9/29/09

The Keepers - #71 - RP - Manuel Oliveras




71. Manuel Olivares – RP – low-A/A - 24/yrs.


Olivares was signed by the Mets on 11-4-03 by their Venezuelan scout, Gregorio Machado.
He played for Tronconero of the VSL league in both 2004 (3-2, 3.91) and 2005 (3-5, 5.36). Mets scout Gregorio Machado signed him for the Mets and he then played 2006 for the VSL Mets, where he had an outstanding year (6-3, 2.14 in 12 starts). Olivaras was also tied for the VSL league lead in shutouts, 2nd in complete games, and 4th in ERA.


2007 brought a trip to the USA and a season with Kingsport, where he went 3-3, 4.56, 1.38 in 13 games (6 starts).


Manuel started the 2008 season with Brooklyn, but played most of the year for Savannah. His combined stats were: 3-3, 3.35 in 21 games, 3 starts.

In 2009, Olivares pitched most of the season for Savannah, and pitch well he did: 2-4, 3.77, in 35 relief appearances. He was sent to Brooklyn late in the season to help them in their playoff run, where he went: 0-0, 3.52, in five appearances. Combined, the stats read: 2-4, 3.75.

Forecast: Nothing tremendously exciting here, but still, the last three years stateside has yielded stats of: 8-10, 3.87, 1.38, in 74 appearances, for three different teams. I expect him to be in St. Lucie in the spring, but he could make the jump straight to Binghamton. Keep an eye on this guy. He’s a control reliever who just may fit in some day.
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Minors Stuff




The Herd:


The Boston Red Sox have designated Chris Carter for assignment, according to a press release. The 27-year-old outfielder played in 13 games for the Red Sox in 2008 and 2009, and was hitless in five plate appearances this season. The New York Yankees claimed him off waivers a month ago in an attempt to complicate Boston's roster moves, as Carter was thought to be the player to be named later in the deal that sent Billy Wagner to the Sox.


B-Mets:

Lucas Duda will round out the Mets' Arizona Fall League contingentRead more:
Queens:

“I wish them nothing but the best,” Jeff Francoeur said, “but to be honest with you, there’s not even a .1 percent chance that I’d want to be back there right now. It has nothing to do with the people there because I love Bobby [Cox] and I love that team. But sometimes you just gotta get out of the situation, and I was a guy that needed to get out.”
..."I don’t think a lot of people went through what I went through as far as being from Atlanta,” Francoeur said. “Everything for 2½ years was great, and then it just kind of ended. I know people will say you can’t be having fun now, but I see the big picture. I see what we can do next year and the following years here. We’re not going to have this kind of team.”
Francoeur, 25, is so comfortable with the Mets that he wants to sit down with Omar Minaya this offseason to talk about a multiyear contract that would buy out his remaining arbitration and keep him here for an extended period. If Francoeur can be this happy - and productive - during the worst of times, that might not be a bad idea.
“I’d love for that to happen,” Francoeur said. “I think there’s a lot to be said when you feel like you can pencil a guy in for 158 games and not have to worry about rightfield. It can help a manager, and it can help a GM when they’re putting a team together. Hopefully, that’s how they feel.”

http://www.baseballthinkfactory.org/files/newsstand/discussion/newsday_francoeur_its_great_to_be_young_and_a_met


The Mets plan to go retro with their pinstriped home uniforms next season. Those uniforms will change to off-white, as they were in the 1960s, from their current bright white. That will also serve to differentiate the pinstriped uniforms from the solid home uniforms, which will remain the brighter white.


Nick Evans arrived with a bang — three doubles in his debut in 2008 — but 2009 has not gone according to plan. After a solid spring, he was sent to Class AAA Buffalo out of camp and promptly performed so poorly that he was shuffled all the way to Class A St. Lucie for physical and mental rehab. He made it back to the majors as a call-up Aug. 25, but has managed just 21 plate appearances and hasn’t started a game since Sept. 11 (and just three since the call-up).


World Cup:
RP - Orlando Roman (Puerto Rico) - His ERA (2.45) in six games was high but his 26 strikeouts led all pitchers, including starters. That 2.45 ERA does not include 5 innings of shutout relief

Free Agents: -

Major League Baseball today lifted the suspension of Dominican center fielder Eladio Moronta, who MLB had suspended earlier this year for misrepresenting his age. Moronta's agent, Charisse Espinosa-Dash of the New York-based Draft Picks Sports Agency, confirmed that Moronta is no longer suspended and is now a free agent.Moronta, who is 6-foot-1, 183 pounds, is 20 years old and turns 21 on December 16. He is an athletic righthanded hitter with plus-plus speed, flashing a good arm and raw power potential. Aside from Cuban defectors, it is incredibly rare for Latin American players who are older than 17 to command a big bonus, which is one reason so many of them misrepresent their ages and identities. Moronta, however, has the caliber of tools that might make him an exception.
6th Pick – Mets - Yordy Cabrera, SS - Lakeland HS (FL)The Mets have a ton of needs for their farm system at the moment. Fernando Martinez is the crown jewel and 2010 will be his season. I would love to see the Mets go into a full rebuild mode (not sure how that would go over in New York but I think it is needed). The Mets do have a strong core of players in David Wright, Johan Santana, and Carlos Beltran. However, their is not much to surround them unless Jose Reyes goes back to form and Martinez ends up being the real deal. The Mets to me should pattern their plan after Boston's. Build a farm system starting with trades for multiple prospects for guys like Santana or even Wright and then draft good young talent. The Mets then have the financial resources to surround these players with some big money free agents. Right now I think the Mets need to take one step back to move two steps forward. Yordy Cabrera would be a perfect fit as he brings a young athletic infielder who can play all over. He hits for power and would be a great start to a new farm system. He has committed to play college ball at the University of Miami.

http://mlbresource.blogspot.com/


Currently considered the #1 high school prospect available in the 2010 draft, Jameson Taillon continued to impress in his COPABE "AAA" Pan American Championships debut for the 18-and-under USA team. Taillon threw six strong innings, yielding just three hits and two walks, while striking out 12 in Team USA's 14-0 drubbing of Panama.

AJ Vanegas improved his stock and got the USA rolling in the opening game against Aruba. Vanegas lasted just four innings, but allowed one one run on three hits and five strikeout while Team USA won 13-3.

Phillip Pfeifer pitched the middle game of Team USA's three game start, going six innings, yielding just two hits while striking out 11. Pfeifer's effort propelled Team USA to a 14-0 win over Argentina.
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9/28/09

Top Outfielders - 2010 MLB Draft - Updated




1. Bryce Bentz – Middle Tennessee State – has the most raw power in the draft class… incredible bat command and speed… projects out as a first baseman… even as a pitcher he had 63Ks in 88.2 IP and a 4.57 ERA

7/07 fr. http://www.projectprospect.com/: If you want your kid to be a massive power hitter, name him Bryce. Bryce Brentz is the No. 1 power hitting prospect from the four-year college ranks. Brentz lead all of Division-I in batting average, slugging percentage, home runs, and total bases all that ads up to a triple slash line of .465/.535/.930 with 28 home runs. While MTSU plays in a strong hitter park (120 PF, BoydsWorld.com), Brentz compliments his outstanding power with very solid zone judgement. Brentz walked 11.4% of the time last year while striking out in just 11.8% of his plate appearances. A college center fielder, Brentz gets knocked some for his defense as some think he may wind up at first base in the pros. Wherever he plays, his bat could be special.

