Earlier today the Atlanta Tartans signed 18 year old Dominican pitching prospect Carlos Oropesa.
Oropesa agreed to a Tartan record $11.7 Million signing bonus and was then immediately assigned to Rookie League roster.
While Oropesa is likely several years away from the big leagues he adds depth to the Tartans starting pitching prospect pool. He impressed the Tartans scouts with dominance against left handed hitters and great control. He possess three quality pitches a 4-seam fastball, sinker, and change-up.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Monday, October 27, 2008
Reviewing an Article from 2 weeks Back
Position: (ML player, top prospects)
2 Weeks Ago
Setup B: Dean Cloud AA, Adam Jordan AAA, Bubbles Daily AAA, Harvey Thurman HiA - Tartans have a strong core of players capable of filling a reserve setup role in the bigs.
Setup A: Evan Maxwell HiA - To the previous note, the team does lack depth of elite relievers.
Closer: Nash Howard HiA, Harry Bennett HiA - See above comment. The Tartans would benefit from adding a knockout closer who could push both Howard and Bennett down a notch vastly improving the future bullpen.
Today
Setup B: Dean Cloud AA, Adam Jordan AAA, Bubbles Daily AAA, Harvey Thurman HiA - There are several other relievers in the Atlanta system competing to fillout the back of the Tartans bullpen.
Setup A: Nash Howard HiA, Harry Bennett HiA, Evan Maxwell HiA - The Tartans will still sleep easy if Hayes falters as both Howard and Bennett have CL potential.
Closer: Tuck Hayes RL - Hayes is on the fast track to the big leagues, given he immediately succeeds in Rookie Ball he will likely be in LoA or HiA by the end of the season
2 Weeks Ago
Setup B: Dean Cloud AA, Adam Jordan AAA, Bubbles Daily AAA, Harvey Thurman HiA - Tartans have a strong core of players capable of filling a reserve setup role in the bigs.
Setup A: Evan Maxwell HiA - To the previous note, the team does lack depth of elite relievers.
Closer: Nash Howard HiA, Harry Bennett HiA - See above comment. The Tartans would benefit from adding a knockout closer who could push both Howard and Bennett down a notch vastly improving the future bullpen.
Today
Setup B: Dean Cloud AA, Adam Jordan AAA, Bubbles Daily AAA, Harvey Thurman HiA - There are several other relievers in the Atlanta system competing to fillout the back of the Tartans bullpen.
Setup A: Nash Howard HiA, Harry Bennett HiA, Evan Maxwell HiA - The Tartans will still sleep easy if Hayes falters as both Howard and Bennett have CL potential.
Closer: Tuck Hayes RL - Hayes is on the fast track to the big leagues, given he immediately succeeds in Rookie Ball he will likely be in LoA or HiA by the end of the season
Draft Wrap-Up: Atlanta Signs 18 of 25 Picks
As the dust settles from the Tartans 2nd Amateur Draft team officials seemed moderately satisfied with their selections.
"Any time you land your #1 target in a draft you have to be satisfied," said team owner Randy Benoit. "We feel the addition of Tuck Hayes has solidified our relief pitching prospect depth and instantly improved the talent in our future bullpen."
Following the pick of Hayes, a future closer, was RP Aurelio Barrios. The right hander may have been drafted too early but has the potential to be a Setup A/B guy in the majors.
Adding Tim Mills in the 3rd round likely did not fill the clubs need for a 1B prospect, but Mills does have the potential to reach the bigs and should be a solid contributer through out his minor league career.
DH Pete Beech adds even greater depth to a strong core of DH prospects the Tartans currently possess.
C Kid Thornton has the potential to reach the big leagues behind his glove and decent stick. He will provide a solid backstop to this seasons Rookie squad.
RP David Kwon has the potential to reach the majors as a Setup B reliever, though he will likely top out at AAA.
C/DH Adam Fonville was a decent pickup in the 8th round. Fonville served as at Delgado Community College in New Orleans, LA this spring, but the Tartans see the 19 year old as a catcher, which instantly increased his value.
Of the 18 picks the Tartans signed, 15 were collegiate players, and only 3 were straight out of high school. Atlanta focused on older players as they are targeting the start of Season 4 for the premier of their "youth movement". The team drafted several RP, perhaps too many! But in speaking with owner Randy Benoit he was not concerned, "yeah some may say that this season we drafted too heavy on collegiate relievers, but this is not a problem. We have some depth at the skill positions currently in our system. We targeted a 1B/LF power hitter, a premier starting pitcher, or a top end closer with our 1st round pick. And we were able to fill one of the three gaps in our system. I guarantee you next season we will not be worried about finding a young closer. And if we can meed one of the other two needs with an international signing we will be on our way."
"Any time you land your #1 target in a draft you have to be satisfied," said team owner Randy Benoit. "We feel the addition of Tuck Hayes has solidified our relief pitching prospect depth and instantly improved the talent in our future bullpen."
