Trying to turn around the Expos

snowdogjrr · 01-20-2005, 06:07 PM

Using Halofan's rosters, I am taking over the Expos as of the start of the 2004 season. It looks to be a very long season. Next year may be even longer. Then the next...who knows. Will I be able to keep my semi-mediocre players? Will I be able to lure any half-way decent free agents? Will I turn the Les Expos into a respectable team? No; a snowball's chance in hell; of course not. But hopefully it'll be interesting. I have the trading difficulty set to hard, with the computer favoring vets and prospects equally.

I'll update frequently with the team record, team leaders, and league leaders, and any other interesting things that happen.

snowdogjrr · 01-20-2005, 06:21 PM

5/11/04

Record: 18-14, 3rd place, NL East

Team Leaders
Ave: .309, Tony Batista
OBP: .391, Brad Wilkerson
HR: 10, Wilkerson
RBI: 24, Wilkerson
R: 22, Wilkerson
SB: 12, Orlando Cabrera

W: 4, Zach Day
L: 5, Livan Hernandez
S: 7, Luis Ayala
ERA: 2.75, Day
K: 31, Hernandez

A trade went down, I sent P Joey Eischen, P Matt Anderson, P Sun Woo Kim to get P Jon Lieber, CF Bronson Sardinha, P Ramon Ramirez. Anderson was a FA signing after being cut by the Tigers. I also signed the injured Steve Karsay, who will hopefully help my bullpen when he comes back in seven weeks.

snowdogjrr · 01-21-2005, 06:18 PM

6/1/04

Record: 33-18, 1st place NL East

The Expos actuality sped up their fast start out of the gate. This will have to be short-lived, though. There is no way we can keep this up. But who knows: maybe the All-Star team is beckoning a couple players this year?

Team Leaders
Ave: .361, Jose Vidro (2 in NL)
OBP: .425, Vidro (t-9)
HR: 11, Brad Wilkerson (t-13)
RBI: 34, Terrmel Sledge (15)
R: 34, Wilkerson
SB: 22, Orlando Cabrera (4)

W: 5, Tomo Ohka (8)
L: 6, Livan Hernandez (t-2nd most)
S: 12, Luis Ayala (t-3)
ERA: 2.93, Ohka
K: 47, John Lieber
IP: 77.1, Hernandez (7)

Two key players off the injured list
Nick Johnson has played 26 games since coming off the injured list, and is batting .302 with one homer, but with a .441 OBP. He has been moved up to 2nd in the lineup to set the table for Wilkerson and Carl Everett, the 3-4 hitters.
Tony Armas, Jr. was activated also, and was put in the bullpen after the Lieber trade. He is pitching well with a 2.89 ERA in 11 relief appearances, and will start if there are any injuries, or should a SP falter.

Minor League Spotlight
AAA 1B Larry Broadway is hitting .316-14-43 over 51 games so far this year. He still appears to be a couple years away from the majors, though.

snowdogjrr · 01-22-2005, 12:49 AM

7/13/04

Record: 54-34, 2nd place NL East

Did not do as well as the last month and a half. Did manage to get Jose Vidro into the All-Star Game; It's a good thing, because he leads the league in batting.

Team Leaders
Ave: .356, Vidro (1 in NL)
OBP: .406, Vidro (14)
HR: 14, Batista
RBI: 50, Wilkerson
R: 59, Vidro (t-14)
SB: 36, Cabrera (6)

W: 9, Ohka (t-7)
L: 8, Hernandez, Okha (t-8th most)
S: 21, Ayala (t-2)
ERA: 2.64, Lieber (4)
K: 83, Lieber
IP: 130, Ohka (t-8)

Armas Sent Down
Tony Armas, Jr. was sent to AAA Edmonton, after his ERA balooned to 7.09 in 28 games as a reliever. He will go back to his traditional starter's role, hopefully getting back into a productive groove. 22 year old RP Chad Cordero was called up in his place.

Nick Johnson Update
After starting the season on the DL, Nick Johnson has played relatively well, his OBP a healthy .403. He's currently batting second in the order.

Cabrera Being Shopped
The Expos are looking to trade SS Orlando Cabrera, as he is demanding a $6 million/year salary. Management doesn't believe it is worth paying that kind of money for a career .269 hitter, even though his defense is among the best in the league.

Batista Injured
Home run leader Tony Batista will be out for four weeks due to a strained ACL. Jamey Carroll will get most of the playing time at the hot corner, with Scott Hodges, called up from AAA Edmonton looking to make his major league debut sometime in the next month.

Minor League Spotlight
AAA 1B Larry Broadway continues to play well, posting .335-23-74 through 88 games. He may get a shot at the parent club in September if his numbers continue to improve.
AA SP Mike Hinkley has gone 8-4 with a 2.78 ERA, striking out 79 batters in 107 IP. The most impressive stat, however, has been his pinpoint control: He's walked only 16! This youngster is only 21, and he looks to have a good future ahead.

snowdogjrr · 01-22-2005, 12:57 AM

The Mid-Summer Classic went badly for the National League, as they could only put up 3 runs on the board, while allowing the AL to cross home 13 times. Tampa Bay's RF Aubrey Huff was MVP, going 2-5, 2 R, 2 RBI, HR.