7/09 fr. Keith Law/ http://www.espn.com/ : “he was by far the best player on Team USA".

7/13: As of July 13, hitting .476 for Team USA.

7-21: 2010 MLB Mock Draft - 2nd Edition - July 21, 2009 by Scouting The Sports http://scoutingthesports.com/?p=3632 - 8. Baltimore Orioles - Bryce Brentz Outfielder Middle Tennessee State - -In his first year, Brentz was a collegiate freshman All-American. In his second year, Brentz’s average actually rose and so did his homer run total. He finished with a .465/.535/.930 line in 230 at-bats, slugging 28 home runs, 19 doubles, and a pair of triples. Brentz has the most raw power in a draft class which is already loaded with power, and has incredible bat command and even better bat speed. Brentz can easily play any of the corner outfield positions with decent range and an above average arm. Teams could also look into developing him into a first baseman.

9-16: From http://www.baseballamrica.com/ : - College Top 25 draft prospects: 14. Bryce Brentz, of Middle Tennessee State

9-24: From: http://mlbresource.blogspot.com/: Mock Draft Version 1.0 – 4th pick overall - Bryce Brentz, OF - Middle Tennesse State



2. LeVon Washington – (move from 2B) - CF/2B… Buchholz HS; Gainesville, FL - Specs: 5′10, 170, Bats L, Throws R… fast… 6.21 60-yard dash… signed with Florida… ranked No. 2 in the state of Florida according to Prospectswire.com, No. 1 OF… ranked No. 20 on Baseball America's list of Top 100 High School Prospects… ranked No. 25 on PG CrossChecker.com list of Top High School Prospects… 2008: batted .363 with 41 runs, 35 stolen bases, 21 RBI and four homers as a junior… 2007: .375 clip, 20 stolen bases, 16 RBI and five homers as a sophomore…
1ST ROUND PICK – Tampa Bay

8-17: unsigned 1st round… will be eligible to draft again in 2010

9-16: From http://www.baseballamrica.com/ : - College Top 25 draft prospects: 4. LeVon Washington, of Chipola (Fla.) JC

9-24: From: http://mlbresource.blogspot.com/: Mock Draft Version 1.0 – 13th pick overall - LeVon Washington, of - Chipola JC




3. Austin Wilson – Harvard-Westlake H.S. (CA.) – 6-4, 200 - has most power of the draft… not polished, but who cares… hit two 500+ HRs at Florida showcase, both to different parts of the field. One scout said he’s a “young Adam Jones”… 2008 Area Code games alumni… projects out on corners… average speed… excellent arm… star in batting practice…

7-21: 2010 MLB Mock Draft - 2nd Edition - July 21, 2009 by Scouting The Sports http://scoutingthesports.com/?p=3632 - - 3. San Diego Padres - Austin Wilson Outfielder Harvard-Westlake High School, Los Angeles, California - The Padres have holes at almost every position and need a superstar to build on. Local boy Austin Wood will be a good guy to start the rebuilding process. While he is unpolished, this AFLAC All-American has shown his that he has the most natural batting practice power in the 2010 draft At a showcase in Florida (where he was the only Junior invited) he hit a few batting practice balls over 500 feet, each one to different parts of the field. Wilson also has above average speed, stealing 12 of 13 bases last season, and a fantastic arm. With a .526 batting average as well as 6 home runs, 27 runs scored and 27 RBI’s in only 77 official at-bats

8-1: from http://perfectgame.atinfopop.com/: 60-70 arm strength, runs well underway, made contact, showed some power in BP, didn't display it in 4 games however. Looks great in a uniform, definitely need to see again.

8-6: From http://www.baseballamerica.com/: - Already a chiseled 6-foot-4 and 200 pounds, Wilson is a physical specimen who stands out on the field. He's an average runner but has a cannon for an arm, and he should have the size, athleticism and tools to be a special player.
8-10: From http://www.baseballamerica.com/ – Area Code Games - Wilson packs a plus arm and provocative power in his 6-foot-4, 213-pound build. He’s a superlative athlete as well, reeling off a 6.79 60 and a 35.4 vertical jump.

8-15: from XMLBScout on http://www.perfectgame.com/: certainly displayed the power and some loft in his swing in the game, other than just in BP. Some of the tv talent experts were fishing out there on comparable current ML players, but the one that sticks out to me is a throwback era player, Ellis Valentine, very similar hitting approaches, throwing ability, flat out running speed.

9-16: From http://www.baseballamerica.com/ : - High School Top 25 draft prospects: 6. Austin Wilson, of Harvard-Westlake HS, Los Angeles

9-24: From: http://mlbresource.blogspot.com/: Mock Draft Version 1.0 – 18th pick overall - Austin Wilson, OF - Harvard-Westlake HS (CA)



4. Brett Eibner – (move from P) – Arkansas – 6-4, 200 - not sure if he prospects out as an outfield or a pitcher… fastball hits 95…

8-1: from http://perfectgame.atinfopop.com/: also plays OF and DH for UA, has power at the dish, upper cut swing, on the bump he can run it up to 96, mostly 91-93 with solid hammer when his delivery is in synch. Great makeup too!

8-2: from 6-16 article http://www.sportsillustrated.cnn.com/: Eibner is a true prospect both as a hitter and as a pitcher. Offensively, he profiles as a center fielder with long, graceful strides and average-to-plus range. His arm would fit in right field, because he has hit 95 mph off the mound. He struggled handling both roles this season as Arkansas went to Omaha, moving into the weekend rotation in the second half. He has an ideal pro body at 6-4 with fast-twitch athleticism and wiry strength.

9-24: From: http://mlbresource.blogspot.com/: Mock Draft Version 1.0 – 29th pick overall - Brett Eibner, OF - Arkansas




5. Trey Griffin – (up from 6th) - MLK H.S. (Stockbridge, GA.) – 5-tooler… quickly reads ball off of bat… good speed… also plays SS… incredible hands… power to all fields.


7-21: 2010 MLB Mock Draft - 2nd Edition - July 21, 2009 by Scouting The Sports http://scoutingthesports.com/?p=3632 - 4. Kansas City Royals - Trey Griffin Outfielder Martin Luther King High School, Stockbridge Georgia - Griffin is a five-tool prospect with incredible athleticism who can play a few different positions. In high school, Griffin has mainly played the outfield position, where his ability to quickly read balls off the bat and good speed have allowed him to cover tons of ground. However Griffin has also played some shortstop in high school, where his incredible hands and good arm strength make him the most talented fielding shortstop in this draft. Wherever Griffin plays, he will hit. Griffin has power to all fields and incredible bat control for a prospect his age.

