Look for a new This Week in the DMBL tonight!
The Bushslappers finally lost their first game, as the Hitmen defeated them 8-3 Sunday. Hillsborough scored five runs in the 7th and 8th innings to give them a healthy lead. Dan Haren got the win after pitching six innings and surrendering only 2 runs on 7 hits. Dmitri Young, Ryan Howard, and Carlos Lee each had 2 RBIs.
The Rat Pack spanked the winless Falcons 15-2 after a ridiculous 11-run fifth inning. Reliever Jonathan Broxton took the biggest brunt of the attack, surrendering eight runs in 1.1 innings and issuing six walks. Starter Jeremy Bonderman left the game in the first inning with a minor injury but will make his next start. Jeff Keppinger was 4-6 for the Rat Pack and is batting .441 on the season.
Newark's Jack Cust had quite the weekend: After hitting a home run in Saturday's game, Cust followed it up with two more in the 4-2 loss to Marietta. Then in the second game against Hoboken, Cust went 3-4 to raise his average to .382.
Speaking of the Hoboken-Newark game, the Cutters battled back twice to tie the game, but ended up on the short end of the stick in the end. After Newark went up 4-2, the Cutters tied the game after Aaron Rowand hit an RBI single in the seventh. But Newark took a 7-4 lead after back to back homers by Jarrod Saltalamacchia and Mike Fontenot. Hanley Ramirez hit a two-run shot to get to within one the next inning and then, in the ninth, the Cutters scored one more to tie it up, though they left the bases loaded at the end. Newark finally went ahead for good when Bobby Abreu drove in the winning run in the bottom of the 12th.
Vancouver continues to struggle, losing six of their last seven, after falling to D.C. 4-2. Kelvim Escobar pitched 8 solid innings for the win. Brian McCann had a 2-run double in the top of the ninth to give the Slappers the lead and Jonathan Papelbon closed it out for his third save.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Friday, March 28, 2008
D.C., Arkansas battle it out
After coming out of the gates roaring, the Iron Fist have fallen flat in the last three games. After getting pounded by Sardine City, the Fist have now lost 7-6 to the offensively-challenged Mudcats. Once again, the Fist were in the lead early on, taking on a 4-1 lead, then 5-3 going into the bottom of the seventh. Then the Mudcats scored four runs in that disastrous inning and gave the Cats the lead for good.
D.C. and Arkansas slugged it out to a 14-13 Bushslapper win yesterday. The Slappers went up 8-1 after a six-run second inning, but the Falcons exploded with an eight-run third, taking a 9-8 lead. D.C. answered the next inning with five runs of their own, going up 13-9. D.C. would score a key insurance run in the eighth off a Jeff Kent solo homer. The Falcons crept back with a pair of runs in the final two frames, but they ended up one shy as Barry Bonds struck out in the final at bat. The two teams combined for ten home runs in the game and 32 hits.
Hoboken's Aaron Cook pitched seven shutout innings, holding the Mighty Men to six hits, in an 8-0 victory. Ian Kinsler was 3-4 with a homer and 3 RBIs.
Philly survived a late rally by Blue Ridge to squeek into a 7-6 victory. Prince Fielder hit a two-run shot in the bottom of the ninth to bring the game to within one run, but Chris Snyder struck out with two runners on to give the win to the Animals.
D.C. and Arkansas slugged it out to a 14-13 Bushslapper win yesterday. The Slappers went up 8-1 after a six-run second inning, but the Falcons exploded with an eight-run third, taking a 9-8 lead. D.C. answered the next inning with five runs of their own, going up 13-9. D.C. would score a key insurance run in the eighth off a Jeff Kent solo homer. The Falcons crept back with a pair of runs in the final two frames, but they ended up one shy as Barry Bonds struck out in the final at bat. The two teams combined for ten home runs in the game and 32 hits.
Hoboken's Aaron Cook pitched seven shutout innings, holding the Mighty Men to six hits, in an 8-0 victory. Ian Kinsler was 3-4 with a homer and 3 RBIs.
Philly survived a late rally by Blue Ridge to squeek into a 7-6 victory. Prince Fielder hit a two-run shot in the bottom of the ninth to bring the game to within one run, but Chris Snyder struck out with two runners on to give the win to the Animals.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Lester, Francis stymie opponents
Marietta's rookie pitcher John Lester hurled a 3-hit shutout of New Jersey. Lester struck out 5 and walked one en route to his first DMBL win. Joe Blanton pitched well (CG, 5 hits, 3 ER) on the opposite end, but took the loss. Amazingly only six hitters (out of 18) between the two squads were able to get hits!
Tampa Bay once again knocked around the defending champs 8-1. The Sugar Bears are now in unfamiliar territory with a 1-2 record. Torii Hunter hit his third home run and drove in four runs as the Plunkers capitalized on a pair of errors by Marco Scutaro and Matt Stairs. Jeff Francis was brilliant, limiting the Sugar Bears to only 3 hits over 8 innings and striking out 6.
Sardine City pounded the Vancouver bullpen in the latter stages of their 10-5 win over the Iron Fist. Vancouver was cruising with a 5-2 lead entering the seventh, but slowly the wheels started coming loose and finally fell off in a 5-run eighth inning. Raul Ibanez had two doubles and 3 RBIs and Ken Griffey had two solo home runs for the Straphangers. David Ortiz remained red-hot for Vancouver, hitting his third homer, while going 2-3 with 2 RBIs.
Adrian Beltre's triple in the second inning highlighted a 5-run second inning for the Bushslappers, leading to a 6-3 victory over Blue Ridge. Alex Rios hit two homers in the loss.
Tampa Bay once again knocked around the defending champs 8-1. The Sugar Bears are now in unfamiliar territory with a 1-2 record. Torii Hunter hit his third home run and drove in four runs as the Plunkers capitalized on a pair of errors by Marco Scutaro and Matt Stairs. Jeff Francis was brilliant, limiting the Sugar Bears to only 3 hits over 8 innings and striking out 6.
Sardine City pounded the Vancouver bullpen in the latter stages of their 10-5 win over the Iron Fist. Vancouver was cruising with a 5-2 lead entering the seventh, but slowly the wheels started coming loose and finally fell off in a 5-run eighth inning. Raul Ibanez had two doubles and 3 RBIs and Ken Griffey had two solo home runs for the Straphangers. David Ortiz remained red-hot for Vancouver, hitting his third homer, while going 2-3 with 2 RBIs.
