Not even the flu can defeat Clayton Kershaw.
Despite being hit hard by illness, Kershaw insisted on making his second consecutive Opening Day start in San Diego. He only lasted three scoreless innings, but a two-run homer by Matt Kemp helped the Dodgers win the season's first game, 5-3.
It was obvious that Kershaw wasn't feeling up to par, as his whole body language suggested that he's seen better days. However, he plowed through the first eight hitters in the Padres' order to open up the game. Edinson Volquez did the same for his squad.
In what has to be a rarity, it was those same two pitchers who each got their team's first hit of the game. Kershaw singled down the left field line with two down in the third, but was stranded on Dee Gordon's strikeout. Volquez started a two-out rally by dropping a liner in front of Kemp. Cameron "Tiki" Maybin singled, and after a wild pitch to put runners in scoring position, Chris Denorfia walked to load the bases. The Padres came up empty after Chase Headley struck out.
The Dodgers got things going in the fourth to back up their courageous pitcher. Kemp started it with a one-out single. A wild pitch put him up to second, followed by a walk to Andre Ethier and a single by Juan Rivera to load the bases. Volquez then became his own worst enemy by issuing a walk to James Loney, making it 1-0.
Ethier found himself running into an out, as he was just tagged out at home on a wild pitch to Juan Uribe. Well, I'm not so sure he was out on the replay, but that's a tough call when seeing it live. Uribe did indeed draw a walk to load the bases again, and then it was A.J. Ellis's turn to collect an RBI on a walk, and it was 2-0. Adam Kennedy hit for Kershaw and flew out.
From there it was Don Mattingly's job to piece together pitchers the rest of the game, and that he did. It started with Josh Lindblom's great performance. He pitched the fourth and fifth with ease, getting all six in order.
Also in the fifth, the Dodgers struck for another run. Gordon led off and hit a long fly to center that Maybin could not glove. Gordon went all the way to third on the error, and soon scored on Kemp's grounder to short in which Jason Bartlett bobbled for another error, and it was now 3-0.
Next up were Mike MacDougal and Matt Guerrier, who went the sixth and seventh, respectively. MacDougal got himself in a little bit of trouble, as he walked Will Venable with one out, who then stole second. With two outs, Jesus Guzman stroked an RBI double to make it 3-1. Guerrier got a double play ball from Bartlett to finish off the seventh.
Looking to increase their lead, Kemp made sure that happened with one mighty swing in the eighth. It started on a leadoff double by Mark Ellis, hitting in the #2 hole. Kemp then muscled one out to right for his first shot of the season, giving the Dodgers a 5-1 advantage.
It's a good thing Kemp got some extra runs, as Kenley Jansen gave those two runs right back in the bottom of the frame. Jeremy Hermida pinch-hit and hit an infield single leading off. Maybin then took a full count pitch and absolutely crushed it out to left, slashing the lead to 5-3. Jansen was able to settle down, getting the next three hitters in order.
In the ninth, the Dodgers threatened to blow the game wide open by loading the bases on a single by Ellis, a walk by Jerry Hairston, and a beaning by Ellis. Kemp had the big chance, but grounded out.
No matter, as Javy Guerra coolly picked up right where he left off last season, setting the Padres down in order and with ease to finish it off.
I give Kershaw all the credit in the world for toughing it out and giving the Dodgers all he could. He only lasted three innings for two hits, no runs, one walk, and three strikeouts. Obviously, he didn't qualify for the win because starting pitchers have to go at least five innings to do so. But on the flip side, his ERA stayed at zero! He'll take it.
The bullpen was great for a couple of reasons. One, they were able to hold onto the lead they were given starting in the fourth. Two, there's no way they could have possibly imagined getting some action so early in the game. They probably thought they wouldn't get any at all! Can't blame them when Kershaw's on the mound.
In all, Lindblom, MacDougal, Guerrier, Jansen, and Guerra combined for six innings, three hits, three runs, two walks, and four strikeouts. Lindblom was especially impressive, as he was the last pitcher to make the roster, yet looked untouchable. Guerra reminded everyone how he got 21 saves last year. That was great timing on his part considering that Jansen struggled a bit.
About the only downsides were Gordon and Uribe's struggles at the plate. Gordon was 0-for-5 and looked a bit lost on breaking balls. Uribe looks just plain slow against fastballs. Not that I'm surprised about that, considering that he still looks like a giant bust. I hope I'll eventually be wrong, but it is what it is.
With the first win under their belts, the Dodgers will send Chad Billingsley to the mound on Friday. It seems like we say this a lot, but let's say it again - he has the stuff to be a front-end of the rotation guy, yet is so inconsistent, he becomes his own worst enemy. Let's see if he get off on the root foot.
Thursday, April 5, 2012
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
2012 Opening Day roster set
The Dodgers have put the finishing touches on their 25-man roster, and here's how it shakes out:
Starting Pitchers (4)
Clayton Kershaw
Chad Billingsley
Chris Capuano
Aaron Harang
Relievers (8)
Javy Guerra
Kenley Jansen
Mike MacDougal
Matt Guerrier
Scott Elbert
Todd Coffey
Josh Lindblom
Jamey Wright
Catchers (2)
A.J. Ellis
Matt Treanor
Infielders (6)
James Loney
Mark Ellis
Dee Gordon
Juan Uribe
Justin Sellers
Adam Kennedy
Outfielders (4)
Matt Kemp
Andre Ethier
Juan Rivera
Tony Gwynn, Jr.
Anywhere But Pitcher or Catcher (1)
Jerry Hairston, Jr.
Hey, Hairston's a guy with many talents, so one spot just wouldn't do.
