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Optimizing the Diamondbacks Lineup: vs. LHP Gonzo honored to join Latino Hall of Fame By Joseph Jacquez / Venom Strikes By Josh Rawitch / http://venomstrikes.com/2015/02/08/optimizing- http://m.dbacks.mlb.com/news/article/108697656/d-backs- diamondbacks-lineup-vs-lhp/ luiz-gonzalez-honored-to-join-latino-baseball-hall-of-fame Luis Gonzalez Enters the Arizona Sports Hall of Fame D-backs done dealing for now, likely out on Shields By Thomas Lynch / Venom Strikes By Steve Gilbert / MLB.com http://venomstrikes.com/2015/02/07/luis-gonzalez-enters- http://m.dbacks.mlb.com/news/article/108553930/arizona- arizona-sports-hall-fame/ diamondbacks-indicate-they-dont-plan-to-make-more-deals- before-spring-training Diamondbacks RHP Hires Agent By Joseph Jacquez / Venom Strikes D-backs celebrate first graduates of Dominican academy http://venomstrikes.com/2015/02/06/diamondbacks-rhp- By Josh Rawitch / Arizona Diamondbacks touki-toussaint-hires-agent/ http://m.dbacks.mlb.com/news/article/108558196/arizona- diamondbacks-celebrate-graduation-at-academy-in-dominican- Diamondbacks Preparing for Arbitration Hearings with republic Trumbo, and Reed By Joseph Jacquez / Venom Strikes Diamondbacks to have crowded rotation competition http://venomstrikes.com/2015/02/06/diamondbacks- By Nick Piecoro / Arizona Republic preparing-arbitration-hearings-trumbo-reed/ http://www.azcentral.com/story/sports/mlb/diamondbacks/2 015/02/07/diamondbacks-to-have-crowded-rotation- 13 Days Until Diamondbacks & Report competition/23049247/ By Tristan Leohard / TruSchooSports.com http://www.truschoolsports.com/2015/02/13-days-until- Diamondbacks new vision: 'Every waking hour' diamondbacks-pitchers-catchers-report/ By Fox Sports Arizona http://www.foxsports.com/arizona/video/diamondbacks-new- MLB All-Stars Corbin, Bautista, Martin Highlight Chipola vision-every-waking-hour-020615?vid=390992451827 Alumni Weekend By Greg Brzozowski / wjhg.com Diamondbacks seeking big-headed performers http://www.wjhg.com/sports/headlines/MLB-All-Stars- By Arizona Republic Corbin-Bautista-Martin-Highlight-Chipola-Alumni-Weekend- http://www.azcentral.com/story/news/12- 291187951.html news/2015/02/06/12news-legends-gracie-johnson-gonzo- williams-dbacks-race/23010243/ WCCS retires Simmons’ jersey By Daniel Evans / Selma Times-Journal Science of baseball is big with middle-school students http://www.selmatimesjournal.com/2015/02/08/wccs-retires- By Caitlin Schmidt / Tucson.com simmons-jersey/ http://tucson.com/news/science-of-baseball-is-big-hit-with- middle-school-students/article_e5d5daf9-72e6-54a9-a5be- ea725c9318b3.html

The Diamondbacks graduated some prospects this morning. Literally. By Craig Calcaterra / NBC Sports Reynolds armed with ‘clean bill of health’ http://hardballtalk.nbcsports.com/2015/02/06/the- By Kevin Druley / Kane County Chronicle diamondbacks-graduated-some-prospects-this-morning-literally/ http://www.kcchronicle.com/2015/02/06/reynolds-armed- with-clean-bill-of-health/aj6hekb/ Ranking the teams: 30 through 25 By David Schoenfield / ESPN.com http://espn.go.com/blog/sweetspot/post/_/id/54964/ranking -the-teams-30-through-25-2 1

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February 9, 2015 • sports.yahoo.com/mlb/morenews http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/morenews

