Are the A's playoff-caliber?
Five best trade fits for Cole Hamels.
Second Look: Fernandez, Taillon.
How Mark Trumbo has improved.
Rumors.
There weren't many expectations for the Oakland Athletics entering this season. They made a splash for Yoenis Cespedes, but no one really knew what to make of the Cuban outfielder entering the season. The Josh Reddick trade seemed promising, as did the acquisition of Seth Smith, but they were tempered by the loss of Josh Willingham, to say nothing of the rebuilding tenor of the Trevor Cahill and Gio Gonzalez trades. Oakland started the season 29th in the ESPN Power Rankings, and when it came out of the gate slowly, the club seemed easy to dismiss.
But since the end of May, the A's have heated up. They posted their first winning record of the season in June, and they have been a house afire in July. They are 14-2 for the month, including a just-completed four-game sweep of the New York Yankees. As a result, they have moved up to a season-best 12th in the rankings this week.
The knock on Oakland, as we discussed two weeks ago, is always its offense. That is still the case, but will it become a crippling factor in Oakland's playoff hopes?
Where the A's stand
How American League teams have done in June-July in runs per game, runs allowed per game and run differential. (Sorted by the latter.)
Team RS/G RA/G Diff.
NYY 5.04 3.69 1.36
OAK 4.50 3.25 1.25
LAA 5.32 4.45 0.86
DET 4.82 4.22 0.60
BOS 4.69 4.13 0.56
TOR 5.16 5.09 0.07
CHW 4.52 4.48 0.05
TEX 4.23 4.21 0.02
TB 4.00 4.18 -0.18
SEA 3.77 4.11 -0.34
MIN 4.64 5.00 -0.36
CLE 4.38 4.89 -0.51
KC 4.24 4.96 -0.71
BAL 3.75 4.93 -1.18
Since the start of June, Oakland ranks just eighth in the American League in runs per game. Still, the A's have hit better than the Texas Rangers, whom they are chasing (see chart).
Texas has slipped while Oakland has gained a foothold in the standings, preventing the Rangers from running away with the division. And while they aren't the Rangers' only competition for the AL West crown, the A's are arguably playing better than the Los Angeles Angels right now as well. The Angels' rotation, and particularly Ervin Santana, has seen better days: Entering Sunday, their pitching staff was the only one in baseball that had been worth negative WAR this month.
Oakland's pitching staff, meanwhile, is running on all cylinders. We can see in the chart that the only team with a better run differential since the start of June is the Yankees, whom Oakland just finished browbeating. Tommy Milone and Jarrod Parker have stepped up in Brandon McCarthy's absence. Milone has had the tendency to go boom during road starts -- he has allowed six or more runs in three different road starts this season -- but he has shown that he can hang tough on the road against some offenses.
Parker simply has been good against everyone. After allowing two runs or fewer in 11 of his first 13 starts this season, the 23-year-old righty took a left and right cross, allowing six and four runs to the Seattle Mariners and Minnesota Twins, respectively, in consecutive starts. But before a panic could settle in, he held the Yankees to one run in eight innings Saturday, generating the best single-game WPA of his young career in the process.
A lot of the staff's success has to do with clamping down on walks. At the end of June, their BB/9 was 3.35, but in July it is 1.65 -- easily the best in the majors. The A's strike out fewer batters than most pitching staffs and don't generate as many ground balls as most teams, either. That formula is perfect at their spacious home park, which limits home runs.
Now, to be sure, there has been a little bit of good fortune involved in this run. It's pretty rare to have six walk-off wins so closely bunched together. But Oakland's 16-12 record in one-run games doesn't scream out as a regression candidate. It is the fifth-best winning percentage for such games in the majors this year, but it is grouped more with the teams that rank in the 10 spots behind them than it is with the top four spots (for instance, the Baltimore Orioles are No. 1 with a 19-6 record in one-run games). The A's also have played a tough schedule -- 58 of their 95 games have been against teams better than .500. The A's are 33-25 in those contests.
What's more, the lineup is no longer filled with easy outs. The outfield, in particular, has done a fantastic job. As David Schoenfield noted last night, Cespedes and Reddick have stood tall, but they have been joined by Jonny Gomes and Smith to give them four above-average hitting outfielders. All together, the outfield as a unit has a 121 wRC+, good for fifth in the game.
The team still could use some help, of course. Brandon Inge and Cliff Pennington are replaceable veterans, especially because Pennington is now on the disabled list. Oakland probably isn't excited at the possibility of taking on additional salary, but if it was, acquiring old friend Marco Scutaro and/or Chase Headley or Aramis Ramirez would help the offense.
The A's have played fantastic baseball the past two months, and in doing so have put themselves in the hunt for the playoffs. They are now tied for the lead in the wild-card race with the Angels and Orioles and don't appear to be a fluke. Both the starting pitching and the work from the bullpen has been tremendous, and if they get anything down the stretch from either McCarthy or Brett Anderson, they will become even more formidable.
It took the A's two months to get going, but continuing to overlook them would be unwise.
Paul Swydan covers baseball for ESPN Insider. He has been writing about baseball for various publications since 2005, and can most frequently be found writing for FanGraphs. You can find his ESPN archives here, and follow him on Twitter here.
But since the end of May, the A's have heated up. They posted their first winning record of the season in June, and they have been a house afire in July. They are 14-2 for the month, including a just-completed four-game sweep of the New York Yankees. As a result, they have moved up to a season-best 12th in the rankings this week.
The knock on Oakland, as we discussed two weeks ago, is always its offense. That is still the case, but will it become a crippling factor in Oakland's playoff hopes?
Where the A's stand
How American League teams have done in June-July in runs per game, runs allowed per game and run differential. (Sorted by the latter.)
Team RS/G RA/G Diff.
NYY 5.04 3.69 1.36
OAK 4.50 3.25 1.25
LAA 5.32 4.45 0.86
DET 4.82 4.22 0.60
BOS 4.69 4.13 0.56
TOR 5.16 5.09 0.07
CHW 4.52 4.48 0.05
TEX 4.23 4.21 0.02
TB 4.00 4.18 -0.18
SEA 3.77 4.11 -0.34
MIN 4.64 5.00 -0.36
CLE 4.38 4.89 -0.51
KC 4.24 4.96 -0.71
BAL 3.75 4.93 -1.18
Since the start of June, Oakland ranks just eighth in the American League in runs per game. Still, the A's have hit better than the Texas Rangers, whom they are chasing (see chart).
Texas has slipped while Oakland has gained a foothold in the standings, preventing the Rangers from running away with the division. And while they aren't the Rangers' only competition for the AL West crown, the A's are arguably playing better than the Los Angeles Angels right now as well. The Angels' rotation, and particularly Ervin Santana, has seen better days: Entering Sunday, their pitching staff was the only one in baseball that had been worth negative WAR this month.
Oakland's pitching staff, meanwhile, is running on all cylinders. We can see in the chart that the only team with a better run differential since the start of June is the Yankees, whom Oakland just finished browbeating. Tommy Milone and Jarrod Parker have stepped up in Brandon McCarthy's absence. Milone has had the tendency to go boom during road starts -- he has allowed six or more runs in three different road starts this season -- but he has shown that he can hang tough on the road against some offenses.
Parker simply has been good against everyone. After allowing two runs or fewer in 11 of his first 13 starts this season, the 23-year-old righty took a left and right cross, allowing six and four runs to the Seattle Mariners and Minnesota Twins, respectively, in consecutive starts. But before a panic could settle in, he held the Yankees to one run in eight innings Saturday, generating the best single-game WPA of his young career in the process.
A lot of the staff's success has to do with clamping down on walks. At the end of June, their BB/9 was 3.35, but in July it is 1.65 -- easily the best in the majors. The A's strike out fewer batters than most pitching staffs and don't generate as many ground balls as most teams, either. That formula is perfect at their spacious home park, which limits home runs.
Now, to be sure, there has been a little bit of good fortune involved in this run. It's pretty rare to have six walk-off wins so closely bunched together. But Oakland's 16-12 record in one-run games doesn't scream out as a regression candidate. It is the fifth-best winning percentage for such games in the majors this year, but it is grouped more with the teams that rank in the 10 spots behind them than it is with the top four spots (for instance, the Baltimore Orioles are No. 1 with a 19-6 record in one-run games). The A's also have played a tough schedule -- 58 of their 95 games have been against teams better than .500. The A's are 33-25 in those contests.
