Even if the Jokers are not in post-season, their GM had find a way to bring them back on media radar. All started before game 7 between Kansas-City and Maple. Many fans were on twitter talking about the game and it became obvious that K-C fans were not confident at all because Maple was starting Maurice Gould. Las vegas GM, Francois Neveu, put oïl on fire when he tweeted that Gould will choke like he always did in game 7. After that, the twitosphere became on fire, everyone had something to say on Gould's past performances. Even Gould agent, Scott Boras, fire back at GM Neveu saying that if Gould had receive a better defense, the Jokers could have won 2 or 3 pennants. In fact, during the next two hours #gouldwillchoke became the hottest subject on twitter.
Finally, the Marauders loose, Gould conceided 7 points and all Gould's haters had fun that night. The next day, when media asked him his taught about all this, he simply said that he could not understand why a GM on vacancy attack him. "I did my best when i was in Vegas and probably been the best player the franchise had in their history".
GM Neveu tried to calm down everything, saying that he was just relating the fact that Gould loose the most important game ever in Vegas when they were knocked out in 7 by Notthinghamshire. After that, he quickly change the subject and start talking about the season recap of the Jokers.
Maple organisation didn't make any comment to date on that "incident". Many Maple fans were shocked that a Canadian GM takes side of one of his american rivals instead of rooting for Maple. One thing is sure, if GM Neveu plan to go near Toronto, he won't be welcome there. He quicky become the punching ball for the frustration of many Marauders fans who believed that Maple would go to the final after Eureka fall.
Las Vegas Jokers ABL team
samedi 10 janvier 2015
lundi 14 juillet 2014
Season recap.
The Jokers finished the year 3 games behind the KC Tornadoes. Better then last year but in fact, the team won 5 less games then the year before, so it's difficult to say that it's a real progress. The 83-79 records is a bit disapointing in fact. So what to remember in that 2019 year.
Starter
Lou Latulippe won 4 less game in 2019 from his 2018 record but he pitched real good. His stats are pretty similar to 2018 when he won the Cy Young. Jose Serrano did better with 16 victories and a better era. That's the good news... the bad ones where the injury to Bob MaGee who didn't pitch a single inning in the season. We'll see how he'll return but management are pessimistic. This kind of injury could diminu the efficiency of the player. The other disapointement came from Buddy Wills performance. With only 7 wins and an era over 6.00, the 2019 year was hard on him when management expect better results. Will he be able to deliver and became a reliable #3 starter? Right now, there's many doubt about him. For the future, Austin Burnett did really well in A and AA. He will start 2020 in AAA but he seems to develop in a solid starter. Not an ace but a usefull SP. Finally, in international complex, scouting director find Boy Scout Goddier, a good prospect. We'll see how he develop but it's a real long term option.
Relief
Management spend a lot of money to be better in relief. Roy Cole was a complete burst. He's injury now and it's probably better for the club. He showed in bad shape with a shitty attitude in training camp and that doesn't help at all a Young staff. The other newcomer, Peter Klein, does a good job but he had attitude problem too, wanting the closer job that Yamashita had. Yamashita was one of the few bright spot in relief. He did a good job, recolting 38 saves.
Hitters
Hitting is never a problem in Vegas but the 2019 year was one of few surprises and some deception. On the bright side: Mitch Lyon continu his good job belting 41 homers and 134 RBI. The Young Roy Nash was a pleasant surprise with a .365 average and an OBP of .414 Yamamoto come back strong of an ordinary year with a .326 average and 113 RBI. Masaki Baba was good but he can do more.
On the deception, Valentin Alverado had a difficult year. He injuried himself in april ad never really find his eye back on his return. He finished the year with a .243 average and 17 HR, a huge decrease compare to the .295 and 45 the year before. Phillip Smith was the other huge deception but at 31, it's probably not much a surprise to see a catcher declining. His average drop from .354 to .251 a huge blow for the team. That rush a little bit the young Julio Segura in major. He did well with a .299 average but he need to upgrade his overall skills.
So the 2020 will probably see pretty much the same team on the field so it will be interesting to see if Magee, Wills and Alverado could comeback stronger. If yes, Las Vegas could surprise. If no, it may be a year of change for this group of players.
Starter
Lou Latulippe won 4 less game in 2019 from his 2018 record but he pitched real good. His stats are pretty similar to 2018 when he won the Cy Young. Jose Serrano did better with 16 victories and a better era. That's the good news... the bad ones where the injury to Bob MaGee who didn't pitch a single inning in the season. We'll see how he'll return but management are pessimistic. This kind of injury could diminu the efficiency of the player. The other disapointement came from Buddy Wills performance. With only 7 wins and an era over 6.00, the 2019 year was hard on him when management expect better results. Will he be able to deliver and became a reliable #3 starter? Right now, there's many doubt about him. For the future, Austin Burnett did really well in A and AA. He will start 2020 in AAA but he seems to develop in a solid starter. Not an ace but a usefull SP. Finally, in international complex, scouting director find Boy Scout Goddier, a good prospect. We'll see how he develop but it's a real long term option.
Relief
Management spend a lot of money to be better in relief. Roy Cole was a complete burst. He's injury now and it's probably better for the club. He showed in bad shape with a shitty attitude in training camp and that doesn't help at all a Young staff. The other newcomer, Peter Klein, does a good job but he had attitude problem too, wanting the closer job that Yamashita had. Yamashita was one of the few bright spot in relief. He did a good job, recolting 38 saves.
Hitters
Hitting is never a problem in Vegas but the 2019 year was one of few surprises and some deception. On the bright side: Mitch Lyon continu his good job belting 41 homers and 134 RBI. The Young Roy Nash was a pleasant surprise with a .365 average and an OBP of .414 Yamamoto come back strong of an ordinary year with a .326 average and 113 RBI. Masaki Baba was good but he can do more.
On the deception, Valentin Alverado had a difficult year. He injuried himself in april ad never really find his eye back on his return. He finished the year with a .243 average and 17 HR, a huge decrease compare to the .295 and 45 the year before. Phillip Smith was the other huge deception but at 31, it's probably not much a surprise to see a catcher declining. His average drop from .354 to .251 a huge blow for the team. That rush a little bit the young Julio Segura in major. He did well with a .299 average but he need to upgrade his overall skills.
So the 2020 will probably see pretty much the same team on the field so it will be interesting to see if Magee, Wills and Alverado could comeback stronger. If yes, Las Vegas could surprise. If no, it may be a year of change for this group of players.
dimanche 1 juin 2014
The new Jokers
7th of june 2019, the ABL draft. This year, the Jokers had the 16th pick and the 25th because of the signing of Colin St.John by Maple. The draft was depth enough and the scouting team was optimistic to select one or two players who could perform in the Jokers starting lineup in a near future.
For the first pick, the team decide to go with a pitcher. 3 names got their attention: Ramanathan, Burnett and Ubriani. Ramanathan was pick in 15th spot, so this push the decision between the others two. Our scout see them in a same range, a little bit more stuff for Ubriani but better movement and control for Burnett. The two have low stamina. Difficult decision but Ubriani told the scout that he would be reluctant to come in Vegas and signing him would be extremely hard. So the management decide to go with Austin Burnett. Will see what will be the futur impact of this decision. Burnett will never be a Cy Young winner but he could be a good #3 SP or an excellent middle reliever.
For the 25th pick, some good contact hitters were still available. The team spotted 3 guys they like very much: Rivera (2B), Henderson (CF) and Jones (LF). Rivera was picked by Montréal with the 24th pick. Again, management had to make decision between the two others. Our scout saw Henderson with a 19 contact potential, so the organisation decide to go with him. Jones was taken on the next pick by Seattle. The organisation are very happy to have Jeffrey Henderson. He was ranked #3 on our batter prospect list.
The others pick were more longshot. Hu "Stone" Situ is a kind of player Las Vegas organisation miss. High potential in contact, eye and avoid K. Many hitters in Vegas have power but base on ball are a concept they don't know. Situ could put a presence on the base and with a .521 and a .446 OBP in minor league, he could score many runs. But will he be able to translate that in ABL? Will see... Another pick Bai-Luo See-Too. This youngster surely can play defense but will he be able to hit in major? The challenge will be to develop his offensive skill if he want to play everyday. But there's a good chance that "C2" become at least, an utlity infielder in Vegas in two or three years.
So the job is now try to sign everyone. The offers are already send and since Vegas have enough money, they don't believe problem to have all of them in minor system soon.
For the first pick, the team decide to go with a pitcher. 3 names got their attention: Ramanathan, Burnett and Ubriani. Ramanathan was pick in 15th spot, so this push the decision between the others two. Our scout see them in a same range, a little bit more stuff for Ubriani but better movement and control for Burnett. The two have low stamina. Difficult decision but Ubriani told the scout that he would be reluctant to come in Vegas and signing him would be extremely hard. So the management decide to go with Austin Burnett. Will see what will be the futur impact of this decision. Burnett will never be a Cy Young winner but he could be a good #3 SP or an excellent middle reliever.
For the 25th pick, some good contact hitters were still available. The team spotted 3 guys they like very much: Rivera (2B), Henderson (CF) and Jones (LF). Rivera was picked by Montréal with the 24th pick. Again, management had to make decision between the two others. Our scout saw Henderson with a 19 contact potential, so the organisation decide to go with him. Jones was taken on the next pick by Seattle. The organisation are very happy to have Jeffrey Henderson. He was ranked #3 on our batter prospect list.
