Javelina, Hill closing in on extension

Team sources confirmed today that second baseman Aaron Hill and the Julian Javelina are in the process of finalizing terms on a one-year contract extension aimed at keeping Hill in Julian through the 2013 season.  Hill, who came to Julian via an in-draft trade, was recently voted the team's MVP after a season in which he hit .302/.360/.522 with 44 doubles, 26 homers, 93 runs, 86 runs batted in and 14 steals.

Bautista On Track For Friday Debut

According to team sources, newly acquired OF Jose Bautista is tentatively scheduled to make his Javelina debut this Friday, during the weekend series against the North Texas Rangers.  Bautista, who has been battling left wrist inflammation, appeared in his first rehab game on Monday and went 0-3 with a walk.

It is expected the team will insert him into the UTIL spot in the lineup for the remainder of the season once he returns.  Needless to say, the front office and fans alike are eager to see their new slugger in action before an otherwise dismal season comes to a close.

Javelina Pull Off Blockbuster, Add Joey Bats

We thought they were done dealing.  We're pretty sure they thought they were done dealing.  We were all wrong.

Just weeks after adding Yadier Molina and Allen Craig in separate trades, the Julian Javelina today agreed to another huge trade as they continue shaping their roster for the 2013 season.  GM Jamie Hoyle, always lurking, looking for a deal, agreed to trade Molina, Craig, Garrett Jones and Luke Gregerson to the Olivet Killer Eagles for Jose Bautista, Jordan Schafer, Scott Moore and Edward Mujica.

The trade is somewhat surprising considering the team had been planning to extend Craig, who is enjoying a break through year, for the 2013 season.  It may also surprise some because it was Olivet from whom they originally acquired Molina, but the Eagles were in desperate need of help at catcher and second base.

"This trade probably doesn't need much explanation," said Hoyle via conference call.  "Adding Bautista to a core that already included Zimmerman, Gonzo, Gordon, and Pence was a no-brainer.  Now we head into the draft with a solid core AND a shot at a top three pick."

Bautista, who is currently on the DL with a wrist injury, was enjoying yet another explosive season as a premier run producer when he went down.  The slugging outfielder was on pace for his third consectutive 40+ HR, 100+ RBI, 100+ R, 100+ BB season, and the team expects more of the same over the life of his three year contract.  For once, this is a lineup that shouldn't have any issues putting up elite offensive numbers.

Javelina Add More Talent for 2013

Having realized the team was headed in the wrong direction early on, Javelina GM Jamie Hoyle and his staff decided there was no better time than the present to plan for the future.  An in-season rebuilding project that began with the addition of Hunter Pence has since been expanded with the recent additions of Yadier Molina and Allen Craig.

Hoyle started by first adding All Star back-stop Yadier Molina in a trade that sent Carlos Ruiz and Coco Crisp to the Olivet Killer Eagles.  Molina, who is already widely considered the best defensive catcher in baseball, is enjoying a career year at age 30 (.309/.361/.516, 15 HR, 49 RBI, 8 SB).  The team feels Molina, like most catchers, has just begun a late prime and is primed for several more good season.

"Yadier is a very good player who is just reaching his prime years," said Hoyle.  "He's finally begun to develop power and is proving to be an excellent clutch hitter.  We're happy to have him on board."

In  a somewhat unexpected move, the team completed a trade with the Atlantic Surge this week.  The deal, which saw the team acquire multi-positional Allen Craig, adds yet another potent bat to an outfield that already consists of Alex Gordon and Hunter Pence.    Craig, who is enjoying an outstanding first season as an everyday player, is has posted a slash line of .299/.366/.577 to go with 14 HR, 44 RBI and 38 R.  He is expected to receive a contract extension and play mostly in the outfield.

"AC is a guy we would have drafted fairly early this year had he been healthy and had a clear path to playing time," said Hoyle.  "We feel confident he can be a source of 25-30 HR over a full season while contributing above average totals in three of the other five offensive categories.  He can flat hit."

Having added three players who should provide a minimum of 20 HR to the lineup next season, Hoyle has put his team in a unique and exciting position.  The lineup for 2013 is essentially complete, with the infield fully loaded and the outfield missing just one piece.  They likely already have their DH for next season on the roster in Victor Martinez, as well.

That means the team can take the best available player with their lottery selection in the 2013 draft, then focus entirely on pitching and quality depth the rest of the way.  With no pressing offensive needs, the team should be free to build a deep pitching staff, build a quality bench, and invest the necessary picks in star quality relievers.  In other words, what looked like a 2-3 year rebuilding project heading into the 2012 draft should be complete heading into Spring Training.

"We hate losing, which has made this year tough," said Hoyle.  "But at the end of the day, the lumps we've taken in 2012 should bear fruit in the form of a playoff run in 2013.  We should have one of the deeper, more balanced teams heading into next season barring injury."

While the team is likely done adding contracts, they do still have some attractive pieces they could move prior to the trading deadline.  Those pieces could include Victor Martinez, Luke Gregerson, Ronald Belisario, Vance Worley, Travis Wood, Derek Holland, Justin Masterson, and others.

