Looking to add another outfielder and potential leadoff hitter, San Francisco acquired Melky Cabrera from the Royals earlier today in exchange for starting pitcher Jonathan Sanchez.
Cabrera is coming off of a 2011 season that saw the 27-year old post career offensive numbers across the board. His .305 average, 18 home runs, 87 RBIs and 20 stolen bases were all career bests for Cabrera, who departs Kansas City after just one season.
Trading Sanchez is a strong indication that the Giants have faith in either Barry Zito or Eric Surkamp to win the fifth and final spot in the rotation in 2012.
After going 13-9 with a 3.06 ERA in 2011 for the world champion Giants, Sanchez posted a 4-7 record and a 4.26 ERA in 2011 for San Francisco before ending up on the disabled list for most of the second half.
With a no-hitter already on his resume, Sanchez undoubtedly has the tools to pitch well at the major league level but has battled control issues for most of his young career (5.9 BB per nine innings in 2011).
A change of scenery may be the best fit for Sanchez, as he goes to a rebuilding Kansas City team that is loaded with young talent and looking to contend down the road as their prospects develop.
Dealing Cabrera to the Giants was another step towards the future in Kansas City, opening up the center field job for top prospect Lorenzo Cain who will likely step in as the leadoff hitter for the Royals in 2012.
The Giants also sent minor league pitcher Ryan Verdugo to the Royals along with Sanchez to complete the deal, carving even deeper into what used to be a strength of the minor league organization.
Verdugo joins a long list of Giants pitching prospects who were traded in 2011 as San Francisco made an attempt to go for their second straight division title.
Young arms like Zack Wheeler, Henry Sosa and now Verdugo have all now been traded, transforming the Giants minor league pitching depth from one of the best in the league to one that has few top prospects remaining.
The worst part may be if the Giants are unable to sign free agent outfielder Carlos Beltran and/or infielder Jeff Keppinger, who were both acquired before the deadline for Wheeler and Sosa respectively.
Trading for Cabrera may be a hint that Beltran isn't in the Giants price range for 2012 and beyond, which would mean Wheeler was sent to the Mets for two months of Beltran's services if he does in fact sign with another team.
The acquisition of Cabrera also means that fellow center fielder Grady Sizemore may no longer be in the Giants plans as had been rumored, unless Cabrera is moved to a corner outfield position which isn't out of the realm of possibility.
Monday, November 7, 2011
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Giants Hot Stove: Free Agent Chatter
Don't expect San Francisco to pony up for one of the marquee free agents available this winter unless they are somehow able to restructure or reload the long-term money commitments to Barry Zito, Aubrey Huff and Aaron Rowand (who will be getting paid the remainder of his contract in 2012 despite no longer being on the roster). High-dollar candidates such as Albert Pujols, Prince Fielder and Jose Reyes will all seek $100+ million dollar contracts that will keep them under contract for years to come--numbers that are almost certainly out of general manager Brian Sabean's price range. Instead look for the Giants to go after short-term fixes at positions of need such as center field and shortstop while they await the arrival of highly regarded prospects like center fielder Gary Brown and shortstop Joe Panik. Here are a few free agents that could be on San Francisco's radar this off season.
(CF) Grady Sizemore
A former All-Star and gold-glove award winner, Sizemore has battled an array of injuries the past few seasons that have prevented him from repeating the success he had early in his career.
There is little doubt that Sizemore has the ability, but two consecutive years of sub-par play have greatly reduced his market value and was enough to convince Cleveland to let him walk.
Sizemore would be a great fit in San Francisco if healthy and doesn't come with the risk factor of making a mistake by committing to a long contract.
It's easy to forget after his recent struggles that Sizemore was once a player who hit more than 20 home runs and stole more than 20 bases for four consecutive seasons from 2005-2008.
Buster Olney of ESPN has reported that Sizemore wants a one-year contract that will allow him to re-establish his market value by having a good season for whatever team he lands with.
His price tag is at an all-time low and it may be the perfect time for the Giants to "buy low" this off season, while hoping to "sell high" if Sizemore does in fact return to form in 2012.
Signing Sizmore would also allow the Giants to give their top prospect Gary Brown more time in the minors, allowing him to be the starter in 2013 if all goes to plan.
(SS)Yuniesky Betancourt
The Brewers may be a dark horse candidate to jump in the Jose Reyes sweepstakes if first baseman Prince Fielder does in fact depart as a free agent.
The first sign of this was Milwaukee parting ways with Betancourt, who finished 2011 with 68 RBIs for the Brewers and drove in 78 the year before as a Kansas City Royal.
That kind of offensive production at shortstop isn't easy to find, but Betancourt won't get anywhere near the money of Reyes or Jimmy Rollins--two of the best free agent shortstops available in years.
If the Giants aren't certain Brandon Crawford is ready to take over every day at shortstop, Betancourt could be a great option for Sabean to sign to a short-term contract, while the Giants await Crawford's development as well as the arrival of this year's first round pick Joe Panik.