7-29: From http://www.baseballfactory.com/: - Trey is a premium athlete with the body and skills to be a future top round pick. He has is a plus runner with arm strength and advanced ability at the plate. He shows flashes of present power with more to come. His overall package has elicited comparisons to last year’s Under Armour All-America Game participant Donovan Tate.

8-6: From http://www.baseballamerica.com/: - Griffin is a gifted athlete with good size and strength that provides him with the tools and athleticism to be a good all-around player. He hits from an open stance and runs the 60-yard dash in 6.8 seconds. Griffin's half brother, Xavier Avery, was a second-round pick by the Orioles last year.

8-9: from http://www.baseballamerica.com/: - Griffin tied the game in the fourth when he doubled home Castellanos, but then gave Baseball Factory the lead when he caught catcher Jacob Felts sleeping as he stole home when Felts was lobbing the ball back to the pitcher.
9-24: From: http://mlbresource.blogspot.com/: Mock Draft Version 1.0 – 19th pick overall - Trey Griffin, OF - King HS (GA)



6. Josh Sale – (up from 11th) - Bishop Blanchet HS (WA) – 6-1, 195, L/L …

8-10: From http://www.baseballamerica.com/ – Area Code Games - Sale homered twice in last year’s Area Code Games and he picked up where he left off on Wednesday night, blasting another round tripper out of spacious Blair Field.

8-19: Jeff Sullivan from the AFLAC Games: - Sale is one of the top hitters in the country. It is unsure where he will play defensively but his bat should play anywhere. He went 0-1 with a walk during the gam. I wouldn’t be surprised if by draft time, he is the top high school hitter in the draft.

9-16: From http://www.baseballamerica.com/ : - High School Top 25 draft prospects: 10. Josh Sale, of Bishop Blanchet HS, Seattle


7. Leon Landry – LSU – 5-10, 200, L/R -

7/07 fr. http://www.projectprospect.com/: Leon Landry will follow in the footsteps of teammate Jared Mitchell as a super-toolsy two-sport athlete outfielder from LSU.
8-1: from http://perfectgame.atinfopop.com/: this kid can really run, has probs earlier in the year and was sat down, however when he got his opportunity against some of the best college pitchers, he showed much better focus as a hitter. 70 runner with solid defensive skills and range, 40 plus arm. Will be one to watch for 2010 for sure.



8. Tyler Holt – Florida State -

7/07 fr. http://www.projectprospect.com/: While Holt may not have the same buzz as the rest of guys above him on this list, he is very deserving. At least a plus runner, Holt gets good jumps on the ball and covers tons of ground in centerfield. He’s an asset in the field and on the base paths (34-39 stolen base attempts). Holt’s biggest tool is his on-base ability, as he walked an astonishing 17.9% of the time last spring boosting his overall line to .401/.520/.578. A line-drive hitter with strong wrists and good bat-speed and a fantastic approach, Holt projects as a prototypical lead-off hitter.

7/13: As of July 13, hitting .438 for Team USA.


9. Todd Cunningham – (up from 30th) - Jacksonville State – S/R junior…

7-23: stats thru 7-15 in Cape Cod League: .368, 2-HR, 9-RBI… starting in Cape Cod All-Star game

8-1: from http://perfectgame.atinfopop.com/: same school produced Tootle this year, Todd has a very good approach to hitting from both sides of the plate and at least average tools across the board. Also plays the game the way it's supposed to be played, and that's "all out!". Lots of ink on him this summer, however, it's best to watch him play, he will grow on you!

9-16: From http://www.baseballamrica.com/ : - College Top 25 draft prospects: 20. Todd Cunningham, of Jacksonville State

10. Cheves Clark – (up from 36th) – Marietta HS (GA) – 6-0, 185 – verbally committed to Georgia Tech

7-29: From: http://www.baseballfactory.com/: - Clarke is an advanced young player with a complete game. He has a short, quick stroke from both sides of the plate that leads to consistent hard contact. He already shows gap power and can turn on balls at times. He can go get it in the outfield and throws well from all three spots. Overall, Clarke has the tools and polish that make him one of the top all-around players in the class

8-6: From http://www.baseballamerica.com/: - Clarke is a flashy outfielder who has been on the prospect map for awhile. The 6-foot, 190-pounder is a toolsy center fielder that hits from both sides of the plate, runs well and shows off above-average arm strength.

9-5: from Jonathan Mayo’s 8-26 article on http://www.minors.mlbblogs.com/: - Chevez Clarke showed a good, short and quick swing, but he didn't run as well as some had advertised.

9-16: From http://www.baseballamerica.com/ : - High School Top 25 draft prospects: 11. Chavez Clarke, of Marietta (Ga.) HS


11. Jarrett Parker – (up from 10th) – Virginia – 6-4, 205 junior… excellent size, power, speed, and defense… zero HRs as a freshman, 15 as a sophomore… struck out 76 times in 259 at bats.

8-2: from 6-16 article http://www.sportsillustrated.cnn.com/: Few hitters in the Class of 2010 can match Parker's combination of size, speed, power and defense. Parker worked hard in the offseason to add about 20 pounds of muscle to his athletic 6-4, 205-pound frame, and as a result he pounded 16 homers this year after hitting none in 50 games as a freshman. But he did not lose his speed or agility, and his range, instincts and arm strength are all assets in center field. The biggest thing Parker must improve is his contact rate; he has struck out 76 times in 259 at-bats this spring.

9-16: From http://www.baseballamrica.com/ : - College Top 25 draft prospects: 22. Jarrett Parker, of Virginia


12. Brian Ragira – (up from 36th) – Martin HS (TX) – 6-3, 175 -
8-1: from http://perfectgame.atinfopop.com/: long limbs and neck, pure hitter with doubles type power, foul line HR power, hit the ball where it was pitched, runs better on the way and adequate arm strength, on the bump he was 84-87 on the stalker, there is arm strength there, and great character too. Another who will need to get bigger and stronger in college then watch out.

8-6: From http://www.baseballamerica.com/: - Ragira is an athletic player with room to fill out as he matures and adds strength. He's still learning how to handle wood bats, but shows flashes of potential and has good bat speed. He's patient at the plate but aggressive on the bases with his above-average speed.

9-5: from Jonathan Mayo’s 8-26 article on http://www.minors.mlbblogs.com/: - Brian Ragira showed a really good approach at the plate, laying off breaking balls and showing he can hit a fastball anywhere. When the game sped up, he kept up. He's a Stanford commitment, so he might be hard to woo away from college.

9-16: From http://www.baseballamerica.com/ : - High School Top 25 draft prospects: 16. Brian Ragira, of Martin HS, Arlington, Texas

9-26 from: http://www.baseballrumormill.com/: - While Bryce Harper and Jameson Taillon dominated the reports from the USA Baseball 18-and-under team trials, a number of lesser-known players also had good performances which landed them on the roster. Though his speed was mediocre at best, outfielder Brian Ragira impressed scouts with solid swing. Ragira is also intriguing because at 6'2" and only 175 lbs, there's plenty of room to fill out.

