Tuesday, May 11, 2021

Farhan Zaidi has started the Juggernaut?


 

The Farhan Zaidi Juggernaut?

Several San Francisco Giants beat writers talked about how 2022 would be the year that the Giants would start to compete again. 

The main reason behind the four year timeline was because that would be when the majority of the large contracts former general manager Bobby Evans signed would come off the books. 

Zaidi joined the Giants with many of their 25 man roster players signed to long term deals.

When Zaidi was hired, the fates of Bruce Bochy, Hunter Pence, Madison Bumgarner, Johnny Cueto, Buster Posey, Brandon Belt, Brandon Crawford and Evan Longoria were all up in the air.

As it turned out, Bochy, Pence and Bumgarner would not be fired or traded. Instead, they were simply let go. So was Will Smith, Joe Panik and Mac Williamson.

Cueto, Posey, Belt, Crawford and Longoria still remain. All but Longoria could face the same fate as Madison Bumgarner faced when he entered free agency for the first time.

However, among the surprises since Zaidi's arrival is the improvements made by this group. The entire coaching staff has completely changed the way the roster approaches their craft. It has led to a resurgence by the veterans that makes this upcoming off-season much more intriguing.



Laying the Groundwork in 2019

But the groundwork was laid over these last 30 months far beyond simply adjusting the approach by the veterans.

Zaidi mentioned in his first press conference that one of his first goals was to improve the 40 man roster. He also talked about creating depth in the minor league system.

It was led by under the radar signings like Donovan Solano and under the radar trades like Mike Yastrzemski. 

The only significant free agent signing made by Zaidi that first off-season was bringing back Derek Holland to a one year contract. Otherwise, it was small signings like Drew Pomeranz and the additions of Solano and Yastrzemski.


Zaidi did go after the biggest free agent on the market in Bryce Harper, but lost out to the Philadelphia Phillies. It's possible this was more a push by the front office than Zaidi's decision, but nonetheless, it did show that large signings were not going to disappear in the future.

Farhan continued to preach that no move was a small move. He added minor league free agents and non roster invitees, and made several small trades as well. Giants fans saw glimpses of the ways that approach could help the Giants when they had an amazing June in 2019 that had a team designed to rebuild suddenly in the playoff race. 

When Bochy and the Giants suddenly had a shot at the playoffs, Zaidi decided not to trade pending free agents Bumgarner and Will Smith at the deadline. Despite the Giants falling short, it gave Bochy the best chance to retire on top, gave a living legend like Bumgarner a chance to say goodbye, and it showed the fans that Farhan was willing to fight for wins even in a rebuild. 

Despite holding onto Bumgarner and Smith through the season, he let both walk in free agency, providing the Giants with two additional draft picks. This was the kind of long term move that can frustrate a fan base hoping for winning seasons now.

Finding Diamonds in the Rough

Zaidi spent the next off-season adding more pieces. Kevin Gausman was added to replace Bumgarner, which seemed at the time to be almost comical. 


From 2013-2019, Gausman posted a 10.6 Wins Above Replacement. Bumgarner, in the same timeframe had a 25.5 WAR. In 191 games and 154 starts, Gausman had pitched a total of 925.2 innings with a 4.30 earned run average and a 47-63 record. Bumgarner, meanwhile, had 1312 innings pitched over 202 starts and posted an 83-62 record with a 3.10 ERA.

But, here is where Farhan was starting to show his skill set. Based off those traditional numbers, the idea of replacing Bumgarner with Gausman, no matter what the money difference was, would seem misguided at best. Gausman was 64th in WAR among starters over that timeframe while Bumgarner was 10th.

However, when you saw him pitch, Gausman was showing some signs he could be much better than his numbers.  He was showcasing a devastating pitch in his splitter and the new staff in San Francisco identified him as a potential ace because of it.

It was savvy moves like Solano, Yastrzemski and Gausman that turned a team in the beginning of a rebuild into a team fighting for the playoffs in 2020. Some moves that seemed like a misstep to some, showed the true vision of Zaidi long term. 

When the Giants traded with the Cincinnati Reds for Zack Cozart, the thought initially was that we had found a versatile infielder that could help our 25 man roster. Instead, the move had nothing to do with Cozart at all. Included in the trade was former first round pick Will Wilson. The Angels were looking for a team to send Cozart to because his contract was impacting their payroll. Zaidi gladly took on the dead money to add another top prospect to the Giants farm system. 

As far as the season went, they fell short, just like in 2019. It was clear, however, that while the potential top prospects were still years away, something was going on in San Francisco.

Zaidi had traded several pitchers at the 2019 deadline, including Mark Melancon, Drew Pomeranz, Sam Dyson and Ray Black. What was a place of depth for the Giants suddenly seemed barren. Then the Giants added Gausman, Drew Smyly and Trevor Cahill the following off-season, just to let Smyly and Cahill walk as well.

A rotation that could have had Bumgarner, Gausman, Cueto, Smyly and Cahill was looking thin. The Giants did re-sign Gausman to the largest contract Zaidi had handed out yet. A one year, $18 million deal. Gausman and Cueto were now essentially both on one year deals. 


Farhan Retooling Once Again

Farhan then spent the remainder of the off-season adding the rest of the rotation. First Anthony DeSclafani, followed by Alex Wood and finally Aaron Sanchez. He also gave his first three year deal to versatile infielder Tommy LaStella. It was only the second multi year deal of the Zaidi era after the two year deal given to Wilmer Flores in 2020.

As we head into the middle of May, every starting pitcher acquisition has looked brilliant from Farhan. Despite injuries to Solano, Yastrzemski and La Stella, the Giants offense has been one of the best in the game. Along with the vet from the Evans era, other small signings like Darin Ruf, Alex Dickerson and trades for LaMonte Wade Jr. and Mike Tauchman have showed that Zaidi will continue to add and build regardless of the standings or the timeline of the top prospects. 

The Giants might not be able to hold off the mighty Los Angeles Dodgers and up and coming San Diego Padres, but sitting in first place in May is always a great sign.

What's even more fascinating is the potential at the deadline if the Giants are contenders. Will they be willing to add to the 26 man roster? Will they be willing to move veterans anyway in the right deal? Will they take on a large contract if it meant prospects were included? 

Having the flexibility to do all of the above makes the remainder of this season much more interesting.

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Wednesday, December 18, 2019

The Optimistic Timeline of the 2025 World Champion San Francisco Giants

The San Francisco Giants won the World Series in 2010, 2012 and 2014. However, in the last three seasons, everything has changed.

The Giants fired their general manager, Bobby Evans, said goodbye to their manager Bruce Bochy and watched World Series heroes walk out the door every off-season.

Madison Bumgarner, the most decorated hero of the group is now an Arizona Diamondback for the next five seasons and Giants fans are in mourning over the loss.

We have seen Tim Lincecum not brought back, Matt Cain retire and many more wave to the crowds at 24 Willie Mays Plaza for a final time.

As we look into the future, and the team new president Farhan Zaidi and general manager Scott Harris are building, here is how they can return to dominance.

 Opening Day 2020

 Giants Rotation

The Giants are likely to include Logan Webb as part of their starting rotation. Of the young pitchers showcased in 2019, Webb showed the most promise. He will be entering his age 23 season in 2020.