(OF) Jason Kubel
With the Twins looking to rebuild, several of their key contributors from the past few seasons will likely be moving on to make way for a wave of young players.
Kubel is one who is likely on his way out of Minnesota, playing in just 99 games last season as he battled injuries that kept his offensive production down.
Like Grady Sizemore, Kubel is a player who has had solid offensive seasons in the past, but will have a greatly reduced price tag this off season because of his age, injuries and recent performance.
In 2009, Kubel eclipsed the 100-RBI mark, driving in 103 while hitting 28 home runs for the Twins.
As recently as 2010, Kubel hit 21 homeruns and drove in 92--but his 58 RBIs in 2011 will likely mean he can be had for a reasonable free agent offer this offseason.
Kubel could compete with Nate Shierholtz and Cody Ross if Carlos Beltran does not return to the team, and would be a significantly more affordable target than attempting to re-sign Beltran who has injury questions himself.
(CF) Grady Sizemore
A former All-Star and gold-glove award winner, Sizemore has battled an array of injuries the past few seasons that have prevented him from repeating the success he had early in his career.
There is little doubt that Sizemore has the ability, but two consecutive years of sub-par play have greatly reduced his market value and was enough to convince Cleveland to let him walk.
Sizemore would be a great fit in San Francisco if healthy and doesn't come with the risk factor of making a mistake by committing to a long contract.
It's easy to forget after his recent struggles that Sizemore was once a player who hit more than 20 home runs and stole more than 20 bases for four consecutive seasons from 2005-2008.
Buster Olney of ESPN has reported that Sizemore wants a one-year contract that will allow him to re-establish his market value by having a good season for whatever team he lands with.
His price tag is at an all-time low and it may be the perfect time for the Giants to "buy low" this off season, while hoping to "sell high" if Sizemore does in fact return to form in 2012.
Signing Sizmore would also allow the Giants to give their top prospect Gary Brown more time in the minors, allowing him to be the starter in 2013 if all goes to plan.
(SS)Yuniesky Betancourt
The Brewers may be a dark horse candidate to jump in the Jose Reyes sweepstakes if first baseman Prince Fielder does in fact depart as a free agent.
The first sign of this was Milwaukee parting ways with Betancourt, who finished 2011 with 68 RBIs for the Brewers and drove in 78 the year before as a Kansas City Royal.
That kind of offensive production at shortstop isn't easy to find, but Betancourt won't get anywhere near the money of Reyes or Jimmy Rollins--two of the best free agent shortstops available in years.
If the Giants aren't certain Brandon Crawford is ready to take over every day at shortstop, Betancourt could be a great option for Sabean to sign to a short-term contract, while the Giants await Crawford's development as well as the arrival of this year's first round pick Joe Panik.
(OF) Jason Kubel
With the Twins looking to rebuild, several of their key contributors from the past few seasons will likely be moving on to make way for a wave of young players.
Kubel is one who is likely on his way out of Minnesota, playing in just 99 games last season as he battled injuries that kept his offensive production down.
Like Grady Sizemore, Kubel is a player who has had solid offensive seasons in the past, but will have a greatly reduced price tag this off season because of his age, injuries and recent performance.
In 2009, Kubel eclipsed the 100-RBI mark, driving in 103 while hitting 28 home runs for the Twins.
As recently as 2010, Kubel hit 21 homeruns and drove in 92--but his 58 RBIs in 2011 will likely mean he can be had for a reasonable free agent offer this offseason.
Kubel could compete with Nate Shierholtz and Cody Ross if Carlos Beltran does not return to the team, and would be a significantly more affordable target than attempting to re-sign Beltran who has injury questions himself.
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Top Offensive Prospects by Position: Giants 2011-2012 Organizational Rankings
Catchers: Position Strength (B+)
(Stats from 2011 season)
1. Hector Sanchez (C) *.285 AVG/12 HR/84 RBI in 365 minor league at-bats between San Jose (A) and Fresno (AAA)
*Earned a late-season call up to the majors, hitting .258 in 31 at-bats for San Francisco
2. Tommy Joseph (C)
*.270 AVG/22 HR/95 RBI in 514 minor league at-bats for San Jose (A), likely headed to AA in 2012
*Could be moved to first base to find room for his bat; Posey still wants be a catcher in the future
3. Johnny Monell (C)
*.249 AVG/10 HR/49 RBI in 386 minor league at-bats for Richmond (AA)
*Slugged 19 homeruns in 2010 for San Jose (A), could serve as the backup to Sanchez in Fresno.