Swings and Misses...
After struggling with their plate discipline and power totals for much of the first half, 3B Ryan Zimmerman and 1B Adrian Gonzalez are hitting a combined .403 (46/114) with 9 HR and 28 RBI in July...2B Aaron Hill is hitting .369 with 6HR and 17RBI since hitting for his first of two cycles on June 18th...Before an 0-5 last night, OF Alex Gordon was 8 for his last 18 (.474) and raised his average to .288...Prior to a rough outing on Tuesday, SP Travis Wood had not allowed more than 3 ER in a start since May 28th (7 GS).

Javelina Acquire Pence

In what was a busy morning, the Julian Javelina agreed to acquire outfielder Hunter Pence from the Michigan Miracles.  The trade, which saw the Javelina swap pitcher CJ Wilson, third baseman Chase Headley and a contract extension for Pence and injured closer Mariano Rivera, should help fill what has been a gaping hole in the team's outfield for the foreseeable future.

In Pence, the Javelina acquired what they consider a potential cornerstone player who is just entering his baseball prime.  Pence, 29, is hitting .275/.340/.467 for the year with 47 runs, 13 HR, 42 RBI and 26 BB.  Most importantly to GM Jamie Hoyle, Pence has been remarkably consistent, averaging .291/.343/.484 with 21 HR, 75 RBI, 72 R and 11 SB since 2007.  He's also remarkably durable, averaging 155 games since his first full season in the majors (2008).

Rivera was an add-in to make the contract swaps work, but could still make an impact in 2013.

"Hunter can hit," said GM Jamie Hoyle.  "He may not be a 40 HR type, but he does a little of everything and has proven himself to be a reliable run producer.  Having him under contract through 2014 makes him a huge piece of our plans moving forward."

Of course, acquiring a talent like Pence requires parting with some significant pieces.  Firs and foremost, the team had to part with pitcher CJ Wilson to get the deal done.  Wilson had been the Javelina's most consistent and durable SP in 2012, but Hoyle decided having a pitcher like Wilson was pointless in a season mired by a total absence of offensive production.  Also gone is 3B Chase Headley, who is enjoying the makings of a career year.

"CJ and Chase were important parts of our team," explained Hoyle.  "But we had to add an impact bat, and the reality was we weren't going to extend Chase anyway.  So it came down to parting with a pitcher whose greatest value was as a trade piece, and a player who wasn't going to be here next season."

In another, minor deal, the team also traded pine tar using RP Joel Peralta to the North Texas Rangers in exchange for relievers Franklin Morales and Luke Gregerson.

Javelina, Alex Gordon Ink 3-Year Deal

In what some team officials are calling a "calculated risk", the Julian Javelina announced they've agreed to terms on a new three year agreement with outfielder Alex Gordon. Some might say Gordon has something left to prove before getting such a deal, but the team felt his all around production warranted the commitment. Regardless, Gordon joins Ryan Zimmerman and Adrian Gonzalez as cornerstones of the rebuilding franchise.

"Alex is just the type of player we look for," said GM Jamie Hoyle. "He has a great deal going for him. He just entered his prime, he helps in all six offensive categories, and we think there is still some room for improvement."

Gordon, who has been a punchline for jokes about top prospects for the last several years, is coming off his best season as a professional. After struggling through injuries for the last two years, Gordon posted a slash line of .303/.376/.502 to go with 23 homers, 87 runs batted in, 101 runs scored and 17 steals in 2011. While that is a big jump over his numbers from his injury-riddled 2009-10 seasons, it does fall in line with what he did in 2007-08.

While the team does anticipate a slight down-tick in Gordon's batting average and home runs in 2012, they feel he will prove capable of meeting or exceeding what he did in 2011 with continued development over the course of his contract. One thing is for sure, Gordon is loaded with talent and just entered his prime.

Javelina, Gonzalez Finalize 3-Year Contract

In a move that should come as a surprise to no one, the Julian Javelina and All-Star 1B Adrian Gonzalez have reached an agreement on a new 3-year contract that will keep Gonzalez with the team through at least the 2014 season, and probably beyond. Both sides had plenty to say about the pact.

"I'm just glad to be back," said Gonzalez. "[GM Jamie] Hoyle was the first person to recognize my talents and give me some long-term security. Now I'm back with the team I won my only Championship with; I can't complain."

Hoyle expanded on that.

"Adrian is back home, plain and simple," said Hoyle. "Not only is he an outstanding and special player, but he's a leader. We never expected to have a shot at drafting him, but we're happy we did. He's an important building block for us."

The Javelina are expecting Gonzalez's power to rebound some now that he's a year removed from shoulder surgery. While it seems unlikely he'll return to hitting 40+ HR again, it's not unreasonable to expect him to approach 35 home runs and 100+ RBI, all while posting above average average, run and walk totals.

Projections: .335, 105, 32, 115, 80

Javelina Trade for Aaron Hill

Without a second baseman and moving into the middle rounds of the draft, the Julian Javelina today agreed to trade pick #165 overall (11.5) to the Gaylord Dingers in exchange for second baseman Aaron Hill (2/12). The trade came about unexpectedly, but seems to fill a hole in the Javelina lineup for the 2012 season.

