1e Corbeau

Since colbyjack went with Kiker, I'm saying Conger. I'd love to see Billy Rowell drop to 16, though....

Yo! is cruising through two: first batter flied out to left, next five go down swinging, swinging, looking, swinging, swinging.

Here's a little blurb from Baseball Prospectus about the Brewers and Jack Z, as part of their larger team-by-team preview. Not much info, except the typical Fielder, Hardy, Weeks love and that Jack Z keeps his cards "close to the vest"--has he trademarked that idiom? BP Draft Preview Milwaukee Brewers Scouting Director: Jack Zduriencik. Zduriencik served as scouting director with the Pirates from 1991 to 1993 before spending four years with the Mets as the team's farm director and then as a special assistant to GM Steve Phillips. He's been the Brewers scouting director since 2000. He's generally credited with the Brewers' recent turnaround, taking J.J. Hardy, Prince Fielder and Rickie Weeks with high picks from 2001-2003. Last year's top pick, third baseman Ryan Braun, represents the first time Zduriencik has taken a college player with his first selection. What The System Needs: The Brewers have a remarkably balanced system. They are a little weak at catcher and on the right side of the infield. However, with Weeks and Fielder set to fill those roles at the big league level for some time, no worries there. What They'll Do On Tuesday: The Brewers generally play it close to the vest, and it's no different this year. Because of the way the talent lies, Zduriencik will likely return to the high school ranks this year.

Ben Hendrickson: 4A pitcher. How annoying... 7 IP 2H 0R 2BB 9K 1.69 ERA on the season. Geez!

An interesting story about "Faith NIght" at minor league parks across the nation. This practice originated in Nashville five years ago and GM Glen Yaeger is intereviewed. I know there was a bit of discussion about this last summer or the summer before. Also, an un-named Sounds player is heard speaking to the attendees of Faith Night in the audio. Link with audio and photos while active; text follows: www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=5434639 Baseball Teams Woo Christian Fans to Games by Audie Cornish, NPR Faith Night has long been a popular promotion for minor league baseball parks -- particularly in the South. Looking to capitalize on local church-going fans, more than 40 teams in minor league baseball and football have added Christian rock concerts and bobble-head dolls of biblical characters to their game-time entertainment. The formula has worked well in Nashville, where the concept first started, and it's now being called up to the majors. Rev. Ryan Bennett is director of Faith Night for the Nashville Sounds, a Triple-A baseball team. On Faith Nights, he also offers sermons outside of the team's Greer Stadium. One recent sermon featured a parable drawn from former Red Sox infielder Bill Buckner's infamous error, when a ground ball rolled between his legs just as the long-suffering Sox were on the verge of winning the 1986 World Series. "I think we have all been there," Bennett tells his flock. "I think we have all been at a time in our life, at some time or another, where we felt alone. Well, hear the good news. Jesus promised that when you feel alone, you're actually not, because 'my promise to you is that I will always be with you.'" But Faith Night fans aren't just in it for the baseball allegories. These events feature special performances by Christian rock groups. There are also raffles for bobble-head dolls in the image of Moses and Jonah. Later this season, there will be a stadium-wide Bible giveaway. And the events often include a team player, in full uniform, offering testimonials about their faith. And of course, there's the game. A Big Draw for Fans Since the Nashville Sounds started up five years ago, their program Faith Night games have been among the top-10 most-attended each season. Organizers say it's because of people like Methodist pastor Jacob Armstrong, whose church group on one night was 80-plus strong, taking up most of the section behind home plate. "In some ways, it's icing on the cake, because the majority of the night is spent at the baseball game," Armstrong says. "I know several families [who] have invited friends, and it's a non-threatening way to come to a church group. And then maybe they will come to church again." This summer, at least two Major League Baseball teams are working on adding a Christian Faith Night to their rosters. But will a Bible Belt, minor league promotion work at big-league prices? Baseball fan Jack Crawford of Talahoma, Tenn., says it will be a tough sell. "It's a bigger deal to go to a major league game and see the stars," Crawford says. "While some people may think that a faith-based night would be very nice in some circumstances, others may not. And they feel like other people's faith may be shoved down their throat." That's exactly what Faith Night founders are trying to avoid. 'Beer Today, God Tomorrow' "As much as I think it would be great for the kingdom-building aspects of what we do and the ministry side, you are not going to see a preacher down on home plate with a Bible, preaching to the crowd," says Brent High. High is the CEO of Third Coast Sports, which contracts with more than 40 other minor league teams on similar promotions. He says it's not just baseball clubs; two NFL football teams and another three NBA basketball clubs have contacted him about holding Faith Night programs. "I just don't anticipate it offending a non-Christian fan at any point," he says of the Faith Night promotions. "It hasn't happened yet, and I don't see us adding anything that would do that. Because ultimately, as soon as we do that, the teams lose interest." That's why Faith Night performances are scheduled before or after the official game, held off to the side or on stadium concourses. Bible giveaways are handled through a redeemable coupon system at the gate. And if you don't want a Moses bobble-head doll, just say no. Nashville Sounds General Manager Glen Yaeger says it's a balancing act. "We do 'Thirsty Thursday' on Thursday nights. Its beer today, God tomorrow," Yaeger says. "It's managing the expectations of your fan base." Big League Debut The Major League baseball teams working with Third Coast Sports are taking vastly different approaches. Derrick Hall, executive vice president for the Arizona Diamondbacks, says his team has "shied away from a Faith Night." "That's not something we think is appropriate for us," Hall says. "But we absolutely have no problem selling group-discount rates to a [faith-based] group." The Diamondbacks have booked just one game with Third Coat this season, which Hall calls nothing more than a group sale opportunity. Meanwhile, the Atlanta Braves have set up several dates with appearances by Christian pop-groups such as The Afters, and their own pitcher, John Smoltz, as a guest speaker. Derek Schiller, a senior marketing executive for the Braves, says research shows many of his team's fans are religious. "This is just a way to apply ourselves and create an experience that would be good for those types of fans," Schiller says. Both teams say they have dabbled in marketing group sales to churches, but nothing as elaborate as the original "Faith Night" model. These summer games are just a test, says Schiller, because in the end, it's all about the ballgame.