The others pick were more longshot. Hu "Stone" Situ is a kind of player Las Vegas organisation miss. High potential in contact, eye and avoid K. Many hitters in Vegas have power but base on ball are a concept they don't know. Situ could put a presence on the base and with a .521 and a .446 OBP in minor league, he could score many runs. But will he be able to translate that in ABL? Will see... Another pick Bai-Luo See-Too. This youngster surely can play defense but will he be able to hit in major? The challenge will be to develop his offensive skill if he want to play everyday. But there's a good chance that "C2" become at least, an utlity infielder in Vegas in two or three years.
So the job is now try to sign everyone. The offers are already send and since Vegas have enough money, they don't believe problem to have all of them in minor system soon.
samedi 24 mai 2014
Tribute to Colin St.John
On march 31 2019, Colin St.John signed a contract with Maple organisation. This put and end to an era in Las Vegas. St.John and Maurice Gould were the first two superstars of the team, players that lead the Jokers to two TML championship. Now there both gone.
St.John, two times batter of the year and 5 times all-star was one of the best hitter in the league during his 7 years stint in Vegas. A discussion with Jokers gm let us believe the team tried to sign St.John before the winter. But his demand were too high, more then 20 millions for 4 years. With all the youngsters in the minors, the organisation was not willing to spend all this money on a 37 years old vet.
The decision make sense in term of performance on the field. But it's clear the management underestimate the quiet leadership he bring to a team.
- St.John always leads by exemple. He was the first one in batting practice and help all of us by his pertinent advice. said Bruce Joyner.
Without St.John, the Jokers struggle a lot. Their record of 11-21 is one of the worst in the league and even if some key players are injuried, it's clear that many young players (Latulippe, Joyner) are not performing well. Maybe it's because they lost their "older" brother, St.John. None of the players make a direct link between the present record of the team and the lost of St.John but they all insist of how appreciate St.John was. The Vegas GM admit: if we could have reach the kind of agrement he finally accept (1 year; 10 millions) at the end of last season, we probably had him back this year in a Jokers uniform.
But the show must go on and right now, it seem that there's a void in leadership in Vegas while maple are at 17-15... maybe there's a little bit of St.John behind this.
St.John, two times batter of the year and 5 times all-star was one of the best hitter in the league during his 7 years stint in Vegas. A discussion with Jokers gm let us believe the team tried to sign St.John before the winter. But his demand were too high, more then 20 millions for 4 years. With all the youngsters in the minors, the organisation was not willing to spend all this money on a 37 years old vet.
The decision make sense in term of performance on the field. But it's clear the management underestimate the quiet leadership he bring to a team.
- St.John always leads by exemple. He was the first one in batting practice and help all of us by his pertinent advice. said Bruce Joyner.
Without St.John, the Jokers struggle a lot. Their record of 11-21 is one of the worst in the league and even if some key players are injuried, it's clear that many young players (Latulippe, Joyner) are not performing well. Maybe it's because they lost their "older" brother, St.John. None of the players make a direct link between the present record of the team and the lost of St.John but they all insist of how appreciate St.John was. The Vegas GM admit: if we could have reach the kind of agrement he finally accept (1 year; 10 millions) at the end of last season, we probably had him back this year in a Jokers uniform.
But the show must go on and right now, it seem that there's a void in leadership in Vegas while maple are at 17-15... maybe there's a little bit of St.John behind this.
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| Colin St.John, one of the two true superstars of Las vegas organisation |
mercredi 14 mai 2014
Playball!
A new season will start tomorrow. What to expect from the Jokers? Fans want nothing less then a playoff appereance but will they be able to realise that? We'll probably need 162 games to know the answer. So what's new for the 2019 season in Vegas?
Starter: Last year, the starter did very well. Lou Latulippe prove he can win Cy Young like Maurice Gould. At only 24 years old, he will probably win some more in a near future. Jose Serrano finish well after a horrible start. He seems to finally master the difficult Lucky 7 ballpark. If he can prove himself like a good number #2, the rotation should be ok. Bob Magee did very well last year but he injured himself in training camp and will miss all 2019 year. It will be a big blow for the teams. With not much depth, the others starters (Scott, Wills and Welch) will need to give a little more then what they offered last year. Buddy Wills is the one with the better upside and showed flash of brillance last year but will he be able to doing it more consistenly, that will be the question
Relief: If there's a position that need to be upgrade, it's the relief. The team loose many games after the 6 first innings. So the GM spend money on two arms: Roy Cole and Peter Klein. Two vets who will have to teach and calm down all the others youngsters. Yamashita finished last year with 33 saves but 7 looses and an era over 4.50 He need to do more to provide a solid closer. At 25, he continue to learn. Lavio, after an excellent stint in 2018, deceived last year. Is it because he was asked too much? With the arrival of two excellents vets, he will rest more and management wish he could perform like two years ago. Adams, Hoskins and Fernandez complete the bullpen. All of them could dominate time to time but there's still to much inconstancy.
Infield: Pretty much the same infield then last year. Phillip Smith start behind the plate. With a .354 average, he showed the form that made him one of the best catcher in the league three years ago. Mitch Lyon will start on first. With 43 hr and 139 RBI, we can't ask more from him. At second, the surprise of 2018, Valentin Alverado. We all knows that the kid have many Tools to succeed but with 45 HR and 119 RBI in his rookie season, he surprises everyone. The question now, will he be able to repeat it? Adrian Brown and Veton Zhugli complete the infield. They both offers good defense.
Outfield: Masaki Baba is the better hitter in Vegas. A complete package who can hit for average or power, dépends on the situation. He will be the Anchor of the Vegas powerfull attack. Yamamoto will continu to offer 40HR and more then 130 RBI. Finally, Bruce Joyner will play in CF. He provide average and good defense in this key position.
Finally, will all this be enough to finish ahead of Kansas City? Probably not but if the players can stay away from disable list, the team should compete for the second best.
Starter: Last year, the starter did very well. Lou Latulippe prove he can win Cy Young like Maurice Gould. At only 24 years old, he will probably win some more in a near future. Jose Serrano finish well after a horrible start. He seems to finally master the difficult Lucky 7 ballpark. If he can prove himself like a good number #2, the rotation should be ok. Bob Magee did very well last year but he injured himself in training camp and will miss all 2019 year. It will be a big blow for the teams. With not much depth, the others starters (Scott, Wills and Welch) will need to give a little more then what they offered last year. Buddy Wills is the one with the better upside and showed flash of brillance last year but will he be able to doing it more consistenly, that will be the question
Relief: If there's a position that need to be upgrade, it's the relief. The team loose many games after the 6 first innings. So the GM spend money on two arms: Roy Cole and Peter Klein. Two vets who will have to teach and calm down all the others youngsters. Yamashita finished last year with 33 saves but 7 looses and an era over 4.50 He need to do more to provide a solid closer. At 25, he continue to learn. Lavio, after an excellent stint in 2018, deceived last year. Is it because he was asked too much? With the arrival of two excellents vets, he will rest more and management wish he could perform like two years ago. Adams, Hoskins and Fernandez complete the bullpen. All of them could dominate time to time but there's still to much inconstancy.
Infield: Pretty much the same infield then last year. Phillip Smith start behind the plate. With a .354 average, he showed the form that made him one of the best catcher in the league three years ago. Mitch Lyon will start on first. With 43 hr and 139 RBI, we can't ask more from him. At second, the surprise of 2018, Valentin Alverado. We all knows that the kid have many Tools to succeed but with 45 HR and 119 RBI in his rookie season, he surprises everyone. The question now, will he be able to repeat it? Adrian Brown and Veton Zhugli complete the infield. They both offers good defense.
Outfield: Masaki Baba is the better hitter in Vegas. A complete package who can hit for average or power, dépends on the situation. He will be the Anchor of the Vegas powerfull attack. Yamamoto will continu to offer 40HR and more then 130 RBI. Finally, Bruce Joyner will play in CF. He provide average and good defense in this key position.
Finally, will all this be enough to finish ahead of Kansas City? Probably not but if the players can stay away from disable list, the team should compete for the second best.
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| Roy Cole |
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| Peter Klein |
samedi 12 avril 2014
Closer but not there yet....
The Jokers finish the year with a record of 88-74. They achieved their goal to be competitive all year long but fall 4 games short to gain a playoff spot. Next year, fans will put pressure to be back in October dance.
But there's a lot of positive around the team this year. First of all, the starting rotation. Led by a young Lou Latulippe who finish at 19-4, the team was 5 in the TM league for era. That's way better of what the team did habitually. Of course, the Lucky Seven ballpark are clearly hitter friendly so that's a great show-up by the starter. Jose Serrano and Bob Magee have both made many quality starts. So for the first time, the starter will not be a problem in Vegas next year.
Relief will. Vegas pen suffer a lot this year. Of course, it,s important to notice that a bunch of youngster were thrown into action. The closer, Yamashita, had some up and down but he manage to save 33 games, not bad. Weldon Hoskins pitched more then 100 innings and finish with an era under 4.00. Robinson Fernandez and Pancho Romero showed good things too. Of course adding one good arms could help next year. On the negative side, Sixto Lavio, who pitched extremely well in 2017, had a difficult year, loosing 7 games and posting an 5.03 ERA. Another who had a difficult year is JR Adams. The kid show promises but need time to develop.
