Offseason Week In Review - December 30

Another predictably slow week for the Angels and in all of Major League Baseball. Former Angel Darin Erstad was signed to a one-year deal with the Houston Astros. MLB.com has a nice article on the Angels year in review.

Happy New Year!

Previous Off-Season Weeks In Review:

December 23, 2007
December 16, 2007
December 9 , 2007
December 2, 2007
November 25, 2007
November 18, 2007
November 11, 2007
November 4, 2007
October 28, 2007
October 21, 2007

Chuck set to go on ballot

For 14 seasons, with good, average and bad teams, Chuck Finley took the ball for the Angels and made good things happen. In terms of giving customers their money's worth, he was as dependable as they came.

Finley, a 6-foot-6 lefty with a mid-90s fastball and lethal split-fingered fastball, threw 2,675 innings in an Angels uniform, winning 165 games. Right behind him, with 2,181 1/3 innings and 138 wins, is Nolan Ryan.

Retiring in 2002, Finley is making his first appearance on the Hall of Fame ballot dispensed to voting members of the Baseball Writers' Association of America. Finley's career lasted 17 seasons, and he ranks 23rd all-time in strikeouts with 2,610.

At his five-year peak -- from 1989 through 1993 -- he was among the elite pitchers in the game. In his 1992 edition of The Baseball Book, Bill James ranked Finley second among all American League starters, behind Roger Clemens. Finley was 16-9 with a 2.57 ERA in 1989, 18-9 with a 2.40 ERA in 1990. He went 18-9 again in 1991, meaning he was 36-18 over a two-year period with teams that finished two games below .500.

Finley made it to the postseason as a 23-year-old rookie with the Angels in 1986, appearing in three games of the American League Championship Series against Boston and holding the Red Sox scoreless with one hit in two innings. He didn't return to the postseason until 2001, after moving to Cleveland as a free agent in 2000. Dealt to St. Louis in July 2002, Finley finished his career in style, beating the Giants in Game 3 of the NLCS that year in San Francisco in his final Major League appearance.

The big man from the Bayou with that big smile and easy going manner finished his career with a 200-173 record. He notched his 2,610 strikeouts in 3,197 1/3 innings, fashioning a 3.85 ERA. Those overall numbers are comparable to those of Hall of Famer Jesse Hanes, who was 210-158 with a 3.64 career ERA.

Five times Finley finished in the top 10 in the AL in ERA, and three times he was in the top five. Reflecting a consistency that made him a leader on any staff he graced, Finley won at least 15 games seven times, reaching double figures 12 times across 14 seasons starting in 1989. The Angels struggled through the '90s, but in 1997 they put it together and appeared capable of challenging Seattle in the AL West. But Finley broke his left wrist backing up home plate on a routine play, his season-ending injury a critical blow for the Angels as they finished second. He struck out a career-high 215 batters in 238 innings in 1996, yet his record was 15-16. Two years later, he racked up 212 strikeouts with a 3.39 ERA -- and finished 11-9 in 34 starts.

After the Angels released Finley, he was signed by the Indians to play for the 2000 season. He went 16-11 with a 4.17 ERA. He went 8-7 with a 5.54 era for the Indians in 2001, and then in 2002 went 4-11 with a 4.44 ERA in 18 games before being traded to the Cardinals for former Indians and now Red Sox player Covelli "Coco" Crisp.

He is the only pitcher to strike out four hitters in the same inning more than once, something he accomplished three times in the span of one year -- May 12, 1999 to April 16, 2000.

Finley was selected by the Angels in the 15th round of the 1984 Draft out of Northeast Louisiana University, but he did not sign. The Angels chose him again in the 1st round of the secondary phase of the 1985 Draft.

Filmography
Sports Illustrated: Swimsuit '99 (1999) (TV) .... Himself

Darin Erstad signs with Houston

Former Halo Hero Darin Erstad signed a one-year, $1 million deal with the Houston Astros today.

Erstad spent last season with the Chicago White Sox and hit .248 in 87 games. In 12 seasons (11 with the Angels), he had a .284 career batting average.

He will be used as a left-handed pinch hitter for Houston. Erstad replaces former Angels teammate, Orlando Palmeiro who was not offered a contract by Houston.

Offseason Week In Review - December 23

Every week this off-season, I've compiled the top stories of the week on Sunday. However, nothing, and I mean, nothing, happened this week. With the holidays, I doubt that anything will happen next week either.

Happy Holidays.

Previous Off-Season Weeks In Review:

December 16, 2007
December 9 , 2007
December 2, 2007
November 25, 2007
November 18, 2007
November 11, 2007
November 4, 2007
October 28, 2007
October 21, 2007

Offseason Week In Review - December 16

The Mitchell Investigation was the big baseball news of this past week. Despite naming many players, there seemed to be a lack of current stars included in the report.

Headlines for the past week (December 10, 2007 - December 16, 2007)

• Mitchell Investigation Released
  
• Tejada's not coming to Anaheim
  
• Former Halo favorites change teams
• Angels do not resign McPherson
  

Mitchell Investigation Released

The long awaited Mitchell Investigation on steroid and HGH use in MLB was released. The list contained several players who spent some time with the Angels. They included: Mo Vaughn, Glenallen Hill, Adam Riggs, Randy Velarde, Troy Glaus, Gary Matthews Jr, Jose Guillen, Wally Joyner, Paul Byrd, Scott Schoeneweis, Ismael Valdez, Brendan Donnelly, Kent Mercker, Bart Miadich, Derrick Turnbow, Jason Christiansen and Jason Grimsley.

Tejada's not coming to Anaheim

Third Baseman Miguel Tejada was traded by the Baltimore Orioles to the Houston Astros for five players. Tejada was often rumored to come to Anaheim, but the Angels were not foolish enough to give up five players for him.

Former Halo favorites changing teams

David Eckstein was signed as a free agent by the Toronto Blue Jays to a one-year $4.5 million contract. Outfielder Jim Edmonds was traded by the St Louis Cardinals to the San Diego Padres for 3rd baseman prospect David Freese.

Angels do not re-sign McPherson

The Angels did not offer a contract to oft-injured 3rd baseman Dallas McPherson. He will now become a free agent with the San Francisco Giants currently listed as a team that is interested in him.

Previous Off-Season Weeks In Review:

December 9 , 2007
December 2, 2007
November 25, 2007
November 18, 2007
November 11, 2007
November 4, 2007
October 28, 2007
October 21, 2007

Mo Vaughn, Miguel Tejada, etc Linked To Steroids and HGH

The Mitchell Report came out today with a list of 78 names of major league baseball players who were accused of using steroids and/or HGH.

The highest profile players have all been rumored to be on the list. They include Barry Bonds, Roger Clemens, Miguel Tejada, Jason Giambi and Eric Gagne.

My favorite name so far is Mo Vaughn.

Other players with Halo connections are Glenallen Hill, Adam Riggs, Randy Velarde, Troy Glaus, Gary Matthews Jr, Jose Guillen, Wally Joyner, Paul Byrd, Scott Schoeneweis, Ismael Valdez, Brendan Donnelly, Kent Mercker, Bart Miadich, Derrick Turnbow, Jason Christiansen and Jason Grimsley.

That's all the names that pop up while searching the Mitchell Report for "Angels."

What I find most interesting is that of the 17 current and former Angels mentioned in the report, 9 of them are pitchers. I'm sure there will be a comprehensive list coming out shortly, but it is interesting that there are so many pitchers considering that public opinion has always been that the hitters benefit the most.

How is Brad Fullmer not on this list?

Angels let Dallas McPherson go to free agency

The Angels have announced that they will not offer a contract to 3rd baseman Dallas McPherson.

By not offering the 27 year old McPherson a contract, he becomes a free agent and can be signed by any team without compensation to the Angels.

McPherson was a top prospect for the Angels following the 2004 season in which he hit 40 home runs for AA-Arkansas and AAA-Salt Lake. He was then basically handed the 3rd Baseman job as the Angels let Troy Glaus go via free agency. Then began his string of injuries started as he never played in more than 61 games in a season.

In 2007, he was out the whole year with back surgery.

