Nationals Farm Authority

Backing Up the Moving Van

2006-01-13T14:38:00.000-05:00

Nationals Farm Authority is changing their digs. Future postings will be found over at DCSportsNet [http://www.farmauthority.dcsportsnet.com/] (Thanks, Yuda). I've already migrated all previous postings over there. See you on the other side.

Put Me In Coach

2006-01-12T20:00:00.000-05:00

Over the past couple of days, the Nationals have filled out both their major and minor league coaching staffs. At the major league level, the Nationals named Mitchell Page their hitting coach. Page is a good news story for the Nationals. He left the St Louis Cardinals after their 2004 World Series season to face a drinking problem. He spent the 2005 season getting his life back in order while serving as the Nationals' minor league hitting instructor. What was clear is that he didn't lose his ability to help hitters discover (or re-discover) their hitting stroke, as demonstrated by Marlon Byrd's turnaround after a month with Page in New Orleans. It's great to see Page get back to doing what he does best. Additionally, the Nationals named Davey Lopes their 1st base coach, replacing Don Buford, and Tony Beasley their 3rd base coach, replacing Dave Huppert. Lopes has major league experience as both an All-Star player with the Dodgers and also as a manger with the Milwaukee Brewers (144-195 in a little more than two seasons, 2000-02). Lopes will hopefully be able to translate his baserunning ability into lessons for the Nationals who were abyssmal on the bases in 2005 (45/90 in SB attempts; last place in SB while 1st place in CS). Beasley is coming off of five successful seasons managing in the Pirates organization (372-258) helping to develop Pirates prospects such as Ryan Doumit, Zach Duke, Ian Snell, Bryan Bullington, Brad Eldred, and Chris Shelton. Beasley's minor league resume is putting him on track for a major league managing position in the not too distant future. The Nats also re-arranged their minor league coaching staff. In 2006, look for the following (2005 job in parentheses; new coaches in bold): New Orleans Manager - Tim Foli Pitching Coach - Steve McCatty Hitting Coach - Rick Eckstein (Vermont) Harrisburg Manager - John Stearns Pitching Coach - Rick Tomlin Hitting Coach - Mike Hart (New Orleans) Potomac Manager - Randy Knorr (Savannah) Pitching Coach - Charlie Corbell (New Orleans) Hitting Coach - Troy Gingrich Savannah Manager - Bobby Williams (Vermont) Pitching Coach -Terry Clark Hitting Coach - Jerry Browne Vermont Manager - Edgar Caceres Pitching Coach - Mark Grater (Savannah) Hitting Coach - Tony Tarasco Gulf Coast League Manager - Bobby Henley (Savannah) Pitching Coach - Franklyn Bravo Hitting Coach - Jason Camilli

How Good Is Brandon Watson?

2006-01-08T19:00:00.000-05:00

A common sentiment among the writers covering the Nationals is the prospect of Brandon Watson playin CF and leading off for the Nats in 2006. Back in September, I ranked Watson as my #1 hitting prospect from the New Orleans Zephyrs. I said:

The 23 year old finished 355/400/419 in 88 games in New Orleans. His appearance at #1 is more a function of the fact that the Nationals lack major league prospects at the Triple-A level. I have written about Watson before. His 355 BA was buoyed almost entirely by singles (113/132 hits) and he does not draw a large number of walks (28BB in 372AB). He also needs to become more selective stealing bases as 31/44 is not the greatest SB %. If Watson can continue to hit the ball on the ground, learn to take a walk and use his speed, I believe he has the ability to be a serviceable leadoff hitting CF.

The one think I neglected to mention was how hitting in the Pacific Coast League artificially inflated his numbers. Thanks to a posting over as John Sickels' Minor League Ball (a great site for anyone interested in intelligent discussions of anything minors), I can now compare Watson to the average player in the PCL. Average PCL player (BA/OBP/SLG/OPS): 278/350/442/792 Brandon Watson: 355/400/419/819 While Watson's OPS is an impressive 819, it is only 3.5% higher than the average player in the PCL. Additionally, you need to take into account the park factors of New Orleans (from 2003-2005): R: 0.83; H: 0.96; 2B: 1.15; HR: 0.69; BB: 1.04; K: 1.21 While New Orleans is a relatively neutral park for overall hitting, the difficulty in hitting HRs makes it most certainly a singles/doubles park. This shows me that much of the initial value of Watson's statistics are, in a large part, league and park influenced. Therefore, any direct correlation between inflated AAA numbers and expecations of major league success need to be tempered. UPDATE: I referred to the latest edition of Ron Shandler's Baseball Forecaster (TBF). TBF lists Major League Equivalents (MLEs) in order to reflect how a player's previous performance might look in the majors. MLEs normalize the variances introduced by park/league factors. Watson's 2005 stat line with the Zephyrs would look like this in the majors: AB: 518 R: 61 H: 141 2B: 15 3B: 2 HR: 1 RBI: 23 BB: 26 K: 43 SB: 28 CS: 21 BA: 272 OBP: 307 SLG: 313 OPS: 620 Needless to say, the value of his AAA numbers are definitely diminished when you attempt to extrapolate it to major league equivalents. His lack of BB is pronounced with an OBP of 307, not exactly what you would be looking for out of a leadoff hitter (think more an OBP of 350). Additionally, the speed he brings comes at a cost, 28/49 in SB attempts means he is running the team out of a potential run 43% of the time. All this being said, Watson is worth a look in the spring but thoughts of Endy Chavez v2.0 may not be that far out of line. Let's hope he learns better than Endy did.

Nationals Minor League Roster Moves

2006-01-05T09:00:00.000-05:00

Baseball America has an update of the Nationals' minor league transactions. Of note: Re-signed 1B Richard Lane, OFs Jesus Feliciano and Ender Chavez, SS Marco Yepez, RHPs David Gil, Billy Sylvester and Rabell Rivera (Update: Rabell Rivera is actually Saul Rivera)

Lane: the 26-year old 1B finished his 7th season in the Nationals organization splitting his time between the GCL Nationals (391/442/391), Savannah Sand Gnats (389/452/639), and Harrisburg Senators (227/348/328). This was his 3rd straight season no higher than Double-A ball, he's an organizational player.
Feliciano: the 26-year old OF was signed in 2005 as a minor league free agent from Tampa Bay. He played the whole season in Harrisburg (280/315/351) where he was 10/16 in SB attempts. Another organizational player.
Chavez: the 24-year old OF finished his second straight season in High-A ball, Potomac in 2005 where he batted 251/325/318 with 10/23 in SB attempts. Going on 25 and never a day above High-A ball, he's around just to fill out minor league rosters.
Yepez: the 24-year old SS spent the season in Potomac (270/345/365). He's probably best served as a utility IF, though making the majors is a longshot at this point.
Gil: the 27-year old RP spent his first season with the Nationals organization splitting his time between Harrisburg (32.2IP 1.13WHIP 8K/9IP 2.5BB/9IP 0.6HR/9IP) and New Orleans (38IP 1.21WHIP 6.9K/9IP 2.8BB/9IP 1HR/9IP). His peripheral numbers are intriguing and he could be a RH RP option that the Nats will turn to when needed.
Sylvester: the 29-year old RP spent his first season with the Nationals organization in Harrisburg (41.1IP 1.67WHIP 11.3K/9IP 6.3BB/9IP 1.7HR/9IP). He's an organizational RP in 2006.
Rivera: Rivera is a 28-year old RH RP who spent his second straight season with the Nationals in Harrisburg (76.2IP 1.20WHIP 8.2K/9IP 2.4BB/9IP 0.4HR/9IP). Rivera should ideally start the season in New Orleans, and along with Gil be considered a replacement bullpen option if there are any injuries to guys like Majewski, Ayala, or Bergmann.

Signed CA Brandon Harper, OF Michael Vento, SS Tony Medrano, LHP Jacobo Meque and RHP Anastacio Martinez.

Harper: Here's what I said back on 12/13 ... "the 29-year old has played the last two seasons at AAA with the Detroit Tigers. In 102 games, he batted (roughly) 235/325/350 with 9HR 41 RBI and 46/34 K/BB ratio. He's probably destined for New Orleans if he sticks with the Nationals. As the youngest of the bunch, his age is an asset." It's interesting that only Harper made BBA's transaction list and not any of the other three CA options (Gonzalez, Castillo, or DiFelice).
Vento: the 27-year old RH OF finally made the majors in 2005 with the Yankees (2G 2AB 0H). He spent the majority of the last 2.5 seasons in Triple-A Columbus (2003: 304/363/473; 2004: 275/333/441; 2005: 291/365/445). He demonstrated an adequate K/BB ratio of 209/97. He's probably destined for a full season with New Orlenas
Medrano: the 31-year old SS spent his 2005 season with Triple-A Scranton-Wilkes Barre (221/281/286). An organizational player if there ever was one.
Meque: the 22-year old LH SP/RP spent the past two seasons in the Reds organization (2005: 49.1IP 1.64WHIP 8.4K/9IP 6.6BB/9IP 0.7HR/9IP). I'm guessing the Nationals are simply gambling on a young arm. He should begin the season in Savannah.
Martinez: the 25-year old RHP RP has spent practically his entire career in the Red Sox organization (actually earning a World Series ring in 2004 for 10.2 uninspiring IP). In 58.2IP in 2005, primarily in relief, he put up 1.72WHIP, 7.1K/9IP, 4.1BB/9IP, and 0.6HR/9IP. His 2006 will likely be spent in New Orleans.

Additionally, the Nationals lost two minor league pitchers from 2005, RH SP Chad Durbin signed with the Detroit Tigers and LH SP Matt White signed with the Philadelphia Phillies. Neither were anything more than AAAA SPs at this point in their careers, but that is an area that Nationals most certainly need to improve entering 2006.

Farm Authority Report - 12/26 to 12/28

2005-12-29T09:00:00.000-05:00

Liga Venezolana de Beisbol Profesional

Leones de Caracas: Marco Yepez 1B/3B - 1/3 [12/26]
Leones de Caracas: Marco Yepez 1B/3B - 0/2 1K [12/27]
Leones de Caracas: Tony Armas SP - 4IP 5H 0R 0BB 3K [12/26]
Navegantes de Magallanes: Alex Escobar RF - 1/3 1R 2K [12/27]
Pastora de los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 0/4 1R 1K [12/27]
Tiburones de la Guaira: Larry Broadway 1B - 2/5 1RBI 3K double [12/26]
Tiburones de la Guaira: Larry Broadway 1B - 1/5 [12/27]
Tiburones de la Guaira: Wiki Gonzalez CA - 1/3 1RBI 1K [12/26]
Tigres de Aragua: Ramon Castro 3B - 1/4 1RBI 1K [12/27]
12/28 pending

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

no Nationals played

Liga de Beisbol Dominicano

Aguilas Cibaenas: Bernie Castro 2B - 1/4 1BB 1K [12/27]
Aguilas Cibaenas: Bernie Castro 2B - 1/4 [12/28]
Aguilas Cibaenas: Alberto Castillo CA - 0/4 1RBI 1K [12/27]
Aguilas Cibaenas: Alberto Castillo CA - 0/2 [12/28]

Liga de Beisbol Profesional de Puerto Rico

Website inaccesible

Farm Authority Report - The Holiday Edition

2005-12-27T08:30:00.000-05:00

Liga Venezolana de Beisbol Profesional

Leones de Caracas: Marco Yepez 3B - 1/3 1K [12/12]
Leones de Caracas: Marco Yepez 3B - 0/2 1K [12/19]
Leones de Caracas: Marco Yepez PH/1B - 0/1 1BB [12/23]
Navegantes de Magallanes: Alex Escobar PH/DH - 0/0 1BB [12/18]
Navegantes de Magallanes: Alex Escobar RF - 2/3 2R 3RBI 1BB 1HR [12/19]
Navegantes de Magallanes: Alex Escobar RF - 1/3 1R 1K [12/20]
Navegantes de Magallanes: Alex Escobar LF - 1/3 [12/23]
Pastora de los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 2/5 1R 2RBI 1BB 1K 1HR [12/12]
Pastora de los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 2/5 1R 1K double [12/14]
Pastora de los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 1/3 1R 1RBI 2BB double [12/15]
Pastora de los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 1/4 1K [12/17]
Pastora de los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 1/4 1R 2RBI 1HR 2K [12/18]
Pastora de los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 1/4 1K [12/19]
Pastora de los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 3/5 2R 5RBI 2doubles 1HR [12/22]
Pastora de los Llanos: Jason Stevenson SP - 5.2IP 2H 0R 3BB 3K; Win [12/12]
Pastora de los Llanos: Mayque Quintero SP - 3IP 3H 1R(1ER) 1BB 3K [12/12]
Pastora de los Llanos: Jacobo Sequea RP - 1IP 0H 0R 0BB 1K [12/14]
Pastora de los Llanos: Jacobo Sequea RP - 0.1IP 1H 0R 0BB 0K [12/15]
Tiburones de la Guaira: Larry Broadway 1B - 0/4 1K [12/12]
Tiburones de la Guaira: Larry Broadway 1B - 2/5 1R 2RBI 1K double 1E [12/13]
Tiburones de la Guaira: Larry Broadway 1B - 1/2 1R 1RBI 2BB 1K double [12/15]
Tiburones de la Guaira: Larry Broadway DH - 0/3 1BB 2K [12/16]
Tiburones de la Guaira: Larry Broadway DH - 1/3 2K [12/18]
Tiburones de la Guaira: Larry Broadway 1B - 3/4 2RBI [12/20]
Tiburones de la Guaira: Larry Broadway 1B - 1/2 2BB 1K [12/22]
Tiburones de la Guaira: Larry Broadway 1B - 2/5 1K [12/23]
Tiburones de la Guaira: Wiki Gonzalez CA - 2/3 1BB [12/12]
Tiburones de la Guaira: Wiki Gonzalez CA - 1/4 1R [12/13]
Tiburones de la Guaira: Wiki Gonzalez CA - 2/3 2RBI [12/15]
Tiburones de la Guaira: Wiki Gonzalez CA - 0/4 1K 1PB [12/16]
Tiburones de la Guaira: Wiki Gonzalez CA - 1/3 1K 1E [12/18]
Tiburones de la Guaira: Wiki Gonzalez CA - 0/3 1BB 1PB [12/19]
Tiburones de la Guaira: Wiki Gonzalez CA - 0/3 1BB [12/20]
Tiburones de la Guaira: Wiki Gonzalez CA - 0/2 1RBI [12/22]
Tiburones de la Guaira: Wiki Gonzalez CA - 0/3 1BB 1K [12/23]
Tigres de Aragua: Ramon Castro PH/3B - 0/3 3K [12/12]
Tigres de Aragua: Ramon Castro 3B - 0/1 1R 3BB [12/15]
Tigres de Aragua: Ramon Castro 3B - 0/4 1R 1K [12/17]
Tigres de Aragua: Ramon Castro 3B - 0/1 [12/18]
No games on 12/24 and 12/25
Boxscores from 12/26 pending

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

no Nationals played

Liga de Beisbol Dominicano

Aguilas Cibaenas: Bernie Castro 2B - 2/4 1RBI [12/12]
Aguilas Cibaenas: Bernie Castro 2B - 1/4 2R 1BB 1K [12/13]
Aguilas Cibaenas: Bernie Castro 2B - 2/5 2RBI [12/15]
Aguilas Cibaenas: Bernie Castro 2B/LF - 1/5 1R 1E [12/16]
Aguilas Cibaenas: Bernie Castro 2B - 1/5 1R triple [12/17]
Aguilas Cibaenas: Bernie Castro 2B - 2/4 1BB [12/18]
Aguilas Cibaenas: Bernie Castro 2B - 2/5 2R double [12/20]
Aguilas Cibaenas: Bernie Castro 2B - 0/2 2BB 1K [12/21]
Aguilas Cibaenas: Bernie Castro 2B - 2/4 1R 1RBI 1BB triple [12/26]

Liga de Beisbol Profesional de Puerto Rico

Website inaccesible

Happy Holidays

2005-12-24T08:15:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas. Happy Hanukkah. Happy Kwanzaa. Thank you for reading and enjoy the holidays.

A Christmas Carroll

2005-12-21T14:55:00.000-05:00

Everyone's favorite utility infielder, Jamey Carroll, was tendered a contract by the Nationals late last night. The first word is that it is for $600k - a nice little raise for a guy who played hard and did whatever he was asked all of last year. It is a near certainty that both Carroll and Brendan Harris will not fit into the opening day roster. As it pertains to last night's deadline to tender contracts, Junior Spivey was not extended a contract offer and TJ Tucker (still recovering from Tommy John surgery) and Alex Escobar (still recovering from a foot injury) both agreed to minor league deals. These moves take all three players off of the 40-man roster. Tony Armas, Jr. has yet to come to terms with the Nationals and has until January 8th to do so. He is reportedly also in negotiations with the Rockies. If the Nationals are unable to sign any other free agent pitchers, it is most likely that Armas and Ryan Drese would compete with Jon Rauch, Darrell Rasner, and maybe even Josh Karp for the final two spots in the starting rotation.

Non-Tender Fallout

2005-12-21T14:43:00.000-05:00

As expected, the Nationals non-tendered 2B Junior Spivey and IF Rick Short last night along with RP T.J. Tucker and OF Alex Escobar. Today, the Nationals re-signed Tucker and Escobar to minor league deals. In signing the minor league deals, the Nationals freed up two spots on their 40-man roster (the Nationals are presently at 36/40). Tucker's re-signing is a good gamble. He is currently recovering from Tommy John surgery completed in late June 2005. Prior to his injury, Tucker was a serviceable RH RP out of the bullpen. In his five years with the Nationals/Expos, he threw 228.67 IP with a 4.57ERA, 1.47WHIP, 5.5K/9IP, 2.9BB/9ip, and 1.1HR/9IP. Given a typical recovery period, Tucker should be expected back on the mound in mid to late July. Escobar's re-signing feels more like a move to validate his acquisition. Escobar was acquired from the Chicago White Sox by Jim Bowden in February of 2005 in exchange for minor league OF Jerry Owens. Escobar was once a highly touted prospect who has never lived up to the hype. Bowden coveted Escobar when he was GM in Cincinnati, nearly acquiring him in a deal with Mets involving Barry Larkin. Bowden finally got his wish acquiring him early in the spring for an underperforming minor league OF. At the time, Owens was a 23-year old who played the entire season with low-A Savannah (292/365/349). Once the trade was completed, everything went sour for Escobar who injured his foot and missed the 2005 season while Owens had a breakout season with AA Birmingham, batting 331/393/406, earning him a spot on the White Sox 40-man roster. The Nationals can only hope that 27-year old Escobar captures a fraction of his hype and becomes a #4/5 OF in the majors. But odds are he's settled into the role of yet another organizational player, something of which the Nationals are flush.

Good Bye, and Good Luck

2005-12-16T18:49:00.000-05:00

The Nationals lost three players from their organization this weekend: Marlins signed outfielder Matt Cepicky to a minor league contract and invited him to spring training. Cepicky was getting old and would have at best been a 5th outfielder. He may actually make the Marlins' cut with all the minor leaguers they'll be running out there next year. Rockies acquired outfielder Doc Brooks from the Nationals as the player to be named in the July 13 trade for Preston Wilson. He's getting ready to turn 26 and was still playing in A ball. No loss. And last, but certainly not least: Rick Short intends to play for the Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles of Japan next season. I think we may all be Golden Eagle fans next year because our own Crash Davis story was loved by almost all Nationals fans. He'd make a great RH PH off the bench and can fill in serviceably at most IF positions. Oh well, it's too late now.

