Former Big Leaguer Geremi Gonzalez Killed by Lightning Strike

Former Major League Geremi Gonzalez passed away last Sunday when the boat he was sailing in his native Zulia, Venezuela, was tragically struck by lightning.

Gonzalez, 33, began his career with the Chicago Cubs (2007-2008) and has also had stints with the Tampa Bay Devil Rays (2003-2004), Boston Red Sox (2005), New York Mets (2006) and Milwaukee Brewers (2006). In 2007, he was signed to play for the Yomiuri Giants of Japan's Central League.

His best year was his rookie season with the Cubs when he went 11-9 with a 4.25 ERA and 93 strikeouts in 144 innings pitched. That year he finished ninth in the Rookie of the Year voting. For Geremi's career he is 30-35 with a 4.93 ERA and 354 strikeouts in 573.1 innings pitched.

I know him best as being one of the Met's circle of fifth starters in 2006, a group that included Oliver Perez, John Maine, Gonzalez, Brian Bannister, and Jose Lima. He never pitched that well for the Mets but he wasn't Jose Lima so that gets some points in my book.

Gonzalez went by the spelling of his first name as "Jeremi" early in his career as a more Americanized spelling. He decided to go by the traditional "Geremi" starting in 2006.

Cubs GM Jim Hendry expressed his sadness in an article for espn.com:

"The Chicago Cubs are very saddened today to learn of Geremi Gonzalez's sudden passing. Geremi began his career as a Cub, leading our pitching staff with 11 wins as a rookie in 1997 and, despite an arm injury, helping the club early in the season a year later to an eventual postseason appearance. The organization sends its heartfelt condolences to his family."

"He was so much fun to be around. He was always happy, always smiling," Brewers manager Ned Yost said, in an article for The Capital Times based out of Madison, Wisconsin. "He was a guy that could scare real easy and then horse laugh. He was just one of those guys that when he saw you, he always had a smile on his face."


Rest in Peace.


Statistics and information courtesy of espn.com, wikipedia.com, and madison.com. Picture courtesy of graphics.jsonline.com.

Mike Piazza Retires after 19 Seasons

Statement courtesy of Adam Rubin and the Daily News

Mike Piazza officially retired from baseball today. Here’s a statement, released through his agent Dan Lozano:

After 19 wonderful years, I have come to the decision to officially retire from Major League Baseball. At this point in my career and after discussing my options with my wife, family and agent, I felt it is time to start a new chapter in my life. It has been an amazing journey and everything I have, I owe to God, for without His help, none of this would be possible. He blessed me with the ability to play the greatest game in the world and it has been a dream come true.

In June of this year, it will be 20 years ago when the Los Angeles Dodgers organization selected me in the 62nd round of the amateur draft and I’m sure neither of us saw this coming.

I would like to start off by thanking Peter O’Malley and the Dodger organization for giving me the opportunity 20 years ago…you gave me birth to a life that never in my wildest dreams did I think was possible.

I’d like to thank Fred Wilpon, Nelson Doubleday and the New York Mets organization for giving me an opportunity to fulfill yet another dream, playing in a World Series. Steve Phillips, for not just bringing me to New York, but for having the confidence and vision to keep me in a Met uniform long-term. Within the eight years I spent in New York, I was able to take a different look at the game of baseball…I wasn’t just a young kid that was wet behind the ears anymore - I was learning from other veteran guys like Johnny Franco, who taught me how to deal with the pressures of playing in New York and Al Leiter who knew what it took to win a World Championship. That knowledge is what helped me play for as long as I have and enjoy the career that I had. I’d like to thank New York Mets clubhouse manager, Charlie Samuels for always being on the same page and one step ahead of me.

Kevin Towers and Mr. Wolff are two gentlemen that I wish to thank for allowing me to keep the sun from setting just a little while longer. To all of my teammates with whom I shared the field of battle, thanks for the countless memories.

To the managers along the way that brought out the best in me - Tommy Lasorda, Bobby Valentine, Art Howe…and in limited time together, Jim Leyland, Willie Randolph, Bruce Bochy and Bob Geren - it was a pleasure playing for all of you. I’d also like to thank all of the major and minor league staffs that played a part in the development of my career - I couldn’t have done it without all of you.

To the media - I thank you for the overall fairness of your reporting throughout my career, although erroneous at times, I think we had a pretty good relationship over the years and some of you I’ll never forget.

