Fun With WAR

Today’s technology and knowledge provides us with so many amazing statistics to analyze baseball. These sabermetrics have greatly affected the game, some say for the better but some say for the worse… I will let you guys make your own choices on which side to take.

Fangraphs provides us with probably one of the most interesting sabermetrics, the WAR statistic. WAR stands for Wins Above Replacement and it shows the total value of a player. I’m not going to get into how they figure this out and where they get it from but it is a pretty amazing stat that is always interesting to see. It is a fun way to compare players all throughout history especially when Hall of Fame talks start up.

I decided to have some fun with the technology over at Fangraphs and put together some graphs comparing the Mariners top 4 players in a variety of hitting categories. Yes many of the players appear more than once but that shows who some of the top Mariners are in franchise history. The rankings are from mlb.com.The following graphs I used were based on the players Cumulative WAR by age.

First up are the players with the most hits in the Franchise.

1. Edgar Martinez: 2,247 (Green)
2. Ichiro Suzuki: 2,244 (Blue)
3. Ken Griffey JR: 1843 (Purple)
4. Jay Buhner: 1255 (Orange)

The top 4 highest averages with the organization:

1. Ichiro Suzuki: .331 (Purple)
2. Edgar Martinez: .312 (Green)
3. Alex Rodriguez: .309 (Orange)
4. Phil Bradley: .301 (Blue)

Most Homeruns:

1. Ken Griffey JR: 417 (Blue)
2. Edgar Martinez: 309 (Green)
3. Jay Buhner: 307 (Purple)
4. Alex Rodriguez: 189 (Orange)

Most RBI:

1. Edgar Martinez: 1261 (Blue)
2. Ken Griffey JR: 1216 (Purple)
3. Jay Buhner: 951 (Orange)
4. Alvin Davis: 667 (Green)

Mariners 2011 Rotation

The Mariners had one of the best rotations last year in the American League in terms of ERA. The wins category is a different story due to the lack of run support, which was the story of the season. The following starting pitchers all started games last year; Felix Hernandez, Cliff Lee, Jason Vargas, Doug Fister, Ryan Rowland-Smith, David Pauley, Luke French, and Ian Snell. Lee, Rowland-Smith, and Ian Snell are no longer in the organization leaving us with five guys that started in the bigs last year.

Felix is a lock as the ace (all hail the king). After him is where it gets messy. Yes Vargas posted decent numbers last year but I assume the Mariners want more out of a number 2 starter, the only problem is that they cant afford it. Vargas had an ERA of 3.78 which is by far the best in his career. This was his first season in which he saw over 100 innings pitched. He really benefits pitching in such a pitcher friendly park. His ERA splits sum it up: 2.86 at home and 4.85 on the road- huge difference. He is a very cheap option and he has stayed healthy pitching a good amount of innings. I would like to see him as a number 3 starter behind some new acquisition but I assume he will be the number two starter.

Doug Fister really performed well the first few months before being bitten by the injury bug. He had a 2.31 ERA in April and May. He injured his right shoulder and he was placed on the DL in June. He did not start a game with the Mariners again until July. This injury appeared to affect his game. When he returned from the injury he went 3-11 with a 5.04 ERA. We have to hope he stays healthy this year and he can be a very solid middle of the rotation starter. I feel the 3 guys I listed above are the only sure bets to be in the starting rotation opening day.

Let’s talk about the other guys. French and Pauley both figure to be either back of the rotation guys or fill in starters. French showed great numbers at AAA Tacoma but those have not translated over. He had a 4.83 ERA and posted very poor strikeout numbers. Pauley had a 4.07 ERA and was a surprise to everyone. This was his first season he had more than 3 starts. Still I think he is at best a number 4-5 starter for teams in need of a pitcher. I think we will see him in the pen this year.

Pineda

There is also a certain prospect that may be ready for the rotation opening day. Top prospect, Michael Pineda, could possibly start the year in the rotation but I think it would be best for him to have a few more months at AAA. We never know though, he could destroy major league hitters in spring training and maybe the organization thinks he is ready. His plus fastball appears ready to take on big league hitters but his secondary stuff needs improvement.

We can’t forget about Erik Bedard. He has been quite the story for the Mariners, and unfortunately a sad story. Coming over from Baltimore for some of the Mariners top prospects, he has not performed up to expectations. He has dealt with many injuries and he missed all of last year. He has posted pretty good numbers when healthy though which has been rare. He is a very low risk for the Mariners as they signed him for a one-year, -non guarantee contract. I think he will be determined to redeem himself and make a case that he can be a solid big league pitcher again.