What's more, the lineup is no longer filled with easy outs. The outfield, in particular, has done a fantastic job. As David Schoenfield noted last night, Cespedes and Reddick have stood tall, but they have been joined by Jonny Gomes and Smith to give them four above-average hitting outfielders. All together, the outfield as a unit has a 121 wRC+, good for fifth in the game.
The team still could use some help, of course. Brandon Inge and Cliff Pennington are replaceable veterans, especially because Pennington is now on the disabled list. Oakland probably isn't excited at the possibility of taking on additional salary, but if it was, acquiring old friend Marco Scutaro and/or Chase Headley or Aramis Ramirez would help the offense.
The A's have played fantastic baseball the past two months, and in doing so have put themselves in the hunt for the playoffs. They are now tied for the lead in the wild-card race with the Angels and Orioles and don't appear to be a fluke. Both the starting pitching and the work from the bullpen has been tremendous, and if they get anything down the stretch from either McCarthy or Brett Anderson, they will become even more formidable.
It took the A's two months to get going, but continuing to overlook them would be unwise.
Paul Swydan covers baseball for ESPN Insider. He has been writing about baseball for various publications since 2005, and can most frequently be found writing for FanGraphs. You can find his ESPN archives here, and follow him on Twitter here.
Five best trade fits for Cole Hamels.
Philadelphia Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. and the agent for Cole Hamels continue to work toward a six-year deal that could get consummated early this week, and it's a contract that could wind up in the $140 million range and make Hamels one of the highest paid pitchers in baseball history.
However, it's always possible that those negotiations could stall, and Hamels could decide he wants to test the free agent market this winter. Amaro has always done his due diligence as GM of the Phillies, and he's prepared for such a scenario. While contract talks continue, Amaro is monitoring the trade market in advance of the July 31 trade deadline, and there are several clubs that would be willing to trade significant talent for Hamels, even for a two-month rental and even with the new collective bargaining agreement which says that you can't reap draft-pick compensation for a player who didn't spend the entire season with your club.
Before Sunday night's game between the Texas Rangers and Los Angeles Angels, I asked Rangers manager Ron Washington if his club would be willing to trade significant prospects for a rental. He said they would (although not top prospect Jurickson Profar) because you have to take advantage of their window to win a World Series. I also briefly spoke with Angels GM Jerry Dipoto who conveyed the trade market was extremely difficult this year with so many teams in the race, but was holding out hope they’d find a way to make a deal between now and the deadline.
If you're looking for the ideal trade fits for the Phillies and Hamels, if the two parties can't come to terms this week, you have to start with those two clubs mentioned above, but they're not the only possibilities. Here's a look at the five best trade fits for Cole Hamels.
1. Texas Rangers
Two years ago, the Rangers included Justin Smoak and Blake Beavan (two recent first-round picks) in a midseason deal for Cliff Lee, so we know GM Jon Daniels is not afraid to give up a lot to get a lot, not to mention the fact that Texas has one of the deepest systems in baseball. The Rangers will not trade Jurickson Profar -- arguably the top prospect in all of baseball -- but they would probably include third baseman Mike Olt, their second-best position prospect, or Martin Perez, their top pitching prospect, to get Hamels. They might have to include right-hander Tanner Scheppers or lefty Robbie Ross in the deal to get it done, but it’s package that is probably the most tempting of any of the clubs that would have interest in a rental. There are also some whispers that they might be willing to substitute Neftali Feliz if the Phillies wanted to take the health risk on him.
2. Los Angeles Angels
The Angels would have to include Garrett Richards or John Hellweg, who are their two top young starting pitching prospects, along with top infield prospect Jean Segura. The Phillies would like to get Peter Bourjos in the deal to solve their center field position for life after Shane Victorino, but the Angels want to hold on to him with Torii Hunter an impending free agent and questions where Mark Trumbo’s best long-term position will be.
3. Washington Nationals
Nats GM Mike Rizzo appears to be set on shutting down Stephen Strasburg at some point this season, a move that will take away the team's No. 1 starter before the postseason. The one way the Nationals could overcome that baseball decision would be to trade for Hamels. It's somewhat unlikely that the Phillies would trade Hamels within their division, but the Nationals have a good farm system, and if they dangled either third basemen Anthony Rendon (who's incredibly talented but seems to be injury prone) or right-hander Alex Meyer along with one of their mid-level bullpen prospects, the Phillies would have to listen. Rendon could solve third base for the next decade, or Meyer would give them a No. 3 starter who has potential for more. But as we've seen from the Nats with their handling of Strasburg, they are focused on the long term, so don't bet on them trading top prospects for a rental. Still, the pieces are there if they want to make a move.
4. Los Angeles Dodgers
The Dodgers could offer an impressive package of pitching prospects including right-hander Zach Lee and either righty Garrett Gould or southpaw Chris Reed. If the Phillies aren’t able to sign Hamels, a package of Lee and either Gould or Reed would be a nice return and more valuable than the draft-pick compensation they would get if Hamels leaves this winter. However, the Dodgers have an eye toward the future, and to give up that much of package, they would want a window to try and sign Hamels to a long-term contract, not to mention the fact that the Dodgers are considered the favorite to land Hamels if the SoCal native hits the market this winter.
5. St. Louis Cardinals
Like the Rangers, the Cardinals have one of the deeper systems in baseball and could easily build a package around top outfield prospect Oscar Taveras if they so choose. However, with Jaime Garcia progressing nicely in his rehab, it's hard to see the Cards paying such a premium for Hamels since they almost certainly would not re-sign him this winter. The New York Yankees, Chicago White Sox and Boston Red Sox would all love to have Hamels, but they just don’t match up as well as these other five teams in terms of need and prospect depth.
When it’s all said and done, I truly believe that Hamels will re-sign with the Phillies before July 31. But if negotiations quickly turn sour, I see the Rangers as the most likely destination, as they not only have the top prospects to deal, but also have the willingness to roll the dice even if it’s just for a rental.
However, it's always possible that those negotiations could stall, and Hamels could decide he wants to test the free agent market this winter. Amaro has always done his due diligence as GM of the Phillies, and he's prepared for such a scenario. While contract talks continue, Amaro is monitoring the trade market in advance of the July 31 trade deadline, and there are several clubs that would be willing to trade significant talent for Hamels, even for a two-month rental and even with the new collective bargaining agreement which says that you can't reap draft-pick compensation for a player who didn't spend the entire season with your club.
Before Sunday night's game between the Texas Rangers and Los Angeles Angels, I asked Rangers manager Ron Washington if his club would be willing to trade significant prospects for a rental. He said they would (although not top prospect Jurickson Profar) because you have to take advantage of their window to win a World Series. I also briefly spoke with Angels GM Jerry Dipoto who conveyed the trade market was extremely difficult this year with so many teams in the race, but was holding out hope they’d find a way to make a deal between now and the deadline.
If you're looking for the ideal trade fits for the Phillies and Hamels, if the two parties can't come to terms this week, you have to start with those two clubs mentioned above, but they're not the only possibilities. Here's a look at the five best trade fits for Cole Hamels.
1. Texas Rangers
Two years ago, the Rangers included Justin Smoak and Blake Beavan (two recent first-round picks) in a midseason deal for Cliff Lee, so we know GM Jon Daniels is not afraid to give up a lot to get a lot, not to mention the fact that Texas has one of the deepest systems in baseball. The Rangers will not trade Jurickson Profar -- arguably the top prospect in all of baseball -- but they would probably include third baseman Mike Olt, their second-best position prospect, or Martin Perez, their top pitching prospect, to get Hamels. They might have to include right-hander Tanner Scheppers or lefty Robbie Ross in the deal to get it done, but it’s package that is probably the most tempting of any of the clubs that would have interest in a rental. There are also some whispers that they might be willing to substitute Neftali Feliz if the Phillies wanted to take the health risk on him.
2. Los Angeles Angels
The Angels would have to include Garrett Richards or John Hellweg, who are their two top young starting pitching prospects, along with top infield prospect Jean Segura. The Phillies would like to get Peter Bourjos in the deal to solve their center field position for life after Shane Victorino, but the Angels want to hold on to him with Torii Hunter an impending free agent and questions where Mark Trumbo’s best long-term position will be.
