Mondays Heath from Dempsey's Army will recount all things Baltimore Orioles from the previous week's chats. It is a convenient way to learn what national writers think about specific issues that relate to the Orioles.
Where we distill all the week's chats down to their Oriole essence...
Jonah Keri, FanGraphs.com
2:03 Comment From Boog Powell
Thoughts on the O's Uehara deal and failure to trade Lee and/or Kevin Gregg?
2:04 Jonah Keri: Um, they did trade Lee. but yeah, Gregg, Guthrie, there were other guys. Suspect there were fewer buyers willing to shell out real talent for fill-ins this year.
Jerry Crasnick, ESPN
Sam (Baltimore)
What did you think of the Os deal with Texas? Seems like we got two pretty good potentially good players for a flash in the pan middle reliever.
Jerry Crasnick (1:21 PM)
Sam, I can certainly live with it. Chris Davis has a lot of holes, but he's a pretty athletic kid and certainly has power. And Tommy Hunter, to me, is a decent back end of the rotation guy. I thought Andy MacPhail did just fine with that trade.
Dave Cameron, FanGraphs.com
12:00 Comment From daniel
Does Chris Davis' high strikeout rate, poor walk rate, and insane BABIP at .500 prevent him from being worth a waiver claim (only two claims left for me in my league) despite having the 1B job and 3B eligibility?
12:01 Dave Cameron:
I'd say that Davis is not likely to do particularly well in the majors, yes.
12:02 Comment From The Oriole Bird
Glad to see you here, Dave! Is there any data to back up the common knowledge that, other things constant, a team shouldn't have too many high-K players? Chris Davis and Mark Reynolds sure swing and miss a lot.
12:02 Dave Cameron:
The mid-90s Mariners struck out a lot too, but they scored a lot of runs anyway. Strikeouts aren't a problem in and of themselves. They are a problem if they cause your hitters to suck.
Dan Szymborski, FanGraphs.com
12:02 Comment From Zach Britton
there's no way I throw 40 pitches in the 1st inning and get pulled tonight v. the Royals, right?
12:02 Dan Szymborski:
The O's have reached that inevitable point of the season in which the wheels have come off and ALL things are possible. The Royals could probably sign Andy Abad, and he could no-hit the O's as a non-pitcher and I wouldn't be too surprised.
12:04 Comment From Stan the Caddy
What's your background Dan? What team are you a fan of?
12:04 Dan Szymborski:
Econ major, O's fan.
12:08 Comment From Paul D
I'm starting to think that the Blue Jays might have a chance... but the Orioles? Is there any help?
12:09 Dan Szymborski: Not with the ownership they have. A team in Baltimore's position can't be as confusedly conservative and risk-averse as they are. They just don't seem to relish high-upside plays.
12:14 Comment From Chris Davis
So exactly how long is my new orange and black leash? What happens in the offseason if I can't start making a little more contact?
12:15 Dan Szymborski:
The team kept playing Mark Reynolds, with crazy no-contact early and playing defense about as well as I would in the majors, so they'll probably give Davis every chance. It's not like the O's are overflowing with guys like Davis organizationally (is that a word?)
12:20 Comment From Louis
How do you continue to justify being an O's fan? There is nothing good about the organization (besides the Unis) and I don't see it changing for at least another decade. Every consider becoming a baseball agnostic?
12:21 Dan Szymborski:
Good pit beef. I'm not really the rah-rah sort anyway, I hope that someone reading my work wouldn't know what team I root for unless they already knew what team I rooted for.
12:28 Comment From Myles
I'm not a die-hard O's fan, but I see the trend of disappointing home-grown SP's, despite the fact that no one really raised a brow when they were drafted. What do you see as the biggest problem within their development process?
12:29 Dan Szymborski:
I can't exactly say why the O's particular pitchers have failed, but there's a pattern in the O's organization in which they seem to make decisions based on what they *want* a player to be rather than *what* the player is.
12:35 Comment From Matt Wieters
Will I ever be a truly worthwhile fantasy catcher? Where did my power go?
12:36 Dan Szymborski:
Well, he's *still* going to end up with 15 home runs or so. I know it's disappointing for Wieters to be merely an average catcher, but catchers have weird developmental curves.
12:48 Comment From Jimmy
I'll tell you what's wrong with the O's: Zach Britton has contributed more offensively than Vladimir Guerrero. True story.
12:48 Dan Szymborski:
I think I mentioned that on Twitter last week. At the time, Britton had more offensive WAR than Vlad *and* Lee combined.
12:55 Comment From steve
Thoughts on the Uehara trade?
12:56 Dan Szymborski:
I really liked it from the O's perspective - they don't really have a lot of great prospect depth and could use guys like that (if you still call them prospects). The Rangers are giving up a lot ofr their relief help, but they did at least get actual good relievers and they're in a competitive position where you *can* trade away future value without worrying to much.
Keith Law, ESPN
Luke (Baltimore)
Hearing anything on Nick Delmonico's signability for the O's as we approach Aug. 15?
Klaw (1:30 PM)
My take on him predraft is that he was headed for school.
dc (dc)
Chris Davis and Mark Reynolds on the same team. Thoughts?
Klaw (1:35 PM)
Is there a window open? I feel a breeze here.
Bill (CT)
Keith, it has been speculated that teams with GMs on the hot seat such as in Baltimore (McPhail) and Chicago (Hendry) that the reason such highly sought after pitchers such as Guthrie and Garza were not dealt at the deadline was so these teams could win a few more games down the stretch so that these GMs could some how save their jobs. Isn't this the reason why these teams haven't won in the first place? Short term veiw vs long term in terms of getting good prospects for these guys?
Klaw (1:57 PM)
Hendry, yes, although I've also heard that Ricketts promised him the 2012 season to turn things around (which would be so Cub-like if true). I keep hearing that MacPhail will step down after the year, so I don't see why he'd be motivated to win a few more games this year. He's not the type of guy to deliberately do something against the franchise's long-term interests just to let himself leave on a higher note.
Klaw (1:58 PM)
I should clarify what I'm hearing on MacPhail is not from him or from Baltimore sources, but from other FO guys around the game.
Showing posts with label Dempseys Army. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Dempseys Army. Show all posts
25 July 2011
Dempsey's Army Presents: Last Week in Chats (June 18 - July 25, 2011)
Monday afternoons Heath from Dempsey's Army will recount all things Baltimore Orioles from the previous week's chats. It is a convenient way to learn what national writers think about specific issues that relate to the Orioles.
