Jays v Phillies at Bright House. Wednesday March 31.
Baseball is a funny game and totally unpredictable. I went to the park along with many other Jays fans thinking this would be a win for Halladay in his first start against former team.
Instead this game was over with one out. Jays hitters hit Doc hard from the lead off double to the wall by Bautista and the two run home run by Aaron Hill to take a 2-0 lead before most had sat down.
Lind gets a double. Encarnacion double brings in Adam, Gonzalez single brings in Edwin. And that was 4-0 to Jays in top of the first.
Halladay settles in but it was too late. Second inning Cecil leading off did not take his bat off his shoulder and let Roy throw strikes. That was all he needed to settle down. Unfortunate timing to have Cecil coming up at that time.
By the way Cecil did that all three at bats, was he told to avoid any type of injury by swinging or even bunting or getting on base?
Phillies had their first team lineup out there but Cecil too good this time around.
But this was Jays day today at Bright House. Vernon adds a fifth with sac fly in the top of the fifth. Downs, Frasor and Valdez are enough to protect the lead for Cecil and give three scoreless innings to finish this one off.
Cecil was outstanding and certainly pitched well enough for the rotation. Getting very tight now but with Rzepczynski now injured Jays need backup to start the season at least. Evidently 4-6 weeks. Eveland and Cecil this week have given very strong outings.
Alex Gonzalez starts again and fumbles it right away in bottom of the first to let leadoff Rollins get on base, that was a routine Johnny Mac ball Cito and you know it. No error given but sorry that was playable. The negative of this play was that Cecil needed a good start after that 4-0 lead and to get his ground ball to short and then to see Rollins on first was not good but to his credit he then got three more outs.
What is wrong with Jayson Werth ? A shadow of his form last season. Now down to .173 average after today’s 0-3.
Jays hitters meantime nine hits today with multiple hits for Bautista and Hill. This should be an interesting season if we can see one or other of these two on base for the big bats. However Adam Lind is all at sea right now, not having a good time at all, one hit today but average at .214. When we look at Bautista and Hill respectively at .444 and .447, you realize he is not having a good spring but he will get his swing and all will be well.
More good stuff today a great bunt single by Michael MCoy, this kid can run down that line. No doubt about it today. Johnny Mac trademark play in the eighth, deep in the hole right on the grass to make the play and the throw. On the bench ??? Come on Cito especially when Gonzalez messes a far easier one in the first. Encarnacion also another error, misjudged one at third, I don’t think we appreciated how good Scott Rolen was at third until we see Encarnacion. Let’s be more generous than the scorer and hope Edwin is rusty. Aaron's second home run in as many games. Great to see him hot.
Cecil is the story today though despite giving up two home runs he was hot.
Before the game Chavez to Vegas, this must have been a late call as he was already on the scorecard at Bright House. Molina now the backup catcher, no surprise.
Tomorrow Tallet goes against the Yankees in the last Dunedin game of the spring. There are two more games in Houston before opening day.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Jays lose to Yankees despite Aaron's home run
Jays play Yankees in Tampa tonight.
Big changes as they send Carlson and Purcey to Vegas and Jeremy Reed to minors.
Rzepzcynski pitching tonight has to prove something now that Dana Eveland is making a very strong pitch excuse the pun for rotation.
Gonzalez playing short tonight but this is not the starting day lineup. Chavez is catching so is Cito still playing with the fans about Johnny Mac?
Yankees have Jeter, Johnson, Thames and Rodriguez, Winn, Pena, Webb, Cervelli and Golson in centre.
Mitre pitching for Yankees three up and down in first inning. Lind’s strikeout gives him average of .194 Ouch Adam.
Rzepczynski walks Jeter and immediately steals second. Johnson singles and brings in Jeter, and Yankees are up 1-0.Thames strikes out, A-Rod singles. Yankees leave two on.
Mitre through Jays order nine up and down. Rzepczynski settles and no more runs through three Jeter walks but Johnson grounds into double play, Gonzalez and Hill a rarity this spring.
Top of fourth: Finally Jays get it going Bautista gets a single top of the fourth to break up the no-hitter. Steals second, Cito wants to get every edge here tonight. Here we go that’s better Aaron gets hold of this one a home run, number three for Aaron this spring, two runs score and Jays out in front. 2-1. Lind doubles, Mitre unraveling here three consecutive hits. Overbay into double play to end the inning.
Bottom fourth A-Rod walks. Winn singles, two on not outs. Rzepczynski’s turn for trouble. Pena doubles A-Rod scores. That lead didn’t last long. Weber gets another and Yanks out 3-2. Rzepczynski did himself no favours giving up that lead but may make it easier for Cito and that rotation.
Top fifth. Jays go quietly three up and down. Bottom of inning. Rzepczynski still pitching facing top of the order for the third time. Jeter triples. Two hits and walk tonight. Johnson likes this gift and brings in Jeter no problem. 4-2 Yankees. A-Rod singles, runners at the corners. Pena singles 5-2. That’s it, Cito has had more than enough Buzachero now pitching, he of the 40.50 ERA, this should be interesting. Sheep thrown to the wolves. But to be fair he has only had one other outing against Detroit where he had three hits and two walks in two thirds of an inning. Let’s hope he has his real stuff tonight.Gets Weber to ground out and end this, and reduces his ERA to 27.00 he will take that.
Top sixth. Well let’s see what the Jays hitters can do here. Not much so far besides Aaron’s home run. That was quick three up and down and Jays are making Mitre look like Halladay.
Bottom sixth. Buzacerro out there facing Cervelli doubles, nice start. Gets out of that one with only two hits and no damage and brings down that ERA to 13.50. Nice… It’s all relative friends. But at least he stops the bleeding. Mathews in right for Bautista and McCoy at second for Hill.
Top seventh. Jays running out of time to make any difference tonight. Marte now pitching. Lind with one hit tonight. Long overdue to get his power going. Fly ball out. Vernon grounds to third error on A-Rod and Vernon safe Mastroianni pinch running. Overbay a hit. Ruiz now running for Lyle. Encarnacion walks to load bases for Travis. There we go Travis, that feels good, sac fly and brings the run in Mastroianni. 5-3. Gonzalez fly ball and leaves two runners on.Average drops to.206. Don’t tell me this guy is in the team for his glove only because here is a far far better glove for short in Johnny Mac..
Bottom seventh: Camp now pitching. Johnny Mac. replaces Gonzalez with Macs average at .321. Conpared to .206 for Gonzalez ?? The fans rest their case Cito.
Ground out and two strike outs good quick inning for Camp. ERA now at 3.86.
Top eighth: Girardi bringing out the big guns. Mariano Rivera now pitching has pitched four scoreless innings this spring. Three up and down.
Bottom of the eighth: Casey Janssen out there. This should be a good test for him. 6.2 innings so far. Romine catching for Cervelli,Curtis in left,Vasquez at first, Nunez at short, Corona at second, Pena moves to third, Weber DH. Casey has three up and down inning. Two ground balls and a fly ball out. 7.2 innings and no runs scored against him. He has been perfect all spring. I have a feeling Jays will need him bigtime this season.
Top ninth: Logan out there for Rivera. Lind grounds out. Mastroianni walks Ruiz at bat. Strikes out. Encarnacion fly ball out to end this one. Jays lose 5-3. Their spring record now 10-12.
The good: Aaron home run. Wells throws out Johnson at second. Two !!! double plays with Gonzalez. The bad, error by Hill. Throwing error by Encarnacion, is his wrist still bothering him? Pitching tonight Buzzachero, Camp and Janssen scoreless innings but this one got away from Rzepzcynski and has raised some more doubts about the rotation.
Tomorrow Jays face the Phillies at Bright House and after that the Yankees again. It does not get any easier. Jays have a long way to go.
Big changes as they send Carlson and Purcey to Vegas and Jeremy Reed to minors.
Rzepzcynski pitching tonight has to prove something now that Dana Eveland is making a very strong pitch excuse the pun for rotation.
Gonzalez playing short tonight but this is not the starting day lineup. Chavez is catching so is Cito still playing with the fans about Johnny Mac?
Yankees have Jeter, Johnson, Thames and Rodriguez, Winn, Pena, Webb, Cervelli and Golson in centre.
Mitre pitching for Yankees three up and down in first inning. Lind’s strikeout gives him average of .194 Ouch Adam.
Rzepczynski walks Jeter and immediately steals second. Johnson singles and brings in Jeter, and Yankees are up 1-0.Thames strikes out, A-Rod singles. Yankees leave two on.
Mitre through Jays order nine up and down. Rzepczynski settles and no more runs through three Jeter walks but Johnson grounds into double play, Gonzalez and Hill a rarity this spring.
Top of fourth: Finally Jays get it going Bautista gets a single top of the fourth to break up the no-hitter. Steals second, Cito wants to get every edge here tonight. Here we go that’s better Aaron gets hold of this one a home run, number three for Aaron this spring, two runs score and Jays out in front. 2-1. Lind doubles, Mitre unraveling here three consecutive hits. Overbay into double play to end the inning.
Bottom fourth A-Rod walks. Winn singles, two on not outs. Rzepczynski’s turn for trouble. Pena doubles A-Rod scores. That lead didn’t last long. Weber gets another and Yanks out 3-2. Rzepczynski did himself no favours giving up that lead but may make it easier for Cito and that rotation.
Top fifth. Jays go quietly three up and down. Bottom of inning. Rzepczynski still pitching facing top of the order for the third time. Jeter triples. Two hits and walk tonight. Johnson likes this gift and brings in Jeter no problem. 4-2 Yankees. A-Rod singles, runners at the corners. Pena singles 5-2. That’s it, Cito has had more than enough Buzachero now pitching, he of the 40.50 ERA, this should be interesting. Sheep thrown to the wolves. But to be fair he has only had one other outing against Detroit where he had three hits and two walks in two thirds of an inning. Let’s hope he has his real stuff tonight.Gets Weber to ground out and end this, and reduces his ERA to 27.00 he will take that.
Top sixth. Well let’s see what the Jays hitters can do here. Not much so far besides Aaron’s home run. That was quick three up and down and Jays are making Mitre look like Halladay.
Bottom sixth. Buzacerro out there facing Cervelli doubles, nice start. Gets out of that one with only two hits and no damage and brings down that ERA to 13.50. Nice… It’s all relative friends. But at least he stops the bleeding. Mathews in right for Bautista and McCoy at second for Hill.
Top seventh. Jays running out of time to make any difference tonight. Marte now pitching. Lind with one hit tonight. Long overdue to get his power going. Fly ball out. Vernon grounds to third error on A-Rod and Vernon safe Mastroianni pinch running. Overbay a hit. Ruiz now running for Lyle. Encarnacion walks to load bases for Travis. There we go Travis, that feels good, sac fly and brings the run in Mastroianni. 5-3. Gonzalez fly ball and leaves two runners on.Average drops to.206. Don’t tell me this guy is in the team for his glove only because here is a far far better glove for short in Johnny Mac..
Bottom seventh: Camp now pitching. Johnny Mac. replaces Gonzalez with Macs average at .321. Conpared to .206 for Gonzalez ?? The fans rest their case Cito.
Ground out and two strike outs good quick inning for Camp. ERA now at 3.86.
Top eighth: Girardi bringing out the big guns. Mariano Rivera now pitching has pitched four scoreless innings this spring. Three up and down.
Bottom of the eighth: Casey Janssen out there. This should be a good test for him. 6.2 innings so far. Romine catching for Cervelli,Curtis in left,Vasquez at first, Nunez at short, Corona at second, Pena moves to third, Weber DH. Casey has three up and down inning. Two ground balls and a fly ball out. 7.2 innings and no runs scored against him. He has been perfect all spring. I have a feeling Jays will need him bigtime this season.
Top ninth: Logan out there for Rivera. Lind grounds out. Mastroianni walks Ruiz at bat. Strikes out. Encarnacion fly ball out to end this one. Jays lose 5-3. Their spring record now 10-12.
The good: Aaron home run. Wells throws out Johnson at second. Two !!! double plays with Gonzalez. The bad, error by Hill. Throwing error by Encarnacion, is his wrist still bothering him? Pitching tonight Buzzachero, Camp and Janssen scoreless innings but this one got away from Rzepzcynski and has raised some more doubts about the rotation.
Tomorrow Jays face the Phillies at Bright House and after that the Yankees again. It does not get any easier. Jays have a long way to go.
Monday, March 29, 2010
Eveland masterful today with a gem.
Jays v Tigers (Game 7 !! this spring)
Jays have played Tigers seven times this spring none have been rained out….Go figure.
Today Dana Eveland and Rick Porcello and the weather is great, still lots of cloud around but hot with the sun. Afetr the last weekend very welcome.
Dana Eveland is te story of this one he has excellent outing, really very good six scoreless innings. Four hits one walk and eight strikeouts.
Starting with leadoff double first pitch to Inge but he pitched out of trouble and continued that throughout the six innings.
His ERA dropping from 1.69 before the game in five games and sixteen innings now at 1.23 in twenty two innings. His nineteen strikeouts are far and away the best for Jays this spring. He has played himself onto this team and really given Cito something to think about now re rotation. What I liked was his unflappability throughout and obvious confidence.
Johnny Mac. still playing at short and in fact we didn’t even see Alex today on the field. Johnny Mac was also the Jay to get it going for the Jays in bottom of the sixth to get Jays first hit off Porcello who had looked equally as good as Eveland. Bautista followed it up with hit of his own and Aaron made no mistake with his double that scored both Johnny Mac and Bautista for Jays to take the lead.
The Jays goat today was Figueroa on his throw to first, trying for the double play but a wild throw sailing past first base and enabling runner to move to second which lead next hit to the Tigers tying run. Should have held on to it. To make his day worse he ground into double play to end Jays rally in the eighth with go-ahead run at third.
Travis today another bad day at the office missing a catchable ball in left at the wall and hitless. Jeremy Reed meanwhile a single in his only at bat.
This game was very fast over in 2.18. Jim Leyland indicating to Cito they had had enough after nine and electing not to go to extra innings today. Too bad as we have been starved of home baseball with this schedule and the rainouts and it was great weather for a change. Maybe Leyland had used up all the pitchers he brought today. Game is tied 2-2. Pitchers game today, the Jays hitters had a rough day but to be fair they were facing excellent Tigers pitching.
Other news. No Lyle at first base today, he was a late scratch so must be making sure that knee is fit or he has been traded? No John Buck catching but he has had family issues since the weekend.
Jesse Carlson out there for an inning. Looked good and recovered from injury. Accardo followed and gave up two hits and one earned run. Did not look as sharp as he had earlier.
Jays closer today Valdez had an excellent inning. Jays are getting a good look at him this spring this is his seventh game appearance. He was throwing most of his pitches in the mid 90’s. One to watch this season in the minors.
Joel Zulmaya provided some excitement clocking 100mph with several of his pitches in his two thirds of an inning and I was looking forward to Travis facing him but Jim Leyland pulls him with Travis in the on-deck circle. Valverde pitched the eighth but gave up the two hits before the double play by Figueroa.
One more home game if we don’t count the Bright House game on Wednesday. Jays finish the spring against both last season’s World Series teams so that should give them a reality check of where they stand. Two tough games v Phillies and then the Yankees.
Jays have played Tigers seven times this spring none have been rained out….Go figure.
Today Dana Eveland and Rick Porcello and the weather is great, still lots of cloud around but hot with the sun. Afetr the last weekend very welcome.
Dana Eveland is te story of this one he has excellent outing, really very good six scoreless innings. Four hits one walk and eight strikeouts.
Starting with leadoff double first pitch to Inge but he pitched out of trouble and continued that throughout the six innings.
His ERA dropping from 1.69 before the game in five games and sixteen innings now at 1.23 in twenty two innings. His nineteen strikeouts are far and away the best for Jays this spring. He has played himself onto this team and really given Cito something to think about now re rotation. What I liked was his unflappability throughout and obvious confidence.
Johnny Mac. still playing at short and in fact we didn’t even see Alex today on the field. Johnny Mac was also the Jay to get it going for the Jays in bottom of the sixth to get Jays first hit off Porcello who had looked equally as good as Eveland. Bautista followed it up with hit of his own and Aaron made no mistake with his double that scored both Johnny Mac and Bautista for Jays to take the lead.
The Jays goat today was Figueroa on his throw to first, trying for the double play but a wild throw sailing past first base and enabling runner to move to second which lead next hit to the Tigers tying run. Should have held on to it. To make his day worse he ground into double play to end Jays rally in the eighth with go-ahead run at third.
Travis today another bad day at the office missing a catchable ball in left at the wall and hitless. Jeremy Reed meanwhile a single in his only at bat.
This game was very fast over in 2.18. Jim Leyland indicating to Cito they had had enough after nine and electing not to go to extra innings today. Too bad as we have been starved of home baseball with this schedule and the rainouts and it was great weather for a change. Maybe Leyland had used up all the pitchers he brought today. Game is tied 2-2. Pitchers game today, the Jays hitters had a rough day but to be fair they were facing excellent Tigers pitching.
Other news. No Lyle at first base today, he was a late scratch so must be making sure that knee is fit or he has been traded? No John Buck catching but he has had family issues since the weekend.
Jesse Carlson out there for an inning. Looked good and recovered from injury. Accardo followed and gave up two hits and one earned run. Did not look as sharp as he had earlier.
Jays closer today Valdez had an excellent inning. Jays are getting a good look at him this spring this is his seventh game appearance. He was throwing most of his pitches in the mid 90’s. One to watch this season in the minors.
Joel Zulmaya provided some excitement clocking 100mph with several of his pitches in his two thirds of an inning and I was looking forward to Travis facing him but Jim Leyland pulls him with Travis in the on-deck circle. Valverde pitched the eighth but gave up the two hits before the double play by Figueroa.
One more home game if we don’t count the Bright House game on Wednesday. Jays finish the spring against both last season’s World Series teams so that should give them a reality check of where they stand. Two tough games v Phillies and then the Yankees.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Rainout but some good news
Jays v Orioles. Sunday March 28.
Good news first, Johnny Mac was in the lineup for this afternoon's game. Does that mean he has made the team? also in lineup Travis. Lucky guy as he has certainly not beaten out Jeremy Reed based on the spring stats.
Game is called. At 1.30. I don’t get it. Raining at 1.00 and tarps out nothing heavy but some lightning in background so good decision. But the message from announcer is “will update when we have something”.
Well fortunately we did not have to wait for an hour like last time with the Boston game, but the message given is “that radar is showing rain for the next two hours”.
Well strange it was not showing rain 30 minutes earlier, no the real reason is so that people will spend in the concessions, this is a business folks. But come on Dunedin that is a pretty lame one. They really need to work on customer service here.
Problem is that this spring training schedule has had three rainouts on top of three days off, a net loss of six days. I think Jays should probably question the need for days off in four weeks of training. This spring has put Cito in a bad position with basically only three weeks of real opportunity. Forget the days off and let’s play a full schedule. He can give individual players days off during that time but this spring it has backfired big-time.
So much for the need to clean up the administration. But back to the baseball. The decision re Johnny Mac over Alex Gonzalez, if confirmed in tomorrow’s game with Detroit (again!)can be easily justified on Johnny Mac’s stats, a clear .100 points higher than Gonzalez he has definitely improved and perhaps this is his reward. And comparison with glove? Forget it, there is no comparison. I have also noticed reduction in double plays this spring; don’t have the stats in front of me but there have been very few with Gonzalez and Hill. Alex Gonzalez is a competent short stop but don’t try to sell him on us regarding his glove abilities. Let’s see tomorrow if the lineup remains the same as Cito promised earlier.
The other notable of course is Travis over Jeremy Reed. Jeremy has had an excellent spring and it would not have been a surprise here if he were in the right field spot over Travis much as I like Travis he has not played well and his average is way lower than Jeremy’s. Jeremy was out there taking batting practice with Travis so still may be moving north next week.
Other news, Lyle Overbay was not in the lineup but official word is day to day, the MRI was fine and they are probably giving him more time to get that knee 100%. Randy Ruiz however was at first base and that is another good sign that he too is making the team. Great to have him coming off the bench in late innings and also spelling off Lyle at first if necessary.
