Spring Training Questions

The offseason signing of Troy Percival means the pitching staff really only has 2 open slots, both likely to go to players that can serve as spot starters, with one of those likely to go to 6th round steal Masahiro Tanaka.

For the rest of the roster, it’s really the infield that has to be settled–whether Will Clark and Joe Adcock will exist in a platoon or some other arrangement and who the reserves will be.

Injuries

The Gothams received some bad news as stalwart reliever Carson Smith will miss most of the season with a torn muscle in his back.

First Cuts

Things are not going as planned: Juan Marichal, Don Sutton, Brian Wilson, Gaylord Perry, Steve Howe, and Robb Nen have all struggled early while most of the long shots to make the club have pitched quite well. Vean Gregg and Jordan Montgomery were both moved to minor league camp, but the Gothams are looking to the next week to help sort out their staff.

C Kirt Manwaring was moved out of camp, along with 1Bs Justin Morneau and (not that) Bill White and 3B Pinky Whitney. The corner spots need some clarity, as players the Gothams’ are depending on–Joe Adcock, Will Clark, and Pete Runnels–are all struggling. 3B Matt Williams remains in camp, but if he doesn’t shoe some of his power potential, he won’t be here very long.

Neifi Pérez and Larry Doyle have impressed, with Brian Dozier and David Eckstein both heading out.

In the OF, Fred Lewis, Jo-Jo Moore, John Reccius, and Kyle Tucker were all sent to the minors, with Steve Kemp and Mike Tiernan both making an argument to stick around a while longer.

Second Cuts

Juan Marichal and Gaylord Perry are struggling, but will make the opening day roster no matter what. There were high hopes for Masahiro Tanaka, but he joins Vean Gregg and Jordan Montgomery in minor league camp.

The IF is still totally muddled. Youngsters Neifi Pérez and Freddie Patek and longshot Larry Doyle are all tearing the cover off the ball, and predicted starters Pinky Higgins and Pete Runnels are struggling mightily. Matt Williams was the odd man out here, being sent down just to clear some space despite a decent performance so far.

The OF is similar: AAA MVP Benny Kauff is demanding a rosters spot, but Steve Kemp and Ben Oglive are hitting well enough to make an argument, while presumed opening-day players Willie Mays, Johnny Callison, Wally Berger, and Jimmy Sheckard have all yet to find their stroke.

Third Cuts

Everyone in camp is pitching decently, except Juan Marichal, who gets a roster spot based on a decent season last year. So these cuts are rough: Luis Avilán, William VanLandingham, and Henry Rodríguez all pitched well enough to stick around, but it’s a numbers game at some point.

Dick Dietz, Mark Loretta and Ben Oglive were sent down.

SS is very cloudy. Freddie Patek and Neifi Pérez are playing very well, as is Brandon Crawford (who has to be considered the favorite).

Some good players are going to miss making the roster in the OF. Willie Mays, Johnny Callison, and Jimmy Sheckard are the starters, with George Van Haltren established as a backup. The problem is that Wally Berger, Benny Kauff, Carl Furillo, Steve Kemp, and Mike Tiernan are all hitting excellently. Kauff is probably the starting DH, but that still leaves 8 active OFers.

Last Cuts

These are nigh impossible. Pinky Higgins, Pete Runnels, and Will Clark are all struggling mightily, but their performance last season keeps them in camp and, indeed, probably keeps them in the starting lineup. That makes the Gothams’ first cut 1B Bill Terry.

Terry’s hope to make the WBL roster was to take Joe Adcock‘s spot but, for now, the 39 year old Adcock remains projected to play a key role of New York’s bench.

Newly acquired Dave Concepción will start the season at AAA, as will utility IF Johan Camargo, who had an outside shot at the opening day roster. They are joined by C Steve O’Neill, who was always a long shot to make the team.

The Gothams need to clear 5 roster spots to get to 30, a process started by placing closer Brian Wilson on the DL. Neifi Pérez had a good Spring, but Larry Doyle‘s was significantly better, sending Pérez down to AAA and handing the reserve 2B spot to Doyle. Joining them are SS Freddie Patek and OF Steve Kemp, as well as SP Al Spalding, who has to be wondering what more he needed to do after posting a sub 2.00 ERA for the Spring.

Guy Hecker and Pete Donohue were demoted and Mickey Welch released, but that only opened the door for the truly hard decisions.

George Van Haltren, Jimmy Sheckard, and Johnny Callison were all great for New York last season. None have an OPS over .600 this Spring. Wally Berger and Mike Tiernan were longshots to make the roster. And both have OPS’ over .890. Berger and Tiernan were sent down, but may find their way back quite quickly.

The final cut was veteran IF Larry Doyle, who had an excellent Spring, but was a victim of too much competition across the infield, and of Pete Runnels‘ fantastic contributions last year.

TWIWBL 56.11: Spring Training Notes – Kansas City Monarchs

By mknn

On February 28, 2024

In TWIWBL

Spring Training Questions

Figuring out the staff is challenge number one. 2 second round picks–Matt Morris and Jack Quinn–have a shot at making the staff depending on their performance this Spring.

Injuries

Jim Bibby‘s hopes of making the team were dashed by a trip to the DL. Merv Rettenmund will miss about a month with a back injury, which is a shame, as he was making a strong case for a reserve OF spot.

First Cuts

Well … the pitching staff remains a bit of a mystery. Jim Bibby is hurt and Rube Marquard and Sheriff Blake were sent down, but other than that the competition for the starting slots remains tough: Bill Singer and Bob Shawkey have yet to give up a run and Félix Hernández and Rube Foster are better than their numbers may indicate. Larry French, Boone Logan, and Matt Thornton were also returned to minor league camp, at least reducing some of the bullpen congestion.

With that many pitchers still in camp, the Monarchs only moved one C to their minor leagues, Johnny Bassler. 1Bs Daryl Sconiers and Andre Thornton have forced their way into the conversation at 1B, especially as the two incumbents–Boog Powell and Albert Pujols–are struggling mightily to start camp. Over at the hot corner, though, a small handful of players have played their way out of camp: Heliodoro Hidalgo, Ken Boyer, Bill Bradley, and Gene Freese were all sent down, with Carlos Baerga barely holding on.

In the middle infield, the competition has been fierce with Dave Cash, Keston Hiura, and Frankie Frisch all hitting well and only Kolten Wong not showing enough to stick around.

