Atlanta Tartans

Tartans Still Undecided on Promoting CL Nash Howard

2009-04-05T08:34:00.000-07:00

Nash Howard has progressed nicely through the Atlanta farm system. This prospect acquired two years ago for veterans Ernie Woodson and Vince Terrell (the Tartans also obtained AAA DH Jack Pierre) is on the brink of cracking the bigs.

Howard has steadily climbed from LoA to AAA amassing a 3.35 ERA, 1.12 WHIP, and an 84% save conversion rate. More impressively he has 17/18 last season with a 2.83 ERA and a 0.75 WHIP in AA. He likely has little more to develop by having a stint in AAA, but Atlanta management is fearful of having too many players become arbitration eligible three seasons from now. And with Julius Rocker, Fergie Perry, and Don Lawrence all seeing promotions this season Nash Howard is stuck waiting.

Howard has excellent control and is highly effective against lefties and righties. While he tops out at 91 mph his fastball has unbelievable movement. He is a flyball pitcher that will find a dramatic difference between pitching in Atlanta's pitchers heaven of AAA and the homerun risk of Turner Field.

Either way, Atlanta needs a closer immediately after the departure of Pedro Quinones, lost through free-agency.

Atlanta Supplements Roster with Situational Vets

2009-04-05T08:13:00.000-07:00

With one day remaining as we head into the season. Atlanta sit had some holes to fill on the ML roster. Management has had a reluctence to rush any young prospects leaving several noticable weaknesses in the roster. Below we have outlined the latest veteran additions to the club and what they will bring.

CF Harry Torres - A 33 yearold veteran with 10 years of big league service. Torres still has average defense for center field or second base. He as plus speed and base running abilities and is marginally successful against righties. With rule-5 draftee Roger Higginson getting the ABs against lefties Torres maybe a one year solution at center. He was had on the cheap for $380K just above the league minimum.

SPs Josh Seabol and Len James - At 35 and 37 respectively, these two are entering the final seasons as major league contributors. Seabol went 13-9 last season for the Tartans, but wasn't resigned, after going all off-season seeking a better contract he reluctently re-joinned Atlanta for $1.3 mil. Seabol had his best season last year with a 1.26 WHIP, .248 OAV, and 117 K's to only 54 BB's. James also went 13-9 last seaon splitting time with Cleveland and Scottsdale. Many may remember the 3 contract Atlanta signed him to two years ago. After Cleveland declined his $5.2 mil for this season the Tartans were able to add him for $970K. Lets hope both these guys can provide at least 1/2 season of starts this year before we need emergency promotions for AAA.

RP Norman Hall - After spending 3 years with Cleveland, Hall joins the Tartans for a fraction of his previous salaries. The hard trowingTexas native had a horrible year last season prompting a demotion to AAA. Atlanta is taking a flyer on this guy because of his excellent curveball and 4-seamer. Why he will not amaze, the Tartans are confident he will bounce back this season and provide quality innings.

Atlanta Takes Some Critism and Likes It

2009-03-31T18:50:00.000-07:00

In dealing two young big leaguers today the Tartans management team had its intelligence questioned. With several competing owners frowning upon the deal feeling the Tartans hadn't asked for enough in parting with Max Cabeza and Brad Perry to Detriot. With this in mind let me state a few factors behind that deal:

1.) Tartans Philosophy
- The goal of the Atlanta Tartans is to win a World Championship. Our strategy for building and maintaining a contender is to keep our big league squad as inexpensive and young as possible. We desire to have the best minor league system of all 32 clubs and to continually produce productive big league ball players. We also share no loyalty to any player, all trades, contracts, and signings are up for discussion especially if they support the above Tartans philosphies. When players become unrestricted free-agents the Tartans will waiver heavily the costs of keeping a player and the opportunity for adding youth.

