DELMARVA Baseball League

[illeracula]

The latest news from the Milford Clippers clubhouse is this: starting pitcher Mariano Salazar is expected to be out of action for another 12-13 months. He has a torn flexor tendon in his elbow, sustained on 10/02/2021. Salazar expressed a bit of relief. "At least now I know," he said.

In 32 starts this year Salazar has fashioned a 10-8 record and a 3.56 ERA.

--
Guess I should of waited a day to do the write up, as Salazar becomes the third Clippers starter to be out for the playoffs. Taking his rotation slot in the playoffs is 25-year old Hector Santos. Santos primarily pitched in relief this season going 3-4 4.65 with 7 saves, in 65 games, 5 of which were starts.

This dream season continues clippers, even as the injuries mount up...

Injuries:
Jarred Perry: 6-0 2.60, 9 GS
Bill Little: .297-19-61
Mariano Salazar: 10-8 3.56, 32 GS
Alfred Roberts: 4-10 4.97, 21 GS
Eduardo Green: .267-33-98 (out for first round)
Fred Simmons: .444-0-3 (4-9, 4 games)
Tsuneo Sato: 5-5 4.73, 3 SV, 37 G, 11 GS

[illeracula]

Game 1:


The Cavaliers were informed that their closer, Dalton Whitaker, will not be available for game. He is out with the flu. He will be getting an IV and rest and hopefully be available for game 2.

Highlights:
Top 1:
The Barons didn't waste anytime getting a start on their Championship run, with a single by Davis, a stolen of second, a single by Martinez, which put runners on first and third and a 3-run blast into the 20 MPH wind by Francisco Durango, put the Barons on the board and in the drivers seat, after only 8 pitches.
Bottom 1:
A leadoff walk, was wasted as Janchez grounded into a DP.
Barons 3, Cavaliers 0

Top 2:
1-2-3 inning for Contreras
Bottom 2:
1-2-3 inning for Parker
Barons 3, Cavaliers 0

Top 3:
A lead off single by Martinez got the inning started, but a 5-4-3 DP ended it.
Bottom 3:
1-2-3 inning for Parker, Cavaliers are still hitless
Barons 3, Cavaliers 0

Top 4:
Contreras sets the Barons down in order.
Bottom 4:
Janchez reaches second with 1 out, on a 2-base error by 3B King, but is stranded there.
Barons 3, Cavaliers 0

Top 5:
Another 1-2-3 inning for Contreras. He has found his grove after a rough first three hitters.
Bottom 5:
Parker contines to roll, shutting the Cav's down 1-2-3. Cav's are still hitless.
Barons 3, Cavaliers 0

Top 6:
Martinez leadoff the inning with a singled, but is left strained on 2B.
Bottom 6:
Gallegos leads off with a single up the middle. Rodriguez follows a suit with a single to left. The crowd is starting to get back into the game. After a fly-out the runners move up on a balk. But are strained on 2nd and 3rd after a line-out and a K.
Barons 3, Cavaliers 0

Pitch Count:
Contreras: 74
Paker: 60

Top 7:
The Barons go down 1-2-3, striking out 2 times
Bottom 7:
Brock walks, Dooley reaches on an error. With 2 outs and runners on 1st and 2nd Gallegos grounds out ending the inning.
Barons 3, Cavaliers 0

Top 8:
Leadoff man Duke reaches second on an error by Javier Janchez. Janchez committed just one error in 215 total chances in CF during the regular season, posting a .995 FPct. Martinez singles to right with one out, scoring Duke. After a double by Durango scored Martinez Julio Saldana comes into pitch replacing Miguel Contreras. Saldana gives up a single to Kawamura, scoring Durango before getting out of the inning.
Bottom 8:
Rodriguez singles, Lewis walks, Janchez singles, loading the bases with no outs. PH Granados strikes out. Brock grounds into the DP.
Barons 6, Cavaliers 0

The book is closed on Miguel Contreras: 7.1 IP, 7 H, 6 R, 4 ER, 1 BB, 6 K

Top 9:
Saldana and Rodriguez shut down the Barons 1-2-3
Bottom 9:
Parker shuts down the Cavaliers 1-2-3
Barons 6, Cavaliers 0

Barons lead the series 1-0

Player of the game goes to Vince Parker.
Parker: 9.0 IP, 4 H, 0 R, 3 BB, 4 K

Game Notes:
The Cavaliers had 4 hits on the day, 2 by Augusto Rodriguez.
Manuel Martinez went 4-4 with 2 R's and an RBI
Francisco Durango added 2 hits, a double and HR, scored twice and drove in 4
The Cavaliers left 7 men on, the Barons 2

GM Thoughts
That was an awful game, the team just showed no life for the first 5 innings. Parker is a good pitcher, but not that good. Game 2 is a must win, since we haven't played well on the road this year. Now we have to hope that Matt Hollis, who hasn't pitched as well in the 2nd half of this season has the pressure on him.

I will look at the lineup and I might have to make a change or two. Mauro Candelaria might be in the game at 2nd and maybe John Stewart or Ramon Granados might get in the game. I need something to spark this team. I don't want to lose to this Barons team again and so far its not looking good.

If I am down in game 4 I think Miguel Contreras is going to have to get the ball. I know that Vaughan Griffith pitched well this season, but he hasn't had any luck getting wins.

We have the pitching to win this series, but we must score runs....

--
Delaware Conference - Game 1
Jamie Trujilio stepped it up for the Clippers going 7 innings, allowing 2 runs on 6 hits to take the win in game 1. The Clippers used small ball to score 8 runs over two innings to beat the Braves. Julio Romero, Chuck Chapman and Raul Gutierrez each had 2 RBI's for the Clippers. The Clippers take game one in surprising fashion.

[illeracula]

Game 2 is a must win for us, since we didn't play nearly as well on the road as we have at home this season. With Matt Hollis on the hill I am feeling pretty good, even with his struggles (3-5 last 10 games) over the 2nd half of the season. On the hill for the Baron sis Jesus Mansanarez, who threw well versus us this season, hopefully we will be able to get to him early.

I made a couple of line-up changes for game 2. Denny Dooley is on the bench and Mauro Candelaria will play 2B. Candy will move into the #3 slot, moving the catcher slot down to the 8th hole, as Peter Alexenader will be doing the catching. Francisco Gallegos moved from the 8th slot to the 7th slot. Not sure how I feel about this game, starting to get nervous.



Highlights-
Top 1:
Hollis starts off nicely setting down the Barons 1-2-3.
Bottom 1:
Candelaria singles with 2-outs, but nothing more for the Cav's
Barons 0, Cavaliers 0

Top 2:
Taylor lead off the inning with a double, but was left stranded on 2B.
Bottom 2:
Anderson doubled down the left field line, but as with Taylor never go to leave 2B.
Barons 0, Cavaliers 0

Note: I let Galvez and Gallegos swing away, next time it might be wise for me to use some small ball. Espeically the way this team has struggled scoring against good pitching.