Earl Averill‘s talent is undeniable, but his performance sent him back to the minors for a time. Neither Fielder Jones nor Cool Papa Bell have hit a lick so far, so the backup CF spot is still up for grabs. The surprises of the Spring so far have been Jim King and Merv Rettenmund, who are making strong arguments for a roster spot.

Second Cuts

Trevor Rosenthal has pitched as well as someone who has given up 12 hits in under 4 innings can, and remains in camp despite an ERA over 12.00. Félix Hernández and Jock Menefee weren’t as lucky, being reassigned to the minors.

C John Bateman was reassigned, and Salvador Pérez is in danger of losing his backup position with an OPS of .220 so far. Teenager Carlos Baerga and Sam Mongin were both demoted, leaving the Monarchs without a true 3B in camp.

OFers Fielder Jones and Tommy McCarthy were sent down as well, clearing the way for Cool Papa Bell to make the team as Willie McGee‘s backup in CF.

3rd Cuts

Even before the day off, the Monarchs had seen enough: something is wrong with Trevor Rosenthal. After a solid season last year, Rosenthal has been absolutely torched so far this Spring, giving up 15 hits in 4.1 innings and an ERA over 16. Rosenthal should figure it out, but he’ll start in minor league camp.

Muddy Ruel is really pushing to break camp ahead of Salvador Pérez as Ted Simmons‘ backup at C.

The rest of the roster remains a bit muddled, other than Cool Papa Bell and Keston Hiura being sent to AAA. The challenge is not unusual: presumed starters are struggling (Albert Pujols, Robinson Canó) and longshots to make the team are hammering the ball (Daryl Sconiers, Edgar Rentería, Jim King). Add Dale Murphy starting to come good on his promise, and there are still significant cuts to be made.

Final Cuts

Bill Singer must be wondering what he has to do to get an extended shot in the WBL. He’s only 20, so he’ll have some more chances, but for now he’ll ply his trade at AAA after a solid showing this Spring.

In a bit of a surprise, Muddy Ruel has beaten incumbent Salvador Pérez for the backup C job with the Monarchs, at least for now, with Pérez being moved to AAA.

The Monarchs are delaying some harder choices by sending RP Andrew Bailey to AAA. One of those is at 1B where young Daryl Sconiers refuses to stop pounding the ball in Spring Training. This has sent Andre Thornton to AAA, despite the veteran showing some nice pop at the plate. Sconiers is still likely to join him, but for now he’s remaining in big league camp.

Jack Rowe had a solid year last season behind Ozzie Smith, but he’ll have to work his way back from AAA this year, with Edgar Rentería looking likely to be Smith’s backup. OF Merv Rettenmund was placed on the DL.

The choice with Sconiers is mirrored by the choice with Jim King. Both have torn the cover off the ball all Spring, but both are really vying for a fringe roster spot with the Monarchs. Here, Sconiers’ age worked against him, as the Monarchs moved him to AAA for more regular playing time.

The Monarchs ducked one decision by placing Matt Morris on the DL. Bob Shawkey beat out Adam Wainwright for one spot on the staff.

The final 3 cuts were pretty brutal. Jim King, Edgar Rentería, and Dave Cash did absolutely everything asked of them all Spring, leading the team in most offensive measures and showing decent defensive versatility. In the end, Frankie Frisch‘s ability to play SS and the desire of the Monarchs to see if Dale Murphy can deliver on his Spring performance sent all three to the minors.

TWIWBL 56.10: Spring Training Notes – Homestead Grays

By mknn

On February 27, 2024

In TWIWBL

Spring Training Questions

Up to nine spots on the mound are up for grabs, including 3 rotation slots. Positional depth needs to be resolved in the lineup. Second round draft pick Judy Johnson will be given every shot to seize the 3B job.

Injuries

Daniel Hudson has missed most of camp so far, but might be back to show enough to make the opening day roster.

First Cuts

With 28 pitchers starting off in camp, Homestead clearly had a lot of work to do, with many decisions destined to be made on very limited data. Here’s who didn’t make the cut after the first week of Spring Training: starters Pink Hawley, Clayton Kershaw, John Candelaria, and Hal Carlson and relievers Mychal Givens, Ed Seward, and Ricardo Rincón.

With that many arms still in camp, the Grays only moved one C, Tim Thompson, out of camp, along with 3B’s Freddie Lindstrom and Brock Holt. Judy Johnson is hitless so far, but has impressed the coaching staff enough to stick around a little more.

Impressive starts from Rey Sáncehz and Jack Wilson at SS have forced Dick Groat out of camp, while Rennie Stennett remains, largely on the bases of his performances towards the end of last season. Jeff Kent has also been impressive, although Davey Johnson remains the presumptive starter at 2B.

Paul Waner is tearing the cover off the ball, but his brother Lloyd is hitless, meanings the siblings will be separated with Llyod heading back to the minors, along with CF Darren Lewis. That’s left a crowded OF still pretty clogged: Ralph Kiner has impressed with his power, Max Carey with his speed, and Goose Goslin is barely holding onto a spot. Of those three plus the remaining Waner, there looks to be–at most–a single roster spot available.

Second Cuts

Only 4 pitchers–Gary Lucas, Gary Nash, Ray Brown, and Bartolo Colón–have ERA’s over 2. Of those, Brown and Colón will be given some more time, but both Nash and Lucas were shipped off to the minors. That still leaves a ton of arms in camp, so something will have to give over the next week.

C Tim Thompson was shipped out. Rick Ferrell probably should be, but his defense and his WBL experience keeps him around for now.

18 year old Judy Johnson turned some heads with his defense, but needs some time in the minors. The Grays recalled Pedro Feliz for depth at 3B.

Goose Goslin and Max Carey were also sent down, although Carey was recalled a few days later, just to provide another glove in CF.

The Grays are in an interesting spot: a host of players who were assumed to not have much chance to make the team are performing fantastically, led by Ps Doug Drabek and Cliff Lee and position players Ed Kranepool, Paul Waner, Jeff Kent, Rey Sánchez, Chris Sabo, Cam Carreón, and Jack Wilson. This has created some unanticipated competition, keeping camp crowded but also making the next week quite crucial.

Third Cuts

Homestead continues to retool their pitching staff, with Bartolo Colón‘s poor Spring sending him to the minors along with Arodys Vizcaíno and Ping Gardner. Other than Francisco Liriano as their opening day starter and Josh Lindblom as their closer, though, nothing on the staff is settled.

