Category Archives: Lehigh Valley IronPigs

February 17, 2013 · 3:20 pm

Pitchers: Starting Rotation

Part 4 of my “Predicting the IronPigs Roster” series of futility. Today we look at the candidates for the Starting Rotation:

The Candidates:

“Young Bucks”

Tyler Cloyd

Jonathan Pettibone

Ethan Martin

Adam Morgan

“Old Friends”

Austin Hyatt

Tom Cochran

Brian Bass

Rodrigo Lopez

BJ Rosenberg

“New Friends”

Aaron Cook

Zach Miner

Discussion:

So I’ve got 10 guys for 5 spots. I don’t want to try to do a “scouting report” on each, but as I make my “bold prediction” below, I’m going to make some assumptions based on what I know of these guys through having seen them or from reading about them. In Philly, we’ve got Halladay, Hamels, Lee, Lannan, and Kendrick. There are only a couple of spots available in the pen, so we may not see a long-man/6th starter on staff as we did with Kendrick the past couple years. If the Phils need a starter, he’ll likely come from the ‘Pigs. Who it is might depend on the time of year (earlier=vet, later=young guy), who’s pitching well at the moment, and whose “turn” it is in the rotation. For this reason, I’ll expect one or two of the above to start in the ‘Pigs’ pen and slide into the rotation when/if a starter needs to go up. If the Phils want a “long-guy/#6” then one of the above could earn that spot. Speculation across the interwebs is that Cook or Pettibone could be that guy. Cloyd has been mentioned as a possible trade piece. Early season, before the pitchers are completely stretched out, and entering the cold northern April, starters may “pair” to cover 9 innings rather than a traditional starter/reliever relationship.

Bold Prediction:

Young guys get the priority: 1. Cloyd (if not traded) 2. Pettibone 3. Martin. Martin has nothing left to prove at AA, and as long as his control doesn’t leave him, he’ll be with us. Morgan will start in Reading; we’ll see him pretty quickly I’d think. Lopez and Cook get my #4 and #5 spots as the veteran guys who need to stay stretched out in order to step in early should the Phillies need them. That gives me a rotation of all RHPs. No matter; I’ll keep Cochran in the pen and Morgan’s on the way at some point during the season. Then, Miner’s a reclamation project and may need to find work in the pen first or may wash out. I always liked Bass, but if everyone’s healthy he may find himself in a numbers game a la Bump and Feirabend last spring.

Kram’s Keys (what to watch for in spring training):

1. Health: It’s always first. Monitor the health of the Phillies’ five starters, as well as the players above

2. Starting/Relieving: Watch for some of the above guys who might get work out of the pen versus starting. In particular here, Cochran and Rosenberg. Don’t read too much, early, though; guys need to get work and innings need to be pitched. Plus, nobody’s stretched out yet.

3. Camp: Watch for guys to get sent from MLB camp to minor league camp. That could be a sign that the player is on the way to LHV rather than having a shot at an MLB job.

Side note: The Phillies signed LHP Corey Young who was released by the Texas organization. He pitched at AA last year. He’s a reliever with a delivery similar to Diekman, except without the speed. If he’s not ready for AAA, and Texas didn’t have room for him at A+ or AA, then that would be why he was released. He’ll likely be in Clearwater or Reading and shouldn’t impact the IronPigs’ roster at all.

@Kram209

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Filed under Kram's Korner - From the Club Level, Lehigh Valley IronPigs

Tagged as aaron cook, ethan martin, IronPigs, Phillies, Pitchers, rodrigo lopez, tom cochran

February 15, 2013 · 4:41 pm

Corner Infield and Catcher

As I continue my wild speculation about the IronPigs roster candidates, changes continue in Spring Training in Clearwater. No matter. I’ll speculate anyway and update in the comments. You do the same, won’t you?

Corner Infield

Candidates:

Cody Overbeck, Josh Fields, Cody Asche

Backups:

Pete Orr, Michael Martinez, Darrin Ruf, John Suomi

Prediction/Discussion: It really looks like Overbeck back at 1B and Fields at 3B with backups to come from the other positions. Pete Orr and Michael Martinez can both play 3B. If Darrin Ruf and/or John Suomi are on the ‘Pigs they can back up 1B. All signs point to Asche starting in Reading, with a “before the break” call to Allentown. He’s in MLB camp, though, so you never know. With the big club, Mayberry backs up 1B, while Frandsen backs up 3B (for Ryan Howard and Michael Young, respectively).

