Sunday, November 13, 2011

2011 Best Third Base Performance (ranked by wOBA)


Third Base has become a thin position. Second Base is next.

Name Team PA AVG OBP SLG ISO BABIP wOBA
Brett Lawrie Blue Jays 171 0.293 0.373 0.58 0.287 0.318 0.413
Adrian Beltre Rangers 525 0.296 0.331 0.561 0.265 0.273 0.379
Pablo Sandoval Giants 466 0.315 0.357 0.552 0.237 0.32 0.379
Matt Downs Astros 222 0.276 0.347 0.518 0.241 0.315 0.373
Aramis Ramirez Cubs 626 0.306 0.361 0.51 0.204 0.308 0.373
Michael Young Rangers 689 0.338 0.38 0.474 0.136 0.367 0.369
Kevin Youkilis Red Sox 517 0.258 0.373 0.459 0.202 0.296 0.366
Evan Longoria Rays 574 0.244 0.355 0.495 0.251 0.239 0.365
Alex Rodriguez Yankees 428 0.276 0.362 0.461 0.185 0.311 0.361
Daniel Murphy Mets 423 0.32 0.362 0.448 0.128 0.345 0.35
David Freese Cardinals 363 0.297 0.35 0.441 0.144 0.356 0.348
Mark Reynolds Orioles 620 0.221 0.323 0.483 0.262 0.266 0.348
Ryan Zimmerman Nationals 440 0.289 0.355 0.443 0.154 0.326 0.347
Chipper Jones Braves 512 0.275 0.344 0.47 0.196 0.295 0.345
Edwin Encarnacion Blue Jays 530 0.272 0.334 0.453 0.181 0.292 0.344
Chase Headley Padres 439 0.289 0.374 0.399 0.11 0.368 0.344
David Wright Mets 447 0.254 0.345 0.427 0.172 0.302 0.342
Wilson Betemit - - - 359 0.285 0.343 0.452 0.167 0.391 0.34
Ryan Roberts Diamondbacks 555 0.249 0.341 0.427 0.178 0.275 0.338
Alberto Callaspo Angels 536 0.288 0.366 0.375 0.086 0.31 0.33
Scott Sizemore - - - 429 0.245 0.342 0.399 0.155 0.321 0.33
Jerry Hairston - - - 376 0.27 0.344 0.383 0.113 0.301 0.323
Ty Wigginton Rockies 446 0.242 0.315 0.416 0.175 0.271 0.322
Miguel Cairo Reds 276 0.265 0.33 0.412 0.147 0.279 0.321
Jack Hannahan Indians 366 0.25 0.331 0.388 0.138 0.308 0.32
Maicer Izturis Angels 494 0.276 0.334 0.388 0.111 0.311 0.316
Casey Blake Dodgers 239 0.252 0.342 0.371 0.119 0.311 0.314
Eduardo Nunez Yankees 338 0.265 0.313 0.385 0.12 0.287 0.313
Blake DeWitt Cubs 243 0.265 0.305 0.413 0.148 0.289 0.313
Justin Turner Mets 487 0.26 0.334 0.356 0.097 0.292 0.311
Chris Davis - - - 210 0.266 0.305 0.402 0.136 0.366 0.309
Jimmy Paredes Astros 179 0.286 0.32 0.393 0.107 0.383 0.309
Mike Aviles - - - 309 0.255 0.289 0.409 0.154 0.276 0.307
Kyle Seager Mariners 201 0.258 0.312 0.379 0.121 0.303 0.306
Greg Dobbs Marlins 439 0.275 0.311 0.389 0.114 0.325 0.305
Placido Polanco Phillies 523 0.277 0.335 0.339 0.062 0.292 0.304
Lonnie Chisenhall Indians 223 0.255 0.284 0.415 0.16 0.299 0.303
Mike Moustakas Royals 365 0.263 0.309 0.367 0.104 0.296 0.3
Jed Lowrie Red Sox 341 0.252 0.303 0.382 0.129 0.289 0.297
Daniel Descalso Cardinals 375 0.264 0.334 0.353 0.089 0.323 0.296
Martin Prado Braves 590 0.26 0.302 0.385 0.125 0.266 0.296
Don Kelly Tigers 281 0.245 0.291 0.381 0.136 0.256 0.296
Eric Chavez Yankees 175 0.263 0.32 0.356 0.094 0.32 0.294
Scott Rolen Reds 269 0.242 0.279 0.397 0.155 0.262 0.294
Danny Valencia Twins 608 0.246 0.294 0.383 0.137 0.275 0.292
Aaron Miles Dodgers 490 0.275 0.314 0.346 0.07 0.3 0.291
Chris Johnson Astros 405 0.251 0.291 0.378 0.127 0.317 0.289
Chris Nelson Rockies 189 0.25 0.28 0.383 0.133 0.289 0.289
Kevin Kouzmanoff - - - 257 0.235 0.284 0.372 0.137 0.258 0.288
Josh Harrison Pirates 204 0.272 0.281 0.374 0.103 0.304 0.287
Brent Morel White Sox 444 0.245 0.287 0.366 0.121 0.262 0.286
Luis Rodriguez Mariners 139 0.197 0.299 0.333 0.137 0.219 0.28
Wilson Valdez Phillies 300 0.249 0.294 0.341 0.092 0.288 0.274
Casey McGehee Brewers 600 0.223 0.28 0.346 0.123 0.249 0.272
Jose Lopez - - - 242 0.216 0.245 0.372 0.156 0.214 0.269
Brandon Wood - - - 272 0.216 0.27 0.34 0.124 0.275 0.268
Omar Vizquel White Sox 182 0.251 0.287 0.305 0.054 0.278 0.259
Alex Cora Nationals 172 0.224 0.287 0.276 0.051 0.261 0.259
Pedro Alvarez Pirates 262 0.191 0.272 0.289 0.098 0.272 0.256
Mark Teahen - - - 177 0.2 0.273 0.3 0.1 0.252 0.255
Names that may deserve further attention:
  • Matt Downs - Astros
  • Daniel Murphy - Mets
  • Chase Headley - Padres
  • Eduardo Nunez - Yankees