Capuano

There has also been talk about the Mariners signing a mid to back of the rotation starter which would be smart. They couldn’t afford much but they could get a decent pitcher. They have looked at lefty Jeff Francis but it appears he is showing interest in another team. We have just recently heard rumors about another name. And that name is Chris Capuano. The 6’2” lefty pitched with the Brewers last year and he has played in the NL his whole career. He had a 3.95 ERA and his career ERA is 4.35. He strikes out a decent amount of batters but nothing that stands out. The 32 year old once won 18 games in 2005. He has shown very good numbers against left handed batters but he struggles against righties. He gives up more fly balls and Safeco is a very good fly-ball pitchers park. Miller Park is smaller than Safeco so pitching in Safeco may help his stats. Not too mention he would have two gold glove outfielders. I really hope the Mariners continue to pursue Capuano. He would be a cheap yet productive option.

After looking at all these pieces there is nothing really to get excited about in the rotation once we look past Felix. Being that the money isn’t there to go get a good number two starter we will have to be patient. In 2012 there will be more money available to pursue a pitcher (Edwin Jackson!) and top prospect Michael Pineda will hopefully be much more developed. My projected rotation for 2011 starting opening day is as follows (I assume Pineda will not quite be ready):

1. Felix Hernandez
2. Jason Vargas
3. Doug Fister
4. Chris Capuano
5. Erik Bedard.

If we don’t get Capuano than I think it will look like this:

1. Felix Hernandez
2. Jason Vargas
3. Doug Fister
4. Erik Bedard
5. Luke French

Mariners Top 10 Prospects

This year I have posted a few Mariners prospect lists. I have posted a top 15 Mariners list by J.P. Schwartz, a top 10 by Baseball America, and my top 15 Mariners prospects to watch for in 2011. After reading lots of reports and stats and seeing a variety of videos, I have now put together my top ten Mariners prospects (All ages are of 12/26/2010)  Feel free to ask me for any scouting reports on any of these players.

10. Dan Cortes: 6’5” 205lb. Bats/Throws: Right/Right. Position: Pitcher. Age: 23

9. Esteilon Peguero: 6’1” 185lb. Bats/Throws: Right/Right. Position: Shortstop. Age: 17

8. Johermyn Chavez: 6’3” 220lb. Bats/Throws: Right/Right. Position: RF. Age: 21

7. James Jones: 6’4” 195lb. Bats/Throws: Left/Left. Position: RF. Age: 22

6. Alex Liddi: 6’4” 215lb. Bats/Throws: Right/Right. Position: 3^rd. Age: 22

5. Taijuan Walker: 6’4” 195lb. Bats/Throws: Right/Right. Position: Pitcher. Age: 18

4. Guillermo Pimentel: 6’1” 180lb. Bats/Throws: Left/Left. Position: OF. Age: 18

3. Nick Franklin: 6’1” 185lb. Bats/Throws: Switch/Right. Position: SS. Age: 19

2. Michael Pineda: 6’5” 180lb. Bats/Throws: Right/Right. Position: Pitcher. Age: 21

1. Dustin Ackley: 6’1” 190lb. Bats/Throws: Left/Right. Position: Second Base. Age: 22

Honorable Mentions: Marucio Robles, Marcus Littlewood, Kyle Seager, Rich Poythress, Josh Lueke.

Mariners Prospects to Watch

Last year we had guys really breakout years and emerge onto the prospect scene. Notables that come to mind are Rich Poythress, Kyle Seager, and Nick Franklin. Guys like this, emerge every year and these are the guys that I think will put up great numbers this year. These guys are all in low levels and don’t figure to be in the majors this year. I’m not saying these guys are top prospects but I think they will put up great numbers this year in the minors. Let me know if you have any questions, want a scouting report, or if you think there are guys I missed.

15. Tyler Blandford: 22 years old, RHP. Drafted in the 5^th round, 2009. 6’3”, 220lb. Throws hard but needs to work on command.

14. Anthony Fernandez: 20 years old, LHP. 6’4” 180lb. Very good command. Lacks velocity and needs to build stamina and maintain stuff later into games.

13. Kevin Rivers: 22 years old, Corner outfielder. 6’2” 210lb. Bats left, throws right. Good eye and a patient hitter. Polished all around but doesn’t have a high ceiling.