2.) Current Position Depth
- Going into season 4 Julius Rocker is slated to be our starting 3B. Julius won the AL AAA Gold Glove and Silver Slugger awards for 3B last season and we feel that he will perform better then Max Cabeza. Brad Perry was competing with Manny Coleman for RF duties this season. Coleman out performed Perry last season, and while he is a stop gap solution the Tartans have several options to play right field next season.

3.) Future Depth
- Two of the four personnel goals the Tartans had going into this season where to add a SS prospect and Starting Pitching depth. This trade supports that. B.J. Washington is a true short stop, his bat is not fantastic but he should hit well enough to fill a starting spot in the big leagues in a few seasons. Frank Davis is not a fantastic pitching prospect, but he does project to have ML rotation quality stuff (4/5 SP) in the future and his abilities against right handers was a key for the Tartans.

Tartans Still Dealing Going Into Season 4

2009-03-31T17:29:00.000-07:00

With some great talent making there debuts in Georgia this season the Tartans have been busy reorganizing there talent pool to support sustainable success. Here is a snapshot of some recent trades.

1.) Future CF for Future LF
- While many Tartans fans might be disappointed with the loss of Vernon Belle, Atlanta was finally able to acquire a potential impact slugger in Manuel Macias from Vancouver. While Belle was the AL AAA MVP last season, he struggled to improve his outfield range and the Tartans did not expect much more development at the plate from him. In sending him to the Tiger Sharks the acquired a LF with pop, 38 HRs & 143 RBI between HiA and AA last season, and a player they see as still developing (Macias has two less years of experience than Belle).

2.) Excuse me ML Long Reliever for Platoon CF
- Going into this season, and especially after dealing Belle, the Tartans lacked a true ML CF. Through the Rule 5 draft the team nabbed Roger Higginson a speedy CF that struggles against Righties. In trading Roger Hardy, a player the Tartans accidentially signed to a multi-year deal last season, they acquired Evlis Lomasney. Lomasney, only 22, has great range and a strong stick against righties, but a developing glove. Look for the Tartans to take a chance on him in the bigs this season platooning with Higginson.

3.) Shipping Out Some ML Depth to Fuel the Future Talent Pool
- In Max Cabeza and Brad Perry the Tartans had two players that started all of last season, but where not in the teams long term plans. With the promotion this season of more young Tartans Perry was suited to be on the bench and Cabeza was even more replaceable. By sending the pair to Detriot the Tartans acquired two 20-year olds drafted in the supplemental round two seasons ago. B.J. Washington projects to be a true SS should develop at the plate enough to be a ML starter. SP Frank Davis projects as a back of the rotation starter, but gives the team added depth on the mound.

Tartans Start Season 4-1

2009-01-04T07:33:00.000-08:00

With several prospects now with the big league club and several more just a year away, Atlanta is slowly becoming a contender in competitive AL South.

The rotation is now anchored by AAA standouts Darrin Lloyd and Wascar Fernandez. The lineup is now anchored by Juan Machado and Cyrus Gibson.

The Tartans hope this season is that they can be a contender in the AL South without promoting many of their other prospects too early. 2B Fergie Perry is ready to be a big league leadoff hitter, but must improve his glove if he wants to be an all-star at the position. Close behind him are Julius Rocker, Vernon Belle, and Raul Cortes.

It will take several weeks for things to take shape in big league before the Tartans can accurately gauge where they stand on having half their coveted pieces in the majors.

Tartans Split AL South Title, Miss Playoffs

2008-11-30T11:38:00.001-08:00

Yesterday was the conclusion to the Branch Rickey World regular season. With their win yesterday our Atlanta Tartans tied both San Juan and Houston for a share of the AL South title. But Atlanta (and Houston) still missed the playoffs. Atlanta trailed San Juan by one game in the division so while both had identical 78-84 records, San Juans 15-15 mark edged the 14-16 Tartans by one game.

