Playoff Preview

With the playoffs coming up in March I thought I’d do a playoff preview.  The Champions seem to be the clear favorite – but will they close the deal?  I’ve looked at run differential, the likely pitching rotations, and if there are any part-timers who look to take a bigger role in the postseason…

Chicago Champions (+136) vs. Three Rivers Gamblers (+69)

Probable playoff rotation: A, CZ, CZ, CZ vs. BZ, B, BW, C

The Champs have to be the favorites to take it all this year, but that doesn’t mean they don’t have weaknesses.  This applies especially in Round One, as Lincecum can only pitch twice if the series goes five.  That means the Gamblers have a slight pitching advantage.  Both pens go reasonably deep, but the Champs have got good control all over the place, while the Gamblers are shaky.  Offensively both teams have great hearts of the order (A-Rod, Morneau, Sizemore, Lee and Rollins for the Champs, Pedroia, Jeter, Braun, Fielder, Glaus and Bay for the Gamblers).  Neither really has a "secret weapon" they can trot out in the playoffs.  The Champs should win this one – I’ll say Champs in 5.

Rising Bamm! Beanos (+67) vs. Molly Putts Marauders (+26)

Probable playoff rotation: AW, B, B, B vs. AW, BZ, BZ, BZ

The Marauders only scored 26 more runs than they allowed as they had the second worst offense in the league.  On the other hand, they’ve got a deep rotation, and the luxury of adding a couple of starters to their pen, making it also extremely deep.  The Bamm! Beanos, on the other hand, have an excellent offense with lots of depth; Hanley Ramirez and Mark Teixeira are top-notch while Matt Kemp, Russ Martin, and Dan Uggla are a good supporting cast.  Their pen is not as deep as the Putts but still adequate – they also can add a B starter to their pen.  It could come down to a couple of rookie part-timers; Denard Span for the Beanos and Kung Fu Panda (Pedro Sandoval) for the Marauders.  Neither will be able to play every day but will have a big effect when they are in the game.  In the end though, I think the Marauders have too many holes on offense – Sandoval can only plug one – and the Bamm! Beanos will advance to the World Series in 4 games.

2008 IAL TRADE ANALYSIS

THUNDERCHICKENS get Ray Durham

GAMBLERS get Juan Uribe

ANALYSIS This was a trade to help teams with coverage, no advantage.

CHAMPIONS get Chad Patrick Cordero

GAMBLERS get Shane Patrick Victorino

ANALYSIS Even though in real life Cordero’s a closer, he’s only a B*Y in APBA. Even though in real life Victorino’s a smurf, he’s a great defensive outfielder, with leadoff man skills in APBA. Advantage Gamblers.

MARAUDERS get Tim Hudson

HIGHLANDERS get Justin Upton

ANALYSIS Future for present, still anytime you can get 200 B innings for a prospect, even a superstar prospect, advantage Marauders.

HIGHLANDERS get Miguel Montero

SLUGGERS get Ronnie Belliard

ANALYSIS You’d think a draft pick would be worth more than Belliard, but you’d be wrong. Advantage Sluggers.

BOMBERS get Roberto Hernandez

HITMEN get Jose Valentin

ANALYSIS This was a trade to help teams with coverage, no advantage.

MARAUDERS get Huston Street

THUNDERCHICKENS get Ryan Zimmerman

ANALYSIS A quality closer for a quality thirdbaseman. In this draft three quality thirdbaseman weren’t taken, while journeyman graded relievers were. Things that make you go hmmm, advantage Marauders.

BOMBERS get Jorge Julio

CHAMPIONS get Jim Edmonds

ANALYSIS This was a trade to help teams with coverage, yet Edmonds is going to be so bad in SD, while Julio has a chance to be good with the Tribe, advantage Bombers.

SLUGGERS get Robinson Cano & Jarod Washburn

BAMM-BEANOS get Jeremy Bonderman & Dan Uggla

ANALYSIS Even if Bonderman only pitched like he does in the first half of the year, it wouldn’t make up for giving away Cano, advantage Sluggers.

CHAMPIONS get Alex Gonzalez, Jeremy Sowers, & Juan Rincon

BAMM-BEANOS get Josh Barfield, Boof Bonser, & Alex Cintron

ANALYSIS Sowers, Barfield, & Cintron are bums. Alex Gonzalez provides some pop off the Champs bench and Rincon adds some depth to the pen, while Bonser may bounce back from a sophomore slump. No advantage.

GAMBLERS Dustin Pedroia & Miguel Cairo

BAMM-BEANOS Jonathan Papelbon & Alex Gordon

ANALYSIS Best closer in baseball and a better player in Gordon over Pedroia, Cairo doesn’t quite make up for the difference, advantage Bamm-Beanos.

CHAMPIONS get Nick Swisher, Josh Barfield, & Boof Bonser

BAMM-BEANOS get Matt Kemp, Jim Edmonds, & Jeremy Sowers

ANALYSIS The upside of Bonser is not enough to offset Kemp over Swisher, the other three guys are bums, advantage Bamm-Beanos. Don’t play the slight of hand trick with Magician the Fabulous Brando.

BOMBERS get Hank Blalock

HITMEN get Omar Vizquel

ANALYSIS Blalock can hit off the bench, Vizquel can’t, even though Chuck’s happy with the deal, advantage Bombers.

CHAMPIONS get Jose Guillen

BOMBERS get Juan Rincon

ANALYSIS One juicer for another. Still Guillen can hit pretty well off the bench, for a pitcher who can’t get anybody out, advantage Champions.

BAMM-BEANOS get Jonathan Broxton & Matt Garza

UPPERDECKERS get J.J. Hardy & Jarrod Saltalamacchia

ANALYSIS Two hard throwers for a SS and a suspect, advantage Bamm-Beanos.

UPPERDECKERS get Jose Contreras

MARAUDERS get Rafael Furcal

ANALYSIS Furcal is way better than Contreras, but somehow we all saw it coming, the Cuban was going to be soon on his way to Papa Bunch, advantage Marauders.

BOMBERS get Jose Contreras

UPPERDECKERS get Juan Rincon

ANALYSIS Did you ever see a trade that was too insignificant to even comment on? No advantage, but we all saw it coming.

BOMBERS get Brendan Harris

SLUGGERS get Damaso Marte

ANALYSIS Now I hate both Nick & Papa Bunchie! I had no idea Nick traded Mike the pick he used to draft Harris, that after not dealing Belliard to me. Sheesh, I thought Nick just gave me a ride to the convention. No advantage.

THUNDERCHICKENS get Austin Kearns

HITMEN get Kenny Lofton

ANALYSIS Although Kearns does walk, hit for power, and field better than Lofton, Kenny was just the leadoff man the doctor ordered for the Hitmen. No advantage.

THUNDERCKENS get Kyle Kendrick & Felix Pie

HIGHLANDERS get Stephen Drew & Andrew Miller

ANALYSIS Drew looks to be coming into his own and Miller is an outstanding lefty, even if Pie is the real deal, this was a steal, advantage Highlanders.

THUNDERCHICKENS get Dustin McGowan & Scott Podesednik

SLUGGERS get Austin Kearns & Carlos Silva

ANALYSIS Interesting deal, no advantage.

BOMBERS get Jarrod Saltalamacchia & Juan Rincon

UPPERDECKERS Joel Zumaya & Asdrubal Cabrera

ANALYSIS Don’t be too hard on your kids when they’re young, cuz they’ll turn the tables on you when you’re old & senile. Big advantage Upperdeckers!

BAMM-BEANOS get Brad Lidge

MARAUDERS get Yunel Escobar

ANALYSIS I like what John’s done with his pen, rotation, and lineup. Don’t know what DonS is doing hoarding shortstops, it’s like I’m missing something. No advantage.

BOMBERS get Eric Hinske

HITMEN get Jorge Julio

ANALYSIS Maybe Mike still thought Hinske was with the Upperdeckers and he was dealing with Marc, otherwise why would you trade the potential of Julio for the nothing of Hinske? Advantage Hitmen.

Now quick, without looking, what team did Juan Rincon start out on, how many times was he dealt this offseason, and where did he end up? I don’t know why anyone would think inseason trading would be confusing.

2008 IAL DRAFT REVIEW

1) THREE RIVERS GAMBLERS: Ryan Braun 3B – I liked him the first time I saw him in the AFL. Makes Prince look like a Punch & Judy hitter. Fielder, Dunn, & Braun in one lineup? Can you say POWER? There oughta be a law.

2) TWIN CITIES THUNDERCHICKENS: Troy Tulowitzki SS – This kid is a leader on whose shoulders championships are built. Tulo has a cannon for an arm and rockets fly off his bat into the Denver sky. An MVP waiting to happen.

3) THREE RIVERS GAMBLERS: Dustin Pedroia 2B – Dustin is a winner, who batted over .400 in college, while playing SS. Looked awful last spring, but showed up when it counted in the Fall Classic. Pedroia is a natural born leader. I liken his career to that of Mark Loretta.

4) CHICAGO HIGHLANDERS: Justin Upton OF – This kid has as much upside as anyone in the draft. Don’t know what I was thinking, cuz it makes sense for Moore to grab him, shoulda swapped with Todd, as I don’t think Rob woulda taken Pedroia. Look for Upton to be the next Vladimir.

5) CHICAGO CHAMPIONS: Tim Lincecum P – Even though it made sense for Moore to grab Upton, I still thought he was gonna take Lincecum (having traded Tim Hudson for the pick), leaving Justin for me. I know I should have taken Soria to help in the pen, once Upton was gone, but I couldn’t overlook the best pitcher in the draft, The Franchise. Can’t make up my mind if he reminds me of Oswalt or Hershiser.

6) NORTHSIDE HITMEN: Hunter Pence OF – Before the season a scout tipped Rob Taylor off to two players, Ryan Braun & Hunter Pence. Pence is a little awkward, he reminds me of a more talented Eric Byrnes. Hunter gets the added bonus of batting in Houston.

7) CHICAGO HIGHLANDERS: Chris Young OF – Kenny Williams hung onto Jerry Owens & Brian Anderson, while shipping this stud off to Arizona. Young Chris can do it all, except hit for average, we’ll have to see if that will come with time.