yeah, but you can't teach hitting, or something like that. http://forum.brewerfan.net/images/smilies/wink.gif Didn't some scouting report (Colby's?) mention that Gamel could end up in a corner outfield spot and that his bat would play? Gamel has to be hitting close to .450 or .500 since May 1st. In Helena, he started really slowly, too, IIRC; perhaps this is a good sign he knows how to make adjustments at the plate.

Ok, I'll be the Mark Rogers apologist tonight: 5IP 4H 2ER 8K....and 6BB (That's not such a bad line, if you ignore those, right?) http://forum.brewerfan.net/images/smilies/ohwell.gif

Agreed; how about this one, though? 16.2 IP 16H 2BB 19K 2ER! 1.08 ERA Ahh, William Inman... Lluberes with a nasty 11-6 GB:FB tonight. Good thing it's only April, or someone might think about proposing a promotion for Gallardo and Inman soon... "Go big or go home," right? At least Moss got something back in the bottom half.

I have to say I'm a little disappointed that Yo! didn't make the list. A 20 year old in A+ with a 2.18 ERA, 32:6 K:BB, 1.06 WHIP, and 1 HR allowed deserves a little love, IMO. And, I think he out-duelled Pelfry, too. Maybe another strong outing or two will garner him some attention. I assume to Power 50 will have much more love for the man.

Chickens!!

Remember when Freddy Parejo was a top ten prospect in the AZL? Well, I obviously do! And I'm glad to see a bit of early success with him, too. Though, if memory serves he started hot in WV last year, too, before a dismal campaign. From what I remember, he got written up similar to Cain: a toolsy corner outfielder that could add power as his weight fills in. The FO must have thought highly of him to have head from the AZL to full-season ball without the Helena transition last year. It sure is a balst to get excited about old and new prospects this time of year.

Nashville update: 0-0, mid 4 Zack Jack efficient through four: 1H 1BB 2K on 46 pitches (29 strikes). Single was of the infield variety and only two balls have been hit out of the infield (5/5 GB/FB). Rottino with the only hit for the Sounds. I love that gameday on the minor league games...

Brevard County should have quite the speed and athleticism. They've got burners everywhere--Iribarren, Escobar, Rasheed, Braun, Fermaint, Katin, perhaps Ezi or Chapman, too! Lots o' fastballs to hit with those guys on base. That staff should be great to watch, too, hopefully... I'm looking forward to seeing how fast Hammond moves.

I definitely am excited for Fermaint in A+, but Chapman, too? Or does he stay in Helena? I guess Cain forced the situation. I figured him for Helena, due to his relative inexperience playing the game. He must have improved quite a bit and shown a grasp for the nuances. Or his pure talent is just too much to hold back. It was nice seeing his at bat last night, too. Edit: And Michael Brantley will be near the top of my list of stats to check on a nightly basis. I've got a good feeling about him..

It's Jeff Huson

umm... not cool. i quit.

Here's hoping Steve Moss gets an AB! It is good to see that Sarfate is scheduled for two innings. To me, it means they are giving him a serious look/opportunity for the 25 man. Though the extended innings does not give an indication that his role has been defined as starter/long relief/short relief, not that the second week of spring should be a time for that definition.

