GM_CheatSheets Montreal Expos Rebuild

[GM_CheatSheets]

The Expos meet the top-seeded Atlanta Braves (105-57) in this best of seven NL Championship Series match up. The Braves have the second best offense in the NL and their pitching is third best. The Expos -- who had the top NL offense and second best pitching -- won the head-to-head season series by a convincing 8-1 margin. Despite this, it will be a tough match up, especially without SS Warren.

The Expos lost game one by a score of 1-4. SP Diplan took the loss after surrendering four runs (three earned) in 6.1 innings. 1B Flores hit a solo home run to account for the Expos' sole run in this affair.

SP Caballero put in a great effort (6 IP, 1 R) but this was squandered in the 7th and RP Crose walked away with the loss in this one as the Expos fell by a score of 2-5.

Returning home did well for the Expos. SP Britland went 5.1 IP giving up one run, striking out eight, and walking two. LF Derringer contributed a home run and the Expos went into the 9th inning with a 3-1 lead. CL Bedingfield went on to blow the save, giving up two runs in his second inning of work, but this was all forgotten when PH Paredes delivered a walk off hit in the bottom of the 9th.

Game four resulted in another loss for the Expos, this one a 2-8 blowout. SP Killough lasted only 3.1 innings, allowing four runs. The Expos' only runs came on a 9th inning two-run home run by 2B Draxler.

The Expos' world series hopes ended with a 7-8 game five loss. Down 2-7, the Expos put up five runs in the bottom of the ninth to tie it, including a LF Derringer three-run home run. CL Bedingfield promptly surrendered a home run to the first Braves batter in the tenth and this ended the Expos' season.

I'll never know if having SS Warren for this series would have changed the outcome, and ultimately there were several other opportunities for healthy players to step up. But losing Warren's production and leadership created a major obstacle that I ultimately wasn't able to overcome.

Next is my team recap, recognizing the Expos' top performers over the past year...

[GM_CheatSheets]

The Expos' overall record was 103-59 (.636), seven games better than last year and my first time with 100 or more wins. This was three games better than the expected 100 wins and only two games worse than the preseason prediction (105).

This makes it three straight NL East pennants for the Expos. Like two years ago, it wasn't even close with the Phillies finishing seventeen games back. The Expos finished the year as the best run creation team in the NL and the second best run prevention in the NL. Though the playoffs were a disappointment this year, I think this team will have a good shot to make a deep playoff run again next year and especially a few years down the road if my top pitching prospects reach their potential.

Here are the season totals for batters:



SS Warren led the team and posted the best individual offensive season in the history of my franchise with 7 WAR. It was also the best WAR in the NL this year. CF Pruner wasn't far behind him at 6.6 WAR, good for 4th in the NL. 1B Flores reached the 5 WAR mark as well. 3B Lawrence (3.4 WAR), LF Derringer (3.2 WAR), and C Stacey (2.7 WAR) all contributed some valuable offense as well.

The trademark of this team's offense was power. SS Warren led the way with 45 HR (2nd in NL), followed by CF Pruner (40), LF Derringer (28), 3B Lawrence (28), and RF Polovina (27). The catching platoon also combined for 23 HR (Stacey: 13; Lopez: 11).

In fact, as a team, the Expos posted the second best home run mark in NL history. Their 250 team home runs were eleven behind the 261 hit by the 2021 Cincinnati Reds and one ahead of the 249 hit by the 2000 Houston Astros.

Warren and Pruner each reached the century mark in both R and RBI. Pruner's 110 RBI were good for 2nd in the NL. While Pruner, Stacey, 1B/RF Cuatt, and SS Goette each hit above .300 AVG. 1B Flores was very close with a .296 AVG.

Here's how the pitchers fared:



SP Diplan put up a fantastic 6.2 WAR, good for 3rd in the NL. SP Caballero and SP Britland each posted 4.2 WAR. SP Killough is still waiting to reach that upper echelon as he had 2.9 WAR and gave up the third most walks in the NL. If he gets his control figured out, he could make some big gains here. These four each had at least 190 IP. Caballero had the best ERA at 3.30 and Diplan's team leading 2.93 FIP was also good for 3rd in the NL.

CL Bedingfield put up a ridiculous 2.5 WAR from the bullpen which makes RP Mosqueda's 1.4 WAR look a lot less impressive than it actually was. Bedingfield's 45 SV were good for second in the NL.

The pitching will need to show some gains next year as SP Diplan and CL Bedingfield, the top starter and reliever on my team will likely be lost to free agency.

Next, we will review the 2031 regular season and playoffs...

[GM_CheatSheets]

Only two teams exceeded 100 wins this year: the 105 win Atlanta Braves and the 103 win Montreal Expos.

Both top seeds, Atlanta and Boston advanced to the world series. This was also the second year in a row both teams faced off in the world series. This year, however, it had an opposite outcome with the Red Sox winning the championship with a four game sweep.

The Red Sox were built around their batting. Their top batters had 7.7, 6.6, 6.1, and 4.3 WAR. Their top pitchers had 4.1, 3.1, and 2.8 WAR.

Next, I'll recap my minor league system and prospect performances...

[GM_CheatSheets]

Here is a team recap of my minors:

AAA Virginia Beach Marvels - 84-60, 1st
AA Elk Run Heights Dobermans - 68-74, 4th
A+ Audubon Park Spuds - 58-82, 7th
A- Plattsburgh Animals - 32-44, 5th
A- Po'ipu Channel Cats - 21-55, 6th
R Anchorage Giants - 37-31, 3rd
R Honolulu Super 66 - 13-55, 9th

And now for the individual performers:

SS Miguel Naranjo, 25 (2025 Int'l FA Signing)

Naranjo has been on several of my prospect lists and has a track record of performing better than his ratings, but had yet to deliver at AAA. Boosted by some defensive value as well, Naranjo led my minors in WAR this year. In AAA this year he had 5.7 WAR (4.1 batting) in 126 games and 548 PA. The rest of his line was .290 AVG, 9 HR, .138 ISO, and 36 SB.

Naranjo is an interesting player as he has great intangibles and his only batting tool of note is a plus avoid k rating. So despite his ability to rise up to or above every level he's played at, he looks to be blocked by others (Carruth and Pellot) and might not have much trade value.