Lots of rumours here about trades, Lyle, and also some of the relief pitching staff. Downs has the largest salary but Frasor has already been chosen as closer. Is there anyone else on the list? Meantime Seattle is desperate for another starter.
Carlson and Roenicke were scheduled today they are fighting it out for the team. Tomorrow Eveland was scheduled but we may see Ricky Romero who was scheduled to start today.
Interesting week ahead. Let’s hope the weather smartens up. Forecast is that this rain and storm system will move through overnight bringing in cooler air. Perhaps I can wear my long-sleeved Johnny Mac shirt tomorrow.
Good news first, Johnny Mac was in the lineup for this afternoon's game. Does that mean he has made the team? also in lineup Travis. Lucky guy as he has certainly not beaten out Jeremy Reed based on the spring stats.
Game is called. At 1.30. I don’t get it. Raining at 1.00 and tarps out nothing heavy but some lightning in background so good decision. But the message from announcer is “will update when we have something”.
Well fortunately we did not have to wait for an hour like last time with the Boston game, but the message given is “that radar is showing rain for the next two hours”.
Well strange it was not showing rain 30 minutes earlier, no the real reason is so that people will spend in the concessions, this is a business folks. But come on Dunedin that is a pretty lame one. They really need to work on customer service here.
Problem is that this spring training schedule has had three rainouts on top of three days off, a net loss of six days. I think Jays should probably question the need for days off in four weeks of training. This spring has put Cito in a bad position with basically only three weeks of real opportunity. Forget the days off and let’s play a full schedule. He can give individual players days off during that time but this spring it has backfired big-time.
So much for the need to clean up the administration. But back to the baseball. The decision re Johnny Mac over Alex Gonzalez, if confirmed in tomorrow’s game with Detroit (again!)can be easily justified on Johnny Mac’s stats, a clear .100 points higher than Gonzalez he has definitely improved and perhaps this is his reward. And comparison with glove? Forget it, there is no comparison. I have also noticed reduction in double plays this spring; don’t have the stats in front of me but there have been very few with Gonzalez and Hill. Alex Gonzalez is a competent short stop but don’t try to sell him on us regarding his glove abilities. Let’s see tomorrow if the lineup remains the same as Cito promised earlier.
The other notable of course is Travis over Jeremy Reed. Jeremy has had an excellent spring and it would not have been a surprise here if he were in the right field spot over Travis much as I like Travis he has not played well and his average is way lower than Jeremy’s. Jeremy was out there taking batting practice with Travis so still may be moving north next week.
Other news, Lyle Overbay was not in the lineup but official word is day to day, the MRI was fine and they are probably giving him more time to get that knee 100%. Randy Ruiz however was at first base and that is another good sign that he too is making the team. Great to have him coming off the bench in late innings and also spelling off Lyle at first if necessary.
Lots of rumours here about trades, Lyle, and also some of the relief pitching staff. Downs has the largest salary but Frasor has already been chosen as closer. Is there anyone else on the list? Meantime Seattle is desperate for another starter.
Carlson and Roenicke were scheduled today they are fighting it out for the team. Tomorrow Eveland was scheduled but we may see Ricky Romero who was scheduled to start today.
Interesting week ahead. Let’s hope the weather smartens up. Forecast is that this rain and storm system will move through overnight bringing in cooler air. Perhaps I can wear my long-sleeved Johnny Mac shirt tomorrow.
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Jays win big on the road 11-2
Jays v Pittsburgh Saturday March 27.
Suspense time. Big unveiling of opening day lineup ? maybe, according to Cito two days ago.
No. not today.
This is the second team travelling BUT Jeremy Reed getting right field start. Sorry Travis. Lubanski in left and Gathright in centre. Molina catching, no Lyle Overbay, day to day with that knee and why risk this one? Kyle Phillips back at first and why not, he earned it yesterday. Encarnacion DH today.
Nice start for Jays top of the first, Bautista draws a walk an Aaron combining to get the first run across 1-0.
One in the first and three more in the second thanks to Jeremy Reed, three rbis in first two at bats, looking mighty good for young Jeremy. His avge .438 with 10 RBIs, and getting more confident each at bat.
Tallet pitching tough. Three strikeouts for Tallet in first two innings facing the minimum six. Nailing down that rotation spot. Oops there goes the no hitter as believe it or not the pitcher Daniel McCutchen breaks it up. But no further damage and still no runs after three.
Top of the fourth, OH boy here we go again, Bautista gets hold of this one, with two down and it is out of here, 5-0 Jays and Jose’s fourth home run of the spring. Cito is looking like a genius every day by starting Jose, he has really produced. Maybe Marco Scutaro will not be missed as much as we thought and Marco has made three fielding errors this spring with another today. Jose two hits and a walk in first three at bats today and three runs. If Jose and Aaron can continue their hot streaks then Lind, Wells and Overbay behind them are going to have great RBI seasons. Top three of the order today has all five hits. Jays hitting 3-6 so far with runners in scoring position. Cedeno at short for Pittsburgh having a rough day with two errors already.
Tallet after four still run less but two hits and a walk now to go with the four strikeouts. Kyle does not like that drops this one and is charged with the error.
Fifth Brendon Donnelly now pitching. Lubanski double. Gonzalez walks Mike McCoy pinch running for Alex. Molina double brings in two 7-0. Gathright brings in Molina 8-0 Jays and that’s it for Donnelly three earned runs. Ex-Yankee Steven Jackson now pitching.
Bottom fifth changes McCoy stays in game at short, Chavez is in for Molina behind the plate and Ramirez in centre for Gathright. I don’t think Chavez is challenging Molina for backup catcher but Cito probably wants to get a good look at him in event of needing backup during the season. Delwyn Young pinch hitting for Jackson and with five home runs already this spring a test for Tallet. Strikes him out, way to go Brian.
Tallet now very efficient three up and down and after five two hits, one walk and five strikeouts.
Top 6th Evan Meek now pitching for Pittsburgh. Top of the order again Bautista.
AJ Burnett going for Yankees against Detroit this afternoon, three walks and two stolen bases in six. Yankees leading 2-1. Aaron doubles, his second hit of the day, Emaus now pinch running, but that’s it, no joy for Jays here. Jays leave him stranded out there. 4-10 with runners in scoring position.
Bottom 6th. Now playing Diaz for Bautista at third, Emaus stays in the game at second. Mastroianni in for Reed, Cooper at first for Phillips. Collazo now pitching replacing Tallet who had great outing and moves that ERA down from .736 after that Detroit outing to . 506. If Tallet could only be consistent. I am one of his biggest critics because he drives me crazy with the inconsistent performances, one week unhittable the next awful. Today I am very happy.
Iwamara singles off Collazo, (Andrew) McCutchen doubles, Iwamara scores, Jones doubles McCutchen scores 8-2 Jays.
Top 7th: Anthony Claggett now pitching, three up and down for Jays.
Bottom 7th: Casey Janssen now pitching, three up and down, all three groundouts, .000 ERA after six games and only one hit. WOW.
Top 8th: Leading off Welinton Ramirez singles, one on for Jonathan Diaz, Emaus singles and here comes Ramirez 9-2 Jays. a hit, Cooper singles and here comes Diaz. 10-2 Jays. a hit and two more runs score
Bottom 8th Janssen starting another inning here, no just two, still hitless after six and two third innings of relief. Four ground outs and a strike out. Accardo now pitching, no problem ground out to finish off the inning.
Top 9th: Karstens now pitching Lubanski a hit, his second of today. McCoy singles, Lubanski to third, Chavez sac fly that will do it, Lubanski comes in another run scores. 11-2.
Accardo out there to finish this one off, oh boy three more ground outs and Jays win big today and Cito has some thinking to do about the bullpen. Jays fourteen hits and 7-14 with runners in scoring position.
Janssen has to go north in bullpen. We have forgotten how good he was before the injuries as he hardly played on a regular basis last season. Accardo today very impressive. Eveland I say yes. Plus your five starters.
Question marks: Cecil, Purcey, Camp, Roenicke, Carlson ? or does he take extra hitters ? Can never have enough pitching but is it better to give them regular work in Vegas and recall them when needed? That is why Cito is paid big bucks.
Tomorrow back in Dunedin for the Orioles and unveiling of THE lineup, of course injury list included. Placing a couple on the DL will give Cito some room to make the difficult decisions.
Ooops section: sorry about that double play that never was, not yesterday at least, must have been so excited it was still in my subconscious from earlier this week (McCoy- Johnny Mac).. And apologies for (omission of) spell-check last night. That’s why we have spring training, to get the bugs ironed out!
Suspense time. Big unveiling of opening day lineup ? maybe, according to Cito two days ago.
No. not today.
This is the second team travelling BUT Jeremy Reed getting right field start. Sorry Travis. Lubanski in left and Gathright in centre. Molina catching, no Lyle Overbay, day to day with that knee and why risk this one? Kyle Phillips back at first and why not, he earned it yesterday. Encarnacion DH today.
Nice start for Jays top of the first, Bautista draws a walk an Aaron combining to get the first run across 1-0.
One in the first and three more in the second thanks to Jeremy Reed, three rbis in first two at bats, looking mighty good for young Jeremy. His avge .438 with 10 RBIs, and getting more confident each at bat.
Tallet pitching tough. Three strikeouts for Tallet in first two innings facing the minimum six. Nailing down that rotation spot. Oops there goes the no hitter as believe it or not the pitcher Daniel McCutchen breaks it up. But no further damage and still no runs after three.
Top of the fourth, OH boy here we go again, Bautista gets hold of this one, with two down and it is out of here, 5-0 Jays and Jose’s fourth home run of the spring. Cito is looking like a genius every day by starting Jose, he has really produced. Maybe Marco Scutaro will not be missed as much as we thought and Marco has made three fielding errors this spring with another today. Jose two hits and a walk in first three at bats today and three runs. If Jose and Aaron can continue their hot streaks then Lind, Wells and Overbay behind them are going to have great RBI seasons. Top three of the order today has all five hits. Jays hitting 3-6 so far with runners in scoring position. Cedeno at short for Pittsburgh having a rough day with two errors already.
Tallet after four still run less but two hits and a walk now to go with the four strikeouts. Kyle does not like that drops this one and is charged with the error.
Fifth Brendon Donnelly now pitching. Lubanski double. Gonzalez walks Mike McCoy pinch running for Alex. Molina double brings in two 7-0. Gathright brings in Molina 8-0 Jays and that’s it for Donnelly three earned runs. Ex-Yankee Steven Jackson now pitching.
Bottom fifth changes McCoy stays in game at short, Chavez is in for Molina behind the plate and Ramirez in centre for Gathright. I don’t think Chavez is challenging Molina for backup catcher but Cito probably wants to get a good look at him in event of needing backup during the season. Delwyn Young pinch hitting for Jackson and with five home runs already this spring a test for Tallet. Strikes him out, way to go Brian.
Tallet now very efficient three up and down and after five two hits, one walk and five strikeouts.
Top 6th Evan Meek now pitching for Pittsburgh. Top of the order again Bautista.
AJ Burnett going for Yankees against Detroit this afternoon, three walks and two stolen bases in six. Yankees leading 2-1. Aaron doubles, his second hit of the day, Emaus now pinch running, but that’s it, no joy for Jays here. Jays leave him stranded out there. 4-10 with runners in scoring position.
Bottom 6th. Now playing Diaz for Bautista at third, Emaus stays in the game at second. Mastroianni in for Reed, Cooper at first for Phillips. Collazo now pitching replacing Tallet who had great outing and moves that ERA down from .736 after that Detroit outing to . 506. If Tallet could only be consistent. I am one of his biggest critics because he drives me crazy with the inconsistent performances, one week unhittable the next awful. Today I am very happy.
Iwamara singles off Collazo, (Andrew) McCutchen doubles, Iwamara scores, Jones doubles McCutchen scores 8-2 Jays.
Top 7th: Anthony Claggett now pitching, three up and down for Jays.
Bottom 7th: Casey Janssen now pitching, three up and down, all three groundouts, .000 ERA after six games and only one hit. WOW.
Top 8th: Leading off Welinton Ramirez singles, one on for Jonathan Diaz, Emaus singles and here comes Ramirez 9-2 Jays. a hit, Cooper singles and here comes Diaz. 10-2 Jays. a hit and two more runs score
Bottom 8th Janssen starting another inning here, no just two, still hitless after six and two third innings of relief. Four ground outs and a strike out. Accardo now pitching, no problem ground out to finish off the inning.
Top 9th: Karstens now pitching Lubanski a hit, his second of today. McCoy singles, Lubanski to third, Chavez sac fly that will do it, Lubanski comes in another run scores. 11-2.
Accardo out there to finish this one off, oh boy three more ground outs and Jays win big today and Cito has some thinking to do about the bullpen. Jays fourteen hits and 7-14 with runners in scoring position.
Janssen has to go north in bullpen. We have forgotten how good he was before the injuries as he hardly played on a regular basis last season. Accardo today very impressive. Eveland I say yes. Plus your five starters.
Question marks: Cecil, Purcey, Camp, Roenicke, Carlson ? or does he take extra hitters ? Can never have enough pitching but is it better to give them regular work in Vegas and recall them when needed? That is why Cito is paid big bucks.
Tomorrow back in Dunedin for the Orioles and unveiling of THE lineup, of course injury list included. Placing a couple on the DL will give Cito some room to make the difficult decisions.
Ooops section: sorry about that double play that never was, not yesterday at least, must have been so excited it was still in my subconscious from earlier this week (McCoy- Johnny Mac).. And apologies for (omission of) spell-check last night. That’s why we have spring training, to get the bugs ironed out!
Friday, March 26, 2010
Split Jays squad outhit Rays first team but lose slugfest
Jays v Tampa Rays Friday March 26th
Jays split squad today facing Tampa’s first team. Not Cito’s fault, the spring schedule this year has been a mess compounded with two rain outs and three (yes) three days off. That is five days wasted for Cito to get this squad sorted out. It has meant that Marcum for example with only one spring outing has had to throw in a simulated game. Today he gets his only second appearance and that is against a hot Rays lineup. No second stringers today for him. Cito is thus left with the only option he has to spoilt the squad into two and divide up the team today, making both slit games opportunity for blowouts. In comparision Rays have played four more games than Jays this spring already and are set with their lineup.
Fortunately today is the last of this nonsense and Jays will field their starting day lineup tomorrow and for rest of the spring. This only gives them a week. Today however the squad is spilt and Jays have only four of their lineup out there (the infield) with most of the remainder playing Boston in the other split squad game.
So we have recipe for huge blowout and it started that way with a shaky or rather very, very rusty Marcum. This guy has pitched in one real game in over a year. Not surprising that Rays lineup enjoyed the first inning; scoring three to take early 3-0 lead. In addition Rays Crawford takes out Lyle at first running directly into him and injuring knee although after the game Marcum is saying it was his throw inside that pulled Lyle into Crawford’s path. Lyle leaves the game after only five minutes leaving three !!! first team to face the Rays opening day lineup.
However give these Jays credit. They storm back in the bottom of the first against Davis and score three of their own courtesy of a three run home run by Kyle Phillips who came into to replace Lyle at first. Great move Cito……
But alas even though Jays get another in the second to go up 4-3, Rays superior batting lineup proves too much for Marcum today who gives up but the roof fell in the sixth with Register replacing Marcum and giving up hit after hit after hit until Cito finally pulls him after giving up five more runs to make it 14-4 after six and the stadium emptying.
But these Jays never give up and in the bottom of the eighth score four more themselves mainly on the three run triple by John Tolisano (his first hit this sporing in four games and six at bats, it was really a double but the funble by Rays enbaled him to take third and another run to score) and then in the bottom of the ninth a two run home run by Jose Molina to make it 14-10 but that was as far as they could go today. Great ninth inning by Kevin Gregg, looked very very sharp, meaning business from the first pitch and three up three down inning. The best we have seen him all spring. Great to see.
The heroes today though Jeremy Reed three hit game, playing hard for that outfield spot. Phillips three hit game and triple short of the cycle. Not bad for a replacement. Aaron three hits and the big one in the first a double to the wall to get the game going for the Jays after going down three in the top of the inning. Double steal. Everyone’s favourite Michael McDade DH today and with three hits. This kid has the tools at age of twenty. We should follow him during the season. Molina two out bottom of the ninth with two run home run. Jays have 16 hits and ten runs.
The bad: Marcum ? No. I think for the reasons above including lack of pitching time this spring hurt Shawn today. He probably has only one more start and that should be against the Yankees on Thursday next week. He needs more work, Jays are gambling with him right now for April 5th. Hill, the usually very efficient Aaron, blew his copy book when he failed to run out what he thought was a foul ball down first base line which turned out fair and bounced off first baseman and Aaron could have made first base but left it too late. Bad mental error. Cito immediately went into the dugout and I hope gave Aaron the same message. Register, well suffice to say that this kid is not ready to face the Rays first team. Faced nine in two thirds of an inning, five runs five hits and two walks, he will remember this outing for a long time.
Tampa ? hard to judge as they were not playing anything like the Jays lineup they will see during the season. Even so they were outhit by the Jays. They made two bad fielding errors, I do believe that Crawford did not need to run into Lyle. Rays starter Davis had a rough start.
Meantime with the other half of the first team playing Boston they all go hitless…
Wells, Encarnacion, Lind, Snider, Buck as they lose 3-2. But again not as bad as it seems as Jays outhit Boston 9-6 and are winning this one 2-0 until the bottom of the ninth when Boston score three off non-roster invite Zach Jackson who played for Cleveland last season.
Brad Emaus playing at second, had a perfect game with three hits in four at bats with a walk and two RBIs. Cecil and McCleary went seven scoreless two hit innings and only one walk before Jackson. Johnny Mac gets another hit taking his average to .320. Cecil making a late run for the roster but probably too late. Cito will give him at least one more shot next week and we shall also see Brad Purcey again. McCoy playing in left field and leading off had one hit, one run and a walk and his average at .474.
So with one week to go Cito will make the decision for starting lineup. Who will it be in the outfield ? Snider, Reed, Gathright or ?
And is the pitching roster settled ? Will Cecil, Purcey or Eveland be in the mix? Or is it settled at Marcum, Rzcepzynski, Morrow, Romero and Tallet? And is Frasor the closer or did Kevin Gregg show Cito enough today.
And of course is Lyle ok? Report from clubhouse is that it is a knee contusion and that Lyle is day to day.
Jays split squad today facing Tampa’s first team. Not Cito’s fault, the spring schedule this year has been a mess compounded with two rain outs and three (yes) three days off. That is five days wasted for Cito to get this squad sorted out. It has meant that Marcum for example with only one spring outing has had to throw in a simulated game. Today he gets his only second appearance and that is against a hot Rays lineup. No second stringers today for him. Cito is thus left with the only option he has to spoilt the squad into two and divide up the team today, making both slit games opportunity for blowouts. In comparision Rays have played four more games than Jays this spring already and are set with their lineup.
Fortunately today is the last of this nonsense and Jays will field their starting day lineup tomorrow and for rest of the spring. This only gives them a week. Today however the squad is spilt and Jays have only four of their lineup out there (the infield) with most of the remainder playing Boston in the other split squad game.
So we have recipe for huge blowout and it started that way with a shaky or rather very, very rusty Marcum. This guy has pitched in one real game in over a year. Not surprising that Rays lineup enjoyed the first inning; scoring three to take early 3-0 lead. In addition Rays Crawford takes out Lyle at first running directly into him and injuring knee although after the game Marcum is saying it was his throw inside that pulled Lyle into Crawford’s path. Lyle leaves the game after only five minutes leaving three !!! first team to face the Rays opening day lineup.
However give these Jays credit. They storm back in the bottom of the first against Davis and score three of their own courtesy of a three run home run by Kyle Phillips who came into to replace Lyle at first. Great move Cito……
But alas even though Jays get another in the second to go up 4-3, Rays superior batting lineup proves too much for Marcum today who gives up but the roof fell in the sixth with Register replacing Marcum and giving up hit after hit after hit until Cito finally pulls him after giving up five more runs to make it 14-4 after six and the stadium emptying.