12. Dylan Unsworth: 18 years old, RHP. Signed out of South Africa. 6’1” 175lb. Good command with a sinking fastball. Not much velocity for now. Solid changeup.

11. Seon Gi Kim: 19 years old, RHP. 6’2” 185lb. Has showed good strikeout numbers. Good pitching mechanics with a projectable frame. Has the potential to develop good breaking stuff.

10. Brian Moran: 22 years old, LHP. Drafted in the 7^th round of 2009. 6’3” 185lb. Pitches out of the pen and dominated left handed batters. Has yet to allow a professional homerun in nearly 100 innings. Good strikeout and walk numbers. Plus movement and very trick arm slot. Not too much velocity: upper 80’s

9 Jabari Blash: 21 years old, bats and throws right handed. Plays right field. Drafted in the 8^th round of 2010. 6’5” 220lb. A rare 5 tool talent with great potential across the boards. Still very raw and is far from the bigs.

8 Brandol Perez: 17 years old, LHP. 6’4” 175lb. Dominated batters in the Dominican Summer league. Solid curveball that is developing. Great maturity for his age. Frame is very projectable. Little velocity for now.

7. Edlando Seco: 22 years old, RHP. 6’2” 175lb. Strikes out lots of batters. Great slider with nasty movement. Poor command but it has been improving.

6. Vincent Catricala: 22 years old, bats and throw right. 6’2 220lb. Drafted in the 10^th riound of 2009. Plays third base and first. Has hit for a solid average and decent power. Should put up very good numbers in California league. Not much defensive value.

5. Mickey Wiswall: 22 years old bats left, throws right. 6’1” 210lb. Drafted in the 7^th round of 2010. Plays first base. Very strong pure power hitter. Still raw but has great strength. Consistent swing. Poor defense and speed.

4. Erasmo Ramirez: 20 years old, RHP. 5’11” 180lb. Very good control. BA says he has best control in M’s system. Posted very good stats through career. Strikes out a solid amount of batters. Deceptive release of the ball.  Needs to improve velocity.

3. Forrest Snow:  22 years old, RHP, Washington Native. Drafted in the 36^th round of the 2010 draft. 6’6” 195lb. He has posted great numbers thus far. Struck out lots of batters. Fastball in mid to uppers 80’s with some tail. Decent curveball.

2. Ji-Man Choi: 19 years old, bats left and throws right. 6’1” 195lb. Plays catcher and first base. Has posted very good stats thus far. Good contact and athleticism. More power if projected to develop over time. Would have more value as a catcher.

1. James Jones: 22 years old, bats and throws left. Drafted by the Mariners in the 4^th round of 2009. 6’4” 195lb. Plays right field but was figured by most MLB teams to be drafted by a pitcher. Has great tools and potential. He has great power, speed, range and an outstanding arm in the outfield. Solid contact and a great approach at the plate. He is still raw thought but I figure he will start the year at High A where we could really see him take off in that hitter friendly park. He could be a bust but I really like his potential.

Honorable Mentions: Kevin Mailoux, Kalian Sams, Ivan Ramirez, Terry Serrano, Evan Sharpley, Ramon Morala, Mario Martinez, Timothy Boyce, James Gilheeney, Brandon Maurer

Mariners Prospect Evan Sharpley

Evan Sharpley will be entering his third professional baseball season. The 24 year old first baseman was drafted out of Notre Dame by the Mariners in the 2009 MLB draft. He attended Marshall High School in Michigan where he received 11 varsity letters (baseball, football, and basketball) and was awarded the Michigan Male Athlete of the year award in the 04-05 school year by the Detroit Athletic Club. He then attended Notre Dame where he played both football and baseball. He finished the 2010 season with the Everett Aquasox.  Now let’s meet the young man.

Two sport athletes always have to make tough choices between sports. Why did you choose baseball over football?

I was fortunate enough that I didn't have to decide until after college. I was able to play two sports that I love very much for a long period of time. I wouldn't say that I choose one over the other. I was given an opportunity with the Mariners and decided to give them my full dedication and passion       

In your junior year of college you replaced injured Jimmy Clausen at quarter back against Boston College after he left the game early.  The next game would be your first career start and it was against the number 13 team in the nation at the time, USC. What was the most nerve racking moment: Starting against USC, your 2009 draft day, or your professional baseball debut?

Actually, Jimmy was not hurt that game, he was benched due to poor play. I dont really look at any of those moments as nerve racking. I try to take every moment in my life on an even keel. I do not like to get to high with the highs or too low with the lows. It keeps things in perspective and allows me to enjoy each moment. 