Washington Nationals Organizational Big Board

2005-12-16T15:18:00.000-05:00

As regular readers of this site will know, the Washington Nationals farm system is one of the five worst in major league baseball. Nevertheless, they're still our guys and we here at Nationals Farm Authority try to keep you updated on anyone who might even be close to up-and-coming. To assist in getting the big picture, I've created an organizational big board that you'll be able to get to at any time from the link on the right. It's a bit messy for now as we transition to the next season. We have a lot of relievers who are really only low-A quality pitchers at this time and thus there are too many players at the lower levels. As more moves are made (e.g. losing any 6-year minor league free agents) and as soon as rosters begin getting finalized in the spring, the big board will get clearer. Edit: Here's the Big Board

Tools of Ignorance

2005-12-13T11:27:00.000-05:00

The Nationals re-signed LH RP Joey Eischen and signed CI/OF Robert Fick (who can also serve as an emergency catcher) to one-year deals. Additionally, it appears the Nationals may have solved the problem of who is going to serve as a backup catcher to Brian Schneider by signing a slew of catchers to minor league contracts with invitations to Spring Training. Joining the Nats in Viera will be Wiki Gonzalez, Mike DiFelice, Alberto Castillo and Brandon Harper. I assume the hope is to find one guy (preferably a RH hitter) to serve as the back up out of a cast of six [in my order of most to least likely]:

Wiki Gonzalez (baseball-reference/thebaseballcube): The 31-year old has spent six season in the majors, most of which was with SD (he spent 2005 in SEA). He probably has the best bat of the bunch (240/312/362) 17HR in 801 career AB. And his glove is solid enough for a guy who will likely play 30-40 games in 2006 (990 FldPct; 24E in 242 career games; 22PB). He prides himself on calling good games and handling a pitching staff. He's a favorite for the backup spot in 2006.
Alberto Castillo (baseball-reference/thebaseballcube): The 35-year old has spent parts of 11 seasons in the majors for seven different teams (NYM, TOR, STL, NYY, SF, KC, and OAK). Another servicable backup catcher, (222/295/296) and 990 career fielding percentage (23E in 398 career games) and 20 career PB. He, along with Gonzalez, are the favorites to backup Schneider. The odd man out may end up as the starter at New Orleans.
Mike DiFelice (baseball-reference/thebaseballcube): The 36-year old spent parts of 10 seasons with seven different teams (STL, TB, AZ, KC, DET, CHC, and NYM). He's the dictionary definition of a backup catcher, little stick (career 238/288/359) with 28HR in 1,473AB and an adequate glove, 989 Fld Pct (36E in 495 career games). A few too many PB (50 in his career) which may conjure up images of Gary Bennett. My guess is he doesn't stick with the Nationals.
Brandon Harper (thebaseballcube): The 29-year old has played the last two seasons at AAA with the Detroit Tigers. In 102 games, he batted (roughly) 235/325/350 with 9HR 41 RBI and 46/34 K/BB ratio. He's probably destined for New Orleans if he sticks with the Nationals. As the youngest of the bunch, his age is an asset.
Hector Ortiz (baseball-reference/thebaseballcube): The 32-year old has limited major league experience (KC and TEX), 91G 5E 990FldPct. He has a bit more of a bat than Castillo, 288/339/358. He spent the 2005 with New Orleans (248/286/283) in 74 games. If he was going to be the choice, I'm guessing he would have got a call in September over Keith Osik. He's probably one of the odd men out of the Nats plans.
Craig Kuzmic (thebaseballcube): The 28-year old split his first year with Washington between Harrisburg (236/366/439) and New Orleans (262/355/434). He had a combined 89/51 K/BB ratio between the two levels. Unless he demonstrates something in the spring, he may be released rather than return to New Orleans for a second year.

Welcome Aboard

2005-12-13T09:19:00.000-05:00

Frequent poster over at Yuda's Gameday, Scott, will be joining me here at the Nationals Farm Authority. Scott's initial responsibility will be to put together a Big Board for the Nats (hat tip to USS Mariner for the idea/formatting). Welcome, Scott.

Farm Authority Report - Playing Catch Up

2005-12-13T08:08:00.000-05:00

Not only have I been otherwise occupied, but the various league websites are not as prompt with their daily updates. Liga Venezolana de Beisbol Profesional

Leones de Caracas: Marco Yepez PH/2B - 1/2 [12/8]
Leones de Caracas: Marco Yepez 3B - 1/4 2RBI [12/9]
Leones de Caracas: Marco Yepez PH/2B - 0/1 1BB [12/11]
Pastora de los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 2/5 1R 2RBI 1BB 1K 1HR [12/8]
Pastora de los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 0/4 1K [12/9]
Pastora de los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 0/2 Sacrifice [12/10 Game 1]
Pastora de los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 1/4 1R 2RBI double [12/10 Game 2]
Pastora de los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 0/4 1K [12/11]
Pastora de los Llanos: Jason Stevenson SP - 5.2IP 2H 0R 3BB 3K; Win [12/9]
Pastora de los Llanos: Mayque Quintero SP - 3IP 3H 1R(1ER) 1BB 3K [12/10]
Tiburones de la Guaira: Larry Broadway 1B - 0/4 1K [12/8]
Tiburones de la Guaira: Larry Broadway DH - 2/5 2R 1RBI double [12/9]
Tiburones de la Guaira: Larry Broadway 1B - 1/3 1R 1BB 1K [12/10]
Tiburones de la Guaira: Larry Broadway 1B - 1/4 2K [12/11]
Tigres de Aragua: Ramon Castro PH/3B - 0/3 3K [12/8]
Tigres de Aragua: Ramon Castro 3B /2B- 2/4 2R 1K [12/9]
12/12 box scores pending

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

no Nationals played

Liga de Beisbol Dominicano

Aguilas Cibaenas: Bernie Castro 2B - 2/4 1RBI [12/8]
Aguilas Cibaenas: Bernie Castro 2B - 1/4 2R 1RBI 1SF [12/9]
Dominican Republic vs Puerto Rico All-Star Game over the weekend

Liga de Beisbol Profesional de Puerto Rico

Dominican Republic vs Puerto Rico All-Star Game over the weekend

Rule 5 Draft Review

2005-12-09T07:51:00.000-05:00

The Alfonso Soriano trade did not become official prior to the Rule 5 Draft yesterday, so the Nationals had a full 40-man roster. Therefore, they did not select anyone in the major league portion of the Rule 5 Draft. However, they did lose one person, RH RP Chris Booker, to the Philadelphia Phillies (through the Detroit Tigers). Booker did not play in the Nationals farm system in 2005, he was signed as a minor league free agent from the Reds at the end of the 2005 season. In 65IP in Triple-A, he had a 2.49 ERA, 1.12 WHIP, 12.6 K/9IP, 3.9 BB/9IP, and 0.3 HR/9IP. He's another of the many faceless RH RP and the $50,000 payment from Philadelphia is probably better. In the Triple-A portion of the draft selected mostly organizational-type players. The rules for the Triple/Double-A portions of the draft are different. The players have no requirement to remain at any level so expect the following three guys to be shuttled back forth when necessary in 2006:

Kansas Royals minor league 2B, Brandon Powell - The 25-year old LH 2B hit 287/339/511 with a 97/28 K/BB ratio and 18 HR in High A. 25-years old for High-A speaks volume for his expectations. He's likely to be utility type player with Harrisburg.
San Francisco Giants minor league RHP, Jose Sanchez - In 133IP in Low-A (on loan to the Mets), the 24-year old had a 4.20ERA, 1.38 WHIP, 5.9 K/9IP, 2.5 BB/9IP, and 1.2 HR/9IP. He was too old for Low-A. He's likely to start in Potomac, perhaps in Harrisburg if he's transferred to the bullpen.
Arizona Diamondbacks minor league RHP, Josh Perrault - In 78.1IP in High A, the 23-year old had a 2.09 ERA, 1.02 WHIP, 7.2 K/9IP, 2.2 BB/9IP, and 0.5 HR/9IP. He also was really old for the level so those numbers needed to be taken with a grain of salt. I'd guess he'll start the season at Harrisburg.

The Nationals did not participate in the Double-A portion of the draft.

Farm Authority Report 12/6 to 12/8

2005-12-09T07:31:00.000-05:00

Liga Venezolana de Beisbol Profesional

12/8 boxscores pending
Pastora de los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 0/3 1R 1BB 1K [12/7]
Tiburones de la Guaira: Larry Broadway 1B - 1/3 [12/7]

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

no Nationals played

Liga de Beisbol Dominicano

12/7 and 12/8 box scores pending
Aguilas Cibaenas: Bernie Castro 2B - 3/5 3R [12/6]

Liga de Beisbol Profesional de Puerto Rico

Edgardo Baez 167/231/417 2HR 4RBI

Rule 5 Draft Preview

2005-12-08T09:04:00.000-05:00

Today is the MLB Rule 5 draft. Here is a quick explanation of the Rule 5 Draft:

A player not on a team's Major League 40-man roster is eligible for the Rule 5 draft if: the player was 18 or younger when he first signed a pro contract and this is the fourth Rule 5 draft since he signed, OR if he was 19 or older when he first signed a pro contract and this is the third Rule 5 draft since he signed. A player drafted onto a Major League roster in the Rule 5 draft must remain in the majors (on the 25-man active roster or the DL) for all of the subsequent season, or the drafting club must attempt to return him to his original club. However, since a returned Rule 5 player must first be placed on outright waivers, a third club could claim the player off waivers. But of course, that club would then also have to keep him in the majors all season, or offer him back to his original club. Occasionally, the drafting club will work out a trade with the player's original team, allowing the drafting club to retain the player but send him to the minors.

I'm not going to be able to improve on the reviews you will find at Baseball Analysts or Baseball America or Rotoworld. But I wanted to throw out a few names that may be of interest to the Nationals:

Steve Andrade - 28-year old RH RP from the Blue Jays who had a 71/16 K/BB ratio in 50.2IP in Double-A. He may be superfluous with Bergman and Majewski, but he's a quality RHP.
Jarred Ball - 22-year old CF from the D-Backs. 253/377/363 with 39SB in Double-A. With the trade of Brad Wilkerson and the apparent lack of faith in Ryan Church, he is worth consideration.
Gregor Blanco - 22-year old CF from the Braves. 252/367/386 with 28SB in Double-A. Same reason as above.
Fabio Castro - 21-year old LH RP from the White Sox who had a 75/37 K/BB ratio in 79IP in High-A. Rumor has it that the Royals will grab him at #1 and trade him to Philadelphia.
Matt Chico - 22-year old LH SP from the D-Backs. Had a down 2005 but still put up 137/54 K/BB in 162IP split between Double-A and High-A. He could be an intriguing option as a candidate for the #5 spot in the rotation.
Chris Cooper - 27-year old LH RP from the Indians. 75/21 K/BB in 72IP between Double-A and Triple-A. An interesting LH option out of the pen.
Ben Francisco - 24-year old CF from the Indians. 307/357/474 in Double-A. Another Wlikerson replacement option.
Kevin Howard - 25-year old 2B/3B from the Reds. 296/346/428 in Double-A; also led Arizona Fall League in hitting. The only Bowden guy from Cincy I'd think about though the last thing the Nats need is yet another 2B.
JD Martin - 23-year old RH SP from the Indians. 63/8 K/BB ratio in 56.2IP in Double-A before undergoing Tommy John surgery. He may be worth grabbing and storing on the 60-day DL.
Mike Megrew - 22-year old LH SP from the Dodgers. Underwent Tommy John surgery in 2004. If he's recovered he's worth consideration potentially as a LH specialist out of the pen in 2006 with designs to return to starting later.
Rafael Rodriguez - 21-year old RH SP from the Angels. 118/60 K/BB in 146.1IP in Low/High-A ball. It might be rushing him to the majors but he could be a RH specialist in 2006 with designs to return to starting later.
Davis Romero - 23-year old LH SP from the Blue Jays. 136/34 K/BB in 124.2IP in High-A. A definite gamble but worth the look.
Vince Sinisi - 24-year old corner OF from the Rangers. Rehabbing from 2004 broken arm by hitting 363/438/600 in High-A and 258/300/343 in Double-A in 2005. A toolsy OF in the positive sense.

And here are some other guys from Jim Bowden's tenure in Cincinnati, which means they are also candidates (a la Tony Blanco from 2004):

Chris Dickerson - 23-year old toolsy OF. Pass.
Carlos Guevara - 24-year old RH RP. Pass.
Thomas Pauly - 24-year old RH SP. Recovering from torn labrum. Pass.
David Shafer - 23-year old RH RP. No improvement on Bergmann. Pass.

Josh Whitesell, a LH 1B with a proclivity for strikeouts, and Rogearvin Bernadina, a speedy OF who just completed his third straight season in Savannah, are the only potential losses, but I doubt either will be going anywhere.

I'll have my recap if the Nationals add or lose anyone.

The Shallow End of the Pool

2005-12-08T05:50:00.000-05:00

I know I'm late to the party. The usual suspects have the breakdown of the deal sending Brad Wilkerson, Terrmel Sledge, and Armando Galarraga to the Rangers for Alfonso Soriano. My take? I don't like it, but I don't hate it as much as many do. I agree with Chris that Brad Wilkerson was done in DC. For whatever reason, he had lost the faith of the man making the decisions (Bowden). Sledge is coming off of a severe hamstring injury so his inclusion is not the end of the world. If the deal were Wilkerson, Sledge, and organizational pitcher, someone like Jason Stevenson or Chris Schroder, I would have been marginally in favor of the deal. Soriano, even at the near $10M he may command in arbitration is not the end of the world, provided that either (a) he doesn't mind shifting to the OF (preferably LF); or (b) there is a deal in the works where either Soriano or Jose Vidro is moved for pitching. The problem I have with it is the inclusion of Armando Galarraga. I highlighted Galarraga's recovery from Tommy John surgery back in July. The Nationals ran into a huge problem late last year when they ran out of starting pitchers at the major league level. As of today, the Nationals starting rotation is:

Livan Hernandez
John Patterson
Brian Lawrence
Ryan Drese (assuming he's recovered from surgery)
???

I thought that Galarraga would have had a really solid opportunity to give Darrell Rasner and whatever reclamation project Bowden went after in a battle for the #5 spot in the rotation. One of the few things I got from my reading of Scout's Honor that I could not agree with more ... a team needs to have replacement value players available to them in the minor leagues for both themselves and trades. Well, the Nats didn't (and still don't have either). Trading a prospect ranked #5 by Baseball America (#4 in my opinion) from a farm system as troubled as the Nationals is not the wisest move for the long term health of the organization. Listen, I'm a fan but I realize that the Nationals are not going to compete for a World Series any time soon. And trading away what limited depth exists in the minor leagues does nothing for the Nationals' rebuilding process in their player development system.

Let's hope there is another mover (or two) in the pipeline turning the Nationals' overabundance of middle infielders (specifically 2B) into pieces needed to re-establish a viable farm system.

Farm Authority Report 12/5/05

2005-12-06T12:16:00.000-05:00

Liga Venezolana de Beisbol Profesional

no games
All-Star game scheduled for Tuesday

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

no Nationals played

Liga de Beisbol Dominicano

no games

Liga de Beisbol Profesional de Puerto Rico

I will provide weekly updates to players on Fridays

MiLB - Nationals Organizational Report

2005-12-05T13:20:00.000-05:00

MiLB.com finally gets around to the Nationals organizational report. Long story short. There is some talent there and with an owner in place, the Nationals should be able to hang onto them long term. My perspective, there is a long road to restoring the luster to a farm system that was at one time an endless stream of impressive players.

Farm Authority Report 12/2 - 12/4/05

2005-12-05T12:49:00.000-05:00

Liga Venezolana de Beisbol Profesional

Pastora de los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 0/3 1K [12/2]
Pastora de los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 0/4 1K [12/3]
Pastora de los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 0/3 2K [12/4]
Pastora de los Llanos: Jacobo Sequea RP - 2.1IP 3H 2R(2ER) 2BB 0K [12/2]
Pastora de los Llanos: Jason Stevenson SP - 5IP 6H 3R(3ER) 4BB 6K [12/4]
Tiburones de la Guaira: Larry Broadway 1B - 2/4 2RBI double [12/2]
Tiburones de la Guaira: Larry Broadway 1B - 2/4 1E [12/3]
Tiburones de la Guaira: Larry Broadway 1B - 0/3 1K [12/4]
Tigres de Aragua: Ramon Castro 3B - 1/2 2R 3BB [12/3]

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

no Nationals played

Liga de Beisbol Dominicano

Aguilas Cibaenas: Bernie Castro 2B - 1/5 1K 1E [12/2]
Aguilas Cibaenas: Bernie Castro 2B - 0/4 [12/3]
Aguilas Cibaenas: Bernie Castro 2B - 1/4 [12/4]

Liga de Beisbol Profesional de Puerto Rico

I will provide weekly updates to players on Fridays

Book Review - Scout's Honor

2005-12-04T14:26:00.000-05:00

I just finished reading Bill Shanks' book, Scout's Honor: The Bravest Way to Build a Winning Team. Touted as a as the defense of traditional scouting, a counterpoint to Michael Lewis' book Moneyball, Shanks' book was poorly crafted and disappointing. Instead of providing the reader with insight into the methodology behind the incredible success of the Atlanta Braves and their remarkable player development, Shanks spends 346 pages providing anecdotes about players in the Braves system (players/management/scouts) repeatedly using the word "makeup" without explaining it. There was only a few nuggets of value I found in the book. First, in trades, the Braves are inclined to ask for the inclusion of some sort of minor league pitcher (regardless of value). The thought is to focus on quality from quantity. Second, how Braves Executive VP and GM John Schuerholz was influenced by his first bosses, Harry Dalton and Lou Gorman. Gorman explains that the two aspects of scouting a player, things you can/cannot see with the eye. More specifically:

Things you can see with your eyes

Pitchers: arm strength, fastball, curve ball, slidder, other pitch, and control
Infielders/Outfielders: arm strength, use of arm, speed, quickness, agility, hands, fielding, range, hitting and power
Catchers: arm strength, use of arm, receiving, hands, hitting, power, and speed

Things you cannot see with your eyes (roughly, Shanks' definition of makeup)

Attitude, desire, drive, willingness, hunger, ambition, aggressiveness, mental intelligence, baseball sense, teachability, coachability, knowledge of the game, personality, improvement, consistency, maturity, adjustment, stability, temperment, disposition, background, family, habits, "is he a winner?", "does he have stomach?", "does he have heart?", "does he have pride?", "does he have confidence?", and "is he a competitor?"

Unfortunately for Shanks, he doesn't provide this until more than halfway through the book. This reduces much of the value in the previous anecdotes and their ability to demonstrate the Braves' philosophy.

When he finally gets around to the nuts and bolts of the Braves' philosophy (on page 347), a grand total of 13 pages are offered as explanation. The quick summary:

MAKEUP: Passion, integrity, and intelligence are all necessary to ensure the greatest chance of success. It cannot be quantified, only perceived.
DON'T DISCOUNT STATS, BUT...: Stats are a tool to be used as part of the whole picture (stats + tools + body + makeup).
TRUST YOUR SCOUTS: Delegate responsibility down and trust your scout's judgement.
COLLEGE VERSUS HIGH SCHOOL: There is no concrete evidence that college players drafted are more successful in the majors than high school drafted. The Braves prefer high school players before they develop bad habits.
SYNERGY BETWEEN SCOUTING AND PLAYER DEVELOPMENT: The scouts and player development staff need to be on the same page.
PATIENCE: Allow the player to fully develop, his play on the field will tell you when he's ready.
THE STRENGTH OF THE DRAFT DICTATES PICKS: Nothing is more dangerous than going against the strength of the draft.
PROTECTING PICKS: Don't waste a draft spot on a player focused on dollars or without the desire to play, signability is a key. Talk to the players before the draft to see if they want to be a Brave. Additionally, be honest and upfront with what a player can be paid, if the player scoffs, move on.
PITCHING, PITCHING, PITCHING: Treat pitchers like thoroughbred racehorses; wins are not important in the minors; do not overuse pitchers in the minors.
DEVELOP TALENT FOR TRADES: The ability to produce talent to trade is equally as important as developing talent for your own use. Build depth so trades don't weaken you at any position.
REPLACEMENT VALUE: The system must develop players that can be promoted in the case of injury/need. It's important to reinvigorate your team with youth and enthusiasm.
SCOUTING YOUR OWN PLAYERS: One of the most overlooked necessities of a strong farm system. Spend time analyzing the existing talent in your own farm system in order to determine who are: (1) legitimate prospects; (2) fringe prospects; and (3) roster filler. Know who to keep/who can be sacrificed in deals, if necessary. Ensure the proper evaluation of players.
FOLLOW THE PLAN: Consistency is important between people and philosophy.
MAKING IMPACT ON THE PLAYERS: Scouts, mangers, coaches, and executives are in charge, but you must create a sense of family working towards a common goal.
THE PHILOSOPHY IS THE PEOPLE

The final chapter is spent deriding Michael Lewis and Moneyball as a fad along the lines of "the Atkins Diet." Shanks refutes the Moneyball philosophy, completely missing the forest for the trees. In my opinion, Moneyball is about taking advantage of maket inefficiencies, not focusing on college players an on-base percentage. I will grant Shanks his point on Lewis' negative portrayal of "traditional scouts." But Shanks falls into a similar trap that most traditionalists do, he allows Lewis' story to overshadow the theory. What Billy Beane did so well was identify a skill set that was affordable and offered him the greatest opportunity to succeed. Shanks is too concerned with discrediting Lewis, Beane, OBP, and the drafting college players over high schoolers.