8) MOLINE UPPERDECKERS: Yovani Gallardo P – Marc always seems to have a knack for drafting talent. Gallardo throws a heavy ball that reminds me of Rick Reuschel. Plus anytime a playoff contending team can add a B starter that’s a good thing.

9) STATE STREET SLUGGERS: Peter Moylan P* – This is the first whore pick of the day, an older sidearmer, he could be good, but then again, he could be crap. One thing’s for sure he’s an A*Z with lotsa pen innings this year.

10) GREEN ROCK BOMBERS: Josh Hamilton OF – Thug/burnout pick of the draft. Hamilton had it all, lost it all, and came back to have an impressive rookie year. Can it last?

11) RISING BAMM-BEANOS: Alex Gordon 3B/1B – Gordon has loads of talent, seriously reminds me of George Brett. His average was down a little bit in his rookie season, don’t look for that to continue.

12) RISING BAMM-BEANOS: Daisuke Matsuzaka P – It seems as though Johnny B is tired of being the doormat of the IAL. I always say, Buy American, but when a Japanese import has all the features of Dice-K, it’s hard to pass up. Look for Matsuzaka to be one of the best once he settles into the USA.

13) NORTHSIDE HITMEN: Joakim Soria P* – No wonder the Hitmen win. They need an outfielder they grab the best one out there (Pence), they need a reliever they take the best one there (Soria). Joakim was a Rule V pitcher chosen by KC from SD, he was great in the Mexican League as a starter before coming to the Royals becoming their closer.

14) CHICAGO HIGHLANDERS: Phil Hughes P – Why draft Lincecum when you can gobble up Hughes with this pick. Phil fits perfectly into the Highlanders plan of taking the best talent available. Maybe Rob won’t win it all this year, but championships are in the Mooreman’s future, that’s for sure! Hughes is a big guy at the head of the Yankees rotation.

15) RISING BAMM-BEANOS: Matt Garza P – Brando seems to be changing his thoughts on loading his rotation with soft tossing lefties to stocking up on hard throwing righties. Garza is nasty and will get plenty of opportunity to show his stuff in Tampa.

16) TWIN CITIES THUNDERCHICKENS: Dustin McGowan P – McGowan took a little longer to reach the bigs than some other rookies. Still he had a good rookie campaign. He may have a couple of decent years at the end of the rotation, but not much beyond that. What you see is what you get.

17) GREEN ROCK BOMBERS: James Loney 1B – Some injuries sidelined this fast track rookie, but he seems to be right on now. I saw this kid before injuries slowed him, reminds me of Don Mattingly. Nice pick!

18) THREE RIVERS GAMBLERS: Brian Bannister P – I’m always hesitant about soft tossing righties. Bannister was cruising along to a B, but then got hit. I think this will pretty much be what the future has in store for him.

19) GREEN ROCK BOMBERS: Jarrod Saltalamacchia C/1B – Hopefully for Bunchie his career will be as long as his name. Mike can room him with Mark Grudzielanek. He’s a switch hitting catcher who was blocked by Brian McCann in Atlanta. Don’t think the Braves traded away a good one this time.

20) NORTHSIDE HITMEN: Micah Owings P – This kid can hit, unfortunately he’s a pitcher. Still he reminds me of Don Robinson and Skipper Lucas was Robinson’s manager in another lifetime. No better than a C.

21) TWIN CITIES THUNDERCHICKENS: Kyle Kendrick P – Tom, this guy didn’t really get traded to Japan. That was just Brett Myers punking him. Seriously, he’s still in the bigs, and in danger of being graded again and again and again. This C rating looks to be the highpoint of his career.

22) MOLINE UPPERDECKERS: Rafael Perez P* – Was a starter throughout his minor league career, seems to have found life out of the pen, might have tired late in the season. Should see a few years as a B*Z or better relief pitcher, nice stuff!

23) CHICAGO HIGHLANDERS: Miguel Montero C – The first player chosen that people responded with, "Who?" Then again I didn’t know much about Chase Utley when Chuck picked him. Still I like Kurt Suzuki of Oakland better than this kid. But then again, Rob only has to checkout the Arizona boxscore to see all his hitters (Upton, Young, Drew, Montero).

24) GREEN ROCK BOMBERS: Hideki Okajima P* – Started with Zumaya, ended with Okajima. Hideki came over without the fanfare of Dice-K, and all he did was get the job done, getting the ball to the Red Sox closer. He’ll be closing for the Bombers.

25) THREE RIVERS GAMBLERS: Lee Gardner P* – After trading away his bullpen Todd needed to bring in a rookie he could turn to. Even though he’s an A*Z rookie with 70+ innings, I’m not impressed. A one year fix, at best.

26) MOLLY PUTTS MARAUDERS: Yunel Escobar SS – This is a real head scratcher! Don already has one of the best young shortstops in the game in Jose Reyes. Then the Marauders traded for Rafael Furcal, and now they draft Escobar. Maybe it’s because the Halos traded away their SS Orlando Cabrera. I thought if MP would draft a SS it would be Erick Aybar.

27) NORTHSIDE HITMEN: Matt Lindstrom P* – Chuck got another quality reliever to go along with Rauch & Soria. Lindstrom is a hardthrower that fits in perfectly. Good pick!

28) TWIN CITIES THUNDERCHICKENS: Felix Pie OF – Cherry, Dutch Apple, Strawberry Rhubarb, French Silk, let the pies rain down, ala the Bleacher Bums. Pie has all the talent, but can he hit? Kinda reminds me of Julio Ramirez, if this kid ever learns to hit DJ he’s gonna be a good one. Still I like Felix and think he’ll hit & will be good!

29) GREEN ROCK BOMBERS: Brendan Harris 2B – I HATE you Mike Bunch! I never even considered Brendan Harris until I noticed Harris was unlimited at 2B-8. But I seriously thought his 2B-8 rating might be overlooked cuz he was rated SS-7 on his card first. I thought Brendan would fall to me in the extra round, but I was wrong as Papa Bunch nabbed him. Still other than a couple of good hitting months in his rookie season, he was a journeyman at best.

30) GREEN ROCK BOMBERS: Norris Hopper OF – It took this rookie 28 years on the planet to reach the show. But when he got there, he hit. Hopper has no power, but can field. Total opposite of Chris Duncan, another older rookie chosen by the Bombers last year. Not a fan.

31) THREE RIVERS GAMBLERS: Jensen Lewis P* – Jensen Lewis experienced some success out of the bullpen for the Tribe after being a starter in the minors. His success was brief, as will his career, lack o talent will catch up to him. Can you say, Gary Majewski?

32) NORTHSIDE HITMEN: Pedro Martinez P – How could I not like CLuke reclaiming his future HOF hurler for one last go around with the Hitmen. Pedro proved there was plenty left in the tank at the end of last year with the Mets. Martinez will be dealing for the Northside long afer alot of prospects have seen cold stark realities.

33) CHICAGO HIGHLANDERS: Jeremy Guthrie P – Guthrie was a high draft choice for Cleveland, disappeared, only to resurface in Baltimore. He has good stuff, is an innings eater, but don’t look for Jeremy to be a long term solution.

34) MOLINE UPPERDECKERS: Asdrubal Cabrera 2B – Marc was giggling at this kid’s name the first time he heard it. Now he’s got Asdrubal on his team. Reminds me of Placido Polanco with the glove, not a bad thing, but will the Indians end up moving him to shortstop.

35) THREE RIVERS GAMBLERS: Matt Chico P – It’s always tough to gauge soft tossing lefties. Chico does have control, strikes out a few guys, and will get the ball often with the Nats. Not enough support to get a grade based on wins, so Matt will have to keep his ERA down if he wants to be graded.

36) CHICAGO HIGHLANDERS: Andrew Miller P – The rich get richer. Moore got Hughes & Miller. Andrew has a 95 MPH heater and knows how to use it. The Tigers rushed him last year, should show his stuff with the Fish this season.

37) MOLLY PUTTS MARAUDERS: Jeff Keppinger SS – WHY? Keppinger is SS #4 for the Marauders, if you’re counting. And DonS still doesn’t have the guy he wanted (Erick Aybar). Then there’s the matter of letting Rich Harden go just when he finall may have his arm glued on, but how long can you bark up that tree? With LaRoche at firstbase, I like Billy Butler alot here! That said, Keppinger can hit.

38) CHICAGO CHAMPIONS: Tony Abreu INF – What were the Champions thinking? He wasn’t even on the team’s top 50 players to be chosen. Things started going wrong when they cut Jose Castillo rather than cutting their losses and releasing Josh Barfield, why didn’t they choose Dan Uggla or Ian Kinsler one year ago? Then Upton was taken right before they picked in the 1st round, and then they took (want) Lincecum over (need) Soria. And then they thought they’d get Harris or Cabrera, which got them thinking infielders rather than corner men. That said, with B.J. Upton playing secondbase this year, who’s gonna play there next season? So to make a short story long, that’s why they chose Tony Abreu. Abreu, who the heck is Abreu? Tony was taken over Josh Fields, Kevin Kouzmanoff, & Mark Reynolds, but the Champs do have ARod. What a disaster!

REPORT CARDS

A+ CHICAGO HIGHLANDERS: Upton is the next Vladimir Guerrero! Young is a very good defensive centerfielder, with pop & speed. Hughes is the head of the rotation guy this team needs to replace an aging Rocket. Montero is a serviceable backup to Rodriguez, who ain’t going anywhere just yet. Guthrie looks like a mirage, but should provide some pitching until the kids are ready to step it up. Miller is the perfect complement to Hughes at the top of the rotation, what a righty/lefty combo. This might go down as the best draft ever, reminds me of when Rob drafted Miguel Tejada & Adrian Beltre.

A NORTHSIDE HITMEN: Chuck shopped just like a guy. He knew what he wanted, went in there, and got it! Pence might not walk, but that’s like looking for flaws in a masterpiece, this kid can do it all. Soria never relieved before in his life, but you’d never know it the way this Rule V pitcher stepped into the closer’s role in KC, ice water running through his veins. Owings will fill in nicely at the back of the rotation, his bat is a plus! Lindstrom flat out throws hard, doesn’t back down, and gets the job done. Martinez like the rest of us is getting old, but unlike us he seems to be getting better, well that might be stretching it, but he’s got gas left in his tank.