9-27 from: http://web.usabaseball.com/: The USA Baseball 18U National Team logged a seven-run inning for a third consecutive day in a 14-0 run-rule shutout Sunday against Panama in the third day of the COPABE "AAA" Pan American Junior Championships at Daniel Canonico Stadium. Brian Ragira hit a two-run homer to center, his first and the team's third of the tourney.




13. Kevin Keyes – Texas – 6-4, 225… excellent bat speed and strength… 2nd on team in 2009 in HRs and doubles… charts out as a RFer… average arm

8-1: from http://perfectgame.atinfopop.com/: power stroke, runs well, better underway and has at least a 55-60 arm, reminds me a lot of JD Dye of the White Sox.

8-2: from 6-16 article http://www.sportsillustrated.cnn.com/: Keyes has physicality that can't be ignored at 6-4, 225 pounds. He has bat speed and strength that plays even in Texas' spacious Disch-Falk Field, as he ranks second on the team in home runs and doubles. He profiles as a right fielder with an average arm and enough speed for the position. His draft status will depend on how well he taps into his raw power.



14. Jabari Blash – Miami-Dade C.C. –

7/09 fr. http://www.withthefirstpick.net/: - Jabari Blash, an outfielder from Miami-Dade Community College, is one of the most exciting prospects eligible for the draft. He's got plenty of speed, huge power and profiles in center-field or right. Blash's tools don't always translate to games, but he has All-Star talent. We ranked Blash 63rd overall and the Rangers selected him in the ninth round (he has yet to sign). The Virgin Islands native has been playing this summer for the Deland Suns of the Florida Collegiate Summer League, where he is hitting .234/.388/328.

8-31: From http://www.baseballamerica/: Blash has tremendous raw talent, and he was drafted by the Rangers in the ninth round this June but did not sign. Blash has a great body at 6-foot-6, 220 pounds and has the potential to be a five-tool player. He has a strong enough arm to play right field and enough speed to play center. Blash hit .279/.400/.365 in 104 at-bats this summer but hit just one homer after blasting 10 in 102 at-bats this spring. He has plus raw power to go along with his plus speed and plus arm, but he has holes in his swing and is still learning the nuances of the game.

15. Michael Lorenzen – (up from 40th) – Fullerton HS (CA) – 6-2, 180 – 6.8 speed… powerful arm… also pitches in the low 90s… needs to develop plate discipline

9-16: From http://www.baseballamerica.com/ : - High School Top 25 draft prospects: 24. Michael Lorenzen, of/rhp Union HS, Fullerton, Calif.


16. Drew Vettleson – (up from 48th) – Central Kitsay HS (WA) – 6-1, 185, L/L –

8-1: from http://perfectgame.atinfopop.com/: hits the ball with some sting in his swing, runs better underway and 40 plus arm, that should get better in the next 2-3 years. Loves the game.
9-16: From http://www.baseballamerica.com/ : - High School Top 25 draft prospects: 25. Drew Vettleson, of/rhp/lhp Central Kitsap HS, Silverdale, Wash.




17. Kurtis Muller – Iowa – 5-10, 165, Junior

7-24 – Fr. http://www.rivals.yahoo.com/: The skinny: Muller had an average spring campaign for the Hawkeyes and finished the season hitting .296 with a pair of homers and 20 RBIs. But with a wood bat this summer, Muller has elevated his game in many ways. For the Mallards, Muller is hitting .328 with eight doubles, a triple, three homers and 23 RBIs. He also was named the Most Valuable Player of the Northwoods All-Star game.



18. Matt Newman – Arizona State –

July 13: went 3-5, with 4-RBIs for Team USA in their 7-5 loss to Team Japan… hitting .424 with 10 RBIs so far for Team USA

7-20: In the 6-3 Team USA loss to Team Germany: hit solo home run


19. Reggie Golden – Wetumpka HS (AL) – 5-11, 200 - 2009: .458, 9-HR, 30-RBI… verbally committed to Alabama…
7-29: from http://www.baseballfactory.com/: - Built like a running back, Reggie packs a punch on the diamond with an exceptional combination of speed and power as well as a strong throwing arm. He makes good, consistent contact at the plate and puts on shows in batting practice

8-1: from http://perfectgame.atinfopop.com/: solid runner, 4.25 to 1b, ave to just abv ave arm strength, has power in his swing, chased many pitches up in the zone and didn't do a thing with it, showed BP power during BP, will need to make adjustments next spring to cut down on swing n misses. Good athlete.

8-9: from http://www.baseballamerica.com/: - Golden is another raw, athletic outfielder that has big power but can struggle with pitches away. Well, in his last at-bat he got a fastball in and absolutely crushed it to left-center, just missing leaving the stadium and landing on Waveland Avenue by only a couple of feet.

9-5: from Jonathan Mayo’s 8-26 article on http://www.minors.mlbblogs.com/: - He's got all the raw tools you'd want to see and might have the best overall tool package in the Draft class. He's an above-average runner, he's got raw power to spare. The question is whether he'll make adjustments. If he does in the spring, he'll move up in a hurry.


20. Blake Dean - LSU… 6-0, 193, L/L, senior … 2008 Baseball America First-Team All-American… named one of Baseball America's Top 300 High School Players of 2006. 2008: .353, 20 HRs, 73 RBIs

8-20: from http://www.rivals.yahoo.com/: He certainly wasn’t the most athletic college player in the draft, but it still surprises me the Twins waited until the 10th round to select Dean. Even with how late he was drafted, it’s even more surprising to me that Dean decided to return to college. After a trio of outstanding campaigns for LSU, Dean has little to prove with the program. Perhaps the Twins acknowledged early in the negotiation process they wouldn’t be able to offer him a substantial contract. Only Dean really knows that. But either way, it was interesting that Dean decided to return to school. LSU coach Paul Mainieri was thrilled with his decision.

21. Gary Brown – (up from 31st) – Cal State Fullerton – junior R/R…

7-23: stats thru 7-15 in Cape Cod League: .344, 2-HR, 9-RBI… starting in Cape Cod All-Star game

8-2: from 6-16 article http://www.sportsillustrated.cnn.com/: Brown's speed tantalizes scouts, who would love to see him perform at a more consistent level. He's bounced between the outfield corners and third base for the Titans and may profile best at second. His well-above-average speed would play anywhere in the middle of the diamond, or at the top of the lineup as his bat develops.

9-16: From http://www.baseballamrica.com/ : - College Top 25 draft prospects: 24. Gary Brown, of Cal State Fullerton



22. Mark Canha – Univ. of California – Junior – 6-2, 195… 2009: .366, 17-2B, 12-HR, 43-RBI, 75-H, 130-TB, .634 SLG, .444-OBP, 44-R… earned All-Pac 10… also plays 1B… hits for power… good threat for base stealing

23. Joc Peterson –

8-9: from Keith Law/ http://www.espn.com/: RF Joc Pederson has a great swing that is quick to the ball with a nice follow through. Along with his above-average speed and ability to probably play center, Pederson figures to be on everyone's 2010 first round radar.