Following the pick of Hayes, a future closer, was RP Aurelio Barrios. The right hander may have been drafted too early but has the potential to be a Setup A/B guy in the majors.
Adding Tim Mills in the 3rd round likely did not fill the clubs need for a 1B prospect, but Mills does have the potential to reach the bigs and should be a solid contributer through out his minor league career.
DH Pete Beech adds even greater depth to a strong core of DH prospects the Tartans currently possess.
C Kid Thornton has the potential to reach the big leagues behind his glove and decent stick. He will provide a solid backstop to this seasons Rookie squad.
RP David Kwon has the potential to reach the majors as a Setup B reliever, though he will likely top out at AAA.
C/DH Adam Fonville was a decent pickup in the 8th round. Fonville served as at Delgado Community College in New Orleans, LA this spring, but the Tartans see the 19 year old as a catcher, which instantly increased his value.
Of the 18 picks the Tartans signed, 15 were collegiate players, and only 3 were straight out of high school. Atlanta focused on older players as they are targeting the start of Season 4 for the premier of their "youth movement". The team drafted several RP, perhaps too many! But in speaking with owner Randy Benoit he was not concerned, "yeah some may say that this season we drafted too heavy on collegiate relievers, but this is not a problem. We have some depth at the skill positions currently in our system. We targeted a 1B/LF power hitter, a premier starting pitcher, or a top end closer with our 1st round pick. And we were able to fill one of the three gaps in our system. I guarantee you next season we will not be worried about finding a young closer. And if we can meed one of the other two needs with an international signing we will be on our way."
Friday, October 24, 2008
Tartans Get Their Man, Take Hayes 4th Overall
ATL-
Earlier this week we reported that the Tartans farm system could benefit by adding a knock out closer. Well, they just did with the 4th overall pick in this years draft. Tuck Hayes a sophmore out of Snead State Community College is now in negotiations to sign a contract with the Tartans after being drafted yesterday. Hayes is 6-4, 182 lbs and should fill out that frame even more. He possesses plus command, is domaninat against lefties and righties, and features two plus pitches (a sinker, and a 4-seam fastball). He had an excellent GB/FB ratio in school and should be even more effective, as the Tartans are commited to building a top defense.
In the 2nd round Atlanta drafted another relief pitcher, Aurelio Barrios. who just graduated from the University of San Francisco this week.
In the 3rd round, 1B Tim Mills was chosen. Tim was a freshman at Jamestown Community College - Cattaraugus Campus this spring.
In the 4th, Pete Beech, a Senior at the University of Houston was chosen. Pete has the potential to hit effectively at the big league level.
And in the 5th the Tartans added Catcher Kid Thorton out of California State Polytechnic College - Pomona.
Earlier this week we reported that the Tartans farm system could benefit by adding a knock out closer. Well, they just did with the 4th overall pick in this years draft. Tuck Hayes a sophmore out of Snead State Community College is now in negotiations to sign a contract with the Tartans after being drafted yesterday. Hayes is 6-4, 182 lbs and should fill out that frame even more. He possesses plus command, is domaninat against lefties and righties, and features two plus pitches (a sinker, and a 4-seam fastball). He had an excellent GB/FB ratio in school and should be even more effective, as the Tartans are commited to building a top defense.
In the 2nd round Atlanta drafted another relief pitcher, Aurelio Barrios. who just graduated from the University of San Francisco this week.
In the 3rd round, 1B Tim Mills was chosen. Tim was a freshman at Jamestown Community College - Cattaraugus Campus this spring.
In the 4th, Pete Beech, a Senior at the University of Houston was chosen. Pete has the potential to hit effectively at the big league level.
And in the 5th the Tartans added Catcher Kid Thorton out of California State Polytechnic College - Pomona.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Tartans Excited and Nervous As Draft Approaches
Having went conservative in their scouting expenditures this season the Tartans say they are both excited and nervous as draft approaches. Owner Randy Benoit admitted, "our decision to spend $15 million on collegiate scouting and only $12 mil on high school scouting has us in a tight situation as the draft approaches."
"Not to tip our hand, but there is one collegiate prospect were are really interested in, and would fit well within the framework of our organization." ..."Our other top options are dominated by high school talents. It is challenging when more reliable projections for collegiate players are well below many of the high school talents. We feel that we have to take a risk, because playing it safe and drafting these well scouted guys does not give any hope to improving our talent level. So we are forced to take some risk and draft players further from the big leagues in hopes of landing potential ML talent."
"Beyond that, we have nothing further to say. To Tartans Nation, we advise to keep your fingers crossed, so we get the guy we are targeting, otherwise it could be risky."
"Not to tip our hand, but there is one collegiate prospect were are really interested in, and would fit well within the framework of our organization." ..."Our other top options are dominated by high school talents. It is challenging when more reliable projections for collegiate players are well below many of the high school talents. We feel that we have to take a risk, because playing it safe and drafting these well scouted guys does not give any hope to improving our talent level. So we are forced to take some risk and draft players further from the big leagues in hopes of landing potential ML talent."