Top 3:
Hollis sets down the 8-9-1 hitters, 1-2-3.
Bottom 3:
A one-out single by Lewis is wasted. A hit-and-run groud out by Janchez moved him to second then Candy hit a long fly out, leaving him on 2B.
Barons 0, Cavaliers 0

Top 4:
Taylor and Martinez added 2-out singles, but that was all she wrote for the Barons.
Bottom 4:
The Cav's 4-5-6 hitters are put down 1-2-3.
Barons 0, Cavaliers 0

Top 5:
Hollis puts up another 1-2-3 inning
Bottom 5:
The 7-8-9 hitters are set down 1-2-3 and Mansanarez has set down the last 8 Cav's hitters.
Barons 0, Cavaliers 0

Top 6:
Davis lead off the inning with a single, Hall was walked on 4 pitches. Durango strokes a single to right-center, scoring Davis. Taylor hits into a DP. With a runner on 3rd and 2 outs red-hot Martinez grounds out to Hollis to end the inning.
Bottom 6:
With 2-outs Candy hits a 365ft shot down the left-field line to tie the game. Mansanarez plunks Brock and Brock charged the mound and "threw a haymaker", both players have been ejected... Joseph Muller is the new pitcher, John Stewart runs for Brock... Stewart stole 2nd, but Anderson grounded out to end the inning.
Barons 1, Cavaliers 1

Note: We were lucky the Barons didn't score more in the top half of the inning, and the HR by Candy was huge. Makes me see I a made a mistake not playing him in Game 1... If Brock gets suspended for more than just this game I will be in trouble. Hopefully those fireworks will spark some energy and excitment in Norfolk.

Pitch Count Check: Hollis-79 pitches (20 Stamina)

Top 7:
A two out single by Jones is all the Barons get.
Bottom 7:
Galvez pops up to 2nd, but Collins drops the ball, allowing Galvez to stay on 1b... Granados is summend to PH for Gallegos... Granados layes down a perfect bunt, moving Galvez to 2nd... O'Donegan will PH for Alexander... O'Donegan is intentionally walked, bring up Rodriguez (.208 career postseason hitter, 149 AB's)... Rodriguez grounds into a 6-4 FC. Lewis walks to load the bases. Janchez grounds out to short ending a HUGE opportunity.
Barons 1, Cavaliers 1

Top 8:
With 2-outs Durango and Taylor single, but Martinez pops out to third to end the inning.
Bottom 8:
Candy walks to lead off the inning, moves to second an successful bunt by Stewart. Anderson grounds out to 2nd, Candy moves to third. Galvez grounds out 2nd.
Barons 1, Cavaliers 1

Pitch Count Check: Hollis-108 pitches

Top 9:
After striking out King, Hollis gives a double to Collins... Hollis is removed from the game and Dalton Whitaker is on the bump to pitch, hopefully he is over his flu... Sozen Kawamura PH's... Sozen rips a double, scoring Collins... Rafeal Rodriguez is now pitching to face the PH Duke and lead-off man Davis... Duke walks, Davis pops out... Dan Nelson comes into pitch... Nelson gets hall to ground out to 1st. The damage has been done.
Bottom 9:
John Heath, the Barons closer comes into to pitch... Granados strikes out. O'Donegan grounds to third... Denny Dooley PH's for Rodriguez... Dooley pops out to 2nd.
Barons 2, Cavaliers 1

Barons lead the series 2-0, taking the first two games on the road.

Player of the game goes to Matt Hollis
Hollis (L): 8.1 IP, 9 H, 2 R, 1 BB, 5 K

Game Notes:
King Brock and Jesus Mansanarez were both ejected after Mansanarez hit Brock after giving up a HR to Mauro Candelaria.
The Cavaliers left 7 men straineded, the Barons 9.
Mike Taylor had 3 hits and Francisco Durango had 2 to lead the Barons.
The Cavaliers only had 4 hits! Two by Mauro Candelaria.
Josephy Miller took home the win for the Barons, going 2.1 Innings of no-hit releif. He allowed 3 walks.

GM Thoughts:
At least we scored. That should be something we can build on for game 3 in Baltimore. Takayuki will be on the Hill and he has been red hot of late. Hopefully he can continue throwing the ball as he has.

Four hits? I can only shake my head. I know we are a better team than this, the Barons staff isn't this good, but wow do they own us. They did the same thing to us last year in the playoffs. I am not sure what I can do.

I feel like we have our nemisis and next year I should blow up this team and target beating the Barons... I know I need to sit back, our team is young and next year we will be better...

If it sounds like I have given up on this series its because I am very close to. 1 run in the last 18 innings? Contreras and Hollis counld't of done much more. The offense needs to buck up and start hitting the damn ball.

Maybe I left Hollis in the game one hitter too long. I had the righty and the lefty ready in the pen, but I figured the way Hollis has been pitching it should be his game. I am losing faith with Whitaker this season that is for sure. Hopefully he will be back to his good ole self next season. Carter, Saldana and Nelson are going to be my go to relievers for the rest of the series.

Delaware Conference - Game 2
The Clippers beat up on the Braves yet again. The Braves have one of the better staffs in the game and the Clippers are beat up, yet they continue to surprise. Julio Romero lead the way with a 3-4 day including a HR and a double, and Chad Campbell added 2 hits, including a double, and 2 runs and 2 RBI's. The Clippers offense exploded for 13 hits, including 5 for extra bases. Jose Matos showed why he is a perennial Golden Arm candidate going 8 innings, allowing 5 hits, 1 run and striking out 8.

The series now heads to Lewes where the Braves will try to get back on track.

Milford Clippers are up 2-0 against the Lewes Braves

[illeracula]

The Cavaliers will be going up against 25 year old Bob McCord in game 3. McCord missed about 4 months this season with ulnar nerve irritation, but came back with vengeance, going 5-1 in 10 starts posting a 3.69 ERA.

McCord is fastball pitcher with low/mid-90's heat, good stamina (15), and uses his curveball effectively and will throw the occasional change-up.

He is a 3* pitcher, with decent stuff (10/11), above average movement (13/13) and great control (16/16).

Predicted Line-up for Game 3:
Line-up with career post-season batting average in parenthesis.

RF Jeff Lewis (.286-3-21, 199 AB's)
CF Javier Janchez (.295-3-9, 78 AB's)
2B Mauro Candelaria (.297-1-10, 111 AB's)
DH King Brock (.281-4-18, 135 AB's)
3B Tom Anderson (.125-0-0, 8 AB's, first post-season experience)
1B Sergio Galvez (.224-2-5, 49 AB's)
RF Ramon Granados (0-2, 2 K's, first post-season experience)
C John O'Donegan (.105-0-2, 9 AB's)
SS Augusto Rodriquez (.207-2-14, 150 AB's)

I have decided not to start Francisco Gallegos (.100-0-0, 10 AB's) who has struggled hits post season, and last. He will be a nice asset off the bench, since he is a switch hitter.

