Post by aaron_commissioner on Jan 12, 2018 10:09:02 GMT -8
Chicago Cubs (2019: 101-61, 1st NL Central, Eliminated in NLDS)
2019 in review: Despite winning over 100 games, the Cubs were still considered “unlucky” by some metrics. They boasted an elite run differential and were utterly dominant at times with their bats and arms. Yu Darvish (4.1 WAR) had an incredible start to the season, but slowed down later in the summer. In the end, the Cubs went as far as their bullpen allowed. A shaky unit was somewhat bolstered by Dan Altavilla, but let the team down in the playoffs against the Mets.
Offseason summary: One of the most active teams that won 100 games last year, the Cubs completely retooled some big parts of their team. Carlos Martinez and Michael Franco were brought in as part of the MEGA-deal (to put it lightly) that sent Kris Bryant to New York. Brian Dozier will take over at 2B. Ian Happ is gone (trade to Detroit). Star closer Zach Britton (trade with BAL) was brought in and quickly extended.
What’s the best that could happen? As with nearly every 100-win team from 2019, they have the pieces in place. Best case scenario? Another World Series ring for the Cubbies.
What’s the worst that could happen? The Cubs did boost their pitching, but may still not have the arms on the level of NL rivals New York and Los Angeles. Another early playoff exit is always a possibility.
Player spotlight:
SP Yu Darvish: Darvish had an incredible start to 2019, which resulted in a three year extension as the highest paid ABL player. With such a large contract, he needs to produce. He may not be a top 5 ABL pitcher, but could be top 10.
SS Addison Russell: Now that Kris Bryant is gone, Russell may take over as the superstar hitter on this roster. Russell has consistently posted 6+ WAR in his years in the ABL, and at only 26 years of age, has better days ahead.
Questions:
1) Dealing Kris Bryant takes a lot of guts and probably a lot of decision making. What led into the decision to move Bryant and how will this move help your team in 2020?
2)You have worked hard to fill in some of the holes on your roster entering 2020. Where do you still see areas for improvement for your Cubs?
St. Louis Cardinals (2019: 82-80, 3rd NL Central)
2019 in review: The Cardinals continued their pattern of being one of the best teams to not make the playoffs in 2019. They were powered by seemingly ageless veterans in Paul Goldschmidt and J.D. Martinez. On the pitching side, Alex Reyes continued to show growth and flashes of dominance. They may best remember 2019 as the year they gained incredible hauls for talented but underachieving pitchers Michael Wacha and Carlos Martinez.
Offseason summary: St. Louis was aggressive in upgrading their bullpen, signing Cody Allen, Ismael Morales, and Koda Glover. This unit should look considerably better in 2020.
What’s the best that could happen? Don’t count the Cards out! St. Louis has not made the playoffs in the short history of the ABL, but they have gotten close every time. They certainly have the talent to take the division if the Cubs falter.
What’s the worst that could happen? The challenge of hovering around .500 is that teams can get stuck between going full rebuild or full competitive mode. A nightmare scenario for St. Louis involves older veterans aging before the younger players have the opportunity to make an impact.
Player spotlight:
SP Alex Reyes: Reyes has tantalized the league with amazing ratings but inconsistent results. He can fire shutouts, then set the team record for number of walks in a game. Still only 25, he has time to find the consistency.
RF J.D. Martinez: After a down 2018, Martinez bounced back with a big 2019. If he can maintain the success from last year, it could mean good things are in store for St. Louis.
Questions:
1) You’ve reshaped your rotation considerably from this time last year. Give us a glimpse of what this unit might look in 2020 and how the moves you have made have improved your organization.
2) You’ve been remarkably disciplined with your moves despite being so close to the playoffs the last three years. What goes into your approach of “waiting for the right move”?
Pittsburgh Pirates (2019: 85-77, 2nd NL Central, Eliminated in NLDS)
2019 in review: The defending champs faced an uphill road in 2019, with a very competitive and talented division. For the most part, they were up to the challenge, finishing slightly above average in most hitting and pitching metrics, and playing well in the playoffs (until running into the Dodgers). Josh Bell, catcher Chance Sisco, and Daniel Norris all look like superstars for this team.
Offseason summary: Dead quiet. At least, until a few minutes ago, when the Bucs sent shortstop Kevin Newman to Texas for pitching depth and picks.
What’s the best that could happen? Only one year removed from a World Series title, Pittsburgh maintained some of their success in 2019. They continue to win games and claim playoff spots, and some of their stars are entering their prime years. If the arms pitch lights-out, Pittsburgh will definitely make the playoffs again, and could potentially challenge for the division.
