While the Dodgers are enjoying a 12 of 16 run that has surged them back into a tie for first place with the Giants, I thought I'd take some time to look at how some of the 2013 Dodgers are doing. That is, those who have since moved onto different teams. Here we go.
Ricky Nolasco, SP, Twins: 4-6, 5.74 ERA, 1.59 WHIP, 69 K's in 95 2/3 IP
Wow, he's been a disaster. He was very good for the most part with the Dodgers last season, giving them many quality starts over the second half. Then he faded, and was barely heard from in the postseason. Nonetheless, the Twins gave him four years and $49 to fix their awful rotation. It hasn't worked. Phil Hughes and Kyle Gibson have been pretty good, but Nolasco was brought in to lead that staff. He looks like a huge waste of money right now.
Edinson Volquez, SP, Pirates: 6-6, 4.07 ERA, 1.24 WHIP, 63 K's in 93 IP
I'm not sure what the Pirates expected out of him, but all things considered, he's been pretty decent. Considering he has a career 4.69 ERA and 1.48 WHIP, his numbers this year look even better. The Pirates lost A.J. Burnett to the Phillies after their great run last season, and the team as a whole is struggling to find their footing. The thing with Volquez is that I'm not sure he can get any better than this. A second half plunge wouldn't surprise me at all.
Chris Capuano, RP, (formerly of) Red Sox: 1-1, 1 HLD, 1 BLSV, 4.55 ERA, 1.55 WHIP, 29 K's in 31 2/3 IP
The Red Sox tried to make Capuano their swingman, ala Paul Maholm with the Dodgers, but it didn't quite work. He was designated for assignment on June 25 after getting shelled by the Mariners a couple days before. He's certainly had his fair share of arm problems, and at 35, who knows if he has any chances left.
Ronald Belisario, RP, White Sox: 3-4, 8 SV, 6 HLD, 4 BLSV, 5.54 ERA, 1.34 WHIP, 28 K's in 37 1/3 IP
Three days ago, Belisario was canned as White Sox closer after he was given a three-run cushion against the Blue Jays, but couldn't finish the job. Maybe Robin Ventura has never walked to the other side of Camelback Ranch, because if he had, he'd have seen just how wild and unpredictable Belisario is. There's no way he should've been a closer in the first place. Ventura learned his lesson the hard way.
Javy Guerra, RP, White Sox: 0-0, 3 HLD, 1 BLSV, 2.40 ERA, 1.27 WHIP, 16 K's in 15 IP
On the flip side, a pleasant surprise has been Guerra. He spent the first couple of months in Triple-A and earned his way up in June. Good for him, as his Dodgers' career ended with a thud, going from 21 saves and "closer of the future" in 2011 to barely existent thereafter. Maybe he's found confidence again, who knows. On a team like the White Sox full of horrible pitching, he's got a great chance in front of him, and so far, has made the most of it.
Carlos Marmol, RP, Reds: 0-3, 1 HLD, 1 BLSV, 8.10 ERA, 1.95 WHIP, 14 K's in 13 1/3 IP
It's been a tough road for Marmol this year, as the stats above all came with the Marlins before he was given his walking papers on May 19. He was then signed to a minor league contract by the Reds about a week later, only to leave Triple-A without permission a couple weeks after that. Weird stuff, but I think even he realizes he's at the end of the road.
Mark Ellis, 2B, Cardinals: .194 AVG, .276 OBP, 6 2B, 0 HR, 12 RBI, 4 SB
Ellis had a solid career with the Dodgers, but after the signing of Alex Guerrero, he was shown the door. Guerrero hasn't emerged with the big club yet because he wasn't ready defensively, and has since had part of his ear bitten off by that nutcase Miguel Olivo. Dee Gordon, however, has come on strong enough to be an All-Star candidate. So, releasing Ellis was a smart move because Gordon is the everyday leadoff hitter, and Ellis is really struggling at the plate. He'll never have big numbers, but the ones he has now are pretty bad. It's hard not to like how hard the guy plays, but the bottom line is that he's just not producing.
Skip Schumaker, OF/2B, Reds: .242 AVG, .276 OBP, 6 2B, 1 HR, 13 RBI, 1 SB
Schumaker only played one season with the Dodgers, as he was a favorite of hitting coach Mark McGwire from their Cardinals days. Like the Dodgers, the Reds have used him all over the outfield and at second base, making him the super utility guy. His average continues to tumble, as this is the fourth straight year it's gone down. But, like I said before, that's less of a concern because he's there to plug in holes when necessary.
Nick Punto, 2B/SS, A's: .235 AVG, .336 OBP, 5 2B, 0 HR, 10 RBI, 2 SB
Much like Schumaker, Punto is mostly there for his utility work, as he's appeared mostly at second and short, but also a little third and right field. He's getting a pretty good amount of at-bats on a very good team, and thanks to 20 walks, has a decent OBP. He appears to be well on his way to his fifth postseason in his career, and that experience is where he's truly most valuable, just like when he was a Dodger last year.
Showing posts with label Capuano. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Capuano. Show all posts
Monday, June 30, 2014
Thursday, October 31, 2013
Options for Capuano and Ellis declined, so sayonara to them?
With the offseason officially in full swing after the Red Sox downed the Cardinals to win the World Series on Wednesday, the Dodgers made some news today by declining the options on Chris Capuano and Mark Ellis.
Both will be bought out for $1 million each. Capuano could have made $8 million next season, and Ellis $5.75 million, so this obviously saves some cash for bigger needs.
Then again, both could also resign at much more realistic rates. The early returns are that Ellis is the more likely of the two to be brought back. The Dodgers view Alexander Guerrero as their long-term answer at second base, or at least they hope. But then again, he could also play shortstop, which would slide Hanley Ramirez over to third, opening up second for Ellis again.
I do think the Dodgers will make an effort to bring Ellis back, especially because he's still very good on defense. He was a finalist for a Gold Glove, but lost out to Brandon Phillips, which there's certainly no shame in doing. Offensively, Ellis hit .270 with 6 homers and 48 RBIs, so it's not like there's much production there. That will probably cost him a starting nod. But, off the bench, I can see him contributing.
As for Capuano, I wouldn't expect to see him back next season. Give the guy a bunch of credit for battling back from two Tommy John surgeries. I can only imagine the uncertainty he must have felt going through that rehab twice.
But, as the years and innings continue to pile up, I just don't see him getting any better. He went 4-7 with a 4.26 ERA and 1.41 WHIP this year, which is nothing special. I think the Dodgers will look elsewhere.
Both will be bought out for $1 million each. Capuano could have made $8 million next season, and Ellis $5.75 million, so this obviously saves some cash for bigger needs.
Then again, both could also resign at much more realistic rates. The early returns are that Ellis is the more likely of the two to be brought back. The Dodgers view Alexander Guerrero as their long-term answer at second base, or at least they hope. But then again, he could also play shortstop, which would slide Hanley Ramirez over to third, opening up second for Ellis again.
I do think the Dodgers will make an effort to bring Ellis back, especially because he's still very good on defense. He was a finalist for a Gold Glove, but lost out to Brandon Phillips, which there's certainly no shame in doing. Offensively, Ellis hit .270 with 6 homers and 48 RBIs, so it's not like there's much production there. That will probably cost him a starting nod. But, off the bench, I can see him contributing.
As for Capuano, I wouldn't expect to see him back next season. Give the guy a bunch of credit for battling back from two Tommy John surgeries. I can only imagine the uncertainty he must have felt going through that rehab twice.
But, as the years and innings continue to pile up, I just don't see him getting any better. He went 4-7 with a 4.26 ERA and 1.41 WHIP this year, which is nothing special. I think the Dodgers will look elsewhere.
Saturday, June 29, 2013
I guess this is why the Dodgers want to trade for pitching
There's really only one way to sum up Friday night's 16-1 shellacking to the Phillies: it sucked.
End of story.
It was the worst home loss the Dodgers suffered since moving from Brooklyn, if you want to look further into it. Chris Capuano was absolutely horrific, and the bullpen of Peter Moylan, Matt Guerrier, and Brandon League were just atrocious.
Oh, Skip Schumaker pitched a scoreless ninth. That might be the most embarrassing stat of the night.
