The Julian Javelina announced their extensions for the 2009 season last week, and one of the players receiving an extension may surprise some observers. After a season which saw the Javelina rank among the top five teams in most offensive and pitching categories, GM Jamie Hoyle decided to lock a key contributor on each side of the ball.
The first extension, which was decided long before the season ended, went to outfielder Carlos Quentin. Quentin, who is currently recovering from wrist surgery, is coming off a breakthrough season in which he hit .288 with 36 HR, 100 RBI, 96 R, 66 BB. He managed to finish in the top five in the American League in home runs (36, #2), OB% (.394, #4), SLG% (.571, #2) and OPS (.965, T#2) despite missing the final 30 games of the season after injuring his wrist. Quentin will join Adrian Gonzalez, Jason Bay, and Ichiro as the team's offensive core for 2009.
"It's nice to have some security, even if it's just for a year," said Quentin via conference call. "Right now, I'm focused on rehabbing my wrist and building on the first 130 game of last season. I should be 100% by spring training."
The second extension went to closer Brad Lidge. Lidge, who joined the team via a deadline deal, is coming off of a season which saw him go a perfect 41/41 in save chances while posting a minuscule 1.95 ERA and 92 K in 69.1 IP. Clearly, the team recognized the value of having a true "shut-down" stopper at the back end of their bullpen and decided it couldn't afford to let Lidge walk with no compensation. This point was accentuated when Lidge single-handedly captured the saves category for his team in the eSeries by converting all five of his save chances.
"I really enjoyed my three months in Julian, and am glad to be coming back," said Lidge. "I thought we had a good bullpen down the stretch, and hopefully I can help make that the case again next season."
It would appear most on-lookers were at least a little surprised that it was Lidge, and not Cliff Lee, who received the final extension. Oddly enough, it was Lee who came over in the same deadline deal as Lidge in July, and he essentially replaced Dan Haren in the rotation in the second half of the season. Some team sources have indicated that the team was not completely sold on Lee's ability to repeat his performance in 2008, and it's not completely unreasonable based on his history. For his part, Hoyle isn't disparaging Lee or his contributions.
"Cliff Lee is a great pitcher, and we could not have won the title without his contributions," said Hoyle. "In the end, the amount of available starting pitching in the draft allowed us to place a higher premium on [Lidge's] services; it's impossible to overvalue the impact a closer like Brad has on a contending team."
Swings and Misses....
It's likely the Javelina will be looking for a way to trade into the upper half of the draft in an effort to add a dynamic offensive performer...Some feel the team will place an emphasis on adding at least two players capable of stealing 30 bases...They may also look to add a starting pitcher via trade prior to the draft...The team is hoping 3B Kevin Kouzmanoff is able to continue his progress with the bat.
Monday, November 3, 2008
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Hoyle Completes Second Trade, Adds Lowe
Just one week after completed a trade that promises to upgrade his team's bullpen, Julian GM Jamie Hoyle completed a deal that should add important depth to his starting rotation. The Javelina swapped promising young outfielder Lastings Milledge to Encinitas in exchange for starting pitcher Derek Lowe. It may not seem like much, but Hoyle is confident it will prove to be an important trade down the stretch.
"Contending teams need depth in their lineups and their rotations," explained Hoyle at a recent news conference. "We feel we have solid depth among our position players, but we have been a little thin when it comes to starting pitching. We feel we've solved that problem."
Some may question the timing given that Milledge has been hitting well of late, but Hoyle says they felt fortunate to be able to trade from a position of strength to fill a hole.
"We still feel Lastings will be a very good player at this level," said Hoyle. "We just had a chance to add a great combination of consistency, durability and experience to the back end of the rotation. With guys like Lohse, Mark and now Derek waiting in the wings, a bump in the road with Todd or Edi won't kill us."
As it turns out, the timing couldn't have been better. Todd Wellemeyer has been battling a stiff pitching elbow for the last week, and could require some rest depending on how he responds after his next start (Saturday). And considering Edinson Volquez's lack of experience, it wouldn't be a shock for him to require some rest at some point.
For his part, Lowe is happy to pitch for a contending club.
"I enjoyed my time in Encinitas, but that team is moving in a different direction," said Lowe. "Hopefully I can contribute to what this team has started. This team could make some noise for the next year or two and I look forward to it."
Hits and Misses...