B RISING BAMM-BEANOS: Gordon is a thirdbaseman ready to step into Scott Rolen’s shoes, will be a star for many years. Matsuzaka Dice-K, what a perfect name! Is a bigtime pitcher, ready to assume that role for the Bamm-Beanos. Garza has nasty stuff and will be a solid pitcher in this league. Some people say, you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, well all you have to do is look at John to see this just ain’t so. Brando does as much research as anybody in the league and it’s starting to payoff. John has decided to turn away from the soft tossing lefties in favor of the hardthrowing righties. This team will be right there!

B- MOLINE UPPERDECKERS: Marc is a guy who knows how to retool for the playoffs, without forgetting about the future. Gallardo throws a heavy fastball and knows how to pitch & win. Perez came out of nowhere, but sometimes lefty relievers do that, and last a long time. Cabrera can pick it with the best of them, however that’s a big part of his game, his bat is a question mark, no speed.

C+ STATE STREET SLUGGERS: Moylan Nick likes sidearmers, this kid can work everyday. The Sluggers are going for it and nothing says that more than this whore of a pick.

C THREE RIVERS GAMBLERS: This is like the tale of two drafts. The first two picks are great, the rest leave much to be desired. Braun has the perfect home run swing, without sacrificing average, what a MONSTER! Pedroia can field, can hit, can scrap, can win. Bannister has to be perfect with control to get a grade in KC, not gonna do it with wins. Gardner is a journeyman relief pitcher, sure he’s got a good grade, but he’s not a closer. Lewis throws hard, but nothing else, YIKES! Chico has a spot in Washington’s rotation, he’s a lefty, will be aroound, which’ll either be a good thing or a bad thing.

C TWIN CITIES THUNDERCHICKENS: Tulowitzki can really field & can really hit, can you say grounded superstar?! McGowan isn’t overly impressive, solid, not flashy. Kendrick really isn’t going to Japan, which woulda made him a better pick, a soft tossing righty, not a fan. Pie can flatout fly and I think he’ll hit, maybe Corey Patterson. But who doesn’t like pie ala mode?

D- GREEN ROCK BOMBERS: Six picks is a lot to do nothing with, and I’m not just giving Bunchie this low grade cuz I HATE him, but it helps. Hamilton is a question mark, hitting in a good hitting ballpark, who will wear out his welcome before long. Loney is the real deal, Don Mattingly, even a blind nut finds a squirrel every once in a while. Saltalamacchia has a long name, but not much else going for this switch hitting catcher. Okajima is an OLD portsider from Japan, a nice half year. Harris had two good months in his rookie year, the only thing that makes him a regular is Minnesota’s budget. Hopper even though he hit well as a rookie with the Reds, is being challenged for a starting job in Cincinnati by Corey Patterson & Ryan Freel, that says it all.

SS MOLLY PUTTS MARAUDERS: Not that I have to understand everything in life, but this draft looked like one of mine, made no sense. Both players will add punch off the bench, but look to get little playing time with Reyes & Furcal ahead of them. The Marauders are going for it, have pretty much everything else, so maybe bench strength makes sense. Escobar is a very good hitter, with a great glove, and outstanding range. Keppinger line drives just jump off his bat, should win the everyday job in Cincinnati. All that said, DonS is never gonna live down the day he passed on Erick Aybar. Also Kouzmanoff, Reynolds, & Fields would have provided pop off the bench, and a guy ready to step in for Lowell in the future.

F CHICAGO CHAMPIONS: Hope I don’t get grounded for not studying. This is my 2nd straight F and I’m the one handing out the grades. Seriously, I wonder if the hair dye seeped into my brain. Lincecum is the real deal and if healthy will be around for years to come with many A’s in the Franchise’s fututure. That said, the Champs should have traded with the Gamblers, then we could’ve gotten Upton and Pedroia would have been there for Todd. Abreu secondbase seems to have been this club’s Achilles Heel for years, but this pick was flat out ridiculous!

OVERLOOKED ROOKIES

1) Billy Butler 1B/OF: He can’t run & he can’t field, but he can hit! Butler is a line drive hitter with good home run power. Look for Billy to hit .350 with 30 HR’s.

2) Kevin Kouzmanoff 3B: The first pitch Kevin saw in the big leagues he knocked over the fence for a grand slam. That’s pretty impressive, but even more so is the way this guy plays all out in SD’s pitcher friendly ballpark. His take no prisoners attitude, shows me that he’ll only get better.

3) John Danks P: All the talent in the world, yet he didn’t impress. Has never been a winner at any level of his career. He’s a tweener, not a soft tosser or a flame thrower. Yet it’s hard to write off a young lefty with his kinda stuff, with a spot in the rotation.

4) Josh Fields 3B/OF: I laughed when the Hawkeroo compared him to Harmon Killebrew. So maybe he’s not the Killer, there’s still lotsa room in there for this kid to be an outstanding home run hitter. He will be the Sox thirdbaseman before the year’s out, and after seeing Ventura & Crede improve at the hot corner, there’s no reason Josh won’t be a 5.

5) Erick Aybar INF: This kid will make Halo fans forget all about Orlando Cabrera. He can pick it, very fluid in the field. With his work ethic he should develop into a .300 hitter, with 20 homers. No, I’m not high.

6) Kurt Suzuki C: I like everything I see about this kid. Nothing flashy, just goes about his job the right way. Handles pitchers well, and has a knack for hitting in the clutch.

7) Mark Reynolds 3B: He strikes out alot, but doesn’t let that get him down. Reynolds plays in a good hitter’s park in Arizona and won the starting spot from Tracy as a rookie, big time pop.

8) Carlos Gomez OF: Carlos can fly both on the bases and in the field, but will he hit enough to be the leadoff man in Minnesota? I think the Twins got a gem in Gomez. While he might not make Twins fans forget about Torii Hunter, he’ll be a good one.

9) Kevin Slowey P: Normally this control pitcher racks up plenty of K’s. I normally don’t like soft throwing righties, but I’ll make an exception with Slowey, he reminds me of Brad Radke.

10) Ubaldo Jimenez P: A 100 MPH fastball can’t be taught. Jimenez showed alot of raw talent last year for the Rockies, but still he pitches in Colorado. It’s tough to take a pitcher from the Mile High City, even one as talented as Ubaldo.

2007 IAL DRAFT REVIEW Part II

1) RISING BAMM-BEANOS: Hanley Ramirez SS – Ramirez was the NL ROY. As a rookie Hanley showed he could run, hit, and hit for power. He showed flashes in the field and has the ability to develop into a top notch SS.

2) MOLINE UPPERDECKERS: Justin Verlander P – Justin was the AL ROY. Verlander was a solid member of the Tigers rotation that got Detroit into the World Series. His fastball has been clocked in the high 90′s, he has a good yacker.

3) GREEN ROCK BOMBERS: Francisco Liriano P – Everybody knows this kid is the best lefty to come around in years. But his arm fell off late in the year, and now his future is up in the air. Still, it’s never wrong to gamble on this much talent.

4) GREEN ROCK BOMBERS: Joel Zumaya P* – 100+ MPH fastball, not just once, but time after time. Fastball hitters can’t catch up with this guy’s heater, even when they know it’s coming. Fun to watch him throw.

5) NORTHSIDE HITMEN: Delmon Young OF – A good talent on a terrible team, the Tampa Bay Devil Rays have no direction. Young was called up following a 50 game suspension for throwing his bat, and hitting an umpire with it. Delmon is a big man, with all the tools, and an everyday job in RF. He is the younger brother of Dmitri Young, let’s hope he doesn’t screw it up like his big brother did.

6) CHICAGO HIGHLANDERS: Howie Kendrick 2B – Howie is a hitter! There were four secondbasemen in the draft, was hoping he’d fall to me, thought there was a chance because there weren’t that many teams with a 2B need. However, good hitters are ALWAYS in need. This pick reminds me of when Rob drafted Beltre & Tejada, GREAT PICK!

7) THREE RIVERS GAMBLERS: Jonathan Papelbon P* – A 0.92 ERA out of the box, are you kidding me?!?! Papelbon was as dominating as a closer could be, then was shut down late in the year by Boston. Not sure his conversion to a starter will be a success, but he should lead the Gamblers back to the World Series again this year.

8) STATE STREET SLUGGERS: Jered Weaver P – Was 11-2, with a 2.56 ERA for the Halos, but has biceps tendinitis. Could be ripe for a sophomore jinx, but will be a solid one-two punch to go along with Webb for the Sluggers.

9) CHICAGO CHAMPIONS: Matt Cain P – Other than Delmon, this was the guy I wanted. Todd Helton once said, "One day I’ll tell my grandchildren I batted against Matt Cain". This kid was the 2nd best starter in the draft behind Verlander, IMHO.

10) TWIN CITIES THUNDERCHICKENS: Nick Markakis OF – Markakis can do it all, hit hit for power, and field. Someday he’ll win a batting title, and hit over 30 homers. Nick the Greek is good!

11) RISING BAMM-BEANOS: Russell Martin C – Russell is a take charge guy, that has taken over behind the plate. He will be the captain of the Dodgers, who’ll be playing for a Dodger fan.

12) MOLINE UPPERDECKERS: Jonathan Broxton P* – Broxton fits the mold of an Upperdecker relief pitcher. He is a big kid, who throws hard.

13) MOLLY PUTTS MARAUDERS: Ryan Zimmerman 3B – Zimmerman & Markakis were the 2nd & 3rd best players in this year’s draft, behind Young. Ryan is a Gold Glove thirdbaseman who can rake. He also has high moral character, as he takes care of his mother who has MS.

14) GREEN ROCK BOMBERS: Chris Duncan OF – It took this guy a while to make it in the bigs, yet he has a good card & plays for St. Louis, which was good enough for Papa Bunch to draft him. Will he be the next Rick Ankiel, Heity Cruz, or Yadier Molina to be drafted by the Bombers. Needs a map in the outfield.

15) NORTHSIDE HITMEN: Cole Hamels P – Just because he’s lefty and pitches for Philadelphia does not make him Steve Carlton. While he struckout alot of batters, he doesn’t possess an overpowering fastball. Broke his hand in a brawl, wonder whether he has the makeup to make it.