"Beyond that, we have nothing further to say. To Tartans Nation, we advise to keep your fingers crossed, so we get the guy we are targeting, otherwise it could be risky."
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Losers of 4 in a Row, Tartans Need to Strengthen Bullpen
After reaching a pinnacle of 28-22 Atlanta has since dropped four games in a row. This losing streak has knocked the Tartans out of first place in the AL South. "The toughest part of this bad stretch is that all four losses have been decided by one run," Atlanta Bench Coach Trace Nichols. Losing the last two against Cleveland and the first two against Balitimore has been tough.
On Monday afternoon, the Tartans lost on a throw up the line by Julio Maduro 2-1. This was tough to swallow as Len James pitched 7 innings of one run baseball before the Jiggs Richardson blew it in the 9th.
On Monday evening, the Tartans lost on another run in the 9th, this time 1-0. Armando Pichardo threw 7 innings of 1 hit baseball, and then in the ninth with one already on Wiki Pelaez gives up two consecutive singles to end the game.
On Tuesday Morning, Carl Randall threw 6 innings of 2 run baseball, but the offense was unable to mount anything until the 8th, and by then Jiggs Richardson already gave up another run. The Tartans lost this game 3-2, though we expected this to be a tough game as CY Award winner Preston Day was on the mound for the Weavers.
On Tuesday evening, Trevor Knott gave up a run in the 12th for the Tartans to lose 6-5. The Tartans were able to take the lead in the top of the 9th in this one, but Pedro Quinones blew the lead when he served up a C Russell York's 3rd homerun of the season, which just cleared the wall.
Any way you slice ti this has been a rough couple of days for the Tartans. Hopefully Bullpen Coach Brian Harrelson can begin to rectify the difficulties in the bullpen and the Tartans can get back to there winning ways. - paper/
On Monday afternoon, the Tartans lost on a throw up the line by Julio Maduro 2-1. This was tough to swallow as Len James pitched 7 innings of one run baseball before the Jiggs Richardson blew it in the 9th.
On Monday evening, the Tartans lost on another run in the 9th, this time 1-0. Armando Pichardo threw 7 innings of 1 hit baseball, and then in the ninth with one already on Wiki Pelaez gives up two consecutive singles to end the game.
On Tuesday Morning, Carl Randall threw 6 innings of 2 run baseball, but the offense was unable to mount anything until the 8th, and by then Jiggs Richardson already gave up another run. The Tartans lost this game 3-2, though we expected this to be a tough game as CY Award winner Preston Day was on the mound for the Weavers.
On Tuesday evening, Trevor Knott gave up a run in the 12th for the Tartans to lose 6-5. The Tartans were able to take the lead in the top of the 9th in this one, but Pedro Quinones blew the lead when he served up a C Russell York's 3rd homerun of the season, which just cleared the wall.
Any way you slice ti this has been a rough couple of days for the Tartans. Hopefully Bullpen Coach Brian Harrelson can begin to rectify the difficulties in the bullpen and the Tartans can get back to there winning ways. - paper/
Monday, October 20, 2008
Still Looking for Value with the 4th Pick
While our interview with the Tartans' brass yesterday revealed the interest in drafting a pitcher in the first round. The general concensis amongst professional scouts is that this years draft is heavy in premier middle infield prospects. The remainder of this article will highlight several of these talents.
Goose Bittle, SS
Columbus Community HS, West Liberty, IA
- Bittle is a well rounded prospect who projects as a fantastic hitter. Bittle has plus power and and speed. He has the ability to play SS at the big league level and is a middle of the order hitter. The only draw backs on Bittle are his baseball IQ, which could limit hit ability on the basepaths, and his durability. The biggest drawback for the Tartans will be his signability, as he as made public that he will likely not sign as he "has his heart set on going to college."
Beamer Whitman, SS
North Lake College (SO), Frisco, TX
- Similar to Bittle, Whitman is a well rounded player. While has power, it is not as developed as Bittle's. And while he has a significantly better glove than Bittle, we does lack range and speed for the position. Good news for GMs is that he is definitely looking to sign.
Gordon Borders, 2B
Gonzaga (JR), Leonia, NJ
- Borders possesses the stamina both Whitman and Bittle lack. He projects as an average 2B, who will fill in nicely at the two spot in many lineups. He has below average power but has a great eye at the plate. Finally, his history indicates he might be an injury risk. He is openly signable, though he is only interested in being a 1st rounder.
Bernard Campbell, 2B
Norwest Mississippi CC (FR), Memphis, IN
- Campell is an excellent defensive 2B. This guy has gold glove potential. He has excellent durability and health, though his bat is a little underdeveloped for a top 10 pick and he has very little pop. He has a bit of speed and could hit in the two hole or the six.
Hiram Russell, 2B
Roanoke-Benson HS, Oglesby, IL
- Russell possesses the elite combination of a great bat and defense that many teams will covet. He has gold glove potential at 2B and could play CF. He has plus power and coud easily bat in the middle of the order in a few years. He is looking to sign. The only downside to Hiram is his health, he had injury issues in high school and that may limit his pro potential.