Adrian Beltre's triple in the second inning highlighted a 5-run second inning for the Bushslappers, leading to a 6-3 victory over Blue Ridge. Alex Rios hit two homers in the loss.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Predictions are up!
That's right! Both the Swami and Butch's Sims are now available for your perusal. But what if your team didn't do too well with the prognosticators? Well if Hoboken did that last year, they'd have missed out on the playoffs, so take it with a grain of salt. Nevertheless feel free to rip into them on the Ning.
Hillsborough's offensive drought continued yesterday as they were shut down by Carolina, 2-1. Brian Bannister pitched seven innings, limiting the Hitmen to five hits. Felix Hernandez was the hard luck loser this time, giving up only four hits in seven innings, but walking four. The Hitmen have now scored five runs in their first three games and given up 19.
Las Vegas survived a Hoboken rally that tied their game up at 3 in the 7th, but the Rats scored four runs in the top of the 10th to take the lead back. Jeff Keppinger had 3 hits and Matt Holliday had 3 RBIs. The Rats are the first 3-0 team in the DMBL.
The Plunkers pulled off an upset against the Sugar Bears, 3-2, thanks to a strong performance from Mark Buehrle. Buehrle lasted 7 innings, giving up one run on five hits and four walks. Torii Hunter hit two solo homers in the contest.
Magglio Ordonez was 4-5 and Albert Pujols and Mark Teixeira each had 3 RBIs as the Endzone Animals crushed the Golden Falcons 11-3. Starter Wandy Rodriguez was chased in the first inning without recording an out.
Kevin Youkilis (3-5, HR, 5 RBIs), Ryan Braun (3-6, HR, 4 RBIs), and Mike Jacobs (3-5, HR, 4 RBIs) combined to belt the Iron Fist 13-7. Absorbing most of the damage was reliever Matt Herges, who entered the game in the second inning. Herges gave up seven runs in 1.1 innings, replacing an injured Rich Hill.
Hillsborough's offensive drought continued yesterday as they were shut down by Carolina, 2-1. Brian Bannister pitched seven innings, limiting the Hitmen to five hits. Felix Hernandez was the hard luck loser this time, giving up only four hits in seven innings, but walking four. The Hitmen have now scored five runs in their first three games and given up 19.
Las Vegas survived a Hoboken rally that tied their game up at 3 in the 7th, but the Rats scored four runs in the top of the 10th to take the lead back. Jeff Keppinger had 3 hits and Matt Holliday had 3 RBIs. The Rats are the first 3-0 team in the DMBL.
The Plunkers pulled off an upset against the Sugar Bears, 3-2, thanks to a strong performance from Mark Buehrle. Buehrle lasted 7 innings, giving up one run on five hits and four walks. Torii Hunter hit two solo homers in the contest.
Magglio Ordonez was 4-5 and Albert Pujols and Mark Teixeira each had 3 RBIs as the Endzone Animals crushed the Golden Falcons 11-3. Starter Wandy Rodriguez was chased in the first inning without recording an out.
Kevin Youkilis (3-5, HR, 5 RBIs), Ryan Braun (3-6, HR, 4 RBIs), and Mike Jacobs (3-5, HR, 4 RBIs) combined to belt the Iron Fist 13-7. Absorbing most of the damage was reliever Matt Herges, who entered the game in the second inning. Herges gave up seven runs in 1.1 innings, replacing an injured Rich Hill.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Sardine City suffers first injury
The Sardine City Straphangers suffered the first real injury of the season when starter Fausto Carmona left after the first inning while hobbling to the dugout. Carmona drew the wrath of Sardine City management. "We were really hoping to get more than 14 pitches out of our #1 starter--ugh" said co-owner Chris Calvosa after the game. Carmona will be replaced by Scott Baker, recently released by Hoboken. To make room the Straphangers will release outfielder Alfredo Amezaga. Amezaga, who had been told as a practical joke that he was one of the final roster cuts before Opening Day, at first thought it was a joke. "No way they are going to cut me after that," he said as his bags were being taken to a taxi cab, "but those heartless bastards did anyway!"
Tampa Bay, after chasing out Carmona, went on to win their first victory of the season. Starter Roy Oswalt went the distance, giving up only one run on six hits. Kenji Johjima went 3-4 for the Plunkers.
Vancouver pounded away on Hillsborough for the second straight day, winning 11-2. Andre Ethier was 4-4 with 2 RBIs and David Ortiz hit his second homer of the season. Hitmen starter Justin Verlander was shelled to the tune of seven runs in 1.1 innings.
Jason Giambi's two home runs propelled the D.C. Bushslappers to a 5-2 win over the Endzone Animals. Giambi hit his first shot in the first inning, a 2-run bomb off Johan Santana. Giambi then hit a solo shot in the fifth.
Tampa Bay, after chasing out Carmona, went on to win their first victory of the season. Starter Roy Oswalt went the distance, giving up only one run on six hits. Kenji Johjima went 3-4 for the Plunkers.
Vancouver pounded away on Hillsborough for the second straight day, winning 11-2. Andre Ethier was 4-4 with 2 RBIs and David Ortiz hit his second homer of the season. Hitmen starter Justin Verlander was shelled to the tune of seven runs in 1.1 innings.
Jason Giambi's two home runs propelled the D.C. Bushslappers to a 5-2 win over the Endzone Animals. Giambi hit his first shot in the first inning, a 2-run bomb off Johan Santana. Giambi then hit a solo shot in the fifth.
Monday, March 24, 2008
Opening Day notes
Josh Beckett led Blue Ridge to their first victory. The Bombers bested the Falcons 4-1 behind Beckett's solid performance (6.2 IP, 1 ER, 8 Ks). The game was locked at 1-1 entering the seventh, but the Bombers scored a couple of runs to take the lead. Huston Street closed the game for his first save of the season.
Meanwhile the defending champion Sugar Bears staved off a comeback attempt by the Mudcats, eking out an 8-7 victory. The Sugar Bears jumped out to an early 8-1 lead after two innings, but the Mudcat pen held the powerful Newark offense in check throughout the rest of the game - almost enough time to mount an improbably comeback. Manny Delcarmen got out of a jam in the bottom of the seventh and pitched the final two innings for the save.
Team Buddah crushed the Hoboken Cutters 7-1 behind Brad Penny's 3-hit effort (in 7 IP). Alfonso Soriano was 3-5 with a home run and 2 RBIs and Ty Wigginton drove in 3 runs.
Las Vegas' Chris Young continued his unbeaten streak into the regular season, winning a 7-2 decision against the Mighty Men. Young struck out 11 and surrendered only one run one 3 hits in his 7.2 innings of work.