16) CHICAGO HIGHLANDERS: Josh Johnson P – This 6’7" 240 pound righthander is a horse. A strained muscle shut him down as a rookie, now an irritated ulnar nerve will force him to miss the 1st two months of his second season. His future looks shaky, but he is a B.

17) THREE RIVERS GAMBLERS: Kenji Johjima C – BUY AMERICAN! This Japanese import is solid behind the plate, and can really hit, his age makes him less of a bargain, still he looks to plug a hole at catcher.

18) STATE STREET SLUGGERS: Anibal Sanchez P – Missed two full seasons in the minors with arm injuries. Yet he fired a no-hitter as a rookie, and put up solid numbers in his first big league season. Will be good, if he can stay healthy.

19) CHICAGO CHAMPIONS: Josh Barfield 2B – Can you say panic? There were four rookie secondbasemen in the draft, with very little need, yet when Kendrick got picked, I jumped in and took this guy. Josh had an impressive rookie year with the glove and the bat in SD, and should be better with the Indians. It was kind of a mystery as to why he didn’t play everyday last year in the playoffs for the Padres.

20) TWIN CITIES THUNDERCHICKENS: Stephen Drew SS – Drew is the cornerstone at SS for Arizona. Looks to be the shortstop of the future for the T*Chix, unless family resemblance kicks in. Stephen can field, hit, and hit for power.

21) RISING BAMM-BEANOS: Jeremy Sowers P – Originally John took Jeremy Hermida, then switched to Jeremy Sowers after the draft. Did Brandeberry know he didn’t have to take another Jeremy with this pick? Sowers is a soft throwing lefthander, which seems to be what the Bamm-Beanos like in their starters: Moyer, Duke, Lowry, Mulder. Jeremy needs good control to be successful, challenges hitters with heat when he gets two strikes.

22) MOLINE UPPERDECKERS: Carlos Quentin OF – Quentin is another member of Arizona’s resurgence. Carlos will be in RF everyday for the Diamondbacks. He is a big guy, who can hit for power, and is okay in the field.

23) MOLLY PUTTS MARAUDERS: Adam Wainwright P* – Wainwright pitched setup for the Redbirds all year, and then closed in the World Series. He will be switched over to the rotation this season. It’s a wonder Papa Bunch didn’t take him.

24) THREE RIVERS GAMBLERS: Prince Fielder 1B – With the Big Hurt getting a little long in the tooth, the Gamblers selected Big Daddy’s son as his heir apparent. Along with Ryan Howard, this kid will be the big power at firstbase for years to come.

25) CHICAGO HIGHLANDERS: Cla Meredith P* – This side-arming righthander will be the closer du jour for the Highlanders. Rob got him a little later than he got Armando Benitez, Jorge Julio, & Rafael Soriano.

26) TWIN CITIES THUNDERCHICKENS: Scott Olsen P – Olsen is a power lefty with a good strikeout pitch. Scott is durable and should be a solid starter for years to come, although the number of innings thrown at a young age remains a concern.

27) STATE STREET SLUGGERS: Takashi Saito P* – Saito busted onto the American baseball scene from Japan and took over the closer’s job for the Dodgers. He will be a good complement for Chris Ray with State Street. Reminds me of when Nick had Kaz Sasaki in the pen.

28) CHICAGO CHAMPIONS: Boof Bonser P – How could you not like a guy with the name Boof? Bonser will be the number two man for Minnesota this year. He seemed to get better as his rookie season went along.

29) TWIN CITIES THUNDERCHICKENS: Pat Neshek P* – Neshek is nasty when he drops down and bores in on righthanded hitters. Pat was dominant in limited time as a rookie with the Twins, showed good competitive juices.

30) MOLLY PUTTS MARAUDERS: Chuck James P – This lefty flew under my radar. Just like DonS said about Broxton flying under his radar. I had no thoughts Chuck James would get drafted. That being said, that doesn’t mean this soft-throwing lefty won’t be a good one with Atlanta and Molly Potts.

31) NORTHSIDE HITMEN: Brandon League P* – Brandon is a hard-throwing righthanded setup man for Toronto who achieved a grade of A*Z as a rookie. He should help the Hitmen this year, but not sure of his future, as he’s a Pisces.

32) CHICAGO HIGHLANDERS: Lastings Milledge OF – I never thought this guy would get drafted either, but it makes more sense, the more you think about it. He’s gotten into trouble, sometimes he doesn’t appear ready to play, but has loads of talent, plus he’s young. He was the youngest player in the draft, he can only get older.

33) STATE STREET SLUGGERS: Andre Ethier OF – Ethier has a good bat and a good eye. He is a decent outfielder. Although Andre will never be a star, he will be a solid outfielder in the IAL.

34) STATE STREET SLUGGERS: Dan Uggla 2B – Dan Uggla broke Joe Gordon’s home run record for rookie secondbaseman. I watched this guy all year for the Marlins and was surprised he was rated by APBA as a poor fielder. Now the Sluggers have a secondbaseman, "and his name is DAN UGGLA".

35) CHICAGO CHAMPIONS: Taylor Tankersley P* – Tankersley will be the closer for the Marlins and the Champions. Although I kept calling him Travis throughout the draft weekend, I’m glad to have Taylor, even if he is a Pisces. This lefty is just wild enough to be effective, reminds me of Billy Wagner.

36) TWIN CITIES THUNDERCHICKENS: Mike Jacobs 1B – Here is another guy I never thought would get drafted, especially by the team that has Phat Albert. Jacobs is a good lefthanded hitting firstbaseman, what you see is, what you get.

37) MOLLY PUTTS MARAUDERS: Rich Harden P – This was a great pick when DonS drafted him the first time, it’s an even better one now. Harden has looked overpowering in Spring Training. The A’s need him to step up, and it seems like when Oakland needs somebody to step forward, they do. When healthy, he has #1 stuff!

38) NORTHSIDE HITMEN: Jon Rauch P* – Now that CLuke has mastered baseball, he’s looking to basketball. Seriously, the Hitmen needed a body out of the pen to deal some innings, and Jon is the man.

39) CHICAGO HIGHLANDERS: Ian Snell P – This kid is the real deal! Loads of talent, plus a real steal for the Highlanders. Snell throws the hell out of the baseball and never backs down. Ian is the kind of competitor who rises to the challenge.

40) CHICAGO CHAMPIONS: Shane Victorino OF – Sometimes it isn’t a good idea to go to Spring Training. I never even thought of Victorino, until I saw him play this Spring. He is a little line-drive hitting outfielder. This smurf is terrific in the field! Needs to hit .340 to be a starter in this league.

41) TWIN CITIES THUNDERCHICKENS: Rich Hill P – Talk about Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde! When this little girl was good, she was very very good, but when she was bad, she was terrific. No, that’s another story. Hill started off bad, was sent down, came back dressed as Sandy Koufax. No matter what, he’s a C this year.

42) CHICAGO CHAMPIONS: Mike Capps P* – Everyday Andy was out there all the time for the Buccos as a rookie, might be the closer this year. He’s not afraid to throw strikes.

43) TWIN CITIES THUNDERCHICKENS: Ruddy Lugo P* – Saw him last year in the Rays camp and was not impressed. Just good enough to be bad, kind of like Tampa Bay, not a fan.

44) CHICAGO CHAMPIONS: Matt Kemp OF – This guy could be the next Jermaine Dye. Kemp is a big kid, who can fly, hit for power, but needs to be more selective at the dish. All he needs is a chance. Third Matt taken in this year’s draft by the Champs.

REPORT CARDS

A+ MOLINE UPPERDECKERS: Verlander is the best pitcher in the draft. Broxton was the best relief pitcher left when he was taken. Quentin is a 30+ homer guy, who’ll hit .280 on a regular basis.

A STATE STREET SLUGGERS: If Weaver follows in the footsteps of his brother, that doesn’t bode well, but he’ll be an A this year. If Sanchez‘ arm problems are a thing of the past, then State Street got a real bargain, if not he’s still a B. Saito is a veteran from Japan, who showed the Dodgers what he was capable of doing as a rookie. Ethier can hit, walk, & is okay in the field, will produce as a rookie for the Sluggers. And his name is Dan Uggla!, can hit for power, and bang hot bartenders in Pittsburgh, All Star as a rook.

B+ MOLLY PUTTS MARAUDERS: Zimmerman is just what the doctor ordered for a team with Lowell at 3B, great pick! Wainwright has nerves of steel and ability to match. Don’t know anything about James, but DonS believes in Atlanta, don’t know how much longer the Braves will remain on his "draft from" list. Harden was the real deal when he was picked the first time, remains that way today, ready to be healthy.

B- RISING BAMM-BEANOS: Ramirez filled a need, but Verlander would have been a better choice. Martin is going to be a star catcher, but Zimmerman would have been a better choice along with Ramirez, or Drew if Verlander was taken with the 1st pick. Sowers is a soft-throwing lefthander with good stuff, but Billingsley could be a #1 starter for the Dodgers.

B THREE RIVERS GAMBLERS: Papelbon is a GREAT closer for one year, it’ll be a bonus if he makes it as a starter. A little old for a rookie, but Johjima will fit the bill for the Gamblers behind the plate. A really big man plays 1B for Three Rivers, an even bigger man in Fielder waits in the wings.

C+ TWIN CITIES THUNDERCHICKENS: The Zealot got a real steal when one of the best players in the draft in Markakis was still there with the last pick in the 1st round. SS Drew was another great pick for the T*Chix. Twin Cities made it three in a row when they selected lefthander Olsen. Neshek will be there for the T*Chix in the playoffs, next year would only be a bonus. I was surprised Jacobs got picked, tough break playing behind Pujols, wasted pick. Hill is a Cub, hope Tom enjoys him. Lugo is a Ray, and a bad one, is there any other kind?

C CHICAGO HIGHLANDERS: Kendrick is a line drive machine, who has a batting championship in his future. Johnson & Meredith look to be one year wonders for the Highlanders, out of the rotation & pen, respectively. Milledge is another future selection for Rob, and he’s an Aries, but Willingham would’ve better fit this team’s need. Snell was the 3rd best righthander taken, behind Verlander and Cain.

