As usual, none of my Rule 5 predictions were even close. Most of the targets I thought the Cubs would consider with the 2nd pick weren't even selected by any other teams. I feel a little better since only 4 of top 20 rule 5 prospects on the MLB.com were selected. It's a crap shoot. Anyway, here is a brief scouting report on the Cubs Rule 5 selection, RP Hector Rondon, and an overview of who the Cubs lost.
Hector Rondon
Throws: Right, Position: RP Age:24
Height: 6' 3", Weight: 180 lb.
Rondon is a former top 10 prospect of the Indians who has struggled to stay healthy the last three years. Rondon made it to AAA in 2010 before his season was derailed with TJ surgery, so before his injury at least he was close to big league ready. Reports have Rondon throwing in the high 90s in winter league ball with good movement so barring another injury, Rondon should be ready to go in spring training and has a good shot to break camp with the Cubs as a power bullpen arm. Here is a scouting report from Scouting Book:
A relatively unknown pitcher hidden in the Cleveland system, righthander
Hector Rondon uses his darting 93mph fastball and MLB-ready breaking
ball heavily, and both are highly effective when he commands them...
which is most of the time. He stumbled in an injury-riddled 2010,
however, and reinjured his elbow again in 2011. He's being rebuilt this
spring, and should begin rehab work in late summer. We won't know if he
really has anything left until winter, 2012. (ScoutingBook.com)
I figured the Cubs would select a power arm, but had never heard of Rondon before today. From the reports I've read I'm happy with the pick and excited to see him pitch. On a sad note here is a list of players the Cubs lost in the Rule 5 draft (majors & minors):
Straling Peralta (Diamondbacks)
Throws: Right, Position: SP Age:22
Height: 6' 4", Weight: 180 lb.
This hurts. Peralta is a high ceiling SP prospect with mid 90s heat and a + slider as his out pitch. He pitched well this year in low A (3.44 ERA, 7.9 K/9) but wasn't dominant and low A is a long way from the bigs. I'm hoping he's far enough away that he doesn't stick on the D-Backs roster, but with 2 + pitches he could be good enough out of the bullpen to stick as a long relief / mop-up guy.
Minor League Rule 5 draft: The double & triple A sections of the draft are basically used for teams to fill organization depth.
Matt Cerda (Cardinals) - A utility infielder with a great eye (.394 OBP) and little else. Certa has no power (3HR) and little speed (4STL) but can play anywhere in the infield and is a grinder. He'll probably end up making the Cardinals and being an annoying Skip Schumaker type. Just because it's the Cardinals.
Michael Burgess (OF) - A power hitting outfielder with contact issues, Burgess actually cut down his strikeouts considerbaly in 2012 (111 to 56) but it effected his power as his homers dropped from 20 to 10 (90 less ABs). The Cubs are short on power hitting OF prospects, but I don't predict Burgess ever making it to the show.
Alvido Jimenez (RP) - Put up good numbers in rookie league ball as a reliever (2.64 ERA, 8.8 K/9) but it's his 3rd year in the league and he's already 21. Never heard of him before today.
Cubs Minor League Report - Current updates on the Cubs minor league system, the latest rumors, and a few of my opinions on the new regime's attempt to build the Cubs into a perennial contender.
Thursday, December 6, 2012
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
Cubs Rule 5 Prospects
As we saw last year with Lendy Castillo, Rule 5 players rarely make an impact but there have been a few exceptions over the years (Joakim Soria, Josh Hamilton, Dan Uggla). It's also been rumored that the Cubs have been fielding offers for the 2nd pick, so maybe they will trade the pick for a better prospect that is a few years away and fits better into their competitive timeline (2015 baby!).
As for organizational depth, the Cubs biggest areas of need are starting pitching and corner outfielders. There won't be many starting pitchers available that are even close to major league ready though, so I would expect the cubs to target a lefty hitting OF who could be a bat off the bench this year or a relief pitcher who is almost ready for the bigs (preferably a lefty).
For those unfamiiar with the Rule 5 draft, the player taken has to remain on the team's 25-man roster for the whole season or he is sent back to thier original team. There is some wiggle room though as players can be stashed on the IR with an "injury" or bought from the original team.
The Cubs have the 2nd pick, but unlike most drafts their really is no relaible way to predict who they will take. Last yeat they shocked everyone with thier selection of Lendy Castillo and also lost Ryan Flaherty (Orioles) & Marwin Gonzalez (Astros).
Here is a breakdown of players in order of preference that the Cubs could select:
Ryan Chaffee (RHP)
Throws: Right Age: 24 Team: Angels
After struggling as a starter since being drafted in 2008 (3rd round), Chaffee was switched to the bullpen full-time in 2012. His numbers out of the pen were elite (5.9 H/9, 11.5 K/9, 1.17 WHIP) across high A and AA. It is a small sample size (65 IP) but he throws in the low to mid 90's with a + breaking ball so the stuff and pedigree are there. The Cubs could use him as a mop up guy to start off and eventually transition him into high leverage roles if he continues to pitch well out of the pen.
Josh Fields (RHP)
Throws: Right Age: 27 Team: Red Sox
At 27 he can barely be considered a prospect, but some guys just figure things out a little later than others. Fields averaged 6.2 BB/9 in his minor league career before a subtle change in his delivery allowed him to cut his walk rate to 2.4 BB/9 in 2012 while actually increasing his K rate to 12 per 9 and posting a miniscule .967 WHIP in AA & AAA. If Fields can keep throwing strikes he could be a 6th-7th inning guy right away.
Jeremy Hazelbaker (OF)
Bats: Left Age: 25 Team: Red Sox
Intriguing mix of power and speed (19 HR, 36 STL in 2012), who Epstein should be familiar with since he was drafted by the Red Sox in the 4th round of the 2009 draft. Hazelbaker can play all three OF position and has the physical tools to be an all-star, but lack of plate discipline and inconsistent numbers in the minors make this a high risk / high reward pick When you consider how few Rule 5 players make an impact, all the picks are high risk so why not take the player with the most offensive upside?
John Keck (RHP)
Throws: Left Age: 24 Team:Royals
A big lefty (6'6) whose plus stuff hasn't translated to solid minor league numbers (career 4.54 era). Keck throws a heavy mid-90s fastball which from a lefty should be enough to keep him on a roster till he's about 38 years old. In the short term he has had some control issues and doesn't strike out as many people as a hard throwing 6'6 lefty should (7.9 K/9 in '12) but his unique skill-set is worthy off a flier and the Cubs are in need of a lefty arm out of the pen to keep Russell's arm from falling off. There are options with higher upside available but Keck fills an immediate need and has the talent to become a valuable lefty out of the pen.
Carlos Perez (LHP)
Throws: Left Age: 21 Team:Braves
An electric lefty who was a former top prospect in the always loaded Braves system (#5 in 2011), Perez has struggled to harness his dominant stuff. The main problem, as it is with most young pitchers, is control. Perez gave up 6.2 free passes per 9 innings last year which isn't acceptable in the majors. The only reason Perez is on this list is that he was moved to the bullpen in 2012 and responded by striking out 14.7 batters per 9 innings! Those are Rich Hill numbers! (still hurts) Like Lendy Castillo last year, Perez will be hard to keep on the 25-man roster all year but lefty relievers who can strike people out are a premium commodity so it may be worth the gamble.