Enjoy! And we will be back later this week with more draft analysis.
Goose Bittle, SS
Columbus Community HS, West Liberty, IA
- Bittle is a well rounded prospect who projects as a fantastic hitter. Bittle has plus power and and speed. He has the ability to play SS at the big league level and is a middle of the order hitter. The only draw backs on Bittle are his baseball IQ, which could limit hit ability on the basepaths, and his durability. The biggest drawback for the Tartans will be his signability, as he as made public that he will likely not sign as he "has his heart set on going to college."
Beamer Whitman, SS
North Lake College (SO), Frisco, TX
- Similar to Bittle, Whitman is a well rounded player. While has power, it is not as developed as Bittle's. And while he has a significantly better glove than Bittle, we does lack range and speed for the position. Good news for GMs is that he is definitely looking to sign.
Gordon Borders, 2B
Gonzaga (JR), Leonia, NJ
- Borders possesses the stamina both Whitman and Bittle lack. He projects as an average 2B, who will fill in nicely at the two spot in many lineups. He has below average power but has a great eye at the plate. Finally, his history indicates he might be an injury risk. He is openly signable, though he is only interested in being a 1st rounder.
Bernard Campbell, 2B
Norwest Mississippi CC (FR), Memphis, IN
- Campell is an excellent defensive 2B. This guy has gold glove potential. He has excellent durability and health, though his bat is a little underdeveloped for a top 10 pick and he has very little pop. He has a bit of speed and could hit in the two hole or the six.
Hiram Russell, 2B
Roanoke-Benson HS, Oglesby, IL
- Russell possesses the elite combination of a great bat and defense that many teams will covet. He has gold glove potential at 2B and could play CF. He has plus power and coud easily bat in the middle of the order in a few years. He is looking to sign. The only downside to Hiram is his health, he had injury issues in high school and that may limit his pro potential.
Enjoy! And we will be back later this week with more draft analysis.
Atlanta Likely Targeting a Pitcher in the 1st Round
Earlier this week we reported that the Tartans had a specific list of needs as the amature player draft approaches. And by all accounts the team's scouting department is beginning to narrow down that list towards who they are interested in drafting in the 1st round.
Randy Beniot (Owner)
- "Our needs heading into the draft are for a power hitting corner outfielder or first baseman, and then pitching both starters and relievers. After speaking with our scouting department we have determined that their are not really 1B or outfield prospects worth drafting with the 5th pick. While there are several SS and 2B/CF type guys worth a high pick we feel we are pretty deep at those positions right now."
Are there any players you have begun to target specifically?
- "Well there is this pitcher out of Snead State Community College that one of our scouts, Harpo Walsh, really covets. He is a right hander that with two plus pitches who has had success against both righties and lefties. He is already pretty developed and could potentially be in the majors within two years, which we like."
Any others?
- "There is also a hard throwing lefty out of Oregon State that we have been following. I think Lonny Rojas has been following. However, there are some signability issues with him, and we are not a team that wants to take a chance on not signing a guy."
We will be back later this week on more draft news!
Randy Beniot (Owner)
- "Our needs heading into the draft are for a power hitting corner outfielder or first baseman, and then pitching both starters and relievers. After speaking with our scouting department we have determined that their are not really 1B or outfield prospects worth drafting with the 5th pick. While there are several SS and 2B/CF type guys worth a high pick we feel we are pretty deep at those positions right now."
Are there any players you have begun to target specifically?
- "Well there is this pitcher out of Snead State Community College that one of our scouts, Harpo Walsh, really covets. He is a right hander that with two plus pitches who has had success against both righties and lefties. He is already pretty developed and could potentially be in the majors within two years, which we like."
Any others?
- "There is also a hard throwing lefty out of Oregon State that we have been following. I think Lonny Rojas has been following. However, there are some signability issues with him, and we are not a team that wants to take a chance on not signing a guy."
We will be back later this week on more draft news!
Sunday, October 19, 2008
What would you do?
Image for a second you are the brass leading the Atlanta Tartans. You started off a year ago trying to build a contender for Season 4. So thus far you have traded away all but two of your veterans with large contracts (the only two you have kept is because they are deemed untradeable). You sign a one marginal free-agent pitcher, and then pick up several 4-5 type guys to fill out your rotation. You add several hitters, but focus on defensive over offense since, all the big hitters are expensive or already taken. Then you fill a huge hole in your line-up with a Rule 5 catcher. Finally, you promote your best minor league hitter, because you don't want to risk being kicked out of the league for losing too many games.
Several weeks later nearly a 1/3 of the season is in the books and you find your team. Yeah the one you built to survive, not succeed, is in 1st Place. The two Rookie hitters are on fire, and some how the pitching staff finds ways to succeed.