Brian Giles and Adrian Gonzalez his back-to-back home runs for the first time on Thursday....Cristian Guzman upped his batting average to .315...League sources indicate the Javelina have stopped their search for more speed at SS...Dan Uggla's walk-off grand slam on Wednesday was his second slam of the season...Dan Haren pitched another solid 6 innings in Thursday against the Mets.
"Contending teams need depth in their lineups and their rotations," explained Hoyle at a recent news conference. "We feel we have solid depth among our position players, but we have been a little thin when it comes to starting pitching. We feel we've solved that problem."
Some may question the timing given that Milledge has been hitting well of late, but Hoyle says they felt fortunate to be able to trade from a position of strength to fill a hole.
"We still feel Lastings will be a very good player at this level," said Hoyle. "We just had a chance to add a great combination of consistency, durability and experience to the back end of the rotation. With guys like Lohse, Mark and now Derek waiting in the wings, a bump in the road with Todd or Edi won't kill us."
As it turns out, the timing couldn't have been better. Todd Wellemeyer has been battling a stiff pitching elbow for the last week, and could require some rest depending on how he responds after his next start (Saturday). And considering Edinson Volquez's lack of experience, it wouldn't be a shock for him to require some rest at some point.
For his part, Lowe is happy to pitch for a contending club.
"I enjoyed my time in Encinitas, but that team is moving in a different direction," said Lowe. "Hopefully I can contribute to what this team has started. This team could make some noise for the next year or two and I look forward to it."
Hits and Misses...
Brian Giles and Adrian Gonzalez his back-to-back home runs for the first time on Thursday....Cristian Guzman upped his batting average to .315...League sources indicate the Javelina have stopped their search for more speed at SS...Dan Uggla's walk-off grand slam on Wednesday was his second slam of the season...Dan Haren pitched another solid 6 innings in Thursday against the Mets.
Sunday, May 18, 2008
Quentin, Uggla, Gonzalez Taking Bite Out of Opposing Pitching
In previous seasons the Javelina offense has been lifeless and without punch, and the team has finished at or near the bottom of the standings as a result of that ineptitude. This season, GM Jamie Hoyle decided to place a large emphasis on improving the offense through trades and the draft - the new approach seems to be paying off.
Though some owners snickered when Hoyle tabbed 1B Adrian Gonzalez with his first pick in the draft, he was quick to point out that it was just the first step in a larger scheme to pump life into his team's lineup. Rather than relying on pitching, Hoyle was determined to build this team around run production. Gonzalez, along with Carlos Quentin, Dan Uggla and Justin Morneau have been on early season tears while some of their teammates worked out of early funks.
Perhaps the most surprising returns have come from Quentin, who was drafted as an essential after thought in the 19th round of January's draft. Quentin currently ranks among league leaders in HR (7th), RBI (5th), OB% (11th), SLG (12th) and OPS (11th). He has also contributed four stolen bases.
"When we drafted Quentin, there weren't many everyday outfielders left on the board," recalled Hoyle. "We felt he had the greatest upside, and logic dictated that the Sox would not have traded for him if he wasn't going to get a chance to play. We actually told one GM, who had been eyeing Quentin with his next pick, that we had high hopes for him despite his draft position."
What's more; the production of this lineup has the Javelina ranking among eMLB league total offensive leaders in several key categories. Thanks largely to Uggla, Quentin, Gonzalez, Ichiro and Morneau; the team ranks 4th in homeruns; 5th in runs and steals; 6th in walks; and 8th in batting average and rbi.
How have these numbers translated to wins; you ask? The Javelina have amassed a 31-14-3 record in their last four matchups, including a record of 19-4-1 in their last two, and currently hold the league's fifth best record. Of course, it hasnt hurt that the team's surpior ability to scout pitching has also netted them one of the most productive pitching rotations in the league, which has been led by Edinson Volquez (6-1, 1.12, 54K), Shawn Marcum (4-2, 2.22, 49K, 0.81 WHIP), Javier Vazquez (3.53 ERA, 58K), and Dan Haren (5-2, 0.98 WHIP, 45K).
Though some owners snickered when Hoyle tabbed 1B Adrian Gonzalez with his first pick in the draft, he was quick to point out that it was just the first step in a larger scheme to pump life into his team's lineup. Rather than relying on pitching, Hoyle was determined to build this team around run production. Gonzalez, along with Carlos Quentin, Dan Uggla and Justin Morneau have been on early season tears while some of their teammates worked out of early funks.
