MLB 2007 Season Thread

**FakeLaser** · 03-21-2007, 04:12 PM

With the season a week and a half away, I thought I'd start the thread. Also, here are my revised predictions, now that I've had a look at some teams in spring training.

AL East
1) New York Yankees
They have the best lineup in baseball. Defense has been upgraded with Mientkiewicz, and there's no way A-Rod can be that bad again. Matsui is back for a full season. They have one of the best bullpens in baseball, if not the best. The top 3 starters are solid (Wang will be a true ace with an improved defense behind him) and if Igawa or Pavano falter, Sanchez and Hughes are 2 of the top pitching prospects in all of baseball. Jeff Karstans has also shown that he is capable of being a more than adequate starter, and may become the 5th starter sooner rather than later.
Offense: 10
Defense: 8
Starting Pitching: 8
Bullpen: 9
Overall: 8.75

2) Boston Red Sox *
They are scary this year. Their lineup nearly equals the Yankees. Nobody wants to face Ortiz/Ramirez/Drew. A big question will be if Drew can remain healthy, however. Manny’s dedication is in question, of course. Varitek’s skills are declining but he’s still a good leader. Julio Lugo gives the team some speed, something they lacked last year. Dustin Pedoria gives the team a young star. The starting rotation will either be a real strength (one of the best in baseball) or an albatross. It all depends on if Schilling can stay healthy, Papelbon can transition to the rotation, and if Beckett and Matsuzaka live up to their potential. Oh yeah, and JD Drew needs to do decently. The thing holding them back from overtaking the Yankees is their bullpen which is loaded with question marks, and no true closer.
Offense: 9
Defense: 9
Starting Pitching: 9
Bullpen: 6
Overall: 8.25

3) Toronto Blue Jays
The team that can never catch a break. They’re solid all around, but not good enough to compete with the Sox or the Yanks. The Frank Thomas deal was pretty retarded but if he performs like he did last year he will help the team short-term. The Jays should really be thinking about long-term, however. Right now, they don’t have the core to beat the Yankees or the Red Sox, so signing someone like Thomas doesn’t make much sense. They made some awesome moves signing John Thomson and Tomo Okha which rounds out their rotation nicely. Halladay and Burnett are among the best 1-2 punches in baseball, but they both have problems staying healthy. The pen is solid and they have one of the best closers in baseball. They just don’t have enough to win it in the AL East though.
Offense: 8
Defense: 8
Starting Pitching: 8
Bullpen: 8
Overall: 8

4) Baltimore Orioles
This is a team loaded with potential. They can never seem to put it all together though. They can hit; Tejada, Mora and Brian Roberts need no introduction. Nick Markakis may become the face of the franchise when all is said and done. Aubrey Huff was a nice addition. Pitching seems to be their problem, though their staff is loaded with potential. Erik Bedard is probably the most underrated pitcher in all of baseball. If Daniel Cabrera can learn to spot his pitches then he can be dominant. It’s all downhill from there, however. Jaret Wright and Kris Benson are no better than 5th starters. Steve Traschel probably shouldn't be on a major league roster. They have a solid young closer in Chris Ray, and picked up some solid arms: Danys Baez, Chad Bradford and Jamie Walker. The pen is a strength. There’s no way they can compete in the AL with that rotation, however.
Offense: 8
Defense: 7
Starting Pitching: 6
Bullpen: 7
Overall: 7

5) Tampa Bay Devil Rays
The biggest problem facing the Rays is the front office. They overflow with young talent, but they never have any pitching. They should trade a couple guys to make room for Delmon Young and BJ Upton. If I were them I’d move Baldelli and Iwamura (provided he’s any good) at the end of the season for pitching. Scott Kazmir is amazing, but beyond that, their best pitcher is Jae Seo. The bullpen is also terrible.
Offense: 8
Defense: 7
Starting Pitching: 4
Bullpen: 1
Overall: 5

AL Central
1) Detroit Tigers
Possibly the best team in baseball plugged its one hole by adding a front-line slugger, Gary Sheffield. That’s the one move they had to make this off season and they made it. I like that they kept Sean Casey as well. They have an amazing young pitching staff, coupled with one of the top bullpens in baseball. Joel Zumaya could be the top closer in all of baseball before the season ends. They could be unstoppable.
Offense: 8.75
Defense: 9
Starting Pitching: 10
Bullpen: 10
Overall: 9.4

2) Cleveland Indians
The only thing holding them back is their terrible bullpen. I really don’t think Borowski will cut it as a closer in the AL Central. Someone else needs to step up (Betancourt). They have one of the best lineups in baseball. Victor Martinez might be the worst catcher in all of baseball though, defensively. He needs to get better fast or become a first baseman. The rotation is solid but not spectacular. Sabathia is a solid ace, but after that there’s nobody too exciting, though Jeremy Sowers could prove to be a beast. This team should have won more games last year. According to the pythagorean win loss total which determines a team's record based on runs scored and allowed, the Indians should have won 92 games. The bullpen is what screwed them. This year they should be better.
Offense: 9
Defense: 7
Starting Pitching: 7
Bullpen: 5
Overall: 7

3) Chicago White Sox
I originally had this team ranked 4th, but I have reconsidered my stance on them. They are solid offensively. Their starting rotation is not good though. They traded away their young star (McCarthy) and Garcia who was a solid arm. Buehrle should continue to regress. I think Vazquez bounces back slightly and Contreras should be good, however. They are a solid, but unspectacular team, though they are clearly on the decline.
Offense: 8
Defense: 8
Starting Pitching: 6.5
Bullpen: 7
Overall: 7.3

4) Minnesota Twins
I originally had the Twins ranked third because of their young core and bullpen, but the more I think about it, the more I realize that their rotation is flat out garbage beyond Santana. Bonser should be ok but he's not the impact #2 they need YET, and Garza is not ready. Beyond that it is UGLY. Their pitching staff is somewhat comperable to the White Sox, overall, but they don't have the offense that the Sox do. No Radke either. They won't be a terrible team, but in this division they'll have to be a lot better than mediocre to compete. Say goodbye to Santana and Torii Hunter.
Offense: 7
Defense: 8.5
Starting Rotation: 5
Bullpen: 9
Overall: 7.3

5) Kansas City Royals
The worst team in the AL. They did improve this offseason, however. Alex Gordon is my pick for Rookie of the Year. Gil Meche makes the rotation better, though he was not a good investment. Brian Bannister was a better one. Mark Teahen is solid. Imagine being Reggie Sanders; starting for the Cardinals 2 seasons ago, now a backup on the Royals. Kinda reminds me of Chuck Knoblauch, starting second baseman for the Yankees, to leftfielder for the Royals. The only team worse than them is the Nationals.
Offense: 5
Defense: 5
Starting Pitching: 5
Bullpen: 4
Overall: 4.75