This lineup will have 3 lefties, Janchez, Brock and Galvez, with Galvez playing 1B. I felt like I should move Janchez out of the #2 hole, but I am more comfortable with him in the #2 slot than Galvez and I want a lefty there. Lewis is rated as "hot" and Brock as "cold". Not a good sign...

I am not sure who will be on the hill for me in Game 3. Takayuki Iemochi is scheduled, but he didn't fair well during his one start against the Barons this season (5.1 IP, 6 H, 4 ER, 5 BB, 3 K) or his playoff start against them last (5.0 IP, 6 H, 4 R). This is going to be a tough call, as Iemochi finished the season red-hot winning 17 games in his last 25 starts. One thing I like about Iemochi is he gets grounders (62%) and has a lot of stamina (20). He is a 3-pitch pitcher (all rated 13-15), who throws in the low 90's. He is only 89% ready for this start, so it might be wise to save him for game 4.

My other options is Vaughan Griffith. Vaughan had a good year, even though his record didn't show it (2-9 3.35) he just didn't get much run support (2.08). With Vaughan I do have some concerns, he gives up a lot of fly balls (48%), with about 10% of the hits he gave up this year ending up on the wrong side of the fence (81/10). He has decent stamina (12), great stuff (15/15), solid control (13/15), but lacks with his movement (8/8), which is concerning. He started 2 times in 2018 for the Cav's in the post season and went 1-0 4.63, and pitched 2 shut-out innings against the Barons in relief last year. During the regular season Vaughan didn't start against the Barons, but he appeared in one game allowing 1 hit in 1.2 innings of work.

I have a decision ahead of me.

Factors:
Lefty vs Right? Barons hit lefties better this year. (advantage Griffith)
Season stats? (advantage Iemochi)
Season stats against opponent (not enough data for Griffith, but Iemochi struggled)
Past playoff performance (slight advantage Griffith)
Current Rest (slight Advantage Griffith)

All signs are telling me to start Griffith. Can he handle the pressure? He really has done everything I have asked of him over the past 2 seasons. Maybe save Iemochi for Game 4, when he will be well rested.

But really in the end does it matter who I end up starting? Isn't really up to those 9 hitters to start scoring some runs? If we only score 1 run, then it really won't matter who started...

The pressure is on in Norfolk.

[illeracula]

Game 3 is a do or die game for us. Being down 3-0 will be nearly impossible to come back from, especially with the way this offense is playing. I am going to make a couple of change sto the lineup and hopefully that will spark some runs. Mauro Candelaria is going to lead off and Jeff Lewis will be dropped to the #3 hole... and I have decided to start Vaughan Griffith. I am feeling a lot of pressure to win this game...



Hopefully we can get off to a hot start and put some pressure on the Barons. I will have Griffith on a short hook, however I have a lot of faith in him today. I am feeling good... even though looking at those averages against McCord aren't very pretty.

Game Highlights:
Top 1:
McCord made easy work of the Cav's, despite walking Lewis.
Bottom 1:
Griffith walked Durango, but other than that set the Barons down quietly.
Cavaliers 0, Barons 0

Top 2:
Galvez was plunked with 1 out. He stole second, but that would be as far as he'd get.
Bottom 2:
The Barons go down 1-2-3.
Cavaliers 0, Barons 0

Top 3:
The Cavaliers hit 3 groundballs and go down 1-2-3.
Bottom 3:
Griffith answers by setting the Barons down 1-2-3.
Cavaliers 0, Barons 0

Top 4:
McCord strikes out the side and the Heart of the Cav's lineup (Lewis, Brock, Anderson)
Bottom 4:
After retiring the first batter, Griffith gave up the first hit of the game to Durango. Taylor followed with another single up the middle. Kawamura walks to load the bases with one out. After getting out #2, Collins singled to left scoring Durango and Taylor. But that was all they could get.
Cavaliers 0, Barons 2

Top 5:
Galvez leads off with single up the middle, for the first Cav's hit. Granados bunts him over to second. O'Donegan strikes out and Rodriguez grounds out.
Bottom 5:
Griffith sets down the Barons 1-2-3.
Cavaliers 0, Barons 2

Top 6:
The Cav's go down 1-2-3.
Bottom 6:
Durango singles and steals second. Taylor grounds out and that is it for Vaughan Griffith, as Will Rose, a lefty comes in to face the next two lefties. And that didn't go over too good, as Kawamura doubles and Durango scores. King, another lefty, hits an 0-2 pitch 388 feet over the left-field wall... Julio Saldana enters the game. Saldana retires the next two hitters ending the damage.
Cavaliers 0, Barons 5

Note: We have no scored 1 run in 24-innings! Something will be done this off-season, because this is 100% unnacceptable. Assuming I still have a job.

Top 7:
The Cav's go down, Brock, Anderson, Galvez, 1-2-3.
Bottom 7:
Saldana shuts down the Barons 1-2-3
Cavaliers 0, Barons 5

Pitching Count: Bob McCord, 7 IP, 78 pitches.

Top 8:
Granados singles to lead things off. Moves to second with a one-out single by Rodriguez. Candelaria hits a rope to second, to end the inning, ona 4-6-3 DP.
Bottom 8:
After making 1 error all season in 215 TC's, Janchez drops his second fly ball of the series, a lead-off 2B error to Durango. Saldana puts them down 1-2-3, no damage done.
Cavaliers 0, Barons 5

Pitching Count: Bob McCord, 8 IP, 3 H, 88 pitches.

Top 9:
Janchez grounds out. Lewis singles to right. Brock ends the game on a 4-6-3 DP.
Cavaliers 0, Barons 5

Barons lead the series 3 to 0!!

Player of the game is Bob McCord.
Complete Game Shut-out, allowing just 4 hits, one walk and striking out 5. Game score 83.

McCord Baffles Norfolk: Bob McCord made quick work of Norfolk, blanking the Cavaliers 5-0 at Barons Ballpark today. The Baltimore pitcher limited them to 4 hits to earn the victory. McCord fanned 5 and walked 1.

Thus far this season McCord has posted a 5-1 record, started 10 games, struck out 37 batters in 63.1 innings and compiled a 3.69 ERA.

