1. Bill Mazeroski, the pride of Wheeling WV
2. Norm Cash, the pride of Justiceburg TX
3. Bo Belinksy.
10 May 2012
08 May 2012
Who Am I (1960's edition)?
1.
I am one of only two Hall of Fame players born in West Virginia during the 20th Century (George Brett is the other). I played my entire 17-year Major League career with one team. I was known mostly for my defense - I am an 8-time Gold Glove winner and am in the Top Ten at my position at games played, putouts and assists. I only hit 138 career home runs, but one home run I hit remains one of the most famous in baseball history. Who am I?
2.
I am one of only two Sul Ross University products to play in the Major Leagues - I was originally signed by the White Sox, but I played almost all of my Major League career with another American League team. I became a full-time player at age 26 and had a season so good, nobody could sustain it, and even then, I could only come in 4th in the MVP voting, behind a player who turned in one of the most famous seasons in MLB history, a first ballot Hall of Famer from the same team, and a one-year wonder who led the league in RBI. I played in two World Series - one as a White Sox and one for my other team. Who am I?
3.
I was born in New York and raised in New Jersey, but became famous in California. I threw the first no-hitter in Dodger Stadium history and even today, am one of only two Angel pitchers to start his career with a four-game winnings streak (the other is Jered Weaver), doing so after being claimed by California in the nascent Rule 5 draft (and after a highly-publicized hold-out before I threw my first big league pitch). Despite a flashy 7-1 start, I finished my rookie year a disappointing 10-11, leading the league in walks. By the next spring, I was back in the minors, and following a brief 3-game stretch with Cincinnati 8-years later, I retired with a 28-51 career record, the fewest career wins among pitchers that threw no-hitters in the 1960's.
I am one of only two Hall of Fame players born in West Virginia during the 20th Century (George Brett is the other). I played my entire 17-year Major League career with one team. I was known mostly for my defense - I am an 8-time Gold Glove winner and am in the Top Ten at my position at games played, putouts and assists. I only hit 138 career home runs, but one home run I hit remains one of the most famous in baseball history. Who am I?
2.
I am one of only two Sul Ross University products to play in the Major Leagues - I was originally signed by the White Sox, but I played almost all of my Major League career with another American League team. I became a full-time player at age 26 and had a season so good, nobody could sustain it, and even then, I could only come in 4th in the MVP voting, behind a player who turned in one of the most famous seasons in MLB history, a first ballot Hall of Famer from the same team, and a one-year wonder who led the league in RBI. I played in two World Series - one as a White Sox and one for my other team. Who am I?
3.
I was born in New York and raised in New Jersey, but became famous in California. I threw the first no-hitter in Dodger Stadium history and even today, am one of only two Angel pitchers to start his career with a four-game winnings streak (the other is Jered Weaver), doing so after being claimed by California in the nascent Rule 5 draft (and after a highly-publicized hold-out before I threw my first big league pitch). Despite a flashy 7-1 start, I finished my rookie year a disappointing 10-11, leading the league in walks. By the next spring, I was back in the minors, and following a brief 3-game stretch with Cincinnati 8-years later, I retired with a 28-51 career record, the fewest career wins among pitchers that threw no-hitters in the 1960's.
Kevin Correia Returns to Benedicts
 |
| Kevin Correia |
This is Correia's second stint with the Benedicts - the 31-year old Cal Poly product came out of the free agent draft in 2009 to go 12-11, 3.91 as a Padre. Correia struggled the last two years and is now in Pittsburgh with a 2-year deal, where his first 5 starts have been promising (1-2, 3.38, 1.125).
Correia was the only 2012 Opening Day pitcher that was not selected in the auction or free agent draft.
07 May 2012
Answer: Position Player As Winning Pitcher
Yesterday, we asked readers to identify the last position player to enter a Major League game as a pitcher during regulation play (innings 1-9) and be credited with the win.
The answer is New York Yankee Rocky Colavito, who won the first game of an August 25, 1968, doubleheader against Detroit in Yankee Stadium, Colavito entered the game in the fourth inning with the Yanks trailing 5-0 and pitched 2 2/3 innings, picking up the win after the Yankees scored a run in the fifth and 5 in the sixth to take a lead they would not relinquish.
The answer is New York Yankee Rocky Colavito, who won the first game of an August 25, 1968, doubleheader against Detroit in Yankee Stadium, Colavito entered the game in the fourth inning with the Yanks trailing 5-0 and pitched 2 2/3 innings, picking up the win after the Yankees scored a run in the fifth and 5 in the sixth to take a lead they would not relinquish.
06 May 2012
Position Players As Winning Pitchers
Baltimore DH Cliff Davis earned a win in the O's 17-inning win over Boston today at Fenway Park, becoming the first position player to be the winning pitcher in a ballgame since Philadelphia's Wilson Valdez earned a win in a 19-inning game against Cincinnati.
Davis and Valdez both pitched 1 inning for their win as did Colorado catcher Brent Mayne, who won a game on August 22, 2000, by pitching a scoreless 12th inning in a 7-6 Rockie win over Atlanta.
Davis, Valdez and Mayne all entered to pitch in extra innings, which raises an interesting question: When was the last time a position player entered the game as a pitcher in the 9th inning or before and received credit for the win?
One one other think - isn't calling Cliff Davis a position player stretching things a bit?
Davis and Valdez both pitched 1 inning for their win as did Colorado catcher Brent Mayne, who won a game on August 22, 2000, by pitching a scoreless 12th inning in a 7-6 Rockie win over Atlanta.
Davis, Valdez and Mayne all entered to pitch in extra innings, which raises an interesting question: When was the last time a position player entered the game as a pitcher in the 9th inning or before and received credit for the win?
One one other think - isn't calling Cliff Davis a position player stretching things a bit?
05 May 2012
Ryan Zimmerman Nears Return
According to Adam Kilgore, Washington Post, Benedict/National third baseman Ryan Zimmerman is expected to return to the Nats' lineup possibly as early as tomorrow.
The Nationals placed Zimmerman on the 15-day disabled list on April 28 (retroactive to April 21) with an inflamed right shoulder.
Zimmerman signed a $100 million contract extension this off-season, but has been a disappointment so far, hitting just .224 with only one home run in his first 15 games.
The Nationals placed Zimmerman on the 15-day disabled list on April 28 (retroactive to April 21) with an inflamed right shoulder.
Zimmerman signed a $100 million contract extension this off-season, but has been a disappointment so far, hitting just .224 with only one home run in his first 15 games.
Schafer Ties Astro Record
From Ben DuBose, special to MLB.com:
HOUSTON -- Two days ago, Astros center fielder Jordan Schafer was wincing in pain, grabbing his lower back after a strikeout against the Mets and leaving the game prematurely.
In the Astros' 5-4 win against the Cardinals on Friday, things appeared just fine as he tied a club record.