For those of you wondering why the Dodgers would be linked to a guy like Ricky Nolasco of the Marlins, this is it. I wrote the other day about how the Dodgers were getting good production from the back end of their rotation during this recent six-game winning streak. Well, you can throw that out the window after Friday. It's hard to imagine Capuano being much worse.
Nolasco seems to be the biggest name out there so far, at least well before the trade deadline at the end of July starts sparking new names. He's the type of guy who certainly has the potential, but is notorious for not living up to those projections. And guess what? He was hit around by the Padres at home before the Dodgers took the field on Friday, giving up five runs and 11 hits in five innings. Not exactly the type of start that encourages Dodger fans.
Still, would making a move for Nolasco be worth it? There's understandable concern that Capuano, Stephen Fife, and Ted Lilly are not the answers down the stretch. I like the way Fife has looked lately, so perhaps he'll be fine, but I can see why management wants an upgrade to solidify the fourth and fifth rotation spots.
This season, Nolasco is 4-8 with a 3.93 ERA, 1.24 WHIP, and 83 K's in 103 1/3 innings. Those numbers aren't bad, but he's in a rough patch right now. He was only 1-4 in May, but with a 3.57 ERA. In five June starts, he's fallen back at 1-2 with a 4.55 ERA. One step forward, one step back.
Money is no object for the Dodgers anymore, so they can easily cover the remaining $6 million left on Nolasco's deal. When it comes to players with big money owed, you can automatically link the Dodgers to them after the Red Sox trade from last year. So that gives them an edge over teams reluctant to take on all that money.
Before Friday's game, I would have said that the Dodgers should steer clear of him. But Capuano was so bad and so discouraging, I'm completely rethinking that stance. I can't imagine the Dodgers would have to give up much to get him as long as they take his contract, so no major players would be on the move to Miami. Maybe Nolasco is one of those "change of scenery" type of players where getting away can only help. Rick Honeycutt has had success with all sorts of different pitchers, so I'd like to see what he can do with Nolasco.
As for the bullpen, I haven't seen any specific names linked to them, but that will change soon. There's no way they can feel confident about winning anytime they give the ball to guys like League, Moylan, and Guerrier. Ditto for Ronald Belisario. The only ones they feel good about are Kenley Jansen, J.P. Howell, and Paco Rodriguez. As much as Don Mattingly would like to, he can't put them in there EVERY game.
End of story.
It was the worst home loss the Dodgers suffered since moving from Brooklyn, if you want to look further into it. Chris Capuano was absolutely horrific, and the bullpen of Peter Moylan, Matt Guerrier, and Brandon League were just atrocious.
Oh, Skip Schumaker pitched a scoreless ninth. That might be the most embarrassing stat of the night.
For those of you wondering why the Dodgers would be linked to a guy like Ricky Nolasco of the Marlins, this is it. I wrote the other day about how the Dodgers were getting good production from the back end of their rotation during this recent six-game winning streak. Well, you can throw that out the window after Friday. It's hard to imagine Capuano being much worse.
Nolasco seems to be the biggest name out there so far, at least well before the trade deadline at the end of July starts sparking new names. He's the type of guy who certainly has the potential, but is notorious for not living up to those projections. And guess what? He was hit around by the Padres at home before the Dodgers took the field on Friday, giving up five runs and 11 hits in five innings. Not exactly the type of start that encourages Dodger fans.
Still, would making a move for Nolasco be worth it? There's understandable concern that Capuano, Stephen Fife, and Ted Lilly are not the answers down the stretch. I like the way Fife has looked lately, so perhaps he'll be fine, but I can see why management wants an upgrade to solidify the fourth and fifth rotation spots.
This season, Nolasco is 4-8 with a 3.93 ERA, 1.24 WHIP, and 83 K's in 103 1/3 innings. Those numbers aren't bad, but he's in a rough patch right now. He was only 1-4 in May, but with a 3.57 ERA. In five June starts, he's fallen back at 1-2 with a 4.55 ERA. One step forward, one step back.
Money is no object for the Dodgers anymore, so they can easily cover the remaining $6 million left on Nolasco's deal. When it comes to players with big money owed, you can automatically link the Dodgers to them after the Red Sox trade from last year. So that gives them an edge over teams reluctant to take on all that money.
Before Friday's game, I would have said that the Dodgers should steer clear of him. But Capuano was so bad and so discouraging, I'm completely rethinking that stance. I can't imagine the Dodgers would have to give up much to get him as long as they take his contract, so no major players would be on the move to Miami. Maybe Nolasco is one of those "change of scenery" type of players where getting away can only help. Rick Honeycutt has had success with all sorts of different pitchers, so I'd like to see what he can do with Nolasco.
As for the bullpen, I haven't seen any specific names linked to them, but that will change soon. There's no way they can feel confident about winning anytime they give the ball to guys like League, Moylan, and Guerrier. Ditto for Ronald Belisario. The only ones they feel good about are Kenley Jansen, J.P. Howell, and Paco Rodriguez. As much as Don Mattingly would like to, he can't put them in there EVERY game.
Wednesday, June 26, 2013
Is this turning point in the Dodgers' season?
Just as Matt Kemp made a fantastic catch near the wall in center to give the Dodgers a 6-5 win on Tuesday night, something became apparent that hasn't happened all season.
The Dodgers may finally be ready to start winning.
The win marked four straight, which hasn't happened all year. That's hard to believe that at no point in a three-month span they've managed to even accidentally win four in a row, but it's true. Issues on both sides of the field to go along with countless injuries have made this a first half to largely forget.
Over the last few days, however, things have slowly started to look up. Here are five things that have gone right and are giving Dodger fans reasons for getting excited.
1) Yasiel Puig. To put in perspective just how enormous he's been this season, take this into account: an 0-for-4 night on Tuesday DROPPED his average to .420. Yup, I'd say he's pretty darn good.
His average won't always be this high, so he'll start to gradually level off. But that's OK. He's been so electric in the field and powerful at the plate, his mere presence gives the Dodgers an added edge, much like the arrival of Manny Ramirez in 2008. His impact alone hasn't carried the Dodgers, but combined with the returns of Hanley Ramirez and Matt Kemp, it certainly can.
2) Hanley Ramirez. For the first time all season, Ramirez is healthy and letting it rip. He is absolutely smashing the ball right now. In 50 at-bats since coming off the DL earlier in June, he's hitting .340 with three doubles, four homers, and 12 RBIs.
Perhaps most encouraging are the comments made my Ramirez himself. In his mind, this is the best he's felt at the plate since 2009. How good was he that year? .342, 42 doubles, 24 homers, 106 RBIs. Holy crap. If he truly does feel this good, then look out. He's going to remind people all over again why he's one of the best in the majors.
3) Matt Kemp is back from the DL. Time will tell how effective he'll be, or even how healthy he is. But in one game, he already showed how much the Dodgers need him. He singled in the sixth, then ended up scoring from second on a single by Tim Federowicz, showing great speed. Then there was the catch to keep the lead in the ninth as the Giants had two on and two out. He had to range back and make the catch without crashing into the wall. A very difficult play, especially for someone who hasn't played center in about a month.
It's easy to think that Kemp should automatically be the powerhouse performer circa 2011, but he's a different player right now. Injuries have taken their toll the last couple of seasons. What the Dodgers can hope for is that he plays a great center field and doesn't strikeout too much. The big hits will come if he can stay disciplined and not try to win it all every at-bat.
4) Kenley Jansen is the closer. Need more proof that Jansen was the right call over Brandon League as the team's closer? Look no further than Tuesday night. Jansen needed rest, so League was given a chance to close out a three-run game and was absolutely abysmal. Three straight hits nearly handed the lead right back. Thankfully Paco Rodiguez and Kemp's final catch helped keep the lead, but barely.
Jansen blew his first save after being named closer a couple weeks back, but has since made three straight dominating appearances, striking out eight in three innings, while collecting two saves. That's the type of pitcher we know he can be. But let's face it, anybody is better than League!
5) The back end of the rotation is stepping up. The Dodgers have cycled through starting pitcher after starting pitcher the whole season with mixed results. For every great Clayton Kershaw start, there's been a walkfest by Matt Magill. But, the last handful of starts by Stephen Fife and Chris Capuano have been very encouraging. Combine that with Kershaw, Zack Greinke, and Hyun-Jin Ryu, and the Dodgers may finally have a settled rotation.