Miguel Tejada Traded To Houston

Whew. It seemed like the Angels were going to overpay for this guy. Instead, the Houston Astros did, sending five players to Baltimore for Tejada.

The Orioles receive pitchers Matt Albers, Troy Patton and Dennis Sarfate, outfielder Luke Scott and third baseman Michael Costanzo. Patton is rated the 3rd best Houston prospect and Costanzo the 5th.

The Angels have always been interested in Tejada, but the price was always too steep. Fortunately, the Angels missed again. Personal reasons for not wanting Tejada are his diminishing power numbers and career .228 batting average in Angel Stadium.


Mike Costanzo

Offseason Week In Review - December 9

The Winter Meetings came and went without the Angels making a deal. The Detroit Tigers stole the headlines as they acquired Miguel Cabrera and Dontrelle Willis from Florida for six prospects.

Headlines for the past week (December 3, 2007 - December 9, 2007)

• Miguel Cabrera traded to the Tigers
• Jose Guillen signs with the Royals and gets suspended
• Gary Matthews Jr and former Halos Glaus and Schoeneweis not suspended
  

Miguel Cabrera traded to the Tigers

The Detroit Tigers joined the elite teams of the American League this week by trading for 3rd baseman Miguel Cabrera and sp Dontrelle Willis. The Tigers sent of Cameron Maybin, sp Andrew Miller, c Mike Rabelo, rp Eulogio De La Cruz, sp Dallas Trahern and sp Blake Badenhop in the deal. The Tigers will now have a Yankee-esque batting order with Miguel Cabrera, Magglio Ordonez and Gary Sheffield hitting together in the lineup.

Jose Guillen signs with the Royals and gets suspended

Malcontent outfielder Jose Guillen signed a 3-year $36 million contract with the Kansas City Royals. At 31 years old, Guillen will be a mature, good role model for the young Royals. Or, he will continue to be a whiny jackass who is suspended for the first 15 games of next year for admitted HGH use. Baltimore's Jay Gibbons was the only other player suspended.

Gary Matthews Jr and former Halos Glaus and Schoeneweis not suspended

While Jose Guillen and Jay Gibbons were given 15 day suspensions for HGH use, four other players with drug allegations were not given suspensions. Amazingly, three of the four are connected to the Angels. Current Angel Gary Matthews Jr was not suspended. Troy Glaus, Scott Schoeneweis and Cardinals' of Rick Ankiel were also not suspended.

Previous Off-Season Weeks In Review

December 2, 2007
November 25, 2007
November 18, 2007
November 11, 2007
November 4, 2007
October 28, 2007
October 21, 2007

Dallas v. Troy

Dallas McPherson. Remember him?

The murmurs started even before the end of the 2004 season: The Halo’s had given up on one of their foundations, third baseman Troy Glaus. They were going to replace him with a young, talented prospect named Dallas McPherson. Even though Glaus averaged 36 home runs a season between 1999 and 2002 (the year the Angels won the World Series and Glaus was named Most Valuable Player), and even though he was an outstanding defensive player (he played shortstop at UCLA), and even though he was only 28 years old, he kept getting injured.

Glaus played in only 149 games combined during the 2003 and 2004 seasons, the same seasons he is now accused of using steroids. He insisted he would return to form with rest and rehab but the Angels were uncertain and then—luck of all luck—they found a Glaus clone in their minor league system.

Dallas McPherson was big like Glaus—6’4”/ 230 pounds to Glaus’ 6’5”/ 240 pounds—plus he hit for power and they wouldn’t have to pay him nearly as much. So while Glaus lingered on the disabled list, we got swift daily reports of McPherson’s exploits in the minors. When he was called up to the Angels for the final month in 2004, McPherson had driven in 57 runs in 67 games in Salt Lake City. By the end of that season the Angels were won over by the fact that it was time for a change; they let Glaus go to the Arizona Diamondbacks and installed McPherson at third base.

Almost instantaneously the hope that they had found another, younger Glaus in McPherson was confirmed. Regrettably the Glaus that McPherson reincarnate was the one who missed a crap load of games. And he missed a lot more than Glaus, actually. McPherson played in 101 games during the next two seasons, missing 223. His playing time was limited by a whole host of injuries: bone spur in his left hip, herniated disk in his lower back, back spasms, oblique strain and, yes, skin rash.

In his limited service McPherson has hit a total of 15 home runs. And Glaus? Well, after playing just 149 games the previous two seasons he played 149 in 2005 for Arizona, hitting 37 homers with 97 RBIs. The Diamondbacks then traded Glaus to the Toronto Blue Jays for the 2006 season. All he did there was drive in 104 runs and rank sixth in the American League with 38 homers. Meanwhile, back in Anaheim the Angels’ once-mighty offense was reduced to Vladimir Guerrero and a bunch of guys making the sign of the cross. Manager Mike Scioscia has had a trial with a parade of players at third base before he settled on Maicer Izturis and Chone Figgins.

Once touted as a 40-homer threat, McPherson was limited by injuries to 40 games in 2006 and missed all of 2007 after undergoing surgery to repair a herniated disk in his lower back. McPherson took his first steps in a comeback from back surgery when he played in the Arizona Instructional League this fall. But McPherson, 27, played in just 11 games in the Arizona instructional league this fall, hitting .240 in 25 at-bats with two home runs. He feels better about his chances of playing in 2008 . . . somewhere. "I don't care if I'm in A ball -- I just want to get back on the field," McPherson said. "I'm so far down the list right now, and rightfully so. I've had so many injuries; I was out for a year. I don't expect to be the starting third baseman, for sure, but I would like another opportunity."

The report is that McPherson is doing yoga in hopes of improving his range of motion, and said his instructional league stint went a lot better than he expected."My biggest fear was running the bases, and I was able to do that," McPherson said. "I was able to play third, a little first. I was able to bend down, move to my left and right, get out of the batter's box. I felt like my power was fine. I hit some good shots, drove the ball to the gap a few times. It was definitely something to build on."

But can we count on Dallas finally to produce like we thought he would back in 2004? Time will tell and the fear I have is that he will but it will be for a team that surprises everyone and makes it to the playoffs and Dallas comes back to bite us like a certain White Sox closer did.

The other Miguel and .228

With Miguel Cabrera headed to Detroit, the Angels are supposedly interested in Miguel Tejada. While Tejada might help to improve the Angels lineup, he is definitely not a "Big Bat".

Tejada has been rumored to be a player who has benefited from steroids and his numbers might support that rumor. In the past four years, Tejada's home runs have decreased each season - 34, 26, 24, 18. Granted, with the 18 home runs, he would have been second on the Halos home run list in a tie with Gary Matthews Jr.

In those same four seasons, his batting average has remained steady - .311, .304, .330, .296 - but the Angels don't need another hitter with "gap-power".

The most staggering reason not to acquire Miguel Tejada is .228. That is Tejada's career batting average at Angel Stadium. There is no park in the American League where he has a lower average.

His career ops at Angel Stadium is .663 which is more than 140 points lower than the Angels' team ops at home last year which was .812. Reggie Willits had the lowest ops of any Angels regular last year and his ops was .735.

Angels fans, don't fall for the media hype. We do need a big bat, but Tejada is not that bat.

Tigers land Miguel Cabrera

The Big Apple of many Halo fans eyes, Miguel Cabrera, has been traded to the Detroit Tigers.

Along with Cabrera, the Marlins are sending All-Star pitcher Dontrelle Willis in exchange for six players.

The Tigers sent of Cameron Maybin, sp Andrew Miller, c Mike Rabelo, rp Eulogio De La Cruz, sp Dallas Trahern and sp Blake Badenhop in the deal.

Maybin and Miller were both in Baseball America's Top 10 prospects last season. The Angels' two highest prospects were Brandon Wood (#8) and Nick Adenhart (#34), so the Marlins were able to get more from Detroit.

Also today, Angels GM Tony Reagins stated that the club never inquired about Twins starting pitcher Johan Santana.


Cameron Maybin

Offseason Week In Review - December 2

Last week, the Angels traded Orlando Cabrera and signed free agent Torii Hunter. This week, nothing. With the winter meetings being held this upcoming week in Nashville, the Angels may again make some big moves.