All in all, Shanks' book is not worth the investment of $22.95 (thankfully, I found it in the library). He missed a tremendous opportunity to give the average baseball fan a peek into the world of scouting and player development. Instead, he spent over 300 pages offering little more than back of the baseball card player information and whining about his misconception of Moneyball.

I'd pass.

Farm Authority Report 11/25/05 through 12/1/05

2005-12-02T19:50:00.000-05:00

I'm back Liga Venezolana de Beisbol Profesional

Pastora de los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 1/3 1RBI 1BB [11/25]
Pastora de los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 1/4 [11/26]
Pastora de los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 0/4 1K [11/27]
Pastora de los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 1/3 1R 2RBI 1BB [11/29]
Pastora de los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 0/3 2K [11/30 G1]
Pastora de los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 1/3 1R [11/30 G2]
Pastora de los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 1/4 [12/1]
Pastora de los Llanos: Jason Stevenson SP - 5.2IP 4H 2R(2ER) 5BB 3K; ND [11/29]
Pastora de los Llanos: Mayque Quintero SP - 4IP 5H 2R(2ER) 4BB 0K; L [11/30]
Leones de Caracas: Marco Yepez LF - 0/5 3K [11/25]
Leones de Caracas: Marco Yepez PH/3B - 0/1 1R [11/26]
Leones de Caracas: Marco Yepez LF - 1/4 1K [11/30]
Leones de Caracas: Marco Yepez LF - 0/2 [12/1]
Leones de Caracas: Armando Galarraga SP - 6.2IP 8H 2R(1ER) 0BB 2K; W [11/25]
Leones de Caracas: Armando Galarraga SP - 6IP 4H 2R(1ER) 3BB 3K; ND [12/1]
Navegantes de Magallanes: Alex Escobar PH/DH - 0/1 1BB [11/25]
Navegantes de Magallanes: Alex Escobar PH/RF - 0/1 [11/27]
Navegantes de Magallanes: Alex Escobar RF - 2/4 [11/28]
Navegantes de Magallanes: Alex Escobar PH/RF - 0/1 [11/29]
Navegantes de Magallanes: Alex Escobar RF - 1/4 1R 1RBI 1HR [12/1]

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

no Nationals played between 11/25 and 12/1

Liga de Beisbol Dominicano

Aguilas Cibaenas: Bernie Castro 2B - 1/6 1R 2K [11/25]
Aguilas Cibaenas: Bernie Castro 2B - 1/5 [11/26]
Aguilas Cibaenas: Bernie Castro 2B - 1/5 1RBI [11/27]
Aguilas Cibaenas: Bernie Castro 2B - 3/5 2R [11/29]
Aguilas Cibaenas: Bernie Castro 2B - 1/5 1R [11/30]
Aguilas Cibaenas: Bernie Castro 2B - 2/5 2R 1RBI [12/1]

Liga de Beisbol Profesional de Puerto Rico

still no box scores but team standings are posted, of note ...
Terrmel Sledge - 222/263/333; 5G 4/18 2R 4RBI 1BB 4K; 2 doubles
Edgardo Baez - 063/118/250; 9G 1/16 1R 2RBI 1BB 4K; 1HR

Sorry Folks ...

2005-11-23T14:00:00.000-05:00

the park's closed. The Moose out front should have told you. I'm going on vacation. NFA will not be updated again until December 2.

Farm Authority Report 11/22/05

2005-11-23T13:45:00.000-05:00

Liga Venezolana de Beisbol Profesional

Pastora de los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 1/4 1R

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

no Nationals played

Liga de Beisbol Dominicano

Aguilas Cibaenas: Bernie Castro 2B - 0/4

Liga de Beisbol Profesional de Puerto Rico

Box scores for Puerto Rican winter leagues yet to be posted (season began on 11/11)

Farm Authority Report 11/21/05

2005-11-22T11:40:00.000-05:00

Liga Venezolana de Beisbol Profesional/Liga Mexicana del Pacifico/Liga de Beisbol Dominicano

no games

Liga de Beisbol Profesional de Puerto Rico

Box scores for Puerto Rican winter leagues yet to be posted (season began on 11/11)

Farm Authority Report 11/20/05

2005-11-21T14:30:00.000-05:00

Liga Venezolana de Beisbol Profesional

11/19 Leones de Caracas: Marco Yepez LF - 0/1 1R 1BB 1K
11/19 Leones de Caracas: Armondo Galarraga SP - 6IP 6H 1R(1ER) 2BB 1K
11/19 Pastora de los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 1/3 1R 1RBI 2BB 1K double
11/20 Pastora de los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 1/4 1K

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

no Nationals played

Liga de Beisbol Dominicano

Aguilas Cibaenas: Bernie Castro 2B - 1/4 1R

Liga de Beisbol Profesional de Puerto Rico

Box scores for Puerto Rican winter leagues yet to be posted (season began on 11/11)

Farm Authority Report 11/18 - 11/19/05

2005-11-20T15:00:00.000-05:00

Regional Olympic Qualifying Tournament

11/18

USA (4-0) 9 defeated Panama (1-3) 3
Mexico (2-2) 7 defeated Canada (3-1) 2
Nicaragua (2-2) 6 defeated Guatemala (0-4) 1
USA: Brendan Harris SS - 0/1
Nicaragua: Ofilio Castro SS - 0/0

11/19

USA (5-0) defeated Canada (3-2) 2
Panama (2-3) 12 defeated Guatemala (0-5) 1
Nicaragua (3-2) 4 defeated Mexico (2-3) 2
USA: Brendan Harris 3B - 1/2 1R 1RBI double
Nicaragua: Ofilio Castro SS - 1/4

Liga Venezolana de Beisbol Profesional

11/17 no Nationals played
11/18 Leones del Caracas: Marcos Yepez PH - 0/0 1BB
11/18 Pastora de los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 2/5 1R 2RBI 1HR
11/18 Pastora de los Llanos: Jason Stevenson SP - 5.1IP 4H 1R(1ER) 1BB 1K; Win
11/19 boxscores pending

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

11/18 no Nationals played
11/19 no Nationals played

Liga de Beisbol Dominicano

11/18 Tigres del Licey Tony Blanco LF - 1/1 2RBI
11/18 Aguilas Cibaenas Bernie Castro 2B - 1/4 1R 1RBI 1SF 1SB
11/19 Tigres del Licey Tony Blanco 1B - 1/3 1R 1BB
11/19 Aguilas Cibaenas Bernie Castro 2B - 4/5 1R 1RBI

Liga de Beisbol Profesional de Puerto Rico

Box scores for Puerto Rican winter leagues yet to be posted (season began on 11/11)

Breaking News - Marlon Anderson Signed

2005-11-18T15:15:00.000-05:00

H/T to Chris over at Capitol Punishment. Word has leaked (WTEM report) that the Nationals have signed utility man Marlon Anderson to a 2-year deal. Anderson is, at best, Carlos Baerga with a little bit more mobility ... and the ability to play in the OF. What does that mean to the current Nationals? Thanks to Jamey Carroll for everything he's done but there is a 0% chance he's coming back. Rick Short. We hardly knew ye. Good luck with the recovery from the shoulder surgery. Brendan Harris has more than likely played his last game with the Washington Nationals. Harris could reasonably play 2B and 3B for the Nats in 2006. He's now more than likely to be shopped in the off-season. Ideally, it will be in a move for someone like Juan Pierre from Florida. Bernie Castro should start apartment shopping in New Orleans. Unless he can clearly beat out Damian Jackson, he's a victim of a numbers game. Rotoworld sums the signing up perfectly.

A two-year deal? We're sure it's not for a lot of money, but that's still too much of a commitment. The Nationals are signing Anderson because he hit .321 in 56 at-bats as a pinch-hitter last season. He's an upgrade over Carlos Baerga, but he's not someone who should get more than one start per week

---------- UPDATE: Contract terms are 2 years $1.85M. Ugh. This is not an efficient use of limited resources for a role player. I refer you to Ryan for his swearalicious thoughts. The Nationals press release has two quotes I want to focus on:

"It makes it tougher to find a spot and see where I fit on this team," [Jamey] Carroll said. "We signed a couple of infielders. For the team, it strengthens the club. Anderson is a good role player. He has done a great job wherever he has been."

I will echo something Yuda said over at Gameday, "Pure class, Jamey Carroll." And,

"They let it be known that they had interest in me. Things with New York didn't pan out the way I thought," [Marlon] Anderson said. "The Nationals gave me an offer. With the things that I do [off the bench], I thought it was a fair deal. It was more than anybody else was offering."

More than anybody else was offering? No kidding.

Elias Free Agent Rankings

2005-11-18T12:30:00.000-05:00

FYI. The Elias rankings of the free agents has been released. The Elias Sports Bureau compiles rankings of all major leaguers by position, based on their performance over the previous two seasons. If teams offer arbitration to a free agent and lose him to another club, they'll receive compensation if he's classified as a Type A (top 30% at his position), Type B (31-50%) or Type C (51-60%) player. Type A player compensation = signing team's 1st-round pick plus a supplemental 1st-rounder Type B player compensation = signing team's 1st-round choice Type C player compensation = supplemental 2nd-rounder. However, if the signing team picks in the upper half of the 1st round, that choice is protected and it loses its 2nd-round selection instead. If a club signs multiple free agents within the same category, its earlier pick goes to the team which lost the higher-rated player. Nationals free agents are in bold and blue. Players with rumors connecting them to the Nationals are in bold and green. Type A: Wilson Alvarez (LAD), Brad Ausmus (Hou), A.J. Burnett (Fla), Jeromy Burnitz (ChC), Royce Clayton (Ari), Roger Clemens (Hou), Jeff Conine (Fla), Johnny Damon (Bos), Octavio Dotel (Oak), Erubiel Durazo (Oak), Scott Eyre (SF), Kyle Farnsworth (Atl), Rafael Furcal (Atl), Brian Giles (SD), Tom Gordon (NYY), Mark Grudzielanek (StL), Ramon Hernandez (SD), Trevor Hoffman (SD), Bob Howry (Cle), Todd Jones (Fla), Paul Konerko (CWS), Matt Lawton (NYY), Braden Looper (NYM), Kevin Millar (Bos), Bengie Molina (LAA), Matt Morris (StL), Bill Mueller (Bos), Mike Piazza (NYM), Joe Randa (SD), Al Reyes (StL), Kenny Rogers (Tex), B.J. Ryan (Bal), Rudy Seanez (SD), Julian Tavarez (StL), Ugueth Urbina (Phi), Billy Wagner (Phi), Larry Walker (StL), Jeff Weaver (LAD), Rondell White (Det), Bob Wickman (Cle), Tim Worrell (Ari). Type B: Antonio Alfonseca (Fla), Rich Aurilia (Cin), Paul Byrd (LAA), Hector Carrasco (Was), Elmer Dessens (LAD), Cal Eldred (StL), Juan Encarnacion (Fla), Shawn Estes (Ari), Carl Everett (CWS), Julio Franco (Atl), Nomar Garciaparra (ChC), Alex Gonzalez (Fla), Todd Greene (Col), Chris Hammond (SD), Scott Hatteberg (Oak), Rick Helling (Mil), Roberto Hernandez (NYM), Jason Johnson (Det), Jacque Jones (Min), Al Leiter (NYY), Esteban Loaiza (Was), Kenny Lofton (Phi), Brian Meadows (Pit), Jim Mecir (Fla), Jose Mesa (Pit), Dan Miceli (Col), Kevin Millwood (Cle), Jamie Moyer (Sea), Mike Myers (Bos), Rafael Palmeiro (Bal), Todd Pratt (Phi), Felix Rodriguez (NYY), Reggie Sanders (StL), J.T. Snow (SF), Sammy Sosa (Bal), Russ Springer (Hou), Frank Thomas (CWS), Brett Tomko (SF), Michael Tucker (Phi), Daryle Ward (Pit), Jarrod Washburn (LAA), Bernie Williams (NYY), Preston Wilson (Was), Eric Young (SD). Type C (first-time free agents only): Joey Eischen (Was), Scott Elarton (Cle), Abraham Nunez (StL).

Farm Authority Report 11/17/05

2005-11-18T06:45:00.000-05:00

Regional Olympic Qualifying Tournament

USA (3-0) defeated Nicaragua (1-2) 7-4
Mexico (1-2) defeated Guatemala (0-3) 5-2
Canada (3-0) defeated Panama (1-2) 15-5
USA: Brendan Harris 3B - 1/3 1R 2RBI 1HR [GW HR in 6th inning]
Nicaragua: Ofilio Castro SS - 2/4 1RBI 1E

Liga Venezolana de Beisbol Profesional

box scores of 11/17 pending

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

11/16 no Nationals played
11/17 no Nationals played

Liga de Beisbol Dominicano

11/16 no Nationals played
11/17 Aguilas Cibaenas Bernie Castro 2B - 0/4
11/17 Tigres del Licey Tony Blanco PH - 0/1

Liga de Beisbol Profesional de Puerto Rico

Box scores for Puerto Rican winter leagues yet to be posted (season began on 11/11)

Jose Guillen News

2005-11-17T08:15:00.000-05:00

Courtesy Tigres del Licey website. For those who don't speak Spanish, here is the rough translation:

OF Jose Guillen changed his plans. Instead of resting this winter, he plans to play for Licey in late December and hopes to be part of the Dominican team in the World Baseball Classic in March.
He plans to undergo shoulder surgery prior to playing for Licey/Dominican Republic. Guillen will be evaluated Friday by doctor John Uribe in Miami, fly to Washington to participate in a Nationals activity (alternate uniform debut), and return to Miami. Surgery on Monday is probable.
"It is a small operation to clean the shoulder", said Guillen. He hurt the shoulder sliding last June. "The doctors have informed me this type of operation takes two weeks to heal. Halfway through December I will have the clearance to play", said Guillen.
He tried to avoid the operation with a rigorous program of rehabilitation, but the Nationals wanted to avoid the risk that the injury returned during spring training.
After playing with the Licey in the winter, Guillen will make himself available for the World Baseball Classic. "It will be a great honor to play for my native Dominican Republic", said Guillen.
Guillen is in the last year of his contract with the Nationals. "I want to continue to play in Washington, but if I do not sign an extension during spring training, then I will play the season become free agent. I will not negotiate after the season starts", said Guillen.

Farm Authority Report 11/16/05

2005-11-17T08:00:00.000-05:00

Regional Olympic Qualifying Tournament

USA (2-0) defeated Mexico (0-2) 5-4
Nicaragua (1-1) defeated Panama (1-1) 6-1
Canada (2-0) defeated Guatemala (0-2) 12-0 [7-inning no-hitter; mercy rule]
Brendan Harris 3B - 3/4

Liga Venezolana de Beisbol Profesional

Navegantes de Magallanes Ender Chavez RF - 0/1

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

11/15 - no Nationals played
box scores of 11/16 pending

Liga de Beisbol Dominicano

box scores of 11/16 pending

Liga de Beisbol Profesional de Puerto Rico

Box scores for Puerto Rican winter leagues yet to be posted (season began on 11/11)

Sickels Top 20 Prospect Retrospective

2005-11-16T16:00:00.000-05:00

John Sickels reinforces what we already know, the Nats system has nowhere to go but up.

Baseball America - Nationals Top 10 Prospects

2005-11-16T09:30:00.000-05:00

Baseball America has ranked the Nats top 10 prospects. Scouting reports are subscriber only.

Ryan Zimmerman, 3b
Collin Balester, rhp
Clint Everts, rhp
Ian Desmond, ss
Armando Galarraga, rhp
Kory Casto, 3b
Mike Hinckley, lhp
Bill Bray, lhp
Larry Broadway, 1b
Daryl Thompson, rhp

Zimmerman was an obvious choice as #1. After that, I don't necessarily quibble with who are #2-10. The order is open to debate.

Bray has the greatest chance of an immediate impact. Assuming that LH RP Joey Eischen is not re-signed, Bray would have to be the clubhouse leader in the competition for LH out of the bullpen. He quickly climbed the organizational ladder from Potomac to New Orleans in 2005. His struggles in Triple-A (1.50WHIP and 1.3HR/9IP) are balanced by a solid 3.8BB/9IP and a very good 10.6K/9IP.

With regards to the SPs, I would rate Galarraga the highest for near term impact. He posted a 3.80ERA, 1.23WHIP, 7.9K/9IP, 2.5BB/9IP, and 1.0HR/9IP in 156.33IP split between Potomac and Harrisburg. He has an opportunity to make an appearance in Washington some time in 2006. He projects as a #4 SP. Everts, continuing his recovery from Tommy John, pitched sparingly in 2005 (35IP split between GCL Nats and Vermont) with 3.60ERA, 1.69WHIP, 9.3K/9IP, 5.1BB/9IP, and 0 HR allowed. As I stated in my review of the Vermont prospects, I'd like to see him challenged with a placement at Harrisburg or New Orleans, but he could easily begin the season in Potomac in an effort to build up arm strength. Balester built upon his strong debut with an equally strong performance in Savannah. In 125IP, he compiled a 3.67ERA, 1.18WHIP, 6.8K/9IP, 3BB/9IP, and 0.8HR/9IP. He probably has the highest upside of any pitcher on the list above. The 19-year old is, at best, 3 years away from the majors. Potomac is his most likely destination in 2006 with a quick promotion to Harrisburg if he continues to pitch well. Thompson will likely join Balester in Potomac after a brief but strong second season in Savannah. In 53.2IP, 3.35ERA, 1.30WHIP, 8.1K/9IP, 4.0BB/9IP, and 0.5HR/9IP. He had shoulder surgery and a full season with the P-Nats is in the offing. Last season's #1 prospect, Hinckley had a disappointing 2005 which rightfully led to his slide down the list. After a solid finish to the 2004 season in Double-A Harrisburg, his performance at Potomac (127.2IP with 4.93ERA, 1.58WHIP, 5.6K/9IP, 3.6BB/9IP, and 0.7HR/9IP) cannot be entirely written off to injury. He has alot to prove in 2006. I would have ranked the pitchers: Bray-Galarraga-Balester-Everts-Thompson-Hinckley.

Desmond at #4 is a function of how weak the upper levels are. His numbers split between Savannah and Potomac show promise but his K/BB (113/34) is definitely a concern. Many Nationals fans have adopted Desmond as a future star of the franchise. I don't see that. He has the potential to be a very solid utility IF but I don't see his bat as strong enough to carry him to a starting SS job. Casto had a break out season with P-Nats in 2005. He switched from OF to 3B in hopes of accelerating his climb to the majors, and that he did. Unfortunately for him, the Nats drafted Zimmerman putting an end to his chances of making the majors as a 3B. The Nats are now determining if he can make the switch to 2B in hopes of replacing Vidro in a couple of years. I still see his best chances as a corner IF. Broadway had a disappointing 2005 battling injury and inconsistency. He has something the Nats need ... LH power. With Nick Johnson's inability to stay healthy, Broadway still has a chance to make noise at 1B. I would have ranked the positional players.: Zimmerman-Broadway-Casto-Desmond.