February 9, 2015 • MLB.com http://www.cbssports.com/mlb/transactions

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from , Ozzie Virgil, Cookie Rojas, Vic Davalillo and Moises Alou to current contemporaries Carlos Beltran, Johnny Gonzo honored to join Latino Baseball Hall of Fame Cueto, and Ubaldo Jimenez. MLB Commissioner By Josh Rawitch / Arizona Diamondbacks Rob Manfred was also in attendance. http://m.dbacks.mlb.com/news/article/108697656/d-backs- luiz-gonzalez-honored-to-join-latino-baseball-hall-of-fame The next generation of baseball talent did not seem very far away, either. Gonzalez took great joy in bringing his son, Jacob, LA ROMANA, -- Three generations of to the D-backs academy in Boca Chica on Saturday where the Latin American baseball came together Saturday night at the highly-touted sophomore at Chaparral High School had the fifth annual induction ceremony for the Latino Baseball Hall of opportunity to work out alongside several prospects on the same Fame, but the star-studded event took on a special relevance for morning his father was inducted into the Hall of Fame. the D-backs' organization, as Luis Gonzalez was inducted in front of family and friends alongside five Latino luminaries. "I had no idea of the magnitude of this," said Gonzalez, who is one of just 19 players in MLB history with 2,500 hits, 500 Gonzalez, a Cuban-American, joined (Panama), doubles, 350 homers and 1,000 RBIs. "To look out in the crowd (Puerto Rico), Ozzie Guillen (Venezuela), and see my wife and kids and so many people from the D-backs (Mexico) and Pedro Martinez (Dominican down here in the Dominican Republic was something I'll always Republic) on a night that none will soon forget. remember."

"It's a proud moment, not only for the simple fact of being D-backs done dealing for now, likely out on Shields Hispanic, but for my parents and grandparents, to go in By Steve Gilbert / MLB.com representing a country where they were born," said Gonzalez. http://m.dbacks.mlb.com/news/article/108553930/arizona- "You try to play a game to earn the respect of your teammates diamondbacks-indicate-they-dont-plan-to-make-more-deals- and friends and fans, but when you receive an honor like this, it's before-spring-training pretty overwhelming and humbling." PHOENIX -- With 13 days left until pitchers and catchers If respect was what Gonzalez sought as a player, it was evident report to Salt River Fields, it appears all is quiet on the and he had earned it with his play on the field and the way he carried free agent front for the D-backs. himself off of it during a 19-year big league career. "We're quiet in our house right now," general Dave "Luis is the definition of the ultimate professional," Garciaparra Stewart said. "We've taken the position that we're weeks away told the crowd during his acceptance speech. "He was the best from , and now we're just going to see what we teammate and I'm proud to enter the Hall of Fame with him." have. If we need to make adjustments, we'll make adjustments after we see what we have. Right now, we're where we are with Gonzalez, who currently serves as a Special Assistant to D-backs the players that we have. I think if you talk to our staff as a president and CEO Derrick Hall, said that he was particularly whole we are very, very positive and optimistic that what we're moved by the fact that he had both of his families there -- his going to put on the field is going to be good." wife, Christine and triplets Alyssa, Jacob and Megan as well as a dozen representatives of the D-backs. That means that for now the catching corps will remain 40-man roster members Tuffy Gosewisch and Oscar Hernandez along "Gonzo is one of the greatest figures in the history of our with six non-roster invitees to camp in , Blake Lalli, organization," Hall told the audience as he introduced the Peter O'Brien, Jordan Pacheco, Matt Pagnozzi and Mark newest Hall of Famer. "He's a fan favorite. He played for six Thomas. teams, but really put the Diamondbacks on the map. If there was a Hall of Fame for humanitarianism, Gonzo would be in it. If It also indicates the D-backs will not be jumping back into the there was a Hall of Fame for best teammates, Gonzo would be mix for free agent right-hander James Shields. in it. He is one of the finest individuals to ever wear a uniform and now he will have his legacy Salt River Fields has been busy since the start of the new year enshrined forever." with players working out informally. The group included Yasmany Tomas, , , A.J. Pollock, Even the night's co-host, former big league manager Manny , , Daniel Hudson, David Hernandez Acta, praised his former Minor League roommate, as did and Rubby De La Rosa. Dominican native son Martinez, who pointed out Gonzalez's success against him in the big leagues. The left-handed batter hit "There have been a ton of guys out there working and getting .388 with seven extra-base hits and just seven in 57 ready for Spring Training, which in itself is encouraging to me," plate appearances against Martinez, who is headed to Stewart said. "I'm excited and ready to get it started." Cooperstown this summer alongside another D-backs legend, . D-backs celebrate first graduates of Dominican academy By Josh Rawitch / Arizona Diamondbacks But Gonzalez's brief acceptance speech focused more on those http://m.dbacks.mlb.com/news/article/108558196/arizona- who came before him, helping open the doors to Latino players diamondbacks-celebrate-graduation-at-academy-in-dominican- and teaching the younger generation how to play the game with republic passion and respect. The dais was filled with baseball legends 3