Keep in mind also that Ted Lilly is on the 15-day DL, and Ronald Belisario is on the Restricted List for 25 games. Obviously a move will have to be made for Lilly's return (possibly Lindblom). As for Belisario, there's still plenty of time to try and figure out what to do with him once he returns. What's working against the Dodgers is that he is out of options, so there's that risk of somebody claiming him if he's placed on waivers.
Starting Pitchers (4)
Clayton Kershaw
Chad Billingsley
Chris Capuano
Aaron Harang
Relievers (8)
Javy Guerra
Kenley Jansen
Mike MacDougal
Matt Guerrier
Scott Elbert
Todd Coffey
Josh Lindblom
Jamey Wright
Catchers (2)
A.J. Ellis
Matt Treanor
Infielders (6)
James Loney
Mark Ellis
Dee Gordon
Juan Uribe
Justin Sellers
Adam Kennedy
Outfielders (4)
Matt Kemp
Andre Ethier
Juan Rivera
Tony Gwynn, Jr.
Anywhere But Pitcher or Catcher (1)
Jerry Hairston, Jr.
Hey, Hairston's a guy with many talents, so one spot just wouldn't do.
Keep in mind also that Ted Lilly is on the 15-day DL, and Ronald Belisario is on the Restricted List for 25 games. Obviously a move will have to be made for Lilly's return (possibly Lindblom). As for Belisario, there's still plenty of time to try and figure out what to do with him once he returns. What's working against the Dodgers is that he is out of options, so there's that risk of somebody claiming him if he's placed on waivers.
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
A look back at the last 4 Opening Days
When the Dodgers take the field against the Padres on Thursday, I will officially start my fifth year of covering games on this blog. With that unbelievable milestone fast approaching (OK, it's not that big of a deal, but still pretty cool for me), let's take a look at the previous four Opening Days.
2008: Dodgers 5 - Giants 0
Joe Torre made his debut as Dodgers' skipper, a year after ditching the Yankees. It was also the 50th anniversary of the Dodgers' move from Brooklyn. Oh, and it was also the heroic debut of Andrew Jones. Sigh. Take that last part away, and it was quite the memorable day in LA.
Here is my original report from this game.
2009: Dodgers 4 - Padres 1
Manny Ramirez began his full-time stint with the Dodgers, a year after going on an absolute tear following his trade from the Red Sox. The Dodgers finally beat Jake Peavy, who won his previous 11 decisions against them, thanks in large part to a homer from Matt Kemp.
Original Report
2010: Pirates 11 - Dodgers 5
Ugh. Talk about a gigantic thud on Opening Day. The Pirates looked like World Series contenders, and the Dodgers... well, pretty much looked the Pirates of any other game. The Dodgers actually used a Kemp single in the first to go up 2-0, only to watch Vicente Padilla and George Sherrill get rocked. Not a whole lot changed that year as Torre's final season came to a disappointing, postseason-less close.
Original Report
2011: Dodgers 2 - Giants 1
The opening contest of the Kershaw-Lincecum feud went Kershaw's way, which soon turned into Kershaw 4 - Lincecum 0 in 2011. Kershaw pitched seven flawless innings and Kemp reached base all four times. Don Mattingly's debut was victorious.
Original Report
2008: Dodgers 5 - Giants 0
Joe Torre made his debut as Dodgers' skipper, a year after ditching the Yankees. It was also the 50th anniversary of the Dodgers' move from Brooklyn. Oh, and it was also the heroic debut of Andrew Jones. Sigh. Take that last part away, and it was quite the memorable day in LA.
Here is my original report from this game.
2009: Dodgers 4 - Padres 1
Manny Ramirez began his full-time stint with the Dodgers, a year after going on an absolute tear following his trade from the Red Sox. The Dodgers finally beat Jake Peavy, who won his previous 11 decisions against them, thanks in large part to a homer from Matt Kemp.
Original Report
2010: Pirates 11 - Dodgers 5
Ugh. Talk about a gigantic thud on Opening Day. The Pirates looked like World Series contenders, and the Dodgers... well, pretty much looked the Pirates of any other game. The Dodgers actually used a Kemp single in the first to go up 2-0, only to watch Vicente Padilla and George Sherrill get rocked. Not a whole lot changed that year as Torre's final season came to a disappointing, postseason-less close.
Original Report
2011: Dodgers 2 - Giants 1
The opening contest of the Kershaw-Lincecum feud went Kershaw's way, which soon turned into Kershaw 4 - Lincecum 0 in 2011. Kershaw pitched seven flawless innings and Kemp reached base all four times. Don Mattingly's debut was victorious.
Original Report
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.
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
It's all about MAGIC
You know your day is off to a good start when you wake up to news of the Dodgers finally being sold.
You know the news is even better when you find out who the owner is.
After going through a lengthy bidding process since the Dodgers were put up for sale last year, it was a group led by the lengendary Magic Johnson that won it all. That's right - the guy whose post-NBA career may have arguably been better than his sensational career on the court has done it again. And it's the fans who come out the true winners.
Look, I haven't said a whole lot about the ownership bids mostly because it hasn't been all that entertaining. I prefer to focus on the action on the field, not off of it. I just didn't see what was so fun about saying "so and so may get the bid, so and so may not." I'd rather know about the players who are actually on the Dodgers.
But now we finally have some closure to a long, frustrating process that had been brewing for a few years. While Magic and his boys may have had to fork over $2 billion just to get the team, what's even more interesting was the $150 million needed to own half of the parking lots and other property in Chavez Ravine. The other half of that deal? You got it, Frank McCourt.
Not to worry, fans. McCourt will not have any say in baseball activities, or even in the parking lots themselves. He just has "economic interest" in them. Gee, how shocking. By the way, when's the last time you've heard so much about parking lots when it comes to watching baseball? Maybe on how expensive it is to park, but that's about it.