Meanwhile the defending champion Sugar Bears staved off a comeback attempt by the Mudcats, eking out an 8-7 victory. The Sugar Bears jumped out to an early 8-1 lead after two innings, but the Mudcat pen held the powerful Newark offense in check throughout the rest of the game - almost enough time to mount an improbably comeback. Manny Delcarmen got out of a jam in the bottom of the seventh and pitched the final two innings for the save.
Team Buddah crushed the Hoboken Cutters 7-1 behind Brad Penny's 3-hit effort (in 7 IP). Alfonso Soriano was 3-5 with a home run and 2 RBIs and Ty Wigginton drove in 3 runs.
Las Vegas' Chris Young continued his unbeaten streak into the regular season, winning a 7-2 decision against the Mighty Men. Young struck out 11 and surrendered only one run one 3 hits in his 7.2 innings of work.
Friday, March 21, 2008
Opening Day Sunday!
The DMBL season "resurrects" this Easter Sunday. The schedules have already been posted on the schedule page. Projected pitchers won't be known until all rosters and cuts have been submitted.
Many cuts have already been made.
Arkansas has been cutting players in small clumps. Tom Glavine was the first to go last week along with Miguel Batista. Longtime Falcon favorite Octavio Dotel got the boot Tuesday and the final three were cut yesterday. Not many surprises here.
Vancouver cut a few spare parts but remains over the limit.
Philly released their extra second basemen and catcher Jose Molina.
D.C. and Marietta pared their rosters down to 30 yesterday. The Slappers released pitcher Shawn Marshall, which was a bit surprising. Marshall will probably latch on to another team's roster that is in need of pitching. Marietta cut a string of mediocre pitchers.
Many cuts have already been made.
Arkansas has been cutting players in small clumps. Tom Glavine was the first to go last week along with Miguel Batista. Longtime Falcon favorite Octavio Dotel got the boot Tuesday and the final three were cut yesterday. Not many surprises here.
Vancouver cut a few spare parts but remains over the limit.
Philly released their extra second basemen and catcher Jose Molina.
D.C. and Marietta pared their rosters down to 30 yesterday. The Slappers released pitcher Shawn Marshall, which was a bit surprising. Marshall will probably latch on to another team's roster that is in need of pitching. Marietta cut a string of mediocre pitchers.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Spring Training's Top Pitchers
And today it's the pitchers' turn.
Chris Young, LV - this was the easiest one. After compiling a 6-0 record with a 1.58 ERa, Young was a no-brainer selection to this list. In 45.2 innings this spring, Young gave up an astounding 22 hits, though the 18 walks is a bit troubling. But at that clip, I guess you can afford to be a little shaky. Young also struck out 32 batters. Young may have been the only decent member of the 2007 Rat Pack rotation, but this year he'll have a little more competition.
Roy Halladay, CAR - Halladay's 3-2 record may seem a little mediocre, but it's not his fault that the Mudcat offense had a weak spring showing. Halladay did all he could - 1.78 ERA, 0.95 WHiP, 27-6 K:BB, .561 OPS against.
Joe Blanton, NJ - Team Buddah traded away their franchise player in order to have a better overall team and two of the top prizes were Oliver Perez and Blanton. While Perez had a solid spring, Blanton was the one that really shone. In five starts, Blanton was 4-1 with a 2.33 ERA. Blanton walked only six batters in 38.2 innings.
Shawn Hill, DC - The Slappers were lucky enough to snag Hill in the second round and the rookie appears to be paying dividends for them. Hill went 3-1 in the pre-season, with a 2.17 ERA and 1.13 WHiP.
Casey Janssen, HBK - Janssen pitched briefly with Vegas last year, but the Cutters feel he could be a strong member of the pen. Janssen amassed a 4-0 record in 13 relief appearances and surrendered only one run in 19.2 innings. Janssen only allowed a .453 OPS and 0.81 WHiP in those games.
J.J. Putz, PHI - Putz was second in the league with 9 saves, but he didn't allow a single run in his 11 appearances. Putz had a ridiculous 0.62 WHiP and allowed only a .363 OPS! It might be rough for Philly's opponents if they're still trailing in the ninth inning.
Ted Lilly, BR - Although outshadowed by teammate Adam Wainwright's better record, Lilly's peripherals show he might have the better year long term. Despite a 2-3 record, Lilly had a 2.04 ERA in five starts, with a 1.08 WHiP, 25 strikeouts and 2 shutouts.
Dan Haren, HIL - Haren was the prize for the Hitmen in the blockbuster A-Rod deal this winter. With a 3-0, 1.99 spring, he looks ready to step into the ace role that the Hitmen really need.
Roy Oswalt, TAM - Oswalt looks to be in midseason form with a solid 3-1, 2.82 pre-season campaign. Oswalt allowed only 9.2 runners per nine innings and .561 OPS.
Matt Herges, VAN - Herges got a ton of work in the preseason - 29 innings in 15 appearances, but he made them count. Herges had a 2.48 ERA and 1.17 WHiP. With Billy Wagner and Manny Corpas resting most of the preseason, Herges also took some of the closing duties, saving four games.
Chris Young, LV - this was the easiest one. After compiling a 6-0 record with a 1.58 ERa, Young was a no-brainer selection to this list. In 45.2 innings this spring, Young gave up an astounding 22 hits, though the 18 walks is a bit troubling. But at that clip, I guess you can afford to be a little shaky. Young also struck out 32 batters. Young may have been the only decent member of the 2007 Rat Pack rotation, but this year he'll have a little more competition.
Roy Halladay, CAR - Halladay's 3-2 record may seem a little mediocre, but it's not his fault that the Mudcat offense had a weak spring showing. Halladay did all he could - 1.78 ERA, 0.95 WHiP, 27-6 K:BB, .561 OPS against.
Joe Blanton, NJ - Team Buddah traded away their franchise player in order to have a better overall team and two of the top prizes were Oliver Perez and Blanton. While Perez had a solid spring, Blanton was the one that really shone. In five starts, Blanton was 4-1 with a 2.33 ERA. Blanton walked only six batters in 38.2 innings.
Shawn Hill, DC - The Slappers were lucky enough to snag Hill in the second round and the rookie appears to be paying dividends for them. Hill went 3-1 in the pre-season, with a 2.17 ERA and 1.13 WHiP.