On the offense, Phillip Smith had a great year, finishing third in the league for batting average with .354 It was a nice surprise by this vet who come back strong after two difficult years. The team finish second in the league for batting average and home run. In that departement, Valentin Alverado who hit 45 was the biggest surprise of the year. He join a terrific attack who finish with 5 guys over 100 rbi (Lyons, 139; Yamamoto, 130; St.John 123; Alverado 119 and Baba 118) and 3 with more then 40 hr. So offense is not a clearly not a problem.
The end for St.John?
One of the greatest hitter in ABL history, Colin St.John may be on his way out. The near 37 vet ask for a long term contract, something the team doesn't want to agree. Right now, both side stay on their position what could push St.John on free agent market. It could be a big lost for the Jokers but 2 or 3 youngsters are ready to step up, Joe Kennedy is the one who will probably play regular in left field if the team can't keep his veterant.
So we wont expect many move in the off season for the Jokers. But with this nexus, the expectation will be higher next year. Fans will clearly want a playoff spot.
But there's a lot of positive around the team this year. First of all, the starting rotation. Led by a young Lou Latulippe who finish at 19-4, the team was 5 in the TM league for era. That's way better of what the team did habitually. Of course, the Lucky Seven ballpark are clearly hitter friendly so that's a great show-up by the starter. Jose Serrano and Bob Magee have both made many quality starts. So for the first time, the starter will not be a problem in Vegas next year.
Relief will. Vegas pen suffer a lot this year. Of course, it,s important to notice that a bunch of youngster were thrown into action. The closer, Yamashita, had some up and down but he manage to save 33 games, not bad. Weldon Hoskins pitched more then 100 innings and finish with an era under 4.00. Robinson Fernandez and Pancho Romero showed good things too. Of course adding one good arms could help next year. On the negative side, Sixto Lavio, who pitched extremely well in 2017, had a difficult year, loosing 7 games and posting an 5.03 ERA. Another who had a difficult year is JR Adams. The kid show promises but need time to develop.
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| Valentin Alvarado; 45 HR 119 RBI |
The end for St.John?
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| Colin St.John |
So we wont expect many move in the off season for the Jokers. But with this nexus, the expectation will be higher next year. Fans will clearly want a playoff spot.
lundi 31 mars 2014
Las Vegas fight for a playoff spot
The main goal for Vegas this year was to contend for a playoff spot and it's exactly what happen. The team are just 3 games back for the wildcard spot, even if they're coming from 2 straights bad weeks. What cause this turn around? Attack? yes the attack is good, very good. It's still number 1 in TML in most categories. But the biggest improvement came from pitching staff where the starters pass from 11th to 4 in TML ERA. Lou Latulippe is now the undisputed number 1 of the team with a 15-3 records. Jose Serrano, after an horrible start, pitch very well now. Bob Magee and Derrick Scott continu their good work and Buddy Wills had some good showing.
The attack is good, the starting pitcher are very good, where's the problem? Relief need to improve. They are last in TML ERA. It's not a big surprise because many youngsters made their debut; Fernandez, Adams, Romero and Yamachita in his first full year as closer. They will improve but GM will need to obtain some help there in the future if the team want to step up in standing.
But for now, everyone is happy in Vegas and fans wishes that the team will now put a victory straight to clinch a playoff spot.
A youngster to Watch : Joe Kennedy. With the injury of Dave Lewis (CF), the organisation recall Joe Kennedy. A good defensive fielder, he can boost an attack. He hit 30 HR in AAA in 109 games and he will probably get one outfielder spot next year. He will be in audition for the job this september...
The attack is good, the starting pitcher are very good, where's the problem? Relief need to improve. They are last in TML ERA. It's not a big surprise because many youngsters made their debut; Fernandez, Adams, Romero and Yamachita in his first full year as closer. They will improve but GM will need to obtain some help there in the future if the team want to step up in standing.
But for now, everyone is happy in Vegas and fans wishes that the team will now put a victory straight to clinch a playoff spot.
A youngster to Watch : Joe Kennedy. With the injury of Dave Lewis (CF), the organisation recall Joe Kennedy. A good defensive fielder, he can boost an attack. He hit 30 HR in AAA in 109 games and he will probably get one outfielder spot next year. He will be in audition for the job this september...
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| Joe Kennedy, the next Vegas superstar? |
samedi 15 mars 2014
Gould trade: a look on the trade
Last year, the Jokers traded the best pitcher in ABL history; Maurice Gould. Las Vegas GM received some criticism for the trade. Now, if we take a look at all of this, what can we say about it?
Maurice Gould; age 32; salary 20,000,000 7-4; 3,06 SO 145 WAR 5.7 VS Lou Latulippe; age 23, salary 500,000 9-1; 2,86 SO 87; WAR 3.2
If we look the WAR of the two pitchers, Maurice Gould is still a true all-star. With 145 KO, an ERA near 3,00 he delivers like he always did. But he's 32 and bring a huge contract with him. Lou Latulippe became quickly a true number 1 in Las Vegas. At 23, he still improve and show a 9-1 records an a very good ERA of 2,86. So if we look at the number, Latulippe do a good job, not as good as Gould but pretty close.
Rich Barrett, age 30, salary 4,850,000 2-2, save 1 ERA 8,63 WAR - 0,6 VS Masaki Baba, age 24, salary 6,825,000 average .345; OBP .409 11 HR; 51 RBI and a WAR 2.1 and Valentin Alverado, age 24; salary 500,000; average .286; OBP .321 24 HR, 61 RBI and a WAR 3.1
With Gould, the Jokers gave Rich Barrett. He really struggle in Montréal with a huge ERA and a negative WAR. Masaki Baba gave another big bat in Vegas. His average is over .340 and he post a 2,1 WAR. He's one of the reason the Jokers still have one of the best attack in TML. Valentin Alverado was the Joker in this trade. A youngster with a lot of potential, could he fulfill it? Right now, he's leading the league in home run and play extremely well in defense. With a WAR of 3.1, he really open the eyes of Las Vegas fans this year.
So even if Maurice Gould is clearly the best player of the transaction, Latulippe, Baba and Alverado give Las Vegas a solid trio who will Anchor the franchise for many years to come. So, one year after the trade, we can said that Las Vegas receive a good value for their ace.
Maurice Gould; age 32; salary 20,000,000 7-4; 3,06 SO 145 WAR 5.7 VS Lou Latulippe; age 23, salary 500,000 9-1; 2,86 SO 87; WAR 3.2
If we look the WAR of the two pitchers, Maurice Gould is still a true all-star. With 145 KO, an ERA near 3,00 he delivers like he always did. But he's 32 and bring a huge contract with him. Lou Latulippe became quickly a true number 1 in Las Vegas. At 23, he still improve and show a 9-1 records an a very good ERA of 2,86. So if we look at the number, Latulippe do a good job, not as good as Gould but pretty close.
Rich Barrett, age 30, salary 4,850,000 2-2, save 1 ERA 8,63 WAR - 0,6 VS Masaki Baba, age 24, salary 6,825,000 average .345; OBP .409 11 HR; 51 RBI and a WAR 2.1 and Valentin Alverado, age 24; salary 500,000; average .286; OBP .321 24 HR, 61 RBI and a WAR 3.1
With Gould, the Jokers gave Rich Barrett. He really struggle in Montréal with a huge ERA and a negative WAR. Masaki Baba gave another big bat in Vegas. His average is over .340 and he post a 2,1 WAR. He's one of the reason the Jokers still have one of the best attack in TML. Valentin Alverado was the Joker in this trade. A youngster with a lot of potential, could he fulfill it? Right now, he's leading the league in home run and play extremely well in defense. With a WAR of 3.1, he really open the eyes of Las Vegas fans this year.
So even if Maurice Gould is clearly the best player of the transaction, Latulippe, Baba and Alverado give Las Vegas a solid trio who will Anchor the franchise for many years to come. So, one year after the trade, we can said that Las Vegas receive a good value for their ace.
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| Lou Latulippe is probably going to All Star game |
lundi 24 février 2014
Playbal... the 2018 edition of Las Vegas Jokers
2017 was a difficult year. The Jokers wish to rebound in 2018. The owner target a .500 ball club but management believe the team could win a little bit more games then 82. Will it be enough to going back in playoff, nobody knows but players will try to stay competitive all year long, even if Eureka and K-C are now two powerhouse.
Pitching: The rotation did very well in spring training. Jose Serrano posted a 4-0; 2,25 era in march. Everybody wish he could bring this excellence to the real season. Lou Latulippe will continu to develop but he's already a solid #2. Bob Magee and Derrick Scott will occupy spot #3 and 4 and finally, Buddy Wills will take the last spot. He had some difficult showing in spring trainning but management believe he have more upside then Brent Welsh. So he will start on the rotation and we'll see if he can stay there. Is number one start will be against the reigning champion; Kansas City. A good test. Wills started 3 times in 2017 and did well with a 2.21 era.