RF Jared O'Brien, 22 (2027 Draft, Rd 1)

O'Brien has a much higher pedigree than Naranjo as a former first round pick, but nonetheless has very similar batting ratings -- plus avoid k with the other categories slightly above average at best. O'Brien played the full year in AA and he had 4.5 WAR in 133 games and 548 PA. The rest of his line was .308 AVG, 9 HR, .125 ISO, and 10 SB.

Despite his success, O'Brien profiles quite differently than how my current outfield looks as it is loaded with power and he appears to have very little of it. He adds plus defense and might have a shot at the majors, but this doesn't look like a guarantee at this point. He could very well be included in a trade if another organization values him highly.



3B David Carruth, 26 (Trade w/LV 7/2029)

Carruth is the first batting prospect in my system to make this list two years in a row. He's still a little old as he just turned 26, but should start in the majors as a utility player next year. At AAA this year he had 4.1 WAR in only 89 games and 386 PA. The rest of his line was .332 AVG, 10 HR, .170 ISO, and 1 SB.

Carruth also has plus avoid k, so this is definitely a trend with this year's top minors performers in my system. He also has above average to great contact ability and gap power. For now he represents valuable depth and positional flexibility. If things break his way (and there are a few other injuries, decline, or attrition), he could see starts in the majors for a good stretch of time over the next few years.



SP Jesus Tejada, 23 (2025 Int'l FA Signing)

Tejada makes this list a second consecutive year as he posted 2.5 WAR in 123.1 IP over 13 starts in AAA before getting his call to the majors.

The rest of his line reads 2.99 ERA, 3.03 FIP, 1.01 WHIP, 2.3 BB/9, and 8.0 K/9. He will get an extended look at the rotation next year and hopefully will be a key contributor in making up for the innings I'm set to lose with Diplan's likely departure.



SP Manny Roque, 23 (2029 Draft, Comp. Rd 1)

Roque has swiftly emerged as one of the top pitching prospects in my system with the performance now backing up his ratings. He posted 2.6 WAR over 180 IP in 28 AA starts. He also had one start at AAA before the season ended.

In AA he had a 3.25 ERA, 3.77 FIP, 1.16 WHIP, 3.2 BB/9, and 6.4 K/9. He should be in the AAA rotation all year next year with the chance for a late season call up to the bullpen. If Roque can increase his strikeouts, he could develop into a very dangerous pitcher.



SP Chris Castiglione, 24 (2028 Draft, Rd 1)

Castiglione posted 1.8 WAR in 160 IP over 25 starts in AAA before getting a late season call up to the Expos bullpen where he made two relief appearances. The rest of his line reads 3.04 ERA, 3.64 FIP, 1.19 WHIP, 2.6 BB/9, and 6.1 K/9.

Castiglione should return to the AAA rotation and be among the top options for a call up for either the bullpen or if there is a rotation opening. If you remember, I was really excited after drafting Castiglione and disappointed when his ratings swiftly cratered. It is safe to say that he has rebuilt his prospect status both in terms of ratings and performance -- he has the looks of a MLB starter now more so than a reliever.



While there weren't any true breakout performances this year (though perhaps I am discounting Naranjo too much), this is still a pretty good showing for my prospects. The pitching pipeline is undeniably strong, especially with SP Guajardo and SP Kamphuis narrowly missing this list. Offensively I am looking for the next big batting prospect and might see one of my young international third base signings make a jump to full season ball next year. I don't see this as a concerning gap, especially given the quantity and quality of batters I've recently graduated to the majors and who are hitting really well.

Next, the offseason begins and my front office gets to work...

[GM_CheatSheets]

Thanks, everyone, for your patience as I have readied the second official GM_CheatSheets spreadsheet for launch. I am excited to share that it is now ready for use. And just a fair warning that it is a pretty big file and can be a bit slow running sometimes.

You can download it from my wordpress site: https://gmcheatsheets.wordpress.com/spreadsheets/

MLB and MiLB Player Rankings v.1.1 (5/21/2017)

Use this spreadsheet to create customized rankings for MLB and MiLB players to help with essential roster management tasks. Use to evaluate free agents, Rule 5 draft eligible players, or trade targets. The spreadsheet also provide a comprehensive look at the top players and prospects in your organization.

I hope you are able to use this to build your next OOTP dynasty!

[GM_CheatSheets]

Now that my farm system is regularly producing MLB players, my offseasons tend to get reliably boring.

My head coach Torey Lovullo decided to retire, so I hired Jose De Jesus Jimenez who previously managed with Pittsburgh and Cincinnati. He won two manager of the year awards with the Reds and looks to be a good but not spectacular fit for my team. I nearly promoted my AAA manager for this post, but in the end felt better with the more experienced option.

I also had a decision to make with RP Mosqueda, who has been a reliable bullpen arm for every year of this franchise. Anticipating the loss of CL Bedingfield, I decided it would be worth keeping him around for $4.5 million for one more year.

I then formalize my qualifying offers to SP Diplan and CL Bedingfield, both of whom should reject the offer and pursue free agency.

I had a lot of activity in arbitration again this year. 1B Flores signed for $8 million, SP Killough for $7.875 million, C Stacey for $7 million, RF Polovina for $6.825 million, LF Derringer for $5.25 million, SP Womble for $4.8 million, RP Takara for $4.37 million, 2B Draxler for $4.2 million, RP Crose for $2.4 million, and SS Goette for $650,000. I did not offer a contract to 2B Chris or C Lopez. My infield utility options are both better and marginally cheaper than Chris and Lopez was starting to become more expensive than I felt his production warranted.

I decided against extending any of these players long term for now as I both have good depth and want to see how players perform over another year. Of the players I considered, SP Killough has been very inconsistent, 2B Draxler looked like a star before struggling last year, 1B Flores is in a battle for playing time, and LF Derringer is still young and doesn't play a premium position.

The Expos fared pretty well in awards this year: CL Bedingfield won the NL Reliever of the Year; SS Warren, LF Derringer, and CF Pruner won NL Silver Sluggers; Bedingfield placed 3rd in NL Cy Young balloting; and CF Pruner finished 2nd in NL MVP voting.

In a big surprise to me, CL Bedingfield accepted the $15 million qualifying offer and will return to my team next year. This uses up all of the space I would have had to add any free agents. I'm glad to have him back, but it will create the need for some moves to create opportunities for my younger pitchers.