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BOCA CHICA, Dominican Republic -- In a scene that mirrored But nothing could take away from the day's pomp and those taking place each year at Horizon or Chaparral High circumstance. For Hall, the ceremony was the culmination of a School in Scottsdale, Ariz., some of the area's top young baseball promise he made several years ago to Dominican Republic players donned black gowns and tossed their caps into the air on president Danilo Medina. Hall reiterated that commitment to the graduation day. crowd Friday, while encouraging those players who do not reach the Major Leagues to return to their hometowns and follow their But these young ballplayers wore D-backs uniforms under those passion, becoming businessmen, bankers, teachers or politicians. gowns, and the ceremony was taking place down the left-field line of Arizona's bustling academy in the Dominican Republic. "To the parents of our graduates -- thank you for trusting us with your boys," he said. "We invest in them on the field, but, It was an emotional scene on Friday when the first five graduates perhaps even more importantly, off the field. We take pride in of the D-backs' unique education program earned their high looking into your eyes and promising an education. It's a very school diplomas in front of friends, family and a contingent of strong responsibility that we feel to develop them into fine men high-ranking team executives. off the field."

See photos from the ceremony Diamondbacks to have crowded rotation competition By Nick Piecoro / Arizona Republic "The minute they walked into the ceremony, you could see they http://www.azcentral.com/story/sports/mlb/diamondbacks/2 were beaming with pride, just as we were," said D-backs 015/02/07/diamondbacks-to-have-crowded-rotation- president and CEO Derrick Hall. "It's so inspirational and competition/23049247/ impressive and we hope it will motivate the rest of our players to do the same." The quintessential spring-training position battle is for the fifth spot in the rotation, a competition usually marked by One of the graduates, talented infield prospect Fernery Ozuna, journeymen looking to rediscover their old form or prospects spoke on behalf of his teammates as the de facto valedictorian, trying to break into the majors. pointing out the extremely high percentage of young Dominican boys who leave home to play baseball and never return to finish The Diamondbacks will have a battle for the fifth spot this year, high school. but they'll have battles for the third and fourth spots, as well. And the two pitchers who can be at least lightly penciled into the "This is a very special day," said Ozuna as the crowd of more top of the rotation – right-handers Josh Collmenter and Jeremy than 100 rose to their feet and cheered wildly. "I know that we Hellickson – would probably project as back-end types for most can sometimes annoy our teachers with our discipline, but teams with designs on contention. without them, this wouldn't be possible. It's incredible to follow our dreams off the field and continue to play baseball." What that says about the state of the pitching staff is open to interpretation, but there's little doubt it should make for a In addition to the handful of graduates earning their high school competitive spring training at Salt River Fields. diploma, more than a dozen others advanced to a higher level of schooling, with some reaching eighth grade equivalency and Related: Diamondbacks honor graduates at Dominican others heading into their "senior" year. ceremony