3. Washington Nationals
Nats GM Mike Rizzo appears to be set on shutting down Stephen Strasburg at some point this season, a move that will take away the team's No. 1 starter before the postseason. The one way the Nationals could overcome that baseball decision would be to trade for Hamels. It's somewhat unlikely that the Phillies would trade Hamels within their division, but the Nationals have a good farm system, and if they dangled either third basemen Anthony Rendon (who's incredibly talented but seems to be injury prone) or right-hander Alex Meyer along with one of their mid-level bullpen prospects, the Phillies would have to listen. Rendon could solve third base for the next decade, or Meyer would give them a No. 3 starter who has potential for more. But as we've seen from the Nats with their handling of Strasburg, they are focused on the long term, so don't bet on them trading top prospects for a rental. Still, the pieces are there if they want to make a move.
4. Los Angeles Dodgers
The Dodgers could offer an impressive package of pitching prospects including right-hander Zach Lee and either righty Garrett Gould or southpaw Chris Reed. If the Phillies aren’t able to sign Hamels, a package of Lee and either Gould or Reed would be a nice return and more valuable than the draft-pick compensation they would get if Hamels leaves this winter. However, the Dodgers have an eye toward the future, and to give up that much of package, they would want a window to try and sign Hamels to a long-term contract, not to mention the fact that the Dodgers are considered the favorite to land Hamels if the SoCal native hits the market this winter.
5. St. Louis Cardinals
Like the Rangers, the Cardinals have one of the deeper systems in baseball and could easily build a package around top outfield prospect Oscar Taveras if they so choose. However, with Jaime Garcia progressing nicely in his rehab, it's hard to see the Cards paying such a premium for Hamels since they almost certainly would not re-sign him this winter. The New York Yankees, Chicago White Sox and Boston Red Sox would all love to have Hamels, but they just don’t match up as well as these other five teams in terms of need and prospect depth.
When it’s all said and done, I truly believe that Hamels will re-sign with the Phillies before July 31. But if negotiations quickly turn sour, I see the Rangers as the most likely destination, as they not only have the top prospects to deal, but also have the willingness to roll the dice even if it’s just for a rental.
Second Look: Fernandez, Taillon.
Jose Fernandez
Position: RHP
Level: High Class A Jupiter
Age: 20
Law's midseason ranking: 42
Fernandez was a first-round pick (14th overall) in the 2011 draft as a power arm from a Tampa high school with a powerful personal story as a Cuban defector. This has been a breakout season for him, and he has announced himself as one of the top pitching prospects in the game by carving up Sally League (low Class A) hitters. He earned a promotion to the Florida State League (high Class A) and had a dazzling showing at the Futures Game. I recently scouted Fernandez in his third FSL start in front of a boisterous cheering section in Tampa versus the Yankees affiliate (a team we'll cover later this week).
Fernandez came as advertised, with power stuff and big upside but clear areas for improvement. He isn't a typical lanky pitching prospect; instead, he has a thick lower half on an already mature 6-foot-2 frame. Fernandez was 96-98 mph in the first inning and worked 93-97, touching 98 mph for the duration of the start with a four-seam fastball that had only a little life on it, but plenty of velocity and solid command to both sides of the plate. He would only temporarily lose his release point, and he elevated with purpose for strikeouts. Fernandez didn't really miss up but also didn't live in the bottom of the zone; I counted five fly balls to one ground ball in this outing and his numbers show a persistent fly ball tendency. He also has a tendency to overthrow when he gets in a jam and to rely on his power arm.
Second Look
Here's a glimpse at the players we have covered -- and will be covering -- in our Second Look series in order of their spot on Keith Law's midseason top 50.
FEATURED PLAYERS
6. Taijuan Walker, Mariners
11. Jameson Taillon, Pirates
12. Christian Yelich, Marlins
18. Byron Buxton, Twins
19. Julio Teheran, Braves
20. Carlos Correa, Astros
21. Mason Williams, Yankees
24. Danny Hultzen, Mariners
27. Billy Hamilton, Reds
28. Gary Sanchez, Yankees
33. Hak Ju Lee, Rays
34. Matt Davidson, Diamondbacks
42. Jose Fernandez, Marlins
45. Tyler Austin, Yankees
49. Zach Lee, Dodgers
Fernandez uses his curveball liberally as an out pitch, and it's a true hammer. It has inconsistent shape and a wide 79-85 mph velocity range with depth, sweep, late bite and three-quarter tilt. Normally this inconsistency would mean he didn't have great feel for the pitch, but Fernandez had an uncanny ability to spot this pitch to both sides of the plate in order to freeze hitters; he also used it as a chase pitch and in the dirt. During warm-ups, he threw a changeup at 85-87 that flashed above-average potential, but in the game he was getting under it and couldn't throw it for a strike.
The reason Fernandez's curveball has shape and speed inconsistencies -- and that he can't spot his changeup -- is his delivery. His arm action is short and clean, and he hides the ball behind his body well, but he sets up on the first-base side of the rubber and strides past the midline of the mound. This crossfire angle causes him to throw across his body and makes it very difficult to stay on top of the ball and to finish his arm stroke consistently and completely.
Fernandez shows feel for his delivery, and this extreme angle may keep his front hip from flying open but it kills his chances to throw an effective changeup. Right now, Fernandez is a power arm that explodes at the plate, showing little finesse but flashing some feel. To reach his potential as a No. 2 starter, he'll need to learn to downshift at times but already has a floor of late-inning reliever.
Jameson Taillon
Position: RHP
Level: High Class A Bradenton
Age: 20
Law's midseason ranking: 10 | Preaseason ranking: 16
Taillon is another heralded prep arm. He was the second overall pick in the 2010 draft, from a Texas high school, and there are big expectations in his second pro season. Because of the Pirates' relatively strict approach to pitcher development, this is Taillon's first year with a chance to use his full arsenal in games; pitchers are told to throw an overwhelming amount of heaters in their first year to develop command of their fastball.
I've seen Taillon four times this year -- as recently as last Friday -- and he's shown the advertised power stuff. He'll sit at 94-96 and touch 98 mph with occasional hard, two-seam life and solid-average command at times. Taillon complements it with a true plus-plus hammer curve at 83-86 that he can spot in the zone or use as a chase pitch with 11-to-5 tilt and devastating late bite and depth. His curve was inconsistent early in the season, but Taillon has had more consistent feel recently as the shape, consistency and command of his hook have improved. Although he is a true power arm, Taillon has shown some aptitude for a changeup that flashes above-average potential -- but he'll throw it as hard as 90 mph, which is too hard relative to his fastball. There's still some work to do with this offering, and it will always be a clear third pitch for him.
Taillon's performance has been below expectations this year (4.27 ERA, 78 K's in 97 IP) and I'm a little concerned he may have trouble reaching his potential as a No. 1 starter. He has a slightly awkward arm action that goes far behind his body. This makes it easy for hitters to follow the ball and creates length that makes his arm late to catch up with his body. When he is even slightly out of sync, it's clear, because his arm gets even later and he starts spinning hard off the mound. Bottom-of-the-order hitters in A-ball still square him up more than you'd expect, a knock that came up in high school as he was too hittable for a pitcher with his stuff.
I still think Taillon has a chance to be a No. 1 starter, but his odds of reaching that upside have lowered this year. It's hard to give up on a pitcher who will regularly show two 70 pitches on the 20-80 scouting scale, and flash solid-average command and an above-average changeup out of a strong 6-6, 225-pound frame.
Kiley McDaniel has worked in the scouting departments of the New York Yankees, Baltimore Orioles and Pittsburgh Pirates, and has previously written for Baseball Prospectus.
Position: RHP
Level: High Class A Jupiter
Age: 20
Law's midseason ranking: 42
Fernandez was a first-round pick (14th overall) in the 2011 draft as a power arm from a Tampa high school with a powerful personal story as a Cuban defector. This has been a breakout season for him, and he has announced himself as one of the top pitching prospects in the game by carving up Sally League (low Class A) hitters. He earned a promotion to the Florida State League (high Class A) and had a dazzling showing at the Futures Game. I recently scouted Fernandez in his third FSL start in front of a boisterous cheering section in Tampa versus the Yankees affiliate (a team we'll cover later this week).
Fernandez came as advertised, with power stuff and big upside but clear areas for improvement. He isn't a typical lanky pitching prospect; instead, he has a thick lower half on an already mature 6-foot-2 frame. Fernandez was 96-98 mph in the first inning and worked 93-97, touching 98 mph for the duration of the start with a four-seam fastball that had only a little life on it, but plenty of velocity and solid command to both sides of the plate. He would only temporarily lose his release point, and he elevated with purpose for strikeouts. Fernandez didn't really miss up but also didn't live in the bottom of the zone; I counted five fly balls to one ground ball in this outing and his numbers show a persistent fly ball tendency. He also has a tendency to overthrow when he gets in a jam and to rely on his power arm.