Keep in mind that Chad Billingsley, Josh Beckett, and Ted Lilly are currently on the shelf. We know Billingsley is gone for the year and Beckett is a giant question mark. Lilly seems like he's close to returning, so I'm sure he'll get some action either in the bullpen or as a spot starter. If we've learned anything about this team, it's that they can use all the healthy arms they can get.
It's not like the Dodgers are without flaws, but I will say this: if Kershaw can once again outduel Tim Lincecum to complete the three-game sweep of the Giants on Wednesday, then this is definitely the turning point of the season. In the NL West where the division-leading Diamondbacks are a mere six games over .500, the improved Dodgers can start chipping away at their seven-game deficit heading into the All-Star break.
The Dodgers may finally be ready to start winning.
The win marked four straight, which hasn't happened all year. That's hard to believe that at no point in a three-month span they've managed to even accidentally win four in a row, but it's true. Issues on both sides of the field to go along with countless injuries have made this a first half to largely forget.
Over the last few days, however, things have slowly started to look up. Here are five things that have gone right and are giving Dodger fans reasons for getting excited.
1) Yasiel Puig. To put in perspective just how enormous he's been this season, take this into account: an 0-for-4 night on Tuesday DROPPED his average to .420. Yup, I'd say he's pretty darn good.
His average won't always be this high, so he'll start to gradually level off. But that's OK. He's been so electric in the field and powerful at the plate, his mere presence gives the Dodgers an added edge, much like the arrival of Manny Ramirez in 2008. His impact alone hasn't carried the Dodgers, but combined with the returns of Hanley Ramirez and Matt Kemp, it certainly can.
2) Hanley Ramirez. For the first time all season, Ramirez is healthy and letting it rip. He is absolutely smashing the ball right now. In 50 at-bats since coming off the DL earlier in June, he's hitting .340 with three doubles, four homers, and 12 RBIs.
Perhaps most encouraging are the comments made my Ramirez himself. In his mind, this is the best he's felt at the plate since 2009. How good was he that year? .342, 42 doubles, 24 homers, 106 RBIs. Holy crap. If he truly does feel this good, then look out. He's going to remind people all over again why he's one of the best in the majors.
3) Matt Kemp is back from the DL. Time will tell how effective he'll be, or even how healthy he is. But in one game, he already showed how much the Dodgers need him. He singled in the sixth, then ended up scoring from second on a single by Tim Federowicz, showing great speed. Then there was the catch to keep the lead in the ninth as the Giants had two on and two out. He had to range back and make the catch without crashing into the wall. A very difficult play, especially for someone who hasn't played center in about a month.
It's easy to think that Kemp should automatically be the powerhouse performer circa 2011, but he's a different player right now. Injuries have taken their toll the last couple of seasons. What the Dodgers can hope for is that he plays a great center field and doesn't strikeout too much. The big hits will come if he can stay disciplined and not try to win it all every at-bat.
4) Kenley Jansen is the closer. Need more proof that Jansen was the right call over Brandon League as the team's closer? Look no further than Tuesday night. Jansen needed rest, so League was given a chance to close out a three-run game and was absolutely abysmal. Three straight hits nearly handed the lead right back. Thankfully Paco Rodiguez and Kemp's final catch helped keep the lead, but barely.
Jansen blew his first save after being named closer a couple weeks back, but has since made three straight dominating appearances, striking out eight in three innings, while collecting two saves. That's the type of pitcher we know he can be. But let's face it, anybody is better than League!
5) The back end of the rotation is stepping up. The Dodgers have cycled through starting pitcher after starting pitcher the whole season with mixed results. For every great Clayton Kershaw start, there's been a walkfest by Matt Magill. But, the last handful of starts by Stephen Fife and Chris Capuano have been very encouraging. Combine that with Kershaw, Zack Greinke, and Hyun-Jin Ryu, and the Dodgers may finally have a settled rotation.
Keep in mind that Chad Billingsley, Josh Beckett, and Ted Lilly are currently on the shelf. We know Billingsley is gone for the year and Beckett is a giant question mark. Lilly seems like he's close to returning, so I'm sure he'll get some action either in the bullpen or as a spot starter. If we've learned anything about this team, it's that they can use all the healthy arms they can get.
It's not like the Dodgers are without flaws, but I will say this: if Kershaw can once again outduel Tim Lincecum to complete the three-game sweep of the Giants on Wednesday, then this is definitely the turning point of the season. In the NL West where the division-leading Diamondbacks are a mere six games over .500, the improved Dodgers can start chipping away at their seven-game deficit heading into the All-Star break.
Saturday, May 4, 2013
Injuries, injuries, and more injuries continue to hammer the Dodgers
Just when you thought the Dodgers might finally be getting somewhat healthy again, add Hanley Ramirez to the list of the people we won't be seeing for awhile... again.
Playing in only his fourth game since returning from the DL with a torn thumb ligament, Ramirez hurt his hamstring trying to go first to third on a single, and had to be helped off the field. How bad was it? Don Mattingly compared it to Matt Kemp's injury to last year, which we all know completely derailed his season.
Ouch.
As a Lakers' fan as well, the Dodgers make that team look healthy. I never thought I'd see anything quite like I watched this winter and spring with Kobe Bryant, Steve Nash, Pau Gasol, Metta World Peace, Steve Blake, Jordan Hill, and Jodie Meeks all going down at one point or another. And that's not to mention Dwight Howard never really being healthy, either.
But, I was wrong. The Dodgers are already looking like an infirmary unit a mere 28 games into the season. Do the math, and you'll see that only 17% of the season has been played. Here's what Mattingly and the Dodgers have had to endure this season:
Zach Greinke (broken collarbone, out two months)
Chad Billingsley (Tommy John surgery, out one year)
Scott Elbert (left elbow surgery, return unknown)
Ted Lilly (strained rib cage, return unknown)
Chris Capuano (strained left calf, will return soon)
Stephen Fife (right shoulder bursitis, return unknown)
Shawn Tolleson (lower back surgery, out 3-5 months)
Now you can add in Ramirez to miss another chunk of time after missing about a month with his thumb injury. Plus there's Adrian Gonzalez getting scratched in recent games with leg and neck injuries. Mark Ellis is nursing a sore quad, and could quite possibly be heading to the DL. Carl Crawford is working through a hamstring strain and has missed three games, but did pinch-hit on Friday.
Kemp hasn't missed a game this year, but has only one homer and five doubles. In other words, it's obvious that he's trying to work through the bad shoulder that he had surgically repaired last season. Very Dwight Howard-like it seems. Commendable that he's playing, but a concern that the numbers aren't close to what they could be.
Any team that goes through injuries like this is bound to struggle some. But for a team that has a sky-high payroll and expectations, and a paper-thin bench, the Dodgers feel the sting of these injuries even more. I can tell you this: nobody feels sorry for them. They traded for the big names last season, signed a couple of big names this offseason, and practically declared this season World Series or bust. So far, bust is winning.
At some point, you would hope, the Dodgers will get healthy bodies back on the field at once. Maybe not completely healthy, but more than they are right now. I guess all they can do is try to hold serve and pray nothing else goes wrong. Can you imagine if guys like Clayton Kershaw and Kenley Jansen also go down? Yikes. Can't help but wonder now.
Playing in only his fourth game since returning from the DL with a torn thumb ligament, Ramirez hurt his hamstring trying to go first to third on a single, and had to be helped off the field. How bad was it? Don Mattingly compared it to Matt Kemp's injury to last year, which we all know completely derailed his season.
Ouch.
As a Lakers' fan as well, the Dodgers make that team look healthy. I never thought I'd see anything quite like I watched this winter and spring with Kobe Bryant, Steve Nash, Pau Gasol, Metta World Peace, Steve Blake, Jordan Hill, and Jodie Meeks all going down at one point or another. And that's not to mention Dwight Howard never really being healthy, either.