The backup C slot continues to be challenging: Del Crandall has been spectacular, but doesn’t offer much defensively. Cam Carreón was demoted, but Peaches Graham and Rick Ferrell remain in the mix with Crnadall behind Josh Gibson.

Pedro Feliz, Max Carey, and Ralph Kiner were all sent down as well. That still leaves 1B and the OF overcrowded, and the Grays’ obsession with Rennie Stennett needs to probably come to an end. Owen Wilson and Davey Johnson–both essentially guaranteed roster spots due to their performance last year–are struggling mightily while Ed Kranepool, Rey Sánchez, and Jeff Kent are all tearing the cover off the ball.

Final Cuts

Needing to thin out the competition for the backup C role, Peaches Graham is the first to head down to the minors, followed by Rennie Stennett and Jack Wilson as the Grays tried to figure out their infield.

Cliff Lee‘s demotion to AAA was Homestead’s first step towards clarifying their staff for opening day. But that was as far as they got in the drive to cut to 30, as Del Crandall‘s Spring performance sent Rick Ferrell down, and two players with excellent Springs–Paul Waner and Ed Kranepool–were also sent down to receive steady ABs at AAA.

Babe Adams and the impressive teenager Catfish Hunter were both sent to the minors along with Jeff Kent, who had an excellent Spring but at 37 is not part of the Grays’ plans.

Earl Hamilton was the final cut from the pitching staff, leaving the Grays with a nasty set of choices. In the end, it came down to prized prospect Napolean Lajoie, incumbent 2B Davey Johnson, of OF sub extraordinaire Owen Wilson. The Grays, in a move met with much skepticism, decided to hand the 2B position to Lajoie, sending Johnson to AAA.

TWIWBL 56.9: Spring Training Notes – Birmingham Black Barons

By mknn

On February 26, 2024

In TWIWBL

Spring Training Questions

As many as 7 roster spots are up for grabs: 3 bullpen arms (and, conceivably, someone could force their way into the rotation) and every reserve position is up for grabs.

First round pick Joe Torre and 3rd round selection Gary Matthews will both be given a solid shot at making the opening day roster.

Injuries

Bruce Chen will miss the last two weeks of Spring Training with back spasms, but should still make the opening day roster. Last season, Carlos Diaz started the year as the Black Barons’ closer, but promptly pitched his way out of the WBL. His attempt to make the club this season has been thwarted by a ruptured tendon in his pitching hand which will put him on the shelf until after the all-star break.

First Cuts

Aaron Sanchez, Pretzels Getzien, and Rube Melton were all sent down after their early struggles, while Larry Benton has been clearly lowered in the pecking order in camp after his. Slim Embrey, Bruce Ruffin, and Fred Fussell were also returned to the minor league camp.

Those moves allowed two arms–Charlie Morton and Alex Malloy–to remain, despite some roughness in their early outings. Everyone else–other than Andy Pettitte, who has already been named the opening day starter–has thrown well.

Despite a pretty rough start, Joe Torre stays in camp–the privilege of being a high draft pick–with Josh Bard and Earl Battey both heading to the minors, while JP Arencibia is forcing himself into the conversation as well as he and Gene Tenace have hit the ball very well.

Young Trea Turner stays in camp, but the story at 2B has been the performance of Reddy Mack and Marcus Giles, making the next week key for all three of them. Similarly, Andy Pafko and Tommy Davis are on the verge of reversing the franchise’s belief in Pie Traynor, who has struggled not just in Spring Training, but really since about the all star break of last season.

Erick Aybar and slick-fielding George McBride both remain in camp, although neither has hit enough yet to force their way into serious consideration for the reserve SS spot.

Pafko and Davis also play the OF, and their strong starts combined with decent showings from Derrick May and Tommy Holmes continue to make that a crowded position for the Black Barons. Most of the presumed starters have struggled, as has Curt Flood, but for now the only departure from camp is Joe Rudi.

Also being sent down: Shea Hillenbrand, Mike Lamb, Bill Buckner, and Ray Durham.

Frank McCormick is struggling, and could be pushed for his role, but is probably safely assured of a roster spot, as both Jake Beckley and Nate Colbert are smashing the ball so far.

Second Cuts

The pitching staff has been remarkable, with Andy Pettitte‘s 3.86 being the worst ERA posted so far this Spring. Eight hurlers (the injured Bruce Chen along with Cozy Dolan, Greg Maddux, John Malarkey, Alex Malloy, Juan Rincón, Jim Whitney, and Vic Willis) have yet to give up a run. For now, the 19 arms in camp all remain.

Joe Torre clearly needs some time in the minors, so the Black Barons recalled Manny Piña for a look while Torre tries to get back on track.

Frank McCormick is barely hanging on, as the trio of Adrián González, Jake Beckley, and Nate Colbert are pounding the ball while McCormick has an OPS below .400.

Ray Durham and Trea Turner both head down, along with defensive whiz George McBride.

The OF continues to be a mess, as Tommy Davis and Andy Pafko are hitting very well while projected starters Billy Southworth, Curtis Granderson, and Hank Aaron are in deep slumps.

Third Cuts

Ps Charlie Morton and Bill Phyle were demoted despite decent performances–but when 11 of your pitchers have ERA’s below 2.00, someone has to go.

They were joined by C Manny Piña, 1B Nate Colbert, 2B Reddy Mack, SS Erick Aybar, and OF Derrick May.

With 19 year old Marcus Giles clearly not ready for the WBL, Mack’s demotion leaves the Black Barons without a suitable reserve 2B. Both Omar Infante–who can play 5 positions–and veteran Manny Trillo were recalled, but this also may be addressed by a trade.

Birmingham still has 9 OFers in camp. The only one performing well is Andy Pafko, but Bob Nieman, Curtis Granderson, and Hank Aaron are pretty much guaranteed roster spots.

Final Cuts

The various trades did little to clarify the roster, and the Black Barons will be releasing some players who have performed quite well in camp, starting with OF Tommy Holmes.

The 2B situation is weird. Cupid Childs is the starter, but they need more than Hank Aaron behind him. Marcus Giles remains a longshot to break camp, leaving the Black Barons with recently acquired Jess Barbour, who is sort of a super utility type, Omar Infante, or Manny Trillo. So there are a lot of folks who play 2B, just none that do it very competently. Infante’s WBL experience, as well as his ability to help out in CF, keeps him in camp for now with Trillo heading down.

Veteran OF David Justice, brought over as part of the Albert Belle trade, will start the year in AAA as will CF Curt Flood, who was unable to do enough during the Spring despite the team’s desire for him to supplant Curtis Granderson.