Overall, my ordering of Baseball America's top 10:

Zimmerman
Bray
Galarraga
Balester
Everts
Broadway
Casto
Thompson
Hinckley
Desmond

Nationals Roster Moves

2005-11-16T08:20:00.000-05:00

The St Louis Cardinals signed LHP Rich Rundles as a 6-year minor league free agent. Rundles was acquired in 2001 from the Red Sox (along with Tomo Ohka) in exchange for Uggie Urbina. The 24-year old Rundles spent his second straight season in Double-A Harrisburg compiling a 9-19 record over the last two years with a 3.88ERA, 1.40WHIP, 5.4K/9IP, 2.9BB/9IP, and 0.7HR/9IP in 46GS. It appears that St Louis will convert him to a RP. It's a disappointment to see Rundles leave, but hopefully Bowden/Boone have some plans on bringing in some 6-year minor league free agent LHPs. The Nationals released OF Kenny Kelly yesterday. The 26-year old Kelly was claimed off of waivers from the Cincinnati Reds on July 27. He was another one of Bowden's toolsy OFs (see Escobar, Alex). In 24G, he only had 13AB with 4H. With the presence of Brandon Watson and Ty Godwin, Kelly was superfluous. His release opens another spot on the 40-man roster. With Beltran, Tucker, Drese, Escobar, and Sledge all on the 60-day DL, the Nationals are presently at 34/40.

Farm Authority Report 11/15/05

2005-11-16T08:00:00.000-05:00

Regional Olympic Qualifying Tournament

USA defeated Guatemala 23-0 in 7 innings (mercy rule)
Panama defeated Mexico 17-4 in 8 innings (mercy rule)
Canada defeated Nicaragua 3-0
Brendan Harris 2B - 1/2 1R 1RBI

Liga Venezolana de Beisbol Profesional

no Nationals played

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

box scores of 11/15 pending

Liga de Beisbol Dominicano

Bernie Castro 2B - 1/5 1R 1BB

Liga de Beisbol Profesional de Puerto Rico

Box scores for Puerto Rican winter leagues yet to be posted (season began on 11/11)

Farm Authority Report 11/14/05

2005-11-15T07:15:00.000-05:00

Liga Venezolana de Beisbol Profesional

no games on 11/14

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

no Nationals played on 11/12
no Nationals played on 11/13
no games on 11/14

Liga de Beisbol Dominicano

11/12 Tigres del Licey Tony Blanco - 0/1 1K
11/12 Aguilas Cibaenas Bernie Castro - 1/4 1R 1RBI 1K
11/13 Aguilas Cibaenas Bernie Castro - 3/5 1R 1K
no games on 11/14

Liga de Beisbol Profesional de Puerto Rico

Box scores for Puerto Rican winter leagues yet to be posted (season began on 11/11)

Farm Authority Report 11/12 - 11/13/05

2005-11-14T06:45:00.000-05:00

Liga Venezolana de Beisbol Profesional

11/12: Pastora de los Llanos Frank Diaz CF - 2/3 1R 2BB 1K
11/12: Pastora de los Llanos Mayque Quintero SP - 3IP 6H 5R(5ER) 1BB 2K
11/12: Leones del Caracas Armando Galarraga SP - 2.2IP 4H 4R(4ER) 3BB 3K
11/12: Leones del Caracas Ed Yarnall RP - 0.2IP 0H 0R 0BB 0K; Win
11/13: Pastora de los Llanos Frank Diaz CF - 0/0 4BB

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

11/12 and 11/13 boxscores pending

Liga de Beisbol Dominicano

11/12 and 11/13 boxscores pending

Liga de Beisbol Profesional de Puerto Rico

11/11 through 11/13 boxscores pending

USA Olympic Team Schedule

2005-11-14T06:40:00.000-05:00

Brendan Harris is playing for 2005 Olympic Qualifying team. Below is their schedule.

11/15/05 vs Guatemala
11/16/05 vs Mexico
11/17/05 vs Nicaragua
11/18/05 vs Panama
11/19/05 vs Canada

Farm Authority Report 11/11/05

2005-11-12T09:00:00.000-05:00

Liga Venezolana de Beisbol Profesional

Pastora de los Llanos Frank Diaz CF - 1/4 2K
Pastora de los Lanos Jason Stevenson SP - 5IP 7H 2R(1ER) 0BB 3K
Navegantes de Magallanes Ender Chavez CF - 3/5

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

11/9 through 11/11 no Nationals played

Liga de Beisbol Dominicano

Tigres del Licey Tony Blanco - 0/1
Aguilas Cibaenas Bernie Castro - 3/5 1R 4RBI double triple HR

Liga de Beisbol Profesional de Puerto Rico

11/11 season opening box scores pending

Farm Authority Report 11/10/05

2005-11-11T08:00:00.000-05:00

Peoria (AFL)

Josh Whitesell DH - 1/3 double
David Maust SP - 2IP 2H 3R(3ER) 2BB 0K 1HR
Chris Schroder RP - 1H 0R 0BB 1K
AFL regular season ended - Peoria Saguaros season over

Liga Venezolana de Beisbol Profesional

no Nationals played

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

11/9 & 11/10 boxscores pending

Liga de Beisbol Dominicano

no Nationals played

Vermont Expos Will Unveil New Name on 11/15

2005-11-10T08:00:00.000-05:00

According to the Burlington Free Press, the new name, logo, jerseys and some merchandise will be unveiled at a Tuesday 11/15 news conference beginning at 5 p.m. at University Mall in South Burlington, VT. UPDATE: Discussions over at Chris Creamer's Sports Logo Community uncovered this information:

The domain names www.vermontlakemonsters.com and www.vtlakemonsters.com were both registered by the owner of a firm called e-fish solutions. Said firm provides services for clients including website planning, design and production... website hosting... website maintenance... e-commerce and online shopping support... domain name registration and administration, etc. Interestingly enough, among e-fish solutions' clients is - you guessed it - the Vermont Expos

A nice bit of detective work

Farm Authority Report 11/9/05

2005-11-10T07:45:00.000-05:00

Peoria (AFL)

Brendan Harris SS - 1/4 1K
Josh Whitesell 1B - 0/4 1K
Roy Corcoran RP - 1IP 2H 2R(2ER) 2BB 1K 1HR

Liga Venezolana de Beisbol Profesional

Navegantes de Magallanes: Ender Chavez CF - 0/4 1BB 2K

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

11/8 Algodoneros de Guasave: Kenny Kelly PR - 0/0
11/9 boxscores pending

Liga de Beisbol Dominicano

Aguilas Cibaenas: Bernie Castro 3/3 1R 1BB

Bowden and the Farm

2005-11-09T12:30:00.000-05:00

Jim Bowden will be interviewing for the Red Sox GM role this week. I'll leave to the others to defend/discount the overall value of Bowden. I'll focus on what he did/didn't do to the farm system.

October/November 2004

Signed 3B Rick Short and RHP Dan Smith: Short was a nice story in 2005. He has the potential of being the 25th man (Carlos Baerga's spot) in 2006 if he recovers from shoulder surgery. Smith spent the entire season in New Orleans with terrible numbers in before he had arthroscopic surgery on his left knee in July, ending his season. [NFA: Nice find on Short.]
Signed SS Ramon Castro and OF Cristian Guerrero: Castro started out promising but was hit with an unprecedented 105 game suspension in July. Guerrero put up solid numbers in Harrisburg. [NFA: Two nice finds for Bowden. Both are probably no more than organizational players at this point. Though, Castro bears watching]
Purchased the contracts of INF Alejandro Machado, LHP Michael Hinckley, 1B Larry Broadway and RHP Darrell Rasner from Harrisburg; Purchased the contracts of RHP Josh Karp and RHP Danny Rueckel from Edmonton: This added one only one guy to the 40-man roster who even appeared once for the Nationals in 2005 (Rasner). Rasner's best shot is as a #5 SP in 2006. Hinckley, Broadway, and Karp all battled injury/inconsistency in 2005. Machado was subsequently traded to the Red Sox in April 2005 for IF Carlos Torres. Torres put up terrible numbers in Vermont while Machado made a brief appearance for the Red Sox late in the season. Rueckel was removed from the 40-man in August to make room for Deivi Cruz. [NFA: The loss of Machado is not terrible but in hindsight, he would have been a nice piece during the Vidro injury/Guzman struggles. Rueckel will be exposed to the Rule 5 Draft in December. No problems with the other moves]
Outrighted RHP Shawn Hill and INF Josh Labandeira to Edmonton: Hill was recovering from Tommy John surgery while Labandeira battled inconsistency, injury, and a suspension for violation of the substance abuse program. [NFA: Ideally, Hill will compete for a spot in the bullpen in 2006 with the possibility of spot starts (think Sunny Kim 's role in 2005). ]

December 2004

Signed RHP Rabell Rivera: Rivera did not play in 2005.
Traded OF Antonio Sucre to Pirates for OF J.J. Davis: Davis was subsequently paired with Zach Day in a trade for Preston Wilson. Sucre spent the season in the South Atlantic League with marginal results. [NFA: Solid, not spectacular, move that led to a contributor at the major league level]
Sold the contract of OF Val Pascucci to the Chiba Lotte Marines of the Japanese Pacific League: Pascucci had limited playing time in Japan in 2005. Though 8 of his 29 hits were HR. [NFA: Not a terrible move. He wasn't going to make the major league roster and the additional dollars (however small) were probably welcome given the budget constraints.]
Released LHP Chad Bentz: The lefthanded Bentz caught on with the Marlins and pitched horribly in 4 appearances with Florida. [NFA: Aside from the fact he was a LH RP, his loss was not terrible. He is no better than Joe Horgan, who was quickly cast aside.]
Selected OF Ty Godwin from the Blue Jays and IF Tony Blanco from the Reds in the Rule 5 Draft: Godwin's rights, and the ability to send him to the minors, were acquired in exchange for 20-year old LH SP Aaron Wideman. Godwin had a solid year in New Orleans (caveat ... he's 26), while Wideman pitched solidly in the Midwest League. Blanco spent the entire season sitting on the bench in Washington with limited playing time. [NFA: The jury is still out on Wideman, but it will be interesting to see what he becomes. Godwin appears to be a AAAA player. Blanco's impact is much more a negative. Not only did he lose a year of development, but he also hamstrung the Nationals with regards to player personnel decisions during the season. This was apparently due to strained relations between Bowden and his former employer, the Reds who refused to discuss any trade options.]
Selected RHP Victor Prieto from the Marlins, IF Edgar Gonzalez from the Rangers, and OF Doc Brooks from the Diamondbacks in the Triple-A portion of the Rule 5 Draft: Prieto was immediately traded to the Red Sox for cash considerations. He pitched only 0.1IP for the GCL Red Sox. Gonzalez played well in a season split between Harrisburg and New Orleans while Brooks apparently regressed in his third straight season in High A. [NFA: Gonzalez and Brooks are organizational players. They provided depth to a farm system that was hungry for serviceable players.]
Selected OF Jim Kavourias from the Marlins, RHP Dan Kolb from the Brewers, 2B Dan Dement from the Devil Rays, and OF Marcus Nettles OF from the Padres in the Double-A portion of the Rule 5 Draft: Kavourias (April) and Nettles (May) were subsequently released. Kolb struggled in his third straight year in High A. Dement split the season between Harrisburg and New Orleans, batting over 300 in both stops. [NFA: Kolb and Dement are also organizational players with little chance of making the majors.]
Signed the following players to minor league contracts with invitations to Spring Training (OF Jeffrey Hammonds, 3B Phil Hiatt, IF Jared Sandberg, CA Keith Osik, RHP Hector Carrasco, RHP Chad Durbin, RHP Seth Greisinger, RHP Luis Pineda, LHP Micah Bowie, and OF Michael Coleman): Hiatt and Pineda did not make the team nor play for anyone else in 2005. Sandberg was released and caught on with the Red Sox farm team. Greisinger spent most of the season in Triple-A and pitched briefly for the Braves. Bowie battled injuries in the Nats farm system. Hammonds and Osik played briefly for the Nats in 2005. Carrasco was an invaluable member of the 2005 Nats bullpen and excelled as a SP late in the season. [NFA: The players who were lost as well as Bowie, Hammonds, and Osik were organizational players. Carrasco was a find for Bowden, a diamond in the rough]

January/February 2005

Released 2B Rafael Batista: Did not play in 2005. [NFA: No impact]
Signed IF George Arias to a minor league contract with an invitation to Spring Training: Arias was subsequently released. [NFA: No impact]
Signed RHPs Kip Bouknight, Mark DiFelice, David Gil and Brian Powell; SS Jason Bowers; LHPs Alex Lontayo, Matt White and Ed Yarnall; 1B Aaron McNeal; and, OF Melvin Nieves: Lontayo and McNeal were both released in April. McNeal caught on with Colorado but played poorly. DiFelice and Nieves played in Nats farm system until their July releases. Powell, Yarnall, Gil, Bowers, White, and Bouknight all spent the entire season in the upper levels of the Nats farm system. White made a spot start for the Nats in August. [NFA: Is there an echo in here? Organizational players. I bet we'll see more of the same type of guys signed in February 2006]
Invited SS Ian Desmond to Spring Training: Desmond impressed the fans with his defense in Spring Training. He split the season between Savannah and Potomac. [NFA: Desmond's performance turned the spotlight on the Nats farm system in the spring. What it showed was less than encouraging. Desmond is still a ways away from making the majors]

March/April/May 2005

Released OF Dominick Ambrosini and RHP Matthew Skrmetta: Neither played in 2005
Traded OF Jerry Owens to White Sox for OF Alex Escobar: Escobar missed the season with a strained right quadriceps. Owens, on the other hand, had a breakout season in Double-A. [NFA: The acquisition of Escobar is open to much debate among Bowden supporters/detractors. Owens is probably going to be no better than a #4/5 OF in the majors, but the fact that he excelled while Escobar spent the season on the DL magnifies the disparity in the return on the deal. Escobar fit the bill with regards to Bowden's fascination with toolsy OFs. He has not lived up to the promise that made him a key piece of the Roberto Alomar trade. It's not the worst deal but it's definitely not one that Bowden would want on his resume]
Signed CA Craig Kuzmic: Spent the season in New Orleans. [NFA: Random catcher for depth]
Released RHPs Edward Diaz, David Haverstick, Ricky Jenkins, and Brandon Roznovsky; LHPs Keith Ferguson, Tony Ferrari, and Josh Girdley; OFs Maurice Cobb, Ramon Diaz, and Danny Rombley; and, IFs Luis Cordova, Francis Desena, Brian Ellerson, Luis Rojas, Jason Conslik, and Jose Ovalles: Only Ferrari played in 2005, actually returning to the Nationals mid-season. [NFA: no impact]
Signed RHP Travis Hughes: Pitched well in relief for New Orleans with a couple of appearances for the Nats. [NFA: A solid waiver claim for Bowden. Hughes offered depth for both this past season as well as in 2006]
Released IF Clark Parker: Played briefly in Harrisburg prior to his release. [NFA: no impact.]
Acquired CF Marlon Byrd from Phillies in exchange for CF Endy Chavez: Byrd played well in platoon time for the Nationals while Chavez was relegated to PR/late inning defensive replacement. [NFA: Another solid move for Bowden. Byrd can serve as a #4 OF for the Nats in 2006.]

June/July 2005

Drafted and signed the following players from the 2005 First Year Player's Draft: Ryan Zimmerman 3B (1st); Justin Maxwell OF (4th) [signed in October]; Ryan DeLaughter OF (5th); Marco Estrada RHP (6th); Mike Daniel OF (7th); Jack Spradlin LHP (8th); John Michael Howell OF (9th); Dee Brown OF (10th); John Lannan LHP (11th); Craig Stammen RHP (12th); Andre Enriquez RHP (13th); Deryck Johnson OF (14th); Michael Watkins RHP (15th); Josh Palm RHP (16th); Eduardo Pichardo RHP (17th); Tim Pahuta 1B (18th); Bradley Clark RHP (19th) [signed in October]; Ricky Shefka RHP (20th); Coby Mavroulis RHP (21st); Antonio Evangelista RHP (22nd); Jeffrey Taylor RHP (24th); Andrew Lane 2B (27th) - Zimmerman had the crash courtse through the minors to the majors in a few months. Maxwell, if he can stay healthy could prove to be a value pick in the 4th round. Delaughter is playing the OF but is also highly thought of as a RHP. Estrada, Spradlin, Lannan, and Stammen all bare watching as SP prospects. Daniel, Howell, and Brown are all interesting OF prospects to watch for their power (Brown) and hitting (Howell and Daniel). From the picks in the 13th round and later, it's honestly a crapshoot though Bradley Clark has the most upside if he can overcome his reputation. [NFA: Zimmerman has proven a really good pick. The fact that he signed 22 out of his first 25 picks is nice, though it's uncertain how many of the picks were based upon signability.]
Signed OF Dee Brown; RHPs Ryan France, Edulin Abreu, and John Ogiltree; SSs Scott Hodges and Juan Melo; and, LHP Stephen Randolph : All but Abreu and Randolph filled the roles of organizational players. Abreu did not play. Randolph was traded to the Giants for future considerations. [NFA: No prospects worth watching]
Acquired RHPs Ancil Baldwin and Mike Kobow from Tigers for future considerations: Kobow played in Potomac. [NFA: no impact]
Released SS Juan Lorenzo; RHP Samuel Martinez; OF Duron Legrande: None were picked up by anyone else. [NFA: no impact]
Claimed OF Kenny Kelly off waivers from the Cincinnati Reds: Played briefly in the majors. [NFA: His signing did mean Wil Cordero was removed from the roster, so there is some positive there. Kelly is another AAAA OF that infatuates Bowden]

August/September 2005

Announced RHP Sun-Woo Kim was claimed off waivers by the Colorado Rockies: Pitched better in Colorado than he did in Washington. [NFA: Trying to sneak Kim through waivers a second time cost Bowden an arm that could have helped in September]
Signed SS Frank Cruz of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic: No stats available as he is too young to play in the US. [NFA: Signings out of the Dominican Republic and other Latin American countries are not necessarily up-to-date. Latin America is an area that Bowden and his team (Jose Rijo specifically) need to resuscitate. Hopefully we will begin to see more names popping up in the future.]
Acquired SS/2B Deivi Cruz from the San Francisco Giants for RHP Ben Cox: Cruz was roster filler at MI for September. Cox spent his Nationals time in the South Atlantic League. [NFA: Cox is just another RH RP in the minors. He could turn into a solid contributor, or he could flame out. The trade gave the Nats another MI body for the last month of the season.]
Signed RHPs Amado de los Santos, Bryan Lambert, Billy Sylvester; CAs Brian Peacock and Emilio Soto; IF Jonathan Martinez; and, LHP John Halama: de los Santos, Lambert, Soto, and Martinez were signed as undrafted free agents. Sylvester is another organizational type. Peacock was signed as a draft and follow after being drafted in the 39th round of the 2004 draft, he was rumored to be picked in the first 15 rounds if he returned to the draft. Halama was brought in when the Nationals faced a SP shortage. [NFA: Peacock, de los Santos, Lambert, Soto, and Martinez bear watching to see if Bowden found any diamonds in the rough]
Released RHP Aaron Coonrod, CA Lyndsey Simmons, 3B David Travis, and SS Gabriel Suarez: Simmons and Travis were 2004 draft picks who did not pan out. Coonrod and Suarez were minor league free agents who the Nats determined were not necessary. [NFA: no impact]
Acquired RHP Rhys Taylor and RHP Yader Peralta from the Boston Red Sox in exchange for LHP Mike Stanton: Two GCL arms for a guy the Red Sox wanted for one weekend. [NFA: Whatever Taylor and Peralta end up doing is icing on the cake. Getting anybody for a weekend rental is a solid move]

Overall, Bowden's impact on the farm system has not been detrimental. The players he lost through ill-advise trades (Owens) and bad gambles (Kim) do not damage a long neglected farm system that much. His obsession with toolsy OFs (Escobar and Kelly) have not cost the Nats anything of value in either the near or long term. He has brought in a large haul from the 2005 draft class and only time will tell how many of the picks end up in the majors. He's not the best GM in the majors, but most of the moves he's made with regards to the minor leagues appear to be OK given the state of the farm system when he arrived.