But, I was wrong. The Dodgers are already looking like an infirmary unit a mere 28 games into the season. Do the math, and you'll see that only 17% of the season has been played. Here's what Mattingly and the Dodgers have had to endure this season:
Zach Greinke (broken collarbone, out two months)
Chad Billingsley (Tommy John surgery, out one year)
Scott Elbert (left elbow surgery, return unknown)
Ted Lilly (strained rib cage, return unknown)
Chris Capuano (strained left calf, will return soon)
Stephen Fife (right shoulder bursitis, return unknown)
Shawn Tolleson (lower back surgery, out 3-5 months)
Now you can add in Ramirez to miss another chunk of time after missing about a month with his thumb injury. Plus there's Adrian Gonzalez getting scratched in recent games with leg and neck injuries. Mark Ellis is nursing a sore quad, and could quite possibly be heading to the DL. Carl Crawford is working through a hamstring strain and has missed three games, but did pinch-hit on Friday.
Kemp hasn't missed a game this year, but has only one homer and five doubles. In other words, it's obvious that he's trying to work through the bad shoulder that he had surgically repaired last season. Very Dwight Howard-like it seems. Commendable that he's playing, but a concern that the numbers aren't close to what they could be.
Any team that goes through injuries like this is bound to struggle some. But for a team that has a sky-high payroll and expectations, and a paper-thin bench, the Dodgers feel the sting of these injuries even more. I can tell you this: nobody feels sorry for them. They traded for the big names last season, signed a couple of big names this offseason, and practically declared this season World Series or bust. So far, bust is winning.
At some point, you would hope, the Dodgers will get healthy bodies back on the field at once. Maybe not completely healthy, but more than they are right now. I guess all they can do is try to hold serve and pray nothing else goes wrong. Can you imagine if guys like Clayton Kershaw and Kenley Jansen also go down? Yikes. Can't help but wonder now.
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
An updated look at the rotation candidates
As we currently stand, there are 13 games left in Spring Training. Here's another look at how the rotation is shaping up, as the battle for the fifth starter heats up.
Clayton Kershaw
2-2, 19 IP, 20 K, 4 BB, 3.79 ERA, 1.32 WHIP
Kershaw recently took a liner off of his calf, but as usual, wasn't affected at all. Rumor has it he's pretty good. 'Nuff said.
Zack Greinke
0-0, 5 IP, 3 K, 1 BB, 3.60 ERA, 1.40 WHIP
Obviously, this hasn't been the start to his Dodger tenure that Greinke has hoped for. On the good side, his elbow injury appears to be minor, with the only setback being that he might not be ready for his first start. After that, he appears good to go. With the money he makes, the Dodgers will take every precaution necessary, especially since they have plenty of other starters who can plug a gap in the meantime.
Chad Billingsley
0-1, 7 2/3 IP, 6 K, 3 BB, 7.04 ERA, 1.96 WHIP
The numbers are high, but the good news is that he's even pitching at all. I still have plenty of worries about Billingsley lasting all year, or with him being effective at all if he's not 100%.
Hyun-Jin Ryu
1-2, 16 1/3 IP, 18 K, 6 BB, 4.41 ERA, 1.35 WHIP
Ryu has gotten progressively better as he settles into pitching to MLB hitters. His last start against the Brewers he surrendered one run in 5 2/3 innings, striking out six while allowing only three hits. I really like him towards the end of the rotation, as hitters aren't used to him yet, and he has the stuff to matchup very well against other 4-5 starters.
Josh Beckett
0-0, 9 1/3 IP, 11 K, 3 BB, 0.96 ERA, 0.75 WHIP
Speaking of pitchers I like this year, Beckett is right atop that list. He showed last year that coming to LA has dramatically helped his career, and I expect him to be great this year as well. A full season in LA will show that he still can get it done, and very well, too.
Chris Capuano
0-1, 9 1/3 IP, 10 K, 2 BB, 10.61 ERA, 1.61 WHIP
Not the greatest of starts for Capuano, who hasn't gotten going at all. The K/BB split is encouraging, though. The longball has killed him, as he's already given up four, so if he figures out how to cut down on that, he'll be fine.
Aaron Harang
1-0, 9 IP, 4 K, 5 BB, 10.00 ERA, 2.44 WHIP
Yikes. It's hard to believe his record is even 1-0 with numbers like those, even if it is Spring Training. When opponents are hitting .395 against you, it's probably not the best way to earn a rotation spot. It's hard to imagine that happening at this point. He better get ready for long relief or another team.
Ted Lilly
0-2, 6 2/3 IP, 5 K, 5 BB, 9.45 ERA, 2.40 WHIP
Once again we have a candidate for the #5 spot who has awful numbers. Lilly has the most to prove, as he missed nearly all of last season with a shoulder injury. And like Harang, I can't see how he gets that last spot. Just ugly numbers to say the least.
Clayton Kershaw
2-2, 19 IP, 20 K, 4 BB, 3.79 ERA, 1.32 WHIP
Kershaw recently took a liner off of his calf, but as usual, wasn't affected at all. Rumor has it he's pretty good. 'Nuff said.
Zack Greinke
0-0, 5 IP, 3 K, 1 BB, 3.60 ERA, 1.40 WHIP
Obviously, this hasn't been the start to his Dodger tenure that Greinke has hoped for. On the good side, his elbow injury appears to be minor, with the only setback being that he might not be ready for his first start. After that, he appears good to go. With the money he makes, the Dodgers will take every precaution necessary, especially since they have plenty of other starters who can plug a gap in the meantime.
Chad Billingsley
0-1, 7 2/3 IP, 6 K, 3 BB, 7.04 ERA, 1.96 WHIP
The numbers are high, but the good news is that he's even pitching at all. I still have plenty of worries about Billingsley lasting all year, or with him being effective at all if he's not 100%.
Hyun-Jin Ryu
1-2, 16 1/3 IP, 18 K, 6 BB, 4.41 ERA, 1.35 WHIP
Ryu has gotten progressively better as he settles into pitching to MLB hitters. His last start against the Brewers he surrendered one run in 5 2/3 innings, striking out six while allowing only three hits. I really like him towards the end of the rotation, as hitters aren't used to him yet, and he has the stuff to matchup very well against other 4-5 starters.
Josh Beckett
0-0, 9 1/3 IP, 11 K, 3 BB, 0.96 ERA, 0.75 WHIP
Speaking of pitchers I like this year, Beckett is right atop that list. He showed last year that coming to LA has dramatically helped his career, and I expect him to be great this year as well. A full season in LA will show that he still can get it done, and very well, too.
Chris Capuano
0-1, 9 1/3 IP, 10 K, 2 BB, 10.61 ERA, 1.61 WHIP
Not the greatest of starts for Capuano, who hasn't gotten going at all. The K/BB split is encouraging, though. The longball has killed him, as he's already given up four, so if he figures out how to cut down on that, he'll be fine.
Aaron Harang
1-0, 9 IP, 4 K, 5 BB, 10.00 ERA, 2.44 WHIP
Yikes. It's hard to believe his record is even 1-0 with numbers like those, even if it is Spring Training. When opponents are hitting .395 against you, it's probably not the best way to earn a rotation spot. It's hard to imagine that happening at this point. He better get ready for long relief or another team.
Ted Lilly
0-2, 6 2/3 IP, 5 K, 5 BB, 9.45 ERA, 2.40 WHIP
Once again we have a candidate for the #5 spot who has awful numbers. Lilly has the most to prove, as he missed nearly all of last season with a shoulder injury. And like Harang, I can't see how he gets that last spot. Just ugly numbers to say the least.
Sunday, March 10, 2013
The battle for the fifth starter
While plenty of Dodgers contribute to their team's success in the World Baseball Classic, back in Arizona, the Dodgers are still trying to figure out who will round out the starting rotation. Assuming that Clayton Kershaw, Zack Greinke, Chad Billingsley, and Josh Beckett are the first four, let's take a look at the men in contention for the last slot.
Hyun-Jin Ryu
3 games (2 starts), 6 IP, 8 H, 4 ER, 2 BB, 9 K, 6.00 ERA, 1.67 WHIP
I still contend that the Dodgers didn't sign Ryu just have him pitch out of the bullpen, but let's assume that nothing is etched in stone. As you can see, it hasn't exactly been smooth sailing for him, as evidenced by his high ERA and WHIP. What's definitely encouraging are his low walks and high strikeouts, a sign that the control is there. You have to cut him some slack to get adjusted to US hitters, so I think he'll be fine and get a rotation spot.