Hill, who posted three seasons with 17+ home runs in the last five years, is entering his age 30 season and hopes to get his career on track after consecutive disappointing seasons. He seemed to show signs of life after a mid season trade in 2011, posting a promising .316/.386/.492 slash line in his final 124 at bats. The team feels Hill will benefit from a change of scenery, and a rebound season could put him in line for an extension.

"His recent struggles aside, Aaron is a good baseball player," said GM Jamie Hoyle. "We feel he's capable of providing above average power and speed totals for a second baseman, and are excited to see what he can do."

2012 eML Draft - 7 Rounds in the Bank

The Julian Javelina entered the 2012 Draft knowing full well they needed to restock a bard cupboard in what many considered the deepest eMLB draft class since the league's inaugural season. It was paramount that they make the most of every pick, find at least eight contract-worthy players, and build a solid foundation upon which they might be able to compete in 2013. While it's still early, it seems they are accomplishing their goals. Here is a look at the players the team has drafted with their first nine selections:

1.5 Adrian Gonzalez, 1B: The prodigal son returns. Adrian burst onto the scene as an eMLB star in Julian, producing two outstanding seasons from 2009-2010 before being traded to North Texas following the 2012 season. This wasn't part of the plan, but Adrian does provide the Javelina with outstanding stats in five of six categories, and figures to remain in Julian for the duration of his latest three year contract.

Projections: .335, 105, 32, 115, 80

2.5 Alex Gordon, OF: A run on outfielders that began in the middle of the first and lasted well into the second round prevented the Javelina from landing a couple outfielders they had targeted with this pick, but Gordon was also in that mix. At 27, Gordon figures to build on his outstanding 2011 campaign, and he figures to play a key role in the Javelina lineup.

Projections: .280, 85, 18, 80, 70, 20

3.5 CJ Wilson, SP: The original plan had been to take bats with the first three picks, but with quality bats drying up quickly Hoyle instead opted to take a borderline elite starting pitcher. CJ has had two straight great seasons since becoming a starter, and there is no reason to think that won't continue. He'll get a two year contract and be the foundation of the rotation following Weaver's departure at the end of the season.

Projections: 15 W, 3.25 ERA, 195 K, 1.20 WHIP, 210 IP

4.4 Ichiro Suzuki, OF: Ichiro isn't as spry as he once was, but he's still productive in a few ket categories. He should steal roughly 40 bases, score 80-90 runs, and the team expects he will probably get that average up closer to .300 after a down season. With rumors he might hit 3rd, he could also drive in more runs than usual. He was a steal at this spot and makes for a very good two year player.

Projections: .295, 88, 7, 70, 44, 40

4.5 Wilson Ramos, C: This is the first true reach for the team, but it could still wind up proving to be a solid pick. Ramos has the potential to hit .280+ and provide above average run production for a catcher. He has room to improve. The team is undecided as to whether or not he'll get a contract; with four extensions available it might make more sense to judge his value to the team at the end of the season.

Projections: .275, 65, 18, 70, 50

5.5 Erick Aybar, SS: There were more highly touted short stops available when this pick was made, but Hoyle and his team felt Aybar was the best selection here. Coming off his best season as a pro, Aybar figures to provide above average production in several categories given his position. He will receive a 2-year contract.

Projections: .285, 90, 10, 65, 35, 35

6.5 Matt Joyce, OF: Joyce spent much of 2011 with the Javelina, providing the team with some much needed pop in the outfield. Now entering his age 27 season as the unquestioned starter in RF, he seems poised to build off of a breakout 2011. While not standing out in any one category, Matt does a everything well and figures to help out across the board. He is being considered for a two year contract, but nothing is guaranteed.

Projections: .275, 80, 22, 85, 60, 15

7.2 Derek Holland, SP: There were more proven pitchers on the board here, but since the team was drafting with 2013 in mind, they opted to go with a rapidly improving lefty. He should get ample run support and should be able to build on a very good 2011 season. He will likely receive a two year contract.

Projections: 14 W, 3.50 ERA, 175 K, 1.25 WHIP, 205 IP

7.5 Vance Worley, SP: Worley burst onto the scene in the second half of 2012 filling in for an injured Roy Oswalt and never looked back. He figures to have a rotation spot locked down barring a lousy spring, and figures to build on last year. I'm also betting he stand to learn a thing or two about the art of pitching from guys like Halladay, Hamels and Lee. Vance could also be considered for a contract, but it's more likely he'll receive an extension if he meets expectations.

Projections: 13 W, 3.35 ERA, 165 K, 180 IP, 1.20 WHIP

eMLB 2012 Mock Draft - Final Version

Lots of changes went down since the last mock, so this is going to look quite a bit different. Here we go...