Second Look
Here's a glimpse at the players we have covered -- and will be covering -- in our Second Look series in order of their spot on Keith Law's midseason top 50.
FEATURED PLAYERS
6. Taijuan Walker, Mariners
11. Jameson Taillon, Pirates
12. Christian Yelich, Marlins
18. Byron Buxton, Twins
19. Julio Teheran, Braves
20. Carlos Correa, Astros
21. Mason Williams, Yankees
24. Danny Hultzen, Mariners
27. Billy Hamilton, Reds
28. Gary Sanchez, Yankees
33. Hak Ju Lee, Rays
34. Matt Davidson, Diamondbacks
42. Jose Fernandez, Marlins
45. Tyler Austin, Yankees
49. Zach Lee, Dodgers
Fernandez uses his curveball liberally as an out pitch, and it's a true hammer. It has inconsistent shape and a wide 79-85 mph velocity range with depth, sweep, late bite and three-quarter tilt. Normally this inconsistency would mean he didn't have great feel for the pitch, but Fernandez had an uncanny ability to spot this pitch to both sides of the plate in order to freeze hitters; he also used it as a chase pitch and in the dirt. During warm-ups, he threw a changeup at 85-87 that flashed above-average potential, but in the game he was getting under it and couldn't throw it for a strike.
The reason Fernandez's curveball has shape and speed inconsistencies -- and that he can't spot his changeup -- is his delivery. His arm action is short and clean, and he hides the ball behind his body well, but he sets up on the first-base side of the rubber and strides past the midline of the mound. This crossfire angle causes him to throw across his body and makes it very difficult to stay on top of the ball and to finish his arm stroke consistently and completely.
Fernandez shows feel for his delivery, and this extreme angle may keep his front hip from flying open but it kills his chances to throw an effective changeup. Right now, Fernandez is a power arm that explodes at the plate, showing little finesse but flashing some feel. To reach his potential as a No. 2 starter, he'll need to learn to downshift at times but already has a floor of late-inning reliever.
Jameson Taillon
Position: RHP
Level: High Class A Bradenton
Age: 20
Law's midseason ranking: 10 | Preaseason ranking: 16
Taillon is another heralded prep arm. He was the second overall pick in the 2010 draft, from a Texas high school, and there are big expectations in his second pro season. Because of the Pirates' relatively strict approach to pitcher development, this is Taillon's first year with a chance to use his full arsenal in games; pitchers are told to throw an overwhelming amount of heaters in their first year to develop command of their fastball.
I've seen Taillon four times this year -- as recently as last Friday -- and he's shown the advertised power stuff. He'll sit at 94-96 and touch 98 mph with occasional hard, two-seam life and solid-average command at times. Taillon complements it with a true plus-plus hammer curve at 83-86 that he can spot in the zone or use as a chase pitch with 11-to-5 tilt and devastating late bite and depth. His curve was inconsistent early in the season, but Taillon has had more consistent feel recently as the shape, consistency and command of his hook have improved. Although he is a true power arm, Taillon has shown some aptitude for a changeup that flashes above-average potential -- but he'll throw it as hard as 90 mph, which is too hard relative to his fastball. There's still some work to do with this offering, and it will always be a clear third pitch for him.
Taillon's performance has been below expectations this year (4.27 ERA, 78 K's in 97 IP) and I'm a little concerned he may have trouble reaching his potential as a No. 1 starter. He has a slightly awkward arm action that goes far behind his body. This makes it easy for hitters to follow the ball and creates length that makes his arm late to catch up with his body. When he is even slightly out of sync, it's clear, because his arm gets even later and he starts spinning hard off the mound. Bottom-of-the-order hitters in A-ball still square him up more than you'd expect, a knock that came up in high school as he was too hittable for a pitcher with his stuff.
I still think Taillon has a chance to be a No. 1 starter, but his odds of reaching that upside have lowered this year. It's hard to give up on a pitcher who will regularly show two 70 pitches on the 20-80 scouting scale, and flash solid-average command and an above-average changeup out of a strong 6-6, 225-pound frame.
Kiley McDaniel has worked in the scouting departments of the New York Yankees, Baltimore Orioles and Pittsburgh Pirates, and has previously written for Baseball Prospectus.
How Mark Trumbo has improved.
After making arguably the biggest splash in free agency this past winter -- signing both the premier positional (Albert Pujols) and pitching (C.J. Wilson) free agents -- the Los Angeles Angels suffered through a dismal first month, posting a 9-15 record and a run differential of minus-10. It was thought that by adding Wilson to an already dominant pitching staff (and above-average defense), the Angels would benefit from arguably the best run prevention in the majors.
But while the Angels have the 11th-best ERA in the league (ninth-best park-adjusted ERA), their run prevention to this point has actually been worse than last year (sixth-best ERA, fourth-best park-adjusted ERA in 2011).
Still, fast-forward 2½ months, and the Angels currently find themselves seven games above .500 with a run differential of plus-43, sitting atop the American League wild-card standings. The biggest improvement for the Angels has been the offense, which is the fourth-best park-adjusted offense in baseball (106 wRC+) behind the division rival Texas Rangers (108 wRC+). That's a 10 percent improvement from last year's Angels team.
Pujols has been good, but he hasn't been otherworldly. That descriptor has generally been reserved for super rookie Mike Trout, who accounts for roughly 16 percent of the team's run creation. And while Trout has indeed shown that he is a once-in-a-generation player, he's not the only Angel having a breakout year. Mark Trumbo has quietly elevated his game significantly and has been a driving force in pulling the Angels out of their early-season struggles and back into postseason contention.
In his rookie campaign in 2011, Trumbo displayed the power that many observers and scouts had dreamed of, belting 29 home runs and 31 doubles. But despite posting the 24th-highest isolated power in history for a rookie with at least 550 plate appearances (.223), Trumbo was only 5 percent better offensively than league average. The reason? His inability to avoid outs.
Only 11 players posted an on-base percentage lower than Trumbo's .291 in 2011. For all of his power, Trumbo headed back to the dugout more than 70 percent of the time. Sluggers can typically make up for their lack of batting average with superior plate discipline, but Trumbo simply didn't walk enough to balance out his .254 batting average. In his 573 plate appearances last year, Trumbo posted a walk rate of only 4.4 percent. That was easily one of the worst rates in history for a rookie with more than 550 plate appearances (ranking 391st out of 433 such seasons).
But this season, Trumbo has improved his OBP nearly 70 points. His walk rate has increased to 7 percent. Although that's still not a high number, it represents almost a 60 percent improvement from last year. Trumbo has significantly reduced the number of balls he swings at outside the strike zone (36.6 percent in 2012 versus 41 percent in '11). He isn't seeing more pitches per plate appearance this year, but he is not helping pitchers out as much by chasing balls outside the strike zone.
Trumbo's increased discipline is also reflected in his ability to avoid outs when putting the ball in play. Trumbo has seen his batting average jump to .303 through Saturday's games, an improvement of nearly 50 points. Given that his strikeout rate is unchanged (roughly 21 percent this season and last), this boost is entirely the result of a better batting average on balls in play. This, of course, raises a question as to whether Trumbo has seen his average jump thanks to randomness or good fortune, or whether it's the result of an actual change.
By decreasing his number of swings outside the strike zone, Trumbo is increasing the odds that he'll square pitches up better when he puts the ball in play. This is reflected in the 10 percent decrease in Trumbo's infield fly-ball rate (17.3 percent last year versus 7 percent this year). Trumbo is simply swinging at more pitches located in zones that align with his natural power. As a result, Trumbo's isolated power has jumped to .317.
Trumbo's altered approach also can be seen in terms of where he's hitting the ball. According to Baseball Heat Maps, Trumbo is pulling fly balls and home runs significantly more in 2012. For right-handed hitters with at least 50 fly balls and home runs in 2012 and 2011, Trumbo has the third-highest increase in pull angle. This increase in pull angle has been accompanied by an increase in the average distance of these batted balls (11 feet).
Another hitter in the American League has seen a similar change in approach translate into increased power and production. Toronto Blue Jays infielder Edwin Encarnacion's 100 point jump in isolated power is partially the result of the seventh-highest increase in pull angle and hitting the ball 12.5 feet farther on average.