2011 Best First Base Performance (ranked by wOBA)


Because I didn't post anything on Thursday or Friday, I'll be posting the rankings for first base, second base, and third base tonight.

Name Team PA AVG OBP SLG ISO BABIP wOBA
Mike Napoli Rangers 432 0.320 0.414 0.631 0.312 0.344 0.444
Miguel Cabrera Tigers 688 0.344 0.448 0.586 0.241 0.365 0.436
Prince Fielder Brewers 692 0.299 0.415 0.566 0.267 0.306 0.408
Jason Giambi Rockies 152 0.260 0.355 0.603 0.344 0.284 0.407
Adrian Gonzalez Red Sox 715 0.338 0.410 0.548 0.210 0.380 0.406
Joey Votto Reds 719 0.309 0.416 0.531 0.222 0.349 0.403
Ike Davis Mets 149 0.302 0.383 0.543 0.240 0.344 0.391
Michael Morse Nationals 575 0.303 0.360 0.550 0.247 0.344 0.387
Albert Pujols Cardinals 651 0.299 0.366 0.541 0.242 0.277 0.385
Paul Konerko White Sox 639 0.300 0.388 0.517 0.217 0.304 0.383
Jesus Guzman Padres 271 0.312 0.369 0.478 0.166 0.360 0.371
Lucas Duda Mets 347 0.292 0.370 0.482 0.189 0.326 0.368
Todd Helton Rockies 491 0.302 0.385 0.466 0.164 0.328 0.368
Mark Teixeira Yankees 684 0.248 0.341 0.494 0.246 0.239 0.361
Paul Goldschmidt Diamondbacks 177 0.250 0.333 0.474 0.224 0.323 0.356
Ryan Howard Phillies 644 0.253 0.346 0.488 0.235 0.303 0.354
Carlos Pena Cubs 606 0.225 0.357 0.462 0.237 0.267 0.354
Michael Cuddyer Twins 584 0.284 0.346 0.459 0.176 0.312 0.354
Casey Kotchman Rays 563 0.306 0.378 0.422 0.116 0.335 0.351
Daniel Murphy Mets 423 0.320 0.362 0.448 0.128 0.345 0.350
Carlos Santana Indians 658 0.239 0.351 0.457 0.217 0.263 0.349
Mark Reynolds Orioles 620 0.221 0.323 0.483 0.262 0.266 0.348
Freddie Freeman Braves 635 0.282 0.346 0.448 0.166 0.339 0.345
Eric Hosmer Royals 563 0.293 0.334 0.465 0.172 0.314 0.342
Gaby Sanchez Marlins 661 0.266 0.352 0.427 0.161 0.287 0.342
Mike Carp Mariners 313 0.276 0.326 0.466 0.190 0.343 0.341
Carlos Lee Astros 653 0.275 0.342 0.446 0.171 0.279 0.339
Derrek Lee - - - 477 0.267 0.325 0.446 0.179 0.314 0.335
James Loney Dodgers 582 0.288 0.339 0.416 0.128 0.309 0.329
Garrett Jones Pirates 478 0.243 0.321 0.433 0.189 0.283 0.328
Mark Trumbo Angels 573 0.254 0.291 0.477 0.223 0.274 0.327
