About Me And Recent Work

I hope you all are enjoying the holiday season, as this is when the market slows down. I would like to take a moment and let my readers know a little about me. My goal is to one day be a general manager of a Major League team, but I would be just as happy to work for a network that broadcast baseball, or another position for a team. I have also considered opportunities that may exist in Japan, Australia, The Dominican Republic, and other foreign countries. I am currently studying statistics, economics, and mathematics in hopes to earn my bachelors degree in a few years. 

In my intro to statistic class, my group and I look at some distinct groups in the Major Leagues. We collected data from all the position players who played 116 games or more in 2013 and stratified them into groups: 50 American League players, 50 National League Players, 33 24-27 year old players, 34 28-31 year old players, and 33 32-35 year old players. 

Using statistical software and proper judgement we found that there is not much evidence that proves that one group is better than the other in home runs. This chart to the right shows the home runs for the 50 players in each league who played at least 116 games. The evidence shows that the American League is not better than the National League as many think, they are literally almost exactly the same.  The same outcome came up when comparing the number of home runs by the different age groups. The American League is only superior in one respect: the pitcher is not required to bat, but I did not incorporate that, I strictly wanted to test the players. 

Batting average also doesn't change much between age group as many think. It is a common misconception that the 28-31 age group is the best age group, but in batting average they all seem to be the same. In this graph 0 represents the other two age groups, and 1 represents the 28-31 age group. They are statistically similar. A player may be healthiest and most agile when in this age group, but in 2013 all of the players seem to have similar statistics. 

Remember that each age group was composed of about 33 players randomly selected from the total number of players in that age group who played 116 games or more. One notable player that was not selected randomly was Miguel Caberea. Perhaps after another selection the statistics may be slightly more different, but not by much. 

Dodgers Sign Chris Perez

GO GO GADGET FASTBALL!

The Dodgers have reached an agreement with reliever/closer Chris Perez on a one year deal. Perez had one great season in 2010 with a 1.71 ERA, but has leveled out at higher ERAs ever since. In 2013 Perez posted a 4.33 ERA. With Perez the level of uncertainty is higher than ever, he may move mountains or he may be stopped by a pebble.

To speculate a little, the Dodgers have a surplus of relievers and an absence of a fifth starter, a second baseman, and a third baseman. The Dodgers' most valuable reliever is their closer Kenley Jansen, and he may be subject to trade with the acquisition of Perez. The Rays are in need of a closer, and they are looking to trade David Price. By chance the Dodgers also have a left handed hitting outfielder, Andre Ethier, something the Rays need. The Rays also have a productive second baseman/utility player, Ben Zobrist. Perhaps a mega trade can be on the horizon involving Jansen, Gorden, Ethier, Price, and Zobrist. The Dodgers seem to not have a budget, so absorbing some of Ethier's contract should not be a problem.

Grant Balfour Not An Oriole

The deal between Grant Balfour and the Baltimore Orioles has fallen through. After receiving the results from Balfour's physical the Orioles backed out of the deal. After input from two other doctors, the diagnosis is that there is nothing physically wrong with Balfour. The problem the Orioles are concerned about is the X-Ray of his right shoulder. Balfour is going to bring up the problem with the players union and file grievance against the Orioles.

The market for Balfour is back in business as he will not be signing with the Baltimore Orioles. The Yankees, Rays, Rangers, and White Sox all have been reported to have interest in the 36 year old closer from down under. He will be pitching in 2014, the question is: Where?

Shin Soo Choo Signs With The Texas Rangers

The next biggest free agent has come off the board and he will be making his home in Texas for the next seven years. The contract that Choo signed is worth 7 years and $130 Million. There were reports that the Yankees offered him a 7 year $140 Million contract, but after state income taxes the deal that Texas offered would earn Choo more money.

Choo is what I call an on base expert. He has an astonishingly him on base percentage. From 2008-2013 Choo has an on base percentage of .392 and he consistently puts up on base percentages close to that value on an annual basis. Choo found his most successful season during his first and only year in Cincinatti, 2013. Choo demonstrated his balance of power and speed by eclipsing 20 home runs and 20 stolen bases in the same season for the 3rd time in his career. A new career high on base percentage at .423 also helped result in a new career high in runs scored at 107.

The addition of Choo will be noticed significantly in Texas, but I think with this signing the Rangers need to acquire a pitcher. As of now the lineup is strong, but the rotation could use some work. Jurickson Profar can be used to acquire ace pitcher David Price, and a combination of Darvish and Price could lead the Rangers to a division title. As of now the lineup for the Rangers looks as follows:

SS Andrus
LF Choo
3B Beltre
1B Fielder
RF Rios
1B Moreland
C   Arencibia
CF Martin
2B Profar

Royals Sign Omar Infante and Minor Moves

Omar Changing Teams for the 4th time

The Kansas City Royals made their second big off season acquisition by signing second baseman Omar Infante. If the Royals choose to keep their lineup the way it is, they have one of the deepest and most balanced lineups in baseball. Infante will fill the hole at second base for the price of 4 years $30.25 Million. The Royals two off season acquisitions, Aoki and Infante will likely be the 1-2 punch in 2013. Infatne has been someone average over the past few seasons holding a .288 batting average and a .318 on base percentage from 2011-2013, splitting time between the Tigers and the Marlins. Infante will be 32 in 2014 and the contract will carry him through his age 36 season.

In the area of minor moves:

The Rays have re-signed first baseman James Loney to a 3 year $21 Million deal. Loney had a .299/.348/.430 slashline in 2013 along with great defense.

The Twins signed starting pitcher Mike Pelfrey to a 2 year $11 Million deal. Pelfrey has not found much success since 2010 when he had a 3.66 ERA and 204 innings pitched. 

The Giants have signed right handed hitting outfield and first baseman Michael Morse to a 1 year $6 Million deal. He will likely platoon and come off the bench. 

The Cardinals signed 36 year old second baseman Mark Ellis to a 1 year $5.25 Million deal. Ellis played for the Dodgers in 2013 and had a .270/.323/.351 slashline. 

The Braves signed average but durable starter Gavin Floyd likely to replace Tim Hudson on a 1 year $4 Million deal. Floyd was injured for the 2013 season but pitched 168 or more innings 5 consecutive seasons prior. 

The Houston Astros continue to add to their sneaky strategy and add relief pitcher Matt Albers on a 1 year $2.45 Million deal. Albers has a sub 3.00 ERA in the past 2 seasons. 

The New York Yankees signed veteran second baseman Brian Roberts to a 1 year $2 Million deal. Roberts will be 36 in 2014 and has not played more than 77 games since 2009. 
  

Relievers On the Move

Several relievers have been signed or traded in the past few days. Relievers have become a very important part of the game. In the 7th, 8th, and 9th innings relievers are depended on to get outs especially in close games.

John Axford signed a one year $4.5 Million contract that contains about $2 Million in incentives with the Cleveland Indians. Axford made his name in Milwaukee, but after one and a half inefficient seasons he was traded to the Cardinals. Axford has a 3.50 ERA with 81 saves from 2011-2013 with all the saves coming in the first 2 years. If the Indians do not re-sign Chris Perez, John Axford, or 'Tom Sawyer,' will be closing games in Cleveland.