Schafer's eighth-inning walk extended his streak of reaching base safely (not counting errors) to 25 games to start the season. That ties him with Denis Menke (1969) for the Astros record.
04 May 2012
One Bad Album Cover
California singer Rae Rae has released her debut record, Hard Times & Alcohol this month. The record has received mixed reviews so far but there is no doubt that this one will go down as one of the worst album covers of the year.
26 April 2012
Pop Culture Watch
#Pop Matters has the "ten most essential tracks" by The Band (inexplicably omitting "It Makes No Difference")
#The Audio Perv has video of The War On Drugs' performance of "Come To The City" on last night's Letterman.
#HearYa featured live performances by Austin's Heartless Bastards yesterday.
#Pitchfork says The Smiths are not reuniting.
#From GalleyCat: "The University of Southern California has received a $40,000 grant from the National Endowment for the Arts to produce a video game based on the work of Henry David Thoreau." I can see the lines forming now.
#On Indiegogo, funk pioneer George Clinton (Parliament, Funkadelic) seeks to funds to help store and preserve his original recordings.
#Gregg Allman is postponing his book tour for heart tests.
#4,000,000 Digits of Pi Represented in a Single Image
#Things are just a little bit different in Japanese baseball.
#Our newest favorite blog: The Worst Things For Sale.
#Ryan Tannehill is a Miami Dolphin.
#The Audio Perv has video of The War On Drugs' performance of "Come To The City" on last night's Letterman.
#HearYa featured live performances by Austin's Heartless Bastards yesterday.
#Pitchfork says The Smiths are not reuniting.
#From GalleyCat: "The University of Southern California has received a $40,000 grant from the National Endowment for the Arts to produce a video game based on the work of Henry David Thoreau." I can see the lines forming now.
#On Indiegogo, funk pioneer George Clinton (Parliament, Funkadelic) seeks to funds to help store and preserve his original recordings.
#Gregg Allman is postponing his book tour for heart tests.
#4,000,000 Digits of Pi Represented in a Single Image
#Things are just a little bit different in Japanese baseball.
#Our newest favorite blog: The Worst Things For Sale.
#Ryan Tannehill is a Miami Dolphin.
Trouble in Benedict Bullpen
The Benedicts left Bastrop with a questionable bullpen and after today, the answers to those questions today are not good.
Sean Marshall, Cincinnati's new closer after Ryan Madson's Spring injury, blew another save today, allowing 3 runs in 1 innings as the Redlegs lost to the Giants 6-5. Marshall, who had a 2.65 and 2.26 ERA in the last two years respectively, watched his ERA balloon to 6.14 in the loss. To add insult to injury, Marshall blew the save for Homer Bailey, a fellow Benedict.
Marshall has been a favorite for the Benedict front office since the VCU product made his debut for the Cubs in 2006. The Reds are not so attached and with Aroldis Chapman virtually untouched through 11 appearances, Marshall's days as a closer may be numbered.
Meanwhile, in Los Angeles, Kenley Jansen has pitched well enough as the set-up man (6H, 5BB, 20K in 12.2IP), but Javy Guerra had been effective, saving 7 games for the division leading Bums. With the Dodgers rocking and rolling at 13-6, there are no indications Jansen will have the chance to challenge Guerra for closer duties.
Finally, Andrew Cashner, a bargain-baseball find at $1 last year, has struggled to find the strike zone in San Diego, walking eight batters in his first 9.2 innings pitched. Cashner has only appeared in one game to protect a lead since he was tagged for a loss on April 13. The Padres have been horrible so far this year and Huston Street, the team's closer, may be on the block any day now. But there is not sign Cashner will be closing games there any time soon.
So, as April's end nears, Marshall is reeling, Jansen is holding and Cashner is flailing. The Benedict bullpen is in big, big trouble.
Sean Marshall, Cincinnati's new closer after Ryan Madson's Spring injury, blew another save today, allowing 3 runs in 1 innings as the Redlegs lost to the Giants 6-5. Marshall, who had a 2.65 and 2.26 ERA in the last two years respectively, watched his ERA balloon to 6.14 in the loss. To add insult to injury, Marshall blew the save for Homer Bailey, a fellow Benedict.
Marshall has been a favorite for the Benedict front office since the VCU product made his debut for the Cubs in 2006. The Reds are not so attached and with Aroldis Chapman virtually untouched through 11 appearances, Marshall's days as a closer may be numbered.
Meanwhile, in Los Angeles, Kenley Jansen has pitched well enough as the set-up man (6H, 5BB, 20K in 12.2IP), but Javy Guerra had been effective, saving 7 games for the division leading Bums. With the Dodgers rocking and rolling at 13-6, there are no indications Jansen will have the chance to challenge Guerra for closer duties.
Finally, Andrew Cashner, a bargain-baseball find at $1 last year, has struggled to find the strike zone in San Diego, walking eight batters in his first 9.2 innings pitched. Cashner has only appeared in one game to protect a lead since he was tagged for a loss on April 13. The Padres have been horrible so far this year and Huston Street, the team's closer, may be on the block any day now. But there is not sign Cashner will be closing games there any time soon.
So, as April's end nears, Marshall is reeling, Jansen is holding and Cashner is flailing. The Benedict bullpen is in big, big trouble.
21 April 2012
Humber Pitches Perfect Game
Former Rice Owl and Benedict farmhand Philip Humber pitches the 21st perfect game in Major League Baseball history today in Seattle as the Chicago White Sox beat the Mariners 4-0.
Humber entered today's contest with 10 career wins; not the fewest for perfect game pitchers. On April 30, 1922, Charlie Robertson pitched a perfect game in his fifth Major League appearance.
Humber entered today's contest with 10 career wins; not the fewest for perfect game pitchers. On April 30, 1922, Charlie Robertson pitched a perfect game in his fifth Major League appearance.
Lincoln, Pollock Promoted
Pittsburgh and Arizona have promoted pitcher Brad Lincoln and outfielder A. J. Pollock respectively in the recent week.
The Pirates recalled Lincoln, 26, from Triple A Indianapolis on April 18 to replace the disabled Jeff Karstens, Lincoln was 2-0, 2.25 with 10 hits and no walks allowed in 12 innings in his first two starts for the Indians when he got the call. Lincoln, a former Houston Cougar standout, was 2-3, 4.73 for the Pirates (and Benedicts) in 2011. He pitched three scoreless one-hit innings for a win in his first 2012 appearance for Pittsburgh on April 18, and will make his first 2012 start for Pittsburgh on April 24 at PNC against Colorado. The Benedicts will activate Lincoln to replace the injured Chris Narveson on Monday.
Pollock, 24, made his Major League debut on April 18 in the Diamondbacks' 2-1 loss to Pittsburgh. Pollock earned the promotion by hitting .340-0-5-4 in his first 53 Triple A at-bats at Reno. Pollock, a Notre Dame product, hit .307-8-73-36 at Double A Mobile last year after missing all of 2010 with an arm injury. Pollock replaces the injured Geoff Blum on the Arizona roster.