Casey Janssen, HBK - Janssen pitched briefly with Vegas last year, but the Cutters feel he could be a strong member of the pen. Janssen amassed a 4-0 record in 13 relief appearances and surrendered only one run in 19.2 innings. Janssen only allowed a .453 OPS and 0.81 WHiP in those games.
J.J. Putz, PHI - Putz was second in the league with 9 saves, but he didn't allow a single run in his 11 appearances. Putz had a ridiculous 0.62 WHiP and allowed only a .363 OPS! It might be rough for Philly's opponents if they're still trailing in the ninth inning.
Ted Lilly, BR - Although outshadowed by teammate Adam Wainwright's better record, Lilly's peripherals show he might have the better year long term. Despite a 2-3 record, Lilly had a 2.04 ERA in five starts, with a 1.08 WHiP, 25 strikeouts and 2 shutouts.
Dan Haren, HIL - Haren was the prize for the Hitmen in the blockbuster A-Rod deal this winter. With a 3-0, 1.99 spring, he looks ready to step into the ace role that the Hitmen really need.
Roy Oswalt, TAM - Oswalt looks to be in midseason form with a solid 3-1, 2.82 pre-season campaign. Oswalt allowed only 9.2 runners per nine innings and .561 OPS.
Matt Herges, VAN - Herges got a ton of work in the preseason - 29 innings in 15 appearances, but he made them count. Herges had a 2.48 ERA and 1.17 WHiP. With Billy Wagner and Manny Corpas resting most of the preseason, Herges also took some of the closing duties, saving four games.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Spring Training's Top Batters
Today we'll take a look at the top batters this spring. Here they are in no particular order
Aramis Ramirez, CAR - Ramirez had a monster spring for the Cats. Considering how offensively-challenged the Mudcats have been this spring, Ramirez's numbers really jump out at you. Ramirez led the league in batting average at .385 and OPS with 1.159 and was third in RBI (23) and tied for third in homers (8). Ramirez was third in on-base percentage (.423) and second in slugging (.736).
Carlos Pena, LV - the second overall pick in the 2008 draft, Pena led the league with 10 homers and slugging percentage (.740). He was second in RBIs (25) and OPS (1.120), tied for third in runs (22) and tied for second in doubles (10).
Eric Byrnes, BR - Byrnes had a couple of big games in spring training, stealing four bases in one game and hitting three homers in another. Overall he hit .322/.394/.633 with five steals and seven homers. He also tied for third with 22 runs scored. Byrnes' role is uncertain for Blue Ridge, but he certainly earned some playing time with another solid spring performance.
Jorge Posada, PHI - Posada's first year with the Endzone Animals looks like it could be one of his best, if the spring is any indication. Posada was third in batting with a .363 average, second in OBP (.449) and fifth in slugging (.571).
Matt Kemp, DC - The rookie outfielder showed that he could play with the big boys after posting a .368 average in spring with 15 runs and 13 RBIs. Kemp led the league with 39 hits. Kemp has likely earned a starting role in the Slappers Opening Day lineup.
Jeff Keppinger, LV - Another Rat makes the list. Keppinger, selected to fill the shortstop role for the Pack, had a strong spring, making the leaderboard in such categories as average (.330), hits (36), runs (19) and RBIs (19).
Andre Ethier, VAN - The Iron Fist were happy to get Ethier back in the draft. After a solid rookie campaign last year, the Fist reluctantly let Ethier slip back into the draft. He has responded with a good spring, displaying some power (.529 slugging, 5 HRs) and hitting a solid .299. The Fist outfield is rather crowded, but after the cuts, Ethier should be left with a possible platoon role.
Hanley Ramirez, HBK - Ramirez, a cornerstone offensive player for the Cutters, is an interesting case. On the one hand, you can't deny his offensive contributions: .344/.398/.522, 20 runs scored. But on the other hand, Ramirez is a possible defensive liability. In only 22 spring games, Ramirez committed 11 errors.
Kenji Johjima, TAM - After splitting his rookie year with fellow backstop Brian McCann, the job appears to be all Johjima's in 2008. Kenji proceeded to hit .403 in the spring with 5 homers and 18 RBIs and a 1.115 OPS.
Jim Thome, LV - Looks like the Rat Pack could be this year's offensive powerhouse. Thome was third in the league with a 1.053 OPS and also hit 9 homers while driving in 20, and scoring 23.
Aramis Ramirez, CAR - Ramirez had a monster spring for the Cats. Considering how offensively-challenged the Mudcats have been this spring, Ramirez's numbers really jump out at you. Ramirez led the league in batting average at .385 and OPS with 1.159 and was third in RBI (23) and tied for third in homers (8). Ramirez was third in on-base percentage (.423) and second in slugging (.736).
Carlos Pena, LV - the second overall pick in the 2008 draft, Pena led the league with 10 homers and slugging percentage (.740). He was second in RBIs (25) and OPS (1.120), tied for third in runs (22) and tied for second in doubles (10).
Eric Byrnes, BR - Byrnes had a couple of big games in spring training, stealing four bases in one game and hitting three homers in another. Overall he hit .322/.394/.633 with five steals and seven homers. He also tied for third with 22 runs scored. Byrnes' role is uncertain for Blue Ridge, but he certainly earned some playing time with another solid spring performance.
Jorge Posada, PHI - Posada's first year with the Endzone Animals looks like it could be one of his best, if the spring is any indication. Posada was third in batting with a .363 average, second in OBP (.449) and fifth in slugging (.571).
Matt Kemp, DC - The rookie outfielder showed that he could play with the big boys after posting a .368 average in spring with 15 runs and 13 RBIs. Kemp led the league with 39 hits. Kemp has likely earned a starting role in the Slappers Opening Day lineup.
Jeff Keppinger, LV - Another Rat makes the list. Keppinger, selected to fill the shortstop role for the Pack, had a strong spring, making the leaderboard in such categories as average (.330), hits (36), runs (19) and RBIs (19).
Andre Ethier, VAN - The Iron Fist were happy to get Ethier back in the draft. After a solid rookie campaign last year, the Fist reluctantly let Ethier slip back into the draft. He has responded with a good spring, displaying some power (.529 slugging, 5 HRs) and hitting a solid .299. The Fist outfield is rather crowded, but after the cuts, Ethier should be left with a possible platoon role.
Hanley Ramirez, HBK - Ramirez, a cornerstone offensive player for the Cutters, is an interesting case. On the one hand, you can't deny his offensive contributions: .344/.398/.522, 20 runs scored. But on the other hand, Ramirez is a possible defensive liability. In only 22 spring games, Ramirez committed 11 errors.