Ty Wigginton Rockies 446 0.242 0.315 0.416 0.175 0.271 0.322
Mitch Moreland Rangers 512 0.259 0.320 0.414 0.155 0.290 0.317
Justin Smoak Mariners 489 0.234 0.323 0.396 0.162 0.273 0.316
Adam Lind Blue Jays 542 0.251 0.295 0.439 0.188 0.265 0.315
Juan Miranda Diamondbacks 202 0.213 0.315 0.402 0.190 0.252 0.314
Brandon Belt Giants 209 0.225 0.306 0.412 0.187 0.273 0.314
Kyle Blanks Padres 190 0.229 0.300 0.406 0.176 0.281 0.312
Nick Evans Mets 194 0.256 0.314 0.403 0.148 0.325 0.312
Brett Wallace Astros 379 0.259 0.334 0.369 0.110 0.339 0.310
Chris Davis - - - 210 0.266 0.305 0.402 0.136 0.366 0.309
Matt LaPorta Indians 385 0.247 0.299 0.412 0.165 0.293 0.309
Juan Rivera - - - 521 0.258 0.319 0.382 0.124 0.281 0.308
Jeff Baker Cubs 212 0.269 0.302 0.383 0.114 0.333 0.300
Russell Branyan - - - 146 0.197 0.295 0.370 0.173 0.244 0.300
Lyle Overbay - - - 440 0.234 0.310 0.360 0.127 0.279 0.298
Aubrey Huff Giants 579 0.246 0.306 0.370 0.125 0.271 0.294
Conor Jackson - - - 390 0.244 0.310 0.341 0.097 0.273 0.292
Brandon Allen - - - 195 0.200 0.277 0.377 0.177 0.284 0.286
Brad Hawpe Padres 216 0.231 0.301 0.344 0.113 0.331 0.285
Xavier Nady Diamondbacks 223 0.248 0.287 0.359 0.112 0.294 0.284
Luke Hughes Twins 317 0.223 0.289 0.338 0.115 0.282 0.280
Adam Kennedy Mariners 409 0.234 0.277 0.355 0.121 0.266 0.278
Justin Morneau Twins 288 0.227 0.285 0.333 0.106 0.257 0.274
Daric Barton Athletics 280 0.212 0.325 0.267 0.055 0.260 0.273
Adam Dunn White Sox 496 0.159 0.292 0.277 0.118 0.240 0.266
Adam LaRoche Nationals 177 0.172 0.288 0.258 0.086 0.205 0.258
Mark Teahen - - - 177 0.200 0.273 0.300 0.100 0.252 0.255
Anthony Rizzo Padres 153 0.141 0.281 0.242 0.102 0.210 0.248
Jorge Cantu Padres 155 0.194 0.232 0.285 0.090 0.216 0.226

Some names that may deserve a closer look:
  • Ike Davis - Mets
  • Michael Morse - Nationals
  • Jesus Guzman - Padres
  • Lucas Duda - Mets
  • Paul Goldschmidt - Diamondbacks
  • Mike Carp - Mariners

Tuesday, November 08, 2011

2011 Best Catcher Performances (Ranked by wOBA)

Salvador Perez is the catcher of the future for the Kansas City Royals and a player to watch.