AL West
1) Los Angeles Angels
They are the definition of a pesky team. They always find a way to win games. The probably have the best bullpen in baseball and their rotation is solid, though much of the success rests on how well Colon bounces back. I think he'll be adequate. Think 2004 numbers, which is not good, but ok for a back of the rotation guy.
Offense: 7.5
Defense: 8
Starting Pitching: 9
Bullpen: 10
Overall: 8.8

2) Oakland A's
Their success rests on Mike Piazza’s shoulders. They can’t hit. They couldn’t hit last year, but Frank Thomas carried them. Now he’s gone, and Piazza has got to fill the void. Dan Johnson could step up now that he’s cleared up his vision problems. Bobby Crosby needs to have a great season as well. Rich Harden needs to stay healthy, which isn’t likely. There are just too many if’s holding this team back from beating the Angels this year.
Offense: 7
Defense: 7
Starting Pitching: 7.75
Bullpen: 7
Overall: 7.2

3) Texas Rangers
More of the same this year for the Rangers… all offense, no pitching. They’re like the Mariners of the mid-90s, minus Randy Johnson. They won’t miss Matthews Jr; Lofton should be adequate enough and costs a fraction of what Matthews Jr. cost. Catalonatto was one of the best pickups of the offseason by any team. Brandon McCarthy was another solid move. They made all the right moves, I guess, but they missed out on acquiring an ace. If they landed Zito, they’d give the Angels a run for the money.
Offense: 8.5
Defense: 7.5
Starting Pitching: 6
Bullpen: 6.5
Overall: 7.1

4) Seattle Mariners
They made the worst move of the offseason possibly in acquiring Jose Vidro. They also fucked up their biggest strength by letting Rafael Soriano go. Putz and Soriano made every game 2 innings shorter. The pitching is pretty awful beyond Hernandez. Washburn is alright, but he’s not a number 2. Miguel Batista is not going to be good, same goes for Jeff Weaver. This team is going to get worse and worse. Ichiro is gone after this season. The one bright spot is Felix Hernandez. The M’s should concentrate on building a winner before he bolts too.
Offense: 7
Defense: 6
Starting Pitching: 5.5
Bullpen: 6
Overall: 6.1

**FakeLaser** · 03-21-2007, 04:13 PM

NL East

1) Philadelphia Phillies
I originally had them 2nd, but as I was looking them over, I realized that they’re a lot more well rounded than the Mets. They aren’t as good offensively, but their starting rotation is far and away better. It’s not like they’re a slouch on offense either, Ryan Howard and Chase Utley are beasts. Jimmy Rollins is one of the best leadoff men in baseball and Burrell, Helms, Barajas and Rowand can all hit as well. I really, really like their rotation for some reason. Brett Myers is underrated and I think his troubles are behind him. Freddy Garcia is going to benefit hugely moving to the NL. Jamie Moyer is still a good pitcher and a great clubhouse guy to have. Cole Hamels will be the ace of this staff someday, possibly even this year. He’s one of the best young pitchers in baseball. Jon Lieber and Adam Eaton will fight over the last spot in the rotation, and they’re both certainly viable 5th starters. Solid pen anchored by Tom Gordon, an upper tier closer. Possibly the most well-rounded team in the NL.
Offense: 8
Defense: 8
Starting Rotation: 8
Bullpen: 8
Overall: 8

2) New York Mets
Nobody can touch them offensively in the NL, but they don’t have enough pitching. Tom Glavine is their only sure thing this season though, and he’s in his 40s. Who knows when Pedro is going to pitch again? There’s no way in hell El Duque is making it through a full season either, IMO. He’s probably 50, and now has arthritis in his neck and back. Oliver Perez needs to be at least half the pitcher he was in 2004. John Maine should be ok. I wouldn’t count on Jorge Sosa. The bullpen is solid, but the rotation has the potential to be awful, which will kill them. If El Duque makes it through the season, Pedro pitches and Maine and Perez step up they will win the division. It’s just too many if’s to pick them to win it though.
Offense: 9.5
Defense: 6.5
Starting Pitching: 5.5
Bullpen: 8
Overall: 7.3

3) Atlanta Braves
Their biggest strength is their bullpen. Mike Gonzalaz or Rafael Soriano should be taking Bob Wickman’s job sooner rather than later. Brian McCann, Jeff Franoceur and Matt Diaz make up a good young core, surrounded by veterans like the Jones’. The pitching staff is solid but unspectacular, following John Smoltz. The pen is shaping up to be really good. They won’t have enough to contend this year, but soon they could be back on top.
Offense: 7.5
Defense: 7
Starting Pitching: 7
Bullpen: 8
Overall: 7.3

4) Florida Marlins
The team of the future. Another season or two and these guys could win another World Series and then be disbanded and the whole process will start over again. The oldest starter is Miguel Cabrera, I think, and he’s like 25. The pitching staff is tremendous. The team just needs another year or so for seasoning before they become serious contenders. They competed for the wild card last year and will be in the hunt again. I had them in 3rd originally, but I think the departure of Girardi will hurt them somewhat. Give them another year.
Offense: 7
Defense: 7
Starting Pitching: 8.5
Bullpen: 5
Overall: 6.9

5) Washington Nationals
I can’t even express how bad this team is. I’ll be shocked if they win 10 games. Cristian Guzman and Nook Logan will both start and struggle to post a .300 OBP. Nick Johnson will not stay healthy. The only real bright spots are Ryan Zimmerman and Felipe Lopez. Oh yeah, and John Patterson, who is pretty amazing. Their number 2 starter, Tim Redding, has not won a game since 2004. Chad Cordero is a good closer but he’ll probably get 7 save attempts all season.
Offense: 4
Defense: 6
Starting Pitching: 2
Bullpen: 5
Overall: 4.25

NL Central

1) Milwaukee Brewers
This is the division I changed the most. I had the Brew Crew ranked 4th. The more I think about them, the more I think they'll be the surprise team this year. They remind me of the Tigers a year ago. They are my favorite NL team. Prince Fielder, Rickie Weeks, JJ Hardy, Corey Hart, Bill Hall, Chris Capuano… if the Brewers can hold onto these guys for a couple more seasons they can do something. If Ben Sheets is healthy they have one of the nastiest rotations in the NL. Sheets, Capuano, Suppan, Bush, Vargas. Jeff Suppan was a great signing. Dave Bush is the most underrated pitcher in the NL. They have the potential to do great things and in this weak division, they will capitalize. I questioned their bullpen originally but now I think it'll be solid with Cordero and Turnbow anchoring it. It will only take about 85 games to take this one and I, personally, think they have it in them.
Offense: 8
Defense: 8
Starting Pitching: 8.5
Bullpen: 8
Overall: 8.1

