Embedded Files
September 30, 2024
Savannah posted a regular season record of 82-80 and failed to advance to the postseason for the first time in a decade.
2024 Season Stats
Team ERA 3.80
RS/G 4.0
run differential: 645-677
Team Batting: .239/.309/.388
Total errors: 97
Total Outstanding Plays: 195 (lead the league)
Total SB: 80/20 CS
Total HR: 175
Team Leaders
G Francisco Lindor, Ryan McMahon, Willi Castro 155
AB Lindor 589
R McMahon 79
H Lindor 160
2B Lindor 38
3B Castro, Wenceel Perez 4
HR Lindor 30
RBI Lindor 90
BA Lindor .272
OBP Lindor .347
SLG Lindor .492
SB Lindor 27 (4 CS)
BB McMahon 80
SF Paul Goldschmidt 6
SH Ali Sanchez 1
OP Lindor 39
Pitching
G Jeff Hoffman 53
W Aaron Nola 15
L Andrew Abbott 11
ERA Tanner Houck 3.15
IP Nola 198.2
SV Hoffman 42 (led the league)
K Nola 192
CG Nola 3
Sho Houck 1
October 9, 2023
Savannah posted a regular season record of 87-75 and advanced to the playoffs for the ninth consecutive season. We made a valiant post season run defeating Oswego in the wild card round and then knocking off Northern Division champs (and team with the best regular season record) Gotham City, before falling to the new league champs, the Hagerstown Hobgoblins in six.
2023 Season Stats
Team ERA 4.04
RS/G 5.0
run differential: 805-699
Team Batting .256./.324/.425
Total errors 74 (tied for least)
Total Outstanding Plays 195 (led the league)
Total SB 86
Total HR 212
Team Leaders
G Francisco Lindor 162
AB Paul Golschmidt 655
R Lindor 116
H Goldschmidt 182
2B Lindor 37
3B Ryan McMahon 3
HR Lindor 34
RBI Lindor 113
BA Goldschmidt .278
OBP Goldschmidt .369
SLG Lindor .490
SB Travis Jankowski 23
BB Goldschmidt 97
SF Lindor 7
SH Nick Allen 2
OP Lindor 43
Pitching
G Craig Kimbrel 49
W Zach Eflin 16
L Aaron Nola 11
ERA Eflin 3.07
IP Eflin 187.1
SV Matt Moore 11
K Eflin 192
CG Brandon Woodruff, Marcus Stroman, Colin Rea, Marco Gonzalez - 1
Sho - Stroman 1
October 23, 2022
The 2022 Carpetbaggers won the Southern Division with a 92-70 regular season record and then made another deep playoff run before falling to the powerful Robber Barons of Dutchess County in 6.
2022 season stats
Team ERA 3.62
RS/G 4.5
run differential 731-634= +97
team batting totals BA/OB/SLG .250/.318/.420
67 errors & 191 outstanding plays
37 steals
team homers: 217
team leaders:
G – Francisco Lindor 162
AB – Francisco Lindor 647
R – Paul Goldschmidt 122
H – Paul Goldschmidt 197
2B – Paul Goldschmidt 46
3B – Francisco Lindor 5
HR – Paul Goldschmidt 39
RBI – Francisco Lindor 107
BA – Paul Goldschmidt .319
OBP – Paul Goldschmidt .406
SLG – Paul Goldschmidt .583
SB – Bryce Harper 12
BB – Paul Goldschmidt 92
SF – Franciso Lindor 8
OP - Francisco Lindor 48
pitching
G: Gregory Soto 48
W – Aaron Nola16
L - Aaron Nola 11
ERA – Brandon Woodruff 2.81
IP – Aaron Nola 214.1
SV – Gregory Soto 11
K – Aaron Nola 247
CG – Aaron Nola 3
ShO – Aaron Nola
October 4, 2021
This season's Carpetbaggers finished the regular season with a 110-52 record winning the Southern Division by a margin of 25 games and extending our streak of Southern Division titles to five straight. Savannah posted the lowest team ERA, the most runs scored, and the most outstanding defensive plays as well. Savannah's potent offense was keyed by Bryce Harper who batted leadoff and led the league in runs scored and slugging while finishing second in on base. Paul Goldschmidt also had a big year at the plate finishing second in RBIs and also placing among the league leaders in BA/OBP/SLG. All told, seven players posted 20 or more homers; Harper 38, Goldschmidt 31, Josh Donaldson 28, Ryan McMahon 25, Yasmani Grandal 22, Francisco Lindor 21, and Hunter Renfroe 21. On the mound ace Brandon Woodruff led the league in ERA and tied for the league lead in wins. Woodruff led the staff in IP but #2 starter Marcus Stroman was close behind and also made the leader board in wins and ERA, while Anthony DeSclafani gave Savannah a third starter of quality who also posted a sub-3.00 ERA to finish among the league leaders in that key category: Woodruff 2.18, Stroman 2.68, DeSclafani 2.96.
2021 season stats
Team ERA 3.15
RS/G 5.2
run differential 842-553 = +289
team batting totals BA/OB/SLG .255/.339/.444
89 errors & 192 outstanding plays
38 steals
team homers: 240
team leaders: (league leaders ranking when noted)
G - Ryan McMahon 159
AB - Paul Goldschmidt 576
R - Bryce Harper 114 (league leader)
H - Goldschmidt 173 (tied for 9th in league)
2B - Harper 44
3B - Steven Duggar 4
HR - Harper 38 (tied for 8th in league)
RBI - Goldschmidt 117 (2nd in league)
BA - Harper .309 (5th in league)
OBP - Harper .426 (2nd in league)
SLG - Harper .616 (1st in league)
SB - Harper 16
BB - Harper 108
SF - McMahon 6
OP - Francisco Lindor 37
pitching
G: Chasen Shreve 49
W - Brandon Woodruff 16 (tied for 1st in league)
L - Aaron Nola 8
ERA - Woodruff 2.18 (1st in league)
IP - Woodruff 189.2
SV - Craig Kimbrel 16 (38 total - 4th in league)
K - Woodruff 224 (11th in league)
CG - Anthony DeSclafani & Adrian Houser, 1 each
ShO - DeSclafani & Houser, 1 each
September 30, 2020
The Carpetbaggers finished the pandemic truncated season of 2020 with a 68-52 regaular season record and another first place finish in the Southern Division.
After losing two aces to free agency, Savannah needed their young starters to step up. Nola & Woodruff did just that, not to the same level as Greinke and Verlander, but well enough to keep Savannah's pitching atop the Southern Division. A deep veteran bullpen led by Greene and Britton was again effective. Bryce Harper was the mainstay of the team's offensive attack while DH rental Nelson Cruz helped provide an upturn in runs scored. The team defense, keyed by shortstop Francisco Lindor, was again terrific, leading the league in outstanding plays.
2020 season stats
Team ERA 3.60 -- best in division
RS/G 5.0
run differential 596-473 = +123
team batting totals BA/OB/SLG .250/.345/.427
63 errors & 152 oustanding plays
37 steals
4 sac hits
team homers: 173
team leaders: (league leaders ranking when noted)
G - Francisco Lindor 120
AB - Lindor 492
R - Bryce Harper 81 (tied for 11th)
H - Lindor 133 (tied for 14th)
2B - Lindor 28
3B - Kevin Pillar 7
HR - Harper 27, Nelson Cruz 34 (with two teams, tied for 8th)
RBI - Brian Anderson 65, Cruz 65 (with two teams)
BA - Harper .273, Cruz .293 (with two teams)
OBP - Harper .427 (4th), Cruz .387 (with two teams, 14th)
SLG - Harper .552, Cruz .571 (with two teams, 15th)
SB - Harper 19 (5th), Lindor 14 (12th)
BB - Harper 106
SF - Lindor 9
OP - Lindor 40
pitching
G: Shane Greene 35
W - Aaron Nola 12 (6th, tied)
L - Aaron Nola 9
ERA - Brandon Woodruff 2.99 (13th)
IP - Woodruff 144.2
SV - Greene 14 (9th); Zack Britton 11 (11th)
K - Nola 187 (9th), Woodruff 181 (11th)
CG - Zach Eflin 2
ShO - Nola 1
September 30, 2019
This season's Savannah Carpetbaggers posted a 102-60 won-loss record, finishing in First in the Southern Division.
2019 season stats
Team ERA 3.17 -- best in the league
RS/G 4.8
run differential 771-553= +218
team batting totals BA/OB/SLG .245/.327/.445
79 errors & 172 outstanding plays
17 steals
42 sac hits
team homers: 265
team leaders: (league leaders ranking when noted)
G - Yasmani Grandal 156, Carlos Santana with two teams 162
AB - Charlie Blackmon 579, Santana with two teams 630
R - Blackmon 92, Santana with two teams 104 (tied, 14th in league)
H - Blackmon 174 (14th)
2B - Blackmon 41
3B - Blackmon 6
HR - Bryce Harper 30, Blackmon 30, Santana with two teams 36 (tied 14th)
RBI - Francisco Lindor 100
BA - Blackmon .301 (8th)
OBP - Santana with two teams .377 (12th, tied)
SLG - Blackmon .547 (11th)
SB - Lindor 15 (16th, tied)
BB - Grandal 116
SF - Howie Kendrick 4
SH (non-pitcher) - Kevin Pillar 1
OP - Lindor 48
pitching
G: Shane Greene 63
W - Justin Verlander 18 (1st, tied)
L - Zack Greinke, Aaron Nola 9
ERA - Verlander 2.51 (3rd); Greinke 2.65 (4th)
IP - Verlander 232.2
SV - Zack Britton 18, Shane Greene 18 (tied 11th); Will Harris 43 with two teams (1st)*
*Harris recorded 15 saves for Savannah
K - Verlander 315 (1st)
CG - Verlander 2
ShO - Verlander 1
July 9, 2019
Nine Carpetbaggers appearing on the All Star rosters this summer!
Listed here with MLB stat lines as of the break:
Pitchers
Zack Greinke 10-3 2.73 122.0 IP 108 K 4.5 WAR
Justin Verlander 10-4 2.98 126.2 IP 153 K 3.7 WAR
Marcus Stroman 5-9 3.18 104.2 IP 81 K 2.4 WAR
Brandon Woodruff 10-3 3.67 108.0 IP 126 K 2.9 WAR
Shane Greene 22 svs 1.09 33.0 IP 34 K 1.6 WAR
Catcher
Yasmani Grandal .259 19HR 48RBI .372/.525 2.1 WAR
First Base
Carlos Santana .297 19HR 52RBI .418/.540 3.3 WAR
Shortstop
Francisco Lindor .296 14HR 32RBI .355/.511 2.7 WAR
Outfielder
Charlie Blackmon .330 20HR 57RBI .378/.632 1.8 WAR
July 4, 2019
A farm system update
WIth the organization focused on winning titles now, the farm system has seemingly taken a back seat in organizational priorities. Yet scouting for prospects actually becomes ever more important when drafting late. Here's a mid-summer update ranking Savannah's minor league prospects:
(ages of of 7-1-19)
1. Matt Manning RHP - age: 21 level: AA Dominating at Double-A with a 106 K in 91 IP and a 2.77 ERA. Has a 70 FB, a 60 CB plus 50 change and control. Savannah's best hope to replace frontline starters Verlander and Greinke who will be free agents at end of 2019. Surprised no GM has asked for Manning in a trade, he gets overshadowed a bit by Casey Mize in the Tigers prospects lists.
2. Sam Hentges LHP - age 22 level: AA Emerged as Savannah's top prospect at end of 2018 until we drafted Manning. Hentges facing challenges at Double-A with a 4.83 ERA over 17 starts but his K/IP and K/BB ratios remain good. HIs FB rates 60, his CB 55. Has four good ptiches and control. Upside: mid-rotation starter
3. Anthony Kay LHP - age 24 level: AAA TJ surgery slowed his professional development but he advanced through Double-A early this year with a 1.49 ERA in 12 starts. So far, Triple-A proving much tougher challenge. Let's see how that goes for the rest of 2019 before making any projections. He has a 60 FB, 60 CB, 55 CU, and no control issues.
4. Clarke Schmidt RHP - age 23 level: Rookie (rehab) College product drafted by Savannah in 2019. His High-A numbers were just fine before going on IL. Has plus fastball, plus slider and a high effort delivery. Sounds like a good candidate for high leverage relief work.
5. Reggie Lawson RHP - age 21 level: AA (IL) Best prospect among 16 waiver-claimed players on the Savannah roster at this writing. Plus fastball and slider, has posted impressive K/IP numbers at every level.
6. Jeremy Eierman SS - age 22 level: A+ College product with potential to be a major league shortstop with 20 HR power. The move to full season ball is proving a challenge and Eierman has significant contact issues. Even so, 25 extra base hits, including 9 homers, in his first 77 A-ball games.
7. Kelvin Gutierrez 3B - age 24 level: AAA Defensively, he's a star. Hitting not so much, although not a lost cause. Got an early taste of the majors this year due to injury but he might get stuck behind Hunter Dozier and Cheslor Cuthbert in KC depth charts.
8. Anthony Alford OF - age 24 level AAA (IL) Highly athletic outfielder who's been knocking on the major league door for three seasons now. Not clear if he has the defensive chops to be a regular CF and his hitting has been a disappointment although seemed to be getting in a good groove at Triple-A before he went on the IL.
9. Cionel Perez LHP - age 23 level AAA (IL) Cuban lefty has plus FB/CB combo. Coming into 2019 he was expected to be in the majors, but he's struggeled to get batters out and now on IL. Even so, he's inducing more ground balls and his K-rate remains strong.
10. Daulton Jefferies RHP - age 23 level AA Oft-injured college product may be getting it together this year. In the first half, he has posted a 62:4 K:BB ratio in 55 innings to go with a 3.11 ERA.