Montreal's Jose Vidro got in the game as a pinch hitter in the 6th, lacing a single between first and second. He scored on Bobby Abreu's subsequent double. Unfortunately, that was his only at-bat, but he represented the Expos well.

snowdogjrr · 01-22-2005, 01:41 AM

7/19/04

Trade announced: Expos, Padres exchange struggling starters
In a move that Expos GM James Rath said was to "ensure future competitiveness," Montreal sent SS Orlando Cabrera, 1B Nick Johnson, and LF Carl Everett to San Diego for SS Khalil Greene, 3B Sean Burroughs, and 1B Ryan Klesko. Even though the Expos will be short-handed in the outfield, the club feels that they will be able to deal with it until Tony Batista comes off the DL. At that point, Batista will be back at 3B, Burroughs will move over to 1B, and Klesko will patrol LF. It is widely believed throughout the league that after the 2004 season is over, the Expos will not re-sign Batista, and look for a more permanent solution regarding first base and left field.

Trade summary
Expos get:
SS Greene, .255-0-10
3B Burroughs, .265-2-20
1B Klesko, .260-13-57

Padres get:
LF Everett, .271-10-43
1B Johnson, .251-5-24
SS Cabrera, .262-6-43

In other transaction news, the Expos put in a waiver claim on 1B/3B Shea Hillenbrand. Hillenbrand has already played for the Diamondbacks, Pirates, Indians, and Royals.

snowdogjrr · 01-22-2005, 02:38 AM

8/9/04

Record: 66-46, 2nd place NL East

Team Leaders
Ave: .333, Vidro (10 in NL)
OBP: .407, Klesko (13)
HR: 16, Klesko
RBI: 71, Klesko
R: 71, Klesko (14)
SB: 21, Sledge

W: 10, Ohka (t-10)
L: 10, Okha (t-7th most)
S: 25, Ayala (3)
ERA: 2.86, Lieber (4)
K: 101, Lieber
IP: 155.1, Ohka (13)

Batista Back In the Mix
Tony Batista was activated from the DL today. Since Nick Johnson departed in last month's trade, the Expos had no one to play first base. It was originally thought that new acquisition Sean Burroughs would man first, but Batista will put on the mitt, since Burroughs plays a better third. Time will tell if this will turn out to be a smart move. Ryan Klesko will continue in left field.

Minor League Spotlight
AAA Edmonton's 1B Larry Broadway is continuing to put up impressive numbers. His numbers currently stand at .334-25-86.
AA SP Mike Hinkley has been injured for over a month now.

snowdogjrr · 01-23-2005, 12:48 PM

9/1/04

Record: 77-56, 2nd place NL East

Montreal is the current Wild Card leader, 2.5 games ahead of Chicago.

Team Leaders
Ave: .333, Vidro (7 in NL)
OBP: .406, Klesko (13)
HR: 22, Klesko
RBI: 88, Klesko (13)
R: 82, Klesko (15)
SB: 24, Sledge

W: 12, Ohka, Hernandez (t-10)
L: 12, Okha (t-6th most)
S: 27, Ayala (5)
ERA: 3.17, Lieber (9)
K: 124, Ohka
IP: 185.2, Ohka (10)

Minor Leaguer Called Up
AAA 1B Larry Broadway was called up to the Expos, and will take over 1B duties for the remainder of the season, and the pleyoffs, should the Expos get in. This will allow Tony Batista to be able to pinch hit late in games, and also play 1B/3B.

Larry Broadway hit .340-32-104 in AAA this year

Minor League Spotlight
AAA Edmonton's 1B Larry Broadway was called up to the Majors today.
AA SP Mike Hinkley is still injured, and missed the last month of the minor league season.

snowdogjrr · 01-23-2005, 06:56 PM

10/4/04

Record: 89-73, 2nd place NL East

Montreal finished 2 games behind Chicago for the Wild Card.

Team Leaders
Ave: .322, Vidro (10 in NL)
OBP: .409, Klesko (110)
HR: 26, Klesko
RBI: 103, Klesko (14)
R: 95, Klesko
SB: 30, Sledge

W: 15, Ohka, Hernandez (t-10)
L: 15, Hernandez (t-5th most)
S: 33, Ayala (5)
ERA: 3.27, Lieber (11)
K: 146, Ohka
IP: 227.1, Ohka (9)

Late Callup Shows Promise
Larry Broadway, called up from AAA Edmonton on September 1st, put in a good showing during his first Major League stint. He hit .327-0-17 in 29 games in September and October. Although he didn't show any flashes of the power he had in AAA, the team is confident that it will come with time. He also scored 19 runs and reached base at a .388 clip. Broadway is now expected to compete for the Expos' first base job in spring training.