1. Olivet Killer Eagles - Adrian Gonzalez, 1B: I'm in the minority, but I think Larry's trade opens the door for him to take Gonzalez #1. Adrian is the anti-Dunn. He'll hit .320+, approach 3o HR, and top 100 runs and RBI. Over the length of a five year deal, I think his walk totals will increase as he becomes more comfortable in Boston and I would expect multiple batting titles.

2. Hackensack Bulls - Justin Upton, OF: I think Femmel wanted Gonzalez, but is more than happy to start his outfield with the young J-Up. Like most, I see Kemp-like production at some point during his five year contract. Upton is oozing with current production and giant upside. He's just scratching the surface.

3. South Texas Heat - Troy Tulowitzki, SS: Berg says no on Cano, and I believe him. It comes down to Tulo and Bautista. I think he takes Tulo due to position scarcity and age, as he wants a five year player. Berg won't think twice about signing Tulo to a five year contract.

4. Atlantic Surge - Mike Stanton, OF: I think Squire wanted Upton, but he's more than happy to 'settle' for Big Mike. It might be a little early to give Stanton a five year contract, but I don't think that stops Squire. Big Mike is locked into a five year deal as soon as he sets foot in the Surge locker room.

5. Julian Javelina - Jose Bautista, OF/3B: Some will say I'm foolish to pass on Cano, that the positional scarcity is too much to pass up. To that, I say, ".275, 100+, 35+, 100+, 100+." Bautista trumps Cano in every stat other than average, and since I don't have a five year open, age is not a factor over the next 3-4 years. He's an ideal 3-year contract, arguably a top-3 player in this draft, and he'll be a Javelina if this scenario plays out.

6. Springfield Flying Squirrel of Republic - Robinson Cano, 2B: It comes down to Cano and 'Cutch here, and even with Uggla under contract I think Cano is too much to pass up at 6. Given his age, position, and production, I'd say he's an ideal five year player. Adam will be set at second for some time.

7. Oviedo Knights - Andrew McCutchen, OF: Reynolds traded up for a shot at McCutchen or Upton, and he gets one of his men in the end. McCutchen is a great get here, he fills every stat with average or above numbers and is only going to improve. He makes for a very nice five year building block.

8. Dallas Redbirds - Mark Teixeira, 1B: Doyel makes an early move to replace the production he lost when Howard's contract expired. I personally think this is early for Tex given his declining numbers over the last two season, but he's still good for 30-35 HR. He's a solid three year contract, but nothing more.

9. Olivet Killer Eagles - Hanley Ramirez, SS: I would have had Reyes going here, but I don't think Larry is too high on him. Not that I blame him. In his shoes, I'd probably place a 'bounce-back' bet on Hanley, too. Can't really go wrong with giving him a three year contract.

10. North Texas Rangers - Jose Reyes, SS: Call me crazy, but I don't think Adrian traded up for Hamilton. It's too obvious, and Adrian at least thinks he's more slick than that. I could see him using Hamilton as a bluff to trade up for Reyes here which could give him the best infield in the league, even before he gets his 3B. Reyes gets a three year contract to piss away while he battles hammy injuries.

11. Dallas Redbirds - Elvis Andrus, SS: Having already added some serious power, and Reyes already gone, Doyel's choice at 11 becomes that much easier. I know he's fretting over choosing between Reyes and Andrus, but I don't think that's a choice he'll have to make in this spot.

12. Michigan Miracles - Jay Bruce, OF: I think this pick makes a ton of sense here, more so than taking Lee. After trading Ethier, Renner has some production to replace. Bruce is a better player, and is a good pick at this point in the first. Hopefully for Renner's sake, Bruce learns to become more consistent over the next 3-4 years.

13. Mid Michigan Tigers - Josh Hamilton, OF: Keith struggled finding power last season, so I think he's looking for someone to produce some runs in his outfield this year. At this point, Hamilton is probably the best remaining outfielder on the board. Not a bad 3-year player, either.

14. Rochester Red Sox: Cliff Lee, SP: I honestly have no clue what Rich is thinking, but I don't think he can pass on Lee here. A trio of Haren, Lee and Kershaw would be tough to matchup with. It's not my style, but you can't argue too much with putting a pitcher like Lee on a 3-year deal.

15. North Texas Rangers - Adrian Beltre, 3B: Adrian gambled by passing on Lee with his first pick, but it works out alright at the end of the day. He has solidified his infield in the first round, and should have a very good one for the next 2-3 years. Beltre gets a 3-year deal.

16. Arizona Swarm - Cole Hamels, SP: I just think Hamels is very difficult to pass on here. A three year contract is not out of the question.

eMLB 2012 Mock Draft - Version V

This version will be a little bit lighter on the comments...

1. Olivet Killer Eagles - Robinson Cano, 2B: Larry made it official today. Really can't go wrong with any of the top four players. Good five year player.

2. Hackensack Bulls - Adrian Gonzalez, 1B: Adrian provides an infusion of power for Ben's lineup. Ideal five year player.

3. Michigan Miracles - Troy Tulowitzki, SS: Even Renner can't mess this up. Injuries be damned, Tulo is a good five year player at a thin position.

4. Atlantic Surge - Justin Upton, OF: Upton is one of the two or three best pure talents in this draft and a great five year player for Squire.