But these Jays never give up and in the bottom of the eighth score four more themselves mainly on the three run triple by John Tolisano (his first hit this sporing in four games and six at bats, it was really a double but the funble by Rays enbaled him to take third and another run to score) and then in the bottom of the ninth a two run home run by Jose Molina to make it 14-10 but that was as far as they could go today. Great ninth inning by Kevin Gregg, looked very very sharp, meaning business from the first pitch and three up three down inning. The best we have seen him all spring. Great to see.
The heroes today though Jeremy Reed three hit game, playing hard for that outfield spot. Phillips three hit game and triple short of the cycle. Not bad for a replacement. Aaron three hits and the big one in the first a double to the wall to get the game going for the Jays after going down three in the top of the inning. Double steal. Everyone’s favourite Michael McDade DH today and with three hits. This kid has the tools at age of twenty. We should follow him during the season. Molina two out bottom of the ninth with two run home run. Jays have 16 hits and ten runs.
The bad: Marcum ? No. I think for the reasons above including lack of pitching time this spring hurt Shawn today. He probably has only one more start and that should be against the Yankees on Thursday next week. He needs more work, Jays are gambling with him right now for April 5th. Hill, the usually very efficient Aaron, blew his copy book when he failed to run out what he thought was a foul ball down first base line which turned out fair and bounced off first baseman and Aaron could have made first base but left it too late. Bad mental error. Cito immediately went into the dugout and I hope gave Aaron the same message. Register, well suffice to say that this kid is not ready to face the Rays first team. Faced nine in two thirds of an inning, five runs five hits and two walks, he will remember this outing for a long time.
Tampa ? hard to judge as they were not playing anything like the Jays lineup they will see during the season. Even so they were outhit by the Jays. They made two bad fielding errors, I do believe that Crawford did not need to run into Lyle. Rays starter Davis had a rough start.
Meantime with the other half of the first team playing Boston they all go hitless…
Wells, Encarnacion, Lind, Snider, Buck as they lose 3-2. But again not as bad as it seems as Jays outhit Boston 9-6 and are winning this one 2-0 until the bottom of the ninth when Boston score three off non-roster invite Zach Jackson who played for Cleveland last season.
Brad Emaus playing at second, had a perfect game with three hits in four at bats with a walk and two RBIs. Cecil and McCleary went seven scoreless two hit innings and only one walk before Jackson. Johnny Mac gets another hit taking his average to .320. Cecil making a late run for the roster but probably too late. Cito will give him at least one more shot next week and we shall also see Brad Purcey again. McCoy playing in left field and leading off had one hit, one run and a walk and his average at .474.
So with one week to go Cito will make the decision for starting lineup. Who will it be in the outfield ? Snider, Reed, Gathright or ?
And is the pitching roster settled ? Will Cecil, Purcey or Eveland be in the mix? Or is it settled at Marcum, Rzcepzynski, Morrow, Romero and Tallet? And is Frasor the closer or did Kevin Gregg show Cito enough today.
And of course is Lyle ok? Report from clubhouse is that it is a knee contusion and that Lyle is day to day.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Jays lose to Tigers 5-1
Jays v Tigers, yes for the sixth time this month.
Jays send Rzepczynski to the mound today. Starting to get into their rotation positions?
Mike McCoy leading off, good choice Cito, this kid hustles, good speed. Johnny Mac to follow for the big bats. Lind, Wells, Ruiz, Reed, Encarnacion, Snider and Molina. Should be very interesting. Reed trying hard to knock Travis out of lineup and Encarnacion first game since wrist reconstruction. Plus we have McCoy and Johnny Mac looking at that utility position? Cito using this game today for some serious competition.
First inning.Good start, Mike McCoy back in lineup after his injury walks, Johnny Mac. He has been batting way down the lineup all spring; he will like this, also takes a walk, two on and no outs. Here we go Cito sending them double steal and both safe and in scoring position for Lind. Strikes out. Now Vernon, that’s the way Vernon, sac fly to bring in McCoy Jays 1-0 lead. Cito playing all the options and why not with two speedsters. Ruiz grounds out to end the inning. Willis pitching for the Tigers a little control problem that first inning. But with two on and no out at second and third, Cito will not be too happy with just one run.
Rzepczynski, he with the 4.91 ERA but has pitched well. Leadoff Thomas is hit, oh no Raburn walks, come on Marc. Guillen safe but get leadoff Raburn. One down two on for Cabrera, doubles them both in. Just like that. 2-1 Tigers. Laird and Ramirez go quietly as Marc recovers. But shaky start for both pitchers.
Second inning. Reed goes quickly, now Encarnacion, cautious taking pitches and walks, come on Travis. Not this time grounds out moves runner over but two down. Molina another ground out. Jays leave another on. Marc now one hit to Kelly but Ramirez, Inge and Santiago go quietly. Scoreless inning.
Top 3rd. Top of the order again. McCoy Johnny Mac gets a single but that’s it, left out there.
Bottom 3rd. Baltimore beating up on the Yankees 4-0 and that’s it for Aceves. Six hits and shower time. Meantime another walk to Raburn. His second today. But no damage done here.
Top of 4th. Yankees now down 7-0 against the Orioles. After only three innings and they have most of the first team out there, at least the starting infield. A-Rod 0-2 and two strikeouts. We love it.
Encarnacion meantime at bat for second time after his walk in the second, singles and steals second. Travis my man. No not this time. Jays 0-3 RISP. But this is very interesting as it means that if Encarnacion is fit, then Bautista will be in the outfield, leaving just one position. Does Cito go with Travis? Does he put Lind out there and Ruiz DH, or does he give Jeremy Reed a shot? Choices choices… Travis you have to step it up bigtime.
Bottom 4th. Rzepczynski gives up another to Santiago. 3-1 Detroit.
Top 5th. Coke now pitching, Jays 3M’s Molina, McCoy and McDonald, go quietly one, two, three.
Bottom 5th Schimpf now at second for McCoy and Diaz at SS for Johnny Mac. Rzepczynski goes the fifth without a run.
Top 6th Zumaya now pitching for Tigers. Not sure which is worse today runners in scoring position 0-3 Jays or Tigers 1-6.Neither good. Jays need some hits here. Walks Lind but that’s it and Jays go to the bottom of the 6th. Changes for the Jays: Mastroianni for Vernon in centre, David Cooper at first for Ruiz, they like Cooper here former first round draft pick. Roenicke now pitching for Rzepczynski. Two fly ball outs and strikeout and faces the minimum three. Good inning work.
Top 7th: Valverde pitching for Detroit. Eric Hinske has his first home run for Atlanta.Marco Scutaro a two run triple for Boston to take his average to .171in 27 at bats poor Marco having rough time trying to adjust to his new team.Encarnacion strikes out, Tarvis strikes out for second time today.
Bottom 7th: Downs now in for Jays. Replacements Mathews for Reed, Ochinko for Encarnacion, Aguila for Travis,and catching Jeroloman replacing Molina also hitless today. Guillen a two run double ruining Scott’s great ERA. One strikeout and three hits. First earned runs in six spring games. No one is perfect. Even halladay hada rough outing this week for the Phillies.
Fu-Te Ni now pitching for Tigers. From Taiwan made his debut last season, three scoreless innings against the Phillies earlier this week.
Top 8th: Diaz walks but that’s it for Jays who go scoreless again. Ni now has his ERA down to 4.66 from 18.00 in his first game, he has brought it down in every time he has pitched in his seven games this spring.
Bottom 8th. Jason Frasor now trying to forget his last bad outing and reduce his ERA 8.31 and give Jays bats a chance in their last crack next inning. Three ground outs and a single and 6.75 the right direction Jason.
Top 9th last chance for Jays young bats. No, Perry closes this one out and Jays lose 5-1. The good news is they don’t have to see Detroit again this spring.
Summary I think Cito can be very happy with Encarnacion and providing no after effects of today he will probably be at third. Pitching I don’t think he will be too upset about anyone today and in fact pleased with Frasor’s good outing. Downs was due for a run against him. He will not be happy with the 0-6 runners in scoring position. This is beginning to look like last season.
Now I think remaining issue appears to be what to do with the outfield? Bautista will now be out there with Vernon. Which leaves Travis, Joey Gathright, Jeremy Reed ? or… none of whom are really grabbing that spot as theirs. Does he move Adam Lind into left and bring in Randy Ruiz as DH plus McCoy as utility with Johnny Mac ? Stay tuned.
Jays send Rzepczynski to the mound today. Starting to get into their rotation positions?
Mike McCoy leading off, good choice Cito, this kid hustles, good speed. Johnny Mac to follow for the big bats. Lind, Wells, Ruiz, Reed, Encarnacion, Snider and Molina. Should be very interesting. Reed trying hard to knock Travis out of lineup and Encarnacion first game since wrist reconstruction. Plus we have McCoy and Johnny Mac looking at that utility position? Cito using this game today for some serious competition.
First inning.Good start, Mike McCoy back in lineup after his injury walks, Johnny Mac. He has been batting way down the lineup all spring; he will like this, also takes a walk, two on and no outs. Here we go Cito sending them double steal and both safe and in scoring position for Lind. Strikes out. Now Vernon, that’s the way Vernon, sac fly to bring in McCoy Jays 1-0 lead. Cito playing all the options and why not with two speedsters. Ruiz grounds out to end the inning. Willis pitching for the Tigers a little control problem that first inning. But with two on and no out at second and third, Cito will not be too happy with just one run.
Rzepczynski, he with the 4.91 ERA but has pitched well. Leadoff Thomas is hit, oh no Raburn walks, come on Marc. Guillen safe but get leadoff Raburn. One down two on for Cabrera, doubles them both in. Just like that. 2-1 Tigers. Laird and Ramirez go quietly as Marc recovers. But shaky start for both pitchers.
Second inning. Reed goes quickly, now Encarnacion, cautious taking pitches and walks, come on Travis. Not this time grounds out moves runner over but two down. Molina another ground out. Jays leave another on. Marc now one hit to Kelly but Ramirez, Inge and Santiago go quietly. Scoreless inning.
Top 3rd. Top of the order again. McCoy Johnny Mac gets a single but that’s it, left out there.
Bottom 3rd. Baltimore beating up on the Yankees 4-0 and that’s it for Aceves. Six hits and shower time. Meantime another walk to Raburn. His second today. But no damage done here.
Top of 4th. Yankees now down 7-0 against the Orioles. After only three innings and they have most of the first team out there, at least the starting infield. A-Rod 0-2 and two strikeouts. We love it.
Encarnacion meantime at bat for second time after his walk in the second, singles and steals second. Travis my man. No not this time. Jays 0-3 RISP. But this is very interesting as it means that if Encarnacion is fit, then Bautista will be in the outfield, leaving just one position. Does Cito go with Travis? Does he put Lind out there and Ruiz DH, or does he give Jeremy Reed a shot? Choices choices… Travis you have to step it up bigtime.
Bottom 4th. Rzepczynski gives up another to Santiago. 3-1 Detroit.
Top 5th. Coke now pitching, Jays 3M’s Molina, McCoy and McDonald, go quietly one, two, three.
Bottom 5th Schimpf now at second for McCoy and Diaz at SS for Johnny Mac. Rzepczynski goes the fifth without a run.
Top 6th Zumaya now pitching for Tigers. Not sure which is worse today runners in scoring position 0-3 Jays or Tigers 1-6.Neither good. Jays need some hits here. Walks Lind but that’s it and Jays go to the bottom of the 6th. Changes for the Jays: Mastroianni for Vernon in centre, David Cooper at first for Ruiz, they like Cooper here former first round draft pick. Roenicke now pitching for Rzepczynski. Two fly ball outs and strikeout and faces the minimum three. Good inning work.
Top 7th: Valverde pitching for Detroit. Eric Hinske has his first home run for Atlanta.Marco Scutaro a two run triple for Boston to take his average to .171in 27 at bats poor Marco having rough time trying to adjust to his new team.Encarnacion strikes out, Tarvis strikes out for second time today.
Bottom 7th: Downs now in for Jays. Replacements Mathews for Reed, Ochinko for Encarnacion, Aguila for Travis,and catching Jeroloman replacing Molina also hitless today. Guillen a two run double ruining Scott’s great ERA. One strikeout and three hits. First earned runs in six spring games. No one is perfect. Even halladay hada rough outing this week for the Phillies.
Fu-Te Ni now pitching for Tigers. From Taiwan made his debut last season, three scoreless innings against the Phillies earlier this week.
Top 8th: Diaz walks but that’s it for Jays who go scoreless again. Ni now has his ERA down to 4.66 from 18.00 in his first game, he has brought it down in every time he has pitched in his seven games this spring.
Bottom 8th. Jason Frasor now trying to forget his last bad outing and reduce his ERA 8.31 and give Jays bats a chance in their last crack next inning. Three ground outs and a single and 6.75 the right direction Jason.
Top 9th last chance for Jays young bats. No, Perry closes this one out and Jays lose 5-1. The good news is they don’t have to see Detroit again this spring.
Summary I think Cito can be very happy with Encarnacion and providing no after effects of today he will probably be at third. Pitching I don’t think he will be too upset about anyone today and in fact pleased with Frasor’s good outing. Downs was due for a run against him. He will not be happy with the 0-6 runners in scoring position. This is beginning to look like last season.
Now I think remaining issue appears to be what to do with the outfield? Bautista will now be out there with Vernon. Which leaves Travis, Joey Gathright, Jeremy Reed ? or… none of whom are really grabbing that spot as theirs. Does he move Adam Lind into left and bring in Randy Ruiz as DH plus McCoy as utility with Johnny Mac ? Stay tuned.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Jays lose to the Rays.
Jays on the road after their day off and facing the hot Tampa Rays today.Tampa is having a great spring and looks more like that team from 2008.
Interesting starting pitching with Dana Eveland who has pitched very well this spring but not as a starter. Is Cito looking at a number five opportunity here? Facing Rays Niemann.
Not the Jays first team lineup, only four today but all the “prospects” Jeremy Reed in there, trying hard to dislodge Travis as contender in the outfield. Also our latest hero Michael McDade who has no chance of making the team but obviously they want to take longer look at prospects. Joey Gathright also trying hard to make the team. And Chris Lubanski who has had a great spring. Joe Maddon is playing what looks like his opening day lineup.
Good start as Bautista gets on base and Lyle brings him in 1-0 Jays in the first. But back come the Rays. Bartlett gets on base, steals second and Upton brings him in 1-1 at end of first.
More early sloppiness from Bautista with error on his throw that is the second time this week and now Gonzalez at short makes a fielding error.
McDade comes through with a hit. Jays have the hits again today six off Niemann in his four innings but only one run. 1-7 RISP after four.
Jays more aggressive and are running today, Lyle goes in the first inning stealing second. Reed in the third inning taking off from second and safe at third.
Bottom of the fourth, Oh no, Bartlett connects on this one, home run and his second hit today off Eveland.
Rays extend the lead to 4-1 an RBI single to Crawford.
Back come the Jays in top of the fifth Hill walks, in comes Emaus pinch running for Aaron and Lyle brings him in with his second hit and second RBI of the day. But Lubanksi strikes out leaving Lyle out there.
Casey Janssen now in for Eveland who goes four innings, seven hits the one home run only walks one and his ERA remains good at 1.69, he will take that anyday.
Jays make defensive changes bottom of the fifth. Mayorson now in for Bautista, Mathews in left replacing Reed, two hits today so Cito has seen enough? Kyle Phillips takes over for Overbay at first. Lyle was perfect today, three at bats, three hits two RBIs and a stolen base. Good day at the office Lyle.
Crabbe now in right for Lubanski and JP Arencibia now catching for Chavez. Gathright remains in centre.
Janssen his usual excellence, two strikeouts and a ground ball and he is back in the dugout preserving his .000 ERA. In five games and five innings work he has given up one hit and one walk and that’s it. Whoa Casey.
Soriano now pitching replacing Niemann. Finally, Alex Gonzalez connects on one, and that is out of here home run his first of the spring. I was beginning to wonder whether this guy could hit anything. And Rays lead down to one 4-3 and Jays have not outhit the Rays 8-7. McDade not today, strikes out, Gathright strikes out and Arencibia fly ball out. Soriano escapes further damage.
Bottom of sixth. Defensive changes Pastronicky at short for Gonzalez, Wilson in centre for Gathright and Jeremy Accardo now pitching for the Jays. Oh no Jeremy, two out and Bartlett connects for his second home run of the game and his second of the spring, three hits this afternoon and a stolen base off Dana Eveland, he will love the Jays pitching. More to the point he is leading off for the Rays with Crawford behind him. I hope we don’t have to see that all season. 5-3 Rays.
Top of seventh. Choate out there pitching for the Rays, quick and efficient inning, two ground outs and a strike out. And back to the bottom of the inning.
Bottom of the inning. Valdez now pitching, very efficient, strikeout, fly ball and a ground ball out.
Top of the eighth Rays send in the second team now every starting position except catcher changed, Shoppach remains in the game. Choate out there again facing Phillips, Crabbe and Pastronicki, all first at bats today. Thayer now pitching, Pastronicky singles, McDade his last chance to repeat weekend heroics. Strikes out. Ouch.
Purcey now pitching for Jays, hello David. Very good, three fly ball outs. Gets his ERA down to 6.00. Does he still have a chance to make the squad, he is leaving it late?
Top of the ninth Thayer still in there, Jays last chance here. Not this time three strikeouts, that will do it.
Jays have still outhit Rays 10-9 but that doesn’t count does it? Not sure management got much out of this today apart from relief that Alex Gonzalez can hit and watching the pitching, despite the score they must be very happy with Janssen and Purcey today and certainly Eveland and Accado were not terrible by any means. Good pitching and depth is what Jays need this season to replace gaps left by both Halladay and of course Burnett from previous season.
Interesting starting pitching with Dana Eveland who has pitched very well this spring but not as a starter. Is Cito looking at a number five opportunity here? Facing Rays Niemann.
Not the Jays first team lineup, only four today but all the “prospects” Jeremy Reed in there, trying hard to dislodge Travis as contender in the outfield. Also our latest hero Michael McDade who has no chance of making the team but obviously they want to take longer look at prospects. Joey Gathright also trying hard to make the team. And Chris Lubanski who has had a great spring. Joe Maddon is playing what looks like his opening day lineup.
Good start as Bautista gets on base and Lyle brings him in 1-0 Jays in the first. But back come the Rays. Bartlett gets on base, steals second and Upton brings him in 1-1 at end of first.
More early sloppiness from Bautista with error on his throw that is the second time this week and now Gonzalez at short makes a fielding error.
McDade comes through with a hit. Jays have the hits again today six off Niemann in his four innings but only one run. 1-7 RISP after four.
Jays more aggressive and are running today, Lyle goes in the first inning stealing second. Reed in the third inning taking off from second and safe at third.
Bottom of the fourth, Oh no, Bartlett connects on this one, home run and his second hit today off Eveland.
Rays extend the lead to 4-1 an RBI single to Crawford.
Back come the Jays in top of the fifth Hill walks, in comes Emaus pinch running for Aaron and Lyle brings him in with his second hit and second RBI of the day. But Lubanksi strikes out leaving Lyle out there.
Casey Janssen now in for Eveland who goes four innings, seven hits the one home run only walks one and his ERA remains good at 1.69, he will take that anyday.
Jays make defensive changes bottom of the fifth. Mayorson now in for Bautista, Mathews in left replacing Reed, two hits today so Cito has seen enough? Kyle Phillips takes over for Overbay at first. Lyle was perfect today, three at bats, three hits two RBIs and a stolen base. Good day at the office Lyle.
Crabbe now in right for Lubanski and JP Arencibia now catching for Chavez. Gathright remains in centre.
Janssen his usual excellence, two strikeouts and a ground ball and he is back in the dugout preserving his .000 ERA. In five games and five innings work he has given up one hit and one walk and that’s it. Whoa Casey.
Soriano now pitching replacing Niemann. Finally, Alex Gonzalez connects on one, and that is out of here home run his first of the spring. I was beginning to wonder whether this guy could hit anything. And Rays lead down to one 4-3 and Jays have not outhit the Rays 8-7. McDade not today, strikes out, Gathright strikes out and Arencibia fly ball out. Soriano escapes further damage.