In other minor league news, Yasmani Grandal, Kyle Parker and Tim Wheeler are all on the disabled list with injuries. Grandal went on the 7-day disabled list on April 10 with a hamstring strain and is expected to return soon. Parker suffered a hand injury after a hit by pitch on April 6. All x-rays were negative and Parker should also return shortly. Finally, Wheeler injured the hamate bone in his hand on April 12 and expected to miss 3-6 weeks.
The Pirates recalled Lincoln, 26, from Triple A Indianapolis on April 18 to replace the disabled Jeff Karstens, Lincoln was 2-0, 2.25 with 10 hits and no walks allowed in 12 innings in his first two starts for the Indians when he got the call. Lincoln, a former Houston Cougar standout, was 2-3, 4.73 for the Pirates (and Benedicts) in 2011. He pitched three scoreless one-hit innings for a win in his first 2012 appearance for Pittsburgh on April 18, and will make his first 2012 start for Pittsburgh on April 24 at PNC against Colorado. The Benedicts will activate Lincoln to replace the injured Chris Narveson on Monday.
Pollock, 24, made his Major League debut on April 18 in the Diamondbacks' 2-1 loss to Pittsburgh. Pollock earned the promotion by hitting .340-0-5-4 in his first 53 Triple A at-bats at Reno. Pollock, a Notre Dame product, hit .307-8-73-36 at Double A Mobile last year after missing all of 2010 with an arm injury. Pollock replaces the injured Geoff Blum on the Arizona roster.
In other minor league news, Yasmani Grandal, Kyle Parker and Tim Wheeler are all on the disabled list with injuries. Grandal went on the 7-day disabled list on April 10 with a hamstring strain and is expected to return soon. Parker suffered a hand injury after a hit by pitch on April 6. All x-rays were negative and Parker should also return shortly. Finally, Wheeler injured the hamate bone in his hand on April 12 and expected to miss 3-6 weeks.
20 April 2012
11 April 2012
Genius Appreciates Geniuses
From Examiner.com:
Bob Dylan has allowed one of his songs to be used in the new Farrelly Brothers film, The Three Stooges, because he is apparently a fan of the vaudeville and comedy legends.Full Story Here.
According to an article posted on USA Today's website, Dylan is "a 70-year-old Stooge-aholic," and that's one of the reasons he allowed his song "Just Like Tom Thumb's Blues" to be included on the movie's soundtrack...
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Walk Off Hit By Pitch
Kansas City took a 4-3 lead into the 12th inning in their afternoon
game in Oakland only to see it evaporate at the hands of former Benedict
Jonathan Broxton:
Daric Barton struck out.
Seth Smith reached first base on Alex Escobar's error.
Jemile Weeks walked; Smith to second base.
Eric Sogard walked, Smith to third base, Weeks to second.
Coco Crisp ground out, Smith scored, Weeks to third, Sogard to second.
Yoenis Cespedes hit by pitch loads the bases.
Jonny Gomes hit by pitch, Weeks scored winning run.
So, that's an error, two walks and two hit batsmen for the loss. Kansas City relievers had pitched six innings of two-hit, one-walk, shutout ball until Broxton's meltdown, though it may be a little bit early to write off Broxton completely - in his previous outing against the Anaheim Angels, he struck out the side for a save.
Daric Barton struck out.
Seth Smith reached first base on Alex Escobar's error.
Jemile Weeks walked; Smith to second base.
Eric Sogard walked, Smith to third base, Weeks to second.
Coco Crisp ground out, Smith scored, Weeks to third, Sogard to second.
Yoenis Cespedes hit by pitch loads the bases.
Jonny Gomes hit by pitch, Weeks scored winning run.
So, that's an error, two walks and two hit batsmen for the loss. Kansas City relievers had pitched six innings of two-hit, one-walk, shutout ball until Broxton's meltdown, though it may be a little bit early to write off Broxton completely - in his previous outing against the Anaheim Angels, he struck out the side for a save.
10 April 2012
Kyle Lohse Watch and Other News of the Day
 | |
| KYLE LOHSE |
The Benedicts acquired Lohse, along with Astro center fielder Jordan Schafer from the Boards on roster freeze eve for Atlanta pitcher Tommy Hanson. Arguably, Lohse was overpriced at $10B considering his up-and-down track record, but the Benedicts took a flyer that through two starts has been rewarded.
Speaking of Schafer, the former Brave prospect already has three stolen bases tonight in Houston's game in progress against Atlanta.
In Los Angeles today, Kenley Jansen pitched a perfect eighth inning to earn his first win of 2012. Matt Kemp drove in his ninth run of the year in the Dodgers' 2-1 win over Pittsburgh.
Finally, Chris Narveson picked up a win tonight as Milwaukee defeated Chicago 7-4 at Wrigley Field. Narveson went five innings and allowed two earned runs in the outing.
09 April 2012
Meet The Reserves
The Benedict reserve list is prospect heavy after the team added 12 players to the two reserve keepers Yasmani Grandal and Kyle Parker. These are the selections, presented in the selection order.
1. Xavier Nady (10A, 1B/OF, Washington). Nady, 33, is with his fifth team in the last five years and the perennial disappointment is running out of chances. He will get the chance to play in Washington and he desperately needs to make the most of it.
2. Tyler Colvin (10A, OF, Colorado). Colvin, 26, wore out his welcome in Chicago and was traded this off-season to Colorado for fellow Benedict Ian Stewart, who had run out of chances in Colorado. Colvin hit a putrid .150 in 222 at bats for the Cubs last year; a total surprise freefall after his solid rookie year in 2010. Colvin hit .373 with 3 home runs in Spring Training - hopefully a good sign for a 2012 rebound.
3. Zack Cox (NC, 3B, St. Louis). Cox, a hard-hitting corner man from the University of Arkansas, hit .306/.363/.434 in his first full minor league season last year, splitting time between A+ and AA ball. He opened 2012 at AAA Memphis and will likely get a look in St. Louis at some time this year. There are questions about Cox's defense at third base and some doubts he can become a big home run source, but the man can hit line drives with the best of them. Baseball America rates Cox as St. Louis's No. 4 prospect going into the 2012 season. ETA: August 2012. Comparable: Up: Poor Man's Robin Ventura.
4. Jose Veras (10A, RP, Milwaukee). Veras, 31, comes to Milwaukee from Pittsburgh in the Casey McGehee trade and will figure in the Brewer set-up mix after fanning 79 in 71 innings with a .206 average against last year.
5. Justin Turner (10A, INF, New York). Turner, 27, hit a respectable .260/.334/.356 in 435 at bats for New York last year, Turner is not good enough to keep the Mets from looking for a replacement. Turner's fantasy value is almost imperceptible to the naked eye, but for position flexibility and some stray RBI's, he is a nice find here.