In relief, there's a lot of improvement needed. Last year, the team could'nt get the job done in last inning. So with Sixto Lavio and Yamashita, we expect a better ending. Yamashita had a strong training camp with 9 saves and a 2.79 era. Last year, he played yo-yo between starter and closer and that did not help him. This year, he will stay in bullpen, no mather what happen in the starting rotation. He won the job in front of Robinson Fernandez, who did very well but will be back in AAA to gain more experience. But don't be surprise if he's call-up sooner then later. The others relievers, Solis, Hoskins and Fox need to upgrade their play. If they can pitch like they did in spring training, the team could surprise if the relief do a good job.
Infield: Only one change in the infield, the young Valentin Alverado will take the 2B job. He still could improve at bat but his defense will be an upgrade over Sasaki. Philip Smith, Mitch Lyon, Adrian Brown and Veton Zhugli will complete the infield. Management expect a better defense this year, that's why they sacrifice a bit of offense to obtain it.
Outfield: Probably the strenght of the team with Yamamoto and Babi. The two players will hit many homers and drive a lot of run. Each year, Las vegas attack is one of the best in TML. In center field, Bruce Joyner will take #1 spot on the lineup. He need to continu his good work. Finally, Colin St.John will take the DH spot. At 36, he's still one of the best hitter in the league. The management will have to decide if they offer him another contract or not.
So everyone he's ready in Vegas. PLAYBALL!
Pitching: The rotation did very well in spring training. Jose Serrano posted a 4-0; 2,25 era in march. Everybody wish he could bring this excellence to the real season. Lou Latulippe will continu to develop but he's already a solid #2. Bob Magee and Derrick Scott will occupy spot #3 and 4 and finally, Buddy Wills will take the last spot. He had some difficult showing in spring trainning but management believe he have more upside then Brent Welsh. So he will start on the rotation and we'll see if he can stay there. Is number one start will be against the reigning champion; Kansas City. A good test. Wills started 3 times in 2017 and did well with a 2.21 era.
In relief, there's a lot of improvement needed. Last year, the team could'nt get the job done in last inning. So with Sixto Lavio and Yamashita, we expect a better ending. Yamashita had a strong training camp with 9 saves and a 2.79 era. Last year, he played yo-yo between starter and closer and that did not help him. This year, he will stay in bullpen, no mather what happen in the starting rotation. He won the job in front of Robinson Fernandez, who did very well but will be back in AAA to gain more experience. But don't be surprise if he's call-up sooner then later. The others relievers, Solis, Hoskins and Fox need to upgrade their play. If they can pitch like they did in spring training, the team could surprise if the relief do a good job.
Infield: Only one change in the infield, the young Valentin Alverado will take the 2B job. He still could improve at bat but his defense will be an upgrade over Sasaki. Philip Smith, Mitch Lyon, Adrian Brown and Veton Zhugli will complete the infield. Management expect a better defense this year, that's why they sacrifice a bit of offense to obtain it.
Outfield: Probably the strenght of the team with Yamamoto and Babi. The two players will hit many homers and drive a lot of run. Each year, Las vegas attack is one of the best in TML. In center field, Bruce Joyner will take #1 spot on the lineup. He need to continu his good work. Finally, Colin St.John will take the DH spot. At 36, he's still one of the best hitter in the league. The management will have to decide if they offer him another contract or not.
So everyone he's ready in Vegas. PLAYBALL!
samedi 1 février 2014
Review of a difficult year- part 1
For the second time in their history, the Jokers did not make the playoff. They weren't even close to do it. So the management made a big splash in trading the best player in ABL history Maurice Gould. The decision was tough but with the performance of Latulippe, Baba and Alverado, the decision was a good one. The fans in Vegas still love Gould so they don't cheer when he got hammered by SoCal in the playoff this year. But the Gould trade was not the only move in Vegas, Jose Serrano came in Vegas in a big trade with New-York. Serrano is not Gould but he will provide a number 1 SP in Vegas. Let's look how Vegas players performed this year.
SP
Lou Latulippe: At 22, the Young Latulippe meet the expectation management had in him when they traded Gould to obtain his service. A 12-5 records with a very good 3,73 era was clearly the kind of pitching management expect from him. He still need to develop a bit more and gain experience but he will Anchor the rotation sooner then expected. We give him an A for last season.
Jose Serrano: At the beginning of the year, everyone in Vegas know that the starter position need to be upgraded. In july, the team finally decide to trade a big bat to obtain some good arms. Serrano was the key man of the trade. His arrival in Vegas was not easy. A 3-4 record with a huge 6.05 ERA, not the kind of stats we expect from a number 1 pitcher. But he arrive in a team a bit demotivated by the way the season goes so it will be interresting to see if he could put better number next year. For his stint in Vegas, we gave him a D
Bob Magee: He arrive with a lot of confidence in training camp and everyone expect big thing from the righty. The key word from him is inconstancy. Very good some nights, pretty bad some others. Overall he finished with a 10-11 4.93 record. He need to have more good days next year. C
Derrick Scott: For a number 4 starter, he put reasonable numbers on the table. A 13-13 record with a 4.58 era is exactly what we can expect from a bottom of rotation starter. He will never be a star but he's doing a ok job. We give him a B-
Buddy Wills: The team recall him in september and he did well. He posted a very good 2.21 era with a record of 1-2. Of course, three starts is not enough to get hyper excited but that could be enough to earn him a spot in next year rotation. It will be interesting to see what he could do over a whole year. For he's 3 starts, we give him an A
Brent Welch: The 27 years old southpaw grab the 5th spot in the rotation. He was not the worse pitcher but didn't impress either. So his post is in danger. If Wills have a strong training camp, he will go back in bullpen or in AAA. D
Relief
The relief was a pain in the ... all year long. It seems that every reliever had a bad year in the same time. Many games were lost in the last innings were the pitching staff could'nt do a good job. But there's some ray of light for next year.
Sixto Lavio: Obtain in New-York trade, Lavio was the best pitcher in Vegas in the last two months. He posted an 1.93 Era with a record of 4-1. He trully emerge as the set-up man the team was looking for. For what he did in Vegas, we give him an A.
Nobuhisa Yamashita: The Young pitcher was at time a starter, at time the closer. This yo-yo between the two affectations did not pay. It seems to have mixed-up the young pitcher. So next year, he will be in the bullpen and it will be interesting to see what he could do all year in a closer role. He finished the year with 11 saves, even if he started 17 times. So he have a lot to give and we didn't see the best right now. C-
Nick Fox: The righty had an off year. In fact, the problem seem to be the homer he concede. He allowed 10 more then his previous years. If Vegas saw him in a closer role at the beginning of the year, it seem quite clear now that he won't be the permanent answer here. He really need to cut the number of bomb he concede to be back on a important role in relief. D
Javier Solis: The vet obtain in Serrano trade seems to be on a steady decline. The last two years was very difficult for him and like Fox, he conceed to many homers. A problem that could become a huge handicap in a hitter friendly park. Solis was not effective in the last two months, posting a huge 7.20 era. It will be interesting to see if management will void the last year of his contract. E
Weldon Hoskins: Habitually a steady middle man in relief, Hoskins was innefective last year. A 6.26 era was quite the double of what he gave habitually. I don't think management give-up in his case but he will need to be back on track quickly. If not, he could be on the move. D-
Matt Messer: After having a very good 2016 season, Messer dissapoint in 2017. A 2-4, 5.13 era was not what management expected from him. He seem to have lost a little something during the last year. So he's clearly in danger to be demoted. He need to be better. D
Tom Wagner: A mop-up or a long relief specialist. He had a difficult year but expectation were very low in his case. He had a good 2016 years but it could be more luck then anything else. D-
Prospect
Of course, Robinson Fernandez is a huge prospect. He could have seen some time in major if not a big injury late in the season. For sure, he will compete for a job in the bullpen.
SP
Lou Latulippe: At 22, the Young Latulippe meet the expectation management had in him when they traded Gould to obtain his service. A 12-5 records with a very good 3,73 era was clearly the kind of pitching management expect from him. He still need to develop a bit more and gain experience but he will Anchor the rotation sooner then expected. We give him an A for last season.
Jose Serrano: At the beginning of the year, everyone in Vegas know that the starter position need to be upgraded. In july, the team finally decide to trade a big bat to obtain some good arms. Serrano was the key man of the trade. His arrival in Vegas was not easy. A 3-4 record with a huge 6.05 ERA, not the kind of stats we expect from a number 1 pitcher. But he arrive in a team a bit demotivated by the way the season goes so it will be interresting to see if he could put better number next year. For his stint in Vegas, we gave him a D
Bob Magee: He arrive with a lot of confidence in training camp and everyone expect big thing from the righty. The key word from him is inconstancy. Very good some nights, pretty bad some others. Overall he finished with a 10-11 4.93 record. He need to have more good days next year. C
Derrick Scott: For a number 4 starter, he put reasonable numbers on the table. A 13-13 record with a 4.58 era is exactly what we can expect from a bottom of rotation starter. He will never be a star but he's doing a ok job. We give him a B-
Buddy Wills: The team recall him in september and he did well. He posted a very good 2.21 era with a record of 1-2. Of course, three starts is not enough to get hyper excited but that could be enough to earn him a spot in next year rotation. It will be interesting to see what he could do over a whole year. For he's 3 starts, we give him an A
Brent Welch: The 27 years old southpaw grab the 5th spot in the rotation. He was not the worse pitcher but didn't impress either. So his post is in danger. If Wills have a strong training camp, he will go back in bullpen or in AAA. D
Relief
The relief was a pain in the ... all year long. It seems that every reliever had a bad year in the same time. Many games were lost in the last innings were the pitching staff could'nt do a good job. But there's some ray of light for next year.