C- NORTHSIDE HITMEN: Character is the only downside regarding Young. Here is another guy who has had character issues, Hamels also doesn’t throw all that hard, sneaky fast. League is a hard thrower, with control, might be a one year wonder, will help Hitmen this year. I was amazed to see Rauch succeed for Washington out of the pen, I’ll be even more amazed if he does it again.

D+ GREEN ROCK BOMBERS: Liriano was the best lefthander to come along in some time before his arm fell off, will be a great one, if he can come back from his arm injury. Zumaya throws hard and can take over a game out of the bullpen. Duncan has a great hitting card as a rookie, three ones, but one is his outfield rating.

F CHICAGO CHAMPIONS: This Cain kid can deal! Barfield might be good, but was taken way too early. Bonser has a fun name in Boof, but can he pitch?, we’ll see. Originally said Victorino, then got a reprieve when it was the Sluggers turn to pick, was happy to get Tankersley, but should never be too happy to get a Pisces pitcher. Don’t go to Spring Training, cuz you might fall in love with a guy like Victorino, and draft him. Capps looked like a little fat guy when I saw him last year in Pittsburgh, but he just looks that way cuz he’s so heavy, hope overwork doesn’t do him in. This kid Kemp might be the steal of the draft, otherwise he’ll just go away.

OVERLOOKED ROOKIES

1) Ian Kinsler 2B: He is the starting secondbaseman for the Rangers, Texas is a good place to hit, and he hit very well as a rookie (with power, average, & speed). Kinsler is good in the field.

2) Josh Willingham OF: Nicknamed The Hammer for the way this kid can hit the ball. This converted catcher had more homers than any other rookie in the draft. He can help you now and in the future, not much in the field.

3) Chad Billingsley P: A good pitcher, in a good system, pitching in a pitcher’s friendly ballpark, is a good combination. Chad is a big pitcher, ready to show what he can do as a sophomore.

4) Adam Loewen P: Loewen is a very talented Canadian lefthander, who just learned a new way to hold his curveball with amazing results. Leo Mazzone is ready to work his magic on this kid.

5) Conor Jackson 1B: Jackson is part of a good young team out in Arizona. He plays in a very good hitter’s park and will be a big part of the Diamondbacks lineup.

6) Jonathan Sanchez P: This lefthander was force fed into the majors as a rookie. Still when I saw him throw, he looked smooth. Has plenty of talent.

7) Craig Hansen P*: Craig is a highly tauted relief pitcher. He has major league stuff and will be a quality closer. It’s hard to draft a D* relief pitcher when graded relievers are out there, but alot of them are one year wonders, while this guy could develop into another Trevor Hoffman.

8) Jeremy Hermida OF: Plenty of talent, but didn’t seem to care when I watched him. Still if he applies himself, the sky’s the limit.

9) Andy Marte 3B: Was one of the top ranked minor leaguers with the Braves, now has a fulltime gig at the hot corner with the Tribe. The ball jumps off this laid-back youngster’s bat.

10) Anthony Reyes P: Has tremendous poise for a rookie, not much of a fastball, and needs to have pinpoint control to succeed. Yet when he’s on, he’s un-hittable. Being around Chris Carpenter & Dave Duncan won’t hurt him at all.

2007 IAL Rookie Draft Review

Round 1

1) John – Hanley Ramirez: John needs pitching, should have taken Verlander.

2) Marc – Justin Verlander: Surprised he didn’t take Delmon Young.

3) Mike – Francisco Liriano: Thought he’d take Weaver, Francisco’s great, but his arm fell off, had Black Magic Woman & Mariano.

4) Mike – Joel Zumaya: Can’t teach 100 MPH, will frustrate as a closer.

5) Chuck – Delmon Young: Retooling for post Bonds & Manny era.

6) Rob – Howie Kendrick: Surprise! Actually thought he’d make it to me in round three.

7) Todd – Jonathan Papelbon: Eliminated the idea of me whoring out for relief pitchers.

8) Nick – Jered Weaver: Christmas came early, Santa brought this good boy an A Starter.

9) Tedd – Matt Cain: Fell in love watching this guy throw.

10) Tom – Nick Markakis: Immediate impact player, will only get better, almost took him at 9.

Round 2

11) John – Russell Martin: If John had taken Verlander, he could’ve had Drew here, should’ve taken Ryan Zimmerman. I really thought Martin would be there for me in round two.

12) Marc – Jonathan Broxton: A Marc Bunch Hard Throwing Relief Pitcher.

13) Don – Ryan Zimmerman: It was worth the wait for Don, no brainer here, thought he might slip to me in round two.

14) Mike – Chris Duncan: A Cardinal outfielder with power, make sense, but only in Papa Bunchie’s mind.

15) Chuck – Cole Hamels: Resisted the temptation of taking a B starter or an A reliever to take strikeout lefty, should’ve whored out.

16) Rob – Josh Johnson: Went for the future with 1st pick, whored it out here.

17) Todd – Kenji Johjima: Was thinking of taking him myself, fills huge void for Todd, immediate gratification.

18) Nick – Anibal Sanchez: Now a B Starter falls to him here.

19) Tedd – Josh Barfield: Panic Pick! There were still 3 good secondbasemen available, no need to take one here, especially with bullpen need.

20) Tom – Stephen Drew: Thought he’d go sooner, great pick here!

Round 3

21) John – Jeremy Hermida/Jeremy Sowers: Took Sowers after draft was over, should’ve taken Billingsley or Loewen as they have more upside. Sowers is a solid starter, just not a star.

22) Marc – Carlos Quentin: Thought he’d go very late, would have, had Marc selected Young in round one.

23) Don – Adam Wainwright: About the right spot for this guy to go, thought he’d have been a Bomber, perhaps some day, perhaps that’s why Don picked him.

24) Todd – Prince Fielder: Thought Don would’ve cleared a path for this guy to join his team. Another rookie who can do it now for Todd!

25) Rob – Cla Meredith: Whored out again!

26) Tom – Scott Olsen: Best young Marlin pitcher, lots of talent!

27) Nick – Takashi Saito: Taka recommended, nuff said.

28) Tedd – Boof Bonser: Taken earlier than I should’ve, but really wanted Boof.

29) Tom – Pat Neshek: Going for it now, this sidearmer can get righties out.

Round 4

30) Don – Chuck James: Surprise! Didn’t have him getting drafted.

31) Chuck – Brandon League: Not impressed, glad he didn’t take Tankersley.

32) Rob – Lastings Milledge: Not a fan! Another Milton Bradley, should’ve taken Josh Willingham.

33) Nick – Andre Ethier: Solid player, dunno about APBA, should’ve taken Willingham.

34) Nick – Dan Uggla: Originally I was called and said Victorino, glad it was Nick’s pick, surprised he didn’t draft Ian Kinsler instead. But this kid can launch!

35) Tedd – Taylor Tankersley: Glad I could take back my Victorino pick and take the relief pitcher I wanted & needed. Hadn’t heard about his sore shoulder.

36) Tom – Mike Jacobs: Never thought he’d get drafted, not needed, kind of a wasted pick.

Round 5

37) Don – Rich Harden: Why didn’t I think of that? I actually thought he pitched enough to get a card, my bad, everybody else’s too. Nice regrab!

38) Chuck – Jon Rauch: Bigtime workhorse out of the pen.

39) Rob – Ian Snell: Will help now & later, great pick!

40) Tedd – Shane Victorino: Much better ballplayer than APBA guy. Don’t I know we’re playing APBA not baseball?

41) Tom – Rich Hill: Hard to tell which pitcher will come out in 2007. Not a bad late round gamble, I like Loewen or Billingsley better.

Round 6

42) Tedd – Mike Capps: Needed a workhorse out of the pen, might be a sleeper.

43) Tom – Rudy Lugo: Worst pick of the draft, total waste!

Round 7

44) Tedd – Matt Kemp: Once I had an outfield of Lee, Sizemore, & Wells – really didn’t need to take this guy! Dodger youngsters are overrated, should’ve followed my buddy Don’s lead and regrabbed Zack Greinke. If I thought Zack was good enough to be a 1st rounder, then he should’ve been re-selected with the 44th pick.

2009 IAL TRADE ANALYSIS

CHAMPIONS get Felipe Lopez

UPPERDECKERS get Vernon Wells

ANALYSIS Need sometimes creates desperation, V-Dub is WAY better than F-Lo. Big advantage Upperdeckers!

GAMBLERS get Scott Rolen

BAMM-BEANOS get Juan Uribe

ANALYSIS Rolen gives the Gamblers a regular at 3B and Brooks Uribe gives the Bamm-Beanos some flexibility as a utility infielder. This was a trade to help teams with coverage, no advantage.

CHAMPIONS get Ryan Doumit, Ian Stewart, & Bobby Crosby

HITMEN get A.J. Burnett, Hiroki Kuroda, & Boof Bonser

ANALYSIS Pitching for hitting, as simple as that. Doumit fills in for the injured Victor Martinez and Burnett gives the Hitmen a solid #3 starter. Doumit for Burnett would’ve been a fair trade, advantage Hitmen.

UPPERDECKERS get Jeff Keppinger

MARAUDERS get Ken Griffey, Jr.

ANALYSIS Junior’s closer to becoming a draft choice, advantage Marauders.

BOMBERS get Adam Dunn

GAMBLERS get Troy Glaus

ANALYSIS Dunn will eventually become the starting firstbaseman for the Bombers. Glaus is an upgrade over Rolen at 3B, any way to get Uribe back for Rolen? Even Steven.

MARAUDERS get James Loney

BOMBERS get Yunel Escobar

ANALYSIS DonS must’ve convinced Papa Bunch you can never have too many shortstops. Another fair trade.

KERNELS get Robb Quinlan

HIGHLANDERS get Julian Tavarez

ANALYSIS Thinking about this swap makes my head hurt, no talent here.

MARAUDERS get Geovany Soto

HIGHLANDERS get Felix Hernandez

ANALYSIS A good young pitcher for a good young catcher, no advantage.

MARAUDERS get Evan Longoria & Ramon Hernandez

THUNDERCHICKENS get Geovany Soto & Mark Hendrickson

ANALYSIS DonS should’ve stopped here, IMHO. The Marauders need young blood at the hot corner, can’t top Longoria! Nelly gets the man he wanted, wouldn’t it have been easier just to lose more games down the stretch? Marauders get the nod in this one.