Expos 1B Larry Broadway

Season wrap-up to come after the end of the playoffs.

Jestor · 01-23-2005, 07:30 PM

Tough luck on missing the playoffs

snowdogjrr · 01-24-2005, 05:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jestor

Tough luck on missing the playoffs

Ahh, it's okay...knowing the Expos, I'll probably do worse next year.

snowdogjrr · 01-24-2005, 07:46 PM

11/1/04

World Series: New York Yankees over Houston Astros, 4-3.

MVP
AL: Magglio Ordonez .350-37-119
NL: Albert Pujols .338-38-129

Cy Young
AL: Pedro Martinez 27-4, 2.97, 263 K, 242.2 IP
NL: Josh Beckett 23-6, 2.41, 211 K, 213 IP

ROY
AL: Bobby Crosby .308-15-72
NL: Kaz Matsui .300-10-76

Fireman
AL: Keith Foulke 2-3, 2.30, 41 SV
NL: Armando Benitez 6-7, 2.30, 43 SV

Montreal Capsule:

Vidro named team MVP
Based on a vote by the players, Jose Vidro has been named Expos MVP this year. Despite teammate Ryan Klesko having better numbers, the players thought that Vidro's play over the season and his veteran leadership made him deserve the award. Ryan Klesko said "I voted for him-I mean, he was with the team the whole year, and his whole career. But I look forward to challenging him next year."

Jose Vidro was all smiles to be team MVP

Team Analysis
IF: The infield was led by team MVP Vidro, hitting .322 and scoring 94 runs. 3B Tony Batista went .284-15-51, but was beset with injuries, and lost playing time to Sean Burroughs after the trade. Ryan Klesko split time between first and left field, but put up good numbers, .278-26-103 with a .409 OBP. SS Khalil Greene played great defense, and could turn into a good hitter.

Cheer up, Khalil, you were traded to a winner!

OF: Carl Everett was not playing well, so he was traded to the Dads. Terrmel Sledge swiped 30 bases and actually knocked in 87 runs. Brad Wilkerson walked over 100 times, but also struck out over 140.

Thief!

C: The team was pleasantly surprised by the play of Brian Schneider, who hit .286 (2nd among NL catchers), drove in 75 (also 2nd), and crossed home 61 times. He also hit 40 doubles, tops in the league for catchers. He also assisted on 75 defensive outs, third best for catchers.

Breakout catcher Brian Schneider

SP: Of the five main starters this year, only two pitchers: Zach Day and Livan Hernandez had and ERA above four. And the highest, Hernandez's, was 4.66. That was actually tops on the team, including relievers. All told, the starters were responsible for 58 wins, 53 losses. Tomo Ohka went 15-13 with a 3.92 ERA, the staff's best pitcher.

Staff Anchor Ohka

RP: Only one pitcher had an ERA above 4, Chad Bentz at 4.48. Rocky Biddle pitched well in the setup role, with 84.2 IP, a 2.66 ERA, an 87 K's. Closer Luis Ayala was Mr. Inconsistent, playing well on the road (2-0, 2.14, 18 SV, 1.01 WHIP) but horrible at home (2-4, 6.05, 15 SV, 1.27 WHIP). The first half of the season was also dramatically different from the second. First: 29 Games, 20 SV, 10 R allowed. Second: 36 Games, 14 SV, 25 R allowed. He may be better suited elsewhere in the bullpen.

He looks happy, this must be pre All-Star Ayala.

Off-Season Plan
Here's what I'll try to do, in random order:
1. Find a closer. Look in the free agent market, if nothing else, try out Biddle.
2. Find some right handed hitting. Of the eight starters, one was right handed, one switch, six lefties. I will probably look to deal for some right handed bats.
3. Get some talent in the minors.
4. Homerun power.
5. I'll also be looking really close at the free agents that can get on base.

snowdogjrr · 01-24-2005, 09:04 PM

Free Agents Day 1

The Montreal Expos have made offers to the following free agents.

CF Carlos Beltran
LF Marty Cordova
LF Eric Owens
C Keith Osik
SP John Lieber
SP Livan Hernandez
RP Troy Percival
RP Ugueth Urbina

snowdogjrr · 01-24-2005, 09:13 PM

Free Agents Day 5

The following players have been offered contracts by the Expos

CF Carlos Beltran - current favorite
LF Marty Cordova - current favorite
LF Eric Owens - current favorite
C Keith Osik - current favorite
SP John Lieber - wants more than $4.0
SP Livan Hernandez - signed: $2.7 for 3 years
RP Troy Percival - signed: $2.0 for 2 years
RP Ugueth Urbina - Signed with Atlanta