The team placed Harley Young on the DL to start the season, but is still waiting for the medical staff to assess Alex Malloy, Sam Streeter, and Bruce Chen (John Malarkey is due back from his injury tomorrow). As such they’ll be given some grace on the goal of getting down to 30. In fact, if all of the injuries are even somewhat serious, they’ll be recalling some arms from the minors to supplement.

Despite a strong Spring, JP Arencibia fell short in a bid to take Jim Pagliaroni‘s roster spot. The Black Barons have decided to go without a decent glove at 2B, deciding that Omar Infante‘s offensive shortcomings are too much to overcome. This does keep–surprisingly for both–Marcus Giles and Jess Barbour in camp for the time being. Tommy Davis and Ginger Beaumont were also sent down.

The Black Barons staff has been so strong all Spring that the final cuts were bound to be somewhat controversial. Warren Spahn was the first to head to AAA. John Clarkson refused to head to AAA, leading to his release. Cozy Dolan went down as well, although the 21 year old should be among the first recalls should Birmingham need him.

Frank McCormick was sent down, in something of a surprise, as was Marcus Giles, who really impressed in Spring Training but really needs regular playing time to develop. Jess Barbour‘s spectacular Spring makes a lot of choices a little easier, as his defensive versatility counts for a lot.

Barbour and Albert Belle‘s arrive, combined with the performance of Andy Pafko, also allowed Birmingham to let both Pie Traynor and Billy Southworth head to the minors.

TWIWBL 56.8: Spring Training Notes – Los Angeles Angels

By mknn

On February 25, 2024

In TWIWBL

Spring Training Questions

Half the rotation and half the bullpen are undecided, as are C and, ultimately, how to sort out roles for Steve Garvey, Elmer Valo, and Kal Daniels.

Injuries

Damage to Julio Teheran‘s rotator cuff probably took him out of the running for a spot in the Angels’ bullpen to start the season. Of more concern, Jonny Venters, one of the most effective relievers in the league last season, will miss the entire year with an injury to his rotator cuff.

First Cuts

Despite Nolan Ryan and Harry Howell‘s early struggles, John Lackey and John Harshman were the only starters sent to the minors, along with bullpen arms Joey Lucchesi and Bryan Harvey.

None of the catchers in camp have done much of note, but only Gus Triandos was demoted, although Mark Salas has certainly plummeted in the pecking order. Mike Jorgensen, Wally Pipp, and Pedro Álvarez were also sent to the minors, with Wally Joyner looking likely to follow.

Marcus Semien was returned to the minors along with Xander Bogaerts as the Angels are clearly focused on going with their veteran talent on the IF.

In the OF, early struggles by Kal Daniels, Mike Trout, and rookie Ichiro Suzuki keep the situation a bit muddled, although Billy Hamilton, Curt Motton, and Brian Giles were all moved out. Nobody has hit very well, although Jack Gleason has been the best of the bunch.

Second Cuts

Harry Howell and Carlos Mármol were sent down, and while Nolan Ryan has struggled, the young flamethrower will be given some more opportunities in WBL camp.

Gus Triandos and Mark Salas were sent down, with John Stearns staying in camp by the thinnest of margins. Wally Joyner and Marcus Semien joined them.

But that was it, and the Angels still face a dilemma in the OF, where Ichiro Suzuki has yet to really show his talent and everybody else is essentially indistinguishable.

Third Cuts

Julio Teheran came back from injury and pitched well, keeping all 15 arms in camp for the time being.

C continues to be a mess. John Stearns is struggling mightily, but his performance last year keeps him in the conversation. Jeff Torborg–the longest of shots when camp opened–is tearing the cover off the ball. So the Angels are one of the few teams retaining 4 catchers at this point in camp.

Late season star Wally Backman was sent down, as was Bill Doran and young SS Xander Bogaerts.

The OF situation cleared up a bit as Ichiro Suzuki caught fire and Frank Catalanotto, Albie Pearson and Ender Inciarte were all sent down.

Final Cuts

RP Ross Reynolds was the first to see the door. He is likely to be followed very soon by Nolan Ryan, whose talent is only matched by his wildness at this point. But for now, Ryan is safe as the Angels remain more committed to Steve Garvey than Wally Moon, sending down the 31 year old Moon.

Los Angeles is a bit of a mess behind the plate, but they’ve decided to trust John Stearns‘ potential over Ron Hassey‘s, sending Hassey to AAA to start the season. A few days later, they even jettisoned Stearns, preferring to go with two rookies behind the plate in Jeff Torborg and AJ Pierzynski.

Ichiro Suzuki has looked excellent, stepping directly from the draft into the starting RF spot and costing Jeromy Burnitz his spot on the WBL roster.

Bobby Grich‘s ability to backup George Wright at SS means Andrelton Simmons needed a fantastic Spring to make the opening day roster. He didn’t have one, so he’s off to AAA.

Neither Cookie Lavagetto nor David Wright are particularly likely to see much time at 3B for the Angels. Lavagetto has hit slightly better in the Spring, while Wright seems to have more strike zone control. In the end, Los Angeles retained Lavagetto at least for a few more days with Wright heading to AAA.

Randy Tate was a pretty easy choice, bringing the staff down to a dozen. If they need to jettison more arms, the decisions will become much harder.

Especially with Elmer Smith being used both ways and able to fill in at the corner OF spots, veteran Elmer Valo was moved to the minors, as was CF Jack Gleason, despite his solid Spring performance, along with Cookie Lavagetto. That leaves the Angels without a reserve RF, but an assumption that Mike Trout can fill in there occasionally.

That leaves another pitcher needing to be sent down. The challenge is Nolan Ryan was a hot mess all Spring, with 13 walks and 15 hits–and 4 homeruns allowed–in 15 innings. Anthony DeScalafani, Roy Patterson, and Noah Lowry were all significantly better than Ryan, but lack the fireballer’s ceiling for sure. In the end, the Angels moved Ryan to AAA, hoping that regular starts helped him find his form.

TWIWBL 56.7: Spring Training Notes – Memphis Red Sox

By mknn

On February 24, 2024

In TWIWBL

Spring Training Questions

Half the staff is unknown, and while the OF is far too crowded, both C and the IF are still to be settled.

First round pick Carl Yastrzemski and fourth round pick Bill Lee have an outside shot at making the squad, although Yastrzemski is thoroughly blocked at both LF and 1B.