Kenji Johjima, TAM - After splitting his rookie year with fellow backstop Brian McCann, the job appears to be all Johjima's in 2008. Kenji proceeded to hit .403 in the spring with 5 homers and 18 RBIs and a 1.115 OPS.
Jim Thome, LV - Looks like the Rat Pack could be this year's offensive powerhouse. Thome was third in the league with a 1.053 OPS and also hit 9 homers while driving in 20, and scoring 23.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Spring Training Ends
Monday's games were the final spring training games for '08. Now it's time for all the cuts. Watch the waiver wire to see who the surprise cuts will be.
Look for Butch's Sims coming soon and some predictions from the Swami.
Opening Day is Sunday, complete with chocolate bunnies and Cadbury Creme Eggs...
We'll take a look at some of the top hitters and pitchers in the preseason tomorrow.
Look for Butch's Sims coming soon and some predictions from the Swami.
Opening Day is Sunday, complete with chocolate bunnies and Cadbury Creme Eggs...
We'll take a look at some of the top hitters and pitchers in the preseason tomorrow.
Monday, March 17, 2008
D.C., Tampa Bay battle it out
Only one more day of spring training before Opening Day! Last chance to experiment!
The Plunkers and Bushslappers played what amounted to another double-header in an 18-inning marathon that the Plunkers won 6-3. The game was tied at 3 after nine, and the two teams shut each other out for the next 8 innings until the Plunkers scored 3 in the top of the 18th. The Plunkers smacked three triples in the 18th! The two teams used a combined 15 pitchers in the game.
Magglio Ordonez was 5-5 in the Endzone Animals' 10-2 rout of the Straphangers, only one of which was for extra bases. Ordonez then went on to hit 4-5 with 3 RBIs and a homer and a double against Tampa in the second game.
The Iron Fist scored five runs in the bottom of the 9th to defeat the Cutters 7-4 in Hoboken. Reliever Brandon Lyon was charge with a blown save after surrendering 3 runs in 1.1 innings. Todd Helton was 3-5 with 3 RBIs for Vancouver.
The Plunkers and Bushslappers played what amounted to another double-header in an 18-inning marathon that the Plunkers won 6-3. The game was tied at 3 after nine, and the two teams shut each other out for the next 8 innings until the Plunkers scored 3 in the top of the 18th. The Plunkers smacked three triples in the 18th! The two teams used a combined 15 pitchers in the game.
Magglio Ordonez was 5-5 in the Endzone Animals' 10-2 rout of the Straphangers, only one of which was for extra bases. Ordonez then went on to hit 4-5 with 3 RBIs and a homer and a double against Tampa in the second game.
The Iron Fist scored five runs in the bottom of the 9th to defeat the Cutters 7-4 in Hoboken. Reliever Brandon Lyon was charge with a blown save after surrendering 3 runs in 1.1 innings. Todd Helton was 3-5 with 3 RBIs for Vancouver.
Friday, March 14, 2008
Rats spank Falcons, Byrnes just misses cycle
The Rat Pack administered the biggest ass-whooping of the preseason so far - a 22-6 pounding of the Golden Falcons. Jeff Keppinger went 6-7 with 3 RBIs and a triple. Jim Thome hit two homers and was 4-5 with 5 RBIs. Joe Mauer was 4-6 with 5 RBIs. The Falcons went through ten pitchers, eight of which gave up at least one earned run, surrendering 25 hits and 12 walks overall.
Dan Haren had an impressive outing and Ryan Howard had two homers to lead the Hitmen to a 7-1 drubbing of the D.C. Bushslappers. Haren struck out 10 and allowed 6 hits and one run in 8 innings of work. Howard had 5 RBIs in the game.
Kenji Johjima had two homers and 7 RBIs in the Plunkers' 10-1 win over Team Buddah. Roy Oswalt pitched a complete game 5-hitter and struck out nine to improve to 3-0.
Jarrod Washburn pitched a 3-hit shutout against the Sardines. Washburn struck out 7. Opponent Dallas Braden wasn't quite so impressive, leaving in the second inning after surrendering seven runs and six hits.
Bombers' outfielder Eric Byrnes was one single shy of hitting for the cycle in a 7-4 win over the Mighty Men. Byrnes doubled to lead off the second inning, then homered in the third. He was walked in the fifth inning, then hit the triple in the seventh inning. With one more chance in the ninth inning, Byrnes popped out to the first base side.
Dan Haren had an impressive outing and Ryan Howard had two homers to lead the Hitmen to a 7-1 drubbing of the D.C. Bushslappers. Haren struck out 10 and allowed 6 hits and one run in 8 innings of work. Howard had 5 RBIs in the game.
Kenji Johjima had two homers and 7 RBIs in the Plunkers' 10-1 win over Team Buddah. Roy Oswalt pitched a complete game 5-hitter and struck out nine to improve to 3-0.
Jarrod Washburn pitched a 3-hit shutout against the Sardines. Washburn struck out 7. Opponent Dallas Braden wasn't quite so impressive, leaving in the second inning after surrendering seven runs and six hits.
Bombers' outfielder Eric Byrnes was one single shy of hitting for the cycle in a 7-4 win over the Mighty Men. Byrnes doubled to lead off the second inning, then homered in the third. He was walked in the fifth inning, then hit the triple in the seventh inning. With one more chance in the ninth inning, Byrnes popped out to the first base side.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
re: Barry Zito - oops
Zito was blasted (3.1 IP, 7 ER, 0 K) as Hillsborough and Carolina battled it out to a 14-11 Hitmen victory, each team scoring five runs in their half of the ninth inning. Aramis Ramirez had a monster day on the losing side - 4-5, 6 RBIs, and his sixth homer of the spring. Hillsborough's answer was Robinson Cano who had 5 RBIs and a round tripper of his own. Hmmm who do I want to jinx today...?
Alfonso Soriano hit a grand slam in the ninth inning to break the tie and eventually win an 8-4 game for the Buddahs against the Mighty Men. It was Soriano's second homer of the spring. Team Buddah jumped out of the gate with a quick five game winning streak, but has come back down to earth, winning only two of their last seven.
Eric Byrnes swiped four bases and went 3-3 to lead the Blue Ridge Bombers to a 9-4 victory over the Bushslappers. Adam Wainwright went the distance to improve to 3-0 and Vlad Guerrero had two homers and four RBIs.