I'm a huge fan of the Lakers, so this is obviously just awesome for me. I'm sure millions of other people feel the same as well. If anything, the Dodgers can focus on the field now and get back to playing winning baseball. I think people lose sight of the fact that the Dodgers were in the NLCS as little as three years ago. While the World Series drought has been long (1988), it's not like they've been clueless for a long time.
With Opening Day about a week away, this is a very exciting time to be a Dodger fan. Let's sit back, relax, and watch it all unfold... hopefully with some magic!
You know the news is even better when you find out who the owner is.
After going through a lengthy bidding process since the Dodgers were put up for sale last year, it was a group led by the lengendary Magic Johnson that won it all. That's right - the guy whose post-NBA career may have arguably been better than his sensational career on the court has done it again. And it's the fans who come out the true winners.
Look, I haven't said a whole lot about the ownership bids mostly because it hasn't been all that entertaining. I prefer to focus on the action on the field, not off of it. I just didn't see what was so fun about saying "so and so may get the bid, so and so may not." I'd rather know about the players who are actually on the Dodgers.
But now we finally have some closure to a long, frustrating process that had been brewing for a few years. While Magic and his boys may have had to fork over $2 billion just to get the team, what's even more interesting was the $150 million needed to own half of the parking lots and other property in Chavez Ravine. The other half of that deal? You got it, Frank McCourt.
Not to worry, fans. McCourt will not have any say in baseball activities, or even in the parking lots themselves. He just has "economic interest" in them. Gee, how shocking. By the way, when's the last time you've heard so much about parking lots when it comes to watching baseball? Maybe on how expensive it is to park, but that's about it.
I'm a huge fan of the Lakers, so this is obviously just awesome for me. I'm sure millions of other people feel the same as well. If anything, the Dodgers can focus on the field now and get back to playing winning baseball. I think people lose sight of the fact that the Dodgers were in the NLCS as little as three years ago. While the World Series drought has been long (1988), it's not like they've been clueless for a long time.
With Opening Day about a week away, this is a very exciting time to be a Dodger fan. Let's sit back, relax, and watch it all unfold... hopefully with some magic!
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
Sands to search for his swing in the minors
Jerry Sands may be the future for the Dodgers. But for now, he's the latest young stud to be suffering through a sophomore slump.
Sands has been optioned back to the minors on Tuesday. He's having a horrendous Spring Training at the plate, hitting only .158 with 2 RBIs in 38 at-bats. Throw in 12 strikeouts, and you get the picture that it hasn't been all peaches and cream for him so far.
It's a disappointment for everyone considering that he hit .342 last September after being called back up following a slow start earlier in the year. Just when you thought he had it all figured out, this happens. Don Mattingly envisioned him playing both in the outfield and possibly at first against lefties, giving some power that Andre Ethier and James Loney may have been lacking like last year.
Look, this isn't the worst thing in the world. Sands acknowledged that he needs to settle down and just focus on his mechanics to get going again. Getting away from the majors for a little while may do the trick. He could be a name to remember during the season, as he still has that label of being a potential power threat. Let's hope we see that come to fruition at some point this year.
Sands has been optioned back to the minors on Tuesday. He's having a horrendous Spring Training at the plate, hitting only .158 with 2 RBIs in 38 at-bats. Throw in 12 strikeouts, and you get the picture that it hasn't been all peaches and cream for him so far.
It's a disappointment for everyone considering that he hit .342 last September after being called back up following a slow start earlier in the year. Just when you thought he had it all figured out, this happens. Don Mattingly envisioned him playing both in the outfield and possibly at first against lefties, giving some power that Andre Ethier and James Loney may have been lacking like last year.
Look, this isn't the worst thing in the world. Sands acknowledged that he needs to settle down and just focus on his mechanics to get going again. Getting away from the majors for a little while may do the trick. He could be a name to remember during the season, as he still has that label of being a potential power threat. Let's hope we see that come to fruition at some point this year.
Wright earns his spot
When his back is against the wall, Jamey Wright is always prepared to come out swinging. Or, more specifically, pitching.
For the seventh straight season, Wright has earned his way onto a Major League team out of Spring Training as a non-roster invitee. He'll earn $900,000 this year with a possible $500,000 more in incentives based on appearances.
On the flip side, John Grabow was given his outright release after being told he would not make the team. Wright's spot on the 40-man roster was cleared when Blake Hawksworth was placed on the 60-day DL. He's been hampered by a sore elbow and staph infection, and will need about six weeks to regain his strength once he's ready to throw. In other words, don't expect to see him for awhile.
As for Wright, it's pretty stunning that he's been able to make team after team despite never really having a solid contract to fall back on. He's pitched in the bigs since 1996 when he broke in with the Rockies. Since then, he's pitched for the Brewers, Cardinals, Royals, Rockies again, Giants, Rangers, Royals again, Indians, and Mariners for the last two seasons. Hopefully he's been able to rent and not buy.
On his career, he's appeared in 526 games with 246 starts. He's 85-121 with a 4.93 ERA and 1.56 WHIP. Those numbers aren't exactly pretty, but he has turned things around quite well as a reliever the last two seasons in Seattle, with a 3.41/1.24 in 2010, and 3.16/1.33 in 2011. That's more like it.
According to Don Mattingly, Wright will fill the role once played by Jeff Weaver, which is like a long reliever and spot starter. Who knows, maybe even some short innings as well. With the way the Dodgers went through injuries last year, Wright could find himself to be in a very valuable position.
For the seventh straight season, Wright has earned his way onto a Major League team out of Spring Training as a non-roster invitee. He'll earn $900,000 this year with a possible $500,000 more in incentives based on appearances.