Also in the mix for a starting job include:
Shaun Anderson (25)
Tyler Beede (27)
Conner Menez (25)
Dereck Rodriguez (28)
Andy Suarez (27)

Webb's age clearly has him as the front runner to be a piece the Giants can build a rotation with long term.

Giants Lineup

 Mauricio Dubon will be entering his age 25 season. He has already showed potential at both second base and shortstop and there is talk of him possibly moving to center field. Dubon's athleticism and versatility should make him a valuable piece for the future.

Age is a huge crutch for the 2020 Giants lineup.

Jaylin Davis (25) Steven Duggar (26) Chris Shaw (26) Austin Slater (27) and Mike Yastrzemski (29) are the only players under 30 that have a chance at competing for an Opening Day Roster spot.

That is one of the reasons the team decided not to bring back Kevin Pillar. Giving guys like Davis, Duggar, Shaw, Slater and Yastrzemski at bats is critical to deciding who should stay beyond 2020.

 June Draft 2020

 Amateurs

The Giants own five picks in the first 100 selections in the June draft.

Their top pick will be 13th overall. They will also have the 43rd pick overall as well as two picks after the second round as compensation for losing Bumgarner and closer Will Smith. Along with their third round pick, that will give the Giants five of the top 100 amateur athletes in baseball added to their system.

The influx of young talent has been the key to the rebuild. At the trade deadline last year, the Giants traded veteran pitching for prospects like Dubon. They also added 2018 draft pick Tristan Beck.

So far this offseason, the Giants traded for Will Wilson, who was the 15th pick in the 2018 draft.

Zaidi's first draft in 2019 added the Giants three players to their top 30 prospects list, and the Wilson trade gives them four. That's also four players in the last three drafts taken in the top 17.

Heliot Ramos, Joey Bart and Hunter Bishop are each expected to play big roles in the Giants future. The Giants also added Sean Hjelle in the second round of the 2018 draft as well as Seth Corry the year prior.

If Zaidi can net some elite talent again in June, the system will be the healthiest it's been in years.

Trade Deadline 2020

Veterans on the Move?

The Giants are unlikely to win games in 2020. The team is filled with veterans who are not going to be a part of the team's future beyond 2021.

Some of the veterans may even be traded before the off-season is over. Others will be sent elsewhere in July. Last year's trade deadline saw veteran pitchers Mark Melancon, Drew Pomeranz, Sam Dyson and Ray Black moved.

By the time the Giants hit August 1st, veterans like Jeff Samardzija, Brandon Belt, Evan Longoria, Johnny Cueto and Tony Watson could be playing in another uniform.

If any of those veterans show they can be both healthy and productive, the Giants may be adding more young talent to their organization.

September Call Ups 2020

Bart and Friends

 Bart is the most likely prospect heading for Oracle Park in 2020. His call up is a matter of when in 2020 and not if. At the very minimum, he should be added by September.

It is also possible that Ramos and Hjelle could be given opportunity to show what they can do the final month of the season.

You never know what will happen over a six month baseball season, and there will always be surprises. Pitchers like Melvin Adon, Jake Wong or Gregory Santos could make big strides in 2020 and end up in San Francisco before the season ends. While all three are outside the Giants top 10 prospects list, they all rank in the top 20 and have showed potential throughout their time in the system.

2020 Off-Season

More Money to Spend

 Samardzija will be gone one way or another after the season ends. That's another $18 million they can spend elsewhere. Kevin Gausman, who was recently signed this year, is only on a one year deal as well. His $9 million contract will expire as well and if he's not traded at the deadline, he will be free to sign with anyone after the season. Another $15 million is being spent on Zack Cozart, acquired with Will Wilson, and Tony Watson.

That will be $42 million off the books at the end of the year.

If the Giants can move Longoria (owed $58.5 million through 2022) Cueto ($47 million through 2021) or Belt ($34.4 million through 2021) between now and the end of 2020, they will be well positioned to add elite talent in free agency.

Opening Day 2021

Influx of Young Talent?

 Assuming Bart comes up in 2020, it is also likely we will see Ramos, Hjelle and others join him on the 2021 Opening Day Roster.

Without making assumptions on who the Giants add from other teams between now and the 2021 Opening Day, here is the likeliest Opening Day lineup with the current players in the organization.


Bart and Ramos are the most likely to be starters by the time 2021 begins. If the Giants don't upgrade at the corner outfield spots, Ramos would be more likely to start in right field with Duggar starting in center field. At the moment, Webb would be ahead of Hjelle, although, both should make the starting rotation.

Even if Belt is still with the Giants, it would be more likely he would be on the bench as Posey would move to first base.

This would also mean that only Cueto, Posey, Crawford and Longoria are left among the current group of veterans in the starting lineup.

Buster Posey - $22.178M
Johnny Cueto - $21M
Evan Longoria - $18.667M
Brandon Belt - $17.2M
Brandon Crawford - $15.2M

5 Players: $92 million in 2021.

While it is unlikely Posey or Crawford is traded before Opening Day 2021, it is very likely that some of these veterans will be gone.

In the meantime, it is exciting to think about 2021 as the likely first Opening Day starts for Bart and Ramos.

June Draft 2021

More Amateurs!

With the Giants unlikely to compete in 2020, it is also possible that the 2021 June draft will give them another haul of top prospects. Being able to earn another top 10 pick in the draft, as well as two more in the top 80 should give the Giants another opportunity to build up their farm.

Trade Deadline 2021

Veterans on the Move Again?

By the time the Giants reach July 31, 2021, this team will look completely different. Only Longoria will be owed significant money in 2022. This trade deadline could be the end for Posey, Crawford, Cueto and Belt, if not before.

In the meantime, Bart, Ramos and other prospects should be on the big club.

September Call-Ups 2021

Bishop and Friends?

One of those prospects is Hunter Bishop. Farhan Zaidi's first ever draft pick could rise quickly through the system.

Posey, who was the 5th pick in the 2008 draft, came up in September of 2009, and then came up for good in May of 2010. Only Tim Lincecum had a faster trajectory.

Bart, who has dealt with injuries, did not appear for the Giants last September, and may not come up before September this year.

It remains to be seen if Bishop will be in San Francisco less than three years after being drafted in June of 2019, but there is a good chance that he will be on the doorstep.

For an organization that built a dynasty with a mostly homegrown pitching staff and infield, having outfielders like Ramos and Bishop is exciting.

The Giants actually drafted quite a few bats in 2019, including first basemen Logan Wyatt and Garrett Frechette, center fielder Grant McCray, and shortstops Tyler Fitzgerald and Dilan Rosario.

It is unlikely that any of the other 2019 draftees will be playing at Oracle by September of 2021, but it seems clear that the Giants won't hesitate to move Bishop through the system.

The most exciting pitching prospect that may be brought up in September of 2021 is Seth Corry. Corry was a 3rd round pick in the 2017 draft. His 2019 season with the Augusta Green Jackets turned a lot of heads in the organization and around baseball. While Sean Hjelle remains the highest ranked prospect in the system, Corry might end up having more success at the big league level.

In 26 starts for the Green Jackets, Corry posted a 1.76 ERA over 122.2 innings pitched with 172 strikeouts and only 58 walks.

For comparison, Hjelle posted a 2.66 ERA over 40.2 innings pitched with 44 strikeouts and only 9 walks before being promoted.