MARAUDERS get Nick Blackburn

HIGHLANDERS get Rickie Weeks

ANALYSIS A young pitcher for a young secondbaseman, talent’s still up in the air, slight advantage to Marauders.

BOMBERS get Evan Longoria & Glen Perkins

MARAUDERS get Edinson Volquez & Johnny Cueto

ANALYSIS Johnny Cueto is that much better than Glen Perkins to once again give the advantage to the Marauders, despite the fact that Longoria is clearly the best player in the trade.

BOMBERS get Mike Jacobs

THUNDERCHICKENS get Eric Hinske

ANALYSIS The Manasha Mauler fits into the T*Chix lineup as a leadoff man and Jake will be the starting firstbaseman this year in Green Rock. This deal helps both clubs.

GAMBLERS get Omar Vizquel

HITMEN get Scott Rolen

ANALYSIS Gamblers should’ve hung on to Uribe. The Hitmen should’ve kept Omar and drafted Blake DeWitt. This trade is a bad one for both teams. It’s another coverage deal.

2009 IAL DRAFT REVIEW

1) TWIN CITIES THUNDERCHICKENS: Geovany Soto C – Nelly’s a Cub fan, who traded his catcher to move up in the draft to grab a great, young, Cub catcher. Soto’s great behind the plate and will provide protection in the order for Albert Pujols.

2) GREEN ROCK BOMBERS: Evan Longoria 3B – Longoria was the best player in this year’s draft IMHO. His bat reminds me of Ryan Braun, except this thirdbaseman handles the hot corner well enough to stay there. Don’t know why DonS traded the chance to get this kid.

3) Molly Putts Marauders: Edinson Volquez P – Traded Felix, got Edinson, kind of a wash. Volquez had a breakout season as a rookie with the Reds. He has overpowering stuff, let’s see what he does as an encore.

4) RISING BAMM-BEANOS: Jair Jurrjens P – The Bamm-Beanos have quickly assembled a stable of good young arms. Jurrjens is not a #1 starter, but he doesn’t have to be in this rotation.

5) KENTUCKY KERNELS: Joba Chamberlain P – This big man is lights out nasty! It looks like the Yankees are going to try him in the rotation. The sky’s the limit for this kid! He’s that good.

6) COLONA UPPERDECKERS: Joey Votto 1B – Should have talked with Marc about this pick, I could’ve given him something to exchange first rounders. I’m sure Votto would’ve lasted to my pick. He’s a good hitter, 20 homers & a .280 average. Not much to get excited about here.

7) NORTHSIDE HITMEN: Jay Bruce OF – Three Reds in the first seven picks, no wonder I picked the Reds to win it all last year, what happened? Bruce reminds me of Paul O’Neill, which ain’t bad.

8) MOLLY PUTTS MARAUDERS: Alexei Ramirez 2B – If I’d traded for Marc’s 1st rounder I’d have taken either Alexei or Bruce. It killed me to see DonS take Ramirez like he was taking bad medicine. The White Sox are moving him to SS, which fits right into the Marauders plan.

9) THREE RIVERS GAMBLERS: Armando Galarraga P – A one year B is still a B. You’d think drafting cards would catch up with a guy, but not yet. Galarraga will be intregal part of the Gamblers rotation this year. Three Rivers is already printing playoff tickets.

10) CHICAGO CHAMPIONS: Joey Devine P* – Okay, so Bruce & Ramirez were gone, but what about Clayton Kershaw? Brain freeze here, still Devine looks to be Chicago’s closer for years to come. Joey bounced back after allowing grand slams in his first two big league appearances.

11) CHICAGO HIGHLANDERS: Brad Ziegler P* – Reminds me of Arizona’s Korean closer, a sidearmer, who gets guys out. A&B* relievers don’t come along everyday, this is a playoff pick.

12) TWIN CITIES THUNDERCHICKENS: Jacoby Ellsbury OF – The only thing this kid can’t do is hit for power. Speed & defense never take a day off. Jacoby should have a solid IAL career for the T*Chix.

13) MOLLY PUTTS MARAUDERS: Johnny Cueto P – Best pitcher in the draft, bar none. I saw him pitch preseason for the Reds last year, and asked a scout about that Cuetro kid? He said, he was hitting 94. Once he perfects his changeup, what a steal!

14) RISING BAMM-BEANOS: Denard Span OF – The Metrodome is the perfect place for this guy. He has speed, hits down on the ball, and plays defense.

15) KENTUCKY KERNELS: Sean Gallagher P – It would be easy for me to rip this pick as a Cub fan overestimating Cub prospects, except this kid has talent and can pitch. Gallagher was traded for Rich Harden, I like him better than Harden right now. Should’ve taken Clayton!

16) COLONA UPPERDECKERS: Clayton Kershaw P – It might take Kershaw a little while to tap into his potential, but he has the highest upside of anybody in the draft. Clayton should’ve been gobbled up by the Champions. This lefty will be the dominant lefty of his time.

17) NORTHSIDE HITMEN: Jed Lowrie 3B/SS – I remember seeing this switch hitter knock a game winning homer in the Arizona Fall League a couple of years ago. He’s a gritty ballplayer who will be BoSox SS.

18) GREEN ROCK BOMBERS: Glen Perkins P – A C-Z starting pitcher isn’t bad to pickup. Perkins is a soft tossing lefthander, who’d better have sharp control, not a long term solution. Why not Blackburn?

19) THREE RIVERS GAMBLERS: Jose Arrendondo P* – Arrendondo has a good fastball, which he can spot. He has adapted to pitching out of the bullpen, don’t know if he’ll ever be a closer, but sometimes setup men work more innings.

20) NORTHSIDE HITMEN: Hiroki Kuroda P – Another C-Z starter, but I like Blackburn better. Kuroda’s a little long in the tooth. Hiroki will benefit from the Dodgers quality infield defense. Perhaps one more year as a C starter.

21) MOLLY PUTTS MARAUDERS: Nick Blackburn P – DonS isn’t going to get caught short on starting pitching, with Ben Sheets missing this upcoming year. Blackburn is deceptive and knows how to pitch.

22) TWIN CITIES THUNDERCHICKENS: Manny Parra P – A starting pitcher with a 22-6! Seriously, even if he couldn’t hit, he’d still be good. Parra has immediate upside, should be a B starter.

23) GREEN ROCK BOMBERS: Mike Aviles SS/2B – Doesn’t walk, but boy can he hit! Aviles has always hit for average, with doubles power, throughout the minors. Mike is a SS, Bombers already have Greene & newly acquired Escobar. Don’t know why Papa Bunch selected him over Blake DeWitt or Emmanuel Burriss.

24) RISING BAMM-BEANOS: Chris Volstad P – Are you kidding me? A B starter with the 24th pick in the draft! And he’s not a stiff. Even though he doesn’t strike guys out, he seems to know what he’s doing out there, and another quality arm for the Bamm-Beanos rotation. Volstad backwards is Datslov.

25) KENTUCKY KERNELS: Jeff Samardzija P* – Might be better suited to the pen, the Cubbies are toying with the idea of moving him to the rotation, but needs more quality pitches to be a starter. Has a heavy fastball.

26) COLONA UPPERDECKERS: Max Scherzer P – Wonder when the last time a starting pitcher was selected without a major league win. The D*Backs need a closer, this kid needs more than a fastball to be a starter, a move to the pen seems in order. 100 MPH GAS!

27) CHICAGO CHAMPIONS: Ian Stewart 3B/2B – Stewart hits lefties better than he hits righties, because when he was a kid, his dad, a lefty, would throw him BP. Ian should be the starting thirdbaseman in Colorado soon, hopefully in time to spell ARod as he comes back from his surgery, aka suspension.

28) MOLLY PUTTS MARAUDERS: Pablo Sandoval 3B/1B/C – Talk about a masher! Don’t care about this guy’s weight. He has a lightning quick bat from both sides of the plate, not much pitch selection, but can hit everything hard. Should be a regular at the hot corner this year for the Giants, may eventually move across the diamond.

29) THREE RIVERS GAMBLERS: John Lannan P – I was always a Beatles fan, and John Lannan was my favorite, Yeah, Yeah, Yeah. Lannan’s stuff is soft, but his makeup is not, still soft throwing lefties, without a strikeout pitch, yikes! There are exceptions, ie, Tom Glavine, Jamie Moyer, & Mark Buehrle. He’d better have pinpoint control, I’m just not buying it. Still with the Gamblers offense, he ought to win some games this year in the IAL.

30) CHICAGO CHAMPIONS: Cory Wade P* – The Dodgers moved this kid to the bullpen, where he had some success. Didn’t really see him pitch much, but he’s a converted pitcher, so there should be alot of life left in his arm. I look forward to a long successful setup man career, aka Scot Shields.

31) CHICAGO HIGHLANDERS: Chris Davis 1B/3B – A 44-0 with the 31st pick in the draft, a card that reflects double one power! Let’s see, Berkman is getting up there in age at firstbase, the best young hitter out there is Davis, he plays firstbase, I’ll take him, perfect fit! Besides he plays in Texas.

32) TWIN CITIES THUNDERCHICKENS: Jesse Carlson P* – A one year wonder, but still he’s an A* reliever. Nelly just needed a warm body to throw out there at the end of ballgames and he got one.

33) RISING BAMM-BEANOS: Jorge Campillo P – More of a suspect rather than a prospect. Still you can’t argue with his success at getting hitters out. He seems to have moxie, but will that translate to a good career? I doubt it, still he’s a C.

34) KENTUCKY KERNELS: Kosuke Fukudome OF – Even the Cubs, desperate for lefthanded hitting, benched this guy come playoff time. Didn’t really see him contributing all that much to Team Japannot in the WBC. He knows how to take a walk, but does he know how to hit?

35) COLONA UPPERDECKERS: Adam Jones OF – Marc always grabs the best player available. Hard to argue with a philosophy which has the Upperdeckers loaded with good, young talent. When Jones grows into his body, lookout, kind of like Alex Rios, a young kid, growing up & muscling up.

36) NORTHSIDE HITMEN: Brandon Wood SS/3B – Can you say Swiss cheese? More holes in this guy’s swing than in Papa Bunch’s underwear! Overpowered by a good heater, can’t hit breaking balls, the hype is over!