On the flip side, John Grabow was given his outright release after being told he would not make the team. Wright's spot on the 40-man roster was cleared when Blake Hawksworth was placed on the 60-day DL. He's been hampered by a sore elbow and staph infection, and will need about six weeks to regain his strength once he's ready to throw. In other words, don't expect to see him for awhile.
As for Wright, it's pretty stunning that he's been able to make team after team despite never really having a solid contract to fall back on. He's pitched in the bigs since 1996 when he broke in with the Rockies. Since then, he's pitched for the Brewers, Cardinals, Royals, Rockies again, Giants, Rangers, Royals again, Indians, and Mariners for the last two seasons. Hopefully he's been able to rent and not buy.
On his career, he's appeared in 526 games with 246 starts. He's 85-121 with a 4.93 ERA and 1.56 WHIP. Those numbers aren't exactly pretty, but he has turned things around quite well as a reliever the last two seasons in Seattle, with a 3.41/1.24 in 2010, and 3.16/1.33 in 2011. That's more like it.
According to Don Mattingly, Wright will fill the role once played by Jeff Weaver, which is like a long reliever and spot starter. Who knows, maybe even some short innings as well. With the way the Dodgers went through injuries last year, Wright could find himself to be in a very valuable position.
Monday, March 26, 2012
Lilly banged up, could miss a start
Ted Lilly's stiff neck will cause him to miss his scheduled start on Tuesday, and puts him in jeopardy of not making his first regular season start as well.
Lilly has gone through some therapy and felt better today, but still couldn't even play catch before shutting it down. He also missed a bullpen session a couple days ago.
There's many scenarios that could come into play if Lilly can't go his first start in San Diego. One is to simply swap spots with Chris Capuano, who appeared to be the odd man out for the time being with an off day following four straight games. Another is to place him on the DL and let Nathan Eovaldi make a start or two, delaying his demotion to the minors. We shall see.
The Dodgers have been pretty fortunate this spring in that they haven't faced any major injury issues by any means. Even Lilly's doesn't appear serious, although neck injuries are nothing to mess around with. Hopefully good health will equal a good start to the season.
Lilly has gone through some therapy and felt better today, but still couldn't even play catch before shutting it down. He also missed a bullpen session a couple days ago.
There's many scenarios that could come into play if Lilly can't go his first start in San Diego. One is to simply swap spots with Chris Capuano, who appeared to be the odd man out for the time being with an off day following four straight games. Another is to place him on the DL and let Nathan Eovaldi make a start or two, delaying his demotion to the minors. We shall see.
The Dodgers have been pretty fortunate this spring in that they haven't faced any major injury issues by any means. Even Lilly's doesn't appear serious, although neck injuries are nothing to mess around with. Hopefully good health will equal a good start to the season.
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.
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
Spring Training schedule on MLB Network
Spring Training is in full swing, as the Dodgers are now heading down the long road of 34 games before they start to count for real.
Thanks to the great MLB Network, here is the full list of games you can catch over the course of March and into the beginning of April:
Thursday, March 8 vs. A's (delay)
Sunday, March 11 vs. Cubs (delay)
Monday, March 12 @ Angels (delay)
Tuesday, March 13 vs. Rockies (delay)
Thursday, March 15 vs. Royals (delay)
Friday, March 16 vs. Rangers (live @ 1:05 PT)
Saturday, March 17 @ Rockies (delay)
Saturday, March 17 vs. Giants (live @ 7:05 PT)
Sunday, March 18 vs. Angels (delay)
Monday, March 19 @ Indians (live @ 1:05 PT)
Tuesday, March 20 vs. Brewers (live @ 1:05 PT)
Wednesday, March 21 vs. Padres (delay)
Saturday, March 24 vs. Indians (live @ 1:05 PT)
Monday, March 26 vs. White Sox (delay)
Thursday, March 29 vs. White Sox (delay)
Friday, March 30 vs. Brewers (delay)
Sunday, April 1 vs. Diamondbacks (delay)
Monday, April 2 @ Angels (live @ 7:05 PT)
Wednesday, April 4 vs. Angels (live @ 12:05 PT)
Games on TV are always subject to change, but assuming this all stays the same, that's 19 games remaining that you can catch, including 7 live ones. That's pretty awesome.
Thanks to the great MLB Network, here is the full list of games you can catch over the course of March and into the beginning of April:
Thursday, March 8 vs. A's (delay)
Sunday, March 11 vs. Cubs (delay)
Monday, March 12 @ Angels (delay)
Tuesday, March 13 vs. Rockies (delay)
Thursday, March 15 vs. Royals (delay)
Friday, March 16 vs. Rangers (live @ 1:05 PT)
Saturday, March 17 @ Rockies (delay)
Saturday, March 17 vs. Giants (live @ 7:05 PT)
Sunday, March 18 vs. Angels (delay)
Monday, March 19 @ Indians (live @ 1:05 PT)
Tuesday, March 20 vs. Brewers (live @ 1:05 PT)
Wednesday, March 21 vs. Padres (delay)
Saturday, March 24 vs. Indians (live @ 1:05 PT)
Monday, March 26 vs. White Sox (delay)
Thursday, March 29 vs. White Sox (delay)
Friday, March 30 vs. Brewers (delay)
Sunday, April 1 vs. Diamondbacks (delay)
Monday, April 2 @ Angels (live @ 7:05 PT)
Wednesday, April 4 vs. Angels (live @ 12:05 PT)
Games on TV are always subject to change, but assuming this all stays the same, that's 19 games remaining that you can catch, including 7 live ones. That's pretty awesome.
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
Sunday, February 19, 2012
What could go right... and what could go wrong (Part II)
Here is my second installment of the "right/wrong" preview for the 2012 season, this time focusing on the pitching staff.