Prospect ETA

1. Joey Bart: 2021
2. Heliot Ramos: 2021
4. Hunter Bishop: 2022
5. Logan Webb: In San Francisco
6. Sean Hjelle: 2021
7. Alexander Canario: 2022
8. Mauricio Dubon: In San Francisco
9. Seth Corry: 2022
10. Will Wilson: 2022

2021 Off-Season

Heading into the 2022 season, the Giants 40 man roster should include nine of the current top 10 prospects in the organization.

Much could change, and many new prospects could be added, but it is important to know that the 25 man Opening Day roster in 2022 could be heavy with homegrown talent.

C Joey Bart
2B Will Wilson
SS Mauricio Dubon
LF Hunter Bishop
CF Heliot Ramos
RF Alex Canario
SP Sean Hjelle
SP Seth Corry
SP Logan Webb

With all primed to be ready by 2022 or sooner, the Giants off-season needs might not be as big. That being said, the Giants will have money to spend to search for top end talent.

One other factor to consider about the potential for a loaded 2022 roster is the same thing we saw in 2012.

The Giants were paying almost no money by baseball standards to their most important players. Cain, Bumgarner, Posey, Belt, Panik, Crawford and more were on deals they signed before being eligible for free agency.

This cost-effective strategy is a clear plan of Zaidi, Harris and the rest of the Giants brain trust. Assuming the baseball economics remain the same in 2022, that will be a critical part of the team's financial health.



The Rise of Marco Luciano?

The only prospect not predicted to be arriving to San Francisco by 2022 is Marco Luciano. Luciano is heading into his age 18 season in 2020. The idea of the Giants being able to bring up a teenager through their system quickly has most of the Giants fan base excited for the possibility.

Baseball does not see teenagers very often.

Mel Ott is the most famous teenager in Giants history, who started playing for the New York Giants at 17. Other Hall of Famers like Ty Cobb, Jimmie Foxx, Mickey Mantle, Robin Yount, and Ken Griffey Jr. began their major league careers before they turned 20.

The Washington Nationals brought Bryce Harper up in 2012 and Juan Soto up in 2018. At the same time, some of the most exciting players in all of baseball right now are not allowed to drink legally in the U.S.

Ronald Acuna Jr., Fernando Tatis Jr., Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Bo Bichette, Ozzie Albies, Gleyber Torres, Cody Bellinger, Carlos Correa, Francisco Lindor, Mookie Betts and Mike Trout are just some of the elite talent who made their major league debut before their 22nd birthday.

Luciano has said his goal is to get to the big leagues in three years. That would have him in the bigs by 2022. That would be his age 20 season.


When Giants fans say they are excited about Luciano, there is a reason.

Luciano is Not Alone

 Alex Canario was even better in the Arizona Rookie League, albeit a shorter stint.

In 10 games, he slashed .395/.435/.1000 for an OPS of 1.435. He had 11 extra base hits, including seven home runs.

Luis Toribio, who is the top third baseman in the system and the 11th ranked prospect overall, slashed .297/.436/.459 for an OPS of .895 over 51 games and 185 at bats.

17th round pick Connor Cannon led the team with 13 home runs over 35 games and 132 at bats. The 21 year old slashed .326/.399/.689 for an OPS of 1.088.

Luciano, Toribio, Cannon and others in the Arizona Rookie League are not expected to make the long journey through the system until at least 2023. Even if none of them are options in 2022, they could all be in Double or Triple A if they continue to make strides.


Free Agency 2022

 The Giants should be big players in Free Agency heading into the 2022 season.

Possible additions include Francisco Lindor, Carlos Correa, Corey Seager, Trevor Story and Noah Syndergaard.

While Luciano is a shortstop, there has been talk about him moving positions, so if any of these top flight shortstops are available, the Giants could make a move for one of them. There are already rumors about a possible Lindor trade this off-season and there was some talk of Correa moving as well. If Lindor does get moved, it could be to the Los Angeles Dodgers, which could include Seager in the return. The Rockies are always struggling to decide how they'll spend their money, so Story could be the odd man out if they keep Nolan Arenado and Charlie Blackmon instead of extending Story.

With Jacob deGrom and Marcus Stroman in New York, it is possible and even likely that Syndergaard would be available as a free agent as well.

With Alex Bregman, George Springer and others to extend in Houston, Correa could be the odd man out with the Astros.

The Giants could go big with the signings of Story and Syndergaard to add to an already impressive core group.

Opening Day 2022

C Joey Bart
1B Logan Wyatt
2B Mauricio Dubon
SS Marco Luciano
3B Trevor Story*
LF Hunter Bishop
CF Heliot Ramos
RF Alex Canario

UT Will Wilson
IF Luis Toribio

SP Noah Syndergaard*
SP Sean Hjelle
SP Seth Corry
SP Logan Webb
SP Jake Wong

CL Melvin Adon

So much can change in the next three years. We have no idea who will be drafted in the next two seasons, which players will improve. Which prospects will get injured or fall off the projection charts. We don't know which free agents will sign extensions and which potential free agents will still be valuable in 2022.

The 2022 25 Man Roster was suppose to include Madison Bumgarner. Of all the Giants with World Series rings, he may have been the most likely to be a Giant in 2022.

With the way things can change in baseball, maybe Farhan makes a trade for Bumgarner in 2022. Maybe Farhan is no longer in the Giants organization.

One thing is clear: The current farm system is healthier now than it was before Farhan Zaidi arrived.

It will undoubtedly be even healthier in June.

If the Giants can continue to add depth and top end talent to their farm, there is no telling how good they can be in a few years.

By 2022, they could be a threat to everyone in the National League West and beyond.

By 2025, they could be planning another parade, if not before.
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Tuesday, December 17, 2019

Why Kenny Lofton Deserves to Be in the Baseball Hall of Fame

For the next several weeks, I will be publishing articles on this blog to showcase and highlight baseball players not in the Hall of Fame that deserve to be.

The perspectives will be from first hand accounts of baseball experts who have watched these players play the game at an elite level and seen then thrive in their era.


For our second piece, we will be looking at center fielder Kenny Lofton.

Vince Guerrieri of vinceguerrieri.com was kind enough to share his views on Lofton and what made him so special to the game of baseball.

In 1991, the Cleveland Indians moved the fences back at Municipal Stadium, making an expansive field — Babe Ruth said at its debut that outfielders should cover ground on horseback — even more cavernous. They wanted to take advantage of their speedy center fielder, a fan favorite from whom great things were expected: Alex Cole.

 The Cole experiment was a short-lived failure. But the center fielder they were waiting for was in the wings. Kenny Lofton was virtually stolen from the Houston Astros in a trade of back-up catcher Ed Taubensee.

And the Indians were in the cusp of greatness. The team’s offense was a murderer’s row. Albert Belle’s 1995 season was unparalleled — he remains the only player with 50 homers and 50 doubles in a season, and he did it in a strike-shortened year — with only his truculence costing him the MVP award. Eddie Murray was at the end of his career but still a dangerous hitter. The team was so loaded that Jim Thome and Manny Ramirez were relegated to the bottom of the lineup.

And at the top was Lofton, giving the Indians’ offense another dimension. His role was to be the runs batted in that the rest of the lineup earned. He was the right man for the job. A former college basketball player at Arizona (he’s one of just two people to play in a Final Four and a World Series,) Lofton ran like a gazelle and seemed to be capable of leaping tall buildings in a single bound (Cleveland IS the birthplace of Superman.)