When the season ends, Trumbo is unlikely to finish with a batting average higher than .300. However, the young slugger has clearly made adjustments to his hitting approach that are fueling his remarkable season. These changes suggest that an above-average OBP and elite ISO are both outcomes that Trumbo can replicate over time and not simply the result of randomness.
If so, the Angels will have an unexpected offensive cornerstone under their control through at least 2016.
Bill Petti writes for FanGraphs.com.
But while the Angels have the 11th-best ERA in the league (ninth-best park-adjusted ERA), their run prevention to this point has actually been worse than last year (sixth-best ERA, fourth-best park-adjusted ERA in 2011).
Still, fast-forward 2½ months, and the Angels currently find themselves seven games above .500 with a run differential of plus-43, sitting atop the American League wild-card standings. The biggest improvement for the Angels has been the offense, which is the fourth-best park-adjusted offense in baseball (106 wRC+) behind the division rival Texas Rangers (108 wRC+). That's a 10 percent improvement from last year's Angels team.
Pujols has been good, but he hasn't been otherworldly. That descriptor has generally been reserved for super rookie Mike Trout, who accounts for roughly 16 percent of the team's run creation. And while Trout has indeed shown that he is a once-in-a-generation player, he's not the only Angel having a breakout year. Mark Trumbo has quietly elevated his game significantly and has been a driving force in pulling the Angels out of their early-season struggles and back into postseason contention.
In his rookie campaign in 2011, Trumbo displayed the power that many observers and scouts had dreamed of, belting 29 home runs and 31 doubles. But despite posting the 24th-highest isolated power in history for a rookie with at least 550 plate appearances (.223), Trumbo was only 5 percent better offensively than league average. The reason? His inability to avoid outs.
Only 11 players posted an on-base percentage lower than Trumbo's .291 in 2011. For all of his power, Trumbo headed back to the dugout more than 70 percent of the time. Sluggers can typically make up for their lack of batting average with superior plate discipline, but Trumbo simply didn't walk enough to balance out his .254 batting average. In his 573 plate appearances last year, Trumbo posted a walk rate of only 4.4 percent. That was easily one of the worst rates in history for a rookie with more than 550 plate appearances (ranking 391st out of 433 such seasons).
But this season, Trumbo has improved his OBP nearly 70 points. His walk rate has increased to 7 percent. Although that's still not a high number, it represents almost a 60 percent improvement from last year. Trumbo has significantly reduced the number of balls he swings at outside the strike zone (36.6 percent in 2012 versus 41 percent in '11). He isn't seeing more pitches per plate appearance this year, but he is not helping pitchers out as much by chasing balls outside the strike zone.
Trumbo's increased discipline is also reflected in his ability to avoid outs when putting the ball in play. Trumbo has seen his batting average jump to .303 through Saturday's games, an improvement of nearly 50 points. Given that his strikeout rate is unchanged (roughly 21 percent this season and last), this boost is entirely the result of a better batting average on balls in play. This, of course, raises a question as to whether Trumbo has seen his average jump thanks to randomness or good fortune, or whether it's the result of an actual change.
By decreasing his number of swings outside the strike zone, Trumbo is increasing the odds that he'll square pitches up better when he puts the ball in play. This is reflected in the 10 percent decrease in Trumbo's infield fly-ball rate (17.3 percent last year versus 7 percent this year). Trumbo is simply swinging at more pitches located in zones that align with his natural power. As a result, Trumbo's isolated power has jumped to .317.
Trumbo's altered approach also can be seen in terms of where he's hitting the ball. According to Baseball Heat Maps, Trumbo is pulling fly balls and home runs significantly more in 2012. For right-handed hitters with at least 50 fly balls and home runs in 2012 and 2011, Trumbo has the third-highest increase in pull angle. This increase in pull angle has been accompanied by an increase in the average distance of these batted balls (11 feet).
Another hitter in the American League has seen a similar change in approach translate into increased power and production. Toronto Blue Jays infielder Edwin Encarnacion's 100 point jump in isolated power is partially the result of the seventh-highest increase in pull angle and hitting the ball 12.5 feet farther on average.
When the season ends, Trumbo is unlikely to finish with a batting average higher than .300. However, the young slugger has clearly made adjustments to his hitting approach that are fueling his remarkable season. These changes suggest that an above-average OBP and elite ISO are both outcomes that Trumbo can replicate over time and not simply the result of randomness.
If so, the Angels will have an unexpected offensive cornerstone under their control through at least 2016.
Bill Petti writes for FanGraphs.com.
Rumors.
Market impact of Dempster trade
11:26
AM ETMarket for starting pitchers Recommend7Comments2EmailIt's being reported Monday that the Chicago Cubs and Atlanta Braves are close to completing a trade that will send right-hander Ryan Dempster to the National League East contenders, likely in exchange for prospects or young big league pitching. ESPN.com's Jayson Stark tweets that the deal is far enough along that it could be completed sometime Monday afternoon.
CBSSports.com reports that Randall Delgado may be the return package for Dempster.
If the deal gets done it will leave the Los Angeles Dodgers, among others, without one of their main targets and sets the market for rental pitchers. The Dodgers are said to be in on Matt Garza.
Whatever the Cubs get for Dempster will likely be significantly less than the trade hauls for right-hander Zack Greinke, in whom the Braves have expressed interest, and left-hander Cole Hamels, if the Phillies cannot get him signed to a long-term extension.
The Dempster trade could serve as the first domino in a flurry of deals involving starting pitchers over the next 7-8 days. Greinke's teammate Shaun Marcum could also be moved, as could Houston's Wandy Rodriguez, Seattle's Jason Vargas and Kevin Millwood and Tampa's James Shields.
The Angels, Rangers, Red Sox, Reds, Tigers and Nationals are among the clubs being linked to starters this month.
- Jason A. Churchill
Tags:Ryan Dempster, Atlanta Braves, Chicago Cubs, Los Angeles Dodgers, Detroit Tigers
Giants seek relief help
9:40
AM ETSan Francisco Giants Recommend1Comments0EmailThe San Francisco Giants, who are not entirely comfortable with Santiago Casilla as the replacement for Brian Wilson, are keeping their eye on Indians closer Chris Perez, reports FoxSports.com.
The report says the Indians could consider moving Perez since they are deep in relievers and because Perez likely will earn about $7 million next season in his second year of arbitration.
Another closer who could be on the market is Heath Bell now that the Marlins are in sell-off mode, says Ken Rosenthal. The Giants couldn't be blamed for trying to acquire Bell at a very deep discount and hope that a change of scenery does wonders for a pitcher who had three 40-save seasons before a disastrous 2012.
- Doug Mittler
Tags:Josh Bell, Chris Perez, Cleveland Indians, San Francisco Giants
Rangers step up pitching search
9:18
AM ETTexas Rangers Recommend2Comments0EmailPerhaps lost in the shuffle of Mondays trades around baseball is the pitching issues bereft the Texas Rangers. Not only are there questions surrounding the reliability of Derek Holland and the role of Neftali Feliz when he returns from the disabled list, but Roy Oswalt is struggling and has an ailing back that required treatment, and now the club has learned that Colby Lewis is out of the rest of the season.
The Rangers have been linked, mostly by common sense, to every potentially-available arm in baseball, including Matt Garza, James Shields and Wandy Rodriguez. The club's top pitching prospect, Martin Perez, may be among the best options for the time being and Feliz's timetable could impact the team's pursuit of pitching.
Ryan Dempster is mulling over a trade to the Atlanta Braves, but if he turns it down could be an option for the Rangers. Dempster had full no-trade rights and is slated for free agency following the season. The Rangers may be most keen on impact starters such as Zack Greinke and Cole Hamels, but may have to part with third base prospect Mike Olt in a package to get either one. ESPN The Magazine's Buster Olney writes in Tuesday's blog that the Rangers are looking for "elite talent" such as Hamels or Greinke.
There was speculation last week that the Rangers also could be looking to bring back lefthander Cliff Lee.
As for possible trade bait, Rangers manager Ron Washington tells ESPN Insider's Jim Bowden that any deal will not include top shortstop prospect Jurickson Profar.
- Doug Mittler and Jason A. Churchill
Tags:Colby Lewis, Texas Rangers, Miami Marlins, Milwaukee Brewers, Houston Astros, Tampa Bay Rays, Matt Garza, James Shields
Nats interested in Greinke
9:13
AM ETZack Greinke | Brewers Recommend2Comments2EmailThe Washington Nationals are among the teams interested in Brewers right-hander Zack Greinke, but they might not have the resources to pull off a deal, reports Ken Rosenthal.