Starters
Clayton Kershaw
Right: Kershaw posts another line similar to last year: 21-5, 2.28 ERA, 0.95 WHIP, 248 K's, 5 complete games, 2 shutouts. Thus, he earns another Cy Young Award.
Wrong: Well... he actually gives up a hit? Maybe a run or two? But seriously, the only scary thing about last year is that he set the bar too high, ala Tim Lincecum, whose "off year" was only a 13-14 record, but with 2.74 ERA, 1.21 WHIP, and 220 K's. If Kershaw slips a little, people will wonder if a career-high 233 1/3 innings was too much for a 23-year-old.
Chad Billingsley
Right: Bills finally finds any sort of consistency, rather than one good start - one bad start that has plagued him. He uses his stuff to regain his form from his All-Star first-half of '09, when he went 9-4 with a 3.38 ERA and 1.23 WHIP.
Wrong: The downfall continues, and we once and for all declare him nothing more than a #4 or #5 starter.
Ted Lilly
Right: Lilly went through one of the more dramatic turnarounds in baseball last year, though rather quietly. He continues his fantastic final two months and gives the Dodgers something close to the 2.94 ERA, 0.93 WHIP, and .183 BAA. Even a slight increase in those numbers is still good enough.
Wrong: He looks more like the batting practice pitcher he was for the first four months, including the horrific June and July starts.
Aaron Harang
Right: Harang stays healthy enough to post 28 starts again. While he's only made four career starts in Dodger Stadium, maintaining an ERA around 3.65 from the bottom of the rotation will do.
Wrong: Injuries continue to pile up, and he misses the friendly confines of spacious Petco Park, as his home/road splits show (3.05 ERA, 1.21 WHIP home/4.70, 1.65 road).
Chris Capuano
Right: Capuano gives the Dodgers 33 starts like he did the Mets last season. He slashes the homers (27) and keeps his strikeouts up (168 in 186 innings).
Wrong: Just like Harang, the home/road splits continue to be alarming (3.82 ERA, 1.21 WHIP home/5.42, 1.41 road). Plus, while making 33 starts is great... getting pounded in many of them isn't.
Nathan Eovaldi
Right: While it looks unlikely Eovaldi will start the year in the rotation, you have to think at some point he'll get some starts. So, he'll look to use his sharp stuff to make some noise as a promising, young arm. Five of his first six career starts went at least five innings with two or less runs.
Wrong: He either hits a wall or gets bounced around between starting, relieving, and the minors. Hopefully the Dodgers can pick a role for him and stick to it.
Relievers
Javy Guerra
Right: From unknown to 21 saves, it's hard to do any better than Guerra's rookie season. Critics still aren't sold if he's the real deal, so he'll keep on flashing nerves of steel and locking down games at the end.
Wrong: The sophomore slump hits, and the National League has a better gameplan this time around. Or, it could be as simple as Kenley Jansen is just too good, and Guerra has to settle into a new role and doesn't excel as much.
Kenley Jansen
Right: It's hard to top setting a Major League record for K/9 at 16.1. The next step is to be dominant over the entire season, and quite possibly become the next stud closer.
Wrong: Lost in Jansen's terrific season was his rocky start. He gave up four runs in an inning his first appearance, and later in April got rocked for five runs in 1/3 inning against the Braves. Kind of like Kershaw, he set the bar so high for himself, that he'll probably need to weather some sort of storm at some point.
Matt Guerrier
Right: Guerrier reminds fans why he got a three-year, $12 million deal to begin with, as he regains his form from his Minnesota days. He's able to get big outs anywhere between innings 6-8.
Wrong: He doesn't do a whole lot better than a 4.07 ERA and 1.27 WHIP, which isn't bad, but not as good as it was the previous two years with the Twins.
Mike MacDougal
Right: MacDougal continues to erase any doubt that he's washed up, as he made big pitch after big pitch to post a 2.05 ERA in 69 appearances. Even if the ERA goes up a bit, he still can be productive in bridging the gap between starter and closer.
Wrong: While the 2.05 ERA was great, the reality is that a big 1.46 WHIP possibly showed a lot of luck, too. With a career 1.53 WHIP, too many baserunners could easily lead to some horrific outings.
Scott Elbert
Right: Hong-Chih Kuo is history, so the role of left-handed specialist has fallen on Elbert's lap. That could be a good thing, as Elbert appeared in 47 games for a 2.43 ERA, 1.23 WHIP, and 34 K's in 34 1/3 innings. Thus, it appears as if the issues that caused him to leave during the 2010 season are over.
Wrong: The sample size is small, so maybe he's still not quite ready to pitch well for an entire season. Plus, fair or not, there's still the possibility of personal issues popping up again, as he's only a couple years removed from it.
Todd Coffey
Right: Coffey won't be asked to get too many big outs late in games, but you never know. He bounced back quite well after getting hammered in 2010, so anything close to the 3.62 ERA and 1.26 WHIP he posted with the Nationals last year will do.
Wrong: A career BAA of .283 is a little scary. I can see him getting lost in the shuffle or released if he doesn't pitch well and guys like Blake Hawksworth and Eovaldi are ready to step in.
Josh Lindblom
Right: There's always room for power arms, and Lindblom is no different. He certainly showed what he could do, as after appearing various times in June, he made many more trips to the hill after being recalled in late July. A 2.73 ERA, 1.04 WHIP, and 28 K's in 29 1/3 innings showed he could be ready to take on an even bigger role late in games this year.
Wrong: The experience just isn't there yet, so it's natural that he'll go through a rough patch at some point. And when that happens, will he try to blow everyone away, or will he become better at location and mixing up his speeds? That will be the key.
Starters
Clayton Kershaw
Right: Kershaw posts another line similar to last year: 21-5, 2.28 ERA, 0.95 WHIP, 248 K's, 5 complete games, 2 shutouts. Thus, he earns another Cy Young Award.
