The Future of Saber by the Bay

Hey folks,
I'm currently writing for Call to the Pen, and my work there is exclusive, which of course has meant I haven't been able to post on this page. I'm going to keep this page up for now, and there's some chance I will begin posting here again in the future should I decide I need an independent platform for one reason or another, but for now please follow the link through to check out my weekly columns at CttP.
Thanks,
Doug

Call to the Pen: The Queen City Closer Conundrum

The Queen City Closer Conundrum... after news that Ryan Madson will undergo Tommy John surgery, Sean Marshall and Aroldis Chapman will fill the void at the back of the bullpen. Can the Reds still make an October run? Read up and decide for yourself at Call to the Pen.

Call to the Pen: Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim Season Preview

The first of two back-to-back season previews, as I take on the new-look Angels. The team's under new leadership in GM Jerry Dipoto, and Dipoto's first offseason was anything but ordinary after the team pulled the Winter Meetings two-fer to grab the best hitter and pitcher on the market, Albert Pujols and CJ Wilson. Click over to Call to the Pen for more.
#fansided #calltothepen

Call to the Pen: Oakland A's Season Preview

My A's season preview is up at Call to the Pen. If you're an A's fan, or just interested in what Cespedes n' crew can do this year, hop over and check it out.

Call to the Pen: Big Names Struggle To Find Homes As Opening Day Approaches

This offseason's market has been a tough one for veterans, and as a result several are still sitting at home waiting for a call. I explore why these players haven't attracted much interest and where they might be going, or the situation they'd need to open up for a team to show interest.

Check it out at Call to the Pen.

Call to the Pen: Playoff Expansion Winners and Losers

Last week, MLB announced the playoffs would expand to include an extra Wild Card team in each league. This decision causes the playoff chances of some teams to skyrocket, while others who were already well-positioned might dread the thought of the one-game playoff that comes with a Wild Card slot. Check out the winners and losers in the new structure at Call to the Pen.

Call to the Pen: Zimmerman Extension Gives Nationals Stability, Value

Ryan Zimmerman's new deal cements him as the leader of a young and exciting Nationals' squad. Already the longest-tenured active National, Zimmerman is now under team control until at least 2019. I expect him to add value on the field as long as he can stay healthy, but the Nationals will also be looking for Zimmerman to provide veteran leadership and mentor promising prospects like Bryce Harper, and eventually Anthony Rendon. Check out my full analysis at Call to the Pen.

Call to the Pen: On Farm System Rankings And Philosophical Differences

Earlier this week, ESPN's Keith Law put out his 2012 Farm System Rankings, rating the Padres' system as the best in baseball. This ranking illustrates a clear philosophical difference in the way he and I evaluate future talent. Learn what that difference is and how I'd rate the Padres and the league's other top systems at Call to the Pen.

Call to the Pen: Why Pineda (Probably) Isn't the Answer for the Yankees

Many people seem to think Michael Pineda and Jesus Montero are saviors for their respective new rotation and lineup. I think expectations need to be tempered, especially in Pineda's case, for a variety of reasons. He'll have a tough time succeeding in New York, but he has the talent to do so. It'll require him to refine his pitching style, though, and I think people expecting him to repeat his 2011 performance immediately are  likely to be disappointed. Find out why at Call to the Pen.

Call to the Pen: Ian Kinsler, Superstar

Texas' second baseman and leadoff spark doesn't get the respect he deserves. Whether it's because he doesn't rack up gaudy RBI totals from the leadoff position or due to the other mashers in his lineup or at second base for other AL teams, Kinsler deserves to be recognized as the stud he is. Check it out over at Call to the Pen, and take a gander at the site's cool new layout as well.

Call to the Pen: Prince Fielder and the Process of Elimination

This week, I've looked through Prince Fielder's market and eliminated the teams I don't think have a shot due to a few different criteria. I pared down to five different destinations and explained why I think some are much more likely than others. Check the piece out here.

Call to the Pen: The Reds Make a Title Push

The Reds are taking advantage of what looks like a weak NL Central to push for the division title in 2012. In acquiring Mat Latos, Sean Marshall, and Ryan Madson, Walt Jocketty hopes to leapfrog the Cardinals and Brewers for a shot at October glory. Read about their decision to go for it all on Call to the Pen.

Call to the Pen: The Future of the Cubs

The acquisition of Anthony Rizzo serves as a strong signal for where Theo, Hoyer and Co. see the Cubs going in the next few years. Head over to Call to the Pen for the deeper significance of the trade.

Call to the Pen: Buying the Yoenis Cespedes Hype?

My new post is up on CttP. I've watched a good deal of tape of Cuban outfielder Yoenis Cespedes, and while he certainly has raw talent, I don't think he's going to be worth his massive price tag. Find out why at Call to the Pen.