The Nationals traded four prospects to the Athletics to land Gio Gonzalez and they may not be willing or able to provide the young talent the Brewers would demand in any Greinke deal. The Brewers should be more willing to shop Greinke after their losing streak reached four games Monday.
Washington is believed to be looking for a veteran arm given the expected shutdown of Stephen Strasburg later this summer.
- Doug Mittler
Tags:Milwaukee Brewers, Zack Greinke, Washington Nationals
Suitors for Headley
8:58
AM ETChase Headley | Padres Recommend4Comments2EmailLast Monday, ESPN Insider's Jim Bowden tweeted that six teams had expressed interest in San Diego Padres third baseman Chase Headley, and added that the switch hitter would be traded before the deadline "in all likelihood."
The Los Angeles Dodgers have been linked to Headley in recent weeks and other clubs needing third base help include the Philadelphia Phillies, Seattle Mariners, Los Angeles Angels, Baltimore Orioles and Atlanta Braves. Sunday, ESPN The Magazine's Buster Olney tweeted that the A's are among those interested in Headley.
Olney reported Monday via Twitter that the Padres have asked the Pirates significant package of prospects in return for Headley, which flies with previous reports that the Friars would ask for the moon.
Headley, 28, will be arbitration eligible for the second time after this season and will not be free-agent eligible until after the 2014 season, making him a long-term fix for whichever club lands him.
Dan Connolly writes in Tuesday's Baltimore Sun that Headley is among the players on the Orioles' radar.
Tags:
Chase Headley, San Diego Padres
Ichiro's role in the Bronx
8:29
AM ETIchiro Suzuki | Yankees Recommend3Comments1EmailThe Seattle Mariners have done the unthinkable -- something I have been calling the Fight Club on the Emerald City. Ichiro Suzuki has been traded to the New York Yankees for two minor league pitchers. The Mariners will cover all but $2.25 million of the right fielder's remaining salary for 2012.
Ichiro, who has experience in center field, is likely to help fill the gaps in the Yankees' outfield left by the injuries to Brett Gardner, who may be out for the year, and Nick Swisher, who is nursing a minor injury and will be back. Joe Girardi said during the press conference Monday afternoon that Ichiro will mainly play left field for the Yankees.
After nearly 12 seasons with the Mariners, Ichiro is set to hit free agency after the season and a big question in Seattle of late has been centered on whether or not he would be brought back next year. Ichiro will suit up against his former team this week as the Yankees visit Seattle starting Monday night.
The Mariners will continue to use Casper Wells and Michael Saunders in center, but one of them could now begin playing right field -- most likely Wells -- with Ichiro now out of the mix. Carlos Peguero could gain more playing time.
- Jason A. Churchill
Buster Olney
Will the Ichiro experiment work?
"There are other hitters who get on base more, who hit for more power, who are better suited to take advantage of the dimensions in Yankee Stadium. Ichiro is still a good outfielder, and he can run. There are many other outfielders who have those two particular skills. If it doesn't go well, manager Joe Girardi is going to have to immediately feel comfortable with the idea of pinch-hitting for an all-time great. He will have to fight empathy, in making his choices. He may feel compelled to play him purely out of a sense of deference to Ichiro's extraordinary history."
Tags:New York Yankees, Seattle Mariners, Ichiro Suzuki
O's interested in Polanco
8:23
AM ETPlacido Polanco | Phillies Recommend2Comments1EmailThe Baltimore Orioles are in the market to add a corner infield bat and one of the targets is Phillies third baseman Placido Polanco, reports Dan Connolly of the Baltimore Sun.
The Orioles' interest, may be tempered after Phils manager Charlie Manuel revealed Polanco has been battling a sore back for at least a week. Polanco was not in the lineup Monday against Milwaukee and was scheduled to be examined by a team doctor.
Any deal, of course, will depend on Polanco getting a clean bill of health. Polanco, who is making $6.25 million this year and has a $5.5 million option next season, would be an upgrade at third base over Wilson Betemit.
Connolly adds the Orioles also are interested in San Diego's Chase Headley and the Cubs' Bryan LaHair.
- Doug Mittler
Tags
lacido Polanco, Baltimore Orioles, Philadelphia Phillies
Rays eye Ryan Roberts
8:04
AM ETRyan Roberts | Diamondbacks Recommend2Comments0EmailThe Tampa Bay Rays, looking for some depth at third base, are interested in Diamondbacks infielder Ryan Roberts, tweets Tim Brown of Yahoo Sports.
Roberts could provide another bat at third base while Evan Longoria continues to recovers from a hamstring injury. The Rays, however, may not be willing to overpay since Jeff Keppinger has filled in admirably at third base with seven hits in his last 14 at-bats.
- Doug Mittler
Tags:Ryan Roberts, Arizona Diamondbacks, Tampa Bay Rays
Duda could be demoted
7:47
AM ETLucas Duda | Mets Recommend1Comments0EmailLucas Duda, who has had the lion's share of starts in right field for the New York Mets this season, is in danger of being demoted to the minor leagues on Tuesday, reports Adam Rubin of ESPNNewYork.com.
Duda appeared to be out of danger when the Mets demoted Pedro Beato after Monday's game, apparently to clear a roster spot for Matt Harvey, who will start Thursday in Arizona. But the Mets announced Manny Acosta would return from Triple-A Buffalo, again leaving Duda in trouble.
Duda is hitting .140 with one homer in July, dropping his average to .241.
- Doug Mittler
Tags:Lucas Duda, New York Mets
The market for Josh Johnson
7:29
AM ETJosh Johnson | Marlins Recommend1Comments0EmailThe Miami Marlins traded Anibal Sanchez to the Detroit Tigers on Monday as part of a multi-player deal, fueling speculation the Fish is inclined to deal a more prominent pitcher.
Josh Johnson's start against Atlanta on Monday night was heavily scouted, although Scott Miller hears the Marlins are inclined to keep the righthander since he is under club control through 2013. In addition, Johnson left Monday's 2-1 win after six innings with a blister on his right middle finger, which could be an issue for acquiring clubs.
MLB.com's Alden Gonzalez says Johnson is an arm the Angels would consider, adding that any deal would probably have to include center fielder Peter Bourjos, who the Marlins have coveted.
Prior to Monday's deal with Detroit, a report by Chris Cwik of CBSSports.com said the Red Sox were interested in Sanchez and Johnson.
- Doug Mittler
Tags:Josh Johnson, Miami Marlins
Marlins could keep selling
7:09
AM ETMiami Marlins Recommend2Comments1EmailThe Miami Marlins appear to be in full sell mode after making a deal with the Detroit Tigers Monday that sent right-hander Anibal Sanchez to Motown Omar Infante and perhaps other pieces for package including right-hander Jacob Turner.
If the Fish continue to shop veterans, right-hander Ricky Nolasco could be next, and it may not be out of the question that they consider moving Hanley Ramirez.
Ramirez was rumored to be the subject of talks between the Marlins and the Red Sox earlier this month, but that was shot down as a concept only, at least for now. Scott Miller of CBSSports.com hears the Marlins "have never been more open" to the idea of dealing Ramirez.
Josh Johnson's name has always been mentioned as a possibility but the club might be selling low if they traded their ace this season, as the right-hander hasn't performed as he up to his own standards.
- Jason A. Churchill
Tags:Jacob Turner, Anibal Sanchez, Miami Marlins, Detroit Tigers
Chapman could start in 2013
6:57
AM ETAroldis Chapman | Reds Recommend0Comments1EmailAroldis Chapman has settled in nicely as the Cincinnati Reds' closer, a role he will have for the rest of the year. But Reds manager Dusty Baker hinted that Chapman could return to the rotation in 2013, reports John Fay of the Cincinnati Enquirer.
Chapman has a 1.58 ERA and 17 saves.
Baker's comments are not a complete surprise since Chapman prepared in spring training to start and only moved to the bullpen due to injuries to Ryan Madson, Nick Masset and Bill Bray.
- Doug Mittler
Tags:Aroldis Chapman, Cincinnati Reds
Phils optimistic on Hamels deal?
6:45
AM ETCole Hamels | Phillies Recommend6Comments14EmailWe are exactly one week from the trade deadline, and the Philadelphia Phillies have one eye on the calendar as they try to hammer out a long-term extension with Cole Hamels.