"This is only the beginning," said D-backs vice president of The Diamondbacks will have 18 starting pitchers in big-league Latin American operations Junior Noboa as he reminisced about camp when pitchers and catchers report on Feb. 19, manager the first time he discussed such a program in 1995. "I'm very said. Realistically, 12 could be viable candidates for proud to be part of the best education program in all of baseball, rotation spots: , Archie Bradley, Trevor Cahill, without a doubt. We're going to see in the next few years that Andrew Chafin, Collmenter, Rubby De La Rosa, Randall we're going to graduate even more players." Delgado, Hellickson, Daniel Hudson, Vidal Nuño, and . Noboa credited D-backs senior vice president Marian Rhodes and baseball operations executive Hatuey Mendoza with creating That's without mentioning a handful of young prospects – the program through CENAPEC and thanked D-backs including right-handers Aaron Blair, and Yoan managing general partner Ken Kendrick and Hall for the Lopez – who will also be in camp, though might be viewed as foresight in allowing it to happen. long-shots to win big-league jobs.

There were two notable absences from the graduation, but with Some of those 12 pitchers could open the year in the minors. good reason. D-backs senior vice president of baseball Others, like Hudson and Delgado, could shift to the bullpen. operations De Jon Watson was on the island, but unable to attend the ceremony as he was attending a workout of highly But the sheer numbers will force the Diamondbacks to get sought-after Cuban defector Hector Olivera. Another well- creative to find for them and for their relievers, with known local D-backs personality, Minor League coach Audo Hale saying there might be more 'B' games scheduled than in a Vicente, was busy guiding his winter ball team in the annual typical year. Caribbean Series, which is taking place 250 miles east in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

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"I think it does create problems, but it also creates such good competition," Hale said. "They're all in it. There's no set five The D-backs are seeking people to play the Legends Race guys right now." mascots: Randy Johnson, Luis Gonzales, Matt Williams, and ever-spurned . Hudson, who overcame back-to-back surgeries to return to the big leagues late last season, will begin spring Modeled after the Sausage Race by the , the training working as a starting , but Hale said a decision Legends Race involved the mascots racing around the bases. won't be made on his ultimate role until sometime in March. "Gracie" always loses.

"We're going to see how he feels and see where he's at halfway People interested in the job must apply, then be invited to the through spring," Hale said. "As of right now, he feels great, his mandatory auditions on March 7. sides have been good and he's very encouraging." Job duties are intense. The mascots must work nights, weekends More: La Russa sees change coming in pace-of-play rules and holidays. They must wear the 45-pound costume for hours on end. They must be ready to photobomb with the slightest Hudson would like to eventually return to a starting role, but he notice. will likely be limited, both in total innings and in pitches per game, as he rebuilds an innings foundation following the Get the job application on the Diamondbacks' website: surgeries. http://arizona.diamondbacks.mlb.com/ Left-hander and right-hander David Hernandez, both of whom missed last season following elbow surgery, are Science of baseball is big hit with middle-school students progressing well in their recoveries, Hale said. By Caitlin Schmidt / Tucson.com http://tucson.com/news/science-of-baseball-is-big-hit-with- Hale wasn't specific on return dates, but he said Hernandez middle-school-students/article_e5d5daf9-72e6-54a9-a5be- could be ready close to with Corbin sometime ea725c9318b3.html after that. An oversized wooden compass sits on the dusty baseball field. "Both of these guys are in tremendous physical condition," Hale Three students stand next to it, holding a giant yellow slingshot said. "They're wanting to push the timetable up, but we're having pulled taut. The girl in the middle leans back, gaining traction, to tell them 'Hey, take it easy, stay on the program.'" and releases, launching a tennis ball across the field at a perfect 45-degree angle. Though both pitchers will reach the 12-month mark in their recoveries around Opening Day, Hale said the club isn't being They were among a dozen students from Mansfeld Magnet any more prudent than the rest of the industry in their Middle School who took the field on Saturday, measuring ball timetables. trajectory and velocity in a Science of Baseball camp.