snowdogjrr · 01-24-2005, 09:20 PM

Free Agents Day 10

The following players have been offered contracts by the Expos

CF Carlos Beltran - signed: $8.0 for 4 years
LF Marty Cordova - signed: $2.0 for 3 years
LF Eric Owens - signed: $0.7 for 1 year
C Keith Osik - current favorite
SP John Lieber - wants more than $4.0
SP Livan Hernandez - signed: $2.7 for 3 years
RP Troy Percival - signed: $2.0 for 2 years
RP Ugueth Urbina - signed with Atlanta
SP David Wells - signed with New York (A)

snowdogjrr · 01-24-2005, 10:06 PM

Free Agents Day 16

The following players have been offered contracts by the Expos

CF Carlos Beltran - signed: $8.0 for 4 years
LF Marty Cordova - signed: $2.0 for 3 years
LF Eric Owens - signed: $0.7 for 1 year
C Keith Osik - signed: $0.5 for 1 year
SP John Lieber - wants more than $4.0
SP Livan Hernandez - signed: $2.7 for 3 years
RP Troy Percival - signed: $2.0 for 2 years
RP Ugueth Urbina - signed with Atlanta
SP David Wells - signed with New York (A)

snowdogjrr · 01-24-2005, 10:51 PM

Free Agents Day 30

The following players have been offered contracts by the Expos

CF Carlos Beltran - signed: $8.0 for 4 years
LF Marty Cordova - signed: $2.0 for 3 years
LF Eric Owens - signed: $0.7 for 1 year
C Keith Osik - signed: $0.5 for 1 year
SP John Lieber - signed with Baltimore
SP Livan Hernandez - signed: $2.7 for 3 years
RP Troy Percival - signed: $2.0 for 2 years
RP Ugueth Urbina - signed with Atlanta
SP David Wells - signed with New York (A)

snowdogjrr · 01-24-2005, 11:23 PM

Expos Land Free Agent CF Carlos Beltran

The Montreal Expos today introduced new centerfielder Carlos Beltran to the media. Although Beltran's numbers slipped a bit last year, the Expos management felt that he was worth $32 million over four years. "I am looking forward to helping the Expos in the playoff," he was reported as saying. Last year, Beltran hit .286-21-81 on a horrible Royals club. However, he scored 113 runs and swiped 79 bases. Beltran was the club's only major signing, although they did re-sign SP Livan Hernandez, and signed a few of players for depth, like C Keith Osik and OFs Marty Cordova and Eric Owens. "These additions should keep us better balanced against left handed pitching," manager Frank Robinson explained to the media. He added, "We are also excited about Troy Percival, who will shore up our bullpen." Robinson also wanted the Expos fans to know that just because the top free agents have been signed, it doesn't mean more changes won't happen before the season starts. "You can expect some more moves...I'd almost guarantee it. We're in some talks with different teams regarding the availability of certain players." Evidently, Robinson does not like the fact that, even after the addition of Beltran, they have a predominantly left handed lineup. Scuttlebut around the league has it the team is talking to both AL as well as NL teams.

Carlos Beltran, happy to be an Expo.

Manager Frank Robinson, looking at...the next addition to the Expos.

snowdogjrr · 01-24-2005, 11:32 PM

2005 Draft recap

Round 1 pick: P Gary Lucas. Signing Bonus: $151,500
Round 2 pick: 2B Phillip Phair. Signing Bonus: $98,000
Round 3 pick: P Ross Tallent. Signing Bonus: $60,000
Round 4 pick: C James Broughton. Signing Bonus: $25,000
Round 5 pick: 1B Kerry Beran. Signing Bonus: $25,000
Round 6 pick: 1B Alberto Curbelo. Signing Bonus: $25,000
Round 7 pick: P James Booker. Signing Bonus: $25,000
Round 8 pick: P Amos Perez. Signing Bonus: $25,000
Round 9 pick: P Isaac Ivie. Signing Bonus: $25,000
Round 10 pick: P Fausto Aguilar. Signing Bonus: $25,000

Analysis: Only the first two picks, Lucas and Phair, have a decent chance making it to the Majors.

CL Gary Lucas: 18/11/40, 7/7/8
2B Phil Phair: 21/13/26, 4/5/6

01-20-2005, 06:07 PM	#1
snowdogjrr Minors (Single A) Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: San Antonio Posts: 53	Trying to turn around the Expos Using Halofan's rosters, I am taking over the Expos as of the start of the 2004 season. It looks to be a very long season. Next year may be even longer. Then the next...who knows. Will I be able to keep my semi-mediocre players? Will I be able to lure any half-way decent free agents? Will I turn the Les Expos into a respectable team? No; a snowball's chance in hell; of course not. But hopefully it'll be interesting. I have the trading difficulty set to hard, with the computer favoring vets and prospects equally. I'll update frequently with the team record, team leaders, and league leaders, and any other interesting things that happen. __________________ Put Joe Jackson in the Hall.