Sixto Lavio: Obtain in New-York trade, Lavio was the best pitcher in Vegas in the last two months. He posted an 1.93 Era with a record of 4-1. He trully emerge as the set-up man the team was looking for. For what he did in Vegas, we give him an A.
Nobuhisa Yamashita: The Young pitcher was at time a starter, at time the closer. This yo-yo between the two affectations did not pay. It seems to have mixed-up the young pitcher. So next year, he will be in the bullpen and it will be interesting to see what he could do all year in a closer role. He finished the year with 11 saves, even if he started 17 times. So he have a lot to give and we didn't see the best right now. C-
Nick Fox: The righty had an off year. In fact, the problem seem to be the homer he concede. He allowed 10 more then his previous years. If Vegas saw him in a closer role at the beginning of the year, it seem quite clear now that he won't be the permanent answer here. He really need to cut the number of bomb he concede to be back on a important role in relief. D
Javier Solis: The vet obtain in Serrano trade seems to be on a steady decline. The last two years was very difficult for him and like Fox, he conceed to many homers. A problem that could become a huge handicap in a hitter friendly park. Solis was not effective in the last two months, posting a huge 7.20 era. It will be interesting to see if management will void the last year of his contract. E
Weldon Hoskins: Habitually a steady middle man in relief, Hoskins was innefective last year. A 6.26 era was quite the double of what he gave habitually. I don't think management give-up in his case but he will need to be back on track quickly. If not, he could be on the move. D-
Matt Messer: After having a very good 2016 season, Messer dissapoint in 2017. A 2-4, 5.13 era was not what management expected from him. He seem to have lost a little something during the last year. So he's clearly in danger to be demoted. He need to be better. D
Tom Wagner: A mop-up or a long relief specialist. He had a difficult year but expectation were very low in his case. He had a good 2016 years but it could be more luck then anything else. D-
Prospect
Of course, Robinson Fernandez is a huge prospect. He could have seen some time in major if not a big injury late in the season. For sure, he will compete for a job in the bullpen.
dimanche 12 janvier 2014
Another big Trade in Las Vegas
The Las Vegas GM annonce another big trade, 3 pitchers are coming to Vegas against 3 prospects... Jose Serrano, Javier Solis and Sixto Lavio arrives in the gambling city. Why this move?
First of all, we need to get back to the Maurice Gould trade. When Vegas put him on market, they doesn't know what they're gone a receive for him. GM taught he will receive 3 or 4 prospects who will need 2 or 3 years to fully develop. In fact, he receives 3 players, 2 who contribute right now and another one who's very near to shine in the big league. Since their arrival, they play very well and let the GM believe that he could bring Vegas back in a contender role soonner then expected. Lou Latulippe pitch very well since the trade. He's 8-2 in Vegas with a 3,73 ERA. Not the kind of number Gould brings to a rotation but the kind of number who let you believe you have a solid number 1 or 2. Masaki Baba hit for .322 with 12 hr and 55 RBI in 54 games. He add another great bat in a offense powerhouse. Finally, Valentin Alverado have already 12 HR in 54 games in Reno (AAA). So the team were please by what theses Young guns add to the lineup. But the problem of pitching was still there. So when New-York put Serrano on the market, one of the 10 best SP in the league and spot Octavio Garcia, it was an opportunity that GM Neveu don't want to ignore. After some talks, New-York let go 3 good arms, Serrano, Solis and Lavio. 3 players who will help the pitching in Vegas. Serrano will take the #1 spot while Latulippe and Wills still Learning.
Of course, the organisation gave very good prospects in return. Octavio Garcia will become a superstar but with Yamamoto, Baba, Lyon and Manning & Alverado in AAA, the management feel that they could let him go. To receive something good, you need to give something good too. With Garcia leave Richard Rogers, a Young closer who could become a very good player. But the organisation have Fernandez in AAA who done well, so it was another position where we could let a good prospect go. Finally, Pedro Perez. At 16, show a lot of promises but nobody knows how he will develop. If he become an elite starter, New-York will have the edge in this trade but Vegas owner, René Angelil, want a team who can content for the first place of his division. With theses moves, we think next year edition will be able to play good baseball and give a good opposition to Eureka and KC.
First of all, we need to get back to the Maurice Gould trade. When Vegas put him on market, they doesn't know what they're gone a receive for him. GM taught he will receive 3 or 4 prospects who will need 2 or 3 years to fully develop. In fact, he receives 3 players, 2 who contribute right now and another one who's very near to shine in the big league. Since their arrival, they play very well and let the GM believe that he could bring Vegas back in a contender role soonner then expected. Lou Latulippe pitch very well since the trade. He's 8-2 in Vegas with a 3,73 ERA. Not the kind of number Gould brings to a rotation but the kind of number who let you believe you have a solid number 1 or 2. Masaki Baba hit for .322 with 12 hr and 55 RBI in 54 games. He add another great bat in a offense powerhouse. Finally, Valentin Alverado have already 12 HR in 54 games in Reno (AAA). So the team were please by what theses Young guns add to the lineup. But the problem of pitching was still there. So when New-York put Serrano on the market, one of the 10 best SP in the league and spot Octavio Garcia, it was an opportunity that GM Neveu don't want to ignore. After some talks, New-York let go 3 good arms, Serrano, Solis and Lavio. 3 players who will help the pitching in Vegas. Serrano will take the #1 spot while Latulippe and Wills still Learning.
Of course, the organisation gave very good prospects in return. Octavio Garcia will become a superstar but with Yamamoto, Baba, Lyon and Manning & Alverado in AAA, the management feel that they could let him go. To receive something good, you need to give something good too. With Garcia leave Richard Rogers, a Young closer who could become a very good player. But the organisation have Fernandez in AAA who done well, so it was another position where we could let a good prospect go. Finally, Pedro Perez. At 16, show a lot of promises but nobody knows how he will develop. If he become an elite starter, New-York will have the edge in this trade but Vegas owner, René Angelil, want a team who can content for the first place of his division. With theses moves, we think next year edition will be able to play good baseball and give a good opposition to Eureka and KC.
 |
| José Serrano: The new #1 pitcher in Vegas |
mardi 17 décembre 2013
Q&A with Vegas GM about the Gould Trade
-By trading Maurice Gould, i'm quite sure that you know you won't be popular in Vegas the next few weeks...
Neveu: Yes i know. But we were going nowhere this year so we need to think about future. Gould have 31 and a huge contrat, we decide to trade him while he's got a good value. I really think that is better to trade a player one year to fast then one year to late...
-Do you have many discussion for Gould?
Neveu: A bit but we had to decide if we wanted quantity or quality. In fact, two teams made pretty good offers. South Carolina offer 3 good pitchers for Gould while Montréal offer two superstars, but only one pitcher. We decide to go with Montréal offer because we think that Latulippe will become a great pitcher. He's young and lefty, a pretty good asset in our stadium. Masaki Baba is already a star, a tremendous hitter who will fit very well in our lineup. And we receive Alvarado, a Young infielder with a lot of power. Our scout like him very well. So we decide to take this direction and really think that we need to move right now. I'm sure Gould will give Montréal 4 or 5 good years and with Barrett make them a threat for the title this year.
- Did the nego was easy with Montréal?
Neveu: No, the team didn't want to trade Latulippe and Baba. They talk about another SP and AU in outfield. Au is a very good hitter but at 26, he's 3 years older then Baba. So we insist to put Latulippe and Baba in the deal, what was not in Montréal plan. The nego really start to become a reality when we add Barrett, who could start or be in bullpen. At this time, Montréal put the name of Latulippe in the deal. I'm suppose that is not easy to trade a family member for the GM but we made it clear, without Latulippe, no deal is possible with Montréal.
- What's next now?
Neveu: We're still looking to upgrade our pitching. We have many good hitter now and we could trade one of our outfielder or a first baseman in a trade. We'll see what team will want a good hitter near the trade deadline and try to obtain something good. We're open to many ideas...
Neveu: Yes i know. But we were going nowhere this year so we need to think about future. Gould have 31 and a huge contrat, we decide to trade him while he's got a good value. I really think that is better to trade a player one year to fast then one year to late...
-Do you have many discussion for Gould?
Neveu: A bit but we had to decide if we wanted quantity or quality. In fact, two teams made pretty good offers. South Carolina offer 3 good pitchers for Gould while Montréal offer two superstars, but only one pitcher. We decide to go with Montréal offer because we think that Latulippe will become a great pitcher. He's young and lefty, a pretty good asset in our stadium. Masaki Baba is already a star, a tremendous hitter who will fit very well in our lineup. And we receive Alvarado, a Young infielder with a lot of power. Our scout like him very well. So we decide to take this direction and really think that we need to move right now. I'm sure Gould will give Montréal 4 or 5 good years and with Barrett make them a threat for the title this year.
- Did the nego was easy with Montréal?
Neveu: No, the team didn't want to trade Latulippe and Baba. They talk about another SP and AU in outfield. Au is a very good hitter but at 26, he's 3 years older then Baba. So we insist to put Latulippe and Baba in the deal, what was not in Montréal plan. The nego really start to become a reality when we add Barrett, who could start or be in bullpen. At this time, Montréal put the name of Latulippe in the deal. I'm suppose that is not easy to trade a family member for the GM but we made it clear, without Latulippe, no deal is possible with Montréal.