There’s an old baseball joke that 2/3 of the world is covered by water, and the fleet-footed fielder of your choice covered the other third. That applied to Lofton. He once climbed the center field wall to come down with an out.

He dropped off the BBWAA ballot for the Hall of Fame after only one year. His numbers stand up to scrutiny, but it’s his almost balletic grace stealing bases or patrolling center field that made him so memorable.
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Tuesday, November 19, 2019

Why Keith Hernandez Deserves to be in the Baseball Hall of Fame

For the next several weeks, I will be publishing articles on this blog to showcase and highlight baseball players not in the Hall of Fame that deserve to be.

The perspectives will be from first hand accounts of baseball experts who have watched these players play the game at an elite level and seen then thrive in their era.



For our first piece, we will be looking at first baseman Keith Hernandez.

Chris Bodig of Cooperstown Cred was kind enough to share his views on Hernandez and what made him so special to the game of baseball.

1. When did you first see him play and what, if anything, do you remember?

I first saw him play in the 1982 World Series with the Cardinals. It seemed like he was "on" everything (as a hitter) in the last couple of games of the series. The first time I saw him play in person was in September of 1984 at Shea Stadium. I don't remember anything Keith did, but I do remember starting pitcher Dwight Gooden pitching a one-hitter (only hit on a Mitch Moreland grounder that Ray Knight should have fielded at third).

2. What stands out about his talent?

What stands out about his talent was his glove work. I attended nearly 200 Mets games between 1985-1988, many of them with a bird's eye view behind home plate. Hernandez was a maestro at first base. He had cat-like reflexes, allowing him to stop ground balls others would miss. He was especially adept at going to his right, making a play and fluidly throwing to the shortstop with the speed required for the shortstop to finish a 3-6-1 double play. On bunt plays, he was fearless. Keith would charge uncomfortably close to the plate. On bunt plays with runners on second, he was so aggressive that he could field bunts down the third base line and fire to third to get the lead runner.

3. What made you a life long fan?

I became a life-long fan because of his brilliance defensively.

4. What is the reason(s) he deserves to be remembered forever?

He deserves to be remembered forever as arguably the greatest fielding first baseman in the history of baseball and that he was also an excellent hitter with a keen eye.

5. Why do you think that aren't in the Hall of Fame?

I'm convinced he's not in the Hall because he was a first baseman who didn't hit for power and because injuries ended his career prematurely, with only 2,182 hits.

6. Is there someone already in the Hall of Fame at the same position you would argue he's better than? If so, explain.

Hernandez is better than many first basemen in the Hall (most of whom played prior to 1950). I also believe that he was a better hitter than Tony Perez, even though the "Big Dog" had 550 more hits, 217 more home runs, and 581 more runs batted in. Perez also had 2,308 more plate appearances, which is the equivalent to about 4 seasons. Perez had the volume but Keith was a more pure hitter, with a batting average 17 points higher and an on base percentage 43 points higher. Therefore, his OPS+ is higher (128 to 122). Perez also struck out 855 times more and hit into 107 more double plays. But the #1 reason that Hernandez is a better overall player is because of his defense.

7. Do metrics like Wins Above Replacement, OPS+, ERA+ etc... need to play a larger role in determining Hall of Fame credentials over traditional numbers like hits, home runs and wins? Why or why not?

Metrics like WAR, OPS+ and ERA+ (specifically these three) definitely need to play a larger role in determining Hall of Fame credentials because they measure a player's overall worth. A lesser hitter can get to 3,000 hits while the superior hitter doesn't because they either managed to stick around long enough in late-career mediocrity or because they didn't draw walks. The milestone numbers are still important but they should represent only one track to the Hall of Fame. Players with hidden skills that are revealed by WAR or OPS+ should also have a track.

8. If you had to choose just one factor, what is the thing that should carry the most weight for Hall of Fame induction? Explain.

I'll answer this question is in regards to a borderline Hall of Fame candidate. If a player has a WAR over 70 or reaches a traditional milestone, that should be honored. When it's a player without one of those, I ask myself about the player's relevance in the history of baseball. When it comes to Keith Hernandez, his relevance is as the greatest fielding first basemen ever or at least of the last 50 years and that he was a key member of two teams that won the World Series.

If you would like to read more about why Chris believes Hernandez is a Hall of Famer, check out his article on Keith at Cooperstown Cred. 
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Friday, March 9, 2018

What I Am Thankful For As A San Francisco Giants Fan

The easy answer is 2010, 2012 and 2014. And to some degree, those are certainly three of the things I am most thankful for, especially 2010. However, what I am truly thankful for is the fandom itself.

I am thankful for 1983. That was the year of my first game at Candlestick Park. My father took me to the game. I don’t remember what game it was. I don’t remember if the Giants won or lost. The Giants won 53% of their home games that season, so I had roughly a 50/50 chance of seeing a win. I am much more thankful of my father taking me to the game in the first place. I am thankful for the love of the game he had and the love for the game he instilled in me.

Candlestick Park, Home of the San Francisco Giants 1960-1999
I am thankful for 1987. My first pennant race. I am thankful for being seven years old and beginning to live and die with my team. I am thankful for the young homegrown stars like Will Clark, Robby Thompson, and Chili Davis and new players traded to the team like Jeffrey Leonard, Jose Uribe, Kevin Mitchell, Mike Krukow, Don Robinson, and Dave Dravecky. I was heartbroken when they lost to the St. Louis Cardinals, but I was excited for the future.

I am thankful for 1989. My first World Series. I am thankful for seeing some of my favorite players evolve like Clark, Mitchell, Robinson and more. I am thankful for new additions like Steve Bedrosian and Brett Butler playing key roles. I am also thankful for the first responders and everyone that came to the aid of the victims of the 1989 Loma Prieta Earthquake. Despite the loss to the Oakland Athletics, that reality hit home harder than any loss could ever do.

My father and I were in the car heading home to watch Game 3 when the earthquake began. We were listening to the pregame on the radio when it felt like all four tires went flat at the same time. But then you look around and every other car is stopped on the freeway as well. I am thankful that we weren’t on the Bay Bridge that day or on 880. I am thankful that so many survived.

Barry Bonds waves to the crowd after a home run, 1993.
I am thankful for 1993. I am thankful for Barry Bonds agreeing to sign with my favorite team and the 15 years of entertainment he provided my family. My grandfather was near the end of his life as Bonds was beginning his career in San Francisco and he would watch every game. He would call my dad to comment on the fact that Barry Bonds had homered in the exact same spot as he did the day before.

[Sidenote: My grandfather would watch the replays of the game on SportsChannel Bay Area and not realize they were replays.]

I am thankful for the excitement Bonds, Dusty Baker, Rod Beck, Matt Williams and so many more brought my grandfather, my father and me.

I am thankful for 1997. I am thankful for Brian Sabean and the team he built. I am thankful for Williams and all he did for the Giants in his time in San Francisco. I am thankful for Jeff Kent, J.T. Snow, Rich Aurilia, Russ Ortiz, Shawn Estes and Kirk Rueter. I am thankful for the era that began that season.

Kirk Rueter's first pitch at AT&T Park on April 11, 2000
I am thankful for 2000. I am thankful for the most beautiful baseball park I have ever set foot in. I am thankful for Ellis Burks, Robb Nen, and Mark Gardner. I am thankful for the first time I was able to take my dad to a game. I am thankful for sitting at Pacific Bell Park with my father, driving the two of us to the park to enjoy the game I had loved for the past 17 years.