Game Notes:
Griffith (0-1) pitched well, allowing 4 hits, 2 walks and 3 runs over 5.1 IP. He has had no run support all season.
Will Rose threw 6 pitches and gave up 2 hits and 2 runs, including the 2-run HR dagger.
Wes King got his first hit of the series a 2-run HR on the lefty vs lefty match up.
Francisco Durango continued to rake, going 2-3 with 2 runs. He is hitting .545 for the series.
The Cavaliers have scored 1 run off of the Barons in 27 innings! After averaging over 5 runs per game during the regular season.
Julio Saldana went 2.2 innings in relief, allowing no hits and striking out 3.

GM Thoughts:
Two CG Shut-outs against us in 3 games, that is really sad. I wonder if the owner Bill Parker will want me around next year after this embarrassment. I do know if I am around a lot will be changing, we need an impact bat. A Roberto Perez or Francisco Reyes type, a bat that can change the game and will be an MVP candidate every year. I will have to give up someone big or a few, but I am desperate here... maybe its just my frustration talking... I don't know.

I have nothing else to say right now. We are frustrated, i am frustrated and I am pretty sure what comes out of my mouth won't be helpful to our chances in game 4. I just want to win at least one of these games...

Delaware Conference - Game 3
The Lewes Braves are back home had to win the game or go down 3 games to 0. SP Robert Walker brought his A-game and dominated the bats of the Clippers allowing just 2 hits and 1 run over 8 innings. Which was all he needed after a 2-run 3rd-inning HR by Totoya Ogawa gave them the lead 2-0. The Braves slugged out 10 hits on the day, as their offensive is starting to wake up.

Clippers lead the series 2 games to 1.

[illeracula]

Well I am not sure what to say or do at this point. Takayuki will be on the hill and he will have a short leash. I thought about starting Contrears, but I'd rather go at it with a pitcher who is 100%. Plus the way Takayuki pitched this season he deserves the chance. If someone we can pull off a win, we will have a full rested Contreras and Hollis for 5 and 6. Can't beat that...

What can I do with this offense? 3 games, 1 run, a solo-HR, and only 12 hits. This offense is lacking leadership. I thought Lewis and Brock would bring some, but I was wrong.

Hopefully we will pick away next game use our speed and score some runs. My fingers are crossed. I want a win, I don't want to be swept. Losing sucks, and getting shut-out is even worse than that. Its time these guys buck-up and come out firing.

The players who show me they have heart and desire will better off for next season. Deals will be made...

Here is a look at our offensive futility through the first 3 games.

[illeracula]

I made some changes to this lineup, yet again. I am going to go with Alexander, Gallegos and Stewart and depending on how the game goes everyone will see some playing time. I want a win. I am going to break out the best strategy to get runs across the plate. Vincent Parker shut us out 4 days ago on 107 pitches and he has the ball again. Time to show him what Cavaliers basesball is all about!!!!



We got 4 hits off of Parker in Game 1, I am sure we can get more this game. I have a feeling...

Highlights:
Top 1:
Parker continues where he left off... 1-2-3.
Bottom 1:
Iemochi matches Parker with a 1-2-3 inning of his own.
Cavaliers 0, Barons 0

Top 2:
Cav's go down 1-2-3. Seems like a common theme for this series.
Bottom 2:
A one out single by Martinez, was the first hit of the game. After a stolen base and a ground out. Martinez was on 3B. Collins walked, putting runners on the corners. Jones singles to left scoring Martinez. Before Iemochi could get out of it.
Cavaliers 0, Barons 1

Top 3:
Guess what?? Yep 1-2-3.
Bottom 3:
A one-out single by Hall go the inning rolling. But Iemochi said nope. And struck out the next two hitters.
Cavaliers 0, Barons 1

Top 4:
Parker is perfect through 4, another 1-2-3
Bottom 4:
A walk to Martinez was erased by a double play. But Collins walked with 2 outs. Jones singles him to thrid. Gallegos diving stops, keeps the game at 1-0.
Cavaliers 0, Barons 1

Top 5:
With one-out Galvez gets plunked for the 2nd time in the series. But the Cav's remained hitless.
Bottom 5:
Davis starts the inning with a walk. Durango walks with one out putting runnres on 1st and 2nd... Dan Nelson enters the game... Taylor singles to left, scoring Davis. Martinez hits into a 4-6-3 inning ender.
Cavaliers 0, Barons 2

Top 6:
1-2-3 yet again.
Bottom 6:
Collins singles to right with one out. 6-4 FC, puts Jones on first. That was all the Barons could get.
Cavaliers 0, Barons 2

Top 7:
Brock finally gets the Cav's on the board with a lead-off 354ft shot down the RF line. Candelaria follows with a double. Gallegos moves Candy up with a ground-out. Galvez bloops a single to left, Candy scores. Anderson is out on a weak grounder, Galvez to second... Eugene Carpenter in to pitch, Janchez into hit... Janchez sinlges up the middle, Galvez to third... ex-Baron, Denny Dooley comes in to PH... Dooley reaches on an IF single, Galvez scores. Rodriguez grounds out ending the inning.
Bottom 7:
Hall singles with one-out... Gabriel Santos will come into pitch... Durango greets Santos with a 354 blast over the left-field wall, scoring 2. Taylor singles... Santos is done, Rodriguez comes into pitch... After retiring the first batter he faced. Rodriguez walks King and Collins... In comes Derek Carter... Sozen Kawamura will PH... Kawamura walks, plating Taylor. The damge is done, the inning is over.
Cavaliers 3, Barons 5

Top 8:
Lewis walks to get the inning started... Will Wilson comes into to pitch for the Barons... Brock singles up the middle, Lewis to second... Joseph Mueller enters the game... Ramon Granados PH's for Candy... Granados lays down the perfect sac, moving the runnres up to 2nd and 3rd. Gallegos weakly grounds out... Maximino Jardin comes into the face Galvez... Galvez flies out to left ending the threat.
Bottom 8:
Will Rose comes into to face Davis... Rose gives up a 3B to Davis, and leaves the game, his last game in a Cavaliers uniform... Dalton Whitaker is on the bump... Durango singles with one out scoring Davis. Whitaker strikes out Taylor, O'Donegan guns down Durango stealing.
Cavaliers 3, Barons 6

Top 9:
Closer John Heath enters the game for the Barons... Anderson K's... Joe Chambers came into play D last inning, was the last player on the Cavaliers bench gets his AB... Chambers K's... O'Donegan pops out to first. Game. Set. Match.
Cavaliers 3, Barons 6

The Barons win the Series 4 games to ZERO.

Player of the Game goes to Francisco Durango.
Durango hit the game winning HR, and finished the day 2-4, with a run and 3 RBI's.

Series MVP: Francisco Durango: .533-2-8

Game Notes:
The Cavaliers had 6 hits, 2 by King Brock who finally broke out of his series long slump.
The Cavaliers used 7 different pitchers.
All of the Cavaliers position players got at least one plate appearance.
The Barons had 4 players with 2 hits.
Vince Parker took the no decision going 6.2 IP, 3 H, 3 R, striking out 2.