ESPN.com's Jerry Crasnick says the contract talks are expected to heat up in the next few days and are approaching a "sensitive" stage. The Phillies need to save themselves a window to renew talks with potential trade partners if they can't reach a deal with Hamels.
Jim Salisbury of CSNPhilly.com reports there is "a feeling of optimism" around the Phillies camp that Hamels will eventually agree to an extension.
Ken Rosenthal reports Monday that the extension talks will accelerate this week and hears that Hamel is "conflicted" as to how to proceed.
The discussion between the Phillies and Boggs likely started with the five-year, $112.5 million extension signed by San Francisco right-hander Matt Cain in April, a deal that actually guarantees him six years and $127.5 million when his salary for 2012 is considered.
In Friday's New York Post, Joel Sherman cites two executives they believed the Phillies would go at least six years at $130 million to keep Hamels. One of those executives says the only reason Hamels would turn that down would be a desire to return home (Hamels is a Southern California native) and pitch for the Dodgers.
- Doug Mittler
Jim Bowden
Best fit for Hamels
"When it's all said and done, I truly believe that Hamels will re-sign with the Phillies before July 31. But if negotiations quickly turn sour, I see the Rangers as the most likely destination, as they not only have the top prospects to deal, but also have the willingness to roll the dice even if it's just for a rental."
Tags:Cole Hamels, Texas Rangers, Los Angeles Angels, Los Angeles Dodgers, Detroit Tigers
Pirates pursue Maholm
6:19
AM ETPaul Maholm | Cubs Recommend6Comments0EmailRyan Dempster and Matt Garza are not be the only Chicago Cubs' starters drawing interest. Don't forget veteran lefthander Paul Maholm, whose trade value has risen thanks to a 4-0 record and a 0.89 ERA in his last five starts.
Maholm has emerged as a lower-priced alternative for teams such as the Pirates who are unlikely to add a Zack Greinke or a Cole Hamels. Maholm would be owed about $1.75 million on the remainder of a one-year, $4.75 million deal he signed in the offseason.
Maholm will make his next two starts against the Pirates, including Tuesday night at PNC Park. The southpaw has heard all the rumors, telling the Tribune Review it would be ?ironic? to re-join the team that let him walk as a free agent.
- Doug Mittler
11:26
AM ETMarket for starting pitchers Recommend7Comments2EmailIt's being reported Monday that the Chicago Cubs and Atlanta Braves are close to completing a trade that will send right-hander Ryan Dempster to the National League East contenders, likely in exchange for prospects or young big league pitching. ESPN.com's Jayson Stark tweets that the deal is far enough along that it could be completed sometime Monday afternoon.
CBSSports.com reports that Randall Delgado may be the return package for Dempster.
If the deal gets done it will leave the Los Angeles Dodgers, among others, without one of their main targets and sets the market for rental pitchers. The Dodgers are said to be in on Matt Garza.
Whatever the Cubs get for Dempster will likely be significantly less than the trade hauls for right-hander Zack Greinke, in whom the Braves have expressed interest, and left-hander Cole Hamels, if the Phillies cannot get him signed to a long-term extension.
The Dempster trade could serve as the first domino in a flurry of deals involving starting pitchers over the next 7-8 days. Greinke's teammate Shaun Marcum could also be moved, as could Houston's Wandy Rodriguez, Seattle's Jason Vargas and Kevin Millwood and Tampa's James Shields.
The Angels, Rangers, Red Sox, Reds, Tigers and Nationals are among the clubs being linked to starters this month.
- Jason A. Churchill
Tags:Ryan Dempster, Atlanta Braves, Chicago Cubs, Los Angeles Dodgers, Detroit Tigers
Giants seek relief help
9:40
AM ETSan Francisco Giants Recommend1Comments0EmailThe San Francisco Giants, who are not entirely comfortable with Santiago Casilla as the replacement for Brian Wilson, are keeping their eye on Indians closer Chris Perez, reports FoxSports.com.
The report says the Indians could consider moving Perez since they are deep in relievers and because Perez likely will earn about $7 million next season in his second year of arbitration.
Another closer who could be on the market is Heath Bell now that the Marlins are in sell-off mode, says Ken Rosenthal. The Giants couldn't be blamed for trying to acquire Bell at a very deep discount and hope that a change of scenery does wonders for a pitcher who had three 40-save seasons before a disastrous 2012.
- Doug Mittler
Tags:Josh Bell, Chris Perez, Cleveland Indians, San Francisco Giants
Rangers step up pitching search
9:18
AM ETTexas Rangers Recommend2Comments0EmailPerhaps lost in the shuffle of Mondays trades around baseball is the pitching issues bereft the Texas Rangers. Not only are there questions surrounding the reliability of Derek Holland and the role of Neftali Feliz when he returns from the disabled list, but Roy Oswalt is struggling and has an ailing back that required treatment, and now the club has learned that Colby Lewis is out of the rest of the season.
The Rangers have been linked, mostly by common sense, to every potentially-available arm in baseball, including Matt Garza, James Shields and Wandy Rodriguez. The club's top pitching prospect, Martin Perez, may be among the best options for the time being and Feliz's timetable could impact the team's pursuit of pitching.
Ryan Dempster is mulling over a trade to the Atlanta Braves, but if he turns it down could be an option for the Rangers. Dempster had full no-trade rights and is slated for free agency following the season. The Rangers may be most keen on impact starters such as Zack Greinke and Cole Hamels, but may have to part with third base prospect Mike Olt in a package to get either one. ESPN The Magazine's Buster Olney writes in Tuesday's blog that the Rangers are looking for "elite talent" such as Hamels or Greinke.
There was speculation last week that the Rangers also could be looking to bring back lefthander Cliff Lee.
As for possible trade bait, Rangers manager Ron Washington tells ESPN Insider's Jim Bowden that any deal will not include top shortstop prospect Jurickson Profar.
- Doug Mittler and Jason A. Churchill
Tags:Colby Lewis, Texas Rangers, Miami Marlins, Milwaukee Brewers, Houston Astros, Tampa Bay Rays, Matt Garza, James Shields
Nats interested in Greinke
9:13
AM ETZack Greinke | Brewers Recommend2Comments2EmailThe Washington Nationals are among the teams interested in Brewers right-hander Zack Greinke, but they might not have the resources to pull off a deal, reports Ken Rosenthal.
The Nationals traded four prospects to the Athletics to land Gio Gonzalez and they may not be willing or able to provide the young talent the Brewers would demand in any Greinke deal. The Brewers should be more willing to shop Greinke after their losing streak reached four games Monday.
Washington is believed to be looking for a veteran arm given the expected shutdown of Stephen Strasburg later this summer.
- Doug Mittler
Tags:Milwaukee Brewers, Zack Greinke, Washington Nationals
Suitors for Headley
8:58
AM ETChase Headley | Padres Recommend4Comments2EmailLast Monday, ESPN Insider's Jim Bowden tweeted that six teams had expressed interest in San Diego Padres third baseman Chase Headley, and added that the switch hitter would be traded before the deadline "in all likelihood."
The Los Angeles Dodgers have been linked to Headley in recent weeks and other clubs needing third base help include the Philadelphia Phillies, Seattle Mariners, Los Angeles Angels, Baltimore Orioles and Atlanta Braves. Sunday, ESPN The Magazine's Buster Olney tweeted that the A's are among those interested in Headley.
Olney reported Monday via Twitter that the Padres have asked the Pirates significant package of prospects in return for Headley, which flies with previous reports that the Friars would ask for the moon.
Headley, 28, will be arbitration eligible for the second time after this season and will not be free-agent eligible until after the 2014 season, making him a long-term fix for whichever club lands him.
Dan Connolly writes in Tuesday's Baltimore Sun that Headley is among the players on the Orioles' radar.
Tags:
Chase Headley, San Diego Padres
Ichiro's role in the Bronx
8:29
AM ETIchiro Suzuki | Yankees Recommend3Comments1EmailThe Seattle Mariners have done the unthinkable -- something I have been calling the Fight Club on the Emerald City. Ichiro Suzuki has been traded to the New York Yankees for two minor league pitchers. The Mariners will cover all but $2.25 million of the right fielder's remaining salary for 2012.
Ichiro, who has experience in center field, is likely to help fill the gaps in the Yankees' outfield left by the injuries to Brett Gardner, who may be out for the year, and Nick Swisher, who is nursing a minor injury and will be back. Joe Girardi said during the press conference Monday afternoon that Ichiro will mainly play left field for the Yankees.
