Saturday, July 31, 2010

Free Agency Day 3

The Big ones started to fall today as Top Hitting Gem Arias and top Pitching gem Wang both found new homes for Season 17.

RF Vincente Arias- News out of Texas is the Tornadoes made a big splash in Free Agency, picking up perennial 20/20 guy Vincente Arias in a 3 year 36 Million dollar deal. Arias will be a huge upgrade over Trevor Jackson who left during free agency. Arias should more than make up for jackson's lost speed and add a lot more pop in his bat.

SS Roosevelt Murphy- After a few tense days in Salem, negotiations have finally concluded. Murphy briefly considered moving to another team, but ultimately decided his home was in Salem. " Salem is building for the near future, I want to be part of this" stated Murphy at the team press conference. Details of the contract as follows a 5 year 34.8 Million dollar deal.

Salt Lake City Prospectors continue to reload adding P Hugh Aldridge and C Chad Riley to Mullti year deals. Aldridge spent the last season and half in New York (now Fargo) going 11-6 in his role as a long reliever. " I'm ready for what ever role the team sees fit for me, I just want a shot at a ring" explained Aldridge after inking his 2 year 7.8 million dollar contract. 30 year old Riley solidifies a weak area for Salt Lake and hopes to prove himself as the starter in SLC. His 13.6 million dollar contract says Salt Lake sees him as the starter something he has not gone into any season being. His last season in Houston showed career highs in ABs and his first as a starter.

SP Alex Wang-Taking a page out of old friend and Hall of Famer Tim Garcia's playbook Wang reportedly turned down more money to sign a longer deal.Wang's new deal has him in a Baltimore uniform through his 41st birthday. His 5 year 57.5 million dollar deal is less money than experts predicted and might be the sign of a down market or an indicator of teams caution of a pitcher who looked in hittable in S15 and came out of S16 with an ERA almost a full run higher than his season average.

SP Jesus Melendez-Mexico City is the next stop for journeyman starter Melendez. Melendez was an up and coming 26 year will a promising future in the league until a S14 elbow injury robbed Melendez of his future. Team Doctors looked over Melendez's elbow and medically cleared him. Last season was a rough year for him as he suffered through a 6-22 season in Pittsburgh. Melendez is signed from S20 for 10.5 Million.

SS Gene Ward- Fargo made a commitment to Defense by bringing in defensive specialist ward. Last season Ward batted .239 with 48RBI. His .975 Fielding average and 11 plus plays will be more welcome. Sports Talk radio sounded disappointed in the contract a 2 year 8 Million dollar deal. There is wide concern over his horrible strike out to walk ratio.

SP Louis Gutierrez- "I still have a lot of innings to give a team and I'm glad the Metros seen that" commented Louis on his Twitter. The Metros are on the hook for a 4 year 34 Million dollar contract. Fan blogs are mixed on the acquisition of a pitcher who at 32 has struggled the past 2 seasons in Texas to find a groove and seem disappointed that for another 3.3 million they could have landed prize ace Alex Wang.

Friday, July 30, 2010

Free Agency Day 2

The second Wave of Free Agent Signs are in. Teams are shoring up their pitching staff early in the day as touted names are signing ealy to get in uniform and settled before the preseason starts.



SP Trenidad Durham- Kansas City lays claim to prized Free agent hurler Trenidad Durham. "I'm glad to be in Kansas City" stated Durham wearing a novelty David Seanez Moustache Team officials hope he will be a consistant presence in the rotation. His consistantly is noted the past few years with an under 4 era. The McCoy's hope he brings some of the Mojo to their rotation. "I am doing everything in my power to get David Seanez another ring," said GM Raucous. Critics are concerned with the length of the deal, a 5 year 25M contract, noting that Durham's work ethic might make the last 2 seasons a hard pill to swallow. Team official quickly wheeled out Kevin Hatcher who after putting in his dentures said "No Comment"



SP Pat Wight- Durham Bulls continue to be aggressive early in Free Agency landing 29 year old starting pitcher Pat Wight. Pat has found a lot of success in his time with the Tucson franchise as a spot starter and long reliever, he should now get a chance as a starter in the Bull's rotation. Wight signs a 3 year 15 million dollar contract to steady the Bull's efforts.



SP David Hernandez- Mexico City Milfs resign "wild Thing" Hernandez to a 4 year 21 million dollar deal. Hernandez found success last season for the Colt '45's (now the Milfs). Insiders say the team always intended on bringing Hernandez back, but the details took a little longer to work out than expected. Scouts say that David can be a domaninate pitcher controling the game at times, but also can struggle to find the plate the next moment. Fans are mixed on Hernandez.