Atlanta manager Trace Nichols had this to say: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qwq7BYOnDrM

Future Looking Bright for the Tartans

2008-11-28T15:30:00.000-08:00

Just a week to go in the big league season, and while the Tartans are surprising in contention for the AL South title (thanks, weak division!) the minor league playoffs are already in full swing and Atlanta is looking pretty good. That is all 5 Tartan minor league teams remain in contention, and all 5 appear to be fighting hard in their respective series. Below we count the ways in which the Tartan's farm system looks so good!

1.) All five teams are in the 2nd round of the playoffs or farther.

2.) The Tartans are sweeping the AA awards voting:
* AL AA MVP Award: Top 4 finalists are Tartans
* AL AA Cy Young: Top 3 finalists are Tartans
* AL AA Newcomer of the Year: Top 4 finalists are Tartans
* AL AA Fireman of the Year: CL Dean Cloud (a Tartan)
* AL AA Silver Slugger Awards: 6 0f the 9 Awards go to Tartans

3.) Tartan's Big League Payroll Next Season is currently under $15 million
* I.E. lots of cash to spend on Coaching, Talent Evaluation, and maybe a key free agent signing, oh and injury prevention

4.) All Tartan trades have targeted acquiring young talent, and surprisingly their big league club was still competitive.
* Just wait until the new kids come up and then it is on like Donkey Kong.

5.) Both impact rookies this season played superb.
* Compliments RF Juan Machado and C Esteban Macias.

6.) The Tartans have only two large contracts remaining from when new ownership took over the club and both those contracts are gone after next season.

7.) Winning without talent at the big league level has taught management some key strategies that will be further utilized in the coming years. Trust me.

8.) We can brag all day about the balance in the Tartans farm system.
* I.E. the layout of the key prospects covering every position. (Except, 1st Base. But you better beleive that that will be resolved during the next draft, in which the Tartans will have a coveted top 10 pick, yeah they have worked hard for that pick.)

Atlanta's Nichols Getting the Job Done

2008-11-11T19:09:00.000-08:00

At 60-50 the Atlanta Tartans are atop the American League South by 4 games. There team is a collection of youth and forgotten scraps. An honestly, the majority is scrap. Bench Coach Trace Nichols was handed a roster of left overs and two top prospects (add to the team in an effort to insure 64 wins).

Well we are 110 games in, 52 to go and the Tartans need only 4 wins to reach their minimum this season. This is impressive when you consider that Atlanta is ranked last in the bigs in player ratings.

The team's salary is just over $40 million. Compare that to division rivals and you will see that Tartan ownership is getting a lot of return on its investment.

Team / Payroll / Ovr. Rating / Wins-Losses
Atlanta / $40.8 M / 63 / 60-50
Kansas City / $78.0 M / 69 / 53-57
San Juan / $89.8 M / 68 / 56-54
Houston / $59.9 M / 68 / 55-55

Tartans Agree to Send SP Len James to Sandsharks

2008-11-08T05:17:00.001-08:00

Later today SP Len James will become a Scottsdale Sandshark. James who has filled the #1 Starter roll for Atlanta all season has went 7-7 with a 3.87 ERA. The key for the Tartans however is his guaranteed $5.2 million dollar salary in next season and the buyout they would likely have to offer him in season 4. James is 35 years old and has just begun to see his skills deminish. He has lost a bit of stamina and control compared to last season already, and the Tartans are betting he is due for a bigger drop off next season, a chance they don't want to take.

In return the Tartans acquired two more roll playing prospects. The Tartans have went with a strategy of trying to constantly improve the quality of their minor league teams and this trade speaks to that, no superstars in return, but cheap roll playing prospects.

Vern Cox a relief pitcher has a chance to make the major leagues as a Setup B candidate. He has above average control and keeps the ball on the ground two attributes the Tartans value. Also included in the deal was SS Jude Thurman. Thurman lacks stike zone identification at the plate, but can hit lefties pretty well. More importantly he is a wiz defensively. He has above average range and glove for SS, and a projects to have a perfect arm and accuracy. His defensive attributes may be enough to get him to bigs.