- What's next now?
Neveu: We're still looking to upgrade our pitching. We have many good hitter now and we could trade one of our outfielder or a first baseman in a trade. We'll see what team will want a good hitter near the trade deadline and try to obtain something good. We're open to many ideas...
samedi 14 décembre 2013
A long season?
A new season who could be long in Vegas. The team decide to give youngsters more opportunities and let some good vets go. Last year it was Ramirez, this year, it was Jeff Wade and Charles O'connor. The GM didn't do anything on free agent or trade market. He filled the hole with youngsters in the organisation. Right now, the result isn't really bright: a 9-10 records, already 5 games behind K-C and Eureka.
The attack is doing the job being the best in TML for average and homers. But, like always, the problem is the pitching staff who gave more runs then the team scores. But we'll see if the pitching staff, mostly the reliever could turn thing around a little bit and help the team to gain grounds on the leaders of the division. Right now, the bullpen have 7 of the 10 defeats of the team... a good closer would have been a great addition.
But there's bright light in the young players on the team. Particulary in the outfield where Bruce Joyner (CF) play like an all-star. A .361 average with 4 HR and 9 RBI is very good, more then expected. In right field, Nick McBride is playing well too and that gives the opportunities to put Colin St.John DH. St.John who has been injuried many times in last two years is better suited to DH role. In left field, Yamamoto, best rookie last year, continue is excellent job with a .373 average with 7HR (league best) and 21 RBI.
In the infield, Veton Zhugli finally become a regular in third base and lock the hot corner with great defensive skills. Adrian Brown at SS is a nice surprise, hittng .323 with superb defense. He pushed Erik Bennett, former SS, out of Vegas.
Will see if Vegas can turn things a bit and come back in the race or if it will be a transition year. Right now, the second scenario seems the most probable.
The attack is doing the job being the best in TML for average and homers. But, like always, the problem is the pitching staff who gave more runs then the team scores. But we'll see if the pitching staff, mostly the reliever could turn thing around a little bit and help the team to gain grounds on the leaders of the division. Right now, the bullpen have 7 of the 10 defeats of the team... a good closer would have been a great addition.
But there's bright light in the young players on the team. Particulary in the outfield where Bruce Joyner (CF) play like an all-star. A .361 average with 4 HR and 9 RBI is very good, more then expected. In right field, Nick McBride is playing well too and that gives the opportunities to put Colin St.John DH. St.John who has been injuried many times in last two years is better suited to DH role. In left field, Yamamoto, best rookie last year, continue is excellent job with a .373 average with 7HR (league best) and 21 RBI.
In the infield, Veton Zhugli finally become a regular in third base and lock the hot corner with great defensive skills. Adrian Brown at SS is a nice surprise, hittng .323 with superb defense. He pushed Erik Bennett, former SS, out of Vegas.
Will see if Vegas can turn things a bit and come back in the race or if it will be a transition year. Right now, the second scenario seems the most probable.
 |
| Bruce Joyner, a pleasant surprise in CF |
samedi 2 novembre 2013
Season recap
For the 4th time in 5 years, the Jokers made the playoff. For the 4th time, they can't bring the championship to the gambling city. But finishing in the top four, winning the AAA and AA pennants (Reno and Carson City) made the management happy. It was a very good year and a bit of a surprise if you think that Juan Ramirez left and Gordon Thornton was just not able to perform at the top level du to multiple injuries and age effect. New faces showed up like Yamamoto and the team stayed on top of the division for most of the year, except in the final week when Eureka past Vegas.
A little recap now of the season
Starters: Like every others years, Maurice Gould (18-5; 3,18) was one of the best SP in the league. In league standard, he had a very good year. In his own standard, it was just an ok year without clinching 20 victories and with an era 1 point over the one he managed two years ago. Management still please and he's by far, the best SP in the team. Derrick Scott (11-12, 4,48) is another one who saw his production decline from two years ago. Will he bounce back next year? Right now, he's the number #2 but he may be more suited in a #3 spot. Rich Barret (13-19, 4,53) return in starting role after a year in bullpen. In fact, management start him but he,s more effective in bullpen. But starting is not the strenght of the team so he may start again next year. He did a good job this year. Tom Wagner (11-5; 4,87) after a AAA recal, Wagner start winning games. He's not exactly an ace but for a #5 SP, he can match the expectation. In playoff, he was the number 4 and was hit hard. Vegas really need to improve that aspect. Finally, Bob Magee (7-4; 4,52) could be back in the rotation after a demotion to AAA during the year. He pitch well in playoff but he was in a long relief role; maybe what he could do best. If a youngster emerge, he probably will be back in the bullpen where he did well.
Relief: Nick Fox (8-5, 4,34) with his 34 saves did well in a closer role. He's one of the good arm even if he can allow the big home run in late innings. Matt Messer (5-0, 2,41) was the best relever all year long. He finnaly answer to high expectation after two years where he tried to establish himself as a very good relevers. He finnaly get there this year and he's injury during the playoff hurt a thin bullpen. Weldon Hoskins (7-4; 4,47) Another Young arm who have his up and down during the season. He improve himself during the year and the team will count on him in years to come. Charles O'connor (2-2; 3,40) had another very good year but it would be a surprise if the organisation keep him at 12 millions per year. Near 40 years old and coming back a shoulder injury, he will probably be free in november. Ernie Kuhn (4-0; 7,30) How a relever could have 0 defeat with a 7,30 era? It seem that he couldn't pitch an inning without allowing points. At 34, he will probably don't be around for a long time and if he stay, probably in a mop-op role.
Infield: Phillip Smith (.308; 19Hr, 90 RBI) had another good year. The catcher is one of the best in the league. Mitch Lyon (.267; 28Hr; 103 RBI) the power is there and a great eye (OBP .365) will be enough the assure him the first base next year. But he will need to improve his defense a bit. Jeff Wade (.346; 0HR, 34 RBI) arrive in july to strenghten the 2 base. He did very well in season where we can't ask for more. But it was more difficult in playoff where he hit only for .246. He does not have a contract for next year but the organisation will try to sign him before free agent market. Veton Zhugli (.276; 24HR; 86 RBi) He finnaly establish himself as a regular. His ability in defense make him valuable for the team because he can play all infield positions with great succes. He step up in SS late in the season after a start at third base. A season that show him blossom help to forgive a bit the Jenning transaction. Francisco Lopez (.256; 3HR; 36 RBI), Lopez should hit more if he want to stay a regular. Since he's not the best 2B or 3B defensively, a .256 average is not enough to cover his defensive flaw. He's probably more suited to be a back-up but if Wade quit, he may start at 2B.
Outfield: Kat Yamamoto (.306; 48HR, 144 RBI) was clearly the best offensive player of the team. A rookie season of 148 RBI is absolutely wonderful. He showed a little sign of fatigue at the end of the season but bounced back in playoff with 5 HR. The future of the team. Dave Lewis (.275; 5 HR, 29 RBI) a defense Genius, Lewis help every Vegas pitcher with his defensive ability. In offense, he's ok so he will probably be again in CF next year to catch as many ball as you can ask for a center fielder. Colin St.John (.322, 34HR, 116 RBI) at near 35, St.John is still productive. Another excellent season but the fact that a bunch of Young outfielders blossoms in AAA will probably push him to a DH role and help him prevent injury. St.John is an excellent teacher for all this Young promising hitters. Troy Tracy (.297, 14 HR, 80 RBI) is not a bad hitter, he did a good job on spot #1 but his innefectiveness in outfield force the team to put him in a DH role, where we can hope for more production. Is contract end and it's not clear if the team want to retain him. He could be free next month.
Bench: That was clearly not the strenght of the team. Gordon Thornton will not be back. It's a little bit sad to see how this once great player fall down quickly du to injury and age. He didn't hit for .200 and he will need to think what he want a do with his life now that his baseball career seem over. Stu Price is a very good defensive infielder but hit only .212 Jose Ortiz and David Vickerson did well when they're not asking to play everyday. Finally, Carlos Garcia after showing promises in 2014 didn't delivers last two years. He may not be back.
In minor
SP: Buddy Wills is still the best pitching prospect but seem not quite ready. Another AAA year could help him to fully develop himself. Brent Welch, the southpaw will have the chance to break the rotation but he's not an ace. In AAA, the best arm is probably Yamashita who have an excellent year in a closer role. Will he be able to start some game? His past make us doubt about it but he will be in the mix in 2016.
Hitter: Doug Manning is ready to jump in major league and probably have an impact. Not quite big as Yamamoto but he could be a nice surprise. Bruce Joyner will probably move in major too. Maybe not in a regular role but he could step up if someone get injured. Finally Octavio Garcia is another gem who need to polish a little bit his skill before joining the team. He could Anchor the attack in AAA next year. Nick McBride is another outfielder who could have an impact in a near future. He will start in AAA but who knows waht he can do there.
In conclusion, Las vegas will probably be a contender next year too.