GM Notes:
We showed some heart this game, we fought back and we looked good. However we just didn't have enough. My guys made me proud, but as you can see we still have some weak spots.

Getting swept hurts our ego and we will look at our team this off-season and make a plan for 2022. Right now I am just going sit back and enjoy the rest of the season before I decide my plans for next season.

I am not ready to comment any changes that will be made at this point, but know this, the Cavaliers will be geared and ready to take home the Championship next season... and I hope that owner Bill Parker decides to keep me around. We can win this thing...

The last two years have been very frustrating and I was ready to walk away from the Cavaliers at the end of the season, but I really don't feel like i can, after this...

Delaware Conference - Game 4
The Clippers bounced back from the game 3 loss and pounded out 16 hits to take game 4 and the series lead. Chad Campbell had the game of the playoffs going 4-6 with 4 RBI's and 2 runs, with a double. Colin Thompson and Felix Jimeniz each had 3 hits, with Colin socring 3 times and Felix scoring 2 times and driving in 2. The Clippers are now one step closer to their first Championship Series.

Clippers lead the Series 3-1

[illeracula]

Delaware Conference - Game 5
The Clippers started the game off with a 2 in the first thanks to a 2-run shot by Julio Romero, and that was all Jamie Truilio needed to take home his 2nd win and the series clincher. Truilio went 8 innings, allowing 5 hits and 1 run, walking 1 and striking out 5. But the big star for the Clippers was their catcher Julio Romero. Romero continued his hot hitting with a game to remember, going 2-2, with 2 runs and 3 RBI's, hitting 2 HR's and being walked 2 times. The Braves just didn't have an answer.

The Clippers win the series 4 games to 1.

Series MVP: Julio Romero: 9-18 3 HR's, 9 RBI's

The Clippers will move on to face the Baltimore Barons. There will be a first time Champion this year in the DelMarVa Baseball League.

[illeracula]

The Magical season for the Clippers comes to an end with a title under their belt, after beating the Barons in a thrilling 7 game series.

Game 1:
With Jose Matos of the Clippers dominiated throwing a complete game, allowing just 2 runs on 7 hits and 1 walke, while striking out 2.
Eduardo Green, missing from round 1, enjoyed a 4-4 day with 2 runs and 2 RBI's, thanks to a HR and a 2B.
Kent Davis went 4-4 for the Barons collecing 4 of the 7 Barons hits.
Milford 7, Baltimore 1 - Clippers lead series 1-0

Game 2:
Vincent Parker continued his hot October, going 8 innings and allowing 3 runs on 4 hits while striking out 9.
Ed Duke delivered a big 3-run double in the 6th, giving the Barons their 6-3 lead.
Eugene Green went deep again for the Clippers, going 1-4 with 2 RBI's
Baltimore 6, Milford 3 - Series Tied 1-1

Game 3:
Jamie Trulilio treated the home crowd to 8 innings of shut-out ball, allowing 5 hits and 5 walks, while striking out 4.
Jose Alfonso the closer for the Clippers was touched up for 5 hits and 2 runs in the top of the 9th, before giving way to Larry Everhart for the save.
Manuel Martinez went 2-4 with a HR and a 2B for the Barons.
Pepe Martinez lead the way for the Clippers with 3 hits, including a HR.
Milford 3, Baltimore 2 - Clippers lead the series 2-1

Game 4:
Both starters Michael Burns (4 runs, 5.0 IP) and Hector Santos (6 runs, 4.2 IP) got roughed up.
Its was Burns first post-season appearance.
The Barons had 9 hits, only one for XB.
Barons Wes King went 1-3 with 3 RBI's
Barons Manuel Martinez stayed hot going 2-3 with a run and 2 RBI.
Euguene Green hit HR #3 for the Clippers, going 1-4 with 2 RBI's
Baltimore 6, Milford 4 - Series tied at 2

Game 5:
The Barons exploded for 15 hits and 12 runs.
Jose Matos dominited in game 1, but got roughed up in game 3, allowing 5 runs on 7 hits.
Vince Parker won again, going 6 IP, allowing 1 run on 5 hits and 1 walk, striking out 5.
Ed Duke was the offense star for the Barons going 3-5 with HR and 4 RBI's.
Kent Davis added 3 more hits.
Pepe Martinez was the lone bright spot for the Clippers offense, collecting 3 hits, all doubles.
Baltimore 12, Milford 1 - Barons lead 3-2

Game 6:
The Barons were 6 outs away from their first Championship before the Clippers exploded for a 6 run 8th, taking a 6-2 lead. The Barons scored 3 in the bottom of the 8th, but that was all they could get.
Julio Romero hit a PH 2-run HR.
Eduardo Green went 2-4 with a double
Javier Trevino and Jose Escamilla each had 2 hits for the Clippers.
Francisco Durango went 4-4 with 3 runs for the Barons.
Mike Taylor added 3 hits for the Barons.
Milford 6, Baltimore 5 - Series tied at 3

Game 7:
It all came down to game 7 and Jamie Trujilo brought it. Trujilio went 7.1 innings, allowing just 2 hits, 4 walks and striking out 4.
Michael Burns gave up 5 runs on 8 hits and 3 walks in 3.2 innings.
Jesus Nunez went 2-4 with a HR and 3 RBI's
Chad Campbell went 2-3, with 2 walks and 3 runs.
Jermey Jones and Sozen Kawamaura both singled for the only Barons hits.
Milford 5, Batlimore 0 - Milford wins the SERIES!!

Series MVP: Jamie Trujilio: 2-0, 2 GS, 15.1 IP, 7 H, 9 BB, 8 K, 0 Runs
Honorable Mention: Eduardo Green: .379-3-7
Honorable Mention: Vincent Parker: 2-0, 2 GS, 14.0 IP, 9 H, 4 BB, 14 K's, 2.57 ERA

Congratulations to the Milford Clippers and their 2021 Championship, a Franchise first.

[illeracula]

After the Season News:
Jarred Perry is having issues during his rehab, and it looks like he will not be able to pick up a baseball for 3 more weeks. The Clippers expect Perry to be healthy for next season. Perry was 6-0 in 9 games before his injury this year and is 119-66 3.02 in 255 career games. It will be interesting to see how Perry bounces back from this injury.