Bottom of sixth. Defensive changes Pastronicky at short for Gonzalez, Wilson in centre for Gathright and Jeremy Accardo now pitching for the Jays. Oh no Jeremy, two out and Bartlett connects for his second home run of the game and his second of the spring, three hits this afternoon and a stolen base off Dana Eveland, he will love the Jays pitching. More to the point he is leading off for the Rays with Crawford behind him. I hope we don’t have to see that all season. 5-3 Rays.
Top of seventh. Choate out there pitching for the Rays, quick and efficient inning, two ground outs and a strike out. And back to the bottom of the inning.
Bottom of the inning. Valdez now pitching, very efficient, strikeout, fly ball and a ground ball out.
Top of the eighth Rays send in the second team now every starting position except catcher changed, Shoppach remains in the game. Choate out there again facing Phillips, Crabbe and Pastronicki, all first at bats today. Thayer now pitching, Pastronicky singles, McDade his last chance to repeat weekend heroics. Strikes out. Ouch.
Purcey now pitching for Jays, hello David. Very good, three fly ball outs. Gets his ERA down to 6.00. Does he still have a chance to make the squad, he is leaving it late?
Top of the ninth Thayer still in there, Jays last chance here. Not this time three strikeouts, that will do it.
Jays have still outhit Rays 10-9 but that doesn’t count does it? Not sure management got much out of this today apart from relief that Alex Gonzalez can hit and watching the pitching, despite the score they must be very happy with Janssen and Purcey today and certainly Eveland and Accado were not terrible by any means. Good pitching and depth is what Jays need this season to replace gaps left by both Halladay and of course Burnett from previous season.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Spring Mid-Term Report
Jays have their last off-day of the Spring today although there are lots of cars at the Dunedin sites nd activity at Minor league complex. Still some uncertainty re final roster to head North.
Thuis a great day to write the mid-term report from this viewpoint.
More than half way through Spring training and time for the latest report as Jays 2010 team takes shape. There are still some questions remaining notably in the rotation with fifth starter, the final decision on closer, and the outfield.
Pitching to start with. Rotation right now. Cito has confirmed that Marcum will start on opening day despite losing all of last season to Tommy John surgery. Although only two official games and five scoreless innings of work he has had other sessions in Dunedin. I think his relative! age at 28 and leadership helps him over Romero the only other real option Jays have.
Thus now it looks like Marcum, Romero, Rzepzcynski, Morrow, and ( #5 ?) Brian Tallet maybe. He has had one great outing and two not so great although with some better fielding yesterday and some run support he would have been fine. Right now without McGowan or Litsch and any other pretender looks like Tallet by default. Cecil last year’s hope has had injury and not pitched sufficiently. Purcey on the other hand has had three outings but is still battling it out. He has not looked a shoo-in by any means.
Interesting to see Dana Eveland get the start tomorrow against Tampa. I think he has done well so far but would put him in long relief. Young Kyle Drabek is already off to AAA, but I think Jays fans will be seeing him in 2010 if only through the usual injuries to starting pitchers. If not, it will be September when the younger rotation arms are reaching their innings limit. He is an excellent prospect and one for fans to look forward to.
Closers still a battle between Frasor his job to lose and he is being pushed hard by Kevin Gregg and Scott Downs. Downs in particular in five games and five innings of work has yet to give up a run or even a hit and could well beat out Frasor. Frasor is his own worst enemy with his slow approach and inconsistency does not inspire any confidence the way for example BJ Ryan did (in his years before surgery).Downs on the other hand, very consistent and reassuring. Gregg on the other hand has had some rough times and right now would be third in my book. Interesting decision for the last ten days of spring.
Forgotten man Jeremy Accardo looked very good yesterday but has not been mentioned in the closing role and presumably will be added as set up to the bullpen.
Relievers. Jesse Carlson was awful in his one appearance and has to step it up with time running out. Roenicke in his four outings has been average with a rough outing yesterday against the Tigers. Shawn Camp looked awfully good in his last outing and should go north. Casey Janssen tremendous spring with four games .000 ERA. In fact I am surprised he has not started a game to compete for that rotation role.
Infield. First base: Lyle Overbay has it locked up, but Randy Ruiz and Brian Dopirak playing very well Lyle is becoming trade bait. Lyle has been his usual reliable self with three doubles in his six hits. He had that mental lapse yesterday not hustling over for the pop up but should be starting. Dopirak will start in Vegas but undoubtedly will be seen in September call up if not before if he continues his form.
Second base: is Aaron’s no doubt at all. He is having a very good spring with .467 average before yesterday’s game including two home runs, seven hits and nine walks providing lots of RBI opportunities for the big bats behind him Lind and Wells could have great RBI seasons if both Bautista and Hill continue their current spring showing . Backup at second right now is Brad Emaus but he will probably not go north unless as utility guy on the bench. I would imagine management would prefer him to get everyday play in Vegas. Johnny Mac is the utility guy although everyone has loved Mike McCoy who could have been another option in infield. In eight games he has average of .615 with eight hits, five runs and three walks. He is like a pocket David Eckstein hustle, hustle… he has been injured over the last week and we may not get the chance to see him again but I do hope we will see him during regular season in Toronto. Fans will love him the way they do Johnny Mac.
Short stop: a big disappointment. Gonzalez is solid enough but has no bat and nothing special. I guess he will be it until Hechavarria has had chance to settle in AAA but I can’t see putting $10 million in the minors for long. Johnny Mac of course has been filling in all over the place and remains backup although his hitting .333 certainly appears to be much better with multi- hit games let alone singles.
Third base: of course is the big question. Encarnacion is recovering but has not played yet and do the Jays risk him anyway or put him on 15 day disabled list and give him rehab time? He is slated to play at the weekend but he is coming off wrist reconstruction surgery and that is not insignificant. Do Jays take more time evaluation prospects? Does Bautista take it meantime and if so what happens in the outfield? Emaus has played very well at third and maybe deserves a shot to see what he can do but at the expense of Travis in the outfield? This is one situation to watch this week.
Outfield. Up for grabs. Vernon in centre is the only lock from here. He has been playing very well this spring and injury free, looks sharp and appears to be over his own wrist injury. Batting .391.
Left and right field: They have been rotating. Lind of course is the DH but has also had some playing time in left as has Travis. Bautista has been excellent with bat and glove but may have to be at third. Gathright has played outfield in right and in centre but has definitely not made the position his. He does bring extra speed but if he can’t get on base not much point and at this time he looks like being the odd man out. He says himself he is a slow starter but unfortunately on this team he does not have the option of waiting until May or will Jays take him anyway to use as pinch runner ? to steal bases? Seems an expensive spot on the bench. Travis Snider of course has been tried in both left and right and has had his problems, his hitting has been patchy but that one spell last week of three consecutive home runs in three at bats in the two games show me that he cannot be left out. There is no other player in the organization that has that capability. He has to be taken north and given time if only until Encarnacion has had his rehab. Jays have had sub- par outfielders before in for their bats. George Bell was always an adventure in left and as for Rios in right, he was not only an adventure he was a liability. Travis has shown tremendous improvement in that category making one tremendous diving attempt for a play last week. When did anyone ever see Alex do that or go hard into a wall in right? Jays management have been giving Jeremy Reed a lot of playing time to see if he can break in. Hitting .400 in thirteen games he has shown promise but surely not over Travis?
DH will be Adam Lind, but if Randy Ruiz is in the squad then Jays have a tremendous back up not just for Adam but also for Lyle Overbay at first.
Guys on the bench. Johnny Mac. And Randy Ruiz. But the big question is Encarnacion and we will have to wait to see him next week to answer that one. My money would be on 15 day disabled list to start the season.
Leadoff: When Marco Scutaro was traded Jays thought they had a problem at leadoff. Jose Bautista however has changed that perception. He has had a great spring which Cito says is due to everyday play and continuing his play of last September. With three home runs two of them leading off games, he has done enough to convince me he can fit leadoff although he doesn’t walk much. No walks to date.
Other performances: JP Arencibia catcher with power three spring home runs, one for the future. Lubanski, Cooper, Jeremy Reed mentioned above. Brad Emaus but he was also excellent last spring, hard to break in with Aaron. Ochinko with two hit game last week and of course how can we ignore McDade and his game winning heroics at the weekend.
For Cito supporters please change the channel here. (and I qualify this by saying I have noted positive changes in Cito’s managing style this spring and give credit to him)
Travis Snider is the young 22 year old outfielder who has had a rough few years in his personal life and came to the Jays organization with huge promise. Baseball is obviously his life in many respects now. His home run power was and still is worth the admission fee and generates the most anticipation every time at bat.
Starting slowly, in the last few games Travis has shown his power with three home runs which puts him on top of the organization for now at least. In addition he hit his three in three consecutive at bats over two games showing at minimum that he is in his groove. For those of you have never seen a Travis home run, the two in Dunedin are still travelling west somewhere. They are all usually moon shots.
Travis however has his problems. He gets down very easily and the last week or so struggling with his bat and glove, he has been trudging back to the dugout with the whole world on his shoulders. But give me Travis diving for a ball in the outfield and running into the wall to try for one any day. He can only get better with his glove.
NOW if there is ever an opportunity for Cito to show his reputed skills with young players then it is with Travis. But for some reason Travis is not one of the favoured few.
After the three home run performance by Travis, Cito was asked if he would make the team. “I wouldn’t think so” said Cito.
Now Cito is old school and mano macho but I would suggest that Travis is a different fish and needs a different approach. I honestly believe that Cito sees the huge potential in Travis and is trying to mould him but sometimes people need different approaches and sometimes a more supporting approach would be more beneficial.
Travis needs huge confidence building, he is a young kid (22) who is an exciting player to watch and far, far, far better than watching Alex Rios which Jays fans had to suffer through day after day last two seasons grossly underachieving at every a bat and latterly in the field and Cito stubbornly refused to do anything about him. Double standard here Cito, you can do far more for Travis by encouragement.
What you could have said was “Certainly if he continues to play like this and work as hard as he is doing then he has an excellent chance”.
Don’t ruin this kid Cito. Even if you do have plans to send him to Vegas AAA try just a little to show some understanding and give some encouragement to one of the most exciting young players Jays have had for a long time.
This is your last season Cito, you can give the Jays fans a huge legacy of your stay in Toronto if you can give Travis the coaching he needs. And from here, he should be in Toronto with daily support and coaching. Vegas will be emotional destruction of this huge talent.
Thuis a great day to write the mid-term report from this viewpoint.
More than half way through Spring training and time for the latest report as Jays 2010 team takes shape. There are still some questions remaining notably in the rotation with fifth starter, the final decision on closer, and the outfield.
Pitching to start with. Rotation right now. Cito has confirmed that Marcum will start on opening day despite losing all of last season to Tommy John surgery. Although only two official games and five scoreless innings of work he has had other sessions in Dunedin. I think his relative! age at 28 and leadership helps him over Romero the only other real option Jays have.
Thus now it looks like Marcum, Romero, Rzepzcynski, Morrow, and ( #5 ?) Brian Tallet maybe. He has had one great outing and two not so great although with some better fielding yesterday and some run support he would have been fine. Right now without McGowan or Litsch and any other pretender looks like Tallet by default. Cecil last year’s hope has had injury and not pitched sufficiently. Purcey on the other hand has had three outings but is still battling it out. He has not looked a shoo-in by any means.
Interesting to see Dana Eveland get the start tomorrow against Tampa. I think he has done well so far but would put him in long relief. Young Kyle Drabek is already off to AAA, but I think Jays fans will be seeing him in 2010 if only through the usual injuries to starting pitchers. If not, it will be September when the younger rotation arms are reaching their innings limit. He is an excellent prospect and one for fans to look forward to.
Closers still a battle between Frasor his job to lose and he is being pushed hard by Kevin Gregg and Scott Downs. Downs in particular in five games and five innings of work has yet to give up a run or even a hit and could well beat out Frasor. Frasor is his own worst enemy with his slow approach and inconsistency does not inspire any confidence the way for example BJ Ryan did (in his years before surgery).Downs on the other hand, very consistent and reassuring. Gregg on the other hand has had some rough times and right now would be third in my book. Interesting decision for the last ten days of spring.
Forgotten man Jeremy Accardo looked very good yesterday but has not been mentioned in the closing role and presumably will be added as set up to the bullpen.
Relievers. Jesse Carlson was awful in his one appearance and has to step it up with time running out. Roenicke in his four outings has been average with a rough outing yesterday against the Tigers. Shawn Camp looked awfully good in his last outing and should go north. Casey Janssen tremendous spring with four games .000 ERA. In fact I am surprised he has not started a game to compete for that rotation role.
Infield. First base: Lyle Overbay has it locked up, but Randy Ruiz and Brian Dopirak playing very well Lyle is becoming trade bait. Lyle has been his usual reliable self with three doubles in his six hits. He had that mental lapse yesterday not hustling over for the pop up but should be starting. Dopirak will start in Vegas but undoubtedly will be seen in September call up if not before if he continues his form.
Second base: is Aaron’s no doubt at all. He is having a very good spring with .467 average before yesterday’s game including two home runs, seven hits and nine walks providing lots of RBI opportunities for the big bats behind him Lind and Wells could have great RBI seasons if both Bautista and Hill continue their current spring showing . Backup at second right now is Brad Emaus but he will probably not go north unless as utility guy on the bench. I would imagine management would prefer him to get everyday play in Vegas. Johnny Mac is the utility guy although everyone has loved Mike McCoy who could have been another option in infield. In eight games he has average of .615 with eight hits, five runs and three walks. He is like a pocket David Eckstein hustle, hustle… he has been injured over the last week and we may not get the chance to see him again but I do hope we will see him during regular season in Toronto. Fans will love him the way they do Johnny Mac.
Short stop: a big disappointment. Gonzalez is solid enough but has no bat and nothing special. I guess he will be it until Hechavarria has had chance to settle in AAA but I can’t see putting $10 million in the minors for long. Johnny Mac of course has been filling in all over the place and remains backup although his hitting .333 certainly appears to be much better with multi- hit games let alone singles.
Third base: of course is the big question. Encarnacion is recovering but has not played yet and do the Jays risk him anyway or put him on 15 day disabled list and give him rehab time? He is slated to play at the weekend but he is coming off wrist reconstruction surgery and that is not insignificant. Do Jays take more time evaluation prospects? Does Bautista take it meantime and if so what happens in the outfield? Emaus has played very well at third and maybe deserves a shot to see what he can do but at the expense of Travis in the outfield? This is one situation to watch this week.
Outfield. Up for grabs. Vernon in centre is the only lock from here. He has been playing very well this spring and injury free, looks sharp and appears to be over his own wrist injury. Batting .391.
Left and right field: They have been rotating. Lind of course is the DH but has also had some playing time in left as has Travis. Bautista has been excellent with bat and glove but may have to be at third. Gathright has played outfield in right and in centre but has definitely not made the position his. He does bring extra speed but if he can’t get on base not much point and at this time he looks like being the odd man out. He says himself he is a slow starter but unfortunately on this team he does not have the option of waiting until May or will Jays take him anyway to use as pinch runner ? to steal bases? Seems an expensive spot on the bench. Travis Snider of course has been tried in both left and right and has had his problems, his hitting has been patchy but that one spell last week of three consecutive home runs in three at bats in the two games show me that he cannot be left out. There is no other player in the organization that has that capability. He has to be taken north and given time if only until Encarnacion has had his rehab. Jays have had sub- par outfielders before in for their bats. George Bell was always an adventure in left and as for Rios in right, he was not only an adventure he was a liability. Travis has shown tremendous improvement in that category making one tremendous diving attempt for a play last week. When did anyone ever see Alex do that or go hard into a wall in right? Jays management have been giving Jeremy Reed a lot of playing time to see if he can break in. Hitting .400 in thirteen games he has shown promise but surely not over Travis?
DH will be Adam Lind, but if Randy Ruiz is in the squad then Jays have a tremendous back up not just for Adam but also for Lyle Overbay at first.
Guys on the bench. Johnny Mac. And Randy Ruiz. But the big question is Encarnacion and we will have to wait to see him next week to answer that one. My money would be on 15 day disabled list to start the season.
Leadoff: When Marco Scutaro was traded Jays thought they had a problem at leadoff. Jose Bautista however has changed that perception. He has had a great spring which Cito says is due to everyday play and continuing his play of last September. With three home runs two of them leading off games, he has done enough to convince me he can fit leadoff although he doesn’t walk much. No walks to date.
Other performances: JP Arencibia catcher with power three spring home runs, one for the future. Lubanski, Cooper, Jeremy Reed mentioned above. Brad Emaus but he was also excellent last spring, hard to break in with Aaron. Ochinko with two hit game last week and of course how can we ignore McDade and his game winning heroics at the weekend.
For Cito supporters please change the channel here. (and I qualify this by saying I have noted positive changes in Cito’s managing style this spring and give credit to him)
Travis Snider is the young 22 year old outfielder who has had a rough few years in his personal life and came to the Jays organization with huge promise. Baseball is obviously his life in many respects now. His home run power was and still is worth the admission fee and generates the most anticipation every time at bat.
Starting slowly, in the last few games Travis has shown his power with three home runs which puts him on top of the organization for now at least. In addition he hit his three in three consecutive at bats over two games showing at minimum that he is in his groove. For those of you have never seen a Travis home run, the two in Dunedin are still travelling west somewhere. They are all usually moon shots.
Travis however has his problems. He gets down very easily and the last week or so struggling with his bat and glove, he has been trudging back to the dugout with the whole world on his shoulders. But give me Travis diving for a ball in the outfield and running into the wall to try for one any day. He can only get better with his glove.
NOW if there is ever an opportunity for Cito to show his reputed skills with young players then it is with Travis. But for some reason Travis is not one of the favoured few.
After the three home run performance by Travis, Cito was asked if he would make the team. “I wouldn’t think so” said Cito.
Now Cito is old school and mano macho but I would suggest that Travis is a different fish and needs a different approach. I honestly believe that Cito sees the huge potential in Travis and is trying to mould him but sometimes people need different approaches and sometimes a more supporting approach would be more beneficial.
Travis needs huge confidence building, he is a young kid (22) who is an exciting player to watch and far, far, far better than watching Alex Rios which Jays fans had to suffer through day after day last two seasons grossly underachieving at every a bat and latterly in the field and Cito stubbornly refused to do anything about him. Double standard here Cito, you can do far more for Travis by encouragement.
What you could have said was “Certainly if he continues to play like this and work as hard as he is doing then he has an excellent chance”.
Don’t ruin this kid Cito. Even if you do have plans to send him to Vegas AAA try just a little to show some understanding and give some encouragement to one of the most exciting young players Jays have had for a long time.
This is your last season Cito, you can give the Jays fans a huge legacy of your stay in Toronto if you can give Travis the coaching he needs. And from here, he should be in Toronto with daily support and coaching. Vegas will be emotional destruction of this huge talent.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Sloppy Jays and horrible,horror hitting give this one away to Tigers
Jays v Tigers. Monday March 22, 2010
This one was over before end of the first inning as sloppy fielding by infield do not help Tallet today. A pop up at first could have been had by Overbay who totally misjudged whether it would fall in or not. Followed by an uncharacteristic bobble by Bautista at third and Jays were on their way to an 8-2 beating by a strong Tigers side. Inge home run in the top of the first was three run blast with one out but if Lyle had made the catch it would have been two out and one on. These little things come back to haunt.
Later on two more Emaus error at second and a total mis-communication between short and third when a throw from left came back in with no one covering third base which of course lead to yet another run. The Jays pitchers were ready to call it quits today and along with some strange (although consistent) calls by home plate umpire made it a rough day all round. Janssen and the forgotten man Jeremy Accardo both had good scoreless innings.
Janssen in particular looked extremely good from my seat. Jeremy brought his ERA down from that 9.00 before the game to 6.00 and gives Cito something to think about in that logjam for closer. However I think decision for now at least has already been made to go with Frasor.