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With the completion of this trade the Tartans will have their guaranteed contracts for next season down to $16,450,000. And honestly I think they are interested in cutting another $10 million off that figure if they could find some interested buyers.

Atlanta Lands International Pitcher for $11.7 Million

2008-10-29T03:41:00.000-07:00

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.

Reviewing an Article from 2 weeks Back

2008-10-27T16:41:00.000-07:00

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

Draft Wrap-Up: Atlanta Signs 18 of 25 Picks

2008-10-27T16:18:00.000-07:00

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."

Tartans Get Their Man, Take Hayes 4th Overall

2008-10-24T02:41:00.000-07:00

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.

Tartans Excited and Nervous As Draft Approaches

2008-10-23T17:40:00.001-07:00

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."

Losers of 4 in a Row, Tartans Need to Strengthen Bullpen

2008-10-21T19:06:00.000-07:00

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/

Still Looking for Value with the 4th Pick

2008-10-20T18:13:00.001-07:00

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.

Atlanta Likely Targeting a Pitcher in the 1st Round

2008-10-20T08:56:00.000-07:00

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!

What would you do?

2008-10-19T17:08:00.000-07:00

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.

Reflecting on the Trades of Three Closers

2008-10-19T11:41:00.000-07:00

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.

With Early Success, Tartans' Scouts Provide Insight

2008-10-19T10:58:00.000-07:00

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.

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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)

2008-10-19T08:51:00.000-07:00

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.

Tartans Roster Depth Analysis (Hitters)

2008-10-19T07:35:00.000-07:00

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.

Machado and Macias Start Off Hot

2008-10-19T05:52:00.000-07:00

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.

Who will get the "Call"?

2008-09-21T08:39:00.000-07:00

Among the Atlanta's deep hitting prospect crops are three 23 year olds currently at AAA. RF Juan "Gone" Machado, SS Max "Laser" Cabeza, and CF Cyrus Gibson.

Between these three there has been an ongoing debate about not who will get called to the Big Leagues first, but who will be the first All-Star once all three arrive.

It is no secret that the three have star potential.

RF Machado .322 with 68 HRs and 185 RBIs last season in AA, plus an additional 35 doubles and 4 triples.

SS Cabeza hit .291 with 113 Runs scored and 35 SBs, and even tossed in 68 XBHs.

CF Gibson hit .306 with 21 HRs and 120 Runs, and 45 doubles and 23 SBs.

All three made the AA All-Star team last season,

Machado and Gibson won Silver Slugger awards, and Machado won the AA MVP award.

Only time will tell how the careers of these promising prospects pan out, but right now the sky is the limit.

Tartans Acquire Big League DH Off Waivers

2008-09-20T05:31:00.000-07:00

Remaining busy this off-season. The Tartans acquired a second DH from the Seattle Rainiers last night, this time for nothing in return. DH/C Kareem Sheldon was claimed off waivers and immediately had his contract arbitrated. Now an Atlanta Tartan, Sheldon will make $1,295,000 this season.

Last season Sheldon hit .313 with 12 HRs and 82 RBIs at AAA. He possesses good vision at the dish, with good pitch recognition from both lefties and righties. However, for a DH he lacks plus power and contract. But for a Tartans franchise with only 10 players on their Big League roster, "He will do," as put by team owner Randy Benoit.

Tartans Acquire DH Prospect

2008-09-18T18:02:00.001-07:00

Say goodbye 22 yearold pitcher Steve Donovan, and hello to Designated Hitter Don Lawrence. The Tartans and Seattle Rainiers agreed late last night to swap the two minor league prospects.