Who was your favorite baseball team growing up? Who was your favorite player?

The New York Yankees because Derek Jeter was my favorite player and he grew up and went to high school 30 minutes from me

Tell us about your favorite moment in your professional baseball career thus far?

Winning the Northwest League Championship last year has topped the list so far. Being part of championship two years in a row is pretty special regardless of what level its at. 

Tell us what winning the NW league championship with the Aquasox has meant to you?

It was awesome! Just a great feeling after working so hard all year.

What does your offseason workouts consist of? How is it different from your offseason workouts back at Notre Dame when you had to focus on both football and baseball?

I put in a lot of time in the weight room and the cages during the offseason in prep for the upcoming season. I never really had an offseason while I was at Notre Dame because I was constantly in-season with one of the two sports. This being my first off-season, I have been able to spend more time specifically on baseball and on my time working out. Time management is critical and only having one sport to focus on makes it much easier.

What aspect of your game are you most determined to improve before spring training? What workouts do you do to improve this?

I try to improve all aspects of my game. I want to come into spring training as a very balanced player. I give an equal amount of time in the weight room, focus on differing aspects of hitting, defense, as well as speed, agility, and conditioning.

After finishing the year at Everett, what level in the organization do you hope to be at when starting the 2011 season?

That really is out of my control. I just try to control the things that I can control, such as how hard I work, etc and take care of that business and let the rest fall into place. 

What is one thing that you think all fans should know about you?

I have an awesome family



Picture provided by Evan on the Sack



One last question: Would you care to tell fans who Ram Vela is?

Take a look at the picture. #1 He facemasked me and it was not called #2 He did not even make the tackle...the defensive tackle did

I would really like to thank Mr. Sharpley. This was my first interview and it was great. He is a great, friendly person. Some background on the last question: it refers to a sack on Sharpley while playing at Notre Dame. Videos have shown Ram Vela jumping over the lineman to get to Sharpley but the image he provided shows another side of the story. The media can deceive you! I’m sure Evan is very excited for this upcoming season just as I am. I wish him the best of luck in spring training and the regular season.

Royals Outfielders a possible fit in Seattle?

If you haven’t heard yet, the Royals have traded Zack Greinke, Yuniesky Betancourt, and cash to the Brewers. In return, the Royals will be receiving Alcides Escobar, Lorenzo Cain, Jake Odorizzi, and Jeremy Jeffres.

This trade may have some impact on the Mariners. It appears that the Mariners have been looking for one more bat to platoon in the outfield. The Royals now have an excess of major league outfielders and a couple of these guys may be great fits for the Mariners.  

Gordon

Alex Gordon a former 2^nd overall pick has not produced up to expectations with the Royals in his career thus far. It looked that Gordon would factor into the Royals outfield this year but with the arrival of Cain, Francoeur, and Cabrera, the Royals may want to trade him. Last year he played right field, left field, third base, first base, and DH. His stats last year were disappointing once again. He hit .215 with 8 homeruns in 242 AB. He showed he has potential as he hit above .300 each year in the minors and showed great power.  A player like this may sometimes need a scenery change. The Mariners new hitting coach, Chris Chambliss, may be able to work with him and help get his career back on track.

Maier

Mitch Maier, another former 1^st round pick by the Royals is now 28 and has also not performed up to expectations. He played a majority of time in center field and right field, but he also played a little bit of left.  Maier hit .263 last year in 373 at bats. He also hit 6 homeruns and recorded 39 RBI. He also put up very good numbers in the minors but these have not translated over to the bigs.

Both of these guys are pretty similar physically when looking up front at them. Both bat left handed and throw right handed. Maier is at 6’2” and 215lb. Gordon is 6’2” and 220lb.

Now who would the Mariners give up in a trade like this? Some names that come to mind are Luke French, David Pauley, Marucio Robles, and Rob Johnson. With the departure of Greinke the Royals may be looking for some pitching and one of the pitchers mentioned above could be a solid back end of the rotation guy. The Royals also lack catching and with the Mariners recently designating Johnson for assignment they have the opportunity to trade him. The Royals appear to be in need of a catcher. He plays well defensively and he calls a good game. He could be a good leader to all of the young guys in the young Royals organization. Out of the two players I think that Maier would be a cheaper option than Gordon. Maier does not have as much potential or upside being that Gordon was a former number 2 overall pick.