5. Julian Javelina - Jose Bautista, OF/3B: Arguably the second most productive player in the draft at #5? I'm in. He's a perfect three year player.

6. Springfield Squirrels of Flying Republic - Andrew McCutchen, OF: It was between Upton and McCutchen, but Squire made the decision for him. Can't argue with giving him a five year contract.

7. Oviedo Knights - Mike Stanton, OF: Mike traded up for a shot at Upton or McCutchen, but settles for Stanton. Not a bad consolation prize and a good spot for the young slugger.

8. North Texas Rangers - Jose Reyes, SS: Adrian will probably wait on taking a Ranger in favor of snatching up the speedster. Can't argue with the logic.

9. Charlotte Orios - Mark Teixiera, 1B: This is a lock. Tex gets a 3-year contract.

10. Mid Michigan Tigers - Hanley Ramirez, SS/3B: Perfect spot for a solid bounce-back candidate. A very nice three year player at this spot.

11. Dallas Redbirds - Cliff Lee, SP: Lee is a steal here, so I figure Doyel foregoes offense to grab the best SP in the draft. He needs someone to replace Greinke.

12. San Antonio Fire Ants - Josh Hamilton, OF: Not a bad get at 12, even if he's probably not a 5-year player. Still a solid three year guy.

13. Dallas Redbirds - Adrian Beltre, 3B: Having gone for Lee a couple picks earlier, Doyel almost has to go with offense here. Yet another solid three year player late in the first.

14. Rochester Red Sox - Brett Lawrie, 3B: Rich goes for the shocking move and drafts the fast-rising 3B. Given his age, I could see Rich slapping a five year contract on him.

15. South Texas Heat - Rickie Weeks, 2B: I still think Berg takes the hometown boy and gives him a three year deal.

16. Arizona Swarm - Cole Hamels, SP: I just think Hamels makes sense in this spot.

2012 eMLB Mock Draft - Version IV

With more moves yesterday, I thought I would update my first round mock...again.

1. Olivet Killer Eagles - Robinson Cano, 2B: I missed Larry's comments about not taking Tulo, so I'm changing the top pick here. Larry needs a five year player and, with Tulo and Gonzalez out of the picture, Cano is the best choice for him. Cano makes for the ideal five year player and makes a huge impact in 4/6 categories.

2. Hackensack Bulls - Adrian Gonzalez, 1B: I think this was a foregone conclusion for Ben regardless of whether he was picking first or second. It's the only pick that makes sense in this spot.

3. Michigan Miracles - Troy Tulowitzki, SS: With Tulo on the board, Renner jumps at the chance to take the star SS. I think Renner was only considering Stanton in the event Tulo was not available, but since he is it's a non issue. Tulo is a solid five year guy even with his injury issues.

4. Atlantic Surge - Mike Stanton, OF: Here is Squire's "young stud who will boost his offense for years to come". I'm guessing Squire locks him up for five years. Stanton might be prone to some long cold spells, but the hot spells can certainly carry a team. It seems a little early for Big Mike, but he'll still get good production.

5. Julian Javelina - Jose Bautista, OF: So, let me get this straight; I have a chance to draft 100 runs, 30-40 HR, 100 RBI and 100 BB with the fifth pick? Sign-me-up. This is a no brainer, and seems likely given how the lottery shaped up. Even at 31, Bautista is a slam-dunk 3-year player and should continue to produce elite numbers in 4/6 categories for the next 3-4 years.

6. Springfield Flying Squirrels of Republic - Andrew McCutchen, OF: As I've said before, Anson is a big McCutchen fan. Upton is a possibility here, but I think Anson goes with 'Cutch in a heartbeat.

7. Oviedo Knights - Justin Upton, OF: Mike wants either Upton or McCutchen, so he'll take whomever Anson leaves on the board. Can't really go wrong with either, but I would think Mike would prefer to take the player with the greater power potential.

8. North Texas Rangers - Nelson Cruz, OF: This pick will be either Josh Hamilton or Nelson Cruz, that much is for certain. I think Adrian opts for the player with the greater power potential. Either way, Adrian gets a very solid three year player despite injury concerns.

9. Charlotte Orios - Mark Teixiera, 1B: Broskey says he's eyeing Tex, and I believe him. His recent trade involving Billy Butler only cements that fact. He'll slap a 3-year deal on the slugger.

10. Mid Michigan Tigers - Hanley Ramirez, SS/3B: I think this is the perfect spot for Hanley, and Keith can certainly use him. The positional flexibility helps alot, but my guess is he plays Hanley at SS in 2012 with a couple 3B already on the roster.

11. Dallas Redbirds - Jose Reyes, SS: This pick comes down to Reyes or Andrus in my opinion, but I think Doyel opts for Reyes based on the higher batting average and potential for more speed. He really can't go wrong with either player, but I think he'd be foolish to take Andrus over Reyes in this spot, familiarity notwithstanding.