What’s the worst that could happen? Some might say the Pirates have overachieved the last two years. Especially if the pitchers falter, this team could fall back to Earth. Pittsburgh might have the most potential volatility of the NL Central; they could win the title, but they could also finish last.
Player spotlight:
CL Felipe Rivero: Rivero stepped into the closing role last year and continued his run of consistency. His ERA may not be outstanding, but it is good. Furthermore, he seems to save his best for the postseason.
C Chance Sisco: The surprising AVG leader in the NL last year, Sisco has put in his application to be the next big catching superstar. He still has work to do on his defense, but after posting 4.2 WAR, he definitely is valuable.
Questions:
1) Walk us through the decision to claim Wilson Ramos from waivers last year. What did you see in him that made his salary bearable, and how will he contribute in 2020?
2) You’ve had playoff success (against Colorado) in each of the past two years, but some may say you have overachieved. Where do you see this team’s focus now and in the future? Are you on the brink of a rebuild or continuing to “go for it”?
Cincinnati Reds (2019: 77-85, 4th NL Central)
2019 in review: Cincinnati showed signs of breaking out in 2019. While much of their organizational talent is still in the high minors, catcher Jhang and third baseman Morgan proved they have a future in the majors. The team was active at the trade deadline, trading away some of their young pitching talent and continuing to build one of the best farm systems in baseball.
Offseason summary: Cincinnati was active but with small moves this offseason. Notable gains were Aramis Adelman (Rule 5) as well as some prospects from San Fransico. Losses were Ben Gamel (waivers), Michael Pineda (trade), and Josh Morgan (trade).
What’s the best that could happen? Cincinnati is close, but they are young. They showed a lot of progress in 2019 and their youth is starting to make a major league impact. I think that, if the cards fall correctly, the Reds could vie for a wild card spot.
What’s the worst that could happen? Cincinnati may be close to competing, but they could also find themselves retooling for a bigger, longer rebuild. The worst case scenario for rebuilding is getting stuck in that mindset or in limbo, not enabling the team to contend in short order. If the Reds are not intentional in their goals this year, they may find themselves unable to challenge the Cubs in the near future.
Player spotlight:
SP Alex Lange: One of my favorite pitching prospects (and former Mariner) Lange shows a really good combination of stuff and movement. Furthermore, his development and results seem to be excellent. He should have a good future ahead of him.
1B/3B Joe Rizzo: One of my favorite hitting prospects (and former Mariner) Rizzo looks like a hitter in the mold of DH-extrodinaire Willie Calhoun (MIN). The only difference? Rizzo can play positive defense in the field. I think this guy will have enormous value for the Reds in the near future.
Questions:
1) You seem to be continuing the rebuild process in Cincinnati. How soon do you expect this team to “go for it”?
2) Clearly, I like some of your young guys. Which young bodies are you most excited about seeing some major league action this year?
Milwaukee Brewers (2019: 72-90, 5th NL Central)
2019 in review: Before the 2019 season, I predicted that any team in the NL Central had the capability to make the playoffs, and the Brewers proved me right. Although they finished last in their division, they were in the wild card race until September. Milwaukee enjoyed a bounceback season from Jonathan Villar (4.1 WAR) and overall, their hitting excelled and led to the team finishing 4th in runs scored. However, the pitching was frankly atrocious, and the Brewers finished 14th in runs allowed and last in other pitching categories.
Offseason summary: Other than acquiring Griffin Canning from Detroit, the Brewers had one of the quietest offseason’s in the league. However, with budget restrictions, their hands were somewhat tied.
What’s the best that could happen? Milwaukee have some solid pieces in place. If they stay healthy, I think it is very possible that this team approaches .500. They were close to the wild card last year; it’s possible they can be close again.
What’s the worst that could happen? Budget issues might limit the Brewers’ ability to improve in 2020. In fact, aging veterans and a difficult pitching environment could result in another last place finish. If this team and the players are not closely monitored, 95 losses is probably rock bottom for this club.
Player spotlight:
SP Zach Davies: Davies has perhaps been the most consistent pitcher on the Brewers. He hasn’t been great, but the consistency he has shown has driven up his price. He may need to have a performance boost in order to still be affordable in the future for the Brewers.
UTIL Royce Lewis: One of the better super-utility prospects in the game, Lewis can play superior defense at SS and CF, among other positions. He looks to be a key cog in the future of this team.
Questions:
1) You didn’t have a lot of budget room to work with this offseason. Given this, how do you plan to adjust this team to be more successful in 2020?