As for organizational depth, the Cubs biggest areas of need are starting pitching and corner outfielders. There won't be many starting pitchers available that are even close to major league ready though, so I would expect the cubs to target a lefty hitting OF who could be a bat off the bench this year or a relief pitcher who is almost ready for the bigs (preferably a lefty).
For those unfamiiar with the Rule 5 draft, the player taken has to remain on the team's 25-man roster for the whole season or he is sent back to thier original team. There is some wiggle room though as players can be stashed on the IR with an "injury" or bought from the original team.
The Cubs have the 2nd pick, but unlike most drafts their really is no relaible way to predict who they will take. Last yeat they shocked everyone with thier selection of Lendy Castillo and also lost Ryan Flaherty (Orioles) & Marwin Gonzalez (Astros).
Here is a breakdown of players in order of preference that the Cubs could select:
Ryan Chaffee (RHP)
Throws: Right Age: 24 Team: Angels
After struggling as a starter since being drafted in 2008 (3rd round), Chaffee was switched to the bullpen full-time in 2012. His numbers out of the pen were elite (5.9 H/9, 11.5 K/9, 1.17 WHIP) across high A and AA. It is a small sample size (65 IP) but he throws in the low to mid 90's with a + breaking ball so the stuff and pedigree are there. The Cubs could use him as a mop up guy to start off and eventually transition him into high leverage roles if he continues to pitch well out of the pen.
Josh Fields (RHP)
Throws: Right Age: 27 Team: Red Sox
At 27 he can barely be considered a prospect, but some guys just figure things out a little later than others. Fields averaged 6.2 BB/9 in his minor league career before a subtle change in his delivery allowed him to cut his walk rate to 2.4 BB/9 in 2012 while actually increasing his K rate to 12 per 9 and posting a miniscule .967 WHIP in AA & AAA. If Fields can keep throwing strikes he could be a 6th-7th inning guy right away.
Jeremy Hazelbaker (OF)
Bats: Left Age: 25 Team: Red Sox
Intriguing mix of power and speed (19 HR, 36 STL in 2012), who Epstein should be familiar with since he was drafted by the Red Sox in the 4th round of the 2009 draft. Hazelbaker can play all three OF position and has the physical tools to be an all-star, but lack of plate discipline and inconsistent numbers in the minors make this a high risk / high reward pick When you consider how few Rule 5 players make an impact, all the picks are high risk so why not take the player with the most offensive upside?
John Keck (RHP)
Throws: Left Age: 24 Team:Royals
A big lefty (6'6) whose plus stuff hasn't translated to solid minor league numbers (career 4.54 era). Keck throws a heavy mid-90s fastball which from a lefty should be enough to keep him on a roster till he's about 38 years old. In the short term he has had some control issues and doesn't strike out as many people as a hard throwing 6'6 lefty should (7.9 K/9 in '12) but his unique skill-set is worthy off a flier and the Cubs are in need of a lefty arm out of the pen to keep Russell's arm from falling off. There are options with higher upside available but Keck fills an immediate need and has the talent to become a valuable lefty out of the pen.
Carlos Perez (LHP)
Throws: Left Age: 21 Team:Braves
An electric lefty who was a former top prospect in the always loaded Braves system (#5 in 2011), Perez has struggled to harness his dominant stuff. The main problem, as it is with most young pitchers, is control. Perez gave up 6.2 free passes per 9 innings last year which isn't acceptable in the majors. The only reason Perez is on this list is that he was moved to the bullpen in 2012 and responded by striking out 14.7 batters per 9 innings! Those are Rich Hill numbers! (still hurts) Like Lendy Castillo last year, Perez will be hard to keep on the 25-man roster all year but lefty relievers who can strike people out are a premium commodity so it may be worth the gamble.
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
Cubs win again!
Cubs win again. One more and that's a winning streak. I know it's just spring training, but we might as well enjoy it because winning streaks may be few and far between once the season starts. Here is what went down in Surprise:
- Jeff Samardzija threw a three inning gem today! He gave up a bloop single, had three strikeouts, and didn't walk anybody. I know it's wrong, but I'm excited.
- Bryan LaHair got his first 2 hits of the spring today going 2-3 with two singles and an RBI. He did leave a couple runners on base, but it's a start.
- Darwin Barney continued his hot spring with another RBI double.
- Joe Mather had another hit and his team leading 3rd steal of the spring. I'm hearing that he doesn't have much of a shot to make the team, but if he keeps stealing bases (pinch runner) and plays solid defense what makes Campana or Sappelt any better? The ability to play CF is one edge they have on him, but Reed Johnson can play CF if needed. Mather gives the Cubs a power bat off the bench which is one thing Campana / Sappelt can't do.
- Sappelt got a chance to lead off today and went 0-3. Despite my mini-Mather rant, I hope Sappelt wins the 5th OF job because I think he has the most upside of the three.
- Raphel Solis pitched two innings without giving up an earned run. He wasn't as dominant as in the opener, but didn't hurt his chances of earning a bullpen spot either.
- 2 K's for Steve Clevenger. At least he's a good bunter.
- Speaking of bunting... Campana bunted home a run with a runner on 3rd and 1 out in the 6th. Old school baseball. Holy cow!
- Josh Vitters walked for the second game in a row. Who says he can't take a pitch? (besides everybody). In his next at-bat, Vitters came up with runners on the corners and no one out and worked an 8 pitch AB before striking out swinging. Disappointing, but at least it was a tough out.
- Brett Jackson RBI single in first AB. Trade Byrd! (kidding)
- Trey McNutt gave up a run in one inning of work and struggled to throw strikes (11 strikes, 13 balls). He did get a strikeout, but the control issue is concerning.
- Jeff Beliveau got rocked again. He came on in the 9th with a 4 run lead and gave three singles & two runs before retiring a batter. He got out of the jam without allowing any more runs, but it was lucky. Two of the three outs were on a rocket liner and deep fly out. Whew. Not impressed so far.
- Jeff Samardzija threw a three inning gem today! He gave up a bloop single, had three strikeouts, and didn't walk anybody. I know it's wrong, but I'm excited.
- Bryan LaHair got his first 2 hits of the spring today going 2-3 with two singles and an RBI. He did leave a couple runners on base, but it's a start.
- Darwin Barney continued his hot spring with another RBI double.
- Joe Mather had another hit and his team leading 3rd steal of the spring. I'm hearing that he doesn't have much of a shot to make the team, but if he keeps stealing bases (pinch runner) and plays solid defense what makes Campana or Sappelt any better? The ability to play CF is one edge they have on him, but Reed Johnson can play CF if needed. Mather gives the Cubs a power bat off the bench which is one thing Campana / Sappelt can't do.
- Sappelt got a chance to lead off today and went 0-3. Despite my mini-Mather rant, I hope Sappelt wins the 5th OF job because I think he has the most upside of the three.
- Raphel Solis pitched two innings without giving up an earned run. He wasn't as dominant as in the opener, but didn't hurt his chances of earning a bullpen spot either.
- 2 K's for Steve Clevenger. At least he's a good bunter.
- Speaking of bunting... Campana bunted home a run with a runner on 3rd and 1 out in the 6th. Old school baseball. Holy cow!