SP Diplan rejected the qualifying offer and will return a draft pick when he signs elsewhere.

With no money to make additional signings, I selected one player, RP Ricardo Tejada, in the Rule 5 draft. He has very high leadership, plus stuff, and a good repertoire. I will see if he can stick around as a reliever past spring training as he is the second player on my team (SS Warren the other) with very high leadership.

Otherwise, I didn't lose any player in the Rule 5 draft and wasn't able to work out any trades. This is about as uneventful as an offseason can be.

Next offseason will likely be an important year as I expect to lose CF Pruner, CL Bedingfield, and either 2B Draxler or 1B Flores. For now, though, I think this team is strong enough to make a deep playoff run, especially if the young starters hold up.

Next up, the Expos will play through spring training, I'll provide a position by position preview, and outlay the season expectations...

[GM_CheatSheets]

The Expos finished with a 16-14 record for the spring. The top two batters were LF Derringer and SS Warren. The top pitchers was SP Killough who didn't allow a single run.

I did not make it through the spring unscathed as SP Womble and RP Ochoa will each miss four months with injuries. Though I will miss Womble, this will actually help make some decisions with my pitching staff.

I also made a late spring trade, sending RP Sianez to Tampa Bay for SP Brad Greeson. I converted Greeson to CF where could have an above average bat and above average defense. He will work on this conversion in the high minors. If it goes well, he could be a replacement for CF Pruner, who I expect to opt out of his contract after this season. Sianez is a player that I just grew impatient with as he had the highest overall rating of all my relievers, but had a propensity to give up home runs and blow leads between all of the strikeouts he racked up. This clears another spot in my bullpen.

My owner's expectation is again a bit curious as it downgraded simply to play better than .500. OOTP, on the other hand, projects a fourth straight NL East pennant with a 100-62 record. This would be good for the second best record in the NL and overall. I'm going to be a little more conservative and set my expectations at more than 90 wins and the NL East pennant.

The individual player projections are nearly as good as they were last year, though I fear way too optimistic. I have two batters projected to finish top ten in the league and three pitchers projected to finish top ten in the league.

• SS Warren projects for 633 AB, 44 HR, 124 RBI, 7 SB, .265 AVG, and .865 OPS.
• CF Pruner projects for 560 AB, 34 HR, 102 RBI, 8 SB, .289 AVG, and .900 OPS.
• SP Britland projects for 201.2 IP, 15 W, 6 L, 3.28 ERA, 1.10 WHIP, 158 K, 7.05 K/9, and 2.54 BB/9.
• SP Guajardo projects for 205.1 IP, 14 W, 7 L, 3.27 ERA, 1.04 WHIP, 219 K, 9.61 K/9, and 3.11 BB/9.
• SP Tejada projects for 196 IP, 15 W, 5 L, 3.64 ERA, 1.14 WHIP, 141 K, 6.48 K/9, and 2.34 BB/9.

I do expect Warren and Pruner to approach these numbers if they stay healthy and I am hopeful that Britland can reach his projection. I'm shocked that both Guajardo and Tejada make this list and feel that their projections are overly optimistic, that said, they did predict Warren's breakout last year, even if he didn't quite reach the heights of the projections.

And now my traditional position by position preview of the team along with the batter and pitcher rating overviews. OVR and POT are on the 20-80 scale and all other ratings are 1 to 20.



Starting Pitcher - My rotation has a different look this year. SP Caballero is the unquestioned ace with Diplan gone. SP Britland passed up SP Killough for the #2 spot. Killough's control has been trending in the wrong direction and could be traded during or after this season if he continues this trend. SP Tejada and SP Guajardo will fill out the rotation. Tejada is a little more experienced and Guajardo has a little more upside. If Womble was healthy, Guajardo would have started the year in AAA for about the first month.

The AAA rotation, which includes Castiglione, Turkel, Roque, and Kamphuis, provides plenty of options, especially to get experience out of the MLB bullpen.

Bullpen - I was expecting some major changes here, but in the end, it looks pretty similar to last year: all-world CL Bedingfield returns with RP Crose and RP Takara as set up men. RP Mosqueda and RP Tew are the lefties. RP Carson and newcomer RP Tejada fill out the bullpen.

My top relief prospect is lefty Michael Avilla who perhaps I should have given a chance instead of retaining Mosqueda. Otherwise, my starting depth could come into play if relief help is needed.



Catcher - Stacey has been a great acquisition, contributing valuable offense as the leading half of a catching platoon. His defense leaves a little to be desired and while I would like to have a gold glove caliber catcher, I'm going to stick with the offense for now. Edwards is out of options and will stick as the short side of the platoon. He also has better offense than defense.

First Base - Flores and Cuatt will split time here in a partial platoon. Cuatt could have one of the best bats on my team and I'm anxious to see what he can do across a full season. Cuatt could see some time in RF and Flores will see some time at 2B, 3B and maybe SS. This will be a fluid situation.

Second Base - Draxler and Flores will split time here and both bat right handed so it done't make an easy platoon. Draxler looked like a superstar player on the rise before a terrible and injury plagued season last year. Flores has been a great performer and has moved all over the diamond. This year will test his flexibility as he should get almost a full season worth of at bats but will split his innings across multiple positions. He has flashed power, average, and speed, but never all at the same time. In a bit of an ominous sign, the overall ratings dropped significantly for both Draxler and Flores.

Goette and Carruth offer bench options and there are many more in AAA including Pellot who is arguably ready for the majors and has plus defense and above average power.

Third Base - Lawrence is one of my favorite players and, I hope, still improving as a hitter with potential for great power and average. He also plays above average defensively with a strong arm. Flores will see some time here and Carruth could as well, I just hope they don't take too much playing time away from Lawrence.

Shortstop - Warren is back and figures to contend for the MVP award. His plus power and plus defense makes him the most exciting young player on my team. Flores, Goette, or Carruth could fill in when Warren needs a day off.

Left Field - Derringer returns and hopes to repeat as a silver slugger, hitting for both average and power. Derringer doesn't have a very strong arm and hasn't taken to center, which lessens his value and flexibility some, but he is without question one of the top bats on this team. Mena, Carruth, and Flores will fill in here as needed.