Jonah Keri, FanGraphs.com
4:39 Comment From Oriole Bird
I'm a little surprised that Hardy didn't test the offseason free-agent waters. He took 3 years / $22+ million from the O's. Thoughts?
4:39 Jonah Keri:
Good deal for both sides. Hardy isn't young and has fought injuries in the past, would be pretty cavalier to spit on $22M, considering he and his descendants would then be set for life.
David Schoenfiled, ESPN
Peter (Baltimore)
Curious as to your thoughts regarding the JJ Hardy extension.
David Schoenfield (1:10 PM)
I wrote a quick blog on it yesterday. Thought it was a solid deal for the Orioles, didn't really overpay. Hardy's health history makes it a little risky but there aren't many decent shortstops right now. Hardy will hold down the fort until Manny Machado is ready.
John (NY)
Hey David, I thought the Orioles did kind of overpay for Hardy. Yunel Escobar just got 2 years and 10 million and he's arguably the superior SS. In my mind, Baltimore would have been better served trading Hardy to potentially speed up their rebuilding process.
David Schoenfield (1:27 PM)
Yeah, I didn't think it was a great deal or anything. TBut players aren't directly comparable since Escobar wasn't being paid for his free agent years. If Escobar was a FA, he'd get more than $7 million per year.
Joey (Catonsville)
The O's are sellers, but have nothing to sell. Do Koji and D. Lee get moved?
David Schoenfield (2:19 PM)
I think Koji and Guthrie are the only guys they can sell and get something in return. Maybe Scott if he comes of the DL and shows he's healthy, but he hasn't hit much this year. Lee and Vlad won't much more than a C prospect.
Jack Moore, FanGraphs.com
12:38 Comment From frozendesert
Adam Jones... good? Great? Worth a Teheran or Vizcaino/Salcedo?
12:40 Jack Moore:
I'd stick with good. Love the bat, the glove doesn't appear to be that great in center field right now, and it's the third straight year UZR has graded him poorly. This time DRS is in on it too. Still not the end-all be-all, of course, and if his defense in CF is as-advertised, he is great. I'm just not sure on that front.
12:53 Comment From Dan
From your Hardy article...isn't it a bit naive to say the Orioles have no chance at being competitve within the next 3 years? Couldn't the same have been said about the Pirates before this year and the Padres before last year. 3 years is a long time...
12:55 Jack Moore: Well I used the words "don't appear to have legitimate aspirations..." I don't think too many people thought the Pirates had legitimate aspirations this year, right? Obviously, anything's possible. I was more trying to refute the argument that Hardy doesn't make sense for a non-contender, though.
Jim Callis, Baseball America
Shoshana (Boston):
Any prospects for O's fans to get excited about (already in the system) besides Schoop and Machado?
Jim Callis:
If you can wait until Aug. 15, Dylan Bundy. Machado and Schoop are the clear current standouts.
Keith Law, ESPN
Joshua (Annapolis, MD)
Jon Schoop's been struggling since his promotion, you're the one guy out there I see hyping him. What are you seeing that others must be missing?
Klaw (2:34 PM)
He's 19 in high-A - and the approach is fine. I'm talking about him because the tools point to potential stardom, not because of performance.
Ian (Boston)
What do you think is the most likely cause (realizing it most likely is a combination of factors) for the Orioles problems getting productivity from their prospects? Al East, Org issues, bad luck?
Klaw (3:08 PM)
Put it this way: If I took over as GM tomorrow, the first order of business would be to assume this was the organization's fault and to identify the cause(s). You can't move forward until that happens.
Matt Eddy, Baseball America
Dylan Bundy (OK):
No love for my brother's CG this week?
Matthew Eddy:
Hard to argue against High-A RHP Bobby Bundy's gem: 9 innings, 3 hits, 2 runs, 1 walk, 9 strikeouts. He's part of the Hot Sheet extended family.
Wendy (Miami):
If you had to choose between Machado and Profar as the SS for your fantasy team, who wins and why?
Matthew Eddy:
With all due respect to Profar, I give the nod to Machado at this point because I think the offensive upside is higher. He could hit in the vicinity of .300 with 20 homers, though nobody seems to think he'll be anything more than average on defense.
Mike Ferrin, Baseball Prospectus
Dennis (LA):
How much do you think getting bullpen help would help the Angels make the post-season this year? They've already said they don't want to pay for the top-tier guys like Adams or Bell. What other relievers are out there that might make a difference? Koji Uehara?
Mike Ferrin:
Uehara or maybe Jim Johnson. I mean, there are about 424 available right handed relievers, and most of those are second tier guys. Thing about relievers is, let's say you get a Chad Qualls. Qualls could go out for 20IP and give up 2ER or Give up 14ER. It's too tough to predict with the less than elite players, of which there are very few. So, you bring in someone(s) with good stuff who's pitching well & you cross your fingers and pray.
Jayson Stark, ESPN
Adam (charm city)
can you please just say one thing about baltimore in this chat?
Jayson Stark (1:59 PM)
Sure. Great town. Great ballpark. And they're going to find a taker for Uehara. That's three things!
Jonah Keri, FanGraphs.com
4:39 Comment From Oriole Bird
I'm a little surprised that Hardy didn't test the offseason free-agent waters. He took 3 years / $22+ million from the O's. Thoughts?
4:39 Jonah Keri:
Good deal for both sides. Hardy isn't young and has fought injuries in the past, would be pretty cavalier to spit on $22M, considering he and his descendants would then be set for life.
David Schoenfiled, ESPN
Peter (Baltimore)
Curious as to your thoughts regarding the JJ Hardy extension.
David Schoenfield (1:10 PM)
I wrote a quick blog on it yesterday. Thought it was a solid deal for the Orioles, didn't really overpay. Hardy's health history makes it a little risky but there aren't many decent shortstops right now. Hardy will hold down the fort until Manny Machado is ready.
John (NY)
Hey David, I thought the Orioles did kind of overpay for Hardy. Yunel Escobar just got 2 years and 10 million and he's arguably the superior SS. In my mind, Baltimore would have been better served trading Hardy to potentially speed up their rebuilding process.