01-20-2005, 06:21 PM	#2
snowdogjrr Minors (Single A) Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: San Antonio Posts: 53	Update 1 5/11/04 Record: 18-14, 3rd place, NL East Team Leaders Ave: .309, Tony Batista OBP: .391, Brad Wilkerson HR: 10, Wilkerson RBI: 24, Wilkerson R: 22, Wilkerson SB: 12, Orlando Cabrera W: 4, Zach Day L: 5, Livan Hernandez S: 7, Luis Ayala ERA: 2.75, Day K: 31, Hernandez A trade went down, I sent P Joey Eischen, P Matt Anderson, P Sun Woo Kim to get P Jon Lieber, CF Bronson Sardinha, P Ramon Ramirez. Anderson was a FA signing after being cut by the Tigers. I also signed the injured Steve Karsay, who will hopefully help my bullpen when he comes back in seven weeks. __________________ Put Joe Jackson in the Hall.

01-21-2005, 06:18 PM	#3
snowdogjrr Minors (Single A) Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: San Antonio Posts: 53	6/1/04 6/1/04 Record: 33-18, 1st place NL East The Expos actuality sped up their fast start out of the gate. This will have to be short-lived, though. There is no way we can keep this up. But who knows: maybe the All-Star team is beckoning a couple players this year? Team Leaders Ave: .361, Jose Vidro (2 in NL) OBP: .425, Vidro (t-9) HR: 11, Brad Wilkerson (t-13) RBI: 34, Terrmel Sledge (15) R: 34, Wilkerson SB: 22, Orlando Cabrera (4) W: 5, Tomo Ohka (8) L: 6, Livan Hernandez (t-2nd most) S: 12, Luis Ayala (t-3) ERA: 2.93, Ohka K: 47, John Lieber IP: 77.1, Hernandez (7) Two key players off the injured list Nick Johnson has played 26 games since coming off the injured list, and is batting .302 with one homer, but with a .441 OBP. He has been moved up to 2nd in the lineup to set the table for Wilkerson and Carl Everett, the 3-4 hitters. Tony Armas, Jr. was activated also, and was put in the bullpen after the Lieber trade. He is pitching well with a 2.89 ERA in 11 relief appearances, and will start if there are any injuries, or should a SP falter. Minor League Spotlight AAA 1B Larry Broadway is hitting .316-14-43 over 51 games so far this year. He still appears to be a couple years away from the majors, though. __________________ Put Joe Jackson in the Hall. Last edited by snowdogjrr; 01-21-2005 at 06:21 PM.

01-22-2005, 12:49 AM	#4
snowdogjrr Minors (Single A) Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: San Antonio Posts: 53	7/13/04 Record: 54-34, 2nd place NL East Did not do as well as the last month and a half. Did manage to get Jose Vidro into the All-Star Game; It's a good thing, because he leads the league in batting. Team Leaders Ave: .356, Vidro (1 in NL) OBP: .406, Vidro (14) HR: 14, Batista RBI: 50, Wilkerson R: 59, Vidro (t-14) SB: 36, Cabrera (6) W: 9, Ohka (t-7) L: 8, Hernandez, Okha (t-8th most) S: 21, Ayala (t-2) ERA: 2.64, Lieber (4) K: 83, Lieber IP: 130, Ohka (t-8) Armas Sent Down Tony Armas, Jr. was sent to AAA Edmonton, after his ERA balooned to 7.09 in 28 games as a reliever. He will go back to his traditional starter's role, hopefully getting back into a productive groove. 22 year old RP Chad Cordero was called up in his place. Nick Johnson Update After starting the season on the DL, Nick Johnson has played relatively well, his OBP a healthy .403. He's currently batting second in the order. Cabrera Being Shopped The Expos are looking to trade SS Orlando Cabrera, as he is demanding a $6 million/year salary. Management doesn't believe it is worth paying that kind of money for a career .269 hitter, even though his defense is among the best in the league. Batista Injured Home run leader Tony Batista will be out for four weeks due to a strained ACL. Jamey Carroll will get most of the playing time at the hot corner, with Scott Hodges, called up from AAA Edmonton looking to make his major league debut sometime in the next month. Minor League Spotlight AAA 1B Larry Broadway continues to play well, posting .335-23-74 through 88 games. He may get a shot at the parent club in September if his numbers continue to improve. AA SP Mike Hinkley has gone 8-4 with a 2.78 ERA, striking out 79 batters in 107 IP. The most impressive stat, however, has been his pinpoint control: He's walked only 16! This youngster is only 21, and he looks to have a good future ahead. __________________ Put Joe Jackson in the Hall.