"I think across the board everybody is a little more cautious," he Ricardo Valerdi, a professor in the University of Arizona said. "I would say the last 10 years, you used to talk about 12 Department of Systems and Industrial Engineering, started the months, but now it's really become a 15-month deal." camp three years ago.

Photos: D-Backs fans in 2014 The Red Sox season-ticket holder said he started looking at sports in a new way after attending a course, on the Diamondbacks new vision: 'Every waking hour' statistical analysis of baseball, taught by a colleague at By Fox Sports Arizona Massachusetts Institute of Technology. http://www.foxsports.com/arizona/video/diamondbacks-new- vision-every-waking-hour-020615?vid=390992451827 “A light bulb went off for me, and I went from a fan to an analyst,” Valerdi said. “I realized this was something we could do Chip Hale appreciates having Tony La Russa's experience and with kids of all ages, not just college students.” perspective to lean on as he prepares for his first season as Diamondbacks manager. Fresh off of the UA baseball team’s 2012 NCAA national championship, Valerdi said Tucson was baseball-crazy, and it (Video embedded on webpage). was the perfect time to start.Having just accepted a job at UA, Valerdi brought the idea for the camp to Mansfeld’s principal at Diamondbacks seeking big-headed performers the time, who loved it. The first Science of Baseball camp took By Arizona Republic place at Mansfeld in 2012, and returned on Saturday to the http://www.azcentral.com/story/news/12- school at 1300 E. Sixth St. news/2015/02/06/12news-legends-gracie-johnson-gonzo- williams-dbacks-race/23010243/ “This program gives students the opportunity to see real-life applications of math, technology and engineering,” said The Arizona Diamondbacks are assembling a team of crowd- Mansfeld social studies teacher and coach Kevin Brungardt. “It pleasers. This team won't need to hit runs. But they do have to allows me to support those fields and to incorporate those be athletic. lessons into my teaching.” 5

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academy in Boca Chica is the first to also offer players a Mansfeld recently transitioned to a school that focuses on classroom education. science, technology, engineering and math education, or STEM, so the program is perfect for it, he said. It’s good to see that the Diamondbacks are treating the young men in their academy as something more than mere baseball Before hitting the baseball field, students learned about playing resources that are either fully-exploited or discarded by scorekeeping, football pressure and pitching biomechanics in the the time they turn 17. classroom. Once they got to the field, they used tennis and whiffle balls to keep the day injury-free. Ranking the teams: 30 through 25 By David Schoenfield / ESPN.com “I thought it was pretty interesting,” said 13-year-old Araceli http://espn.go.com/blog/sweetspot/post/_/id/54964/ranking Romero. “I like baseball; that’s why I wanted to come.” -the-teams-30-through-25-2

A year ago, the university approached Valerdi and the program 30. Arizona Diamondbacks was turned into a nonprofit called Science of Sport. It’s now paired with the Arizona Diamondbacks, the , Big offseason moves: Hired Chip Hale as manager; signed the and the , and in talks Cuban 3B/LF Yasmany Tomas to six-year, $68.5 million with four other Major League Baseball teams that are interested contract; traded LHP to the Red Sox for RHPs in joining the program. Allen Webster and Rubby De La Rosa and a minor leaguer; traded C to the Cubs for two minor leaguers; “We have a state goal in Arizona to bring the program into all of acquired RHP from the Rays; acquired LHP the schools,” said Science of Sport spokeswoman Crystal Robbie Ray from the Tigers in a three-team deal that sent SS Kasnoff. “We want to get kids interested in STEM fields, and to the Yankees; signed Cuban RHP Yoan Lopez with this, they relate what they do every day to STEM.” for an $8.25 million bonus.