12. San Antonio Fire Ants - Josh Hamilton, OF: Sankey needs a lot of help up and down his roster, so it's hard to pin point one need. My guess is he'll follow the trend and go with the best outfielder left in this draft. Hamilton is an injury risk, but he's extremely productive when healthy. He's a good 3-year player for a team with lots of needs.

13. Dallas Redbirds - Cliff Lee, SP: I still think the draw of teaming Lee with Price, Greinke and Bumgarner is too much for Doyel to ignore. Adrian Beltre is a possibility here, but I think he goes with Lee, who is a steal here.

14. Rochester Red Sox - Adrian Beltre, 3B: Rich can move Reynolds to first and draft the best 3B in this draft. I think that's what he'll do.

15. South Texas Heat - Rickie Weeks, 2B: The Brewer fan takes the hometown 2B. It doesn't hurt that Weeks can hit, too. This is a nice 3-year player this late in the first.

16. Arizona Swarm - Cole Hamels, SP: Good value at 16. Hamels slots in with Felix and Carp to form a great top three in Josh's rotation.

Javelina Make Davis, Dempster Trades Official

The Julian Javelina this morning officially announced they have traded starting pitcher Ryan Dempster and first baseman Ike Davis. As Julian has opted to rebuild this offseason, the team will be accepting draft pick compensation for both players.

Davis, a 24-year old first sacker, has amassed a .271/.357/.460 slash line in 652 career at bats spanning parts of two seasons to go with 26 home runs, 96 RBI and 89 walks. He was traded to the Atlantic Surge for pick 4.4 (#52 overall).

Dempster is 112-116 for his career to go with 87 career saves. He's coming off of a disappointing 2011 campaign in which he struggled for much of the season, but joins a team full of potential bounce back players for the Olivet Killer Eagles. The Javelina will receive pick 7.1

(#98 overall).

As a result of these trades, the Javelina now own nine of the top 100 picks in the deepest draft this league has seen since its inception. As long as they make the most of those picks, they should be on the fast track to competing in 2013.

eMLB 2012 Mock Draft - Version III

With the draft order officially set, I figured I would crank out one more mock.

1. Olivet Killer Eagles - Troy Tulowitzki, SS: I think the first overall pick was the last thing Larry wanted. I believe he's torn between Tulo, Cano and, to a lesser extent, Bautista. In the end, having Cuddyer to plug in at 2B and the likelihood of Rickie Weeks being there for him at 2.1 convince Larry to go with Tulo. Frankly, having Cabrera shouldn't deter Larry from taking the slugging SS here.

2. Hackensack Bulls - Adrian Gonzalez, 1B: I think this was a foregone conclusion for Ben regardless of whether he was picking first or second. It's the only pick that makes sense in this spot.

3. Michigan Miracles - Mike Stanton, OF: Renner is as unpredictable as anyone, except for the fact that he tends to fall in love with young, 'projectable' guys early in drafts. Cano doesn't make sense and I can't see Renner giving Bautista a 5-year contract, so he goes with the very young, and very promising Stanton here. Let's hope for Renner's sake that this five year contract doesn't blow up on him like Rios did.

4. Atlantic Surge - Robinson Cano, 2B: I think this comes down to Upton and Cano, and I think Squire's NY ties convince him to take Cano (and rightfully so). Cano is a perfect 5-year player to build around.

5. Julian Javelina - Jose Bautista, OF: So, let me get this straight; I have a chance to draft 100 runs, 30-40 HR, 100 RBI and 100 BB with the fifth pick? Sign-me-up. This is a no brainer, and seems likely given how the lottery shaped up. Even at 31, Bautista is a slam-dunk 3-year player and should continue to produce elite numbers in 4/6 categories for the next 3-4 years.

6. Springfield Flying Squirrels of Republic - Andrew McCutchen, OF: As I've said before, Anson is a big McCutchen fan. Upton is a possibility here, but I think Anson goes with 'Cutch in a heartbeat.

7. North Texas Rangers - Nelson Cruz, OF: With Adrian trading for Braun and filling his five year spot, I think it's a lock he'll take one of the two Rangers outfielders. He's big on both, but Cruz has more power and speed even if he's fragile. I can hear Adrian saying, "Just think what he could do if he stays healthy for 140 games." Cruz makes for a good 3-year player.

8. Oviedo Knights - Justin Upton, OF: This pick depends heavily upon who Anson takes; Mike winds up with whomever is left. I know Mike would be thrilled to get Upton in this spot. He's a great 3-year player and an argument could be made for him being a good 5-year player.

9. Charlotte Orios - Mark Teixiera, 1B: Broskey says he's eyeing Tex, and I believe him. His recent trade involving Billy Butler only cements that fact. He'll slap a 3-year deal on the slugger.

10. Mid Michigan Tigers - Hanley Ramirez, SS/3B: I think this is the perfect spot for Hanley, and Keith can certainly use him. The positional flexibility helps alot, but my guess is he plays Hanley at SS in 2012 with a couple 3B already on the roster.

11. Gaylord Dingers - Jose Reyes, SS: Reyes slips a ton in this scenario, and I think Wagner is more than happy to draft for value here. Wagner will be thrilled to lock down a good player like Reyes for three years.