6. Marcell Ozuna (NC, OF,Florida Miami). Ozuna, 21, hit .266/.330/.482 at Sally Greensboro as one of the league's youngest players. Ozuna has five-tool talent and though somewhat under the radar now, is recognized as Miami's top power hitting prospect. ETA: 2014. Comparable: Between a young Chili Davis and Bobby Abreu.
7. Tim Wheeler (NC. OF, Colorado). Wheeler, 24, is a big, strapping outfielder out of baseball power Sacramento State who has rifled through the Rockie system posting eye-popping power numbers at every stop. Last year at AA Tulsa, Wheeler hit .287/.365/.535 with 33 home runs and 21 stolen bases. He starts this season at AAA Colorado Springs. Baseball America rates Wheeler as the organization's No. 5 prospect going into 2012. ETA: September 2012. Comparable: J. D. Drew with a little more speed. Here is Wheeler taking some cuts in an AFL game last October:
8. A. J. Pollock (NC, OF, Arizona). Pollock, 24, hit .301/.357/.444 at AA Mobile last year and is off to the hottest start imaginable (10-18, .556) at Reno so far this season. Pollock, a Notre Dame product, is the top outfield prospect in the system and he will be ready sooner rather than later. ETA: Summer 2012. Comparable: Von Hayes.
9. Brad Lincoln (10A, SP, Pittsburgh). Pittsburgh drafted Lincoln with the 4th overall pick in 2006 (yes, ahead of Clayton Kershaw and Tim Lincecum!) and has been a disappointment ever since. Lincoln has battled injury and general mediocrity but the Pirates retain hope and Lincoln will surely get one more chance in 2012. Lincoln, who turns 28 in May, had a good first start at Triple A Indianapolis this week.
10. Sam LeCure (10A, RP, Cincinnati). LeCure, 28, made great strides for Cincinnati last year, pitching in both a relief and starting role. LeCure's ERA fell 80 points, his control improved, his strikeout rate increased and resulting in a K/BB rate that jumped from 1.48 in 2010 to 3.48 in 2011, and an average against that fell from .267 to .202. His value will depend on how he is used by Cincinnati this season.
11. Heath Hembree (NC, RP, San Francisco). Hembree, 23, is southpaw relief pitcher out of College of Charleston who posted some sick numbers splitting time at A+ San Jose and AA Richmond (38 saves, .188 average against, 78 strikeouts in 53 innings). Hembree enters 2012 as San Francisco's No. 3 prospect according to Baseball America. ETA: Mid-Season 2013. Comparable: Jesse Crain. Here is Hembree striking out the side in a California League game last year:
12. Brett Hayes (10A, C,Florida Miami). Generic back-up catcher.
1. Xavier Nady (10A, 1B/OF, Washington). Nady, 33, is with his fifth team in the last five years and the perennial disappointment is running out of chances. He will get the chance to play in Washington and he desperately needs to make the most of it.
2. Tyler Colvin (10A, OF, Colorado). Colvin, 26, wore out his welcome in Chicago and was traded this off-season to Colorado for fellow Benedict Ian Stewart, who had run out of chances in Colorado. Colvin hit a putrid .150 in 222 at bats for the Cubs last year; a total surprise freefall after his solid rookie year in 2010. Colvin hit .373 with 3 home runs in Spring Training - hopefully a good sign for a 2012 rebound.
3. Zack Cox (NC, 3B, St. Louis). Cox, a hard-hitting corner man from the University of Arkansas, hit .306/.363/.434 in his first full minor league season last year, splitting time between A+ and AA ball. He opened 2012 at AAA Memphis and will likely get a look in St. Louis at some time this year. There are questions about Cox's defense at third base and some doubts he can become a big home run source, but the man can hit line drives with the best of them. Baseball America rates Cox as St. Louis's No. 4 prospect going into the 2012 season. ETA: August 2012. Comparable: Up: Poor Man's Robin Ventura.
4. Jose Veras (10A, RP, Milwaukee). Veras, 31, comes to Milwaukee from Pittsburgh in the Casey McGehee trade and will figure in the Brewer set-up mix after fanning 79 in 71 innings with a .206 average against last year.
5. Justin Turner (10A, INF, New York). Turner, 27, hit a respectable .260/.334/.356 in 435 at bats for New York last year, Turner is not good enough to keep the Mets from looking for a replacement. Turner's fantasy value is almost imperceptible to the naked eye, but for position flexibility and some stray RBI's, he is a nice find here.
6. Marcell Ozuna (NC, OF,
7. Tim Wheeler (NC. OF, Colorado). Wheeler, 24, is a big, strapping outfielder out of baseball power Sacramento State who has rifled through the Rockie system posting eye-popping power numbers at every stop. Last year at AA Tulsa, Wheeler hit .287/.365/.535 with 33 home runs and 21 stolen bases. He starts this season at AAA Colorado Springs. Baseball America rates Wheeler as the organization's No. 5 prospect going into 2012. ETA: September 2012. Comparable: J. D. Drew with a little more speed. Here is Wheeler taking some cuts in an AFL game last October:
8. A. J. Pollock (NC, OF, Arizona). Pollock, 24, hit .301/.357/.444 at AA Mobile last year and is off to the hottest start imaginable (10-18, .556) at Reno so far this season. Pollock, a Notre Dame product, is the top outfield prospect in the system and he will be ready sooner rather than later. ETA: Summer 2012. Comparable: Von Hayes.
9. Brad Lincoln (10A, SP, Pittsburgh). Pittsburgh drafted Lincoln with the 4th overall pick in 2006 (yes, ahead of Clayton Kershaw and Tim Lincecum!) and has been a disappointment ever since. Lincoln has battled injury and general mediocrity but the Pirates retain hope and Lincoln will surely get one more chance in 2012. Lincoln, who turns 28 in May, had a good first start at Triple A Indianapolis this week.
10. Sam LeCure (10A, RP, Cincinnati). LeCure, 28, made great strides for Cincinnati last year, pitching in both a relief and starting role. LeCure's ERA fell 80 points, his control improved, his strikeout rate increased and resulting in a K/BB rate that jumped from 1.48 in 2010 to 3.48 in 2011, and an average against that fell from .267 to .202. His value will depend on how he is used by Cincinnati this season.