So what would you do? The Tartans have two players on the brink of the bigs. A SS/3B ready to fill the 1 hole, and a OF ready to fill the 2 hole. Do promote them, and dramatically improve your lineup. At the same time you have two starting pitchers at AAA who could both succeed in the bigs right now, do you rush them a bit and promote them? Or do you say this team is still not built for right, now might as well continue to wait?
Comments are appreciated.
Several weeks later nearly a 1/3 of the season is in the books and you find your team. Yeah the one you built to survive, not succeed, is in 1st Place. The two Rookie hitters are on fire, and some how the pitching staff finds ways to succeed.
So what would you do? The Tartans have two players on the brink of the bigs. A SS/3B ready to fill the 1 hole, and a OF ready to fill the 2 hole. Do promote them, and dramatically improve your lineup. At the same time you have two starting pitchers at AAA who could both succeed in the bigs right now, do you rush them a bit and promote them? Or do you say this team is still not built for right, now might as well continue to wait?
Comments are appreciated.
Reflecting on the Trades of Three Closers
One year ago, the Tartans entered last season with 3 big league relievers with Closer level talent. These veterans all over the age of 30 and with high dollar contracts did not fit into the Tartans long term strategy. And a little more than a year later all three players have been traded away. The remainder of this article will reflect on those moves and highlight the fortunes of those gone and those acquired.
Dwight Pritchett, 31 yrs, $6.8 million
17/18 saves, 3.33 ERA, .196 OBA
for
CF Vernon Belle (AA), 21 yrs, $37,500
.420 AVG, 1.233 OPS, and a Gold Glove last season
- Pritchett has done really well this season for the Seven Hills, and by the length of the contract they gave him, they plan to keep him at Closer for the next several years. The outcome of this deal is simple. At the time of the trade the Tartans had no plans of keeping Pritchett long term. By trading him early they were able to acquire a CF prospect for the future. Good deal for both sides.
Ernie Woodson, 33 yrs, $4.6 million
6/7 saves, 2.45 ERA, .258 OBA
for
CL Nash Howard (HiA), 22 yrs, $26,350
7/11 saves, 4.22 ERA, .313 OBA
- This trade gets an incomplete. The Tartans were concerned about paying Woodson $4.6 million over the next two seasons, in addition to having no real benefit of keeping during Season 2 as they did not plan to compete for a title by then. However, with Howard not dominating at HiA this trade does not warrant a compliment to the Atlanta scouting department just yet.
Armando Gonzalez, 34 yrs, $4.8 million
10/11 saves, 2.12 ERA, .222 OBA
for
3B Brad Perry (AAA), 23 yrs, $48,108
.316 AVG, .900 OPS
- This trade was mostly a salary dump. As Atlanta started off the season with the success they felt increasingly confident about their ability to win 64 games. They threw in $2.5 mil and cut Gonzalez contract off the books next season, and add depth to their future 3B pool and Corner OF pool. Incomplete, have to see if Gonzalez ages in Season 3, and if Perry continues to develop.
Dwight Pritchett, 31 yrs, $6.8 million
17/18 saves, 3.33 ERA, .196 OBA
for
CF Vernon Belle (AA), 21 yrs, $37,500
.420 AVG, 1.233 OPS, and a Gold Glove last season
- Pritchett has done really well this season for the Seven Hills, and by the length of the contract they gave him, they plan to keep him at Closer for the next several years. The outcome of this deal is simple. At the time of the trade the Tartans had no plans of keeping Pritchett long term. By trading him early they were able to acquire a CF prospect for the future. Good deal for both sides.
Ernie Woodson, 33 yrs, $4.6 million
6/7 saves, 2.45 ERA, .258 OBA
for
CL Nash Howard (HiA), 22 yrs, $26,350
7/11 saves, 4.22 ERA, .313 OBA
- This trade gets an incomplete. The Tartans were concerned about paying Woodson $4.6 million over the next two seasons, in addition to having no real benefit of keeping during Season 2 as they did not plan to compete for a title by then. However, with Howard not dominating at HiA this trade does not warrant a compliment to the Atlanta scouting department just yet.
Armando Gonzalez, 34 yrs, $4.8 million
10/11 saves, 2.12 ERA, .222 OBA
for
3B Brad Perry (AAA), 23 yrs, $48,108
.316 AVG, .900 OPS
- This trade was mostly a salary dump. As Atlanta started off the season with the success they felt increasingly confident about their ability to win 64 games. They threw in $2.5 mil and cut Gonzalez contract off the books next season, and add depth to their future 3B pool and Corner OF pool. Incomplete, have to see if Gonzalez ages in Season 3, and if Perry continues to develop.
With Early Success, Tartans' Scouts Provide Insight
With surprising success at the big league level and the minors churning as expected the Atlanta Tartans scouting department deserves much of the credit. Earlier this week the Tartans Insider had the pleasure of catching up with several of the Tartans' scouts and this is what we found out.