2) Chicago Cubs *
I’d like to say they’ll win the division, and even though they made some huge signings, I don’t think they’ll be enough to win the division (yet) after winning only 66 games last year. Soriano makes the team a million times better. One of the best offenses in the NL with a healthy Derek Lee, Aramis Ramirez on top of Soriano and some other solid hitters like Mark DeRosa and Cliff Floyd. Zambrano is a beast. Ted Lilly will be a good pitcher now that he’s in the NL. Jason Marquis will still be terrible. I’d rather take my chances with Wade Miller. Rich Hill will be good and who the hell knows what to expect from Prior or Kerry Wood (lengthy DL trips, most likely). Wait ‘til next year.
Offense: 8.5
Defense: 7
Starting Pitching: 7.5
Bullpen: 7
Overall: 7.25

3) St. Louis Cardinals
They suck but not enough to lose to the other teams in the division. The only move they made was signing Adam Kennedy. I originally said they'd be better this year with Wainwright moving to the rotation now that Isringhausen is healthy, but now that I think about it, they lose Wainwright and Looper in the pen and they are now both question marks in the rotation. Horrible way to solve a problem. They should have kept one of either Suppan or Weaver, I hate to say it. Kip Wells is their number 2 starter. Chris Duncan should continue to improve. Jim Edmonds might literally fall apart though. Aging mediocre team that will begin to show its holes.
Offense: 8
Defense: 8
Starting Pitching: 6
Bullpen: 5
Overall: 6.75

4) Houston Astros
Very meh team. Berkman and Lee are nice, but they should have kept Aubrey Huff. Biggio is kind of holding them back, but they can't let him go. The rest of the team is mediocre, with the possible exception of Morgan Ensberg, depending on which version shows up. If they had Clemens they’d have a really good rotation, provided Woody Williams isn’t complete garbage. The Jason Jennings deal was pretty dumb, though he’ll be good. It’s the kind of move you make to compete now, which isn’t likely without Clemens. Brad Lidge will determine how good they are. Last year the Astros lost the most games in MLB after leading 7 innings. If they won a few of those games they would have won the division last season. I had them ranked 3rd, but now I'm pushing them back a spot because Lidge has been garbage this spring. Usually, spring training stats don't mean much, but when a closer is terrible for an entire season, then can't get double and triple A guys out in spring training, there is serious cause for concern.
Offense: 7.5
Defense: 6.5
Starting Pitching: 6
Bullpen: 6
Overall: 6.25

5) Pittsburgh Pirates
Well, they’re not going to be as bad as they were last year. Adam LaRoche will compliment Jason Bay well. Freddy Sanchez won the batting title last year and should be solid again. Jose Castillo and Jack Wilson might be the best defensive double play combo in all of baseball (if Castillo starts). Jack Wilson needs to shut up though. Zach Duke, Ian Snell and Tom Gorzellany are all good young arms. Shawn Chacon could be ok. Matt Capps will probably take over as closer at one point. Torres and Marte are solid arms and Dan Kolb could rebound (though I doubt it). They have a decent base to work with. This could be a turnaround year for the Pirates. I have changed my mind and will rank them ahead of the Reds. They played over .500 ball second half last year and have improved the team. They're young and improving. PNC Park may have a decent team one of these days.
Offense: 7
Defense: 8
Starting Pitching: 5.5
Bullpen: 6
Overall: 6.6

6) Cincinnati Reds
Last year’s other surprise team will once again sink to the cellar of the NL Central. Aaron Harang is the man. Bronson Arroyo probably won’t be as good but he’ll be solid. After that it isn’t pretty. Eric Milton is the worst person of all time. The bullpen is a bunch of mediocre arms thrown together with no rhyme or reason. Junior won’t stay healthy. Scott Hatteberg actually starts for the Reds. They did not improve at all.
Offense: 6
Defense: 7
Starting Pitching: 6.75
Bullpen: 4
Overall: 5.9

NL West
1) Los Angeles Dodgers
I agree with SammyG, best staff in the NL, though San Diego and Philly are right behind them. They have solid arms in the pen, Broxton is the man and might take Saito’s job. Gonzo was one of the best pickups in baseball. Juan Pierre costs a lot but he’ll help out. They are a much better team this year than they were last year. They might be the best team in the NL actually.
Offense: 8
Defense: 8
Starting Pitching: 9
Bullpen: 8
Overall: 8.25

2) San Diego Padres
Another sick pitching staff. Greg Maddux was one of the best signings of the offseason. He and David Wells will be great mentors for Peavy, Young and Hensley. The bullpen is better than the Dodgers, but they don’t have the offense to compete, especially in Petco. Adrian Gonzalaz could club 30 HR though.
Offense: 6.75
Defense: 6.75
Starting Pitching: 8.75
Bullpen: 8.75
Overall: 7.75

3) Arizona Diamondbacks
They’re a team built for the future which kind of makes the Randy Johnson trade not make much sense. Connor Jackson, Stephen Drew and Chris Young are all going to be great players. Brandon Webb will compete for the Cy Young again and RJ should benefit from the switch to the NL. Doug Davis was a great pickup, he has a lot of potential. The bullpen is decent. They aren’t seasoned enough to compete with the Pads or Dodgers.
Offense: 7
Defense: 7
Starting Pitching: 7.5
Bullpen: 6.5
Overall: 7

4) Colorado Rockies
They’ve got good young bats and a solid vet (Helton) to guide them. Matt Holliday should continue to be one of the best offensive players in the NL. Kaz Matsui does start for the Rockies though, and that is not a good thing. Aaron Cook and Jeff Francis are decent pitchers but it’s pretty much garbage after that. Brian Fuentes is solid, but the rest of the pen sucks. Not enough pitching, plain and simple.
Offense: 8
Defense: 6.75
Starting Pitching: 5
Bullpen: 6.5
Overall: 6.6

5) San Francisco Giants
This team is way too old to stay healthy, and surrounded with too much drama to be any good. They landed Zito, but they lost Jason Schmidt, so it’s not like Zito will improve the team. Matt Cain and Noah Lowry are both solid young arms, they need to step it up. Cain might, Lowry probably won't. Matt Morris and Russ Ortiz need to be halfway decent, and they won’t. It’ll be close between the Giants and the Rockies for last place. Oh yeah, Barry Bonds. Fuck him.
Offense: 6
Defense: 4
Starting Pitching: 7
Bullpen: 5
Overall: 5.5

ALDS
Yankees def. Angels (FINALLY)
Tigers def. Red Sox

NLDS
Phillies def. Brewers
Dodgers def. Cubs

ALCS
Tigers def. Yankees

NLCS
Dodgers def. Phillies

WS
Tigers def. Dodgers

AL MVP: Derek Jeter
NL MVP: Albert Pujols
AL Cy Young: Johan Santana
NL Cy Young: Carlos Zambrano
AL ROY: Alex Gordon
NL ROY: Kevin Kouzmanoff

**ct2k** · 03-21-2007, 04:15 PM

I'm basically marking out 24/7 having Andy Pettitte back

**Jesus Shuttlesworth** · 03-21-2007, 04:58 PM

Better hope he doesn't count to feel tightness in his back

Red Sox not having a closer is going to kill them, it really is. I had some hope with maybe Hanson coming around, but I don't think he is ever going to be a good pitcher in the majors. I'm thinking they should bring up Lester (if he's ready) and move Papelbon back to the pen, I think that'll happen about a month into the season anyway. Should just get it over with now.