I, too, am glad to see Saenz back in the fold. He was the one minor league free agent I'd hope we'd retain. I know he had arm (shoulder? elbow?) problems, but can't remember if he had Tommy John or a rotator cuff/labrum repair. Any update on his recovery situation would be greatly appreciated. (perhaps in the Requesting info on injured players thread, as to not hi-jack.) Back to the depth chart spread sheet again... edit: um... d'oh! Thanks, Mass...

lovehate I completely agree with the thought of using extra money to sign a talent in that situation with greater than slot money. I think, however, that there is no way the Brewers should/would use their second round pick for that. Personally, I'd hope they would wait until after the fifth to risk losing someone to a strong commit. If the money is right, the player likely won't care what round they've been selected in. I would guess this thought depends on if the FO and MA consider the savings from picking 15 vs. picking 5, bonus-wise, to be "extra" or "disposable" income. I'd tend to think they would not, as we are--and need to be--budget conscious. Jack Z and the scouts have done a great job signing our picks, though, and we have shown the willingness to spend if the situation is right (i.e. Pascual). In short, likely? No. Posisble? Yes. Good point, nonetheless.

I have a hard time arguing against the "best player available" strategy. As you noted, we've had success acquiring pitching *depth*--not necessarily the huge upside/potential players. And while I agree that we seemed intent to select a third baseman last year, I'd also have to argue that (at least after the immediate, short term results) Braun was a solid pick, regardless of his college position or where he projects to play in the majors (we've all heard the CF opinion). I think that the strategy does change as the team's situation changes--adaptability is also part of success. A team like the Royals should be taking the best available (not "most affordable" but that's another topic...). I can also understand why a team with a large amount of financial resources would pick for need, too, IF they think that player can advance *very* quickly. Even then, they can fill a need via free agency with their money and will always need ammo for the July rent-a-player exchange. In general, I don't think that straying from best player is good for anyone, long term. It certainly does help teams who adhere to the strategy when another team reaches, though. http://forum.brewerfan.net/images/smilies/wink.gif As for the crew, I think they're in a position to reach about 15 spots on the overall potential scale, if and only if there is a player who can fill a need and will advance quickly. Otherwise, you take the most valuable player (i.e. best major league probable success). In other words, I don't think the crew should draft for need, as the previous criteria would be hard to meet, IMO. And thanks for the encouragement and the great player profiles. At this point, I'm really liking the college pitching available. I'm looking forward to the high schoolers, too, though, before I make any best or suggestions.

Great point, Colby. The possibility of getting picks for Lee came up after the Overbay trade in the trade forum. I think this route could make a lot of sense next year for the Brewers, as, unless DM trades him this offseason, we'd have to move Lee at the deadline. If we were in the WC race--and one of our AAA OFers has not asserted themselves at the big league level--I don't think we would move Lee. Plus, we all know DM's stance on trading position players mid-season. Patrick also makes a great point about the A's and Braves and how they remain competitive. I'd much rather trade a player in order to grab someone else's draft picks who've had two to four year's professional track record, but, as mentioned above, that isn't always going to be the case. I have to admit, realizing that DD might be too expensive makes me very sad and disappointed in the fiscal reality of MLB. Pointing out that we have Eveland, Parra, and Zach Jack in the pipeline, however, makes me believe in Team Canada much more. DM's trades have, at least, put us in a position to realisitically prepare for the departure of post-arby players. I'd trade DD before he walks, though, as I think DM would get a ludicrous return (i.e. Top Prospect) for him. I don't like the compensatory draft pick system, as I think it rewards the big market clubs for inflating the market through free agency, and then letting those players walk when they became insanely overvalued. The only positive, IMO, are that it gives those teams the top-tier prospects that they trade to lower-market teams and it appears the Brewers will reap the benefit in the near future.

The reliever should be "blamed" somehow if runners already on base scores? I think the opposite view of the reliever being rewarded for, say, getting two outs while facing only one batter (for instance, a runner on first with one out) is just as valid. While this reliever has at least some influence in inducing a ball put in play (a ground ball? a line-drive?), the removed pitcher is not rewarded with 1/3 of an inning pitched. However, the removed pitcher is also not "punished" with an earned run after he has left the game. Furthermore, what if the man on first is Mike Piazza, and he was intentionally walked? I guess this is why statistics can be fun, difficult, and controversial. And why complexity and accuracy are often directly proportional.

Just heard this on NPR; it concerns inherited runners and their uneven effect on ERA. Ben Bernanke, President Bush's choice to replace Federal Reserve Board Chairman Alan Greenspan, is a student of financial as well as baseball statistics. In particular, Bernanke thinks the formula for evaluating the performance of baseball pitchers -- the calculation of the Earned Run Average -- could use some revision. Dwight Jaffee, the Willis Booth Professor of Banking Finance and Real Estate at the Haas School of Business at the University of California at Berkeley, helped Bernanke come up with this idea. He talks about the Fed chair nominee and his ideas. Link with audio

Smart man. The media can't stop using it either, but that doesn't mean Brewerfan has to sink to that level. it appears we epitomize class. let us weep not for this absense from the IGT! http://forum.brewerfan.net/images/smilies/wink.gif edit: typo

How about this approach: Does "high heat" change the plane of the batters view enough to make a fastball lower in the strike zone or a breaking ball harder to "see?" It seems that this high fastball had been called a lot with Sheets (followed by a nasty curve or well placed 4 seemer) and even Davis (mostly followed by fastball and cutter). Any charts available to answer that? I almost hope not...