Chris Capuano
2 games (1 start), 5 IP, 7 H, 6 ER, 1 BB, 6 K, 10.80 ERA, 1.60 WHIP
These numbers come with a giant asterisk, as he went four innings against the Reds on Friday before rain washed out all the numbers. In that start, he gave up only one run on two hits, striking out three. Add it all up, his ERA should be 7.00, which isn't great, but a heck of a lot better than 10.80. He showed the Dodgers' brass last season how effective he can be at the start of the season with a fresh arm, so he still has a great chance of cracking the rotation. If his fragile arm can handle it, perhaps he'd be used out the bullpen as insurance against an injury to start the season as well.
Aaron Harang
2 games (2 starts), 5 IP, 11 H, 6 ER, 3 BB, 3 K, 10.80 ERA, 2.80 WHIP
There's really no other way of saying this, but Harang has stunk so far. Yes, it's only two starts, but he's really put himself in a hole with numbers like that. Here's another eye-popping stat: teams are hitting .440 against him. Yikes! At this point he sure looks like the odd man out, as reports surfaced that the Orioles and Brewers scouted him recently. I'd be surprised if he sticks around the Dodgers much longer, but as they well know, injuries can strike at any time, so maybe they'll keep him around a little while longer just in case.
Ted Lilly
1 game (no starts), 2 IP, 1 H, 1 ER, 0 BB, 1 K, 4.50 ERA, 0.50 WHIP
It's hard to really evaluate Lilly at this point, as his first official start was scratched earlier in the week because of the flu. He's practically the forgotten man at this point, as he missed nearly all of last season with a shoulder injury, and would appear to have to do something special to get that fifth slot. I don't like his chances at all, but because of his solid track record starting, maybe he can impress the rest of March.
Hyun-Jin Ryu
3 games (2 starts), 6 IP, 8 H, 4 ER, 2 BB, 9 K, 6.00 ERA, 1.67 WHIP
I still contend that the Dodgers didn't sign Ryu just have him pitch out of the bullpen, but let's assume that nothing is etched in stone. As you can see, it hasn't exactly been smooth sailing for him, as evidenced by his high ERA and WHIP. What's definitely encouraging are his low walks and high strikeouts, a sign that the control is there. You have to cut him some slack to get adjusted to US hitters, so I think he'll be fine and get a rotation spot.
Chris Capuano
2 games (1 start), 5 IP, 7 H, 6 ER, 1 BB, 6 K, 10.80 ERA, 1.60 WHIP
These numbers come with a giant asterisk, as he went four innings against the Reds on Friday before rain washed out all the numbers. In that start, he gave up only one run on two hits, striking out three. Add it all up, his ERA should be 7.00, which isn't great, but a heck of a lot better than 10.80. He showed the Dodgers' brass last season how effective he can be at the start of the season with a fresh arm, so he still has a great chance of cracking the rotation. If his fragile arm can handle it, perhaps he'd be used out the bullpen as insurance against an injury to start the season as well.
Aaron Harang
2 games (2 starts), 5 IP, 11 H, 6 ER, 3 BB, 3 K, 10.80 ERA, 2.80 WHIP
There's really no other way of saying this, but Harang has stunk so far. Yes, it's only two starts, but he's really put himself in a hole with numbers like that. Here's another eye-popping stat: teams are hitting .440 against him. Yikes! At this point he sure looks like the odd man out, as reports surfaced that the Orioles and Brewers scouted him recently. I'd be surprised if he sticks around the Dodgers much longer, but as they well know, injuries can strike at any time, so maybe they'll keep him around a little while longer just in case.
Ted Lilly
1 game (no starts), 2 IP, 1 H, 1 ER, 0 BB, 1 K, 4.50 ERA, 0.50 WHIP
It's hard to really evaluate Lilly at this point, as his first official start was scratched earlier in the week because of the flu. He's practically the forgotten man at this point, as he missed nearly all of last season with a shoulder injury, and would appear to have to do something special to get that fifth slot. I don't like his chances at all, but because of his solid track record starting, maybe he can impress the rest of March.
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
Taking a look at the starting rotation
The one guy the Dodgers thought they'd get at the trade deadline, Ryan Dempster, ended up going to the Rangers. While the Dodgers did add Shane Victorino and Hanley Ramirez to bolster the offense, and Randy Choate and Brandon League to do the same in the bullpen, there's no question that the rotation is a bit of a question mark.
Let's take a look at the rotation going forward.
Clayton Kershaw (8-6, 2.95 ERA, 1.06 WHIP, 143 K's) - The clear ace of the staff, Kershaw reminded everyone just how he won the Cy Young Award last year with a complete game shutout of the Giants last Sunday. That was very encouraging considering he was rocked by the Cardinals in the start before that. Another area he's improved in - he hasn't given up a homer in five July starts. He had 11 total before that.
With no Dempster in the fold, the Dodgers need Kershaw to be the Alpha Dog from here on out. He can match up with anybody in the first game of a playoff series, so he'll be leaned on heavily to get the job done. I do think there's a little more pressure on him because the trade was never made, but I'm not worried about it. He's as tough a player as there is.
Chad Billingsley (6-9, 3.89, 1.35, 106) - There's no question that Billingsley has been a much more effective pitcher since he returned from the DL. In his last two starts, he's 2-0 with a 0.69 ERA. In the five starts before that, he was 0-5 with a 6.21 ERA. So it's not hard to see that the rest he was given in the middle of July has probably worked.
But, as has been the case all of his career, just when you think he may have things figured out, he gives you plenty of reasons to think otherwise. That's just the way it is. But make no mistake about it - Billingsley could be the key to the Dodgers' postseason success from here on out. Imagine if he really does pitch well the rest of the year? He would make a great 1-2 punch with Kershaw. Or, it could go completely the other way, and with no Dempster, the rotation is even thinner and not nearly as feared in the playoffs.
Chris Capuano (10-7, 3.33, 1.22, 119) - There's plenty to like about how Capuano's season has gone... but there's also reason to be a bit concerned. Two starts ago he was 10-5 with a 2.81 ERA. But after being lit up by the Cardinals and Diamondbacks, his numbers have gone up. It's not unfair to wonder if his arm is a bit tired, especially with the injury history he's had.
Another reason for concern is that he's historically a worse pitcher in the second half. Last season, he was 3-4 with a 5.08 ERA and 1.34 WHIP. Over his career, he's 21-35 with a 4.98 ERA and 1.40 WHIP. Compare those numbers to 46-36, 3.70, and 1.29 in the first half, and you can see why I'm raising a red flag here.
About the only thing we can hope for is that those second half numbers don't pop up again, and his last two starts are just a bump in the road towards a great season. As of now, he'd pitch Game 2 or 3 in the playoffs. Whether that's a good thing or a bad thing remains to be seen.
Aaron Harang (7-6, 3.76, 1.38) - Speaking of coming off a bad start, that would be Harang. He got torched for seven runs in five innings against the Diamondbacks on Monday, and looked every bit the part of a #5 starter and not the #3 he was before that. To his defense, that's the most runs he's given up all year, and actually had four great starts in July before that.
I do have to remind everyone that while Harang has pitched well this year, I'm a little mixed on if we can expect a sub-4 ERA when it's all said and done. He did do it last year in San Diego, going 14-7 with a 3.64 ERA, another pitcher's ballpark if there ever was one. Not to sound too down on him, because I do think he's pitched very well this year, but I just wonder if he can be counted on as a #4 type of starter in the playoffs.
Stephen Fife (0-0, 1.46, 1.30) - He's only made two starts (with the third one coming up very shortly as I type this), so who knows if he'll be counted on down the stretch. But, much to his credit, he's looked really good in those two starts. He's held down the Phillies and Giants for one run each. Can't do much better than that.
With Ted Lilly on his way back, and even Rubby De La Rosa, I don't think Fife will be playing much of a role down the stretch. Of course that could always change, especially if he keeps surrendering only one run per start. Then he would be hard to deny.
Currently on the DL, but due back this season:
Ted Lilly (5-1, 3.14, 1.13) - If there is a silver lining to the whole Dempster thing, it's that the Dodgers are basically acquiring a starter in Lilly, who's been on the 60-day DL with left shoulder inflammation, and hasn't started since May 23. He won five of his first six starts before being knocked around a bit and going down with the injury.