11. Gregory Soto LHP - age 24 level AAA The last player picked in the 2019 SJL draft was the first Savannah pick to reach the majors. Dominican lefty has a plus FB but other stuff, including control, not as impressive. Even so, Tigers jumped him two levels and then called him up to majors where has made several spot starts but without much success to date.
12. Gabriel Arias SS - age 19 level A+ Slick-fielding Venezuelan shortstop has impressive range and lots of upside. Offensive numbers yet to impress, young for levels he's played at last two seasons.
13. Trent Deveaux CF - age 19 level Rookie Super fast, Deveaux rates an 80 in Speed category. Bahamian prospect struggled in his first pro year but early returns on his redo of Rookie ball are promising.
14. Trevor Rogers LHP - age 21 level A+ Miami fast tracked this prep prospect sending him directly to full season ball where he struggled in 2018. So far this year, his A+ numbers are much more impressive with a 2.50 ERA and 91 K in 82.2 IP. With a good second half, he'll be making his way onto lots of top ten lists soon.
15. Adrian Houser RHP - age 26 level MLB Advanced but low ceiling prospect entering 2019, he dominated at San Antonio in the early going. Milwaukee wants him to fill out their rotation but numbers say he'd be better off in middle or short relief where his plus FB-CB seems to play best. Now over 50 Major league innings, Houser moves from the prospect to the salaried player list at the end of SJL 2019.
16. Raudy Read C - age 25 level AAA A waiver claim reflecting Savannah's interest in adding catching depth. Ceiling appears to be as a back up catcher with power. Right now his ISO is greater than his batting average. Players of this profile can be late bloomers at the plate.
17. Keury Mella RHP - age 25 level AAA Hard-throwing righthander has made trips to The Show in 2017 and 2018 and projects as a plausible bullpen option. Cincy seems to still be interested in developing him as a starter.
18. Rylan Bannon 2B - age 23 level AA College product was drafted as 3B but now splits time between keystone and hot corner. Probably not enough bat for a maybe just adequate defensively at 2B. Looks like upside is as a versatile bench player.
19. Pavin Smith 1B - age 23 level AA Smooth swinging college product looked like a "hit for high average" prospect when drafted but so far hasn't shown that profile in full season pro ball.
20. Logan Shore RHP - age 24 level AA His change up vies with Daulton Jefferies' for best on this list but his other stuff may not be enough to get him past Double-A.
21. Jason Lopez C - age 21 level A+ Solid defense and good power upside. So far he hasn't figured out how to hit Advanced A pitching but there is still time.
22. Aristides Aquino OF - age 25 level AAA Arguably the best power prospect on this list. Has 19 homers and .639 SLG in first half at Louisville. Needs to get a chance in Cincinnati.
23. Josh Breaux C - age 21 level A (IL) Another Yankee catching prospect with power potential. Hitting well at Charleston before injury.
24. Jacob Gonzalez 3B - age 21 level A Pedigreed hitting prospect, or is it suspect? Second tour of duty in Augusta and still struggling at the plate, defense not impressive either
25. David Paulino RHP - age 25 level AAA (IL) Once highly touted prospect has dropped down lists due to double whammy of elbow surgeries and steroids suspension. Numbers in seven starts at Bufflao suggest he's still has good stuff and still a prospect if healthy and clean.
26. Trevor Clifton RHP - age 24 level AAA Not seen as a high ceiling prospect but has posted 65 K in 64.1 IP at Triple A in an otherwise up and down season so far.
27. Keegan Thompson RHP - age 24 level AA (IL) Like Clifton, Thompson appears near the bottom of most Cubs propsects lists. A college prospect with four pitchers of which change up is the best. Also plus control. Got in one good Double A start before going on IL.
28. Drew Jackson IN - age 25 level AAA Athletic middle infielder can catch, throw, and run. Hitting? Not so much. Got a taste of majors in Baltimore as Rule 5 pick but they sent him back to LAD who in turn sent him to Oklahoma City where he plays today.
29. Keyber Rodriguez IN - age 18 level Rookie Venezuelan infielder drafted late by Savannah in 2018. Has played three infield positons professionally and snuck onto a few prospects lists but has yet to show much hitting ability in pro ball.
30. Miguel Aparicio OF - age 20 level A Fell off prospects lists after struggling in first taste of full season ball. Second tour of duty going somewhat better at this point.
31. Jandel Gustave RHP - age 26 level AAA Sacramento's current closer has a plus plus fastball, control issues, and his propect status got derailed by injury a couple of seasons ago.
October 1, 2018
This season's Savannah Carpetbaggers posted a 99-63 won-loss record, finishing in First in the Southern Division.
2018 season stats
Team ERA 3.32 -- best in the league
RS/G 4.9
run differential 790-567 = +223
team batting totals BA/OB/SLG .249/.337/.435
83 errors & 188 outstanding plays
44 steals
64 sac hits
team homers: 238
team leaders: (league leaders ranking when noted)
G - Manny Machado & Francisco Lindor 162
AB - Lindor
R - Machado 113 (tied, 3rd in league)
H - Machado 189 (2nd)
2B - Lindor 41
3B - Charlie Blackmon 6
HR - Machado 37 (tied, 4th)
RBI - Lindor 115 (4th)
BA - Jose A. Martinez .301 (8th)
OBP - Bryce Harper .392 (7th)
SLG - Machado .522 (12th)
SB - Lindor 20 (13th)
BB - Harper 131
SF - Manny Machado 6
OP - Lindor 52
pitching
G: Yusmeiro Petit 77
W - Aaron Nola 20 (2nd)
L - Zack Greinke 10
ERA - Nola 2.13 (5th)
IP - Nola 219.2
SV - Cody Allen 20 (11th); Pedro Strop 21 with two teams (10th)
K - Nola 222 (9th); Justin Verlander 309 with two teams (tied, 1st)
CG - Verlander 1
ShO - n/a
March 15, 2018
The 2017 Savannah Carpetbaggers reached the finals but failed to attain the Shoe. Then the salary cap started to bite and the Hot Stove league witnessed Savannah dealing OF Marcell Ozuna and 1B Wil Myers in an effort to control costs. Even so a talented young core means Savannah should remain a contender for awhile but also continue to cope with rising salaries and lower draft picks.
Savannah added the following talents in the 2018 draft:
Julio Pablo Martinez - OF Cuban star CF with plus plus speed and great raneg with a good arm. Not real big but projects average power, good itting ability and plate discipline.
Brandon Woodruff - RHP Hard throwing advanced prospest with plus command and a fine slider. Looks like a #2 starter to me.
Jacob Gonazlez - 1B Son of Luis Goanlzes is a promising hitting prospect with dubious defense.
Kevin Guttierez - 3B The yang to the ying pick of Gonzalez. Gutierrez has fine defesive chops at the hot corner but unsure if bat will play at advanced levels.
Leonardo Rivas - SS Steady defender who can play multiple positions. No power but hits and runs well.
Blake Perkins - OF Another speedy centerfielder who hits well enough to have starting lineup upside.
Rylan Bannon - 3B Sleeper pick who wasn't on many lists. Dodgers picked him in round 8 out of Xavier. Reports say good defense and he hit a ton in short season debut.
Keegan Thompson - RHP College product with four good pitches and command. Not a lot of upside, #4 starter who will take less time to develop.
Eric Filia - OF Hitting prospect with plus plate discipline the rest is less than outstanding.
Sam Hentges - LHP Quick armed lefty one year removed from TJ. Has a good curve, the rest is developing, maybe.
K.J. Harrison - C Good hitter with strong arm. Brewers have moved him behind the plate. .
Kodi Medieros - LHP Brewers picked in first round a few years back. Lightning fast hard stuff with a changeup and questionable control. Some scouts see Closer upside.
Keyber Rodriguez - SS First Carpetbagger draft pick born after turn of Millenium. Switch hitting, contact type showing good defense and athleticism.
Add those guys to the existing farm system and Savannah's Top 10 now looks like this:
1. Julio Pablo Martinez OF
2. Anthony Alford OF - Stronger more athletic than Martinez although hasn't been focused on baseball as long. Some trouble staying healthy but hopefully joins Martinez and Bryce Harper to give Savannah a stellar OF
3. Brandon Woodruff RHP
4. Yairo Munoz IF-OF - Super utility type who can play solid shortsop and seemingly all the other IF and OF positions. Can hit, run and shows some power but doesn't draw a lot of walks.
5. David Paulino RHP - PED suspension disrupted him last year but he's knocking on the door and has great stuff
6. Cionel Perez - LHP - Rising fast on the charts after adabcing through three levels in 2017
7. Brian Anderson - 3B - Good defensive reputation with some offensive upside. Might get an opportunity in Savannah if Machado moves to shortstop
8. Victor Caratini - C - Switch hitter with very good hitting aptitude. Learning to play both IF corners in effort to increase his playing time.
9. Logan Shore RHP - Control pitcher with plus change up. Projects as #4 starter.
10. Aramis Garcia C - A bit behind Caratini in development but another good hitting catcher. Strong arm but mixed review son his defense.
Other notable prospects:
C Tom Murphy -- Injuries derailed him in 2017 but major league ready with plus power if healthy
SS Christopher Torres - Young error prone middle infielder with speed, range, and offensive upside, a few years away
LHP Anthony Kay - High draft pick who missed 2017, let's see what he can do
RHP Daulton Jefferies - College product with Closer upside. Spent much of 2017 on the shelf
IF-OF Tyler Wade - Versatile, speedy, utility player with nothing left to prove in the minors
October 2, 2017
This season's Savannah Carpetbaggers went 105-57, best record in the SJL.
2017 season stats
Team ERA 3.43
RS/G 5.6
run differential 902-613 = +289
team batting totals BA/OB/SLG .275/.346/.484
80 errors & 214 outstanding plays
22 steals
57 sac hits
team homers: 286
team leaders: (league leaders ranking when noted)
G - Charlie Blackmon & Francisco Lindor 161
AB - Blackmon 689
R - Blackmon 116 (4th in SJL)
H - Blackmon 234 (1st in SJL)
2B - Lindor 46
3B - Blackmon 15
HR - Marcell Ozuna 43 (3rd in SJL)
RBI - Ozuna 133 (2nd in SJL)
BA - Blackmon .340 (1st in SJL)
OBP - Bryce Harper .422 (3rd in SJL)
SLG - Blackmon .612 (3rd in SJL)
SB - Lindor 16 (tied 12th in SJL)
BB - Blackmon 83
SF - Manny Machado 8
OP - Lindor 57
pitching
G: Yusmeiro Petit 71
W - Zack Greinke 19 (tied 1st in league)
L - Jon Lester 8
ERA - Marcus Stroman 2.86 (8th in league)
IP - Greinke 212
SV - Cody Allen 16 (tied 11th in league)
K - Greinke 220 (8th in league)
CG - Greinke, Aaron Nola & J.A. Happ 1
ShO - Greinke 1
July 9, 2017
Six Carpetbagger All-Stars!
The National League went to Savannah to find its starting outfield for this season's Mid-Summer Classic: Bryce Harper, Charlie Blackmon, Marcell Ozuna
Ace SP Zack Greinke was named to the NL All-Star staff & two more Carpetbaggers appear on the AL's list of reserves; SS Francisco Lindor & recently acquired 2B Jonathan Schoop.
October 7- 13 , 2016
Savannah Prospects on the BA Minor League Top Prospects Lists
OF Hunter Renfroe #7 in Triple-AAA Pacific Coast League
SS Drew Jackson #15 in Advanced-A California League
OF Dustin Peterson #12 in Double-AA Southern League
October 3, 2016
Savannah finished the 2016 season 87-75 second place in the Southern Division for the second year in a row and earned a return trip to the playoffs.
2016 season stats
Team ERA 3.55
RS/G 4.2
run differential 684-624 = +60
team batting totals BA/OB/SLG .243/.314/.412
85 errors & 199 outstanding plays
48 steals
58 sac hits
team leaders: (league leaders ranking when noted)
G - Manny Machado & Wil Myers 162
AB - Machado 674
R - Ben Zobrist 95
H - Machado 190 (11th tie)
2B - Machado 41
3B - Marcell Ozuna 6
HR - Machado 37 (11th tie)
RBI - Machado 113 (6th)
BA - Machado .282
OBP - Zobrist .377 (10th tie)
SLG - Machado .510
SB - Wil Myers 26 (8th tie)
BB - Zobrist 106
SF - Zobrist 9
OP - Machado 37
pitching G: Mark Melancon 61
W - Marcus Stroman 13 (Jon Lester 15 with 2 teams; 6th tie)
L - Stroman & Zack Greinke 11
ERA - Stroman 3.74 (Lester 2.42 with 2 teams; TIED FOR LEAGUE LEAD)
IP - Stroman 180.1 (Lester 212.1 with 2 teams)
SV - Zach Britton 34 (5th)
K - Greinke 137, (Lester 215 with 2 teams; 8th tie)
CG - Lester, Greinke, & Anthony DeSclafani 1
ShO - Greinke & DeSclafani 1
March 17, 2016
Via draft, trade, and waiver claim, Savannah has added 8 more prospects:
1. Austin Meadows OF -- Our 2016 first round pick and new top prospect. Athletic with advanced hitting skills. Advance to AA will be slowed by orbital eye fracture sustained in spring training.
2. James Kaprielian RHP -- Advanced college SP prospect ranks as #2 prospect in the organization. Plus curve ball with good control and enough gas and polish to rank as a moderate risk mid-rotation starter or better.
3. Carlos Tocci OF -- Traded 6th round pick to Moline for this athletic center fielder with plus defensive skills. Questions about bat, if answered positively he's ready to play center field.
4. Tyler Wade IF -- Speedy and advanced for his age. Can play SS but as a 2B he profiles as a better than average starter. Best middle infield prospect on the roster.
5. Dillon Overton -- LHP -- Advanced pitching prospect with plus control and change up. Enough heat to profile as a mid rotation starter. Best lefty prospect on the roster.