The Blunder From Down Under

Grant Balfour will be changing coasts after signing a 2 year $15 Million contract with the Baltimore Orioles. Coincidentally the Orioles traded their previous closer, Jim Johnson, to the Oakland Athletics, Balfour's previous team.  Balfour will be 36 in 2014, but he has been showing strong in the past few years of his contract. He holds  a 2.47 ERA over the past 4 years of his career with 62 saves coming in 2012 and 2013. Balfour is a cheaper alternative to Jim Johnson and will get his job done just as well.

The Diamondbacks continued their special area of work, trades, and found Addison Reed in their bullpen. The White Sox receive third base prospect Matt Davidson who had a productive season in AAA. Reed will be just 25 in 2013 and has already accumulated 69 saves to the beat of a 4.17 ERA, but a 3.79 ERA. I think Reed will find more success as he ages, and with 4 years of team control, this was a good deal for the Dbacks.

Joba Chamberlain has not found much of any success out of the bullpen the past 2 seasons, and after having Tommy John surgery, I don't expect him to find anymore success. The Detroit Tigers did sign Joba to a 1 year $2.5 Million contract, but he will probably be no where near the 8th or 9th innings.

Boone Logan was an effective cog in the Yankees' bullpen from 2010-2013 facing lefties and getting out of jams. Logan's strength was he can get out lefties well, but he can also get out his share of right handed hitters. In his time in New York, the now 29 year old hard throwing lefty had a 3.38 ERA and a 10.3 K/9 rate. Logan will be pitching for the Colorado Rockies for the next 3 seasons and earning a total of $16.5 Million.

The Dodgers found their own left handed reliever in the form of JP Howell who has found success in the past two seasons. For 2 years and guaranteed $11.25 Million Howell will bring his 2.48 ERA over the past two seasons to Los Angeles. He will join a bullpen with Brian Wilson, Kenley Jenson, and Paco Rodriguez. I do not think LA is done adding to their bullpen.

In the wake of Boone Logan signing with the Rockies the Yankees signed basically the older version of Boone Logan, Matt Thornton. He will pitch in New York on a 2 year $7 Million. In the same time that Boone Logan was with the Yankees Thornton was with the Chicago White Sox before being traded to the Boston Red Sox in 2013. From 2010-2013 the hard throwing left pitched to a 3.27 ERA with his ERA gradually rising each year. He does not get as many strikeouts as Logan, but he will likely be a nice addition to the Yankees' thin bullpen.

Mets Sign Colon. Pirates Sign Volquez

The New York Mets have made another free agent signing in the form of Bartolo Colon. Colon will pitch for the Mets on a 2 year $20 Million contract. Colon posted a 2.65 ERAwith 190 innings pitched in 2013 at the age of 40 with the Athletics. The Mets will see if Colon has anything left in the tank and will likely be replaced by Harvey in 2015 when he returns from Tommy John surgery. For the second year of the contract Colon may be moved to the bullpen or be traded.

Edison Volquez signed a 1 year $5 Million deal with the Pirates after a terrible 2013 campaign. He played with the Dodgers and the Padres in 2013 posting a 5.71 ERA in 170 innings pitched. Volquez has battled injuries throughout his career and will be 31 during the 2014 season. The Pirates are continuing their buy low strategy as they did with AJ Burnett and Francisco Liriano.

Mariners Sign Hart and Acquire Morrison

Corey Hart missed all of the 2013 season due to surgery on both of his knees, but Hart, with healthy knees, has been an All Star in the past. The Mariners jumped on the opportunity to acquire a player who has the potential to perform for cheep. Hart's deal is for one year worth $6 Million gaurenteed salary but it will be similar to Mike Napoli's deal which revolved heavily around incentives. I wouldn't be comfortable with Hart in the outfield with his knee injuries, so I would assume he would find his position at first base. From 2010-2012 Hart averaged 29 home runs and 83 RBIs with a .279 batting average and a .343 on base percentage. Hart will try to help the Mariners succeed in 2014, but their off season is done here.

The Mariners also continued their progress at the Winter Meetings today by acquiring first baseman and outfielder Logan Morrison in exchange for right handed pitcher Carter Capps. Morrison has not found much success in seasons after 2011 battling injuries and hitting just .236 with a .321 on base percentage. Morrison also saw a significant power decrease after 2011 when he hit 23 home runs. Morrison will be 26 years old in 2014, so he is a player hoping for a rebound season. The Mariners got him for cheep so a possibly if Hart fails Morrison will not.

Rockies and Athletics Exchange Anderson for Pomeranz

Brett Anderson looking tough

The second biggest story of the Winter Meetings on Tuesday was the exchange of Brett Anderson for Drew Pomeranz and Chris Jensen. This trade is the even for both sides as Anderson is going to be 26 and has the potential to do so well, but is consistently injured and Pomeranz also going to be 26 has the same potential to do well, but has not showed it. Pitching in Colorado has its challenges as it yields more home runs than the average ballpark.

 Anderson has peaked at 175 innings pitched in a season which was his rookie year and has only pitched more than 100 innings pitched in his sophomore season. Anderson does hold an ERA of 3.81 over 450 innings pitched, so there is success in his career. Pomeranz has 136 innings pitched in his career and his lowest ERA is 4.93 in 2012 where he pitched 96 innings. Unlike Anderson, Pomeranz has found barely any success at the Major League level, perhaps joining a winning team and pitching in a bigger ballpark will help him. Anderson will have to stay healthy in order to help out the Rockies in 2013.

D-Backs, Angels, and White Sox Complete Three Team Deal

The Winter Meetings have met their first big deal in the form of a three team deal. The Diamondbacks acquired power hitting Mark Trumbo from the Angels along with 2 prospects, the Angels acquired pitchers Tyler Skaggs and Hector Santiago, and the White Sox acquired outfielder Adam Eaton. The deal seems to work well for all three teams, but I would declare the Angels the winner here.

Picture courtesy of MLB Facebook page

Mark Trumbo has slugged 95 home runs in the first 3 seasons of his career, but holds a .251 batting average, and a .300 on base percentage in his career. The Angels loose a significant source of power, but can afford two already having a stacked lineup. Skaggs is still considered one of the top pitching prospects in the game and is just 22 years old. He has not found success at the MLB level yet with 68 innings pitched and a 5.43 ERA. Santiago is just 25 years old and can be used as a starter or a reliever as he has found success as both. His ERA as a starter is a bit higher than as a reliever but overall he will be a valuable asset to the Angels. Adam Eaton is also considered on of the best young players in the game with just 88 games played at the Major League level. Eaton has a ,254 batting average and a .332 on base percentage over his short career but that is expected in to increase.

Trumbo will have to play the outfield in Arizona which I see as a potential problem. Trumbo is a big guy ans doesn't move well that is why he was playing primarily first base and designated hitter in Los Angeles. Although he did play his share of game at third base and both corner outfield spots I do not consider him anything more than a first baseman, and it is understood that he will not displace current first baseman Paul Goldschmidt. The Angels won the trade as they got rid of a one dimensional player and bolstered they pitching significantly. they have a promising young lefty and a sturdy starter that can fall back as a reliever.

The Red Sox Sign Mike Napoli

The Boston Red Sox have resigned first baseman Mike Napoli to a 2 year $32 Million deal. Napoli was a major reason for the Red Sox success in the second half of the 2013 season and the playoffs. Napoli has a career OPS+ of 127 and an OPS+ of 138 from 2011-2013 with the Rangers and the Red Sox. He will definitely be part of the team chemistry that was so important to the Red Sox success in 2014 and 2015. This signing will definitely make the departure of Ellsbury and possibly Drew not as harsh.