12. San Antonio Fire Ants - Josh Hamilton, OF: Sankey needs a lot of help up and down his roster, so it's hard to pin point one need. My guess is he'll follow the trend and go with the best outfielder left in this draft. Hamilton is an injury risk, but he's extremely productive when healthy. He's a good 3-year player for a team with lots of needs.

13. Dallas Redbirds - Cliff Lee, SP: I still think the draw of teaming Lee with Price, Greinke and Bumgarner is too much for Doyel to ignore. Adrian Beltre is a possibility here, but I think he goes with Lee, who is a steal here.

14. Rochester Red Sox - Adrian Beltre, 3B: Rich can move Reynolds to first and draft the best 3B in this draft. I think that's what he'll do.

15. South Texas Heat - Rickie Weeks, 2B: The Brewer fan takes the hometown 2B. It doesn't hurt that Weeks can hit, too. This is a nice 3-year player this late in the first.

16. Arizona Swarm - Cole Hamels, SP: Good value at 16. Hamels slots in with Felix and Carp to form a great top three in Josh's rotation.

Report: Dempster, Davis Moving On

According to an anonymous source, the Julian Javelina have finalized trades that will send starting pitcher Ryan Dempster and first baseman Ike Davis to new teams once the 2012 Winter Meetings officially open for business on Saturday. While the trading partners and specific compensation are not yet known, it is believed both have been traded for picks in the first seven or eight rounds of the upcoming draft. The same source suggested GM Jamie Hoyle might look to add a contract during the meetings, but also said the team is content to stand pat should the cost of doing so prove prohibitive.

eMLB 2012 Mock Draft - Version II

It seems that opinions of players are changing every day, so I figured I'd write a quick mock draft. I will publish a more detailed version once the lottery order has been established.

1.1 Hackensack Bulls - Adrian Gonzalez, 1B: Bautista is the best offensive player in the draft, but Gonzalez is the best available five-year player. Ben can't really go wrong with either.

1.2 Olivet Killer Eagles - Jose Bautista, 3B/OF: Larry seems to be waffling between Cano and Bautista, but I have a hunch Bautista's 3B eligibility for 2012 winds up being the decision maker. Larry drafts Bautista #2 overall, considers giving him a 5-year deal, and eventually settles on a 3-year deal.

1.3 Michigan Miracles - Troy Tulowitzki, SS: For all the reasons previously mentioned, Tulo is a virtual lock for Renner here. Renner will slap a 5-year deal on him and not look back.

1.4 Atlantic Surge - Mike Stanton, OF: Squire says he has a "young star" in mind who will boost his offense, and while there are several in this draft, I think Stanton is the most likely. I would personally take Cano here, but there is nothing wrong with locking up Stanton for five years here.

1.5 Julian Javelina - Robinson Cano, 2B: I'd still be shocked if Cano made it to #5, but he won't make it any further if he does. I can't complain about having Cano for 3-4 years.

1.6 Springfield Flying Squirrels of Republic - Andrew McCutchen, OF: I still think Anson takes McCutchen here, knowing how much he likes him. That said, either he or J-Up would be a fine pick here.

1.7 North Texas Rangers - Nelson Cruz, OF: Adrian lands one of his four legit man crushes with his first pick. Will he land a second in the second?

1.8 Charlotte Orios - Mark Teixiera, 1B: Broskey has apparently tipped his hand here, unless he's trying to throw us off his real pick; Will Venable.

1.9 Oviedo Knights - Josh Hamilton, OF: This pick, in this spot, actually has Hanley Ramirez written all over it. However, I don't think Reynolds can take Hanley here since he won't be SS eligible after 2012. I think he goes with the familiar Hamilton here.

1.10 Mid Michigan Tigers - Justin Upton, OF: J-Up should go much earlier, but slips in this scenario. He's a nice get for Keith in this slot.

1.11 Gaylord Dingers - Jose Reyes, SS: I don't think this is Mike's target heading into the draft, but I think he "settles" for Reyes in this spot when his first target or two get taken just ahead of him. Reyes gets a 3-year deal.

1.12 San Antonio Fire Ants - Hanley Ramirez, 3B/SS: Sankey could go any number of ways because, let's be honest, he needs everything. This is a perfect spot to draft Hanley, whom most in the league probably consider one of the better bounce-back candidates around.

1.13 Dallas Redbirds - Cliff Lee, SP: If things shape up like I've outlined above, this pick goes one of two ways; (A) Cliff Lee, or (B) Elvis Andrus. In the end I think the draw of a rotation containing Greinke, Price, Lee and Bumgarner is too much to resist.

1.14 Rochester Red Sox - Adrian Beltre, 3B: I think Rich plans to keep Mark Reynolds and play him at 1B/UTIL, which means he'll need a 3B. He took a chance on Beltre in his first year in eMLB and it worked out pretty well, so I think he's looking for a reunion.

1.15 South Texas Heat - Rickie Weeks, 2B: I'm guessing the Lawrie talk is a smokescreen and Berg is hoping the best Brewer in this draft is still available when he picks. Not too shabby at 1.15, and a great 3-year option.