- Josh Vitters walked for the second game in a row. Who says he can't take a pitch? (besides everybody). In his next at-bat, Vitters came up with runners on the corners and no one out and worked an 8 pitch AB before striking out swinging. Disappointing, but at least it was a tough out.
- Brett Jackson RBI single in first AB. Trade Byrd! (kidding)
- Trey McNutt gave up a run in one inning of work and struggled to throw strikes (11 strikes, 13 balls). He did get a strikeout, but the control issue is concerning.
- Jeff Beliveau got rocked again. He came on in the 9th with a 4 run lead and gave three singles & two runs before retiring a batter. He got out of the jam without allowing any more runs, but it was lucky. Two of the three outs were on a rocket liner and deep fly out. Whew. Not impressed so far.
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Cubs Win!
The Cubs got their first win of the spring with a 11-4 victory over the Rockies.
Recap:
No one was booing Alfonso Soriano today as he hit 2 homers and ripped a double to the wall in 3 at-bats. Trade value increased 1% (from 0).
Matt Garza had a rough start (2 IN, 3 H, 2 ER) but I don't put much stock into veteran pitcher's spring stats. Usually they are working on a specific pitch, mechanics, etc. Garza will be fine.
The LRP bullpen spots are wide open after the Sean Marshall trade, but no one is doing anything to claim one so far. James Russell (the favorite) gave up 3 hits and a run in his one inning today. I considered the bullpen one of the Cubs only strengths coming into the season, but it's been ugly.
David DeJesus got caught stealing. I like the aggressiveness, but at little success would be nice.
Ex-Cub Tyler Colvin had a nice day for the Rockies going 2-3 with a run & rbi.
Prospects:
Brett Jackson continued his strong spring by hitting a three run homer and taking a walk. He also struck out, but I'm focusing on the positives today.
Anthony Rizzo went 2-3 with a run & rbi. He's not going to break camp with the team, but I think a strong start is an important step in erasing any bad mojo from his brutal stint in the majors last year
Junior Lake went 1-3 with a double (1 K).
Wellington Castillo continues to hit well, going 2-3 with double, a run scored, and an RBI. Based on his spring last year and strong numbers in AAA (.286/.351/.524), I think he's ready.
Josh Vitters took a walk (discipline!) and stole a base.
Fringe:
Joe Mather had a triple in his only at bat. Strong start for Mather.
Andy Sonnanstine closed out the game for the Cubs with a scoreless innings, but did give up a hit and a walk.
Recap:
No one was booing Alfonso Soriano today as he hit 2 homers and ripped a double to the wall in 3 at-bats. Trade value increased 1% (from 0).
Matt Garza had a rough start (2 IN, 3 H, 2 ER) but I don't put much stock into veteran pitcher's spring stats. Usually they are working on a specific pitch, mechanics, etc. Garza will be fine.
The LRP bullpen spots are wide open after the Sean Marshall trade, but no one is doing anything to claim one so far. James Russell (the favorite) gave up 3 hits and a run in his one inning today. I considered the bullpen one of the Cubs only strengths coming into the season, but it's been ugly.
David DeJesus got caught stealing. I like the aggressiveness, but at little success would be nice.
Ex-Cub Tyler Colvin had a nice day for the Rockies going 2-3 with a run & rbi.
Prospects:
Brett Jackson continued his strong spring by hitting a three run homer and taking a walk. He also struck out, but I'm focusing on the positives today.
Anthony Rizzo went 2-3 with a run & rbi. He's not going to break camp with the team, but I think a strong start is an important step in erasing any bad mojo from his brutal stint in the majors last year
Junior Lake went 1-3 with a double (1 K).
Wellington Castillo continues to hit well, going 2-3 with double, a run scored, and an RBI. Based on his spring last year and strong numbers in AAA (.286/.351/.524), I think he's ready.
Josh Vitters took a walk (discipline!) and stole a base.
Fringe:
Joe Mather had a triple in his only at bat. Strong start for Mather.
Andy Sonnanstine closed out the game for the Cubs with a scoreless innings, but did give up a hit and a walk.
Cubs ST Game 2 Recap
The Cubs blew another late lead and lost to the A's 8-7. I have yet to see any correlation between spring training record and regular season performance, so I could care less about winning games in the spring. My primary concern is how our prospects look and who is going to be a factor in 2013, so that will be the focus on my recaps.
Offense:
Josh Vitters went 1-2 with an RBI double and didn't make an errors at third. Most scouts question Vitters ability to hit and field at a major league level, so the pressure is on Josh to prove to the new regime he can do both. Good start!
Blake DeWitt hit a 3-run homer in his first AB of the spring. Looks like the 2nd base competition is going to be more heated then I thought. I have very little faith in DeWitt after last season, but I am willing to give him another shot (begrudgingly).
Joe Mather - I mentioned Mather as an underrated signing in my off-season breakdown and he did nothing to prove me wrong today. Mather went 2-3 with 2 steals and a run scored. He's a long shot to make the team out of camp, but if Soriano or Bryd get moved during the season he could get some time in the bigs.
Steve Clevenger went 1-2 with a run, rbi, and a sweet sacrifice bunt. That contest is paying dividends already!
Bryan LaHair went 0-3 with a K and is hit-less this spring after 2 games.
Pitching:
Casey Weathers pitched a perfect 5th for the Cubs. Nobody is talking about Weathers as part of the deal that brought Ian Stewart from the Rockies, but he is a former top 10 pick with a plus fastball. Weathers could be a part of the Cubs bullpen this year with a solid spring.
Kevin Rhoderick pitched a scoreless 8th with 1 K. Not much is written about Rhoderick since he falls into the 25-30 range on the Cubs prospect lists, but he struck out over a batter per inning between high A-AA in his first year with the Cubs. He'll start the year in AA, but is a sleeper candidate for the 2013 bullpen
Tony Zych is another guy to watch for next year, but he didn't fare as well in the 9th. Zych got the loss after giving up a game winning homer to Yordy Cabrera (Who?).
Manny Corpas & Marco Carillo got rocked in the 6th & 7th innings giving up a combined 6 runs on 6 hits and 2 BB. Not much is expected from Carillo, but Corpas has a legit shot to make the team out of camp. Today's performance didn't help his cause.
Misc:
No errors today and no runners picked off first. Fundamentals are back!
Offense:
Josh Vitters went 1-2 with an RBI double and didn't make an errors at third. Most scouts question Vitters ability to hit and field at a major league level, so the pressure is on Josh to prove to the new regime he can do both. Good start!
Blake DeWitt hit a 3-run homer in his first AB of the spring. Looks like the 2nd base competition is going to be more heated then I thought. I have very little faith in DeWitt after last season, but I am willing to give him another shot (begrudgingly).
Joe Mather - I mentioned Mather as an underrated signing in my off-season breakdown and he did nothing to prove me wrong today. Mather went 2-3 with 2 steals and a run scored. He's a long shot to make the team out of camp, but if Soriano or Bryd get moved during the season he could get some time in the bigs.
Steve Clevenger went 1-2 with a run, rbi, and a sweet sacrifice bunt. That contest is paying dividends already!
Bryan LaHair went 0-3 with a K and is hit-less this spring after 2 games.