6. Christopher Torres IF -- Teenage middle infielder about two years away from full season ball but already shows advanced plate discipline.
7. Victor Caratini C -- Played 2015 in the Carolina league and hit a lot of doubles and showed a good throwing arm and otherwise reported to have potential to be better than average defensive receiver.
8. Elneiry Garcia LHP -- Waiver claimed soft tosser from Single A has three pitches and upside to be a #4 starter.
February 21, 2016
In 2015 the Carpetbaggers returned to the post-season for the first time in 8 years. It was success gained through focus on building through the farm system, an emphasis that by no coincidence started when I also began making these blog entries on Savannah prospects.
The Carpetbaggers are clearly in a new phase of the player development cycle. There are now some 20 players at or near league minimum salary on the Savannah major league roster. In other words, there's a bevy of young talent on the roster that should help sustain the team's success. An almost unreal 11 of the top 15 team prospects graduated the farm system last season (scroll down to March 8, 2015), including last year's #1 and AL ROY: SS Carlos Correa. While this year's prospect list will be shorter, the farm system is not depleted and the upcoming March draft provides the opportunity to restock.
This winter two Savannah prospects made it onto Baseball America Minor League Top 20 lists:
OF Hunter Renfroe, #13 in the Texas League
OF Dustin Peterson, #18 in the Carolina League
Heading into the March draft of 2016, Savannah "top prospects" list looks like this:
1. Dylan Bundy RHP - Oft injured and out of options, heading to the majors this year if healthy
2. Hunter Renfroe OF - Slugger with lots of true outcomes but also a good athlete, maybe a late season call up this year
3. Tom Murphy C - Ready for prime time in Denver where location will augment his good power and hitting ability
4. Aramis Garcia C - Took a big step forward at the plate in 2015, should get to AA this year
5. Clint Coulter OF - Also headed to AA and another potential starting corner OF and slugger
6. Wendell Rijo 2B - Recently acquired in Lincecum salvage deal, has upside to be a regular 2B, which was an organizational need
7. Steven Brault LHP - Finesse guy with three quality pitches, pitched very well at AA in 2015
8. Dustin Peterson OF - Numbers don't impress but scouts think his bat has projection, also headed to AA
9. Brian Anderson 3B - Again the numbers don't impress yet the scouts favor him and has a good glove at the hot corner
10. Sammy Solis LHP - Late season cameo suggests he's ready for lefty bullpen role at ML level
11. Parker Bridwell RHP - Limited to 18 starts at Double AA in 2015 but numbers were good and Baltimore added him to the 40 man
12. Luis Lugo LHP - Young and promising with sweet K/IP numbers throughout his minor league career, heading to AA
13. Alberto Tirado, RHP - Filthiest heater on this list but lack of command and control says his upside is the pen
14. Jefry Marte, 1B-3B - Bench player, more useful if he can play 3B as well as 1B, provides some power
October 9, 2015
Playoff results:
Carpetbaggers defeat Hagerstown in wildcard round 4 games to 2.
Eliminated in round two 4 games to 2 by Aldwych Thanes who went on to win this year's Bronze Shoe.
Not a bad run for our first return to playoffs in eight seasons, hopefully we go further next year.
October 5, 2015
Savannah finished the 2015 season 91-71 in second place in the Southern Division and are now heading to the playoffs for the first time in 8 years!
2015 season stats
Team ERA 3.34
RS/G 4.4
run differential 707-604 = +103
team batting totals BA/OB/SLG .255/.315/.406
87 errors & 203 outstanding plays
73 steals
58 sac hits
team leaders: (league leaders ranking when noted)
G - Manny Machado 161
AB - Machado 625
R - Machado 94 (10th)
H - Machado 182 (12th)
2B - Machado 31
3B - Delino DeShields, Jr. 12
HR - Machado 35 (11th)
RBI - Machado 102 (8th)
BA - Brandon Phillips .298 (14th)
OBP - Machado .361
SLG - Machado .512 (10th)
SB - Phillips 20 (6th tie)
BB - Machado 70
SF - Phillips, Matt Kemp (tie ) 5
SH - Travis Shaw, Rene Rivera, Clint Barmes (tie) 1
OP - Phillips 36
pitching G: Brad Ziegler 41
W - Zack Greinke 17 (3rd)
L - Anthony Desclafani 13
ERA - Greinke 1.63 -- LEAGUE LEADER!!!
IP - Greinke 232
SV - Ziegler 35 (2nd)
K - Greinke 208 (10th)
CG - Cody Anderson 2
ShO - Cody Anderson 1
July 13, 2015
Four Carpetbaggers are MLB All-Stars this season. Here are their numbers at the Midsummer break:
Zack Greinke 8-2 W-L 1.39 ERA 106 K 20 BB 123.1 IP 0.84 WHIP Named NL starting pitcher
Yasmani Grandal .278/.399/.526 14 HR 36 RBI 209 AB
Manny Machado .293/.355/.504 17 HR 45 RBI 13/3 SB/CS 335 AB
Mike Moustakas .292/.350/.414 6 HR 30 RBI 295 AB
March 8, 2015
Now for a snapshot of the Savannah farm system after the annual supplemental draft.
Ratings are from Baseball America on 20-80 scale followed by risk level: X = extreme, H = High, M = Medium, L = Low;
John Sickels grade; and Baseball HQ rating 1-10 scale followed by risk level: A = lowest, E = extreme
BA JS HQ
1. Carlos Correa, SS 70M A 9B Best hitting prospect, probably best athlete
2. Francisco Lindor, SS 65L A 9B Best defensive prospect but he can hit too
3. Dylan Bundy, RHP 65H A- 9B Dominant Fastball & Curveball, ace if healthy
4. Aaron Nola, RHP 60M B+ 8B 2015's #1 pick, less risky less ceiling than Bundy
5. Hunter Renfroe, OF 60H B+/B 9D Top power prospect, good athlete can field, Ks too much
6. Clint Coulter, OF 55H B 8D Another power prospect for the other OF corner
7. Justin Nicolino, LHP 50M B- 8B Best control and changeup
8. Cory Spangenberg,2B 50M C+ 7C Versatile fielder, good hitting prospect
9. Tom Murphy, C 50M B/B- 8D Good power, adequate defender, C of future if healthy
10. Christian Colon, 2B 45L C+ 6A Versatile infielder with plus plate discipline
11. Anthony DeSclafani, RHP 45M B- 8C Plus slider, #3 SP upside
12. Nick Tropeano, RHP 45M B-/B 8D Change of speed artist, another advanced rotation prospect
13. Cody Anderson, RHP 45M C+/C 7B & another one, although not as much upside as previous two
14. Adam Conley, LHP 45M C+ 8D & yet another, you can never have enough, plus slider
15. Travis Shaw, 1B 45M C 7C Morneau's new understudy, showed good eye at AA
16. Jairo Beras, OF 55X C+ 8D Youngest player on the roster, just turned 20, who knows?
17. Delino DeShields, OF 50H B-/C+ 7C Rule V pick, ready to play CF?
18. Dace Kime, RHP 50H -- 7C 4 pitch arsenal, #4 SP or setup RP is upside
19. Luis Lugo, LHP 50H C+ 7C younger with more upside than Kime but needs to command a breaking pitch
20. Aramis Garcia, C 50H C+ 8D Project with offensive upside, needs to improve on defense
21. Chase DeJong, RHP 50H C 7C Three good pitches, #4 SP if it all gels
22. Elliot Morris, RHP 50H C+ -- Overlooked? Handled Cali Lg, ready for AA test as SP prospect
23. Tim Beckham, 2B 45M C 7C Probably a utility player
24. Hector Gomez, SS 45M -- -- Like Beckham was once a hyped prospect, probably a utility player
25. Arnold Leon, RHP 45M C 6A AAA SP on Oakland's 40 man roster, SP depth
26. Kyle Lobstein, LHP 40L C+ 6B Name says it all, like Leon has #5 SP upside
27. D.J. Davis, OF 50X C 8E Probably fastest guy on the roster, high risk, high reward
28. Steven Brault, LHP 45H C+ 7D Four pitch mix but remains to be seen if it works at higher levels
29. Enrique Burgos, RHP 45H C 7C Plus fastball, needs control and effective second pitch to be ML RP
30. Daniel Corcino, RHP -- C+ 8D Good stuff but may lack command to make it work in the Show
31. Brooks Brown, RHP -- -- -- 29 y.o. rookie from Portal, GA, "Sweet Georgia Brown" to be played when he comes in to mop up
February 9, 2015
Baseball Prospectus identified 8 Carpetbaggers prospects:
Houston #1, SS Carlos Correa
Cleveland #1, SS Francisco Lindor
Baltimore #1, RHP Dylan Bundy
San Diego #2, OF Hunter Renfroe
Los Angeles (AL) #5, RHP Nick Tropeano
Miami #6 (traded to Cincinnati), RHP Anthony DeSclafani
Detroit #6, LHP Kyle Lobstein
Miami #8, LHP Justin Nicolino
January 19, 2015
Prospect 361 identified 9 Carpetbagger prospects:
Houston #1, SS, Carlos Correa
Cleveland #1, SS, Francisco Lindor
Baltimore #1, RHP, Dylan Bundy
San Diego #1, OF, Hunter Renfroe
Milwaukee #2, C-OF, Clint Coulter
Los Angeles (AL) #3, RHP, Nick Tropeano
Miami #5, LHP, Justin Nicolino
Miami #8, RHP, Anthony DeSclafani (traded to Cincinnati)
Colorado #9, C, Tom Murphy
December 30, 2014
Top Prospect Alert identified 15 Carpetbagger prospects:
Houston #1, SS, Carlos Correa
Cleveland #1, SS, Francisco Lindor
Baltimore #1, RHP Dylan Bundy
Miami #3, RHP Anthony DeSclafani
Miami #4, LHP Justin Nicolino
Milwaukee #5, C-OF Clint Coulter
San Diego #6, OF Hunter Renfroe
Miami #12, LHP Adam Conley
Cleveland #15, RHP Cody Anderson
San Diego #15, IF Cory Spangenberg
Toronto #15, OF D.J. Davis
Colorado #16, C Tom Murphy
Houston #17, RHP Nick Tropeano (traded to LAA)
Houston #19, OF Delino DeShields (Rule V draft to TEX)
Texas #19, OF Jairo Beras
November 18, 2014
Baseball America ranks two Carpetbaggers in the top ten Arizona Fall League prospects:
#3: Francisco Lindor, SS
#7: Hunter Renfroe, OF
November 18, 2014-March 8, 2015
John Sickels grades the Savannah Carpetbaggers farmhands:
Carlos Correa, SS, A
Francisco Lindor, SS, A
Dylan Bundy, RHP, A-
Hunter Renfroe, OF, B+/B
Clint Coulter, OF-C, B
Nick Tropeano, RHP B-/B
Justin Nicolino, LHP B-
Delino DeShields, OF, B-/C+
Cory Spangenberg, IF/OF, C+
Christian Colon, 2B, C+
Adam Conley, LHP C+
Luis Lugo, LHP, C+
Kyle Lobstein, LHP, C+
Steve Brault, LHP, C+
Jairo Beras, OF, C+
Daniel Corcino, RHP C+
Cody Anderson, RHP, C+/C
Nick Delmonico, 3B-1B, C (released)
D.J. Davis, OF, C
Tim Beckham, IF, C
Arnold Leon, RHP, C
J.C. Sulbaran, RHP, C (released)
October 27, 2014-January 27, 2015
Baseball America Top 10 Prospects by team rankings (12 total):
Houston Astros #1: Carlos Correa, SS
Baltimore Orioles #1: Dylan Bundy, RHP
Cleveland Indians #1: Francisco Lindor, SS
San Diego Padres #3: Hunter Renfroe, OF
Miami Marlins #3: Justin Nicolino, LHP
Milwaukee Brewers #3: Clint Coulter, C/OF
San Diego Padres #5: Cory Spangenberg, 2B/OF
Cincinnati Reds #6: Anthony DeSclafani, RHP
Colorado Rockies #6: Tom Murphy, C
Los Angeles Angels #9: Nick Tropeano, RHP
Cleveland Indians #10: Cody Anderson, RHP
Kansas City Royals #10: Christian Colon, SS/2B
October 7-14, 2014
Baseball America Top 20 Prospects by league rankings included 6 Carpetbagger prospects this year:
Eastern League #3 & International League #3: Francisco Lindor, SS
Southern League #19: Justin Nicolino, LHP
Texas League #20: Delino DeShields, OF
California League #1: Carlos Correa, SS
California League #9: Hunter Renfroe, OF
Midwest League #7: Clint Coulter, C
September 29, 2014
The 2014 Savannah Carpetbaggers came up short of the playoffs, posting an 84-78 won-loss record.
5th in Southern Division
Team ERA 3.92
RS/G 4.1
run differential 660-667 = -7
team batting totals BA/OB/SLG .257/.316/.383
88 errors & 187 outstanding plays
56 steals
73 sac hits
team leaders:
G - Howie Kendrick 162
AB - Kendrick 646
R - Denard Span 74
H - Kendrick 186 (5th in league)
2B - Kendrick 34
3B - Alex Rios 8
HR - Marcell Ozuna 17
RBI - Kendrick 78
BA - Span .307 (tied, 6th in league)
OBP - Span .363
SLG - Span .422
SB - Span 25 (tied, 7th in league)
BB - Kendrick 59
SF - Justin Morneau 6
SH - Erick Aybar 2
OP - Kendrick 37
pitching G: Oliver Perez 57
W - Marcus Stroman, Dan Haren, John Danks 10
L - Haren 12
ERA - Haren 4.06
IP - Haren 170.2
SV - Jon Papelbon 43 (2nd in league)
K - Haren, Tim Lincecum 130
CG - Stroman 2
ShO - Brandon McCarthy, Lincecum 1 (Lincecum's a no-hitter!)