Name Team PA AVG OBP SLG ISO BABIP wOBA
Mike Napoli Rangers 432 0.32 0.414 0.631 0.312 0.344 0.444
Alex Avila Tigers 551 0.295 0.389 0.506 0.211 0.366 0.383
Salvador Perez Royals 158 0.331 0.361 0.473 0.142 0.362 0.361
Ryan Doumit Pirates 236 0.303 0.353 0.477 0.174 0.331 0.36
Nick Hundley Padres 308 0.288 0.347 0.477 0.189 0.362 0.354
Miguel Montero Diamondbacks 553 0.282 0.351 0.469 0.187 0.317 0.351
Carlos Santana Indians 658 0.239 0.351 0.457 0.217 0.263 0.349
Yadier Molina Cardinals 518 0.305 0.349 0.465 0.16 0.311 0.349
Brian McCann Braves 527 0.27 0.351 0.466 0.195 0.287 0.348
Chris Iannetta Rockies 426 0.238 0.37 0.414 0.177 0.276 0.347
Matt Wieters Orioles 551 0.262 0.328 0.45 0.188 0.276 0.339
Ramon Hernandez Reds 328 0.282 0.341 0.446 0.164 0.291 0.339
Buster Posey Giants 185 0.284 0.368 0.389 0.105 0.326 0.338
Jose Molina Blue Jays 191 0.281 0.342 0.415 0.135 0.363 0.334
David Ross Braves 171 0.263 0.333 0.428 0.164 0.358 0.332
Carlos Ruiz Phillies 472 0.283 0.371 0.383 0.1 0.308 0.332
Wilson Ramos Nationals 435 0.267 0.334 0.445 0.177 0.297 0.332
Russell Martin Yankees 476 0.237 0.324 0.408 0.17 0.252 0.325
Francisco Cervelli Yankees 137 0.266 0.324 0.395 0.129 0.315 0.322
Ryan Hanigan Reds 304 0.267 0.356 0.357 0.09 0.285 0.32
Joe Mauer Twins 333 0.287 0.36 0.368 0.081 0.319 0.319
Jarrod Saltalamacchia Red Sox 386 0.235 0.288 0.45 0.215 0.304 0.319
Jason Varitek Red Sox 250 0.221 0.3 0.423 0.203 0.264 0.318
Geovany Soto Cubs 474 0.228 0.31 0.411 0.183 0.28 0.316
A.J. Pierzynski White Sox 500 0.287 0.323 0.405 0.119 0.291 0.314
Jonathan Lucroy Brewers 468 0.265 0.313 0.391 0.126 0.317 0.31
J.P. Arencibia Blue Jays 486 0.219 0.282 0.438 0.219 0.255 0.309
Rod Barajas Dodgers 337 0.23 0.287 0.43 0.2 0.244 0.307
Yorvit Torrealba Rangers 419 0.273 0.306 0.399 0.126 0.31 0.306
Brett Hayes Marlins 144 0.231 0.291 0.415 0.185 0.291 0.304

Some names that may deserve a closer look for fantasy purposes:
  • Salvador Perez - Royals
  • Chris Iannetta - Rockies
  • Wilson Ramos - Nationals
  • Ryan Hanigan - Reds
  • Jarrod Saltalamacchia - Red Sox
  • Jonathan Lucroy - Brewers

Rest In Peace, Smokin' Joe Frazier


Former Heavy Weight Champion, Joe Frazier has passed away at age 67 due to complications from cancer.
Known as Smokin’ Joe, Frazier stalked his opponents around the ring with a crouching, relentless attack — his head low and bobbing, his broad, powerful shoulders hunched — as he bore down on them with an onslaught of withering jabs and crushing body blows, setting them up for his devastating left hook.

Sunday, November 06, 2011

2011 National League Best Hitting Performances (ranked by wOBA)

This is the second in a series of rankings. This is the NL, sorted by wOBA with a 130 at-bat minimum to allow us a glimpse at a few potential breakouts.