David Schoenfield (1:27 PM)
Yeah, I didn't think it was a great deal or anything. TBut players aren't directly comparable since Escobar wasn't being paid for his free agent years. If Escobar was a FA, he'd get more than $7 million per year.
Joey (Catonsville)
The O's are sellers, but have nothing to sell. Do Koji and D. Lee get moved?
David Schoenfield (2:19 PM)
I think Koji and Guthrie are the only guys they can sell and get something in return. Maybe Scott if he comes of the DL and shows he's healthy, but he hasn't hit much this year. Lee and Vlad won't much more than a C prospect.
Jack Moore, FanGraphs.com
12:38 Comment From frozendesert
Adam Jones... good? Great? Worth a Teheran or Vizcaino/Salcedo?
12:40 Jack Moore:
I'd stick with good. Love the bat, the glove doesn't appear to be that great in center field right now, and it's the third straight year UZR has graded him poorly. This time DRS is in on it too. Still not the end-all be-all, of course, and if his defense in CF is as-advertised, he is great. I'm just not sure on that front.
12:53 Comment From Dan
From your Hardy article...isn't it a bit naive to say the Orioles have no chance at being competitve within the next 3 years? Couldn't the same have been said about the Pirates before this year and the Padres before last year. 3 years is a long time...
12:55 Jack Moore: Well I used the words "don't appear to have legitimate aspirations..." I don't think too many people thought the Pirates had legitimate aspirations this year, right? Obviously, anything's possible. I was more trying to refute the argument that Hardy doesn't make sense for a non-contender, though.
Jim Callis, Baseball America
Shoshana (Boston):
Any prospects for O's fans to get excited about (already in the system) besides Schoop and Machado?
Jim Callis:
If you can wait until Aug. 15, Dylan Bundy. Machado and Schoop are the clear current standouts.
Keith Law, ESPN
Joshua (Annapolis, MD)
Jon Schoop's been struggling since his promotion, you're the one guy out there I see hyping him. What are you seeing that others must be missing?
Klaw (2:34 PM)
He's 19 in high-A - and the approach is fine. I'm talking about him because the tools point to potential stardom, not because of performance.
Ian (Boston)
What do you think is the most likely cause (realizing it most likely is a combination of factors) for the Orioles problems getting productivity from their prospects? Al East, Org issues, bad luck?
Klaw (3:08 PM)
Put it this way: If I took over as GM tomorrow, the first order of business would be to assume this was the organization's fault and to identify the cause(s). You can't move forward until that happens.
Matt Eddy, Baseball America
Dylan Bundy (OK):
No love for my brother's CG this week?
Matthew Eddy:
Hard to argue against High-A RHP Bobby Bundy's gem: 9 innings, 3 hits, 2 runs, 1 walk, 9 strikeouts. He's part of the Hot Sheet extended family.
Wendy (Miami):
If you had to choose between Machado and Profar as the SS for your fantasy team, who wins and why?
Matthew Eddy:
With all due respect to Profar, I give the nod to Machado at this point because I think the offensive upside is higher. He could hit in the vicinity of .300 with 20 homers, though nobody seems to think he'll be anything more than average on defense.
Mike Ferrin, Baseball Prospectus
Dennis (LA):
How much do you think getting bullpen help would help the Angels make the post-season this year? They've already said they don't want to pay for the top-tier guys like Adams or Bell. What other relievers are out there that might make a difference? Koji Uehara?
Mike Ferrin:
Uehara or maybe Jim Johnson. I mean, there are about 424 available right handed relievers, and most of those are second tier guys. Thing about relievers is, let's say you get a Chad Qualls. Qualls could go out for 20IP and give up 2ER or Give up 14ER. It's too tough to predict with the less than elite players, of which there are very few. So, you bring in someone(s) with good stuff who's pitching well & you cross your fingers and pray.
Jayson Stark, ESPN
Adam (charm city)
can you please just say one thing about baltimore in this chat?
Jayson Stark (1:59 PM)
Sure. Great town. Great ballpark. And they're going to find a taker for Uehara. That's three things!
27 June 2011
Dempsey's Army Presents: Last Week in Chats (June 20-26)
Monday afternoons Heath from Dempsey's Army will recount all things Baltimore Orioles from the previous week's chats. It is a convenient way to learn what national writers think about specific issues that relate to the Orioles.
Where we distill all the week's baseball chats down to their Oriole essence...
Jerry Crasnik, ESPN
![]()
Charlie milwaukee [via mobile]
Where do you see prince fielder playing next season? The teams that need and can pay fielder already have a high profile name at that position.
Jerry Crasnick (1:06 PM)
Charlie, Yep, with Boston, the Yankees and others already spoken for at first base, that puts a bit of a crimp in Prince's market. At the moment, you hear the Cubs and O's floating around as potential candidates. And as much as you hear that the Brewers are "priced out" on Prince, I wouldn't write them off entirely. Scott Boras needs to keep them in the mix as a potential landing spot.
Derek Carty, Baseball Prospectus
Ralph (Arlington):
Rank em please: Brantly, Markakis, Pagan, Torres
Derek Carty:
I think you've got the order right there. Michael Brantley, Nick Markakis, Angel Pagan, Andres Torres. Brantley and Markakis are close, but I'd probably go Brantley first.
Yatchisin (Santa Barbara):
Do you think Brian Matusz will get right this year? Opens on DL, comes off, pitches mediocre at best, tweaks hammy.... I had high hopes for him, and now am at the point of cutting him for free agent Bud Norris.
Derek Carty:
I wouldn't give up on Matusz, but if you can drop him for Norris, I'd definitely do it.
Dave Cameron, FanGraphs.com
12:57 Comment From Mark
Hi everyone. Dave, what do you think Guthrie's trade value is and would he be an upgrade for the Reds rotation? Also do you think the Marlins would trade Sanchez?
12:57 Dave Cameron:
I don't think he'll be seen as a premium guy, since he's more good command than great stuff. And no, I don't think Anibal goes anywhere.
Keith Law, ESPN
JP (DC)
I know this isn't a fantasy specific chat, but I am stuck with Ike Davis and Brian Roberts on my DL. Which player is more likely to return this season and contribute?
Klaw (2:10 PM)
Sounds like Davis might be done for the year.
Peter (Los Angeles)
Another Futures Game Question: Do you think Manny Machado & Jameson Taillon get invites this year or are they too young?