April 3, 2014
After a season of drafting, trading, and playing the wire, Savannah enters the 2014 season with a strong farm system that features two blue chip shortstop prospects, pitching depth, and some high ceiling outfielders.
Here's my ranking followed by Baseball America's ceiling/risk rating, then the BaseballHQ rating which is also based on ceiling (10 point scale and risk; A = low, E = high) and a comment:
1. Carlos Correa SS Houston 70 Medium 9B Young high ceiling hitter with good power and plus defense, what's not to like?
2. Francisco Lindor SS Cleveland 65 Medium 9B Lack's Correa's power but hits for average, draws walks, plus defense, more advanced prospect than Correa
3. Dylan Bundy RHP Baltimore 70 High 9A Recovering from injury after rapid rise, overwhelming fastball and major league curve, an ace if healthy
4. Marcus Stroman RHP Toronto 55 Medium 8B Small of stature power pitcher with great slider, maybe a closer
5. Hunter Renfroe OF San Diego 60 High 9C High power upside and good all around athlete, strikes out too much
6. Justin Nicolino LHP Miami 50 Medium 8B Depends who you ask, but looks like a better than average major league lefty starter to me, plus control and curve
7. Anthony DeSclafani RHP Miami 50 Medium 8D Even better control than Nicolino, plus slider, good heat and change
8. Jonathon Crawford RHP Detriot 55 High 8C Good fastball plus slider, another closer in the making?
9. D. J. Davis OF Toronto 60 Extreme 8C Great athlete, plus speed, long term project
10. Cody Anderson RHP Cleveland 50 Medium 7B Advanced pitching prospect, "polished" is the cliche', if he's in the back end of my future rotation, I'll probably be doing well at this game
11. Adam Conley LHP Miami 50 High 8D Good change not bad fast ball ... for a lefty, also will be good if he's in the back end of the rotation in a couple of years
12. Delino DeShields OF Houston 50 High 7A Speedy infielder now a center fielder, opinions are divided on his upside
13. Trevor May RHP Minnesota 50 High 8D Has a good change but really a power pitcher who needs better command, future set up guy?
14. Lewis Brinson OF Texas 55 Extreme 9D Athletic, plus defender in center, power potential, needs to make better contact
15. Tom Murphy C Colorado 50 High 8D Good all around catching prospect, if he's a regular in Colorado in a year or two, even better
16. Daniel Corcino RHP Cincinnati 50 High 8D See Stroman comment, but had a rough year in 2013 looking for bounce back
17. Jairo Beras OF Texas 55 Extreme 9E See Brinson comment but even higher risk
18. Cameron Rupp C Philadelphia 45 Low 6A Good defense, advanced prospect, most see as a backup but I think he could be more
19. Cory Spangenberg 2B San Diego 50 High 7B He's been developing slowly but good athlete with potential to be a major league regular at the keystone
20. Clint Coulter C Milwaukee 50 High 8E Long term project, could be a very good hitter not sure about his defensive position
21. Nick Delmonico 3B Milwaukee 50 High 8D Really not sure about this one but could be best power prospect on this list not named "Renfroe"
22. Nick Tropeano RHP Houston 45 Medium 8D Plus change and maybe enough fastball to take it to a major league rotation
23. Tim Beckham 2B Tampa Bay 45 Medium 7C Former top prospect who's struggled to advance, played well last year now recovering from injury, utility player?
24. Dace Kime RHP Cleveland 50 High 8D Good heat, plus curve, shaky control
25. Steven Brault LHP Baltimore 50 High 7C Good movement average velocity and a slider that may be good enough to take him places
26. Ehire Adrianza SS San Francisco 40 Low 6C Might be best defensive shortstop on this list and that's saying something given the top two names on the list, but not a lot else to say
27. Chris Dwyer LHP Kansas City 40 Low 8E Low risk, low ceiling relief pitching prospect? Or high ceiling high risk lefty starter with a knockout curve? Which is he?
28. Kyle Lobstein LHP Detroit 40 Medium 7E 4A starter? Had a good year in Toledo but not sure he's got the stuff for the big towns.
29. Kyle Kubitza 3B Atlanta 45 High 6C With Machado and Moustakas already playing 3B for Savannah ...
30. Pedro Figueroa LHP Texas ----------- 7D Lefty reliever playing in Texas, throws hard, gives up too many walks
January 21, 2014
Seven Savannah prospects have been included in BA's top ten lists:
#1 Houston -- Carlos Correa, SS
#1 Baltimore -- Dylan Bundy, RHP
#2 Toronto -- Marcus Stroman, RHP
#7 Colorado -- Tom Murphy, C
#8 Miami -- Adam Conley, LHP
#8 Minnesota -- Trevor May, RHP
#9 Tampa Bay -- Tim Beckham, SS-2B
November 12, 2013
OF Wil Myers wins AL ROY: .293/.354/.478 with 13 HR & 53 RBI in 335 AB. Carpetbaggers are looking forward to a full season of Myers' potent bat in the 2014 lineup.
3B Manny Machado won the AL Gold Glove and Plantinum Glove award, the latter recognizing the best defensive player in the league. Looking forward to his defensive rating for 2014 (a move back to SS would be nice as well, but doesn't appear likely).
October 15, 2013
Four Carpetbaggers have been included in BA's top prospects by league rankings for 2013:
Midwest League #2: Carlos Correa SS
California League #4: Delino DeShields, Jr. 2B
Eastern League #10: Marcus Stroman RHP
International League #2: Wil Myers OF
Notes:
Myers graduated from prospect status this year and posted an impressive .293/.354/.478 line for the Big Club in 335 ABs after his June callip.
DeShields is playing CF in AFL and is now listed as OF on the Carpetbaggers roster as a result.
September 30, 2013
Some final #'s of the 2013 Savannah Carpetbaggers:
W/L 72-90 (7th in Southern Division)
Team ERA 4.13
RS/G 4.1
run differential 665-723 = -58
team batting totals BA/OB/SLG .263/.318/.397
91 errors & 185 outstanding plays
74 steals
52 sac hits
team leaders:
G - Alex Rios 159
AB - Rios 593
R - Chase Utley 77
H - Allen Craig 171
2B - Manny Machado 40
3B - Denard Span 9
HR - tie: Utley, Rios 19
RBI - Rios 91 (tied for 15th in lg)
BA - Allen Craig .315 (tied for 8th in lg)
OBP - Craig .375
SLG - Utley .472
SB - Rios 32 (4th in lg)
BB - Craig 54
SF - Utley 10
SH - Ronny Cedeno 2
OP - Utley 36
pitching G: Tanner Scheppers 68
W - Dillon Gee 12
L - Tim Lincecum 15
ERA - Gee 3.73
IP - Lincecum 178.2
SV - Jon Papelbon 32 (4th in lg)
K - Lincecum 170
CG - Lincecum 2
ShO - none
March 14, 2013: Savannah Carpetbaggers Top Ten Prospects and Best Tools List (Post 2013 Draft edition)
1. Dylan Bundy RHP
2. Wil Myers OF
3. Carlos Correa SS
4. Marcell Ozuna OF
5. Daniel Corcino RHP
6. Marcus Stroman RHP
7. Delino DeShields Jr. 2B
8. Trevor May RHP
9. Nick Delmonico, 1B/2B/3B
10. Nick Tropeano RHP
Best Hitter for Average: Wil Myers
Best Power Hitter: Wil Myers
Best Strike Zone Discipline: L.J. Hoes
Fastest Baserunner: Delino DeShields Jr
Best Athlete: Carlos Correa
Best Fastball: Dylan Bundy
Best Curveball: Dylan Bundy
Best Slider: Marcus Stroman
Best Changeup: Nick Tropeano
Best Control: Ross Seaton
Best Defensive Catcher: Tim Federowicz
Best Defensive Infielder: Carlos Correa
Best Defensive Outfielder: Tyson Gillies
More Prospects:
Honorable Mentions (ranked in BA top ten lists):
L. J. Hoes OF (#6 BA Batimore)
Cory Spangenberg 2B (#7 BA San Diego)
Adam Conley LHP (#10 BA Miami)
"Post Prospects" (no longer rookies by ML service time but have yet to pitch 50 innings or have 130 at bats in the majors):
RHP Tanner Scheppers
LHP Tyler Robertson
Some major league experience or in high minors & ready to play a role now:
LHP Andy Oliver
RHP Chad Jenkins
LHP Kyle Lobstein
RHP Tom Koehler
C. Tim Federowicz
IF Tim Beckham
IF Nick Noonan
Other Prospects & Projects
C Tom Murphy
RHP Ross Seaton
RHP J.C. Sulbaran
3B Kyle Kubitza
SS Jiovanni Mier
SS Yairo Munoz
OF Tyson Gillies
October 15, 2012
Savannah Top Prospects in Triple AAA leagues as ranked by Baseball America
Pacific Coast League #1 Wil Myers, OF
Pacific Coast League #9 Yasmani Grandal, C
International League #15 L. J. Hoes, OF
International League #17 Jenrry Mejia, RHP
October 11, 2012
Savannah Top Prospects in Double AA leagues as ranked by Baseball America:
Eastern League: #1 Manny Machado, SS
Texas League: #3 Wil Myers, OF
Southern League: #17 Daniel Corcino, RHP
October 8, 2012
Savannah Top Prospects in Single A leagues as ranked by Baseball America:
Carolina League: #1 Dylan Bundy, RHP
Florida State League: #15 Marcell Ozuna, OF
California League: #19 Cory Spangenberg, 2B
South Atlantic League: #14 Adam Conley, LHP
October 5, 2012
Some final #'s of the 2012 Savannah Carpetbaggers:
W/L 67-95 (7th in Southern Division)
Team ERA 4.60
RS/G 4.1
run differential 659-813 = -154
team batting totals BA/OB/SLG .246/.308/.386
109 errors & 166 outstanding plays
46 steals
53 sac hits
team leaders:
G - Alex Rios 159
AB - Rios 655
R - Rios 94
H - Rios 199 (tied for 5th in lg)
2B - Rios 41
3B - Rios 8
HR - Rios 27
RBI - Rios 94
BA - Allen Craig .305
OBP - Craig .354
SLG - Craig .528
SB - Gregor Blanco 26 (tied for 9th in lg)
BB - Blanco 55
SF - Jhonny Peralta 7
SH - Blanco 3
OP - Rios 30
pitching G: Marc Rzepczynski 49
W - Felix Doubront 10 (11 total with 2 teams)
L - Ross Detwiler 11 Tim Lincecum 13 (total with 2 teams)
ERA (qualifiers)- Detwiler 3.30
IP - Detwiler 174.1 (Lincecum 189.1 total with 2 teams)
SV - Brett Myers 31 (5th in lg)
K - Doubront 156 (Lincecum 200 total with 2 teams)
CG - Lincecum & Travis Blackley 1
ShO - none
July 1, 2012
From Rotoworld.com:
"Yasmani Grandal made history Saturday in an 8-4 win over the Rockies, becoming the first player to homer from each side of the plate for his first two career hits.
Grandal, making his first-ever start in the majors, blasted a solo shot to center as a right-handed hitter off Christian Friedrich in the fourth inning. He then put the Padres ahead to stay when he launched a two-run bomb from the left side of the plate off Jeremy Guthrie in the sixth."
Even better, Friedrich had a good outing, yielding only the single run scored by Grandal's solo shot in 5 IP.
June 21, 2012
Four Carpetbagger prospects named to Futures Games rosters:
US: RHP Dylan Bundy, SS Manny Machado, OF Wil Myers
World: C Yasmani Grandal
June 21, 2012
Meanwhile, in the majors things aren't going so well. Despite last month's lineup shakeup, the Carpetbaggers remain 15th in the league in runs scored. In terms of runs allowed, we're 14th. Were it matters most, won/loss pct., we're dead last. The year's officially a wash, although I'll confess as recently as 2 weeks ago I was harboring hopes of a wild card run. Even so, I think there's enough young talent on this roster to set the stage for a run next year. Beyond tracking the youngsters' progress, will try to get any residual value that veterans such as Jake Westbrook, Brett Myers, Barry Zito, Ty Wigginton, etc., might bring.
June 18, 2012
Wahoo! One of the Carpetbagger's top pitching prospects, 21yo right Daniel Corcino pitched 8 innings of no hit ball for the AA Pensacola Blue Wahoos v. Mobile last Saturday night. Corcino struck out 9 and walked 3. So far this season, Corcino's numbers:
3.34 ERA with a 69/31 K/BB in 70 innings with 60 hits allowed.
June 6, 2012
After one at bat in the big leagues, C Yasmani Grandal is back in AAA. Not sure what he has left to prove at that level. His numbers in 128 AAA AB's: .313/.412./.516
Grandal looks ready to challenge C Jesus Montero for playing time in Savannah, when Padres management deigns to recall him. Grandal is near the top of the Savannah prospects list & ready to contribute now, but the current #1 team prospect is OF Wil Myers, who has raked since his promotion to AAA, producing these numbers: .324/.375/.703 with 5 homers in his first 74 AAA at bats. Kansas City management is reportedly reluctant to advance Myers to the majors before next season, but the Carpetbaggers expect he will be a factor in our 2013 plans. In other news, OF L.J. Hoes advanced to AAA and could be role player in Savannah by next year.
June 1, 2012
Prospect Promotions:
C Yasmani Grandal has been promoted to the Big Show!
Meanwhile, RHP Jennry Mejia has moved up to AAA and may soon return to the big leagues as well.
May 24, 2012
Lineup Shakeup!
Savannah is currently 16-28, in 7th place in the Southern Division and 15th in the League in runs scored. In a bid for offensive respectability, field manager Billy T. Sherman has benched the team's veteran DP combo of Robert Andino & Jhonny Peralta & will now start Steve Lombardozzi and Tyler Greene at second and short respectively. Lombardozzi has posted at .350 BA and .409 OBP in SJL play to date, he'll bat near the top of the lineup whenever available. Tyler Greene has been showing occasional power spurts and will be listed as the 5 spot hitter vs. righties and the 2 spot hitter vs. lefties. Even if the change improves offensive contributions from the middle of the diamond it will cost a little in defensive ratings. Sherman also notes that the team sorely needs slugger Allen Craig to get healthy.