37) MOLLY PUTTS MARAUDERS: Justin Masterson P* – Jon Lester didn’t have a spot in the rotation when coming back from cancer, yet his stuff opened the door. The same will happen for Masterson, talent wins out. Justin has a heavy sinker, which worked well out of the bullpen, but his longterm future success will be as a starter.

38) THREE RIVERS GAMBLERS: Craig Breslow P* – Another A* reliever that’s a one year deal. The hitters will catchup to this guy, a sophomore jinx waiting to happen.

39) CHICAGO CHAMPIONS: Sergio Romo P* – Saw this kid strikeout Manny on three pitches with the bags juiced last year, then he gave a fist pump! Sergio has huge Cojones! Reminds me of Chad Patrick Cordero, RIP.

40) CHICAGO HIGHLANDERS: Jim Johnson P* – Never was, never will be, but is now, purely a playoff pick. Johnson throws hard, his arm will fall off, nuff said.

41) TWIN CITIES THUNDERCHICKENS: Chris Perez P* – Perez is a real life reliever, with a shot at the closer role in St. Louis. Chris throws hard, wild enough to keep the batters off balance, should be a good one!

42) COLONA UPPERDECKERS: Yovani Gallardo P – Some guys look good, but are always hurt, that seems like this guy’s deal. Reminds me of Rick Reuschel, if he gets one or two good years, it was worth the keep.

43) NORTHSIDE HITMEN: Clay Buchholz P – The White Sox sent this talented righthander crying off the mound like a little girl. Still, he has talent! Saw him get rocked in the Arizona Fall League. Boy, can this kid throw! It’s tough to bet against a pitcher with this much upside. He’s already thrown a no-hitter in the big leagues. His struggles remind me of Roy Halladay before he put it all together. Nice gamble here. It took guts to take him, rather than whoring out for Steven Shell, an A* reliever.

44) THREE RIVERS GAMBLERS: Aaron Laffey P – This lefty is a quality starting pitcher, no card selection here. He’s an Aries, born on Tax Day, one day after my birthday, which ain’t all bad. He has three quality pitches, nice pick.

45) CHICAGO CHAMPIONS: Matt Joyce OF – In the tradition of taking somebody I’d never seen play (Tony Abreu), the Champs picked Matt "the card" Joyce. Joyce is out of character for a Champion pick, no flash, not much upside, walks, power, & defense. Matt will be the starting RF this year for the Rays. A couple years ago selecting Matts worked out well, Cain, Kemp, & Capps. We’ll see about this Matt.

46) CHICAGO HIGHLANDERS: Phil Hughes P – A change in secenery might be needed for Hughes to blossom, kind of like Ed Whitson. Some guys just can’t pitch in New York. Just because, if you can make it there, you’ll make it anywhere, doesn’t mean you can’t make it somewhere without making it there. Nothing’s changed here, he’s still got talent.

47) TWIN CITIES THUNDERCHICKENS: Matt Harrison P – Why would Nelly pick this guy? I’m just kidding. Harrison is a big lefty, who knows how to win. Even though he pitches in Texas, he’ll do okay. Another Matt, I recommended him to the T*Chix. I really like his makeup, will be a #2.

48) THREE RIVERS GAMBLERS: Jose Veras P* – Veras has a strikeout pitch, did okay in the Bronx, yet dunno much about him. Jose looks to be a card, so why not take Steven Shell, a better card?

REPORT CARDS

A+ MOLLY PUTTS MARAUDERS: Not a bad pick in the bunch! If what you see, is what you get, then all’s good with picking Volquez. The selection of the Cuban Missile broke my heart, I should’ve done something to have gotten Ramirez. Another kid I fell in love with was Cueto, it’s hard to fly under the radar these days. Blackburn has the heart of a lion and ome talent to go along with it, but beware, he’s a Pieces. Sandoval can hit the ball hard from both sides of the plate, explosive bat. Masterson has a heavy sinker and will be a very good starting pitcher, but even in the pen, he’s solid. DonS seems to have turned his SS fetish into a starting pitcher fetish, adding three good ones. Neither Pablo nor Alexei walk, but both can hit, Ramirez also can pick it.

A MOLINE UPPERDECKERS: Marc wanted a firstbaseman and it was Votto, should’ve traded down, he still would’ve been there. Kershaw should’ve been a first round selection, biggest upside in the draft. One of the best arms in the draft is Scherzer, now he’s throwing gas for Moline. Jones is a natural for the Upperdeckers and will only get better. He might never stay healthy, but if Gallardo ever does, he’ll be a good one. Another very good draft, might be Marc’s best ever!

B+ RISING BAMM-BEANOS: Jurrjens will fit nicely into the Bamm-Beanos rotation, good young arm. Span plays in a pinball game in Minnesota, but his talents translate into a pretty nice APBA card. Wow, can’t believe this bulldog was still there for Brando to snatch up, Volstad is a B, the team’s 5th B or better starter. John went across the border to pickup one more starting pitcher in Campillo. This team just keeps on getting better & better, through solid drafting.

B NORTHSIDE HITMEN: After selecting Delmon & Underpants, Bruce will fill this team’s OF need. SS Lowrie is the real deal, with doubles power, decent D, and a clutch bat. Kuroda is a little older, but solid behind Peavy & Hamels, but why not Volstad? Wood is a major question mark, Blake DeWitt was the answer here. This is one of those picks that you look back on and say, "he got him where?" Buchholz has as much upside as any hurler in the draft. Why didn’t a rebuilding club grab him? Bruce & Lowrie are great pickups, Kuroda fills a need, Wood was a swing & a miss, and Buchholz might be this year’s steal.

B- TWIN CITIES THUNDERCHICKENS: Cub fan Nelly couldn’t wait to take Soto, catching problems solved. The Ellsbury Dough Boy can play OF, run & hit, nice fit into anybody’s lineup. Parra has been touted in Milwaukee, had a nice rookie season, will only get better, plus he can hit. Who is Carlson? Perez will be the Cards closer, nice pick! Didn’t know who Harrison was, but will be rewarded for following Teddy Ballgame’s advice. Nelly, one thing I know about is lefties out of the Braves organization. Could’ve done better, could’ve done worse, 5 out of 6, not bad.

C CHICAGO CHAMPIONS: Devine was the best relief pitcher in the draft, but why not Kershaw? Or better yet, trade up to get Ramirez or Bruce. With ARod missing time next year, Stewart was a nice find, besides he fits perfectly this year. Wade should be a solid workhorse out of the Champs bullpen for a few years. I fell in love with Romo, made losing Chad Patrick a little easier. Who is Joyce? Last year I got an F when I drafted Lincecum, hopefully this year’s draft will pan out as well.

C- THREE RIVERS GAMBLERS: Galarraga is a B, that’s about all. Arrendondo is an aggressive reliever, who takes no prisoners. Soft tossing Lannan will get hit around quite abit. Who is Breslow? Laffey is a solid #3 starter, who’ll fit in nicely behind C.C. & Kazmir. Veras is another graded reliever on a team going for it all. Arrendondo & Laffey are good, the others, not so much.

D+ CHICAGO HIGHLANDERS: This team needed bullpen and drafted A&B* reliever Ziegler. Davis is a solid power hitter now and a long term replacement for Berkman. A little pen depth was added with Johnson, but only a one year deal. Hughes has the ability, but when will he harness it? The relievers were needed, Davis is a fantastic power hitter, and held onto Hughes.

D GREEN ROCK BOMBERS: The best hitter in the draft was Longoria, he’s a masher! But why pick Perkins? Then another headscratcher in Aviles. The Bombers have so many holes, too bad Longoria can’t fill them all. It’s hard to rebuild when you waste draft picks.

F KENTUCKY KERNELS: Somebody should’ve explained to poor Keith that he didn’t have to only pick Cubs or ex-Cubs. Nobody in the draft has a better arm or is nastier than Chamberlain. Gallagher is a workmanlike starter, who’ll throw alot of innings. I don’t see Samardzija as anything more than a reliever, a very successful reliever, he’ll be the Cubs closer. Not a Fukudome fan, reminds me of Nick Swisher, without the power. Joba was a great pick, Gallagher might work out, not much after that.

OVERLOOKED ROOKIES

1) Chase Headley OF/3B: Chase is a corner outfielder/thirdbaseman who can really hit the longball. Headley will hit thirty or more homers per year throughout his career, .280 hitter.

2) Blake DeWitt 3B/2B: Doesn’t have outstanding tools, just goes about his business and gets the job done. Is a decent fielder at 2nd & 3rd, has a good eye, takes a walk, will hit .270 with 20 home runs. Didn’t get drafted because he lost his starting job at 2B when LA signed O-Dog.

3) Carlos Gonzalez OF: Gonzalez was the top rated prospect with both the Diamondbacks and the A’s, now he’s with the Rockies. He’ll get his chance to shine in Colorado. This kid fits in well with the Rockies rebuilding plans. Carlos should hit .300 with 25 HR’s.

4) John Baker C: Baker has quietly stepped into the starting catcher’s slot with the Marlins. John’s always been a hitter, now he’ made great strides behind the plate.

5) Danny Murphy OF: Danny stepped into a starting job with the Mets last year and showed what he can do. Now all he has to do is do it over a long season. Murphy’s a line drive hitter with good speed, a perfect #2 hitter.

6) Nyjer Morgan OF: This kid got a late start into the baseball world because he was a hockey player out of SF. Although he doesn’t walk, he has a quick bat & very good speed, which should translate into a starting outfield job with the Buccos.

7) Emmanuel Burriss SS/2B: He’s a little guy, who hits line drives, plays solid defense, especially at secondbase. Seems to get hurt alot.

8) J.R. Towles C: This guy’s a bigtime prospect! Towles can do it all. He’ll learn from the best, as the Astros signed Pudge as their starting catcher. That doesn’t mean this kid’s future is any less bright.

9) David Murphy OF: I watched this highly touted outfielder a lot with the Rangers before he got hurt. David has a nice swing and Texas is a great place to hit doubles. He should be a force, if he can stay healthy, a little bit older for a rookie, was buried in Boston.