01-22-2005, 12:57 AM	#5
snowdogjrr Minors (Single A) Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: San Antonio Posts: 53	All-Star Game The Mid-Summer Classic went badly for the National League, as they could only put up 3 runs on the board, while allowing the AL to cross home 13 times. Tampa Bay's RF Aubrey Huff was MVP, going 2-5, 2 R, 2 RBI, HR. Montreal's Jose Vidro got in the game as a pinch hitter in the 6th, lacing a single between first and second. He scored on Bobby Abreu's subsequent double. Unfortunately, that was his only at-bat, but he represented the Expos well. __________________ Put Joe Jackson in the Hall. Last edited by snowdogjrr; 01-22-2005 at 02:58 AM.

01-22-2005, 01:41 AM	#6
snowdogjrr Minors (Single A) Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: San Antonio Posts: 53	7/19/04 7/19/04 Trade announced: Expos, Padres exchange struggling starters In a move that Expos GM James Rath said was to "ensure future competitiveness," Montreal sent SS Orlando Cabrera, 1B Nick Johnson, and LF Carl Everett to San Diego for SS Khalil Greene, 3B Sean Burroughs, and 1B Ryan Klesko. Even though the Expos will be short-handed in the outfield, the club feels that they will be able to deal with it until Tony Batista comes off the DL. At that point, Batista will be back at 3B, Burroughs will move over to 1B, and Klesko will patrol LF. It is widely believed throughout the league that after the 2004 season is over, the Expos will not re-sign Batista, and look for a more permanent solution regarding first base and left field. Trade summary Expos get: SS Greene, .255-0-10 3B Burroughs, .265-2-20 1B Klesko, .260-13-57 Padres get: LF Everett, .271-10-43 1B Johnson, .251-5-24 SS Cabrera, .262-6-43 In other transaction news, the Expos put in a waiver claim on 1B/3B Shea Hillenbrand. Hillenbrand has already played for the Diamondbacks, Pirates, Indians, and Royals. __________________ Put Joe Jackson in the Hall.

01-22-2005, 02:38 AM	#7
snowdogjrr Minors (Single A) Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: San Antonio Posts: 53	8/9/04 8/9/04 Record: 66-46, 2nd place NL East Team Leaders Ave: .333, Vidro (10 in NL) OBP: .407, Klesko (13) HR: 16, Klesko RBI: 71, Klesko R: 71, Klesko (14) SB: 21, Sledge W: 10, Ohka (t-10) L: 10, Okha (t-7th most) S: 25, Ayala (3) ERA: 2.86, Lieber (4) K: 101, Lieber IP: 155.1, Ohka (13) Batista Back In the Mix Tony Batista was activated from the DL today. Since Nick Johnson departed in last month's trade, the Expos had no one to play first base. It was originally thought that new acquisition Sean Burroughs would man first, but Batista will put on the mitt, since Burroughs plays a better third. Time will tell if this will turn out to be a smart move. Ryan Klesko will continue in left field. Minor League Spotlight AAA Edmonton's 1B Larry Broadway is continuing to put up impressive numbers. His numbers currently stand at .334-25-86. AA SP Mike Hinkley has been injured for over a month now. __________________ Put Joe Jackson in the Hall. Last edited by snowdogjrr; 01-22-2005 at 02:40 AM.

01-23-2005, 12:48 PM	#8
snowdogjrr Minors (Single A) Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: San Antonio Posts: 53	9/1/04 9/1/04 Record: 77-56, 2nd place NL East Montreal is the current Wild Card leader, 2.5 games ahead of Chicago. Team Leaders Ave: .333, Vidro (7 in NL) OBP: .406, Klesko (13) HR: 22, Klesko RBI: 88, Klesko (13) R: 82, Klesko (15) SB: 24, Sledge W: 12, Ohka, Hernandez (t-10) L: 12, Okha (t-6th most) S: 27, Ayala (5) ERA: 3.17, Lieber (9) K: 124, Ohka IP: 185.2, Ohka (10) Minor Leaguer Called Up AAA 1B Larry Broadway was called up to the Expos, and will take over 1B duties for the remainder of the season, and the pleyoffs, should the Expos get in. This will allow Tony Batista to be able to pinch hit late in games, and also play 1B/3B. Larry Broadway hit .340-32-104 in AAA this year Minor League Spotlight AAA Edmonton's 1B Larry Broadway was called up to the Majors today. AA SP Mike Hinkley is still injured, and missed the last month of the minor league season. __________________ Put Joe Jackson in the Hall.

01-23-2005, 06:56 PM	#9
snowdogjrr Minors (Single A) Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: San Antonio Posts: 53	10/4/04 10/4/04 Record: 89-73, 2nd place NL East Montreal finished 2 games behind Chicago for the Wild Card. Team Leaders Ave: .322, Vidro (10 in NL) OBP: .409, Klesko (110) HR: 26, Klesko RBI: 103, Klesko (14) R: 95, Klesko SB: 30, Sledge W: 15, Ohka, Hernandez (t-10) L: 15, Hernandez (t-5th most) S: 33, Ayala (5) ERA: 3.27, Lieber (11) K: 146, Ohka IP: 227.1, Ohka (9) Late Callup Shows Promise Larry Broadway, called up from AAA Edmonton on September 1st, put in a good showing during his first Major League stint. He hit .327-0-17 in 29 games in September and October. Although he didn't show any flashes of the power he had in AAA, the team is confident that it will come with time. He also scored 19 runs and reached base at a .388 clip. Broadway is now expected to compete for the Expos' first base job in spring training. Expos 1B Larry Broadway Season wrap-up to come after the end of the playoffs. __________________ Put Joe Jackson in the Hall.