May 23, 2012
Dylan Bundy has been promoted to Advanced-A Frederick (Carolina Lg)
May 22, 2012
Savannah has claimed 3 more prospects through waivers:
Tom Koehler, RHP current assignment: AAA PCL
Ehire Adrianza, SS current assignment: AA EL
Aaron Shipman, OF current assignment: A MWL
Prospect Tools:
Most notable:
Jesus Montero -- Power rates 70/80
Dylan Bundy -- Fastball rates 70/80
"Plus" tools:
Batting for Average: Montero, Wil Myers, Manny Machado (my #1 picks each of last 3 years)
Power: Montero, Myers, Machado, Yasmani Grandal, Marcell Ozuna, Nicky Delmonico
K-Zone Discipline: Cory Spangenberg, Kyle Kubitza, Myers
Fast Baserunners: Donavan Tate, Aaron Shipman, Jiovanni Mier, Bobby Crocker
Best Athletes: Tate, Shipman
Hot Fastballs: Bundy, Trevor May, Daniel Corcino, J.C. Sulbaran, Jake Petricka, Colton Cain, Brody Colvin
Wicked Curves: Bundy, May, Andrew Oliver, Christian Friedrich
Nasty Sliders: Corcino, Friedrich, Tom Koehler
Keep the Change Up: Felix Duobront, Dimasther Delgado
Control Freaks: Bundy, Chad Jenkins, Ross Seaton, Zack Von Rosenberg
D Plus Catcher: Tim Federowicz
D Plus Infielders: Machado, Mier, Ehire Adrianza
D Plus Outfielders: Tate, Shipman
What the 2015 Savannah lineup could be:
C - Montero
1B - Delmonico
2B - Spangenberg
3B - Mike Moustakas
SS - Machado
RF - Myers
CF - Peter Bourjos
LF - Allen Craig
SP1 - Bundy
SP2 - May
SP3 - Zach Britton
SP4 - Corcino
SP5 - Jordan Lyles
Cl - Jenrry Mejia
May 16, 2012
Wil Myers has been promoted to AAA Omaha (PCL)
Jenrry Mejia has been promoted to AA Binghamton (Eastern Lg)
May 15, 2012
Prospect Highlights:
RHP Dylan Bundy has posted a perfect 0.00 ERA, 36K 2BB 4H in his first 25 pro IPs at Delmarva (SAL).
LHP Adam Conley also dominating the SAL at Greensboro: 36.1 IP 43 K 11 BB 2.48 ERA
RHP Trevor May pitching like an ace at Reading of the Eastern Lg: 41.1 IP 45 K 16 BB 2.83 ERA
OF Wil Myers is homering once every 10 ABs (13HR 130 AB) at NW Arkansas (Texas Lg): .346/.419/.746
RHP Jenrry Mejia on the comeback trail from TJ surgery showing strong command 2 BB in 11 IP for St. Lucie in the Florida State Lg.
SS Manny Machado is a teenager at AA Bowie (Eastern) posting a .364 OBP and .418 SLG
Where are they now?
Savannah Prospects and their current assignments:
Alex Burgos, LHP, FSL, A+
Dylan Bundy, RHP, SAL, A
Colton Cain, LHP, FSL, A+
Brody Colvin, RHP, FSL, A+
Adam Conley, LHP, SAL, A
Daniel Corcino, RHP, SL, AA
Felix Doubront, LHP, AL, MAJ
Christian Friedrich, LHP, NL, MAJ
Dimasther Delgado, LHP, CAR, A+
Chad Jenkins, RHP, EL, AA
Trevor May, RHP, EL, AA
Jenrry Mejia, RHP, FSL, A+
Andy Oliver, LHP, IL, AAA
Jake Petricka, RHP, CAR, A+
Ross Seaton, RHP, TL, AA
Manuel Soliman, RHP, FSL, A+ (DL)
J.C. Sulbaran, RHP, SL, AA
Zack Von Rosenberg, RHP, Ext Spr Tr
Tim Federowicz, C, PCL, AAA
Yasmani Grandal, C, PCL, AAA
Jesus Montero, C, AL, MAJ
Nicky Delmonico, 1B, SAL, A
Kyle Kubitza, 3B, SAL, A
Steve Lombardozzi, 2B, NL, MAJ
Manny Machado, SS, EL, AA
Jiovanni Mier, SS, CAL, A+ (DL)
Yairo Munoz, SS, unassigned
Cory Spangenberg, 2B, CAL, A+
Bobby Crocker, OF, MWL, A
L.J. Hoes, OF, EL, AA
Wil Myers, OF, TL, AA
Marcell Ozuna, FSL, A+
Donavan Tate, MWL, A
March 16, 2012
Savannah made 16 picks in the 2012 draft:
Round 1: Manny Machado SS, Dylan Bundy RHP
Round 2: Cory Spangenberg 2B, Zach Britton LHP, Yasmani Grandal C, Daniel Corcino RHP
Round 5: Andy Oliver LHP
Round 6: Steve Lombardozzi, 2B
Round 7: Nicky Delmonico 1B, Alex Burgos LHP
Round 8: Bobby Crocker OF, L.J. Hoes OF
Round 9: Yairo Munoz SS, Adam Conley LHP
Round 10: J.C. Sulbaran RHP, Kyle Kubitza 3B
P Zach Britton was a ML rookie in 2011 and joins the Savannah rotation this year. The other 15 are prospects, they join 18 others, including holdovers and waiver acquisitions to give Savannah a total of 33 prospects:
RHP (9): Trevor May, Jenrry Mejia, Jacob Petricka, Brody Colvin, Asher Wojciechowski, Manuel Soliman, Ross Seaton, Chad Jenkins, Zack Von Rosenberg
LHP(2): Christian Friedrich, Colton Cain
C(3): Jesus Montero, Tim Federowicz, Luke Bailey
SS(1): Jiovanni Mier
OF(3): Wil Myers, Marcell Ozuna, Donavan Tate
This marks the 4th year in a row that my first round pick has a surname starting with the letter M: Moustakas, Montero, Myers, Machado. Moustakas is now our regular 3B, avoiding a often expected move to the OF and looks to be a top run producer. Montero is one of the top hitting prospects in the game and will be our regular C this year.
Other prospects who could help this year at the big league level are P Andy Oliver who is leading candidate for our #5 SP, P Jenrry Mejia is recovering from TJ surgery but may be our closer of the future, C Tim Federowicz is our best defensive catcher, and IF Steve Lombardozzi is expected to be one of multiple options at 2B and is favored to win the last spot on the Carpetbagger bench.
January 21, 2012
Baseball America rates OF Wil Myers #3 prospect, best hitter for average and best strike zone discipline in the KC organization. P Jacob Petricka rates as #5 Chi-AL prospect.
January 9, 2012
Sickels grades for the Carpetbagger prospects:
Jesus Montero C NYA A
Wil Myers OF KC A-
Trevor May RHP PHI B+
Marcell Ozuna OF MIA B
Jenrry Mejia RHP NYN B-
Chris Carter 1B Oak C+
Jacob Petricka RHP ChA C+
Donavan Tate OF SD C+
Christian Friedrich LHP Col C+
Zack Von Rosenberg RHP Pit C+
Chad Jenkins RHP Tor C+
Manuel Soliman RHP Min C+
Colton Cain LHP Pit C
Tim Federowicz C LAD C
Jiovanni Mier SS Hou C
Ross Seaton RHP Hou C
Lars Anderson 1B Bos C
Jefry Marte 3B NYN C
Oscar Tejeda 2B Bos C
January 6, 2012
No surprise here as BA ranks C-DH Jesus Montero as the #1 prospect in the NY Yankees organization. Montero projects 30+ HR power with high batting average. The question is can he stay behind the plate. Projects as a serious ROY candidate this year but quite possibly as the Yankee's DH.
December 6, 2011
A bit of a surprise here, BA ranks C Tim Federowicz #10 prospect in the LA Dodgers organization. Federowicz's defense rates as best in the SAV organization and while all sources concur on his ability behind the plate, his upside at bat is uncertain. However, BA projects Federowicz as the Dodgers' starting C of the future, a future that could arrive as early as 2012.
November 16, 2011
OF Wil Myers posted some impressive numbers in the Arizona Fall League. .360 BA (5th)/.481 OBP (3rd)/ .674 SLG (3rd) 5 triples (1st-tie)
Three Carpetbaggers ranked in the NL East Top Ten Prospects lists:
Trevor May, RHP #1 Philadelphia -- SAV's best SP prospect, overpowering stuff, command is improving
Marcell Ozuna OF #2 Miami -- plus power, good OF arm, future starting RF if his platye discipline continues to improve
Jenrry Mejia RHP #6 New York NL -- injury setback in 2011, future closer?
October 10, 2011
Carpetbaggers ranked in the Baseball America top prospects by league lists:
3B Mike Moustakas, #3 in the Pacific Coast League
C Jesus Montero, #5 in the International League
OF Wil Myers, #13 in the Texas League
P Trevor May, #4 in the Florida State League
OF Marcell Ozuna, #7 in the South Atlantic League
OF Donavan Tate, #16 in the Northwest League
September 30, 2011
Some final #'s of the 2011 Savannah Carpetbaggers:
W/L 71-91 (8th in Southern Division)
Team ERA 4.29
RS/G 4.2
run differential 683-744 = -61
team batting totals BA/OB/SLG .252./.317/.411
79 errors & 186 outstanding plays -- both best in the league!
38 steals - last in league
49 sac hits - last in league
team leaders:
G - Gaby Sanchez 152
AB - Sanchez 593
R - Carlos Beltran - 101
H - Beltran; Jhonny Peralta 169
2B - Beltran 43
3B - Peter Bourjos 12
HR - Mike Napoli 32
RBI - Peralta 82
BA - Napoli .311; qualifiers - Peralta .301
OBP Napoli .393
SLG Napoli .614
SB Bourjos 24
BB Sanchez 79
SF Napoli 7
SH Moustakas; Andino 1
OP Bourjos 32
pitching G: Matt Capps 54
W - Gee; Westbrook 9; Francis 9 (w/ 2 teams)
L - Westbrook 14
ERA (qualifiers): Gee 4.39
IP Westbrook 185.2 Francis 192 (2 teams)
SV Capps 20
K Gee 114
CG Gee 1
ShO Gee 1
September 7, 2011
Some farm notes on the 2011 season.
Advancing prospects:
RHP Trevor May struck out 194 batters in 144.1 IP in A+ closer of the future?
Defense-first C Tim Federowicz hit a career high 14 HR and 40 extra base hits in 422 AB split between AA and AAA, he will be in the C mix next year
1B-OF Chris Carter came on late and posted an .896 OPS in AAA will vie for an ML job next year as well
3B Mike Moustakas posted an .845 OPS at AAA, has struggled in his ML debut but still looks like next year's starting 3B
OF Marcell Ozuna posted an .808 OPS with 23 HR in A ball
OF Donavan Tate lost too much time to injury but did post a .406 OBP/.815 OPS in short season play
C Jesus Montero (see 9/5 post)
Declining Prospects:
RHP Andrew Brackman 6.00 ERA with 75BB in 96IP at AAA
LHP Christian Friedrich 5.00 ERA at AA, after two tries has yet to solve this level
2B Oscar Tejeda .632 OPS at AA, disappointing after a strong 2010 season at A+
OF Wil Myers .746 OPS in AA. Highly touted hitter had injury problems but only 21 y.o. will try to get back on track in the AFL
OF Rafael Rodriguez .581 OPS in A, although 19 y.o. did hit 15 HR in first full season campaign
September 5, 2011
Labor Day finds the Carpetbaggers 19 games under .500 and in the Southern Division cellar. The biggest shortcoming of the seasom has been the offense, only 3.9 runs per game at this point. Three Opening Day starters have abysmal numbers; SS Rafael Furcal (.590 OPS, traded), IF Juan Uribe (.557 OPS DL/released) and OF Alex Rios (.578 OPS benched). The pitching has been somewhat more respectable (4.09 team ERA), although the rotation features mediocre ERAs at this point: Narverson (4.26), Gee (4.48), Westbrook (4.65), and Francis (4.72). Jon Sanchez pitched like an ace in the first half but lost his control by mid-season, went on the DL, hurt his ankle, (in that order) and remains out. Freddy Garcia (3.50) has been mostly effective and the bullpen has been generally OK, although with less than 5K/IP and a 4+ ERA, Opening Day closer Matt Capps was moved to a middle relief role.
Three Opening Day starters are enjoying good seasons with the bat: SS/3B Jhonny Peralta (842 OPS), OF Carlos Beltran (896 OPS), and best of all C Mike Napoli (975 OPS). One or more of these guys might be dealt over the winter if a good return can be had. There are some promising possibilities among the youngsters. Marc Rzepczynski is now the closer and sports a 2.73 real time ERA. Ross Detwiler is now in the Washington rotation and holds a 3.83 real time ERA and should be a strong candidate for a rotation spot to open next season. C Jesus Montero posted an .810 OPS in AAA despite a slow start, he is a September call up for the Yankees and will vie for a starting job next year. Peter Bourjos is posting a respectable real time .772 OPS and runs down everything in CF. He's not yet ready to be a prime time leadoff guy but should get better. OF Allen Craig is posting an .871 real time OPS in limited action and could be a starting corner OF on Opening Day 2012.
July 13, 2011
Three Carpetbaggers were named to the MLB All-Star team: OF Carlos Beltran, SS Jhonny Peralta, 1B Gaby Sanchez. All have helped the gradual improvement of the Savannah offense which is now producing 4 runs per game. On the downside, P Jon Sanchez is on the DL & rookie starter Dillon Gee is scuffling of late as is closer Matt Capps. All three had been excellent in the early season, helping to give Savannah respectable pitching, but the team ERA is now above 4 and the Bags remain in the second division with a record of 41-47 place as we head into the second (slightly less than) half of the season.