2B Bo Nitkowski-KC McCoys last season was not signed until the start of Sring Training becauseof his high demands and his desire for a multi-season deal. Teams Bulked at this and put Bo in his place, well Bo knows baseball and will bring that expertise to KC for the next 2 season (2 years at 8.6M) He is no longer a base stealing threat at this point in his career, but he should deliver of the clutch hits. Bo always starts the season as a role player, but seems to find his way into the everyday lineup.

SS David Lockwood- Same city different franchise. Lockwood fell out of favor in the city of brotherly love the last few seasons, but here he is still in the city with a new team signing a 4 year 32M deal. GM ewells54 was looking to add a defensive player who had wheels to complete the new look franchise. With lockwood they should have no problem crushing the last 5 seasons stolen base totals combined.


LF Charles Coles- "we needed a player who could do a little of everything, Someone that was a grinder who got the job done night in and night out with out the need for recognition." said Team Officials in SLC. Cole certainly is a player who has got the job done the past few seasons, he is under appreciated as a hitter and should be a fine stable force in SLC for the next 2 season. SLC signs Coles to a 2 year 12.1 million dollar deal.


Philadelphia Stars fans are in an uproar this evenings has the Stars dedicated 10 million dollars the next 3 seasons (30M total) to two minor league players. 1B Alex Galvin and P Adam Miller join the team with a lot of expectations from both the team and the experts. Both players land their 1st l deal and have been viewed no better than 4A injury replacements.

Day 1 Free Agency Signings

Opening day of Free Agency and a number of players signed quick contracts for S17.

Highlights of the day include:

SP Lou Lamb agreeing to return to the Salem Slammer with a 2 year 8.4 Million dollar deal. Lamb told reporters "My heart never left Salem, I was confident that the team and I would work out a deal so I could return." Lamb missed most of last season with a undisclosed shoulder injury. Slammer fans are excited to see him return to form that he showed early in his career. Scouts do project him to return to the form he has shown he last few seasons.

SP Magglio Salinas- Signed a 4 year 32.2 Million dollar contract with the Pittsburgh Pirates. Salinas just turned 29. Pittsburgh hopes to have landed a player that other teams might have overlooked. Scouts love his pitch selection and his workhorse mentality, but he has yet to translate that into an all-star season. The critics have complained that Salinas is nothing more than a middle of the rotation option with no strikeout Punch, will the questionable Pirate defense be able to handle the work

RP - Hong-Jin Xaio- To Atlanta Xaio through his interpreter said "It is most honorable that the stored Brave franchise has given me this great opportunity." Xaio has to be happy with his contract
3 year 12.6M lands hi an extra season. There is no denying Atlanta's need for Bullpen help and Xaio will be a step in the right direction and should make Atlanta's pen one of the strongest in the division. Now to correct the other deficiencies.

RP Wilson MacRae- Fans in Salt Lake City or dancing in the street this morning, with news that the Prospectors signed 27 year old MacRae. SLC did pay Wilson well for his services doling out a 4 year 28.1 Million dollar deal. Team Official said one of their top priorities was shoring up the pitching staff. "We evaluated the talent out their and all our scouts agreed MacRae was the best talent available."

RP David Brennaman- to Durham 38 year old Brennaman look to finish his career as a Bull. Brennaman has found much success as an inning eating middle reliever. He has been a force of consistence averaging a 5 ERA for his career. He should provide a strong veteran presence on a weak Durham franchise.

CF Stubby Cyr- to Madison "Cyr will allow us to put Danny Young back at his natural position of Shortstop for the coming season, Stubby brings a smooth swing and a great glove to Madison" Said GM Btkantz. Cyr signed a 2 year 8.8 Million dollar deal. "They showed interest from the get go and made me feel welcome in the city," said Cyr. Cyr is slowly slipping in his everyday durability but he should star 70% of the games for the AL Champs. His bat should also allow a little less on the heart of the Madison lineup.

1B Pedro Osuna- "We needed a crusher for this lineup," an undisclosed club representative said. Osuna comes at a huge price tag of 5 years 50 Million dollars. "there was no doubt, they wanted me," said Osuna as he pulled up in his new Gold rimmed Bentley. Osuna will add the offense in Baltimore, but they a few more pieces for this team to be competitive in season 17.

Thursday, July 29, 2010

Season 17 winter meetings Rumors/Thoughts and Free agents Day 4

News from the winter meetings is starting to filter out as the GMs gather for their annual winter Meetings. Today Ryan World News will take a look at the Top Free agents available and where they might land and for how much.