Klaw (2:19 PM)
Figured I'd answer these together. I'd say Perez and Profar or Perez and Martin. And I think both Machado and Taillon should be invited - they belong on ability.
Mike Morse (Washington DC)
*crossing Keith Law off Christmas card list*
Klaw (2:20 PM)
That's OK, Matt Wieters still sends me three every year.
Brian (AZ)
Which players from the draft do you think will get major league contracts?
Klaw (2:27 PM)
Cole, Bauer, Hultzen, Rendon. Maybe Bundy.
Norman (San Jose)
do you think Johnathan Schoop has enough bat for 3B?
Klaw (3:16 PM)
Yesp.
Klaw (3:16 PM)
Yes, and yep.
Matt Klaassen, FanGraphs.com
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1:14 Comment From Rick
How do you feel about Adam Jones sustaining this level of production to a potential 25/100/15 season?
1:15 Matt Klaassen:
I was actually looking at Jones earlier. He's always had potential, but his plate approach has been so bad... this season, he's not getting lucky with BABIP or anything, and he's walking a bit more, yet he's still swinging (and missing) at about the same rate. Some guys are able to defy those peripherals. I really have no idea what's up with him. He's a special athlete, I'll give him that.
Jayson Stark, ESPN
Cole (Baltimore)
Do you think the Orioles trade Jeremy Guthrie? What would a team have to give up to get him
Jayson Stark (1:17 PM)
I continue to hear they're not anxious to trade him. And even though it isn't his fault he's 2-9, it isn't helping his value. He's one of those guys whose value to his current team is probably greater than his value on the market, but that could change.
Pete (Maryland)
Jayson - Rank of Prince Fielder's most likely destinations in 2012? Cubs, Orioles, Brewers, Angels, Rangers?
Jayson Stark (1:20 PM)
He should really go to the American League, shouldn't he? Nevertheless, I'd make the Orioles No. 1 and the Cubs No. 2. Very dubious he'd wind up with any of the other teams on your list.
Where we distill all the week's baseball chats down to their Oriole essence...
Jerry Crasnik, ESPN
Where do you see prince fielder playing next season? The teams that need and can pay fielder already have a high profile name at that position.
Jerry Crasnick (1:06 PM)
Charlie, Yep, with Boston, the Yankees and others already spoken for at first base, that puts a bit of a crimp in Prince's market. At the moment, you hear the Cubs and O's floating around as potential candidates. And as much as you hear that the Brewers are "priced out" on Prince, I wouldn't write them off entirely. Scott Boras needs to keep them in the mix as a potential landing spot.
Derek Carty, Baseball Prospectus
Ralph (Arlington):
Rank em please: Brantly, Markakis, Pagan, Torres
Derek Carty:
I think you've got the order right there. Michael Brantley, Nick Markakis, Angel Pagan, Andres Torres. Brantley and Markakis are close, but I'd probably go Brantley first.
Yatchisin (Santa Barbara):
Do you think Brian Matusz will get right this year? Opens on DL, comes off, pitches mediocre at best, tweaks hammy.... I had high hopes for him, and now am at the point of cutting him for free agent Bud Norris.
Derek Carty:
I wouldn't give up on Matusz, but if you can drop him for Norris, I'd definitely do it.
Dave Cameron, FanGraphs.com
12:57 Comment From Mark
Hi everyone. Dave, what do you think Guthrie's trade value is and would he be an upgrade for the Reds rotation? Also do you think the Marlins would trade Sanchez?
12:57 Dave Cameron:
I don't think he'll be seen as a premium guy, since he's more good command than great stuff. And no, I don't think Anibal goes anywhere.
Keith Law, ESPN
JP (DC)
I know this isn't a fantasy specific chat, but I am stuck with Ike Davis and Brian Roberts on my DL. Which player is more likely to return this season and contribute?
Klaw (2:10 PM)
Sounds like Davis might be done for the year.
Peter (Los Angeles)
Another Futures Game Question: Do you think Manny Machado & Jameson Taillon get invites this year or are they too young?
Klaw (2:19 PM)
Figured I'd answer these together. I'd say Perez and Profar or Perez and Martin. And I think both Machado and Taillon should be invited - they belong on ability.
Mike Morse (Washington DC)
*crossing Keith Law off Christmas card list*
Klaw (2:20 PM)
That's OK, Matt Wieters still sends me three every year.
Brian (AZ)
Which players from the draft do you think will get major league contracts?
Klaw (2:27 PM)
Cole, Bauer, Hultzen, Rendon. Maybe Bundy.
Norman (San Jose)
do you think Johnathan Schoop has enough bat for 3B?
Klaw (3:16 PM)
Yesp.
Klaw (3:16 PM)
Yes, and yep.
Matt Klaassen, FanGraphs.com
How do you feel about Adam Jones sustaining this level of production to a potential 25/100/15 season?
1:15 Matt Klaassen:
I was actually looking at Jones earlier. He's always had potential, but his plate approach has been so bad... this season, he's not getting lucky with BABIP or anything, and he's walking a bit more, yet he's still swinging (and missing) at about the same rate. Some guys are able to defy those peripherals. I really have no idea what's up with him. He's a special athlete, I'll give him that.
Jayson Stark, ESPN
Cole (Baltimore)
Do you think the Orioles trade Jeremy Guthrie? What would a team have to give up to get him
Jayson Stark (1:17 PM)
I continue to hear they're not anxious to trade him. And even though it isn't his fault he's 2-9, it isn't helping his value. He's one of those guys whose value to his current team is probably greater than his value on the market, but that could change.
Pete (Maryland)
Jayson - Rank of Prince Fielder's most likely destinations in 2012? Cubs, Orioles, Brewers, Angels, Rangers?
Jayson Stark (1:20 PM)
He should really go to the American League, shouldn't he? Nevertheless, I'd make the Orioles No. 1 and the Cubs No. 2. Very dubious he'd wind up with any of the other teams on your list.
20 June 2011
Dempsey's Army Presents: Last Week in Chats (June 12 - June 19, 2011)
Monday afternoons Heath from Dempsey's Army will recount all things Baltimore Orioles from the previous week's chats. It is a convenient way to learn what national writers think about specific issues that relate to the Orioles.
Where we distill all the week's baseball chats down to their Oriole essence...
Jonah Keri, FanGraphs.com
1:48 Comment From Tim
Favorite sabermetric book, aside from Extra 2% and Baseball Between the Numbers?