Wrong: Well... he actually gives up a hit? Maybe a run or two? But seriously, the only scary thing about last year is that he set the bar too high, ala Tim Lincecum, whose "off year" was only a 13-14 record, but with 2.74 ERA, 1.21 WHIP, and 220 K's. If Kershaw slips a little, people will wonder if a career-high 233 1/3 innings was too much for a 23-year-old.
Chad Billingsley
Right: Bills finally finds any sort of consistency, rather than one good start - one bad start that has plagued him. He uses his stuff to regain his form from his All-Star first-half of '09, when he went 9-4 with a 3.38 ERA and 1.23 WHIP.
Wrong: The downfall continues, and we once and for all declare him nothing more than a #4 or #5 starter.
Ted Lilly
Right: Lilly went through one of the more dramatic turnarounds in baseball last year, though rather quietly. He continues his fantastic final two months and gives the Dodgers something close to the 2.94 ERA, 0.93 WHIP, and .183 BAA. Even a slight increase in those numbers is still good enough.
Wrong: He looks more like the batting practice pitcher he was for the first four months, including the horrific June and July starts.
Aaron Harang
Right: Harang stays healthy enough to post 28 starts again. While he's only made four career starts in Dodger Stadium, maintaining an ERA around 3.65 from the bottom of the rotation will do.
Wrong: Injuries continue to pile up, and he misses the friendly confines of spacious Petco Park, as his home/road splits show (3.05 ERA, 1.21 WHIP home/4.70, 1.65 road).
Chris Capuano
Right: Capuano gives the Dodgers 33 starts like he did the Mets last season. He slashes the homers (27) and keeps his strikeouts up (168 in 186 innings).
Wrong: Just like Harang, the home/road splits continue to be alarming (3.82 ERA, 1.21 WHIP home/5.42, 1.41 road). Plus, while making 33 starts is great... getting pounded in many of them isn't.
Nathan Eovaldi
Right: While it looks unlikely Eovaldi will start the year in the rotation, you have to think at some point he'll get some starts. So, he'll look to use his sharp stuff to make some noise as a promising, young arm. Five of his first six career starts went at least five innings with two or less runs.
Wrong: He either hits a wall or gets bounced around between starting, relieving, and the minors. Hopefully the Dodgers can pick a role for him and stick to it.
Relievers
Javy Guerra
Right: From unknown to 21 saves, it's hard to do any better than Guerra's rookie season. Critics still aren't sold if he's the real deal, so he'll keep on flashing nerves of steel and locking down games at the end.
Wrong: The sophomore slump hits, and the National League has a better gameplan this time around. Or, it could be as simple as Kenley Jansen is just too good, and Guerra has to settle into a new role and doesn't excel as much.
Kenley Jansen
Right: It's hard to top setting a Major League record for K/9 at 16.1. The next step is to be dominant over the entire season, and quite possibly become the next stud closer.
Wrong: Lost in Jansen's terrific season was his rocky start. He gave up four runs in an inning his first appearance, and later in April got rocked for five runs in 1/3 inning against the Braves. Kind of like Kershaw, he set the bar so high for himself, that he'll probably need to weather some sort of storm at some point.
Matt Guerrier
Right: Guerrier reminds fans why he got a three-year, $12 million deal to begin with, as he regains his form from his Minnesota days. He's able to get big outs anywhere between innings 6-8.
Wrong: He doesn't do a whole lot better than a 4.07 ERA and 1.27 WHIP, which isn't bad, but not as good as it was the previous two years with the Twins.
Mike MacDougal
Right: MacDougal continues to erase any doubt that he's washed up, as he made big pitch after big pitch to post a 2.05 ERA in 69 appearances. Even if the ERA goes up a bit, he still can be productive in bridging the gap between starter and closer.
Wrong: While the 2.05 ERA was great, the reality is that a big 1.46 WHIP possibly showed a lot of luck, too. With a career 1.53 WHIP, too many baserunners could easily lead to some horrific outings.
Scott Elbert
Right: Hong-Chih Kuo is history, so the role of left-handed specialist has fallen on Elbert's lap. That could be a good thing, as Elbert appeared in 47 games for a 2.43 ERA, 1.23 WHIP, and 34 K's in 34 1/3 innings. Thus, it appears as if the issues that caused him to leave during the 2010 season are over.
Wrong: The sample size is small, so maybe he's still not quite ready to pitch well for an entire season. Plus, fair or not, there's still the possibility of personal issues popping up again, as he's only a couple years removed from it.
Todd Coffey
Right: Coffey won't be asked to get too many big outs late in games, but you never know. He bounced back quite well after getting hammered in 2010, so anything close to the 3.62 ERA and 1.26 WHIP he posted with the Nationals last year will do.
Wrong: A career BAA of .283 is a little scary. I can see him getting lost in the shuffle or released if he doesn't pitch well and guys like Blake Hawksworth and Eovaldi are ready to step in.
Josh Lindblom
Right: There's always room for power arms, and Lindblom is no different. He certainly showed what he could do, as after appearing various times in June, he made many more trips to the hill after being recalled in late July. A 2.73 ERA, 1.04 WHIP, and 28 K's in 29 1/3 innings showed he could be ready to take on an even bigger role late in games this year.
Wrong: The experience just isn't there yet, so it's natural that he'll go through a rough patch at some point. And when that happens, will he try to blow everyone away, or will he become better at location and mixing up his speeds? That will be the key.
Sunday, February 12, 2012
What could go right... and what could go wrong
With pitchers and catchers on the verge of opening up Spring Training, it's time to start thinking baseball again. Now that the Dodgers have extended Clayton Kershaw for a couple more years, and with no other major player signings coming up, the roster looks to be nearly locked in.