I am thankful for 2001. I am thankful for Bonds and the season he had. With every home run, I felt like I was home instead of being away at college, 1,646.2 miles away. I am thankful for home runs 71 and 72 as I shared baseball history with my roommates and felt a connection to my team despite being so far away.

I am thankful for 2002. I am thankful for my second trip to the World Series as a fan. I am thankful for how close we got. It was gut wrenching and heart breaking and still feels raw to this day, but it was such a special season. I am thankful for all of the players that were a part of that team. I am thankful for Kenny Lofton, Benito Santiago, David Bell, Reggie Sanders, and Jason Schmidt. I am also thankful for the team’s first round draft pick that season.

Matt Cain's Debut Start
I am thankful for 2005. I am thankful for the debut of Matt Cain. I am thankful for the first move towards an eventual championship. I am thankful for the front office changing their philosophy on how they would build the Giants in the future. I am thankful for future draft picks like Tim Lincecum, Madison Bumgarner, Buster Posey, Brandon Belt, Brandon Crawford, and Joe Panik.

I am thankful for 2008. I am thankful for taking my future wife on dates to San Jose Giants games and seeing those homegrown draft picks up close. I am thankful for watching Posey and Bumgarner with her and watching them get to the big leagues. I am thankful that my wife was a Los Angeles Dodgers fan before we met which meant she already loved baseball. I am thankful that because of those San Jose Giants games, she fell in love with the Giants. I am thankful for her family, despite their love for the Dodgers, were happy for me and my team when they made the playoffs. I am thankful that she fell in love with them organically. I am thankful that when they won it all in 2010, she was the first person I hugged.

And yes, of course I am thankful for 2010. I am thankful for every torturous moment. I am thankful for every thrilling moment. I am thankful for every Bruce Bochy decision, every Cain pitch, every Posey at bat, and every Lincecum strikeout.



I am most thankful for November 1, 2010 about 30 minutes after Brian Wilson struck out Nelson Cruz in Game 5. About 30 minutes after that last strike, I showed up on my father’s doorstep and knocked on the door. When he answered the door, I hugged him and cried. It was one of the most special moments a son could have with his father as it relates to sports. It is why we care so much about the game itself. Losing happens. No team goes undefeated. The people you share those moments with and the shared joy you feel when your team wins the final game of the season is indescribable. Had the Giants won all the time, 2010 wouldn't be as special as it was. Had the Giants continued to win the World Series every other year like some “Even Year Magic,” 2010 wouldn’t be as special as it was.

I truly loved seeing San Francisco win the World Series in 2012 and 2014. But the moment i embraced my father on the night of November 1, 2010 is the best moment I have ever shared with him when it comes to our Giants.

Aaron Saltzman, the next great Giants fan

And now my son, Aaron, who is two years old, will be the next generation to be a part of this fandom. I look forward to introducing the Giants to him and rooting for new players that come along and become his favorites. This is bigger than any win or loss the team can have. This is more special to me than whether the Giants sign the next Barry or draft the next Buster. This is what I am thankful for, this is what baseball is all about, and this is what the San Francisco Giants mean to me and my family.
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Monday, February 13, 2017

CONTEST GIVEAWAY: Free Bobblehead

This Thursday, I will begin posting my picks for the 64 greatest San Francisco Giants since 1958. Starting today and ending Wednesday at 11:59pm PST, I will be taking answers for a free bobblehead giveaway.

 Here is the official question: How many current San Francisco Giants are a part of the 64 Giants that made the cut? How many and can you name them?

One lucky Giants fan will win a free bobblehead for getting both answers right. If no fan gets the answer 100% right, I will see who named the most correct Giants and choose among the people that were closest.

Make sure to look for the #SFGiantsMadness hashtag on Twitter for the articles that will begin posting this Thursday and every Thursday to see which Giants made the list.

Good luck to all Giants fans and Happy Bumgarners and Poseys Day!

Here is how last year's Brackets ended:


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Monday, November 21, 2016

The Core Four: A Retrospective



The San Francisco Giants have won three World Series since moving to the city in 1958. Each and every championship included four relief pitchers better known as “The Core Four.” Jeremy Affeldt, Sergio Romo, Santiago Casilla and Javier Lopez. With Affeldt’s retirement at the end of the 2015 season and the pending free agency of Romo, Casilla and Lopez, we may have seen the last of the strongest bullpen in Giants history.



Since the 2010 trade deadline, when the San Francisco Giants acquired Lopez from the Pittsburgh Pirates, these four pitchers have been literal Giants. They have been the core of a bullpen that consistently stopped some of the best lineups in baseball. Affeldt’s scoreless inning streak of 23 innings was recently passed by starter Madison Bumgarner. Only future Hall of Fame closer Mariano Rivera has a longer streak than Bumgarner.

Romo, Casilla and Lopez all had scoreless inning streaks heading into the 2016 post-season as well. When it came to Bruce Bochy‘s bullpen, it seemed he could always count on these four men in October. Many fans became frustrated with the group in the last two seasons, and it was understandable.

When the expectation is dominance and you have seen these pitchers perform at an elite level for so long, you take it for granted how hard it is to replicate. The Giants have made a Wall of Fame outside AT&T Park, and soon all four members of “The Core Four” will have their own plaque. As the years pass, fans will remember more fondly with how strong the group was and how rare it really is for a team to have so much talent in one bullpen.

With the current post-season showcasing relief pitchers being used in the middle innings, we can see that Major League bullpens are being redefined before our eyes. Pitchers such as American League Championship Series Most Valuable Player Andrew Miller of the Cleveland Indians, Los Angeles Dodgers closer Kenley Jansen and the Chicago Cubs closer Aroldis Chapman, pitchers are being asked to pitch in the innings with the highest stress instead of just save situations. The Baltimore Orioles Zach Britton was infamously left out of the American League wild card game that went extra innings because the Orioles never put their team in the position to have a save situation. Meanwhile, the best groundball pitcher in the game wasn’t used in situations that needed a double play from their best relief pitcher.



However, this phenomenon isn’t new in San Francisco. The Giants have been doing this for the last seven seasons. Even though they have used a traditional closer, they have always known spending on their bullpen was vital. Keeping each member of their core when other teams would have used the money elsewhere allowed for them to have great pitchers for those high stress middle innings. They never had to overuse just one pitcher when they had four.

When the Giants needed an out in the middle innings, Affeldt and Casilla were often used to get out both right handed and left handed batters. When the team needed to get out an elite right handed bat, Romo was often called. And if the team needed to take the bat out of the hands of a team’s best left handed batters, Javier Lopez was the “LOOGY” that was called upon.

Lopez was used in so many key moments in 2010 to get out powerful left handed hitters like Ryan Howard, Chase Utley and Josh Hamilton. In 2012, Romo struck out one of the best right handed hitters in the game in Miguel Cabrera. It was easy to overlook how important these core members were when they were so consistent but would be used in such short bursts.



It’s so much easier for fans to remember Pablo Sandoval hitting three home runs in Game 1 of the 2012 World Series or a Bumgarner complete game shutout. But without “The Core Four,” there might not be any championships in San Francisco.

Looking back on what the Giants had from 2010 to 2016, it was clear that the Giants had pitchers with closer “stuff” they could use in those high stress situations. Affeldt famously pitched in the second inning of Game seven of the World Series in 2014, and he became the first pitcher in baseball history to be brought in from the second through the ninth inning in the post-season during his career.