Name Team PA AVG OBP SLG ISO BABIP wOBA
Ryan Braun Brewers 629 0.332 0.397 0.597 0.265 0.350 0.433
Matt Kemp Dodgers 689 0.324 0.399 0.586 0.262 0.380 0.419
Prince Fielder Brewers 692 0.299 0.415 0.566 0.267 0.306 0.408
Jason Giambi Rockies 152 0.260 0.355 0.603 0.344 0.284 0.407
Joey Votto Reds 719 0.309 0.416 0.531 0.222 0.349 0.403
Lance Berkman Cardinals 587 0.301 0.412 0.547 0.246 0.315 0.402
Allen Craig Cardinals 219 0.315 0.362 0.555 0.240 0.344 0.399
Matt Holliday Cardinals 516 0.296 0.388 0.525 0.229 0.330 0.393
Ike Davis Mets 149 0.302 0.383 0.543 0.240 0.344 0.391
Carlos Beltran - - - 598 0.300 0.385 0.525 0.225 0.324 0.389
Troy Tulowitzki Rockies 606 0.302 0.372 0.544 0.242 0.305 0.389
Michael Morse Nationals 575 0.303 0.360 0.550 0.247 0.344 0.387
Jose Reyes Mets 586 0.337 0.384 0.493 0.156 0.353 0.386
Albert Pujols Cardinals 651 0.299 0.366 0.541 0.242 0.277 0.385
Justin Upton Diamondbacks 674 0.289 0.369 0.529 0.240 0.319 0.385
Carlos Gonzalez Rockies 542 0.295 0.363 0.526 0.231 0.326 0.383
Pablo Sandoval Giants 466 0.315 0.357 0.552 0.237 0.320 0.379
Mike Stanton Marlins 601 0.262 0.356 0.537 0.275 0.314 0.378
Hunter Pence - - - 668 0.314 0.370 0.502 0.188 0.361 0.378
Aaron Hill Diamondbacks 142 0.315 0.386 0.492 0.177 0.356 0.376
Matt Downs Astros 222 0.276 0.347 0.518 0.241 0.315 0.373
Aramis Ramirez Cubs 626 0.306 0.361 0.510 0.204 0.308 0.373
Corey Hart Brewers 551 0.285 0.356 0.510 0.226 0.323 0.373
Shane Victorino Phillies 586 0.279 0.355 0.491 0.212 0.292 0.372
Jesus Guzman Padres 271 0.312 0.369 0.478 0.166 0.360 0.371
John Mayberry Phillies 296 0.273 0.341 0.513 0.240 0.293 0.369
Lucas Duda Mets 347 0.292 0.370 0.482 0.189 0.326 0.368
Todd Helton Rockies 491 0.302 0.385 0.466 0.164 0.328 0.368
Ryan Doumit Pirates 236 0.303 0.353 0.477 0.174 0.331 0.360
Andrew McCutchen Pirates 678 0.259 0.364 0.456 0.198 0.291 0.360
Rickie Weeks Brewers 515 0.269 0.350 0.468 0.199 0.310 0.358
Seth Smith Rockies 533 0.284 0.347 0.483 0.200 0.320 0.357
Paul Goldschmidt Diamondbacks 177 0.250 0.333 0.474 0.224 0.323 0.356
Ryan Howard Phillies 644 0.253 0.346 0.488 0.235 0.303 0.354
Reed Johnson Cubs 266 0.309 0.348 0.467 0.159 0.394 0.354
Nick Hundley Padres 308 0.288 0.347 0.477 0.189 0.362 0.354
Carlos Pena Cubs 606 0.225 0.357 0.462 0.237 0.267 0.354
Miguel Montero Diamondbacks 553 0.282 0.351 0.469 0.187 0.317 0.351
Brandon Phillips Reds 675 0.300 0.353 0.457 0.157 0.322 0.351
Alex Presley Pirates 231 0.298 0.339 0.465 0.167 0.349 0.350
Daniel Murphy Mets 423 0.320 0.362 0.448 0.128 0.345 0.350
Nick Punto Cardinals 166 0.278 0.388 0.421 0.143 0.319 0.350
Brian Bogusevic Astros 182 0.287 0.348 0.457 0.171 0.355 0.349
Yadier Molina Cardinals 518 0.305 0.349 0.465 0.160 0.311 0.349
Brian McCann Braves 527 0.270 0.351 0.466 0.195 0.287 0.348
David Freese Cardinals 363 0.297 0.350 0.441 0.144 0.356 0.348
Ryan Zimmerman Nationals 440 0.289 0.355 0.443 0.154 0.326 0.347
Chris Iannetta Rockies 426 0.238 0.370 0.414 0.177 0.276 0.347
Dexter Fowler Rockies 563 0.266 0.363 0.432 0.166 0.354 0.346
Nyjer Morgan Brewers 429 0.304 0.357 0.421 0.116 0.362 0.346
Jay Bruce Reds 664 0.256 0.341 0.474 0.217 0.297 0.346
Chipper Jones Braves 512 0.275 0.344 0.470 0.196 0.295 0.345
Freddie Freeman Braves 635 0.282 0.346 0.448 0.166 0.339 0.345

Some interesting names for further study:
  • Allen Craig - Cardinals
  • Ike Davis - Mets
  • Michael Morse - Nationals
  • Matt Downs - Astros
  • Jesus Guzman - Padres
  • John Mayberry - Phillies
  • Lucas Duda - Mets
  • Paul Goldschmidt - D'Backs
  • Reed Johnson - Cubs
  • Alex Presley - Pirates

Saturday, November 05, 2011

2011 American league Best Hitting Performances (ranked by wOBA)

This is the first in a series of 2011 performance rankings. The information is taken from fangraphs.com and transferred to excel by me. This list is sorted by wOBA and has a 130 at-bat minimum, so we can see some of the potential breakouts we'll be going after in 2012.