Beltran Signs With The Yankees

Carlos Beltran is returning to New York

Carlos Beltran signed a 3 year $45 Million contract with the New York Yankees which includes a no trade clause. Beltran had many options including Boston, Kansas City, St. Louis, Baltimore, and Seattle to go to this off season, but Beltran wanted to return to New York where he spent 7 seasons with the Mets. The Cardinals now have a serious hole in their lineup as Beltran provided much production and a non right handed bat The Cardinals may explore outfield option Shin Soo Choo and Nelson Cruz, but for the Yankees they have a surplus of outfield bats.

The Yankees now have Beltran, Ellsbury, Ichiro, Gardner, Soriano, and Wells as players who can all play the outfield. Trade rumors have arisen that either Ichiro, Gardner, or Soriano may be on the move, but that move will probably occur later at the winter meeting. The Yankees are in need of starting pitching, a closer, a second baseman, and a third baseman if Alex Rodriguez does in fact get suspended for the 2014 season.

Potential trade partners for the Yankees may be the Cincinnati Reds for Brandon Phillips or Homer Bailey, the Philadelphia Phillies for Chase Utley or Jonathon Papelbon, the San Francisco Giants for Pablo Sandoval, the San Diego Padres for Chase Headley or Houston Street, the Houston Astros for Matt Dominguez , the Los Angeles Angels for Howie Kendrick or Ernesto Frieri, or the Royals for Mike Moustaka
s or Greg Holland.

We're Leaving. Cano Signs With The Mariners. Granderson Signs With The Mets. And More

Robinson Cano

Robinson Cano has signed a 10 year $240 Million deal with the Seattle Mariners. In the wake of the Yankees signing Jacoby Ellsbury they allowed Robinson Cano to leave. Depending on what other bats the Yankees add, the departure of Robinson Cano may not be so upsetting. With the addition of Brian McCann, Ellsbury, Kelly Johnons, and possibly another player the Yankees
will improve their production at several positions and lose production at only second base. The Yankees may explore trades for Howie Kendrick, Brandon Phillips, or other second baseman, or take a more conventional route and sign free agents such as Omar Infante or Stephan Drew. With the departure of Robinson Cano I would personally bat Ellsbury third and have Gardner lead off with a right handed bat with some speed behind him.

As for the Seattle Mariners, Cano is not the end of their off season acquisitions. With Robinson Cano being the lone star in their lineup the Mariners are looking to add another bat. That bat is speculated to be Choo, Napoli, Carlos Beltran, or Nelson Cruz. I speculate they could trade for Matt Kemp for a few prospects, but the Mariners are serious in their pursuit of starting pitcher David Price. It has been said that the Mariners are willing to make a package featuring pitching prospect Taijuan Walker and second baseman Nick Franklin. A pitching rotation with Felix Hernandez, David Price, and Hisashi Iwakuma may bring back memories of the Mariners from over a decade away. A trade including Mike Zunino and Dustin Ackley may be able to land Matt Kemp or another impact bat. Signing another free agent will especially put the Mariners in competition for 2014.

Curtis Granderson

Curtis Granderson has apparently reached agreement the New York Mets worth $60 Million over 4 years. Granderson will bring much needed power to the Mets lineup and provide protection for David Wright. Already in an outfield with Juan Lagares, Eric Young Jr, and Chris B. Young, Granderson will probably play a corner outfield position. In three full seasons with the Yankees Granderson hit 108 home runs, but in the three full seasons in Detroit he played prior to coming to the Yankees, he hit 75 home runs. Although hitting coach Kevin Long changed his swing Yankee Stadium dramatically changed his stats for the better. Playing in Citi Field Granderson's days of 40 home run seasons are gone.

After being non tendered by the Blue Jays JP Arencibia has found a new home in Texas. The Rangers were looking for a catcher and instead of going after McCann, Pierzynski, or Saltalamacchia, the Rangers to the cheaper alternative by giving Arencibia to a 1 year $2 Million deal.

The Astros continued their quest to improve for the 2014 season by signing starting pitcher Scott Feldman to a 3 year $30 Million deal. After a successful season between the Cubs and the Orioles posting a 3.86 ERA in 186 innings pitched. After trading Jordan Lyles in a deal for Dexter Fowler, Feldman fills a hole in the Astros rotation.

The Marlins continue their under the radar moves by signing shortstop but likely second baseman Rafael Furcal. He will 36 in 2014 and has a career .284 career batting average and a .267 batting average from 2010-2012. Furcal missed all of 2013, but is expected to rebound in 2014.

Aoki Traded to Royals. Red Sox Sign Mujica

How does Aoki look in his new uniform? 

In the hunt for a right fielder the Royals acquired well rounded outfielder Norichika Aoki from the Brewers in exchange for left handed pitcher Will Smith. Aoki will be 32 next season and has 2 seasons under his belt, and those two seasons were pretty successful. He played 151 and 155 games in 2012 and 2013 respectively with nearly identical batting averages and on base percentages both seasons at .287 and .355. Aoki also features speed stealing 30 bases in 2012 and 20 bases in 2013, but being caught much more in 2013. Smith will be 24 in 2014 and has a mixture of succss and failure in his first two seasons. He sported a 5.32 ERA in 89.2 innings in his rookie year of 2012 and an ERA of 3.24 in 3.24 in 33.1 innings the following season. The chances of the Royals signing Carlos Beltran are now lowered.

Mujica will join a bullpen with Japanese duo Junichi Tazawa and Koji Uehara with Uehara as a closer. Mujica played with the Marlins and Cardinals the last 3 seasons and gathered 206 innings and a 2.93 ERA. Mujica closed for the Cardinals in 2013 after closer Jason Motte had to have Tommy John surgery. He eventually led the Cardinals to the World Series. Mujica is a great addition to the Red Sox bullpen. The deal is reported to be 2 years $9.5 Million.

Ellsbury, Morneau, Saltalamacchia Sign. Fowler, Gentry, Lindblom, Bell, Smith Gregerson Traded

Jacoby Ellsbury in his new uniform

The biggest news of yesterday's busy day was the signing of Jacoby Ellsbury. The New York Yankees signed the All Star Jacoby Ellsbury to a colossal 7 year $148 Million deal. Ellsbury will join an outfield with Brett Gardner and Ichiro Suzuki probably making the best defensive outfield in the MLB. Ellsbury has had some fluctuation in his stats from year to year, but he has been someone consistent. He has put up a .297/.350/.439 slashline for his career, and has one dominating season under his belt. Ellsbury has led the league in stolen bases 3 seasons and has a 162 game average of 55 stolen bases. With an average annual war of 3.9 and assigning $5 Million to each win above replacement Ellsbury seems to be worth the deal. Johnny Damon is a similar player to make the transition from the Red Sox to the Yankkes via free agency, and he saw some success. Damon's average home run totals increased from 14 to 19.25 per season. That is a 37.5% increase. If the same can be said for Ellsbury, who has an average home run total of 15 home runs per season, you can expect him to hit about 20 home runs a year in Yankee Stadium. Combined with his speed and defense, Ellsbury will be an impact player for the Yankees, although his signing most likely takes them out of competition for Cano.