I was a bit disappointed with Overbeck’s production at the plate last year; I was really hoping for more power. I like him, though, and here’s hoping for a return of the power stroke for him in 2013. True, his 14 HR were one more than our new 3B, but consider that Cody hit 24 in each of his previous two seasons.

Josh Fields hit .322 with 13 HR for the Isotopes in the PCL over 133 games last year. In 2010 he hit .365 with 11 HR in 50 games with the SkySox, again PCL. He played in Japan somewhere through there, too. I’m always nervous about these PCL guys. He has played in the IL before: 2006 .305, 2007 .283, 2008 .246, 2009 .265. All with Charlotte. All with decent power numbers (all things considered). He seems like a good guy, and hopefully a break from the adventures that we’ve had with 3B over the years. It seems like that position is our “Spinal Tap Drummer.” With Asche sure to follow, we should expect good production from 3B all season.

Kram’s Keys:

As far as health, make sure M. Young stays healthy playing 3B every day (he hit DH a ton last season). Watch for the number of at-bats Cody Asche gets with the big club, and when/if he’s shipped of to MiLB camp, to see if he has a chance to push for AAA.

Catcher

Candidates:

“The Prospects”

Sebastian Valle, Tommy Joseph, Cameron Rupp

“The Old Guys”

John Suomi, Erik “Holy” Kratz, Humberto Quintero

“Oh, Yeah, Him”

Steve Lerud

Discussion: It’s been said by the Phillies’ brass that Valle, Joseph, Rupp and Lerud are the four guys for AA and AAA, and it’s up to them to play their way into position. I don’t think Rupp is a candidate to skip Reading, and despite his MiLB contract, all expect Quintero to open as Kratz’ backup in Philly whilst Chooch serves his 25-game penance. What happens after that is up in the air. Depends how they play and who’s healthy I guess. It does appear that Erik Kratz has an option left, but I would expect they’d want either Valle or ToJo (or both) to get the majority of at-bats in Allentown. A trade could happen, which I’d guess would send Valle on his way. An injury to EK or HQ would likely send Lerud back to the Phillies (he was up there for a bit last year).

Bold Prediction:

Kratz and Quintero to Philly; Valle and Lerud to Allentown; ToJo and Rupp to Reading. Suomi finds a spot in Allentown as a backup 1B/3rd catcher, or pulls his Velandia, or stays in Clearwater for a time to help with extended Spring Training. Tommy Joseph to the IronPigs on the Asche schedule.

Kram’s Keys:

As with all, injuries are first. Second, watch Valle and Joseph to see who gets more time with the big club–and who gets sent down to MiLB camp first–as a clue for who has the inside track for LHV. Suomi’s not in MLB camp, but watch for his arrival in MiLB camp and monitor his work-group assignment.

Have at it,

@Kram209

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Tagged as Asche, Fields, IronPigs, Kratz, overbeck, Phillies, Quintero, Tommy Joseph, Valle

February 12, 2013 · 3:04 pm

Outfield

Predicting the IronPigs roster is difficult enough, but the Phillies keep inviting guys to Clearwater. It’s an exercise in futility, I know. But, I like it anyway. Let’s narrow our focus a bit and make some bold predictions. Today: Outfield

The pool:

“The Jeffersons (We’re A-Movin’ On Up)”

Tyson Gillies

Leandro Castro

Jiwan James

“Old Friends”

Domonic Brown

Derrick Mitchell

Steve Susdorf

“Eastward Bound”

Joe Mather

Jermaine Mitchell

“We Hardly (read: Never) Knew Ye”

Darrin Ruf

Discussion:

From the nine candidates above, I’ll put five with the IronPigs. The Phillies probably need five as well, and they’ll start with Revere, D.Young, Mayberry, and Nix. That leaves one spot. It’s sink or swim time for Domonic Brown. I listed him above because he does have an option year left. I think the scenario where he starts the year with the IronPigs is extremely unlikely. It’s probably even more likely that he’d be traded than that. So let’s put him with Philly.

Delmon Young may need to start the year on the DL. If he does, it opens another spot in the Phillies outfield or on the bench. I’d think Ruf has the inside track on that unless one of the “Eastward Bound” has a great spring. Joe Mather spent last year with the Cubs where he hit a blistering .209. In 2011 he spent time with Gwinnett (note Brundage connection) and Colorado Springs where he predictably did better in the PCL vs. the IL. He bats right-handed. Jermaine Mitchell comes from the A’s, where I believe he had some injury trouble last year. In 2011 is PCL numbers were very good, though. He’s a Lefty and primarily a center fielder.