Vancouver won their sixth in a row by defeating the Sardine City Straphangers 5-1 and the Mudcats 3-2 in extra innings. Vancouver was bringing up the rear but after solid efforts from Ben Sheets and Zack Greinke, the Iron Fist are now sitting at 9-7. Iron Fist manager Darren Daulton said that the team was going to give their regulars some more playing time in the last 10 games to shake off the rust.
Chris Young of Las Vegas improved to 4-0 after a solid effort against the Buddahs. Young limited New Jersey to two runs on six hits in seven innings and struck out seven. The Rat Pack has the best record in the DMBL preseason (11-5).
10 games remain in spring training. The DMBL's Opening Day will be on Sunday, March 23.
Alfonso Soriano hit a grand slam in the ninth inning to break the tie and eventually win an 8-4 game for the Buddahs against the Mighty Men. It was Soriano's second homer of the spring. Team Buddah jumped out of the gate with a quick five game winning streak, but has come back down to earth, winning only two of their last seven.
Eric Byrnes swiped four bases and went 3-3 to lead the Blue Ridge Bombers to a 9-4 victory over the Bushslappers. Adam Wainwright went the distance to improve to 3-0 and Vlad Guerrero had two homers and four RBIs.
Vancouver won their sixth in a row by defeating the Sardine City Straphangers 5-1 and the Mudcats 3-2 in extra innings. Vancouver was bringing up the rear but after solid efforts from Ben Sheets and Zack Greinke, the Iron Fist are now sitting at 9-7. Iron Fist manager Darren Daulton said that the team was going to give their regulars some more playing time in the last 10 games to shake off the rust.
Chris Young of Las Vegas improved to 4-0 after a solid effort against the Buddahs. Young limited New Jersey to two runs on six hits in seven innings and struck out seven. The Rat Pack has the best record in the DMBL preseason (11-5).
10 games remain in spring training. The DMBL's Opening Day will be on Sunday, March 23.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Spring Surprises and Disappointments - the Pitchers
Carolina's Roy Halladay has been superb so far in three starts - 2-0 with a 0.38 ERA (1 run in 24 innings). He's looking like his old workhorse self. The real surprise in Mudcat camp has been Barry Zito returning to form. It's only been two starts, but Zito has been solid with a 3.21 ERA and 1.21 WHIP in 14 IP. Of course having said that he'll probably get bombed in his next start.
The Straphangers' youngsters have been pretty impressive so far, especially Fausto Carmona (1-1, 1.80) and Phil Hughes (1.69, 0.63 WHIP). Carmona has been interesting - despite the low ERA, he's walked a ton of batters (8 in 15 innings) and only struck out two. On the other side of the fence, Cole Hamels has continued his struggles from last year so far in spring (0-2, 12.96).
Team Buddah has to be happy with their two starters acquired in the Ichiro deal. Oliver Perez is dominating so far (2-1, 1.08 ERA, 0.92 WHiP in three starts) and Joe Blanton has been solid as well (2-1, 3.24 - but 32 hits in 25 innings). In fact, Team Buddah's 2.59 team ERA is second in the league. Only George Sherrill has really struggled so far.
Sitting atop the heap in team pitching is the Las Vegas Rat Pack. Led by Chris Young, who is probably the top pitcher so far this spring. Young is now 3-0 with a 1.09 ERA, 0.81 WHiP and 16 Ks. The Ageless Wonder, Orlando Hernandez has done well (1-1, 2.25) and A.J. Burnett, acquired from Marietta, has been lights out (2-1, 2.59). Rookie Tim Lincecum has looked impressive at times (3.00 ERA, 14 Ks in 18 innings), but the underlying numbers (16 H, 11 BB, 1.50 WHiP) indicate that he's a work in progress.
Bringing up the rear are the Mighty Men of Marietta. With four starters with a 7.00 ERA or higher, the Mighty Men are looking like they won't be returning to the finals this year. Rookie John Danks has been the sole bright spot (1-1, 2.38 in 3 starts).
The Straphangers' youngsters have been pretty impressive so far, especially Fausto Carmona (1-1, 1.80) and Phil Hughes (1.69, 0.63 WHIP). Carmona has been interesting - despite the low ERA, he's walked a ton of batters (8 in 15 innings) and only struck out two. On the other side of the fence, Cole Hamels has continued his struggles from last year so far in spring (0-2, 12.96).
Team Buddah has to be happy with their two starters acquired in the Ichiro deal. Oliver Perez is dominating so far (2-1, 1.08 ERA, 0.92 WHiP in three starts) and Joe Blanton has been solid as well (2-1, 3.24 - but 32 hits in 25 innings). In fact, Team Buddah's 2.59 team ERA is second in the league. Only George Sherrill has really struggled so far.
Sitting atop the heap in team pitching is the Las Vegas Rat Pack. Led by Chris Young, who is probably the top pitcher so far this spring. Young is now 3-0 with a 1.09 ERA, 0.81 WHiP and 16 Ks. The Ageless Wonder, Orlando Hernandez has done well (1-1, 2.25) and A.J. Burnett, acquired from Marietta, has been lights out (2-1, 2.59). Rookie Tim Lincecum has looked impressive at times (3.00 ERA, 14 Ks in 18 innings), but the underlying numbers (16 H, 11 BB, 1.50 WHiP) indicate that he's a work in progress.
Bringing up the rear are the Mighty Men of Marietta. With four starters with a 7.00 ERA or higher, the Mighty Men are looking like they won't be returning to the finals this year. Rookie John Danks has been the sole bright spot (1-1, 2.38 in 3 starts).
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Early Spring Surprises (and Disappointments)
Blue Ridge's Shawn Green is off to a hot start, batting .375 in 32 at bats with 7 RBIs. Green really has no chance at a starting job with the Bombers - they already have Guerrero, Rios, and Byrnes occupying starting roles, but he just might find a role on the bench or in a platoon role. Speaking of Guerrero, the slugger is still trying to find his groove. Vlad is batting a mere .163 with a .471 OPS in 49 at bats. Maybe Green has a shot afterall...no not really.
Carolina's Troy Tulowitzki spent all of last season on the Cats' farm team in hopes that he'd be better prepared this season. So far Tulo has been struggling at the plate (.195 average, .261 OBP), but there are some signs of hope - he has two homers and a triple. The entire Mudcats team has struggled offensively (.651 team OPS), so it might be more of a teamwide problem than an individual one.