Farm Authority Report 11/8/05

2005-11-09T06:45:00.000-05:00

Peoria (AFL)

Josh Whitesell 1B - 2/5 1RBI
Chris Schroder RP - 1IP 1H 0R 0BB 0K

Liga Venezolana de Beisbol Profesional

11/7 Pastora de los Llanos Mayque Quintero SP - 3.1IP 9H 7R(6ER) 0BB 1K
11/8 Navegantes de Magallanes Ender Chavez CF - 0/4 1BB 2K

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

11/8 boxscores pending

Liga de Beisbol Dominicano

11/8 boxscores pending

Farm Authority Report 11/7/05

2005-11-08T07:30:00.000-05:00

Peoria (AFL)

Brendan Harris 2B - 1/5; left 2 RISP w/ 2-outs
Josh Whitesell 1B - 3/5 2RBI 2 doubles; 2 RBI w/ 2-outs; 1E
Roy Corcoran RP - 1IP 2H 1R(1ER) 1K 1HR

Liga Venezolana de Beisbol Profesional

11/7 boxscores pending

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

11/6 Algodoneros de Guasave: Kenny Kelly RF - 0/3 2K
11/7 no games

Liga de Beisbol Dominicano

11/7 no Nationals played

Farm Authority Report 11/4-11/6/05

2005-11-07T07:00:00.000-05:00

Peoria (AFL)

11/4 Brendan Harris 2B - 1/3 1RBI 1K 1SF 1E
11/4 David Maust SP - 4IP 0H 0R 1BB 2K 1HBP
11/5 Josh Whitesell PH/DH - 0/1
11/5 Roy Corcoran RP - 1IP 1H 0R 0BB 1K; Save

Liga Venezolana de Beisbol Profesional

11/4 Pastora de los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 1/4
11/4 Navegantes del Magallanes: Ender Chavez CF - 0/4 1BB
11/4 Leones del Caracas: Ed Yarnall SP - 2.2IP 6H 6R(5ER) 3BB 3K; Loss
11/5 Pastora de los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 2/3 1R 1BB
11/5 Pastora de los Llanos: Jacobo Sequea RP - 1IP 2H 2R(2ER) 0BB 1K
11/5 Navegantes del Magallanes: Ender Chavez CF - 2/5 2R 1K
11/6 Pastora de los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 0/2
11/6 Leones del Caracas: Armando Galarraga SP - 4IP 3H 0R 0BB 3K
11/6 Navegantes del Magallanes: Ender Chavez CF - 1/5 1R double

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

11/3 Tomateros del Culiacan: Joe Horgan RP - 0.2IP 2H 0R 2BB 2K
11/4: no Nationals played
11/5 Algodoneros de Guasave: Kenny Kelly RF - 1/5 2K
11/6 boxscores pending

Liga de Beisbol Dominicano

11/4 Tigres del Licey: Tony Blanco 1B (defensive replacement) - 0/0
11/4 Aguilas Cibaenas: Bernie Castro 2B - 0/5 2K
11/5 Aguilas Cibaenas: Bernie Castro 2B - 0/4 1R 1K
11/6 Tigres del Licey: Tony Blanco LF - 1/3 1R

Below the Radar

2005-11-04T15:00:00.000-05:00

Apparently, the Nationals signed 2005 19th round draft pick, Bradley Clark, some time in October. Baseball America's take:

Enigmatic Bradley Clark is a tall, projectable righty who had shown well in showcase events. Academic issues kept Clark ineligible for the first three years of his high school career, leaving him less refined than the average prep senior and in need of a lot of seasoning. He didn't respond well to the pressure of his first season, losing his feel for the easy, fluid arm action he's shown in the past, losing life on his fastball and leaving it up in the zone too often. Clark is considered an easy sign and has some real advantages. At 6-foot-6, 200 pounds, he has plenty of room to fill out and add velocity to his 88-92 mph fastball, and he throws a slider that can be a very good pitch.

Long story short. Clark has some growing up to do. But he was a worthy gamble for the Nationals given the lack of depth in the farm system.

Super Sub

2005-11-04T11:45:00.000-05:00

I know I'm late to the party, but I've been trying to craft a minor league angle with regards to the Vinny Castilla for Brian Lawrence trade. Plenty of others have commented on the major league impact of the trade. I'll move beyond the obvious impact on Ryan Zimmerman. The player who should be smiling the most might just be Brendan Harris. Harris spent most of the 2005 season on Jim Bowden's Do Not Call list. With the bat, the 24-year old Harris has shown he can hit ... at the minor league level. Though his 2005 regression is a concern.

2003 West Tennessee [Double-A] 285/345/480 with 5HR and 51BB/72K in 435AB
2004 Iowa/Edmonton [Triple-A] 302/354/515 with 17HR and 26BB/61K in 377AB
2005 New Orleans [Triple-A] 270/329/417 with 13HR and 40BB/77K in 470AB

The story we have continued to be fed through the media (Barry Svrluga, Bill Ladson, etc) was that Harris could not play his position at the major league level, be it 2B or 3B. Barry's analysis of the Nationals' opinion of Harris would be best summed up as follows:

Brendan Harris cannot play 2B or 3B at the major league level. But we are going to play him at those positions that we know he cannot play in order to show other teams that he can play those positions.

Makes complete sense in a Ryan Church cannot hit lefties because he doesn't hit against lefties kind of way. Proving that he was not completely off of Bowden's radar, Harris was sent to the Arizona Fall League where he has been playing alot. Alot of SS. All while hitting 397/446/562 with 1HR 5BB/6K in 73AB. In his chat this week, Barry stated the Nationals were doing this as a means of shopping Harris to potential suitors. Well, all of the discussions of Harris moving onhave been put on hold (apparently). Bowden specifically mentioned Harris as part of the reasoning behind moving Castilla. Harris is now the frontrunner for the Carlos Baerga/Wil Cordero utility player/PH. In my opinion, this is the ideal spot for Harris and a solid move for the Nationals. Harris does not appear to have the ability to be an everyday player. I see him as a Tony Graffanino type for the Nationals. Harris has the ability to fill in at 2B, SS, 3B, and likely 1B. If you run him out there everyday, his weaknesses are going to be exposed. But if you let him play the super sub role, spelling Zimmerman (a rookie), Guzman (if he doesn't bounce back), Vidro, or Johnson (both oft-injured). Carrying a guy like Harris allows Bowden to turn two bench spots (Carlos Baerga and Junior Spivey) into one bench spot in 2006. This permits Bowden to carry an extra OF or two, something he clearly loves to do. From my perspective, and more importantly, Harris', this is a good second step in the off-season rewickering of the Nationals roster.

Farm Authority Report 11/3/05

2005-11-04T07:30:00.000-05:00

Peoria (AFL) [Lost to Surprise 11-4]

Josh Whitesell DH - 0/3 1BB 1K

Liga Venezolana de Beisbol Profesional

Navegantes del Magallanes: Ender Chavez CF - 0/1 2R 3BB
Pastora de los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 2/4 2R 2RBI
Pastora de los Llanos: Jason Stevenson SP - 7IP 3H 2R(2ER) 1BB 3K; Win

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

11/1 Tomateros del Culiacan: Joe Horgan RP - 0.2IP 1K
11/2 no Nationals played
box scores of 11/3 pending

Liga de Beisbol Dominicano

Aguilas Cibaenas: Bernie Castro LF - 0/2 1R
Tigres del Licey: Tony Blanco 1B - 0/4 1K

Brendan Harris Named to 2005 Team USA Roster

2005-11-03T15:00:00.000-05:00

Nationals IF Brendan Harris was named today to the U.S. roster for '05 CONCEBE Olympic qualifier. Harris, who has been tearing up the Arizona Fall League (397/446/562), will likely split time between 2B and 3B for the Olympic team. Games begin on November 15, so Harris gets to continue playing in Arizona through November 19. Rick Eckstein, David's brother, was named an Assistant Coach.

Farm Authority Report 11/2/05

2005-11-03T07:45:00.000-05:00

Peoria (AFL) [Defeated Peoria Javelinas 5-0]

Ryan Zimmerman, starting 3B - 1/4 3K
Brendan Harris, starting SS - 0/3 1R 1BB 1K 1GIDP
Josh Whitesell, starting 1B - 0/3 1R 1BB 1K [first appearance ... Larry Broadway is likely gone from AFL]
Chris Schroder RP - 2IP 2H 0R 1BB 1K; Win
Roy Corcoran RP - 2IP 0H 1BB 2K

Liga Venezolana de Beisbol Profesional

Pastora de los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 2/5 2R 2K
Pastora de los Llanos: Mayque Quintero SP - 4.1IP 5H 5R(5ER) 3BB 1K
Navegantes del Magallanes: Ender Chavez PR - 0/0 1R

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

box scores from 11/1-2 still pending

Liga de Beisbol Dominicano

Azucareos del Este: Bernie Castro 1/4 2R 1RBI 1BB 1K triple
Tigres del Licey: Tony Blanco 0/3 1K

Farm Authority Report 11/1/05

2005-11-02T07:30:00.000-05:00

Peoria (AFL) [Lost to Peoria Javelinas 3-2]

Brendan Harris, starting SS - 2/5 1K

Liga Venezolana de Beisbol Profesional

No games on 10/31 or 11/1

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

games of 11/1 pending

Liga de Beisbol Dominicano

games of 11/1 pending

Farm Authority Report 10/31/05

2005-11-01T07:45:00.000-05:00

Peoria (AFL) [Lost to Grand Canyon 6-3]

Brendan Harris, starting SS - 1/4 2RBI double
Ryan Zimmerman, starting 3B - 0/4

Liga Venezolana de Beisbol Profesional

games of 10/31 pending

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

no 10/31 games
10/30 Tomateros de Culiacan: Joe Horgan RP - 0.1IP 2H 3R(1ER) 0BB 0K 1HBP

Liga de Beisbol Dominicano

Tony Blanco 1B/LF - 0/3

Farm Authority Report 10/30/05

2005-10-31T08:00:00.000-05:00

Peoria (AFL)

No game scheduled

Liga Venezolana de Beisbol Profesional

10/30 Pastora de los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 2/4 2R 1RBI 1HR
10/30 Pastora de los Llanos: Jacobo Sequea - 1.1IP 1H 0R1BB 0K
10/29 Pastora de los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 0/2 1BB 1K

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

10/28 Yaquis de Obregon: Mark Difelice SP - 4.1IP 7H 5R(5ER) 1HR 2BB 4K
10/29 Tomateros de Culiacan: Joe Horgan RP - 1IP 1H 2R(2ER) 1HR 1BB 0K
games of 10/30 pending

Liga de Beisbol Dominicano

10/30 pending
10/29 Tigres del Licey: Tony Blanco 1B - 1/5 1E

Farm Authority Report 10/29/05

2005-10-30T00:15:00.000-04:00

Peoria (AFL) [Defeated Grand Canyon 4-3]

Brendan Harris, starting SS - 1/4 1K 1CS
Larry Broadway, starting DH - 2/4 2R 1RBI 1K 1HR
David Maust SP - 4.2IP 5H 2R(2ER) 1BB 5K 2HR 1 pickoff
Roy Corcoran RP - 1IP 1H 0R 0BB 0K

Liga Venezolana de Beisbol Profesional

10/29 games pending

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

10/28-29 games pending

Liga de Beisbol Dominicano

Tony Blanco LF - 0/6

Farm Authority Report 10/28/05

2005-10-29T10:30:00.000-04:00

Peoria (AFL) [Lost to Peoria Javelinas 7-0]

Brendan Harris, starting SS (5 of last 7 games) - 1/4 1GIDP
Larry Broadway, starting 1B - 0/4
Ryan Zimmerman, starting 3B - 0/3 1GIDP

Liga Venezolana de Beisbol Profesional

10/27 Navegantes del Magallanes: Ender Chavez PH - 1/1
10/27 Pastora de Los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 1/5 2R 1K
10/27 Pastora de Los Llanos: Jason Stevenson SP - 5IP 5H 2R(2ER) 4BB 2K
10/27 Pastora de Los Llanos: Jacobo Sequea RP - 1.1IP 4H 3R(3ER) 0BB 0K; Loss
10/28 Leones de Caracas: Ed Yarnall SP - 4IP 6H 3R(3ER) 1BB 4K
10/28 Pastora de Los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 1/4 1R

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

10/27 Yaquis de Obregon: Joe Horgan RP - 1.2IP 1H 1R(1ER)
games of 10/28 pending

Liga de Beisbol Dominicano

10/27 Tigres del Licey: Tony Blanco LF - 2/4 1R
10/28 Tigres del Licey: Tony Blanco LF - 0/4

King of the Hill

2005-10-28T16:30:00.000-04:00

In a first for the Nationals Farm Authority, I had the opportunity to interview a Nationals prospect. Nationals RHP, Shawn Hill, was kind enough to take the time to answer a few questions. Hill was a 2000 6th round draft pick by the Montreal Expos out of Bishop P F Reding in Georgetown, Canada. He made three starts for the Expos in 2004 before playing for the Canadian Olympic team. It was after a strong appearance against Cuba that Hill discovered he was going to require Tommy John surgery. He spent most of this year rehabbing from the surgery he underwent in September of 2004. Without further ado: Nationals Farm Authority (NFA): Who was your favorite team growing up? Favorite player? Shawn Hill (SH): Toronto Blue Jays, and Robbie Alomar, I was a shortstop, so I could somewhat relate to him and enjoyed watching him play and have fun more than anything. NFA: The San Diego Padres drafted you in the 33rd round of the 1999 draft but you did not sign. You were then drafted in the 6th round of the 2000 draft by the Montreal Expos. Was there a reason that led you to not sign with the Padres? Can you describe your draft day experience(s)? SH: The main reason I didn't sign with the Padres was that I wasn't healthy for starters. The other big thing though, is that was the very first year I was learning to pitch, and I wasn't nearly ready for a direct jump to pro ball. I basically waited the extra year to see if I would get drafted higher, and also to make sure my arm would be healthy enough to handle it all. The draft day the first year was non-existent to be honest, I didn't even know I was going to get picked at all. The year the Expos picked me though I was with all my family and some friends, we pulled an all-nighter playing games and hanging out waiting for it, and then listened to the draft on the internet and waited to be picked, all in all it was a fun day. NFA: What was the first thing you bought when you signed with the Expos? SH: A laptop I believe, to keep in touch with everyone back home because international long distance was a joke, and I didn't even think of getting a cell phone at the time. NFA: Describe yourself as a pitcher. For those not familiar with you, with which current major leaguer would you compare your pitching style? SH: I'm almost primarily a fastball pitcher, and a sinker at that. I also throw a changeup and curveball which would be my out-pitch, but I rely heavily on my fastball because of the movement, and command as well which is are my two biggest assets. If I had to compare myself to someone, I'd say someone like Derek Lowe, because of the sink on his fastball, but I personally like to compare to [Greg] Maddux, who I'm obviously not nearly as polished as, but just in the way he pitches, more of a mental approach, and ability to dissect the strike zone. NFA: You pitched very effectively at each level you were assigned. What were the biggest challenges you faced upon entering professional baseball? SH: The biggest thing for me was fighting through my arm issues . . . I first tore my UCL in '99, so I've pitched each year with it partially torn, and just had to fight to not wear down too bad. The other big thing was just the learning curve for me the first two years or so since they were my very first years as a pitcher, I'd always been a shortstop growing up. NFA: What's the most interesting thing that has happened to you playing pro baseball? SH: There's three things that stick out to me. The Olympics are the first and obvious one just for the sheer fact that it was the Olympics and we came so close. The second would be my first professional at bat, which was 2003 in Harrisburg in my first game after getting called up, I hit a grand slam on my first swing. And the third would've been my first win in the big leagues with the Expos last year, it was the final game ever between two Canadian based teams, and it was on the 4th of July, and in Puerto Rico of all places, just seemed like alot of weird coincidences there. NFA: You were selected to play on the 2004 Canadian Olympic team. What was that experience like? SH: Unbelievable, but so disappointing at the same time. The guys on the team were the greatest group of guys I've ever played with, and the Olympic experience (i.e. Opening ceremonies, Olympic Village) was something that you wish everyone could experience at least once, overwhelming at times, but definitely something I think helps put things in perspective for you as well. The Cuba game for me was a huge learning experience as well, and the let down from it is something that I still want to revenge if you will, but I think will make me a better competitor down the road. NFA: You first tore your elbow ligament in 1999 but it wasn't until last year that you underwent Tommy John surgery. When did you know something was wrong? What was your reaction when you received the diagnosis? SH: Funny thing is I knew after my first full year, which was 2001 in extended and then Vermont, that I was going to have to have something done eventually. I told my dad back then, as well as some friends, that it was just a matter of time before it wore down too much for me, I just had no idea how long it would take. Taking that into account, I wasn't exactly shocked when Dr. Andrews told me I was going to have to have it done, but still was a bit to swallow, knowing there was a good chance I'd miss most of this year if not all, which was the case. NFA: How is the rehabilitation going? When did you first start throwing again? Where have you been rehabilitating? Have you noticed any differences in your mechanics pre- and post- surgery? SH: Rehab is going very well, I've kept myself strong and ready to go, the only thing that kept me out of action this year is that my bones in the elbow weren't ready to go yet. I started throwing in January, and was on the mound in April but got shut down three times in total due to the bones flaring up on me. As far as mechanics go, I feel the same for the most part, the only thing that may be slightly different is I'm trying to stay a little more compact and stay back through my delivery. NFA: Are you changing up your pitch selection and dropping any pitches and/or working on new pitches post-surgery? SH: Nope would be the short answer. I've always messed around with a cutter from time to time, but until I know for certain that the elbow is ready for alot of innings, with breaking balls included, then I'm not going to tinker too much with things, just try to get healthy and if need be in the future I'll add or subtract from the repetoire. NFA: Are you still under contract with the Nationals? Where do you hope to be in April of 2006? Have you set your own timetable of where you want to be and when you want to be there? Or are you taking it day by day? SH: Yeah, if nothing changes then I would be a six year free agent next off season, but as of now still with them. I hope to be in the big leagues to be honest, but in all reality I expect to be in AAA, and not going to be ignorant of the possibility of AA. I feel though that come spring training I'll be ready to compete with at least the AAA level, and if not the big league level, and then just a matter of establishing myself. The biggest thing is making sure the bone is completely healed up, and then I feel confident that I'll be ready to compete in Washington next year, whether it's April, or September. NFA: Can you tell me if there has been a change in atmosphere within the minor league organization since the relocation to Washington DC? Has anything changed significantly or has it been business as usual? SH: For the most part business as usual, but we at least lost the big concern of worrying about where we'll be next year, now it's just wondering who's going to be the new owner, and then the trickle effect of management to follow that decision. There is a certain sense now though that we're not the butt of jokes as an organization anymore, and that we actually are going to be able to produce some good players and good teams in the near future. Best of luck to you Shawn and thank you for your time. We'll be rooting for you.