After nearly 12 seasons with the Mariners, Ichiro is set to hit free agency after the season and a big question in Seattle of late has been centered on whether or not he would be brought back next year. Ichiro will suit up against his former team this week as the Yankees visit Seattle starting Monday night.
The Mariners will continue to use Casper Wells and Michael Saunders in center, but one of them could now begin playing right field -- most likely Wells -- with Ichiro now out of the mix. Carlos Peguero could gain more playing time.
- Jason A. Churchill
Buster Olney
Will the Ichiro experiment work?
"There are other hitters who get on base more, who hit for more power, who are better suited to take advantage of the dimensions in Yankee Stadium. Ichiro is still a good outfielder, and he can run. There are many other outfielders who have those two particular skills. If it doesn't go well, manager Joe Girardi is going to have to immediately feel comfortable with the idea of pinch-hitting for an all-time great. He will have to fight empathy, in making his choices. He may feel compelled to play him purely out of a sense of deference to Ichiro's extraordinary history."
Tags:New York Yankees, Seattle Mariners, Ichiro Suzuki
O's interested in Polanco
8:23
AM ETPlacido Polanco | Phillies Recommend2Comments1EmailThe Baltimore Orioles are in the market to add a corner infield bat and one of the targets is Phillies third baseman Placido Polanco, reports Dan Connolly of the Baltimore Sun.
The Orioles' interest, may be tempered after Phils manager Charlie Manuel revealed Polanco has been battling a sore back for at least a week. Polanco was not in the lineup Monday against Milwaukee and was scheduled to be examined by a team doctor.
Any deal, of course, will depend on Polanco getting a clean bill of health. Polanco, who is making $6.25 million this year and has a $5.5 million option next season, would be an upgrade at third base over Wilson Betemit.
Connolly adds the Orioles also are interested in San Diego's Chase Headley and the Cubs' Bryan LaHair.
- Doug Mittler
Tags
lacido Polanco, Baltimore Orioles, Philadelphia PhilliesRays eye Ryan Roberts
8:04
AM ETRyan Roberts | Diamondbacks Recommend2Comments0EmailThe Tampa Bay Rays, looking for some depth at third base, are interested in Diamondbacks infielder Ryan Roberts, tweets Tim Brown of Yahoo Sports.
Roberts could provide another bat at third base while Evan Longoria continues to recovers from a hamstring injury. The Rays, however, may not be willing to overpay since Jeff Keppinger has filled in admirably at third base with seven hits in his last 14 at-bats.
- Doug Mittler
Tags:Ryan Roberts, Arizona Diamondbacks, Tampa Bay Rays
Duda could be demoted
7:47
AM ETLucas Duda | Mets Recommend1Comments0EmailLucas Duda, who has had the lion's share of starts in right field for the New York Mets this season, is in danger of being demoted to the minor leagues on Tuesday, reports Adam Rubin of ESPNNewYork.com.
Duda appeared to be out of danger when the Mets demoted Pedro Beato after Monday's game, apparently to clear a roster spot for Matt Harvey, who will start Thursday in Arizona. But the Mets announced Manny Acosta would return from Triple-A Buffalo, again leaving Duda in trouble.
Duda is hitting .140 with one homer in July, dropping his average to .241.
- Doug Mittler
Tags:Lucas Duda, New York Mets
The market for Josh Johnson
7:29
AM ETJosh Johnson | Marlins Recommend1Comments0EmailThe Miami Marlins traded Anibal Sanchez to the Detroit Tigers on Monday as part of a multi-player deal, fueling speculation the Fish is inclined to deal a more prominent pitcher.
Josh Johnson's start against Atlanta on Monday night was heavily scouted, although Scott Miller hears the Marlins are inclined to keep the righthander since he is under club control through 2013. In addition, Johnson left Monday's 2-1 win after six innings with a blister on his right middle finger, which could be an issue for acquiring clubs.
MLB.com's Alden Gonzalez says Johnson is an arm the Angels would consider, adding that any deal would probably have to include center fielder Peter Bourjos, who the Marlins have coveted.
Prior to Monday's deal with Detroit, a report by Chris Cwik of CBSSports.com said the Red Sox were interested in Sanchez and Johnson.
- Doug Mittler
Tags:Josh Johnson, Miami Marlins
Marlins could keep selling
7:09
AM ETMiami Marlins Recommend2Comments1EmailThe Miami Marlins appear to be in full sell mode after making a deal with the Detroit Tigers Monday that sent right-hander Anibal Sanchez to Motown Omar Infante and perhaps other pieces for package including right-hander Jacob Turner.
If the Fish continue to shop veterans, right-hander Ricky Nolasco could be next, and it may not be out of the question that they consider moving Hanley Ramirez.
Ramirez was rumored to be the subject of talks between the Marlins and the Red Sox earlier this month, but that was shot down as a concept only, at least for now. Scott Miller of CBSSports.com hears the Marlins "have never been more open" to the idea of dealing Ramirez.
Josh Johnson's name has always been mentioned as a possibility but the club might be selling low if they traded their ace this season, as the right-hander hasn't performed as he up to his own standards.
- Jason A. Churchill
Tags:Jacob Turner, Anibal Sanchez, Miami Marlins, Detroit Tigers
Chapman could start in 2013
6:57
AM ETAroldis Chapman | Reds Recommend0Comments1EmailAroldis Chapman has settled in nicely as the Cincinnati Reds' closer, a role he will have for the rest of the year. But Reds manager Dusty Baker hinted that Chapman could return to the rotation in 2013, reports John Fay of the Cincinnati Enquirer.
Chapman has a 1.58 ERA and 17 saves.
Baker's comments are not a complete surprise since Chapman prepared in spring training to start and only moved to the bullpen due to injuries to Ryan Madson, Nick Masset and Bill Bray.
- Doug Mittler
Tags:Aroldis Chapman, Cincinnati Reds
Phils optimistic on Hamels deal?
6:45
AM ETCole Hamels | Phillies Recommend6Comments14EmailWe are exactly one week from the trade deadline, and the Philadelphia Phillies have one eye on the calendar as they try to hammer out a long-term extension with Cole Hamels.
ESPN.com's Jerry Crasnick says the contract talks are expected to heat up in the next few days and are approaching a "sensitive" stage. The Phillies need to save themselves a window to renew talks with potential trade partners if they can't reach a deal with Hamels.
Jim Salisbury of CSNPhilly.com reports there is "a feeling of optimism" around the Phillies camp that Hamels will eventually agree to an extension.
Ken Rosenthal reports Monday that the extension talks will accelerate this week and hears that Hamel is "conflicted" as to how to proceed.
The discussion between the Phillies and Boggs likely started with the five-year, $112.5 million extension signed by San Francisco right-hander Matt Cain in April, a deal that actually guarantees him six years and $127.5 million when his salary for 2012 is considered.
In Friday's New York Post, Joel Sherman cites two executives they believed the Phillies would go at least six years at $130 million to keep Hamels. One of those executives says the only reason Hamels would turn that down would be a desire to return home (Hamels is a Southern California native) and pitch for the Dodgers.
- Doug Mittler
Jim Bowden
Best fit for Hamels
"When it's all said and done, I truly believe that Hamels will re-sign with the Phillies before July 31. But if negotiations quickly turn sour, I see the Rangers as the most likely destination, as they not only have the top prospects to deal, but also have the willingness to roll the dice even if it's just for a rental."
Tags:Cole Hamels, Texas Rangers, Los Angeles Angels, Los Angeles Dodgers, Detroit Tigers
Pirates pursue Maholm
6:19
AM ETPaul Maholm | Cubs Recommend6Comments0EmailRyan Dempster and Matt Garza are not be the only Chicago Cubs' starters drawing interest. Don't forget veteran lefthander Paul Maholm, whose trade value has risen thanks to a 4-0 record and a 0.89 ERA in his last five starts.
Maholm has emerged as a lower-priced alternative for teams such as the Pirates who are unlikely to add a Zack Greinke or a Cole Hamels. Maholm would be owed about $1.75 million on the remainder of a one-year, $4.75 million deal he signed in the offseason.
Maholm will make his next two starts against the Pirates, including Tuesday night at PNC Park. The southpaw has heard all the rumors, telling the Tribune Review it would be ?ironic? to re-join the team that let him walk as a free agent.
- Doug Mittler
Ben Zobrist, 2B, Tampa Bay – Signed through 2015 for $22 million. 