I don’t think Jiwan James is ready for AAA. The converted pitcher is a good enough outfielder, but I’m not sure he did enough at the plate in Reading to be considered for AAA to start the season. Similarly, with Castro, while he may have earned the promotion, I’ll start him with Reading based on the roster squeeze. Derrick Mitchell and Susdorf could also get squeezed to Reading in certain scenarios.

Bold Predictions:

Out of nine, two to Philly: Brown and Ruf (with D.Young to the D.L.). Two to Reading: James, Castro

Five to LHV: Gillies, Mather, J. Mitchell, Susdorf, D.Mitchell

Kram’s Keys: (What to watch for during Spring Training to see if I’m on track with my predictions):

1. Health. It’s always first, but here we need to know if Delmon is recovered from offseason surgery and if he’s managed to avoid the food truck. We also need to know if Tyson Gillies can make it through S/T unscathed.

2. Fielding. We pretty much know their spots in the outfield, but it will be interesting to see if guys get time in unexpected positions. Also, if Delmon’s on the field, watch to see how he does fielding the ball (he was a DH for much of last season). This goes for Darrin Ruf as well, to see if the Phillies think he can contribute as an adequate Left Fielder defensively.

@Kram209

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Tagged as baseball, Delmon Young, Domonic Brown, IronPigs, Phillies

February 10, 2013 · 12:25 pm

Middle Infield

Predicting the IronPigs roster is difficult enough, but the Phillies keep inviting guys to Clearwater. It’s an excercise in futility, I know. But, I like it anyway. Let’s narrow our focus a bit and make some bold predictions. Today: Middle Infield

Yesterday, Decal posted some interesting info about contracts and opt-outs which he got from Todd Zolecki from Philadelphia. I urge those interested to go back and read that information in the comments section of the “odds and ends” post. Usually, I don’t get worried about opt-outs and the like until after the season starts. Guys are playing well and I want them to stick around, so I get worried they’ll opt-out. Sometimes I refer to it as a “Dewayne Wise.” Recently, though, it seems a few NRI (non-roster invite) guys have come into Spring Training with immediate opt-outs if they don’t make the team out of camp. The interesting one this year, from Decal’s comment/re-post, is Yuni Betancourt. As the Phillies make a decision about what to do with Yuni, the ripples will be felt all the way down the system for the initial rosters.

Here’s our pool:

“Old Friends”

Pete Orr

Andres Blanco

Michael Martinez

“Prospects”

Cesar Hernandez

Freddy Galvis

“Vets”

Yuni Betancourt

Matt Tolbert

Not included, are the big boys: Rollins and Utley. If they’re healthy, they’ll have their traditional spots in Philadelphia, of course. Kevin Frandsen isn’t included in my pool, either. He’s on the 40-man and if something happens where he or the Phillies are unhappy, I see him going elsewhere. Otherwise, he can back up every infield position and hit doubles. He won’t be on the ‘Pigs.

So if I’ve got to make a prediction on February 10, here it is:

Of the above seven players, I see one in Philadelphia and four with the IronPigs.

Jimmy and Chase are healthy. Charlie likes vets, so Yuni gets a job to start the season in Philadelphia.

Joe Jordan’s comments lead me to believe that I’m not the only one who wants to see Freddy start at AAA and play every day to begin the season (it’ll change fast, and he’ll be up sooner rather than later). Pete Orr can play third, so they keep him around. Blanco will be the AAA shortstop once Galvis receives the inevitable call-up, and Tolbert is a vet with experience who can help fill 2B should Utley go down for an extended period. That leaves Hernandez and Martinez. Cesar gets pushed back to Reading to start the season. It’s temporary and I know he has nothing to prove at that level, but he gets caught in the opening-day numbers game. Martinez does too–doesn’t handle it as well and gets cut just before opening day.

So that’s my take on it at this moment. What say you, Pig Nation? I know I had to make a lot of assumptions in my prediction, and we all know how that works out. So leave your own in the comments below. Thanks for dropping by,

@Kram209

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Filed under Kram's Korner - From the Club Level, Lehigh Valley IronPigs

Tagged as baseball, IronPigs, Phillies, yuni

February 3, 2013 · 2:51 pm

February Odds and Ends

It’s February now, and folks are counting the days until Pitchers and Catchers report (9 days, for the Phillies, as of this writing). In fact, many of our favorite players are already in Clearwater, finding a place to stay and settling in so that they can hit the ground running. I’m not sure if they have a Florida State University scrimmage this year, but the MLB campers open their Grapefruit League games on Saturday, February 23 at 1:05ET versus the Astros.