Headlines for the past week (November 26, 2007 - December 2, 2007)

• Arte Moreno speaks on Cabrera and the Mitchell Investigation
  
• Angels lose minor league prospect Warner Madrgial
  
• Troy Percival signs with Tampa Bay
• Winter Meetings coming up this week
  

Arte Moreno speaks on Cabrera and the Mitchell Investigation

At last week's press conference to introduce Torii Hunter and Jon Garland, Arte Moreno made some interesting comments. First, regarding Marlins third baseman Miguel Cabrera, Moreno said that he thought the Angels had a deal done for him twice, but nothing was ever official due to the Marlins asking for even more players. Secondly, Moreno became the first MLB owner to say that the Mitchell Investigation (Steroid use in MLB) will list plenty of familiar names. The Mitchell Investigation report is due out sometime this month.

Angels lose minor league prospect Warner Madrgial

Through some procedural wrongdoings, the Angels have lost pitching prospect Warner Madrigal to the Texas Rangers. Madrigal was originally signed by the Angels in 2001 as an outfielder, but was converted to a pitcher two seasons ago. This past season, the 23-year old closer made 54 appearances at Low-A Cedar Rapids compiling a 5-4 record with 20 saves and a 2.07 era.
For the Angels to retain Madrigal's rights they had to place him on the 40-man roster before he could become a minor league free agent. They placed him on the 40-man roster on November 6th, not knowing that he was eligible for (and applied for) free agency on October 28th.

Troy Percival signs with Tampa Bay

Former Angel closer Troy Percival signed a 2-year $8 million contract to pitch for the Bay Rays. Percival retired last April as an Angel only to come back in June with the St. Louis Cardinals. His comeback was a success as he had a 1.80 era in 34 appearances. He is expected to be the closer for Tampa Bay whose bullpen era last year of 6.16 was the highest in the majors in over 50 years. Percival is reunited with manager Joe Maddon who was the Angels' bench coach while Percival was with the Angels. His contract also includes $4 million in potential bonuses.

Winter Meetings coming up this week

Tony Reagins will be in Nashville this week along with all of the other general managers to wheel and deal. The big names look to be Miguel Cabrera and Johan Santana. With an excess of starting pitchers, outfielders and middle infield prospects, the Angels have the potential to make some deals.

Previous Off-Season Weeks In Review

November 25, 2007
November 18, 2007
November 11, 2007
November 4, 2007
October 28, 2007
October 21, 2007

Torii hunter - The Rallii Monkii's Biggest Fan

Doesn't Torii Hunter know that the Rallii Monkii is soooo 2002?

Hmmm, maybe this blog isn't the best place to say it, but what's done is done.

In any case, here's Torii's quote from yesterday's press conference...

"Then I thought about 2002, and the rally monkey. This rally monkey has been a thorn in my side and in my nightmares, so I'm just happy to be a part of this organization and be a part of the monkey. I thought about kidnapping him plenty of times, but now the monkey's going to be my friend. I'm really going to like this monkey. We're going to be in the malls together, walking the beach, everything. So that's my buddy and my new best friend - and Rex Hudler."

So if I were to read between the lines, does that make Rex Hudler a monkey?

Offseason Week In Review - November 25

I often wish that mankind was capable of learning. For instance, when will sports fans learn that deals that get done are (almost) never started as a rumor. We have heard about A-Rod and Miggii Cabrera for months, yet we wake up one day and our starting shortstop is gone. And then later in the week, we have 36 outfielders.

It's not just the Angels, Lakers fans still talk about Jason Kidd rumors and Kevin Garnett rumors but there were no rumors of the Trevor Ariza trade. OK, that's my rambling...Oh yeah, one more, A-Rod...by the time we heard that he had talked with the Yankees, the deal was done.

Headlines for the past week (November 19, 2007 - November 25, 2007)

• Angels acquire SP Jon Garland for SS Orlando Cabrera
• Angels sign free-agent CF Torii Hunter for $90 million
• Vladii Guerrero finishes 3rd in AL MVP Voting
  

Angels acquire SP Jon Garland for SS Orlando Cabrera

The one thing that everyone can agree on is that Bill Stoneman never would have made this trade. It also seems to be universally accepted that this deal is a prelude to a bigger "master plan." With the target of that plan being Migii Cabrera, the big hitting, big eating 3rd Baseman from the Florida Marlins. The Angels currently (temporarily?) have Maicer Izturis or Erick Aybar as the starting shortstop. And there are six starting pitchers - John Lackii, Kelviim Escobar, Jered Weaver, Jon Garland, Joe Saunders and Ervin Santana.

Angels sign free-agent CF Torii Hunter for $90 million

One year after signing CF Gary Matthews Jr to a 5-year $50 million contract, the Angels have signed CF Torii Hunter to a 5-year $90 million contract. Next week, I expect to see the Angels sign CF Andruw Jones to a 5-year contract. Apparently, Tonii Reagins' blueprint to success is to corner the market on center-fielders. I've heard that the Dodgers are trying to trade Juan Pierre.....

Vladimir Guerrero finishes 3rd in AL MVP Voting

Angels RF Vladimir Guerrero finished 3rd in voting for the 2007 American League MVP balloting. Vladii's .324 avg, 27 home runs and 125 rbi were nowhere near the .314 avg, 54 home runs and 156 rbi that winner Alex Rodriguez compiled, but nobody else was near either. Vlad finished 9th last year and 3rd in 2005 after winning MVP honors in 2004.

Previous Off-Season Weeks In Review

November 18, 2007

November 11, 2007

November 4, 2007

October 28, 2007

October 21, 2007

Its Hunting Season with Torii in Town

The Halo’s who have been trying to land another strong hitter for several years, agreed to a five-year, $90 million deal Wednesday with free agent Torii Hunter, who hit .297 with 28 homers and drove in 107 runs for Minnesota this year.

Three teams -- the Texas Rangers, Chicago White Sox and Kansas City Royals -- extended five-year offers to the former Minnesota Twins star, and the Angels seemed set in center field with Gary Matthews Jr., a superb defender who is entering the second year of a five-year, $50-million contract.

A seven-time Gold Glove winner, the 32-year-old Hunter will be the everyday center fielder and hit in the middle of the lineup, making it tougher for opposing pitchers to pitch around Guerrero.

Although Hunter's arrival seems to make last season's center fielder, Gary Matthews Jr. odd man out in an outfield with Guerrero in right and Anderson in left, Los Angeles manager Mike Scioscia said it would give him more options. Hunter said, "I've watched the Angels play for a long time, I've seen these guys work us [during the American League championship series] in 2002. They play the game the right way, they play hard-nosed baseball every day, they go first to third, which I like."

"Torii is going to be in center field virtually every day. Gary will be in the outfield almost every day, so the other two guys will split up the DH," Scioscia said in a conference call. "We want all four of those bats in the lineup."

The Angels, who for three years have been searching for a power bat to protect Vladimir Guerrero in the lineup, were in serious trade talks with the Florida Marlins for Miguel Cabrera, but Reagins refused to say Wednesday night whether they would still pursue the power-hitting third baseman. Two days earlier, the Angels traded Gold Glove shortstop Orlando Cabrera to the Chicago White Sox for pitcher Jon Garland.

Reagins says he plans to "speak with Gary in depth" in the next few days and said the signing of Hunter "is no indication" that Matthews, who recently spoke to Commissioner Bud Selig about a 2004 shipment of human growth hormone sent to him by a pharmacy being investigated for illegal performance-enhancing drugs, is facing a lengthy suspension in 2008.

Reagins, busy so far this winter, likely will stay that way this winter since the Angels currently have six starting pitchers, plus Matthews, among others who might go in a trade. Reagins first contacted Hunter's agent, Larry Reynolds, this week. "They came in trying to get something done in a hurry and it worked out," Reynolds said. "In the past, we said we're going to pursue every opportunity to make our club better. This was an opportunity. I had the support of some people around me, then I got aggressive."