4. Mike Murray (C)
*.326 AVG/6 HR/48 RBI in 242 minor league at-bats for Salem Kaiser (low A)
*Signed as an undrafted free agent from Wake Forest in 2010, Murray also hit .343 in 99 at-bats in 2010
5. Andrew Susac (C)
*Drafted by Giants in 2011 out of Oregon State University
*Grew up a San Francisco fan and models his game after Buster Posey
First Baseman: Position Strength (A-)
(Stats from 2011 season)
1. Brandon Belt (1B)
*.225 AVG/9 HR/18 RBI in 187 major league at bats for San Francisco; also sent down mid-season
*Hit .320 with eight homeruns and 36 RBI after being sent down by Giants, had 112 RBI in 2010 in (A)
2. Brett Pill (1B)
*.312 AVG/25 HR/107 RBI for Fresno (AAA)
*First player in the minor leagues to 100 RBI, called up in September to fill in for Huff
*Battling Belt and Huff for a spot on the 2012 Giants roster—has 20 HR/90 RBI potential
3. Wes Hodges (1B)
*.261 AVG/10 HR/50 RBI in 349 minor league at-bats for Richmond (AA)
*A former second round pick of the Indians in 2006; best season came in 2008 (18 HR/ 97 RBI)
4. Josh Mazzola (1B)
*.259 AVG/13 HR/50 RBI in 2011 for Augusta (Low A), injured for much of the 2010 season
*In 2009, hit .284 with 16 HR and 96 RBI in 2009; signed as an undrafted free agent
5. Ben Thomas (1B)
*.327 AVG/7 HR/46 RBI in 226 minor league at-bats between the Arizona Rookie league and Low A
*Finished 2011 with a slugging percentage of .504; lefthanded hitter listed at 240 lbs.
Second Baseman: Position Strength (C+)
(Stats from 2011 season)
*.270 AVG/12 HR/90 RBI in 508 minor league at-bats for San Jose (A)
*2010 was Cavan’s first year of pro ball, drafted by the Giants in the 16th round (UCSB)
2. Charlie Culberson (2B-IF)
*.259 AVG/10 HR/56 RBI in 553 minor league at-bats for Richmond (AA)
*Jumped on the radar after hitting 16 homeruns and knocking in more than 70 in 2010
3. Kaohi Downing (2B)
*.304 AVG/1 HR/19 RBI in 194 minor league at-bats between Salem Kaizer and Fresno
*Made unusual jump straight from low A Salem Kaizer to AAA Fresno in 2010
4. Carlos Willoughby (2B)
*.240 AVG/1 HR/40 RBI/33 SB in 483 minor league at-bats for Augusta (Low A)
*Speedy contact hitter has stolen more than 30 bases three times since being signed in 2007
5. Nick Noonan (2B-SS)
*.229 AVG/5 HR/45 RBI in 419 minor league at-bats between three levels
*Once a top prospect in the organization, Noonan has slipped offensively and may move to SS
Third Baseman: Position Strength (A)
(Stats from 2011 season)
*.266/18 HR/85 RBI in 553 minor league at-bats between San Jose (A) and Richmond (AA)
* Crushed 21 homeruns and knocked in 101 for Augusta in 2010; big, intimidating hitter
*Led nation in homeruns senior year at Louisville, may be a candidate to move to 1B
2. Adam Duvall (3B)
*.285 AVG/22 HR/87 RBI in 431 minor league at-bats for Augusta (low A)
*Also drafted out of Louisville, bounced back strong in 2011 after hitting .240 in 2010
3. Connor Gillaspie (3B-IF)
*.297 AVG/11 HR/61 RBI in 428 at-bats for Fresno (AAA)
*Has been called up several times with little success; may be trade bait with Pablo at third
4. Jose Cuevas (3B)
*.320/9 HR/47 RBI in 181 at-bats in the Arizona Rookie League (named MVP of the AZL)
*29th round draft pick in 2010, tore up AZL pitching in 2011 after hitting just .206 in 2010
5. Garrett Buechele (3B)
*.247 AVG/7 HR/32 RBI in 239 at-bats between AZL and Salem Kaizer (low A)
*Could start the season in San Jose (A) or remain at Salem Kaizer for more at-bats in 2012
Shortstops: Position Strength (B-)
(Stats from 2011 season)
*.341 AVG/6 HR/54 RBI in 270 minor league at-bats for Salem Kaizer (low A)
*Giants first round pick in 2011, named MVP of the North League after signing in June
2. Brandon Crawford (SS)
*.204 AVG/3 HR/21 RBI for San Francisco (MLB) in 196 at-bats
*Never hit above .300 for a full minor league season but showed flashes of offense in 2011
*Excellent glove at SS, may be called upon again to start in 2012 if Giants don’t sign another SS
3. Ehire Adrianza (SS)
*.273 AVG/6 HR/44 RBI in 373 minor league at-bats between Salem Kaizer and San Jose
*Slick fielding shortstop with major league ready glove; his bat remains the only question
Outfielders: Position Strength (A-)
(Stats from 2011 season)
*.336 AVG/14 HR/80 RBI/53 SB for San Jose (A)
*Giants first round pick in 2010 has 80-grade speed—53 stolen bases was just a teaser
*Could start season in Richmond or Fresno; potential call up if Andres Torres struggles
2. Francisco Peguero (OF)
*.312 AVG/7 HR/46 RBI in 353 at-bats between San Jose (A) and Richmond (AA)
*Hit .353 in 2009, .329 in 2010 and .312 in 2011, swiping 74 bags during that span
*Speed outfielder has stolen as many as 40 bases (2010) in the minors
Edgar Gonzalez (OF)
*.315/14 HR/82 RBI in 505 minor league at-bats for Fresno (AAA) in 2011
*At 33, Gonzalez has spent most of his career in the minors; another Torres for SF?