Name Team PA AVG OBP SLG ISO BABIP wOBA
Mike Napoli Rangers 432 0.320 0.414 0.631 0.312 0.344 0.444
Jose Bautista Blue Jays 655 0.302 0.447 0.608 0.306 0.309 0.441
Miguel Cabrera Tigers 688 0.344 0.448 0.586 0.241 0.365 0.436
Brett Lawrie Blue Jays 171 0.293 0.373 0.580 0.287 0.318 0.413
Adrian Gonzalez Red Sox 715 0.338 0.410 0.548 0.21 0.380 0.406
David Ortiz Red Sox 605 0.309 0.398 0.554 0.246 0.321 0.405
Jacoby Ellsbury Red Sox 732 0.321 0.376 0.552 0.23 0.336 0.402
Alejandro De Aza White Sox 171 0.329 0.400 0.520 0.191 0.404 0.401
Curtis Granderson Yankees 691 0.262 0.364 0.552 0.29 0.295 0.394
Paul Konerko White Sox 639 0.300 0.388 0.517 0.217 0.304 0.383
Alex Avila Tigers 551 0.295 0.389 0.506 0.211 0.366 0.383
Alex Gordon Royals 690 0.303 0.376 0.502 0.2 0.358 0.382
Adrian Beltre Rangers 525 0.296 0.331 0.561 0.265 0.273 0.379
Dustin Pedroia Red Sox 731 0.307 0.387 0.474 0.167 0.325 0.377
Robinson Cano Yankees 681 0.302 0.349 0.533 0.231 0.316 0.375
Andruw Jones Yankees 222 0.247 0.356 0.495 0.247 0.296 0.371
Josh Hamilton Rangers 538 0.298 0.346 0.536 0.238 0.317 0.371
Jason Kipnis Indians 150 0.272 0.333 0.507 0.235 0.313 0.371
Ian Kinsler Rangers 723 0.255 0.355 0.477 0.223 0.243 0.37
Michael Young Rangers 689 0.338 0.380 0.474 0.136 0.367 0.369
Victor Martinez Tigers 595 0.330 0.380 0.470 0.141 0.343 0.368
Kevin Youkilis Red Sox 517 0.258 0.373 0.459 0.202 0.296 0.366
Evan Longoria Rays 574 0.244 0.355 0.495 0.251 0.239 0.365
Carlos Quentin White Sox 483 0.254 0.340 0.499 0.245 0.261 0.363
Jim Thome Phillies 324 0.256 0.361 0.477 0.22 0.327 0.362
Brent Lillibridge White Sox 216 0.258 0.340 0.505 0.247 0.310 0.362
Alex Rodriguez Yankees 428 0.276 0.362 0.461 0.185 0.311 0.361
Salvador Perez Royals 158 0.331 0.361 0.473 0.142 0.362 0.361
Desmond Jennings Rays 287 0.259 0.356 0.449 0.19 0.303 0.361
Mark Teixeira Yankees 684 0.248 0.341 0.494 0.246 0.239 0.361
Ben Zobrist Rays 674 0.269 0.353 0.469 0.201 0.310 0.36
Nick Swisher Yankees 635 0.260 0.374 0.449 0.188 0.295 0.358
Matt Joyce Rays 522 0.277 0.347 0.478 0.201 0.317 0.357
Michael Cuddyer Twins 584 0.284 0.346 0.459 0.176 0.312 0.354
Jhonny Peralta Tigers 576 0.299 0.345 0.478 0.179 0.325 0.353
Travis Hafner Indians 368 0.280 0.361 0.449 0.169 0.332 0.353
Nelson Cruz Rangers 513 0.263 0.312 0.509 0.246 0.288 0.352
Casey Kotchman Rays 563 0.306 0.378 0.422 0.116 0.335 0.351
Billy Butler Royals 673 0.291 0.361 0.461 0.169 0.316 0.351
Josh Willingham Athletics 563 0.246 0.332 0.477 0.232 0.287 0.35
Carlos Santana Indians 658 0.239 0.351 0.457 0.217 0.263 0.349
Melky Cabrera Royals 706 0.305 0.339 0.470 0.164 0.332 0.349
Howie Kendrick Angels 583 0.285 0.338 0.464 0.179 0.338 0.349
Mark Reynolds Orioles 620 0.221 0.323 0.483 0.262 0.266 0.348
Brennan Boesch Tigers 472 0.283 0.341 0.458 0.175 0.315 0.346
Jeff Francoeur Royals 656 0.285 0.329 0.476 0.191 0.323 0.346
Shelley Duncan Indians 247 0.260 0.324 0.484 0.224 0.297 0.346
Yunel Escobar Blue Jays 590 0.290 0.369 0.413 0.123 0.316 0.345
Asdrubal Cabrera Indians 667 0.273 0.332 0.460 0.187 0.302 0.345
Edwin Encarnacion Blue Jays 530 0.272 0.334 0.453 0.181 0.292 0.344
Marco Scutaro Red Sox 445 0.299 0.358 0.423 0.124 0.312 0.343
J.J. Hardy Orioles 567 0.269 0.310 0.491 0.222 0.273 0.343