11. Heath Hembree (NC, RP, San Francisco). Hembree, 23, is southpaw relief pitcher out of College of Charleston who posted some sick numbers splitting time at A+ San Jose and AA Richmond (38 saves, .188 average against, 78 strikeouts in 53 innings). Hembree enters 2012 as San Francisco's No. 3 prospect according to Baseball America. ETA: Mid-Season 2013. Comparable: Jesse Crain. Here is Hembree striking out the side in a California League game last year:
12. Brett Hayes (10A, C,
08 April 2012
Baker's Dozen: Meet the Newest Benedicts
The Benedicts acquired these players by auction at the 29th Annual Dixie Chicken League Draft in Bastrop this weekend. The players are listed in the order the Benedicts acquired them:
Ryan Zimmerman, 3B, Washington (31A, .289-12-49-3). Zimmerman has been a hitting machine for Washington since they day he arrived in the Capitol from the University of Virginia campus in 2005. Last year, however, was a difficult one - injury-plagued and unproductive, at least by his elite standards. Over the last three years, Zimmerman has been the 12th most productive position player in the Major Leagues, measured by Wins Above Replacement. Washington signed the third sacker to a six-year, $100 million contract extension in February making him the franchise's face for the rest of the decade. A healthy Zimmerman has an MVP season in him - Benedicts hope that 2012 is the year. 2012 Projection: .293-23-101-5.
Kenley Jansen, RP, Los Angeles ($17A, 2 wins, 5 saves, 2.84 ERA, 1.04 WHIP). Jansen, a giant of a man from Curacao in the Dutch Antilles, is not the Dodger closer (that would be Javy Guerra), but the hype surrounding him has been extraordinary. Over two seasons in the Dodger pen, Jansen has fanned 140 hitters in 83.2 innings, a stunning 15.29K/9IP rate. Guerra surprised everybody last year when he emerged as an effective closer for LA after Jonathan Broxton's meltdown, however, Guerra's pedestrian strikeout rate and propensity to surrender fly balls do not point to long-term success as a closer. Jansen may never develop as one either, but the Benedicts expect a fun ride. 2012 Projection: 6 wins, 11 saves, 2.75 ERA, 0.95 WHIP.
Matt Holliday, OF, St. Louis ($36A, .296-22-75-2). Holliday returns to the Benedict fold after his disappointing second half and an injury-riddled September helped the team's demise into fifth place. Our sources are that the Benedicts did not really want Holliday back, and did not expect him to go for what some considered a minor bargain price of $36. But he did and he's a Benedict. Holliday has five years and $86 million left on his St. Louis contract, so he is a fixture there for as long as the Benedicts want to keep him. 2012 Projection: .303-27-97-4
George Kottaras, C, Milwaukee ($1A, .252-5-17-0). Kottaras is a left-handed hitting catcher with some pop (last year, he hit .273/.337/.500 against righties last year), but his unimpressive defense and career .184 average against southpaws limits his utility. These limitations mean playing time will always be an issue for the slightly-built Canadian. 2012 will be no exception. 2012 Projection: .265-8-25-2.
Jair Jurrjens, SP, Atlanta ($8A, 13,0,2.96,1.22). Jurrjens (from Willemstad, Curacao, like Kenley Jansen), was exceptional in 2011 until he experienced a brutal August (6.13 ERA), then he was sidelined during Atlanta's September swoon with a knee injury. There were rumors during the Winter Meetings that Atlanta sought to deal Jurrjens with Baltimore and Colorado expressing interest, but Jurrjens remains in Atlanta and suffered through a rough spring (33 hits allowed in 26 innings) then stunk up the joint in his first 2012 regular season start. Jurrjens is a possible bargain at $8, but he will need to turn it around and quick for that to happen. 2012 Projection: 10 wins, 0 saves, 3.85 ERA, 1.32 WHIP.
Stephen Drew, SS, Arizona ($5A, .252-5-45-4). Drew, 29, will begin the 2012 season on the disabled list as continues to recover from a severe ankle injury that sidelined him last year. The best guess right now for Drew is that he will be in the Minor Leagues for a rehab assignment by the end of April and will be re-established in the Diamondback lineup by Memorial Day. If Drew fully recovers and returns to pre-injury form, his salary is about 1/3 what it ought to have been had he been healthy. 2012 Projection: .275-10-40-3.
Homer Bailey, SP, Cincinnati ($2A, 9, 0, 4.43, 1.28). The oft-injured Bailey returned from a spring injury last year to deliver 22 reasonably effective starts for Cincinnati last season. Bailey has always been long on promise and short on results. There are signs that 2012 could be a break-out year, however, as his walk rate has declined each year since he made his 2008 debut, and last year, that rate was a darn respectable 2.25/9IP. 2012 Projection: 12 wins, 0 saves, 3.80 ERA, 1.27 WHIP.
Tony Cruz, C, St. Louis ($1A, .262-0-6-0 in 65 at bats). Cruz is a former college third baseman converted to back-up catcher. We will now return to regular programming. 2012 Projection: .242-4-17-0.
James McDonald, SP, Pittsburgh ($1A, 9, 0, 4.21, 1.49). Pittsburgh acquired McDonald from Los Angeles in the mid-season Octavio Dotel deal in 2010 and have been waiting for him to live up to his considerable talent. After a strong second half last year, the wait may very well be over. 2012 Projections: 8 wins, 0 saves, 4.00 ERA, 1.35 WHIP.
Jesus Guzman, 1B/OF, San Diego ($3A, .312-5-44-9). If any type hitter can thrive at Petco Park, it's Jesus Guzman, a slash hitter who hits line drives and uses the entire field. Called up to San Diego last year, after terrorizing the Pacific Coast League for 2 months, Guzman proceeded to his a seemingly impossible .346/.412/.551 at home. Guzman does not really have a position; he is a liability at first or in left field, and thanks to a minimal left/right split, he seems American League bound sooner or later. For the here and now, the Padres need hitters and Guzman is one, so three dollars seems cheap. 2012 Projection: .290-10-52-13.
Chris Narveson, SP, Milwaukee ($1A, 11, 0, 4.39, 1.38). Narveson, 30, is a soft-tossing journeyman southpaw that more and more relies upon his plus change-up to get Major League hitters out. Narveson faltered down the stretch last year and then underwent off-season hip surgery, so Benedicts are hoping there was a connection and that he will put up improved numbers in 2012. 2012 Projection: 10 wins, 0 saves, 4.15 ERA, 1.32 WHIP.
Ryan Zimmerman, 3B, Washington (31A, .289-12-49-3). Zimmerman has been a hitting machine for Washington since they day he arrived in the Capitol from the University of Virginia campus in 2005. Last year, however, was a difficult one - injury-plagued and unproductive, at least by his elite standards. Over the last three years, Zimmerman has been the 12th most productive position player in the Major Leagues, measured by Wins Above Replacement. Washington signed the third sacker to a six-year, $100 million contract extension in February making him the franchise's face for the rest of the decade. A healthy Zimmerman has an MVP season in him - Benedicts hope that 2012 is the year. 2012 Projection: .293-23-101-5.