2) You’re new to this team in 2020. Which players are you most excited about (major leagues or minors?) and which ones can you not get rid of soon enough?
2019 in review: Despite winning over 100 games, the Cubs were still considered “unlucky” by some metrics. They boasted an elite run differential and were utterly dominant at times with their bats and arms. Yu Darvish (4.1 WAR) had an incredible start to the season, but slowed down later in the summer. In the end, the Cubs went as far as their bullpen allowed. A shaky unit was somewhat bolstered by Dan Altavilla, but let the team down in the playoffs against the Mets.
Offseason summary: One of the most active teams that won 100 games last year, the Cubs completely retooled some big parts of their team. Carlos Martinez and Michael Franco were brought in as part of the MEGA-deal (to put it lightly) that sent Kris Bryant to New York. Brian Dozier will take over at 2B. Ian Happ is gone (trade to Detroit). Star closer Zach Britton (trade with BAL) was brought in and quickly extended.
What’s the best that could happen? As with nearly every 100-win team from 2019, they have the pieces in place. Best case scenario? Another World Series ring for the Cubbies.
What’s the worst that could happen? The Cubs did boost their pitching, but may still not have the arms on the level of NL rivals New York and Los Angeles. Another early playoff exit is always a possibility.
Player spotlight:
SP Yu Darvish: Darvish had an incredible start to 2019, which resulted in a three year extension as the highest paid ABL player. With such a large contract, he needs to produce. He may not be a top 5 ABL pitcher, but could be top 10.
SS Addison Russell: Now that Kris Bryant is gone, Russell may take over as the superstar hitter on this roster. Russell has consistently posted 6+ WAR in his years in the ABL, and at only 26 years of age, has better days ahead.
Questions:
1) Dealing Kris Bryant takes a lot of guts and probably a lot of decision making. What led into the decision to move Bryant and how will this move help your team in 2020?
2)You have worked hard to fill in some of the holes on your roster entering 2020. Where do you still see areas for improvement for your Cubs?
St. Louis Cardinals (2019: 82-80, 3rd NL Central)
2019 in review: The Cardinals continued their pattern of being one of the best teams to not make the playoffs in 2019. They were powered by seemingly ageless veterans in Paul Goldschmidt and J.D. Martinez. On the pitching side, Alex Reyes continued to show growth and flashes of dominance. They may best remember 2019 as the year they gained incredible hauls for talented but underachieving pitchers Michael Wacha and Carlos Martinez.
Offseason summary: St. Louis was aggressive in upgrading their bullpen, signing Cody Allen, Ismael Morales, and Koda Glover. This unit should look considerably better in 2020.
What’s the best that could happen? Don’t count the Cards out! St. Louis has not made the playoffs in the short history of the ABL, but they have gotten close every time. They certainly have the talent to take the division if the Cubs falter.
What’s the worst that could happen? The challenge of hovering around .500 is that teams can get stuck between going full rebuild or full competitive mode. A nightmare scenario for St. Louis involves older veterans aging before the younger players have the opportunity to make an impact.
Player spotlight:
SP Alex Reyes: Reyes has tantalized the league with amazing ratings but inconsistent results. He can fire shutouts, then set the team record for number of walks in a game. Still only 25, he has time to find the consistency.
RF J.D. Martinez: After a down 2018, Martinez bounced back with a big 2019. If he can maintain the success from last year, it could mean good things are in store for St. Louis.
Questions:
1) You’ve reshaped your rotation considerably from this time last year. Give us a glimpse of what this unit might look in 2020 and how the moves you have made have improved your organization.
2) You’ve been remarkably disciplined with your moves despite being so close to the playoffs the last three years. What goes into your approach of “waiting for the right move”?
Pittsburgh Pirates (2019: 85-77, 2nd NL Central, Eliminated in NLDS)
2019 in review: The defending champs faced an uphill road in 2019, with a very competitive and talented division. For the most part, they were up to the challenge, finishing slightly above average in most hitting and pitching metrics, and playing well in the playoffs (until running into the Dodgers). Josh Bell, catcher Chance Sisco, and Daniel Norris all look like superstars for this team.
Offseason summary: Dead quiet. At least, until a few minutes ago, when the Bucs sent shortstop Kevin Newman to Texas for pitching depth and picks.
What’s the best that could happen? Only one year removed from a World Series title, Pittsburgh maintained some of their success in 2019. They continue to win games and claim playoff spots, and some of their stars are entering their prime years. If the arms pitch lights-out, Pittsburgh will definitely make the playoffs again, and could potentially challenge for the division.