These guys have not shown good offensive numbers thus far in their career so it would be somewhat of a gamble. The Mariners would not be giving up too much for one of them so it would not come at a huge risk. A scenery change or working with new coaches may turn out great for these players and would work out great for the Mariners as well.

Mariners Offseason a Success?

Looking at what the Marines have done this offseason or rather what they haven’t done, it may seem that they have not been successful. While Seattle hasn’t brought in any big name players or been a part of any blockbuster deals, the offseason hasn’t been a total failure.

Nobody expected the Mariners to bring in any high-caliber players due to the lack of payroll room and that they are currently in a rebuilding process. So what has been a success this offseason for the Mariners?

Cliff Lee signing with the Phillies turned out great for the Mariners for a variety of reasons. It was rumored that the Angels, Rangers, and Yankees were all pursuing Lee but more so the Rangers and Yankees. Having Lee in the division or even the league alone would hurt the Mariners. They might only see him once this year as the Mariners will be playing the Phillies for a 3 game series during interleague play.

As we look back to about a year ago, when the Mariners initially acquired Lee, this deal has worked out great over time. Seattle gave up very little for Lee and got a lot more in return from Texas. Seattle initially traded prospect Philippe Aumont, Tyson Gillies, and J.C. Ramirez to Philadelphia. It has also been rumored that the Brandon Morrow trade Toronto trade was needed to make the deal happen. That deal was Brandon Morrow for Brandon League and Johermyn Chavez, now a top 10 prospect in a deep Mariners farm system. The Mariners got a spectacular 2 months from Lee and proceded to trade him, as well as Mark Lowe, to Texas for: Justin Smoak, Josh Lueke, Blake Beavan, and Matt Lawson. If we take in all these factors the deal essentially looks like this:

Mariners Received: 2 great months of Cliff Lee, Justin Smoak, Josh Lueke, Blake Beavan, Matt Lawson, Brandon League, and Johermyn Chavez.

Mariners Traded: $2MM to Texas, Cliff Lee, Mark Lowe Brandon Morrow, Tyson Gillies, Philippe Aumont, and J.C. Ramirez.

Looking at the players involved and the fact that Cliff Lee did not end up in the American league, I really think that they were winners. Lee, now back with Philadelphia, has completed this crazy cycle of Cliff Lee transactions and it has turned out well for Seattle.

The AL West has not been very active this year in terms of bringing in big name players. This is great news for the Mariners because they knew that they would not be able to compete for the big names. Other members of the division were capable of bringing in a Carl Crawford or a Cliff Lee, as I mentioned above, but they haven’t. That is very big for the Mariners and their 2011 season giving them a better chance to compete with their young roster.

The Mariners have made a few small acquisitions this offseason and on the small scale they appear to be successful.

Seattle signed a good bat and DH in Jack Cust. The deal was small and inexpensive; 1 year $2.5MM. Cust was previously non-tendered by the Athletics. Before Seattle signed Cust, they had been looking at Hideki Matsui. Matsui just recently signed a 1 year $4.25MM with the A’s. Looking at the 2 players, Matsui is 36 years old and Cust is 31. Using the Bill James projections from Fangraphs, they are projected to have similar homerun totals and RBI. They give Matsui the edge with AVG but Cust has a higher projected OBP and BB. Looking even closer at projections Cust has a higher projected WAR of 1.6 compared to Matsui (0.9 War). Given the stats, age, and price of the two players, I think the Mariners were winners here as well.

The Mariners had a whole to fill in the middle infield this offseason and they were successful in filling it. Trading pitching prospect Maikel Cleto for Brendan Ryan was a smart move by the Mariners. Cleto has been anything but spectacular in his minor league career. The wild, hard throwing righty projects to be no more than an average reliever if he manages to turn it around. Ryan on the other hand is a very cheap defensive specialist. He is arguably one of the best defensive shortstops in the majors. He has no power but he has shown decent average. The Mariners could get the 2009 version where he hit .292 or the 2010 version where he hit .223. Either way I still think the Mariners were winners here due to the fact they couldn’t acquire a player like this for this cheap via free agency.

Yes there have been other small moves by the Mariners, but these are the things that stand out to me making this a successful offseason thus far. We may see more deals by Zduriencik but I doubt anything big will occur. No they have not brought in a big name or filled a huge offensive void. No the Mariners aren't winnrers like the Red Sox or Phillies but these small deals that they've gotten done make this small offseason a winner in my book.