Kenley Jansen, RP, Los Angeles ($17A, 2 wins, 5 saves, 2.84 ERA, 1.04 WHIP). Jansen, a giant of a man from Curacao in the Dutch Antilles, is not the Dodger closer (that would be Javy Guerra), but the hype surrounding him has been extraordinary. Over two seasons in the Dodger pen, Jansen has fanned 140 hitters in 83.2 innings, a stunning 15.29K/9IP rate. Guerra surprised everybody last year when he emerged as an effective closer for LA after Jonathan Broxton's meltdown, however, Guerra's pedestrian strikeout rate and propensity to surrender fly balls do not point to long-term success as a closer. Jansen may never develop as one either, but the Benedicts expect a fun ride. 2012 Projection: 6 wins, 11 saves, 2.75 ERA, 0.95 WHIP.
Matt Holliday, OF, St. Louis ($36A, .296-22-75-2). Holliday returns to the Benedict fold after his disappointing second half and an injury-riddled September helped the team's demise into fifth place. Our sources are that the Benedicts did not really want Holliday back, and did not expect him to go for what some considered a minor bargain price of $36. But he did and he's a Benedict. Holliday has five years and $86 million left on his St. Louis contract, so he is a fixture there for as long as the Benedicts want to keep him. 2012 Projection: .303-27-97-4
George Kottaras, C, Milwaukee ($1A, .252-5-17-0). Kottaras is a left-handed hitting catcher with some pop (last year, he hit .273/.337/.500 against righties last year), but his unimpressive defense and career .184 average against southpaws limits his utility. These limitations mean playing time will always be an issue for the slightly-built Canadian. 2012 will be no exception. 2012 Projection: .265-8-25-2.
Jair Jurrjens, SP, Atlanta ($8A, 13,0,2.96,1.22). Jurrjens (from Willemstad, Curacao, like Kenley Jansen), was exceptional in 2011 until he experienced a brutal August (6.13 ERA), then he was sidelined during Atlanta's September swoon with a knee injury. There were rumors during the Winter Meetings that Atlanta sought to deal Jurrjens with Baltimore and Colorado expressing interest, but Jurrjens remains in Atlanta and suffered through a rough spring (33 hits allowed in 26 innings) then stunk up the joint in his first 2012 regular season start. Jurrjens is a possible bargain at $8, but he will need to turn it around and quick for that to happen. 2012 Projection: 10 wins, 0 saves, 3.85 ERA, 1.32 WHIP.
Stephen Drew, SS, Arizona ($5A, .252-5-45-4). Drew, 29, will begin the 2012 season on the disabled list as continues to recover from a severe ankle injury that sidelined him last year. The best guess right now for Drew is that he will be in the Minor Leagues for a rehab assignment by the end of April and will be re-established in the Diamondback lineup by Memorial Day. If Drew fully recovers and returns to pre-injury form, his salary is about 1/3 what it ought to have been had he been healthy. 2012 Projection: .275-10-40-3.
Homer Bailey, SP, Cincinnati ($2A, 9, 0, 4.43, 1.28). The oft-injured Bailey returned from a spring injury last year to deliver 22 reasonably effective starts for Cincinnati last season. Bailey has always been long on promise and short on results. There are signs that 2012 could be a break-out year, however, as his walk rate has declined each year since he made his 2008 debut, and last year, that rate was a darn respectable 2.25/9IP. 2012 Projection: 12 wins, 0 saves, 3.80 ERA, 1.27 WHIP.
Tony Cruz, C, St. Louis ($1A, .262-0-6-0 in 65 at bats). Cruz is a former college third baseman converted to back-up catcher. We will now return to regular programming. 2012 Projection: .242-4-17-0.
James McDonald, SP, Pittsburgh ($1A, 9, 0, 4.21, 1.49). Pittsburgh acquired McDonald from Los Angeles in the mid-season Octavio Dotel deal in 2010 and have been waiting for him to live up to his considerable talent. After a strong second half last year, the wait may very well be over. 2012 Projections: 8 wins, 0 saves, 4.00 ERA, 1.35 WHIP.
Jesus Guzman, 1B/OF, San Diego ($3A, .312-5-44-9). If any type hitter can thrive at Petco Park, it's Jesus Guzman, a slash hitter who hits line drives and uses the entire field. Called up to San Diego last year, after terrorizing the Pacific Coast League for 2 months, Guzman proceeded to his a seemingly impossible .346/.412/.551 at home. Guzman does not really have a position; he is a liability at first or in left field, and thanks to a minimal left/right split, he seems American League bound sooner or later. For the here and now, the Padres need hitters and Guzman is one, so three dollars seems cheap. 2012 Projection: .290-10-52-13.
Chris Narveson, SP, Milwaukee ($1A, 11, 0, 4.39, 1.38). Narveson, 30, is a soft-tossing journeyman southpaw that more and more relies upon his plus change-up to get Major League hitters out. Narveson faltered down the stretch last year and then underwent off-season hip surgery, so Benedicts are hoping there was a connection and that he will put up improved numbers in 2012. 2012 Projection: 10 wins, 0 saves, 4.15 ERA, 1.32 WHIP.
07 April 2012
Meet The Keepers
The Benedicts retained 12 players, including the defending National League MVP and the defending National League batting champion, as well as two non-contract prospects. Here are the keepers:
Ryan Roberts, Arizona (10B, .249-19-65-18 in 2011). Roberts, 31, was a pleasant surprise for the Benedicts in 2011, falling 1 home run and 2 steals shy of the 20-20 club. This is tall cotton for a player that bounced around the minor leagues for six years in three organizations before finding a regular home in the Diamondback infield. Roberts is a late-bloomer in the power and speed department -- his 19 home runs and 18 stolen bases last year at age 30 are professional high marks. We expect Roberts to regress in one or both categories in 2011, but this fear is offset by his position flexibility, which makes him a sound investment at $10.00. 2012 Projection: .258-15-51-14 in 488 at bats.
Ian Stewart, Chicago (5B, .156-0-6-3 in 2011). Stewart was an unmitigated disaster for the Rockies last year, and in the off-season, Colorado shipped the former phenom to Chicago in a four-player off-season transaction. With Aramis Ramirez signed elsewhere (Milwaukee), Stewart will open the 2012 season as the Cub's starting third baseman. If he can show a fair portion of the power than led him to a 25-home run season in 2009, Stewart will be a bargain for the Benedicts (and Cubs). The big question for Stewart? Will he make enough contact to get above the Mendoza Line. 2012 Projection: .247-14-58-5 in 475 at bats.
Jose Reyes, Miami (34B, .337-7-44-39 in 2011). Reyes led the National League in batting average last year despite missing 36 games with a hamstring injury. Reyes signed a big nine-figure contract with Miami in the off-season, and has moved Hanley Ramirez to third base, so he will want to make good. He moves from a pitcher's park to a neutral park, so there is no reason to expect a major drop-off from the change in environment. Reyes will probably never steal 78 bases again, as he did in 2007, but he has as good a chance as anybody to win another batting title. 2012 Projection: .313-13-49-36 in 556 at bats.