**FakeLaser** · 03-21-2007, 05:31 PM

Pineiro has looked solid this spring, but I wouldn't want to have to rely on him.

**FakeLaser** · 03-21-2007, 05:32 PM

Timlin is starting the year on the DL too which hurts you guys.

**Supreme Olajuwon** · 03-21-2007, 05:49 PM

No love for the Reds

**DaveWadding** · 03-21-2007, 05:53 PM

the Rockies are going to win the West dude.

**FakeLaser** · 03-21-2007, 05:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DaveWadding

the Rockies are going to win the West dude.

Not with their pitching they won't.

Also:

Mariano Rivera struck out Ryan Howard on a changeup Tuesday, with manager Joe Torre saying afterward that Rivera "was tickled, obviously."

**Jesus Shuttlesworth** · 03-21-2007, 06:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FakeRazor

Pineiro has looked solid this spring, but I wouldn't want to have to rely on him.

I dunno if I'd call Pineiro's spring "solid" bin a bit rocky...Probably going to start off with Julian Tavarez as the closer

Fuck

**Supreme Olajuwon** · 03-21-2007, 06:06 PM

I don't get the Scott Hatteberg knock. He was one of the best defensive 1B in the league last year and he hit well enough.

**FakeLaser** · 03-21-2007, 06:13 PM

I think I'm just remembering him sucking his last year in Oakland.

**FakeLaser** · 03-21-2007, 06:14 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by sTiMa34

I dunno if I'd call Pineiro's spring "solid" bin a bit rocky...Probably going to start off with Julian Tavarez as the closer

Fuck

I guess I heard wrong. I thought I had heard he was pitching pretty well.

**Jesus Shuttlesworth** · 03-21-2007, 06:16 PM

Just browsing through the Hearld a minute ago at dinner and it said hes been pretty inconsistant with location and his ERA was a bit high

Taverez out of all them had the lowest ERA and it was at 3.5something I think...

Red Sox are fucked if they don't figure something out

**Supreme Olajuwon** · 03-21-2007, 06:21 PM

I think Donnelly has the best chance of being a consistent closer over the course of the season. He had pretty filthy stuff in Anaheim.

**FakeLaser** · 03-21-2007, 06:23 PM

I think Timlin will end up the closer again at some point.

Sox should have taken a gamble with Gagne.

**FakeLaser** · 03-21-2007, 06:23 PM

Supreme, what is the deal with Ryan Wagner? I remember for like a year or two they were saying he was the Reds closer of the future.

**Supreme Olajuwon** · 03-21-2007, 06:28 PM

He went to Washington with Kearns and Lopez. I dunno how he's doing there but the Reds got Bill Bray from the Nationals and now he's supposed to be the closer of the future.

**FakeLaser** · 03-21-2007, 06:30 PM

Oh yeah, forgot he was part of that deal.

**Jesus Shuttlesworth** · 03-21-2007, 06:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Supreme

I think Donnelly has the best chance of being a consistent closer over the course of the season. He had pretty filthy stuff in Anaheim.

He's been pretty awful this spring I think, although I'd assume he is going to turn it around.

Timlin is only out the first 6 games of the season I think, but still starting out the year on the DL isn't the best thing especially when you are 87 years old like Timlin is. He is the definte favorite for the job, with Taverez behind then a bunch of others like Donnelly, Pineiro etc

**OssMan** · 03-21-2007, 08:10 PM

haha im going to nationals opening day...i think they'll finish ahead of the Braves though

**McLegend** · 03-21-2007, 09:54 PM

Lieber was moved to the bullpen and Adam Eaton is now the 5th starter for the Phillies.

**ClockShot** · 03-21-2007, 10:42 PM

I'm looking forward to Kei and or Wang vs. Daisuke. Who got the better arm from the far east.

**FakeLaser** · 03-21-2007, 11:00 PM

Daisuke.

**The Miz** · 03-21-2007, 11:04 PM

Donnelly is a fat piece of shit... If Piniero is made closer he might have a hot streak where he is a capabale closer but there's no way he'll stay consistent over the season. I think they should've kept Papelbon as closer and built on last year and gone with Schilling/Matsuzaka/Beckett/Wakefield/Piniero or they could try a few other guys in the 5th spot.

**Jesus Shuttlesworth** · 03-22-2007, 12:52 AM

Yeah thats what I think too, I mean they had Lester who showed a lot of promise last season but then got derailed because of the cancer scare. He won't be ready by Opening Day but they said within the month or somewhere around that.

Its so annoying they don't have a fucking closer again though

**weather vane** · 03-22-2007, 05:24 PM

WOOOOO!!! PAPELBON IS NOW THE CLOSER AGAIN!!!! yesssssssssssssss

Imagine we landed Clemens now??? Would be sickest shit ever.

**MVP** · 03-22-2007, 08:15 PM

Yeah, but Julian Tavarez is the 5th starter now. Would much rather have Lester or Piniero in that spot.

**Jesus Shuttlesworth** · 03-22-2007, 10:33 PM

I dunno Tavarez didn't look THAT bad as starter, i'd rather have him start then come out of the pen...but that isn't saying much

**FakeLaser** · 03-23-2007, 02:33 AM

Tavarez might be the worst starter in the American League.

**SammyG** · 03-23-2007, 02:35 AM

Furcal better be back by Opening Day.

**Jesus Shuttlesworth** · 03-23-2007, 02:41 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FakeRazor

Tavarez might be the worst starter in the American League.

I dunno he finished off last year as a starter, and the last 2 games he started he pitched 14 innings (9 in one 5 in the other) and gave up 2 ER total

He started 5 games total, and his stats weren't all that awful in those starts

**FakeLaser** · 03-23-2007, 02:47 AM

Nah, he isn't the worst, Sidney Ponson is starting for the Twins though I guess as a Yankee fan I can't really say shit.

**Jesus Shuttlesworth** · 03-23-2007, 02:51 AM

Tavarez is hilarious too, last season there was one point during a game where time was called and I guess he didnt realize or something. So he runs off the mound and dove at a guy with a huge lead off second base, probably the funniest thing I've seen watching a baseball game

**Supreme Olajuwon** · 03-23-2007, 06:43 AM

Tavarez would probably be at least the #3 starter in KC.

**Loose Cannon** · 03-23-2007, 10:46 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by sTiMa34

Tavarez is hilarious too, last season there was one point during a game where time was called and I guess he didnt realize or something. So he runs off the mound and dove at a guy with a huge lead off second base, probably the funniest thing I've seen watching a baseball game

ROFL. I need to see a video of this.