Some names from the list that may warrant some further study include:
  • Brett Lawrie - Blue Jays
  • Alejandro De Aza - White Sox
  • Andruw Jones - Yankees
  • Jason Kipnis - Indians
  • Salvador Perez - Royals
  • Desmond Jennings - Rays
  • Brennan Boesch - Tigers
  • Shelly Duncan - Indians

Monday, October 24, 2011

BBA: Stan Musial Award

This is the official ballot of the Fantasy Chapter of the Baseball Bloggers Associations' vote for the Stan Musial Award which recognizes the Top Player in both the American League and the National League.

American League
  1. Jose Bautista
  2. Jacoby Ellsbury
  3. Miguel Cabrera
  4. Dustin Pedroia
  5. Curtis Granderson
  6. Justin Verlander
  7. Adrian Gonzalez
  8. Ian Kinsler
  9. Alex Gordon
  10. Melky Cabrera
National League
  1. Matt Kemp
  2. Ryan Braun
  3. Prince Fielder
  4. Joey Votto
  5. Justin Upton
  6. Troy Tulowitski
  7. Albert Pujols
  8. Jose Reyes
  9. Hunter Pence
  10. Lance Berkman
You can check out member blog opinions on these great sites:

Dear Mr. Fantasy
Roto Think Tank

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

BBA: Walter Johnson Award

This is the official ballot of the Fantasy Chapter of the Baseball Bloggers Association's Walter Johnson Award, given to each season's best pitcher.

National League:
1. Roy Halladay
2. Clayton Kershaw
3. Cliff Lee
4. Cole Hamels
5. Madison Bumgarner

American League:
1. Justin Verlander
2. C.C. Sabathia
3. Jered Weaver
4. James Shields
5. C.J. Wilson

See our member opinions:

Dear Mr. Fantasy

Roto Think Tank

Thursday, October 13, 2011

BBA: Willie Mays Award

This is the official ballot of the Fantasy Chapter of the Baseball Bloggers Association for the Willie Mays award, given to the best rookie in each league.

National League
1. Craig Kimbrel
2. Freddie Freeman
3. Cory Luebke

American League
1. Eric Hosmer
2. Jeremy Hellickson
3. Ivan Nova

You can see other member votes on these sites:

Dear Mr. Fantasy

Monday, October 10, 2011

BBA: Connie Mack Award Ballot

The official Connie Mack Ballot of the Fantasy Chapter of the BBA reads as follows:

American League:
1. Joe Maddon
2. Ron Washington
3. Jim Leyland

National League:
1. Kirk Gibson
2. Ron Roenicke
3. Bruce Bochy

You can find our member opinions here:

Dear Mr. Fantasy
The Sporting Hippeaux

Monday, September 05, 2011

Hanley Ramirez Injury Impacts 2012 Season

Hanley Ramirez's injured shoulder needs surgery. He could potentially miss up to six months which makes it possible he will not be available to start the 2012 season.

Hardball Talk
According to Joe Frisaro of MLB.com, the Marlins’ medical staff has recommended surgery for shortstop Hanley Ramirez, who has been bothered by an unstable shoulder since attempting a diving catch in early August. No exact date has been set for the procedure, but it should take place within a week.
The recovery time could last anywhere from four to six months, meaning Ramirez might not be ready for the start of spring training next February and could even miss the start of the 2012 regular season.