Matt Kemp, Los Angeles (40B, .324-39-126-40). Kemp is the reigning National League MVP and for good reason - the Dodger outfielder finished 2011 just one home run shy of the elusive 40-40 club. With Albert Pujols gone to the American League, Kemp is the Senior Circuit's leading candidate to win a Triple Crown. Kemp is entering his prime years (he turned 27 last September) with free agency right around the corner. He will be the Benedict (and Dodger) centerpiece in 2012. 2012 Projection: .316-36-110-30 in 590 at bats.
Cameron Maybin, San Diego (14B, .264-9-40-40). Maybin finally had the break-out year we have all been patiently waiting for in 2011, and at age 25 (on Wednesday), the sky seems the limit. Maybin needs to draw a few more walks and make a little more contact to move among the elite, but for now, the Benedicts will gladly take a 2011 repeat. 2012 Projection: .271-14-52-38 in 600 at bats.
Alex Presley, Pittsburgh (12C, .298-4-20-9). Is Presley a late-bloomer or a flash in the pan? The former Ole Mill Rebel, drafted by Pittsburgh in 2006, finally got a chance in the Major Leagues last year and he made the best of his opportunity, hitting .298 in 56 games, including an impressive .314/.327/.514 September. Presley will open 2012 as the Pirate left fielder and lead-off hitter and if he can carry his September forward, he will have no problem holding the job. Until Sterling Marte is ready, the Pirates do not have too many other options. 2012 Projection: .288-11-43-22 in 560 at bats.
Njyer Morgan, Milwaukee (9B, .304-4-37-13). Morgan had an odd 2011 campaign. First, he pretty much quit running - his 13 steals followed 42 and 34 steal campaigns in 2009 and 2010 respectively. Second, though his walk rate declined and his strikeout rate rose, Morgan improved his batting average from .253 in 2010 to .304 last year. It's hard to say where Morgan's numbers will be in October, but he is worth the look at this price for the chance he will combine his 2010 stolen base total with his 2011 batting average. 2012 Projection: .281-3-31-23 in 510 at bats.
Jordan Schafer, Houston (5B, .245-1-6-7). Schafer, coming off another stalled season and an off-season marijuana arrest, emerged from Spring Training as Houston's starting outfielder. He brings to the team a fair gambler's chance to steal 30 bases, and strong odds of fighting the Mendoza Line all year long. Schafer's reputation as a defender is a good one, which pretty much means it will be will be more difficult than usual to hit his way to the bench. 2012 Projection: .235-5-26-23 in 450 at bats.
Kyle Lohse, Saint Louis (10B, 14 wins, 0 saves, 3.37 ERA, 1.17 WHIP) Lohse emerged from two injury-filled and ineffective seasons with a great 2010 campaign that brought needed stability to the Cardinal rotation. Lohse accomplished this by improving his control and slashing BABIP. Lohse picked up where he left off with a very strong Spring Training. This is Lohse's contract year in St. Louis so he will be pitching for one final big payday in 2012. 2012 Projection: 12 wins, 0 saves, 3.70 ERA, 1.25 WHIP.
Brandon Beachy, Atlanta (4B, 7, 0, 3.68, 1.21). Beachy, once an undrafted pitcher toiling in the Independent Leagues, had an outstanding rookie campaign for Atlanta and is poised for a repeat in 2012, Beachy's 3.67 strikeouts for each walk places him among the NL's elite, as does his .221 average against and 10+ strikeouts per 9 innings pitched. Barring injury or meltdown, Beachy is a big bargain at $4 for the Benedicts. 2012 Projection: 13 wins, 0 saves, 3.35 ERA, 1.22 WHIP.
Sean Marshall, Cincinnati (10B, 6, 5, 2.26, 1.10). It is well known that the Benedicts, to their detriment, become attached to particular players with no apparent rhyme or reason. Sean Marshall is one such player, however in this case, Marshall has returned the love by becoming one of baseball's most effective late inning hurlers. With Ryan Madsen injured in the Queen's City, Marshall will now get the chance to close in Cincinnati. If this tall, lanky VCU product is not ready to take advantage of thise opportunity now, he likely never will be. 2012 Projection: 5 wins, 20 saves, 2.40 ERA, 1.05 WHIP.
Andrew Cashner, San Diego (1B, 1, 0, 1.69, 0.66 in 10.1 innings). San Diego acquired this 6'9" TCU this off-season after he demonstrated last September that he was fully recovered from a rotator cuff strain that sidelined him almost all year. Cashner will fall into the Mike Adams role in San Diego; he will be in the close mix if Hutson Street falters. Cashner was tough on hitters this spring, striking out 16 in 10 innings, with an arsenal that includes a 100+ fastball and a particularly nasty slider. Cashner has almost limitless upside, if he can stay healthy and keep the strikes coming.
Yasmani Grandal, San Diego (NC, .301/.400/.501-14-68-0 at A+, AA and AAA). Grandal, a switch-hitting catcher, made three stops in his first full professional season and closed the year by hitting .500 in a four-game stretch at AAA Louisville. San Diego acquired Grandal from Cincinnati in the off-season in the Mat Latos deal; he is not back at AAA (this time, Tucson) where he is 5-10 through 3 games. Grandal is caught behind Nick Hundley and that's not an entirely bad thing - Grandal has big league defensive tools right now, but his plate discipline slipped each step up the ladder a year ago. ETA: Opening Day 2013.
Kyle Parker, Colorado (NC,.285/.367/.483-21-95-2). Parker had a decent first professional campaign at Sally League Ashville. At his age, the former Clemson football standout needs to move quickly up the ladder; he is opening 2012 at A+ Modesto (California) and will surely move up quickly from there if he keeps hitting. Parker, with his speed and power to all fields, was born to hit in Coors Field. ET: Mid-Season 2013.
The Benedicts start the season with a good foundation, at a high price and not without some risk. The Benedicts will need to add some power hitters as well as at least two top starters to compete out of the gate in 2012.
Ryan Roberts, Arizona (10B, .249-19-65-18 in 2011). Roberts, 31, was a pleasant surprise for the Benedicts in 2011, falling 1 home run and 2 steals shy of the 20-20 club. This is tall cotton for a player that bounced around the minor leagues for six years in three organizations before finding a regular home in the Diamondback infield. Roberts is a late-bloomer in the power and speed department -- his 19 home runs and 18 stolen bases last year at age 30 are professional high marks. We expect Roberts to regress in one or both categories in 2011, but this fear is offset by his position flexibility, which makes him a sound investment at $10.00. 2012 Projection: .258-15-51-14 in 488 at bats.