OUTFIELD:

CF Kurt Morgan (S) - AGE: 27
Past Contract: coming off last season at 327K.
HARDWARE: 2 time all-star
Entering his prime, he should be one of the most sought after bats in the pre-season. Not sure why he did not get put on the 40 man roster last season. A rookie error will be another reward. His bidding might go very high
Price Tag: 8-14 Million a season should sign a 4 year to 5 season deal.
The Suitors:
Pittsburgh Pirates (NL) - a Team that needs a CF for the long Range and is building up a strong team. They lose nothing more than a second rounder. Smart move when you have the cap room and still get a #1 pick.
Memphis Amon-Ra (NL) - Why cut Cyr, unless you have a plan to get younger and better, with no one apparent in the minor league system they need to fill the hole at Center with someone.
Philadelphia Stars (NL) - Shoot for the moon and go after the best in class. They have no one that can play the field at CF, They need a big bat. Morgan would fill a number of holes in this offense.

CF Stubby Cyr- AGE 33 Signed Madison 2 year 8.4M
Past Contract: coming off a 5 year 36.5 Million Dollar deal.
HARDWARE: ROY (S5) 5 times all-star, 7 times Gold Glove Winner
Surprise cut, Cyr can still play Cf and was coming off a 24Hr 99rbi campaign. He should land a good deal. He is a consistent gold glover and because his option was not picked up he comes without any compensation to Memphis.
Price Tag: 5-10 Million a season should sign a 2-3 year
The Suitors:
Madison Massa's- last season they used a shortstop in CF. They need to find a true centerfield that they can count on in the field. Cyr and his 7 gold gloves would be the perfect guy. Mexico City Milf Mongers (AL) - Huge upgrade over Al Rincon, Cyr would be a better glove and bat for the Milf lineup.
Cheyenne Marmots (NL) - Hurzell should be at 2B and Zorrila should be relegated to defensive replacement or pinch running, Cyr would be a force in Cheyenne.

RF Robert Schultz (R) - AGE: 29
Past Contract: coming off a 5 year 35.5 Million Dollar deal.
HARDWARE: 1 time all-star
Coming off a career year he should be a hot commodity in FA. He has always been the #2 go to guy in the lineups he's been in. It might be time for him to stand up and deliver.
Price Tag: 8-11 Million a season should sign a 3 year to 5 season deal. Plus a Type A picks compensation
The Suitors:
Pittsburgh Pirates (NL) - at 29 he still has years to give, The Pirates are a few years away Schultz might be able to get them there quicker.
Mexico City Milf Mongers (AL) - need young established bats now. Schultz would be the centerpiece to the offense in Mexico. He would be a national hero if he produced his average stat line here.
Atlanta Braves (NL) - I love the idea of Schultz to Atlanta. He would add the big bopper the team needs to get the offense back on track and could be around for 3 seasons until the rest of the team came around.

LF Vicente Arias (L) AGE: 32
Past Contract: coming off a 5 year 36.6 Million Dollar deal.
HARDWARE: 6 times all-star 2 time Silver Slugger
Leadoff hitter for many seasons still has great speed and solid hitting a short contract would be ideal but you might have to pay the premium to land him. His struggles against Right handers are noted around the league but he still pounds the ball and has a career .289 Batting average.
Price Tag: 7.5-9 Million a season should sign a 2 year to 3 season deal. Plus a Type A picks compensation
The Suitors:
Florida Sting Ray (NL) - they like guys with 90+ speed; Arias would fit in with this lineup and add a big bat to a young lineup. They would look for him to go cheap to be able to fill their bigger needs.
Baltimore Bandits (AL) - Combine him with Alan Shields and you have a heck of a nice platoon.
Tucson Mail Order Cowboys (AL) - this has been his home franchise, he has been one of the go to guys and leadoff man for awhile, should get a look at bringing him back.

LF William Stewart (L) - AGE: 31
Past Contract: coming off a 3 year 23.4 Million Dollar deal.
HARDWARE: 1 time all-star 1 time Silver Slugger
Still a potential 30/30 guy even in his 30's, Stewart should find a solid market for his services. His type a designation will tame the market a bit for him and could allow him to go on the cheaper end of his demands.
Price Tag: 8-10 Million a season should sign a 3 year. Plus a Type A picks compensation
The Suitors:
Monterrey Metros (NL) - multi-dimensional, the Metros need a big bat and seem to like guys with quickness Stewart would fit the bill.
Durham Bulls (AL) - The Bulls need a hitter who can do it all, Stewart would be that guy, he might get exposed in their lineup though, unless they combine him with one other big bat.
Salt Lake City Prospectors (AL) - a team on the verge of being a playoff team, they need that 1 more bat, Stewart is that guy.

LF Enrique Chantres (R) - AGE: 32
Past Contract: coming off a 1 year 3.1 Million Dollar deal.
HARDWARE: 1 time Silver Slugger
41hr and 10 sb in s16 says he still has value as a cleanup guy. He ended up returning to CSP last season on a 1 year deal because no one wanted to bite on his Type A reimbursement. He should slide on a few radars this season and might get a pickup earlier
Price Tag: 4-6 Million a season should sign a 2 year deal. Plus a Type A picks compensation
The Suitors:
Colorado Springs Organizational Filler (NL) - his history with the team makes him a natural fit to return. If anything no one signs him again and CSP brings him back once more. CSP does need his bat and this would not be a pity party to bring him back again.
Houston Stone Cold Killers (AL) - plenty of cap space and a need for a big bat in the lineup should get some consideration in Houston for Chantres
St. Louis Brewers (AL) - need to add a bat Chantres would be a solid 1-2 DH for the lineup.