Assuming Lilly comes back with full health, then I really like what he can do in the stretch run. Let's not forgot how good he was in August and September last year. In 11 starts, he gave up only 16 earned runs, and was clearly one of the best pitchers in baseball at that time. It's not like the Dodgers were playing for anything at the time so there was little pressure, but that's still pretty awesome.
I can see Lilly pitching anywhere between Game 2 and 4 if he's feeling good. I could be jumping the gun a bit, but if his rehab starts go as planned and he does return in mid-August, then he'll have plenty of time to get back into a groove. As you can tell, I'm excited about his return.
Rubby De La Rosa (Injured all year) - Remember him? Well, he's been out since last season with Tommy John surgery. Like Lilly, he also has been slowing coming back into action with rehab outings. He started 10 games last year, and had a 4-5 record with a a 3.71 ERA and 1.40 WHIP.
I'm not sure what we can expect from him this season other than depth. From what I saw of him last year, he does have good stuff, so maybe he can give some innings out of the 'pen. I'd be surprised if he ends up starting at any point. The only way that would happen is if there's more injuries. Let's hope not.
Let's take a look at the rotation going forward.
Clayton Kershaw (8-6, 2.95 ERA, 1.06 WHIP, 143 K's) - The clear ace of the staff, Kershaw reminded everyone just how he won the Cy Young Award last year with a complete game shutout of the Giants last Sunday. That was very encouraging considering he was rocked by the Cardinals in the start before that. Another area he's improved in - he hasn't given up a homer in five July starts. He had 11 total before that.
With no Dempster in the fold, the Dodgers need Kershaw to be the Alpha Dog from here on out. He can match up with anybody in the first game of a playoff series, so he'll be leaned on heavily to get the job done. I do think there's a little more pressure on him because the trade was never made, but I'm not worried about it. He's as tough a player as there is.
Chad Billingsley (6-9, 3.89, 1.35, 106) - There's no question that Billingsley has been a much more effective pitcher since he returned from the DL. In his last two starts, he's 2-0 with a 0.69 ERA. In the five starts before that, he was 0-5 with a 6.21 ERA. So it's not hard to see that the rest he was given in the middle of July has probably worked.
But, as has been the case all of his career, just when you think he may have things figured out, he gives you plenty of reasons to think otherwise. That's just the way it is. But make no mistake about it - Billingsley could be the key to the Dodgers' postseason success from here on out. Imagine if he really does pitch well the rest of the year? He would make a great 1-2 punch with Kershaw. Or, it could go completely the other way, and with no Dempster, the rotation is even thinner and not nearly as feared in the playoffs.
Chris Capuano (10-7, 3.33, 1.22, 119) - There's plenty to like about how Capuano's season has gone... but there's also reason to be a bit concerned. Two starts ago he was 10-5 with a 2.81 ERA. But after being lit up by the Cardinals and Diamondbacks, his numbers have gone up. It's not unfair to wonder if his arm is a bit tired, especially with the injury history he's had.
Another reason for concern is that he's historically a worse pitcher in the second half. Last season, he was 3-4 with a 5.08 ERA and 1.34 WHIP. Over his career, he's 21-35 with a 4.98 ERA and 1.40 WHIP. Compare those numbers to 46-36, 3.70, and 1.29 in the first half, and you can see why I'm raising a red flag here.
About the only thing we can hope for is that those second half numbers don't pop up again, and his last two starts are just a bump in the road towards a great season. As of now, he'd pitch Game 2 or 3 in the playoffs. Whether that's a good thing or a bad thing remains to be seen.
Aaron Harang (7-6, 3.76, 1.38) - Speaking of coming off a bad start, that would be Harang. He got torched for seven runs in five innings against the Diamondbacks on Monday, and looked every bit the part of a #5 starter and not the #3 he was before that. To his defense, that's the most runs he's given up all year, and actually had four great starts in July before that.
I do have to remind everyone that while Harang has pitched well this year, I'm a little mixed on if we can expect a sub-4 ERA when it's all said and done. He did do it last year in San Diego, going 14-7 with a 3.64 ERA, another pitcher's ballpark if there ever was one. Not to sound too down on him, because I do think he's pitched very well this year, but I just wonder if he can be counted on as a #4 type of starter in the playoffs.
Stephen Fife (0-0, 1.46, 1.30) - He's only made two starts (with the third one coming up very shortly as I type this), so who knows if he'll be counted on down the stretch. But, much to his credit, he's looked really good in those two starts. He's held down the Phillies and Giants for one run each. Can't do much better than that.
With Ted Lilly on his way back, and even Rubby De La Rosa, I don't think Fife will be playing much of a role down the stretch. Of course that could always change, especially if he keeps surrendering only one run per start. Then he would be hard to deny.
Currently on the DL, but due back this season:
Ted Lilly (5-1, 3.14, 1.13) - If there is a silver lining to the whole Dempster thing, it's that the Dodgers are basically acquiring a starter in Lilly, who's been on the 60-day DL with left shoulder inflammation, and hasn't started since May 23. He won five of his first six starts before being knocked around a bit and going down with the injury.
Assuming Lilly comes back with full health, then I really like what he can do in the stretch run. Let's not forgot how good he was in August and September last year. In 11 starts, he gave up only 16 earned runs, and was clearly one of the best pitchers in baseball at that time. It's not like the Dodgers were playing for anything at the time so there was little pressure, but that's still pretty awesome.
I can see Lilly pitching anywhere between Game 2 and 4 if he's feeling good. I could be jumping the gun a bit, but if his rehab starts go as planned and he does return in mid-August, then he'll have plenty of time to get back into a groove. As you can tell, I'm excited about his return.
Rubby De La Rosa (Injured all year) - Remember him? Well, he's been out since last season with Tommy John surgery. Like Lilly, he also has been slowing coming back into action with rehab outings. He started 10 games last year, and had a 4-5 record with a a 3.71 ERA and 1.40 WHIP.
I'm not sure what we can expect from him this season other than depth. From what I saw of him last year, he does have good stuff, so maybe he can give some innings out of the 'pen. I'd be surprised if he ends up starting at any point. The only way that would happen is if there's more injuries. Let's hope not.
Monday, July 2, 2012
Capuano, Ethier, Ellis: All-Star snubs?
Every year we see the same thing: fans vote in starters, managers pick the rest, and outrage ensues.
And just like in the past, this year is no different.
It took about .2 seconds for the world to immediately assume that Tony LaRussa snubbed a couple of Reds' players, Johnny Cueto and Brandon Phillips. Let's not forget the Reds-Cardinals dustup from a 2010 game. Did LaRussa get one last dig in against his old nemesis? Who knows.
But while we're on the subject of snubs, or even potential snubs, let's take a look at three guys in blue who could've gotten in, but were denied.
Chris Capuano - Probably the biggest case can be made for Caps. Right now he's 9-3 with a 2.89 ERA, 1.10 WHIP, and 89 K's in 110 1/3 innings. Even Clayton Kershaw remarked that while he's honored to be chosen by LaRussa, he feels badly that it wasn't Capuano instead.
Through April, he was 3-0 with a 2.73 ERA. After May, he was 7-1 and 2.14. His best start came on June 17, as he gave up one run in eight innings against the White Sox, striking out 12. And even with all of that, he's not even on the Final Vote ballot. It's a shame.
Andre Ethier - With a recent injury to his oblique, who knows if Ethier would even be available to play. Nonetheless, he was leading the National League in RBIs for much of the season before the Dodgers quit putting people on base. He still is third at 55.
The trouble with him is that his numbers are good, but not quite eye-opening. He's hitting .291 with 10 homers, 23 doubles, and a triple. Again, very good numbers, but not huge enough to pop out to you. Still, he's been in the All-Star Game the last couple of years, so if healthy, I can see him getting in as an injury replacement.
A.J. Ellis - I wrote a column on May 27 stating Ellis should be an All-Star. I still believe he's good enough to be there. His numbers are good, especially for a catcher: .287 AVG, .413 OBP (5th in the majors), 6 homers, 8 doubles, 27 RBIs. On defense, he's thrown out 21 base stealers, good for fourth in the majors.