Center Field - Pruner is back for his second and likely final year with the Expos as he has an opt out after this year. If he stays healthy, he should contend for the MVP again and be among the league leaders in both average and home runs. Mena will serve as the little used backup here.

In AAA, Paredes is trying to work his way back to the majors and could fill in, if there is an injury.

Right Field - Polovina and Mena will platoon in right with Polovina taking on the strong side of the platoon. I've come down quite a bit on Polovina since I acquired him almost two years ago. He still has a plus eye and power, but is a little less consistent than I would hope for. With his salary rising, this is likely his last year with the Expos. I hope Mena will continue to mash lefties and come up with hits off of the bench. Cuatt and Carruth could see some time in right as well.

Cecil is standing by in AAA if a replacement is needed in the corners.

Though not as strong as last year's group, this is still a very good team, especially offensively. I'm anxious to see how the pitching (especially Guajardo and Tejada) pans out.

I feel a little bit desperate this year with the expectation that Pruner will leave after the season. However, it also has the feel of a transition year as I start to promote and piece together what I hope is eventually a rotation (Britland, Tejada, Guarjado, Kamphuis) that can bring home multiple championships.

Next up is a look at the top prospects in my system and how my system ranks overall...

[GM_CheatSheets]

This year I improved to the number three ranked minor league system. This is seven spots better than last year and is my new highest minor league system ranking. It is also the first time I've had the #1 overall prospect.

This year six of my prospects made the top 100: SP Guajardo at #1 (up from #28), SP Kamphuis at #27 (up from #87), SP Castiglione at #54 (up from #110), CF Rebold at #66 (up from #74), SP Duarte debuting at #73, and 3B Tellez at #74 (up from #89).

I had ten players place in the top 200, down two from last year. Those ranked in the next 100 include 3B Estrada (down from #41), SP Roque at #138 (up from #197), SP Villanova at #190 (down from #187), and SP Esteban at #195 (down from #120).

1. SP Guus Kamphuis, AAA (2027 Int'l FA Signing)
   Kamphuis rightfully returns to the top spot on my prospect list as he will bring his 99-101 mph fastball and currently above average with plus potential slider and splitter to AAA. He already has great stuff and movement. His control is average with the potential to be great. His results were good but not great in AA last year. I expect a big jump this year as he is paired with my "power pitcher" specialist pitching coach in AAA. At 21 years old, he probably could use about a full season at AAA and I'm not inclined to rush him. In summary, he looks to be a generational type talent, one that I hope will contend for Cy Young awards for the next decade plus.
2. SP Gabe Guajardo, MLB (Trade w/LAD 11/2030)
   Guajardo is a great pitching prospect in his own right, rising to the #1 overall prospect on the OOTP list. he has plus stuff with above average movement and average control. He projects to be nearly unhittable as a lefty armed with a great 96-98 mph cutter and plus curveball and changeup. He does have some risk as his control is only average, but OOTP and the projections don't see this being an issue at all.
3. 2B Jose Pellot, AAA (2027 Draft, Rd 2)
   Pellot probably deserves to be in the majors now. His AAA performance hasn't been great yet, but he has the best bat of my AAA prospects by ratings. He has plus gap power and potentially great (currently above average) home run power. His contact is only average, so he might end up a good slugging, low average hitter. His defense at second base is plus and he might end up with a gold glove one year.
4. SS Juan Amescua, AAA (2028 Draft, Rd 8)
   Drafted for his intangibles and bat, Amescua has developed into a great defender with a passable bat. He could be a utility infielder and bats left handed, unlike most of his competition. His very high leadership rating is another quality working in his favor. He may be one of those players where the sum is greater than any of the individual parts.
5. RP Michael Avilla, AAA (2027 Draft, Rd 9)
   Avilla doesn't have anything left to prove in AAA and is just waiting for a spot in the big league bullpen. He fits the profile of a lock down lefty with a great fastball (91-93 mph) and plus curve. He should rack up strikeouts like crazy with his plus stuff and above average movement and control.
6. RF Alex Ramos, AAA (2026 Int'l FA Signing)
   Ramos is an interesting player as he popped up on this radar seeming out of nowhere and is going to start the year in AAA. He is already full developed in his ratings too, but could use some seasoning as he only has a few PAs above A+. His bat is slightly above average across the board, he has plus speed, and plays average defense in the outfield corners. There doesn't look to be a whole lot of upside with Ramos, likely a fourth outfield type, but consider my curiosity piqued.
7. SP Manny Roque, AAA (2029 Draft, Rd 1)
   Roque is a player that I continue to get more excited about the more I look at him. He is already above average to great in the three pitching ratings. He also has three above average to great pitches. Also, it doesn't look like he is going to develop much of a change up, but the potential is there. If he develops the changeup, he could fit at the top of a rotation. As he is now, he could probably do well in the back end of a rotation.
8. SP Chris Castiglione, AAA (2028 Draft, Rd 1)
   Castiglione rightfully falls one spot behind Roque, though unlike Roque, Castiglione already has a year of great performance in AAA. He is above average in the three pitching ratings and has a deeper, but less polished repertoire (great fastball at 95-97 mph paired with four average to above average pitches). He stands to improve his stuff and control a little more, though could be serviceable even without this development. Looking realistically at my staff, he figures to pitch out of the bullpen and could spot start if needed.
9. CF Brad Greeson, AA (Trade w/TB 3/2032)
   Greeson is another conversion project. He projects to have an above average to great bat, though with poor eye/discipline. He has potential to develop into a great defensive center fielder.
10. SP Jimmy Turkel, AAA (2026 Draft, Rd 1)
    Turkel is similar to Castiglione in that he can't seem to buy a call up to the majors no matter how well or consistently he performs. Also like Castiglione, he figures to slot into a bullpen/spot starter role. He has a great, with plus potential, fastball at 97-99 mph from the left side. He has two above average pitches in a curve and splitter. He also has a changeup that hasn't developed to its potential and might not get there. As long as his movement and control stay at least where they are now (slightly above average), he should have a role on my team.
11. SS Miguel Naranjo, AAA (2024 Int'l FA Signing)
    Naranjo put together a great year in AAA last year, but still seems a bit underwhelming when I look at him. He has plus speed and plays great defense. His only batting ratings that jump out are a plus avoid k and poor eye/discipline. Amescua seems to have passed him up in the line for a callup, though part of that has to do with Naranjo being a redundancy in my stable of right handed hitting utility infielders.
12. RP Orlando Olvera, AAA (Scouting Discovery 3/2025)
    Olvera makes the biggest jump up from #28 on the midseason list. He is being pushed as a reliever, though he has the look of a borderline starter. He is fully developed to his potential already with plus stuff and average movement and control. What makes him intriguing are his three plus pitches (fastball 95-97 mph, curve, and change). Oh, and he is left handed. I'm really curious to see what comes of Olvera and if he will get a look as a starter in my very talented and full AAA rotation.
13. 3B David Estrada, A- (2030 Int'l FA Signing)
    Estrada is possibly my most exciting batting prospect, especially by OOTP ratings. He looks to favor a more contact/gap/avoid k approach than power/patience. His plus speed and batting profile is a bit odd for third base, so I am going to see how he does in center field for now.
14. SS Ryan Mitchell, AA (2028 Draft, Comp. Rd 1)
    Mitchell will advance to AA despite struggling in A+. He has great eye/discipline, speed, and defense.
15. SS Calvin Love, AAA (2025 Draft, Rd 8)
    Love has posted good numbers in AA and AAA. He favors speed, defense, and contact. His home run power and eye/discipline leave much to be desired.
16. CF Arturo Vargas, AAA (Scouting Discovery 9/2024)
    A scouting discovery back in 2024, the second season of this franchise, Vargas goes to show how long it can take to see the fruits of good acquisition and development work. He played well in AA last year and brings plus speed, above average defense, and a contact hitting profile to AAA this year.
17. RF Jared O'Brien, AAA (2027 Draft, Rd 1)
    O'Brien hit well in AA last year as well. He profiles as a plus defender with plus speed in right field. He has plus avoid k and slightly above average gap power and contact. His home run power and eye/discipline are below average.
18. SS Chad Hill, AAA (2028 Draft, Rd 7)
    Hill plays great defense at shortstop and has plus speed. His bat, on the other hand, is a bit of a mixed bag that more or less balances out to average.
19. CF Ryan Leech, AA (2027 Draft, Comp. Rd 1)
    Leech has had limited playing time so far, possibly due to injuries. He has great speed and defense with above average contact. He is below average in home run power and eye/discipline.
20. SP Mickael Lamy, A+ (2031 Draft, Rd 2)
    Lamy was my top draft pick last year and will start in A+. Unlike several of my picks who decline and then recover their ratings, Lamy showed some quick growth and development. His fastball (97-99 mph) is nearly great. He has three more pitches: two approaching average to above average (curve and forkball), and a below average but improving changeup. He figures to get a long look as a starter, but would likely be very effective as a reliever too.