10) David Purcey P: Purcey should get a shot north of the border at a starting spot in the Jays rotation. David has a good strikeout pitch, with control, he’s just got to believe in his ability.

2006 IAL ROOKIE DRAFT REVIEW

1) SLUGGERS – RYAN HOWARD 1B: Ryan Howard is the Jackie Robinson of the State Street Sluggers. Howard will become the 1st African American member of the starting lineup in recent memory, maybe since Albert Belle. Howard is a little bit older for a rookie, but he sure can hit! Expect 50+ homer seasons on a regular basis.

2) GAMBLERS – SCOTT KAZMIR P: Scott Kazmir is a very talented lefthander. Kazmir appears to have a smooth delivery that should help him avoid injury. Despite not being a large guy he throws hard. Scott strikes out alot, but he needs to refine his control.

3) UPPERDECKERS – JOE MAUER C: Mauer is a throwback that reminds me of a lefthanded hitting Thurman Munson. Joe is a homegrown Minnesota Twin. Marc has a habit of choosing the best player available.

4) RISING BAMM BEANOS – ROBINSON CANO 2B: Robinson Cano is sloppy in the field & doesn’t walk, but he is a secondbaseman with a good average & decent power. Look for his rookie season to be the best of his career.

5) HITMEN – JEFF FRANCOEUR OF: The rich get richer! I thought Marc would’ve chosen Francoeur with the 3rd pick, but he fell to the Hitmen. Jeff can really hit, field, & throw. The only knock on him is that he doesn’t walk, see Guerrero, Ordonez, & Ramirez.

6) THUNDERCHICKENS – HUSTON STREET P*: Since when has a fulltime rookie closer come into the league as an A&C? Street was groomed to be a MLB closer in college at the University of Texas, same place the Rocket came from. Huston looks to have a career ahead of him similar to Trevor Hoffman.

7) RISING BAMM BEANOS – ZACK DUKE P: Not really a Zack Duke fan! Duke is a groundball pitcher on a bad ballclub, very similar to a highly touted Zack chosen in last year’s draft, Zack Greinke. John, weren’t you paying attention?

8) MARAUDERS – FELIX HERNANDEZ P: Another case of the rich getting richer! This kid is the 2nd coming! Although Jesus could walk on water and cure the lame the Christmeister never had a fastball like King Felix, nor breaking stuff that falls off the table. Saw this kid in spring training last year, then Don scouted him in Minnesota, never thought he’d have fallen to #8. The Champions never would have traded their picks had they thought he’d have been there at #4.

9) BOMBERS – GUSTAVO CHACIN P: Why would the Bombers select Gustavo Chacin when Joe Blanton was still on the board? Besides Blanton having an easier name to pronounce for the Kayhill challenged Bomber skipper, he also has a physique like Livan & Ponson, and he’s a better pitcher. Chacin is a lefthanded sinkerball pitcher with Glaus playing 3B both in APBA & Toronto, not a good combination.

10) HIGHLANDERS – CHRIS SHELTON 1B: If the Highlanders would’ve won game #7 I’m sure Rob would’ve chosen Casey Kotchman over Shelton. That said, Chris is a very good hitter in the mold of Mike Sweeney. Shelton will provide more immediate gratification, while Casey might be the next Todd Helton.

11) SLUGGERS – JOE BLANTON P: Blanton’s agent was seen crying along side Brandon Webb’s & Jeremy Bonderman’s agents when he learned he was selected by the Sluggers. All kidding aside it looks like the Sluggers are putting together a pitching staff to go along with their hitters. Blanton reminds me of Tim Belcher

12) GAMBLERS – GARY MAJEWSKI P: Majewski has a major league fastball, but doesn’t strike out alot of batters. Never in any scenerio did I see where Majewski would be taken over Turnbow. This one’s a real head scratcher.

13) UPPERDECKERS – EDWIN ENCARNACION 3B: This is another case of Marc taking the best player available. Who am I to knock a strategy that got Little Bunch a ring a couple of years ago? It’s also a phylosophy that Rob Moore subscribes to. E squared is a very powerful hitting thirdbaseman who is a little shakey in the field, reminds me of Aramis Ramirez.

14) RISING BAMM BEANOS – NICK SWISHER OF/1B: Nick Swisher strikes out alot, but he does have alot of power & does walk. His game reminds me of Brad Wilkerson. He may end up playing firstbase.

15) HITMEN – BRIAN MC CANN C: I LOVE this guy! Chuck got two of the best rookies on a very good MLB team. They are from the Atlanta area and are roommates with the Braves. McCann is so cool to watch behind the plate, he really controls a game. Brian reminds me of Jason Varitek.

16) RISING BAMM BEANOS – DERRICK TURNBOW P*: First saw Turnbow in 2000 when he was a Rule V player with the Angels. Then Derrick blew out his arm and needed surgery. The next thing he resurrects his career with the Brewers and is one of the most dominant closers in the game. Nice pick! Perfect compliment to setup man Juan Rincon.

17) MARAUDERS – ERVIN SANTANA P: Black Magic Woman! Besides Ervin being a very talented pitcher, he pitches for the Halos, Don’s favorite team. Still I’m not sold on Santana. Maybe it’s his youth, but he tends to lose focus. And I see arm trouble in his future.

18) BOMBERS – CHRIS YOUNG P: Maybe later Chris can try football or hockey. He’s tall, but that doesn’t really help all that much out on the mound. Young is going from Texas’ hitters park to San Diego’s Petco Field, but he tends to be very inconsistant.

19) THUNDERCHICKENS – JONNY GOMES OF: This kid is really fun to watch. He is super aggressive in every facet of his game. Gomes is from the school, swing hard in case you hit it. Jonny hit some real bombs as a rookie.

20) GAMBLERS – RYAN DOUMIT C: The Gamblers should have taken Mauer with the 2nd pick in the draft. Doumit is at best a backup catcher with nothing about his game that jumps out at you. Ryan will save the Gamblers a pick next year when he’ll be able to cover Zaun after Javy moves to 1B.

21) SLUGGERS – CHRIS RAY P*: There were three legitimate closers in this year’s draft and it’s hard to say who will be the best in the long run. Chris Ray reminds me of Goose Gossage.

22) RISING BAMM BEANOS – J.J. HARDY SS: Hardy reminds me of Dick Schofield (father or son, your pick) without the speed. And I actually like J.J. I just don’t think he should’ve been drafted. Clint Barmes is a much better! Or better yet Don probably would’ve swapped Juan Uribe for this pick and then he could have had both Santana & Weeks.

23) MARAUDERS – AARON HILL IF: Hill is a Punch & Judy hitter that will be Toronto’s secondbaseman this year after playing all over the infield as a rookie. Aaron seems to be another player that should not have been drafted. That said Mark G is a very similar player that should not have been drafted and he was traded for the best young closer in the game this past off season.

24) BOMBERS – RICKIE WEEKS 2B: Weeks had a wrist injury that bothered him throughout his rookie year. As a result he struck out alot! Rickie also was bad in the field, making 20 errors in half a season at secondbase, he could come in defensively for Soriano. His bat reminds me of Gary Sheffield and his feet remind me of Rickey Henderson, not a bad combination. But look for Weeks to move to the outfield and have a career similar to that of Ron Gant.

25) SLUGGERS – ANDREW SISCO P*: Sisco is a 6’10" lefthander whom the Cubs discarded. That in itself is enough to earmark him for success, the Cubs also let go of Dontrelle Willis & Jon Garland. Even though he wasn’t ready for the majors Andrew got an A* as a rookie. He may move to the rotation where the sky’s the limit as far as his potential is concerned.

26) SLUGGERS – DIONER NAVARRO C: Not as bad a pick as Ken Huckaby. At least this kid is young and is penciled in as the starter behind the dish for the Dodgers.

27) RISING BAMM BEANOS – KAMERON LOE P: Loe is a sinkerball righthander pitching in Arlington. He’d better keep the ball down. Brandon McCarthy or Jason Vargas would have been much better choices.

A+ SLUGGERS: Howard, Blanton, Ray, Sisco, Navarro – Traded Dunn for Webb, then backfilled 1B with Howard, and picked up Blanton. Then added Ray & Sisco to his pen. Needed Navarro to backup A.J. Pie. Nick’s a magician! He’s put the Sluggers in the playoff picture.

A+ HITMEN: Francoeur, McCann – Maybe they should’ve taken King Felix, but Francoeur & McCann will be solid everyday players for the Hitmen for years to come. Getting Francoeur is especially important with Cabrera going to 3B and Bonds retiring.

A MARAUDERS: Hernandez, Santana, Hill – Maybe everyday did enjoy DonS winning so much that they all decided to let him do it again & again! DonS went all the way to Minnesota to scout his ace. Anything you do after getting King Felix is irrelevant, Santana’s not bad either.

B UPPERDECKERS: Mauer, Encarnacion – Marc stuck with his plan of taking the best players available and he got two good ones. Yet King Felix would have been a better pick especially considering this team’s rotation. Encarnacion can hit!

B- THUNDERCHICKENS: Street, Gomes – When you lookup closer in the dictionary you’ll see a picture of Huston Street. He is the real deal and will be closing games for years to come. That said, any time you can get King Felix you’ve gotta take him. Gomes is a hustler that is a fun pick!

C HIGHLANDERS: Shelton – The Highlanders needed a firstbaseman and Shelton put up good numbers as a rookie. Chris will step right into the Highlanders powerful lineup.

C- GAMBLERS: Kazmir, Majewski, Doumit – Should have kept Webb. Should have taken Mauer, Turnbow, and Weeks. Should have taken Kotchman rather than protecting the Big Hurt. That said, Kazmir can pitch!

D- BOMBERS: Chacin, Young, Weeks – Chacin is lefthanded, Young is tall, and Weeks can come in defensively for Soriano.

F RISING BAMM BEANOS: Cano, Duke, Swisher, Turnbow, Hardy, Loe – All those picks and a grade of F. That’s tough! They needed a secondbaseman and got a stop gap in Cano. Turnbow is flat out nasty! Other than that not a whole lot there.

INC CHAMPIONS: Traded all picks. Had the Champs known how the draft would go they probably wouldn’t have traded all their picks away plus Bonderman & Lowry for Buehrle & Beckett. Yet there aren’t any better young arms out there than the two guys they got.