I’d like to thank my agent, Dan Lozano and everyone else behind the scenes at the Beverly Hills Sports Council for taking care of me my entire career. Danny is like a brother to me and without his guidance and patience, I wouldn’t be where I am today.

To my family who I love so much…mom and dad, you always believed in me, sometimes more than I believed in myself…you were always there with love and support. To my brothers, for always being in my corner, no matter what. Being able to share the joys of being a big leaguer with you guys over all of these years made my career, our career…and I don’t think it would have been the same any other way.

My beautiful wife Alicia. These last few years were as new for you as they were for me. Through the different cities and the birth of our amazing daughter, Nicoletta, I am eternally grateful to have you by my side. The thought of what the future has in store for us, brings a smile to my face because I can’t wait to start the newest chapter of both our lives, together. You truly are an angel and I am blessed to have you as my wife. I love you.

Last but certainly not least, I can’t say goodbye without thanking the fans. I can’t recall a time in my career where I didn’t feel embraced by all of you. Los Angeles, San Diego, Oakland and Miami - whether it was at home or on the road, you were all so supportive over the years. But I have to say that my time with the Mets wouldn’t have been the same without the greatest fans in the world. One of the hardest moments of my career, was walking off the field at Shea Stadium and saying goodbye. My relationship with you made my time in New York the happiest of my career and for that, I will always be grateful.

So today, I walk away with no regrets. I knew this day was coming and over the last two years, I started to make my peace with it. For 19 years, I gave it my all and left everything on the field.

God bless and thanks for a wonderful ride.

Here's a fan-recorded view of the video tribute to Mike Piazza at Shea, his final day as a Met:

Will Brian Bannister Lead the Royals to the Promised Land?

Flashing the Trivia: Which player in Kansas City Royals history has had the most expensive baseball card?

Hello Leatherheads, it's been awhile. Sorry about the delay I've been aiding my girlfriend with car shopping of late. My dad is going to check out one of the cars I found today, so we will see what happens.

Ha, when a car salesman walks away from you because you prove him wrong that the price is terrible and find things wrong with the car that he was concealing, (Five Star Auto Sales, you remember that place Jesse?, haha) you know your in good shape. I'm sure he wasn't too happy when I said, "I'll be back in two weeks to take this car once you lower your price because no one will buy it." But it was fun.

So for the Kansas City Royals preview. Ehh, I guess early season analysis. In the early goings, the biggest story this season has been the success of many of the small market teams. Tampa Bay, Florida, and Minnesota all lead their divisions and Oakland is only half a game back in the AL West. So where are the Royals in all of this? Fourth place in the Central. Oh well, they are one and a half games up on the Detroit Tigers.

Makes you wonder if Ambiorix Burgos will ever leave the minors.

Let's quickly go to the lineup from top-to-bottom:

David DeJesus has done well this season hitting .311 with 3 HRs and 16 RBIs, in only 90 at-bats. He's been in a platoon with Joey Gathright out in centerfield, though Gathright hasn't been as successful (.250 AVG, 0 HRs, 3 RBIs in 92 at-bats). But whenever Gathright can get on base (with an .278 OBP, it doesn't happen too often) he's a huge threat, leading the team with 10 steals this season. DeJesus should hit .280 with 8 HRs and 60 RBIs. Gathright should keep that .250 AVG, hit three home runs, and end up with around 20 RBIs. That's if he makes in through the season. He would be the perfect pinch runner or fourth outfielder for a contender in the playoffs, especially with his above average defense.

Mark Grudzielanek is a very consistent player, you know exactly what you will get out of him. He will hit for a decent average and get on base quite a bit. A good contact hitter, but carries very little power. In other words, he's Luis Castillo but can't steal bases. His veteran leadership is misplaced on a team full of players that are either mediocre or young and looking to make an impact. He's another player that would work well on a team during a playoff push. Look for him to move in return for prospects close to the trade deadline. He should hit .280 with 5 HRS and 55 RBIS, keeping pace with his career numbers.

Billy Butler hit the baseball radar two seasons ago when he hit .331 and had 96 RBIs for the Double-A Wichita Wranglers. Last year he hit .292 with 8 HRs and 52 RBIs for the Royals in 329 at-bats. He's also been stellar at first base committing only 2 errors there last year and zero this year (he had one error in left field last year). Many baseball analysts think he will break out this year, I think he has another year or two before he truly breaks out. But .285 with 15 HRs and 70 RBIs doesn't seem out of reach.