RF Doyle Twitchell (L) AGE: 28
Past Contract: coming off a 1 year 5.1 Million Dollar deal.
HARDWARE: NONE
Struggled in his 1st season in salt lake at times, but played in all 162 games. He should be a sought after commodity. As a second banana he has found great success. He has not shown he can be the go to guy in the lineup.
Price Tag: 5-8 Million a season should sign a 4 year to 5 season deal. Plus a Type B picks compensation
The Suitors:
Durham Bulls (AL) - The other bat the Bulls need to complete the redone heart of the Bulls lineup. Twichell is the perfect protection guy in a lineup.
Norfolk Train Wrecks (NL) - they have a lot of age in the outfield and some new solid hitting young blood would do wonders for the stale offense.
Atlanta Braves (NL) - They needs someone young and potentially cheap so they can address a few holes this off-season. Twitchell is not going to be the answer, but he could be the key to solving the problem.

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

Season 17 winter meetings Rumors/Thoughts and Free agents Day 3

News from the winter meetings is starting to filter out as the GMs gather for their annual winter Meetings. Today Ryan World News will take a look at the Top Free agents available and where they might land and for how much.

RELIEF PITCHING:

CL Orlando Frias (L) - AGE: 30
Past Contract:
coming off a 1 year 7.3 Million Dollar deal.
HARDWARE: 4 time all-star 1 time Silver Slugger
He has been the closer for one of the worst franchises in Ryan history. He is going to have a payday and become one of the best paid closers in Ryan history. He is a 100+ inning closer who is capable of controlling the game when he pitches. Elite closer enough said
Price Tag: 8-11 Million a season should sign a 4 year to 5 season deal. Plus a Type A picks compensation
The Suitors:
Las Vegas Gamble- They have 25M in cap space and a hole in their bullpen, they lose a 2nd rounder for the best reliever in the game. He could shorten the game for a Vegas offense that sputters at times.
Philadelphia Stars- They have a number of Starting pitchers who can't go more than 7 innings in a game. They need a bullpen which is durable and can slam the door, say hello to that man.
Baltimore Bandits- short term managers tend to have short sighted dreams. Frias would be an upgrade over MacRae, but still why cut MacRae?

CL Albert Rincon (L) AGE: 33
Past Contract:
coming off a 5 year 37.5 Million Dollar deal.
HARDWARE: 7 time all-star
At 33 he's still a premier closer
Price Tag: 5-8 Million a season should sign a 3 year deal. Plus a Type B picks compensation
The Suitors:
Salem Slammers (NL) - they have the money to go after an upgrade for their bullpen, Rincon would be the guy I would go after to fill that need
Hartford Whalers (NL) - a history with the franchise and past success might have Rincon longing to go home. He would be a good fit.
Cheyenne Marmots (NL) - They are a good team, who got stuck with some bad breaks, Rincon adds the Wow factor.

CL Wilson MacRae- AGE: 27- SIGNED SLC 5 year 27.6M
Past Contract:
coming off a 1 year 1.4 Million Dollar deal.
HARDWARE: 1 time all-star
Young closer who did not get arbitration, he is going to be a hot commodity in FA. 3 seasons of 20_ saves for the lowly Washington team. Give him a better opportunity and he could save 30_ easily.
Price Tag: 6-8 Million a season should sign a 4 year to 5 season deal.
The Suitors:
Minnesota Wobegon's (AL) - Hammonds, Gentry and MacRae would make a great combination to work with in the late innings.
Monterrey Metros (NL) - Young Blood for a team that has shown signs of life. MacRae could find a long-term home in Monterrey very easily.
St. Louis Brewers (AL) - Slide a little farther than anyone expected them to, Brewers should be a solid team but they need help in the Pen badly.

CL Matt O'Malley (L) – AGE: 34
Past Contract:
coming off a 5 year 37.3 Million Dollar deal.
HARDWARE: 4 time all-star
Could still be a league leading closer. His increased stamina raises his profile and hence his price. You would have to pay a premium to get him plus lose a 1st round pick. Should scare teams away.
Price Tag: 6-8.5 Million a season should sign a 4 year deal. Plus a Type A picks compensation
The Suitors:
Austin BUTCHERS (NL) - a team who respects the high stamina reliever would make a great home for O'Malley.
Florida Sting Ray (NL) - Type A will not affect Florida and O'Malley might a perfect setup man for a team that needs more pitching depth.
Cheyenne Marmots (NL)- This would be an interesting pick-up Cheyenne has the money the Type A pick would be a 2nd rounder and He would plug up the pen.