Pitching:
Casey Weathers pitched a perfect 5th for the Cubs. Nobody is talking about Weathers as part of the deal that brought Ian Stewart from the Rockies, but he is a former top 10 pick with a plus fastball. Weathers could be a part of the Cubs bullpen this year with a solid spring.
Kevin Rhoderick pitched a scoreless 8th with 1 K. Not much is written about Rhoderick since he falls into the 25-30 range on the Cubs prospect lists, but he struck out over a batter per inning between high A-AA in his first year with the Cubs. He'll start the year in AA, but is a sleeper candidate for the 2013 bullpen
Tony Zych is another guy to watch for next year, but he didn't fare as well in the 9th. Zych got the loss after giving up a game winning homer to Yordy Cabrera (Who?).
Manny Corpas & Marco Carillo got rocked in the 6th & 7th innings giving up a combined 6 runs on 6 hits and 2 BB. Not much is expected from Carillo, but Corpas has a legit shot to make the team out of camp. Today's performance didn't help his cause.
Misc:
No errors today and no runners picked off first. Fundamentals are back!
Sunday, March 4, 2012
Cubs Spring Training Opener
Today reminded me why I left Chicago and moved to Arizona few years ago. 81 degrees on March 4th? Not a bad day to watch the Cubs spring training opener. It sucks that they lost 12-10 to A's, but sitting on the grass watching Cubs baseball and pounding Old Styles is tough to beat.
Here are my notes from the game:
- The collective attitude of the fans seems different this year. The usual anger and frustration over "Cub plays" has been replaced with a sense of amusement, an acceptance that the Cubs are going to suck this year so we might as well have fun with it. I'm pretty sure rooting for the Cubs has permanently raised my blood pressure and taken a few years off my life, so I'm on board with the laid-back vibe (at least for spring training).
- The collective attitude of the fans seems different this year. The usual anger and frustration over "Cub plays" has been replaced with a sense of amusement, an acceptance that the Cubs are going to suck this year so we might as well have fun with it. I'm pretty sure rooting for the Cubs has permanently raised my blood pressure and taken a few years off my life, so I'm on board with the laid-back vibe (at least for spring training).
- Rodrigo Lopez & Marmol combined for 3 perfect innings to start the game. It was good to Marmol not walk anybody for a change. Hopefully Bosio can get him back to his 2010 form. Lopez was solid. Who cares.
- Rafael Dolis was the most impressive arm out of the pen today (not much competition). He has an intimating presence on the mound and his stuff looked filthy
- Jeff Beliveau's stuff was the opposite of filthy (clean?). He walked the only 3 batters he faced, but it was due more to not being able to miss any bats then being wild. All three batters fouled off multiple strikes before eventually drawing walks. Dae Eun Rhee came on in relief and promptly gave up a grand slam to Brandon Allen and then gave up another bomb to the next batter. Rhee feel behind almost every batter he faced and then got shelled when forced to throw strikes. I was excited about seeing both these guys live and was disappointed. I know it's only 1 game, but they didn't pass the eye-test today.
- It looks like the battle for the 2nd base job could be exciting. Darwin Barney had an impressive all around game. He drove in the first two runs of the game with a 2 out double in the gap, stole 3rd a few pitches later, and made a great defensive play before being pulled for Adrien Cardenas. Cardenas first AB as a Cubs came with the bases loaded in the 6th and he delivered a bases clearing triple. He made an out in his next at-bat but hit the ball hard. Defense is supposedly his weakness, but he made a nice catch on a foul ball in shallow right and didn't embarrass himself out there. Blake DeWitt still blows.
- The talent level on the field is questionable, but in the lawn section it's outstanding.
- The talent level on the field is questionable, but in the lawn section it's outstanding.
- Cub fans got a glimpse of the future in the 6th inning. Rizzo led off with a single, Brett Jackson walked, Jimmy Aducci singled to load the bases, Dave Sappelt singled in a run, and then Cardenas cleared the bases with a triple. Jae Hoon-Ha added another RBI single to cap off a 5 run inning. Good times.
- I hope Jae Hoon-Ha eventually gets some time in the big leagues. Fun name. Ha.
- Rule 5 pick-up Lendy Castillo gave up a run and was wild, but his stuff looks legit.
- Brett Jackson made an impressive sliding catch in CF.
- The Cubs had two runners (Dejesus & Barney) picked off first base in the same inning by the A's catcher, Kurt Suzuki. Frustrating, but it's not like the Cubs are going to be a fundamentally sound team overnight.
- No boos for Soriano today! No applause either, but I guess all the "good guy / hard worker" press he's getting lately has softened up the fans. Or maybe everybody was just in too good of a mood to boo.
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
Carpenter to the Red Sox
The Cubs & Red Sox (not Bud Selig) decided that RP Chris Carpenter is fair compensation for Theo Epstein leaving Boston 1 year before his contract expired. My initial reaction is that the price seems pretty steep. Carpenter has been listed as high as 6th and as low as 15th depending on whose prospect list your reading. He pitched in the majors last year and was expected to be a part of the Cubs bullpen in 2012. I was expecting the compensation player to be a low-level minor leaguer with potential, not a major-league ready arm capable of hitting triple digits on the radar gun.
On the bright side, the strength of the Cubs minor league system is power bullpen arms, so it's not as damaging to the system as losing an SP prospect like McNutt would of been. Carpenter has a great arm, but right now is a two-pitch reliever with control issues. Looking at the big picture, losing a 7th or maybe 8th inning guy for the amount of excitement the new regime has brought to Cubs fans this off-season seems about fair.
On the bright side, the strength of the Cubs minor league system is power bullpen arms, so it's not as damaging to the system as losing an SP prospect like McNutt would of been. Carpenter has a great arm, but right now is a two-pitch reliever with control issues. Looking at the big picture, losing a 7th or maybe 8th inning guy for the amount of excitement the new regime has brought to Cubs fans this off-season seems about fair.
Thursday, February 2, 2012
State of the Cubs Minor League System
What a difference a year makes. The combination of an influx of talent from the new regime, the maturation of the old regime's draft picks, and smart international spending has taken the Cubs minor league system from near the bottom of the league to a top 15 farm system. They have anywhere from 3-5 top 100 prospects overall depending on whose lists you trust.
While the Cubs are lacking any sure thing "A" prospects, they have one of the deepest pool of mid-range prospects in the league. Most of these prospects are 1-2 years away from playing at Wrigley, but the future is bright for the Cubs. Here is a breakdown of the strengths and weakness of the Cubs system:
Strengths:
While the Cubs are lacking any sure thing "A" prospects, they have one of the deepest pool of mid-range prospects in the league. Most of these prospects are 1-2 years away from playing at Wrigley, but the future is bright for the Cubs. Here is a breakdown of the strengths and weakness of the Cubs system:
Strengths:
- Bullpen arms: The Cubs have a surplus of MLB ready (or close) power bullpen arms. Carpenter, Dolis, Beliveau, Weathers, and Lendy Castillo could all see action in the majors this season and there are more arms on the way like Zych, Serrano, & Hatley in the next few years.
- Infielders: None are quite MLB ready, but by 2014 the Cubs should have some serious talent coming up the pipe. Rizzo & Vogelbach were recently listed as top 10 first base prospects in the league by Baseball America. At 3B the Cubs have Vitters, Baez, Candeleria, and probably Lake if he keeps growing. In the middle, names like DeVoss, Watkins, Torreyes, and Hernandez are making all the prospect lists.