In the mean time, here in the land of the pigs, we’ve got a couple things that normally happen during February:

First, Season Ticket Holders have the opportunity to purchase single-game IronPigs tickets before they go on sale to the general public. I’m not sure the date’s been announced yet, but I often take advantage of this, stocking up on extra seats for games when I estimate that I’ll have guests in town over the summer. Often I need 9-12 tickets semi-together. It’s not enough for a “group” but tough to get if you wait until later in the season.

Second, Season Ticket Holders have the opportunity to purchase single-game Phillies tickets before they go on sale to the general public. I’ve done this in the past, too, but it’s not much of an advantage. They put the same access code out on Twitter last year for anyone to go on and buy tickets. Also, with the recent popularity of the Phillies, the seats are not that good. Perhaps with the .500 season last year, some Phillies season ticket holders who buy on “speculation” in order to re-sell tickets, will be discouraged. I’ll probably check it out, but more than likely I’ll hold off and buy tickets closer to the time I wish to go down to a game (if I even do this year).

I forget, but at some point, season ticket holders will be able to pick up our packages. It might be into March. I know National Pig Day will be Saturday March 3, though, so those non-season ticket holders who need single game tix can pick them up starting then. I’ve heard it’s a good time: hanging out at the park and hot dogs and festivities and whatnot. I’ve never been, but maybe this year. I’ll check my son’s indoor soccer schedule. Any excuse to spend time at the park…

Here’s something: Tyler Cloyd’s wife Tonya writes a blog about “Married Life in Minor League Baseball.” It’s quite good and offers a lot of insight about the players and their families and the game from their perspective. Her latest entry was about their trip to the AAA All-Star game in Buffalo last season. Give it a read here .

One last thing; here’s an old story from a previous season*:

“The Episode of the Lost Radio”

Once upon a time at a Minor League park, there was a staffer named “Boris.” “Boris” was leading a tour of the ballpark for out-of-town guests early one afternoon before a game. While he was showing his group the home-team dugout, he accidently left his Walkie-Talkie there on the bench. Soon, he realized his error. He returned, but found that it was gone. A search was initiated. But, alas, no luck. The Walkie-Talkie was nowhere to be found.

Later that evening during the game, emergency calls began over the radios: unruly fan behavior, indecent exposure, fans getting ready to run onto the field, and other “emergencies.” Stadium security was dispatched each time to investigate. Each time they found nothing. It didn’t take long to figure out that a player had gotten ahold of that lost Walkie-Talkie, and was using it for maximum amusement. Personally, I would expect no less from young men charged with playing 144 baseball games over 152 days.

The next day, the radio was returned. “Coincidently,” that same day, a player–let’s call him “Potato Chip”–was traded away for no compensation. Since then, though, this minor league team has had no difficulty with lost radios or player practical jokes.

*Names changed to protect the guilty

@Kram209

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January 27, 2013 · 3:19 pm

2013 Phillies Winter Banquet

Thursday evening, the NoiseNation represented at the 2013 Phillies Winter Banquet to support IronPigs Charities at the Sands Event Center in Bethlehem. There were bells (OK, A bell) and an auction and some time to hob knob with the VIPs. Here are some highlights:

(It’s worth stating, right here at the top, that all photos and video were provided by Cheryl Pursell { @CherylPursell }. They are excellent and I hope I can display them here properly. The pictures and video below will tell you much more about the evening than I ever could by typing. I showed up with an iPhone and a FlipHD camera which was woefully inadequate given our seating. Perhaps next year we all need to pitch in to pay for Cheryl’s ticket…)

The Stage at the Front of the Sands Center
Photo by @CherylPursell

DiPro got there early and cleaned out the casino. Dan provided the Kenny Rogers’ (Know when to walk away…) advice to get DiPro to the banquet on time. As per usual, the NoiseNation was well represented and there early. You’d have thought they were giving away bobbleheads or something (they weren’t).

We entered at the side of the Visions Bar to see a giant Championship Jersey:

Photo by @CherylPursell

DiPro, with his new-found wealth, inquired about bidding on the large jersey. I then wondered if we could sneak a bunch of fans into the IronPigs games Trojan Horse-style…

We walked up the stairs to the VIP area. The first person I saw was Charlie Manuel just standing at a pub table by himself. Of course, I couldn’t think of anything cool or witty to say quickly enough, and he was gone by the time we visited the open bar at the far side of the room.