1:48 Jonah Keri:
Weaver On Strategy
Matt Eddy, Baseball America
Kyle (Maine):
Does Andrew Miller still have a chance to be a quality major league starter?
Matthew Eddy:
Given what pitchers like Phil Humber and Jeremy Guthrie have accomplished after being written off, I would say just about anything is possible for Miller if you pair him with the right pitching coach and in the right situation. He's a tough look for lefty batters, so I could see him thriving in a relief role the rest of the way. Miller's three primary pitches have distinct velos and shape to them, and I have to say I'm kind of intrigued.
Jack Moore, FanGraphs.com
11:59 Comment From Joe Braga
Which trade was worse for the Twins - getting rid of Hardy or getting rid of
Ramos?
12:01 Jack Moore: This is a pretty tough one. On the one hand, the Twins dumped Hardy for almost nothing in order to clear room for Alexi Casilla, which, I think to anybody not named Bill Smith or Ron Gardenhire, is pretty clearly a silly move. On the other hand, the Twins dumped their only capable backup catcher for a reliever who costs seven million dollars, which, if you listen to the front office, may have actually forced the Hardy trade.
So it depends, if you think that adding Capps to the payroll forced the Hardy trade (not sure I actually believe that), then the Ramos trade is worse. For this year, the Hardy trade is worse to me because I don't think you envision Mauer missing so much time at such a young age, whereas the Ramos trade was likely to have its impact farther down the road. Long-term, losing Ramos is probably a bigger deal, especially now with Mauer's issues.
12:03 Comment From Brendan
Rank the AL shortstops? Yunel, Hardy, Asdrubel, Lowrie, and Alexei?
12:04 Jack Moore: Actual baseball: Alexei, Hardy, Yunel, Lowrie, Asdrubal, but these guys are all quite good players.
12:04 Comment From Patrick
10-team head to head league, keep Britton or pick-up Daniel Hudson?
12:05 Jack Moore: I would prefer Hudson to Britton, yes. Britton has been overachieving all year (not that I think he's bad, just that he's not quite ready to pitch like he has), and Hudson's been underachieving.
Ben Lindbergh, Baseball Prospectus
fgbaloh (allentown):
I don't understand anyone thinking Bundy over Cole. They have similar great stuff but Cole has performed and stayed healthy for 3 more years. Besides that, most reports I read suggest Bundy has little projection. Bunndy has a chance to either get hurt or flame out in the next three years. Without ever seeing either I think Cole hands down. Your thoughts?
Ben Lindbergh:
Like you, I'd basically be echoing someone else's opinion either way. I can't say I have any special insight here.
David Schonfield, ESPN
Josh (NJ)
David, I think one thing the current MLB has going for it is the rivalries within the divisions. I feel that some of that would be lost with the proposed restructuring plan. That could have a big time negative impact ($$$) especially for teams who sell more tickets in during this rival series throughout the year. Your thoughts?
David Schoenfield (2:28 PM)
I don't know if I agree with that. The Orioles may draw more for the Yankees or Red Sox -- but everybody draws more for the Yankees or Red Sox. I don't think the Orioles are packing it in for Tampa Bay or Toronto. There are few good rivalries, but for the most fans want to see a winning team and don't care much about the opponent.
Matt Klaasen, FanGraphs.com
12:42 Comment From Jack
Magglio or Vlad to the M´s anytime soon? Jack Cust is terrible
12:43 Matt Klaassen: Not sure why the Ms need an older, just as terrible DH who is an even worse fit for their park.
1:34 Comment From Ben
Seems like the world has forgot the *ultra* hype machine Matt Wieters. He's actually having a very good year for a catcher and he's still pretty young. You see continued improvement?
1:35 Matt Klaassen: Yes I do. He won't ever be "Mauer with Piazza's power" or whatever people thought he would be, but he's got a decent bat and approach, some athletic upside, and combined with good defensive skills, that's still a potential star.
Keith Law, ESPN
Steve (Baltimore MD)
Any chance you'll get to travel to DR for games? Also, Jonathan Schoop ... top 25 next year?
Klaw (1:09 PM)
Not planning on it. I feel better about saying top 50 on him than top 25.
Luke (Baltimore)
Brian Matusz -- concerned?
Klaw (1:38 PM)
Sure, although as I said last week it's likely he's not 100% recovered from the injury.
Where we distill all the week's baseball chats down to their Oriole essence...
Jonah Keri, FanGraphs.com
1:48 Comment From Tim
Favorite sabermetric book, aside from Extra 2% and Baseball Between the Numbers?
1:48 Jonah Keri:
Weaver On Strategy
Matt Eddy, Baseball America
Kyle (Maine):
Does Andrew Miller still have a chance to be a quality major league starter?
Matthew Eddy:
Given what pitchers like Phil Humber and Jeremy Guthrie have accomplished after being written off, I would say just about anything is possible for Miller if you pair him with the right pitching coach and in the right situation. He's a tough look for lefty batters, so I could see him thriving in a relief role the rest of the way. Miller's three primary pitches have distinct velos and shape to them, and I have to say I'm kind of intrigued.
Jack Moore, FanGraphs.com
Which trade was worse for the Twins - getting rid of Hardy or getting rid of
Ramos?
12:01 Jack Moore: This is a pretty tough one. On the one hand, the Twins dumped Hardy for almost nothing in order to clear room for Alexi Casilla, which, I think to anybody not named Bill Smith or Ron Gardenhire, is pretty clearly a silly move. On the other hand, the Twins dumped their only capable backup catcher for a reliever who costs seven million dollars, which, if you listen to the front office, may have actually forced the Hardy trade.
So it depends, if you think that adding Capps to the payroll forced the Hardy trade (not sure I actually believe that), then the Ramos trade is worse. For this year, the Hardy trade is worse to me because I don't think you envision Mauer missing so much time at such a young age, whereas the Ramos trade was likely to have its impact farther down the road. Long-term, losing Ramos is probably a bigger deal, especially now with Mauer's issues.
12:03 Comment From Brendan
Rank the AL shortstops? Yunel, Hardy, Asdrubel, Lowrie, and Alexei?
12:04 Jack Moore: Actual baseball: Alexei, Hardy, Yunel, Lowrie, Asdrubal, but these guys are all quite good players.