June 16, 2011
Injury bug keeps striking. Allen Craig & Mike Napoli both went on DL this past week, putting a big question mark on the possibility of continued improvement on offense. The lineup is in a shambles with rookie 3B Mike Moustakas leading off against righties and 2B Scott Sizemore against lefties. Moustakas platoons with Juan Uribe and Sizemore with Adam Kennedy. The lineup mainstays, batting 2-3-4 are the steady 1B Gaby Sanchez, the surprisingly healthy LF Carlos Beltran, and now every day at SS Jhonny Peralta. Pete Bourjos plays great regular defense in CF with occasional power but a low OBP. RF is now a Hinske/Rios platoon and Ramon Castro is the nominal starter behind the plate. One positive note, prospect C Mike McKenry was traded to Pittsburgh and is now in The Show, so he provides much needed C depth along with waiver-claimed Drew Butera and Rene Rivera. Also re-claimed OF Fred Lewis from waivers this week and joins OF Jonny Gomes and IFs Ramon Santiago & Robert Andino on the bench. That's 18 offensive players on the 30 man roster, leaving only 12 pitchers due to injury depletion, although with 6 SPs so may still have enough IPs. Rotation for upcoming week: Jon Sanchez, Dillon Gee, Freddy Garcia, Jeff Francis, Chris Narveson. Jake Westbrook is starter #6, so he works from the pen, along with closer Matt Capps, set-up guys Farnsworth, Rzepczynski, and Burnett, loogy Ramos and mop-up Dumatrait. You can never have enough pitching, I planned for 10 SPs going into the season, 6 are on DL, and have added two more with trades.
June 11, 2011
3B prospect Mike Moustakas made his major league debut last night, going 1 for 3 with a walk and a run scored.
June 9, 2011
Tough 1-5 week, including two one run losses to Newark. Rookie SP Dillon Gee turned out to be the stopper, throwing 8 shutout innings at Hagerstown in the last game of the week and helping prevent a complete washout. Savannah now 30-33. On a positive note the offense continuing to show some signs of life, runs scored/game is now 3.9, up from 3.8 last week and 3.5 nadir in late May. Meanwhile, a day after Carpbetbaggers handed rookie Allen Craig a starting and lead off gig, he sustained a minor injury. He's not on DL, but may miss most of the upcoming week.
June 6, 2011
Major moves and changes this week. Two veteran starting pitchers were added through trades, Freddy Garcia and Jeff Francis. The deal for Garcia cost reliever Miguel Batista and a round 3 pick netted Francis. Both are penciled into the rotation along with ace Jon Sanchez, surprising Dillon Gee, and Jake Westbrook. Chris Narveson is also available for spot starts.
Lineup shakeup: Starting Thursday, Allen Craig becomes the regular RFer as struggling Alex Rios is sent to the bench. Craig who is sporting a .408 OBP at this point in the ML season will also lead off, followed by 1B Sanchez, LF Beltran, SS Peralta, C Napoli, 2B Kennedy/Sizemore, CF Bourjos, 3B Uribe. Against lefties, Sizemore will bat 7th with Bourjos moving up to the six hole.
Savannah has five players with 500+ SLG and 350+ OBP, the point of the lineup shuffle is to get all five in the top of the lineup everyday & give the team every chance to win.
Farm Notes: After a slow start, 3B Mike Moustakas now has a .345OB/.495SLG at AAA Omaha. Another prospect who staggered out of the gate in April was RHP Trevor May. The hard throwing righty appears to have established his command with an 80:29 K:BB ration in 61IP at A+ Clearwater. May has allowed only 46H in those frames and currently has a 3.54 ERA. In his most recent outing he struck out 12 and walked 1 in 8IP, yielding 2H and one unearned run enroute to a win over St. Lucie. Also, in the Florida State League, lefty Kyle Lobstein has so far posted a stingy 2.22 ERA in 48.2IP for Charlotte.
May 26, 2011
A 5-2 week brings Savannah back to .500 at 25-25. Fabulous comeback this week, down 8-0 to Hagerstown, the Carpetbaggers rallied to score nine in the bottom of the ninth. The rally was capped off by a walk off grand slam by Jhonny Peralta. Peralta is so far resurgent with his bat this year, posting a .907 OPS at this writing, second on team only to 1B Gaby Sanchez.
May 25, 2011
Have made several roster moves the last two weeks with two different purposes in mind. The first is to cover short term needs caused by injuries, this has led to claims of C Rene Rivera, IF Luis Valbuena, OF-1B Eric Hinske, and RP Jose Valdez. The second is to add prospects when possible, this had led to claims of C Mike McKenry, LHP Kyle Lobstein and Valdez can be counted here as well.
Released 1B Kendrys Morales, who looks to be out for the rest of the year. Also released 1B Russ Branyan, who looked to be starting 1B this year but that didn't pan out. 1B is now Gaby Sanchez's position & he's been one of the bright spots of the season so far. Also released P Kyles Davies and backup C Brian Schneider, both of whom on the shelf for extended time frames.
May 12, 2011
Savannah is now 18-19 with a -14 run differential. Standing somewhat above the general mediocrity are Jon Sanchez (6-0 2.89 53K but also 33BB in 46.2IP), Matt Capps (0.00, 9 saves), Gaby Sanchez .343./.416/.566 & Peter Bourjos .297/.342./.469 whose 43 hits place him among league leaders. I've finally gotten smart and handed Sanchez the everyday 1B job & it's a very good sign to see rookie Bourjos producing an 800plus OPS as he's been pressed into lead off duty with Furcal on the DL.
, second
May 3, 2011
The Good and the Ugly to report. First the Good. Scott Sizemore has been recalled to the Majors and getting another shot at starting. Hopefully he plays that "2B of the Future" card more successfully this year than last. Speaking of up and coming, slugger Allen Craig is off the DL and even getting a start at 3B, which could make him a much more useful player. Kevin Slowey comes off the DL this weekend and slots in as best long relief guy who-should-be-starting-pitcher. Now the Ugly. Top pitching prospect Jenrry Mejia has reportedly completely torn his MCL. TJ surgery appears likely which would keep him out until late 2012 and has moved back his ETA to 2013 to become a Factor in Savannah's emerging Youth Movement.
April 28, 2011
A 4-2 week brings the Carpetbaggers back to .500 with a 12-12 record The team ERA is 3.52 and we're scoring 3.5 runs per game. We're now in a three tie for third and have a 93-93 record for the last season plus the first four weeks of this one. Our run differential is -10 so our perfect mediocrity involves a bit of luck in run distribution. Not so ,uch luck on the injury front however as Kendry Morales has been on the DL all season, he has been joined by Rafael Furcal, Kevin Slowey, Barry Zito, and Allen Craig. Juan Uribe is hurting as well, he hasn't been DL'ed but is being used only as a pinchhitter, so the infield is even thinner than it appears. This week saw a lot of AAA play on the IF, the addition of Robert Andino will help alleviate this, also claimed Emmanuel Burriss off waiver wire to add IF depth. Released SS Ehire Adrianza, who is reportedly out "several months" with an injury. To make cap space, OF Jeremy Hermida released and OF Xavier Paul claimed, who will now take the 5th OF slot, at least until Allen Criag gets healthy.
April 22, 2011
Claimed IF-OF Robert Andino off waivers bringing Scoresheet roster strength back up to 30 and giving IF some needed depth. Released P Wilfredo Boscan to make space for Andino. Boscan is advanced for his age (21) at AA, although so far looks pretty hittable in the Texas League.
April 21, 2011
A 3-4 week brings Savannah to a 9-9 record, right at .500 which is just where last year's team finished, so Savannah is now 90-90 over the last season plus three weeks. Much like last year, the defense is very good (only two unearned runs allowed), pitching is decent (3.59 team ERA) and the offense mediocre (3.7 runs scored/game). Our overall run differential is -1 (66-67), so we're right about where old Pythagoras would predict. The top of the Savannah rotation is a study in contrast. Ace Jon Sanchez is 4-0 with a 2.55 ERA and among the league leaders in K's. By contrast, #2 SP Jake Westbrook is 0-4 8.55 ERA. #4 starter Chris Narveson is among league leaders in ERA at 2.03 but has had lousy run support (3.0) and is 1-2. None of our offensive performers appear on the leader board.
Savannah was short handed at catcher and pitcher this week, so I claimed C Wil Nieves and P Cesar Ramos off waivers and released 3B Wes Helms and P T.J. House. As pitching prospects go, House has limited upside and Ramos is still something of a loogy prospect so that's a far trade off. Nieves is a career backup but since none of my other three catchers are playing every day, it seems that four are needed. Helms had been added for IF depth, which I probably still need although he made no appearances in seven games this week.
Farm note from the SAL: OF Marcell Ozuna has hit five homers over the last five days.
April 20, 2011
Injuries have reshaped the roster over the past few weeks. On Opening Day 1B Kendry Morales and OF Fred Lewis were on the DL. Since then SS Rafael Furcal, P Kevin Slowey, P Barry Zito, and OF Allen Craig have been added to the shelf. The injuries have led to the release of some of our prospects in order to make roster space for veteran infielders Russ Branyan, Ramon Santiago, and Wes Helms, undermining the current rebuilding effort by using up roster space on players who are clearly one, at most two year filler. The injury to Allen Craig led to the release of Fred Lewis and claim of OF Jeremy Hermida. At least in this case, 27 year old Hermida can be seen as a potential reclamation project. The pitching injuries have not hit as hard since two prospect pitchers, Tyson Ross and Dillon Gee have been called up since Opening Day. Both are, for the moment at least, in the Savannah starting rotation.
April 14, 2011
4-2 in Week Two, now 6-5 for season. Highlight of the week: Carlos Beltran hit a walk off solo home run in 15th inning of game 6 vs. Mudville to give the Baggers a winning week! Other notes: Savannah bullpen has posted an 0.50 ERA through two weeks. Ace Jon Sanchez is 3-0 with a sub 3 ERA and among league leaders in Ks. We played one game this week without starting SS Rafael Furcal, with Juan Uribe at SS the team defensive rating dropped from the .24-.26 range down to .09, that's the defensive measure of Furcal's absence in the forthcoming weeks.
Injury strikes! SS Rafael Furcal is out 4-6 weeks with a broken thumb. With Furcal out, the infield realigns with Jhonny Peralta now starting at SS against righties, Juan Uribe takes over at 3B and left handed hitting Adam Kennedy plays 2B on a platoon basis. Versus lefties, Uribe plays 2B with Peralta moving over to 3B and slick fielding Ramon Santiago at shortstop. 3B Wes Helms was claimed off with waivers and sixth OFer Austin Kearns released to provide a third option on the hot corner. With so much positional flexibility the bases should be covered, but the loss of Furcal will hurt the offense as he was our best leadoff option. CF Peter Bourjos will now get a shot as lead off hitter.
Farm Notes: The infield and lineup would be helped greatly if the Tigers would kindly call up 2B Scott Sizemore who is off to hot start in Toledo; .429 BA, 1.243 OPS. Other notably hot starts include:
AAA Ross Detwiler 1.50 ERA 8K:1BB
AAA Jenrry Mejia 0.00 ERA in 2 starts, 11K-5BB in 12.2IP
AA Christian Friedrich 1.80 ERA
A Zack Von Rosenberg 1.80 ERA 9K:1BB
A Jacob Petricka 0.00 ERA 9K:1BB
A Manuel Soliman 0.00 ERA 8K:2BB
A Colton Cain 0.00 ERA 5K:1BB
AAA Jesus Montero .448BA 1.103 OPS
AA Tim Federowicz .929 OPS
A Donavan Tate .316BA .856 OPS, more walks than k's!
Some cold starts:
AAA Mike Moustakas .493 OPS
AAA Chris Carter .520 OPS
AA Oscar Tejeda .513 OPS
A Rafael Rodriguez .640 OPS
A Jiovanni Mier .558 OPS
A Marcell Ozuna .422 OPS, 11Ks in 24ABs
A+ T.J. House 6.75 ERA
AA Wilfredo Boscan 10.50 ERA
Other notables:
Rookie pitcher Tyson Ross is sporting a perfect 0.00 ERA to date for Oakland, working out of the pen. 4K:1BB
SP Dillon Gee has been called up from AAA by the Mets.
April 10, 2011 Trade: Dealt SS Cesar Izturis to Newark for a 7th round pick. Izturis had been squeezed off the 30 man roster by the addition of IF Ramon Santiago and the call up of P Tyson Ross. Claimed P Wilfredo Boscan off waivers to fill open roster spot. Boscan appears to be an underrated prospect, not appearing on the BA list and getting a "C" from Sickels. However he grades an 8D on the BHQ scale and is opening the season at Double-AA at age 21. He is reported to already have three major league average pitches.
April 7, 2011 Week One. Savannah posted a 2-3 mark in the season's first week. Our pitching and defense were superb with a team ERA of 2.93 and a Scoresheet plus defensive rating of 0.24-0.25 for each game. On the other hand, we only scored 3.2 runs per game. Chris Narveson is 0-1 despite surrendering only one unearned run in his start. Barry Zito was the first Savannah winning pitcher of the year, beneficiary of a 2 homer game by Mike Napoli. Staff ace Jonathan Sanchez also won his start and closer Matt Capps picked up a save.
Of course, the focus this year will be on player development. On Wednesday, the Oakland A's recalled RHP Tyson Ross who joins OF Allen Craig as one of two rookies on the Savannah ML roster. There will doubtless be more, hopefully soon.