The well-rounded lefthand bat, Lawrence is 23 years old and hit 25 HRs in AAA last season. While Donovan pitched in HiA and maintained a 3.01 ERA with 6 wins and 6 losses,

The Tartans were able to acquire Lawrence cheaply from the Rainers due to injury concerns of the DH. (He spent 7 days on the DL last season with a low back strain.) In fact many in the Branch Rickey community believe Lawrence's health will continue to be an issue, but the Tartans are will to take the risk to add that coveted bat to their young pool of hitters.

Finally, this acquisition is great news for Tartans fans as Lawrence could impact the Big League club much sooner than Donovan would have.

Atlanta Starts Off-Season off With Another Deal

2008-09-18T18:02:00.000-07:00

Earlier this evening the Tartans agreed to unload CF Charles Eckenstahler to the Santa Cruz Slugs in return for a minor starting pitcher. Eckenstahler who is under contract for the next two seasons will make $5.8 million this season, of which the Tartans agreed to pay $1.8 million. In return Atlanta will receive pitching prospect Kevin Pratt.

The soft throwing righthander went 11-4 last season with a 2.97 ERA and 1.20 WHIP. He possesses excellent controll of both the fastballs (split and 4-seamer) and the curveball, and occasionally adds-in a below average change-up.

It should be noted that Pratt did spend 7 days on the DL last season with a sprained elbow, likely from exaggerating the break on his curveball early last season.

The loss of Eckenstahler leaves the Tartans short a 1/2 hitter, though any replacement will likely be better in CF.

After 61-101 Season, Fans Anxious to see Tartans Approach this Season

2008-09-13T08:00:00.000-07:00

After suffering through a painful season in Atlanta that saw the home team clear the bench of all talent at the big league level it will be interesting to see the Tartans strategy as they approach this season.

The current roster has very few bright spots on it heading into next season. 1B Gary Bellhorn surprised many with his 45 HR, 122 RBI performance a year ago. CF Charles Eckenstahler did as expected with 92 runs scored and 48 SBs. While, Ernie Waltman largely disappointed hitting only .244 and scoring only 60 runs. From the mound Armando Gonzalez has two years remaining on his current contract, but the closer disappointed last year with a 4.79 ERA and 6 blown saves.

The remainder of the roster is filled with one year contract scrubs that the team would be better without. While the minors are stocked with several talented players hopefully on the verge of their big league debuts.

Gary Bellhorn, a lone Bright Spot

2008-08-25T18:21:00.000-07:00

While the Tartan's have struggled this season, 48-96 going into play today, there has been one bright spot on the Major League roster. 1B Gary Bellhorn has 41 HRs, 109 RBI, and a .368 OBP in 495 ABs this season. Bellhorn, just 26, has played well enough to warrant consideration of making the roster next season, when Atlanta is expected to revamp the ML squad.

Bench Coach Anthony Ashburn had this to say, " in a season where management has left me with my hands tied, Gary has been one of the few guys that deserves to be in the line-up."

Tartans send Terrell and Woodson Packing

2008-08-23T09:40:00.000-07:00

Catching up on Atlanta's trade deadline action. The Tartans send 3B Vince Terrell and reliever Ernie Woodson to Chicago in exchange for prospects. In return the Tartans received 21 year old pitching prospect Nash Howard and 24 year old DH Jack Pierre.

Both Terrell and Woodson were under contract for next season and by making the exchange the team cut approximately $8.5 million from next seasons payroll.

Pierre may be on the ML roster as soon as next season, while Howard, the jewel in the trade, is atleast two years away.

Introducing Fasto Cruz

2008-08-07T17:20:00.000-07:00

The Tartans drafted and signed there first round draft pick over the past week. Fasto Cruz, a 19 year old, 2B/LF with a great bat. Cruz just completed his freshman season at Mitchell College in Conneticut and has joined Atlanta's Rookie Bal club. Cruz, originally from Rhode Island is represented by Sam O'Shea signed for $1,480,000.