1.16 Arizona Desert Swarm - Cole Hamels, SP: I think Hamels is probably the best and most likely option for Josh in this spot. Teaming Hamels with Felix and Carp would be pretty hard to resist.

Report: Javelina Have a Deal

Sources close to the organization have indicated that the Javelina have an agreement in place to trade either Ike Davis or Ryan Dempster. The trading partner is, as yet, unknown. While the source would not divulge the anticipated compensation, it's believed to be in the form of an unidentified draft pick.

Though the Javelina were initially expected to add contracts prior to the draft, the organizational plan underwent an abrupt change when they realized they had an opportunity to shed contracts and open the season with four contract extensions. It now appears that plan will come to fruition, giving the team several 'bullets in the chamber' for in-season dealing and/or a multitude of extension options in a season following an historically deep draft.

"I can't say who or what, but there is a deal in place," said the anonymous source. "We should have 12 or 13 open contracts heading into the draft, giving us a ton of flexibility and maneuverability. We've guaranteed our fans a very interesting and potentially exciting off-season, that much is certain."

Sources: Javelina Shifting Gears

Highly placed sources within the Javelina organization have indicated that GM Jamie Hoyle may be reconsidering his stance on adding contracts, instead favoring the approach of selling off a contract or two. The belief is the team likes the idea of loading up on available contracts heading into an historically deep draft, which could allow them to assign as many as eight new contracts entering the season.

The sources suggest Hoyle is confident this draft will yield at least eight contract-worthy players; and that he's equally enamored with the prospects of having a league-record four contract extensions to work with later in the year. Obviously, having four contract extensions up his sleeve would grant Hoyle some major bargaining chips with which to work should he need to add talent at the trade deadline, or should his draft yield some promising sleepers.

"I wouldn't expect him to move Zimmerman by any means," said one source. "But certainly Ike Davis and Ryan Dempster could be had. In fact, I'm hearing Dempster is already generating some interest."

It should be interesting to see what type of interest Hoyle can garner in Davis and Dempster. Davis is considered a burgeoning young star at 1B, and was on his way to a break-out season in 2011 prior to injuring his ankle on the pitching mound in Colorado in early May. Dempster is durable and largely dependable, but is coming off a down season. Still, both could have value to the right team in the right situation.

Javelina Winter Meetings Preview

After a very disappointing season, the Julian Javelina are hard at work planning their offseason. With precious few players under contract for 2012 and beyond, GM Jamie Hoyle's primary focus will be adding as many quality players and contracts to his roster as he can. While the depth of the upcoming draft and their position in the draft order should allow for an influx of talent, sources within the organization suggest fans should expect Hoyle to add as many as two contracts during the Winter Meetings via trade.

"I have no doubt we're going to be very aggressive," said an unnamed source who spoke on the condition of anonymity. "The cupboard is pretty bare right now, and there is a definite sense of urgency [as far as adding contracts goes]."

While the source was not specific about which positions Hoyle might look to fill via trade, a quick look at his roster may well provide a shopping list of sorts. As things stand right now, the team has clear needs all over the field.

Here is a breakdown on the team's needs and players who may be pursued in order to fill them:

2B: A traditionally scarce position, it would appear the likes of Neil Walker, Howie Kendrick and Brandon Phillips may or may not be available via trade this off-season, while Rickie Weeks and Danny Espinosa are available in the draft. While Hoyle seems likely to make a run at one of the available second-sackers in the off-season, it remains to be seen if the price tags will prove prohibitive.

SS: There are an abundance of productive short stops to be had early in the draft this year, and one could see a situation in which Derek Jeter and Ian Desmond could be had in trade. That said, Hoyle has never been a Jeter fan and Ian Desmond is, well, Ian Desmond. It's unlikely Hoyle will use the #5 pick on a SS not named Tulowitzki, so it seems he will have to wait to find his eventual SS unless an unexpected trade opportunity arrises.

OF: This draft is particularly top-heavy in terms of out fielders, so it's not out of the question that Hoyle could use his first two picks on slugging outfielders. That said, there are also a number of guys currently under contract who could conceivably be available in trade. It seems likely guys like Nick Swisher, Jayson Werth, Carlos Lee, Brett Gardner and Jason Heyward could become available during the Meetings.

SP: Much like with the outfielders, this draft is jammed full of above average starting pitchers. That coupled with the fact that only one team has a real abundance of starting pitching from which to deal probably makes it unlikely that the team will trade for starting pitching during the Meetings. That said, the Surge are loaded in terms of pitching and it wouldn't be too surprising if they moved as many as two pitchers during the Meetings. They'll want to move Pelfrey (good luck), but will have more takers for Kennedy and Hellickson.

In summary, it would seem mostly likely that Hoyle will do his best to add two contracts this off-season. The guess here is that his preference is to add two bats, most probably either two outfielders or a middle infielder and an outfielder. Should he not find deals to his liking there, he may have to settle for adding one bat and one arm. Either way, we can rest assured he will be active and aggressive and do everything in his power to improve his team.