Justin Morneau

In the wake of Todd Helton's retirement the Rockies signed slugging first baseman Justin Morneau to a 2 year $13 Million deal. Morneau was traded to the Pirates mid season and was a big help for getting them to the post season. He hit 17 home runs last year playing most of his games in the spacious Target Field, and has a career average of 22 home runs per season.   Morneau is still relativley young at 32, but has battled some injuries the past few seasons, only playing 150 games total between 2010 and 2011. The Canadian born Morneau will slot in very nicely in the Rockies lineup which is projected to be Gonzalez, Tulowitzki, Morneau, Cuddyer, for a 3-6. The home run numbers are expected to rise for Morneau playing in Coors field.

It was reported that the Rays acquired Ryan Hannigan in a trade yesterday, but that turned out to be a 3 team with Heath Bell also headed to the Rays. Hannigan had a down year in 2012 with his batting average not cracking .200. Heath Bell will play for his 4th team in 4 years after what could be called a bounce back season. His ERA dropped from 5.09 to 4.11 after going from the Marlins to the Diamondbacks. With the signing of Juan Oviedo and the trade to acquire Heath Bell, the chances of Fernando Rodney returning to the Rays are bleak.

Jarrod Saltalamacchia

The Miami Marlins signed free agent catcher Jarrod Saltalamacchia to a 3 year $21 Million deal. Salty has been pretty productive for ta catcher during his time playing for the Red Sox. In 3 full seasons in Boston the backstop put together an OPS+ of 104 over those 3 seasons. His slashline of .244/.306/.437 slashline during his time in Boston is significant given his defensive capabilities. With this signing I think the Marlins are up to something especially with their reluctance to trade Giancarlo Stanton. Watch out for the Marlins in the trade market and the free agent market as they may be flying under the radar.

After trading Jemile Weeks for Jim Johnson the Athletics made another move by trading for outfielder Craig Gentry and right handed reliever Josh Lindbolm. With the departure of Chris B. Young the Athletics were in search for an outfielder and they went to Gentry who's game revolves and speed and batitng average. His career .280 batting average in two full seasons proves Gentry's capabilities. Lindbolm's ERA has steadily been climbing but the ballpark he has been playing in has steadily been getting smaller. Going from Dodger Stadium to Citizens Bank Park to Rangers Ballpark his ERA went from 2.73 in 2011 to 5.46 in 2013. Lindbolm's ERA will resort back to around 3.00 as he moves to the spacious Oakland Coliseum.

Luke Gregerson

The Athletics further added to their bullpen after getting both Lindbolm and Johnson by trading outfielder Seth Smith for right hander Luke Gregerson of the San Diego Padres.  Smith hovers around a .265 batting avage with an on base percentage .100 points higher. He gets on base, and hits for average power with an average of 14 home runs per season. Gregerson has been an extremely effective and healthy reliever in San Diego the first 5 years of his career by pitching 347 innings and holding a 2.88 ERA in his career and a 2.60 ERA in the past 3 seasons. The Athletics are seriously building an effective bullpen, possibly soon to be the best in baseball.

The Houston Astros made their first splash of the off season by trading for center fielder Dexter Fowler from the Rockies in exchange for pitcher Jordan Lyl

Dexter Fowler

es and outfielder Brandon Barnes. In his first 5 full seasons Fowler has a 103 OPS+ with an on base percentage of .367 staying consistent by year. He swipes an average of 17 stolen bases and hits an average of 7 home runs, which is pretty good for a lead off hitter. Fowler will set the table well for the Astros with Jose Altuve following him.  Lyles hasn't found much success with his consistent ERA over 5 in his first 3 seasons, which is mot expected to go down in Colorado where ERAs tend to inflate. Brandon Barnes will be 28 in 2014 and has also not found much success in his first full season. He hit 8 home runs with a .289 on base percentageand a 50% stolen base percentage. This trade was probably done to free up salary so I expect the Rockies to make another move either for a starting pitcher or an outfielder.

Trades, Free Agent Signings, Non Tneders, and More!

Yesterday was a very busy day in baseball as many players found new homes. Two trades went through yesterday and several players signed with new teams and re-signed with their same teams.

Jim Johnson

The biggest news was the trade between the Athletics and Orioles. Closer Jim Johnson has a 2.70 ERA over the past 3 seasons and has 101 saves over the past 2 seasons. Jemile  Weeks is the younger brother to Ricky Weeks, and has not found much success at the Major League level besides his rookie year. Weeks is set to compete for a spot at second base. These two players were exchanged for one another strait up. Johnson is going to replace closer Grant Balfour, and Johnson is projected to earn $10 Million or more in arbitration. The Orioles are trying to land a starting pitcher and by freeing up salary they may be on the verge of making a splash.

Doug Fister

The other big trade was between the Washington Nationals and the Detroit Tigers. The Nationals acquired starting pitcher Doug Fister who featured a respected 3.30ERA over the past 3 seasons and a 3.67 ERA in 2013. In exchange for Fister the Tigers pitching prospect Robbie Ray, infielder Steve Lomardozzi, and left handed reliever Ian Krol. Fister will be a definite improvement over Dan Haren who signed with the Dodgers as a free agent who featured a 3.97 ERA in the past 3 seasons and a 4.67 ERA in 2013. Fister will join a rotation with Stephan Strasburg, Gio Gonzalez, Jordan Zimmerman, and a 5th starter.

Also last night the Red Sox signed free agent catcher AJ Pierzynski to a 1 year deal with $8.25 Million guaranteed. Pierzynski played for the Texas Rangers in 2013 posting a .272/.297/.425 slashline with 17 home runs in 134 games. The Red Sox were preparing for the departure of Jarrod Saltalamacchia who  posted a .273/.338/.446 slashline with 14 home runs in 121 games.
It appears the Red Sox have taken a down grade at the catcher's position especially with Pierzynski's age.

Phil Hughes

Phil Hughes has a 4.54 career ERA, but a 95 career ERA+. The reason for having an ERA+ around average with a high ERA is the ballpark factor. Hughes has pitched most of his games in Yankee Stadium, one of the smallest ballparks in the league. Hughes signed a 3 year $24 Million deal with Minnesota Twins. The deal also includes bonuses up to $1 Million a year based on the amount of innings pitched. As Hughes moves to the spacious Target Field his ERA will drop dramatically. If his ERA+ is any indication of the type of pitcher he is, his ERA may drop to around 3.70.

After several successful seasons early in his career Scott Kazmir has fell of quite a bit. Its weird to think Kazmir will only be 30 in January, but he has been around around for 9 seasons. Kazmir hasn't found much success in recent years, but he signed a 2 year $22 Million deal with the Oakland Athletics. This deal is probably the reason why Brett Anderson is now available for trade.

The Blue Jays signed catcher Dioner Navarro to a 2 year $8 Million that will pay $3 Million in the first season and $5 Million in the second season. This move made JP Arencibia become non-tendered and become a free agent. Navarro played 89 games with the Chicago Cubs and posted a 132 OPS+ , very good for a catcher, and he is a defensive upgrade over Arencibia in my opinion.

Joe Nathan

Being announced a little more than an hour ago was the signing of closer Joe Nathan. Nathan signed a 2 year deal with the Detroit Tigers. The salary in the deal hasn't been made official yet, but this is a good deal for the Tigers. With the failures of Jose Valverde and the shakiness of the closer position last season, the Tigers needed a stud for the ninth inning. Nathan posted 2 stellar seasons with the Texas Rangers by collecting 80 saves with a 2.09 ERA.

