches. Then he battled Buck to a full count. Buck swung at ball four and hit a blooper to right field. Cubs' OF Marlon Byrd let the ball drop instead of diving for it, which allowed him to throw out Ortiz at second in perhaps the biggest play of the game (save McCann's double). He then got Rangers' 2B Ian Kinsler to fly out to center field on the first pitch, earning the save.
It was nice to see The Blue represented at the Midsummer Classic. Here's hoping to many more appearances for this quartet and their teammates.
Go Blue!
Monday, July 5, 2010
All-Star thoughts
Ethier to start, Broxton makes second straight team
Andre Ethier and Jonathan Broxton will represent the Dodgers at the 2010 MLB All-Star Game on July 11.
Ethier was voted to start in right field, while Broxton was selected by the team's manager, Philadelphia's Charlie Manuel.
There were a couple other Dodgers worthy of consideration -- Rafael Furcal and Clayton Kershaw. Furcal has been one of the hottest hitters in baseball for the last month, while Kershaw is anchoring the staff as a 22-year-old.
Surprisingly, Furcal has never made an all-star team. Kershaw will before his career is through.
There was some support for Hong-Chih Kuo, who is perhaps the best left-handed reliever in the majors, but he was beaten out by Arthur Rhodes of the Reds.
If Matt Kemp had not had a horrific month of June, he would have certainly been considered.
There was one huge head-scratcher on the NL side...
How in the world did Omar Infante make the all-star team? Really?
A utility player from the Braves hitting an empty .309 makes the team over some other worthy candidates. That is just a travesty.
This is the process, unfortunately. Guys like Ryan Howard will be chosen by his manager over a more deserving candidate, namely Joey Votto, the NL leader in OPS.
It looks like the AL is going to take home-field in the World Series.
Andre Ethier and Jonathan Broxton will represent the Dodgers at the 2010 MLB All-Star Game on July 11.
Ethier was voted to start in right field, while Broxton was selected by the team's manager, Philadelphia's Charlie Manuel.
There were a couple other Dodgers worthy of consideration -- Rafael Furcal and Clayton Kershaw. Furcal has been one of the hottest hitters in baseball for the last month, while Kershaw is anchoring the staff as a 22-year-old.
Surprisingly, Furcal has never made an all-star team. Kershaw will before his career is through.
There was some support for Hong-Chih Kuo, who is perhaps the best left-handed reliever in the majors, but he was beaten out by Arthur Rhodes of the Reds.
If Matt Kemp had not had a horrific month of June, he would have certainly been considered.
There was one huge head-scratcher on the NL side...
How in the world did Omar Infante make the all-star team? Really?
A utility player from the Braves hitting an empty .309 makes the team over some other worthy candidates. That is just a travesty.
This is the process, unfortunately. Guys like Ryan Howard will be chosen by his manager over a more deserving candidate, namely Joey Votto, the NL leader in OPS.
It looks like the AL is going to take home-field in the World Series.
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