Tallet takes the rap for this one but in truth it was his infield that let him down five innings work with five earned runs but three of those were in the first.
Along with last season’s bugbear poor situational hitting Jays pitchers had no chance today. Jays runners in scoring position? You really don’t want to read this. 2-14 ouch, ouch.
Wells, Snider and Jeremy Reed all ground into double plays.
Cito and his staff have a lot of work to do in next two weeks to sharpen this team up. They are obviously becoming too accustomed to the long ball with people on base to get out of trouble.
They had their base runners today, ten hits, but not much use as Tigers were very sharp on fielding and also turn three double plays to end inning rallies. Jays leave 22 !!! on base today, awful. The Jays runs came from a two run blast by Randy Ruiz, (his third of spring and another two hit game) to actually get the Jays back in this one in the third and make it close but then the Tigers pulled away each inning. Doubles by Overbay, Buck and Bautista but that was it today, never when it counted.
Gathright trying so hard to make the team had one good at bat in the eighth and then stole third but Jays could not bring him in.
Another one trying hard to go north in two weeks, Travis Snider. Travis two hits today plus a stolen base, his first of the spring and looked fine at the plate and in the outfield in right.
Today one to forget but obviously Jays need more work. Speaking of which I have often criticized Cito for not seemingly being in the game. Today he was not only with the team BEFORE the anthems but also between innings came out to speak with different team members in front of the dugout giving advice and also smiling ??? This was definitely out of character. Not quite sure what that means but a good sign to offset that aloofness that the players revolted over last season.
On the other side, one of my favourite managers, Detroit’s Jim Leyland. During batting practice he moves away from behind the cage towards first base but stops to pick up a ball and give it to a little boy sitting shyly watching,a Jays fan, who looked about four years old. Nice touch Jim. Then he continues on to first and has a few words discussing some point with the two first basemen and then continues around the bases into centre field where I could see him demonstrating which way to turn on a fly ball to the outfield in order to get maximum power on the throw.
He went through this several times before continuing back to the batting cage. Jim, are you looking for a job at the end of this season? I am sure Cito does his stuff as well, but Leyland, like Maddon and Manuel always seem to be IN the game. Today Cito was as well.
This one was over before end of the first inning as sloppy fielding by infield do not help Tallet today. A pop up at first could have been had by Overbay who totally misjudged whether it would fall in or not. Followed by an uncharacteristic bobble by Bautista at third and Jays were on their way to an 8-2 beating by a strong Tigers side. Inge home run in the top of the first was three run blast with one out but if Lyle had made the catch it would have been two out and one on. These little things come back to haunt.
Later on two more Emaus error at second and a total mis-communication between short and third when a throw from left came back in with no one covering third base which of course lead to yet another run. The Jays pitchers were ready to call it quits today and along with some strange (although consistent) calls by home plate umpire made it a rough day all round. Janssen and the forgotten man Jeremy Accardo both had good scoreless innings.
Janssen in particular looked extremely good from my seat. Jeremy brought his ERA down from that 9.00 before the game to 6.00 and gives Cito something to think about in that logjam for closer. However I think decision for now at least has already been made to go with Frasor.
Tallet takes the rap for this one but in truth it was his infield that let him down five innings work with five earned runs but three of those were in the first.
Along with last season’s bugbear poor situational hitting Jays pitchers had no chance today. Jays runners in scoring position? You really don’t want to read this. 2-14 ouch, ouch.
Wells, Snider and Jeremy Reed all ground into double plays.
Cito and his staff have a lot of work to do in next two weeks to sharpen this team up. They are obviously becoming too accustomed to the long ball with people on base to get out of trouble.
They had their base runners today, ten hits, but not much use as Tigers were very sharp on fielding and also turn three double plays to end inning rallies. Jays leave 22 !!! on base today, awful. The Jays runs came from a two run blast by Randy Ruiz, (his third of spring and another two hit game) to actually get the Jays back in this one in the third and make it close but then the Tigers pulled away each inning. Doubles by Overbay, Buck and Bautista but that was it today, never when it counted.
Gathright trying so hard to make the team had one good at bat in the eighth and then stole third but Jays could not bring him in.
Another one trying hard to go north in two weeks, Travis Snider. Travis two hits today plus a stolen base, his first of the spring and looked fine at the plate and in the outfield in right.
Today one to forget but obviously Jays need more work. Speaking of which I have often criticized Cito for not seemingly being in the game. Today he was not only with the team BEFORE the anthems but also between innings came out to speak with different team members in front of the dugout giving advice and also smiling ??? This was definitely out of character. Not quite sure what that means but a good sign to offset that aloofness that the players revolted over last season.
On the other side, one of my favourite managers, Detroit’s Jim Leyland. During batting practice he moves away from behind the cage towards first base but stops to pick up a ball and give it to a little boy sitting shyly watching,a Jays fan, who looked about four years old. Nice touch Jim. Then he continues on to first and has a few words discussing some point with the two first basemen and then continues around the bases into centre field where I could see him demonstrating which way to turn on a fly ball to the outfield in order to get maximum power on the throw.
He went through this several times before continuing back to the batting cage. Jim, are you looking for a job at the end of this season? I am sure Cito does his stuff as well, but Leyland, like Maddon and Manuel always seem to be IN the game. Today Cito was as well.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
PR disaster for Dunedin Jays
Jays v Boston Sunday March 21.
Jays game rained out this afternoon but it was a disastrous day for Dunedin Jays customer service. Now it may be a case for not being accustomed to rain delays, this is Florida after all, but there are other reasons for today’s list of mishaps. Whatever the reasons it was not a class act for customer service and a black eye for the Jays organization.
Batting practice for Jays was over and the rain started at 11.45 am but it was 1.00pm before ANY announcement was made by the organization to the public. This was a game against Boston and a very large crowd of supporters judging from their colours. At 1.00pm obviously with the covers still on the game was not going to start, but it would have been much better public relations for the Jays to inform the crowd of just what was going on. And not only to let them know but to have quarter hour updates for other fans arriving. We knew it was raining but many of us had no idea whether it was storm system all afternoon? or was blowing through, what were the chances of a game etc, etc… The weather radar could see the Gulf situation and estimate storm and rain situations.
The problem is that this is such elementary customer service for a classy organization such as the Jays that other reasons were offered by the group I was with. Well they have a thousand hot dogs still to sell. And all that food and beer. Although this had not crossed my mind being the innocent naïve fan that I am, but it was interesting to see the food tents and beer concessions filled with fans who had nothing to do but wait it out for another hour.
The announcement at 1.00 stated that the postponement of the game would be until 2.05pm which was excellent news and certainly surprised many as it looked a hopeless situation. Sure enough true to form there were no more announcements as several hundred fans waited it out and of course spent lots more money!(my cynical friends).
At 2.00pm the covers were still on but there lots of positive signs, the grounds crew were gathering on field and almost right on time the rain stopped and fans started to take their seats. Cito and the crew chief make an inspection of the outfield followed by Boston and then the announcement the game is called.
Not even another hour of clean up and a five inning game?
As I write this two hours following, it is still clear. Not good my friends, we expect far better customer service than that.
Kudos however to a Boston player today. From my vantage point it looked like number 80, who stood outside in the rain signing autographs for about fifteen minutes before 2.00pm, and not only signing, but made sure everyone in that line received an autograph before he ran into clubhouse. He was the ONLY player on either side to be outside in the rain, THAT is class to make sure that every child in that line had an autograph. I wish I had your name son, good on you whomever you were. You may not be a superstar but you are definitely one in the eyes of those little kids that you acknowledged today and were the only classy thing that I saw today and Boston should be proud of you.
Probably not a good time to print the Jays half-term Report so that will wait until tomorrow.
But before I sign off today answer to the question yesterday who is Michael McDade? The young 20 year old Jays player who won the game is such dramatic fashion. Carole Jay sent me this background.(Thanks Carole)
Michael was a 6th round pick in 2007 out of high school from Las Vegas. Six foot one listed at 270 but he looks a lot less than that now. He hit 16 home runs in 108 games in Lansing this year one more than Travis Snider did when he was at Lansing although a year older than Snider.
Switch-hitter better from left side .293, .395, .498. than right .234, .355, .498. And as we said yesterday, still only 20. One to look out for in a couple of years and to follow his progress through the organization. Certainly yesterday he burst on to the scene in dramatic fashion with a 2-2 game but the two run double in the bottom of the tenth to win the game will define him to me.
His beaming face as he was mobbed by his teammates makes one realize why we all follow this great game. Thank you Michael.
Jays game rained out this afternoon but it was a disastrous day for Dunedin Jays customer service. Now it may be a case for not being accustomed to rain delays, this is Florida after all, but there are other reasons for today’s list of mishaps. Whatever the reasons it was not a class act for customer service and a black eye for the Jays organization.
Batting practice for Jays was over and the rain started at 11.45 am but it was 1.00pm before ANY announcement was made by the organization to the public. This was a game against Boston and a very large crowd of supporters judging from their colours. At 1.00pm obviously with the covers still on the game was not going to start, but it would have been much better public relations for the Jays to inform the crowd of just what was going on. And not only to let them know but to have quarter hour updates for other fans arriving. We knew it was raining but many of us had no idea whether it was storm system all afternoon? or was blowing through, what were the chances of a game etc, etc… The weather radar could see the Gulf situation and estimate storm and rain situations.
The problem is that this is such elementary customer service for a classy organization such as the Jays that other reasons were offered by the group I was with. Well they have a thousand hot dogs still to sell. And all that food and beer. Although this had not crossed my mind being the innocent naïve fan that I am, but it was interesting to see the food tents and beer concessions filled with fans who had nothing to do but wait it out for another hour.
The announcement at 1.00 stated that the postponement of the game would be until 2.05pm which was excellent news and certainly surprised many as it looked a hopeless situation. Sure enough true to form there were no more announcements as several hundred fans waited it out and of course spent lots more money!(my cynical friends).
At 2.00pm the covers were still on but there lots of positive signs, the grounds crew were gathering on field and almost right on time the rain stopped and fans started to take their seats. Cito and the crew chief make an inspection of the outfield followed by Boston and then the announcement the game is called.
Not even another hour of clean up and a five inning game?
As I write this two hours following, it is still clear. Not good my friends, we expect far better customer service than that.
Kudos however to a Boston player today. From my vantage point it looked like number 80, who stood outside in the rain signing autographs for about fifteen minutes before 2.00pm, and not only signing, but made sure everyone in that line received an autograph before he ran into clubhouse. He was the ONLY player on either side to be outside in the rain, THAT is class to make sure that every child in that line had an autograph. I wish I had your name son, good on you whomever you were. You may not be a superstar but you are definitely one in the eyes of those little kids that you acknowledged today and were the only classy thing that I saw today and Boston should be proud of you.
Probably not a good time to print the Jays half-term Report so that will wait until tomorrow.
But before I sign off today answer to the question yesterday who is Michael McDade? The young 20 year old Jays player who won the game is such dramatic fashion. Carole Jay sent me this background.(Thanks Carole)
Michael was a 6th round pick in 2007 out of high school from Las Vegas. Six foot one listed at 270 but he looks a lot less than that now. He hit 16 home runs in 108 games in Lansing this year one more than Travis Snider did when he was at Lansing although a year older than Snider.
Switch-hitter better from left side .293, .395, .498. than right .234, .355, .498. And as we said yesterday, still only 20. One to look out for in a couple of years and to follow his progress through the organization. Certainly yesterday he burst on to the scene in dramatic fashion with a 2-2 game but the two run double in the bottom of the tenth to win the game will define him to me.
His beaming face as he was mobbed by his teammates makes one realize why we all follow this great game. Thank you Michael.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
McDade and Jays steal one in the tenth in overtime thriller
Jays v Braves last game with Bobby Cox, unless maybe October. Sad to see the end of an era. I for one will miss him more than Cito.
Jays give up the go ahead run in the top of the first extra inning,but Jays Michael McDade two run double enables Jays to win this 7-6. McDade was 2-2 on the day.
Jay very sloppy in the beginning of this one going down 4-0 on three innings by Rezepzynski but not helped by fumble in left by Adam Lind which then enabled run to score in fact that run came in to play in the ninth.
Jays storm back to tie it up with two run home run from Aaron his second in two games. He is hot hot.
Braves take the lead again off Gregg but Jays tie it up again in the bottom of the ninth to set up the tenth inning drama. Valdez gives it back at the top of the inning but then Jays take control to the delight of a sunburned crowd today.
Heyward had a horrible day with both bat and glove could not get to one in right that was definitely playable. Hitless in four at bats with one strike out. In batting practice he put on a home run show for the pre-game crowd with four consecutive moonbeams.
Battle of the Jays closers today Marcum, Gregg and Frasor. Frasor definitely had the edge today although Scott Downs recovered very well. Gregg did not look sharp giving up the go ahead run in the eighth. Scott Downs meanwhile had trouble to start with and with two on managed to get out of the inning retiring the next three and still maintain that .000 ERA for the spring.
Frasor pitched a perfect ninth to close, Cito playing his hand here? Camp followed Rezepzynski and also had an excellent inning looking really sharp.
The Jays starting order could have been opening day today. Bautista, Hill, Lind, Wells, Overbay, Buck, Ruiz, Snider and Gonzalez. Lind was playing in left with Randy Ruiz DH, Cito moved Travis up one in the order. Not a great day for Travis, hitless although he drew a walk. Between innings Cito was giving him advice ? or at least words with Travis explaining why he had attacked the first pitch.
Aaron’s two run home run to get Jays back in this one which was starting to look like a rout. Vernon another RBI in the four run fourth inning. Jose Bautista two hit game to take his average to .542, I think that will be fine for a leadoff guy ! Gathright one hit but a great at bat in the bottom of the tenth to get on base fouling them off just to make contact before he did get one to hit for a single. His speed from first was the factor in no throw from the Braves on McDade’s double to right to win this one. Don't forget good walk by Lubanski to get on base in the tenth to set up the winning run.
Rezepzynski goes five innings six hits and four runs all in two innings but this was a good workout against the strong Braves lineup and Lowe pitched very well for the first three innings shutting them down.
Who is Michael McDade ??? First game today, 2-2 with winning run in extra innings and this kid is not 21 yet. He will love that 1.000 average tonight….. Give him some more time Cito….
72 degrees in Dunedin. Yeah!
Tomorrow the dreaded Red Sox….. for their only visit of the spring.
Jays give up the go ahead run in the top of the first extra inning,but Jays Michael McDade two run double enables Jays to win this 7-6. McDade was 2-2 on the day.
Jay very sloppy in the beginning of this one going down 4-0 on three innings by Rezepzynski but not helped by fumble in left by Adam Lind which then enabled run to score in fact that run came in to play in the ninth.
Jays storm back to tie it up with two run home run from Aaron his second in two games. He is hot hot.
Braves take the lead again off Gregg but Jays tie it up again in the bottom of the ninth to set up the tenth inning drama. Valdez gives it back at the top of the inning but then Jays take control to the delight of a sunburned crowd today.
Heyward had a horrible day with both bat and glove could not get to one in right that was definitely playable. Hitless in four at bats with one strike out. In batting practice he put on a home run show for the pre-game crowd with four consecutive moonbeams.
Battle of the Jays closers today Marcum, Gregg and Frasor. Frasor definitely had the edge today although Scott Downs recovered very well. Gregg did not look sharp giving up the go ahead run in the eighth. Scott Downs meanwhile had trouble to start with and with two on managed to get out of the inning retiring the next three and still maintain that .000 ERA for the spring.
Frasor pitched a perfect ninth to close, Cito playing his hand here? Camp followed Rezepzynski and also had an excellent inning looking really sharp.
The Jays starting order could have been opening day today. Bautista, Hill, Lind, Wells, Overbay, Buck, Ruiz, Snider and Gonzalez. Lind was playing in left with Randy Ruiz DH, Cito moved Travis up one in the order. Not a great day for Travis, hitless although he drew a walk. Between innings Cito was giving him advice ? or at least words with Travis explaining why he had attacked the first pitch.
Aaron’s two run home run to get Jays back in this one which was starting to look like a rout. Vernon another RBI in the four run fourth inning. Jose Bautista two hit game to take his average to .542, I think that will be fine for a leadoff guy ! Gathright one hit but a great at bat in the bottom of the tenth to get on base fouling them off just to make contact before he did get one to hit for a single. His speed from first was the factor in no throw from the Braves on McDade’s double to right to win this one. Don't forget good walk by Lubanski to get on base in the tenth to set up the winning run.
Rezepzynski goes five innings six hits and four runs all in two innings but this was a good workout against the strong Braves lineup and Lowe pitched very well for the first three innings shutting them down.
Who is Michael McDade ??? First game today, 2-2 with winning run in extra innings and this kid is not 21 yet. He will love that 1.000 average tonight….. Give him some more time Cito….
72 degrees in Dunedin. Yeah!
Tomorrow the dreaded Red Sox….. for their only visit of the spring.
Friday, March 19, 2010
Jays second team loses to Astros
Jays in Kissimee today visiting Houston.
Second team on the bus. Starter Brandon Morrow is a late scratch and Steven Register ex-Mets and Rockies player, gets the start for Jays.
Steven has pitched twelve innings in his major career. Claimed off waivers from the Rockies by the Phillies and then offered minor league contract with the Jays. Takes the first three innings and gives up four hits and two runs in first three. Houston leading 2-0.
Casey Janssen getting in his work, a hitless inning facing the minimum three and keeping that ERA at .000. He certainly seems ready. Ochinko with two singles. Accardo one scoreless inning leaves with his ERA now at 9.00.
Purcey is in trouble again in his inning with hit and two walks but finally gets out of it with the strikeouts facing six hitters his ERA now at 7.20.
Johnny Mac. today hitless in three but leaves his average at .313. in sixteen at bats and five hits.
Jose Molina getting only his second hit of the spring. Not much threat to John Buck or for that matter JP Arencibia but I doubt whether JP will go north. They need experience to work with the Jays young pitching staff. Too bad as JP is an exciting young player with great bat. We can look forward to him one day in Toronto.
Gervacio for the Atros striking out the side in the seventh.
Bottom of the seventh Rommie Lewis for an inning and faces the minimum three with two ground outs and a fly ball out, continues his streak of scoreless innings now at four for the spring.
Jays Collazzo goes scoreless inning in the eighth now up to the hitters to avoid a shutout. Top of the ninth. Walks Randy Ruiz but was that semi-intentional? But Jays need base runners..No there we go, Corcoran wraps it up and Jays lose this one.
Staff changes.
Brain Dopirak was optioned to AAA Vegas which now leaves just Randy Ruiz as back up at first. Hoffpauir also gone along with catcher Kyle Phillips who had his last shot yesterday against the Orioles.
Interesting. Alex Rios this spring .350 in twenty at bats with two home runs and evidently “working on his mental game”. Jays fans know what that means, good luck Ozzie.
Second team on the bus. Starter Brandon Morrow is a late scratch and Steven Register ex-Mets and Rockies player, gets the start for Jays.
Steven has pitched twelve innings in his major career. Claimed off waivers from the Rockies by the Phillies and then offered minor league contract with the Jays. Takes the first three innings and gives up four hits and two runs in first three. Houston leading 2-0.
Casey Janssen getting in his work, a hitless inning facing the minimum three and keeping that ERA at .000. He certainly seems ready. Ochinko with two singles. Accardo one scoreless inning leaves with his ERA now at 9.00.
Purcey is in trouble again in his inning with hit and two walks but finally gets out of it with the strikeouts facing six hitters his ERA now at 7.20.
Johnny Mac. today hitless in three but leaves his average at .313. in sixteen at bats and five hits.
Jose Molina getting only his second hit of the spring. Not much threat to John Buck or for that matter JP Arencibia but I doubt whether JP will go north. They need experience to work with the Jays young pitching staff. Too bad as JP is an exciting young player with great bat. We can look forward to him one day in Toronto.
Gervacio for the Atros striking out the side in the seventh.
Bottom of the seventh Rommie Lewis for an inning and faces the minimum three with two ground outs and a fly ball out, continues his streak of scoreless innings now at four for the spring.