Let's take a look at the projected starting lineup, and what could go right for each of these guys... and what could go wrong as well.
(Coming up soon, a look at the pitching side from the starters and relievers.)
The Lineup
Catcher - A.J. Ellis
Right: Ellis makes the most of finally earning a starting nod, assuming he'll beat out newcomer Matt Treanor. He'll build on his solid September of hitting .323 and give the Dodgers at least something at the bottom of the order.
Wrong: He's a career .262 hitter, and has played in only 87 games over the span of four seasons, a result of being sent up and down numerous times. If he starts the season off slow, it could mean less playing time once again.
First Base - James Loney
Right: It's simple for Loney: he continues to be the hot hitter he was after the All-Star break, when he hit .320. Also, he keeps flashing the great leather he always has.
Wrong: Like I said, it's simple: he goes back to being the lost, powerless hitter he was the first half of the season, when he hit .268 with a mere 16 extra-base hits in 325 at-bats. Ouch.
Second Base - Mark Ellis
Right: The other Ellis provides the same kind of spark that departed veterans Jamey Carroll and Aaron Miles gave at various points the last couple of seasons. He's only two years removed from hitting .291 with the A's. Plus, do you know he's only committed 55 errors in 5,577 total chances? That's pretty awesome.
Wrong: He gives little hitting support at the bottom of the lineup, and become just another mediocre, veteran player.
Shortstop - Dee Gordon
Right: Gordon was one of the most electrifying players in baseball last season, hitting .304 and stealing 24 bases in 56 games. He will learn how to be a better leadoff hitter and provide plenty of excitement on the bases.
Wrong: He goes through a sophomore slump as pitchers adjust to him, and he can't up his OBP from .325 last season. Also, his defense doesn't get any better, as 10 errors in basically 1/3 of the games is way too many.
Third Base - Juan Uribe
Right: Remember Uribe? It's hard to considering he was a complete bust last year. But he goes back to being the clutch hitter he was with the White Sox and Giants, winning a ring with each.
Wrong: While he appears to be completely over his sports hernia that ended his 2010 season prematurely, the injury bug strikes again, and his hitting continues to get worse and worse.
Left Field - Juan Rivera
Right: Rivera came to L.A. for pretty much nothing from Toronto, and proceeded to give a nice spark, hitting .274 with 46 RBIs in 62 games. Now he has a chance to build on that and add a few more long bombs in the middle of the order.
Wrong: He turns into the player who got dropped from the Blue Jays in the first place, and continues to watch his power numbers dwindle.
Center Field - Matt Kemp
Right: Kemp's 50/50 prediction comes true! Well, that may be stretching it, but a season close to 40/40 again, along with more highlight reel walk-offs and diving catches leads to an MVP award.
Wrong: Maturity issues strike again, and his numbers fall like the last time he signed an extension with the Dodgers. Also, his strikeouts only get worse, not better.
Left Field - Andre Ethier
Right: Andre the Giant and Mr. Walk-Off returns from his year-and-a-half absence. He gives Kemp some much-needed support, and creates a great 1-2 punch while finding his power stroke again.
Wrong: Andre the Giant is down for the count, becoming only a singles hitter again. Plus, his negative attitude gets in the way of team chemistry, and he earns his way out of town.
Let's take a look at the projected starting lineup, and what could go right for each of these guys... and what could go wrong as well.
(Coming up soon, a look at the pitching side from the starters and relievers.)
The Lineup
Catcher - A.J. Ellis
Right: Ellis makes the most of finally earning a starting nod, assuming he'll beat out newcomer Matt Treanor. He'll build on his solid September of hitting .323 and give the Dodgers at least something at the bottom of the order.
Wrong: He's a career .262 hitter, and has played in only 87 games over the span of four seasons, a result of being sent up and down numerous times. If he starts the season off slow, it could mean less playing time once again.
First Base - James Loney
Right: It's simple for Loney: he continues to be the hot hitter he was after the All-Star break, when he hit .320. Also, he keeps flashing the great leather he always has.
Wrong: Like I said, it's simple: he goes back to being the lost, powerless hitter he was the first half of the season, when he hit .268 with a mere 16 extra-base hits in 325 at-bats. Ouch.
Second Base - Mark Ellis
Right: The other Ellis provides the same kind of spark that departed veterans Jamey Carroll and Aaron Miles gave at various points the last couple of seasons. He's only two years removed from hitting .291 with the A's. Plus, do you know he's only committed 55 errors in 5,577 total chances? That's pretty awesome.
Wrong: He gives little hitting support at the bottom of the lineup, and become just another mediocre, veteran player.
Shortstop - Dee Gordon
Right: Gordon was one of the most electrifying players in baseball last season, hitting .304 and stealing 24 bases in 56 games. He will learn how to be a better leadoff hitter and provide plenty of excitement on the bases.
Wrong: He goes through a sophomore slump as pitchers adjust to him, and he can't up his OBP from .325 last season. Also, his defense doesn't get any better, as 10 errors in basically 1/3 of the games is way too many.
Third Base - Juan Uribe
Right: Remember Uribe? It's hard to considering he was a complete bust last year. But he goes back to being the clutch hitter he was with the White Sox and Giants, winning a ring with each.
Wrong: While he appears to be completely over his sports hernia that ended his 2010 season prematurely, the injury bug strikes again, and his hitting continues to get worse and worse.
Left Field - Juan Rivera
Right: Rivera came to L.A. for pretty much nothing from Toronto, and proceeded to give a nice spark, hitting .274 with 46 RBIs in 62 games. Now he has a chance to build on that and add a few more long bombs in the middle of the order.
Wrong: He turns into the player who got dropped from the Blue Jays in the first place, and continues to watch his power numbers dwindle.