2016 was rough for the remaining members of the core four and there might be thought that the legacy of the group might even be impacted with the way the season ended for Romo, Casilla and Lopez. However, if you look at the entirety of the last seven seasons, it it clear that the success outweighs the failures.

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Aubrey Huff Talks Anxiety and Depression



The San Francisco Giants never won a World Series in their 52 year history on the West Coast until Aubrey Huff came to the Bay Area. Huff, and his band of castoffs and misfits won the 2010 World Series and Huff led the team in nearly every offensive category. He would win a second ring in 2012 before retiring in January of 2014.

Despite all the success Aubrey Huff had with the San Francisco Giants, fans don’t know that he was battling anxiety and depression behind the scenes. While fans were cheering to see his “rally thong,” Huff was in pain. While fans were wondering why the success of the 2010 season didn’t translate into the next three years with the Giants, Aubrey’s struggles off the field were kept secret.

The San Francisco Giants were Huff’s fifth and final team during his 13 year career. He had also played with the Tampa Bay Rays, Baltimore Orioles, Houston Astros and Detroit Tigers. It wasn’t until the 2015 Off-season where Aubrey Huff revealed that he had been struggling with anxiety and depression. When he spoke to reporters in 2015, he was attempting a comeback to the big leagues at age 39.

“My career didn’t really end the way I wanted it to,” Huff said at the time. “I was 35 years old and I still had a lot of baseball in my bones, but I was going through so much anxiety that right then was a good time to quit.”

In his 13 seasons in the big leagues, Huff hit .278/.342/.464 with 242 home runs and 904 RBI in 1,681 games. In 2010 for the San Francisco Giants, Huff led the team in Games, At Bats, Hits, Runs, Home Runs, Runs Batted In, On Base Percentage and OPS.



“The biggest thing for me is to inspire people because millions and millions of people live with anxiety and depression throughout their life,” he said. “If they can see a guy that’s went through it publicly and go out there in front of 40,000 people a night and know that it can be beat, it’s going to give them a lot of hope.”

Huff has now written a book, titled Baseball Junkie, which he is currently funding through Kickstarter. As he states on the book’s Kickstarter page, “Baseball Junkie is the story of a man who seemingly has everything—a place in Major League Baseball history, success, fame, money, a beautiful family—and yet, finds himself staring straight at a loaded .375 Magnum, contemplating suicide.”

“Baseball Junkie follows Huff through a rollercoaster ride from humble beginnings as a quiet, shy kid growing up in a trailer park in a small Texas town, to an Adderall-infused egomaniac standing in front of a million-plus Giants fans, proudly displaying women’s underwear, his ‘rally thong,’ for the world to see.”
“The book is a portrayal of the internal struggles Aubrey experienced playing in the Big Show. It takes the reader inside the complex life and mind of a man as he balances victories with internal struggles: addiction, divorce, anxiety, depression, and feelings of inferiority.”
“It inspires the reader to seek more than what this world has to offer. To rise above mediocrity, achieving his or her true potential while staying focused on what really matters when the fame and excitement of the game fade with the sunset.”


I had the opportunity to interview Aubrey Huff about his journey in baseball and why he decided to share his story.

MS: “Explain the process you went through before deciding to publish your story of struggling with anxiety and depression?”

AH: “I felt a nagging feeling for a year, telling me “Aubrey, you’ve got to write a book. You have to share your story.” To be honest, a little voice inside my head kept telling me my story would not be interesting enough. That no-one really cares about some washed up junkie ex-ball player. I feel that even today. I mean what if the book tanks and we sell 100 copies? But I felt I had to get it down on paper… to just vomit on the page… once I got started writing, I found it pretty therapeutic.”

“Stephen Cassar got involved and helped me piece it together. But there was so much material to work through. The toughest part was to tell it in a way that made sense. Making something out of my ramblings. The end result is not bad.”

MS: “What positive feedback have you received for taking on this challenge? Have you heard from others and/or their families who have dealt with the same struggles?”

“Yes! This started right after I started talking about my anxiety and depression publicly. People were coming out of the woodworks saying I gave them courage to speak about their own struggles.”

“That also played a role in me wanting to write Baseball Junkie. I would be asked to speak at high schools, and church groups and what have you, and so many people would come up to me afterwards and say ‘Man, I could really relate to your story.’ They identified with my struggles with Adderall, and the anxiety and depression that sunk in once I stopped taking the stuff.”



MS: “What is something you’d like fans to know about your struggles with anxiety and depression during your career?”

AH: “The grind of the game really gets to you after a while. There is a lot of pressure to perform each and every day. You are on the road nonstop. And it’s hard for a non-player to understand that. For an outsider, I am sure it looks easy. I mean, if someone is getting paid millions to play a game he loves, how can that even be work right? And what right does he have to complain?”

“But at the level of the game the Giants and other pros play at, the pressure is insane. The guys really all want to play well, and give it their all. They don’t want to disappoint the fans. They don’t want to disappoint their families. But it’s hard for any guy to keep it all together. And some fans can get a little weird. You have to learn to stay off social media. People sniping at you from their mom’s basement. Those comments can really get to you.”

“I am reminded every time I watch a game on TV. You have guys throwing 100 mph fastballs now, like it’s no big deal. Even back 5 years ago, the 100mph club… you could count that on one hand. You have to understand. When someone is pitching at 100 mph plus, you have to start swinging before the ball even leaves the pitcher’s hand. You are basically guessing. Hoping for the best.”

“As far as anxiety and depression is concerned… that really didn’t kick in for me until I stopped using Adderall. But I had to. Adderall made me feel invincible, but pretty much destroyed my marriage. It’s a miracle Baubi is still with me to this day. The book talks about that in depth.”

MS: “How difficult is it for you to open up like this so publicly? Or is it difficult? Is there any sense of freedom being honest with people about what you’ve been through?”

AH: “I hate talking about the actual anxiety part of it. Until recently, I couldn’t even talk about it at meetings or on camera. But I know that I have to. To help others out there. I know how bad it got for me. And if I can stop just one guy from blowing his brains out, then I have done my job.”

MS: “What are your fondest memories of the fans in San Francisco?”

“Giants fans are just amazing. I felt right at home the moment I set foot in San Fran. I still feel like part of a huge, loving family. The fans in San Francisco are truly world class and back their team 100%. It feels like you win as a team and lose as a team. It’s an experience you don’t get anywhere else in the country. I miss the game. But I miss the fans the most.”



MS: “It is well documented about your relationship with Pat Burrell that dates back to Miami. What should fans know about Pat the Bat that we don’t?”

AH: “Ha ha! You are gonna have to read the book for that! Specifically CHAPTER 9: Pat’s Johnson. Enough said. I played a role in bringing him to San Fran… that’s in the book as well.”

MS: “Do you see yourself getting back into the game in some capacity? Front Office? Coach? Analyst?”

AH: “I tried coaching high school baseball when I first retired and I absolutely hated it. But that was partly because I was so messed up, and equated baseball with pain. Maybe it would be different today, I don’t know. I tried several things. Just this week, I actually crossed over to the dark side. I just signed up to be an agent! My hope is to be a mentor for some of the kids that are trying to break through. Hopefully I can help them avoid a few of the mistakes I made. Not sure if I will love it yet, but it’s hard to sit on the sidelines and do nothing.”