24. Taylor Lindsay - Desert Mountain HS, Scottsdale, Ariz. –

25. Gary Brown – (down from 10th) - Cal State Fullerton – also plays 3B and projects out as a 2Bman… excellent speed… needs to develop consistency.



26. Chris Lewis – Western Michigan – 6-0, 190, senior, S/R… played 2009 summer ball for the Battle Creek Bombers…

7-24 – Fr. http://www.rivals.yahoo.com/: The skinny: Lewis is another player having a year to remember. Lewis finished the spring at Western Michigan hitting .318 with seven homers and 39 RBIs. He’s also making a huge statement at the Northwoods League this summer. He is hitting .333 with seven doubles, four triples, three homers and 35 RBIs. He also is slugging .458 and has an impressive .425 on-base percentage. His summer is good news for the Broncos.


27. Krey Bratsen - Bryan HS, Texas -

28. Michael Choice - UT Arlington -

7/9 fr. Keith Law http://www.espn.com/: Michael Choice, OF, Texas-Arlington: He has below average speed and arm strength, so his only available defensive position is likely left field, but he has shown great power.


29. Kolten Wong – Hawaii - named to the 2009 USA Baseball national team… 2009: .341, 11-HR, 21-doubles, 52-RBIs, 46-R, 11-SB… led team in outfield assists.

30. Rance Roundy – UNLV – 6-2, 180, junior… 2008: .283 (53-187) with two home runs and 30 RBI ... Scored 31 runs and had 14 extra-base hits ... Had 14 multi-hit games, including seven of three or more.. played 2009 summer ball for the Rochester Honkers.

7-24 – Fr. http://www.rivals.yahoo.com/: The skinny: Roundy is having a year to remember at the plate. This past spring with the Rebels, Roundy finished the season hitting .364 with three homers, 32 RBIs and a .403 on-base percentage. His summer at the Northwoods has been equally impressive. Roundy is hitting .322 with 19 doubles, a triple, five homers and 25 RBIs. He also is slugging .519 and has a .393 on-base percentage. The Rebels desperately will need another productive campaign from him next spring.


31. Casey McGrew - Wright State –


32. James Meador – San Diego – senior… 2009: .376 in 213 at bats… .976 fielding… projects out as right fielder

33. Ryan Dew – Ohio State – Senior… 6-1, 220, L/L… led team in hitting in 2009: .388/.429/.562… 7-HR, 42-RBI… 1.000% fielding percentage

34. Evan Hilton – Woodlands HS (GA) – 5-10, 165, S/L – two-way… athletic… very accurate outfield arm… 6.93 speed… 83-86 fastball…

35. Brandon Beans – Hartsville HS (SC) – 5-10, 175… also is RHP…

PG Cross Checker ranks Beans as the 7th top SC prospect out of high school, and the 348th in the nation…



36. Taylor Kaczmarek – Desert Ridge HS (AZ) – 6-2, 210, R/R – very lively swing… raw power, projects out eithr on corners or first base….

37. Jordan Scott – Greer HS (SC) – 6-1, 160… also plays shortstop… verbally committed to South Carolina…
PG Gross Checker ranks Scott the 24th top SC high school prospect, and 288th overall in the nation…

38. Deshun Dixon – Terry HS (MS) – OF/LHP –

7-29: From: http://www.baseballfactory.com/: - Smaller than his brother Rashun, a prospect in the Athletics organization, Deshun is an athletic and exciting player. His speed gives him the range to be a true center fielder and a terror on the bases. He hits from the right side and knows how to get on base. He also has a strong arm, getting it up to the low 90s off the mound.
8-15: from XMLBScout on http://www.perfectgame.com/: first time seeing him this year, said to be a solid 2 way player (football & baseball) and showed very good defense and arm strength also pitched an inning to help his cause. Very interesting to see for 2010.



39. David Donald – J.L. Mann (SC) – 5-11, 175… verbally committed to College of Charleston…

PG Cross Checker ranks Donald as the 481st top prospect in the nation


40. Cory Hahn – Mater Dei HS (CA) – 5-9, 160 – toolsy… 6.6 lightning speed… solid arm… quick bat… strikes out too much…

8-1: from http://perfectgame.atinfopop.com/: 5'10 155 L/L, smooth lefty swing, solid arm, know how in the field, reminds me of John Drennen from a few years back in the AFLAC event. This young man has good upside, average runner with good quickness and 1st step.


41. Yordy Cabrera – Lakeland HS (FL) – 6-2, 190, R/R –

8-1: from http://perfectgame.atinfopop.com/: looks great in a uniform as well, ball off the wood jumps when he makes solid contact, pulls off the ball some, runs well underway, solid ave at the worst, also showed ML arm strength.

9-5: from Jonathan Mayo’s 8-26 article on http://www.minors.mlbblogs.com/: - Yordy Cabrera showed good power and a nice swing -- it reminded some of Andruw Jones's finish -- though since he's a little older (he'll be 19 1/2 come next year's Draft), he's tougher to evaluate.
9-7: From http://www.perfectgame.com/ on the AFLAC games: what can you say about this young man? He's much older than the competition he's played against, he should dominate them and the best position for him is probably the outfield corner. Butchered many ground balls in the attempts I saw. On the hill he's just ok, he doesn't repeat velocity/delivery extension consistent enough. Upper cut stroke will get eaten up in pro ball and expose him. Lots of room to get better, but basically, what you see now is what you will get later, in my opinion.





42. Angelo Gumbs – Torrance HS (CA) – 6-1, 190 – gome to first in 4:07… prep shortstop… good arm… thows inconsistently…


43. Kyle LeBlanc – Newburyport H.S. – 6-0 - average bat… 6.41 in 60-yds… solid fielding… projects as CF


44. Brian Fletcher – Auburn junior R/R…

7-23: stats thru 7-15 in Cape Cod League: .317, 1-HR, 10-RBI… starting in Cape Cod All-Star game

45. Zach Cone – Georgia – freshman R/R…

7-23: stats thru 7-15 in Cape Cod League: .267, 1-HR, 9-RBI… starting in Cape Cod All-Star game

46. Daniel Groval – Virginia – junior L/L…

7-23: stats thru 7-15 in Cape Cod League: .294, 0-HR, 8-RBI… starting in Cape Cod All-Star game


47. Austin Wates – Virginia Tech – junior R/R…

7-23: stats thru 7-15 in Cape Cod League: .385, 0-HR, 10-RBI… starting in Cape Cod All-Star game

7-29: From http://www.capecodonline.com/: - Austin Wates may be flying, but it’s no longer under the radar. The Yarmouth-Dennis corner outfielder out of Virginia Tech has hit in the high .300s almost all season while displaying most of the tools scouts are looking for, including 6.5 speed in the 60. His starry summer on the Cape has put him in prime position for the 2010 draft. “I think he’ll go in the top five rounds,” said Y-D manager Scott Pickler.