Center Field - Matt Kemp
Right: Kemp's 50/50 prediction comes true! Well, that may be stretching it, but a season close to 40/40 again, along with more highlight reel walk-offs and diving catches leads to an MVP award.
Wrong: Maturity issues strike again, and his numbers fall like the last time he signed an extension with the Dodgers. Also, his strikeouts only get worse, not better.
Left Field - Andre Ethier
Right: Andre the Giant and Mr. Walk-Off returns from his year-and-a-half absence. He gives Kemp some much-needed support, and creates a great 1-2 punch while finding his power stroke again.
Wrong: Andre the Giant is down for the count, becoming only a singles hitter again. Plus, his negative attitude gets in the way of team chemistry, and he earns his way out of town.
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
Cy Young Kershaw inks a new deal
Reigning National League Cy Young Award winner Clayton Kershaw and the Dodgers agreed on a two-year, $19 million deal on Tuesday. The signing prevents arbitration, as Kershaw was seeking $10 million as opposed to the $6.5 million the Dodgers were offering. I'd say Kershaw almost got exactly what he wanted, as well he should.
The deal also signifies what is most likely the last major transaction from Frank McCourt, who had to approve of the deal before he's shown the door in April. As Ned Colletti pointed out, McCourt has extended Kemp for eight years, Kershaw a couple years, and was on the verge of perhaps signing Prince Fielder before the Tigers stepped in.
True, McCourt also ran the once proud Dodgers into a cost-cutting laughingstock, but at least he did something right. Right?
Anyway, this contract reminds me of the one Kemp signed a couple years back. In January of 2010, Kemp signed a two-year, $10.95 million contract. While the '10 season was awful, he obviously rebounded in a tremendous way with his MVP-caliber '11. And he did it all without PED's, unlike the other guy who won the award. Imagine that.
Kershaw has already had his monster season, winning the Cy Young and the NL's pitching Triple Crown. All he has to do now is continue to be the ace that he's already become, and he too will find himself with a phat new deal, ala Kemp. It's hard to judge right now what kind of money he can earn, or if it will be anywhere in Kemp's neighborhood. But with a new owner about to come into town, I'm sure he'll get something nice.
With this deal now sealed and delivered, the focus can squarely move onto Spring Training and new ownership. After an offseason full of signing role players (cost-cutting moves, remember), it'll be fun to see the boys report to Camelback Ranch soon, along with the home stretch of getting a new owner. I'm excited, that's for sure. You should be, too.
The deal also signifies what is most likely the last major transaction from Frank McCourt, who had to approve of the deal before he's shown the door in April. As Ned Colletti pointed out, McCourt has extended Kemp for eight years, Kershaw a couple years, and was on the verge of perhaps signing Prince Fielder before the Tigers stepped in.
True, McCourt also ran the once proud Dodgers into a cost-cutting laughingstock, but at least he did something right. Right?
Anyway, this contract reminds me of the one Kemp signed a couple years back. In January of 2010, Kemp signed a two-year, $10.95 million contract. While the '10 season was awful, he obviously rebounded in a tremendous way with his MVP-caliber '11. And he did it all without PED's, unlike the other guy who won the award. Imagine that.
Kershaw has already had his monster season, winning the Cy Young and the NL's pitching Triple Crown. All he has to do now is continue to be the ace that he's already become, and he too will find himself with a phat new deal, ala Kemp. It's hard to judge right now what kind of money he can earn, or if it will be anywhere in Kemp's neighborhood. But with a new owner about to come into town, I'm sure he'll get something nice.
With this deal now sealed and delivered, the focus can squarely move onto Spring Training and new ownership. After an offseason full of signing role players (cost-cutting moves, remember), it'll be fun to see the boys report to Camelback Ranch soon, along with the home stretch of getting a new owner. I'm excited, that's for sure. You should be, too.
Coffey added to the bullpen
The Dodgers and veteran right-handed reliever Todd Coffey reached a one-year, $1 million deal this past Friday. The deal also includes either an option for 2013 worth $2.5 million, or a buyout for $300,000.
Coffey is coming off a pretty good season with the Nationals. In 69 appearances spread out of 59 2/3 innings last season, he went 5-1 with a 3.62 ERA, 1.26 WHIP, and 46 strikeouts. Over his seven-year career, he has a 4.08 ERA and 1.42 WHIP.
So far, his career looks like it's bounced up and down between a good season and a mediocre one. His numbers are certainly better than with the Brewers in 2010, where he had a 4.76 ERA and 1.41 WHIP. But, he put together a great '09 campaign, tossing a 2.90 ERA and 1.16 WHIP over 83 2/3 innings. So, he's proven he can be effective.
Right now he's just another option in middle relief, joining guys like Matt Guerrier and Mike MacDougal. It's hard to see him cracking the late innings, unless youngsters Javy Guerra and Kenley Jansen stumble, which is entirely possible given their youth. We shall see.
Coffey is coming off a pretty good season with the Nationals. In 69 appearances spread out of 59 2/3 innings last season, he went 5-1 with a 3.62 ERA, 1.26 WHIP, and 46 strikeouts. Over his seven-year career, he has a 4.08 ERA and 1.42 WHIP.
So far, his career looks like it's bounced up and down between a good season and a mediocre one. His numbers are certainly better than with the Brewers in 2010, where he had a 4.76 ERA and 1.41 WHIP. But, he put together a great '09 campaign, tossing a 2.90 ERA and 1.16 WHIP over 83 2/3 innings. So, he's proven he can be effective.
Right now he's just another option in middle relief, joining guys like Matt Guerrier and Mike MacDougal. It's hard to see him cracking the late innings, unless youngsters Javy Guerra and Kenley Jansen stumble, which is entirely possible given their youth. We shall see.
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