The deal doesn't bode well for the futures of Juan Rivera and Reggie Willits in Anaheim. Rivera, one of the team's most productive hitters and a solid defender in 2005 and 2006, sat out most of 2007 because of a broken leg and now moves to fifth on the outfield depth chart. Willits, who replaced the injured Anderson last May and provided a much-needed spark in the leadoff spot, batting .293 with 74 runs in 136 games, may be out of a big-league job. Both could be used as trade bait to get an even bigger bat such as Miguel Cabrera or an infield upgrade such as Baltimore shortstop Miguel Tejada, whom the Angels would want to move to third base.

Angels + Cabrera = Trade

The Angels have made a trade involving Cabrera. Unfortunately, it's not Miguel Cabrera, but rather Orlando Cabrera.

The Angels are sending Gold-Glove winning shortstop Orlando Cabrera to the Chicago White Sox for 28-year old starting pitcher Jon Garland.

If this deal were made last week, I'd swear that it was a precursor to A-Rod coming to the Angels, but now I'm not sure. Do the Angels really think it's Brandon Wood's time? Is Miguel Cabrera coming, moving Chone Figgins to short? Are the Angels going to trade one of their starting pitchers for somebody? Is the Miguel Tejada to the Angels rumor finally going to happen?

In any case, it seems strange to me. Cabrera just won a Gold Glove and hit .301 with 86 rbi. He has only one year left on his contract so that could be a possible reason for moving him.

Garland is coming off a season where he went 10-13 with a 4.23 era. Garland's best year was 2005 when he was 18-10 with a 3.50 era. Garland also has one year left on a 3-year $29 million contract.

Offseason Week In Review - November 18

American League awards were handed out and two of baseball's biggest names, Barry Bonds and Alex Rodriguez, are in the news again.

Headlines for the past week (November 12, 2007 - November 18, 2007)

• Reggie Willits finishes 5th in AL Rookie Of The Year Voting
  
• John Lackey finishes 3rd in Cy Young voting
• Mike Scioscia finishes 2nd in AL Manager Of The Year voting
• A-Rod Is Set To Return To The Yankees
  
• Barry Bonds indicted on perjury charges

Reggie Willits finishes 5th in AL Rookie Of The Year Voting

Outfielder Reggie Willits finished 5th in voting for the 2007 American League Rookie Of The Year. Willits received two 2nd place votes and five 3rd place votes in the balloting. Boston second baseman was the runaway winner followed by Delmon Young of Tampa Bay, Brian Bannister of Kansas City, Dice-K of Boston and then Willits. Last year, rookie Jered Weaver also finished 5th in the voting.

John Lackey finishes 3rd in Cy Young voting

John Lackey finished behind Cleveland's C.C. Sabathia and Boston's Josh Beckett for the AL Cy Young Award. Lackey finished with a 19-9 record and league best 3.01 era.

Mike Scioscia finishes 2nd in AL Manager Of The Year voting

Manager Mike Scioscia received four 1st place votes, but it wasn't enough to beat out Cleveland's Eric Wedge for the 2007 AL Manger Of The Year. Scioscia won the award in 2002.

A-Rod Is Set To Return To The Yankees

Free-agent 3rd Baseman Alex Rodriguez looks to be headed back to the New York Yankees. After opting out of the last three years of his mega-deal, A-Rod has secretly dealt with the Yankees, shunning his agent Scott Boras. A-Rod is rumored to have signed a 10-year, $275million deal with the pinstripes.

Free-Agent Barry Bonds indicted on perjury

Tainted home run king Barry Bonds has been indicted for perjury and the obstruction of justice. It seems that he won't be returning to baseball in 2008 to pursue the 3000-hit milestone - he is 65 hits shy of 3000. Sadly, I'm starting to feel sorry for Barry. He's a jerk and a bad teammate. But doesn't the United States government have something better to do than to try and get Bonds to admit to steroid use? Aren't there bigger criminals? Bigger issues? I guess not.

Previous Off-Season Weeks In Review

November 11, 2007

November 4, 2007

October 28, 2007

October 21, 2007

Offseason Week In Review - November 11

A slow week filled with post-Halloween sugar-induced hallucinations of A-Rod becoming and Angel and Miguel Cabrera becoming an Angel.

Headlines for the past week (November 5, 2007 - November 11, 2007)

• Marlins want Howie Kendrick in any trade for Miguel Cabrera
• Vladimir Guerrero wins Silver Slugger Award
  

Marlins want Howie Kendrick in any trade for Miguel Cabrera

Let the rumors begin. The Florida Marlins have said that any deal with the Angels involving big bat, bigger appetite, 3rd baseman Miguel Cabrera must involve Howie Kendrick. The Marlins are reportedly asking for Kendrick, 3rd Baseman Brandon Wood, SP Nick Adenhart and SP Ervin Santana. Bill Stoneman would have never made this deal and personally, I wouldn't either. But new GM's tend to want to make a splash and Cabrera and his size-40 pants would be a big one.

Vladimir Guerrero wins Silver Slugger Award

I'm not really sure this is news. I mean, of course, Vlad wins a Silver Slugger award. It is his 4th straight (in 4 years with the Halos) and 7th award overall. Chone Figgins and Orlando Cabrera also had nice offensive years, but were bested by Yankees Alex Rodriguez and Derek Jeter.

Previous Off-Season Weeks In Review

November 4, 2007

October 28, 2007

October 21, 2007

Rumor Mill

Rumor Mill Spins

The Marlins might ask the Angels for Howie Kendrick and their top two prospects, third baseman Brandon Wood and pitcher Nick Adenhart for third baseman Miguel Cabrera.

By the Angels acquiring Cabrera, they probably would replace Kendrick by moving Chone Figgins from third base to second, even though they would weaken their defense at both positions this would help keep Figgy in the everyday lineup.

Cabrera Wins Gold Glove

American League Gold Glove Awards were announced today and Angels' shortstop Orlando Cabrera won his first award in the American League.

Cabrera led all qualified American League shortstops with a .983 fielding percentage and also had a league low 11 errors.

Cabrera has won the award once before while with the Montreal Expos in 2001.

Jose Guillen Accused Of Steroid Use

This steroid head hunt is hardly newsworthy, but it's always nice to pile on Jose Guillen.

According to the San Francisco Chronicle, Guillen "ordered more than $19,000 worth of drugs from the Palm Beach Rejuvenation Center between May 2002 and June 2005."

Guillen was an Angel during the 2004 season. While with the A's in 2003, Guillen allegedly had the drugs shipped to the Oakland Coliseum.

Guillen joins Troy Glaus and Paul Byrd as former Angels accused of steroid use.

Offseason Week In Review - November 4

The Dodgers sign manager Joe Torre and the local media is trying to make the A-Rod Sweepstakes a local competition.

Headlines for the past week (October 29, 2007 - Novmeber 4, 2007)

• A-Rod Officially Opts Out Of Contract and Becomes A Free Agent
• Reagins heads to GM meetings in Orlando
• Angels Announce that they will not attempt to re-sign Bartolo Colon
• Angels coaching staff re-signed for next season
• Figgins has minor surgery
  
• Angels place OF Tommy Murphy and RP Marc Gwyn on Waivers
• Texas Rangers claim OF Nick Gorneault From Waivers
  

A-Rod Officially Opts Out Of Contract And Becomes A Free Agent

The Angels are considered one of the front-runners in the A-Rod sweepstakes. But do you really want the Angels to commit that much money ($350 million) for that long (10-12 years)? Negotiations can officially begin on November 14th.

New GM Tony Reagins Heads To First GM Meetings

Tony Reagins, the new Angels general manager, is heading to Orlando, Florida this week for the GM meetings. First time action for the new GM.

Angels will not re-sign Bartolo Colon

The Angels announced that they will not pursue free agent Bartolo Colon. Colon just finished his 4-year, $48 million contract with the Angels. It will be interesting to see what others team are willing to risk on Bart.

Coaching staff to return

Mike Scioscia's supproting staff will be back in place next season. Contract extensions were given to bench coach Ron Roenicke, hitting coach Mickey Hatcher, pitching coach Mike Butcher, bullpen coach Orlando Mercado, bullpen catcher Steve Soliz and base coaches Alfredo Griffin and Dino Ebel.