Weaknesses:
- Starting Pitching: The Cubs are still lacking a starting pitching prospect who profiles as a legit ace. Maybe they get one in a Garza deal, but that is speculation at this point. McNutt is listed as the Cubs top SP prospect, but if 2011 was any indication he's not the answer. Maples is projected as a #2, but he has yet to pitch in the system. The Cubs do have some solid mid-rotation types (Rhee, Beeler, Wells, Cates) in the lower levels, but a lot of question marks.
- Corner Outfielders: The Cubs lack traditional power hitting corner outfielder prospects. Reggie Golden and maybe Michael Burgess are intriguing names, but they still need considerable development before they are ready to play in the big leagues. If Brett Jackson's power develops and the Cubs sign Cespedes and / or Soler, this point becomes mute.
The Cubs have had strong farm systems in the past that have failed to develop all-star or even starting caliber players, but I haven't been this excited about the Cubs minor league prospects in a long time and I think the Cubs are moving in the right direction. Let the "Build" begin!
Cubs sign Concepcion
One down, two to go! The Cubs signed Cuban pitcher Gerardo Concepcion. The 18 year old lefty reported signed a deal for $7M with the number of years undisclosed as of now. Concepcion projects as a back of the rotation starter. For more info, click below:
http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2012/02/cubs-sign-gerardo-concepcion.html
http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2012/02/cubs-sign-gerardo-concepcion.html
Why not Detwiler?
The Nationals have signed SP Edwin Jackson to a 1-year deal worth approximately $10 Mil. Adding Jackson to a rotation of Strasburg, Zimmerman, Gonzalez, & Wang probably makes the Nationals favorites in the NL East and also creates a surplus of starting pitching. Before the signing, John Lannon & Ross Detwiler were projected to compete for the 5th spot in the rotation, but now one is expendable.
I've already read a few rumors about the Cubs potentially being interested in a Lannon for Byrd swap. It makes sense for the Nationals since they have a surplus of starting pitching and no clear cut center-fielder, but does it make sense for the Cubs? Do we need another mediocre lefty in his late twenties? Didn't we just sign Maholm?
I think the Cubs should look into acquiring Detwiler instead for three main reasons:
If the Cubs are serious about competing this year, Lannon would make more sense and would be a small upgrade at the back of the rotation. If the Cubs are looking more long-term (as I think they are), Detwiler is a guy they can slot at the top of the AAA rotation and give him some time to fine-tune his pitching skills. It also would give the Cubs a major league ready starting pitcher with upside to call up in case of injury. As a fan, I would be more excited about giving Detwiler a chance then the Sonnanstine / Lopez combo we have in reserve right now.
I've already read a few rumors about the Cubs potentially being interested in a Lannon for Byrd swap. It makes sense for the Nationals since they have a surplus of starting pitching and no clear cut center-fielder, but does it make sense for the Cubs? Do we need another mediocre lefty in his late twenties? Didn't we just sign Maholm?
I think the Cubs should look into acquiring Detwiler instead for three main reasons:
- Upside: Detwiler fits the post-hype profile that Epstein seems to be targeting this off-season (Stewart, Volstad, Weathers). He was a 1st round pick in 07 (6th overall) and was rated as the 2nd best lefty in that draft after David Price. Detwiler pitched well in limited innings in 2010 (2.27, 10.0,1.9,8.0) at a few minor league levels and was decent in an extended major league look (3.00, 8.6, 2.7, 5.6) in 66 innings last season.
- Age: Not a huge difference here, but Lannon is 27 with 751 major league innings on his arm. Detwiler is 25 and has less wear on his arm (172 major league innings). He did have hip surgery in 2010, but has shown no lingering effects.
- Cost: Lannon, as a proven commodity, should have a higher price tag then Detwiler. Detwiler is also out of options, so the Nats may be looking to move him anyway if they don't see him as a long reliever. If the Cubs are planning on moving Bryd they may be able to get a prospect as well in a Detwiler deal. I don't want to sound greedy, but Destin Hood would be a nice fit.
If the Cubs are serious about competing this year, Lannon would make more sense and would be a small upgrade at the back of the rotation. If the Cubs are looking more long-term (as I think they are), Detwiler is a guy they can slot at the top of the AAA rotation and give him some time to fine-tune his pitching skills. It also would give the Cubs a major league ready starting pitcher with upside to call up in case of injury. As a fan, I would be more excited about giving Detwiler a chance then the Sonnanstine / Lopez combo we have in reserve right now.
Cubs Top 15 Prospects
My list of the Cubs top 15 prospects:
- Check back soon for part 2 (16-25)
1.) Anthony Rizzo (1B, 21): I'm going to focus on his AAA numbers last year (26 HR, 101 RBI, 1.056 OPS in 356 ABs) and not his numbers with the Padres (.523 OPS, 46 Ks in 126 ABs). Petco Park is a notoriously tough place to hit and in hindsight Rizzo probably wasn't ready for the majors. I expect Rizzo to exorcise his Petco demons at Iowa for at least a half-season and hopefully get back on track for the 25-30 home runs with an acceptable average that most sites were projecting for him last year.
2.) Brett Jackson (CF, 23): A legit 5-tool player even if none of those five tools are considered ++. Despite Jackson's solid numbers in AAA last year (.297/.388/.551), I've heard considerable concern over Jackson's high strikeout totals (138 Ks in 431 ABs). Jackson has always been young for his level and I think as he is exposed to more high level pitching the strike out numbers will go down.
3.) Javier Baez (SS, 19): The Cubs first round pick in the 2011 draft (9th overall). Baez is rumored to have some emotional baggage, but his bad speed is off the charts and he projects as a middle of the lineup bat. Baez has the throwing arm to play 3B if he outgrows SS.
4.) Matt Szczur (CF, 22): Has the physical tools to be an ideal top of the order hitter, but his approach and defense need some polish. Szczur (pronounced like "scissor") played QB at Vanderbilt in '09, but put up pretty good numbers across two A-levels in his first full season in the system (.293 AVG, 10 HR, 24 ST). One more year of seasoning and I think Szczur will have a shot playing in Wrigley in '13.
5.) Dan Vogelbach (1B, 19): It's hard not to get excited about a guy with ++ power potential. It's also hard for me to be objective after I saw him put on a power display during batting practice at the AFL last year. I know I'm talking about practice, but scouts seem unanimous that his power is legit and his contact rate projects as above average. The main concern with Vogelbach is his weight. He's generously listed at 250 and he's not tall (6'0). Until I see/hear that he can't handle playing at that weight, I'm going to remain optimistic.
6.) Welington Castillo (C, 24): Castillo put up a solid .287/.359/.516 slash line in AAA last year and has a cannon arm behind the plate. There are concerns that his glove isn't ready for full-time duty yet, but I'm hopeful the Cubs give him a shot to at least back up Soto this year and potentially make him expendable at the deadline.
7.) Dillon Maples (SP, 21): The Cubs took advantage of the last year of paying over-slot and seemed to get a steal in the 14th round with Maples. His short-arm throwing motion worries some scouts, but his arsenal of pitches is already impressive and scouting reports say he's very polished for his age. I only have him listed this low because he has yet to pitch in the minors. Maples could be much higher on this list after a full season of work.