48. JaDamion Williams – Brooks-DeBartolo HS (FL) – 6-1, 185 –
7-29: From http://www.baseballfactory.com/: - Williams is very fast and athletic. A switch-hitter, he has a quick bat and explosive swing from both sides of the plate. Williams’ father Reggie played four years in the big leagues with the Angels and Dodgers.


49. Kevin Jordan – Northside Columbus HS (GA) –

8-6: From http://www.baseballamerica.com/: - Jordan is an athletic 6-foot-1 and 180 pounds. While not a burner, he gets good reads on the ball and can play center field. He hits from the left side and shows some power to all fields, giving him a high ceiling.

50. Marcus Davis – verbally committed to LSU -
9-8: http://www.pgtracker.com/ lists as one of the top 10 high school players coming out of Ohio.
51. Robert Maddox – Ohio… plays first base also…

9-8: http://www.pgtracker.com/ lists as one of the top 10 college players coming out of Ohio.

52. Ben Klafczynski – Kent State -

9-8: http://www.pgtracker.com/ lists as one of the top 10 college players coming out of Ohio.

53. Gauntlett Eldemire – Ohio

9-8: http://www.pgtracker.com/ lists as one of the top 10 college players coming out of Ohio.

54. Adam Eaton – Miami (OH) -

9-8: http://www.pgtracker.com/ lists as one of the top 10 college players coming out of Ohio.
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The Keepers - #72 - OF - Luis Rivera




72. Luis Rivera – OF – low-A – 23/yrs.

Rivera was drafted by the Anaheim Angels, in the 5th round of the 2004 draft. He hails from San Juan, Puerto Rico and played high school ball at Ramon Vill Mayo, in Rio Piedras.
Rivera played three years in the Angels organization and never got out of rookie ball. His best stats were in 2005, when he hit .280, in 132 at bats.
He somehow wound up in the Toronto organization in 2008 and batted .182 for their low-A team.
The Mets picked him up for the 2009 season, where he played exclusively for Brooklyn. He hit .299/.402/.443/.845 in 221 at bats and, all of a sudden, he looks like the best pick up the Mets made all year.
Rivera was 12th in the league in batting average, 3rd in OBS, 18th in slugging percentage, and 10th in OPS.

Forecast:
First of all, you’re not going to find much written about Rivera. He had a nice high school career, followed by four disappointing years in organized ball. He’s constantly confused with the other Luis Rivera, who is an infielder that plays a couple of levels up higher. Omar & Co. (or was that Tony B?) have a habit of picking up failures from other teams and trying to turn them into, at least, a minor league success. So far, this one looks real good, but I want to see another year before thinking this might be an outfield prospect. My guess, due to his age and experience, he will go straight to Lucy in the spring.
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Minors Stuff




Extended Camp:.


A pair of minor-league managers have been informed they won't return to the organization in 2010, the Daily News has learned. Longtime big leaguer Julio Franco, who managed the Mets' Gulf Coast League affiliate, has been dismissed. Also out: Double-A Binghamton manager Mako Oliveras, who was an ally of fired VP of player development Tony Bernazard. --


NY Daily News


The Mets, on the other hand, convinced themselves that Ryan Church off a concussion, Daniel Murphy off one good major league month and Fernando Tatis off his first productive season in eight years could form the corner outfield of a championship team.
This, I believe, flows from the top. Fred Wilpon is a decent man who wants to see the best. His spirit has infected the organization. There is talk of a free flow of ideas and that people should not be afraid to talk up. But when general manager Omar Minaya was hired, the two most internal critical voices in the organization, Al Goldis and Bill Livesey, were removed. In their place, Minaya turned to pals Sandy Johnson and Bryan Lambe.

http://www.nypost.com/p/sports/mets/realistic_way_to_re_tool_mets_eie8P66tlfn1iJr87oqsqK/0

David Wright never needed a day off more than the one Jerry Manuel gave him here yesterday. The Mets' All-Star third baseman was conspicuously absent from the 4-0 win over the Marlins, less than 24 hours after Wright's shockingly uncharacteristic lack of hustle prompted a personal apology to his teammates and a postgame Manuel tongue-lashing. Wright had loafed into home with two out in the fifth inning Saturday night, and his nonchalance proved costly because he failed to reach the plate before Jeff Francoeur was thrown out at second in an eventual 9-6 Mets loss. Manuel has seen more than his share of mental gaffes this season, but he considered this one "unacceptable [and] unallowable" for a player of Wright's stature in the clubhouse. -- NY Post

Is there any way to get rid of Pat Burrell? Short of swallowing his $9 million salary and cutting him? It's not going to be easy, but don't discount the creativity of exec VP Andrew Friedman. The Rays could slice the price by agreeing to eat some of the money, but first they'll look for trading partners seeking to move similarly bad contracts, such as Milton Bradley (Cubs) or Oliver Perez (Mets). There's also a theory that Burrell, heading back into free agency, will return much more motivated and in better shape. -- St. Petersburg Times

know Met fans will clamor for a Jason Bay or Matt Holliday, and I previously have advocated the versatility of Chone Figgins. But Figgins likely will take a three-year contract, and Bay and Holliday much more than that at huge dollars. And in a post-Madoff world, the Mets cannot afford this and a starting pitcher (think signing a John Lackey or trading for a Carlos Zambrano). Instead, they will have to do as best as they can under the circumstances. I think, for example, they could probably do Rod Barajas, Nick Johnson and Mark DeRosa for around $15 million total next year. It's not great. But neither is the Mets' financial picture. You do the best you can under the circumstances. -- NY Post


World Cup:

Team USA took advantage of a critical error by Cuba with two outs in the seventh inning Sunday on its way to a 10-5 win in the gold medal game of the World Cup in Nettuno, Italy.
After the Cubans rallied back to tie the game at 4 with two runs in the bottom of the sixth, the Americans had two on and two out in the seventh when an error by Cuba first baseman Ariel Borrero allowed the U.S. to score the go-ahead run. From there, the Americans came through with one clutch hit after another on their way to a six-run frame that assured them of a second consecutive World Cup title against the powerhouse Cubans.