Atlanta Completes Another Trade

2008-07-30T18:18:00.000-07:00

Today the Tartans agreed to trade AAA starting pitcher Diego Gonzales (10-2, 2.50 ERA, 109 K in 108 innings) to the Detriot Teamsters for LoA SS/3B Julius Rocker (.337 AVG, 57 RBI, 35 XBH), AA SS Raul Cortes (.306 AVG, 64 RBI, 50 XBH), and AA pithcer Jay Valentin (2-8, 6.75 ERA, 67 K in 60 innings).

A major factor in the Tartans making this trade was again their focus on youth. Gonzales is 25 yrs old with 1 yr ML experience, while the 3 players acquired are all 21 yrs and younger.

Atlanta at Over .500 23 games in.

2008-07-10T18:20:00.000-07:00

With over 1/8th of the season over with the Tartans stand at 12-11 and 2nd place in the AL South standings. This start is surprising as early in the winter Atlanta general management made it clear that the team would be building to the future. In doing so Atlanta traded away a premium bullpen arm, a starting catcher, and two ML ready arms.

Could this start prompt the Tartans to rush a few of their top prospects to help fill out the big league club? We will have to wait and see.

Tartans sign international prospect.

2008-07-06T10:41:00.000-07:00

Yesterday the Atlanta Tartans signed Julio Andujar to a minor league contract with a signing bonus of $1.8 million dollars. Andujar is a well rounded SS out of Maneadoro, MX. At 18 years old it will be several seasons before fans can hope to see Julio contribute at the Major League level.

Trades Structure Club for the Future

2008-06-21T08:34:00.000-07:00

Over the past two days Atlanta's front office has negotiated several significant trades aimed at building the club for the future. Below we have outlined the players sent packing and those being brought in:

Sent Packing: (Pos./Name/Age/ Pro Yr. / ML Exp. / Salary)
SP Yuniesky Valdez (L) / 20 years / 1 Pro Year / 0 ML Exp. /$350,000
SP Kevin Kim (R) / 24 years / 5 Pro Yrs / 2 ML Exp. / $54,500
SP Brett Campbell (R) / 21 years / 1 Pro Year / 0 ML Exp. / $37,500
RP Dwight Pritchett (R) / 30 years / 8 Pro Yrs / 4 ML Exp. / $5,400,000
C Jeff Whiteside (L) / 27 years / 8 Pro Yrs / 5 ML Exp. / $3,200,000
RP Luis Bonilla (R) / 19 years / 1 Pro Year / 0 ML Exp. / $26,250
RP Chad Lane (R) / 25 years / 4 Pro Yrs / 1 ML Exp. / $327,000

Brought In: (Pos./Name/Age/ Pro Yr. / ML Exp. / Salary)
RF Juan Machado (R)/ 22 years / 4 Pro Yrs / 0 ML Exp. / $54,500
CF Cyrus Gibson (S) / 22 years / 1 Pro Year / 0 ML Exp. / $350,000
SP Pat Dong (L) / 21 years / 1 Pro Year / 0 ML Exp. / $53,750
SP Darrin Llyod (R) / 22 years / 3 Pro Yrs / 0 ML Exp. / $7,650
CF Vernon Belle (L) / 20 years / 2 Pro Yrs / 0 ML Exp. / $26,250
SS Bump Bunch (L) / 21 years / 2 Pro Yrs / 0 ML Exp. / $26,250

Club reported to be wheeling and dealing...

2008-06-18T21:12:00.000-07:00

Rumors out of Tartans front office is that the baseball operations staff has been actively negotiating trades with several franchises. No news on exactly who yet, but according to the Tartans media department when may recieve news tomorrow.

Two Players Released

2008-06-17T19:44:00.000-07:00

It has been reported that the Tartans recently released 1B Mariano Lima and 1B Stan Towers. Both players were arbitration eligible.