8.) Junior Lake (SS, 21): Has the physical tools to be everyday player in the majors, highlighted by an "80" throwing arm. His approach and fundamentals needs some serious work but take a look at Lake's stats across A+-AA-AFL last year: .285/.324/.470 with 54 steals. Considering that Lake was young for every league he played in, those are impressive numbers. With a year of seasoning and a focus on plate discipline, Lake could move up the list quick. I saw him in the Arizona Fall League and came away impressed.
9.) Trey McNutt (SP, 22): It's hard to get excited about a guy whose K/9 rate went from 10.2 to 6.2 and whose H/9 jumped from 7.2 to 11.4 in just one season. Maybe he was hurt? He didn't help his cause much by only striking out 8 batters in 18 Arizona Fall League innings. He's still young, so has plenty of time to rediscover the magic, but I'm not getting excited until he starts striking out hitters again.
10.) Chris Carpenter (RP, 22): I was impressed with Carpenter's stuff during his debut with the Cubs last year. He had some trouble finding the plate, but that can be attributed to nerves, trying too hard, etc. He was electric in the Arizona Fall League and I think he'll be a prominent part of the Cubs bullpen by the end of 2012. With his triple-digit fastball, he has the potential to close for the Cubs down the road if he can iron out his command issues.
11.) Rafael Dolis (RP, 24): A few statistical red flags (low k rate, high BB rate), but he throws a power sinker in the high 90s and that's pretty rare. His lack of a third pitch will limit him to bullpen duty, but he could be a high-leverage RP for the Cubs by the end of 2012.
12.) Dae-Eun Rhee (LSP, 22): Just one year removed from TJ surgery, Rhee ended 2011 in dominant fashion posting a 32/5 K/BB ratio over his last 25 innings in high-A. Rhee already has a + change-up and two solid complimentary pitches. He should start the year in AA and if he pitches like he did in late 2011, Rhee could be a candidate for the 2013 rotation with #3 starter upside.
13.) Ben Wells (RSP, 19): Another starter with #3 upside. Wells is a one-trick pony right now, but his one trick is a power sinker that he can locate consistently. He's a few years away, but he has the frame and the sinker to be at worst a successful innings-eater in the majors.
- Check back soon for part 2 (16-25)
1.) Anthony Rizzo (1B, 21): I'm going to focus on his AAA numbers last year (26 HR, 101 RBI, 1.056 OPS in 356 ABs) and not his numbers with the Padres (.523 OPS, 46 Ks in 126 ABs). Petco Park is a notoriously tough place to hit and in hindsight Rizzo probably wasn't ready for the majors. I expect Rizzo to exorcise his Petco demons at Iowa for at least a half-season and hopefully get back on track for the 25-30 home runs with an acceptable average that most sites were projecting for him last year.
2.) Brett Jackson (CF, 23): A legit 5-tool player even if none of those five tools are considered ++. Despite Jackson's solid numbers in AAA last year (.297/.388/.551), I've heard considerable concern over Jackson's high strikeout totals (138 Ks in 431 ABs). Jackson has always been young for his level and I think as he is exposed to more high level pitching the strike out numbers will go down.
3.) Javier Baez (SS, 19): The Cubs first round pick in the 2011 draft (9th overall). Baez is rumored to have some emotional baggage, but his bad speed is off the charts and he projects as a middle of the lineup bat. Baez has the throwing arm to play 3B if he outgrows SS.
4.) Matt Szczur (CF, 22): Has the physical tools to be an ideal top of the order hitter, but his approach and defense need some polish. Szczur (pronounced like "scissor") played QB at Vanderbilt in '09, but put up pretty good numbers across two A-levels in his first full season in the system (.293 AVG, 10 HR, 24 ST). One more year of seasoning and I think Szczur will have a shot playing in Wrigley in '13.
5.) Dan Vogelbach (1B, 19): It's hard not to get excited about a guy with ++ power potential. It's also hard for me to be objective after I saw him put on a power display during batting practice at the AFL last year. I know I'm talking about practice, but scouts seem unanimous that his power is legit and his contact rate projects as above average. The main concern with Vogelbach is his weight. He's generously listed at 250 and he's not tall (6'0). Until I see/hear that he can't handle playing at that weight, I'm going to remain optimistic.
8.) Junior Lake (SS, 21): Has the physical tools to be everyday player in the majors, highlighted by an "80" throwing arm. His approach and fundamentals needs some serious work but take a look at Lake's stats across A+-AA-AFL last year: .285/.324/.470 with 54 steals. Considering that Lake was young for every league he played in, those are impressive numbers. With a year of seasoning and a focus on plate discipline, Lake could move up the list quick. I saw him in the Arizona Fall League and came away impressed.
10.) Chris Carpenter (RP, 22): I was impressed with Carpenter's stuff during his debut with the Cubs last year. He had some trouble finding the plate, but that can be attributed to nerves, trying too hard, etc. He was electric in the Arizona Fall League and I think he'll be a prominent part of the Cubs bullpen by the end of 2012. With his triple-digit fastball, he has the potential to close for the Cubs down the road if he can iron out his command issues.
11.) Rafael Dolis (RP, 24): A few statistical red flags (low k rate, high BB rate), but he throws a power sinker in the high 90s and that's pretty rare. His lack of a third pitch will limit him to bullpen duty, but he could be a high-leverage RP for the Cubs by the end of 2012.
13.) Ben Wells (RSP, 19): Another starter with #3 upside. Wells is a one-trick pony right now, but his one trick is a power sinker that he can locate consistently. He's a few years away, but he has the frame and the sinker to be at worst a successful innings-eater in the majors.
14.) Ronald Torreyes (2B, 19): Scouting reports are all over the place on Torreyes. I've seen him listed in a top 100 overall list and I've seen him left off of a few Cubs top prospect lists? I think the discrepancy has to due with his diminutive size. There aren't a lot of 5-7, 150 pound major league players out there, but if Torreyes continues to hit at the .364 clip he's put up over his first two seasons, he'll make it to the show. If Torreyes has another impressive year with the bat or grows a little (he's only 19), he'll move up this list quick.
15.) Josh Vitters (3B, 22): Can he develop plate discipline? On the plus side, he's only 22 and his contact rate is outstanding (54 Ks in 449 ABs). On the negative side he had a 4-1 K/BB ratio, which would be great for a pitcher but not for a corner infielder who only hit 14 home runs. I'm doubtful that Vitters is ever going to be the star he was once projected as, but he could still be a serviceable major leaguer if he learns to take a pitch or two and his power spikes a little.
*This list is based on multiple reports from the experts, statistical analysis, limited live scouting, and my very subjective "gut" feeling.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Cubs Offseason Recap (Minors edition)
Here is an overview of the new players in the Cubs organization that will most likely start the season in the minor leagues. They are listed in order of potential long-term impact. I have added a prospect grade if applicable (via John Sickels from Minor League Ball)
Anthony Rizzo (1B, 22, B+):
Acquired: Trade with Padres
I'm going to focus on his AAA numbers last year (26 HR, 101 RBI, 1.056 OPS in 356 ABs) and not his numbers with the Padres (.523 OPS, 46 Ks in 126 ABs). Most sites project Rizzo as a 30+ home run hitter with a decent average and a solid glove. I would be happy with that!