Jutin Smoak and John Weber hit back-to-back RBI singles to knock legendary Cuban reliever Pedro Lazo out of the game. Terry Tiffee, Josh Kroeger and Lucas May continued the onslaught with three straight RBI hits. In all, 11 batters came to the plate, and the Cubans needed four pitchers to get through the frame

http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20090927&content_id=7186440&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb



Draft:

While Bryce Harper and Jameson Taillon dominated the reports from the USA Baseball 18-and-under team trials, a number of lesser-known players also had good performances which landed them on the roster.
Though his speed was mediocre at best, outfielder Brian Ragira impressed scouts with solid swing. Ragira is also intriguing because at 6'2" and only 175 lbs, there's plenty of room to fill out.
Taillon may throw harder than Karsten Whitson, but one scout felt Whitson's fastball was the best because of its movement. Whitson was still throwing 94, not shabby at all. His slider was also impressive, but Whitson did not demonstrate good command of the pitch.
At 5'10" and only 165 lbs, Tony Wolters is not the ideal size for a major league prospect. However, Wolters showed a solid bat at the trials along with above-average speed. His defense is good enough to allow him to play second base and maybe even shortstop.
Nick Castellanos is currently playing third base, but will likely end up at first base as a professional. Nevertheless, Castellanos' hitting was very impressive, pulling the ball and going to opposite field with equal effectiveness.
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9/27/09

Top Third Basemen in 2010 MLB Draft - Updated




1. Victor Sanchez –– San Diego – 6-2, 180, R/R – was drafted 25th by Cubs in 2007… lots of raw power… 12 HRs as freshman… injured most of sophomore year… shortstop in high school…

7-21: Fr. http://baseballdraftreport.com/: - My favorite of that group (of 3Bmen) and minor sleeper come draft day is Victor Sanchez from California.


8-1: from http://perfectgame.atinfopop.com/: has pop in his bat and body to fill out, 15-20 type HR power, solid ML arm, runs ok, better between the bases, glove can play at 3b, future might be 2b.


9-24: From: http://mlbresource.blogspot.com: Mock Draft Version 1.0 – 30th pick overall - Victor Sanchez, 3B - San Diego



2. Zack Cox – (up from 3rd) - Arkansas – draft-eligible sophomore… 3B tools and excellent bat speed… has had back problems.

7-23: stats thru 7-15 in Cape Cod League: .388, 7-RBI… starting in Cape Cod All-Star game

7-25 fr. http://www.baseballamerica.com/: - The fans and dozens of scouts were treated to strong pitching and a two-hit, two-RBI day by Cotuit third baseman Zack Cox (Arkansas), who was named the game's offensive MVP for the victorious West squad. "What you saw tonight is Zack Cox: Most of his hits are up the middle or the other way," said Roberts, who coaches Cox at Cotuit. "If he has one thing he'd like to do better down the road it's on certain pitches he'd like to turn on them better. But he's what I'd call a country Enos Slaughter. He's a country slasher, and he understands hitting."

8-2: from 6-16 article http://www.sportsillustrated.cnn.com/: A freshman this season, Cox will be draft-eligible as a sophomore in 2010. He has battled a bad back this spring, but seemed to be loosening up and getting into a hitting rhythm as the Razorbacks tore through the postseason. Cox has third-base tools with plenty of bat speed to profile him to produce above-average power down the road. He's shown the ability to catch up to good fastballs and needs to learn to trust his hands to handle offspeed stuff.

9-16: From http://www.baseballamrica.com/ : - College Top 25 draft prospects: 8. Zack Cox, 3b Arkansas


3. Kris Bryant – (up from 5th) - Bonanza HS, Las Vegas

8-19: Jeff Sullivan from the AFLAC Games: - Power is his calling card. He is a giant at the plate, at 6’5,205 and he generates a ton of power in his swing. Bryant went 0-2 with a walk in the game, but the days before is where he shined. It was great to watch him during BP as he makes it look almost too easy to hit for that much power. He has a solid arm across the diamond and should be able to stay at third base as he moves up during his career.

9-16: From http://www.baseballamerica.com/ : - High School Top 25 draft prospects: 7. Kris Bryant, 3b Bonanza HS, Las Vegas


4. Nick Castellanos – (up from 5th) – Archbishop McCarthy HS, Fort Lauderdale, Fla. – 6-4, 205 –

From: http://www.baseballfactory.com/: - One of the top hitters in the 2010 class, Castellanos generates plus bat speed and has legitmate home run power to all fields. He has a tall, broad-shouldered frame similar to Scott Rolen and makes all the plays at 3B with ease. He projects as a middle-of-the-order hitter at any level. We have seen a lot of Nick as he has attended an Under Armour National Tryout, Dodgertown World Series and played in an Under Armour SE Tournament. He also plays for UA Franchise Team, the All-American Prospects. He has verbally committed to the University of Miami.

8-6: From http://www.baseballamerica.com/: - A strong, solid corner infielder, Castellanos can flat out rake. He has a big frame, and is very athletic for his size. Castellanos has a good feel for the game and has a strong arm from the left side of the diamond.

8-9: from http://www.baseballamerica.com/: - Castellanos was the driving force behind Baseball Factory’s win. He went 4-for-4 with four doubles, three RBIs, two runs scored and a walk. He hit the ball to all fields, squared it up and also made a very nice play up the third base line to kick the game off.

8-15: from XMLBScout on http://www.perfectgame.com/: I saw him a couple games in Cary and he showed the ability to make solid contact, however, yesterday he appeared to show better on the way speed and if comparing him to anyone currently in the ML, I'd say Zimmerman 3B with the Nats. John moved up several projection charts for 2010 for sure!!

9-16: From http://www.baseballamerica.com/ : - High School Top 25 draft prospects: 8. Nick Castellanos, 3b Archbishop McCarthy HS, SW Ranches, Fla.

9-26 from: http://www.baseballrumormill.com/: - While Bryce Harper and Jameson Taillon dominated the reports from the USA Baseball 18-and-under team trials, a number of lesser-known players also had good performances which landed them on the roster. Nick Castellanos is currently playing third base, but will likely end up at first base as a professional. Nevertheless, Castellanos' hitting was very impressive, pulling the ball and going to opposite field with equal effectiveness.


5. Kaleb Cowart – (moved from RHP) – Cook County HS (GA) – fastball in 90-92 range.. played every day shortstop but charts out as a pitcher… needs work
9-7: From http://www.perfectgame.com/ on the AFLAC games: - very good arm, also position player who plays all out. Have to see him again next year for sure.

9-16: From http://www.baseballamerica.com/ : - High School Top 25 draft prospects: 17. Kaleb Cowart, 3b/rhp Cook HS, Adel, Ga.

9-24: From: http://mlbresource.blogspot.com/: Mock Draft Version 1.0 – 20th pick overall - Kaleb Cowart, 3B - Cook County HS (GA)


6. Jedd Gyoko – (up from 8th) – West Virginia – Junior – 5-10, 195… played SS in 2008… played 3B in 2009 Cape Cod League… hits for average and power… excellent middle fielder in past

7-23: stats thru 7-15 in Cape Cod League: .294, 8-RBI… starting in Cape Cod All-Star game

9-16: From http://www.baseballamrica.com/ : - College Top 25 draft prospects: 12. Jedd Gyorko, 3b/2b West Virginia


7. Ross Wilson – – Alabama –

7/07 fr. http://www.projectprospect.com/: the University of Alabama should have the most talented left side of infield in college next year as SS Josh Rutledge and 3B Ross Wilson both have solid tools with decent power potential.