Overall, I am very pleased with this list. Pitching remains the strength of my farm system, and though it isn't necessarily the best compliment, right handed utility infielders and fringey outfielders are a plenty. In all honesty, I realize not everyone is going to develop into an impact talent, but it looks like there are a few potential stars in here. And I think it is fair to say I have had some success already by building from within.

If this list continues to trend more and more toward older, high floor, low ceiling types, I might try to build something into the prospect calculation to include more of the younger, riskier prospects too.

For now, we will redirect our attention as the regular season gets underway...

[Palaaemon]

Welcome back!

[GM_CheatSheets]

The Expos started their season ominously, getting swept by the Braves in three games. They went on to win 3 of 3 versus the Padres, 2 of 3 versus the Nationals, 2 of 4 versus the Pirates, 1 of 3 versus the Phillies, 1 of 3 versus the Dodgers, 1 of 3 versus the Indians, and lost the first game of a series with the Reds. This all adds up to a bit of a disappointing 10-13 start to the season.

Right at the end of the month, I was informed that 2B Draxler would be day-to-day for a few weeks and that SS Warren would be out for the next six weeks. The Warren injury is a big deal as not only was he one of my top producers last year, he is the clear captain of the team. This created an opportunity to call up 2B prospect Pellot. He was struggling in AAA again, but I'm hoping these struggles may be partly explained by him just being upset he wasn't in the majors.

Here's how the batters performed for the month:



LF Derringer led the way offensively with RF Polovina and 3B Lawrence also posting decent months. Overall, it's a very disappointing start, especially for SS Warren and CF Pruner, my two top offensive threats.

And here's the pitchers:



SP Tejada got off to a great start with a 2.05 ERA and 1.10 WHIP supported by a 3.38 FIP. On the other side of performance, SP Guajardo (8.84 ERA, 5.96 FIP) and SP Killough (8.10 ERA, 6.17 FIP) really struggled to start the year.

In the bullpen, CL Bedingfield continued where he left of last year with a 0.79 ERA. RP Tejada and RP Carson also had great months with ERAs of 2.08 and 1.38 respectively.

Next, the Expos will try to turn things around in May as they look for rebounds from several players after a poor first month...

[GM_CheatSheets]

The Expos started of the month by splitting the final two games of the series with the Reds. They won 1 of 2 versus the Cubs, 2 of 2 versus the D'backs, and 2 of 3 versus the Mets. In this span of games, SS Carruth went to the DL and 2B Drexler's injury worsened and was placed on the DL. Accordingly, I called up SS Amescua from AAA to serve mostly as a backup infielder and RF Bob Cecil who also was a September call up the past two years. RP Tejada (acquired in the Rule 5 draft) imploded to the point that I decided to release him and call up my top relief prospect, RP Michael Avilla from AAA.

The Expos then won 2 of 3 versus the Rays, 1 of 3 versus the Marlins, 3 of 3 versus the Giants, and 3 of 3 versus the Pirates. SS Amescua went on the DL and I conveniently was able to activate SS Carruth to fill his roster spot.

With RF Cecil off to a hot start since his call up and reserve OF Mena continuing to struggle this year, I shopped him around and found an offer I liked with the division rival Pirates. I sent RF Mena and average MiLB LF Escobedo to Pittsburgh for RP/SP Jeremy Capossela and MiLB C Jared Baker. Capossela is the main returning piece as he was getting his feet wet in the majors pitching out of the Pirates' bullpen with less than stellar results. I immediately placed him in my AAA rotation where he looks to have a solid long term future as a starter. He has great movement with above average stuff and control. He also has three above average pitches in a fastball (92-94 mph), curveball, and changeup. Baker is a throw in piece who my scout is higher on than OOTP, but projects to be about average with his bat and has great catcher ability but a poor arm.