Jarrett Parker (OF)
*.253/13 HR/61 RBI/20 SB in 486 minor league at-bats for San Jose (A)
*Tall, lanky corner outfielder (6’4”) with smooth left handed swing and good speed
Ryan Lollis (OF)
*.303 AVG/2 HR/43 RBI in 356 minor league at-bats between three levels
*Hasn’t shown much power but has hit better than .280 the past three seasons
*Next Week: Giants Top Pitching Prospects
Friday, October 7, 2011
With San Francisco watching October from home in 2011, Aubrey Huff is just one of a number of Giants on the hot seat heading into 2012
Giants on the hot seat:
1B Aubrey Huff
One of the many heroes of the Giants postseason glory of 2011, Huff was both a lovable character on and off the field with his flair for the dramatic.
Fans of all teams tend to have short memories and operate under the "what have you done for me lately" mentality, one that has turned Huff from hero to potential castoff in less than a calendar year.
Huff will turn 35 in December and must prove he can beat out up and coming youngsters like Brandon Belt and Brett Pill in order to have a spot on the roster.
His age, coupled with the fact that he hit only 12 homeruns after hitting 26 in 2010, means Huff will be on a short leash to prove his worth.
Prediction:
Unless Huff has an eye-opening performance in spring training, Belt and Pill are both younger options with much brighter futures for the organization who could spell the end of Huff's tenure.
Bruce Bochy was comfortable using Pill in the middle of the order, watching the rookie collect a number of key hits in September for the Giants.
Belt also came on late in the season after struggling to take Huff's job out of the gate in 2010. If he can get close to replicating his outstanding minor league numbers at the major league level, Belt shouldn't have any issue outperforming Huff's production in 2011.
The only downside is having to eat the rest of Huff's $11 million dollar contract, something Bochy said wouldn't be an issue if he doesn't rebound from last season.
C Eli Whiteside/Chris StewartFollowing the Buster Posey injury, both Whiteside and Stewart were forced into regular duty after spending the majority of their careers as backups.
With Posey slated to return to catcher in 2012, there will only be room for one backup catcher, all but assuring either Whiteside and/or Stewart will not be with the club.
Another factor was the emergence of young catcher Hector Sanchez, who shot through the minor league system and hit .258 with the big league club in 31 at-bats.
If Sanchez can improve defensively behind the plate, the Giants appear to have confidence in his bat to be ready for the major league level.
Prediction:
While Stewart proved to be a defensive asset for the team with a great throwing arm, that may not be enough to earn the backup position over a younger Sanchez who has been on a fast track through the system.
Whiteside has likely played his last game as a Giant, meaning either Stewart or Sanchez will serve as Posey's backup next season.
The Giants don't want to rush Sanchez and think he still needs time to develop in the minor leagues, but if his bat comes to life in spring training they will give him a serious look to supplant Stewart as the backup.
Other Giants on the fringe:
CF Andres Torres
Torres battled several injuries and wasn't the same spark-plug that ignited the 2010 offense.
While he is in great phyiscal shape for his age and maintains outstanding speed, he still strikes out too much for a leadoff hitter and needs to prove he can stay healthy for a full season.
Gary Brown is unquestionably the center fielder of the future and is waiting in the wings if Torres can't get the job done.
Even if Brown isn't ready for the start of 2012, Torres has a limited window if he wants the opportunity to play a full major league season as he did in 2010.
Tell 'em goodbye:
SS Orlando Cabrera
(Failed to impress after being aquired from Cleveland; not a part of next year's plans)
IF Mark DeRosa
(Too many infielders and Pablo set at third base means DeRosa may be done in SF)
OF Pat Burrell
(Probably will announce his retirement if he isn't re-signed by SF--which isn't likely)
RP Javier Lopez
(Excellent for SF as a left-handed specialist; that success will earn him a hefty contract elsewhere)
CF Justin Christian
(Emergency outfielder after injuries to Torres, Shierholtz and Ross; likely the odd man out)
1B Aubrey Huff
One of the many heroes of the Giants postseason glory of 2011, Huff was both a lovable character on and off the field with his flair for the dramatic.
Fans of all teams tend to have short memories and operate under the "what have you done for me lately" mentality, one that has turned Huff from hero to potential castoff in less than a calendar year.
Huff will turn 35 in December and must prove he can beat out up and coming youngsters like Brandon Belt and Brett Pill in order to have a spot on the roster.