MS: “What is something about the 2010 season that fans do not know about that would help them appreciate how difficult it is to win a championship?”

AH “Clawing our way back into the title race was so hard. The guys were a true band of brothers. A band of misfits that just clicked and worked as a team. Every single guy on the team that year gave 110%. It was like a real rollercoaster ride with so many downs and a few ups.”

MS: “Do you feel like you are in a better place today personally than you were at the end of your playing career when you were struggling?”

AH: “I am in such a great place now, it’s night and day. I still have a day here or there where I struggle, but I have the tools now to navigate through them."



MS: “What would you tell someone who is battling with the same struggles that you’ve faced and feels like there is no hope? What has helped you the most in this journey through recovery?”

AH: “There is hope. I am living proof of that. But you can’t give up. I spend a little bit of time talking about how I made it out of the pit in my book, but it all comes down to having a plan, and creating a routine for yourself. You have to believe in something, and give yourself a sense of purpose.”

MS: “What would you tell a young kid who is playing little league and is dreaming of one day playing in the big leagues?”

“Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t make it. Don’t have a plan B. Chase after your dream with all your might. When you fall down, get back up, and fight back, twice as hard. I was told by so many people that I would never make it. There were so many times when I should have given up. And my story is not unique. I know dozens of guys in the bigs that have a similar story. But if you don’t chase after your dream with everything you have, you will get to be my age, and always wonder: ‘What if?'”

For more information about Aubrey Huff’s new book, Baseball Junkie, go to Kickstarter to learn how you can help.

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Barry Bonds Should Be in Cooperstown


The San Francisco Giants have not had a player inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame since Orlando Cepeda in 1999. Barry Bonds, who retired in 2007, has been eligible for Cooperstown since 2013. At the time he received only 36% of the vote. In the most recent Hall of Fame balloting by the Baseball Writers Association of America, he received 44%. A player needs 75% of the vote to be enshrined.

Bonds finished his career with the second highest Wins Above Replacement (162.4) in history behind Babe Ruth (163.1). To put that number into perspective: Ken Griffey Jr. (83.4) and Brooks Robinson (78.4) are both first ballot hall of famers and their combined WAR doesn’t equal Bonds.

The Giants slugger is the all-time leader in Home Runs (762), Walks (2558), Intentional Walks (688), and fourth in OPS (1.051.) However, there is also plenty of evidence that shows Bonds took performance enhancing drugs while playing for the San Francisco Giants. Despite never being found guilty in court, between grand jury testimony, books written and the court of public opinion, Bonds has become the poster boy for PED’s.



This is why the greatest hitter in most voter’s lifetimes is not in the Hall of Fame. Despite the numbers that are clear and without flaw, there is clearly flaws in the perception and reality of how Bonds earned those numbers. Before anyone suspected Bonds of using anything illegal substance, the former Pittsburgh Pirate was winning Most Valuable Player awards, going to All-Star games and winning Gold Gloves routinely.


After signing as a free agent in 1993 with the Giants, Bonds continued to win MVP’s and go to All-Star games. Bonds retired with seven MVP’s 14 All-Star games, 12 Silver Sluggers and eight Gold Gloves. Despite all the on the field success, his attitude towards the same media that votes for him as well as his suspected drug use has led nearly 60% of the BBWAA to keep him out of the Hall of Fame.




But it’s not just Bonds that is being kept out. Part of the problem with the current system is you have to get 75% of nearly 600 voters to agree on anyone. On top of that, you have a maximum of 10 players you can include on your ballot. Those two factors have led some voters to leave players off they feel are deserving for others they feel may not get enough votes.

Tim Raines and Edgar Martinez are two players eligible for the Hall of Fame this year. Raines is in his final year of eligibility and Martinez is getting closer to reaching the end as well. Both players are not only deserving of the Hall, but should have been added years ago. The fact they are still on the ballot creates an unnecessary logjam.

The Internet Baseball Writers Association of America (IBWAA) was created by Howard Cole to swat the vote and create a Hall of Fame where more writers have a voice. One of the rule differences is allowing for 15 on the ballot instead of 10. That becomes important as players are added to the ballot each year. For example, heading into the 2017 election, Vladimir Guerrero, Jorge Posada, Manny Ramirez and Ivan Rodriguez are leading the list of first time eligibles. Here are the players I plan on voting for in 2017.




Jeff Bagwell, Raines and Martinez are already in their Hall of Fame, which is why they aren’t on my ballot, but the other 15 that are could all be at risk of being bumped from the ballot altogether. One of the BBWAA rules is that a player must earn a minimum of 5% of the vote. Theoretically, if every voter voted for the 10 most deserving players, at least five of the players I voted for would be removed from the ballot. I wrote about how the Hall of Fame is a museum, not a shrine last January because we have made it far too difficult for a player who doesn’t gain entrance on the first ballot to ever get in.

One of the main reasons is the misconception we have about who should be voted in on the first ballot. We have made first ballot Hall of Famers an even more exclusive club than any in sports and the fact we have made an elite list of players even more elite has blurred the lines of who is and isn’t a Hall of Famer.

In 1936, five legendary players were inducted into the Hall of Fame. Ty Cobb, Babe Ruth, Honus Wagner, Christy Mathewson, Walter Johnson. Many voters have referenced this group as a Mount Rushmore of sorts for baseball, and because none of them were unanimous, nobody should ever be unanimous. The major flaw in this logic is that this was the first ever ballot for the Hall of Fame. There were literally hundreds of names to choose from on the ballot. Legendary players like Cy Young and Tris Speaker and legendary managers like Connie Mack and John McGraw weren’t elected in 1936, and neither were so many other deserving candidates. There was also no set ballot initially. For quite some time, writers simply submitted their own list of names.




As we wait to see how Barry Bonds does in his fifth year of eligibility, we can expect more of the same from the establishment. Instead of just simply looking at who is best, we seem to want to try to make a statement about what the Hall of Fame should be.

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Buster Posey is Staying at Catcher



The San Francisco Giants and Buster Posey seem to go over this every year with reporters and the fanbase. The question is posed every year without fail: Will Buster Posey change positions this year?  It's not a bad question. Catchers historically change positions as they approach the end of their careers. But Posey is a historically great catcher who isn't going anywhere.

Not only do the San Francisco Giants continue to say that Buster Posey is their catcher, but he also just received the Gold Glove after being named the best catcher in the National League. Not only did he win the award, but we looked at how he has clearly established himself as the best catcher in the Senior Circuit.

Very rarely do we see a catcher continue to catch every day year after year as they approach their mid to late 30's. Yet, as Posey enters his age-29 season, we enter year six of fans asking when he will change positions.



Recently, FanSided looked at moving Posey to third base. It's the most recent in a yearly suggestion of where to put Posey so that his bat is possibly more effective in the middle of the Giants lineup and he is at a safer position physically.

It's understandable. The Giants have won three World Series rings, but Posey's bat has been less impactful in October. When he has to start catching every game, his bat does become less dangerous. This rationale for a position change, however, undercuts two major points that fans and experts tend to forget.

  1. Buster Posey behind the plate is one of the main reasons the San Francisco Giants pitching staff is elite in September and October.
  2. Elite pitching in October makes it harder on all hitters, not just catchers.