Perhaps the most surprising returns have come from Quentin, who was drafted as an essential after thought in the 19th round of January's draft. Quentin currently ranks among league leaders in HR (7th), RBI (5th), OB% (11th), SLG (12th) and OPS (11th). He has also contributed four stolen bases.
"When we drafted Quentin, there weren't many everyday outfielders left on the board," recalled Hoyle. "We felt he had the greatest upside, and logic dictated that the Sox would not have traded for him if he wasn't going to get a chance to play. We actually told one GM, who had been eyeing Quentin with his next pick, that we had high hopes for him despite his draft position."
What's more; the production of this lineup has the Javelina ranking among eMLB league total offensive leaders in several key categories. Thanks largely to Uggla, Quentin, Gonzalez, Ichiro and Morneau; the team ranks 4th in homeruns; 5th in runs and steals; 6th in walks; and 8th in batting average and rbi.
How have these numbers translated to wins; you ask? The Javelina have amassed a 31-14-3 record in their last four matchups, including a record of 19-4-1 in their last two, and currently hold the league's fifth best record. Of course, it hasnt hurt that the team's surpior ability to scout pitching has also netted them one of the most productive pitching rotations in the league, which has been led by Edinson Volquez (6-1, 1.12, 54K), Shawn Marcum (4-2, 2.22, 49K, 0.81 WHIP), Javier Vazquez (3.53 ERA, 58K), and Dan Haren (5-2, 0.98 WHIP, 45K).
Saturday, February 16, 2008
Javelina Draft Recap
Heading into the 2008 draft, Javelina Gm Jamie Hoyle knew he had some work to do. After years of hitching his proverbial waggon to young, unproven players, Hoyle decided to take a different approach; it was time to build his team around a mix of proven veterans and rising stars. Rather than focusing on filling specific needs in the draft, Hoyle made it a point to go after maximum value, regardless of position. The results should speak for themselves.
Pick 1.13 Adrian Gonzalez, 1B
Some around the league have called this a "homer pick", and Hoyle agrees; which is to say he looks forward to watching Gonzalez blast another 30 homers in 2008. At 25, Gonzalez is entering his physical prime and has already shown an ability to hit for average and power. He should continue to make gradual improvements over the next 3-5 years, and the Javelina staff expect big things. It's not out of the question to expect .290, 32 HR, 110 RBI, 90 R, and 65-80 walks.
Pick 2.10 Delmon Young, OF
Some have called Young a "young Bobby Abreu", which is to say he is capable of being a 5-6 category star as he continues to grow. Like Gonzalez, he is still learning the game at this level, which means it isnt fair to expect more than gradual improvements this year. As it stands right now, Young is a solid source for a high average, RBI and runs. The Javelina staff expects .295, 18 HR, 92 RBI, 80 R, 15 SB.
Pick 3.13 Mike Lowell, 3B
Last season the Javelina struggled at third base until they traded for Kevin Kouzmanoff at mid season. This year, they decided to be aggressive in persuing reliable production at the position. Enter Mike Lowell. Sure, he's getting up there in age and he's not likely to repeat his 2007 season, but he will still be productive in Boston. The Javelina will take his .290, 20, 90, 80 and enjoy every second of it.
Pick 7.4 Philip Hughes, SP
Was it too early to take him? Probably. Does that mean he won't produce? Nope. Hughes is young, he has good stuff, and is blessed with a strong offense and bullpen to support him. He will start the season as the team's defacto #3 starter. The team has modest expectations for him. There is nothing wrong with 180 IP, 12 W, 4.25 ERA, 1.25 WHIP and 160 K from your #3 starter.
Pick 8.4 Kevin Gregg, RP
The closers were going fast, and it was time to grab one. The Marlins won't be very good, but closers on bad teams still approach 30 saves. He should provide some strikeouts, too. The team expects 3.25 ERA, 28 S, 65 K from this closer.
Pick 9.4 Kevin Kouzmanoff, 3B
This was a perfect spot to get Kouzmanoff. With Lowell already in-toe, but not likely worthy of a contract, Kouzmanoff seems like a solid fit for a 2-year deal with an eye toward to future. His second half in 2007 suggests that big things could be on the horizon. He was always a good OPS guy in the minors, so the walks should start coming in his second season. The team expects a solid soph season to the tune of .290, 26 HR, 90 RBI, 75 R, 70 BB. Not bad for a back up.