His age, coupled with the fact that he hit only 12 homeruns after hitting 26 in 2010, means Huff will be on a short leash to prove his worth.
Prediction:
Unless Huff has an eye-opening performance in spring training, Belt and Pill are both younger options with much brighter futures for the organization who could spell the end of Huff's tenure.
Bruce Bochy was comfortable using Pill in the middle of the order, watching the rookie collect a number of key hits in September for the Giants.
Belt also came on late in the season after struggling to take Huff's job out of the gate in 2010. If he can get close to replicating his outstanding minor league numbers at the major league level, Belt shouldn't have any issue outperforming Huff's production in 2011.
The only downside is having to eat the rest of Huff's $11 million dollar contract, something Bochy said wouldn't be an issue if he doesn't rebound from last season.
C Eli Whiteside/Chris StewartFollowing the Buster Posey injury, both Whiteside and Stewart were forced into regular duty after spending the majority of their careers as backups.
With Posey slated to return to catcher in 2012, there will only be room for one backup catcher, all but assuring either Whiteside and/or Stewart will not be with the club.
Another factor was the emergence of young catcher Hector Sanchez, who shot through the minor league system and hit .258 with the big league club in 31 at-bats.
If Sanchez can improve defensively behind the plate, the Giants appear to have confidence in his bat to be ready for the major league level.
Prediction:
While Stewart proved to be a defensive asset for the team with a great throwing arm, that may not be enough to earn the backup position over a younger Sanchez who has been on a fast track through the system.
Whiteside has likely played his last game as a Giant, meaning either Stewart or Sanchez will serve as Posey's backup next season.
The Giants don't want to rush Sanchez and think he still needs time to develop in the minor leagues, but if his bat comes to life in spring training they will give him a serious look to supplant Stewart as the backup.
Other Giants on the fringe:
CF Andres Torres
Torres battled several injuries and wasn't the same spark-plug that ignited the 2010 offense.
While he is in great phyiscal shape for his age and maintains outstanding speed, he still strikes out too much for a leadoff hitter and needs to prove he can stay healthy for a full season.
Gary Brown is unquestionably the center fielder of the future and is waiting in the wings if Torres can't get the job done.
Even if Brown isn't ready for the start of 2012, Torres has a limited window if he wants the opportunity to play a full major league season as he did in 2010.
Tell 'em goodbye:
SS Orlando Cabrera
(Failed to impress after being aquired from Cleveland; not a part of next year's plans)
IF Mark DeRosa
(Too many infielders and Pablo set at third base means DeRosa may be done in SF)
OF Pat Burrell
(Probably will announce his retirement if he isn't re-signed by SF--which isn't likely)
RP Javier Lopez
(Excellent for SF as a left-handed specialist; that success will earn him a hefty contract elsewhere)
CF Justin Christian
(Emergency outfielder after injuries to Torres, Shierholtz and Ross; likely the odd man out)
Monday, September 26, 2011
2011 Giants minor league offensive statistical leaders and awards
2011 Giants Minor League Offensive Statistical Leaders
Homeruns:
1. Brett Pill (25)
2. Brad Eldred (23)
3. Adam Duvall (22)
4. Tommy Joseph (22)
5. Chris Dominguez (18)
RBIs:
1. Brett Pill (107)
2. Tommy Joseph (95)
3. Ryan Cavan (90)
4. Adam Duvall (87)
5. Chris Dominguez (85)
Batting Average:
1. Eric Sim (.352)
2. Joe Panik (.341)
3. Gary Brown (.336)
4. Mike Murray (.326)
5. Edgar Gonzalez (.315)
Offensive MVP
Brett Pill (.312 AVG/25 HR/107 RBI) (Fresno Grizzlies-AAA)
Pill was the fastest player to 100 RBI in all of the minor leagues and finished the year with the most homeruns of any Giants prospect with 25.
At 27 years old, Pill is one of the older prospects in the system but has put up consistent offensive numbers in each of the past three seasons.
This season was in fact the second time Pill has eclipsed the 100 RBI plateau as a minor leaguer, as he knocked in 109 runs in 2009 to go along with 19 homeruns.
A strong spring training may force the Giants to extent the Brandon Belt experiment in the outfield despite his defensive struggles in left field.
For an offense that desparately needs to score more runs to support one of the leagues best pitching staffs, San Francisco likely will live with Belt's defense in the outfield if both he and Pill hit well during spring training.
Rookie of the Year
Gary Brown (.336 AVG/14 HR/80 RBI/53 SB) (San Jose Giants-A)
The Giants first round draft pick in 2010 out of Cal State Fullerton, Brown opened eyes around the organization during his first full season of pro ball in San Jose (A).
As the everyday leadoff hitter, Brown showed both the ability to get on base (.336 AVG) and an uncanny ability to manufacture runs with his speed (53 SB/115 R).