First Cuts

Not a lot clarified on the mound. Mike Witt and Turk Farrell were sent down, with Eddie Cicotte‘s struggles moving him close to the edge as well. The rest remains complicated: Len Barker and Sadie McMahon have pitched better than their numbers would indicate, while prize FA acquistion Shane Bieber, Jon Lester, and David Bush are struggling a bit.

C Charlie Bennett was sent down, and only Kurt Suzuki‘s arm prevented him from joining Bennett in the minors. Joe Cunningham and David Ortiz have torn the cover off the ball, maintaining quite a crowd at 1B where only George Scott heads off to minor league camp.

The Red Sox had hoped that DJ LeMahieu or Dustin Pedroia would provide some competition at 2B, instead each were sent down after woeful early performances, along with SS Francisco Lindor.

And that brings us to Carl Yastrzemski, who has simply exploded onto the scene. It’s not clear where the 20 year old could fit in Memphis’ lineup, but if he keeps hitting like this, they’ll find a spot for him. Eddie Rosario, Tom Brown, and Lefty O’Doul were optioned to the minors.

These moves leave Memphis still needing to do a lot of work, primarily on the mound and in the outfield, positions that are crowded enough the Red Sox could be challenged in finding enough opportunities for the talent to be accurately evaluated.

Second Cuts

Some of Memphis’ best performers on the mound from last season (Heath Bell, Len Barker, and Bill Doak and, in a slightly lesser key, Tim Wakefield) have struggled mightily this Spring, but will be given some more time to work out the kinks. Tommy de la Cruz, Eddie Cicotte, Bill Hogg, and Sadie McMahon weren’t so lucky, with all four being sent to the minors.

Kurt Suzuki‘s defense again keeps him in camp, at least temporarily.

The IF remains a mess: Iván De Jesús, Wade Boggs and Bill White are all struggling and players considered long shots coming into camp–David Ortiz and Dobie Moore especially–have been jaw-droppingly good.

The situation is the same in the OF, where Yastrzemski and Alex Johnson are tearing the cover off the ball and Mookie Betts, Ted Williams, and David Justice are all mired in the muck of sub .500 OPS’. Look for both of these logjams to break over the next week.

Third Cuts

P remains a conundrum compounded by Bill Doak and Jon Lester (both stalwarts last season) struggling. For all his versatility, Tim Wakefield just can’t seem to get a feel for his knuckleball, and heads to AAA along with Derek Lowe.

Kurt Suzuki is fantastic defensively behind the plate, but his offense is just too weak for the WBL at this point. He joins Iván De Jesús, Mike Greenwell, Andrew Benintendi, Dwight Evans, and Candy Jim Taylor at AAA.

That sounds like a lot, but there are still a lot of roster questions to figure out. The odds are only one of Joe Cronin, Joe Cunningham, and Travis Shaw can make the roster, and it’s not clear if there is space for all three of Nomar Garciaparra, Dobie Moore, and Vern Stephens. Given that Bill White and Wade Boggs are entrenched as starters on the corners (with David Ortiz pushing White for time), there is a lot of pressure in the middle infield.

Even with the demotions of Joe Kelley and Hack Wilson, the Red Sox have eight OFers in camp, with established contributors Ted Williams (!), David Justice, and Mookie Betts all struggling to put the bat on the ball. This felt crowded even before camp started, with Manny Ramírez, Reggie Smith, Sammy Sosa, Williams, and Betts all but assured of spots. Add to that the stellar debuts from Carl Yastrzemski and Alex Johnson, and it’s all a bit of a mess.

Final Cuts

The acquisition of Gabby Hartnett leaves the C position pretty crowded, especially given Dobie Moore can fill in behind the plate in a pinch. As such, Bob Brenly heads to the minors despite a decent showing last season. He was joined by recent acquisition Rollie Fingers who needs another year of development at least.

The C position was finalized with Dave Engle‘s demotion, as Billy Bryan holds on to his roster spot behind Hartnett.

Moore’s presence also allows the Red Sox to keep only 1 of Claude Ritchey and Wayne Causey. Ritchey performed better both last season and in the Spring, so Causey finds himself on his way to AAA.

Young Jim Kaat impressed during the Spring, but will start the year at AAA, as will veteran IF Nomar Garciaparra, who again showed too little to warrant a WBL roster spot.

Despite showing some promise–certainly more than he showed in a disastrous 2000–Nixey Callahan will start the year at AAA, as will Jameson Taillon. 1B was always going to be crowded, when David Ortiz hit 6 homeruns during the Spring, it got ridiculous. That earned Ortiz a roster spot, with Joe Cronin and Joe Cunningham both heading to AAA, and Travis Shaw sticking with the Red Sox due to his ability to backup Wade Boggs at 3B.

And then there was one cut left to make.

The choices were Bill Doak (excellent last year, horrendous this Spring), Alex Johnson (a total unknown tearing the cover off the ball this Spring), or Carl Yastrzemski (a strong Spring, but no real place to get regular playing time). Memphis decided to get Yaz some regular at bats, making him the final cut of the Spring.

TWIWBL 56.6: Spring Training Notes – Detroit Wolverines

By mknn

On February 23, 2024

In TWIWBL

Spring Training Questions

4 bullpen slots are open, and overall roster depth needs to be settled, especially on the infield.

Injuries

Defensive whiz George Davis will miss the first few months of the season after fracturing a finger on his right hand. This opens up some interesting possibilities, where either camp newcomer Tony Lazzeri or rookie Wander Franco may make the opening day roster.

Hank Aguirre–a key part of the Wolverines’ staff last season–will miss most of the season, if not all of it, with an injured labrum.

First Cuts

George Mullin, Emil Yde, Joakim Soria, and Wilson Álvarez were all sent down as Detroit’s pitching staff continued to come into focus. Of those, only Álvarez could be considered a surprise, but the lefty was just torched in his 3 spring outings.

Andy Allanson, Eric Hosmer, and Cecil Fielder were all returned to minor league camp while Billy Nash has done nothing but impress as the 20 year old tries to force his way onto the roster.

George Davis has yet to get a hit this Spring, but remains the presumed starter at SS as Ed Brinkman and Ray Chapman have also struggled at the plate, with neither remaining in the Wolverines’ camp, joining 2B Hobe Ferris in the minors. It remains a bit of a mess: Robby Thompson really hasn’t hit enough to make a claim for a job, but the Wolverine’s brass isn’t yet convinced by Joe Wood‘s early success. This has opened the door for Wander Franco, who at 19 had been assumed to be a courtesy inclusion in camp. All of this has led to Detroit calling Tony Lazzeri up, with a real chance at taking control of the reserve IF role.