CL R.A. Bellinger (L) AGE: 37
Past Contract:
coming off a 2 year 8.8 Million Dollar deal.
HARDWARE: 3 time all-star 2 times Fireman of the Year
Tough S16 for one of the top closers in the game should recover to close many more games. He has lost some off his pitches and can't pitch everyday over an extended period. Great pick-up if you need a steady arm to hold the close games.
Price Tag: 3-5 Million a season should sign a 1-2 year deal.
The Suitors:
COLORADO Mile High Club- They have a history of swooping up old successful closers, bellinger fits that bill
MADISON Massa's- Madison thinks the same way as Colorado, but tends to pick up his former closers late in FA off the scrap heap. Not sure Bellinger will be there.
KC McCoys: They could upgrade their bullpen on the cheap, something they need to do with their Yankee payroll already.

LRP Dave Brennaman (R)- AGE: 38 SIGNED Durham 2 year 6.4M
Past Contract:
coming off a 2 year 10 Million Dollar deal.
HARDWARE: NONE
He has made a career out of being the go to bullpen guy, still has that. His cheap price tag and no pick compensation will put him on a few teams radar. He is a capable late inning guy if used correctly.
Price Tag: 3.2-4.5 Million a season should sign a 2 year deal.
The Suitors:
Durham Bulls (AL)- They have lost a ton of games, but need a reliever with some flexibility brennaman is very flexible and should come cheap. Should hold them over until the farm starts to arrive.
COLORADO Mile High Club- He has flexibility which would look good in a Colorado uniform. Short term solutions scream Colorado's pen.

Rp J.J. Greenwood (L)- AGE: 31
Past Contract:
coming off a 1 year 1.12 Million Dollar deal.
HARDWARE: NONE
Found success last season and should be able to translate that into a multi-season contract for S17. He has had a rollercoaster career, but seems to be on an upside, for the right team he could add a steady arm.
Price Tag: 2.6-4 Million a season should sign a 2 year deal. Plus a Type B picks compensation
The Suitors:
Tucson Mail Order Cowboys (AL)- Huge payroll that they don't need to add to Greenwood would be the last piece to their bullpen puzzle. He could be had cheaply too.
Pittsburgh Pirates (NL)- He would be an upgrade if they can get him to sign cheaply.
Mexico City Milf Mongers (AL)- upgrades the pen immediately at a low cost.

RP Benito Hernandez- AGE: 30
Past Contract:
coming off a 5 year 17.5 Million Dollar deal.
HARDWARE: 3 time all-star
Former closer turned relief pitching uber-boy. His limited durability will scare teams, but his history is strong. He is a guy who can and will get the job done. With a 1st rounder on the line look for a team wanting to make a splash landing him.
Price Tag: 5-8 Million a season should sign a 3 year to 5 season deal. Plus a Type A picks compensation
The Suitors:
Norfolk Train Wrecks (NL)- Cheap option and the Type A would be 2nd round pick. They need to strengthen the pen for the short term in the very least Hernandez will not carry a huge price tag.
Salt Lake City Prospectors (AL)- They might need a temporary arm to fill the gaps, they shouldn't spend a lot here so Hernandez might be the man to gun for.
Columbus Horseshoes (NL)- Another team who doesn't have a lot to invest, but has a need Hernandez would fill a huge need in Columbus

RP Hong-Jin Xaio (L) AGE: 33 SIGNED ATLANTA 3 year 12.6M
Past Contract:
coming off a 3 year 8.4 Million Dollar deal.
HARDWARE:
Former closer struggled in S16 but still could be a top flight reliever for the right team. He saved 35+ games 2 seasons ago he is capable of doing that again. Not a bad arm to have for the price
Price Tag: 2.8-5.5 Million a season should sign a 2 year Deal. Plus a Type B picks compensation
The Suitors:
COLORADO Mile High Club-
Classic that would pitch well with a lot of offense to give him a big cushion
Pittsburgh Pirates (NL) - Need a lot of upgrades Xaio would come cheap and work well.
Atlanta Braves: They need help Xaio needs a job, does the fit need to be more complicated?

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

Season 17 winter meetings Rumors/Thoughts and Free agents Day 2

News from the winter meetings is starting to filter out as the GMs gather for their annual winter Meetings. Today Ryan World News will take a look at the Top Free agents available and where they might land and for how much.