Chone Figgins has minor surgery

Chone Figgins underwent minor surgery to remove the hook of the hamate bone in his left wrist. Figgins suffered from a bone bruise for most of September limiting his ability to bat right-handed.

Roster Moves

The Texas Rangers claimed outfielder Nick Gorneault off of waivers. Gorneault, 28, had his first cup of coffee with the Halos this year, playing in two games and going 0-for-4 at the plate. The team also announced that OF Tommy Murphy, 28, and RP Marc Gwyn, 29, were placed on waivers making room on the Angels 40-man roster.

-----------------------------

Previous Off-Season Weeks In Review
October 28, 2007

• 2008 Schedule Released
• 2008 Spring Training Schedule Released
• RP Chris Resop claimed off waivers by Atlanta
  

October 21, 2007

• GM Bill Stoneman Resigns
• Tony Reagins Introduced as new GM
• Paul Byrd accused of HGH use while with Angels
  

Tradition

Joe Torre was hired Thursday to manage the Los Angeles Dodgers, taking the job two weeks after walking away from the New York Yankees.
Torre's contract is reportedly for three years and slightly more than $13 million. Torre moves from one storied franchise to another, taking over a team that finished fourth in the NL West this season and hasn't won the World Series since 1988.


Ok that is that now for a rant. I do not care about the Dodgers so much, but they are from LA and growing up watching them with my father (His favorite team, but not the one whom drafter him. The Angels) I did grow up with the tradition that was Dodger Blue. I suffered through years with managers like Terry Collins, Buck Rodgers, Marcel Lachemann, Doug Rader, Cookie Rojas and Moose Stubing, and Gene Mauch all running the Angels while Tommy Lasorda ruled the Dodgers. I hoped for that kind of tradition. The Dodgers had the best players of the day. They had some new innovation, Nomo, Fernando, A cripple whom pitch hit to win a playoff game. They signed players but the mostly developed players from within. Orel Hershiser, Steve Sax, Eric Karros, Mike Piazza, Fernando Valenzuela, Ron Cey, Don Sutton 5 World Championships, 9 Pennants, and 15 Playoff Appearances since they have been in LA. And only two of those playoff appearances since Tommy left town for Dodger retirement.


Now they sign the same manager whom only led one team to the playoffs before joining the Yankees. That team 1982 NL West Atlanta Braves. He started managing in 1977 with the Mets. Not much Dodger tradition. The Dodgers left tradition behind the day the Angles hired an entire staff of ex-Dodgers starting with Mike Scioscia.


It seems to me in recent years the team LA needs to follow, the one whose owner is not in debt, has money and the want to build what the Dodgers have lost, is the Angels and Moreno. Torre is a nice shinny Band-Aid that you get at the pediatricians office with cartoon characters. It looks cool but you still have the open wound underneath and you still have a band-aid on. Torre is not tradition except to say that he is starting to become one. One in which the Dodgers don’t win and have to cover up their mistakes with fancy cartoon band-aids.

A-Rod Sweepstakes Begins

Yankee third baseman Alex Rodriguez has declared his intent to opt out of his contract and become a free agent.

Let the A-Rod sweepstakes begin...

...And the many questions surrounding A-Rod and the Angels.

Why the Angels should get A-Rod.

He's young, healthy and one of the best players in the game. Over the past 10 years, he has averaged 45 home runs, 126 rbi and had a .302 batting average. He's above-average defensively and has 15+ steals annually. The 1-2 punch of Vladimir Guerrero and A-Rod would rival the Red Sox combination of Manny Ramirez and David Ortiz.

Where would A-Rod fit in the line up?

He would play 3rd Base, turning Chone Figgins back into an utility player. The same Chone Figgins who hit .330 for the Halos last year. It would potentially put Figgins on the trading block.

Why the Angels should NOT sign A-Rod.

Arte Moreno had already said that he doesn't think paying one player that much money ($30 million per season) is a good business decision. In addition, the length of the contract A-Rod is seeking, reportedly ten years, makes it a risky deal.

Why the Angels might surprise their fans and sign A-Rod.

They have a new general manager. New general managers like to make a splash and this would be a big one. Signing Barry Bonds would also be a big splash without committing long term money.

Has A-Rod made teams better in the past?

Yes, but not how you think. In 2001, A-Rod signed with Texas. They went from winning 71 games in 2000 to winning 73 games in 2001. A 2 game improvement. In 2004, he was traded to the Yankees, where they matched their win total of 101 from the previous year. So in the two instances of A-Rod switching teams, his new team has averaged one more win per year.

In A-Rod's last year in Seattle, the Mariners won 91 games. The next year without A-Rod, they won 116 games. A 25 game improvement! The same thing happened in Texas. In his final year as a Ranger, they had 71 wins. Their first year without him, they won 87. A 16 game improvement. Put your money on the Yankees next year if he leaves.

Will Angels fans be willing to pay for A-Rod?

The extra $30 million for A-Rod's contract has to come from somewhere. And the easiest place to get it right now is ticket revenue. Angel Stadium is already near capacity so selling more tickets isn't really an option. Unfortunately, ticket prices would have to be raised.

The Angels sold 3,365,632 tickets last season. If you divide $30,000,000 by 3,365,632, you get $8.91. In other words every ticket would have to be raised almost $9 to cover A-Rod's contract. Is that worth it to Angels fans?

Who is a more likely fit for A-Rod?

The Dodgers. Their grip on the L.A. market is weakening. It's still a Dodger town, but they don't have the Lakers/Clippers dominance that they used to.

Offseason Week In Review - October 28

It's been a quiet week for the Angels as the World Series brings Red Sox Nation to unprecedented levels of arrogance and obnoxious behavior. I guess the Chowdas suffered for years as New York was arrogant and obnoxious and then suddenly Boston beats them and they collectively decide: "Hey, we can be way more wicked awesome obnoxious."

Headlines for the past week (October 22, 2007 - October 28, 2007)

• 2008 Schedule Released
  
• 2008 Spring Training Schedule Released
  
• RP Chris Resop claimed off waivers by Atlanta

2008 Schedule Released

The Angels open on the road in Minnesota before coming back for the home opener against Texas. The Freeway Series is now the Freeway Game as the Angels and Dodgers play only once this year. The Padres are replacing the Dodgers for the remaining two preseason games.

2008 Spring Training Schedule Released

The popularity of Spring Training has really taken off in the past few years. It used to be a couple thousand fans in the sun and now it seems like there are sellouts every game. I suggest catching the Angels in Maryvale or Surprise where the crowds are smaller.

Chris Resop Claimed Off Waivers

Who's Chris Resop? Good question. The Angels got him for Kevin Gregg last season from Florida. Resop was up with the Angels for a couple of weeks in July and made 4 appearances. He had no record with an era of 4.15. At AAA-Salt Lake, he was 1-3 with a 4.57 era. Resop injured his pitching elbow in July and did not pitch the rest of the year. He has since had surgery and completed rehabilitation.

Previous Off-Season Week In Review
October 21, 2007

5 Year Anniversary

It's hard for me to believe, but today is the 5th year anniversary of the Angels 4-1 victory in Game 7. Recap of Game 7.

Arm switching controversy continues.

As the season ended just weeks ago the not much was heard about the less publicized arm switching controversy, but there are reports that it is starting up again. Sources tell us here at Rallymonkey.com that ex-GM Stoneman knew about the surgery through an "acquaintance" and that he himself might of been the very first recipient when he attempted to revive his career before heading to the Offices of the Expo's. Stay tuned for more on this breaking story.

Angels groundskeepers to hold annual canned food drive

Here is an opportunity for anyone to take batting practice on the actual field at Anaheim Stadium.

The Angels Groundskeepers will be holding their 7th annual Thanksgiving Holiday Canned Food Drive on Friday, November 16th thru Sunday, November 18th at Angel Stadium of Anaheim. Hours for the food drive will be 8 AM - 5 PM. Participants can enter Angel Stadium through Gate #1.