I want to make two notes on this trade before I move on. First, Mena exceeded any expectations anyone should have had for him as he was a Rule 5 pick up. He mashed lefties, filled in around the outfield with good defense, and picked up many valuable pinch hits. Second, I'm thrilled with the return for him, as I had been shopping him for a little while but had not yet seen an offer I liked. Overall, the trade clears a way for Cecil to continue to get more playing time and adds yet another promising arm to my AAA rotation.

The Expos closed the month winning 3 of 4 versus the Mets and 3 of 3 versus the Cardinals. There was more outfield transactions before the month ended as I placed LF Derringer on the DL with a moderate day-to-day injury for six weeks. CF Pruner also ended up on the DL, also with a day-to-day injury. He should only miss the minimum 10 days. LF prospect Ramos replaced Mena on the roster, CF prospect Vargas made a two game cameo before being replaced by CF Paredes to fill Pruner's spot, and 2B Draxler was activated from the DL in place of Derringer. I also sent SS Amescua back to AAA following the completion of his DL stint.

By injuries, trades, and transactions, this was one of the craziest months I've had. By record, it was one of the best. Burried in all the transactions, the team had an amazing 21-7 record for the month.

Following are the batting performances for the month.



1B Cuatt and 3B Lawrence had fantastic months at the plate and CF Pruner was heating up before his DL stint. C Stacey and LF Derringer also played well.

And the pitchers fared as follows:



The rotation did much better this month with SP Guajardo (2.63 ERA, 3.43 FIP) and SP Caballero (2.75 ERA, 3.05 FIP) leading the way. SP Killough (3.82 ERA, 3.04 FIP) and SP Britland (3.81 ERA, 3.53 FIP) also did well while SP Tejada (4.19 ERA, 4.52 ERA) fell a bit back to earth.

The bullpen was also outstanding as RP Mosqueda and RP Crose posted sub-1 ERAs. RP Takara (2.04 ERA), CL Bedingfield (2.65 ERA, 10 SV), and RP Carson (3.27 ERA) also delivered some shutdown performances.

Next up is coverage of the 2032 first year player draft...

[GM_CheatSheets]

After not picking until number 70 overall in the draft last year, I have two first round picks this year. The supplemental round pick is compensation for SP Diplan.

Here is what the board looked like when my first pick came up at 24 overall.



Round 1, Pick 24

With my first pick, I decided on CF John Pate (18, high school). He has a potentially above average to great bat that leans a little more to contact than power. It should be noted that my scout is higher on him than OOTP, but even if he only reaches OOTP's potential, his bat would be about average. It also very well looks like he could develop into a plus defensive center fielder.



Round 1, Pick 33

Next, I selected another young center fielder in Jimmy Henry (18, high school). I thought about taking a pitcher here, and hoping that Henry would drop to my next pick. However, there were several pitchers still on the board and Henry became too enticing for me to pass on. He has plus speed and a potentially above average, balanced bat. What makes him interesting is OOTP is even higher on his HR Power potential.



Round 2, Pick 31

Of all the pitchers I hoped would be available with this pick, only one was left and it was the one I was least excited about. Nonetheless, I am glad to add SP Tyler Day (22, college) to my system. He has a deep repertoire and good velocity. While my scout gives him potentially average movement and control, OOTP has him potentially above average at both.



Round 3, Pick 33

Next, I went for an impossible sign in CF Manny Ramirez (18, high school). He is an intriguing pick not just because of his name, but he has a potentially above average, balanced bat and has plus speed.



Round 4, Pick 31

As usual, my round four pick was another impossible signing in SP Phil Schmucker (19, high school). He has an average fastball (90-92 mph) to go with a potentially plus slider and changeup. My scout rates him with potentially plus stuff while OOTP likes his control better. If he splits the potential, he could be a slightly above average starter.



Round 5, Pick 31

I decided to make a conscious effort to go after a catcher here as it seems like it's been a while since I've drafted one and I haven't had much luck developing players here recently. Though it is a bit of a risky pick, I selected RP Jim Ferrer (19, high school) who I will convert to catcher. He has a perfect 20/20 in C Ability, though a below average arm as of now. His bat is a bit of a mixed bag and could even out to average, though he may struggle with contact and eye/discipline, so it isn't a very exciting batting profile. At the very least, I hope he can give a bit of a boost to the pitchers he works with in the minors.



Round 6, Pick 31

With my next pick, I selected almost the opposite version of Ferrer in C Josh Collins (18, high school). Collins could have an average to slightly above average bat that favors contact. Defensively he has a great arm, but below average ability at catcher.



Round 7, Pick 31

The last pick I will cover here was 3B Jose Arias (18, high school). He could have an above average bat overall, even if he struggles with k's. Defensively, he fits the profile of a strong third baseman.



Below are all of my manual selections.



Overall, this is the youngest draft class I have compiled with all but one of my top eight picks coming from the high school ranks. It feels good to add some exciting center field prospects to my organization and to go after some catchers who are imperfect but great in some ways too. It will take a while to see what comes of this class, and if center field and catcher are even positions of need by the time these guys near the big leagues.

Next, the Expos continue play into June...

[GM_CheatSheets]

The Expos started to turn their season back on track in June. The month started with wins in 2 of 3 versus the Braves and 1 of 3 versus the Padres. I had been shopping around some of my depth for an upgrade in right field and was able to find a match to my liking with the Padres immediately following our series.

I sent San Diego RF Polovina, CF Paredes, 2B Draxler, SP Killough, and MiLB SS Luera. In return, I received RF Greg Flowers, MiLB SP Pedro Frias, MiLB RP David Granado, and $2 million. To this point in the season, RF Flowers was having a solid season, even if it didn't match up to his prior track record (128 wRC+ in 2032 compared to his MLB career average of 140 wRC+). He has achieved this success with a great and balanced bat, though his speed and defense leave a bit to be desired. He just turned 27 years old and has two years of control remaining. Despite being a bargain this year ($4.6 million for the season), he projects to make over $24 million via arbitration in the next two years. This deal wouldn't have happened without including CF Paredes, who San Diego seemed pretty high on. While they may have traded away their top hitter, they were able to add three batters who should slot right into their lineup and a starter to bolster their rotation. The Padres took on extra salary, while it freed up some salary space for the Expos.