There is an extreme shortage of STEM workers in general, Most intriguing player: Expectations will be high for Tomas Kasnoff noted, with even fewer women in STEM careers. following the success of fellow Cubans and Jose Abreu the past two seasons. But Tomas isn't viewed as an all- “We get a lot of girls, and they do incredibly well. They’re really around player like Puig or a polished hitter like Abreu. He has engaged,” she said. power potential, but the first test will be to see whether he can handle third base; many scouts view him as a but the In the last year, the program has moved into Calilfornia, Illinois Diamondbacks will give him a shot at third. and Australia and a soccer program has also been developed. Valerdi and Kasnoff are in talks with the NFL to develop a Due for a better year: Paul Goldschmidt and , football version of the program. projected to perhaps combine for 70 home runs, both missed large chunks of time and instead combined for just 33 as they Matt Yalung, an engineering graduate student, has known missed a combined 127 games. Valerdi for three years and was one of five UA students assisting. Due for a worse year: , pressed into service after a slew of injuries, didn't hit much but the defensive “Being with kids is fun, watching them learn how sports relates metrics loved him, pushing his WAR to 3.7, third best on the to STEM,” he said. team behind Goldschmidt and A.J. Pollock. He's likely to serve in a bench role this year, especially if Tomas ends up in the . The Diamondbacks graduated some prospects this morning. Literally. I'm just the messenger: New general manager , By Craig Calcaterra / NBC Sports hired by chief baseball officer Tony La Russa in late September http://hardballtalk.nbcsports.com/2015/02/06/the- to clean up the mess that Kevin Towers left behind, remains a diamondbacks-graduated-some-prospects-this-morning-literally/ bit of a mystery. It didn't help his reputation, especially among statistical analysts, when he said in January that the This is neat. Most teams have “academies” in Latin America. Diamondbacks may be viewed as more of a "true baseball team The Diamondbacks have one that not only teaches baseball versus some of the other teams out here that are geared more players the game, but also teaches them academically. And hands toward analytics and those type of things." It was also a bit out diplomas. From Nick Piecoro at the Arizona Republic: curious that La Russa hired a veterinarian named Dr. Ed Lewis, whom he has known for 30 years and worked with in the past, as Five young men will don caps and gowns atop Diamondbacks the team's director of analytics. There are certainly different ways uniforms on Friday morning in the Dominican Republic, where of doing things but this regime doesn't look all that different so club officials will present them with high school diplomas. far from the previous one that espoused grit and toughness.

They represent the first graduating class in a program that’s The final word: Stewart's first moves brought in some interesting believed to be the first of its kind. For years, every major-league young arms but this is still a rotation that doesn't look much club has operated a Dominican academy where players as young better than the group that ranked 27th in the majors in ERA in as 16 begin their professional careers. The Diamondbacks’ 2014. Offensively, the D-backs plan to rely on the power of 6

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Goldschmidt, Trumbo and Tomas. The issues here are even if As good as Goldschmidt is against right-handed pitching, he is Trumbo hits 30 home runs, he owns a .298 career OBP and he's even better against lefties, which might be hard to believe. a big defensive liability in the outfield; Tomas may end up Goldschmidt’s career wOBA against left-handers is a ridiculous profiling similar to Trumbo as a guy with a low OBP who .425, and he has a career slugging percentage against lefties of doesn't project as a plus defender at either third base or left field. .599 which is off the charts. is currently a black hole -- Tuffy Gosewisch, come on down -- and the whole lineup aside from Goldschmidt has an His career wRC+ (which quantifies a players overall offensive aversion to taking walks. value adjusting for park affects) against left-handers is 169 which is 35 points higher than his wRC+ against right-handers. Prediction: 66-96 So your probably asking why isn’t he hitting fourth? His slugging percentage certainly suggests that he should hit in the clean-up Optimizing the Diamondbacks Lineup: vs. LHP role. However, the #2 hole is actually more important. Number By Joseph Jacquez / Venom Strikes two hitters come up to the plate with RISP 44% of the time, and http://venomstrikes.com/2015/02/08/optimizing- two hole hitters get more plate appearances on average than diamondbacks-lineup-vs-lhp/ number 4 hitters.