A little recap now of the season
Starters: Like every others years, Maurice Gould (18-5; 3,18) was one of the best SP in the league. In league standard, he had a very good year. In his own standard, it was just an ok year without clinching 20 victories and with an era 1 point over the one he managed two years ago. Management still please and he's by far, the best SP in the team. Derrick Scott (11-12, 4,48) is another one who saw his production decline from two years ago. Will he bounce back next year? Right now, he's the number #2 but he may be more suited in a #3 spot. Rich Barret (13-19, 4,53) return in starting role after a year in bullpen. In fact, management start him but he,s more effective in bullpen. But starting is not the strenght of the team so he may start again next year. He did a good job this year. Tom Wagner (11-5; 4,87) after a AAA recal, Wagner start winning games. He's not exactly an ace but for a #5 SP, he can match the expectation. In playoff, he was the number 4 and was hit hard. Vegas really need to improve that aspect. Finally, Bob Magee (7-4; 4,52) could be back in the rotation after a demotion to AAA during the year. He pitch well in playoff but he was in a long relief role; maybe what he could do best. If a youngster emerge, he probably will be back in the bullpen where he did well.
Relief: Nick Fox (8-5, 4,34) with his 34 saves did well in a closer role. He's one of the good arm even if he can allow the big home run in late innings. Matt Messer (5-0, 2,41) was the best relever all year long. He finnaly answer to high expectation after two years where he tried to establish himself as a very good relevers. He finnaly get there this year and he's injury during the playoff hurt a thin bullpen. Weldon Hoskins (7-4; 4,47) Another Young arm who have his up and down during the season. He improve himself during the year and the team will count on him in years to come. Charles O'connor (2-2; 3,40) had another very good year but it would be a surprise if the organisation keep him at 12 millions per year. Near 40 years old and coming back a shoulder injury, he will probably be free in november. Ernie Kuhn (4-0; 7,30) How a relever could have 0 defeat with a 7,30 era? It seem that he couldn't pitch an inning without allowing points. At 34, he will probably don't be around for a long time and if he stay, probably in a mop-op role.
Infield: Phillip Smith (.308; 19Hr, 90 RBI) had another good year. The catcher is one of the best in the league. Mitch Lyon (.267; 28Hr; 103 RBI) the power is there and a great eye (OBP .365) will be enough the assure him the first base next year. But he will need to improve his defense a bit. Jeff Wade (.346; 0HR, 34 RBI) arrive in july to strenghten the 2 base. He did very well in season where we can't ask for more. But it was more difficult in playoff where he hit only for .246. He does not have a contract for next year but the organisation will try to sign him before free agent market. Veton Zhugli (.276; 24HR; 86 RBi) He finnaly establish himself as a regular. His ability in defense make him valuable for the team because he can play all infield positions with great succes. He step up in SS late in the season after a start at third base. A season that show him blossom help to forgive a bit the Jenning transaction. Francisco Lopez (.256; 3HR; 36 RBI), Lopez should hit more if he want to stay a regular. Since he's not the best 2B or 3B defensively, a .256 average is not enough to cover his defensive flaw. He's probably more suited to be a back-up but if Wade quit, he may start at 2B.
Outfield: Kat Yamamoto (.306; 48HR, 144 RBI) was clearly the best offensive player of the team. A rookie season of 148 RBI is absolutely wonderful. He showed a little sign of fatigue at the end of the season but bounced back in playoff with 5 HR. The future of the team. Dave Lewis (.275; 5 HR, 29 RBI) a defense Genius, Lewis help every Vegas pitcher with his defensive ability. In offense, he's ok so he will probably be again in CF next year to catch as many ball as you can ask for a center fielder. Colin St.John (.322, 34HR, 116 RBI) at near 35, St.John is still productive. Another excellent season but the fact that a bunch of Young outfielders blossoms in AAA will probably push him to a DH role and help him prevent injury. St.John is an excellent teacher for all this Young promising hitters. Troy Tracy (.297, 14 HR, 80 RBI) is not a bad hitter, he did a good job on spot #1 but his innefectiveness in outfield force the team to put him in a DH role, where we can hope for more production. Is contract end and it's not clear if the team want to retain him. He could be free next month.
Bench: That was clearly not the strenght of the team. Gordon Thornton will not be back. It's a little bit sad to see how this once great player fall down quickly du to injury and age. He didn't hit for .200 and he will need to think what he want a do with his life now that his baseball career seem over. Stu Price is a very good defensive infielder but hit only .212 Jose Ortiz and David Vickerson did well when they're not asking to play everyday. Finally, Carlos Garcia after showing promises in 2014 didn't delivers last two years. He may not be back.
In minor
SP: Buddy Wills is still the best pitching prospect but seem not quite ready. Another AAA year could help him to fully develop himself. Brent Welch, the southpaw will have the chance to break the rotation but he's not an ace. In AAA, the best arm is probably Yamashita who have an excellent year in a closer role. Will he be able to start some game? His past make us doubt about it but he will be in the mix in 2016.
Hitter: Doug Manning is ready to jump in major league and probably have an impact. Not quite big as Yamamoto but he could be a nice surprise. Bruce Joyner will probably move in major too. Maybe not in a regular role but he could step up if someone get injured. Finally Octavio Garcia is another gem who need to polish a little bit his skill before joining the team. He could Anchor the attack in AAA next year. Nick McBride is another outfielder who could have an impact in a near future. He will start in AAA but who knows waht he can do there.
In conclusion, Las vegas will probably be a contender next year too.
dimanche 13 octobre 2013
Rebuilding?
After an early exit in playoff, the Jokers need to take big décisions. They loose money even if they did make the playoff. It was clear that Juan Ramirez will go and the team really hesitate about Maurice Gould status. Since he void his last option year, he could have been free on the market too. They discuss a bit with some teams about the possibility to trade him but they don't receive an offer who satisfy the demands; a Young promising SP. The story could end bad but finally Gould signed a contract and another year begins.
For the Jokers, it's time to think about a turn-around. St.Johns is not getting younger, same for Tracy, two of the best bats for the team. But the farm system produce well for the hitting part. This year, Katsuhiko Yamamoto is a great revelation for everyone in Vegas except chief scout: Warren Barnes. In 2013 draft, the team had a very good position, 7th overall. On Barnes list, many SP but one hitter emerge cleary on top of others: Yamamoto. The team decide to go with a SP; Buddy Wills and Barnes never think that Yamamoto may still be available with Vegas 2nd pick, the 33 overall but he was. Barnes say that this pick was the easiest he ever made and this year, Yamamoto prove him right. A .333 average; 35 homers and 100 RBI, a kind of season every players dream about; and we're just in august so Yamamoto will continu to punish SP for many more weeks.
GM Neveu say that Yamamoto start a rebuilding process in Vegas where the team would like to stay competitve. Our top SP, Gould, Scott and Barret are all in late 20 or early 30 so it's not really a problem right now. We were more worried about the outfield situation where Ramirez, Tracy, Thornton and St.Johns were quickly starting to get older. Tracy and Thornton are already past their prime, Ramirez play in Mile High. But the farm system answer well. Yamamoto is already a star and an another one is waiting in AAA: Doug Manning. He's another youngster who provide a lot of power. The team plan to let him finish the year in AAA even if he could step up right now in the lineup. GM Neveu say that he truly believe that spot number 4 and 5 in lineup are under control for many years and we may have another big bat on the mix if Octavio Garcia become the hitter Warren barnes expect. We could see more points in Vegas in the next years that what we saw the last four and if you think that Vegas was a offensive powerhouse in TML, it sound great for a Jokers Fan. However, the team still miss another very good SP to complete a trio with Gould and Scott. But with the finance under control at the end of the year with the departure of Thornton, Tracy and O'connor, we may be in a good situation to move.
So, all seems to go in a bright direction for the Jokers... still need to win a championship!
For the Jokers, it's time to think about a turn-around. St.Johns is not getting younger, same for Tracy, two of the best bats for the team. But the farm system produce well for the hitting part. This year, Katsuhiko Yamamoto is a great revelation for everyone in Vegas except chief scout: Warren Barnes. In 2013 draft, the team had a very good position, 7th overall. On Barnes list, many SP but one hitter emerge cleary on top of others: Yamamoto. The team decide to go with a SP; Buddy Wills and Barnes never think that Yamamoto may still be available with Vegas 2nd pick, the 33 overall but he was. Barnes say that this pick was the easiest he ever made and this year, Yamamoto prove him right. A .333 average; 35 homers and 100 RBI, a kind of season every players dream about; and we're just in august so Yamamoto will continu to punish SP for many more weeks.
GM Neveu say that Yamamoto start a rebuilding process in Vegas where the team would like to stay competitve. Our top SP, Gould, Scott and Barret are all in late 20 or early 30 so it's not really a problem right now. We were more worried about the outfield situation where Ramirez, Tracy, Thornton and St.Johns were quickly starting to get older. Tracy and Thornton are already past their prime, Ramirez play in Mile High. But the farm system answer well. Yamamoto is already a star and an another one is waiting in AAA: Doug Manning. He's another youngster who provide a lot of power. The team plan to let him finish the year in AAA even if he could step up right now in the lineup. GM Neveu say that he truly believe that spot number 4 and 5 in lineup are under control for many years and we may have another big bat on the mix if Octavio Garcia become the hitter Warren barnes expect. We could see more points in Vegas in the next years that what we saw the last four and if you think that Vegas was a offensive powerhouse in TML, it sound great for a Jokers Fan. However, the team still miss another very good SP to complete a trio with Gould and Scott. But with the finance under control at the end of the year with the departure of Thornton, Tracy and O'connor, we may be in a good situation to move.