The prospect pieces also deserve mention. I added SP Frias who has the makings of a future top of the rotation pitcher with plus velocity (99-101 mph, three potentially great pitches (fastball, cutter, and curve), and above average potential in stuff, movement, and control. He will be placed in AA. I also received RP Granado who could see a major league bullpen eventually if he can figure out his control. The prospect I gave up, SS Luera, projects to be a perennial gold glove contender at shortstop but his bat is still very much a work in progress. San Diego presumably sees a lot of potential in his bat.

After the trade, I activated CF Pruner, promoted CF Vargas from AAA, sent LF Ramos back to AAA, and promoted rising SP prospect Manny Roque. The Expos then won 2 of 3 versus Boston and 1 of 3 versus Washington. At this point, I activated SS Warren from the DL, sent SS Amescua back to AAA, placed CF Vargas on the DL for a minimum stay, and added LF Ramos back to the team.

The Expos finished out the month on a tear, winning 3 of 3 versus the Reds, 4 of 4 versus the Phillies, 1 of 3 versus the Mets, 3 of 3 versus the Dodgers, and 1 of 3 versus the Marlins. During this timeframe, CF Vargas was activated to the majors with LF Ramos going back to AAA. SS Warren was also lost for a few weeks, again creating space for SS Amescua.

The Expos record adds up to 18-10 for the month. 2B Pellot, LF Cecil, and RF Flowers all brought home consecutive player of the week awards during the month. CL Bedingfield received the top pitcher award for the month in the majors and MiLB SP Capossela received the top pitcher award for the month in the International League (AAA).

Here are the batting performances:



RF Flowers, 1B Cuatt, and CF Pruner led the offense with torrid months at the plate. 2B Pellot wasn't far behind, putting to rest some of my concerns about his AAA hitting. LF Cecil, 3B Lawrence, and 1B Flores all also had strong months offensively.

And here are the pitchers:



SP Roque made a seamless transition to the majors, posting a 2.77 ERA (3.81 FIP) in 26 IP over his first month. Otherwise, SP Caballero (3.52 ERA, 3.25 FIP) was the only other above average starter. Both SP Guajardo and SP Britland struggled a bit.

CL Bedingfield dominated out of the bullpen to the tune of a 0.49 ERA and 0.71 WHIP over 18.1 IP. RP Carson nearly matched Bedingfield, though in half the innings. RP Avilla also pitched like a bullpen ace for the month.

Next, the international amateur free agent signing period opens...

[GM_CheatSheets]

Below is a look at the top available international amateur free agents for this signing period. Though not particularly strong, this year's class looks to be better than last year. I don't have any signing bonus restrictions this year and likely will try to not exceed the limit.



I made initial offers to the top four players on the board as none of them were asking for a particularly high bonus. Much to my surprise, I ended up signing all four of them while staying under the $3 million limit. Part of this can be attributed to my scout liking all of these players more than OOTP.



SP Alberto Lira signed for $910k. He has the potential for above average pitchability, two above average pitches, and two average pitches. 3B Raul Sanchez signed for $600k. He projects to have a fairly balanced, average to above average bat. He also has a plus arm and should stay at third base. C Roberto Munoz signed for $570k. He projects to have an balanced, slightly above average bat. SP Antonio Soto signed for $910k. Currently his control is very poor, but he has a potentially great changeup and three other pitches that could be average.

While there isn't a standout prospect in this group, there is some intriguing potential. We will see in a few years what my development staff can accomplish with these guys.

Next we will look at how the Expos fared in July...

[GM_CheatSheets]

July was a busy month for the Expos. It started with activating LF Derringer from the DL and demoting CF Vargas. The Expos then swept the Rays in three games before learning that Pruner would miss a week or two with an injury. CF Jesse Martin replaced him on the roster as a defensive wizard who can backup or spot start when necessary.

The Expos then won 1 of 4 versus the Cubs and 2 of 3 versus the Indians. At this point, RF Flowers was placed on the DL with a moderate day-to-day injury. LF Ramos received another call up. To further deplete the outfield, CF Martin was placed on the DL. CF Vargas received the corresponding call up.

This year, the Expos sent three players to the All-Star Game: CL Bedingfield, 3B Lawrence, and RF Flowers.

During the all-star break, I traded MiLB SP/RP Medina to the Yankees for MiLB C Ivan Diaz. Diaz is roughly average both with his bat and his defense. This was more of a move designed to trade from my pitching depth to try to address a weaker position in my system.

The Expos also received a post-break boost with SS Warren, CF Pruner, and RF Flowers getting activated in the series after the break. The Expos won 1 of 3 versus the Phillies, 2 of 3 versus the Giants, and 1 of 3 versus the D-Backs. RF Flowers only lasted one game before suffering another injury, sending him back to the DL for several weeks. I then decided that prospect SP Capossela deserved a shot in the majors as he was utterly dominating AAA batters. I ended up making a trade with Cleveland, sending RP Tew in exchange for CF Kevin Strange. Strange, a rookie, has an average bat and plays all three outfield positions with above average defense. Hopefully he will be able to plug the hole there as it appears neither CF Vargas or LF Ramos are ready for the fourth outfield position. This is also a little bit of a backup plan to at least have an average player for center field next year in case CF Pruner decides to test free agency again.

SS Warren was again lost to the DL, this time for 6-7 weeks. Yet again, SS Amescua returned to the majors. The Expos then finished the month with five straight wins: three versus the Cardinals and two versus the Nationals.

The Expos were fairly active at the trade deadline, making a few small trades. I sent MiLB RF O'Brien to Oakland for MiLB RF Travis Estes. Estes has an above average bat and the arm to play right field. I sent MiLB SS Contreras to the Cubs for MiLB SP Dennis Prosser. Prosser will continue as a starter, though there is a chance he may end up in the bullpen if either his control or change up don't develop to their current potential. Lastly, I traded MiLB SP/RP Walker to Cleveland for MiLB C Bobby Jacobo. Other than poor contact, Jacobo looks to have an average bat. He isn't a top flight prospect, but is very young (18) and could still develop more.

The month ended with placing RP Mosqueda on the DL. He should be ready to return as soon as he is eligible. SP prospect Jimmy Turkel will replace him in the majors as a lefty option out of the bullpen.

The Expos finished with a 15-10 record for the month.