The problem? The NL has too many good catchers. Look at the three guys who are going to the All-Star Game: Buster Posey (starter), Yadier Molina, and Carlos Ruiz. There's no doubt that these three guys are at the top of their game. And like it or not, even I have to admit that it's hard to get Ellis in there, even with his big year. Unfortunately, that's just the way it is.
I'd like to remind everyone that in addition to the all the talk about snubs, there's also the inevitable injury replacements once players start pulling out. That's how Ethier got in last year, and it was a good thing for the Cardinals since he helped get the NL home field advantage with an RBI single. So while it's OK to be disappointed for now, remember that the Dodgers may soon have more than two representatives by the time July 10 rolls around.
And just like in the past, this year is no different.
It took about .2 seconds for the world to immediately assume that Tony LaRussa snubbed a couple of Reds' players, Johnny Cueto and Brandon Phillips. Let's not forget the Reds-Cardinals dustup from a 2010 game. Did LaRussa get one last dig in against his old nemesis? Who knows.
But while we're on the subject of snubs, or even potential snubs, let's take a look at three guys in blue who could've gotten in, but were denied.
Chris Capuano - Probably the biggest case can be made for Caps. Right now he's 9-3 with a 2.89 ERA, 1.10 WHIP, and 89 K's in 110 1/3 innings. Even Clayton Kershaw remarked that while he's honored to be chosen by LaRussa, he feels badly that it wasn't Capuano instead.
Through April, he was 3-0 with a 2.73 ERA. After May, he was 7-1 and 2.14. His best start came on June 17, as he gave up one run in eight innings against the White Sox, striking out 12. And even with all of that, he's not even on the Final Vote ballot. It's a shame.
Andre Ethier - With a recent injury to his oblique, who knows if Ethier would even be available to play. Nonetheless, he was leading the National League in RBIs for much of the season before the Dodgers quit putting people on base. He still is third at 55.
The trouble with him is that his numbers are good, but not quite eye-opening. He's hitting .291 with 10 homers, 23 doubles, and a triple. Again, very good numbers, but not huge enough to pop out to you. Still, he's been in the All-Star Game the last couple of years, so if healthy, I can see him getting in as an injury replacement.
A.J. Ellis - I wrote a column on May 27 stating Ellis should be an All-Star. I still believe he's good enough to be there. His numbers are good, especially for a catcher: .287 AVG, .413 OBP (5th in the majors), 6 homers, 8 doubles, 27 RBIs. On defense, he's thrown out 21 base stealers, good for fourth in the majors.
The problem? The NL has too many good catchers. Look at the three guys who are going to the All-Star Game: Buster Posey (starter), Yadier Molina, and Carlos Ruiz. There's no doubt that these three guys are at the top of their game. And like it or not, even I have to admit that it's hard to get Ellis in there, even with his big year. Unfortunately, that's just the way it is.
I'd like to remind everyone that in addition to the all the talk about snubs, there's also the inevitable injury replacements once players start pulling out. That's how Ethier got in last year, and it was a good thing for the Cardinals since he helped get the NL home field advantage with an RBI single. So while it's OK to be disappointed for now, remember that the Dodgers may soon have more than two representatives by the time July 10 rolls around.
Saturday, May 12, 2012
Chris Capuano has been $$$
Make that, money well spent.
After quietly signing a two-year, $10 million contract this offseason, Chris Capuano has rewarded the Dodgers with a perfect 5-0 record and 2.06 ERA. Not too shabby for a guy projected to be the fourth or fifth starter. Forget that - he looks like the staff ace.
As the season has slowly chipped away, Capuano has gotten better and better. Just how good has he been? Take a look at his career numbers: 62-64, 4.29 ERA, 1.34 WHIP, .263 BAA, and 846 K's in 1007 1/3 innings pitched. Last season, he was 11-11 with a 4.55 ERA and 1.35 WHIP.
All of that looks like an aberration right now, as he has used his variety of pitches to constantly keep batters off balance. He's not afraid to pound the inside part of the plate against righties, and his off-speed stuff has been incredible. Simply put, he shows no fear on the mound, no matter how big and bad the batters are. You hear that, Chad Billingsley? Show no fear and go after those guys!
Perhaps the most satisfying part about watching Capuano is knowing just how much adversity he's gone through in his career. I'm not sure it's too uncommon anymore to hear about pitchers having Tommy John surgery, but twice? Not as much, and that's exactly what he's had in 2002 and 2008. It's been four years since the second one, and his arm looks as strong as ever. Talk about that procedure being a Fountain of Youth.
Fair or not, when a pitcher puts up numbers that far exceed his career stats, the natural question to be asked is if he can can keep it up or not. Well, I'm not sure he can win five of every seven starts (two no-decisions thrown in there), but I like his chances of maintaining his effectiveness. If you recall, his first start on April 7 in San Diego was going well until he started walking everybody in the fifth.
How did he respond to that? By winning his next time out against the Pirates, giving up two runs in just over five innings, striking out seven. And from there, he's taken off and hasn't looked back. After taking a no-decision against his old team in Milwaukee, he's now won four straight, defeating the Braves, Nationals, Cubs, and Rockies. In that span, he's surrendered a mere 2 runs in 27 2/3 innings, good for a 0.65 ERA. Throw in 24 strikeouts and 8 walks, and you can see how much stronger his arm has become.
While the attention has mostly been on Matt Kemp and Andre Ethier (who completely deserve that attention, by the way), let's not overlook guys like Capuano, who plays hard each time out and leads by example. If he can pitch anywhere close to this as the season rolls on, then the Dodgers will realize their playoff dreams for the first time in three years.
Bank on it.
Saturday, March 31, 2012
Lilly lands on the DL
The Dodgers chose the precautionary route on Friday, placing Ted Lilly on the 15-day DL with a sore neck. It'll be retroactive, so he's eligible to come back on April 14 against the Padres.
In his place, Chris Capuano will take the ball in the #3 spot in the rotation, essentially just flipping spots with Lilly. Don Mattingly's decision to not take a chance too early with Lilly was made easier thanks to Capuano's strong spring. He has a 2.75 ERA, 0.97 WHIP, and .197 BAA. Add in 22 strikeouts in 19 2/3 innings, and he's looking like he can be a pleasant surprise this season.
Lilly will pitch with Single-A Rancho Cucamonga on April 8 before being activated from the DL.
In his place, Chris Capuano will take the ball in the #3 spot in the rotation, essentially just flipping spots with Lilly. Don Mattingly's decision to not take a chance too early with Lilly was made easier thanks to Capuano's strong spring. He has a 2.75 ERA, 0.97 WHIP, and .197 BAA. Add in 22 strikeouts in 19 2/3 innings, and he's looking like he can be a pleasant surprise this season.
Lilly will pitch with Single-A Rancho Cucamonga on April 8 before being activated from the DL.
Saturday, March 10, 2012
Early spring rotation results
I know it's early, but the starting five of the Dodgers have all gotten a taste of Spring Training action thus far. Let's take a look at how they fared the first go-around.
Clayton Kershaw
3 IP, 3 H, 0 ER, 1 BB, 0 K (vs. Rangers)
So far, so good for the reigning Cy Young Award winner, as he easily disposed of the Rangers. And it wasn't a B-level squad out there, it was the big dogs like Josh Hamilton, Adrian Beltran, Michael Young, and Nelson Cruz. Nicely done.
Chad Billingsley
2 IP, 1 H, 0 ER, 0 BB, 0 K (vs. White Sox)
Bills kicked off Spring Training with a solid performance. His biggest focus is working on his mechanics, as he pointed out after the game that a smoother leg kick gave him better control. Let's hope it keeps up. He'll be the #2 starter behind Kershaw, so the Dodgers are counting on him for big things.
Ted Lilly
2 IP, 6 H, 5 ER, 1 BB, 1 K (vs. Giants)
Old Ted didn't start off so hot, as he gave up a couple of homers to the evil Giants. He had trouble locating his fastball, and apparently his curveball wasn't a whole lot better. Melky Cabrera led off the game with a homer, and Brett Pill hit a two-run shot after that. Not the start to the season you want, but at least he's healthy.