What’s the worst that could happen? Some might say the Pirates have overachieved the last two years. Especially if the pitchers falter, this team could fall back to Earth. Pittsburgh might have the most potential volatility of the NL Central; they could win the title, but they could also finish last.
Player spotlight:
CL Felipe Rivero: Rivero stepped into the closing role last year and continued his run of consistency. His ERA may not be outstanding, but it is good. Furthermore, he seems to save his best for the postseason.
C Chance Sisco: The surprising AVG leader in the NL last year, Sisco has put in his application to be the next big catching superstar. He still has work to do on his defense, but after posting 4.2 WAR, he definitely is valuable.
Questions:
1) Walk us through the decision to claim Wilson Ramos from waivers last year. What did you see in him that made his salary bearable, and how will he contribute in 2020?
2) You’ve had playoff success (against Colorado) in each of the past two years, but some may say you have overachieved. Where do you see this team’s focus now and in the future? Are you on the brink of a rebuild or continuing to “go for it”?
Cincinnati Reds (2019: 77-85, 4th NL Central)
2019 in review: Cincinnati showed signs of breaking out in 2019. While much of their organizational talent is still in the high minors, catcher Jhang and third baseman Morgan proved they have a future in the majors. The team was active at the trade deadline, trading away some of their young pitching talent and continuing to build one of the best farm systems in baseball.
Offseason summary: Cincinnati was active but with small moves this offseason. Notable gains were Aramis Adelman (Rule 5) as well as some prospects from San Fransico. Losses were Ben Gamel (waivers), Michael Pineda (trade), and Josh Morgan (trade).
What’s the best that could happen? Cincinnati is close, but they are young. They showed a lot of progress in 2019 and their youth is starting to make a major league impact. I think that, if the cards fall correctly, the Reds could vie for a wild card spot.
What’s the worst that could happen? Cincinnati may be close to competing, but they could also find themselves retooling for a bigger, longer rebuild. The worst case scenario for rebuilding is getting stuck in that mindset or in limbo, not enabling the team to contend in short order. If the Reds are not intentional in their goals this year, they may find themselves unable to challenge the Cubs in the near future.
Player spotlight:
SP Alex Lange: One of my favorite pitching prospects (and former Mariner) Lange shows a really good combination of stuff and movement. Furthermore, his development and results seem to be excellent. He should have a good future ahead of him.
1B/3B Joe Rizzo: One of my favorite hitting prospects (and former Mariner) Rizzo looks like a hitter in the mold of DH-extrodinaire Willie Calhoun (MIN). The only difference? Rizzo can play positive defense in the field. I think this guy will have enormous value for the Reds in the near future.
Questions:
1) You seem to be continuing the rebuild process in Cincinnati. How soon do you expect this team to “go for it”?
2) Clearly, I like some of your young guys. Which young bodies are you most excited about seeing some major league action this year?
Milwaukee Brewers (2019: 72-90, 5th NL Central)
2019 in review: Before the 2019 season, I predicted that any team in the NL Central had the capability to make the playoffs, and the Brewers proved me right. Although they finished last in their division, they were in the wild card race until September. Milwaukee enjoyed a bounceback season from Jonathan Villar (4.1 WAR) and overall, their hitting excelled and led to the team finishing 4th in runs scored. However, the pitching was frankly atrocious, and the Brewers finished 14th in runs allowed and last in other pitching categories.
Offseason summary: Other than acquiring Griffin Canning from Detroit, the Brewers had one of the quietest offseason’s in the league. However, with budget restrictions, their hands were somewhat tied.
What’s the best that could happen? Milwaukee have some solid pieces in place. If they stay healthy, I think it is very possible that this team approaches .500. They were close to the wild card last year; it’s possible they can be close again.
What’s the worst that could happen? Budget issues might limit the Brewers’ ability to improve in 2020. In fact, aging veterans and a difficult pitching environment could result in another last place finish. If this team and the players are not closely monitored, 95 losses is probably rock bottom for this club.
Player spotlight:
SP Zach Davies: Davies has perhaps been the most consistent pitcher on the Brewers. He hasn’t been great, but the consistency he has shown has driven up his price. He may need to have a performance boost in order to still be affordable in the future for the Brewers.
UTIL Royce Lewis: One of the better super-utility prospects in the game, Lewis can play superior defense at SS and CF, among other positions. He looks to be a key cog in the future of this team.
Questions:
1) You didn’t have a lot of budget room to work with this offseason. Given this, how do you plan to adjust this team to be more successful in 2020?
2) You’re new to this team in 2020. Which players are you most excited about (major leagues or minors?) and which ones can you not get rid of soon enough?