The young ones (and DiPro) got pictures with some of the VIPs (Kevin Frandsen, Dave Brundage, Charlie Manuel, and Erik Kratz. Reuben Amaro Jr. joined in later.) They whisked us in and out of the photo room pretty quickly; it had been made clear ahead of time that we were not supposed to ask for autographs during the picture sessions. The photo holder they gave us did have a spot for autographs. I suppose had we stayed later in the evening there was opportunity at the end.

It got crowded in the VIP are quickly. The hors d’oeuvres were good and plentiful, and sodas and drinks were complimentary. Matt Provence and Jon Schaffer were around, as well as some media members and some of the front office guys from the Phillies who were in attendance. The local ESPN radio guys were doing a broadcast:

Charlie with the radio guys.
Photo courtesy @CherylPursell

We made our way to our table downstairs, and soon Matt Provence was urging the same for the 1,100 in attendance. This took some time, but we made the best of it while the kiddos planned on how to attack the cupcakes, which were already on the table:

Phanatic Cupcake
Photo: @CherylPursell

There was a video about IronPigs Charities, and some salad, then Chicken for 1,100. The food was probably the low-light of the evening. I was not disappointed because I really had no expectations: I knew they wouldn’t have super dinner for 1,100 people. With that in mind, though, they should have been able to serve it more quickly.

Then, the introductions, and the program. It was great to hear Tim Chorones’ voice again, you know? The remainder of the pictures, and the videos of the program, follow:

Frandsen with Amaro Photo: @CherylPursell

Frandsen, Amaro, and Manuel (@CherylPursell)

Kratz Frandsen Amaro (Photo: @CherylPursell)

Kevin Frandsen looks on as Kurt Landes presents the IronPigs Charities’ Awards (@CherylPursell)

Dave Brundage Speaks (photo: @CherylPursell)

We’re Gonna Like the New Skipper…
(@CherylPursell)

Charlie Signing
Photo Courtesy: @CherylPursell

@Kram209

PS: Thanks again, Cheryl

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Tagged as IronPigs, Phillies

January 17, 2013 · 9:49 pm

Tiny Bobbles

Tiny [Bobbles]

In the wine
Make me happy
Make me feel fine

Tiny [Bobbles]

Make me warm all over
With a feeling that I’m gonna
Love you ’til the end of time

So here’s to the golden moon
And here’s to the silver sea
And mostly here’s a toast
To you and me

-Don Ho

Yeah, I’m gonna go there again. And, here’s the thing: I like the giveaways. Yup. I said it. It’s unpopular with the kool kids and the baseball purists, but I love the swag. Give me more stuff, man, I’ll take it! (no, I won’t fight anybody over it and I won’t complain, but…) I’m on my second bottle of Rhone tonight and I’m willing to admit to about anything. I love that they give the club level patrons guaranteed giveaways. I drive over 55 sometimes. Golly, somebody stop me…

The IronPigs released a preliminary promotion schedule today, and here are the highlights:

Thursday, April 4 – Fleece Blanket Giveaway (First 3,000 adults 18 and older)
Friday, April 5 – Friday Night Fireworks, Dueling Pianos
Saturday, April 6 – 2013 Magnet Schedule Giveaway
Sunday, April 7 – “Pigs to the Bigs” T-Shirt Giveaway (First 3,000 adults 18 and older), Dog Day # 1 (Bring Your Dog to the Park)
Tuesday, April 9 – Kevin Frandsen Bobblehead Giveaway (First 3,000 adults 18 and older)
Wednesday, April 10 – FeRROUS & FeFe Salt & Pepper Shaker Set (First 3,000 adults 18 and older)
Saturday, April 20 – John Mayberry Commemorative Glass Giveaway (First 3,000 adults 18 and older)
Sunday, April 21 – Knit Cap Giveaway (First 3,000 adults 18 and older) Dog Day # 2 (Bring Your Dog to the Park)
Saturday, May 4 – Margarita Glass Giveaway (First 3,000 adults 21 and older)
Sunday, May 5 – Adult Cap Giveaway (First 3,000 adults 18 and older)
Tuesday, May 7 – Tyler Cloyd Bobblehead Giveaway (first 3,000 adults 18 and older)
Monday, May 20 – Youth Cap Giveaway (First 2,000 youth 17 and under)
Tuesday, May 21 – Erik Kratz Bobblehead Giveaway (First 3,000 adults 18 and older)
Sunday, May 26 – Mini Barbie Q. Bobblehead Giveaway (First 2,000 youth 17 and under)
Saturday, June 1 (6:35 p.m.) – Russian Bar Trio Performance
Monday, June 3 – Team Photo & Autograph Session (First 5,000 Fans)
Monday, June 10 – Adult Cap Giveaway (First 3,000 adults 18 and older)
Thursday, June 13 – Beach Towel Giveaway (First 3,000 adults 18 and older)
Sunday, June 16 – Fathers Day Bucket Cap Giveaway (First 2,000 men 18 and older)
Sunday, June 30 – Youth Replica Jersey Shirt Giveaway (First 2,000 youth 17 and under)
Monday, July 8 – Ryan Howard Bobblehead Giveaway (First 3,000 adults 18 and older)
Wednesday, July 10 – Adult Cap Giveaway (First 3,000 adults 18 and older)
Thursday, July 18 – Scoreboard Clock Giveaway (First 3,000 adults 18 and older)-Turn Back the Clock Night
Friday, July 19 – Friday Night Fireworks + Umbrella Giveaway (3,000 adults 18 and older) + Dueling Pianos
Saturday, July 20 – Acrylic Cup Giveaway (First 3,000 adults 18 and older)
Sunday, July 21 – Piggy Bank Giveaway (First 2,000 youth 17 and under)
Thursday, August 1 – Team Card Set Giveaway (First 2,000 youth 17 and under)
Monday, August 26 – 2014 Magnet Schedule Giveaway (First 5,000 fans) – Dog Day # 4 (Bring your Dog to the Park) / IronHeads Night
Tuesday, August 27 – Foam Finger Giveaway (First 3,500 fans)
Saturday, August 31 – 2014 Wall Calendar (First 7,000 adults 18 and older)
Monday, September 2 – Fan Appreciation Day
Tuesday, September 17 – 2013 Gildan Triple-A National Championship Game

My favorites are bolded, and there are many other regular events, such as the Friday Night Fireworks. Additional nights will be added, but the big ones are above. Enjoy. And get your tickets early. March, they say.

@Kram209

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January 14, 2013 · 12:47 pm

Quick Thoughts on the IronPigs’ Ball Girls

It was announced today that the IronPigs will be presenting their first ever class of Ball Girls this year, at games and in the community. Read more about it here:

Here are my initial thoughts:

Yes! Wonderful idea. This makes it feel more like a big-league game. My life just got a little bit better.
Now I’m REALLY looking forward to sitting in the Hot Corner.
Wait, I wonder if I could apply. Doesn’t really say that dudes are excluded. Oh, I have no softball experience. Darn. I have a softball in my trunk, though. I’ll have my kids throw it to me to give me experience.
Dan, you’ve played softball before, right? We should apply. It’s probably the best chance I’ll ever have of getting on the field during a professional baseball game. We meet all the requirements. There’s no way they turn us down!

🙂

It’s all good!

@Kram209

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January 13, 2013 · 3:50 pm

Not-so Quick Stab at the 2013 IronPigs Roster

Yesterday on Twitter and Sulia I took a quick stab at the roster again, with the news that old friend Rodrigo Lopez had been signed to a minor league deal. I think we can expect to see him hold down a spot in the IronPigs rotation and contribute some veteran leadership there. He should be able to eat up some innings for the early part of the season until things shake out for the youngsters. It was pointed out that his age may be a problem and that his ERA was 5.++ last year for the Cubs and AAA Iowa. It was also pointed out (thanks, Decal) that he pitched very very well with Gwinnett two years ago for our new manager Dave Brundage. His only loss prior to going to the Cubs was to the IronPigs.

I’ve considered the roster a little more over the last 24 hours. Enough to generate 1200+ words! However, I think I’ve got to look again at the Philadelphia 25 before I can fine tune my stab. Injuries, suspensions, and trades can have an impact here; since I’m not going to predict any more of those, we’ll assume perfect health and behavior.

Phillies:

Catcher (2):

Kratz, Quintero

Discussion: Chooch starts on the suspended list. I’d expect to see Quintero move on and Kratz stick as backup after the first 25 games. The only other possibility is Valle, who is already on the 40-man. I’m just not sure he’s ready.

Starting Infield (4):

Howard, Utley, Rollins, Young

Discussion: Really, after the past two years, can they figure out a way to get Utley’s knees ready for April rather than June? I could really care if he plays in Florida or not. Just get him ready so that the IronPigs don’t have to subsidize the Phillies infield for the first two months.

Starting Outfield (3):

Mayberry, Revere, Brown

Reserve Outfield (1):

Nix

Discussion: There may be a platoon here with Nix. An additional reserve my be involved (see below). Also, can’t completely rule out another trade–or Ruf.