01-24-2005, 07:46 PM	#12
snowdogjrr Minors (Single A) Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: San Antonio Posts: 53	2004 season in review 11/1/04 World Series: New York Yankees over Houston Astros, 4-3. MVP AL: Magglio Ordonez .350-37-119 NL: Albert Pujols .338-38-129 Cy Young AL: Pedro Martinez 27-4, 2.97, 263 K, 242.2 IP NL: Josh Beckett 23-6, 2.41, 211 K, 213 IP ROY AL: Bobby Crosby .308-15-72 NL: Kaz Matsui .300-10-76 Fireman AL: Keith Foulke 2-3, 2.30, 41 SV NL: Armando Benitez 6-7, 2.30, 43 SV Montreal Capsule: Vidro named team MVP Based on a vote by the players, Jose Vidro has been named Expos MVP this year. Despite teammate Ryan Klesko having better numbers, the players thought that Vidro's play over the season and his veteran leadership made him deserve the award. Ryan Klesko said "I voted for him-I mean, he was with the team the whole year, and his whole career. But I look forward to challenging him next year." Jose Vidro was all smiles to be team MVP Team Analysis IF: The infield was led by team MVP Vidro, hitting .322 and scoring 94 runs. 3B Tony Batista went .284-15-51, but was beset with injuries, and lost playing time to Sean Burroughs after the trade. Ryan Klesko split time between first and left field, but put up good numbers, .278-26-103 with a .409 OBP. SS Khalil Greene played great defense, and could turn into a good hitter. Cheer up, Khalil, you were traded to a winner! OF: Carl Everett was not playing well, so he was traded to the Dads. Terrmel Sledge swiped 30 bases and actually knocked in 87 runs. Brad Wilkerson walked over 100 times, but also struck out over 140. Thief! C: The team was pleasantly surprised by the play of Brian Schneider, who hit .286 (2nd among NL catchers), drove in 75 (also 2nd), and crossed home 61 times. He also hit 40 doubles, tops in the league for catchers. He also assisted on 75 defensive outs, third best for catchers. Breakout catcher Brian Schneider SP: Of the five main starters this year, only two pitchers: Zach Day and Livan Hernandez had and ERA above four. And the highest, Hernandez's, was 4.66. That was actually tops on the team, including relievers. All told, the starters were responsible for 58 wins, 53 losses. Tomo Ohka went 15-13 with a 3.92 ERA, the staff's best pitcher. Staff Anchor Ohka RP: Only one pitcher had an ERA above 4, Chad Bentz at 4.48. Rocky Biddle pitched well in the setup role, with 84.2 IP, a 2.66 ERA, an 87 K's. Closer Luis Ayala was Mr. Inconsistent, playing well on the road (2-0, 2.14, 18 SV, 1.01 WHIP) but horrible at home (2-4, 6.05, 15 SV, 1.27 WHIP). The first half of the season was also dramatically different from the second. First: 29 Games, 20 SV, 10 R allowed. Second: 36 Games, 14 SV, 25 R allowed. He may be better suited elsewhere in the bullpen. He looks happy, this must be pre All-Star Ayala. Off-Season Plan Here's what I'll try to do, in random order: 1. Find a closer. Look in the free agent market, if nothing else, try out Biddle. 2. Find some right handed hitting. Of the eight starters, one was right handed, one switch, six lefties. I will probably look to deal for some right handed bats. 3. Get some talent in the minors. 4. Homerun power. 5. I'll also be looking really close at the free agents that can get on base. __________________ Put Joe Jackson in the Hall.

01-24-2005, 09:04 PM	#13
snowdogjrr Minors (Single A) Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: San Antonio Posts: 53	1/29/05 Free Agents Day 1 The Montreal Expos have made offers to the following free agents. CF Carlos Beltran LF Marty Cordova LF Eric Owens C Keith Osik SP John Lieber SP Livan Hernandez RP Troy Percival RP Ugueth Urbina __________________ Put Joe Jackson in the Hall.

01-24-2005, 09:13 PM	#14
snowdogjrr Minors (Single A) Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: San Antonio Posts: 53	Free Agents Day 5 The following players have been offered contracts by the Expos CF Carlos Beltran - current favorite LF Marty Cordova - current favorite LF Eric Owens - current favorite C Keith Osik - current favorite SP John Lieber - wants more than $4.0 SP Livan Hernandez - signed: $2.7 for 3 years RP Troy Percival - signed: $2.0 for 2 years RP Ugueth Urbina - Signed with Atlanta __________________ Put Joe Jackson in the Hall.