Farm Authority Report 10/27/05

2005-10-28T07:30:00.000-04:00

Peoria (AFL) [Defeated Phoenix 11-2]

Brendan Harris, starting SS (4th time in last 6 games) - 2/5 1R 2RBI
Larry Broadway, starting DH - 1/3 1BB 1K
Chris Schroder RP - 1IP 1H 0R 0BB 1K

Liga Venezolana de Beisbol Profesional

games of 10/27 still pending
10/26/05 Pastora de Los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 1/4 2K double
10/26/05 Navegantes del Magallanes: Ender Chavez CF - 0/3 1K

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

games of 10/27 still pending
no Nationals played on 10/26

Liga de Beisbol Dominicano

games of 10/27 still pending
10/26/05 Licey Tigres: Tony Blanco LF 3/4 1R 2RBI double

Hit the Ground Running

2005-10-27T15:30:00.000-04:00

Well now, Jim Bowden doesn't waste much time does he. On the heels of his extension, he quickly signs middle infielders Damian Jackson and Bernie Castro. Damian Jackson elected free agency after being outrighted by the San Diego Padres on October 14. He's serviceable role player of the bench as he can play 2B/3B/SS/OF. Additionally, the 31-year old Jackson has something the Nationals lacked in 2005, speed. In 10 major league seasons, Jackson has stolen 132/168 bases. He could likely fill the Jamey Carroll role assuming Jackson makes the team out of spring training. UPDATE: Barry Svrluga has contract details in Friday's article. Jackson signed a $700K deal. Bernie Castro is a 26-year old 2B out of the Baltimore Orioles organization who was outrighted to the minor leagues on October 7. In 24 games with the Orioles, he batted 288/360/350 with 6SB in 8 attempts. His minor league career demonstrates he has good control of the strikezone 212BB/273K in 6 minor league seasons as well as blazing speed 238SB in 310 attempts. He will likely get the chance to compete for a back-up MI spot along with Jackson. He is most likely to begin the season in New Orleans. No details of his contract are available, though the article make it sound like it will be a one-year contract, thus he will be added to the 40-man roster along with Jackson. What this tells me is that Junior Spivey and Jamey Carroll may not be long for the Nationals. Both are arbitration eligible and mave prove too costly to bring back to Washington. It's a shame because honestly, baseball skills aside, Jamey Carroll is good person. He was always the first one out at games signing autographs and his charitable works have been previosuly documented. But unfortunately, baseball is a business. And given the financial restrictions that Bowden is bound to encounter, having to worry about arbitration negotiations with utility infielders is not what he needs. UPDATE: Svrluga had the following quote from Bowden regarding where the signings left Junior Spivey and Jamey Carroll:

"With important roles on the team," Bowden said. "They can all fit -- and that's assuming there are no other injuries or trades."

I still don't see how all four players will be on the 2006 roster. Jackson's signing makes Carroll expendable and Spivey will also likely be too pricy. A tip of the cap to Jim Bowden for immediately addressing two areas of need for the Nats, speed and middle infield help. Let the hot stove season begin.

Six Months

2005-10-27T11:10:00.000-04:00

Other than it being the gestation period of the baboon, that's how long Jim Bowden's contract was extended today. Confirming the stories from yesterday, Tony Tavares announced the extension of Bowden as GM. More importantly was the following announcement by Bowden:

The Nationals today also appointed Bob Boone as interim Senior Director of Player Development/Assistant General Manager, Andy Dunn as interim Farm Director, and Scott Little as Field Coordinator.

I don't know much more about Scott Little than the article states. The Field Coordinator coordinates all on field instruction, supervises all minor league staff, directs spring training, mini-camps and instructional league, creats player development plans for all players and servs as a Major League Spring Training instructor. Little will be filling the spot left vacant by Doug Sisson who joined the University of Georgia as a hitting coach/recruiting coordinator in June of this year. Andy Dunn was the VP of Baseball Operations this year. As the interim Farm Director, I imagine he will assume many of the day-to-day activities previously done by Adam Wogan. From what I can find on Dunn, he has little actual player development experience. Most of the work he has done in baseball has been in the sales, marketing, and this year, overseeing the actual field. He was quoted numerous times regarding the positioning of the fences, status of the mound, and condition of the turf. It will be intersting to see how effective he can be in a player development role, and moreover how much actual authority he will have. The Bob Boone announcement has both a positive and a negative spin. Looking at the glass as half-full, this more than likely means Boone will not be taking over as manager of the Nationals (assuming Frank Robinson does not return). The farther Boone stays away from the dugout, the better. The glass is half-empty if he is taking an active role in player development. His track record in actually developing players is spotty at best. An example, Boone was one of the people who recommended Preston Wilson for his standout defensive abilities. As I can attest firsthand, Wilson was far from a standout defensively. The underlying issue in all of this? Until the DC City Council and MLB work out the lease agreement and subsequently the sale of the team, the Nationals are going to hamstrung by the current management's interim status

You See I've Been Through the Minors on a Team with No Name

2005-10-27T08:50:00.000-04:00

The Vermont Expos have delayed the announcing of their name name for 2006. The announcement was moved to World Series time, but more delays have forced a second postponement. Nothing has leaked out regarding their new name.

Farm Authority Report 10/26/05

2005-10-27T08:30:00.000-04:00

Peoria (AFL) [Lost to Phoenix 7-3]

Larry Broadway, starting 1B - 0/3 1BB
Ryan Zimmerman, starting 3B - 2/4 1R 1RBI 1HR 1E
Brendan Harris, starting SS - 0/3 1K
Roy Corcoran RP - 1IP 1H 2R(2ER) 1BB 0K

Liga Venezolana de Beisbol Profesional

pending

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

10/25/05: Yaquis de Obregon, Joe Horgan RP - 1IP 1H 0R 1BB 1K
games of 10/26/05 - pending

Liga de Beisbol Dominicano

no Nationals played

Moneyball: The Next Generation

2005-10-26T15:15:00.000-04:00

I wanted to touch on a topic that is not Nats-oriented on the surface, but bear with me as I'll bring it around to the direction that I could envision an organization like the Nationals go with their player management. Boston Red Sox GM, Theo Epstein, has rejected the team's latest contact offer (3 years, approximately $1.2M/year). As a lifelong fan of the Red Sox, it frustrates me that the Red Sox are trying to shortchange the GM in charge when Boston won their first World Series in 87 years. Why would they want to play Russian Roulette with PR? However, the dynamics between Epstein and the Red Sox got me thinking. I find the method in which GM Billy Beane has shaped the Oakland Athletics to be amazing. This was popularized in Michael Lewis' book, Moneyball. Cliff notes version of the book is Billy Beane took advantage of market inefficiencies (in this case players who had high OBP but were not traditional power/contact hitters were undervalued). Beane crafted the A's lineup on a budget a fraction of the cost of the big budget teams (Red Sox, Yankees, etc) and still won 90+ games year in, year out. One of the areas discussed in Lewis' book was the role of the manager. Beane viewed the manager as nothing more than a button pusher who in essence stands on the top step of the dugout looking managerial. It was Beane's belief that the GM put the pieces together and the manager was a figurehead who moved the pieces according to Beane's blueprint. This was epitomized by his conflict with of then manager Art Howe who was jettisoned in place of Ken Macha, who was hired to enact Beane's gameplan. Spinning this figurehead role forward, I can see the current Epstein/Red Sox conflict as the next iteration of that thought process. In this case, Larry Lucchino, President/CEO of the Red Sox, views Epstein as the public face for a blueprint crafted by a group of individuals. People like Josh Byrnes, Bill Lajoie, Craig Shipley, Bill James, Peter Woodfork, Ben Cherington, and Jason McLeod, who all serve on a sort of Council of Elders who along with Epstein developed a blueprint for the team. It's then Epstein's job to serve as the role of spokesperson for what the group has decided. In essence, he is nothing more than a button pusher to the Council's organizational plan. In this case, the Red Sox could then view Epstein as expendable. Who's to say that another person could not be inserted into Epstein's position with the mandate to keep things moving according to plan? And at a cheaper price. What bearing does this have on the Nationals? Nothing directly (other than perhaps Epstein's availability as a GM candidate in DC). Indirectly, however, I could see this as a manner in which to design the future direction of the Nationals.

Select an owner who ideally will defer all baseball decisions to a team president/CEO (Stan Kasten?)
Allow that individual to assemble a group of individuals who share the same philosophy of player valuation. This is important with regards to player development and scouting.
Assign one person to speak for the group. On the surface, this person will serve in the traditional General Manager's role, but their ultimate responsibility is to act as a sort of press secretary for the team's roster moves.

Could this work? In theory, it's possible. While identifying a person willing to serve as a figurehead GM would be difficult given the disposable nature of the role, the greatest challenge would putting together a group of individuals willing to put ego aside and allow things to operate without the spotlight on them.

You Take the Good with The Bad

2005-10-26T12:00:00.000-04:00

It appears that the Reign of Bowden will continue. Temporarily. I hope. Chris over at Capitol Punishment touches on Barry Svrluga's article regarding the status of the Nationals' GM. He hits on all the key points that have been running through my head. I don't view this as a horrible decision. It actually makes more sense than allowing Bowden to move on to Arizona, Tampa Bay, or Philadelphia (well, maybe it's OK to send him to a division rival). The one thing that the Nationals need right now is stability. With MLB allowing this ridiculous ownership selection process to drag on, the best thing for the team, in the short term, is to allow Bowden to retain his job. A new GM would have to learn on the fly in a barren free agent market. This may lead to the selection of someone who feels they need to make a splash to impress the future owner. And we all know how that worked out last year (see Guzman, Cristian or Castilla, Vinny). Bowden is a known quantity. If he is allowed to retain the job, it must be temporary, and with serious budget restrictions. The last thing the Nationals need is for Bowden to go out and throw huge dollars at a player in a weak market (cough ... Paul Konerko ... cough). He can serve his purpose as a placeholder until a new owner assumes control and hires his own management team. There is one additional concern I have with the retention of Bowden. As Chris mentioned, the retention of Bowden leads me to believe the Tavares/Bowden cabal will not retain Frank Robinson as manager. While not the biggest fan of Frank, I worry Bowden's choice of a replacement will be Bob Boone. Boone is part of Bowden's Cincy posse and will likely get serious consideration. THAT would be a mistake. Boone has proven himself inept as a manager in both Kansas City and Cincinnati. If people were frustrated with Frank Robinson and his decision making, Frank doesn't hold a candle to Boone's style. As scary a thought as it sounds. The best course of action for the Nationals is to make no changes. Stay with Tony, Frank, and Jim until a new owner enters the picture. And then, the fun will begin.

Farm Authority Report 10/25/05

2005-10-26T08:09:00.000-04:00

Peoria (AFL) [Split DH 5-7 & 12-6]

G1: Brendan Harris, starting SS - 0/3 1BB 1E
G1: Larry Broadway, starting 1B - 1/3 1RBI 1SF; left 1 RISP w/ 2-outs
G2: Larry Broadway, starting DH - 2/4 1R 1RBI 1BB double; 1 2-out RBI & left 1 RISP w/ 2-outs
G2: Ryan Zimmerman, starting 3B - 1/3 1BB 1K 1CS

Liga Venezolana de Beisbol Profesional

Frank Diaz CF - 1/4

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

pending

Liga de Beisbol Dominicano

No Nationals

Farm Authority Report 10/24/05

2005-10-25T08:10:00.000-04:00

Peoria (AFL) [Lost to Mesa 6-5]

Ryan Zimmerman, starting 3B - 0/3 1BB 2K 1CS
David Maust SP - 3.1IP 7H 5R(3ER) 2BB 3K 1pickoff; Loss
Chris Schroder RP - 2IP 0H 0R 0BB 3K

Liga Venezolana de Beisbol Profesional

pending

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

no games scheduled

Liga de Beisbol Dominicano

games of 10/23-24 cancelled due to Hurricane Alpha

Farm Authority Report - Rookie League Prospects

2005-10-24T11:00:00.000-04:00

Top 5 GCL Nationals Hitters

Francisco Guzman OF - The 21-year old undrafted free agent out of Venezuela had an impressive US debut. In 40G with the GCL Nats, Guzman batted 344/369/519 with 7HR. That earned him a promotion to Vermont where he played briefly (9G) with similar results (469/471/719 with 2HR). The 6'4" 200lbs OF needs more professional ABs but his start is definitely worth noting. He is likely to begin 2006 in Vermont.
Cristian Ogando OF - The 19-year old undrafted free agent also made a memorable debut in 2005. In 38 games with the GCL Nats, Ogando hit 294/355/331 with 2SB. He is still filling out physically and needs much more experience before moving up the organizational ladder. He will likely begin the season in Vermont with Guzman but it would not be out of the question for him to return to the GCL for additional experience.
Ryan DeLaughter OF - DeLaughter was drafted in the 5th round of the 2005 draft. The 18-year old high schooler is both a talented RHP and accomplished high school power hitter. It's his hitting that will carry him to the majors. In 33G with the GCL Nats, he put up marginal numbers 248/288/438 with 6HR. At the plate his swing can get long at times, as demonstrated by a 6BB/39K ratio in 2005. When he keeps his swing shorter, the ball explodes off of his bat. Until he gains control of the strike zone, his progress will be slowed. Given he was a 5th round pick, the Nationals may attempt to push him to Vermont in 2006.
Brian Peacock CA/DH - The 21-year old was drafted in the 39th round of the 2004 draft. The Nationals signed him as a draft and follow shortly before the 2005 draft. It was expected that Peacock would go in the first 10 rounds of this year's draft. Peacock struggled in his debut 219/299/294 in 42 games in the GCL. He demonstrated a solid ability handling his position defensively but clearly needs to improve with the bat in order to continue his career. Peacock is in the enviable position of playing a position where the Nationals are very weak, so he will be given every chance to succeed. I imagine he will return to the GCL in 2006.
Tim Pahuta 1B - Pahuta was a 2005 18th round draft pick out of Seton Hall. While he struggled with his BA (233), he showed some power potential, 12 of his 31 hits were for extra bases, as well as average control of the strike zone 17BB/35K. The 22-year old needs to accelerate his path up the organizational ladder to a level more comparable with his age. He will likely begin the season in Vermont though it may not be shocking to see him appear in Savannah.

Deryck Johnson OF was a 14th round draft pick in the 2005 draft. He made a brief appearance in the GCL. In 7 games, he batted 185/221/222.

Top 5 GCL Nationals Pitchers

Matt Perks SP - The 20-year old Perks returned to the GCL Nationals in 2005. The 2004 18th round draft pick made the most of his return in 12 games (8 starts). In 60.1IP, he had a 2.83ERA, 1.13WHIP, 6.1K/9IP, 2.5BB/9IP, and 0.3HR/9IP. He will begin the 2006 season in Vermont, but his definitely showing promise.
Terry Engles SP - The 19-year old was a 20th round draft pick in 2003. He, like Perks, returned to the GCL in 2005. In 12 games (9 starts), he pitched 54.2IP with a 4.28ERA, 1.30WHIP, 7.4K/9IP, 2.5BB/9IP, and 0.3HR/9IP. He'll join Perks with Vermont in 2006.
Bartolo Francisco SP - The 23-year old undrafted free agent from the Dominican Republic made a solid debut in the United States. In 52IP split between starting and relieving had a 2.08 ERA, 1.31 WHIP, 5.0 K/9IP, 2.3 BB/9IP, and 0.4 HR/9IP. This earned him a promotion to Savannah where he struggled with his both his control and hits. In 3 starts (17IP), he had a 4.24ERA, 1.82WHIP, 3.2K/9IP, 7.9BB/9IP, and 2.1HR/9IP. He needs to regain his control and perform much better in 2006 with Savannah.
Andre Enriquez RP - The 21-year old was a 13th round draft pick in 2005. In 10.1IP, he had 0.87ERA, 1.26 WHIP, 8.7 K/9IP, 1.7 BB/9IP, and 0.00 HR/9IP. Vermont seems the most likely destination for him in 2006.
Ryan Harrison RP - Harrison was a 23rd round draft pick in the 2004 draft. The 19-year old returned to the GCL as primarily a RP (11G - 4GS & 7 relief appearances). He threw 48.1IP with a 4.66ERA, 1.51WHIP, 6.3K/9IP, 2.8BB/9IP, and 0.7HR/9IP. Much like Perks and Engles, Harrison needs more experience to build up his stamina, and he'll join them in Vermont in 2006.

The additional 2005 draft picks also made appearances with the GCL Nats:

Jack Spradlin SP (8th) - The 21-year old was assigned but did not appear for the GCL Nats. He will likely return to the GCL in 2006.
Michael Watkins RP (15th) - The 17-year old made 5 appearances for the GCL Nats. In 9.1IP, he had a4.82ERA, 2.04WHIP, 12.5K/9IP, 2.9BB/9IP, and 1.0HR/9IP. He will likely return to the GCL in 2006.
Eduardo Pichardo RP (17th) - The 18-year old did not make a great debut in 2005. In 7.1IP, he pitched in 7.1 innings with a 22.09ERA, 4.91WHIP, 8.6K/9IP, 23.3BB/9IP (23 is not a typo), and 2.5HR/9IP. He will clearly return to the GCL in 2006.
Coby Mavroulis RP (21st) - The 22-year old made 9 appearances and pitched 25 innings with a 5.04ERA, 1.68WHIP, 10.4K/9IP, 4.3BB/9IP, and 0.7HR/9IP. He may begin 2006 in Vermont but a start in the GCL is not out of the question.
Antonio Evangelista RP (22nd) - The 22-year old appeared in 4 games (7IP) with a 2.57ERA, 2.00WHIP, 10.3K/9IP, 7.7BB/9IP, and 0.0HR/9IP. His age should require a start in no lower than Vermont in 2006.

Farm Authority Report 10/23/05

2005-10-24T08:45:00.000-04:00

Peoria (AFL)

No game scheduled

Liga Venezolana de Beisbol Profesional

Leones de Caracas: Ed Yarnall SP - 3IP 4H 0R 2BB 5K
Navegantes del Magallanes: Ender Chavez CF - 2/4 2R 2K 1SB double
Pastora de Los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 1/5 2K

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

pending

Liga de Beisbol Dominicano

pending

Farm Authority Report 10/22/05

2005-10-23T07:00:00.000-04:00

Peoria (AFL) [Defeated Surprise 12-10]

Brendan Harris, starting SS - 2/5 1RBI 1K; 1 RBI w/ 2-outs; third game at SS with no errors
Ryan Zimmerman, starting DH - 1/5 1R 1K double; left 2 RISP with 2-outs. His name links to a MiLB story about him. It mentions he was intimidated intially by Frank. He works out in the off-season with Mets 3B David Wright and the Upton brothers (BJ and Justin)
Larry Broadway PH - 1/1 double

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

10/21 & 10/22 - No Nationals played

Liga Venezolana de Beisbol Profesional

Pastora de Los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 0/4 2K
Pastora de Los Llanos: Jacobo Sequea RP - 1IP 4H 4R(4ER) 1BB 1K

Liga de Beisbol Dominicano

pending

Farm Authority Report 10/21/05

2005-10-22T07:30:00.000-04:00

Peoria (AFL) [Lost to Peoria Javelinas 7-6]

Larry Broadway, starting 1B - 1/5 1RBI (w/ 2-outs) 1K; left 1 RISP w/ 2-outs
Ryan Zimmerman, starting 3B - 5/5 2R 1RBI; 5 singles
Brendan Harris, starting 2B - 2/5 1R 2RBI; double; left 2 RISP w/ 2-outs
Chris Schroder RP - 2.2IP 2H 1R(1ER) 1BB 0K
Roy Corcoran RP - 1.1IP 1H 1R(1ER) 2BB 0K; Loss

Liga Venezolana de Beisbol Profesional

Pastora de Los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 1/4 1R 3RBI 1HR (5th HR in 8G)
Pastora de Los Llanos: Jason Stevenson SP - 5IP 7H 2R(2ER) 3BB 4K; Win

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

10/18/05 - Tomateros de Culiacan: Joe Horgan RP - 0.1IP 1H 1R(1ER) 0BB 0K
10/20/05 - Tomateros de Culiacan: Joe Horgan RP - 3.1IP 4H 2R(2ER) 1HR 1BB 2K 1WP

Liga de Beisbol Dominicano

pending

Baseball America Q&A with Zimmerman

2005-10-21T14:00:00.000-04:00

Baseball America's Chris Kline sits down with Ryan Zimmerman for a Q&A. Most of it is fluff, but there is this one exchange I want to highlight:

BA: In your opinion, how'd the "experiment" go when they asked you to move from third to short? RZ: It was a lot different, just in terms of the game being a lot faster than it was in college. I tried it for a little while because they asked me to, and I think I could do it full-time if that's what they wanted me to do. I'm more comfortable at third, just because that's where I have the most experience. I'll be playing third out here; they might get me in some at short, but I'll mostly be splitting up games with (White Sox third baseman Josh) Fields.