Here's how the hitters fared:



This was definitely a down month offensively. 1B Cuatt led the team with 9 home runs. 3B Lawrence and LF Derringer played well, and CF Pruner and RF Cecil each hit above .300 AVG with fewer at bats, but that was about it.

And the pitchers:



SP Guajardo had a breakout month (1.74 ERA, 1.87 FIP, 12.2 K/9, 2.0 BB/9, 31 IP). SP Britland managed a better ERA (1.18), though a lesser FIP (3.37) in 38 IP. SP Roque continued his strong rookie campaign with a 2.73 ERA and 3.86 ERA in 26.1 IP.

CL Bedingfield continues to lead the way for the bullpen as he added on another 7 saves this month.

Next is a look at the updated midseason prospect rankings for the Expos organization...

[GM_CheatSheets]

Below is my midseason update to the organization top 30 prospect list.



Notes and observations:

• There were a lot of graduations with SP Guajardo, 2B Pellot, and RP Avilla all in the majors. RF O'Brien was traded and SS Naranjo aged off.
• A few trade acquisitions jump to the top of the list: SP Capossela (#2), SP Frias (#6), CF Strange (#13), and RP Granado (#16).
• SP Roque continues to improve, moving up from #8 to #4.
• RP Turkel jumps up from #10 to #3, however, this is due to a ratings boost with his move to the bullpen in the majors.
• CF Greeson (#8) continues to develop a stronger bat rating, as does SS Mitchell (#10).
• CF Burr makes the biggest jump from #30 to #15. He showed progress both with his bat and defensively.
• SP Villanova (#18) continues to develop a better pitching rating.
• RF Lambert jumps from #27 to #21, though he remains a bit old as a 23 year old in A+ ball.
• CF Rebold (#24) is showing progress with both his bat and defense. If he finishes the year strong, he could make a big jump up the list as OOTP projects him to have prodigious power.

Next, the Expos continue their push for a fourth straight division title into August...

[GM_CheatSheets]

August was a mediocre month for the Expos. The month started with a loss to the Nationals and news that breakout rookie SP Roque would be lost for the rest of the regular season. SP Castiglione got the corresponding call up.

The Expos won 1 of 3 versus Toronto, 2 of 3 versus San Diego, and 2 of 3 versus Atlanta. In this span of games, I called up top SP prospect Kamphuis who struggled in his first start in place of RP Capossela. I also activated RP Mosqueda and send SP/RP Turkel to AAA.

The Expos won 3 of 4 versus the Mets and 0 of 3 versus the Pirates. Following the sweep, I placed RF Cecil on the DL and sent SP Kamphuis and CF Martin to AAA. RF Ramos, SP/RP Turkel, and 2B Dipert replaced them on the major league roster.

The Expos closed out the month winning 2 of 3 versus Cincinnati, 1 of 3 versus Cleveland, 2 of 3 versus the Dodgers, and 0 of 1 versus the Marlins. In this stretch of games LF Derringer was lost to a short stay on the DL, as was SS Amescua. RF Flowers (activated from rehab assignment) and SS Love replaced them.

Overall, the Expos went 13-14 for the month. They hold a nine game lead over the Pirates in the NL East with one month left in the regular season.

Here's how the batters performed for the month:



1B Flores had an outstanding month to lead the team in overall offense. CF Pruner and 1B Cuatt nearly matched Flores, and 3B Lawrence and C Stacey had good months as well.

Here's how the pitchers fared:



My starters pitched quite poorly for the month with rookie SP Kamphuis being the most disappointing of the bunch. CL Bedingfield had a spectacular month with a 0.67 ERA and 0.98 FIP. RP Takara and RP Castiglione also pitched well out of the bullpen.

Next up, the Expos will try to complete their fourth consecutive division title...

[GM_CheatSheets]

With rosters expanding, the Expos added several players to the active roster: RP Villanova, C Diaz, CF Martin, and RP Capossela were all promoted from AAA; RF Cecil and LF Derringer were both activated from the DL; and 2B Dipert was the sole demotion.

The Expos won 2 of 2 versus Miami, 2 of 3 versus Baltimore, 2 of 3 versus Arizona, 2 of 3 versus San Francisco, 2 of 3 versus St. Louis, 2 of 3 versus the Cubs, 2 of 3 versus Tampa Bay, 2 of 4 versus Philadelphia, 2 of 4 versus Pittsburgh, and 2 of 3 versus the Mets.

Transactions were minimal throughout these series with the few moves including placing CF Strange and RP Carson on the DL, activating SS Warren and SS Amescua, and promoting SP Kamphuis.

The Expos finished the month with a fabulous 20-11 record and clinched their fourth straight NL East title by a margin of 16 games.

Batters for the month performed as follows:



LF Derringer led the Expos in total offense for the month. He, along with RF Flowers, 2B Pellot, and RF Cecil, all hit for an average above .350. RF Flowers, 1B Cuatt, and 3B Lawrence all had great months at the plate, and 2B Pellot, CF Pruner, and 1B Flores played admirably as well.

And the pitchers:



There were several strong pitching performances for the month as well. SP Guajardo (3.29 ERA, 2.27 FIP), SP Britland (3.28 ERA, 2.92 FIP), and SP Caballero (3.86 ERA, 3.06 FIP) did well in the rotation. And CL Bedingfield (0.73 ERA, 1.10 FIP) dominated out of the bullpen again.

Next, the Expos return to the NL Division Series for the start of a new playoff run...

[GM_CheatSheets]

I lost some of my notes that I had saved to type up here, so this will be a slightly abbreviated few posts before I get back on track.

The Expos avoided the wild card and advanced to face the 91-71 Tampa Bay Rays in their NL Division Series matchup. The Braves took the first two games of the series before the Expos fought back to win the series.

The Expos then were eliminated in six games in the NL Championship Series to the 93-69 Atlanta Braves who would go on to win the World Series.

It is becoming a trend for the Expos to lose to either the Braves or Rays in the postseason and every year it gets more frustrating.

Next, I'll recap the Expos' season...

[Jwalk100]

First off I gotta say that these spread sheets are great!

The only problem is that a couple of values are not included from the download.

Under Bat Average and STD DEV I79 and I80. Also Pitch Average and STD DEV I83 and 84.

Am i missing something?

Thanks and again,

Great job!