Jose Guillen carries a past riddled with attitude and steroid issues but continues to hit well year after year. He continues to split time in left field and at DH as the Royals try to get Gathright in left as much as they can. Gathright is speedy but doesn't have the range and arm Guillen has. He is coming off the best year of any Royal, hitting .290 with 20 HRs and 99 RBIs. This year he's off to his usual slow start (.245 with 5 HRs and 30 RBIs in 159 at-bats) but he should bounce back. He's already showing the signs as he was just named American League Player of the Week by hitting .458 with 2 HRs and 13 RBIs. Pending injury or suspension, I see no reason why Guillen can't come close to duplicating his numbers from last season. Perhaps .285 with 20 HRs and 90 RBIs.

Alex Gordon is having a great year thus far after hitting only .245 with 15 HRs and 60 RBIs last season. So far he is having the best year of any Royal this year hitting .286 with 5 HRs and 20 RBIs. He's been an above average fielder at third and even first base when need be. He'll be a great player but his baseball card will never be worth more than it was in 2006. Topps made his rookie card when he was not even a rookie yet, nor on the 25 man roster, thus making his card over $2000 at face value. Look for Gordon to hit .285 with 20 HRs and 75 RBIs, and him breaking out next season.

Mark Teahen came over from the Athletics a few years back and was suppose to become a very good player. Well, I guess there's a reason why Billy Beane let him go. He hasn't been bad, just, below average. Last year he hit .285 with 7 HRs and 60 RBIs. With similar numbers the year before, this is what has become expected of him. Personally, I think the Royals really hope Gathright can come around so they can move Guillen to Teahen's spot in right. I don't think he would be starting on any other team, let's see if he gets moved before the deadline...

John Buck would usually be in this spot but he's been on a leave of absence to attend to his wife and his new twin boys, born last Thursday. Buck remains a big question mark, he's almost 28 years old and has never finished a year hitting over .250. This lack of faith is a big reason why the Royals went out and got former Marlins starting catcher Miguel Olivo to back him up. Buck's leash is getting shorter, if he hits under .275 for the next few seasons, that will be it for him. I'd say he hits .265 with 15 HRs and 55 RBIs.

Tony Pena is well, terrible. There's no reason why he belongs in any teams bench, let alone starting lineup. Last season, when he literally wasn't seeing the ball (wrong contact prescription) he hit .267 with 2 HRs and 47 RBIs. This season, wearing true prescription glasses, he is hitting .167 with 0 HRs and 7 RBIs in 126 at-bats. In an article about Pena's vision issues from Tuesday, May 13th, Dick Kaegel wrote that Pena's numbers from 2007 were "better than expected." That can't be good. Being that inept at the plate would mean he must be Ozzie Smith in the field, not exactly. He has a .959 fielding percentage with 6 errors in only 105 attempts, barely average. So, .250 with 2 HRs and 40 RBIs, might even be a stretch, but I'll give it to him.


Now to the Rotation (2007 stats):

1. Gil Meche (9-13, 3.67 ERA, 156 SO in 186.2 IP)
2. Brian Bannister (12-9, 3.87 ERA, 77 SO in 165 IP)
3. Zack Greinke (7-7, 3.69 ERA, 106 SO, in 122 IP)
4. Luke Hochevar (0-1, 2.13 ERA, 5 SO, in 12.2 IP)
5. Brett Tomko (4-12, 4.75 ERA, 105 SO, in 27.1 IP)


The Royals have a surprisingly decent rotation. Meche shook off a bad rap and a large contract to finish with a career-best ERA and universal acceptance as the staff ace. Brian Bannister had a great rookie year last season after coming over from the Mets for Ambiorix Burgos (ugghh). Greinke had a good year last year and has been great so far this year. (5-1, 2.18 ERA, 43 SO, in 62 IP). Obviously he won't keep that up, but his ERA might just end up around 3.50. Hochevar had a great start to his major league career last year. The Royals first ever number 1 pick back in 2006 is off to a good start this year (3-3, 4.29 ERA, 26 SO, in 35.2 IP). He'll be fine but I don't think will ever be more than a number 3 starter. Brett Tomko is the only major weak spot. He probably won't last long in the rotation, I'm sure they'll bring a young kid up from AAA once they fall out of contention to take his spot.