Randy Benoit (Owner)
- We went into this season with several objectives. First, we knew we needed to win atleast 64 games to stay with league rules, as we only won 61 last season. Second, we wanted to continue add young talent in the form of prospects we can develop. Third, we wanted to continue to trim our major league payroll as we felt that several players on the squad at the end of last season were dead weight. Forth, we wanted to round out or prospect depth through the drafts, international scouting, and trades.
Trace Nichols (Bench Coach)
- When Randy interviewed me during the offseason they were very upfront about their goals and objectives for this season and beyond. They asked me be for I signed did I think I could win 65-75 games with this squad. I felt very strongly that I could. Then they asked did I think could do that even if they reorganized things a bit, as in traded a few veterans. I felt that while it would make it more of a challenge, if they would make their subtractions with creative additions then I was sure I could still win.
Geraldo Izturis (International Scout)
- After the club traded veteran CF Charles Eckenstahler and was advertising SS Ernie Waltman and CL Armando Gonzalez we knew that Mr. Benoit would approach us on our thoughts of making a big promotion of one of our young prospects. While Cyrus Gibson or Max Cabeza could have filled in for either Eck or Waltman, we felt that both would greatly benefit from some time at AAA. That is when we suggested moving Juan Machado. Juan was the MVP in AA last year showing off both his power and batting IQ. We felt that while promoting him still left gaps defensively it would greatly improve our ML lineup and not divert our organization's focus towards being patient with our young hitters.
Virgil Abreu (International Scout)
- After letting Juan Rodriguez walk in the off-season, he eventually retired, we knew we needed to add a well-rounded catcher to the ML club. In addition we really needed a young guy as no one in our organization currently projects to have ML starter potential as a backstop. When preparing for the Rule 5 draft we had identified a couple of guys that we felt could make an impact on our club. In Esteban Macias we saw a mature guy (24 years old) who produced well last season in AAA. He is very sound defensively and has a very solid bat. While his durability was a concern, we knew we could count on him for 120 games or so, and could use one of our backups from last season to fill-in.
Derek Jennings (Minor League Scout)
- Last season we really struggled offensively, and one of the causes for that was our lack of a DH. When minor league DH/C Don Lawrence was on the trade block we were immediately interested. Seattle was concerned over his risk to injury, but for us we felt a move to a full-time DH role would protect his health and make him a valuable asset to our organization. Then when we had the opportunity to claim Kareem Sheldon off waivers this allowed to protect Don assign him to AA and focus on being patient with his development, which has been our strategy from the outset.
The editorial staff at Tartans Insider would also like to thank the following scouts for participation as well Ivan Cervantes, Hector Barrios, Kiki Gomez, Louie Hidalgo, Omar Moraga, and Fernando Delgado.
******************************
Other News and Notes
Big League Club (26-21) tied for 1st
AAA Club (31-16) 1st place
AA Club (36-11) 1st place
Hi A Club (26-21) 1st place
Lo A Club (36-11) 1st place
Randy Benoit (Owner)
- We went into this season with several objectives. First, we knew we needed to win atleast 64 games to stay with league rules, as we only won 61 last season. Second, we wanted to continue add young talent in the form of prospects we can develop. Third, we wanted to continue to trim our major league payroll as we felt that several players on the squad at the end of last season were dead weight. Forth, we wanted to round out or prospect depth through the drafts, international scouting, and trades.
Trace Nichols (Bench Coach)
- When Randy interviewed me during the offseason they were very upfront about their goals and objectives for this season and beyond. They asked me be for I signed did I think I could win 65-75 games with this squad. I felt very strongly that I could. Then they asked did I think could do that even if they reorganized things a bit, as in traded a few veterans. I felt that while it would make it more of a challenge, if they would make their subtractions with creative additions then I was sure I could still win.
Geraldo Izturis (International Scout)
- After the club traded veteran CF Charles Eckenstahler and was advertising SS Ernie Waltman and CL Armando Gonzalez we knew that Mr. Benoit would approach us on our thoughts of making a big promotion of one of our young prospects. While Cyrus Gibson or Max Cabeza could have filled in for either Eck or Waltman, we felt that both would greatly benefit from some time at AAA. That is when we suggested moving Juan Machado. Juan was the MVP in AA last year showing off both his power and batting IQ. We felt that while promoting him still left gaps defensively it would greatly improve our ML lineup and not divert our organization's focus towards being patient with our young hitters.
Virgil Abreu (International Scout)
- After letting Juan Rodriguez walk in the off-season, he eventually retired, we knew we needed to add a well-rounded catcher to the ML club. In addition we really needed a young guy as no one in our organization currently projects to have ML starter potential as a backstop. When preparing for the Rule 5 draft we had identified a couple of guys that we felt could make an impact on our club. In Esteban Macias we saw a mature guy (24 years old) who produced well last season in AAA. He is very sound defensively and has a very solid bat. While his durability was a concern, we knew we could count on him for 120 games or so, and could use one of our backups from last season to fill-in.