Hoboken has to be happy with second-bagger Kelly Johnson. So far Johnson has raked to the tune of a .357 average and a 1.113 OPS. Johnson's main competition is Cutter pet project Ian Kinsler, who is also having a great spring (.417, 1.000 OPS). So far, manager Wally Backman has the two youngsters platooning, but he might finding a way to squeeze the two of them into the lineup at the same time.
More tomorrow...
Carolina's Troy Tulowitzki spent all of last season on the Cats' farm team in hopes that he'd be better prepared this season. So far Tulo has been struggling at the plate (.195 average, .261 OBP), but there are some signs of hope - he has two homers and a triple. The entire Mudcats team has struggled offensively (.651 team OPS), so it might be more of a teamwide problem than an individual one.
Hoboken has to be happy with second-bagger Kelly Johnson. So far Johnson has raked to the tune of a .357 average and a 1.113 OPS. Johnson's main competition is Cutter pet project Ian Kinsler, who is also having a great spring (.417, 1.000 OPS). So far, manager Wally Backman has the two youngsters platooning, but he might finding a way to squeeze the two of them into the lineup at the same time.
More tomorrow...
Friday, March 7, 2008
Upton leads Sardine City offense
B.J. Upton hit two homers in yesterday's 8-7 loss to the Cutters. Upton went 3-4 with 4 runs and 3 RBIs in the game. The Straphangers were cruising with a 6-3 lead in the game until they fell apart in the seventh and gave up five runs between the seventh and eighth innings. Upton also went 3-5 in the earlier game against the Sugar Bears. Daisuke Matsuzaka was roughed up in his DMBL debut, pitching 5 2/3 innings and surrendering five runs on seven hits and three walks. Dice-K did strike out six.
Tampa Bay was on the losing end of another 1-0 hardluck loss Thursday. Felix Hernandez held the Plunkers to four hits and struck out seven. Andy Pettitte took the loss this time, giving up nine hits in eight innings of work. Billy Butler's solo home run in the second inning was the only run either team could muster.
Shawn Green hit a 3-run homer and drove in 4 in the game, but the Bombers still lost their fourth in a row, 6-5 to the Mudcats. Dustin Pedroia was 2-4 at the top of the Mudcat order and is now hitting .467 in preseason.
Yovani Gallardo was impressive for the Endzone Animals but got a no decision as Philly defeated Vancouver 3-2 in extra innings. Gallardo pitched eight innings and gave up two runs on seven hits, while walking none and striking out four. Ross Gload was 3-4 for the Iron Fist and is now batting .471 so far in the spring.
Oliver Perez pitched a gem for Team Buddah en route to a 2-1 win. Perez went the distance, only giving up five hits and striking out six.
Tampa Bay was on the losing end of another 1-0 hardluck loss Thursday. Felix Hernandez held the Plunkers to four hits and struck out seven. Andy Pettitte took the loss this time, giving up nine hits in eight innings of work. Billy Butler's solo home run in the second inning was the only run either team could muster.
Shawn Green hit a 3-run homer and drove in 4 in the game, but the Bombers still lost their fourth in a row, 6-5 to the Mudcats. Dustin Pedroia was 2-4 at the top of the Mudcat order and is now hitting .467 in preseason.
Yovani Gallardo was impressive for the Endzone Animals but got a no decision as Philly defeated Vancouver 3-2 in extra innings. Gallardo pitched eight innings and gave up two runs on seven hits, while walking none and striking out four. Ross Gload was 3-4 for the Iron Fist and is now batting .471 so far in the spring.
Oliver Perez pitched a gem for Team Buddah en route to a 2-1 win. Perez went the distance, only giving up five hits and striking out six.
Thursday, March 6, 2008
Pre-Season Opening Day Notes
The mighty Newark Sugar Bears opened spring with a whimper yesterday. Roy Halladay and the Carolina Mudcats held the defending champs to only six hits in an 8-0 blanking. Halladay went the distance and Aramis Ramirez went 3-3 with a homer and 4 RBIs. Number one pick overall Dustin Pedroia also had three hits and scored three runs.
Alex Rodriguez had four RBIs and a homer in his Arkansas Falcon debut. The Falcons pounded away on Blue Ridge 11-4. Josh Beckett continues his DMBL-related struggles after giving up six runs (four earned) on nine hits in 3 2/3 innings.
Chris Young opened strong for the Rat Pack by pitching a 2-hit, one-run, complete game agaisnt the Mighty Men. Matt Holliday hit two homers and drove in four runs and Frank Thomas also had a homer in the contest.
Jose Reyes led the D.C. Bushslappers to an 11-2 rout of the Philly Endzone Animals. Reyes was 4-5 with a homer and five RBIs. Johan Santana was roughed up in his spring debut (3 IP, 5 ER). Santana claimed that he was tinkering with some new pitches in the game and was off on his location. "Don't worry, I'll be ready on Opening Day" said Santana in a postgame pres conference. D.C.'s top pick Matt Kemp went 2-4 with an RBI in the game.
Sardine City and Tampa Bay battled it out to a 1-0 final in the Straphangers favor. Fausto Carmona pitched all nine innings, surrendering only three hits, though he walked five. Mark Buerhle (8 IP, 7 H, ER) was the hard-luck loser for the Plunkers.
Alex Rodriguez had four RBIs and a homer in his Arkansas Falcon debut. The Falcons pounded away on Blue Ridge 11-4. Josh Beckett continues his DMBL-related struggles after giving up six runs (four earned) on nine hits in 3 2/3 innings.
Chris Young opened strong for the Rat Pack by pitching a 2-hit, one-run, complete game agaisnt the Mighty Men. Matt Holliday hit two homers and drove in four runs and Frank Thomas also had a homer in the contest.
Jose Reyes led the D.C. Bushslappers to an 11-2 rout of the Philly Endzone Animals. Reyes was 4-5 with a homer and five RBIs. Johan Santana was roughed up in his spring debut (3 IP, 5 ER). Santana claimed that he was tinkering with some new pitches in the game and was off on his location. "Don't worry, I'll be ready on Opening Day" said Santana in a postgame pres conference. D.C.'s top pick Matt Kemp went 2-4 with an RBI in the game.
Sardine City and Tampa Bay battled it out to a 1-0 final in the Straphangers favor. Fausto Carmona pitched all nine innings, surrendering only three hits, though he walked five. Mark Buerhle (8 IP, 7 H, ER) was the hard-luck loser for the Plunkers.
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Today is the first day of Spring Training!
Later tonight, the first games of the spring will be played. A double header will be played every day for the next thirteen days. How will the new owners do? Which teams will be the most improved? Will Newark dominate like last year?