On smaller notes, the Rays have traded for catcher Ryan Hannigan, the Giants re-signed starter Ryan Vogelsong to a 1 year $5 Million deal, the Mariners signed Willie Bloomquist, and the Rays re-signed  reliever Juan Oviedo.

Several players were non tendered yesterday as it was the non tender deadline. When a player gets non tendered it means that the team will not be tendering a contract to that player, because they believe they will be too expensive through arbitation, so the team allows them to become a free agent. Some of the important players that were non tendered yesterday are J.P. Arencibia, John Axford, Andrew Bailey, Ronald Belisario, Chris Coghlan, Chris Getz,Tommy Hanson, Jeremy Hefner, Daniel Hudson, Jayson Nix, Xavier Paul, Omar Quintanilla  Sandy Rosario, Ryan Webb, Jerome Williams, and Wesley Wright. These players are now allowed to sign with any team that offers them a contract. 

Ricky Nolasco Signs With The Twins

Ricky Nolasco and the Twins have agreed to a 4 year $49 Million deal, with an option for the 2018 season. He will earn $12 Million a year with a $1 Million buy out, and the 2018 option can turn into a player option if he pitches enough innings in 2016 and 2017.

Nolasco will join a Twins team that is currently rebuilding. Before being traded to the Dodgers in 2013, Nolasco played his entire career with the Marlins. Nolasco has a 4.27 ERA for his career, but he found more success in 2013 by putting up a 3.70 ERA. Although Nolasco gives up his fair share of runs he consistently pitches enough innings every season. Every season since 2008 he has pitched at least 150 innings and more than 185 innings every season except 2010.

Nolasco has pitched below average for his career by holding a 94 ERA+ meaning he is 6% below league average. League average is by no means an insult. In baseball to be average an average team is to have 81 wins. Every team needs average players to find success. Nolasco may not be the main piece for the success of the Twins, but he sure will be an important piece  moving on.

2014 Hall of Fame Ballot

The 2014 Hall of Fame Ballot has been released and some very notable names are appearing for the first time, and some for the second time. The ballot is listed as follows: Jeff Bagwell, Craig Biggio, Barry Bonds, Roger Clemens, Tom Glavine, Jeff Kent, Greg Maddux, Edgar Martinez, Don Mattingly, Fred McGriff, Mark McGuire, Jack Morris, Mike Mussina, Rafael Palmeiro, Mike Piazza, Tim Raines, Curt Schilling, Lee Smith, Sammy Sosa, Frank Thomas, Alan Trammell, Larry Walker. The decisions will be hard, but luckily, you get a summary of each players accolades.

Jeff Bagwell

Jeff Bagwell:

Bagwell played his entire career with the Houston Astros, collected 2314 hits, 449 home runs, 1529 RBIs, and 202 stolen bases, over 15 years. On his shelf is a Rookie of the Year award for 1991 and an MVP award for the shortened 1994 season. Bagwell was a stud in the lineup for the Astros and definetly desevres to be induccted into the Hall of Fame. Bagwell also has no connection to steroids.

Craig Biggio:

Biggio also played his entire career with the Houston Astros, and he collected 3060 hits, 291 home runs, 1175 RBI, and 414 stolen bases. Biggio was one of the most well rounded players collecting 4 gold glove awards and 5 silver slugger awards. Biggio played at least 140 games in 17 of his 20 seasons making him one of the most consistent players of a generation. I like many others was shocked Biggio did not get inducted last year, but he will definitely be inducted in 2014.

Barry Bonds:

Barry Bonds

Bonds played 22 seasons collecting 762 home runs, 2935 hits, 1996 RBI, and 514 stolen bases. He also has 7 MVP awards for both the Pirates and Giants, several All Star appearances, silver sluggers, and gold glove awards. Barry Bonds could be the greatest player ever, but he was found guilty for use of performance enhancing drugs. He denied evidence that obviously proved that he did take the substances, and made his situation worse. Bonds disappointed generation, and he will never be inducted into the Hall of Fame.

Roger Clemens:

Clemens split time between the Red Sox, Blue Jays, Astros, and Yankees over 24 seasons. He has 354 wins, a 3.12 ERA, and 4672 strikeouts. Stats like those earned him 7 Cy Young Awards, 1 MVP, and 11 All Star Game appearances.Clemens was in fact found guilty for performence enhancing drugs and also continued to deny it. Although he was found not guilty in one of his many trials, everyone knows the truth. Clemens will also never reach the Hall of Fame.

Tom Glavine:

Tom Glavine

Glavine pitched 22 seasons for the Braves and the Mets and collected 305 wins with a 3.54 career ERA and 2607 strikeouts. He has two Cy Young awards, one in 1991 and one in 1998, 10 All Star Game appearances, and 4 silver slugger awards for a pitcher. Glavine was part of the terrifying trio of Maddux, and Smotlz that led the Braves to several post season births. Glavine would get my vote this election.

Jeff Kent:

Kent played 17 seasons split between the Mets, Dodgers, Giants, Astros and half a season with the Blue Jays and Indians. He collected 2461 hits, 377 home runs, 1518 RBIs, and hold the record for most home runs by a second baseman. Kent has just 1 MVP award for the 2000 season, but 4 silver slugger awards. Kent was a really good player, especially at second base, but he wasn't among the greatest. Kent would not get my vote this time around.

Greg Maddux:

Greg Maddux

In my opinion Greg Maddux is the greatest pitcher of the live ball era. He dominated an entire decade and represented the Chicago Cubs and Atlanta Braves over 23 seasons. Maddux has 355 wins, a career 3.16 ERA, and 3371 strikeouts. You can find 4 Cy Young Awards, and 18 Gold Glove Awards in Maddux's possession. Elected to 8 All Star Games and being extremely durable his entire career, Greg Maddux will get the highest vote percentage in the ballot. If he does not get elected the first time eligible, I will eat my hat.

Edgar Martinez:

Edgar Martinez is understood to be one of the greatest designated hitters ever. He played his entire 18 year career with the Seattle Mariners. He collected 2247 hits, 309 home runs, and 1261 RBIs. Martinez was often overlooked by playing along side names like Alex Rodriguez, Ken Griffey Jr, and Ichiro Suzuki, but he has always been a consistant bat in the Mariners lineup during his career. He never won an MVP nor a gold glove, but was part of 7 All Star Games, and collected 4 Silver Slugger Awards. Martinez was a very good player, and consistent, but I do not know how being a DH will effect him. I would not vote for Martinez on this ballot.

Don Mattingly 

Don Mattingly:

Don Mattingly does not have many more chances to get into the Hall of Fame. He was a great leader, and one of the best players of the 80s and early 90s. He played 14 seasons, collected 2153 hits, and hit 1099 RBIs. Mattingly may not have the numbers to get into the Hall of Fame, but thousands of young fans looked up to Mattingly and that is something to honor, he must have been a great player to have such a strong fan base. I would vote Mattingly in.