In the OF, Dom Demeter, Phillip Ervin, and Tommy Thompson have all been cut, with Floyd Robinson and Dick Wakefield being particularly impressive so far this Spring.

Second Cuts

Hank Aguirre has struggled, but the team chalks that up to injury and plan to re-evaluate him when he can pitch again in a few days. Other than that, the only hurlers who are struggling are ones pretty likely to make the roster: John Hiller, Johnny Marcum, and Hal Newhouser.

Last year’s darling, Olmedo Sáenz, has an OPS under .500, but will be given a little more time to show his stroke.

The IF really has been thrown into chaos by George Davis‘ injury: Tony Lazzeri has done well since his recall, and while neither Sparky Adams nor Robby Thompson has hit much, both will stay in camp as the Wolverines try to work out exactly what the path forward is at 2B and SS.

The OF is still far too full as well as Bob Fothergill is the only player sent to the minors. Geoff Jenkins has struggled mightily, but his performance last year keeps him around for the time being, although Floyd Robinson, Dick Wakefield, and J.D. Martinez are all threatening to take his spot as Detroit’s 4th or 5th OFer.

That leaves Detroit with a whopping 47 players still in camp, increasing the importance of the next week or so.

Third Cuts

Ps Felipe Vásquez and Roger Craig were sent to AAA, as were C Ramón Cabrera, and last year’s late season darling Olmedo Sáenz,

Saenz’ departure was hastened by the impressive springs from both Juan Beníquez and Greg Brock.

2B continues to be a source of confusion: veteran Tony Phillips is the likely starter, and Joe Wood seems to be emerging as a decent backup. But the rest of the contenders–late Spring addition Tony Lazzeri, consummate utility infielder Sparky Adams, and the promising talent of Robby Thompson–are struggling mightily at the plate.

A similar situation exists at 3B: Bob Bailey is the clear incumbent, but Beníquez, Wood, and 20 year old AA MVP Billy Nash are all hitting far better. The only clarity is gloveman supreme Jimmy Collins heading to AAA.

George Davis‘ injury clears some space here, as all of these players–and youngster Wander Franco–can fill in at SS as well. None of them play it well, however, and Davis’ glove will be sorely missed.

The more Ty Cobb can adjust to LF, the clearer the OF situation gets for the Wolverines. But the players are set–Cobb, Chili Davis, Oscar Gamble, and Al Kaline should cover both OF and DH. Jody Gerut was sent to AAA, leaving the Wolverines with only Ron LeFlore on the roster as a true CF. LeFlore has struggled offensively, but his glove and speed maintain his spot.

The real challenge is to see how Dick Wakefield, Floyd Robinson, and J.D. Martinez sort out. Right now, all three of them are hitting too well to be jettisoned to the point where Geoff Jenkins–a solid 4th OFer last season–may not make the opening day roster.

Final Cuts

The acquisition of Charlie Gehringer combined with Robby Thompson‘s horrible Spring performance meant Thompson heads to AAA. Tony Lazzeri homered in his first Spring Training appearance, but it was all downhill from there and Lazzeri will start the year in the minors.

Ron LeFlore was next to head to AAA, with the Wolverines deciding that Tony Phillips still had enough spring in his step to cover for Chili Davis in CF.

Wander Franco was intriguing, but at 19 seems not ready for the WBL quite yet. He was the best fielding SS in camp, but the Wolverines evidently are happy enough with Sparky Adams or perhaps young Billy Nash there until George Davis’ return.

Six players were moved on to get down to 30. Some were pretty easy: Greg Brock, Floyd Robinson, Jason Schmidt. Some were surprising: John Hiller‘s inability to do anything well this Spring sends him to AAA to get himself sorted out. The Old Man’s Glove—Sparky Adams–was also sent down as the performance of Joe Wood has been impressive. That seems to mean the Wolverines have given the starting SS role to … Billy Nash? At least until George Davis returns. That may not last long.

Finally, JD Martinez heads down. Martinez had a chance to make the roster, but Dick Wakefield has out performed him by quite some distance, and Detroit’s OF is already overly crowded.

In unsurprising moves, Claude Passeau and Brandon Beachy were sent to AAA. The final 3 cuts were more difficult. First, Geoff Jenkins–a solid contributor last season–was sent down after a terribly lackluster Spring, as was Dick Wakefield, who performed far better.

The final cut was RP Roberto Hernández, who was excellent in the Spring and likely will return quickly to Detroit.

This means Billy Hoeft, Pete Conway, and Juan Beníquez all make the opening day roster, in addition to Wood and Nash.

TWIWBL 56.5: Spring Training Notes – Cleveland Spiders

By mknn

On February 22, 2024

In TWIWBL

Spring Training Questions

A couple bullpen slots are available, but most of the focus will be on the 3B and OF.

Injuries

Justin Speier will miss the start of the season with an elbow issue.

First Cuts

Cleveland removed a few arms from its big league camp, sending General Crowder, Eric Wilkins, and Steve Gromek to the minors. Both John Keefe and Sudden Sam McDowell are still around, but neither have impressed, and need to improve if they want to survive the next round of cuts.

Sal Butera has been hitting well, and Victor Martinez has done enough to stick around, sending Ray Fosse and Andy Etchebarren down to the minors. They’ll be joined by James Loney, Aubrey Huff, Don Kessinger, and Jim Gantner (surpassed by Bobby Avila in the depth chart). Bill Phillips really hasn’t hit enough to stick around, but his defensive versatility keeps him in camp.

At SS, Bill Dahlen‘s glove continues to keep him in camp, but Joe Sewell–no slouch with the leather himself–is hitting well enough that Dahlen needs to show some improvement at the plate to survive the next round.

Which brings us to the confusion at 3B. Evan Longoria and Bob Elliott have hit well; Brandon Drury has been OK, and neither Ken Keltner nor Sammy Strang have shown much at all. In other words, nothing is much more clear than when camp opened: working this out over the next week is key for the Spiders.

The OF picture has gotten a bit clearer as four of the contenders (Luis Olmo, Randy Winn, Trot Nixon, and Bruce Campbell) combined to hit well under .200, earning a group ticket back to the minors. At the other end, Larry Doby may finally be living up to his scouting hype, starting out on fire in early action.