Infield:

1B Pedro Osuna (R)- AGE: 30 SIGNED BALTIMORE 5 year 50M


Past Contract: coming off a 4 year 29.2 Million Dollar deal.
HARDWARE: 4 time all-star 1 time Silver Slugger
By sheer power and slugging Osuna could put a team over the top in offense. He is the guy teams want to build their offense around for seasons to come.
Price Tag: 8-11 Million a season should sign a 4 year to 5 season deal. Plus a Type A picks compensation
The Suitors:
Monterrey Metros (NL) -
instant offense, they have the position open and a need for a signature slugger, best fit yet.
Cincinnati Ramrod (NL) - another team needing a big bat they have limited cap space to fill all their needs but Osuna would tackle their biggest.
Atlanta Braves (NL) - it's not like I hate Donne Witt, but Osuna would give this team a few more wins


SS Roosevelt Murphy (L) - AGE: 31
Past Contract:
coming off a 4 year 28 Million Dollar deal.
HARDWARE: 3 time all-star 1 time silver slugger
Every team needs a guy like Murphy a player who can field the toughest position with ease and not sacrifice any offense. Watch for him to be on many team's watch lists
Price Tag: 8-13 Million a season should sign a 4 year. Plus a Type A picks compensation
The Suitors:
Baltimore Bandits- Seeking an all-star Shortstop. Murphy fits the bill to a tee. They have the cap space to take on a big contract and the need to fill.
Madison- With only last season's rule 5 pick McCormick as there only shortstop. They have some cap space but is it enough to go after the #1 SS or should they settle?
Salem Slammers- former team should do everything in their power to resign this man. They have no one to replace him

SS Dennis Lockwood (R) 29
Past Contract
: coming off an arbitration season of 11.1 Million.
HARDWARE: 1 time all-star
His defense and speed earn him the right to collect a big payday. His new team will need to be patient with his plate whoa. I think his demands will slide with a bigger length contract
Price Tag: 8-11 Million a season should sign a 4 year deal.
The Suitors:
Baltimore Bandits- Seeking an all-star Shortstop. Lockwood is the closest thing you will find in the open market. He can provide a team with 50+ stolen bases and provide top line defense.
Kansas City McCoy's- I'm not sure they could swing it in the budget, but they need a real shortstop, the player known as Kevin Hatcher died 2 seasons ago.
St. Louis Brewers- he would be a sure upgrade and provide the team more speed on the bases.

SS Geraldo Tarraga (R) - 31
Past Contract:
coming off a 2 year 6.8 Million Dollar deal.
HARDWARE: 4 time Gold Glove Winner
Purely a defensive guy, but a defensive wizard in the field. Anything you can get from him at the plate is just icing
Price Tag: 5-7.1 Million a season should sign a 3 year
The Suitors:
Houston Stone Cold Killers- They need a guy for 1 or 2 seasons and then a defensive option to back-up superstar Neal Robinson. Tarraga could be that bridge
Fargo Freeze- old team has no active SS on the roster, the history is there might considering bring him back if the price is right.
Colorado Mile High Club- they need a defensive bench player to sub for their offensive jugaurat, who better than Tarraga who might come cheap.

2B Alejandro Perez (R) AGE: 31
Past Contract:
coming off a 4 year 24 Million Dollar deal.
HARDWARE: 1 time all-star 1 time Silver Slugger
Offers solid offense and average defense at 2B, He going to sneak on someone's board and get a contract
Price Tag: 5.5-8 Million a season should sign a 3 year to 5 season deal.
The Suitors:
Florida Sting Ray (NL) -
I like the fit here, they need another stable bat in the lineup Perez needs a contract, He would be n upgrade no question.
Milwaukee Marauders- He knows the division well, and would love to get his chance to prove Madison wrong for trading him away. Upgrade over Nathan.
Las Vegas Gamble- They need a player to step in until prospect Yorvit Gonzales is ready to roll, maybe 2 seasons. If they can get Perez for that length they would be doing pretty good.

SS Aubrey Kell (R) - 35
Past Contract:
coming off a 1 year 4.2 Million Dollar deal.
HARDWARE: 1 time all-star
At 35 he has lost a step in the field, but still is a capable Short-stop he also has an explosive bat but don't expect more than a .240 batter
Price Tag: 3.6-5.5 Million a season should sign a 2 year.
The Suitors:
Madison Massa's-
will look to get Kell cheap again if they can't upgrade the position with a different option.
Hartford Whalers- completes the tandem with Clinton Allen, One could hit righties the other lefties, both provide solid defense and could work as super subs for the rest of the team.
Louisville Loudmouth- They needs someone to keep the position warm until Prospect Glenn Lemon is ready to roll maybe a season. If Kell signs a 1 year deal, it should be here.