The 2015 season is almost here, and I can’t be more excited. Just like Pollock, Goldschmidt can hit both left-handers and Let’s be honest 2014 was a disaster full of injuries and right-handers equally well, and should obviously be in the underperformance, but it’s a new season, and when Spring starting lineup everyday barring injury which better not happen Training gets underway, every team feels like they can win the for the sake of all Diamondbacks fans. . That’s what I love about this time of year! In my opinion, Goldschmidt has surpassed as If the Diamondbacks are going to win more games in 2015, they the best first basemen in baseball. Cabrera might still be the obviously have to stay healthy, but to put it simply, they have to better hitter (and even that is debatable), but Goldschmidt’s score more runs. A few weeks ago, I talked about how overall value in terms of his defense, speed on the base paths, optimizing a batting order using advanced stats can help teams and his plate discipline surpasses Cabrera’s value. score more, and today I would like to examine what an optimized lineup would look for the Dbacks against righties and Cabrera is also getting up in age, so his production should lefties. decrease. FanGraphs depth charts projects Goldschmidt to have a 5.4 WAR, and Cabrera is projected to have a 4.9 WAR. The idea of an optimized lineup was created by Tom Tango, Cabrera is projected to have a better wOBA (.408), than Michael Licthman, and Andy Dolphin in “The Book.” Goldschmidt (.389). His WAR is higher because of his defense.

Earlier this off-season, I optimized the Dbacks lineup against 3. Aaron Hill-2B RHP which you can find here. If the Diamondbacks want to score more, here is how their lineup against left handed pitchers The book says that the #3 hitter should be filled after the more should look with analysis of why. All numbers are courtesy of important spots: #1, #2, #4, and #5. Against left-handers Hill FanGraphs. has the fifth best wOBA (.338), and the fifth best slugging percentage of (.444), so this spot is perfect for him. Against LHP: Baseball Musing’s lineup optimization tool has Hill hitting third 1. A.J. Pollock in most of the lineups. If the Diamondbacks are going win more games in 2015, and take the next step towards competing, then Pollock is the ideal everyday lead-off hitter against both right- there going to have to get bounce back performances for a handers and left-handers. He hits them both equally well. The number of guys including Hill. Book says that the #1 guy should have a really high OBP. Speed is a plus, but OBP is more important. If Hill can stay healthy, play great defense, and drive in between 70-80 RBI’s, the Diamondbacks would certainly take that. Hill is For the sake of this post I am going to use wOBA because I a better player than the numbers that he put up last season. Hill’s think weighted on base average is a better overall representation wRC+ against left-handers (87) is better than his wRC+ against of the ability to get on base. righties (75) but its not a huge split, so he doesn’t belong in the more important spots in the batting order. Pollock’s career wOBA of .359 against lefties is the third best on the team, and the two players ahead of him shouldn’t be batting 4. Mark Trumbo-RF lead-off. According to the Book, the #4 hitter should be a team’s best Pollock has a ton of speed, and he can create runs on the base- power hitter, and when he is healthy Trumbo fits that paths. He is the ideal lead-off hitter and should be in the Dbacks description. In 2013, Trumbo played in 159 games with 34 HR, lineup everyday. 1oo RBI’s, and an OPS+ of 109.

2. Paul Goldschmidt-1B

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In 2012 he played in 144 games and hit 32 HR, and drove in 95 long as the Diamondbacks don’t have a problem hitting the with an OPS+ of 124. Last season he played in just 88 games pitcher eighth. and hit 14 HR’s, with an OPS+ of 95. Owings has speed, and he can wreck havoc on the base paths. If If Trumbo can stay healthy, most people think he can hit he can be a more consistent hitter in 2015, than he could make a between 30-35 HR’s, and drive in between 90-100 RBI’s. The case to hit higher in the batting order. His career 126 wRC+ Diamondbacks need him to put up those numbers, and outside against left-handers is significantly better. of Goldschmidt he is the team’s best power hitter, and Goldy is batting second. 8. Tuffy Gosewisch-C