Jays Collazzo goes scoreless inning in the eighth now up to the hitters to avoid a shutout. Top of the ninth. Walks Randy Ruiz but was that semi-intentional? But Jays need base runners..No there we go, Corcoran wraps it up and Jays lose this one.
Staff changes.
Brain Dopirak was optioned to AAA Vegas which now leaves just Randy Ruiz as back up at first. Hoffpauir also gone along with catcher Kyle Phillips who had his last shot yesterday against the Orioles.
Interesting. Alex Rios this spring .350 in twenty at bats with two home runs and evidently “working on his mental game”. Jays fans know what that means, good luck Ozzie.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Travis leads Jays power to huge win over Orioles
Jays v Orioles in Dunedin, back to back games with the O’s.
One guy who loves them is Travis Snider, his first spring home run yesterday against these Orioles and then two more today in his first two at bats as Jays hammer the Orioles 13-3 with SIX home runs. To add to the thirteen they already had before today. Lots of power in those Jays bats.
Two by Travis, two from John Buck !!! also his first of the spring Aaron added one his first of the spring and finally Lubanski who now has two this spring.
Anchored by only two pitchers today, Romero and Evaland Jays had no problem with the Orioles despite their run in first inning. Vernon managed to pull it back with his rbi into centre field. Just put it into play was enough. He is still getting short shrift from some fans but Vernon was hitting .438 this spring before today and has been hitting very well.
Romero had some trouble with his five innings and Evaland was not as sharp as he has been in his previous three games. But with four innings today he has given up just one run in 12 innings and an ERA of .075. That is fine in my book. I don’t think he is starting rotation but is a great long relief guy to take north.
This will depend on where they put Tallet however. I think Brian is a long relief but he still thinks he can start and yesterday made another good bid for that fifth spot. Cito likes him but I don’t think he has earned it yet. I still don’t like the way he ignores the runner on first. Romero seems very confident out there, hard to believe this is only his second season in the majors. He had trouble today but managed to get out of it without too much damage.
Other good performances overshadowed by the power guys were a nice double to centre by Johnny Mac getting a rare start and in fact he had two hits today. Five for the spring in thirteen at bats. He will like that.
Travis had his share of adventure in left field in the first inning but he made terrific dive to get his glove on one that was hammered to left centre. Great effort. He is really flying right now with confidence, great to see, his average is climbing rapidly to .290.
Despite today being first home run for Aaron he has been hitting .444 and getting on base through eight walks. Team leading on base percentage at .706. With Adam and Vernon behind him he is definitely doing his job bigtime. Another great statistic today with two outs, Wells, Buck, Hill and Lubanski all came through with RBIs. Cito will be very happy with that.
Romero’s ERA goes to .193 but I think he will still be happy with that. Jays were helped today by two throwing errors by the Orioles both by Tejada playing at third. Jays were 3/11 with runners in scoring position today and still score 13.
Interesting observation, Orioles pitcher Uehara replaced Guthrie and faced Travis after he had hit two home runs in first two at bats, threw him three off-speed pitches, Travis struck out. I think more than one scout would write that down. Travis is going to have to make that adjustment as he will not be getting many fast balls in April if he can't hit the off speed stuff. But today Travis will still take the two home runs and 4 RBIs.
One guy who loves them is Travis Snider, his first spring home run yesterday against these Orioles and then two more today in his first two at bats as Jays hammer the Orioles 13-3 with SIX home runs. To add to the thirteen they already had before today. Lots of power in those Jays bats.
Two by Travis, two from John Buck !!! also his first of the spring Aaron added one his first of the spring and finally Lubanski who now has two this spring.
Anchored by only two pitchers today, Romero and Evaland Jays had no problem with the Orioles despite their run in first inning. Vernon managed to pull it back with his rbi into centre field. Just put it into play was enough. He is still getting short shrift from some fans but Vernon was hitting .438 this spring before today and has been hitting very well.
Romero had some trouble with his five innings and Evaland was not as sharp as he has been in his previous three games. But with four innings today he has given up just one run in 12 innings and an ERA of .075. That is fine in my book. I don’t think he is starting rotation but is a great long relief guy to take north.
This will depend on where they put Tallet however. I think Brian is a long relief but he still thinks he can start and yesterday made another good bid for that fifth spot. Cito likes him but I don’t think he has earned it yet. I still don’t like the way he ignores the runner on first. Romero seems very confident out there, hard to believe this is only his second season in the majors. He had trouble today but managed to get out of it without too much damage.
Other good performances overshadowed by the power guys were a nice double to centre by Johnny Mac getting a rare start and in fact he had two hits today. Five for the spring in thirteen at bats. He will like that.
Travis had his share of adventure in left field in the first inning but he made terrific dive to get his glove on one that was hammered to left centre. Great effort. He is really flying right now with confidence, great to see, his average is climbing rapidly to .290.
Despite today being first home run for Aaron he has been hitting .444 and getting on base through eight walks. Team leading on base percentage at .706. With Adam and Vernon behind him he is definitely doing his job bigtime. Another great statistic today with two outs, Wells, Buck, Hill and Lubanski all came through with RBIs. Cito will be very happy with that.
Romero’s ERA goes to .193 but I think he will still be happy with that. Jays were helped today by two throwing errors by the Orioles both by Tejada playing at third. Jays were 3/11 with runners in scoring position today and still score 13.
Interesting observation, Orioles pitcher Uehara replaced Guthrie and faced Travis after he had hit two home runs in first two at bats, threw him three off-speed pitches, Travis struck out. I think more than one scout would write that down. Travis is going to have to make that adjustment as he will not be getting many fast balls in April if he can't hit the off speed stuff. But today Travis will still take the two home runs and 4 RBIs.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Travis comes through with the long ball as Jays win.
Jays in Sarasota to play Orioles. Win 4-1 and the good news is on both hitting and pitching fronts.
Travis Snider gets his monkey off his back with his first spring home run. Now he can relax. On the pitching side Brian Tallet gets his act together with four great one hit innings and facing only 13 at the plate. With three strikeouts he had help with the defense and six out of nine ground ball outs. This is what he has to do to be successful, get ball in play and let his defense work for him.
Behind Tallet, Camp, Downs, Gregg and Frasor provided four scoreless innings with only one walk between them and that to Gregg. Valdez gave up the one Orioles run in the ninth. Downs also had a great pickoff of Florimon jr. at first. I think Cito likes to see Frasor, Gregg and Downs fight it out in the same game, talk about incentive for that closer role.
Frasor gets his ERA down 10.80 to whilst Scott Downs has yet to have a run scored against him this spring.
Other hits for the Jay included two more for Emaus raising his spring average to .367Libanski a triple and singles to Gonzalez, Jeremy Reed, Ruiz, Gathright and Chavez. Dopirak gets the other rbi with a sac fly ball.
The not so good: Jays hitters left eleven on base and went 1-11 today with runners in scoring position, even though this was not the first team not good at all.
Berken had a rough outing for the Orioles giving up three earned runs in his three innings all in the third.
Meantime over at Bright House it was World Series match up between the Phillies and the Yankees. Crazy sell-out crowd and in fact announced at 10,640 a new ground record. Hard to tell who was supporting whom as both team supporters had their green St. Patrick’s Day shirts on. But today it was the Phillies who had the most to shout about.
Pettite v Blanton and had the best of Andy Petitte who gave up the first two runs in his four inning outing. Blanton went five and also hit twice so Phillies won with eight. One a successful bunt that had A-Rod going for it but not diving.
Phillies hero today was yes Jayson Werth obviously watching great performance by Dominic Brown yesterday and definitely looking over his shoulder. His three-run home run put this one away for the Phillies making the score 5-2 and they go on to win 6-2Jabba Chamberlain had three good innings giving up one.
A-Rod not a factor in this one, struck out first at bat to great delight of the crowd.
I also like Phillies Cody Ransom who hit two home runs against Jays last week in two separate games on the same day. Cody had another hit today playing at third. The Phillies are one strong team with so much depth. Werth was replaced by John Mayberry jr. and Dominic Brown has been sent to the minor league camp to give him as much game time as possible.
I must add how impressive the crowd control at Bright House is after the game. I have rarely had to lineup to get out of the parking at Joe Dimaggio lots. The police have the traffic control down to a fine art.Today even with the record crowd it was no problem at all.
Travis Snider gets his monkey off his back with his first spring home run. Now he can relax. On the pitching side Brian Tallet gets his act together with four great one hit innings and facing only 13 at the plate. With three strikeouts he had help with the defense and six out of nine ground ball outs. This is what he has to do to be successful, get ball in play and let his defense work for him.
Behind Tallet, Camp, Downs, Gregg and Frasor provided four scoreless innings with only one walk between them and that to Gregg. Valdez gave up the one Orioles run in the ninth. Downs also had a great pickoff of Florimon jr. at first. I think Cito likes to see Frasor, Gregg and Downs fight it out in the same game, talk about incentive for that closer role.
Frasor gets his ERA down 10.80 to whilst Scott Downs has yet to have a run scored against him this spring.
Other hits for the Jay included two more for Emaus raising his spring average to .367Libanski a triple and singles to Gonzalez, Jeremy Reed, Ruiz, Gathright and Chavez. Dopirak gets the other rbi with a sac fly ball.
The not so good: Jays hitters left eleven on base and went 1-11 today with runners in scoring position, even though this was not the first team not good at all.
Berken had a rough outing for the Orioles giving up three earned runs in his three innings all in the third.
Meantime over at Bright House it was World Series match up between the Phillies and the Yankees. Crazy sell-out crowd and in fact announced at 10,640 a new ground record. Hard to tell who was supporting whom as both team supporters had their green St. Patrick’s Day shirts on. But today it was the Phillies who had the most to shout about.
Pettite v Blanton and had the best of Andy Petitte who gave up the first two runs in his four inning outing. Blanton went five and also hit twice so Phillies won with eight. One a successful bunt that had A-Rod going for it but not diving.
Phillies hero today was yes Jayson Werth obviously watching great performance by Dominic Brown yesterday and definitely looking over his shoulder. His three-run home run put this one away for the Phillies making the score 5-2 and they go on to win 6-2Jabba Chamberlain had three good innings giving up one.
A-Rod not a factor in this one, struck out first at bat to great delight of the crowd.
I also like Phillies Cody Ransom who hit two home runs against Jays last week in two separate games on the same day. Cody had another hit today playing at third. The Phillies are one strong team with so much depth. Werth was replaced by John Mayberry jr. and Dominic Brown has been sent to the minor league camp to give him as much game time as possible.
I must add how impressive the crowd control at Bright House is after the game. I have rarely had to lineup to get out of the parking at Joe Dimaggio lots. The police have the traffic control down to a fine art.Today even with the record crowd it was no problem at all.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Dominic Brown show at Bright House
No Jays game today, a(nother)day off. But good game to watch at Bright House between Phillies and the Tigers. Today Hamels v Verlander but it was the Dominic Brown show today. What a player. Playing right field for the Phillies he had a perfect day, first at bat a bullet over the fence in right field a la Delgado used to do at the old Skydome. No doubt at all when it left the bat. Great bat speed by this guy along with his other skills. Dominic's next at bat another powerful blast to centre, next at bat an infield single showing off that great speed. Meantime in the field a great running diving catch just to let you know he has that ability as well. Last at bat he walks to load the bases. A great day for him as Phillies beat Tigers 6-1.
If I were Jayson Werth I would not sleep tonight knowing that Brown is right on my back for that position. Apart from John Mayberry jr. to add to the pot. To add to Jayson's troubles he is having a very rough spring.
Tomorrow's game with the Yankees should be very interesting, Jayson has to start performing.
Apart from Dominic's two home runs, Ryan Howard finally produced one of his own, another Howard special, no doubt at all about that blast. Some terrible fielding and errors today. Hamels himself was guilty of the Tigers first run, throwing over to first to hold the runner Jackson, and ball getting away whilst meantime runner scores from third, surely his attention should have been on that runner if not getting third out with Damon at bat. Tigers then drop a pop up between short and third.
That was it for Verlander who had pitched well. I love the speed of this guy, he can pitch a half inning in the same time that Jason Frasor comes to the mound. He really is exclent to watch, gets the all and is ready to pitch, no wandering off the mound, walking around it and then thinking about what he is about to throw as does Frasor and the bad news for Jays fans, is that he seems to be even slower and more deliberate this spring.
Of course that could be pressure telling on him as he fights off Gregg and Downs for closer role. Let's see what happens in next three weeks.
Interesting to see Hamels taking his at bats today as he pitched five. I wonder how Halladay is doing with his batting practice?
Tomorrow Jays are away so it is back to bright House to see the dreaded Yankees, should be a great atmosphere with another huge sellout and rematch of last October. Phillies will have their first team out,that is why it will be interesting to see who is in right field.
Brown
If I were Jayson Werth I would not sleep tonight knowing that Brown is right on my back for that position. Apart from John Mayberry jr. to add to the pot. To add to Jayson's troubles he is having a very rough spring.
Tomorrow's game with the Yankees should be very interesting, Jayson has to start performing.
Apart from Dominic's two home runs, Ryan Howard finally produced one of his own, another Howard special, no doubt at all about that blast. Some terrible fielding and errors today. Hamels himself was guilty of the Tigers first run, throwing over to first to hold the runner Jackson, and ball getting away whilst meantime runner scores from third, surely his attention should have been on that runner if not getting third out with Damon at bat. Tigers then drop a pop up between short and third.
That was it for Verlander who had pitched well. I love the speed of this guy, he can pitch a half inning in the same time that Jason Frasor comes to the mound. He really is exclent to watch, gets the all and is ready to pitch, no wandering off the mound, walking around it and then thinking about what he is about to throw as does Frasor and the bad news for Jays fans, is that he seems to be even slower and more deliberate this spring.
Of course that could be pressure telling on him as he fights off Gregg and Downs for closer role. Let's see what happens in next three weeks.
Interesting to see Hamels taking his at bats today as he pitched five. I wonder how Halladay is doing with his batting practice?
Tomorrow Jays are away so it is back to bright House to see the dreaded Yankees, should be a great atmosphere with another huge sellout and rematch of last October. Phillies will have their first team out,that is why it will be interesting to see who is in right field.
Brown
Monday, March 15, 2010
Jays lose in the eighth to Tigers
Jays v Monday March 15th
With all the excitement about Hechavarria, there is a game to be played today. Road game in Lakeland against the Tigers so the second team are on the bus.
Rzepczynski pitching today, not a good outing to start, giving up six hits two of them home runs in the very first inning to Sizemore leading off and Cabrera, three earned runs in his four innings.
Followed by Janssen who continued his good start to the spring with another hitless inning and keeping that ERA at .000. Not so for Cecil, another poor outing and almost out of the running for a rotation spot now, his ERA balloons to 7.71. Brad Mills was also sent to minor league camp over the weekend and Cecil may be joining him. Cecil giving up six hits in his 2 1/3 inning including home run to Boesch in the seventh.
But Jays implode in the bottom of the eight to lose this one 10-7. Four in the eighth with three earned runs off Buzzachero replacing Cecil. Dlugach doing the damage with his three rbis. Hmmm! not the way to impress but to be fair Cecil had left him with one on.
Brian Dopirak a two run shot in the sixth continues his great hitting this spring although he struck out three times today. He has an outisde chance of making the team but I think they would prefer him to get more time in AAA.However if Lyle Overbay is traded, hen a whole new ballgame at first.
Travis had a single and a walk in his afternoon.
Ruiz playing at first today, getting lots of playing time, DH yesterday. Two hits and a walk.
Jays had ten hits but spread them around and only Ruiz had two.
Gallaraga for the Tigers was not much better with his three innings of work with five hits and three runs in the third when Jays tune into him.
With all the excitement about Hechavarria, there is a game to be played today. Road game in Lakeland against the Tigers so the second team are on the bus.
Rzepczynski pitching today, not a good outing to start, giving up six hits two of them home runs in the very first inning to Sizemore leading off and Cabrera, three earned runs in his four innings.
Followed by Janssen who continued his good start to the spring with another hitless inning and keeping that ERA at .000. Not so for Cecil, another poor outing and almost out of the running for a rotation spot now, his ERA balloons to 7.71. Brad Mills was also sent to minor league camp over the weekend and Cecil may be joining him. Cecil giving up six hits in his 2 1/3 inning including home run to Boesch in the seventh.
But Jays implode in the bottom of the eight to lose this one 10-7. Four in the eighth with three earned runs off Buzzachero replacing Cecil. Dlugach doing the damage with his three rbis. Hmmm! not the way to impress but to be fair Cecil had left him with one on.
Brian Dopirak a two run shot in the sixth continues his great hitting this spring although he struck out three times today. He has an outisde chance of making the team but I think they would prefer him to get more time in AAA.However if Lyle Overbay is traded, hen a whole new ballgame at first.
Travis had a single and a walk in his afternoon.
Ruiz playing at first today, getting lots of playing time, DH yesterday. Two hits and a walk.
Jays had ten hits but spread them around and only Ruiz had two.
Gallaraga for the Tigers was not much better with his three innings of work with five hits and three runs in the third when Jays tune into him.
Good news from Dunedin
The two pieces of good news this morning from Dunedin are regarding Hechavarria and McGowan.
GM Alex had hinted at this on Saturday when he said he had been speaking with an agent about a Cuban signing. If Jays can land Hechavarria this would be a huge hole filled in the infield.
As an aside current SS Alex Gonzalez made a play yesterday reminiscent of Tony Fernandez when he flipped a high slow toss to first to get the runner - just..
But there is a big difference between a great play and hot dogging. Alex had plenty of time to plant his feet and make a much stronger throw at least from my vantage point. Johnny Mac would have made that play a little differently. Perhaps a moot point if Jays can land Hechavarria.
Business note, I would imagine that the extra $ on Hechavarria will be made up quickly with huge interest in Toronto and extra seats filled this season.
Good news 2 McGowan had another good outing on the side and pitch count is rising. He would be a huge bonus for the rotation if he can come back.
GM Alex had hinted at this on Saturday when he said he had been speaking with an agent about a Cuban signing. If Jays can land Hechavarria this would be a huge hole filled in the infield.
As an aside current SS Alex Gonzalez made a play yesterday reminiscent of Tony Fernandez when he flipped a high slow toss to first to get the runner - just..
But there is a big difference between a great play and hot dogging. Alex had plenty of time to plant his feet and make a much stronger throw at least from my vantage point. Johnny Mac would have made that play a little differently. Perhaps a moot point if Jays can land Hechavarria.
Business note, I would imagine that the extra $ on Hechavarria will be made up quickly with huge interest in Toronto and extra seats filled this season.
Good news 2 McGowan had another good outing on the side and pitch count is rising. He would be a huge bonus for the rotation if he can come back.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Bim-Bam, Braves bats boom as Frasor blows this one
Jays v Braves Sunday March 14. Split squad for Braves.
No Bobby Cox today in his farewell season but one more chance to see him next week. Braves bring the big bats though not least new phenom Jason Heyward. This looked very good for Jays in batting practice with Vernon in particular ball after ball into the trees and over the fences. Aaron was not far behind.
Morrow had a rough outing giving up early lead but Jays fought back with five to go ahead 5-4. Lind, Wells, Overbay and Ruiz two run home run did all the damage.
Jason Frasor however has a terrible outing and immediately gives up four more and can only get one out facing eight batters before he is mercifully pulled. In Spring training to be pulled in the middle of an innings is rare indeed and Cito did not make an appearance to do the deed, leaving it to Bruce Walton. I don’t think Jason will enjoy his ERA tonight. 15.43 ?? Ouch Jason.
Collazo did an excellent job to come in and close down the inning getting the other two outs.
The problem was that Frasor had also destroyed the momentum of the game which had swung back to the Jays after the five spot to take the lead. You could feel the energy sap from the game and from the crowd who had enjoyed the comeback in the previous inning. Randy Ruiz playing DH today went deep into right field, no doubt at all about that one.
Meantime Frasor’s rivals for the closer role Kevin Gregg and Scott Downs made sure they were perfect. Camp, Roenicke and Lewis finished this one off scoreless. Lewis has still to give up a run after three games.