Other Reserves (3): Frandsen, Martinez, Inciarte

Discussion: Frandsen is already on the 40-man, where Orr is not. Galvis is, but I think they’d like to have him start the year playing every day (at AAA) rather than on the bench. In the case of an injury or suspension, Galvis would be up right away and has 40-man status. Martinez is only signed to a minor league deal, but I think they like is ability to back up multiple positions, including CF. Then again, if they’re going to keep Rule-5 guy Inciarte on the roster, perhaps he’s their CF backup (and indeed, Mayberry and Brown can play CF as well.) Personally, I’m not sure Inciarte makes it. He doesn’t seem like he’s advanced enough to warrant a 25-man spot. But, that’s something to watch in Spring Training. He could stick as part of a trade and then get optioned, I guess.

Starting Pitchers (5):

Halladay, Hamels, Lee, Lannan, Kendrick

Relievers (7):

Papelbon, Adams, Aumont, Stutes, Bastardo, Horst, Diekman

Discussion: Really, there could be a number of choices here, most of whom we’re familiar with. The only guy without options is JC Ramirez, which may force a decision there. I’m not sure if he’s pitched well enough to be in demand by other teams, though. I’m also not sure which of these guys fills the “long guy” roll. I would assume, though, if Kendrick’s in the rotation, then the sixth starter will come from the IronPigs: Cloyd probably, with the other starters as possibilities depending upon who’s throwing well and whose turn it is. Pettibone, Martin and Rosenberg are all on the 40-man while Lopez is not (although he’s the most veteran.)

IronPigs:

Catchers (2):

Valle, Suomi

Discussion: I think they start Joseph in Reading and I don’t think they’re confident enough in Valle to let him back up Kratz in Philadelphia. However, I wouldn’t be surprised to see any 2-3 of Quintero, Valle, Suomi, Lerud, Joseph with the IronPigs to start–or at any time during the season. Here’s another thing: I don’t want to get into predicting trades, but reportedly, they’ve already tried to trade Valle once (to the Astros, whose pitcher failed his physical). If they want Joseph at AAA, Valle could be moved.

Starting Infield (4):

Overbeck, Hernandez, Galvis, Fields

Discussion: As above, I’m predicting that they want Galvis to play every day to start the season. If this is the way it plays out, we likely won’t have him for long. The first sign of any infield injury with the Phils, and that’ll be it. There was some talk of Galvis trying third base, as well, although I’ve seen nothing official about this.

Starting Outfield (3):

Ruf, Gillies, Jermaine Mitchell

Discussion: Can Gillies get from here to April 4 without getting injured or suspended? Will Ruf earn a spot in Philadelphia? (As with Galvis, I think they’ll want to see him play every day before Charlie will trust him in important spots in Philadelphia) Can Jermaine hold off his brother-from-another-mother(-and father) Derrick for the starting spot? Can he replicate the .731 OPS he put up in the PCL? Will we expect too much from a PCL bat again? What’s going on with Susdorf? Where will Hudson land? A lot of questions here. Stay tuned.

Reserves (4):

Blanco, Orr, Derrick Mitchell, Castro

Discussion: As I said above, it’s only a matter of time before we lose Galvis to Philadelphia–or maybe Ruf. Ruf can back up Overbeck, as can Suomi. Castro has earned this promotion. I would start Susdorf in Reading before Derrick, but you could make the case otherwise. I don’t think Jiwan James has done enough to be in this group.

Starting Pitchers (5):

Cloyd, Pettibone, Martin, Rosenberg, Lopez

Discussion: As I said above, I think this is where additional starters come from for the Phillies. Rosenberg ended the year as more of a starter, so I’ve kept him there–and there aren’t a ton of other options. Further, I don’t think there’s much more to prove at AA for Ethan Martin, but I think Adam Morgan will start there for now.

Relievers (7):

Schwimer, DeFratus, Valdes, Robles, Savery, Ramirez, Friend

Discussion: Schwim and JD start with the ‘Pigs but could be up at any time. Valdes is the odd lefty out, but could switch with Horst or Diekman. As I said, Ramirez may need a change of scenery based on lack of options, but that remains to be seen–I don’t see him making the 25-man. I wonder if Savery gets thrown into a deal with Valle if the Phils have seen enough? Friend has proven himself at Reading and should get a spot. A couple other pen guys could find their way up sooner rather than later as the Reading pen looks to be rather crowded. Zach Miner and Cesar Jimenez are strong possibilities for spots here, too, if Ramirez and Savery move on.