The Back end of the bullpen (2007 numbers):

RH set-up man: Leo Nunez (2-4, 3.92 ERA, 37 SO, in 43.2 IP)
LH set-up man: Jimmy Gobble (4-1, 3.02 ERA, 50 SO in 53.2 IP)
Closer: Joakim Soria (2-3, 2.48 ERA, 75 SO in 69 IP)

Soria is a soon-to-be All-Star closer who has been lights-out this season (0-0, .98 ERA, 22 SO in 18.1 IP). Nunez has been great this year as well (3-0, 1.53 ERA, 13 SO in 17.2 IP) and with Soria will finally solidify the back-end of the Royals bullpen. Gobble has been pretty decent this year (0-0, 3.48 ERA, 13 SO in 10.1 IP). The best part, all three are 25-years-old and younger. The bad part, these three are by far the bright spots of the bullpen. The Royals middle relief is not good to say the least.

Final Point
The Royals, for once, have a bright future but have to wait while some of their younger players evolve. Their pitching is at least above average but they need some offensive weapons to emerge before they at least make a push at the wild card spot.


Well Christina finally found a car so I'll be posting more, sorry for the delays. Now hopefully she nails her interview that I'm driving her to in the morning. Thanks everyone, and keep reading!!!


Flashing the Trivia: Alex Gordon's 2006 Topps Rookie Card. This card was worth over $2500 after it was printed when Gordon was still in AAA. In order for a rookie card to be created that player must be on the 40-man roster, in 2006, Gordon was not.

Sources: mlb.com, baseball-reference.com, http://img59.imageshack.us/img59/9044/bannisteret5.jpg

Dunn and Dunn!

1



Okay, so Dusty Baker is no longer just the worst manager in Major League Baseball. I am relatively convinced that a random person (not even a baseball fan!) could do a better job.

Yesterday, trailing by one run in the bottom of the ninth inning but with runners on first and second, Adam Dunn stepped up to the plate. The last four years, Adam Dunn's HR totals: 46, 40, 40, 40. His BB totals: 108, 114, 112, 101. He is the author of a career .380 OBP.

WWDD (What would Dusty do?) . . .

2

. . . sacrifice bunt.


It was hilarious when it happened with Edwin Encarnacion. But this is just ridiculous.

Quoth Dusty Baker: "That's baseball. In that situation you couldn't afford a double play and you don't want a strikeout."

I don't know what Baker's talking about here. This is the perfect situation for a strikeout. The only thing that would have helped the Reds more than Adam Dunn swinging and missing at a slider on the outside corner at the knees would be him taking it and striking out looking. Or hitting a 449-foot dinger, I suppose.

By the way, if Dunn had managed to get the bunt down, Paul Bako (lifetime OPS+ of 65) was waiting for the chance to drive 'em in. Bako is best known for playing for 10 different teams over his 11-year MLB career, actually being named Gabor (henceforth GPB), and finally, for being the "Default" pick in a Fantasy Baseball league draft I once participated in if you did not make your pick within the specified time limit. Relief Pitcher Bill Bray was in the hole so a pinch hitter would likely have followed GPB.



1 - http://www.simpsoncrazy.com/gallery/image.php?image=screenshots/lists/news_100a.jpg
2 - http://thenastyboys.files.wordpress.com/2007/10/baker1109.jpg

Pair of SS Injured

In consecutive innings on Tuesday night, en route to a 1-run loss, the Toronto Blue Jays lost starting SS David Eckstein for a few days and backup SS John McDonald to an ankle injury. Eckstein is day-to-day and should be back to full fitness in a few days. McDonald could be another story, as he turned his ankle pretty horrifically on what would have been a nice sliding play and had to be carried off the field. He has not yet been placed on the DL, though, and was walking and swinging from a tee yesterday.







It is kind of sad for McDonald, known to Jays fans as "The Prime Minister of Defense" for his incredible glove and fantastic arm. Last year's Fielding Bible placed J-Mac second in MLB Shortstops behind Troy Tulowitzki in Plus/Minus, despite having played only 123 games.

Eckstein was signed as a free agent this year to a 1-year, $4.5M USD contract
McDonald was signed this past offseason to a 2-year, $3.8M USD contract

Fantasy Spin: You may have David Eckstein for his decent OBP and R at a Middle Infielder position. Hold him, he'll be back in the lineup in a few days. It's extremely unlikely that you'd have McDonald, unless you're in a Roto league that counts Zone Rating or a counting league that counts Out of Zone plays. Even still, since he's a backup, it's unlikely you'd have him. If you have him in any other league, you should drop him (but not because of his injury). Get well soon to both of you!