Both are ingredients the major league team lacks, making Brown an early canditate to supplant Andres Torres in centerfield at some point in 2012.
Surprise Player of the Year:
(3B) Adam Duvall -- (.285 AVG/22 HR/87 RBI) (Augusta Green Jackets-Low-A)
An 11th round draft pick of the Giants in 2010, Duvall struggled to adjust to rookie league pitching and ended the season hitting .245 with four homeruns and 18 RBI in 192 at-bats.
Something clicked for Duvall in 2011 and he finished the year as Augusta's best offensive threat, blasting 22 homeruns and driving in 87 to go along with a .285 average.
Duvall is one of two third baseman in the Giants organization from the University of Louisville, as fellow Cardinal Chris Dominguez is also on San Francisco's radar after posting impressive power numbers the past two seasons.
Homeruns:
1. Brett Pill (25)
2. Brad Eldred (23)
3. Adam Duvall (22)
4. Tommy Joseph (22)
5. Chris Dominguez (18)
RBIs:
1. Brett Pill (107)
2. Tommy Joseph (95)
3. Ryan Cavan (90)
4. Adam Duvall (87)
5. Chris Dominguez (85)
Batting Average:
1. Eric Sim (.352)
2. Joe Panik (.341)
3. Gary Brown (.336)
4. Mike Murray (.326)
5. Edgar Gonzalez (.315)
Offensive MVP
Brett Pill (.312 AVG/25 HR/107 RBI) (Fresno Grizzlies-AAA)
Pill was the fastest player to 100 RBI in all of the minor leagues and finished the year with the most homeruns of any Giants prospect with 25.
At 27 years old, Pill is one of the older prospects in the system but has put up consistent offensive numbers in each of the past three seasons.
This season was in fact the second time Pill has eclipsed the 100 RBI plateau as a minor leaguer, as he knocked in 109 runs in 2009 to go along with 19 homeruns.
A strong spring training may force the Giants to extent the Brandon Belt experiment in the outfield despite his defensive struggles in left field.
For an offense that desparately needs to score more runs to support one of the leagues best pitching staffs, San Francisco likely will live with Belt's defense in the outfield if both he and Pill hit well during spring training.
Rookie of the Year
Gary Brown (.336 AVG/14 HR/80 RBI/53 SB) (San Jose Giants-A)
The Giants first round draft pick in 2010 out of Cal State Fullerton, Brown opened eyes around the organization during his first full season of pro ball in San Jose (A).
As the everyday leadoff hitter, Brown showed both the ability to get on base (.336 AVG) and an uncanny ability to manufacture runs with his speed (53 SB/115 R).
Both are ingredients the major league team lacks, making Brown an early canditate to supplant Andres Torres in centerfield at some point in 2012.
Surprise Player of the Year:
(3B) Adam Duvall -- (.285 AVG/22 HR/87 RBI) (Augusta Green Jackets-Low-A)
An 11th round draft pick of the Giants in 2010, Duvall struggled to adjust to rookie league pitching and ended the season hitting .245 with four homeruns and 18 RBI in 192 at-bats.
Something clicked for Duvall in 2011 and he finished the year as Augusta's best offensive threat, blasting 22 homeruns and driving in 87 to go along with a .285 average.
Duvall is one of two third baseman in the Giants organization from the University of Louisville, as fellow Cardinal Chris Dominguez is also on San Francisco's radar after posting impressive power numbers the past two seasons.
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Prospects on the San Francisco horizon: Minor Leaguers who could be ready for the show in 2012
Following a 2011 season that failed to match the magical ride of last year's world series run, the Giants will be looking to a number of players in the their minor league system to help reconstruct one of the league's worst offensive teams. Here are a few players that will get looked at to be everyday players at one point or another in 2012:
Gary Brown (CF): California League 2011 Rookie of the Year (San Jose Giants)
In his first full season of pro ball, Brown was the "talk of the town" in San Jose after taking the California League by storm with a .336 batting average, 80 RBIs and 53 stolen bases.
An oldschool leadoff hitter with top-tier speed, Brown also flashed some power with 14 homeruns in 559 at-bats to compliment his top of the order skill set.
The Giants resisted the urge to promote Brown from single-A San Jose to the big league club, but dearly needed his speed and presence from the leadoff spot as Andres Torres was far from emulating his 2010 form.
With Torres aging and uncertain, Brown will get a chance out of spring training in 2012 and if he turns enough heads, just may supplant the elder Torres for the leadoff job.
If Sabean and the Giants prefer to stick with Torres out of spring training, Brown will be their first insurance policy out of the minor leagues and will get his first shot at Double-A and Triple-A pitching.
Brown heads to a notoriously strong pitching league in the Arizona Fall League this offseason, getting his first taste of major league quality pitching.
Joe Panik (SS): San Francisco Giants first round draft pick (29th overall) in 2011/St. Johns
The Giants were looking for an offensive minded shortstop by taking Panik in the first round and have been pleasantly surprised with his production after signing in June.