Kline added this:

The Nats toyed with moving Zimmerman, who played the majority of his college career at third, to shortstop earlier this summer. But that experiment was short-lived, and when Zimmerman made it to the big leagues, manager Frank Robinson played him sparingly because he didn't want to mess with team chemistry.

What this tells me is there clearly is a lack of communication between Jim Bowden and Frank Robinson. Jim Bowden was likely the advocate for the Zimmerman to SS "experiment" to distract attention from the unmitigated failure that was Cristian Guzman. Frank Robinson then refused to play Zimmerman at SS in the name of team chemistry. Sigh. It's a good thing that by all appearances Zimmerman seems to be a well-grounded person who wasn't impacted by a GM and manager conflict. Because the apparent lack of communication between the GM and manager is an issue the new owner needs to address immediately.

Farm Authority Report - Short Season Prospects

2005-10-21T12:00:00.000-04:00

Top 5 Vermont Hitters

Francisco Plasencia OF - The 21-year LH OF made himself a prospect with a solid season in his first year with the Nationals. He finished a full season in Vermont 300/369/504 with 31XBH (11HR) and 14/17 in SB attempts. He is a bit old for the level at which he played, so it will be interesting to see if he can build upon his successes and work his way up through the farm system. His initial assignment out of spring training in 2006 will be most telling. If he is placed with Potomac, he is someone worth watching. If it's Savannah, he has to prove himself all over again.
John Howell OF/DH - The 22-year old 9th round pick out of the University of Central Florida performed well in 29 games for the Expos (363/413/487) prior to being shut down for the season in late August with shoulder pain. The LH OF built upon a successful college season, 348/405/647 with 15HR in 59G with the Golden Knights. He is very much a work in progress. He should begin the season in Savannah where his age would dictate he needs to make an early impression toput himself on the major league prospect map.
Dee Brown OF - The 22-year old was a teammate of Howell at UCF, not to mention the son of late Philadelphia Eagles defensive lineman, Jerome Borwn. Selected in the 10th round, Brown finished his first season with a 100% on baseball 283/331/484 in 47 games in Vermont after 312/395/608 in 59G with 18HR with the Golden Knights. Brown's season was also cut short by injury (broken finger). He needs to work on his control of the strike zone (12BB/56K). He'll join Howell with the Sand Gnats in 2006 with the same expectations.
Leonard Davis 3B - The 21-year old NY-Penn League All-Star had a breakout season in Vermont after stumbling in his first year with the GCL Nationals. In 67G, the 2004 8th round pick batted 300/338/489 with 7HR and 8SB. His strike zone control is an area that requires improvement (12BB/64K). Unfortunately for Davis, his future with the Nationals will not be at 3B. With Ryan Zimmerman and Kory Casto ahead of him on the 3B depth cahrt, Davis may have to learn how to play another position to continue his climb up the organizational ladder. He will likely begin the year as the starting 3B for Savannah in 2006.
Mike Daniel OF - The 21-year old University of North Carolina OF was a 7th round pick this year for the Nationals. The left-handed hitting OF played alot for the Expos finishing 260/345/357 in 67 games. He does not possess much power (7HR in 438 college ABs and 3HR in 235 professional ABs), and his speed is still a work in progress 6/13 with the Expos. He projects as a #5 OF though if he continues to work on his speed, that with his defense could carry him to a platoon role. A start in Savannah may be restricted by the presence of Plasencia, Howell, and Brown.

Andrew Lane 2B - The 23-year old 2005 27th round draft pick played for Vermont with a one-game stopover with Potomac. He didn't hit very well (204/291/248) and is way too old for the level he finished the season. He looks to be an organizational player.

Top 5 Vermont Pitchers

Clint Everts SP/RP - The 21-year old former #5 overall selection in the 2002 draft spent the early part of his season recovering from Tommy John surgery. He made 15 appearances (8 starts) between the Gulf Coast League and Vermont rehabbing his arm. In 35IP, he had 1.69WHIP, 9.3K/9IP, 5.1BB/9IP, an 0 HR allowed. Much like a fellow Texan on the major league roster (John Patterson), Everts is still a few years away from making the big leagues. He has a plus-plus curveball and changeup and if recovery is consistent to many TJ patients, he should get his 88-93 mph fastball back. A definite advantage for Everts is his age, he has enough years in reserve to make a recovery and still be young enough to have a major league future, ideally as a frontline SP. I would hope the Nationals challenge him by placing him no lower than Potomac and in the best case, New Orleans.
(Wendell) Gene Yost SP - The 24-year old LHP was a 20th round selection in the 2004 draft. After a pretty good debut the Gulf Coast League in 2004 (11G[4GS] 35.2IP 1.12WHIP 5.8K/9IP 1.3BB/9IP), Yost did a little bit of everything in two stops, Vermont and Savannah. In 14 games a SP with the Expos, he had 83IP with 3.25ERA, 1.20WHIP, 6.1K/9IP, 3.3BB/9IP, and 0.8HR/9IP. Upon his promotion to Savannah, Yost moved to the bullpen where he demonstrated he could handle that role as well. In 8 relief appearances (13.2IP), he finished the season with 2.63ERA, 0.80WHIP, 10.5K/9IP, 1.3BB/9IP, and 0.7HR/9IP. He needs to continue doing the same thing he did this season, show versatility, in order to put himself in a position to help the Nationals. If a SP, he should begin the season with Potomac, though a bullpen role may bump that up to Harrisburg.
Chris Lugo SP - The 18-year old 2004 24th round draft pick started the season with the GCL Nationals, (28.2IP with 2.20ERA, 1.26WHIP, 7.5K/9IP, 3.4BB/9IP, and 0 HR allowed) which drove the Nationals to quickly promote him to Vermont where he both started and pitched out of the bullpen. His numbers there (5.13ERA, 1.48WHIP, 6.8K/9IP, 2.4BB/9IP, and 0.3HR/9IP) demonstrated he had the abilities to succeed when presented with a challenge. He was initially tabbed as a draft-and-follow candidate but his performance in tournaments prompted the Nationals to sign him. Lugo has done nothing to disappoint. He is still a work in progress and he needs more IP to develop. His 2006 season will likely begin with a promotion to Savannah.
Craig Stammen RP - The 21-year old RHP was a 12th round pick in the 2005 draft. He split his time in Vermont between starting, 7G, and relieving, 6G. In 51 overall IP, he had a 4.06ERA, 1.45WHIP, 5.7K/9IP, 2.1BB/9IP, an 0.4HR/9IP. He projects best as a RP and will likely be part of the Savannah bullpen in 2006.
Marco Estrada RP - The 22-year old RHP was a 6th round draft pick this year. He was prmarily a SP for the Expos, though he made three relief appearances. In 33.2IP, he had 5.08ERA, 1.40WHIP, 9.9K/9IP, 4BB/9IP, and 1.1HR/9IP. Scouts believe his stuff provides him with the opportunity to progress as a SP. Versatility, much like Gene Yost, would likely carry him farther. He'll be given a shot to compete for a rotation spot with Savannah

I'll also touch on 4 additional 2005 draft picks. None performed too well in their initial professional exposure:

John Lannan SP - 21-year old LHP 11th round 2005 pick. 5.26ERA, 1.66WHIP, 5.8K/9IP, 4.4BB/9IP, and 0.7HR/9IP in 63.1IP
Josh Palm RP - 22-year old RHP 16th round 2005 pick. 8.10ERA, 2.70WHIP, 8.1K/9IP, 5.4BB/9IP, and 0.0HR/9IP in 3.1IP
Ricky Shefka RP - 21-year old RHP 20th round 2005 pick. 6.53ERA, 1.85WHIP, 5.9K/9IP, 3.0BB/9IP, and 0.6HR/9IP in 63.1IP
Jeff Taylor RP - 22-year old RHP 24th round 2005 pick. 9.18ERA, 2.10WHIP, 8.6K/9IP, 7.0BB/9IP, and 0.0HR/9IP in 16.2IP

Farm Authority Report 10/20/05

2005-10-21T08:00:00.000-04:00

Peoria (AFL)

Ryan Zimmerman, starting DH - 0/4 1K; left 1 RISP, 2 out

Liga de Beisbol Dominicano

No Nationals played

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

No Nationals played

Liga Venezolana de Beisbol Profesional

Frank Diaz CF - 1/3 1R 1RBI 1BB 1HR (#4)

Farm Authority Report 10/19/05

2005-10-20T07:45:00.000-04:00

Peoria (AFL)

Brendan Harris, starting SS - 3/5 1R 1SB (batting 0.562)
Larry Broadway, starting DH - 1/3 1R 1RBI 1BB 1K double
Ryan Zimmerman, starting 3B - 0/3 1BB 1K
Roy Corcoran RP - 1IP 2H 1R(1ER) 0BB 1K; Loss

Liga Venezolana de Beisbol

Frank Diaz CF - 1/4 1R 4RBI 1HR(Grand slam)
Jacobo Sequea RP - 1.1IP 2H 2R(0ER) 0BB 1K

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

Pending

Like Sands Through the Hourglass

2005-10-19T16:30:00.000-04:00

So go the Days of the Nats. Barry Svrluga wrote today about the firing of Adam Wogan and th extension of Dana Brown as well as answering a strategically asked question in his weekly chat. There was not much new in the article, however, the chat produced this tidbit of information, somewhat confirming what I read into the whole situation.

Is there more to the Wogan firing/Brown extension than it appears? Given that both Wogan and Brown pre-dated Bowden with the Nationals (i.e. neither of them are part of Bowden's Cincy Posee), is there something that Wogan didn't do that Brown did? Barry Svrluga: The Wogan/Bowden relationship didn't get off on the right foot. The bottom line: Bowden didn't respect Wogan's abilities, and Wogan didn't feel like he had a future with the organization. The relationship would've ended even if Wogan hadn't been fired, I think. Brown, on the other hand, quickly won Bowden's respect as a talent evaluator. And his record in the draft thus far -- led by Cordero, helped by the no-brainer Zimmerman, and possibly aided by up-and-coming lefty Bill Bray -- matches up quite well throughout baseball.

It would be interesting to know what happened between Wogan and Bowden.

Farm Authority Report 10/18/05

2005-10-19T08:00:00.000-04:00

Peoria (AFL)

Game postponed

Liga Venezolana de Beisbol

Leones del Caracas: Ed Yarnall SP - 3IP 2H 0R 1BB 2K
Pastora de Los Llanos: Frank Diaz CF - 1/6 1R 1BB
Pastora de Los Llanos: Jacobo Sequea RP - 0.1IP 3H 4R(4ER) 1BB 1K

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

Website down

What Can Brown Do For You?

2005-10-18T12:15:00.000-04:00

Jim Bowden announced this morning that Dana Brown, Director of Scouting, has received a one year extension. Bowden commented on Brown

"I believe that Dana Brown is one of the best young amateur talent evaluators, especially when it comes to pitching, in Major League Baseball," said Bowden. "Recently, we denied another organization [ed: It was the Mets] the opportunity to interview Dana because we view him as vital component of this franchise as we build for the future."

The day after Adam Wogan is shown the door, Brown is promised one more year. Was this the other shoe to drop? The timing appears more than coincidental. However, there are no details about Brown's responsibilities expanding. Let's just hope this reduces any chances Boone takes over.

Definitely Not a Boon"e" for the Nationals

2005-10-18T08:30:00.000-04:00

Barry Svrluga weighs in with his analysis of the firing of Adam Wogan. He conjectures that Bowden may look to Bob Boone, Special Assistant to General Manager, to take over at least some of Wogan's responsibilities. Barry explains that Bowden "leaned heavily on Boone's evaluations this year and didn't make a major move without consulting Boone." Would these be the moves that repeatedly brought in toolsy OFs like Kenny Kelly? Or maybe the roster moves that led to no viable SP options in September? Perhaps, Boone was the one touting the superior CF defense of Preston Wilson. The only thing I know is that Bob Boone needs to stay far far away from player development. His track record as a manager was less than impressive, 371 wins & 444 losses in 6 seasons (2 1/2 with Cincinnati and 2 1/3 with Kansas City). His teams showed minimal improvement and his abilities to manage a game were repeatedly questioned. If Boone is the reason that Wogan was fired, one can only hope new ownership is selected soon in order to put properly qualified people in key roles like the Director of Player Development.

Farm Authority Report 10/17/05

2005-10-18T06:30:00.000-04:00

Peoria (AFL) [Defeated Surprise 9-2]

Larry Broadway, starting 1B - 1/2 1R 2BB 1K
Brendan Harris, starting 3B - 2/3 1RBI 1BB double 1SF
David Maust SP - 5IP 4H 1R(0ER) 1BB 1K; Win
Chris Schroder RP - 2IP 0H 0R 0BB 2K

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

Tomateros de Culiacan 10/16/05 - Joe Horgan RP - 1IP 0H 0R 1BB 2K
Yaquis de Obregon 10/16/05 - Mark Difelice SP - 6.1IP 7H 2R(2ER) 1BB 4K

Wogan and the Instructional League

2005-10-17T21:30:00.000-04:00

Baseball America has their take on the Adam Wogan firing. It really doesn't differ much from the National's press release. The article does, however, shed some additional light on the cancellation of the Instructional League.

[The Instructional League] lasted from Oct. 2-6 with the players never getting on the field.
The hotel near special assistant to the GM Jose Rijo's complex remained under construction, according to sources in the organization. The complex offered little in amenities, and the players stayed at a hotel about 25 miles away.
Though Bowden wanted the group to remain in the Dominican, according to sources, arrangements were made for the players and officials to fly back early. The Nationals will be without an instructional league team for the fifth straight year. Bowden said the franchise instead will reinstate an accelerated program at its spring training complex in Viera, Fla., prior to minor league camp. Last year 37 prospects were invited, but the instructional league was going to take the program's place this offseason.

This meshes with reports I have seen about its cancellation. It's unacceptable that the Nationals would not have the facilities ready for use in October. Although, Bowden denies it was a reason for Wogan's dismissal, this is a failing that clearly falls at his feet. The fact that the facility was Jose Rijo's (a friend of Bowden) is irrelevant. Wogan needed to ensure everything was ready. The question I now have is whether its delay was a function of either MLB not providing funding or the Nationals' organization not adequately budgeting for the costs of its preparation.

Breaking News - Farm Director Relieved of His Duties

2005-10-17T16:00:00.000-04:00

Apparently, Tony Tavares wasn't kidding when he said Jim Bowden was planning on changes to the Nationals farm system. The Nationals Director of Player Development, Adam Wogan, was relieved of his duties today. Wow. That wasn't the first name I was expecting to see leaving the front office. Is it reasonable? The short answer is yes. Wogan was the head of player development and the buck stops with him. The Nationals have only one contributor that they developed, Chad Cordero. Guys like Wilkerson and Schneider were there prior to Wogan's arrival, and many of the others (Majewski, Patterson, and Church) were acquired via trade. Is it fair? I would say no. Wogan stepped into the job midway through Spring Training in 2002. So, he's had a grand total of three years to prove his worth. Players that were considered up-and-coming (Cliff Lee, Grady Sizemore, and Jason Bay) were traded away by former GM Omar Minaya when the then Expos were competing for the wild card. It wasn't his fault the value in the minors was traded away for Bartolo Colon. Additionally, with the budget he was provided, there was limited instructional leagues and their Latin program has no money to sign players which eliminates a cheap source of talent that a lot of small market teams rely on. He took the job knowing these risks and in this game, unfair is not unexpected. What I find much more telling are the following comments:

Bowden said Wogan's replacement will not be announced until ownership is in place for the Nationals.

The Nationals will be operating without a Director of Player Development. This tells me two things. One, the odds that Bowden is headed to another team as the GM are diminishing. There is no way Tavares would allow the team to be rudderless at both the Player Development and General Manager positions. Second, this may lead to increased responsibilities to Director of Scouting, Dana Brown, who has drawn interest from Mets GM Minaya. The more telling quotes are the following:

"I thought that it was important to make a change in leadership and player development. I think player development and scouting are the backbone and foundation of good organizations," Bowden said. "I also felt it was in the best interest of Adam to make the decision now so that he could have an opportunity to get another job in baseball." Wogan said his meeting between with Bowden on Monday lasted about two minutes. "I don't want to get into anything personal between Jim and I, but there were a lot of things that led to this from a professional standpoint," Wogan said. " He said there needed to be a change philosophically. That was the only reason I was given. I wasn't given anything more than that."

This tells me there is a turf battle that Bowden clearly won. It was readily apparent that the sides in the battle are Tavares/Bowden versus Frank Robinson. But it is becoming clearer to me that the battle line are more the 2002 guys (Robinson, Wogan, et al) versus Tavares' alliance with the 2005 guys (i.e. Bowden's guys). The meeting lasted two minutes and one side came out and said it was to give a guy a chance to get a job while the other side references "professional/philosophical" issues. I believe it is a mistake to leave the position unfilled, unless Brown assumes the responsibilities in an unofficial basis. Under no circumstances should Bowden assume that mantle. This is for no other reason than their needs to be a division of labor between managing the major league roster and directing the farm system. If he is here for 2006 (and beyond), Bowden needs to focus on the big picture. He doesn't have enough time to do both. Establishing a direction for the farm system is part of his job, but he needs to do that from an overarching level and leave it to the Farm Director to implement the plan. Brown has done an admirable job in the Scouting department. If I read the hierarchy correctly, Brown would be instrumental in the recommendations that brought guys like Cordero, Ryan Zimmerman, Patterson, Church, and Majewski to the Nationals. Hopefully, this is part of a plan to hold onto Brown (or at least make it more difficult/costly for Minaya to bring him to Flushing). The impact that this will have on the Nationals in the hot stove league is unknown. The only certainty is the Nationals need an owner to get the ship moving in one direction.