The Newest Mariner: Infielder Brendan Ryan

The Mariners have acquired Brendan Ryan from the St. Louis Cardinals for pitching prospect Maikel Cleto.



Brendan Ryan



This is a smart move by the Mariners. Cleto, 21, doesn’t have much working for him. He throws hard but his command his poor and he does not have any movement on his fastball. He is still a few years away and he is most likely a reliever. The Mariners have plenty of young relievers in their system so they did not lose much. Cleto was on the 40 man roster so Ryan will take his place.

The Mariners have been searching for another shortstop as well as a second baseman to fill in if Ackley is not ready for the big leagues. The defensive minded Ryan will provide the Mariners with all of those things. He is 28 years old and 2011 will be his 5^th season in the majors. Ryan will be a very cheap option for the Mariners and he could turn out great. This is his first year arbitration eligible and he is under team control for 3 more years.

Ryan has zero offensive power but he is capable of hitting for a good average. There has been a pattern to his career offensively thus far and if it continues, things look good for the Mariners. His average has bounced up and down each year. He hit .289 his first season but it then dropped to .244 in his second season. In 2009 he posted his highest average of .292 but he again saw it drop in 2010 where he hit .223. He did have wrist surgery prior to 2010 which might explain for the dramatic drop in his average. He has had plenty of time to heal so hopefully he is back to hitting around .280-.290. He may show a little speed and post around 10 stolen bases which he has done through out his career.

He has shown great fielding at every position he has played in his career. Ryan has played both MI positions, 3^rd base, and he has also seen a very small amount of time at all three outfield positions. Ryan led all of baseball in UZR for shortstops last year with 11.5. For those not familiar with UZR it shows a fielders range.

I really like this trade for the Mariners. They filled a need that they could not afford via free agency and they gave up very little for Ryan. Worst case scenario is he hits for a poor average but he will be a very good utility man. The best case scenario is that we see him playing regularly and posting a solid average with his great defense. Jack Zduriencik stated that Ryan will be able to compete for a starting job and that he will be talking with Figgins, Ryan, and Wilson in the upcoming days to discuss where people will play.

My predictions are that he is the opening day starter for opening day at second base. I think the Mariners will want Ackley to see 1-2 more months at AAA. Once Ackley is up I think we will see Ryan and Wilson splitting time at short. Ryan would also be able to help Ackley as a fielder and fill in for both Ackley and Figgins.

Final Predictions: He hits .272 with 26 RBI, 3 homeruns, 14 stolen bases all in 368 at bats

Dave Niehaus Ceremony.

The Dave Niehaus ceremony at Safeco Field was truly spectacular. Speakers vividly captured so many aspects of Niehaus but no words can show how amazing of a person he was. He is the Father of the Seattle Mariners.

Safeco Field was full of memories taking fans from all over on a trip down memory lane. Outside of the Home Plate entrance stood a memorial to Niehaus full of signs, flowers, and messages from fans to their beloved broadcaster. Upon entering, fans received a beautiful program for the ceremony and were then shaken to life as they looked up to see a huge banner in memory of Niehaus. The ballpark contained memorable quotes by Niehaus as well as quotes by Mariners players and Niehaus’ colleagues. Behind the pitchers mound, showed Niehaus’ signature phrase “My Oh My” in the infield. Center field had a huge banner containing a Mariners logo. The video screens showed quotes, pictures, and highlights prior to the ceremony. Another feature was the classic scoreboard in left field. The home team was the California Angels, which is where Dave started his broadcasting career. One of the most memorable pieces for me was in the broadcasting booth. As you looked up to the booth where Niehaus spent so much time, there was a Niehaus Jersey illuminated with a microphone in front of it. (Please take a look at images from the event under "images" at the top of the screen)

The speakers at the ceremony took the fans and listeners on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. From laughter to tears, fans felt it all. Rick Rizzs did an amazing job as the emcee. The speakers included Andy Niehaus, Greta Niehaus Dunn, Marlaina Lieberg, Ron Fairly, Dan Wilson, Jay Buhner, Edgar Martinez, and Chuck Armstrong.

Andy and Greta, Niehaus’ son and daughter talked to fans about how much they loved their Dad. Just like Niehaus affected so many fans, you can only imagine the type of impact he had on his children and his beloved wife. They shared some of their favorite memories of him through smiles and tears as they remembered their father.

Marlaina Lieberg, brought up many emotions as she talked about how Niehaus affected blind people just like herself. She discussed how he painted a picture for all fans to see. He helped blind people so much experience the game at another level. The grass, the wind, the smells, the sights and so much more is what she as well as many other blind people could feel through Niehaus’ spectacular broadcasts.