The other factor that Giants fans seem to brush aside is that the team won three World Series championships with Buster Posey catching. What he means to the pitching staff, the locker room and the lineup cannot be measured simply by his batting average as a first baseman versus playing catcher. Willie Mays, Willie McCovey, Juan Marichal, Will Clark, Matt Williams and Barry Bonds combined for zero World Series trophies in San Francisco. Posey has three.

Last off-season, I looked at whether or not Buster Posey was already an all-time great catcher. The short answer at the time was not yet. The fact that he was already in the conversation after less than six full seasons says everything about how truly special Posey is.

Regardless of his success, year after year, fans and reporters continually ask if this is the year Posey finally stops catching. In 2012, Bleacher Report looked at players who needed a position change and Posey was one of their choices. This was in the off-season after he was coming off a season ending injury that ended his 2011 season on May 25. The next day, the question was posed to manager Bruce Bochy.



In August of 2014, Bay Area Sports Guy looked at how Buster Posey's position change could be delayed because of Hector Sanchez and his uncertain future. In 2015, Posey was asked if he had heard radio hosts talk of him changing positions.



Take the case of Johnny Cueto, the Giants free agent pitcher this past off-season. Cueto turned in a tremendous year for San Francisco, finishing sixth in the Cy Young voting, and much of his success can be attributed to the early bond he made with Buster Posey. Posey spoke in February about working with new pitchers.

"As much as anything, just have them become comfortable with me, in the clubhouse as well," Posey said of what he aims to do when pitchers first join the team. "Let them see I want to help them any way I can to be successful, because if they’re successful, there’s a good chance we’re going to win some ballgames."


Then in March, with regular season days away, Posey took a day off and worked with Cueto to make sure they were on the same page heading into the season.

Buster Posey is a unicorn among horses. Rarely do we ever see an elite catcher who can win a gold glove and a silver slugger award. When a team is blessed with a unicorn, you don't ask it to be a regular horse. What the Giants may gain in Posey at the plate they will lose putting anyone else behind the plate. The move would not make the Giants better overall. Even if Posey's bat became more dangerous, the team's defense would be hurt at two positions.

No matter how well Posey does at catcher in 2017 and beyond, fans will continue to ask and even insist he move to another place on the diamond. It is what fans do when it comes to their favorite players and their favorite team. They want to see Buster Posey get the most out of his potential. The Giants have already been blessed with more success than any franchise could possibly hope for. And I expect fans will continue to see their favorite player shine for years to come, calling games behind the plate, for the San Francisco Giants.

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Wednesday, October 12, 2016

Even Year Magic Secrets Finally Revealed

The San Francisco Giants were eliminated from the 2016 post-season despite this being an even year. Despite fans claiming there was "Even Year Magic" and that the Giants were destined to win every other year, the Giants magic was finally revealed as just another magic trick.

This isn't new. In 2002, Anaheim Angels fans believed in the "Rally Monkey." For 86 years, the Boston Red Sox fans believed in "The Curse of the Bambino" and for the last 71 years, Chicago Cubs fans have heard about "The Curse of the Billy Goat." On a side note, Bill Murray, a lifelong Cubs fan, is one of many who don't believe in that curse anymore as was made clear at Wrigley Field during the National League Division Series in the form of a classic T-Shirt.


So why do fans torture themselves with these superstitions? Because as die hard fans, we need to justify why things are happening. It is easier to think that a team is cursed or that a team is destined for their success. It is much harder to face reality that a fan's team just isn't good enough or that their team made too many mistakes to win.

No matter what we believe, no matter what the players on the field believe and no matter what anyone thinks, sports isn't pre-written. There is no Hollywood script that has pre-determined the outcome. Regardless of the decision a manager makes or the pitch a pitcher decides to throw or the approach a hitter takes to the plate, anything can happen.



You hear cliches all the time for why a team wins or loses. "It just wasn't our night" or "they just seem to catch all the breaks" or "it just wasn't meant to be."

These cliches are cliches in the first place because of how often players use them as excuses for coming up short in big games. More importantly, they are coping mechanisms in the heat of the moment to deal with an unfair reality. That reality is that no matter how hard you've worked and no matter how badly you want something, in life, you still might come up short.

That is what makes sports so great and also what makes sports so heart wrenching. We love sports for it's unpredictability and for it's excitement. However, that comes at a price of pain and suffering for teams and for fans that come up short.

Yes, the Giants won World Series championships in 2010, 2012 and 2014. Yes, they made the post-season once again in 2016. Yes, a man with 31 career home runs who would not have started had the Giants everyday third baseman been healthy became just the next post-season hero in a long line of post-season heroes for the Giants. Every even year, a relative unknown seems to have all their best games in Octobers for the Giants and none of them had the same level of success in any other year of their career. As he tripled in Game 3, it seemed a foregone conclusion that Conor Gillaspie was just the next October legend for the Giants. And yet, despite another unlikely hot bat in yet another even year, the even year magic became just an illusion like we all knew it was.

The Chicago Cubs had different plans and outplayed the Giants in the best of five series. The Cubs are moving on to the National League Championship Series and many Giants fans woke up this morning confused as to how their team could lose in an even year. The number one reason is they were facing a 103 win Cubs team that was better than they were. They had a better lineup with a better defense and a pitching staff that was up to the challenge. They were better in all three phases of the game. And yet, instead of a sweep like in each of the American League Division Series, the Giants lost by a single run in two of the three games and the last of which saw them have a 5-2 lead in the ninth inning. The Giants could have easily forced a deciding fifth game, and for Cubs fans who have seen heartbreak for 108 straight seasons, that would have been just more cruel and unusual punishment. They even would have some personal context as the 1984 Cubs had the same thing happen to them in the playoffs.

The Cubs were the better team and when you play in a five or seven game series, the better team usually wins. It doesn't always happen, and the even year Giants had made a habit of beating the better teams. They had made such a habit of it that they set a Major League Record for winning 10 games in a row in elimination games. Since 2012, the Giants had not lost in an elimination game and Game 4 of the NLDS seemed like 11.

But now, the even year narrative is gone and the Giants head into an off-season with holes to fill and what-ifs to ponder over. Fans knew the even year thing wasn't real. They knew it wasn't real because the team didn't make the playoffs in 2008, 2006 or 2004 and lost in the World Series in 2002. For 52 years, no San Francisco Giants team had ever won a championship and during the 2010 World Series parade in the streets of San Francisco, nobody mentioned anything about it being an even year.

As fans, we get invested in our favorite teams and we figuratively live and die with the results. Now that the Giants and Red Sox have been eliminated, we are guaranteed to see a fan base see a World Series drought finally end. The Toronto Blue Jays have had the most recent success, winning back to back titles in 1992 and 1993. The Los Angeles Dodgers last won in 1988. The Cleveland Indians last won in 1948. The Washington Nationals have never won a World Series in their history in Washington or Montreal and the Cubs drought has been well documented.

As we see the next champion crowned, we might here fans talk about a superstition that worked or something the players did all year and that will bleed into next season as a rallying cry for the next pursuit of a championship. It is only natural. As fans, we prefer to justify our anger and our passions to try and make sense of our love for our teams. And when we finally win after decades or even a century of torture, we want to try and do all the same things we did last time to repeat that success. Unfortunately, for 29 teams every season, the last game usually ends in disappointment.

But I think it cam be summed up best by Noah Syndergaard, who's message after a gut wrenching Wild Card game loss says everything about why we love the game and why losing on the biggest stages hurts so much.



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