12:04 Comment From Patrick
10-team head to head league, keep Britton or pick-up Daniel Hudson?
12:05 Jack Moore: I would prefer Hudson to Britton, yes. Britton has been overachieving all year (not that I think he's bad, just that he's not quite ready to pitch like he has), and Hudson's been underachieving.
Ben Lindbergh, Baseball Prospectus
fgbaloh (allentown):
I don't understand anyone thinking Bundy over Cole. They have similar great stuff but Cole has performed and stayed healthy for 3 more years. Besides that, most reports I read suggest Bundy has little projection. Bunndy has a chance to either get hurt or flame out in the next three years. Without ever seeing either I think Cole hands down. Your thoughts?
Ben Lindbergh:
Like you, I'd basically be echoing someone else's opinion either way. I can't say I have any special insight here.
David Schonfield, ESPN
Josh (NJ)
David, I think one thing the current MLB has going for it is the rivalries within the divisions. I feel that some of that would be lost with the proposed restructuring plan. That could have a big time negative impact ($$$) especially for teams who sell more tickets in during this rival series throughout the year. Your thoughts?
David Schoenfield (2:28 PM)
I don't know if I agree with that. The Orioles may draw more for the Yankees or Red Sox -- but everybody draws more for the Yankees or Red Sox. I don't think the Orioles are packing it in for Tampa Bay or Toronto. There are few good rivalries, but for the most fans want to see a winning team and don't care much about the opponent.
Matt Klaasen, FanGraphs.com
12:42 Comment From Jack
Magglio or Vlad to the M´s anytime soon? Jack Cust is terrible
12:43 Matt Klaassen: Not sure why the Ms need an older, just as terrible DH who is an even worse fit for their park.
1:34 Comment From Ben
Seems like the world has forgot the *ultra* hype machine Matt Wieters. He's actually having a very good year for a catcher and he's still pretty young. You see continued improvement?
1:35 Matt Klaassen: Yes I do. He won't ever be "Mauer with Piazza's power" or whatever people thought he would be, but he's got a decent bat and approach, some athletic upside, and combined with good defensive skills, that's still a potential star.
Keith Law, ESPN
Steve (Baltimore MD)
Any chance you'll get to travel to DR for games? Also, Jonathan Schoop ... top 25 next year?
Klaw (1:09 PM)
Not planning on it. I feel better about saying top 50 on him than top 25.
Luke (Baltimore)
Brian Matusz -- concerned?
Klaw (1:38 PM)
Sure, although as I said last week it's likely he's not 100% recovered from the injury.
06 June 2011
Dempsey's Army Presents: Last Week in Chats (May 30- June 5, 2011)
Where we distill all the week's baseball chats down to their Oriole essence...
Jack
Moore, FanGraphs.com
12:14
Comment From Walt
Hellickson or Z Britton in dynasty league?
12:17
Jack Moore: I prefer Hellickson. I think his process is a bit more repeatable,
as he's shown that he has strikeout stuff prior to this year (and I'd expect his
current 6.4 K/9 to rise soon). Britton is too reliant on control and ground
balls and I don't think we have enough of a sample to say he can keep up his
rates in either BB/9 or GB%
12:30
Comment From Dan
Mark Reynolds ranked 11th overall in ISO from 2008 - 2010. Do you see that power
returning this season or are you worried that something is wrong with him and
that power is gone?
12:31
Jack Moore: Power is pretty fickle in small samples. I haven't seen him play, so
there very well could be something wrong, but there's nothing in the numbers
that's overly concerning.
12:53
Comment From J
Thoughts on Eric Bedard?
12:55
Jack Moore: He's looking almost like the Bedard of the past. He might slip a
little and injuries are always a concern, but at the same time I also wouldn't
expect a pitcher in Safeco to keep a 13.2% HR/FB rate, so with that evening out
I don't think a 3.50-3.75 ERA the rest of the year is out of the question.
Jim
Callis, Baseball America
Dan (Lansing): Better pure stuff Bundy or Cole and how close are they?
Jim Callis: Better pure stuff is Cole, but Bundy is right on his heels and may
use his better. If I could only have one of them, I would take Bundy. That said,
I'd be thrilled with Cole too.
Nick (Tallahassee, Fl): What are your thoughts on the Oriole's taking Dylan
Bundy. How do you think them drafting Matt Hobgood effects that, if it does at
all?
Jim Callis: Not at all. Hobgood was drafted higher than his talent merited
because he would be a relatively easy sign. Hobgood was a legitimate late
first-round pick, but he's not comparable to Bundy.
Brooks Ripken (Philly): O's at 4? Just whoever is left of
Rendon,Cole,Hultzen,Bundy?
Jim Callis: Wouldn't rule Trevor Bauer out either.
Steve (Huntington Beach, CA): Out of all the good arms towards the top of this
years draft board, which do you think has the highest ceiling?
Jim Callis: Gerrit Cole, followed closely by Dylan Bundy.
JJ Cooper, Baseball
America
Jon (Michigan): Which would surprise you more, a frequent Hot Sheet contributor
becoming a ML bust or a Hot Sheet no-show becoming a solid ML regular? Is Zach
Britton the latter?
J.J. Cooper: Neither would surprise me. The Hot Sheet isn't the Top 100
Prospects list. This is a look at which prospects are hot right now. And when
you're looking at pitchers, strikeouts are one of the factors that works into
making the Hot Sheet. So a guy who piles up groundballs like Britton but few
strikeouts isn't going to make a lot of Hot Sheet appearances. But yeah, it
wouldn't surprise me at all to see Britton have a long big league career.
Kevin Goldstein, Baseball Prospectus
Greg (Hanover, PA): Kevin, The Orioles will obviously come away with a big name
at #4. But the farm system needs a lot more help than that. Will there be 1st
round talent available when they pick again (#64) if they are willing to spend?
Kevin Goldstein: There are going to be a lot of big talents floating around
after the first, but whether or not they are at 64 is an open question. That
said, I don't think they'll spend big
after Bundy.
Jordan (Chevy Chase): Where would Manny Machado go in this year's draft?
Kevin Goldstein: Before Lindor.
Thom (Cincy): Who would be the one team in the top-half of Round 1, and the team
in the bottom-half, that you feel you have the least sense of how they'll pick?