**Loose Cannon** · 03-23-2007, 10:50 AM

although Eric Byrnes trying to score, missing the plate, hurting his leg, shoving Veriteck and getting tagged out about 6 feet from home plate is #1 for me.

Then there is the one where I think it was Manny gunning the ball at somebody when the guy is like 4 feet away from him.

**Dragon** · 03-23-2007, 11:11 AM

LOL I remember Manny diving in front of Damon I think and cutting off his throw from the outfield.

**Loose Cannon** · 03-23-2007, 11:49 AM

haha, that's it. that's the one I'm referring too.

**Evil Vito** · 03-23-2007, 12:04 PM

I remember in the NLDS game 1 last year. Men on 1st and 2nd. Base hit...Green plays it off the wall. Hits the cutoff man Valentin. Valentin guns it home and Lo Duca tags out the first runner.

Then for whatever reason, another runner was coming up behind him despite Lo Duca clearly having the ball and he was tagged out with relative ease

03-21-2007, 04:12 PM	#1
FakeLaser continental drift Posts: 46,731	MLB 2007 Season Thread With the season a week and a half away, I thought I'd start the thread. Also, here are my revised predictions, now that I've had a look at some teams in spring training. AL East 1) New York Yankees They have the best lineup in baseball. Defense has been upgraded with Mientkiewicz, and there's no way A-Rod can be that bad again. Matsui is back for a full season. They have one of the best bullpens in baseball, if not the best. The top 3 starters are solid (Wang will be a true ace with an improved defense behind him) and if Igawa or Pavano falter, Sanchez and Hughes are 2 of the top pitching prospects in all of baseball. Jeff Karstans has also shown that he is capable of being a more than adequate starter, and may become the 5th starter sooner rather than later. Offense: 10 Defense: 8 Starting Pitching: 8 Bullpen: 9 Overall: 8.75 2) Boston Red Sox * They are scary this year. Their lineup nearly equals the Yankees. Nobody wants to face Ortiz/Ramirez/Drew. A big question will be if Drew can remain healthy, however. Manny’s dedication is in question, of course. Varitek’s skills are declining but he’s still a good leader. Julio Lugo gives the team some speed, something they lacked last year. Dustin Pedoria gives the team a young star. The starting rotation will either be a real strength (one of the best in baseball) or an albatross. It all depends on if Schilling can stay healthy, Papelbon can transition to the rotation, and if Beckett and Matsuzaka live up to their potential. Oh yeah, and JD Drew needs to do decently. The thing holding them back from overtaking the Yankees is their bullpen which is loaded with question marks, and no true closer. Offense: 9 Defense: 9 Starting Pitching: 9 Bullpen: 6 Overall: 8.25 3) Toronto Blue Jays The team that can never catch a break. They’re solid all around, but not good enough to compete with the Sox or the Yanks. The Frank Thomas deal was pretty retarded but if he performs like he did last year he will help the team short-term. The Jays should really be thinking about long-term, however. Right now, they don’t have the core to beat the Yankees or the Red Sox, so signing someone like Thomas doesn’t make much sense. They made some awesome moves signing John Thomson and Tomo Okha which rounds out their rotation nicely. Halladay and Burnett are among the best 1-2 punches in baseball, but they both have problems staying healthy. The pen is solid and they have one of the best closers in baseball. They just don’t have enough to win it in the AL East though. Offense: 8 Defense: 8 Starting Pitching: 8 Bullpen: 8 Overall: 8 4) Baltimore Orioles This is a team loaded with potential. They can never seem to put it all together though. They can hit; Tejada, Mora and Brian Roberts need no introduction. Nick Markakis may become the face of the franchise when all is said and done. Aubrey Huff was a nice addition. Pitching seems to be their problem, though their staff is loaded with potential. Erik Bedard is probably the most underrated pitcher in all of baseball. If Daniel Cabrera can learn to spot his pitches then he can be dominant. It’s all downhill from there, however. Jaret Wright and Kris Benson are no better than 5th starters. Steve Traschel probably shouldn't be on a major league roster. They have a solid young closer in Chris Ray, and picked up some solid arms: Danys Baez, Chad Bradford and Jamie Walker. The pen is a strength. There’s no way they can compete in the AL with that rotation, however. Offense: 8 Defense: 7 Starting Pitching: 6 Bullpen: 7 Overall: 7 5) Tampa Bay Devil Rays The biggest problem facing the Rays is the front office. They overflow with young talent, but they never have any pitching. They should trade a couple guys to make room for Delmon Young and BJ Upton. If I were them I’d move Baldelli and Iwamura (provided he’s any good) at the end of the season for pitching. Scott Kazmir is amazing, but beyond that, their best pitcher is Jae Seo. The bullpen is also terrible. Offense: 8 Defense: 7 Starting Pitching: 4 Bullpen: 1 Overall: 5 AL Central 1) Detroit Tigers Possibly the best team in baseball plugged its one hole by adding a front-line slugger, Gary Sheffield. That’s the one move they had to make this off season and they made it. I like that they kept Sean Casey as well. They have an amazing young pitching staff, coupled with one of the top bullpens in baseball. Joel Zumaya could be the top closer in all of baseball before the season ends. They could be unstoppable. Offense: 8.75 Defense: 9 Starting Pitching: 10 Bullpen: 10 Overall: 9.4 2) Cleveland Indians The only thing holding them back is their terrible bullpen. I really don’t think Borowski will cut it as a closer in the AL Central. Someone else needs to step up (Betancourt). They have one of the best lineups in baseball. Victor Martinez might be the worst catcher in all of baseball though, defensively. He needs to get better fast or become a first baseman. The rotation is solid but not spectacular. Sabathia is a solid ace, but after that there’s nobody too exciting, though Jeremy Sowers could prove to be a beast. This team should have won more games last year. According to the pythagorean win loss total which determines a team's record based on runs scored and allowed, the Indians should have won 92 games. The bullpen is what screwed them. This year they should be better. Offense: 9 Defense: 7 Starting Pitching: 7 Bullpen: 5 Overall: 7 3) Chicago White Sox I originally had this team ranked 4th, but I have reconsidered my stance on them. They are solid offensively. Their starting rotation is not good though. They traded away their young star (McCarthy) and Garcia who was a solid arm. Buehrle should continue to regress. I think Vazquez bounces back slightly and Contreras should be good, however. They are a solid, but unspectacular team, though they are clearly on the decline. Offense: 8 Defense: 8 Starting Pitching: 6.5 Bullpen: 7 Overall: 7.3 4) Minnesota Twins I originally had the Twins ranked third because of their young core and bullpen, but the more I think about it, the more I realize that their rotation is flat out garbage beyond Santana. Bonser should be ok but he's not the impact #2 they need YET, and Garza is not ready. Beyond that it is UGLY. Their pitching staff is somewhat comperable to the White Sox, overall, but they don't have the offense that the Sox do. No Radke either. They won't be a terrible team, but in this division they'll have to be a lot better than mediocre to compete. Say goodbye to Santana and Torii Hunter. Offense: 7 Defense: 8.5 Starting Rotation: 5 Bullpen: 9 Overall: 7.3 5) Kansas City Royals The worst team in the AL. They did improve this offseason, however. Alex Gordon is my pick for Rookie of the Year. Gil Meche makes the rotation better, though he was not a good investment. Brian Bannister was a better one. Mark Teahen is solid. Imagine being Reggie Sanders; starting for the Cardinals 2 seasons ago, now a backup on the Royals. Kinda reminds me of Chuck Knoblauch, starting second baseman for the Yankees, to leftfielder for the Royals. The only team worse than them is the Nationals. Offense: 5 Defense: 5 Starting Pitching: 5 Bullpen: 4 Overall: 4.75 AL West 1) Los Angeles Angels They are the definition of a pesky team. They always find a way to win games. The probably have the best bullpen in baseball and their rotation is solid, though much of the success rests on how well Colon bounces back. I think he'll be adequate. Think 2004 numbers, which is not good, but ok for a back of the rotation guy. Offense: 7.5 Defense: 8 Starting Pitching: 9 Bullpen: 10 Overall: 8.8 2) Oakland A's Their success rests on Mike Piazza’s shoulders. They can’t hit. They couldn’t hit last year, but Frank Thomas carried them. Now he’s gone, and Piazza has got to fill the void. Dan Johnson could step up now that he’s cleared up his vision problems. Bobby Crosby needs to have a great season as well. Rich Harden needs to stay healthy, which isn’t likely. There are just too many if’s holding this team back from beating the Angels this year. Offense: 7 Defense: 7 Starting Pitching: 7.75 Bullpen: 7 Overall: 7.2 3) Texas Rangers More of the same this year for the Rangers… all offense, no pitching. They’re like the Mariners of the mid-90s, minus Randy Johnson. They won’t miss Matthews Jr; Lofton should be adequate enough and costs a fraction of what Matthews Jr. cost. Catalonatto was one of the best pickups of the offseason by any team. Brandon McCarthy was another solid move. They made all the right moves, I guess, but they missed out on acquiring an ace. If they landed Zito, they’d give the Angels a run for the money. Offense: 8.5 Defense: 7.5 Starting Pitching: 6 Bullpen: 6.5 Overall: 7.1 4) Seattle Mariners They made the worst move of the offseason possibly in acquiring Jose Vidro. They also fucked up their biggest strength by letting Rafael Soriano go. Putz and Soriano made every game 2 innings shorter. The pitching is pretty awful beyond Hernandez. Washburn is alright, but he’s not a number 2. Miguel Batista is not going to be good, same goes for Jeff Weaver. This team is going to get worse and worse. Ichiro is gone after this season. The one bright spot is Felix Hernandez. The M’s should concentrate on building a winner before he bolts too. Offense: 7 Defense: 6 Starting Pitching: 5.5 Bullpen: 6 Overall: 6.1 Last edited by FakeLaser; 03-21-2007 at 04:33 PM.