C Yorvit Castillo (R) - AGE: 37 - RESIGNED Tucson 3 year 4.2M

Past Contract: coming off a 2 year 8.2 Million Dollar deal.
HARDWARE: 2 time all-star 3 time silver slugger
He has been one of the more prolific hitters in the game and came very close to batting 400 in season 9. He can put the ball in play and make things happen. Someone will want that for their team.
Price Tag: 3.2-4.8 Million a season. Look at a 1 or 2 year deal.
The Suitors:
Philadelphia Stars- they need a catcher badly Castillo is the best available one. Why settle. Prospect Alex Coleman is 2 season's away from being the man here, Castillo would fill that gap.
Pittsburgh Pirates- Roy Parks is the defensive half of a tandem, they now need the offensive half, and Castillo can get those hits. He would buy them time to find a real long term solution.

Monday, July 26, 2010

Season 17 winter meetings Rumors/Thoughts and Free agents

News from the winter meetings is starting to filter out as the GMs gather for their annual winter Meetings. Today Ryan World News will take a look at the Top Free agents available and where they might land and for how much.

Starting Pitching

SP Alex Wang (R) AGE 36
Past Contract:
coming off a 5 year 103.1 Million Dollar deal.
HARDWARE: 7 time all-star 5 time Cy Young Winner

Everyone wants a pitcher like him although he's 36 he still has plenty of steam and should be dominant for the next 3 seasons and above average for the next 2 following, if he has the right training and medical budgets supporting him.
Price Tag: 18-25 Million a season should sign a 4 year to 5 season deal. Plus a Type A picks compensation to Tucson
The Suitors: Look for everyone wanting to have Wang playing for them, but only a few teams will have the budget. Top 3 Teams might be
Salt Lake City Prospectors who need a sure fire ace to lead an average pitching staff. They have the cap space to play deep into the bidding. Coming off an 88 win campaign says this team is ready to take the next step and take this division. What better way than taking the rival's Ace
Florida Sting Rays- Their payroll would need to budget for a big contract like Wang, but they have been riding the line of mediocrity for awhile. They have made efforts in the past to land Big Veteran pitching help in the way of Lucas Neagle, They might be ready to commit to an Ace something they have not had since Francis Charlton
Tucson Mail Order Cowboys- if I was Tucson I would do whatever it takes to keep this pitcher, you already had the 20M once why not do it again. Type A compensation be DAMNED

SP Francis Charlton (R) - AGE 34
Past Contract: coming off a 5 year 21 million dollar deal
HARDWARE: 3 time all-star 1 time Cy Young Winner
Step down from Wang, but still an Ace in all regards Last season's Cy Young winner. He has spend a majority of his career on teams that struggled do find .500 the past 4 seasons he has found success on championship teams, but consistency has played in Wang's shadow in the American League until last season.
Price Tag: 12-15M a season 3-5 year contract
The Suitors:
Madison: Only the 2nd man ever to
Florida Sting Ray- Bringing Charlton back might be a natural fit, he has a history in Florida. Florida has a history of bringing old proven stars back for a second go around. Florida has a need for an Ace. Why not bring back a comfort?
Louisville Loud Mouths- They already have 2 good up and coming pitchers why not splurge and get an all out Ace.

SP Pat Wight (R) AGE: 29
Past Contract: coming off a 1 year 1.5 million dollar deal
HARDWARE: 1 time All-star
At 29 he's still has a lot left to give a competitive team, probably better suited as the #2 or 3 starter, he can't be overlooked as a great pickup to stabilize a team in need of pitching. His low stamina will keep his price down and suitors to a limited number
Price Tag: 5-8M a season 3-5 year contract

The Suitors:
Philadelphia Stars- if the team wanted to move to a tandem rotation with its low stamina guys Wight fits into the scheme well he's also young and flexible in his usage
Atlanta Braves- do I dare throw the Braves into the mix, why not they need major pitching help and a 29 year old veteran might be a perfect fit if the price is right.
Cincinnati Ramrod- need a perfect rotation complement to Maurer and Patrick Wight would be that #3 and he's still young enough to give a few seasons.

SP Alejandro Maradona (L)- AGE: 33 RESIGNED BY MADISON 2 year 11.6M
Past Contract:
coming off a 5 year 32.5 million dollar deal
HARDWARE: 2 time All-star
His Endurance might be the biggest knock on his talent. Look for him to give a team 6 strong innings and have to turn the game over to the pen. He still is a top guy to try to land for the price Price Tag: 5-9M a season 2-3 year contract
The Suitors:
Madison Massa's- had success in his mixed role with Madison, he's a great flex pitcher that Madison seems to enjoy making rotations out of.
Austin BUTCHERS - A team that sits on the verge of turning things around, but still have a minor league farm that is moving up
Houston Stone Cold Killers- here's a team that needs a low cost Ace, Maradona might not be an elite Ace but they could have him pretty cheap compared to the others.