Firings:
GM Adriao Lcarrillo fired by Georgetown, after 3 unsuccessful seasons.
GM Andrew Copeland fired by Seaford, after one season. He won the innagural Champtionship with the Senators in 2013
MGR Jorge Gonzalez was let go by the Wilmington Iron Pigs, after 2 seasons.
MGR Juan Aguiliar was fired by the Christiania Blue Hens. Aguilar was 246-414 during his time in Christiana (4+ seasons)
MGR Guilherme Guardio was let go by the Blue Crabs. Guidario lead the Blue Crabs to 4 straight 4th place finishes.
MGR Admirals fire Francisco Otero after 2 years, and 2 3rd place finishes. Otero was the BC for the Admirals for the 3 years prior.
GM Jose Juarez was let go by the Washington Senators, after not being to get them out of 4th place in his 2 years.
MGR Jacob Waddell was let go by the Senators as well. Waddell was with the Senators for 2 years.
GM Pedro Vasquez was fired by the Richmond Cardinals, after 4 long years with the team.
MGR Billy Albright was also let go by the Cardinals. Albright was with the Cardinals for 2 seasons.
MGR Eduardo Diaz was let go by the Salisbury Ports after 5 years with the organization, 2 as BC adn 3 as MGR.

Cavaliers News:
Norfolk Cavaliers SP prospect Paul Brown won his 2nd straight AAA Golden Arm award. Brown went 18-3 2.77 with 296 K's in 195 innings. Brown will be in the rotation next year, at least all signs are pointing that way.

Tom Dundee, a out-field prospect, walked away with the AAA Silver Slugger award. Dundee wasn't on the Cav's list of potential players, but after a .319-42-124 season he became noticed. Dundee may be the future RF for the Cav's.

Our AAA Organization Yokohama Baystarts walked away with their first title. Winning 99 game this season and then sweeping the Dublin Black Sox in the Conf championships and then beating the St. Johns Norse 4-1 in the Championship round.

Miguel Contreras vesting option kicks in. He will be in Cavaliers orange and yellow at least one more year.

The oft-injuried Mauro Candelaria executed his option, and will make $6,500,000 next year. A lot of money for a guy who has played one full season in 3 of the last 4 seasons.

Our new budget is $138,000,000, our current salary obligatins for 2022 are 98.5, so we should have some money to make this team better.

With one season remaining on his contract, we have decided not to fire Alastair Turcotte. He has been the manager since taking over in 2014.

Arbitration:
We have 9 players hitting arbitration this season.
Vaughan Griffith ($490,000 >> $2,400,000)
Dan Nelson ($490,000 >> $1,800,000)
Rafael Rodriquez ($900,000 >> $1,000,000)
Derek Carter ($2,500,000 >> $2,730,000)
John Phillips ($490,000 >> Not offered)
Denny Dooley ($490,000 >> $750,000)
Tom Anderson ($490,000 >> $6,325,000)
Joe Chambers ($490,000 >> $1,000,000)
Javier Janchez ($2,508,000 >> $4,200,000)

Free-Agency Eligible Players
Will Rose will - not offer
Julio Saldana - will offer

I will have some decisions to make trying to make this team better. Vaughan has earned his keep, but Tom Anderson making 6.3? Or Janchez at 4.2? Maybe some trade bait down the road, but I am not sure. This is going to be an interesting off-season to say the least. I need to make something happen with this team offensively, so I will need to look around and see what is out there.

I did a quick shop around of Matt Hollis and there were 2 players that came back that sparked my interest. Francisco Reyes, which we all know what he can do, and Will Riley, who could walk away with the MVP this season after a .355-40-122 campaign. He is a catcher, and very bad defensive catcher, and on a team in our division, makes me not very interested.

On a side note, looking at the Ellicott City Express, where Riley is I noticed that Yann Gosselin put up great numbers this season hitting .303-41-109. I am pretty shocked by that, but I am still going to stick to my guns and say I have a better all around player with Francisco Gallageos... or maybe I am having trouble admitting I made a mistake... 2022 will tell us for sure.

[illeracula]

Around the League:
Jesus Rivera of the Annapolis Admirals suffred a concussion in May and is still showing symptons. He will still not be able to do any baseball activites for another 2 weeks. The former Glove Wizard Award winner said he is taking a cautious approach to the injury and it doesn't want to rush it and end up missing even more time.

Abraham Thomas of the Annapolis Admirals is 36 yr's and just 3 seasons away from HR #500, but he is having issues bouncing back from a fractured thumb he suffered during the last week of the season. Thomas was told not to swing the bat for another month. A free-agent at the end of the season Thomas is anxious to prove that he is healthy and will be able to help his next employer.

The Chesapeake Blue Crabs and the New Castle Colonials made a deal, swapping short-stops. The Blue Crabs get Wiley Brown, a possible Newcomer of the Year winner, and the Colonials receive Peter Martin and prospect (#227) Armando Garcia. This markes the third team to have Wiley Brown on them during the 2021 year.

The Washington Senators and the Lewes Braves pulled off a deal that will save the Senators $5 M this season. Don White will head over to the Lewes Braves for Bill Fox, who is expected to file for free-agency this year, and prospect (#192) Kajetan Levorato.

Norfolk Cavaliers News:
Eduardo Diaz has signed a 2-year deal to be the manager of our AA team the New Oreleans Pelicans. Diaz was the manager for the Salisbury Ports the past 3 years.

Billy Lee Signed on to manager the Jacksonville Tritons our single-A club and will be on for 3 years. Lee has no coaching experience, but he did appear in a Cavaliers uniform back in 2014 and 2015. We are glad to have him back in our organization.

26-year old Tom Anderson agreed to a 5-year extension keeping him in Norfolk and a decent price. Anderson hit .294-14-62 this season and played solid defense at 3B (.964 FPct / +9.5 ZR), and will be the 3B for the next few years to come. Anderson will make $3 M, $5 M, $7 M, $9 M and an option year for $10 M. We are glad to have him around and hopefully he will be able to repeat those numbers as he starts to come into his own.

[illeracula]

Delaware Conference Names Top Gloves: It's been said that the best offense is a good defense. That's why contending teams are always looking to improve on the defensive side of the game. Keeping runs from scoring is just as good as driving them in. The top fielders have been chosen in the Delaware Conference for 2021. Here are the Glove Wizard Award winners:

Pitcher: Jorge Padilla (Seaford Blue Jays)
Catcher: Julian Wells (Wilmington Iron Pigs)
First Baseman: Donald Kane (Georgetown Sixteens)
Second Baseman: Michael Porter (Newark Millers)
Third Baseman: Javier López (Newark Millers)
Shortstop: Errol Williams (Newark Millers)
Left Fielder: Pablo Freitas (Georgetown Sixteens)
Center Fielder: Byung-hyun Chong (Christiana Blue Hens)
Right Fielder: Peter Peters (New Castle Colonials)

MVConf Glove Wizard Award Winners Announced: "Ball hawk" is a good name for the members of the defensive elite, the players who make leather shine. The fielders who crashed the wall, leaped in the air, and dived in the hole better than any others during 2021 have been tabbed as the MarVa Conference's Glove Wizard Award winners. Here are this year's best:

Pitcher: James McLaughlin (Ocean City Tourists)
Catcher: Richard Taylor (Ocean City Tourists)
First Baseman: Enzo Allard (Washington Senators)
Second Baseman: Justin Collins (Baltimore Barons)
Third Baseman: Mike Taylor (Baltimore Barons)
Shortstop: Gary Boyd (Baltimore Barons)
Left Fielder: Mike Simmons (Chesapeake Blue Crabs)
Center Fielder: Kent Davis (Baltimore Barons)
Right Fielder: Wayne Weaver (Virginia Beach Surf Dawgs)

Here is a look at the previous winners

[illeracula]

Brown Awarded DEConf Rookie Trophy: Wiley Brown put together some impressive numbers for New Castle to garner enough votes for the Delaware Conference Newcomer Award.