Playing for the Salem Kaiser Volcanoes (Rookie League), Panik hit .341 in 270 at-bats with four homeruns and 54 RBIs in his first season of pro ball.
He will be assigned to the Scottsdale Scorpions of the Arizona Fall League, playing with Gary Brown and other Giants prospects trying to make their case for a job in 2012.
If Panik shows his bat is ready for strong Arizona Fall League pitching, he could start the 2012 season in Double-A and potentially Triple-A if the Giants are unable to resolve their shortstop position in the offseason.
Miguel Tejada has already been cut loose and Orlando Cabrera may be next. Mike Fontenot, Brandon Crawford and Jeff Keppinger remain as the only other big league options left on the roster, making it possible the Giants may fast-track Panik if they can't sign a short-term solution.
While 2012 would be an incredibly fast track for Panik to arrive in the show, his production with the bat may force the Giants hand at a position that rarely yields offensive stars.
Brett Pill vs. Brandon Belt: Who will take Aubrey Huff's job at first base in 2012?
A miserable offensive season in 2011 for Aubrey Huff may be an indication that his career numbers in 2010 may never again be matched by the aging first baseman.
With one year still remaining on Huff's deal the Giants will have to find a role for him or eat a multi million dollar contract.
Brandon Belt wasn't able to take Huff's job out of spring training this season and was eventually sent down to Fresno where he responded by hitting everything thrown his way.
If his minor league numbers are any indication, Belt could be an offensive force at first base once he adjusts to the heavy dose of offspeed pitches he has seen as a major leaguer.
Manager Bruce Bochy has tried Belt in the outfield this season but it's clear Belt is most comfortable at first.
The only problem with moving him back has been the unexpected emergence of fellow first baseman Brett Pill, who was hitting above .300 in his first 35 at-bats for the Giants.
Pill has hit a rough patch of late, dropping his average to .268 after 41 at-bats, but Bochy has given him a vote of confidence by putting his name in the middle of the lineup while the Giants were still in the race.
The fastest player in the minor leagues to 100 RBIs, Pill has shown the ability to drive in runs for a Giants offense that desperately needs such production.
While he has only had 41 at-bats in 2011, Pill's eight RBIs puts him on pace to knock in more than 90 runs at the major league level if you translate his numbers over a typical 500 at-bat major league season.
Those numbers are something the Giants would pay dearly for to have in the middle of their 2012 lineup, making Pill an inexpensive option that could pay big dividends if he can replicate such statistics next season.
Belt was the favorite for the job going into the season and still is clearly in the running, but Pill's production has at least earned him the right to compete for the job out of spring training.
But unless Belt spends a signifigant amount of time working on his outfield defense, it doesn't appear that is where he will spend his future as a Giant, furthing complicating the competition at first base in 2012.
On top of the three first baseman the Giants already have on the roster, San Francisco has hinted at moving catcher Buster Posey to first to prolong his career after a season-ending injury.
Sabean will either have to make a tough decision with Huff if he doesn't hit in the spring or be forced to part ways with one of the young first baseman to shore up other areas in a trade.
Gary Brown (CF): California League 2011 Rookie of the Year (San Jose Giants)
In his first full season of pro ball, Brown was the "talk of the town" in San Jose after taking the California League by storm with a .336 batting average, 80 RBIs and 53 stolen bases.
An oldschool leadoff hitter with top-tier speed, Brown also flashed some power with 14 homeruns in 559 at-bats to compliment his top of the order skill set.
The Giants resisted the urge to promote Brown from single-A San Jose to the big league club, but dearly needed his speed and presence from the leadoff spot as Andres Torres was far from emulating his 2010 form.
With Torres aging and uncertain, Brown will get a chance out of spring training in 2012 and if he turns enough heads, just may supplant the elder Torres for the leadoff job.
If Sabean and the Giants prefer to stick with Torres out of spring training, Brown will be their first insurance policy out of the minor leagues and will get his first shot at Double-A and Triple-A pitching.
Brown heads to a notoriously strong pitching league in the Arizona Fall League this offseason, getting his first taste of major league quality pitching.
Joe Panik (SS): San Francisco Giants first round draft pick (29th overall) in 2011/St. Johns
The Giants were looking for an offensive minded shortstop by taking Panik in the first round and have been pleasantly surprised with his production after signing in June.
Playing for the Salem Kaiser Volcanoes (Rookie League), Panik hit .341 in 270 at-bats with four homeruns and 54 RBIs in his first season of pro ball.
He will be assigned to the Scottsdale Scorpions of the Arizona Fall League, playing with Gary Brown and other Giants prospects trying to make their case for a job in 2012.
If Panik shows his bat is ready for strong Arizona Fall League pitching, he could start the 2012 season in Double-A and potentially Triple-A if the Giants are unable to resolve their shortstop position in the offseason.