03-21-2007, 04:13 PM	#2
FakeLaser continental drift Posts: 46,731	NL East 1) Philadelphia Phillies I originally had them 2nd, but as I was looking them over, I realized that they’re a lot more well rounded than the Mets. They aren’t as good offensively, but their starting rotation is far and away better. It’s not like they’re a slouch on offense either, Ryan Howard and Chase Utley are beasts. Jimmy Rollins is one of the best leadoff men in baseball and Burrell, Helms, Barajas and Rowand can all hit as well. I really, really like their rotation for some reason. Brett Myers is underrated and I think his troubles are behind him. Freddy Garcia is going to benefit hugely moving to the NL. Jamie Moyer is still a good pitcher and a great clubhouse guy to have. Cole Hamels will be the ace of this staff someday, possibly even this year. He’s one of the best young pitchers in baseball. Jon Lieber and Adam Eaton will fight over the last spot in the rotation, and they’re both certainly viable 5th starters. Solid pen anchored by Tom Gordon, an upper tier closer. Possibly the most well-rounded team in the NL. Offense: 8 Defense: 8 Starting Rotation: 8 Bullpen: 8 Overall: 8 2) New York Mets Nobody can touch them offensively in the NL, but they don’t have enough pitching. Tom Glavine is their only sure thing this season though, and he’s in his 40s. Who knows when Pedro is going to pitch again? There’s no way in hell El Duque is making it through a full season either, IMO. He’s probably 50, and now has arthritis in his neck and back. Oliver Perez needs to be at least half the pitcher he was in 2004. John Maine should be ok. I wouldn’t count on Jorge Sosa. The bullpen is solid, but the rotation has the potential to be awful, which will kill them. If El Duque makes it through the season, Pedro pitches and Maine and Perez step up they will win the division. It’s just too many if’s to pick them to win it though. Offense: 9.5 Defense: 6.5 Starting Pitching: 5.5 Bullpen: 8 Overall: 7.3 3) Atlanta Braves Their biggest strength is their bullpen. Mike Gonzalaz or Rafael Soriano should be taking Bob Wickman’s job sooner rather than later. Brian McCann, Jeff Franoceur and Matt Diaz make up a good young core, surrounded by veterans like the Jones’. The pitching staff is solid but unspectacular, following John Smoltz. The pen is shaping up to be really good. They won’t have enough to contend this year, but soon they could be back on top. Offense: 7.5 Defense: 7 Starting Pitching: 7 Bullpen: 8 Overall: 7.3 4) Florida Marlins The team of the future. Another season or two and these guys could win another World Series and then be disbanded and the whole process will start over again. The oldest starter is Miguel Cabrera, I think, and he’s like 25. The pitching staff is tremendous. The team just needs another year or so for seasoning before they become serious contenders. They competed for the wild card last year and will be in the hunt again. I had them in 3rd originally, but I think the departure of Girardi will hurt them somewhat. Give them another year. Offense: 7 Defense: 7 Starting Pitching: 8.5 Bullpen: 5 Overall: 6.9 5) Washington Nationals I can’t even express how bad this team is. I’ll be shocked if they win 10 games. Cristian Guzman and Nook Logan will both start and struggle to post a .300 OBP. Nick Johnson will not stay healthy. The only real bright spots are Ryan Zimmerman and Felipe Lopez. Oh yeah, and John Patterson, who is pretty amazing. Their number 2 starter, Tim Redding, has not won a game since 2004. Chad Cordero is a good closer but he’ll probably get 7 save attempts all season. Offense: 4 Defense: 6 Starting Pitching: 2 Bullpen: 5 Overall: 4.25 NL Central 1) Milwaukee Brewers This is the division I changed the most. I had the Brew Crew ranked 4th. The more I think about them, the more I think they'll be the surprise team this year. They remind me of the Tigers a year ago. They are my favorite NL team. Prince Fielder, Rickie Weeks, JJ Hardy, Corey Hart, Bill Hall, Chris Capuano… if the Brewers can hold onto these guys for a couple more seasons they can do something. If Ben Sheets is healthy they have one of the nastiest rotations in the NL. Sheets, Capuano, Suppan, Bush, Vargas. Jeff Suppan was a great signing. Dave Bush is the most underrated pitcher in the NL. They have the potential to do great things and in this weak division, they will capitalize. I questioned their bullpen originally but now I think it'll be solid with Cordero and Turnbow anchoring it. It will only take about 85 games to take this one and I, personally, think they have it in them. Offense: 8 Defense: 8 Starting Pitching: 8.5 Bullpen: 8 Overall: 8.1 2) Chicago Cubs * I’d like to say they’ll win the division, and even though they made some huge signings, I don’t think they’ll be enough to win the division (yet) after winning only 66 games last year. Soriano makes the team a million times better. One of the best offenses in the NL with a healthy Derek Lee, Aramis Ramirez on top of Soriano and some other solid hitters like Mark DeRosa and Cliff Floyd. Zambrano is a beast. Ted Lilly will be a good pitcher now that he’s in the NL. Jason Marquis will still be terrible. I’d rather take my chances with Wade Miller. Rich Hill will be good and who the hell knows what to expect from Prior or Kerry Wood (lengthy DL trips, most likely). Wait ‘til next year. Offense: 8.5 Defense: 7 Starting Pitching: 7.5 Bullpen: 7 Overall: 7.25 3) St. Louis Cardinals They suck but not enough to lose to the other teams in the division. The only move they made was signing Adam Kennedy. I originally said they'd be better this year with Wainwright moving to the rotation now that Isringhausen is healthy, but now that I think about it, they lose Wainwright and Looper in the pen