Fred McGriff:

McGriff played 19 seasons split between the Devil Rays, Braves, Blue Jays, Padres, Cubs, and Dodgers. Over those 19 seasons he hit 493 home runs, 2490 hits, and 1550 RBIs. McGriff never won an MVP or a Gold Glove Award, but was elected to 5 All Star Games and won 3 Silver Slugger Awards. McGriff played a complete seasons every year from 1988-2002 making him a relieable player. McGriff has the stats to be inducted into the Hall of Fame, but I am unsure how I feel about the bouncing from team to team. I would not vote for McGriff this first time.

Mark McGuire

Mark McGuire:

McGuire was not inducted into the Hall of Fame last year for the same reason that Clemens and Bonds weren't. McGuire openly admitted to steroid usage, but because he came out and did so, makes his chances of getting in better. McGuire has 583 home runs, 1626 hits, and 1414 RBIs over 16 seasons with the Athletics and Cardinals. McGuire will not be elected this time around, but I think he
may be the first player convicted of steroid usage to get into the Hall of Fame, due to his sportsman ship and open confession.

Jack Morris:

Morris played 18 seasons mostly with the Tigers collecting 254 wins with a 3.90 ERA and 2478 strikeouts. He never won a Cy Young Award, and was selected to just a few All Star Games. This is Morris' last year to be inducted to the Hall of Fame, but that is no reason to induct him. His ERA is way to high for a Hall of Famer. He has a significant amount of wins, but when you think of great, you don't think about giving up 4 runs per game. I would not vote for Morris, nor do I think he will get in the Hall of Fame.

Mike Mussina

Mike Mussina:

Mussina was one of the players that I liked to watch growing up, but I realize he isn't one of the greatest players ever. He pitched 10 seasons for the Baltimore Orioles and 8 seasons for the New York Yankees. He acquired 270 wins in that time period and held a 3.68 ERA. He had 7 gold glove awards and pitched his first 20 win season in the last year of his career. Mussina will always be considered on the better pitchers of the 90s and early 2000s, but will not make the Hall of Fame this time around. He might make it 5 years down the road.

Rafael Palmeiro:

Palmeiro split 20 seasons between the Orioles, Rangers, and Cubs and put up some big numbers. He gathered 3020 hits, 569 home runs, and 1835 RBIs. Although he has 3 Gold Glove Awards and 2 Silver Slugger Awards, he never won an MVP. Palmeiro's Hall of Fame campaign is stained by the usage of steroids. He too was part of the steroid era, but his name does not come up as often as others. He fulfilled both the 3000 hits and 500 home run bench marks, but the steroids blemish his resume.  Palmeiro will not make the Hall of Fame this year.

Mike Piazza

Mike Piazza:

Mike Piazza played 16 seasons with mostly the Mets and Dodgers, and is considered one of the best catchers of all time. He won the Rookie of the Year in 1993, 12 All Star Game appearances, and 10 Silver Slugger Awards. He wasn't quite known for his defense, but he could swing a mean bat. People like to connect Piazza
with steroid usage, but he was never accused and his record is clean. Piazza deserves to be in the Hall of Fame and won't get in this year but will in the future.

Tim Raines:

Raines is a speed demon that played for The Expos, White Sox, Yankees, Orioles, Athletics, and Marlins over 23 seasons. He has 808 career stolen bases along with 2605 hits and 170 home runs. With Just 7 All Star Game appearances and 1 Silver Slugger Award Tim Raines wasn't among the great players. He was a very good player, but there are several other players I would take over him. I would not induct Raines into the Hall of Fame.

Curt Schilling

Curt Schilling:

When someone says Schilling you think of the post season, but the post season doesn't have much of an effect on my decision to vote someone in, because it is a team effort to win. Schilling sported 216 wins, a 3.46 ERA and 3116 strikeouts. Schilling had some dominating seasons, but not a dominating career. He eclipsed 300 strikeouts two times, and won 3 World Series, but Schilling would not get my vote the first time around.

Lee Smith:

Smith collected 478 saves with 8 different teams in an 18 year career. He holds a 3.03 ERA and 1251 strikeouts and will represent the modern closer in the Hall of Fame ballots. Elected to 7 All Star Games, Smith was one of the best relief pitchers in the game. If he gets into the Hall of Fame then players like Trevor Hoffman, Billy Wagner, and Mariano Rivera should get in without a doubt. I would vote for Smith to get into the Hall.

Sammy Sosa:

Sammy Sosa

Sosa also convicted to steroid usage played 18 seasons, 13 with the Chicago Cubs, and slugged 609 home runs, collected 2408 hits, and drove in 1667 runs. Sosa won the MVP award in 1998 along with several Silver Slugger Awards and All Star Game appearances. Sosa has a lot of accolades, but he did take steroids and it is understood that much of his success is attributed to the usage. Sosa will never get into the Hall of Fame.

Frank Thomas:

Thomas played 19 seasons, 16 with the Chicago White Sox. He hit 521 home runs, 2468 hits, and 170 RBIs in his career. He racked up back to back MVP awards in 1993 and 1994, 5 All Star Game appearance and 4 Silver Slugger Awards. The Cubs had Sosa juicing on there team and The White Sox had Thomas juicing on their side. Thomas another steroid user, will not get into the Hall of Fame.

Alan Trammell:

Trammell does not have blow you away stats, but was slick in the field. He collected 2365 hits, 185 home runs, and 1003 RBIs, but also found his way to 4 Gold Glove Awards. Trammell had no connection with steroids and played his entire 20 year career with the Detroit Tigers. He has been eligible to be inducted for a while, and there is a reason why he hasn't been yet, he doesn't have the stats to go with the Hall of Fame. I would not vote for Alan Trammell.

Larry Walker

Larry Walker:

Walker played 10 seasons in Colorado and 6 in Montreal out of the 17 in his career. Walker is just one of the players everyone loves. He put up 2160 hits, 383 home runs, and 1311 RBIs. Most shockingly he also had a career 141 OPS+, meaning for his career he was 41% better than average. Walker is a special kind of player. He has just one MVP in 1997, but he has 7 Gold Glove Awards and 3 Silver Slugger Awards. Walker would get my vote in the induction.

Dodgers Sign Dan Haren

Dan Haren has signed a 1 year $10 Million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers for the 2014 season.

How does Haren look in a Dodgers uniform? 

Haren pitched with the Washington Nationals last year and found a new career high in ERA at 4.67 in 169 innings pitched. Moving to a much bigger ballpark will probably benefit Haren because he found much success from 2005-2012 pitching for the Athletics, Diamondbacks, and Angels. In that period Haren held a 3.58 ERA with an average of 220 innings pitched per season. The Dodgers are getting a very valuable piece for their team given the depth in their rotation.

Haren is one of the players I like and have much faith in to have more successful seasons. In his contract rests a vesting option for 2015 that depends on if he pitches at least 180 innings. Haren has completed the task every year 2005-2011, so he is more likely to do so in 2014. In a bigger ballpark, in a weaker division, you can expect Haren to have a much better season in 2014.

Haren will join a rotation with Clayton Kershaw (1.83 ERA), Zack Greinke (2.63 ERA), Hyun-jin Ryu (3.00 ERA), and a 5th starter who will likely be either Josh Beckett or Chad Billingsly, both of which battled injuries in the past year.  One more starter may make the Dodgers the best rotation in baseball.  

Cardinals Sign Peralta and Angels Sign Smith

The St. Louis Cardinals make the move of the day by signing free agent short stop Jhonny Peralta to a 4 year $53 Million deal. The Angels were the minor news by signing free agent reliever Joe Smith to a 3 year $15.75 Million deal.