8. Derek Dietrich - Georgia Tech



9. Joey Kenworthy – Texas Tech – Senior… 5-5, 152, S/R… 2009: .335/.378/.417 in 220 Abs… 17 errors…



10. Ryan Albert – Newport Harbor HS (CA) – 5-11, 170, L/R – raw power… also throws 88-fastball, 76 curve… projects out at third due to his excellent hitting ability…

11. Josh Anderson – Poway HS (CA) – 6-0, 205, R/R – also pitches with 84-87 fastball… well above average tools… but slow…

12. Bryan Soloman – Memorial HS (NJ) – 6-4, 245, R/R – raw power and excellent extension threw contact… also pitches with good command…

13. Chad Lewis – Marina HS (CA) – 6-2, 190, R/R…

8-1: from http://perfectgame.atinfopop.com/: one of best power strokes in the tourney, solid ML arm from the corner, moves feet well enough to stay there, reminds me some of Mike Schmidt when I was a kid watching the Phillies.

14. Mike Antonio – 6-1, 185, R/R –

8-1: from http://perfectgame.atinfopop.com/: solid stroke from right side, went with the pitch, showed alley power/extra base type power, eventually will develop 15-20 HR type power, runs well underway, 4.5 home to 1st, a step slow, but is not a clogger, solid arm and glove, to stay at 3b, eventually move to RF or 1b.


15. Scott Woodward – Coastal Carolina – 6-1, 200, L/R –

8-1: from http://perfectgame.atinfopop.com/: solid player, put himself on the map with solid spring as a freshman in 2008, grades across the board at ave with gamer mentality.
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The Keepers - #73 - OF - Alex Gregory



#73 Alex Gregory – OF – low-A – 24/yrs.


Gregory was drafted in the 17th round of the 2009 draft.



Gregory is batting .419, tops on the team and among the leaders in the Big South Conference. With a strong final month, Gregory could become the first three-time batting champion in the conference's history. He's a well-built player -- 6-foot-2, 210 pounds -- but one of Gregory's greatest strengths this year has been plate discipline. He's walked 20 times against only 12 strikeouts, a stark improvement from his first two seasons with the Highlanders. Credit his swingless routine, a drill he developed on his own. "I think pitch recognition is one of the toughest things to do," Gregory said. "But you can pick it up early and say that slider's going to be out of the zone, just from repetition over and over and over."


Gregory has seen fewer pitches to hit as his profile has grown. He was named the Big South preseason player of the year, and rivals know only he and North Carolina's Dustin Ackey have gone over .400 in each of the past two years.




Gregory earned all-conference honors for the third time in his career, and is bidding to become the first player in Big South history to hit better than .400 in three straight seasons. A .405 hitter with nine homers, 38 RBIs and a .514 on-base clip entering the tournament, Gregory leads the conference in on-base percentage and fielding percentage (1.000). He’s in the league’s top five in batting average (2nd), slugging percentage (2nd – .649) and walks (4th – 34).

Gregory played the 2009 season for Brooklyn: .278/.349/.417/.766 in 144/Ab.

Forecast: Gregory was known for his power in college, though very little came out in 2009. Brooklyn had six outfielders in 2009 and Luis Rivera might be the first one to make the jump directly to Lucy. My guess is Gregory goes to Savannah.
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Mack's Mets Welcomes Peter Spiewak




Peter Spiewak has joined the family of contributor writers here at Macks's Mets.


Growing up in Bayonne, N.J., Pete has spent his entire life as a fan of the Mets. He has a passion for baseball and enjoys following the Mets' farm system. Pete covers the Brooklyn Cyclones for Examiner.com. In the past, he has written for several websites on a variety of topics including high school sports, fantasy football, and baseball. Pete is currently a senior at Saint Joseph's University in Philadelphia, where he works part-time in the Sports Information Department. He also is spending the year working in media relations with the Philadelphia Eagles.


Please welcome him aboard.


Mack
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Minors Stuff





New Met:


The New York Mets today announced that they claimed righthanded pitcher Jack Egbert off waivers from Chicago-AL. The White Sox placed the righthander on waivers on September 23rd. To make room for Egbert on the 40-man roster, the Mets transferred outfielder Fernando Martinez to the 60-Day Disabled List as he continues to recover from surgery on his right knee.
Egbert, 26, spent the majority of the 2009 season with Charlotte (AAA) of the International League and posted a 6-11 record with a 5.05 ERA in 30 games, 18 starts, with the Knights. In 108.2 innings, he allowed 73 runs, 61 earned, with 132 hits, 33 walks and 78 strikeouts. The 6-3, 220-pound hurler also made two appearances out of the White Sox bullpen during a stint with Chicago from April 21st – 24th, allowing eight runs on eight hits in 2.2 innings of relief.
The Rutherford, NJ resident, who was born in Staten Island, NY, was selected in the 13th round of the June 2004 First-Year Player Draft out of Rutgers University where he won 18 games and posted a 3.90 ERA in his three years with the Scarlet Knights. He also recorded 163 career strikeouts, which ranks fourth in Rutgers history.


Queens:


John Maine, who deals with some asthma issues, had difficulty breathing on the muggy Miami night early. His shoulder felt fine, although his fastball velocity continues to lag. Maine was charged with seven runs and was knocked out in the fifth inning.


Lance Broadway had a line drive ricochet off his shoulder to first base for an out. Broadway said the area should be sore tomorrow, but his relatively okay.Read more:



Two years after Team USA ended Cuba's string of nine consecutive baseball World Cup golds, a rematch for that title is set for today in Nettuno, Italy.
With a first pitch at 9 a.m. ET and streaming live on MLB.com via the MLB Network, the United States (13-1 in the tournament) will bring a 13-game winning streak into the 2009 gold-medal game with perennial power Cuba, which has gone 12-2, including a 5-3 loss to the U.S. on Thursday.
The game will feature the same two teams from the 2007 final in Chinese Taipei, which the U.S. won, 6-3, over Cuba to claim its third World Cup. However, Cuba has won 25 of the first 29 World Cup titles.
Team USA heads into the final on a roll that started after it lost its tourney opener, 13-9, in 11 innings to Venezuela on Sept. 10. Featuring a number of Minor League stars, Team USA has used a balanced attack to march to the finals.



Elias has finished designating each free agent:
Brian Schneider: B
Carlos Delgado: B
Fernando Tatis B
Pedro Feliciano A



International

Aroldis Chapman has been declared a free agent by major league baseball so let the bidding begin. Aroldis was one of my favorite players in Cuba, but after talking to some people who are quite familiar with Cuban baseball Aroldis can be an enigma. Whoever pays out big dough because they are attracted to his 100 mile an hour fastball may get someone that more resembles Daniel Cabrera than Tim Lincecum. He regressed a little in the Cuban league last year, struggling with his command and seeing his ERA rise above 4. The discussion is that he may not be coachable and his ability to adapt to the big money and the U.S. lifestyle could be a challenge.


However, if he can be coached to improve his other three pitches (and perhaps one pitch will be dropped) and enhance the command he has on the fastball he would be someone you want in your starting rotation. It is probably a risk only those teams in large markets can take. Smaller market teams would have trouble swallowing a $10 million a year contract for a player that has to be sent down to AAA to find his stuff. It will be interesting to see where the bidding goes

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