Farm Authority Report 10/16/05

2005-10-17T10:00:00.000-04:00

Liga Venezolana de Beisbol Profesional Pastora de Los Llanos

Frank Diaz CF/LF - 1/4 1RBI 1E
Jason Stevenson SP - 5IP 7H 4R(4ER) 2BB 4K; Loss

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

No box scores as of 10AM

Farm Authority Report - Latin American Update

2005-10-17T08:00:00.000-04:00

Liga Venezolana de Beisbol Profesional Pastora de Los Llanos 10/14/05

Frank Diaz CF/RF - 1/4 1R 2RBI 1K 1HR
Jacobo Sequea RP - 1IP 0H 0R 0BB 0K

10/15/05

Frank Diaz CF - 1/4 1R 2RBI 1K 1HR

Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

Yaquis de Obregon: 10/11/05 - Mark Difelice SP - 6.2IP 6H 3R(3ER) 1HR 0BB 3K; No decision
Tomateros de Culiacan: 10/12/05 - Joe Horgan RP - 1.1IP 1H 0R 1BB 0K
Tomateros de Cuilacan: 10/14/05 - Joe Horgan RP - 1IP 1H 0R 2BB 0K

Farm Authority Report 10/14/05 & 10/15/05

2005-10-16T21:35:00.000-04:00

10/14/05 Peoria (AFL) [Lost to Mesa 16-4]

Tony Blanco, starting LF - 0/4, left 1 RISP w/ 2-outs
Brendan Harris, starting 3B - 2/3 2R 1HBP
Roy Corcoran RP - 1.2IP 6H 3R(3ER) 0BB 0K

10/15/05 Peoria (AFL) [Lost to Peoria Javelinas 8-7]

Brendan Harris, starting SS - 2/5 1R double
Larry Broadway, starting DH - 2/3 1BB double
Tony Blanco, starting LF - 1/4 1K double, left 1 RISP w/ 2-outs

Farm Authority Report - Low-A Prospects

2005-10-14T13:30:00.000-04:00

Savannah's Top 5 Hitting Prospects

Marvin Lowrance OF - The 21-year old 7th round pick from the 2004 draft pick continued building on a solid 2004 in the NY-Penn League despite an inauspicious start to his 2005 season. Lowrance suffered a broken knee cap the first week of the South Atlantic League season. He was hitting .346 at the time of the injury. During a brief 8 game rehab with the GCL Nationals, Lowrance hit 321/390/571 with 2HR and 9RBI. In 57G with the Sand Gnats, Lowrance put up a respectable 288/342/425 in 57G. He projects as a corner OF as he progresses through the farm system. He has limited power upside at this point but as he fills out he could develop into a 10-15 HR #4 outfielder. He should begin the year in Potomac.
Devin Ivany CA - The 23-year old catcher finished his second season with the Nationals after being drafted in 6th round of the 2004 draft. While his age is definitely a question compared to his level of competition, I don't necessarily hold that against catchers. Ivany finished the season 262/309/428 in 113G for Savannah. He showed a spike in power (13HR) after only 4XBH in 154AB last year. His defense is till a work in progress, but he along with Erick San Pedro, Salomon Manriquez Luke Montz & Brian Peacock, provide the Nats with a number of potential receivers for the future. Ivany should ideally be promoted to Potomac but with San Pedro returning from an injury, Ivany may end up on the short side of a platoon.
Edgardo Baez OF - The 20-year old Baez showed a bit of improvement in his 2nd season with Savannah, though not much (246/333/394 in 125G). He has a balance of power (11HR) and speed (6 triples and 11/15 SB) while playing a solid RF. He has the arm strength to progress defensively and needs more AB to improve his offense. He has the potential of being a solid major league RF, but he needs to show that ability early in 2006 or he may fall completely off of the Nationals' radar. I would hope the Nationals would challenge him by placing him in Potomac.
Luke Montz CA - The 22-year old Montz battled injuries throughout the 2005 season which impacted his numbers at the plate (224/328/466) but it certainly didn't curtail his power, 19HR and 68RBI in 343AB. Montz' future may not be behind the plate. He appears to be best suited as a 1B/DH type with the ability to serve as a back-up catcher. I'm not sure where he'll end up in 2006, but it may make sense to work him out at 1B in Savannah to start the season with an early promotion to Potomac if his bat comes around.
Rogearvin Bernadina OF - I know the Nationals are higher on the 21-year old Bernadina than I am. The 21-year old just completed his third season with the Sand Gnats demonstrating little improvement at the plate (240/340/371 in 2004 233/353/369 in 2005). His calling card is his speed. In the last two seasons, Bernadina has stolen 59/69 bases. He showed a surprising spike in power with 12HR/417AB (only 2 less HR than he hit in his first 924AB). He has improved on his BB totals ([BB/AB] 19/278 in 2003, 60/450 in 2004, and 75/417 in 2005) . The problem I have with Bernadina is that he has not shown the ability to hit consistently. I imagine Bernadina may be exposed to the Rule 5 draft where a rebuilding team may grab him as a PR/late inning defensive replacement. If he remains with the team, I hope for his sake it's not a 4th season in Savannah.

Savannah's Top 5 Pitching Prospects

Collin Balester RH SP - The 19-year old RHP continued to impress with a solid season in Savannah, 125IP with 3.67 ERA, 1.18 WHIP, 6.8 K/9IP, 3.0 BB/9IP, and 0.8 HR/9IP. He has very good control of the strikezone with two solid pitches, the fastball and curveball, and a developing change-up. The 6'5", 190lb pitcher still needs to fill out and with that will hopefully improve his durability. He began the season one level higher than expected (Vermont). I doubt the Nationals will repeat that by starting him in Harrisburg. He may begin the season in Potomac but it wouldn't shock me to see his first few starts for Savannah.
Daryl Thompson RH SP - The 19-year old Thompson, a La Plata, MD native, has drawn comparisons to Oil Can Boyd. He season was overshadowed by Balester but was solid in its own right, 53.2IP 3.35ERA, 1.30WHIP, 8.1K/9IP, 4.0 BB/9IP, and 0.5HR/9IP. He pitches with a maturity beyond his actual age. He had minor shoulder surgery in late August and is expected to be ready next spring where he is likely to return to Savannah, at least to begin the season.
Greg Bunn RH SP - The 22-year old Bunn was drafted in the 5th round of the 2004 draft with the thoughts he could develop into a solid middle of the rotation starter. He began the season in Savannah where he made 11 starts, pitching 58.1 innings. He had a 3.86ERA, 1.30WHIP, 8.6K/9IP, 3.9 BB/9IP, and an unsettling 1.5 HR/9IP. Upon his promotion to Potomac, much like Campbell, Bunn struggled with his control (6.7BB/9IP) and continued to allow more than 1 HR per 9IP. He does not have overpowering stuff, so he needs to work on his change-up as well as changing speeds to keep hitters off-balance. Bunn should return to Potomac for 2006.
Ricardo Morales LH SP - The 21-year old was signed as a minor league free agent in 2004 and provided a solid LH arm for the Savannah rotation in 2005. He finished the year with 25 starts (137IP) with 3.94ERA, 1.36 WHIP, 6.5 K/9IP, 2.6BB/9IP, and 1.0 HR/9IP. He does not have overpowering stuff but appears to have an understanding of the strikezone. He should continue up the organizational ladder with a full season at Potomac most likely.
Brett Campbell RH RP - The 23-year old 34th round pick from the 2004 draft burst on the scene as a nearly unhittable closer for the Sand Gnats. In 36 appearances, he had 19 saves in 48IP with a 1.69ERA, 0.90 WHIP, 9.4 K/9IP, 2.8 BB/9IP, and 0.4 HR/9IP. He struggled on his promotion to Potomac but some of that can be attributed to a higher number of IP than he had in the past. As he builds up his endurance, Campbell has the potential to be a serviceable arm out of the bullpen. He'll return to Potomac in 2006.

The Potomac Nationals have a very interesting potential starting rotation in 2006 with Balester, Bunn, Thompson (eventually), and Morales all likely to be there for a large portion of the season.

Farm Authority Report 10/13/05

2005-10-14T08:30:00.000-04:00

Peoria (AFL) [Lost to Grand Canyon 8-3]

Larry Broadway, starting 1B - 1/2 1BB
Tony Blanco, entered game in 7th as DH - 1/1 1RBI
Chris Schroder RP - 2IP 3H 1R(1ER) 0BB 1K

Instructional Leagues NOT Cancelled

2005-10-13T09:45:00.000-04:00

At long last, I got an update from Nats beat writer, Barry Svrluga, in today's chat.

... half of it is running, but the other half is waiting for the facility to be completed.

UPDATE: It appear we have conflicting stories. In the comments below, Shawn Hill's fiancee stated that he (Hill) was back in Melbourne, FL and that the Instructional League was cancelled. Additionally, one of the posters at Capitol Dugout got his confirmation of the league's cancellation straight from the Nationals clubhouse in Melbourne. Also, I found out the following details: "They are cancelled for sure. The reason is that the complex that Jose Rijo was building was not up to par with livable standards, in the [D]ominican, not near DOMINICAN standards." UPDATE 2: I just got off of the phone with Nick Manno, Assistant Director, Player Development for the Nationals. The Instructional League has indeed been cancelled.

Farm Authority Report 10/12/05

2005-10-13T05:59:00.000-04:00

Peoria (AFL) [Lost to Grand Canyon 11-7]

Larry Broadway, starting 1B - 2/3 2R 1RBI 2BB double 1E
Tony Blanco, starting LF - 0/5 4K
Brendan Harris, starting 2B - 3/4 1R 1RBI (2-0ut) 1BB triple 1GIDP
Roy Corcoran RP - 2IP 2H 1R(1ER) 0BB 3K

Farm Authority Report 10/11/05

2005-10-12T07:45:00.000-04:00

Peoria (AFL) [Defeated Phoenix 7-6 ... finally, a win]

Larry Broadway, starting 1B - 2/4 1R 3RBI 1K 1HR
David Maust, SP - 2.2IP 7H 3R(3ER) 0BB 3K 1WP

Nate commented yesterday if there was a way to replace pitchers in the AFL. From my understanding, this is not possible. It's a shame because thus far in 6 games, David Maust, Roy Corcoran, and Chris Schroder have put up the following numbers: 0-2 16.06 ERA, 2.92 WHIP, 12.4 K/9, 5.1 BB/9, and 3.6 HR/9.

Farm Authority Report - High-A Prospects

2005-10-11T15:00:00.000-04:00

Top 5 Potomac Hitters

Kory Casto 3B - The 23-year old was a slam dunk choice for the top P-Nats prospect. He was named the Player of the Year in the Nationals farm system. Though a bit old for the Carolina League, Casto produced a solid season (290/395/510 with 22HR and 90 RBI) while adapting to a new position (from OF to 3B). He ended up impressing the managers of the Carolina League enough to name him one of the top defensive 3B in the league. This winter, he is once again shifting positions, from 3B to 2B, in response to the drafting and promotion of Ryan Zimmerman. I don't believe he has the abilities to excel in the MI, but he still has the potential to progress as a corner OF/back-up 3B. He should begin the season in Harrisburg, and has the potential to challenge for a roster spot in 2007.
Frank Diaz CF - The 22-year old Diaz bounced back from an abyssmal season in the Florida State League and re-established his position on the Nats radar at Potomac in 2005 (312/341/498). He began the season splitting time between the three OF positions but quickly assumed the starting CF role where he remained all season. He showed a nice combination of HR (16) and speed (14/23 SB) in 134 games. I also see Diaz beginning the year in CF for Harrisburg with the likelihood of making the majors some time in 2007 as a #4 OF in the same vein as Marlon Byrd.
Ian Desmond SS - The 19-year old Desmond made a name for himself in Spring Training this year for the Nationals. He made some spectacular defensive plays at SS, quickly putting the 2004 draft pick in the consciousness of Nats fans. He split the season between Savannah and Potomac, actually performing better with the bat at the higher level, 247/284/334 in 73G (296AB) with the Sand Gnats versus 256/326/384 in 55G (219AB). He showed speed, 33SB, but needs to work on his baserunning, 45 SB attempts. He needs serious work on his strike zone control 34BB vs 113K overall. Additionally, his error numbers were alarming (39) but I can attest from watching him play on several occasions, his range is impressive and he gets to many more balls than the average SS. He is still a work in progress and in my opinion, projects as an utility middle infielder. He could become an Omar Vizquel type (i.e. defense brings him to the majors with learning to hit coming as the years progress). He is another guy who will begin the season in Double-A.
Salomon Manriquez CA - Another guy too old for his level (23), Manriquez put up respectable numbers for a catching prospect (287/336/479). His defense, on the other hand, was sketchy ... at best (14 passed balls and 6 errors in about 70+ games at catcher). He projects as a back-up catcher, and, you guessed it, he will likely be behind the plate with the Senators in 2006.
Josh Whitesell 1B/DH - Whitesell's power is what puts him on the list at #5 (18 HR and 32 doubles). The 23-year old hit 293/409/524. Yet another guy too old for his level, his K numbers were alarming, 125 of his 275 outs were strikeouts. He did walk 74 times, but he really needs to work on cutting down on the Ks. Depending upon what happens with Larry Broadway, Whitesell could do anything from starting the season at Potomac again to platooning in Triple-A New Orleans.

Erick San Pedro CA - the 2004 second round pick got a late start to 2005 (he tore a ligament in his thumb in 2004), and only played in 7 games before his season ended with a broken leg after a collision at home plate in June. The 22-year old San Pedro will likely start 2006 in Potomac with hopes of quickly climbing the organizational ladder. He has a limited professional resume, so his future is uncertain.

Top 4 Potomac Pitchers

Armando Galarraga RH SP - The 23-year old Galarraga continued his recovery from Tommy John surgery with a breakout season for the P-Nats. In 14 starts (80IP), he had a 2.48 ERA, 1.15 WHIP, 8.9 K/9IP, 2.6 BB/9IP, and 0.8 HR/9IP. Upon his promotion to Harrisburg, he didn't experience the same success, 5.19ERA, 1.32 WHIP, 6.8 K/9IP, 2.5 BB/9IP, and 1.2 HR/9IP in 13 starts (76.1IP). Galarraga was added to the 40-man roster. He is likely to return to Harrisburg for 2006 with the possibility of being one of the first call-ups to fill a spot start for the Nationals.
Bill Bray LH RP - The 2004 1st round pick racked up the frequent flyer miles in 2005. After a late start due to a bulging disk in his back, the 22-year old Bray made appearance for Potomac, Harrisburg, and New Orleans. He had his greatest success with the P-Nats, in 12.2IP, he had a 2.13ERA, 0.87 WHIP, 12.8 K/9IP, 2.1 BB/9IP, and 0.7 HR/9IP. He had bad numbers in a brief stopover in Harrisburg (5.2IP 6.35ERA, 1.94WHIP, 9.5 K/9IP, 1.6 BB/9IP, and 1.6 HR/9IP) before finishing the season in New Orleans (21.1IP 5.06ERA, 1.50 WHIP, 10.6 K/9IP, 3.8 BB/9IP, and 1.3 HR/9IP). The LHP Bray presently has an almost unencumbered path to the majors, the only LHP remaining on the Nats roster is Joey Eischen, a free agent. I see him starting the season in the majors and slowly developing into a solid LH complement to Gary Majewski.
Mike O'Connor RH SP - The 25-year old was the Nationals Pitcher of the Year in 2005. He finished 10-11 for the P-Nats in 24 starts (167.2IP) with a 3.54 ERA, 1.15 WHIP, 8.5 K/9IP, 2.6 BB/9IP, and 0.8 HR/9IP. He was way too old for the level at which he pitched, but he is another signal of the overall weakness of the Nats farm system. He's a #5 SP at best. O'Connor is rule 5 eligible this year, and I do not see the Nats adding him to the 40-man roster. His future may be with another team.
Mike Hinckley LH SP - The 22-year old Hinckley was the Nationals top prospect coming into the 2005 season. Unfortunately, he battled inconsistency most of the year. In 21 starts (127.2 IP), he had a 4.93 ERA, 1.58 WHIP. 5.6 K/9IP, 3.6 BB/9IP, and 0.7 HR/9IP. He needs to rebound in 2006 and it will likely begin again with Potomac in 2006.

Nats Sign 4th Round Pick

2005-10-11T13:00:00.000-04:00

H/T to Scott at Yuda's. The Nationals signed 2005 4th round pick, Justin Maxwell, an OF from the University of Maryland. Maxwell is an interesting prospect. The 6'5" 225-lb RH OF has the potential to be a corner OF with 20HR/20SB abilities and solid (if not Gold Glove) defense. But he is definitely injury-prone. It will be interesting to see where he will begin the season in 2006. Whether the Nationals will ease him in at Savannah or challenge him by placing him as high as Harrisburg. I would like to see him start the season at Potomac as a full-time player.

Farm Authority Report 10/10/05

2005-10-11T08:00:00.000-04:00

Peoria (AFL) [Lost to Phoenix 13-8]

Tony Blanco, starting LF - 2/5 2R 2RBI 1K 2HR; 1 two-out RBI; 1 runner left in scoring position with two-outs
Larry Broadway, starting 1B - 1/4 1R 1BB 1E
Brendan Harris, starting SS - 2/4 2R 1BB double
Chris Schroder RP - 2IP 1H 1R(1ER) 3BB 4K 1WP
Roy Corcoran RP - 1.2IP 6H 4R(3ER) 1BB 1HR 1BK

Farm Authority Report 10/8/05

2005-10-09T08:50:00.000-04:00

Peoria (AFL) [Lost to Mesa 12-2 ... Saguaros are still winless]

Brendan Harris, starting 3B - 2/4 1R 2 doubles
Larry Broadway, starting 1B - 2/3, left 1 RISP w/ 2-outs

Farm Authority Report 10/7/05

2005-10-08T11:30:00.000-04:00

Peoria Saguaros (AFL) [Lost to Peoria Javelinas 12-6]

Brendan Harris, 8th inning replacement at 3B - no official AB 0/0 1HBP
Tony Blanco, starting LF - 3/4 1R 1BB triple
Larry Broadway, starting 1B - 0/3 1E
Chris Schroder, RP in the 4th with 2 outs, 1IP 5H 4R(4ER) 1BB 2K 1HR, Loss
Roy Corcoran, RP in the 5th with 2 outs, 2.1IP 2H 4R(3ER) 2BB 2K 1HR

Nationals Instructional League Cancelled?

2005-10-07T08:10:00.000-04:00

From the Capitol Dugout message board. For those without accounts: Instructionals in the Dominican Republic have been cancelled (for now) folks. Although it is not known why to us fans, this is a serious blow. This is where some serious player developement was supposed to take place (i.e; Casto switching to second base)
I'm seeing if I can confirm this with another source.

2006 Draft Order

2005-10-07T07:10:00.000-04:00

Here's the 2006 draft order:

Royals (56-106)
Rockies (67-95)
Devil Rays (67-95)
Pirates (67-95)
Mariners (69-93)
Tigers (71-91)
Dodgers (71-91)
Reds (73-89)
Orioles (74-88)
Giants (75-87)
Diamondbacks (77-85)
Rangers (79-83)
Cubs (79-83)
Blue Jays (80-82)
Nationals (81-81)
Brewers (81-81)
Padres (82-80)
Mets (83-79)
Marlins (83-79)
Twins (83-79)
Phillies (88-74)
Athletics (88-74)
Astros (89-73)
Braves (90-72)
Indians (93-69)
Angels (95-67)
Red Sox (95-67)
Yankees (95-67)
White Sox (99-63)
Cardinals (100-62)

The top 15 picks are protected, meaning if the Nationals sign a Type A free agent, they would not have to surrender their first round pick.

UPDATE: In response to a comment from Chris, the Nationals are in the same position with regards to draft picks that they were last year. If a Type A free agent is signed, they would lose a 2nd round draft pick instead of the protected first round pick.

Roster Decisions - Minor League Hitting

2005-10-06T09:30:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, I looked at the roster decisions regarding minor league pitching. Today, I'm focusing on minor league hitters not on the 40-man roster. There are 52 hitters in the farm system that could be either Rule 5 candidates or 6-year free agents. In my opinion, there are three guys I would view as potential Rule 5 losses (assuming they are not placed on the 40-man prior to the draft).

Salomon Manriquez, RH CA - The 22-year old Manriquez had his best season by far in 2005 for the Potomac Nationals. He batted 287/336/479 in 119G with 43 XBH (15 HR). He is still a work in progress behind the plate. Odds are he will not be selected as teams are hesitant to roster a back-up catcher who has never played in the majors.
Josh Whitesell, LH 1B/DH - The 23-year old Whitesell continued his way up the organizational ladder with a full season in Potomac (293/409/524). He In 113G, he had 42 XBH (18 HR). Whitesell still struggles with the strikeouts (125K) and is very streaky. He could be grabbed by an AL team as a DH.
Rogearvin Bernadina, LH OF - The 21-year old OF would be selected for one reason, speed. He spent his third straight season with Savannah with little improvement at the plate. He could be selected to serve as a PR/late inning defensive replacement.

Additional names of note that I doubt will be selected but would be available:

IFs: Josh Labandeira,Shawn Norris, Marco Yepez, Brad Ditter, Ofilio Castro, and Trey Webb
OF: Francisco Plasencia

As for the 6-year free agents, the candidates are: Hector Ortiz, Juan Melo, Kevin Orie, Melvin Nieves, Juan Lorenzo, Dee Brown (not the 2005 draft pick), Henry Mateo, Ramon Castro, Scott Hodges, Billy Martin, Craig Kuzmic, Cristian Guerrero, Jason Bowers, Jesus Feliciano, Drew McMillan, Ender Chavez, Luis Apodaca, Matt Cepicky, Melvin Dorta, Richard Lane, Vince Rooi, Dan Dement, Dee Haynes, Edgar Gonzalez, Jason Belcher, John Wilson, Josh Emmerick, Lorvin Louisa, and Salomon Manriquez.

Farm Authority Report 10/5/05

2005-10-06T05:30:00.000-04:00

Peoria (AFL) [Lost to Surprise 11-6]

Brendan Harris, starting 2B - 2/4 1R 3RBI 1HR 1K 1SF
Tony Blanco, starting DH - 1/4 1BB 1K 1SB
Larry Broadway, starting 1B - 0/2 1BB 2K
David Maust, SP - 1.1IP 6H 6R(6ER) 0BB 3K 1HR 10BF