Ron Fairly expressed so many great memories after working with Niehaus for so many years. He shared many humorous stories that all showed who Niehaus was. His stories put smiles on everyone’s face throughout Safeco Field. It was good to see Fairly back in Seattle to honor his former colleague.

Dan Wilson, Jay Buhner, and Edgar Martinez were introduced to the stage with a special high light of their career that was announced by Niehaus. All of these former Seattle players shared their memories and humorous stories of Dave and how he touched their lives. He had a great impact in all three of their lives as they were playing for the organization.

The final speaker was Mariners President, Chuck Armstrong. The most touching part of his speech to me was when he talked about the rainbow that appeared by Safeco Field the day Felix Hernandez was awarded the CY Young, a few days after Niehaus passed away. The director of marketing, Gregg Greene, came into Armstrong’s office so show him the rainbow and continued by saying “There is Dave, I have no doubt.” Armstrong concluded his speech by discussing what the Mariners will do to honor Niehaus. All of the Mariners will wear patches on the right sleeve of their jersey. In the broadcasting booth of every game, Niehaus’ microphone will be displayed. And last but not least the Mariners will be building a statue to honor Niehaus outside of Safeco Field.

Dave Niehaus you have carried Mariners baseball through every high and every low and you truly will be missed. You never will be able to be replaced as you were a one of a kind person that everyone loved. Your friendliness and passion for the game has changed so many people’s lives for the better. Opening day will be very hard for all Mariners fans but you will be there watching down and Mariners fans will be able to hear your voice in their hearts- “My Oh My”

Mariners Draft Jose Flores in Rule 5 Draft

I know I’m a little late to the party as the Rule 5 draft was yesterday morning. I’ve been very busy with school and soccer but here it is now.

Thursday was the final day of Winter Meetings which meant the Rule 5 Draft would be in the morning. The Mariners had the number 2 pick in the draft giving them the opportunity to draft a solid player to contribute to the team during the season.

After the Pirates used their number one pick to draft Josh Rodriguez from Cleveland, the Mariners drafted another player from the Indians’ organization. Seattle drafted 21 year old, Jose Flores. This 6’3”, 185lb RHP did not pitch above class A last year. He pitched primarily out of the bullpen last year putting up good numbers.

He had a total of 28 outings where he pitched 42.0 innings. He posted a great ERA of 2.14 and a WHIP of 1.00. He also struck out 51 batters and walked only 7. That gave him a K/9 of 10.9 and a BB/K ratio of 7.29. He showed very good control for a pitcher his age.

Scouts have said he has a low-mid 90’s fastball that can reach 95 pretty regularly. It is pretty straight but he throws it with great command and hits the strike zone. What he does lack is a solid secondary pitch. If he develops one of these pitches he could be a good option in the bullpen. The Marines scouting director, Tom McNamara, was able to see Flores a few times in person while he played against Low-A Clinton. He must have liked what he saw.

Jack Zduriencik stated “He’s an upside guy. He’s got a low- to mid-90s fastball. He’s got a good arm, he’s aggressive and he throws strike.

And that’s exactly what he is to the Mariners- a high upside guy. They took a chance here as he lacks experience at higher levels. He will have to be on the Mariners active roster the whole season. If he does not have a good spring then I expect he will be offered back the Indians for $25,000 which is half of the $50,000 claiming fee.

The best case scenario is that he develops into a good reliever. With great command of his fastball, he will be able to come into games late and throw strikes. A reliever that can consistently throw strikes is very valuable to a team and I think this is the upside that Zduriencik saw in him.

The Mariners could have taken a few guys that are much closer to Major League ready. They liked their chances with Jose Flores and we should all hope he can develop some secondary pitches if he plans on being with the Marines this season.

Mariners add another top Dominican Prospect

The Mariners have signed 17 year old shortstop Esteilon Peguero. He is receiving a $2.9 million signing bonus which is the highest amateur international signing bonus of 2010 and the 4^th highest all time. It is also the 4^th highest club bonus in franchise history.

So let’s take a look at this very young and talented infielder. He is 6’1”, 185 lb, and is currently listed as a shortstop. Ben Badler (@BenBadler) of Baseball America believes he will move over to third or second base as he develops. He is arguably the top hitter out of this year’s Latin America class.