Vernon again going hard to the opposite field and not pulling. He has looked strong since day 1 and GM Alex mentioned the same and that he was injury free this year. We all wish.
Back to the Braves future Jason Heyward this guy is so good and one to watch this season. A bullet double on his first pitch from Morrow followed by another double and add his speed in right field, this guy is an All-Star.
Following this one it was fast to Bright House Field for an evening game with the Legends. This is the third time I have attended this game a fund raiser for youth baseball and always entertaining.
This year alas no Gaylord Perry and many of the players were not quite legends in my book. Jeff Kent ? Dante Bichette ?
However the home run competition was entertaining with Mark Whitten yet again going deep for the many young boys in the breen chasing down the balls which was half the fun of this game. Long on the military recognition before the game gets going and with at least five players on each team representing the US military. Not sure how Doug Flutie gets to wear military uniform ?? but this is entertainment and I guess he could not wear an AL or NL uniform.
No Bobby Cox today in his farewell season but one more chance to see him next week. Braves bring the big bats though not least new phenom Jason Heyward. This looked very good for Jays in batting practice with Vernon in particular ball after ball into the trees and over the fences. Aaron was not far behind.
Morrow had a rough outing giving up early lead but Jays fought back with five to go ahead 5-4. Lind, Wells, Overbay and Ruiz two run home run did all the damage.
Jason Frasor however has a terrible outing and immediately gives up four more and can only get one out facing eight batters before he is mercifully pulled. In Spring training to be pulled in the middle of an innings is rare indeed and Cito did not make an appearance to do the deed, leaving it to Bruce Walton. I don’t think Jason will enjoy his ERA tonight. 15.43 ?? Ouch Jason.
Collazo did an excellent job to come in and close down the inning getting the other two outs.
The problem was that Frasor had also destroyed the momentum of the game which had swung back to the Jays after the five spot to take the lead. You could feel the energy sap from the game and from the crowd who had enjoyed the comeback in the previous inning. Randy Ruiz playing DH today went deep into right field, no doubt at all about that one.
Meantime Frasor’s rivals for the closer role Kevin Gregg and Scott Downs made sure they were perfect. Camp, Roenicke and Lewis finished this one off scoreless. Lewis has still to give up a run after three games.
Vernon again going hard to the opposite field and not pulling. He has looked strong since day 1 and GM Alex mentioned the same and that he was injury free this year. We all wish.
Back to the Braves future Jason Heyward this guy is so good and one to watch this season. A bullet double on his first pitch from Morrow followed by another double and add his speed in right field, this guy is an All-Star.
Following this one it was fast to Bright House Field for an evening game with the Legends. This is the third time I have attended this game a fund raiser for youth baseball and always entertaining.
This year alas no Gaylord Perry and many of the players were not quite legends in my book. Jeff Kent ? Dante Bichette ?
However the home run competition was entertaining with Mark Whitten yet again going deep for the many young boys in the breen chasing down the balls which was half the fun of this game. Long on the military recognition before the game gets going and with at least five players on each team representing the US military. Not sure how Doug Flutie gets to wear military uniform ?? but this is entertainment and I guess he could not wear an AL or NL uniform.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Two for one and Jays beat Braves 3-0.
Jays v Atlanta.
The rest of the squad (who were not at breakfast this morning) were on a bus to play Atlanta and did an excellent job blanking the Braves 3-0.
Romero another excellent start with four scoreless innings, four walks and two hits but scoreless. The rest of the relievers Eveland, Henn and Gonzalez held a strong side scoreless. Eveland in particular another strong outing for him with four scoreless innings.
Eleven hit attack by Jays with RBIs to Brad Emaus and Jeremy Reed. Travis Snider another double. Emaus had good day with two hits and a walk. He seems to be heating up to the form that impressed everyone last spring.
Mike McCoy getting a start at short had a two hit day.
Old friend Troy Glaus had a couple of at bats. Wonder if he will travel tomorrow to Dunedin.
Braves starting pitcher Hudson had a very rough day with four innings but giving up seven of the Jays eleven hits.
Is Eveland making strong play for long relief?
Rematch tomorrow with Braves in Dunedin.
Meantime this afternoon I visited Bright House to see the Twins play Phillies, a huge sellout crowd. 10,501. If I had not gone I guess it would been 10,500 !
Great pitching matchup and close game with Phillies winning 5-4. Pavano and Blackburn for the Braves matching Happ and Durbin for first five with only one run to show.
But don’t count out the Twins this year. I like that lineup.
Another home run from Phillies Cody Ransom. He had two in two games in one day against Jays this week one in the B squad in the morning and the other in Dunedin.
But Jays fans take the great pitching away today.
The rest of the squad (who were not at breakfast this morning) were on a bus to play Atlanta and did an excellent job blanking the Braves 3-0.
Romero another excellent start with four scoreless innings, four walks and two hits but scoreless. The rest of the relievers Eveland, Henn and Gonzalez held a strong side scoreless. Eveland in particular another strong outing for him with four scoreless innings.
Eleven hit attack by Jays with RBIs to Brad Emaus and Jeremy Reed. Travis Snider another double. Emaus had good day with two hits and a walk. He seems to be heating up to the form that impressed everyone last spring.
Mike McCoy getting a start at short had a two hit day.
Old friend Troy Glaus had a couple of at bats. Wonder if he will travel tomorrow to Dunedin.
Braves starting pitcher Hudson had a very rough day with four innings but giving up seven of the Jays eleven hits.
Is Eveland making strong play for long relief?
Rematch tomorrow with Braves in Dunedin.
Meantime this afternoon I visited Bright House to see the Twins play Phillies, a huge sellout crowd. 10,501. If I had not gone I guess it would been 10,500 !
Great pitching matchup and close game with Phillies winning 5-4. Pavano and Blackburn for the Braves matching Happ and Durbin for first five with only one run to show.
But don’t count out the Twins this year. I like that lineup.
Another home run from Phillies Cody Ransom. He had two in two games in one day against Jays this week one in the B squad in the morning and the other in Dunedin.
But Jays fans take the great pitching away today.
GM Alex meets the season ticket holders in Dunedin
Jays host a morning for season ticket holders in Dunedin.
A great breakfast, thank you.
Followed by team workout until 10 when new GM Alex A gave us a state of nation address.
Wisely in my opinion opting for a Q & A, it was an excellent time and seemed perfect for his style. I was very impressed with this guy. He really knows his baseball and it is very apparent he has a plan and is sticking to it despite the whiners wanting a World Series tomorrow.
Although he had to deal with at least one inane question regarding the quality of the sound equipment ??? in Dunedin, sure it is a pain but this is the GM folks he is responsible for the team on the field not whether the sound system has an echo.Fortunately Alex passed the question off to the Dunedin staff.
The major questions regarding the team covered virtually the whole starting lineup.
Pitching in April, Marcum, Morrow and Romero appear to be solid to date for the first three. Then Recpyzynzski, and a fight for the fifth spot. Tallet, Purcey and Cecil and of course McGowan if available. Alex was hopeful but McGowan has not been aired out yet. Litsch not back until June, citing caution with Tommy John surgery and a one year recovery period, Alex said the last thing they want is to bring a guy back too soon even though the pitcher himself wants to get back. We had that experience with BJ Ryan.
Questioned on Halladay and did we get enough for him Alex stood his ground and said one could never get enough for a number one guy like Halladay but with time running out, Roy could walk in six months with no compensation, the no trade clause and what was available. He hinted that the trade with other teams might have brought more but dealing with agent is a whole different situation. He felt that getting three prospects was the best they could do with their hands tied. I for one think young Drabek might well repay that debt. Not this year but he is a great prospect and has the head to succeed as well as the talent. Watch him in AAA this year.
Asked about Travis, Alex said the team is his to make. He has the ability, has lost 20 lbs in weight but is still a young kid (22) and look at Lind at that age and how he has come through now at 26. I also enjoyed the way Alex went into even more detail with Travis recounting how he had struggle against lefties in the first couple of games but was hitting righties very well and had that great game in the field reported faithfully above in the blog.
Regarding Vernon, Alex also repeated what I had said above in the blog that he was hitting very well and had been since he arrived in spring training camp. He recounted that Vernon had shots for his wrist last season every day and yet never ever complained. He realises that he is now the elder of the team and has leader responsibilities and to this eye he has certainly looked good hitting.
At short Alex felt that Johnny Mac will be spelling off Gonzalez this season. An interesting insight into Lyle Overbay, he said that Lyle was giving lots of advice and support to the younger players who were still in camp on first base.Johnny Mac had said similar and hoped the younger players would ask him questions whilst they were in spring training.
A question on waivers elicited a fascinating discussion on Alex's philosophy of waivers. He said that he would rather go after 20 guys on waivers at $20,0000 and hope that one would come through than pay big dollars for a free agent or one hot player.
In answer to questions on when a World Series ! and observation that none of the Jays teams did well last season. Alex felt that the only way to build a continual contender is to have solid minor leaguers all through the system so that year after year. And that he would be using the draft (nine picks this year) to solidify the future. Of course he has already revamped the scouting system to reflect this and it will be interesting to see results in he upcoming draft.
On a question re Cuban prospects he admitted that he had indeed been talking to agents and in fact had taken a call this morning before the breakfast event. He also mentioned that Jays were not alone and other teams were interested in the depth of Cuban talent, inferring that it may be the money that talks once more.
On Cito's replacement obviously he could not comment and one question regarding realignment of the league to develop more parity he said that Paul Beeston was on a senior level committee of MLB looking at a host of issues but he (ALex) does not ask and can truthfully say he does not know. These decisions are beyond a GM and his job was the team on the field.
All in all I thought it was an excellent session for the GM in his first meeting with the season ticket holders in Florida. He had held a similar session in Toronto in February but he said he felt the crowd was even larger today.
He looks SO very young friends... but don't let that deceive you. Beeston and Rogers braintrust made very good decision,and I think I can see why Cito is not sticking around as Manager with Alex. New schools of thought in the Jays organization.
You have my vote Alex.
One more comment on the morning schedule. This year different from the team barbecue following a game which became a zoo and horrendous lineups with thousands of fans.
Jays deserve plaudits for the organization today. The team had an away game thus a much smaller group of fans under 200, A whole programme had been organized including, watching the daily routines of the players, batting practice for the starting lineup. After Alex, offering on the field activities for fans, batting practice, running the bases for the kids, and of course the whole team was open to autographs throughout the morning. I can wholly recommend for any family or fan.
Well done the organization.
A great breakfast, thank you.
Followed by team workout until 10 when new GM Alex A gave us a state of nation address.
Wisely in my opinion opting for a Q & A, it was an excellent time and seemed perfect for his style. I was very impressed with this guy. He really knows his baseball and it is very apparent he has a plan and is sticking to it despite the whiners wanting a World Series tomorrow.
Although he had to deal with at least one inane question regarding the quality of the sound equipment ??? in Dunedin, sure it is a pain but this is the GM folks he is responsible for the team on the field not whether the sound system has an echo.Fortunately Alex passed the question off to the Dunedin staff.
The major questions regarding the team covered virtually the whole starting lineup.
Pitching in April, Marcum, Morrow and Romero appear to be solid to date for the first three. Then Recpyzynzski, and a fight for the fifth spot. Tallet, Purcey and Cecil and of course McGowan if available. Alex was hopeful but McGowan has not been aired out yet. Litsch not back until June, citing caution with Tommy John surgery and a one year recovery period, Alex said the last thing they want is to bring a guy back too soon even though the pitcher himself wants to get back. We had that experience with BJ Ryan.
Questioned on Halladay and did we get enough for him Alex stood his ground and said one could never get enough for a number one guy like Halladay but with time running out, Roy could walk in six months with no compensation, the no trade clause and what was available. He hinted that the trade with other teams might have brought more but dealing with agent is a whole different situation. He felt that getting three prospects was the best they could do with their hands tied. I for one think young Drabek might well repay that debt. Not this year but he is a great prospect and has the head to succeed as well as the talent. Watch him in AAA this year.
Asked about Travis, Alex said the team is his to make. He has the ability, has lost 20 lbs in weight but is still a young kid (22) and look at Lind at that age and how he has come through now at 26. I also enjoyed the way Alex went into even more detail with Travis recounting how he had struggle against lefties in the first couple of games but was hitting righties very well and had that great game in the field reported faithfully above in the blog.
Regarding Vernon, Alex also repeated what I had said above in the blog that he was hitting very well and had been since he arrived in spring training camp. He recounted that Vernon had shots for his wrist last season every day and yet never ever complained. He realises that he is now the elder of the team and has leader responsibilities and to this eye he has certainly looked good hitting.
At short Alex felt that Johnny Mac will be spelling off Gonzalez this season. An interesting insight into Lyle Overbay, he said that Lyle was giving lots of advice and support to the younger players who were still in camp on first base.Johnny Mac had said similar and hoped the younger players would ask him questions whilst they were in spring training.
A question on waivers elicited a fascinating discussion on Alex's philosophy of waivers. He said that he would rather go after 20 guys on waivers at $20,0000 and hope that one would come through than pay big dollars for a free agent or one hot player.
In answer to questions on when a World Series ! and observation that none of the Jays teams did well last season. Alex felt that the only way to build a continual contender is to have solid minor leaguers all through the system so that year after year. And that he would be using the draft (nine picks this year) to solidify the future. Of course he has already revamped the scouting system to reflect this and it will be interesting to see results in he upcoming draft.
On a question re Cuban prospects he admitted that he had indeed been talking to agents and in fact had taken a call this morning before the breakfast event. He also mentioned that Jays were not alone and other teams were interested in the depth of Cuban talent, inferring that it may be the money that talks once more.
On Cito's replacement obviously he could not comment and one question regarding realignment of the league to develop more parity he said that Paul Beeston was on a senior level committee of MLB looking at a host of issues but he (ALex) does not ask and can truthfully say he does not know. These decisions are beyond a GM and his job was the team on the field.
All in all I thought it was an excellent session for the GM in his first meeting with the season ticket holders in Florida. He had held a similar session in Toronto in February but he said he felt the crowd was even larger today.
He looks SO very young friends... but don't let that deceive you. Beeston and Rogers braintrust made very good decision,and I think I can see why Cito is not sticking around as Manager with Alex. New schools of thought in the Jays organization.
You have my vote Alex.
One more comment on the morning schedule. This year different from the team barbecue following a game which became a zoo and horrendous lineups with thousands of fans.
Jays deserve plaudits for the organization today. The team had an away game thus a much smaller group of fans under 200, A whole programme had been organized including, watching the daily routines of the players, batting practice for the starting lineup. After Alex, offering on the field activities for fans, batting practice, running the bases for the kids, and of course the whole team was open to autographs throughout the morning. I can wholly recommend for any family or fan.
Well done the organization.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Rained out today
Stormy night and lots of rain this morning. But it stops at 11 hope springs eternal.
By 1.00 pm everything ready to go,players ready for 1.30 start and the rains start again.
Game is called at 2.00. Too bad we had that two hour window and that was it for today.
Back tomorrow for the team breakfast and rallying speech by Alex A. I imagine it will be on the lines don't have too much expectation for this season, but we are on the right track for (fill in the year)
Baseball is not like that.... as Jays patient fans know only too well. Injuries and a load of other teams plus off years can play havoc with any projections.
BUT all we can say is that there are some great young players in the organization and with career years anything can and probably will happen.
A demain.
By 1.00 pm everything ready to go,players ready for 1.30 start and the rains start again.
Game is called at 2.00. Too bad we had that two hour window and that was it for today.
Back tomorrow for the team breakfast and rallying speech by Alex A. I imagine it will be on the lines don't have too much expectation for this season, but we are on the right track for (fill in the year)
Baseball is not like that.... as Jays patient fans know only too well. Injuries and a load of other teams plus off years can play havoc with any projections.
BUT all we can say is that there are some great young players in the organization and with career years anything can and probably will happen.
A demain.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Jays second team loses to Rays.
Jays v Rays Wednesday March 11, 2010
Stormy day here today, still very warm at 75F but palm trees bending, storms forecast, for later today. Can we get the game in?
At Bright House Tigers no match for Phillies and lose 4-0.
Jays send second team on the road to Port Charlotte. Gathright, Hauffpauir, Wallace, Lubanski, Padilla, Ruiz, Emaus, McDonald and Molina.
Not so the Rays Joe Maddon who plays to win, and has only lost one this spring. Different approach entirely from Cito. He believes a strong spring makes a huge difference and to come out of spring with winning attitude is very important. There are no giveaways from Joe.
Jays score first with RBI from Gathright to bring in Johnny Mac. But Rays answer with three off Camp in the bottom of the same inning. Johnny Mac also gets his first stolen base of the spring. Camp has not looked good at all in his last two outings.
Marcum however another strong outing with three scoreless innings, no walks and only one hit. His ERA remains at .000. Camp however gives up three in his second inning of work with a home run by Jaso. Camp faced 12 batters in only two innings. His second lousy outing.
Mills and Register finish off the game three hits one run for Mills and a scoreless inning from Register.
Sonnanstine goes four strong scoreless innings for the Rays with only one hit by the Jays. RBIS from Bartlett, Longoria and Richard to go with Jaso’s solo HR.
After a first week of timely hits Jays today hit 1 for 9 with runners in scoring position. This was last year’s problem. And this season we don’t have Alex.
The good has to be Marcum though. Keeps his ERA at .000 and has looked ready to go.
Tomorrow if the weather holds, back to Dunedin and perhaps the first team.
Interesting sidebar for the UK blog followers.The Glazer brothers are under fire here for not getting rid of Manchester Utd. but for different reasons from the Man U supporters and mid-Atlantic schizoid Beckham. The Glazers also own the Tampa Bay Buccaneers ( the real football in USA) and the fans on the local radio today urging them to sell Man Utd. so that they can put money BACK into the Bucs, and not into a losing cause !! Hmm.
Stormy day here today, still very warm at 75F but palm trees bending, storms forecast, for later today. Can we get the game in?
At Bright House Tigers no match for Phillies and lose 4-0.
Jays send second team on the road to Port Charlotte. Gathright, Hauffpauir, Wallace, Lubanski, Padilla, Ruiz, Emaus, McDonald and Molina.
Not so the Rays Joe Maddon who plays to win, and has only lost one this spring. Different approach entirely from Cito. He believes a strong spring makes a huge difference and to come out of spring with winning attitude is very important. There are no giveaways from Joe.
Jays score first with RBI from Gathright to bring in Johnny Mac. But Rays answer with three off Camp in the bottom of the same inning. Johnny Mac also gets his first stolen base of the spring. Camp has not looked good at all in his last two outings.
Marcum however another strong outing with three scoreless innings, no walks and only one hit. His ERA remains at .000. Camp however gives up three in his second inning of work with a home run by Jaso. Camp faced 12 batters in only two innings. His second lousy outing.
Mills and Register finish off the game three hits one run for Mills and a scoreless inning from Register.
Sonnanstine goes four strong scoreless innings for the Rays with only one hit by the Jays. RBIS from Bartlett, Longoria and Richard to go with Jaso’s solo HR.
After a first week of timely hits Jays today hit 1 for 9 with runners in scoring position. This was last year’s problem. And this season we don’t have Alex.
The good has to be Marcum though. Keeps his ERA at .000 and has looked ready to go.
Tomorrow if the weather holds, back to Dunedin and perhaps the first team.
Interesting sidebar for the UK blog followers.The Glazer brothers are under fire here for not getting rid of Manchester Utd. but for different reasons from the Man U supporters and mid-Atlantic schizoid Beckham. The Glazers also own the Tampa Bay Buccaneers ( the real football in USA) and the fans on the local radio today urging them to sell Man Utd. so that they can put money BACK into the Bucs, and not into a losing cause !! Hmm.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Purcey ruins Jose's day
Jays v Phillies at Dunedin.Wednesday March 9th
Phillies return to Dunedin for revenge after last week's thrashing.
Young Drabek pitching against Hamels.
The place is swarming with red (Phillies shirts) that's ok but to see Halladay # 34 is a bit too much for me at least.Not only that but Halladay had excellent outing yesterday against NL division rivals Atlanta.