Ronald Torreyes (2B,19, C+):
Acquired: Trade with Reds
Scouting reports are all over the place on Torreyes. I've seen him in two different top 100 overall lists and I've seen him left off of the Cubs top 20 prospect lists! I think the discrepancy has to due with his diminutive size. They're aren't a lot of 5-7, 150 pound major leaguers out there, but I have a hunch Theo sees a little of Pedroia in Torreyes. Whether he ends up growing or not, Torreyes has hit .365 over 2 minor league systems and if he keeps that up he will make the bigs eventually.
Dave Sappelt (OF, 25, C+):
Acquired: Trade with Reds
Sappelt doesn't have any tool that really stands out. He's fast but not a great base-stealer (59% career success rate). Despite the lack of any "plus" tools, Sappelt has hit very well in his last two minor league stops. He was the Southern League MVP in 2010 (.902 OPS, 25 steals) and should of broke camp with the Reds in 2011 after hitting .564 in spring training, but we all know how Dusty feels about rookies. Sappelt has a legit shot to make the opening day roster for the Cubs if they clear some room in the outfield by finding a taker for Soriano (fingers-crossed) or Bryd (mixed-feelings).
Zach Cates (SP, 22, C+):
Acquired: Trade with Padres
Underrated part of the Rizzo/Cashner deal. Cates is a converted catcher who is still learning how to pitch, but has a mid 90s fastball and put up good peripheral stats in his first full season (8.5 K/9, 0.3 HR/9). He's a few years away from the majors, but is an arm to watch in the Cubs system.
Casey Weathers (RP, 26):
Acquired: Trade with Rockies
Weathers was the 8th pick in the 2006 draft but missed the 2009 season with TJ surgery and has struggled with his control since (9.5 BB/9 last year). Weathers can still bring the heat and strike people out though (9.5 K/9) and he could be a valuable bullpen arm for the Cubs if he can cut down on the free passes.
Lendy Castillo (RP,22):
Acquired: Rule 5 draft, Phillies
Castillo would need to make the team out of spring training unless the Cubs can work out some compensation for the Phillies. He was bordeline dominant in A (2.54 era, 9 K/9, 7.2 H/9), but it's a long way from Lakewood (A) to Wrigley Field. Castillo is a sleeper but if he pitches well in spring training look for the Cubs to find a way to keep him.
Manny Corpas (RP, 29):
Acquired: FA
Corpas was an elite reliever in 2007 (19 SVs, 7.3 H/9) but never recreated that success in the following years and then missed the entire 2011 season recovering from TJ surgery. Corpas should spend the first half of the year at Iowa with a potential trip to the majors if he can come close to regaining his 2007 form.
Andy Sonnanstine (SP/RP, 29):
Acquired: FA
Journeyman from the Rays organization who was once considered a top prospect for the Rays. Sonnanstine pitched well his first two major league seasons due to only allowing 1.7 BB/9 in 07 & 08 over 52 starts. Since then, he lost his pinpoint control (3 BB/9) and has struggled with the gopher ball (career 1.3 HR/9). Sonnanstine fits into the 8-9 major league ready SPs the Cubs want available in 2012, but I don't expect more then a servicable 5th starter.
Joe Mather (OF, 29):
Acquired: FA
One of my favorite under the radar signings. Mather was a top prospect with the Cardinals in 09 after putting up a 1.041 OPS for the Cards AAA affiliate. Mather didn't do much in two brief stints with the Cards over the last two seasons and is considered a Quad A player even though he's never gotten over 100 ABs in a season. If Mather rakes during spring training or starts out hot at Iowa, he could get a shot with the Cubs as a back-up outfielder.
Trever Miller (LRP, 36)
Acquired: FA
Miller put up a respectable 3.81 ERA last year, but had problems throwing strikes (5.1 BB/9) and gave up over a hit per (10.5 H/9) in 21 innings with three teams. His last good season was 2009 (0.96 WHIP & 4.15 K/BB) so unless the Cubs catch lighting in a bottle, Miller will provide LH depth at Iowa. If none of the Cubs young lefty arms (Gaub, Maine, Beliveau) pan out, Miller could see some action in the bigs.
Yasiel Balaguert (OF,19):
Acquired: FA
Cuban with "modest tools" and a few holes in his swing. Possibly his best tool is that he played next to Jorge Soler in Cuba. I have no idea if they are friends or not, but it can't hurt to have a familiar face in the dugout if the Cubs are trying to woo Soler as rumored.
Carlos Martinez (RP,20):
Acquired: FA
Cuban RP with a low 90s fastball and average breaking stuff. Hopefully BP comes out with a Cuban prospect handbook soon (jk).
Alfredo Amezaga (MI/CF, 29):
Acquired: FA
How many MIs to we need at Iowa? I like Amezaga more then Tolbert or Gonzalez due to his position flexibility and speed (41 SBs with Marlins between 06-08), but not expecting much more then a league-average utility guy.
Matt Tolbert (MI, 29):
Acquired: FA
With a .607 OPS over 4 years with the Twins, Tolbert didn't get signed for his bat. He is solid with the glove and can play anywhere in the infield. I would of rather the Cubs gone with a guy with a little more offensive upside like Russ Canzler, but Tolbert will provide solid positional depth at Iowa.
Edgar Gonzalez (MI,33):
Acquired: FA
Pretty similar player to Tolbert with maybe a little more pop. Seems redundant.
Jason Jaramillo (C, 29):
Acquired: FA
Another limited upside "baseball player" type that Epstein seems to like. After years of fundamentally flawed Cubs, I'm not complaining. Jaramillo could see some time in the majors if Soto gets dealt or neither of the top catcher prospects (Castillo,Clevenger) are ready.
Rodrigo Lopez (SP, 36):
Acquired: FA
Ugh. Not again!
Bobby Scales (UT, 34):
Acquired: FA
I'm glad Epstein brought back fan favorite Scales even if it's just for a crash course in coaching. Scales has a career .809 OPS over 13 minor league seasons and may be able to provide some pop off the bench if called up to Wrigley.
Jeff Bianchi (MI, 26):
Acquired: FA
Released and claimed by Brewers
Anthony Rizzo (1B, 22, B+):
Acquired: Trade with Padres
I'm going to focus on his AAA numbers last year (26 HR, 101 RBI, 1.056 OPS in 356 ABs) and not his numbers with the Padres (.523 OPS, 46 Ks in 126 ABs). Most sites project Rizzo as a 30+ home run hitter with a decent average and a solid glove. I would be happy with that!
Ronald Torreyes (2B,19, C+):
Acquired: Trade with Reds
Scouting reports are all over the place on Torreyes. I've seen him in two different top 100 overall lists and I've seen him left off of the Cubs top 20 prospect lists! I think the discrepancy has to due with his diminutive size. They're aren't a lot of 5-7, 150 pound major leaguers out there, but I have a hunch Theo sees a little of Pedroia in Torreyes. Whether he ends up growing or not, Torreyes has hit .365 over 2 minor league systems and if he keeps that up he will make the bigs eventually.