Thursday, August 04, 2011

Trayvon Robinson: Coming Up on Friday?


If this is true, grab him...

Trayvon Robinson will replace Greg Halman on the Mariners roster, Ryan Divish of The News Tribune tweeted Thursday.

Divish cited two “well-placed and well-informed” sources in a later blog post.

The team optioned outfielder Greg Halman to Triple-A Tacoma on Thursday and said they would make an announcement Friday about his replacement.

Robinson, 23, was acquired from the Los Angeles Dodgers over the weekend in the Erik Bedard trade.

Sunday, July 31, 2011

The Jimenez Deal

I've read a few smart people this morning say the Indians made a mistake trading for Ubaldo Jimenez yesterday. Their arguments are sound, mostly based on Ubaldo not being the pitcher he seemed to be in the first half of the 2010 season, and the Indians' mediocre record since their fantastic start to this season.

I understand what they mean. But a few points in defense of the Cleveland Indians need to be made.

First, Jimenez is not just a potential ace, he is signed for the next three seasons at a very reasonable price. Jimenez is also a much better pitcher away from Coors Field. The effect of pitching in Coors is not what it used to be but it is still one of the worst parks for pitchers in baseball. Eric Karabell pointed out this morning the Jimenez has a better xFIP this season (3.49) than he did last year (3.60). So away from Coors there is a decent chance his numbers rebound for the better.

Second, the Indians have a fan-base that has at times felt betrayed by the team ownership. They traded away players that were fan favorites and great players besides. a park that was once packed every night has had a lot of empty seats. giving up a few prospects from a loaded farm system to win back the fans is more than worth it if you want to have a successful organization. It can't be about just pleasing the number crunchers (I'm one) because at some point you have to please your customers.

I plan to make a reasonable bid on Jimenez in my AL-only league, It would be more if I were actually contending, but I'm hoping to acquire and trade him for a couple of keepers.

Monday, June 27, 2011

BBA: 2011 All-Star Selections

The Baseball Bloggers Association annually select their own All-Stars. They've been popping up all over the internet the last couple of weeks. Here are links to a couple of fantasy blogs and my own picks.

Dear Mr. Fantasy - National League

Dear Mr. Fantasy - American League

Colorado Springs Fantasy Baseball Addict


Bleacher GM

American League

Catcher - Alex Avila - This season has been great so far, but I think 2012 will be the real breakout.

First Base - Adrian Gonzalez - The best player in baseball this season, an almost certain MVP.

Second Base - Robinson Cano - Dustin Pedroia may be the slightly better player this year, but not for fantasy purposes, in most leagues anyway.

Shortstop - Asdrubal Cabrera - I was starting to think. he'd never get it together but he certainly has this season.

Third Base - Alex Rodriguez - He's back! The four stolen bases give him a slight edge over Adrian Beltre.

Left Field - Alex Gordon - Finally! How much did you pay for him? Did you just pick him up on waivers? You lucky dog!

Center Field - Curtis Granderson - The batting average isn't great, but this season, fantasy owners have nothing to complain about when it comes to the Yankees center fielder.

Right Field - Jose Bautista - He's faded from his incredible start to the season (how could he not?) but is still the most valuable keeper in most AL-only leagues.

Designated Hitter - David Ortiz - Victor Martinez has had quite a season but he just doesn't have the oomf that Ortiz provides. What's oomf? Homeruns, baby.

Saturday, May 28, 2011

Pauly's Pickups of the Week: Stolen Bases Come onto the Market

Not a lot of time to discuss things this week, but there have been a couple of recent moves that have probably created a surplus of stolen bases on your league's waiver wire.

Angel Pagan has just been activated by the Mets and already has a stolen base to his credit; and Eric Young has been recalled (finally) by the Rockies.

Pagan was likely dropped in all shallow leagues and a good bit of mixed leagues after he stumbled mightily out of the gate, but now it's a fresh start in a sort of can't-lose situation. He hit sixth in the order in his debut from the disabled list, which means some RBI opportunities as well if it lasts.

Young has or will soon have dual 2B/OF eligibility in all leagues, as the Rockies are playing him in center field for the struggling Dexter Fowler. I will assume he will also see some playing time in the infield after Jose Lopez was finally and mercifully cut from the roster. I think Fowler and Jonathan Herrera will see a decrease in playing time.

Both of these guys are capable of stealing 20-plus from here on out... so if you have the need, they have the speed! Good luck!