Team owner Randy Benoit had this to say, "our baseball operations staff felt that both Mariano and Stan did not fit into our organization's plans for this season, with arbitration negotiations approaching we needed to make a decision and both Mariano and Stan were on the wrong side of it...Honestly a couple of other guys better reconsider the type of dollars they are asking for because as Mariano and Stan know we're not taking any crap!"

This type of attitude should be exactly what the fans of Atlanta want to hear.

AL South Division Analysis (Part 1)

2008-06-17T15:36:00.000-07:00

Houston Havoc - Great hitting club, lack starting pitching
Strengths: MVP candidate LF B.J. Woodard, potential All-Stars CF Donald Hiro and SS Manny Coleman. Club also has several solid ML players at 2B (though Sosa might be out of position) and 3B (Wyatt). In the minors the club has SS/3B Cole Mercedes C/DH Johnny Turnbow in AAA, and 2B Ivan Alomar and LF Juan Machado in AA.
The club also has some projected depth in the bullpen with Craig Johnson in the ML, Macbeth Swann, Chris Walker, Russ Blake in AAA, and James Shelley in AA.
Weaknesses: Lack of starting pitching, no true catcher, and weak defensively at 2B and 3B.
Kansas City Monarchs - Solid hitting club, couple useful starters, amazing bullpen
Strengths: Start with the bullpen Luis Rivera, Yannick Jackson, and Ray Nierko in the ML (thats 3 closers on the same team!!!). DH Harley Rolle can hit when healthy, 1B Chip Dipoto is solid, C Al Frias and 3B Toby Fleming can hit as well. Finally watch out for SS Cyrus Gibson in AAA.
Weaknesses: Could use 2-3 starting pitchers, better glove at 2B, and an additional OF

Coming Soon.........................................../////////////////.................
San Juan Islanders -
Strengths
Weaknesses
Atlanta Tartans -
Strengths
Weaknesses

Tartans Waive 4 Players

2008-06-17T07:37:00.000-07:00

Today is the first day of the offseason and the Tartans are already making moves.

Earlier today the Tartans waived veterans Hanley Chiasson and Ross Varitek, both had been with the team for over 6 years.

The club also waived the contracts of two pitchers Alfonso Cueto and Olmedo Ibarra. Both pitchers where members of the Tartans bullpen last season, Ibarra also made several spot starts during the season.

I will check in later should any other transactions be made today.

More on rosters...

2008-06-16T17:55:00.000-07:00

Okay the 3 ML pitchers create the basis for a fantastic bullpen... CL Gonzalez (L), SuA Pritchett (R), SuA Woodson (L)

Looking again at the offense I think the y will use Bellhorn at 1B....so that leaves 2B, LF, and RF as current needs along with starting pitching.....

The Tartans also have an additional big league CF behind Eckenstahler, Julio Maduro. Would like to trade Maduro to help with the needs or could potentially move him to 2B.

Rosters are in....

2008-06-16T17:39:00.000-07:00

At first glance a little disappointing.... I am comfortable with my SS Waltman, 3B Terrell, and CF Eckenstahler, but the Tartans completely lack any offensive studs. We do have a SS in Double A Max Cabeza who in a year or two may be very valuable but otherwise upgrades need to be made.

Pitching is another story. While we only have 3 guys on the ML roster that I am comfortable with (Pritchett, Woodson, and Gonzalez) we do have some talent at AAA. The ML club really has zero starting pitching, so I must decide how much of the AAA staff I want to promote.

Those are my two initial takeaways, be back later with other details.....

On second thought....

2008-06-15T19:41:00.000-07:00

Might have to adjust the site....starting to remind me of Larry King Live.

Welcome bossmao...

2008-06-15T19:05:00.000-07:00

The AL South is now set and Branch Rickey is prepared to launch!

Tick tick tick....

2008-06-13T12:07:00.001-07:00

Waiting on the amazing Blitz to join the Branch so that I can be shoved back to fourth place in the AL South.