01-24-2005, 09:20 PM	#15
snowdogjrr Minors (Single A) Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: San Antonio Posts: 53	Free Agents Day 10 The following players have been offered contracts by the Expos CF Carlos Beltran - signed: $8.0 for 4 years LF Marty Cordova - signed: $2.0 for 3 years LF Eric Owens - signed: $0.7 for 1 year C Keith Osik - current favorite SP John Lieber - wants more than $4.0 SP Livan Hernandez - signed: $2.7 for 3 years RP Troy Percival - signed: $2.0 for 2 years RP Ugueth Urbina - signed with Atlanta SP David Wells - signed with New York (A) __________________ Put Joe Jackson in the Hall.

01-24-2005, 10:06 PM	#16
snowdogjrr Minors (Single A) Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: San Antonio Posts: 53	Free Agents Day 16 The following players have been offered contracts by the Expos CF Carlos Beltran - signed: $8.0 for 4 years LF Marty Cordova - signed: $2.0 for 3 years LF Eric Owens - signed: $0.7 for 1 year C Keith Osik - signed: $0.5 for 1 year SP John Lieber - wants more than $4.0 SP Livan Hernandez - signed: $2.7 for 3 years RP Troy Percival - signed: $2.0 for 2 years RP Ugueth Urbina - signed with Atlanta SP David Wells - signed with New York (A) __________________ Put Joe Jackson in the Hall.

01-24-2005, 10:51 PM	#17
snowdogjrr Minors (Single A) Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: San Antonio Posts: 53	Free Agents Day 30 The following players have been offered contracts by the Expos CF Carlos Beltran - signed: $8.0 for 4 years LF Marty Cordova - signed: $2.0 for 3 years LF Eric Owens - signed: $0.7 for 1 year C Keith Osik - signed: $0.5 for 1 year SP John Lieber - signed with Baltimore SP Livan Hernandez - signed: $2.7 for 3 years RP Troy Percival - signed: $2.0 for 2 years RP Ugueth Urbina - signed with Atlanta SP David Wells - signed with New York (A) __________________ Put Joe Jackson in the Hall.

01-24-2005, 11:23 PM	#18
snowdogjrr Minors (Single A) Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: San Antonio Posts: 53	Expos Land Free Agent CF Carlos Beltran Expos Land Free Agent CF Carlos Beltran The Montreal Expos today introduced new centerfielder Carlos Beltran to the media. Although Beltran's numbers slipped a bit last year, the Expos management felt that he was worth $32 million over four years. "I am looking forward to helping the Expos in the playoff," he was reported as saying. Last year, Beltran hit .286-21-81 on a horrible Royals club. However, he scored 113 runs and swiped 79 bases. Beltran was the club's only major signing, although they did re-sign SP Livan Hernandez, and signed a few of players for depth, like C Keith Osik and OFs Marty Cordova and Eric Owens. "These additions should keep us better balanced against left handed pitching," manager Frank Robinson explained to the media. He added, "We are also excited about Troy Percival, who will shore up our bullpen." Robinson also wanted the Expos fans to know that just because the top free agents have been signed, it doesn't mean more changes won't happen before the season starts. "You can expect some more moves...I'd almost guarantee it. We're in some talks with different teams regarding the availability of certain players." Evidently, Robinson does not like the fact that, even after the addition of Beltran, they have a predominantly left handed lineup. Scuttlebut around the league has it the team is talking to both AL as well as NL teams. Carlos Beltran, happy to be an Expo. Manager Frank Robinson, looking at...the next addition to the Expos. __________________ Put Joe Jackson in the Hall.

01-24-2005, 11:32 PM	#19
snowdogjrr Minors (Single A) Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: San Antonio Posts: 53	2005 Draft 2005 Draft recap Round 1 pick: P Gary Lucas. Signing Bonus: $151,500 Round 2 pick: 2B Phillip Phair. Signing Bonus: $98,000 Round 3 pick: P Ross Tallent. Signing Bonus: $60,000 Round 4 pick: C James Broughton. Signing Bonus: $25,000 Round 5 pick: 1B Kerry Beran. Signing Bonus: $25,000 Round 6 pick: 1B Alberto Curbelo. Signing Bonus: $25,000 Round 7 pick: P James Booker. Signing Bonus: $25,000 Round 8 pick: P Amos Perez. Signing Bonus: $25,000 Round 9 pick: P Isaac Ivie. Signing Bonus: $25,000 Round 10 pick: P Fausto Aguilar. Signing Bonus: $25,000 Analysis: Only the first two picks, Lucas and Phair, have a decent chance making it to the Majors. CL Gary Lucas: 18/11/40, 7/7/8 2B Phil Phair: 21/13/26, 4/5/6 __________________ Put Joe Jackson in the Hall.