Things to keep your eye on in spring training camps:
The Sugar Bears will be playing in a neutral stadium to start the preseason. Will their offense still dominate? Probably not early on as they will sit a lot of their regulars. But the 2008 version of Jim Edmonds may make his presence known early on (Matt Stairs?).
Do Tampa Bay and Blue Ridge need a learning curve? Some experts criticized some of their draft picks, while others were lauded. Rookie owners have made the playoffs in other seasons (Jeremy Berger, Mark Hazen), so it shouldn't be that big of a surprise if one or both sneak into the playoffs this season.
Many teams will experiment with new ballparks before getting locked into their two-year lease. New Jersey (Shibe), Arkansas (Great America), and others are giving different fields a tryout.
Who are going to be the surprise cuts come Opening Day? There are always a few that leave you scratching your head.
Things to keep your eye on in spring training camps:
The Sugar Bears will be playing in a neutral stadium to start the preseason. Will their offense still dominate? Probably not early on as they will sit a lot of their regulars. But the 2008 version of Jim Edmonds may make his presence known early on (Matt Stairs?).
Do Tampa Bay and Blue Ridge need a learning curve? Some experts criticized some of their draft picks, while others were lauded. Rookie owners have made the playoffs in other seasons (Jeremy Berger, Mark Hazen), so it shouldn't be that big of a surprise if one or both sneak into the playoffs this season.
Many teams will experiment with new ballparks before getting locked into their two-year lease. New Jersey (Shibe), Arkansas (Great America), and others are giving different fields a tryout.
Who are going to be the surprise cuts come Opening Day? There are always a few that leave you scratching your head.
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
2008 Draft Tidbits
The Draft Results have been posted. Some draft day tidbits.
Dustin Pedroia became the first non-pitcher to be drafted first since 2005 and only the second since 2002. David Wright was drafted number one in 2005.
Joba Chamberlain was the highest drafted ineligible player in DMBL history. Previously J.D. Drew was the earliest ineligible pick back in 1999 (fourth overall). This was also the first year in which two ineligibles were taken in the first round - Andrew Miller was taken by Blue Ridge with the twelveth pick.
Sardine City made the final selection of the Supplemental Draft (pitcher Roderigo Lopez), marking the first time since the Supplemental Draft was instituted in 1999 that the final pick wasn't made by either Arkansas or Newark.
Thirteen teams made supplemental picks this year - a new record. The total number of supplemental picks was 70 - the same number as last year and tied for the second most. 2005 had the most, with 81 selections.
This year's Chris Snopek Prize goes to Mark Teahen of Newark, the final player selected in the regular draft. 2004's Scott Williamson of Arkansas was the last player selected with the final pick to actually play for the team in that season.
Dustin Pedroia became the first non-pitcher to be drafted first since 2005 and only the second since 2002. David Wright was drafted number one in 2005.
Joba Chamberlain was the highest drafted ineligible player in DMBL history. Previously J.D. Drew was the earliest ineligible pick back in 1999 (fourth overall). This was also the first year in which two ineligibles were taken in the first round - Andrew Miller was taken by Blue Ridge with the twelveth pick.
Sardine City made the final selection of the Supplemental Draft (pitcher Roderigo Lopez), marking the first time since the Supplemental Draft was instituted in 1999 that the final pick wasn't made by either Arkansas or Newark.
Thirteen teams made supplemental picks this year - a new record. The total number of supplemental picks was 70 - the same number as last year and tied for the second most. 2005 had the most, with 81 selections.
This year's Chris Snopek Prize goes to Mark Teahen of Newark, the final player selected in the regular draft. 2004's Scott Williamson of Arkansas was the last player selected with the final pick to actually play for the team in that season.
Monday, March 3, 2008
Draft Wrap
Now that everyone has recovered from the draft, teams are setting their initial lineups for the opening of Spring Training on Wednesday. All players have already reported to camp and have been getting to know their new teammates.
The 2008 draft was probably one of the longest in league history, stretching out for around five hours. Most of the blame fell on Stump Matiash as usual, but it's more fun to pick on him than the other guilty parties. Vegas owner Eric Wickstrom was effective at cracking the whip and getting the draft moving along. Thanks go out to Eric and the Pucci brothers for keeping the draft board up to date. Maybe we can start a new tradition of rotating draft locations each year.
Almost all rule changes were soundly defeated. Custom stadiums were nearly banned but were voted to remain by one vote. The lone rule change that made it through the cracks was the 2-year stadium lease. Curiously the 3-year lease was also defeated, but what a difference a year makes! The new rule locks the owner into a stadium for a minimum two year contract starting this season. If a team folds or gets new ownership, the lease is voided. A team picking a custom stadium can update their stadium next season when the new disk comes out. This is only an option for teams choosing a current stadium (i.e. 2007 Yankee stadium, but not 1999 Yankee Stadium). Teams cannot upgrade from a 1955 version of their stadium to a 1972 version or a 2008 version.
Look for the round-by-round draft recap to be posted by next weekend. We'll look at some of the more questionable picks at that point and try to find out who will likely get the Kei Igawa Award this year for biggest (and most overhyped, espeically by their owner) bust! If you don't know who we award the pick to for the '07 draft, well...take a guess.
The 2008 draft was probably one of the longest in league history, stretching out for around five hours. Most of the blame fell on Stump Matiash as usual, but it's more fun to pick on him than the other guilty parties. Vegas owner Eric Wickstrom was effective at cracking the whip and getting the draft moving along. Thanks go out to Eric and the Pucci brothers for keeping the draft board up to date. Maybe we can start a new tradition of rotating draft locations each year.
Almost all rule changes were soundly defeated. Custom stadiums were nearly banned but were voted to remain by one vote. The lone rule change that made it through the cracks was the 2-year stadium lease. Curiously the 3-year lease was also defeated, but what a difference a year makes! The new rule locks the owner into a stadium for a minimum two year contract starting this season. If a team folds or gets new ownership, the lease is voided. A team picking a custom stadium can update their stadium next season when the new disk comes out. This is only an option for teams choosing a current stadium (i.e. 2007 Yankee stadium, but not 1999 Yankee Stadium). Teams cannot upgrade from a 1955 version of their stadium to a 1972 version or a 2008 version.
Look for the round-by-round draft recap to be posted by next weekend. We'll look at some of the more questionable picks at that point and try to find out who will likely get the Kei Igawa Award this year for biggest (and most overhyped, espeically by their owner) bust! If you don't know who we award the pick to for the '07 draft, well...take a guess.
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