Second Cuts

John Keefe and Sudden Sam McDowell were unable to improve enough to stay in camp.

Hal Trosky mashed the ball in a brief WBL appearance last year, but hasn’t done enough to preserve his place with the Spiders. Trosky refused to head to minor league camp, earning him his release. Bill Phillips, Bob Elliott, Ken Keltner, and Rick Burleson were all demoted.

SS remains a concern: Joe Sewell has been fine, but both Bill Dahlen and Arky Vaughan are hitting well under .200.

Third Cuts

Sergio Romo‘s performance in a handful of games last season keeps him in camp, but he’s on the edge for sure. Balor Moore was not as lucky, as the lefty headed to minor league camp. Justin Speier, currently injured, was sent down as well.

Louis Santop has struggled, but is clearly the starting C. The battle between Victor Martinez and Sal Butera to be his backup is fierce, however.

1B is a total logjam, and a likely source of trade bait. Jake Stahl, Lance Berkman, and John Ellis are all locks, and Paul O’Neill has been the Spiders’ best hitter in camp. With Ron Blomberg slotted in as the DH, one of these four probably needs to move on.

Over at 3B, Evan Longoria may be finally delivering on his promise, and is pushing Sammy Strang as the presumed starter. Strang continues to not be able to hit, but his ability to get on base and his defense clearly have some value. That leaves the injured Brandon Drury the odd man out.

The OF is slowly clearing out, but remains overcrowded especially as Berkman and O’Neill should see some time here as well. Elmer Flick heads to AAA. A key here is the ability of Tris Speaker, Rowland Office, Peanuts Lowrey, and Johnny Bates to all develop some positional flexibility. The battle between Office and Lowrey is key, and likely to come down to whether Lowrey batting right handed means more or less than Office’s better defense and greater flexibility.

The Final Cuts

Bobby Avila was the first odd man out, a move that essentially assures Sammy Strang his spot as a reserve 2B if nothing else. Sal Butera won the competition with Victor Martinez to break camp as the backup backstop–and with John Ellis able to play there as well, there was no need for Martinez to stay in camp.

In a bit of a surprise, Peanuts Lowrey, who was useful for Cleveland last season, heads to AAA. The Spiders may regret moving out Lowrey’s right-handed bat, but the OF situation just didn’t have any remaining room. Less surprising, but still unexpected, it looks like Joe Sewell has won the backup SS role, with veteran Bill Dahlen heading to AAA.

The Spiders needed 2 cuts to make it to 30. Those were C Sal Butera and P Wilbur Cooper.

Al Smith and Sergio Romo were the final cuts from the staff, meaning both Firpo Marberry and Yordano Ventura made the roster. From there on, it was all surprises and hard choices. Kenny Lofton lost not only the starting CF spot but his roster spot, and the Spiders were unable to find a roster spot for Paul O’Neill despite him being among the Spring batting leaders. Finally, Rowland Office was squeezed out, as the Spiders’ OF was just too crowded.

TWIWBL 56.4: Spring Training Notes – Chicago American Giants

By mknn

On February 21, 2024

In TWIWBL

Spring Training Questions

Four to five bullpen spots are up for grabs, essentially every role outside of closer (AJ Minter) and everyman (Hoyt Wilhelm). On the other side, some questions persist about the OF, and especially how Mike Fiore, who lead the WBL in walks but seems to offer little else and seems to be shying away from CF, fits in.

First round pick Jacob deGrom may push for a rotation spot, which would be, honestly, great for Chicago.

First Cuts

Doc Sykes didn’t survive the first round of cuts, as the American Giants want a few more innings in their evaluation of Jacob deGrom and Joe Lake. But the real logjam for Chicago is in the bullpen candidates. That thinned out some, as the team saw enough of Skip Pitlock, Larry White, and Brett Myers to know they weren’t in their immediate plans. Nor is Don Newcombe, who continues to confound everyone by seeming to have great stuff, but also getting rocked every time he takes the mound: perhaps a stint at AAA is what Newk actually needs.

That still leaves 20 pitchers in camp, so more sifting will be needed over the next week.

Jack Doyle is hitless this Spring, but his defensive versatility keesp him in camp, with Hal King the only C being reassigned given the hot starts from both Michael McKenry and Glenn Borgmann.

1B was already overly crowded, so the inability of Earl Sheely or Ruben Amaro Sr. to hit helps reduce the logjam there. Danny Murtaugh was cut at 2B, while Jorge Orta‘s upside keeps him in camp despite his early struggles. Ozzie Guillén was also reassigned with Luke Appling‘s strong showing keeping him in the running for a roster spot.

In the OF, both Vernon Wells and Lance Johnson have impressed at CF, with the trio of Bibb Falk, Steve Braun, and Ned Cuthbert all heading to minor league camp along with–in a bit of a surprise–Avisaíl García.

Second Cuts

Rich Garces (deservedly) and Joe Lake (perhaps not so deservedly) are moved into the American Giants’ minor league camp.

C Michael McKenry was sent down as Chicago clearly believes Dave Nilsson will somehow regain his stroke as Carlton Fisk‘s backup.

Both Paul Schaal and Joe Crede were sent down, with Ray Jablonski being recalled to help fill out the position. 2B Jorge Orta also heads down to the minors, as do Magglio Ordóñez and Rocky Colavito.

Special mention has to be made of Jack Doyle, who has an OPS of .111, but stays in camp solely due to his defensive versatility. Tom McCreery was recalled to help fill in defensively as well, but neither of them are good bets to make the final roster, although Doyle being a serviceable C does carry some weight.

Third Cuts

Jacon deGrom, Gavin Floyd, Don Wilson, and Joe Horlen all were sent down, essentially clarifying the American Giants’ starting rotation.

José Abreu and Lance Johnson were also sent to minor league camp.

Doyle sticks around, but Chicago should actively be in the market for someone to help out at across the infield who can hit more than Doyle. The standout performances from Vernon Wells and Lenny Dykstra are putting Kevin Mitchell‘s job as the 4th OFer at risk, but Mitchell hit enough last season to most likely prevail.

Final Cuts

Alex Reyes and Ray Jablonski were demoted, and Tom McCreery‘s brief shot at being a utility player ended with his being sent to AAA.

All of that means that Jack Doyle–he of the .400 Spring OPS–is likely to make the team as the reserve 3B (among other positions–Doyle’s flexibility is useful, even if his bat is not).