The Colonials shortstop took the honor by hitting .253 in 149 games this season and finishing with 124 hits, 8 home runs, 50 RBIs and 67 runs scored.

MVConf Announces Newcomer Award: It was a standout 2021 season for Augusto Silva. The center fielder for the Ocean City Tourists has been named the winner of the MarVa Conference Newcomer Award.

He hit .285 in 136 games with 156 hits and 104 RBIs and scored 104 runs.

[illeracula]

DEConf Top Skipper is González of Milford: Milford Clippers field manager Jesús González has brought a winning attitude to the team and the city. His no-nonsense approach, work ethic and baseball experience has paved the way for success.

This season the Clippers parlayed his managerial skills and some talented ballplayers into a first place spot in the Delaware Conference Northern Division standings. Milford finished the year with a 95-67 record.

To everybody's delight González was voted the 2021 Delaware Conference Manager of the Year by the baseball writers.

"Mr. González doesn't take any stuff. If you aren't doing your job, he's not afraid to call you on it," noted one of his ballplayers. "But the team wouldn't want to play for anyone else. He's tough, demanding, but he treats everyone fairly and doesn't play favorites. Nobody gets pampered on his ballclub."

MarVa Conference Names Top Skipper: The Norfolk Cavaliers called a press conference to announce that field manager Alastair Turcotte had been named MarVa Conference Manager of the Year earlier in the day. Staffers congratulated the 53-year-old baseball guru as he approached the podium.

"This city has allowed me to craft a winning ball club," said Turcotte. "When you take on a new job, there's always some adjustment period, but everyone here has been cooperative. From the bat boys on up. Here's to many more successful seasons for the Norfolk Cavaliers!"

Turcotte led Norfolk to a 104-58 record this year and a first place finish in the MarVa Conference Western Division.

[illeracula]

García Takes Home DEConf Golden Arm Award: In the twilight of his career, Tony García has no intention of going anywhere anytime soon. The 35-year-old Generals starter hoisted up the Delaware Conference Golden Arm Award earlier today, silencing critics who thought it was time for the "old man" to retire.

García crafted an ERA of 3.77 as he won 21 games, dropped 5, fanned 164 and gave up 58 walks in 226.2 innings of work.

Norfolk Ace Cops MVConf Golden Arm Award: Cavaliers ace Miguel Contreras is the latest MarVa Conference Golden Arm Award trophy winner. The Norfolk star shined on the diamond time and again this year and finished with an outstanding 21-9 record.

In 31 starts he tossed 229.1 innings, posted 236 strikeouts and sported a 1.92 ERA. Opposing batters hit .193 when Contreras was pitching.

[illeracula]

Standout Season For Peters, Wins DEConf Silver Slugger Award: Peter Peters has been around DELMARVA Baseball League enough to know a good hot streak when he sees one -- and he got to see one firsthand all year. For his standout run through the 2021 season, he's taking home the Silver Slugger Award in the Delaware Conference.

The New Castle right fielder put up a batting average of .318 with 44 doubles, 4 triples, 42 home runs and 117 RBIs.

MVConfs's #1 Hitter for 2021 Named: Ellicott City's Will Riley put the wraps on a fine campaign today by winning the 2021 MarVa Conference Silver Slugger Award.

The 26-year-old veteran scorched the opposition with a .355 average, picking up 189 hits, 31 doubles, 2 triples, 40 home runs and 122 RBIs, while scoring 112 runs.

[illeracula]

Peter Peters won his 5th Silver Slugger and Miguel Contrears won his 5th Golden Arm Award... here is a look at all the other past winners.

[illeracula]

League News:
Trades:
The Georgetown Sixteens looking for some offense pulled off a deal with the Ellicott city Express. The Sixteens sent two prospects to the Express, including Jesus Rodriquez the #42 prospect in the game, to get back Adrian Smith. Smith hit .263 with 18 HR's last year.

The Express weren't done there, as they shipped off their back-up catcher Michael Shoemaker (.167, in 6 AB's) and single-A player Doug Sackett, to the Christiana Blue Hens for 27-yr-old SP Johnny Jones. Jones went 8-17 6.24 for the last place Surf Dawgs last season.

The Milton Brewers acquired MR Rob Evans and $760,000 from the Iron Pigs for 2 minor leaguers, including #157 prospect SP Gilbert Porter.

Random News:
Skinner Convicted, Career and Life Suspended: After a short trial, enormous amounts of evidence showed that Sam Skinner indeed was a part of a scheme to defraud investors across the nation. Skinner's high powered lawyers were rendered powerless by the prosecution's case against their defendant. Skinner now faces 5 years in prison and an end to his career as a major league ball player. Through tears, he told the media, "I'll be back. I will appeal and I will win! The truth is on my side". That was the last thing he said before being corralled back by the deputies.

Free-Agency:
DBL News: Free Agents File: The stroke of midnight signaled the arrival of the often wild and unpredictable free agent filing period. Most general managers across the DBL already have an iron or two in the fire. The players, too, are well-prepared for negotiations. The only participant to get a true head start was the rumor mill, which has been steadily building up heat over the past several weeks. General managers have the whole offseason to work the free agent market, but the big explosion will probably come quickly as some of these hot properties hit the market today:

1. Jorge Padilla, 37 year-old starting pitcher
2. Francisco Durango, 38 year-old left fielder
3. Vince Moy, 35 year-old catcher
4. Tony García, 35 year-old starting pitcher
5. Errol Williams, 29 year-old shortstop
6. Abraham Thomas, 36 year-old third baseman
7. Julián Codne, 32 year-old starting pitcher
8. Keith White, 40 year-old starting pitcher
9. Carlos Mateo, 33 year-old starting pitcher
10. Stan Miller, 37 year-old center fielder

International Free Agents Enter Market: League officials have been informed that the following international free agents have indicated interested in playing in the DELMARVA Baseball League next season, and are now visible in the free agents list:

P Noboru Yama****a out of Japan
C Weon-chun Song out of South Korea
P Manabu Sato out of Japan
P António Cortés out of Cuba
SS César Silva out of Cuba
P Yong-ho Ch'oe out of South Korea
CF Isamu Kamida out of Japan
P Yoo-hyun Kim out of South Korea
RF Seung-heui Ch'oe out of South Korea

Cavaliers News:
Arbitration news (our offer in parens):
Derek Carter lost $3,250,000 ($2,730,000)
Joe Chambers lost $1,006,950 ($1,000,000)
Denny Dooley won $750,000
Vaughan Griffith lost $2,496,000 ($2,400,000)
Rafael Rodriguez won $1,000,000
Javier Janchez lost $4,389,000 ($4,200,000)
Dan Nelson won $1,800,000

I am happy with our results, however I believe that Janchez is now overpaid for what he has to offer, which is a disappointment, because I like Janchez and was hoping he'd be around for while. I have a decision to make with him. This past season was his first playing over 100 games (144), hopefully he can beat that "fragile" injury rating.