How does Peralta look in a Cardinals uniform? 

The Cardinals were on a hunt to acquire a short stop this off season whether if be through trade of the free agent market. They finally made that move and got Jhonny Peralta. His name was misspelled on his birth certificate, but his parents decided to keep it, but Peralta made the mistake last season. Peralta was caught in the Biogenesis scandal along with several other players and received a 50 game suspension. Before the suspension Peralta had a .303 avg, .358 OBP, with 11 home runs and 55 RBIs in 107 games. The batting average and on base percentage are well above his career average, but his power numbers are below his career average even without the suspension. Peralta's career numbers are a .268 avg, .330 on base percentage with 17 home runs and 75 RBI per season. Peralta will be 32 next season and the Cardinals probably will not see power numbers like that anymore. The possibility for Peralta to consistently hit for average and get on base is also unlikely.

Peralta will slot in the number two hole behind Matt Carpenter and in front of Yadier Molina. In my opinion Peralta was not worth the money the Cardinals spent on him and will definitely be a problem for them in the second half of the contract.

Smith doing his thing

Joe Smith has found much success in the past few seasons. As generic as his name sounds, his stats are the opposite Smith has pitched 197 innings over the past 3 seasons and has put up a 2.42 ERA for the Cleveland Indians. He will be leaving the Bullpen Mafia in Cleveland and be joining the Halos as it seems they are interested in strengthening their bullpen. After acquiring Salas, keeping Frieri, and now signing Smith, the Angels are making their pitching priority obvious.

   

Yankees Sign Brian McCann

The Yankees made the big news of the day by signing free agent catcher Brian McCann. The deal is worth $85 Million over 5 years with a vesting option for a 6th year $15 Million. McCann was the best catching option on the free agent market and the Yankees needed to improve their catching depth the most. The two were a match made in heaven for one another.

How does McCann look in a Yankee uniform? 

McCann will probably find success in New York. McCann has played at least 100 games in every season of his career and at least 120 games in all seasons except 2013. Health hasn't been much of an issue for McCann, but may become one as his contract continues. McCann will be 30 years old in late February and 35 years old when the contract is completed, so the transition to the American League will benefit McCann given that he can DH on occasion.

Of course McCann will not only be heading to the American League, but Yankee Stadium, the left handed hitter's Heaven. The heavy hitting catcher has hit at least 20 home runs every year since 2006 except 2007 where he hit 18, over those 8 seasons McCann has average 131 games played, .277 avg, .350 OBP, 21 home runs, and 80 RBI. His numbers have dropped the past 2 seasons only reaching a .230/.300/.399 and .256/.336/.461 slashline in 2012 and 2013 respectively. It seems as if McCann is trending back in the direction of his career average after his terrible 2012 campaign. Since he will be playing in Yankee Stadium, you can expect at least a 20% increase in his power numbers. Meaning since he has an average of 21 homers and 80 RBIs per season, you can expect McCann to hit close to 25 home runs and drive in 96 RBIs in 2014.

The Yankees will have McCann until he is 35 years old, which is after his prime. McCann will have to maintain roughly an average WAR of 3.0 in order for the contract to be worth it in the end, but one can only consider that in 2019. McCann is very capable of making a big impact for the New York Yankees, and you can expect big things from him in 2014.

Freese to the Angels and Bourjos to the Cardinals

The Angels and Cardinals swapped these two players in a four player deal today. The deal involved third baseman David Freese going to the Angels with relief pitcher Fernando Salas and outfielder Peter Bourjos going to the Cardinals with outfield prospect Randal Grichuk.

How does Freese look in an Angels uniform?

Freese was the hero of the 2011 post season for the Cardinals in their championship year. After a successful 2012 season in which he hit 20 home runs with a .293 average, 2013 followed with a down year. Freese's home runs were cut in half to 9 and his average dropped 30 points to .262 along with his on base percentage. The Angels are hoping for the clutch David Freese to help the murderous lineup that just cant perform.

How does Bourjos look in a Cardinals uniform? 

Peter Bourjos is most known for his defense, the player that traversed Mike Trout to left field. Bourjos has plenty of speed, which adds to his defense, but he swiped 22 bags in 2011 and 6 in 55 games in 2013. His batting average along with his on base percentage has fluctuated from 2011-2013 where his down year was 2012. You can expect a .270 average and a .333 on base percentage from Boujos.

As for Fernando Salas, he has found success in the past, 2011 to be exact. In the magical year for the Cardinals, he had a 2.28 ERA, but since then he has pitched consistently to ERAs above 4. The Angels may be getting a steal for Salas who can make a big difference in the bullpen.

The Cardinals are definitely up to something this off season. It has been understood that the Cardinals are in search of a short stop this off season. The names Tulowitzki, Andrus, Hardy, Aybar, and Profar have fluttered around, but now with trade for Bourjos, third base is open along with $3 Million. Remember that Chris Carpenter retired, his $10 Million is off the books, and Carlos Beltran is searching for a now home with his $13 Million. Matt Carpenter can move to third base, and Kolton Wong can move to short stop, leaving second base open. The Cardinals may very well go for big fish Robinson Cano, especially in their handed heavy lineup. Cano is just one possibility, but the Cardinals are on the ticker to make a big splash.

Tigers and Rangers Trade Fielder for Kinsler

This trade has  been the most surprising move of the off season so far. Two all star caliber players are swapping teams, everyone knew the Rangers wanted to trade Ian Kinsler to accommodate Jurickson Profar, but no one expected the Tigers to trade Prince Fielder.

How does he look in a Rangers jersey?

The trade was made official last night with Prince Fielder going to the Rangers with $30 Million and Ian Kinsler going to the Tigers with a possible pla
yer to be named later. Both Kinsler and Fielder had down years in 2013, but are expected to have bounce back seasons in 2014. Fielder had a .279 avg, .362 OBP, with 25 home runs, and 106 RBIs. While Kinsler had a .277 avg, .344 OBP , with 13 home runs, and 72 RBIs. Kinsler has battled injuries for a few years and is definitely not the player he was when he was in his 20s, and Fielder has been more than healthy his entire career and continues to hit well.

How does he look in a Tigers jersey? 

The Rangers obviously did this deal to add offense to their team and to open a spot for the young Profar who will be playing at league minimum. The Tigers are trying to free up salary to sign Max Scherzer to a long term deal and possibly sign another bat. The move will also allow Miguel Cabrera to move back to first base. The Rangers are expected to use the $30 Million in the deal to try to sign a free agent, perhaps an outfielder such as Carlos Beltran, Jacoby Ellsbury, or Shin-Soo Choo.

These two teams are definitely not done making additions to their teams, but as of now the Tigers' lineup seems a bit more bleak and the Rangers' lineup looks incredible. Observe the effects Prince Fielder had on Miguel Cabrera's stats in 2012 and 2013, you can expect the same thing to happen to Adrian Beltre in 2014 and for as long as Fielder and Beltre will man the 3-4 hole in Texas.

An additional note is Prince Fielder had a limited no trade clause in his contract with the Tigers, and the Rangers were in fact on that list. Fielder waived his no trade clause to complete the trade.

The 1-5 for both teams is pretty much set, but still very much subject to change. As we observed last night. Anything is possible in baseball.