Pick 10.4 Mark Buehrle, SP
This was a solid value pick, as well. Buehrle is not a power pitcher by any means, but the "crafty lefty" is nothing if not reliable. The White Sox as a team could surprise this season, and Buehrle will play a role in that if it happens. Think 3.90, 13 W, 120K, 1.30 WHIP.
Pick 11.4 Brandon Lyon, RP
Lyon was named closer just hours before the team made this pick. He's done it before, and done it quite well. There is no reason to expect him to struggle in this role short of injury. Think 2.90, 4 W, 37 S, 1.20 WHIP, 60 K
Pick 12.4 Shaun Marcum, SP
Marcum showed a glimpse of his ability late last season, much of which came while a member of the Javelina. He's not flashy, he won't dominate in terms of strikeouts, but he will be productive. The team looks forward to watching him grow a little more this season. Think 180 IP, 13 W, 150 K, 1.3 WHIP
Picks 13-24 to come later.
Pick 1.13 Adrian Gonzalez, 1B
Some around the league have called this a "homer pick", and Hoyle agrees; which is to say he looks forward to watching Gonzalez blast another 30 homers in 2008. At 25, Gonzalez is entering his physical prime and has already shown an ability to hit for average and power. He should continue to make gradual improvements over the next 3-5 years, and the Javelina staff expect big things. It's not out of the question to expect .290, 32 HR, 110 RBI, 90 R, and 65-80 walks.
Pick 2.10 Delmon Young, OF
Some have called Young a "young Bobby Abreu", which is to say he is capable of being a 5-6 category star as he continues to grow. Like Gonzalez, he is still learning the game at this level, which means it isnt fair to expect more than gradual improvements this year. As it stands right now, Young is a solid source for a high average, RBI and runs. The Javelina staff expects .295, 18 HR, 92 RBI, 80 R, 15 SB.
Pick 3.13 Mike Lowell, 3B
Last season the Javelina struggled at third base until they traded for Kevin Kouzmanoff at mid season. This year, they decided to be aggressive in persuing reliable production at the position. Enter Mike Lowell. Sure, he's getting up there in age and he's not likely to repeat his 2007 season, but he will still be productive in Boston. The Javelina will take his .290, 20, 90, 80 and enjoy every second of it.
Pick 7.4 Philip Hughes, SP
Was it too early to take him? Probably. Does that mean he won't produce? Nope. Hughes is young, he has good stuff, and is blessed with a strong offense and bullpen to support him. He will start the season as the team's defacto #3 starter. The team has modest expectations for him. There is nothing wrong with 180 IP, 12 W, 4.25 ERA, 1.25 WHIP and 160 K from your #3 starter.
Pick 8.4 Kevin Gregg, RP
The closers were going fast, and it was time to grab one. The Marlins won't be very good, but closers on bad teams still approach 30 saves. He should provide some strikeouts, too. The team expects 3.25 ERA, 28 S, 65 K from this closer.
Pick 9.4 Kevin Kouzmanoff, 3B
This was a perfect spot to get Kouzmanoff. With Lowell already in-toe, but not likely worthy of a contract, Kouzmanoff seems like a solid fit for a 2-year deal with an eye toward to future. His second half in 2007 suggests that big things could be on the horizon. He was always a good OPS guy in the minors, so the walks should start coming in his second season. The team expects a solid soph season to the tune of .290, 26 HR, 90 RBI, 75 R, 70 BB. Not bad for a back up.
Pick 10.4 Mark Buehrle, SP
This was a solid value pick, as well. Buehrle is not a power pitcher by any means, but the "crafty lefty" is nothing if not reliable. The White Sox as a team could surprise this season, and Buehrle will play a role in that if it happens. Think 3.90, 13 W, 120K, 1.30 WHIP.
Pick 11.4 Brandon Lyon, RP
Lyon was named closer just hours before the team made this pick. He's done it before, and done it quite well. There is no reason to expect him to struggle in this role short of injury. Think 2.90, 4 W, 37 S, 1.20 WHIP, 60 K
Pick 12.4 Shaun Marcum, SP
Marcum showed a glimpse of his ability late last season, much of which came while a member of the Javelina. He's not flashy, he won't dominate in terms of strikeouts, but he will be productive. The team looks forward to watching him grow a little more this season. Think 180 IP, 13 W, 150 K, 1.3 WHIP
Picks 13-24 to come later.
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