March 31, 2011 Opening Day! Not much to report on Carpetbagger players except that Peter Bourjos had a 2 hit day, hopefully there will be quite a few more of those. The Carpetbaggers went 81-81 last year and don't expect to do much better than that this year. The focus will be mainly on player development, so here a revised look at the team's prospects. Instead of a Baseball America-style list, this entry looks at where the prospects as likely to be playing this year and provides Baseball HQ-style ratings. In the list that follows the number indicates ceiling (1-10 scale) and the letter (A-E) indicates likelihood of achieving it. So a 9E player has a superior all-star level potential but has a lot of development to do, and so a lower likelihood of actually reaching his potential. By contrast, a 7B may never be more than an average regular or role player but appears closer to attaining that status.
ML(2):
Tyson Ross RHP 8B
Allen Craig OF 7C
AAA(9):
Mike Moustakas 3B 9B
Jesus Montero C 9B
Jenrry Mejia RHP 9D
Andrew Brackman RHP 9D
Chris Carter 1B-OF 8B
Lars Anderson 1B 8B
Dillon Gee RHP 8C
Erik Cordier RHP 8D
Adam Ottavino RHP 8D
AA(5):
Wil Myers OF 9C
Christian Friedrich LHP 9D
Oscar Tejeda 2B 8C
Ehire Adrianza SS 8D
Tim Federowicz C 7C
Advanced-A(3):
Trevor May RHP 9D
Chad Jenkins RHP 8B
T.J. House LHP 8C
Low-A/Full Season(8):
Zack Von Rosenberg RHP 9D
Donavan Tate OF 9D
Rafael Rodriguez OF 9E
Jacob Petricka RHP 8C
Manuel Soliman RHP 8C
Jiovanni MIer SS 8D
Marcell Ozuna OF 8D
Colton Cain LHP 8D
Notes: That's a lot of advanced prospects, very good upside and the strength of the system lies in the power potential. The pitching is always more doubtful but there's enough quantity. On the other hand certainly could use more advanced catching and middle infield prospects. Of note down in the SAL, Von Rosenberg and Cain will likely be members of the same rotation in West Virginia. They will be in Savannah July 20-22, my calendar is marked.
March 30, 2011
Another move to fill a 30 man spot today, claimed old friend Miguel Batista off waivers and released Ross Seaton. It's been a tough Spring Training on Savannah's young pitchers, none of the pitchers on the Prospect List made the cut out of Spring Training (realistically had hoped that two would). In fact, OF Allen Craig is the only player on the Prospect List to be in the Big Leagues on Opening Day and he figures to be in a bench role for the Cards. That said, the Carpetbaggers look to have a dozen players or so starting the year in AAA, so should be plenty of call ups ahead.
March 29, 2011
Major roster changes today. 2B Brandon Phillips, SP Livan Hernandez, and CF prospect Leon Landry were sent to Aldwych in a deal that netted three high end prospects 1B/OF Chris Carter, P Trevor May, and CF Donavan Tate. Another good prospect SS Ehire Adrianza was gained via waiver claim. OF Austin Kearns and IF Ramon Santiago were claimed off waivers. With the trade of Phillips, Juan Uribe becomes the regular at 2B and Santiago was claimed to maintain IF depth. Kearns was claimed as Fred Lewis will start the year on the DL and Carlos Beltran is expected to need frequent off days. To make room for the additions, 3B Jefry Marte, SS Freddy Galvis, and P Eric Arnett were waived. This month has seen most of the bottom side of the Prospects List cut to address other needs. The 30 man roster appears close to ready for Opening Day, although another move to cover pitching depth might be needed. After Opening Day, I'll post an updated Prospects list.
March 24, 2011
Claimed IF Adam Kennedy off waivers after 2B Scott Sizemore fails win a major league job in Spring training. SS Cale Iorg cut to make room for Kennedy. Sizemore still viewed as 2B of the future in Carpetbagger country.
March 22, 2011
Claimed 1B Russ Branyan off waivers as Kendrys Morales is projected to start the season on the DL. Injured pitching prospect Pedro Figueroa released to make roster space.
March 17, 2011
Two weeks until Opening Day & time to preview the 2011 Carpetbaggers. The 2010 team finished 81-81 and this year's model has been reshaped through trades, free agents signing and the farm system revamped through the draft and waiver picks. Going into 2011, the team seems to have a lot of depth, but no real stars:
C - Mike Napoli backed up by Ramon Castro and Brian Schneider, Jesus Montero may emerge this year.
1B - Kendrys Morales/Gaby Sanchez platoon, Lars Anderson at AAA.
2B - Brandon Phillips with Scott Sizemore as understudy, Oscar Tejeda may get some coffee
3B - Juan Uribe and Jhonny Peralta vying for the position but Mike Moustakas may turn both into utility players by mid-season
SS- Rafael Furcal provides much needed on base % and good defense back up by Cesar Izturis
OF- The starting OF provides excellent defense; Peter Bourjos, Carlos Beltran, and Alex Rios. Bourjos will bat 8th and needs to improve his on base ability to be the long term CFer, Beltran needs to stay healthy and keep providing high on base and good power, Rios needs to be more consistent but was best all around position player for the 2010 Baggers.
Fred Lewis and Jonny Gomes are the 4th and 5th OFers and respectively provide a lefty and a righty bat off the bench. Rookie Allen Craig may provide some help as well. Top 2011 pick Wil Myers could be seen in a late season call up.
Starting pitching -- As many as 11 starting options may be available to open the season, beginning with ace southpaw Jon Sanchez, plus 4 veteran finesse pitchers; Kevin Slowey, Jake Westbrook, Barry Zito, Livan Hernandez, plus 3 young lefties; Chris Narveson, Ross Detwiler, Marc Rzepczynski, plus three young righties; Kyle Davies, Sean O'Sullivan, Esmil Rogers. Rookies Jenrry Mejia, Dillon Gee, and Tyson Ross all saw ML action in 2010 and should do so again this year. Lefty Christian Friedrich should debut this year as well.
Relief Pitching -- Matt Capps is the closer. Sean Burnett and Kyle Farnsworth share set up duties on a lefty/righty basis. Whoever is not starting gets the middle inning work, while Andrew Brackman should emerge at some point this season, probably in a relief role.
The word out of Spring Training is that two key offensive contributors; Carlos Beltran and Kendrys Morales may not be ready for Opening Day, so our depth may be tested early.
March 13, 2011
Savannah's Top 30 Prospects:
1. Jesus Montero C 70/80 Batting & Power
2. Wil Myers OF Another power bat plus K-zone discipline
3. Mike Moustakas 3B Third power bat completes Murderer's Row
4. Jenrry Mejia RHP 70/80 Fastball
5. Christian Friedrich LHP good repertoire, especially curveball
6. Tyson Ross RHP Not as much hype as two guys above him but maybe best bet, plus slider
7. Andrew Brackman RHP Future closer, another one with a plus breaking pitch
8. Allen Craig OF Advanced prospect with good power
9. Jiovanni Mier SS Disappointing A ball season but still young
10. Jacob Petricka RHP Plus heater, could become closer or front end starter
11. Lars Anderson 1B Plus power but has advanced slowly
12. Zack Von Rosenberg RHP Plus heater, front end of rotation ceiling
13. Marcell Ozuna OF Plus power needs to make better contact
14. Oscar Tejeda 2B Good defensive 2B who has stepped forward at the plate
15. Leon Landry OF Good bat, good CF, could be future lead off guy TRADED (3/29)
16. Rafael Rodriguez OF Huge ceiling but yet to hit in full season ball, youngest guy on the list
17. Erik Cordier RHP Good fastball, advanced prospect could be back end starter
18. Colton Cain LHP Good fastball for a young lefty
19. T.J. House LHP Good changeup, back of the rotation starter potential
20. Chad Jenkins RHP College product with good heavy fastball
21. Manuel Soliman RHP Another plus fastball, young but said to be progressing rapidly
22. Dillon Gee RHP Finesse guy with plus change up and control
23. Ross Seaton RHP Heavy sinker, good slider but got torched in the California League (CUT 3/30)
24. Eric Arnett RHP Lost his stuff, can he find it again? (CUT 3/29)
25. Freddy Galvis SS Only Phillie in the farm system so a favorite, good glove (CUT 3/29)
26. Pedro Figueroa LHP On the mend from TJ surgery CUT (3/22)
27. Tim Federowicz C Good defensive player
28. Cale Iorg SS Very good defensive player and has some power but whiffs a lot CUT (3/24)
29. Jefry Marte 3B Has spent the last two years in Savannah, me too, I've seen him play, think he just might become a real hitter someday CUT (3/29)
30. Adam Ottavino RHP Yes, yet another good heater but doubtful command
Best Tools in the Organization:
Hitter for Average: Jesus Montero
Hitter for Power: Jesus Montero
Strike Zone Discipline: Wil Myers
Fastest Baserunner: Jiovanni Mier
Best Athlete: Rafael Rodriguez
Best Fastball: Jenrry Mejia
Best Curveball: Christian Friedrich
Best Slider: Tyson Ross
Best Change Up: Dillon Gee
Best Control: Dillon Gee
Best Defensive Catcher: Tim Federowicz
Best Defensive Infielder: Cale Iorg
Best Infield Arm: Mike Moustakas
Best Defensive Outfielder: Leon Landry
Best Outfield Arm: Rafael Rodriguez
What the 2014 Carpetbaggers could look like:
C Jesus Montero
1B Kendrys Morales
2B Scott Sizemore
3B Mike Moustakas
SS Jiovanni Mier
LF Wil Myers
CF Peter Bourjos
RF Alex Rios
SP1 Jenrry Mejia
SP2 Jonathan Sanchez
SP3 Christian Friedrich
SP4 Tyson Ross
SP5 Kevin Slowey
CL Andrew Brackman
October 26, 2010
Six Carpetbaggers have made the grade! BA's list of top prospects by league includes the following:
Mike Moustakas, 3B #1 in Texas Lg & #2 in the PCL
Jesus Montero, C #4 in the International Lg
Peter Bourjos, CF #15 in the PCL
Andrew Brackman, RHP #5 Eastern Lg & #20 FSL
Christian Friedrich, LHP #10 Texas Lg
Oscar Tejeda, 2B #8 Carolina Lg
October 11, 2010
From worst to .500 was the storyline for the SJL 2010 edition of the Savannah Carpetbaggers. The team for the most part enjoyed solid pitching but the offense was beset by injuries as 1B Kendry Morales and OF Carlos Beltran both missed most of the season. Among the healthy, no one produced over 800 OPS. OF Armando Rios (797 OPS) was the top run producer but the team needs health and consistency from the rest of the lineup to have a chance in 2011. Among the pitchers, Jonathan Sanchez emerged as the team ace (13-9 2.88 221K). But on the downside, the collapse of Jon Broxton, whose performance only worsened as the season progressed, has the team looking for a new closer.
Looking ahead to 2011, Sanchez will be joined in the rotation by veteran lefty Barry Zito and a combo of youthful arms to be drawn from Savannah's extensive list of emerging pitching talent; Mejia, Gee, Rzepczynski, Rogers, O'Sullivan, Ross, and Brackman. As of now, the lineup is expected to include Napoli C, Morales 1B, Phillips 2B, Peralta 3B, Izturis SS, Rios OF, Beltran OF, Bourn OF. Mike Moustakas should bid for playing time at 3B and Jesus Montero C-1B as well. That sounds like what this offense needs.
July 11, 2010
3B prospect Mike Moustakas named to start for the US side in the Futures Game. Moustakas is making a bid for a Texas League Triple Crown. On another positive note, BA reports that his defense has improved as well and he's likely stay at the hot corner.
June 5, 2010
Peralta returns to SS -- In an effort to put some life in the lineup, Carpetbagger skipper Billy T. Sherman has decided to use Jhonny Peralta (751 OPS) as starting shortstop against right handed pitching. Defensive whiz Cesar Izturis (544 OPS) will remain the starting SS against lefties whom he hits somewhat better than righties. Peralta now plays every day as he starts at 3B versus lefties while 3B vs. RHers Jose Bautista moves to the OF v. LHers in a platoon with Michael Bourn. Sherman acknowledges, "that's giving up alot of range" but with the 14th ranked offense in the league, change was needed.
June 4, 2010
Let's check in on the Carpetbagger farm system. New Top 30 rankings:
1. Jesus Montero C -- Struggling at AAA with .652 OPS. Only 20 years old? Yeah but he's supposed to be advanced. Early returns not good.
2. Jenrry Mejia RHP -- Doing reasonably good work out of the Mets pen. See below for why I favor this method of pitcher development. Only 23 IP, I think this is good.
3. Christian Friedrich LHP -- Sore elbow and struggling at AA.
4. Peter Bourjos OF -- .708 OPS in the PCL, only 8 walks/176 AB ... more poor returns
5. Jiovanni Mier SS -- .555 OPS in the SAL. Yep, it's a big jump from short to full season ball
6. Adam Moore C -- .518 OPS in the Show. Yep, it's a big jump ... hurt too
7. Mike Moustkas 3B -- 1.217 OPS in AA. Brightest star in the system this spring.
8. Gaby Sanchez 1B -- Holding down a regular job in FLA and now in SAV with Kendry Morales on the shelf. .774 OPS, needs to show more power, lots of doubles and walks at least, if he's going to keep regular job.
9. Pedro Figueroa LHP -- 4.91 ERA but adjust for Texas League. 44K:23BB & 44K/55IP makes me think I want to see how his heater plays in less hitter friendly confines.
10. Tyson Ross RHP -- Made it to the Show. Has been OK in relief but struggled when got some starts.
11. Esmil Rogers RHP -- Same comment as Tyson Ross but got sent down to Colorado Springs.
12. Andrew Brackman RHP -- Had a scary bad 10.00+ERA April when even the bat boy could get a base hit off him. Much better lately. 46K:6BB overall.
13. Scott Sizemore 2B -- Got a starting job in Detroit, lost it. Getting his act together in Toledo. .922 OPS for Mud Hens.