Fans will have the opportunity to step up to the plate at Angel Stadium and take a swing for the fences. Donations of two cans of food will be good for one swing against a pitching machine with a maximum of 20 pitches per participant. Fans may also donate $2 per pitch as well. Speed pitch machines will also be set up in the bullpens giving fans the opportunity to test their pitching skills for a donation of one canned food item or $1 per pitch. Additionally, fans will have the opportunity to shag fly balls in the outfield for a donation of $25 for 15 minutes. The Angels will provide bats, balls and helmets.

All proceeds will benefit the Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County in the fight against hunger during the holiday season. Those who are unable to attend but would still like to make a monetary donation, may send checks to: Second Harvest Food Bank, 426-A West Almond, Orange, CA 92866 or visit their website at www.feedoc.org

2008 Angels Spring Training Schedule Announced

The Angels return to Tempe next February for Spring Training.

Here is the tentative schedule (updated 2/2/08)

2/28 vs Texas (Tempe) 12:05 PM
2/29 at Texas (Surprise) 12:05 PM
3/1 vs Cubs (Tempe) 12:05 PM
3/2 at Milwaukee (Maryvale) 12:05 PM
3/3 vs Oakland (Tempe) 12:05 PM
3/4 at White Sox (Tucson) 12:05 PM
3/5 at Seattle (Peoria) 12:05 PM
3/6 vs San Francisco (Tempe) 12:05 PM
3/7 vs White Sox (Tempe) 12:05 PM
3/8 vs San Francisco(SS) (Tempe) 12:05 PM
3/8 at Colorado(SS) (Tucson) 12:05 PM
3/9 vs Texas (Tempe) 1:05 PM
3/10 vs Oakland (Tempe) 1:05 PM
3/11 at San Diego (Peoria) 1:05 PM
3/12 vs Kansas City (Tempe) 1:05 PM
3/13 at Kansas City (Surprise) 1:05pm
3/14 at Chicago Cubs (Mesa) 1:05 PM
3/15 vs Arizona (Tempe) 1:05 PM
3/16 at Chicago Cubs(SS) (Mesa) 1:05 PM
3/16 at San Francisco(SS) (Scottsdale) 1:05 PM
3/17 -- OFF-DAY
3/18 vs Milwaukee (Tempe) 1:05 PM
3/19 at Oakland (Phoenix) 12:05 PM
3/20 vs San Francisco (Tempe) 1:05 PM
3/21 at Texas (Surprise) 6:05 PM
3/22 at Dodgers (Phoenix) 1:05 PM
3/23 vs Seattle (Tempe) 1:05 PM
3/24 vs San Diego (Tempe) 1:05 PM
3/25 at Arizona (Tucson) 1:05 PM
3/26 vs Chicago Cubs (Tempe) 1:05 PM
3/27 vs Colorado(SS) (Tempe) 12:05 PM
3/27 vs Los Angeles(SS) (Angel Stadium) 7:05 PM
3/28 at San Diego (Petco Park) 7:05 PM
3/29 vs San Diego (Angel Stadium) 6:05 PM

(ss) means split-squad. 1/2 of the team goes to each game. If there is a home split squad game and a road split squad game, expect to see the better players play at home.

2008 Angels Schedule Released

The Angels will open the season in Minnesota in 2008 with the home opener coming April 4th against Texas. The Angels also finish the season at home against Texas.

The Mets, Braves and Dodgers will visit Anaheim during interleague play. The Angels will play at the Dodgers, Phillies and Nationals as well.

Here's a look at the tentative schedule

March 31 - April 3 at Minnesota
April 4 - 6 Texas
April 7 - 9 Cleveland
April 11 - 13 at Seattle
April 14 - 15 at Texas
April 16 - 17 Kansas City
April 18 - 20 Seattle
April 22 - 24 at Boston
April 25 - 27 at Detroit
April 28 - May 1 Oakland

May 2 - 4 Baltimore
May 5 - 7 at Kansas City
May 9 - 11 at Tampa Bay
May 12 - 15 Chicago
May 16 - 18 Dodgers (interleague)
May 20 - 22 at Toronto
May 23 - 25 at Chicago
May 26 - 28 Detroit
May 30 - June 1 Toronto

June 2-4 at Seattle
June 6-8 at Oakland
June 9-11 Tampa Bay
June 13-15 Atlanta (interleague)
June 16-18 NY Mets (interleague)
June 20-22 at Philadelphia (interleague)
June 23-25 at Washington (interleague)
June 27-29 at Dodgers (interleague)
June 30 - July 2 Oakland

July 4-6 Toronto
July 7-10 at Texas
July 11-13 at Oakland
July 18-20 Boston
July 21-23 Cleveland
July 25-27 at Baltimore
July 28-30 at Boston
July 31 - August 3 at New York

August 4-6 Baltimore
August 8-10 New York
August 12-13 Seattle
August 15-17 at Cleveland
August 18-20 at Tampa Bay
August 21-24 Minnesota
August 25-27 Oakland
August 28-31 Texas

September 2-4 at Detroit
September 5-7 at Chicago
September 8-10 New York
September 11-14 Seattle
September 16-18 at Oakland
September 19-21 at Texas
September 22-25 at Seattle
September 26-28 Texas

Offseason Week In Review - October 21

Headlines for the past week (October 15, 2007 - October 21, 2007)

• Stoneman Resigns
• Reagins Introduced as new GM
• Paul Byrd accused of HGH use while with Angels
  

Stoneman Resigns

The first big move of the offseason was made Tuesday as the Angels general manager, Bill Stoneman, resigned. Stoneman cited lack of energy as a primary reason for resigning. He is going to stay with the organization as a consultant to Arte Moreno.

Stoneman spent eight years as the Angels general manager including the team's only World Series title in 2002. He was responsible for bringing big free agents like Vladimir Guerrero and Bartolo Colon to the team as well as keeping homegrown talent (John Lackey, Francisco Rodriguez, Scot Shields, Howie Kendrick, Casey Kotchman) around.

Reagins Introduced As New General Manager

Tony Reagins was introduced as the man to replace Bill Stoneman as general manager of the Angels. Reagins was currently the Director of Player Development for the past six seasons for the Angels.

A former media intern, Reagins worked his way up the ladder in the Angels organization.

What remains to be seen is who has the power? Reagins, Scioscia or Morneo?

Ex-Angel Paul Byrd Accused Of HGH use

Indians pitcher Paul Byrd was accused of ordering human growth hormone from 2002-2005. Byrd did not deny taking the drug. Rather, he said that major league baseball knew of his prescription and permitted him to take it. He pitched for the Angels in 2005.

Bill Stoneman era over in the OC?

Bill Stoneman, who built the Angels' only World Series championship team, presiding over the most successful period in franchise history, is expected to step down after eight years as general manager.

Stoneman's eight-year tenure as Angels GM is the longest since the franchise's first GM, Fred Haney, held the position for the Angels' first eight seasons. Though he was often criticized for a reluctance to make trades, the Angels had four 90-win seasons, made the playoffs four of the past six years, won the division three of the past four and became World Series champions for the first time in franchise history in 2002 during Stoneman's tenure.

The Angels have called a news conference for Tuesday at 11:30 a.m. to make what is billed as "a major announcement." The Angels would not comment on the record but indications are the announcement will be Stoneman's decision to step down as GM after eight years and move into a consultant's role with the team.

"It's going to be a baseball operations-related press conference," Angels spokesman Tim Mead said.

Multiple reports said Stoneman will remain with the organization as a consultant.
The Los Angeles Times reported on its Web site that Tony Reagins, the Angels' director of player development, is expected to become the new GM.

Los Angeles won its third AL West title in four years this season, but was swept out of the playoffs in three games by the Red Sox in the division series. The closest the Angels have come to returning to the World Series was in 2005, when they lost to the Chi Sox in the AL Championship Series. Angel fans won't easily forget the AJ Pierzinski-Doug Eddings-Josh Paul incident.

The Angels have made the postseason only seven times in their 47-year history, and four of those appearances came after Stoneman became their GM in the winter of 1999. After not reaching the playoffs since 1986, the Angels earned a postseason berth as a wild card in 2002 and beat the New York Yankees and Twins in the AL playoffs before defeating the Giants in seven games to win the World Series.