Dave Sappelt (OF, 25, C+):
Acquired: Trade with Reds
Sappelt doesn't have any tool that really stands out. He's fast but not a great base-stealer (59% career success rate). Despite the lack of any "plus" tools, Sappelt has hit very well in his last two minor league stops. He was the Southern League MVP in 2010 (.902 OPS, 25 steals) and should of broke camp with the Reds in 2011 after hitting .564 in spring training, but we all know how Dusty feels about rookies. Sappelt has a legit shot to make the opening day roster for the Cubs if they clear some room in the outfield by finding a taker for Soriano (fingers-crossed) or Bryd (mixed-feelings).
Zach Cates (SP, 22, C+):
Acquired: Trade with Padres
Underrated part of the Rizzo/Cashner deal. Cates is a converted catcher who is still learning how to pitch, but has a mid 90s fastball and put up good peripheral stats in his first full season (8.5 K/9, 0.3 HR/9). He's a few years away from the majors, but is an arm to watch in the Cubs system.
Casey Weathers (RP, 26):
Acquired: Trade with Rockies
Weathers was the 8th pick in the 2006 draft but missed the 2009 season with TJ surgery and has struggled with his control since (9.5 BB/9 last year). Weathers can still bring the heat and strike people out though (9.5 K/9) and he could be a valuable bullpen arm for the Cubs if he can cut down on the free passes.
Lendy Castillo (RP,22):
Acquired: Rule 5 draft, Phillies
Castillo would need to make the team out of spring training unless the Cubs can work out some compensation for the Phillies. He was bordeline dominant in A (2.54 era, 9 K/9, 7.2 H/9), but it's a long way from Lakewood (A) to Wrigley Field. Castillo is a sleeper but if he pitches well in spring training look for the Cubs to find a way to keep him.
Manny Corpas (RP, 29):
Acquired: FA
Corpas was an elite reliever in 2007 (19 SVs, 7.3 H/9) but never recreated that success in the following years and then missed the entire 2011 season recovering from TJ surgery. Corpas should spend the first half of the year at Iowa with a potential trip to the majors if he can come close to regaining his 2007 form.
Andy Sonnanstine (SP/RP, 29):
Acquired: FA
Journeyman from the Rays organization who was once considered a top prospect for the Rays. Sonnanstine pitched well his first two major league seasons due to only allowing 1.7 BB/9 in 07 & 08 over 52 starts. Since then, he lost his pinpoint control (3 BB/9) and has struggled with the gopher ball (career 1.3 HR/9). Sonnanstine fits into the 8-9 major league ready SPs the Cubs want available in 2012, but I don't expect more then a servicable 5th starter.
Joe Mather (OF, 29):
Acquired: FA
One of my favorite under the radar signings. Mather was a top prospect with the Cardinals in 09 after putting up a 1.041 OPS for the Cards AAA affiliate. Mather didn't do much in two brief stints with the Cards over the last two seasons and is considered a Quad A player even though he's never gotten over 100 ABs in a season. If Mather rakes during spring training or starts out hot at Iowa, he could get a shot with the Cubs as a back-up outfielder.
Trever Miller (LRP, 36)
Acquired: FA
Miller put up a respectable 3.81 ERA last year, but had problems throwing strikes (5.1 BB/9) and gave up over a hit per (10.5 H/9) in 21 innings with three teams. His last good season was 2009 (0.96 WHIP & 4.15 K/BB) so unless the Cubs catch lighting in a bottle, Miller will provide LH depth at Iowa. If none of the Cubs young lefty arms (Gaub, Maine, Beliveau) pan out, Miller could see some action in the bigs.
Yasiel Balaguert (OF,19):
Acquired: FA
Cuban with "modest tools" and a few holes in his swing. Possibly his best tool is that he played next to Jorge Soler in Cuba. I have no idea if they are friends or not, but it can't hurt to have a familiar face in the dugout if the Cubs are trying to woo Soler as rumored.
Carlos Martinez (RP,20):
Acquired: FA
Cuban RP with a low 90s fastball and average breaking stuff. Hopefully BP comes out with a Cuban prospect handbook soon (jk).
Alfredo Amezaga (MI/CF, 29):
Acquired: FA
How many MIs to we need at Iowa? I like Amezaga more then Tolbert or Gonzalez due to his position flexibility and speed (41 SBs with Marlins between 06-08), but not expecting much more then a league-average utility guy.
Matt Tolbert (MI, 29):
Acquired: FA
With a .607 OPS over 4 years with the Twins, Tolbert didn't get signed for his bat. He is solid with the glove and can play anywhere in the infield. I would of rather the Cubs gone with a guy with a little more offensive upside like Russ Canzler, but Tolbert will provide solid positional depth at Iowa.
Edgar Gonzalez (MI,33):
Acquired: FA
Pretty similar player to Tolbert with maybe a little more pop. Seems redundant.
Jason Jaramillo (C, 29):
Acquired: FA
Another limited upside "baseball player" type that Epstein seems to like. After years of fundamentally flawed Cubs, I'm not complaining. Jaramillo could see some time in the majors if Soto gets dealt or neither of the top catcher prospects (Castillo,Clevenger) are ready.
Rodrigo Lopez (SP, 36):
Acquired: FA
Ugh. Not again!
Bobby Scales (UT, 34):
Acquired: FA
I'm glad Epstein brought back fan favorite Scales even if it's just for a crash course in coaching. Scales has a career .809 OPS over 13 minor league seasons and may be able to provide some pop off the bench if called up to Wrigley.
Jeff Bianchi (MI, 26):
Acquired: FA
Released and claimed by Brewers
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Cubs interested in Todd Coffey?
Not sure if this rumor has legs, considering the strength of the Cubs farm system is bullpen power arms and there is already a deep pool of candidates for the major league bullpen. Maybe Theo is stock-piling veteran relief pitchers in an attempt bolster the farm system through trades at the '12 deadline? Or maybe, if you want to get a little crazy, he thinks the Cubs can contend this year? Ha. Either way it is a low-risk move that could result in bullpen depth and/or a minor trade piece. Why not.
http://hardballtalk.nbcsports.com/2012/01/31/cubs-and-as-interested-in-reliever-todd-coffey/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter
http://hardballtalk.nbcsports.com/2012/01/31/cubs-and-as-interested-in-reliever-todd-coffey/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter
Monday, January 30, 2012
Officially a Francoeur fan
This story is a few days old and has nothing to do with the Cubs minor league system, but it's cool to hear about players giving back to the fans. Check it out:
http://www.hardballtimes.com/main/blog_article/outfield-assist-of-another-kind/
http://www.hardballtimes.com/main/blog_article/outfield-assist-of-another-kind/
Cubs sign veteran lefty Trever Miller
The Cubs signed veteran lefty, Trever Miller, to a minor league deal today.
Miller, 38, put up a respectable 3.81 era but had problems throwing strikes (5.1 BB/9) and gave up over a hit per (10.5 H/9) in 21 innings with three teams last year. His last good season was 2009 (0.96 WHIP & 4.15 K/BB) so unless the Cubs catch lighting in a bottle, Miller will provide LH depth at Iowa. If none of the Cubs young lefty arms (Gaub, Maine, Beliveau) pan out or a few guys get hurt, Miller could see some action in the bigs.
It's not an impact move, but no risk either and it never hurts to have a few extra lefty arms. Maybe Miller finds his '09 form and we can flip him for a low-level prospect at the deadline. It's the season for optimism right?
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