and they are now both question marks in the rotation. Horrible way to solve a problem. They should have kept one of either Suppan or Weaver, I hate to say it. Kip Wells is their number 2 starter. Chris Duncan should continue to improve. Jim Edmonds might literally fall apart though. Aging mediocre team that will begin to show its holes. Offense: 8 Defense: 8 Starting Pitching: 6 Bullpen: 5 Overall: 6.75 4) Houston Astros Very meh team. Berkman and Lee are nice, but they should have kept Aubrey Huff. Biggio is kind of holding them back, but they can't let him go. The rest of the team is mediocre, with the possible exception of Morgan Ensberg, depending on which version shows up. If they had Clemens they’d have a really good rotation, provided Woody Williams isn’t complete garbage. The Jason Jennings deal was pretty dumb, though he’ll be good. It’s the kind of move you make to compete now, which isn’t likely without Clemens. Brad Lidge will determine how good they are. Last year the Astros lost the most games in MLB after leading 7 innings. If they won a few of those games they would have won the division last season. I had them ranked 3rd, but now I'm pushing them back a spot because Lidge has been garbage this spring. Usually, spring training stats don't mean much, but when a closer is terrible for an entire season, then can't get double and triple A guys out in spring training, there is serious cause for concern. Offense: 7.5 Defense: 6.5 Starting Pitching: 6 Bullpen: 6 Overall: 6.25 5) Pittsburgh Pirates Well, they’re not going to be as bad as they were last year. Adam LaRoche will compliment Jason Bay well. Freddy Sanchez won the batting title last year and should be solid again. Jose Castillo and Jack Wilson might be the best defensive double play combo in all of baseball (if Castillo starts). Jack Wilson needs to shut up though. Zach Duke, Ian Snell and Tom Gorzellany are all good young arms. Shawn Chacon could be ok. Matt Capps will probably take over as closer at one point. Torres and Marte are solid arms and Dan Kolb could rebound (though I doubt it). They have a decent base to work with. This could be a turnaround year for the Pirates. I have changed my mind and will rank them ahead of the Reds. They played over .500 ball second half last year and have improved the team. They're young and improving. PNC Park may have a decent team one of these days. Offense: 7 Defense: 8 Starting Pitching: 5.5 Bullpen: 6 Overall: 6.6 6) Cincinnati Reds Last year’s other surprise team will once again sink to the cellar of the NL Central. Aaron Harang is the man. Bronson Arroyo probably won’t be as good but he’ll be solid. After that it isn’t pretty. Eric Milton is the worst person of all time. The bullpen is a bunch of mediocre arms thrown together with no rhyme or reason. Junior won’t stay healthy. Scott Hatteberg actually starts for the Reds. They did not improve at all. Offense: 6 Defense: 7 Starting Pitching: 6.75 Bullpen: 4 Overall: 5.9 NL West 1) Los Angeles Dodgers I agree with SammyG, best staff in the NL, though San Diego and Philly are right behind them. They have solid arms in the pen, Broxton is the man and might take Saito’s job. Gonzo was one of the best pickups in baseball. Juan Pierre costs a lot but he’ll help out. They are a much better team this year than they were last year. They might be the best team in the NL actually. Offense: 8 Defense: 8 Starting Pitching: 9 Bullpen: 8 Overall: 8.25 2) San Diego Padres Another sick pitching staff. Greg Maddux was one of the best signings of the offseason. He and David Wells will be great mentors for Peavy, Young and Hensley. The bullpen is better than the Dodgers, but they don’t have the offense to compete, especially in Petco. Adrian Gonzalaz could club 30 HR though. Offense: 6.75 Defense: 6.75 Starting Pitching: 8.75 Bullpen: 8.75 Overall: 7.75 3) Arizona Diamondbacks They’re a team built for the future which kind of makes the Randy Johnson trade not make much sense. Connor Jackson, Stephen Drew and Chris Young are all going to be great players. Brandon Webb will compete for the Cy Young again and RJ should benefit from the switch to the NL. Doug Davis was a great pickup, he has a lot of potential. The bullpen is decent. They aren’t seasoned enough to compete with the Pads or Dodgers. Offense: 7 Defense: 7 Starting Pitching: 7.5 Bullpen: 6.5 Overall: 7 4) Colorado Rockies They’ve got good young bats and a solid vet (Helton) to guide them. Matt Holliday should continue to be one of the best offensive players in the NL. Kaz Matsui does start for the Rockies though, and that is not a good thing. Aaron Cook and Jeff Francis are decent pitchers but it’s pretty much garbage after that. Brian Fuentes is solid, but the rest of the pen sucks. Not enough pitching, plain and simple. Offense: 8 Defense: 6.75 Starting Pitching: 5 Bullpen: 6.5 Overall: 6.6 5) San Francisco Giants This team is way too old to stay healthy, and surrounded with too much drama to be any good. They landed Zito, but they lost Jason Schmidt, so it’s not like Zito will improve the team. Matt Cain and Noah Lowry are both solid young arms, they need to step it up. Cain might, Lowry probably won't. Matt Morris and Russ Ortiz need to be halfway decent, and they won’t. It’ll be close between the Giants and the Rockies for last place. Oh yeah, Barry Bonds. Fuck him. Offense: 6 Defense: 4 Starting Pitching: 7 Bullpen: 5 Overall: 5.5 ALDS Yankees def. Angels (FINALLY) Tigers def. Red Sox NLDS Phillies def. Brewers Dodgers def. Cubs ALCS Tigers def. Yankees NLCS Dodgers def. Phillies WS Tigers def. Dodgers AL MVP: Derek Jeter NL MVP: Albert Pujols AL Cy Young: Johan Santana NL Cy Young: Carlos Zambrano AL ROY: Alex Gordon NL ROY: Kevin Kouzmanoff Last edited by FakeLaser; 03-22-2007 at 12:34 AM.