Stoneman, 63, was hired after the 1999 season. When Arte Moreno purchased the team in May 2003, Stoneman was given a contract extension. That contract ended with the 2007 season but included a mutual option for Stoneman to either continue as GM or step into a consultant's role.

Reagins, 40, is a 1991 graduate of Cal State Fullerton who has been working in the Angels' organization since 1992. He started as an intern in baseball operations and the marketing department then spent four years as the Angels' manager of baseball operations before being promoted to director of player development six years ago. Abe Flores is currently the Angels' manager of baseball operations and would be in line to replace Reagins as director of player development.

Under Reagins' direction, the Angels' minor-league system has become one of the most well-stocked and well-respected in baseball. Fifteen of the 25 players on the Angels' playoff roster against the Boston Red Sox were products of the team's farm system, the most homegrown players among the eight teams that qualified for postseason play this season.

Stoneman's decision to step aside -- and Moreno's apparent decision to promote Reagins -- leaves the Angels with a rookie general manager at the start of an off-season in which Alex Rodriguez and Barry Bonds could provide big-name options in the seemingly annual quest for a big bat.

Reading the Articles

Ok it has been a few days now since the Halo’s were eliminated. I had a few phone calls and another few conversations with some of the people I work with on my feelings on what happened with the Halo’s. Well here they are. I did not read anything about the team tell this morning. Why? Was I depressed? Angry? Hoping it was all a bad dream? No is the simple answer. I just did not want to read or listen to people bash Scioscia and the Angels players. T.J. Simers, Bill Plashke of the LA Times make me just… well I don’t know how to even explain it.

Are they fans? Probably not. They came from towns far far away. T.J. Simers attended Northern Illinois University in DeKalb, Ill. Bill Plaschke was born in Louisville, Ky., and worked in Fort Lauderdale and Seattle before joining the Los Angeles Times in 1987. They write the articles they write not as viewers telling you what you may not know or have not heard yet, but they write articles to make noise. Cause a stir. They may watch the game; they may even enjoy the game. But do they root for the Halo’s. Do they watch with regularity? No is my guess because after reading some of their articles they seem to be going for the flash and show.

In TJ Simers article, he talks about Scioscia blowing it. “Two weeks ago Sunday, the Angels, Boston Red Sox and Cleveland Indians each had 92 wins, the Angels clinching and soaking themselves with champagne after securing a playoff berth.’ ’ Six games to play, time to go all out to give themselves the best chance of winning it all, and they proved my point -- unable to play their game effectively on the road, they couldn't even take advantage of a schedule calling for them to play against down-and-out teams in Texas and Oakland.” Ok this is a snippet of the article but all he does is say how Mike screwed up by not playing everyone like they were fighting for their lives. But I know for a fact that he could not have watched the team over the past month or else he would of realized we not only limped into the playoffs mostly on the backs of Seattle’s poor play, but we did it with a team that hardly looked like the team that won the first 80 or so games.

Yes we were hurt. Is that an excuse? No not from me, or from Scioscia but it is a fact we were hurt. We got our asses handed to us by a better team. Would home field have helped? Maybe, who knows? From GA’s eye, Vlad’s arm, the total absence of Mathews and the bullpen that had blown up over the second half of the year no wonder we got shelled.

Game two should have been ours. From the called strike that was a foot out on Kendrick that should have been ball four, to the catch made by the Boston owners son out of the glove of Mathis. We should have had that game. But Manny came through for them. That’s was a shame but shit happens.

Now Plaschke he is selling himself for more TV time and he now writes just to do that, sell himself. He is a TV whore. So I will not go into his nonsense except to say that Vlad did not choke like A Rod. He could not. A Rod played healthy, not happy but at least healthy. Vlad seemed to be happy but not healthy, probably not happy about loosing but just happy to be where he is at this point in his life. The comparison is not even close. So just remember if you read the LA Times just take it with a grain of salt, or a bag. They are trying to sell newspapers and become TV stars on ESPN. I do not know how to end this article except to say things are going to be interesting this fall and winter with free agents and the what if with A Rod. The team could look very much the same next season or it could be totally revamped. Stoneman could turn some heads this off-season.

ALDS Excuses

Fielding questions about the Angels' loss in the ALDS...

The Angels need a big bat.

True. If you think about it, there are probably 30 teams in baseball who would like an additional "big bat". In this series, I don't think one big bat wouldn't have been enough, unless that bat was Manny Ramirez or David Ortiz. The "big bat" every Angel fan talks about is Alex Rodriguez. He would've been no help. In three playoff games this season, he has two singles.

The Red Sox own the Angels.

For many years, the Yankees absolutely owned the Red Sox. I think we're seeing that now with the Red Sox owning the Angels. There is no good explanation for it. The Sox are just a thorn in the Angels side. The same might be said about the Angels owning the Yankees.

Scioscia should have tried for homefield advantage.

False. Didn't you see how banged up the Angels were? Matthews couldn't even be on the postseason roster. Vlad was hobbled. There was no reason for Scioscia to push these guys to try and get home field advantage. Plus, in the past several seasons, the team with home field advantage has lost a majority of the series.

Stoneman should have made some trades.

The Atlanta Braves traded their future for Mark Teixeira. Are the Braves in the postseason? No. Did they even qualify for the playoffs? No. Did their record improve with Teixeira? No. (.523 pre-trade, .509 after trade.)

Dice-K vs Escobar

The Angels have never faced Dice-K, so there are no batter-pitcher reports there.  Likewise, the Red Sox did not face Kelvim Escobar this year.  Escobar has seen the Red Sox many times in his past and has fared pretty well.

Escobar as an Angel against Boston

YEAR G GS   IP W-L ER   ERA
2004 1  1  6.0 0-1  3  4.50
2005 2  1  7.2 0-0  0  0.00
2006 2  2 14.0 1-1  7  4.50
2007 0  0  0.0 0-0  0  0.00
Tot  5  4 27.2 1-2 10  3.26

In 2006, Escobar made two starts against the Red Sox.  He won his start at Boston (2 er in 6.0 ip) and lost at home (5 er in 8.0 ip).

In 2005, Escobar made one start at Fenway and allowed only 1 unearned run in 6 innings and received a no decision.

In 2004, Escobar pitched once against the Sox at Fenway and lost giving up 3 er in 6 ip.


Dice-K at Fenway

14 career starts
8-4 record
4.86 era
1.34 whip
.266 baa


Kelvim Escobar at Fenway

21 careerappearances
7 career starts
4-3 record
4.30 era
1.40 whip
.238 baa

Red Sox vs Kelvim Escobar (career)
           H/AB HR   AVG   OPS
Crisp      5/14  0  .357  .971
Drew       1/5   0  .200  .533
Lowell     5/15  0  .333  .733
Lugo       4/7   1  .571 1.600
Ortiz      4/24  1  .167  .551
Pedroia    0/4   0  .000  .000
Ramirez    7/32  1  .219  .748
Varitek    7/21  0  .333  .833
Youkilis   1/6   0  .167  .333

Magic

I remember back in 2002 I was working at a bad job, but a job that let me watch my Angels on TV. Funny thing was I had just moved to the Bay Area and even though I was a few hundred miles away from Anaheim I knew that there was something special going on. I could feel it from before they clinched a playoff spot. I watched them in Oakland as they beat the A’s just before the playoffs started. And when the playoffs did start I just knew it was magical. I went out and purchased a 3 inch screen portable TV, (later returned thanks to Target's wonderful return policy) and just knew I would get a lot of use out of it for a month.

Thanks to Scott Spiezio, Adam Kennedy, David Eckstein, Troy Glaus, Garret Anderson, Tim Salmon, Bengie Molina, Troy Percival, Chone Figgins (man he could run), Francisco Rodriguez and others I knew my layaway plan was going to pay off. Magic was in the air.

It was like going into Disneyland as a kid and being in awe of everything. We started with a loss in every one of those playoff series, but I knew we were going to win. And win we did over and over again. Sure there were a few loses sprinkled in, three in the World Series. But even after a lose it was no problem. We had magic.