Derek Jennings (Minor League Scout)
- Last season we really struggled offensively, and one of the causes for that was our lack of a DH. When minor league DH/C Don Lawrence was on the trade block we were immediately interested. Seattle was concerned over his risk to injury, but for us we felt a move to a full-time DH role would protect his health and make him a valuable asset to our organization. Then when we had the opportunity to claim Kareem Sheldon off waivers this allowed to protect Don assign him to AA and focus on being patient with his development, which has been our strategy from the outset.
The editorial staff at Tartans Insider would also like to thank the following scouts for participation as well Ivan Cervantes, Hector Barrios, Kiki Gomez, Louie Hidalgo, Omar Moraga, and Fernando Delgado.
******************************
Other News and Notes
Big League Club (26-21) tied for 1st
AAA Club (31-16) 1st place
AA Club (36-11) 1st place
Hi A Club (26-21) 1st place
Lo A Club (36-11) 1st place
Tartans Roster Depth Analysis (Pitcher)
Position: (ML player, top prospects)
Starting Pitchers
Top of the Rotation: Darrin Lloyd AAA, Wascar Fernandez AAA, Pat Dong AA,
Middle of the Rotation: Len James ML, Fonzie Hume HiA, Kevin Pratt HiA
Bottom of the Rotation: Alvin O'Connor AA, Bobby Bere AA
- Lloyd has Ace potential, while Fernandez and Dong will plug in nicely at 2 and 3.
- Len James can fill a role at the 4th spot next season, and going forward Hume and Pratt may progress to fill out the rotation.
- O'Connor and Bere may find themselves as future Long Relievers if all goes as planned.
Relievers
Long A/Long B: (Vacant)
- Other than closer prospect Harry Bennett, the club will likely rely on rotation leftovers to fill these spots.
Setup B: Dean Cloud AA, Adam Jordan AAA, Bubbles Daily AAA, Harvey Thurman HiA
- Tartans have a strong core of players capable of filling a reserve setup role in the bigs.
Setup A: Evan Maxwell HiA
- To the previous note, the team does lack depth of elite relievers.
Closer: Nash Howard HiA, Harry Bennett HiA
- See above comment. The Tartans would benefit from adding a knockout closer who could push both Howard and Bennett down a notch vastly improving the future bullpen.
Analysis: The Tartans do a have core of young pitching talent, which without any additions could provide enough for a potential contender. But adding 1-2 talented starters would solidify the rotation of the future and protect against injuries. Likewise, in the bullpen the addition of a stud closer propsect would solidify the bullpen of the future.
As the draft approaches the Tartans have identified needs at 1B, RF, and pitching. While not all three of these needs can be meet with the #5 pick, one of them can. Another can be filled with an international signing. And if the Tartans could limit there obvious needs to one player, they could likely trade one of their excess SS/CF prospects to fill it. Then again, if they can locate a pitcher with low stamina in the 2nd round of the draft and make him a closer, this team might have one hell of a core.
Starting Pitchers
Top of the Rotation: Darrin Lloyd AAA, Wascar Fernandez AAA, Pat Dong AA,
Middle of the Rotation: Len James ML, Fonzie Hume HiA, Kevin Pratt HiA
Bottom of the Rotation: Alvin O'Connor AA, Bobby Bere AA
- Lloyd has Ace potential, while Fernandez and Dong will plug in nicely at 2 and 3.
- Len James can fill a role at the 4th spot next season, and going forward Hume and Pratt may progress to fill out the rotation.
- O'Connor and Bere may find themselves as future Long Relievers if all goes as planned.
Relievers
Long A/Long B: (Vacant)
- Other than closer prospect Harry Bennett, the club will likely rely on rotation leftovers to fill these spots.
Setup B: Dean Cloud AA, Adam Jordan AAA, Bubbles Daily AAA, Harvey Thurman HiA
- Tartans have a strong core of players capable of filling a reserve setup role in the bigs.
Setup A: Evan Maxwell HiA
- To the previous note, the team does lack depth of elite relievers.
Closer: Nash Howard HiA, Harry Bennett HiA
- See above comment. The Tartans would benefit from adding a knockout closer who could push both Howard and Bennett down a notch vastly improving the future bullpen.
Analysis: The Tartans do a have core of young pitching talent, which without any additions could provide enough for a potential contender. But adding 1-2 talented starters would solidify the rotation of the future and protect against injuries. Likewise, in the bullpen the addition of a stud closer propsect would solidify the bullpen of the future.
As the draft approaches the Tartans have identified needs at 1B, RF, and pitching. While not all three of these needs can be meet with the #5 pick, one of them can. Another can be filled with an international signing. And if the Tartans could limit there obvious needs to one player, they could likely trade one of their excess SS/CF prospects to fill it. Then again, if they can locate a pitcher with low stamina in the 2nd round of the draft and make him a closer, this team might have one hell of a core.
Tartans Roster Depth Analysis (Hitters)
Position: (ML player, top prospects)
Catcher: Esteban Macias ML, Clyde Bloomquist ML
- Macias can hadle the majority of the catching responsibility for the future, though Atlanta will be wise to have a strong backup and should look for a prospect Catcher.