03-21-2007, 04:15 PM	#3
ct2k Triple A Posts: 48,551	I'm basically marking out 24/7 having Andy Pettitte back

03-21-2007, 04:58 PM	#4
Jesus Shuttlesworth Posts: 42,765	Better hope he doesn't count to feel tightness in his back Red Sox not having a closer is going to kill them, it really is. I had some hope with maybe Hanson coming around, but I don't think he is ever going to be a good pitcher in the majors. I'm thinking they should bring up Lester (if he's ready) and move Papelbon back to the pen, I think that'll happen about a month into the season anyway. Should just get it over with now.

03-21-2007, 05:31 PM	#5
FakeLaser continental drift Posts: 46,731	Pineiro has looked solid this spring, but I wouldn't want to have to rely on him.

03-21-2007, 05:32 PM	#6
FakeLaser continental drift Posts: 46,731	Timlin is starting the year on the DL too which hurts you guys.

03-21-2007, 05:49 PM	#7
Supreme Olajuwon You know that�s right Posts: 52,760	No love for the Reds

03-21-2007, 05:53 PM	#8
DaveWadding LIMITLESS Posts: 32,276	the Rockies are going to win the West dude.

03-21-2007, 06:06 PM	#11
Supreme Olajuwon You know that�s right Posts: 52,760	I don't get the Scott Hatteberg knock. He was one of the best defensive 1B in the league last year and he hit well enough.

03-21-2007, 06:13 PM	#12
FakeLaser continental drift Posts: 46,731	I think I'm just remembering him sucking his last year in Oakland.

03-21-2007, 06:16 PM	#14
Jesus Shuttlesworth Posts: 42,765	Just browsing through the Hearld a minute ago at dinner and it said hes been pretty inconsistant with location and his ERA was a bit high Taverez out of all them had the lowest ERA and it was at 3.5something I think... Red Sox are fucked if they don't figure something out

03-21-2007, 06:21 PM	#15
Supreme Olajuwon You know that�s right Posts: 52,760	I think Donnelly has the best chance of being a consistent closer over the course of the season. He had pretty filthy stuff in Anaheim.

03-21-2007, 06:23 PM	#16
FakeLaser continental drift Posts: 46,731	I think Timlin will end up the closer again at some point. Sox should have taken a gamble with Gagne.

03-21-2007, 06:28 PM	#18
Supreme Olajuwon You know that�s right Posts: 52,760	He went to Washington with Kearns and Lopez. I dunno how he's doing there but the Reds got Bill Bray from the Nationals and now he's supposed to be the closer of the future.

03-21-2007, 06:30 PM	#19
FakeLaser continental drift Posts: 46,731	Oh yeah, forgot he was part of that deal.

03-21-2007, 08:10 PM	#21
OssMan The Classic Dylan Staples Posts: 51,474	haha im going to nationals opening day...i think they'll finish ahead of the Braves though

03-21-2007, 09:54 PM	#22
McLegend Temporary Posts: 15,600	Lieber was moved to the bullpen and Adam Eaton is now the 5th starter for the Phillies.

03-21-2007, 10:42 PM	#23
ClockShot TPWW Fire Pro Champ Posts: 34,000	I'm looking forward to Kei and or Wang vs. Daisuke. Who got the better arm from the far east.

03-21-2007, 11:00 PM	#24
FakeLaser continental drift Posts: 46,731	Daisuke.

03-21-2007, 11:04 PM	#25
The Miz Clutch Poster Posts: 11,997	Donnelly is a fat piece of shit... If Piniero is made closer he might have a hot streak where he is a capabale closer but there's no way he'll stay consistent over the season. I think they should've kept Papelbon as closer and built on last year and gone with Schilling/Matsuzaka/Beckett/Wakefield/Piniero or they could try a few other guys in the 5th spot.

03-22-2007, 12:52 AM	#26
Jesus Shuttlesworth Posts: 42,765	Yeah thats what I think too, I mean they had Lester who showed a lot of promise last season but then got derailed because of the cancer scare. He won't be ready by Opening Day but they said within the month or somewhere around that. Its so annoying they don't have a fucking closer again though

03-22-2007, 05:24 PM	#27
weather vane quesque fuck? Posts: 23,554	WOOOOO!!! PAPELBON IS NOW THE CLOSER AGAIN!!!! yesssssssssssssss Imagine we landed Clemens now??? Would be sickest shit ever.

03-22-2007, 08:15 PM	#28
MVP Mas Vagina Porfavor Posts: 11,343	Yeah, but Julian Tavarez is the 5th starter now. Would much rather have Lester or Piniero in that spot.

03-22-2007, 10:33 PM	#29
Jesus Shuttlesworth Posts: 42,765	I dunno Tavarez didn't look THAT bad as starter, i'd rather have him start then come out of the pen...but that isn't saying much

03-23-2007, 02:33 AM	#30
FakeLaser continental drift Posts: 46,731	Tavarez might be the worst starter in the American League.

03-23-2007, 02:35 AM	#31
SammyG LAKE SHOW HOES Posts: 25,764	Furcal better be back by Opening Day.

03-23-2007, 02:47 AM	#33
FakeLaser continental drift Posts: 46,731	Nah, he isn't the worst, Sidney Ponson is starting for the Twins though I guess as a Yankee fan I can't really say shit.

03-23-2007, 02:51 AM	#34
Jesus Shuttlesworth Posts: 42,765	Tavarez is hilarious too, last season there was one point during a game where time was called and I guess he didnt realize or something. So he runs off the mound and dove at a guy with a huge lead off second base, probably the funniest thing I've seen watching a baseball game

03-23-2007, 06:43 AM	#35
Supreme Olajuwon You know that�s right Posts: 52,760	Tavarez would probably be at least the #3 starter in KC.

03-23-2007, 10:50 AM	#37
Loose Cannon I'm all there is Posts: 31,811	although Eric Byrnes trying to score, missing the plate, hurting his leg, shoving Veriteck and getting tagged out about 6 feet from home plate is #1 for me. Then there is the one where I think it was Manny gunning the ball at somebody when the guy is like 4 feet away from him.