Before that year we would hear things about the curse that was holding the Halo’s back, it was something to do with an Indian burial ground. I personally think it was due to the 12 or more cups of coffee Perci would drink during a game. JK. But we won and ever since then things have not felt as they did that year.

Was the magic lost with the World Series Championship? No, I do not think so. I still go back to Disneyland and even though I worked there and have seen it in its worst, it is still a magical place. One my five month old will experience this winter. But before then, I also want to think of the magic I feel when I watch the games like I did in 2002, because even though I have been to Disneyland and seen the World Series Trophy, it's still magical and I still think that nothing is going to stop me wishing on a star and believing what I know in my bright Red Angel Fan heart.

It's Just One Game

Yesterday's game was just one loss. Just like the one loss to the Yankees in 2002 or the Twins in 2002 or the Giants in 2002 or the Yankees in 2005.

In fact, in every post season series the Angels have won in their history, they have lost game one.

But this game was different. Not that the Angels had to win, but they had to have a good showing and that was definitely not the case.

I'm not worried about the home field advantage/disadvantage or the Fenway Mystique. I'm worried because the Angels bats seem to have picked up from where they left off two years ago against the White Sox.

In their last five playoff games, the Angels have averaged 1.6 runs per game on 4.8 hits per game. Those numbers aren't going to get you very far.

Hopefully, the Red Sox are taking this day off to bask in the glory of their Halo Domination. Maybe their overconfidence will allow the Angels to steal one tomorrow and then come home and take care of business. Hopefully.

Angels post season results after losing the first game of the series (4 series wins - 2 series losses)

1979 ALCS Angels lose game 1 at Baltimore 6-3 and lose the series 3 games to 1.

2002 ALDS Angels lose game 1 at New York 8-5 and win the series 3 games to 1.

2002 ALCS Angels lose game 1 at Minnesota 2-1 and win the series 4 games to 1.

2002 WS Angels lose game 1 at home to the Giants 4-3 and win the series 4 games to 3.

2004 ALDS Angels lose game 1 at home to the Red Sox 9-3 and lose the series 3 games to 0.

2005 ALDS Angels lose game 1 at home to the Yankees 4-2 and win the series 3 games to 2.

2007 ALDS Angels lose game 1 at Boston 4-0 and...

Angels post season results after winning the first game of the series (0 series wins - 3 series losses)

1982 ALCS Angels win game 1 at home against Milwaukee 8-3 and lose the

1986 ALCS Angels win game 1 at home against Boston 8-1 and lose the series 4 games to 3.

2005 ALCS Angels win game 1 at Chicago and lose the series 4 games to 1.

Good Grief, Not Another Complete Game

Add Josh Beckett to the list.

That's now 5 consecutive post season games where the Angels have not seen a reliever.

Beckett only threw one complete game all season and it was an 8-inning 1-0 loss at Cleveland.

Daisuke Matsuzaka starts in Game 2 of the series on Friday. He too has only thrown one complete game this season. Does he dare be the pitcher who breaks the streak?

I'm not sure what to think. I'm not ready to jump off the bridge and call Mike Scioscia the Marty Schottenheimer of baseball, but unless they show some offensive signs of life on Friday, the powers behind "Angel Baseball" might want to revamp the blueprint.

Consecutive post season complete games thrown against the Angels

Josh Beckett 10/3/07 - Boston 4, Angels 0
Jose Contreras 10/16/05 - White Sox 6, Angels 3
Freddy Garcia 10/15/05 - White Sox 8, Angels 2
Jon Garland 10/14/05 - White Sox 5, Angels 2
Mark Buehrle 10/12/05 - White Sox 2, Angels 1

In the 5 games the Angels have a total of 24 hits - 4.8 per game.

Game 1 Batter vs Pitcher Breakdown

Josh Beckett at Fenway
34 career starts
16-11 record
4.51 era
1.22 whip
.244 baa

Angels vs Josh Beckett (career)
            H/AB HR   AVG    OPS
G.A.        4/10  0  .400  1.100
Cabrera     9/32  1  .281   .667
Figgins     1/8   0  .125   .425
Vlad        5/23  1  .217   .771
Maicer      4/17  0  .235   .572
Howie       3/8   0  .375   .750
Kotchman    1/3   0  .333   .667
Napoli      0/4   0  .000   .000
Willits     0/2   0  .000   .000
Rivera      1/10  0  .100   .350

John Lackey at Fenway

7 career starts
1-4 record
7.46 era
2.03 whip
.362 baa

Red Sox vs John Lackey (career)
            H/AB HR   AVG    OPS
Crisp       4/22  2  .182   .705
Drew        5/11  0  .455  1.227
Lowell      3/12  0  .250   .500
Lugo        4/18  0  .222   .578
Ortiz      10/26  2  .385  1.274
Pedroia      2/6  0  .333   .833
Ramirez    10/23  4  .435  1.668
Varitek     5/18  0  .278   .825
Youkilis    3/10  0  .300   .600

Everything "They" tell you about the playoffs is wrong

The baseball postseason is like no other sport. What might be true in the NFL, NBA or NHL playoffs is not true in baseball. It is it's own beast. Any team really can win. So here are three things the media tell you that are statistically wrong.

1. The best teams have the best chance of winning the World Series.

I wrote about this back in early August (link) and found that regular season record has absolutely no bearing on postseason success. In the Wild Card era, 18 teams have finished with 100 wins or more during the regular season and only one of them (1998 Yankees) won the World Series. Incredibly two teams with less than 90 wins have won the World Series - 2006 Cardinals (83-78) and the 2000 Yankees (87-74).

 Wins     Teams     Titles Percent
100-116     17        1         5.9%
95-99       31        4        12.9%
90-94       25        4        16.0%
82-89       15        2        13.3%

2. Home field advantage is an advantage.

I wrote about this last week (link). I researched the past 8 years (56 series) and found that the home team wins only 45% of the series. I only researched 8 years because prior to that the Division Sereies had a 3-2 format instead of the 2-2-1 format.

Records of Teams with Home Field Advantage
2006 1-6 .143 (Home team won 1 series and lost 6)
2005 5-2 .714
2004 4-3 .571
2003 2-5 .286
2002 1-6 .143
2001 5-2 .714
2000 3-4 .429
1999 4-3 .571
Tot 25-31 .446

3. To win it all you have to have momentum.

I just researched this back to 1999. 56 series should be enough to get some decent data. Momentum is hard to quantify, but I decided to use the team's record in their last 10 games heading into the playoffs. It's a stat we're all familiar with which makes it as good as any other.

2007 Records (Last 10) of playoff teams

BOS 6-4
NYY 6-4
CLE 6-4
LAA 4-6

COL 9-1
PHI 7-3
CHC 6-4
ARI 5-5
SDG 4-6

Either Colorado or San Diego will be eliminated later today.

The average post season team enters the postseason going 6-4 in their past 10 games. In the past 8 seasons 15 teams have gone 6-4 while 25 teams have been better and 24 teams have been worse. If you believe in momentum the numbers should surprise you.

Last 10	Teams	Series Wins	WS Titles
7-3 or better	25	22-21 (.512)	4
6-4	15	12-15 (.444)	0
5-5 or worse	24	22-20 (524)	4

Looking at it, there is no bearing on World Series titles or series wins based on momentum. Here's the chart broken down a bit further.

Last 10	Teams	Series Wins	WS Titles
9-1	3	3-3 (.500)	0
8-2	11	8-10 (.444)	1
7-3	11	11-8 (.579)	3
6-4	15	12-15 (.444)	0
5-5	13	10-12 (.455)	1
4-6	8	6-7 (.462)	1
3-7	2	3-1 (.750)	1
2-8	1	3-0 (1.000)	1

I'm not trying to say that you want to finish 7-3 like the Phillies. The point here is that momentum has no bearing on winning the World Series.

Regular season record, home field advantage and momentum are all myths when it comes to the baseball playoffs. The truth is every team has a 1 in 8 chance of winning it.

I'm not trying to explain why baseball is like this; I'm just saying that if you look at the history of the playoffs, it's anybody's game.