Ian Stewart, Chicago (5B, .156-0-6-3 in 2011). Stewart was an unmitigated disaster for the Rockies last year, and in the off-season, Colorado shipped the former phenom to Chicago in a four-player off-season transaction. With Aramis Ramirez signed elsewhere (Milwaukee), Stewart will open the 2012 season as the Cub's starting third baseman. If he can show a fair portion of the power than led him to a 25-home run season in 2009, Stewart will be a bargain for the Benedicts (and Cubs). The big question for Stewart? Will he make enough contact to get above the Mendoza Line. 2012 Projection: .247-14-58-5 in 475 at bats.
Jose Reyes, Miami (34B, .337-7-44-39 in 2011). Reyes led the National League in batting average last year despite missing 36 games with a hamstring injury. Reyes signed a big nine-figure contract with Miami in the off-season, and has moved Hanley Ramirez to third base, so he will want to make good. He moves from a pitcher's park to a neutral park, so there is no reason to expect a major drop-off from the change in environment. Reyes will probably never steal 78 bases again, as he did in 2007, but he has as good a chance as anybody to win another batting title. 2012 Projection: .313-13-49-36 in 556 at bats.
Matt Kemp, Los Angeles (40B, .324-39-126-40). Kemp is the reigning National League MVP and for good reason - the Dodger outfielder finished 2011 just one home run shy of the elusive 40-40 club. With Albert Pujols gone to the American League, Kemp is the Senior Circuit's leading candidate to win a Triple Crown. Kemp is entering his prime years (he turned 27 last September) with free agency right around the corner. He will be the Benedict (and Dodger) centerpiece in 2012. 2012 Projection: .316-36-110-30 in 590 at bats.
Cameron Maybin, San Diego (14B, .264-9-40-40). Maybin finally had the break-out year we have all been patiently waiting for in 2011, and at age 25 (on Wednesday), the sky seems the limit. Maybin needs to draw a few more walks and make a little more contact to move among the elite, but for now, the Benedicts will gladly take a 2011 repeat. 2012 Projection: .271-14-52-38 in 600 at bats.
Alex Presley, Pittsburgh (12C, .298-4-20-9). Is Presley a late-bloomer or a flash in the pan? The former Ole Mill Rebel, drafted by Pittsburgh in 2006, finally got a chance in the Major Leagues last year and he made the best of his opportunity, hitting .298 in 56 games, including an impressive .314/.327/.514 September. Presley will open 2012 as the Pirate left fielder and lead-off hitter and if he can carry his September forward, he will have no problem holding the job. Until Sterling Marte is ready, the Pirates do not have too many other options. 2012 Projection: .288-11-43-22 in 560 at bats.
Njyer Morgan, Milwaukee (9B, .304-4-37-13). Morgan had an odd 2011 campaign. First, he pretty much quit running - his 13 steals followed 42 and 34 steal campaigns in 2009 and 2010 respectively. Second, though his walk rate declined and his strikeout rate rose, Morgan improved his batting average from .253 in 2010 to .304 last year. It's hard to say where Morgan's numbers will be in October, but he is worth the look at this price for the chance he will combine his 2010 stolen base total with his 2011 batting average. 2012 Projection: .281-3-31-23 in 510 at bats.
Jordan Schafer, Houston (5B, .245-1-6-7). Schafer, coming off another stalled season and an off-season marijuana arrest, emerged from Spring Training as Houston's starting outfielder. He brings to the team a fair gambler's chance to steal 30 bases, and strong odds of fighting the Mendoza Line all year long. Schafer's reputation as a defender is a good one, which pretty much means it will be will be more difficult than usual to hit his way to the bench. 2012 Projection: .235-5-26-23 in 450 at bats.
Kyle Lohse, Saint Louis (10B, 14 wins, 0 saves, 3.37 ERA, 1.17 WHIP) Lohse emerged from two injury-filled and ineffective seasons with a great 2010 campaign that brought needed stability to the Cardinal rotation. Lohse accomplished this by improving his control and slashing BABIP. Lohse picked up where he left off with a very strong Spring Training. This is Lohse's contract year in St. Louis so he will be pitching for one final big payday in 2012. 2012 Projection: 12 wins, 0 saves, 3.70 ERA, 1.25 WHIP.
Brandon Beachy, Atlanta (4B, 7, 0, 3.68, 1.21). Beachy, once an undrafted pitcher toiling in the Independent Leagues, had an outstanding rookie campaign for Atlanta and is poised for a repeat in 2012, Beachy's 3.67 strikeouts for each walk places him among the NL's elite, as does his .221 average against and 10+ strikeouts per 9 innings pitched. Barring injury or meltdown, Beachy is a big bargain at $4 for the Benedicts. 2012 Projection: 13 wins, 0 saves, 3.35 ERA, 1.22 WHIP.
Sean Marshall, Cincinnati (10B, 6, 5, 2.26, 1.10). It is well known that the Benedicts, to their detriment, become attached to particular players with no apparent rhyme or reason. Sean Marshall is one such player, however in this case, Marshall has returned the love by becoming one of baseball's most effective late inning hurlers. With Ryan Madsen injured in the Queen's City, Marshall will now get the chance to close in Cincinnati. If this tall, lanky VCU product is not ready to take advantage of thise opportunity now, he likely never will be. 2012 Projection: 5 wins, 20 saves, 2.40 ERA, 1.05 WHIP.
Andrew Cashner, San Diego (1B, 1, 0, 1.69, 0.66 in 10.1 innings). San Diego acquired this 6'9" TCU this off-season after he demonstrated last September that he was fully recovered from a rotator cuff strain that sidelined him almost all year. Cashner will fall into the Mike Adams role in San Diego; he will be in the close mix if Hutson Street falters. Cashner was tough on hitters this spring, striking out 16 in 10 innings, with an arsenal that includes a 100+ fastball and a particularly nasty slider. Cashner has almost limitless upside, if he can stay healthy and keep the strikes coming.
Yasmani Grandal, San Diego (NC, .301/.400/.501-14-68-0 at A+, AA and AAA). Grandal, a switch-hitting catcher, made three stops in his first full professional season and closed the year by hitting .500 in a four-game stretch at AAA Louisville. San Diego acquired Grandal from Cincinnati in the off-season in the Mat Latos deal; he is not back at AAA (this time, Tucson) where he is 5-10 through 3 games. Grandal is caught behind Nick Hundley and that's not an entirely bad thing - Grandal has big league defensive tools right now, but his plate discipline slipped each step up the ladder a year ago. ETA: Opening Day 2013.
Kyle Parker, Colorado (NC,.285/.367/.483-21-95-2). Parker had a decent first professional campaign at Sally League Ashville. At his age, the former Clemson football standout needs to move quickly up the ladder; he is opening 2012 at A+ Modesto (California) and will surely move up quickly from there if he keeps hitting. Parker, with his speed and power to all fields, was born to hit in Coors Field. ET: Mid-Season 2013.
The Benedicts start the season with a good foundation, at a high price and not without some risk. The Benedicts will need to add some power hitters as well as at least two top starters to compete out of the gate in 2012.
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