Miguel Tejada has already been cut loose and Orlando Cabrera may be next. Mike Fontenot, Brandon Crawford and Jeff Keppinger remain as the only other big league options left on the roster, making it possible the Giants may fast-track Panik if they can't sign a short-term solution.
While 2012 would be an incredibly fast track for Panik to arrive in the show, his production with the bat may force the Giants hand at a position that rarely yields offensive stars.
Brett Pill vs. Brandon Belt: Who will take Aubrey Huff's job at first base in 2012?
A miserable offensive season in 2011 for Aubrey Huff may be an indication that his career numbers in 2010 may never again be matched by the aging first baseman.
With one year still remaining on Huff's deal the Giants will have to find a role for him or eat a multi million dollar contract.
Brandon Belt wasn't able to take Huff's job out of spring training this season and was eventually sent down to Fresno where he responded by hitting everything thrown his way.
If his minor league numbers are any indication, Belt could be an offensive force at first base once he adjusts to the heavy dose of offspeed pitches he has seen as a major leaguer.
Manager Bruce Bochy has tried Belt in the outfield this season but it's clear Belt is most comfortable at first.
The only problem with moving him back has been the unexpected emergence of fellow first baseman Brett Pill, who was hitting above .300 in his first 35 at-bats for the Giants.
Pill has hit a rough patch of late, dropping his average to .268 after 41 at-bats, but Bochy has given him a vote of confidence by putting his name in the middle of the lineup while the Giants were still in the race.
The fastest player in the minor leagues to 100 RBIs, Pill has shown the ability to drive in runs for a Giants offense that desperately needs such production.
While he has only had 41 at-bats in 2011, Pill's eight RBIs puts him on pace to knock in more than 90 runs at the major league level if you translate his numbers over a typical 500 at-bat major league season.
Those numbers are something the Giants would pay dearly for to have in the middle of their 2012 lineup, making Pill an inexpensive option that could pay big dividends if he can replicate such statistics next season.
Belt was the favorite for the job going into the season and still is clearly in the running, but Pill's production has at least earned him the right to compete for the job out of spring training.
But unless Belt spends a signifigant amount of time working on his outfield defense, it doesn't appear that is where he will spend his future as a Giant, furthing complicating the competition at first base in 2012.
On top of the three first baseman the Giants already have on the roster, San Francisco has hinted at moving catcher Buster Posey to first to prolong his career after a season-ending injury.
Sabean will either have to make a tough decision with Huff if he doesn't hit in the spring or be forced to part ways with one of the young first baseman to shore up other areas in a trade.
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Giants playoff hopes fade to a flicker--D-Backs roll 15-2
In a game that saw the national league's best pitching staff assaulted for 15 runs, it oddly wasn't the lopsided 15-2 score that had the Giants scratching their collective heads after their second straight loss to the division champion Diamondbacks.
Second baseman Mike Fontenot collided with an umpire on a routine ground ball during Arizona's six-run first inning outburst, resulting in a two-run single instead of an out that likely wouldn't have advanced the runners from second and third.
Appartently player-umpire collisions weren't enough, as the lights went out at Chase Field during the seventh inning that gave fans more than a stretch during a 28 minute delay.
San Francisco's strong starting pitching was also out of sort as Eric Surkamp was unable to make it out of the first inning in the shortest start of his young career.
Surkamp was charged with six earned runs in 2/3 innings pitched, sending his ERA from 2.95 to 5.32 in what may likely be his last start of the season.
Arizona starter Ian Kennedy may have been the only normalcy of the night, winning another start to give him a league-high 21 wins for the year (21-4).
After watching the D-Backs celebrate a division title Friday night, Saturday's loss puts the Giants in the rearview mirror of the wild card race, trailing both the St. Louis Cardinals and Atlanta Braves with only games to play.
While the Giants are statistically alive in the wild card standings, San Francisco would have to win all of the remaining games on the schedule while banking on the Braves losing the majority of their late September contests.
Second baseman Mike Fontenot collided with an umpire on a routine ground ball during Arizona's six-run first inning outburst, resulting in a two-run single instead of an out that likely wouldn't have advanced the runners from second and third.
Appartently player-umpire collisions weren't enough, as the lights went out at Chase Field during the seventh inning that gave fans more than a stretch during a 28 minute delay.
San Francisco's strong starting pitching was also out of sort as Eric Surkamp was unable to make it out of the first inning in the shortest start of his young career.
Surkamp was charged with six earned runs in 2/3 innings pitched, sending his ERA from 2.95 to 5.32 in what may likely be his last start of the season.
Arizona starter Ian Kennedy may have been the only normalcy of the night, winning another start to give him a league-high 21 wins for the year (21-4).
After watching the D-Backs celebrate a division title Friday night, Saturday's loss puts the Giants in the rearview mirror of the wild card race, trailing both the St. Louis Cardinals and Atlanta Braves with only games to play.
While the Giants are statistically alive in the wild card standings, San Francisco would have to win all of the remaining games on the schedule while banking on the Braves losing the majority of their late September contests.
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