Jackson                                        Andrus
Hunter                                          Profar
Cabrera                                        Fielder
Martinez                                       Beltre
Kinsler                                         Moreland

Josh Johnson and David Murphy Sign

One of my top 25 free agents signed and I'm 0/1 on the predictions so far, but close in the salary. I'm talking about my number 25 free agent, Josh Johnson. Johnson signed an interesting deal with the San Diego Padres initially 1 year $8 Million, but can change based on the amount of starts Johnson starts. David Murphy found his new home with the Cleveland Indians on a 2 year $12 Million. Both will be great additions to their new clubs.

A young Josh Johnson

Josh Johnson has battled injuries throughout his career, after the blockbuster trade with the Miami Marlins, he landed with the Toronto Blues Jays. Expected to perform big, Johnson found only failure and injury. In 16 games for the Blue Jays in 2013 Johnson racked up 81 innings and a 6.20 ERA. Johnson only had 4 seasons under his belt with 150 or more innings pitched, those years are 2006, 2009, 2010, and 2012. His ERA in those seasons was 3.10, 3.23, 2.30, and 3.81 respectively. Johnson's trends seem to be in the wrong direction, combined with injury, the Padres scored a deal for a potential ace.

The contract Johnson signed with the Padres is for 1 year and $8 Million, but he can earn an additional $1.25 Million if he makes at least 26 starts, but if he makes fewer than 7 starts the Padres have an option for $4 Million for the 2015 season. The Padres are obviously working on their starting pitching, by adding Ian Kennedy during the 2013 season and now signing Johnson, but they will accompany Andrew Cashner and Cory Luebke  in the rotation for 2014. Rumors have fluttered around that the Padres are contenders for Ricky Nolasco.

The Indians acquire a new outfielder after trading Shin-Soo Choo last year. David Murphy has performed right around average his entire career, collecting a 104 OPS+ meaning he is better than average by 4%, but not by much. In 2013 Murphy's stats plummeted. Murphy put up a .304/ .380/ .479 slashline in 2012, but in 2013 that went down to a .220/ .282/ .374. Nearly a 100 point drop in average, on base percentage, and slugging percentage. Although Murphy stayed healthy and hit his usual amount of home runs, he lost his patience at the plate, but he will be a good fit in Cleveland, following a lineup of high on base percentages such as Nick Swisher, Carlos Santana, and Jason Kipnis.
 

Tim Hudson and Carlos Ruiz Sign

They were not in my top 25 free agent signings, but they have both found homes. Tim Hudson is heading back to the Bay Area with a 2 year $23 Million deal from the San Francisco Giants and Carlos Ruiz is returning back to Philadelphia on a 3 year $23 Million deal.

Tim Hudson returns to the Bay Area

Tim Hudson was injured for a large portion of the 2013 season, so the Giants scored a bargain. Hudson had a 55% ground ball rate which is below his career average, but is still great for any pitcher. His 26% fly ball rate is great for AT&T park and even if that rate were to go up, Hudson would continue to find success.

The Giants lead the league in signing free agents named Tim in this off season. Hudson and Lincecum will make up a rotation that may find much success in 2014. Bumgarner, Cain, Lincecum, Hudson, and the mysterious fifth starter will take the mound in San Fran all summer long. Josh Johnson personally reached out to the Giants and the Padres, because he wanted to pitch there, and was willing to take a one year deal to rejuvenate his career. Josh Johnson, Bronson Arroyo, or Ryan Vogelsong may get the role of fifth starter for the Giants.

Carlos Ruiz played 92 games for the Phillies in 2013 and secures a very valuable position as a right handed bat in their lefty heavy lineup. Ruiz's batting average was .325 in 2012 and plummeted to .268 in 2013. His OBP also followed a 70 point drop. The Phillies maintain a catcher that could handle their rotation, but they have a huge question mark for what offense Ruiz could provide.
 

Top Free Agents and Predictions with Contract

1. Robinson Cano- New York Yankees 6 years $144 Million

2. Jacoby Ellsbury- Seattle Mariners 6 years $108 Million

3. Shin Soo Choo- Texas Rangers 4 years $76 Million

4. Brian McCann- Boston Red Sox 5 years $95 Million

5. Masahiro Tanaka- New York Yankees 5 years $105 Million

6. Ervin Santana- San Diego Padres 4 years $70 Million

7. Matt Garza- Atlanta Braves 5 years $94 Million

8. Hiroki Kuroda- Los Angeles Dodgers 1 year $16 Million

9. AJ Burnett- Pittsburgh Pirates 2 years $28 Million

10. Mike Napoli- Colorado Rockies 3 years $50 Million

11. Ubaldo Jimenez- Cleveland Indians 2 years $26 Million

12. Carlos Beltran- Baltimore Orioles 1 year $18 Million

13. Curtis Granderson- Cincinnati Reds 3 years $42 Million

14. Stephan Drew- Washington Nationals 3 years $45 Million

15. Jarrod Saltalamaccia- Texas Rangers 4 years $48 Million

16. Scott Kazmir- Baltimore Orioles 2 years $14 Million

17. Nelson Cruz- Philadelpia Phillies 3 years $33 Million

18. Omar Infante- Los Angeles Dodgers 2 years $20 Million

19. Joe Nathan- Detroit Tigers 1 Year $14 Million

20. Ricky Nolasco- Minnesota Twins 5 years $90 Million

21. Jhonny Peralta- Detroit Tigers 2 years $21 Million

22. Bronson Arroyo- San Francisco Giants 2 years $22 Million

23. Grant Balfour- New York Yankees 2 years $20 Million

24. Kendrys Morales- New York Yankees 1 year $12 Million

25. Josh Johnson- Kansas City Royals 2 years $16 Million

The Off Season

Hayes Craze Baseball is returning better than ever. The off season has begun and with a dull free agent class, this off season will be one of the hottest off seasons in the past decade.

The awards for Cy Young, Rookie of the Year, Most Valuable Player and Manager of the Year were announced this past week and the recipients were pretty obvious.

Cy Young Award
National League: Clayton Kersha:1.83 ERA, 16 Wins, 232 K, 236 IP
American League:Max Scherzer:2.90 ERA, 21 Wins. 240 K, 214 IP

Rookie of the Year
National League:Jose Fernandez 2.19 ERA, 12 Wins, 187 K, 172 IP
American League: .293 avg, 13 HR, 53 RBI, 5 SB

Most Valuable Player
National League: Andrew McCutchen .317 avg, 21 HR, 84 RBI, 27 SB
American League: Miguel Cabrera .348 avg, 44 HR, 137 RBI. 3 SB

Manager of the Year
National League: Clint Hurdle 94 wins, National League Central Division Title
American League: Terry Francona 92 wins, American League Wild Card

The free agent pool this year is looking bleak with just a few big names, such as Robinson Cano, Carlos Beltran, Brian McCann, Shin Soo Choo, and Masahiro Tanaka. Several veterans are also featured in this free agent class, such as Roy Halladay, Hiroki Kuroda and Tim Hudson. This off season will be very reliant on trades. Names like Matt Kemp, Elvis Andrus, David Price, Matt Weiters, Shelby Miller, and Mark Trumbo have already been labeled as available, so be sure to look out for those big names along with plenty of others to be on the move.

I will be underlining every major acquisition this off season with new lineups and pitching rotations incorporated with the new additions.