Kevin Goldstein: First half, either Arizona at 3 or Baltimore at 4. Second half
is tough because of all the variables in front of them, but I have a good feel
(I think) for how some of the high school arms might go off the board.
JH (chicago): Love the Cole vs Hultzen comparison from earlier. How quickly
would you expect each to make their MLB debuts?
Kevin Goldstein: I'd but Hultzen gets their first. By end of 2012 wouldn't
shock. CRAZY polished.
Jack
Moore, FanGraphs.com
12:14
Comment From Walt
Hellickson or Z Britton in dynasty league?
12:17
Jack Moore: I prefer Hellickson. I think his process is a bit more repeatable,
as he's shown that he has strikeout stuff prior to this year (and I'd expect his
current 6.4 K/9 to rise soon). Britton is too reliant on control and ground
balls and I don't think we have enough of a sample to say he can keep up his
rates in either BB/9 or GB%
12:30
Comment From Dan
Mark Reynolds ranked 11th overall in ISO from 2008 - 2010. Do you see that power
returning this season or are you worried that something is wrong with him and
that power is gone?
12:31
Jack Moore: Power is pretty fickle in small samples. I haven't seen him play, so
there very well could be something wrong, but there's nothing in the numbers
that's overly concerning.
12:53
Comment From J
Thoughts on Eric Bedard?
12:55
Jack Moore: He's looking almost like the Bedard of the past. He might slip a
little and injuries are always a concern, but at the same time I also wouldn't
expect a pitcher in Safeco to keep a 13.2% HR/FB rate, so with that evening out
I don't think a 3.50-3.75 ERA the rest of the year is out of the question.
Jim
Callis, Baseball America
Dan (Lansing): Better pure stuff Bundy or Cole and how close are they?
Jim Callis: Better pure stuff is Cole, but Bundy is right on his heels and may
use his better. If I could only have one of them, I would take Bundy. That said,
I'd be thrilled with Cole too.
Nick (Tallahassee, Fl): What are your thoughts on the Oriole's taking Dylan
Bundy. How do you think them drafting Matt Hobgood effects that, if it does at
all?
Jim Callis: Not at all. Hobgood was drafted higher than his talent merited
because he would be a relatively easy sign. Hobgood was a legitimate late
first-round pick, but he's not comparable to Bundy.
Brooks Ripken (Philly): O's at 4? Just whoever is left of
Rendon,Cole,Hultzen,Bundy?
Jim Callis: Wouldn't rule Trevor Bauer out either.
Steve (Huntington Beach, CA): Out of all the good arms towards the top of this
years draft board, which do you think has the highest ceiling?
Jim Callis: Gerrit Cole, followed closely by Dylan Bundy.
JJ Cooper, Baseball
America
Jon (Michigan): Which would surprise you more, a frequent Hot Sheet contributor
becoming a ML bust or a Hot Sheet no-show becoming a solid ML regular? Is Zach
Britton the latter?
J.J. Cooper: Neither would surprise me. The Hot Sheet isn't the Top 100
Prospects list. This is a look at which prospects are hot right now. And when
you're looking at pitchers, strikeouts are one of the factors that works into
making the Hot Sheet. So a guy who piles up groundballs like Britton but few
strikeouts isn't going to make a lot of Hot Sheet appearances. But yeah, it
wouldn't surprise me at all to see Britton have a long big league career.
Kevin Goldstein, Baseball Prospectus
Greg (Hanover, PA): Kevin, The Orioles will obviously come away with a big name
at #4. But the farm system needs a lot more help than that. Will there be 1st
round talent available when they pick again (#64) if they are willing to spend?
Kevin Goldstein: There are going to be a lot of big talents floating around
after the first, but whether or not they are at 64 is an open question. That
said, I don't think they'll spend big
after Bundy.
Jordan (Chevy Chase): Where would Manny Machado go in this year's draft?
Kevin Goldstein: Before Lindor.
Thom (Cincy): Who would be the one team in the top-half of Round 1, and the team
in the bottom-half, that you feel you have the least sense of how they'll pick?
Kevin Goldstein: First half, either Arizona at 3 or Baltimore at 4. Second half
is tough because of all the variables in front of them, but I have a good feel
(I think) for how some of the high school arms might go off the board.
JH (chicago): Love the Cole vs Hultzen comparison from earlier. How quickly
would you expect each to make their MLB debuts?
Kevin Goldstein: I'd but Hultzen gets their first. By end of 2012 wouldn't
shock. CRAZY polished.
30 May 2011
Dempsey's Army Presents: Last Week in Chats (May 23-29, 2011)
Monday afternoons Heath from Dempsey's Army will recount all things Baltimore Orioles from the previous week's chats. It is a convenient way to learn what national writers think about specific issues that relate to the Orioles.
Where we distill all the week's baseball chats down to their Oriole essence...
Jim Callis, Baseball America
Jeff Sullivan (Belchertown MA):
Manny Machado, Francisco Lindor, and Addison Russell. How do you rank them?
Thanks
Jim Callis:
That order works for me. Machado has the most offensive upside, Lindor is a better bet to stay at shortstop, and Russell is behind the other two guys.
Jack Moore, FanGraphs.com
12:28 Comment From Lou
Any interest in the Britton v Duffy matchup 2nite?
12:28 Jack Moore:
If I had MLB.TV that's probably the game I'd watch (and if the Brewers weren't
playing -- hooray, Narveson vs. Livan!)
Matt Klaasen, FanGraphs.com
12:14 Comment From B-Roke
Does Cal Ripken deserve to be in the HOF?
12:15 Matt Klaassen:
Ripken annoys me for some reason, but, uh, YES. YES. YES.
12:44 Comment From thebane
jake arietta, future #2? Possibly more??
12:44 Matt Klaassen:
He has that potential.
Keith Law, ESPN
Mike (DC)
Any chance Cole or Rendon slip to #4?
Klaw (4:12 PM)
Much more chance that Cole does than Rendon.
Robbie (SoCal)
Does the Buster Posey Incident possibly affect how the Orioles handle Matt
Wieters? There is a lot of value in elite hitting at the catcher's postion, but
the investment in those few catchers is becoming too big a risk.
Klaw (4:37 PM)
I think it gives some insight on why the Nats and Royals were willing to move
Harper and Myers.
Gene Mullett (Columbus, OH)
Ever read "Story of a Shipwrecked Sailor by Gabriel Garcia Marquez? More
importantly, what your favorite baseball book, for whatever reason (i.e. MLB
insight, well written, feel good story, etc...)?