14. Kyle Lobstein LHP -- 5.36 ERA in SAL. Mediocre ratios.
15. Adam Ottavino RHP -- Had his ML debut last week and lost. AAA ratios are very good this year, he should be working middle relief for the Cards, not starting.
16. Reynaldo Navarro SS -- So far, he can't hit high-A pitching.
17. Kevin Ahrens 3B -- Can't hit high-A pitching either.
18. Sergio Santos RHP -- A very pleasant surprise. 0.93 ERA out of White Sox pen & now Carpetbaggers #1 set up guy.
19. Tyler Robertson LHP -- 4.94 ERA mainly in AA Eastern League. Pitching at high levels for his age (22).
20. Delta Cleary OF -- Missing in Action. If you've heard anything, please let me know.
21. Tim Federowicz C -- Got off to a quick start but has settled down to a .706 OPS in Carolina League. Reputation as good defender.
22. Cedric Hunter OF -- Hitting .303 and drawing walks in AA. Better than expected.
23. Josh Butler RHP -- Just coming back from injury, 4 shutout IP in AA Huntsville after some wobbly outings in high A.
24. Enrique Burgos RHP -- Waiting for short season ball to see what he can do.
25. Kris Harvey RHP --- Just got off the shelf. One strong outing in Jupiter so far.
26. Andrew Carignan RHP -- Crazy hot and wild in Stockton. 21K:14BB ... 13.1IP
27. Cesar Ramos LHP -- Soft tosser struggling to make transition to big leagues. Could be Carpetbags #2 lefty out of the pen.
28. Dustin Richardson LHP -- Might get that job that Savannah had slated for Cesar Ramos.
29. Brett Hunter RHP -- 13K:7BB in 7.1IP in the same bullpen as Carignan!
30. Stephen Marek RHP -- Posted an 0.00 ERA 18:1 K:BB in AA Mississippi. Got promoted and claimed.
Some high profile causes for concern here, from Montero's slump to Freidrich's arm to Mier's sub-Mendoza hitting. Moustakas was expected to improve his hitting stats in AA, but his performance so far is crazy good even with a Texas League adjustment. Have seen some very rapid advances in pitching; Mejia, Ross, and especially Santos. Could see more.
April 27, 2010
Today Savannah claimed two older prospects off waivers; Alfredo Simon and Stephen Marek. Simon was recently recalled by the Orioles and Marek is dominating at AA. Simon provides immediate pitching depth and Marek could advance later this year. P Andrew Carignan, who has only pitched 2 pro innings since the beginning of the 2009 season and SS Cale Iorg, who is sporting a sub .500 OPS while repeating AA, were both released.
April 26, 2010
Prospect Pitcher Dillon Gee ("best control") was dealt along with $15 to the Hagerstown Hobgoblins for veteran OFer Johnny Damon. The move was in response to injuries to both Carlos Beltran and Aaron Rowand. Three weeks into the season, the Carpetbaggers are in the middle of the pack and enjoying good ptiching performances from Andy Pettitte, Jon Sanchez, and Jon Broxton. However, our offense is sputtering as predicted. It is hoped that Damon's still superior on base skills will help improve the offense's production.
April 7, 2010
After years of trading picks and prospects and trying to win with aging stars, the Carpetbaggers have shifted over the course of the last year to a focus on developing young talent. Veteran talent is still valued in Savannah, but the organization has prioritized building depth in the farm system. Early returns look promising, as the team enters the season with eight rookies on MLB rosters. The rookies are C Adam Moore, 1B Gaby Sanchez, 2B Scott Sizemore and 5 pitchers; Jennry Mejia, Tyson Ross, Esmil Rogers, Cesar Ramos & Sergio Santos. Four of those pitchers could become rotation starters before the season is over, although all start the season in the bullpen. The rapid advance of Mejia to the majors has been a major item of controversy with most commentators arguing that 20 year old Jennry should be in AA ball developing his secondary pitches. But my thinking is that the best pitching coach is presumably the one in the Show and the old Earl Weaver method of using high ceiling young pitchers out of the bullpen may be the better way to avoid overuse of a prospective ace than serving as a rotation horse in the minors. In Mejia's case he has a top shelf heater and so-so secondary pitches so short relief may actually be his best future.
The Baggers open the season with a rotation of Jon Sanchez, Andy Pettitte, Paul Maholm, Scott Feldman, and Jake Westbrook. Westbrook was slated to be a spot starter/long reliever but a broken finger in Spring training action put Marc Rzepczynski on the shelf before Opening Day. Livan Hernandez now takes on the extra starter role with Brian Moehler available as well to eat innings. Jon Broxton provides the franchise with a dominant closer. Sean Burnett is cast in the role of first lefty out of the pen while Jeremy Accardo, Mitchell Boggs, and Miguel Batista provide further bullpen depth.
The starting lineup at the outset includes C Mike Napoli, 1B Kendry Morales, 2B Brian Roberts, SS Cesar Izturis, RF Alex Rios. Carlos Beltran was slated for CF but opens the season on the DL, so Aaron Rowand fills in for now. LF is a platoon of Michael Bourn and Ryan Raburn. 3B is unsettled, I would prefer to go with Mike Lowell but he does not appear likely to get enough playing time. Jose Bautista will play the hot corner versus lefties although Jhonny Peralta may ultimately claim the job if his hitting numbers revive. Rookies Moore, Sanchez and Sizemore open the season as second stringers at C, 1B and 2B but all of them look to see significant action, Ivan Rodriguez provides defensive depth behind the plate, while Ramon Santiago and Andres Blanco give us two utility infielders. Gabe Gross makes the roster as a left handed pinch hitter and backup in the OF. 3B/OF Mat Gamel also opens the season hurt and probably needs some AAA time before he's ready to contribute his power in Savannah.
Without Beltran in the lineup, I don't think the lineup is going to be productive enough for this team to make a "worst to first" run, but this team appears to have a lot of depth and should be a respectable middle of the pack team at least.
Down on the farm, all eyes will be on C Jesus Montero who looks to be much more than a masher at the plate, the teenager has shown very advanced hitting skills but is almost surely going to be a 1B/DH type. Most of the winter, I was leaning towards David Price as the first overall pick of the 2010 SJL draft but ultimately couldn't resist the young power hitter. With the promotion of Mejia to the Bigs, lefty Christian Friedrich becomes the highest profile pitching prospect and is expected to open the season in AA along with fellow lefty Pedro Figueroa. At AAA, hard throwing Adam Ottavino and control master Dillon Gee provide two more possible sources of ML pitching help for this season. I'm also very intrigued to see if fireballer Andrew Brackman can advance this year, he appears headed to Advanced-A ball at this point. Also excited about Tyler Robertson and his hammer curve which should miss some bats in Advanced-A play. Reliever Kris Harvey may surface in the majors this season and college closer Andrew Carignan may not be far behind. Scott Moviel and Tyler Sample should both be in Advanced-A ball to start the year. Kyle Lobstein is headed for Slow-A play and has a high ceiling despite having a soft-tosser of a surname. Youngest player on the roster Enrique Burgos may not yet be ready for full season ball.
Beyond Montero, SS Jiovanni Mier is the most exciting everyday playing prospect. Mier has great promise as both a hitter and a glove man, he should play in the SAL this year, so I hope to see him up close in Savannah this summer. At AAA, speedy Pete Bourjos may be close to ready adding yet another plus flycatcher to an OF that already has a bunch of guys who can be Centerfield. 3B-OF Mike Moustakas is a Greek Olympian and another touted hitting prospect to watch. C Tim Federowicz was my last draft choice and is a good defensive catcher, hopefully he can hit Advanced-A pitching. SS Reynaldo Navarro can field the position and scouts think he has ability to hit. 3B Kevin Ahrens and SS Cale Iorg can both field their positions as well but have yet to impress as hitters. OFers Delta Cleary and Cedric Hunter are both plus athletes with high ceilings and limited achievement as run producers to date.
March 17, 2010 (revised: March 30, 2010)
Savannah Carpetbagger Prospects:
1. Jesus Montero C -- Mashed his way to and through AA ball by age 19, headed to 1B
2. Jennry Mejia RHP -- Another precocious teenager in AA, has a mid 90s heater with great movement
3. Christian Friedrich LHP -- Great repertoire featuring a hammer curve
4. Peter Bourjos CF -- Super speedy flycatcher who got on base and stole bases at AA
5. Jiovanni Mier SS -- Promising bat as well as glove
6. Adam Moore C -- Ready for primetime, good defense and power
7. Mat Gamel 3B -- High power ceiling, needs to make contact and move to RF
8. Mike Moustakas 3B -- Good power and batting average celing, excellent throwing arm
9. Gaby Sanchez 1B -- Another ready for prime timer, good OBP skills
10. Pedro Figueroa LHP -- Late blooming lefty with plus fastball
11. Tyson Ross RHP -- Plus slider, advanced SP prospect
12. Esmil Rogers RHP -- Plus heater and plus slurve, another advanced minor league pitcher
13. Andrew Brackman RHP -- High 90s heat ... when healthy
14. Scott Sizemore 2B -- Plus OBP skills, ready to be a top of lineup starter
15. Kyle Lobstein LHP -- Despite name has yet to perfect his changeup
16. Adam Ottavino RHP -- Yet another hard thrower, looking like a setup guy
17. Reynaldo Navarro SS -- Can field, maybe hit
18. Kevin Ahrens 3B -- Plus throwing arm
19. Sergio Santos RHP -- Best fastball velocity on this list
20. Cale Iorg SS -- Can catch, can throw ...
21. Tyler Sample RHP -- Yes, I like kids who can bring heat
22. Tyler Robertson LHP -- Plus curveball
23. Delta Cleary OF -- Has all the tools
24. Scott Moviel RHP -- Another plus fastball
25. Tim Federowicz C -- Good defense
26. Cedric Hunter OF -- Athletic, older than Cleary, but still has upside
27. Dillon Gee RHP -- OK, this one's a control pitcher
28. Enrique Burgos RHP -- Youngest player on the roster
29. Kris Harvey RHP -- Relief pitching runs in the family
30. Andrew Carignan RHP -- College closer
31. Cesar Ramos LHP -- Plus change-up
March 15, 2010
Best Tools:
Hitter for Average Jesus Montero
Hitter for Power Jesus Montero
K-zone Discipline Scott Sizemore
Fastest Baserunner Peter Bourjos
Best Athlete Delta Cleary
Best Fastball Jennry Mejia
Best Curveball Christian Friedrich
Best Slider Tyson Ross
Best Changeup Cesar Ramos
Best Control Dillon Gee
Best Def C Tim Federowicz
Best Def IF Jiovanni Mier
Best IF Arm Mike Moustakas
Best Def OF Peter Bourjos
Best OF Arm Delta Cleary
Projected 2013 Carpetbagger Lineup:
C- Mike Napoli
1B- Jesus Montero
2B- Scott Sizemore
SS- Jovanni Mier
3B- Mike Moustakas
RF- Mat Gamel
CF- Peter Bourjos
LF- Michael Bourn
SP- Jenrry Mejia
SP- Christian Friedrich
SP- Jonathan Sanchez
SP- Marc Rzepczynski
SP- Paul Maholm
CL- Jon Broxton
January 20, 2009
RHP Tyson Ross is #6 Oakland prospect & has "best slider" in the A's organization.
January 18, 2009
OF Peter Bourjos rates as BA's #2 prospect in the LA Angels organization. Also "fastest baserunner" and "best defensive outfielder."
January 11, 2009
3B Mike Moustakas rates as BA's #4 prospect in the KC Royals organization. Also "best power hitter" and "best infield arm."
January 8, 2009
Baseball America rates 2B Scott Sizemore #10 prospect & "best hitter for average" in the Detroit Tigers organization.
January 4, 2009
Baseball America says Sergio Santos has "best fastball" in the White Sox organization.
December 21, 2009
Baseball America identifies Nevin Ashley as "best defensive catcher" in the Tampa Rays organization.
December 15, 2009
Baseball America says 3B Kevin Ahrens has "best infield arm" in Toronto Blue Jays organization.
December 1, 2009
Baseball America names LHP Christian Friedrich #2 Colorado Rockies prospect & "best curve ball" in the organization.
BA names RHP Esmil Rogers #9 Colorado prospect.
November 24, 2009
Baseball America also reports form the AFL that Sergio Santos & Jenrry Mejia recorded the second & third highest velocities, respectively, both clocking in on the radar gun at 98+ mph
November 13, 2009
Baseball America names 1B-3B Gaby Sanchez #5 Florida Marlins prospect.
November 12, 2009
OF Michael Bourn wins his first Gold Glove.
November 9, 2009
RHP Esmil Rogers debuted last Saturday in the DWL, pitching 4 shutout innings.
November 7, 2009
Baseball America names RHP Jenrry Mejia #1 New York Mets prospect! & "best fastball" in organization
October 19, 2009 -- Carpetbagger prospects in the Arizona Fall League:
2B Scott Sizemore - Peoria Javelinas
RHP Jenrry Mejia - Surprise Rafters
3B Mike Moustakas - Surprise Rafters
RHP Scott Moviel - Surprise Rafters
2B Jose Vallejo - Peoria Saguaros
RHP Sergio Santos - Peoria Javelinas
LHP Tony Watson - Scottsdale Scorpions
C Nevin Ashley - Phoenix Devil Dogs
October 15, 2009 -- Eight Carpetbagger prospects named to Baseball America's League Top 20 Prospects:
#2 California Lg - Christian Friedrich LHP
#7 Florida St Lg - Jenrry Mejia RHP
#7 Texas Lg & #12 Pacific Coast Lg - Esmil Rogers RHP
#8 Carolina Lg - Mike Moustakas 3B
#9 Texas Lg - Peter Bourjos CF
#14 Eastern Lg - Marc Rzepczynski LHP
#16 Eastern Lg - Scott Sizemore 2B
#20 Pacific Coast Lg - Gaby Sanchez 1B
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