In the inaugural Domincan Prospect League this year, Peguero was awarded the MVP. He hit .338/.492.879 in 17 games. He led all hitters in hits, RBI, runs, and doubles. The league was very pitcher dominated therefore he did face a challenge while putting up these great numbers.

Scouts love Peguero’s swing and he has shown great bat speed. He is an above average runner and has also shown a solid arm, glove, and solid range. Scouts are most excited about his offensive potential though.

The following scouting report by Greg Schuam (@Greg_Schuam) discusses Peguero’s swing and his potential (http://royalsprospects.com/?p=2343)

"Esteilon Peguero is arguably the jewel of this free agent signing period for international players. He posesses incredibly quick wrists, and has a smooth, fluid swing. He wastes little, if any, motion in his swing. If you look at the video he really is just a step and drive hitter. He has the potential to develop 25 HR plus power but he is very much a gap to gap guy right now. He will be signed as a SS but most believe he will settle at 3B or 2B."

This man can hopefully develop into a very talented bat to stick at third base for the Mariners. Being that Ackley will be at second for a long time it would be ideal if Peguero developed into a third baseman.

Here is a link for a video of him taking swings at the Dominican Prospect League:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I1mgu3P2p-U&feature=player_embedded

Mariners Top 10 Prospects by BA



Dustin Ackley



Today Baseball America released its top 10 prospects for the Mariners in 2011. So let’s take a look at it.



  

Michael Pineda

1. Dustin Ackley, 2B
2. Michael Pineda, RHP
3. Nick Franklin, SS/2B
4. Taijuan Walker, RHP
5. Guillermo Pimentel, OF
6. Marucio Robles, LHP
7. Johermyn Chavez, OF
8. Marcus Littlewood, SS
9. Kyle Seager, INF
10. Dan Cortes, RHP

They also included the Mariners best tools through out the system:

• Best Hitter for Average: Dustin Ackley
• Best Power Hitter: Johermyn Chavez
• Best Strike-Zone Discipline: Dustin Ackley
• Fastest Baserunner: Dustin Ackley
• Best Athlete: Greg Halman
• Best Fastball: Michael Pineda
• Best Curveball: Josh Fields
• Best Changeup: Marucio Robles
• Best Control: Erasmo Ramirez
• Best Defensive Catcher: Steve Baron
• Best Defensive Infielder: Gabriel Noriega
• Best Infield Arm: Carlos Truinfel
• Best Defensive outfielder: Matt Cerione
• Best Outfield Arm: Johermyn Chavez

Next up is the Projected 2014 Lineup:

• Catcher: Adam Moore
• First Base: Justin Smoak
• Second Base: Chone Figgins
• Shortstop: Nick Franklin
• Left Field: Guillermo Pimentel
• Center Field: Franklin Gutierrez
• Right Field: Michael Saunders
• Designated Hitter: Ichiro Suzuki
• No. 1 Starter: Felix Hernandez
• No. 2 Starter: Michael Pineda
• No. 3 Starter: Taijuan Walker
• No. 4 Starter: Marucio Robles
• No. 5 Starter: Blake Beaven
• Closer: Dan Cortes

Baseball America also included the Top Prospects of the Decade

Year	Player, Position	2010
2001	Ryan Anderson, LHP	Out of Baseball
2002	Ryan Anderson, LHP	Out of Baseball
2003	Rafael Soriano, RHP	Free Agent (W/Rays in 10)
2004	Felix Hernandez, RHP	Mariners
2005	Felix Hernandez, RHP	Mariners
2006	Jeff Clement, C	Pirates
2007	Adam Jones, OF	Orioles
2008	Jeff Clement, C	Pirates
2009	Greg Halman, OF	Mariners
2010	Dustin Ackley, 2B	Mariners

Top Draft Picks of the Decade is also included:       

Year	Player, Positions	2010
2001	Michael Garciaparra, SS	Astros
2002	John Mayberry Jr, OF	Phillies
2003	Adam Jones, SS	Orioles
2004	Matt Tuiasosopo, SS	Mariners
2005	Jeff Clement, C	Pirates
2006	Brandon Morrow, RHP	Blue Jays
2007	Philippe Aumont, RHP	Phillies
2008	Josh Fields, RHP	Mariners
2009	Dustin Ackley, OF/1B	Mariners
2010	Taijuan Walker	Mariners

Also see the Mariners largest bonuses in Franchise History and the BA Summary of the list at http://www.baseballamerica.com/today/prospects/rankings/organization-top-10-prospects/2011/2611021.html