Klaw (4:55 PM)
Have not. I don't read many baseball books, but the two I recommend most are
Lords of the Realm and Weaver on Strategy.
Jim Shonerd, Baseball America
James (New York City):
With so much attention on his younger brother Dylan, Bobby Bundy's strong 2011
has been largely overlooked by prospect watchers - thanks for putting him on the
hot sheet this week. How does Bobby rank among pitching prospects currently in
the minors? What does his ceiling appear to be?
Jim Shonerd:
Probably another mid-rotation type. He doesn't have any pitches that make your
jaw drop, but he's got a good mix.
Steve (Fairfax):
What's Johnathan Schoop's long term position? Independent of the fact that he
plays in the same system as Machado, can he be a shortstop in the big leagues?
Jim Shonerd:
Schoop isn't expected to be more than an average runner as his body fills out.
He might be able to reach the majors as a shortstop, but look for him to move to
a third base or an outfield corner eventually. He's also made five errors in 19
games playing shortstop in Machado's stead for Delmarva, though we can cut him
some slack for the rust factor.
Jayson Stark, ESPN
Lucas (MD)
If the O's continue to stay competitive in the East, would you trade Vlad, D
Lee, L Scott, and/ or Hardy at the deadline or try to make a run at ending the
strak of losing seasons?
Jayson Stark (1:10 PM)
I normally wouldn't advocate this. But I think it's important to this franchise
to make progress in the standings, and to create a climate where these young
pitchers grow in a competitive environment. So I'd listen on all those guys if I
were Andy MacPhail. But I wouldn't clean house if they were .500 or thereabouts.
Agree or disagree?
Rob (Baltimore)
I love the Orioles and Zach Britton, but I agree with you on Pineda, nasty,
nasty stuff. Makes me think they would be smart to hold onto Felix and him for
years.
Jayson Stark (1:44 PM)
That's what they're thinking, too!
Lucas (MD)
Speaking of catchers, what are your thoughts on Weiters? Great defense, just
needs to bump up the offense.
Jayson Stark (2:00 PM)
Still a work in progress offensively. Probably never going to be the masher he
was sold to be. But really turning into a star defensively.
Where we distill all the week's baseball chats down to their Oriole essence...
Jim Callis, Baseball America
Manny Machado, Francisco Lindor, and Addison Russell. How do you rank them?
Thanks
Jim Callis:
That order works for me. Machado has the most offensive upside, Lindor is a better bet to stay at shortstop, and Russell is behind the other two guys.
Jack Moore, FanGraphs.com
12:28 Comment From Lou
Any interest in the Britton v Duffy matchup 2nite?
12:28 Jack Moore:
If I had MLB.TV that's probably the game I'd watch (and if the Brewers weren't
playing -- hooray, Narveson vs. Livan!)
Matt Klaasen, FanGraphs.com
12:14 Comment From B-Roke
Does Cal Ripken deserve to be in the HOF?
12:15 Matt Klaassen:
Ripken annoys me for some reason, but, uh, YES. YES. YES.
12:44 Comment From thebane
jake arietta, future #2? Possibly more??
12:44 Matt Klaassen:
He has that potential.
Keith Law, ESPN
Mike (DC)
Any chance Cole or Rendon slip to #4?
Klaw (4:12 PM)
Much more chance that Cole does than Rendon.
Robbie (SoCal)
Does the Buster Posey Incident possibly affect how the Orioles handle Matt
Wieters? There is a lot of value in elite hitting at the catcher's postion, but
the investment in those few catchers is becoming too big a risk.
Klaw (4:37 PM)
I think it gives some insight on why the Nats and Royals were willing to move
Harper and Myers.
Gene Mullett (Columbus, OH)
Ever read "Story of a Shipwrecked Sailor by Gabriel Garcia Marquez? More
importantly, what your favorite baseball book, for whatever reason (i.e. MLB
insight, well written, feel good story, etc...)?
Klaw (4:55 PM)
Have not. I don't read many baseball books, but the two I recommend most are
Lords of the Realm and Weaver on Strategy.
Jim Shonerd, Baseball America
With so much attention on his younger brother Dylan, Bobby Bundy's strong 2011
has been largely overlooked by prospect watchers - thanks for putting him on the
hot sheet this week. How does Bobby rank among pitching prospects currently in
the minors? What does his ceiling appear to be?
Jim Shonerd:
Probably another mid-rotation type. He doesn't have any pitches that make your
jaw drop, but he's got a good mix.
Steve (Fairfax):
What's Johnathan Schoop's long term position? Independent of the fact that he
plays in the same system as Machado, can he be a shortstop in the big leagues?
Jim Shonerd:
Schoop isn't expected to be more than an average runner as his body fills out.
He might be able to reach the majors as a shortstop, but look for him to move to
a third base or an outfield corner eventually. He's also made five errors in 19
games playing shortstop in Machado's stead for Delmarva, though we can cut him
some slack for the rust factor.
Jayson Stark, ESPN
Lucas (MD)
If the O's continue to stay competitive in the East, would you trade Vlad, D
Lee, L Scott, and/ or Hardy at the deadline or try to make a run at ending the
strak of losing seasons?
Jayson Stark (1:10 PM)
I normally wouldn't advocate this. But I think it's important to this franchise
to make progress in the standings, and to create a climate where these young
pitchers grow in a competitive environment. So I'd listen on all those guys if I
were Andy MacPhail. But I wouldn't clean house if they were .500 or thereabouts.
Agree or disagree?
Rob (Baltimore)
I love the Orioles and Zach Britton, but I agree with you on Pineda, nasty,
nasty stuff. Makes me think they would be smart to hold onto Felix and him for
years.
Jayson Stark (1:44 PM)
That's what they're thinking, too!
Lucas (MD)
Speaking of catchers, what are your thoughts on Weiters? Great defense, just
needs to bump up the offense.
Jayson Stark (2:00 PM)
Still a work in progress offensively. Probably never going to be the masher he
was sold to be. But really turning into a star defensively.
07 February 2011
Baltimore Orioles Round Table Chat 02072011
Come back at 9pm for a chat between Daniel Moroz of Camden Crazies, Heath from Dempseys Army, and me. The audience will be allowed to ask questions during the hour long chat. Hope to see you all then.
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