Analysis:

This appears to be a strong team, to me, even with the unknown spots and the possibility of injuries and trades. I see the strengths as fielding and relief pitching, while hitting-for-power and starter depth appear to be possible weaknesses. There aren’t really any starters-in-waiting around. It seems like the Braves of Gwinnett were always rather competitive, so I’d predict that the new manager will not be a hinderance to our success. The biggest note, though, is that this is most likely to be the most “prospect”-laden squad we’ve seen at Coca Cola Park in six years. I count as many as 12/25 as current or very recent prospect-level players. It should be fun to watch!

@Kram209

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Filed under Kram's Korner - From the Club Level, Lehigh Valley IronPigs

January 5, 2013 · 1:56 pm

Kram’s 2013 IronPig (read: New Year) Resolutions

As you know, I’ve got no problem telling the IronPigs what I think they ought to do. However, now it’s time for me to take a look in the mirror and decide what I need to do to become a better fan–for myself, and the team.

In 2013, I, Kram, resolve to:

Put the IronPigs license plate back on my car before the Phillies Banquet.

I’ve never been to the Phillies Banquet, which I guess used to be called the “Phillies Caravan.” But, we’re going this year. The whole crew. Plus, dignitaries from the Noise Nation as well. Look for our report some time after January 24. I’m looking forward to seeing Kratzie and Frannie, and meeting and welcoming our new manager.

2. Try not to get caught up in the jersey bidding on my phone.

I never got into the table blocking and pen stealing (you know who you are!) of the previous charity jersey auctions, but last year I found it very compelling to constantly check the prices and put in bids. I “won” two of them. It can get expensive, though. Since I’ve already got two, I’ll try to sit these out the best I can for the good of my wallet.

3. Spend a game in the Bacon Strip, the Hot Corner, the Tiki Terrace, and just maybe, a Dugout Suite.

I love my regular seats, but it is nice to take in a game from another section. It gives another perspective of the game and the park. Last year I sat in 115 twice, 112 once, and 104 once. I also spent a game with a GA ticket, mostly standing in the area of 106. I never got to the Tiki last year other than to walk through. I’ll make a better effort this year to enjoy the park from other locations.

4. Try not to buy any more hats–unless they’re really cool.

This backfired on me a bit in the playoffs. Others in my crew bought nice Reading hats on our trip down there and I passed because “I’ve already got enough hats.” Now, they’re gone because of the name change and I’m having regrets. I should have purchased one when I had the chance. But, still, I’ve got too many hats…

5. Save some of the swag for the holidays.

I was thinking last month it would have been nice to have saved some of the stuff I got to give away for Christmas. Alas, I either already gave it away, or opened it and used it, or let the kids “consume” it… Remind me to stash some of this stuff for the holidays.

6. Tailgate more often.

The tailgates need not be big fancy endeavors, but a chance to relax and get a sandwich and a soda before the game will add to the “relaxation factor” of attending as many games as I do. Plus, it could save me some cash.

7. Buy less food and drink at the park.

The IronPigs will be OK without any more of my money. Plus, “Pigs Fly” will be a reminder that I need to follow my diet, and not “Pig Out” or “Go Hog Wild.” 😉

8. Record more podcasts.

DiPro and I did one last year, and I thought it came out pretty good. If we can do a few more, then perhaps it will be time to expand the guest list: There are plenty knowledgable and interesting IronPigs fans out there. The following folks should get ready for an invite this season: Dan, JimmyT, Jared, Cheryl, Jim, Eric, Joe, Decal, and others!

9. Support the radio show better.

I should listen to the radio post-game even when we lose. My habit is to turn on the radio only following a win. Also, I should call in more often, and bring my portable to the park more often.

10. Try to get to the park on time.

I admit I was a lazy fan last year, often arriving at the park late. And, it’s not because I stopped to eat on the way, either. If I’m on time I’ll have more choices for dinner. I’ve already found a new route from my office to the park which should get me there faster once you factor in traffic. Plus, there’s more chance to tailgate! (see also, #6 and #7).

11. Attempt to subscribe to TV2 for HD IronPigs, pre-game, and for when I’m not at the park.

I’ve already got DirecTV, so I’m not excited about spending a lot more money. However, the MiLB thing just didn’t do it for me last season. Sure, TV2 won’t get me the away games, but it will get me some Reading games. And, HD. It’s beyond me how anyone can watch anything that’s not in HD.

So there it is. What are YOU going to do differently this year?

Twitter: @Kram209