20 year old Glenn Borgmann was excellent all Spring–a .300 average, 3 homeruns, and decent play behind the plate. But Dave Nilsson retains his spot with Borgmann heading to the minors. The American Giants ducked more difficult choices by placing OF Kevin Mitchell on the DL to get down to 30 players.

The final cuts on the mound were pretty hard: Herb Pennock, Frank Smith, and Mike Adams were the choices, but there was very little to choose from between them, Larry Tiwtchell, and Billy Loes.

Luke Appling had a great Spring, but in the end was moved to AAA. Appling has established himself as the likely successor to Freddy Parent at SS, though.

Lenny Dykstra and Vernon Wells had a great battle all Spring. Wells edged out Dykstra, making the initial roster.

TWIWBL 56.3: Spring Training Notes – Baltimore Black Sox

By mknn

On February 20, 2024

In TWIWBL

Spring Training Questions

Not many: the twelve arms are–pending injury or spring training collapse–pretty much set, as is most of the lineup with only a single roster spot currently available, which would be filled by a reserve 2B.

First Cuts

This is hard. Other than Dick Ellsworth, all of the competitors for the final rosters spots impressed–even Frank Fancisco, who joined Ellsworth in being sent down, didn’t pitch badly.

The same can’t be said for the mainstays: Bob Miller and Buddy Groom both struggled, and pricey FA pickup Aaron Heilman was hit very hard. Baltimore’s assumption is that their core rotation–Bill Byrd, Dennis Martínez, Connie Johnson, and Mike Mussina–will all come around.

Offensively, some moves were more clear.

Nobody other than Curt Blefary has done anything behind the plate, leading to Brook Fordyce and Joe Holden being returned to the minors, as were Bruce Bochte, Paul Hines, Roy Smalley Jr., and Julian Javier. Both Billy Hulen and Paul Blair are hitless so far, but Blair is an established starter and a gold glove winner, so it’s Hulen who is sent to the minors, along with Ron Northey.

Neither Jim Bottomley nor Dave Altizer have shown much, but they were kept in camp for the time being.

It was assumed that 16 year old Piggy Ward was only in camp as a publicity stunt, but the young man has shown great control of the strike zone and enough defensive skill to stick around a bit longer.

Ramón Hernández, Manny Machado, Blair, and Larry Gardner have all struggled mightily, but aren’t yet in danger of any change to their status. Miller Huggins has also been poor, but retains his spot in camp due to the uncertainty at the reserve 2B position.

The focus for Baltimore will be on sorting out the pitching question: look for extended innings to be given to those guys over the next week. There are some questions to settle in the OF as well, as Steve Brodie‘s impressive start, combined with the struggles of Chick Stahl, Altizer, and Phil Bradley are muddying the waters for what may be the final roster spot.

Second Cuts

In the bullpen, Bob Miller–who started last year as the co-closer for the Black Sox but struggled since around the all-star break, and has been absolutely hammered in Spring Training–will start this season in the minors. Rafael Betancourt was also sent down, but other than that the pitching remains muddled: the starting quartet continues to struggle and the pretenders–Blake Hawksworth, Jack Kramer, Milt Pappas, and John Tudor–have combined to allow 1 run in in just over 26 innings.

Ramón Hernández and Phil Masi have each managed only a single hit, but Hernández’ WBL track record keeps him in camp. George Gibson was recalled to get some fill in at bats.

Jim Bottomley and Dave Altizer were sent down, loosening some of the crowd at 1B. Bottomley was given his release, allowing the veteran to try to catch on elsewhere. Teenage phenom Piggy Ward headed to minor league camp as well.

In the OF, veteran Chick Stahl‘s miserable spring earned him a ticket to AAA, while Steve Brodie and Phil Bradley continued to argue for a roster spot.

Third Cuts

C George Gibson, SS Mark Belanger, and Ps Jack Kramer and Mark Baldwin were the easy demotions. They were joined by Blake Hawksworth, whose wildness raised too many questions.

FA signing Aaron Heilman had been assumed to be a lock for the roster, but instead pitched poorly enough to be released, despite the economic commitment of his contract.

OF Steve Brodie was making a decent case to stick around, but a strained oblique will keep him out for about a month, sending him to AAA. He’s joined there by Brian Roberts, meaning Miller Huggins has beat out Roberts for the reserve 2B slot.

Joe Dobson and Milt Pappas have both pitched well in camp, but move to AAA for more development given their youth. Both Eddie Murray and Willie Montañez have hit well enough to stay in camp, and there is a bit of a logjam at SS and 3B: Bobby Wallace and Manny Machado are the presumed starters, leaving Brooks Robinson likely as the odd man out despite a strong Spring.

Phil Bradley finds himself in a similar position, likely the victim of a numbers game by the end of camp.

Last Cuts

Teenage phenom Willie Montañez‘ time in camp came to an end. OF Phil Bradley was going to need a stunning Spring to break camp with the Black Sox, and while he certainly tried, there was just no way he was breaking through the established OFers–plus Gavvy Cravath.

In a bit of a surprise, Tom Haller beat out incumbent Ramón Hernández to backup Curt Blefary with Hernández heading to AAA. That makes the Black Sox one of the first teams to reduce to only 2 Cs, partially out of a desire to get Blefary as much work behind the plate as possible before opening day.

Brooks Robinson had a nice Spring, but there just wasn’t any room for him on the left side of the infield behind incumbents Bobby Wallace and Larry Gardner, World Series hero Manny Machado, and the emerging talents of Cal Ripken, Jr. Robinson is off to AAA, with hopes that a good showing may make him desirable for a contender come the next trading period.

Being Whirled Champions should mean your roster is strong. It should also mean your choices the next Spring are rough, and here we are. Scott Williamson, Armando Benitez, John Tudor, and Kevin Tapani all pitched well this Spring. Tapani and Benitez were slightly worse, so they are the first two heading to AAA.

Benitez refused to be demoted, so he was waived, which puts a decent arm on the free market.

Eddie Murray was fantastic all Spring. But the Black Sox are going to continue with 37 year old Dan McGann for one more year, sending Murray to AAA to get regular AB.

The Cravath acquisition makes things complicated as the Black Sox have 6 quality bats in the OF (or 5 quality bats plus Paul Blair‘s glove). They also have a glut on the left side of the IF, where Cal Ripken, Jr is pushing both Bobby Wallace and Manny Machado at SS and 3B.

In the end, the hard decision came down to Ripken and Williamson being sent down, with Tudor being the surprise arm making the roster out of Spring Training.