First Base: Gary Bellhorn
- Tartans really lake a young first baseman. This is area they have struggled to address through the draft and may try to fill through the draft.
Second Base: Teddy Lofton, Fergie Perry AA, Fausto Cruz LoA
- There is no secret here. Perry a future leadoff hitter, will be in the bigs as soon as he matures defensively.
Short Stop: Steve Jacquez, Max Cabeza AAA, Raul Cortes AA
- While Cabeza is the top prospect at short, Cortes possess a better glove and more power and could potential push Cabeza over to 3B.
Third Base: Lonnie Farrell, Julius Rocker AA, Brad Perry AAA
- Rocker might be a couple of years away but he has All-Star potential though other players (Cabeza/Gibson) may challenge for this spot.
Left Field: Rolando Martinez, Tony Encarnacion AA
- Like 1B, Atlanta lacks a true slugger to plug in here long term. With few teams willing to trade an offensive beast it increasingly attractive for Atlanta to seek one with the 5th pick.
Center Field: Julio Maduro, Cyrus Gibson AAA, Vernon Belle AA
- Gibson is ready now, but Belle possess the defense to thrive here in the bigs.
Right Field: Juan Machado ML
- Machado has already claimed the #3 spot in this lineup, though his defense may move him to LF during the next couple of seasons.
Designated Hitter: Kareem Sheldon, Don Lawrence AA, Willie Canseco HiA
- Lawrence has the bat to play DH and can fill in as a catcher, though his injury risk will leave ABs for a someone else
Analysis: Atlanta has needs for a power hitter, so adding a RF/LF and(or) a 1B with pop would be wise. The focus for other high picks should be around adding pitching depth and perhaps a young catcher through the draft.
Catcher: Esteban Macias ML, Clyde Bloomquist ML
- Macias can hadle the majority of the catching responsibility for the future, though Atlanta will be wise to have a strong backup and should look for a prospect Catcher.
First Base: Gary Bellhorn
- Tartans really lake a young first baseman. This is area they have struggled to address through the draft and may try to fill through the draft.
Second Base: Teddy Lofton, Fergie Perry AA, Fausto Cruz LoA
- There is no secret here. Perry a future leadoff hitter, will be in the bigs as soon as he matures defensively.
Short Stop: Steve Jacquez, Max Cabeza AAA, Raul Cortes AA
- While Cabeza is the top prospect at short, Cortes possess a better glove and more power and could potential push Cabeza over to 3B.
Third Base: Lonnie Farrell, Julius Rocker AA, Brad Perry AAA
- Rocker might be a couple of years away but he has All-Star potential though other players (Cabeza/Gibson) may challenge for this spot.
Left Field: Rolando Martinez, Tony Encarnacion AA
- Like 1B, Atlanta lacks a true slugger to plug in here long term. With few teams willing to trade an offensive beast it increasingly attractive for Atlanta to seek one with the 5th pick.
Center Field: Julio Maduro, Cyrus Gibson AAA, Vernon Belle AA
- Gibson is ready now, but Belle possess the defense to thrive here in the bigs.
Right Field: Juan Machado ML
- Machado has already claimed the #3 spot in this lineup, though his defense may move him to LF during the next couple of seasons.
Designated Hitter: Kareem Sheldon, Don Lawrence AA, Willie Canseco HiA
- Lawrence has the bat to play DH and can fill in as a catcher, though his injury risk will leave ABs for a someone else
Analysis: Atlanta has needs for a power hitter, so adding a RF/LF and(or) a 1B with pop would be wise. The focus for other high picks should be around adding pitching depth and perhaps a young catcher through the draft.
Machado and Macias Start Off Hot
25% of the season is in the books and two rookies are having unprecedented success for the Tartans. Juan "Gone" Machado and Esteban Macias have led this club both on the field and in the club house thus far during the season.
The hard hitting RF, Machado, leads the American League in HRs (21), RBI (60), and is 6th in AVG (.344). Meanwhile, the talented backstop, Macias, is 4th in the AL in AVG (.355), leads AL catchers in runs scored (36), and has dramatically improved the performance of the pitching staff from last season (4.38 staff ERA, from 5.17 a year ago).
These two performances has given hope to an Atlanta fanbase that had low expectations at the start of the year. Regardless of how this season pans out, the Tartans have plenty in the pipeline and the rosters assembled next season and beyond will only get better.
The hard hitting RF, Machado, leads the American League in HRs (21), RBI (60), and is 6th in AVG (.344). Meanwhile, the talented backstop, Macias, is 4th in the AL in AVG (.355), leads AL catchers in runs scored (36), and has dramatically improved the performance of the pitching staff from last season (4.38 staff ERA, from 5.17 a year ago).
These two performances has given hope to an Atlanta fanbase that had low expectations at the start of the year. Regardless of how this season pans out, the Tartans have plenty in the pipeline and the rosters assembled next season and beyond will only get better.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
 |
| ||||||