Today Hamels looking at redemption and gets it with four very good innings. Jays had no answer to him.
Jays pitching today Drabek was excellent for two, Frasor oh soooooo slooow another good inning, as did Scott Downs, those two are fighting it out. But unfortuately Gregg had lousy outing.
Phillies go up two but along comes Jose to do it again. Another home run, his third of the week.
Jays back in it going to the eighth but then Purcey with two quick outs and two strikes gives up the home run. Man that was heartbreaker. Jays do not reciover and lose this one 4-2.
But the good certainly with Jose, young Drabek showing that he is not far off this team and should be interesting to watch in September call ups if not before.
Travis's day excellent in the field, great catch and double play in left centre and another good catch later. Hitting hard and one at least gets through the infield into right. He is showing signs of form and was given great reception after that double play by both the fans and his team mates and I was close enough to see the guy actually grin for the first time this spring.
Randy Ruiz had another strong at bat but that was it for Jays today, their momentum stopped after the day off.
Speed... Jays fans are in for a treat this season with Gathright. Came in late in the game and once he was on first base the opposing pitcher (Ramirez) today was totally distracted throwing over constantly. He eventually stole second but on strike three. However Joey getting some respect, but also another much needed edge for Jays late in the game.
Werth having another rough day for Phillies, he will be shving all that hair off beard and all if he doesn't improve. he has lots of competition out there. Tyson Gilliesis a non-roster player but has shown more pop and speed than Jason to date and John Mayberry jr hammered that ball twice to the centre fence with two doubles that could have been out of there. Would love to see him in Jays uniform in right.
Apart from that a hot day in the sun and a game that got away with Purcey. Sorry David you had yourself to blame today.
Apologies to Downs for omitting him yesterday from the report card. And to the new JP Arencibia NOT Arenciba.Sorry JP.
Just a question but where is Cito each time the anthems are played ? He always appears in right field long after and then ambles in before first pitch.
Too bad, I for one would love to see him lined up with the team. Shows some bond with the team Cito.
Phillies return to Dunedin for revenge after last week's thrashing.
Young Drabek pitching against Hamels.
The place is swarming with red (Phillies shirts) that's ok but to see Halladay # 34 is a bit too much for me at least.Not only that but Halladay had excellent outing yesterday against NL division rivals Atlanta.
Today Hamels looking at redemption and gets it with four very good innings. Jays had no answer to him.
Jays pitching today Drabek was excellent for two, Frasor oh soooooo slooow another good inning, as did Scott Downs, those two are fighting it out. But unfortuately Gregg had lousy outing.
Phillies go up two but along comes Jose to do it again. Another home run, his third of the week.
Jays back in it going to the eighth but then Purcey with two quick outs and two strikes gives up the home run. Man that was heartbreaker. Jays do not reciover and lose this one 4-2.
But the good certainly with Jose, young Drabek showing that he is not far off this team and should be interesting to watch in September call ups if not before.
Travis's day excellent in the field, great catch and double play in left centre and another good catch later. Hitting hard and one at least gets through the infield into right. He is showing signs of form and was given great reception after that double play by both the fans and his team mates and I was close enough to see the guy actually grin for the first time this spring.
Randy Ruiz had another strong at bat but that was it for Jays today, their momentum stopped after the day off.
Speed... Jays fans are in for a treat this season with Gathright. Came in late in the game and once he was on first base the opposing pitcher (Ramirez) today was totally distracted throwing over constantly. He eventually stole second but on strike three. However Joey getting some respect, but also another much needed edge for Jays late in the game.
Werth having another rough day for Phillies, he will be shving all that hair off beard and all if he doesn't improve. he has lots of competition out there. Tyson Gilliesis a non-roster player but has shown more pop and speed than Jason to date and John Mayberry jr hammered that ball twice to the centre fence with two doubles that could have been out of there. Would love to see him in Jays uniform in right.
Apart from that a hot day in the sun and a game that got away with Purcey. Sorry David you had yourself to blame today.
Apologies to Downs for omitting him yesterday from the report card. And to the new JP Arencibia NOT Arenciba.Sorry JP.
Just a question but where is Cito each time the anthems are played ? He always appears in right field long after and then ambles in before first pitch.
Too bad, I for one would love to see him lined up with the team. Shows some bond with the team Cito.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Report Card first week.
No game today but perfect for a weekly report card on those Jays.
Flying high at 5-1 there have been some interesting performances. A few surprises and a couple of disappointments.
Doing well this first week, certainly JP Arenciba takes the first prize, his third HR yesterday against Astros and looking very good. His problem however is breaking through with Jose Molina and John Buck in front of him, Cito will not take three catchers north in April. But the brains trust in front office will be pleased to see (the other) JP do well and be in the wings for call up.
Infield: To date Aaron at second has just continued on from his great 2009 season. Almost perfect at bat and in the field. Emaus and McCoy are probably the subs after Johnny Mac of course. By the way Johnny Mac had two hits yesterday in three at bats. Has he been working on his hitting?
At short Alex Gonzalez has been getting lots of playing time. Unspectacular but certainly fills the role. Jays do not need power at that position with this lineup and he will certainly give confidence to those young pitchers with his glove and ability. Johnny Mac of course is also there to provide the same for the ground balls and double plays to help out the pitchers. I noted in particular Romero with 7/9 ground ball outs yesterday. He needs Aaron and Alex to be there for him.
At first base Lyle has done enough and also been hitting consistently, however his position is being hotly contested by Randy Ruiz and Brain Dopirak who continues to impress everyone as he did last season moving rapidly through the system. Brian will probably not make the squad in April but gives the Jays lots of flexibility if they need to trade Lyle. If that happens the Jays will have power of Randy Ruiz at first base for the first time since Delgado.
At third it should be Encarnacion but we have not seen him out there yet. If he is unable to do so it may be Bautista. Brad Emaus has been filling in this week but I preferred him at second last spring.
DH it looks as if Adam Lind will be fulltime DH and has been gradually powering up. With Ruiz on the bench Cito has insurance for resting Lind occasionally. I am sure we will also see Randy pinch hitting for Lyle in the later game.
Outfield: This is still in flux for Cito. Apart from Vernon who is having excellent spring to date with his hitting. For the first time in the last three years at least Vernon appears to be relaxed, injury free, and hitting well. Going to opposite field, no more swinging at that third strike down and away. Vernon I hope you have a great year.
Right field has been an ever changing position with no one staking a claim but from this seat it has been such a joy not to have to watch Alex Rios hitting. Everyone I have seen so far has been trying 100%. Gathright has brought speed in right, and if he doesn’t make the spot will undoubtedly be used off the bench for pinch running and stealing. Travis Snider has not taken advantage of either left or right. Opening day right now could well be Bautista, Wells and Gathright with Travis in Las Vegas with AAA.
Of all the concerns right now, I think Travis is the number one. He has not looked at all comfortable with his bat, has struck out far too many times looking like Alex Rios. On two strikes he is tightening up and the pitchers have his number. This has also affected his fielding and he has made some poor fumbles and miscues in left. To this eye he just needs to RELAX and start to smile and enjoy. Easy to say for Travis but he also needs a mentor on the bench. Right now he has the world’s troubles on his shoulders.
Small ball and running: Cito has made good on his pre-season promise to provide some speed action. A successful double steal this week and sending Gathright and others promises to add another dimension to a team that has been challenged historically to steal. Gathright had an excellent bunt single against the Phillies. I think that the Jays will need every edge they can get this season.
Fielding: So far nothing to complain about with the Jays fielding apart from the concerns in left with Travis.
Pitching has been excellent overall at this stage of the spring with Ricky Romero certainly positioning himself for the rotation and so far unchallenged for the number one position. Marcum was definitely a pleasant surprise. If those two are settled add in Morrow, not such a long shot from here, and Rzcepynski and the others will fight for remaining spot.
David Purcey, Jesse Carlson and Brian Tallet have lots of work to do. Purcey and Tallet if they want a rotation spot. Brandon Morrow so far has been good as has Rzecpynski, Gregg, Frasor, Accardo and Janssen. And no faulting the remainder of the large relief corps who have held the many leads in the five wins. There are some excellent arms available. It will be interesting to see if any will be trade bait. Cecil goes tomorrow to add to the logjam for that remaining spot.
But overall impression from the first week has been the confidence of this very young group. They start with no pressure on them to succeed this season, most observers are projecting fourth spot in the division, but I like what I see. They remind me of Tampa two years ago in spring.
“I think the most important thing of all for any team is a winning attitude”. (Bear Bryant)
Flying high at 5-1 there have been some interesting performances. A few surprises and a couple of disappointments.
Doing well this first week, certainly JP Arenciba takes the first prize, his third HR yesterday against Astros and looking very good. His problem however is breaking through with Jose Molina and John Buck in front of him, Cito will not take three catchers north in April. But the brains trust in front office will be pleased to see (the other) JP do well and be in the wings for call up.
Infield: To date Aaron at second has just continued on from his great 2009 season. Almost perfect at bat and in the field. Emaus and McCoy are probably the subs after Johnny Mac of course. By the way Johnny Mac had two hits yesterday in three at bats. Has he been working on his hitting?
At short Alex Gonzalez has been getting lots of playing time. Unspectacular but certainly fills the role. Jays do not need power at that position with this lineup and he will certainly give confidence to those young pitchers with his glove and ability. Johnny Mac of course is also there to provide the same for the ground balls and double plays to help out the pitchers. I noted in particular Romero with 7/9 ground ball outs yesterday. He needs Aaron and Alex to be there for him.
At first base Lyle has done enough and also been hitting consistently, however his position is being hotly contested by Randy Ruiz and Brain Dopirak who continues to impress everyone as he did last season moving rapidly through the system. Brian will probably not make the squad in April but gives the Jays lots of flexibility if they need to trade Lyle. If that happens the Jays will have power of Randy Ruiz at first base for the first time since Delgado.
At third it should be Encarnacion but we have not seen him out there yet. If he is unable to do so it may be Bautista. Brad Emaus has been filling in this week but I preferred him at second last spring.
DH it looks as if Adam Lind will be fulltime DH and has been gradually powering up. With Ruiz on the bench Cito has insurance for resting Lind occasionally. I am sure we will also see Randy pinch hitting for Lyle in the later game.
Outfield: This is still in flux for Cito. Apart from Vernon who is having excellent spring to date with his hitting. For the first time in the last three years at least Vernon appears to be relaxed, injury free, and hitting well. Going to opposite field, no more swinging at that third strike down and away. Vernon I hope you have a great year.
Right field has been an ever changing position with no one staking a claim but from this seat it has been such a joy not to have to watch Alex Rios hitting. Everyone I have seen so far has been trying 100%. Gathright has brought speed in right, and if he doesn’t make the spot will undoubtedly be used off the bench for pinch running and stealing. Travis Snider has not taken advantage of either left or right. Opening day right now could well be Bautista, Wells and Gathright with Travis in Las Vegas with AAA.
Of all the concerns right now, I think Travis is the number one. He has not looked at all comfortable with his bat, has struck out far too many times looking like Alex Rios. On two strikes he is tightening up and the pitchers have his number. This has also affected his fielding and he has made some poor fumbles and miscues in left. To this eye he just needs to RELAX and start to smile and enjoy. Easy to say for Travis but he also needs a mentor on the bench. Right now he has the world’s troubles on his shoulders.
Small ball and running: Cito has made good on his pre-season promise to provide some speed action. A successful double steal this week and sending Gathright and others promises to add another dimension to a team that has been challenged historically to steal. Gathright had an excellent bunt single against the Phillies. I think that the Jays will need every edge they can get this season.
Fielding: So far nothing to complain about with the Jays fielding apart from the concerns in left with Travis.
Pitching has been excellent overall at this stage of the spring with Ricky Romero certainly positioning himself for the rotation and so far unchallenged for the number one position. Marcum was definitely a pleasant surprise. If those two are settled add in Morrow, not such a long shot from here, and Rzcepynski and the others will fight for remaining spot.
David Purcey, Jesse Carlson and Brian Tallet have lots of work to do. Purcey and Tallet if they want a rotation spot. Brandon Morrow so far has been good as has Rzecpynski, Gregg, Frasor, Accardo and Janssen. And no faulting the remainder of the large relief corps who have held the many leads in the five wins. There are some excellent arms available. It will be interesting to see if any will be trade bait. Cecil goes tomorrow to add to the logjam for that remaining spot.
But overall impression from the first week has been the confidence of this very young group. They start with no pressure on them to succeed this season, most observers are projecting fourth spot in the division, but I like what I see. They remind me of Tampa two years ago in spring.
“I think the most important thing of all for any team is a winning attitude”. (Bear Bryant)
Monday, March 8, 2010
Jays win another with more power.
Jays v Astros today in Kissimmee. Monday March 8, 2010.
Romero pitching his second spring outing. Away game and a long trip so the first team stays put and with a day off tomorrow the big guys have two days relaxation although I am sure they are working out hard in Dunedin.
Jays enter today’s game 4-1 at the top of Grapefruit League with Tampa (excluding the two wins for the Indians). Sure it is the first week but why not enjoy it. They deserve it as they have played very well all round in all five games, having lost the opener by one run.
First five innings of each game have started with first teamers but the fact that the games have not been lost either in the last four innings shows a surprising depth not just in the bench but also the relievers. The camp is loaded with relievers of course, but Cito appears to have a good selection to chose from for the trip north in April. Certainly Marcum’s first outing was a pleasant gift. Cecil goes tomorrow for the first outing this spring having cut his left thumb slicing chickens. Almost as bad as ex-Jay Glenallen Hill and his spiders.
Today Jays lineup: Gathright, Hauffpauir, Arenciba, Overbay, Emaus, Wallace, Padilla, Snider, McDonald. Travis in right field today, he has been playing left in the other games and not having great success with either glove or bat.
First inning HR by J. P. Arenciba, his third of the season and Jays jump out on
top 1—0. Arenciba with six rbis this week and making a strong run at that backup catcher position but even if he cannot beat out Buck and Molina, it is great to see that talent ready as catcher. Gathright walks but caught stealing at second.
Romero gives up three hits and the double play saves him from any damage. He will be happy with today with his three scoreless innings. Seven ground balls outs also good to see. That will keep his pitch count down and with Gonzalez and Hill in infield this season he has more than enough support. His ERA to date of 1.80 he will also love. He is determined to have that number one starting role.
Hoffpauir greets Byrdak with a double, Overbay a double scores Hoffpauir, Emaus a double scores Overbay and Jays are up 3-0. That’s it for Byrdak not fooling anyone today, Fulchino replaces him.
Overbay 2-2 today, he has been watching Randy Ruiz fighting for first base. Takes a walk in the 5th, perfect day for him.
Eveland relieving Romero. Scoreless inning. One strikeout two ground balls. Eveland three scoreless innings.
Ex-Jay Gustavo Chacin now replacing Daigle, does he still sell his perfume? Four changes for the Jays. Lubinski, Dopirak, Phillips and Tolisano. No joy for Travis grounds out in the 6th. Padilla a double and Johnny Mac brings him in, 4-0 Jays.
Jeroloman, Sierra, Loewen and Merchan new Jays replacements. Bazardo replaces Chacin in the top of 7th. Gives up three hits all singles to Phillips, Dopirak and Sierra but no more runs for the Jays.
Chad Jenkins replaces Eveland. Another scoreless inning for the Jays seven in a row today.
Chi Lo pitching for Astros. Dopirak another hit, 2-2 today first base is getting awful crowded.Today Overbay and Dopirak combine for perfect day 4-4 plus a walk for Lyle. Cito has an interesting situation developing but I think the pressure is on trading Lyle.
Towles doubles off Jenkins, breaks up the eight scoreless innings and brings in Keppinger who had just walked and Houston is on the board 4-1 Jays.
Zach Stewart finishing this one off for the Jays. Another scoreless inning and the Jays have their fifth win. 4-1.
Jays now have tomorrow off and for onec well earned. Resume play at Dunedin on Wednesday with the Phillies out for revenge after the 14-9 thrashing by the Jays last week.
Interesting piece in the local Tampa media today about the Rays pitchers taking bp for future inter-league play this season. Joe Maddon ever a manager looking for the edge. Pitchers have been told to take at least five pitches each time they have an at bat this season. This could add up to an extra 15 pitches a game which might make the difference with starting pitcher being pulled earlier.
Note: Albaladejo of the Yankees gets his era down to 47.25 today pitching against the Phillies after the Jays had pummeled him last week.
Romero pitching his second spring outing. Away game and a long trip so the first team stays put and with a day off tomorrow the big guys have two days relaxation although I am sure they are working out hard in Dunedin.
Jays enter today’s game 4-1 at the top of Grapefruit League with Tampa (excluding the two wins for the Indians). Sure it is the first week but why not enjoy it. They deserve it as they have played very well all round in all five games, having lost the opener by one run.
First five innings of each game have started with first teamers but the fact that the games have not been lost either in the last four innings shows a surprising depth not just in the bench but also the relievers. The camp is loaded with relievers of course, but Cito appears to have a good selection to chose from for the trip north in April. Certainly Marcum’s first outing was a pleasant gift. Cecil goes tomorrow for the first outing this spring having cut his left thumb slicing chickens. Almost as bad as ex-Jay Glenallen Hill and his spiders.
Today Jays lineup: Gathright, Hauffpauir, Arenciba, Overbay, Emaus, Wallace, Padilla, Snider, McDonald. Travis in right field today, he has been playing left in the other games and not having great success with either glove or bat.
First inning HR by J. P. Arenciba, his third of the season and Jays jump out on
top 1—0. Arenciba with six rbis this week and making a strong run at that backup catcher position but even if he cannot beat out Buck and Molina, it is great to see that talent ready as catcher. Gathright walks but caught stealing at second.
Romero gives up three hits and the double play saves him from any damage. He will be happy with today with his three scoreless innings. Seven ground balls outs also good to see. That will keep his pitch count down and with Gonzalez and Hill in infield this season he has more than enough support. His ERA to date of 1.80 he will also love. He is determined to have that number one starting role.
Hoffpauir greets Byrdak with a double, Overbay a double scores Hoffpauir, Emaus a double scores Overbay and Jays are up 3-0. That’s it for Byrdak not fooling anyone today, Fulchino replaces him.
Overbay 2-2 today, he has been watching Randy Ruiz fighting for first base. Takes a walk in the 5th, perfect day for him.
Eveland relieving Romero. Scoreless inning. One strikeout two ground balls. Eveland three scoreless innings.
Ex-Jay Gustavo Chacin now replacing Daigle, does he still sell his perfume? Four changes for the Jays. Lubinski, Dopirak, Phillips and Tolisano. No joy for Travis grounds out in the 6th. Padilla a double and Johnny Mac brings him in, 4-0 Jays.
Jeroloman, Sierra, Loewen and Merchan new Jays replacements. Bazardo replaces Chacin in the top of 7th. Gives up three hits all singles to Phillips, Dopirak and Sierra but no more runs for the Jays.
Chad Jenkins replaces Eveland. Another scoreless inning for the Jays seven in a row today.
Chi Lo pitching for Astros. Dopirak another hit, 2-2 today first base is getting awful crowded.Today Overbay and Dopirak combine for perfect day 4-4 plus a walk for Lyle. Cito has an interesting situation developing but I think the pressure is on trading Lyle.
Towles doubles off Jenkins, breaks up the eight scoreless innings and brings in Keppinger who had just walked and Houston is on the board 4-1 Jays.
Zach Stewart finishing this one off for the Jays. Another scoreless inning and the Jays have their fifth win. 4-1.
Jays now have tomorrow off and for onec well earned. Resume play at Dunedin on Wednesday with the Phillies out for revenge after the 14-9 thrashing by the Jays last week.
Interesting piece in the local Tampa media today about the Rays pitchers taking bp for future inter-league play this season. Joe Maddon ever a manager looking for the edge. Pitchers have been told to take at least five pitches each time they have an at bat this season. This could add up to an extra 15 pitches a game which might make the difference with starting pitcher being pulled earlier.
Note: Albaladejo of the Yankees gets his era down to 47.25 today pitching against the Phillies after the Jays had pummeled him last week.
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