SP Trenidad Durham (R) AGE: 31 Kanas City SIGNED 5 YEAR 25M
Past Contract: coming off a 4 year 20 million dollar deal
HARDWARE: 1 All star Appearance
Durham is the perfect top line starter for a team on the budget; he can fill a need and comes reasonably priced. His low makeup should keep a long term contract out of his reach, but a few season deals should be a great fit for a team needing to bridge the gap until the farm is ready
Price Tag: 6-9M a season 3 year contract
The Suitors:
Memphis Amon-Ra- they have the need for a great long reliever spot starter, Durham has a need for a chance at a Ring.
Houston Stone Cold Killers- Durham would be a good fit for a team that has not settled in a direction and could retool in a few seasons

SP Willie Hamill (R)- AGE: 36 RESIGNED BY FARGO 1 year 5.4M
Past Contract: coming off a 2 year 11 million dollar deal
HARDWARE: 1 Gold Glove
Been used as a long reliever recently, but should be converted back to an effective starter. He is older and most like not worth more than a 3 year deal by any team. He should have enough in the tank to guide a young team looking for a veteran presence
Price Tag: 4-7M a season 2 year contract
The Suitors:
Memphis Amon-Ra- Memphis has the pitching, but adding a small contract to replace the loss of Atchley might not be a bad idea.
Pittsburgh Pirates: Lew Crosby develops in the minors they need a stop gap until he's ready to roll Hamill might be the perfect 1-2 year contract guy to serve that role
Philadelphia Stars- another team that has a lot of 6 inning guys to many to replace to moving to a tandem rotation might get them through the next couple seasons until the staff can be changed

Thursday, July 22, 2010

RYAN CAREER STANDINGS

RYAN SEASON 16 SEASON TOTALS


AL North

W

L

Pct

GB

Div

WC

LCS

WS

Owners

Madison Massa's

1648

1006

0.620

-

6

9

4

3

1

New York Bombers

1553

1101

0.585

94

5

9

2

0

1

Toledo Holy

1410

1244

0.531

238

5

4

2

0

3

Minnesota Wobegon's

1114

1540

0.420

534

0

1

0

0

10

AL EAST

W

L

Pct

GB

Div

WC

LCS

WS

Owners

Burlington Ice Storm

1371

1283

0.517

-

10

1

1

0

3

Chicago Wolves

1194

1460

0.450

177

5

0

0

0

9

Washington D.C. old school warriors

1166

1488

0.439

205

1

0

0

0

1

Durham Bulls

1013

1641

0.382

358

0

0

0

0

1

AL SOUTH

W

L

Pct

GB

Div

WC

LCS

WS

Owners

Houston Colt 45's

1353

1301

0.510

-

9

0

2

1

6

Texas Tornadoes

1287

1367

0.485

66

3

1

0

0

7

St. Louis Rustlers

1167

1487

0.440

186

2

1

0

0

9

Louisville Loud Mouths

1158

1496

0.436

195

2

0

0

0

5

AL WEST

W

L

Pct

GB

Div

WC

LCS

WS

Owner

Kansas City McCoys

1438

1216

0.542

-

4

3

2

2

2

Vancouver Maple Syrups

1418

1236

0.534

20

9

0

1

1

6

Las Vegas Gamble

1253

1401

0.472

185

0

1

0

0

5

Salt Lake City Assault

1242

1412

0.468

196

3

2

2

0

10

NL NORTH

W

L

Pct

GB

Div

WC

LCS

WS

Owners

Philadelphia Balboas

1351

1303

0.509

-

4

2

1

1

2

Cincinnati Ramrod

1303

1351

0.491

48

7

1

2

0

5

Milwaukee Blue Stockings

1153

1501

0.434

198

0

1

0

0

5

Columbus Horseshoes

1142

1512

0.430

209

5

0

0

0

6

NL EAST

W

L

Pct

GB

Div

WC

LCS

WS

Owners

New York Dolls

1692

962

0.638

-

15

1

7

6

2

Pittsburgh Pirates

1368

1286

0.515

324

1

8

0

0

6

Atlanta Braves

1095

1559

0.412

597

0

0

0

0

1

Norfolk Train Wrecks

1004

1650

0.378

688

0

1

0

0

10

NL SOUTH

W

L

Pct

GB

Div

WC

LCS

WS

Owners

Monterrey Metros

1338

1316

0.504

-

7

0

1

0

6

Austin BUTCHERS

1316

1338

0.496

22

5

0

0

0

6

Memphis Amon-Ra

1207

1447

0.455

131

2

1

1

1

7

Florida Sting Ray

1204

1450

0.454

134

2

0

0

0

1

NL WEST

W

L

Pct

GB

Div

WC

LCS

WS

Owners

Salem Slammers

1447

1207

0.545

-

3

8

1

0

3

Colorado Springs Organizational Filler

1428

1226

0.538

19

5

3

2

0

4

Cheyenne Marmots

1346

1308

0.507

101

3

4

0

0

5

Colorado Mile High Club

1293

1361

0.487

154

5

2

1

1

1