Aaron Harang
2 IP, 4 H, 2 ER, 0 BB, 0 K (vs. A's)
The damage was done in the first inning to Harang, as the A's got a two-out, two-run double from Josh Reddick. Harang was able to bounce back and retire the final four hitters. A right foot injury has limited him a bit this spring, so the fact that he was able to go out there as scheduled is a good sign.
Chris Capuano
2 IP, 2 H, 0 ER, 0 BB, 3 K (vs. A's)
Capuano got the win as he threw an impressive couple of innings. The A's aren't exactly a loaded lineup, or even a decent one, but it's good to see the new guy take care of them regardless. The Dodgers had lots of inconsistency at the bottom of the rotation last season, so solid innings from Caps can go a long way.
Clayton Kershaw
3 IP, 3 H, 0 ER, 1 BB, 0 K (vs. Rangers)
So far, so good for the reigning Cy Young Award winner, as he easily disposed of the Rangers. And it wasn't a B-level squad out there, it was the big dogs like Josh Hamilton, Adrian Beltran, Michael Young, and Nelson Cruz. Nicely done.
Chad Billingsley
2 IP, 1 H, 0 ER, 0 BB, 0 K (vs. White Sox)
Bills kicked off Spring Training with a solid performance. His biggest focus is working on his mechanics, as he pointed out after the game that a smoother leg kick gave him better control. Let's hope it keeps up. He'll be the #2 starter behind Kershaw, so the Dodgers are counting on him for big things.
Ted Lilly
2 IP, 6 H, 5 ER, 1 BB, 1 K (vs. Giants)
Old Ted didn't start off so hot, as he gave up a couple of homers to the evil Giants. He had trouble locating his fastball, and apparently his curveball wasn't a whole lot better. Melky Cabrera led off the game with a homer, and Brett Pill hit a two-run shot after that. Not the start to the season you want, but at least he's healthy.
Aaron Harang
2 IP, 4 H, 2 ER, 0 BB, 0 K (vs. A's)
The damage was done in the first inning to Harang, as the A's got a two-out, two-run double from Josh Reddick. Harang was able to bounce back and retire the final four hitters. A right foot injury has limited him a bit this spring, so the fact that he was able to go out there as scheduled is a good sign.
Chris Capuano
2 IP, 2 H, 0 ER, 0 BB, 3 K (vs. A's)
Capuano got the win as he threw an impressive couple of innings. The A's aren't exactly a loaded lineup, or even a decent one, but it's good to see the new guy take care of them regardless. The Dodgers had lots of inconsistency at the bottom of the rotation last season, so solid innings from Caps can go a long way.
Sunday, March 4, 2012
Kershaw to start both Opening Days
In a bit of a no-brainer, Don Mattingly said on Saturday that Clayton Kershaw will get the ball for both the season opener in San Diego and the home opener against the Pirates. With a four-game set against the Padres and an off-day before coming home, it all works out.
It's a pretty easy decision, as a home opener featuring Aaron Harang or Chris Capuano just doesn't sound as juicy as Kersahw. It's what the fans want to see, and from a baseball standpoint, getting Kershaw as many starts as possible on normal rest should equal more wins. I mean, duh!
Anyway, the first time we'll see the #5 spot in the rotation making a start looks to be on Saturday, April 14 at home against the Padres in the season's ninth game. It's typical for the early part of a season, as there seem to be a few more random off days than later on.
In taking a glance even further down the road, Kershaw could very well make another start on normal rest in Houston on Friday, April 20. That would again cause the #5 spot to be skipped. So, the next start for the end of the rotation would then be on Tuesday, April 24 at home against the Braves.
All in all, if Mattingly chooses to keep starting Kershaw on normal rest and skip the #5 start all of the month of April, here's how the starts will go:
Kershaw (6): 4/5 at Padres, 4/10 vs. Pirates, 4/15 vs. Padres, 4/20 at Astros, 4/25 vs. Braves, 4/30 at Rockies
Harang or Capuano (2): 4/14 vs. Padres, 4/24 vs. Braves
It's a pretty easy decision, as a home opener featuring Aaron Harang or Chris Capuano just doesn't sound as juicy as Kersahw. It's what the fans want to see, and from a baseball standpoint, getting Kershaw as many starts as possible on normal rest should equal more wins. I mean, duh!
Anyway, the first time we'll see the #5 spot in the rotation making a start looks to be on Saturday, April 14 at home against the Padres in the season's ninth game. It's typical for the early part of a season, as there seem to be a few more random off days than later on.
In taking a glance even further down the road, Kershaw could very well make another start on normal rest in Houston on Friday, April 20. That would again cause the #5 spot to be skipped. So, the next start for the end of the rotation would then be on Tuesday, April 24 at home against the Braves.
All in all, if Mattingly chooses to keep starting Kershaw on normal rest and skip the #5 start all of the month of April, here's how the starts will go:
Kershaw (6): 4/5 at Padres, 4/10 vs. Pirates, 4/15 vs. Padres, 4/20 at Astros, 4/25 vs. Braves, 4/30 at Rockies
Harang or Capuano (2): 4/14 vs. Padres, 4/24 vs. Braves
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Hello, Capuano... Goodbye, Kuroda?
If you are reading between the lines of Ned Colletti's newest signing, Friday appears to have marked the end of Hiroki Kuroda's Dodger career.
Chris Capuano was signed to a two-year, $10 million deal, with a club option for 2014. He rounds out the rotation, for now anyway, that includes Cy Young winner Clayton Kershaw, Ted Lilly, Chad Billingsley, and Nathan Eovaldi.
The odd man out? By all indications, it's Kuroda, who appears to be too pricey for the Dodgers. It's not exactly clear just how much money he's looking for, but the common number I've seen is $12 million to come back for one more go-around. And even if the Dodgers could come up with that kind of cash for just a year, it's not even known if he would definitely want to come back. It's been said that he wants to either go back to Japan to finish his career, or sign with a contender.
The bottom line: Kuroda is gone. That's all there is to that.
As for Capuano, he made himself relevant again by pitching pretty well for the Mets last season. Even though his numbers aren't exactly top-notch (11-12, 4.55 ERA, 1.35 WHIP), there are indications that he actually pitched better than that. For example, in 186 innings, he struck out 168 and only walked 53.
Capuano did give up 27 homers last year, which is high. But, Kuroda actually gave up 24 himself, so perhaps Caps had a case of bad luck. With a good defense behind him, I can see his ERA easily going down.
With payroll what is it, which isn't much, signings like Capuano, Mark Ellis, and Adam Kennedy are about all we can expect as fans. Serviceable players, but certainly nothing flashy. The Dodgers have to hope that they get the most out of their role players, and guys like Andre Ethier, James Loney, and Juan Uribe put up much better numbers to support Matt Kemp in the lineup.
Chris Capuano was signed to a two-year, $10 million deal, with a club option for 2014. He rounds out the rotation, for now anyway, that includes Cy Young winner Clayton Kershaw, Ted Lilly, Chad Billingsley, and Nathan Eovaldi.
The odd man out? By all indications, it's Kuroda, who appears to be too pricey for the Dodgers. It's not exactly clear just how much money he's looking for, but the common number I've seen is $12 million to come back for one more go-around. And even if the Dodgers could come up with that kind of cash for just a year, it's not even known if he would definitely want to come back. It's been said that he wants to either go back to Japan to finish his career, or sign with a contender.
The bottom line: Kuroda is gone. That's all there is to that.
As for Capuano, he made himself relevant again by pitching pretty well for the Mets last season. Even though his numbers aren't exactly top-notch (11-12, 4.55 ERA, 1.35 WHIP), there are indications that he actually pitched better than that. For example, in 186 innings, he struck out 168 and only walked 53.
Capuano did give up 27 homers last year, which is high. But, Kuroda actually gave up 24 himself, so perhaps Caps had a case of bad luck. With a good defense behind him, I can see his ERA easily going down.
With payroll what is it, which isn't much, signings like Capuano, Mark Ellis, and Adam Kennedy are about all we can expect as fans. Serviceable players, but certainly nothing flashy. The Dodgers have to hope that they get the most out of their role players, and guys like Andre Ethier, James Loney, and Juan Uribe put up much better numbers to support Matt Kemp in the lineup.
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