More on Janchez later, he is a glove wizard caliber outfielder, and the best CF on the team.

Julio Sandana declined arbitration and has become a free agent. He looks to be trying to cash in a multi-year deal after a wonderful season in Norfolk (3-0 1.36, 14 G, 33.0 IP). He sat out all of 2020, when there was no interest in him, but maybe the career year will perk some buyers up. We wish him luck.

Will Rose has also become a free-agent, he wasn't offered a contract to return and I am fine with that. He had a disappointing 2021 season, just unable to bounce back from the injury 2.5 years ago.

[illeracula]

The Norfolk Cavaliers pulled off a deal with the Richmond Cardinals today, sending Domingo Cardoza to Richmond in return for Wally Lambert.

Domingo Cardoza, is the #34 prospect in baseball, and he spent most of 2021 in AAA going 15-1 4.21 for the Champion BayStars. Cardoza was called up in September and went 0-0 3.74 in 3 impressive starts with the Cavaliers.

Wally Lambert is a hitter something, the Cav's are in desperate need. Last year he split time between AAA and the Cardinals, while in Richmond Lambert hit .247-11-35. A 25-yr old with a high ceiling Lambert should fill in the RF slot for the Cavaliers in 2022.

Because the Cavaliers have a lot of pitching ready to hit the bigs, Cardoza was moved. He was the odd-man out, mainly becuase he only throws 2 quality pitches and I didn't need another MR. The bullpen is going to be tough again this season and that made Cardoza the odd man out.

However getting Lambert puts a lot of pressure on me and the staff to figure out what to do with our abundance of outfielders. Lambert plays RF and a little LF and has a great arm. He may not be as good as Lewis or Galvez, but his bat should make up for that.

Rating by Alexis Shelton: Contact 13/13, Gap Power: 14/14, HR Power: 14/14, Eye: 12/12, Avoid K's: 17/17

Current on our big league roster we have 7 out-fielders that could play everyday.
Sergio Galvez (L): .267-15-90, 30 SB, 129 games
Javier Janchez (L): .271-18-73, 32 SB, 144 games
Tom Dundee: .258-2-12, 27 games
John Stewart: .257-0-20, 16 SB, 79 games
Ramon Granados: .280-2-10, 11 SB, 90 games
Wally Lambert (L): .247-11-35, 82 games
Jeff Lewis: .319-19-86, 42 SB, 156 games

Defensive Ratings in parenthesis
LF:
Galvez (20), Janchez (20), Stewart (20), Granados (18), Lambert (11), Lewis (17)

CF:
Galvez (7), Janchez (19), Dundee (13), Stewart (13), Granados (10)

RF:
Galvez (16), Janchez (20), Dundee (20), Stewart (5), Granados (6), Lambert (15), Lewis (16)

1B:
Galvez (10), Janchez (3), Lambert (3), Lewis (7)

However the 1B job is Francisco Gallegos (.291-13-67, 160 games) to lose. And didn't I just trade Yann Gosselin to make room for Gallegos at 1B?

King Brock (.307-32-121) is locked in at the DH with 4 straight solid years. Last year was the only year of those four when he didn't drive in over 100. Brock does play some 1B (6), but he is built to DH. A pure hitter.

This means we have a huge log jam in the outfield and at 1B and I will have a tough decision or two ahead of me.

One thing I do want to keep in mind are the injury history of these players. They are all pretty healthy, except Janchez. Which means when planing around him I will have to keep that in mind.

Durable:
Gallegos, Galvez, Dundee, Lambert, Lewis

Normal:
Brock, Stewart, Granados

Fragile:
Janchez

Galvez slumped near the end of the season, but he is poised to be a superstar in this league... I think there will be a battle for 1B and CF this season in spring. I know I have mentioned it a few times, that Janchez should get moved, but I really don't think I can move him yet. I get attached to these guys and I still have faith he will amount to something.

Here are my thoughts, as spring training is still four months away things are subject to change.

1B: F Gallegos vs S Galvez
DH: K Brock
LF: J Lewis
CF: S Galvez vs J Janchez
RF: W Lambert

Then J Stewart, R Granados and Dundee fighting for the last 2 OF slots. Dundee and Stewart both have options left so I will be fine if I don't make any moves.

Having a lot of young pitching allowed me to pull off this deal and now I need to figure out if there is anything else out there that I will need. Overall with Anderson locked in at 3B, Rodriguez at SS and talent at 1B and the outfield it really leaves two slots that I could look to upgrade.

Second base right now is somewhat open, there are 5 candidates, but I might be able to make a move to beef up that slot.
1) Denny Dooley had a disappointing season
2) Mauro Candelaria "Mr Cav" is broken down and aging
3) Joe Chambers never amounted to the player I thought
4) Mario Reyes isn't a great defender and I still have questions about his bat
5) Bernado Velez is young, and he will be able the field the slot, but will he hit?

And Catcher. Right now the slot is John O'Donegan, and we have been pleased with him, but we are unsure he can keep producing the way he has. Other than John there are three candidates that will be in camp this year.
1) Peter Alexander is a back-up, an did well this year, which earned him some points in the Cav's organization. He is a switch hitter which is nice to have on the bench.
2) Alejandro Pena could probably use another a year in the minors and probably the best defensive catcher in the organization and power out of this world.
3) Marc Botlon the only lefty hitting catcher of the bunch, and his star isn't as bright as it once was. Still could be a serviceable catcher in this league, but a starter?

Still a long way to go before we hit camp. I will look at the free-agents and other possibilities, but my goal coming into this off season is to make our offensive better. We must be able to score runs to win games.

The trade for Wally Lambert was the first change, but it won't be the last...

[NYY #23]

Just getting caught up from the last few days, but tough luck on the sweep. It's always frustrating when nobody can hit at the same time.

Lambert looks like a good acquisition. Good luck this offseason in plugging those holes and getting another championship next year.