So, all seems to go in a bright direction for the Jokers... still need to win a championship!
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| Yamamoto: rookie of the year? |
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| Yamamoto and Manning, the core of Vegas attack in a near future |
dimanche 14 juillet 2013
The Jokers clinched division title
Sweet september... the Jokers clinched the division title with 6 games to play. Another good season for the Neveda team. Second in TML for runs scored, batting average and OBP. We can't say that this is very surprising because the team always flirted with high rank in offensive categories. What is different this year, it's the performance of the pitching staff. Third in starter and bullpen era is a pleasant surprise that help the Jokers to win 93 games. Two Young southpaws really pitch well this year.
Derrick Scott: 16 wins, 3.40 ERA and 165 K. He showed promises last year but he really establish himself this year. After a rough start, loosing his first three in April, he gaved 3 or less runs in 21 of his next 27 games. Since the brief passage of Bob Rudyard, no other Vegas starter really back Maurice Gould as a true number 2. Scott did it this year.
Jeff Olson: 14 wins, an ERA of 3,99 with 107K, Olson perform a lot better then a number five starter. He put many good showing and find a way to win. The team really count on him in playoff and he will be on the top four, putting MaGee or Dooley on the bullpen.
On offense, Juan Ramirez is really on fire. 44HR, 138 RBI, he really make a statement this year. Ramirez is clearly one of the best hitter in the league. He worked hard to convince the team to offer him an extension but at this moment, the team didn't move. A good source say that he will become free at the end of the season, Vegas management want to lower the payroll. If this is true, Ramirez will bring leadership and RBI to his new team.
Derrick Scott: 16 wins, 3.40 ERA and 165 K. He showed promises last year but he really establish himself this year. After a rough start, loosing his first three in April, he gaved 3 or less runs in 21 of his next 27 games. Since the brief passage of Bob Rudyard, no other Vegas starter really back Maurice Gould as a true number 2. Scott did it this year.
Jeff Olson: 14 wins, an ERA of 3,99 with 107K, Olson perform a lot better then a number five starter. He put many good showing and find a way to win. The team really count on him in playoff and he will be on the top four, putting MaGee or Dooley on the bullpen.
On offense, Juan Ramirez is really on fire. 44HR, 138 RBI, he really make a statement this year. Ramirez is clearly one of the best hitter in the league. He worked hard to convince the team to offer him an extension but at this moment, the team didn't move. A good source say that he will become free at the end of the season, Vegas management want to lower the payroll. If this is true, Ramirez will bring leadership and RBI to his new team.
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| Derrick Scott, a 16 wins seasons |
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| Juan Ramirez, still not sign by Vegas |
dimanche 7 juillet 2013
One month to go, 7 games ahead...
September arriving quickly, it begin to smell playoff time. Right now, the Jokers lead their division by 7, so unless a major breakdown in the last month, it will probably be enough to return in post season. The Jokers try to move some assets at trade deadline but they found no one to dance. They were close with Minnesota but finally couldn't agree on a trade involving Juan Ramirez. If Minny don't make the playoff by one or two games, they'll probably think about it this winter.
On the field, the Jokers play very well. The pitching staff is third in TML and if Maurice Gould always show is excellence, Derrick Scott is a pleasant surprise. 13 wins, an era of 3,39... difficult to ask for more from this youngster. On the other hand, Bob Magee still struggling... too much time between good performances. On relief, O'connor having a great year with a 1.51 ERA. Nick Fox comeback from a difficult year and the return of Barrett in the bullpen did a lot to improve the major weakness of the team last year.
On offense, Phillip Smith and Juan Ramirez does exactly what we expect from them. Mitch Lyon, with his 20 HR and 80 RBI is a pleasant surprise. But management concern is toward Colin St.John and Gordon Thornton. St.John could rebound in the playoff but for Thornton, it may be the time to see him more like a bench player now. His body show sign of is numerous injuries.
But the team may have a solid hitting prospect in Katsuhiko Yamamoto. He start the year in AA where he hit for .303 with 27HR and 92 RBI. The management want to see how he could perform in AAA and Kats respond well with 3HR and 9 RBI in only 7 games. He will probably start in the major next year.
On the field, the Jokers play very well. The pitching staff is third in TML and if Maurice Gould always show is excellence, Derrick Scott is a pleasant surprise. 13 wins, an era of 3,39... difficult to ask for more from this youngster. On the other hand, Bob Magee still struggling... too much time between good performances. On relief, O'connor having a great year with a 1.51 ERA. Nick Fox comeback from a difficult year and the return of Barrett in the bullpen did a lot to improve the major weakness of the team last year.
On offense, Phillip Smith and Juan Ramirez does exactly what we expect from them. Mitch Lyon, with his 20 HR and 80 RBI is a pleasant surprise. But management concern is toward Colin St.John and Gordon Thornton. St.John could rebound in the playoff but for Thornton, it may be the time to see him more like a bench player now. His body show sign of is numerous injuries.
But the team may have a solid hitting prospect in Katsuhiko Yamamoto. He start the year in AA where he hit for .303 with 27HR and 92 RBI. The management want to see how he could perform in AAA and Kats respond well with 3HR and 9 RBI in only 7 games. He will probably start in the major next year.
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| "Kats" Yamamoto is real hot in his AAA debut |
jeudi 20 juin 2013
Buddy Wills
A little text about the 2013 first pick of the Jokers, Buddy "high pocket" Wills. Buddy is the grand son of ex star ball player Maury Wills. He plays in the 60 mostly for the Los Angeles Dodgers. Buddy, like his grand father always shine on a baseball field. But, instead of playing infield, he pitch.
The Las Vegas organisation quickly had an eye on him and they were very pleased to see that he was still available in 8th spot in 2013 draft. They select him but had a tough time to sign him. His nickname of high pocket was not a fluke, the kid want a lot of money. But they finally agreed on a contract and the youngster start in Victoria were he maintain an ERA of 2.30 with 2 wins and 3 defeats. The team is not very powerfull so they decide to jump him in AA with Calgary. He had a rough time in his first three start, according 13 runs in only 14 innings. But he learn quickly and start to shine. In his last three start, he gave only 4 runs in 20.2 innings with a perfect nine innings against Ashville.
The kid want to jump right now in AAA but the management will wait a bit. If he continus to dominate, he may finish the year with Reno in AAA but right now, the plan is to keep him in AA, gaining experience and developing him well. The organisation think they have a diamond in Wills.
Rumors... there's a lot of rumors right now in Vegas. Management didn't answers to interview demands but some says that Juan Ramirez and Colin St.John could be trade. Management want to cut down the payroll a bit and they have a surplus of outfielder. There's talk with Minnesota mostly but some others teams join the mix and offers good players... Will see what the management will do but the teams is right in a dog fight to win the division pennant. Fans will surely take it bad if a move is made to cut the payroll... We will follow things closely in the next weeks.
The Las Vegas organisation quickly had an eye on him and they were very pleased to see that he was still available in 8th spot in 2013 draft. They select him but had a tough time to sign him. His nickname of high pocket was not a fluke, the kid want a lot of money. But they finally agreed on a contract and the youngster start in Victoria were he maintain an ERA of 2.30 with 2 wins and 3 defeats. The team is not very powerfull so they decide to jump him in AA with Calgary. He had a rough time in his first three start, according 13 runs in only 14 innings. But he learn quickly and start to shine. In his last three start, he gave only 4 runs in 20.2 innings with a perfect nine innings against Ashville.
The kid want to jump right now in AAA but the management will wait a bit. If he continus to dominate, he may finish the year with Reno in AAA but right now, the plan is to keep him in AA, gaining experience and developing him well. The organisation think they have a diamond in Wills.
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| Buddy Wills |
dimanche 2 juin 2013
The return of "Spring"
End of may, the Jokers leads their division by 3... thanx to the 4 games sweep of Eureka, first team in the chase with K-C not to far behind. That's why the return of Gordon "Spring" Thornton is welcome in Vegas. We will need everything to stay on top of the division.
Thornton has been acquire from Montreal in the Bob Rudyard trade. Montreal gave him mostly for financial reason. Thornton has a huge contract, 21M this year and 23 next year. He won't be keep by the team after that, 24M is too much when you need to keep Gould and Smith with the team.
But since his arrival, Thornton did a good job, a very good one in fact. He hit .323 (OBP .412) in 2013 and did better last year with a .332 (OBP .432). Unfortunately, he injuried himself late in the season and was a big miss in the final game defeat. So he's return could just boost the lineup, the team hope he could go on the field and do what we expect from him... hit and run...
Thornton has been acquire from Montreal in the Bob Rudyard trade. Montreal gave him mostly for financial reason. Thornton has a huge contract, 21M this year and 23 next year. He won't be keep by the team after that, 24M is too much when you need to keep Gould and Smith with the team.
But since his arrival, Thornton did a good job, a very good one in fact. He hit .323 (OBP .412) in 2013 and did better last year with a .332 (OBP .432). Unfortunately, he injuried himself late in the season and was a big miss in the final game defeat. So he's return could just boost the lineup, the team hope he could go on the field and do what we expect from him... hit and run...
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| Gordon "Spring" Thornton |
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