Trumbo’s career wRC+ against lefties (115) is far better than his I am sticking with the traditional way of doing things for this mark against righties (83), so he knows how to get it done spot. There has been talk in the analytic community that the against southpaws. Again, if Trumbo can stay healthy, he should pitcher should bat eighth, and a high OBP guy should bat 9th so get back to his 2013 form, and for that reason the cleanup spot he can get on base, and then turn the lineup over. is the best spot for him. However, if you bat the pitcher in the eighth hole, your giving 5. -LF the starter more plate appearances, and I am not in favor of giving Josh Collmenter or any other Dbacks starter more plate Ross will make $9 million dollars this year, and for where he is at appearances. in his career, that is probably to much money. However, that doesn’t mean he isn’t valuable to this team. Gosewisch is a bad hitter, and so he should be in the eighth spot. Enough said. I’m really glad that the Diamondbacks decided to keep Ross around, because he serves one really great purpose: he has 9. Pitcher mashed lefties throughout his career. In my opinion he should get the majority of starts against LHP, but that probably wont The pitcher should bat in the 9 hole. Enough said. happen. At the very least, he can come off the bench and face a tough lefty, and he will get his share of starts. Luis Gonzalez Enters the Arizona Sports Hall of Fame By Thomas Lynch / Venom Strikes Ross’s career wRC+ against left-handed pitching is 141, and his http://venomstrikes.com/2015/02/07/luis-gonzalez-enters- career wOBA is .389 which is second on team only behind arizona-sports-hall-fame/ Goldschmidt. There are two parts of Ross’s game that many overlook. The Hall of Fame honors keep coming for the Arizona Diamondbacks. Former outfielder and one of the organization’s First, Ross can hit the ball to all fields. Unlike most hitters in most popular faces, Luis Gonzalez was named to the Arizona today’s game, he doesn’t rely on pulling the ball, and you cant Sports Hall of Fame along with four other state sports legends. shift against Ross. When he pulls the ball he has a career .384 This comes on the heels of the induction of Randy Johnson into average. When he hits the ball the other way he has a .282 the Baseball Hall of Fame. Gonzalez’s fellow Hall of Fame average, and when he hits the ball to center he has a career .327 members include NBA Hall of Famer Charles Barkley, Longtime average. Suns’ coach and executive Cotton Fitzsimmons, LPGA great Danielle Ammaccapane and legendary sports writer Joe Finally, Ross is at his best when it matters most. His career Gilmartin. batting average in high leverage situations is .272 which is better than his average in medium and low leverage situations. Gonzo is without a doubt the most prolific positional player in D’backs’ history. He holds countless season and career Ross’s value to this team is a lot higher than many people realize. offensive marks including hits, doubles, home runs and RBI’s among other categories. He also delivered the franchise’s most Spots 6-9 according to the book should go in order of OBP or important hit, the bloop single that gave the Snakes the 2001 in this case wOBA. World Series Championship. Currently, Gonzalez is a special assistant in the organization. 6. Yasmany Tomas-3B The induction ceremony will take place on April 8th at the This spot isn’t going to go by the book. Tomas has a lot of Scottsdale Hilton. Tickets can be purchased at azsportsent.com. power, and even if he is projected for a low on base percentage, I refuse to put a power bat in the 7th or 8th spot. Tomas needs Diamondbacks RHP Touki Toussaint Hires Agent to be in the middle of the lineup, and the 6th spot suits him best. By Joseph Jacquez / Venom Strikes http://venomstrikes.com/2015/02/06/diamondbacks-rhp- Tomas has the chance to hit between 30-35 home runs. touki-toussaint-hires-agent/

7. Chris Owings-SS Arizona Diamondbacks RHP prospect Touki Toussaint has hired Rick Thurman and Nate Heisler from Beverly Hills Sports Owings has a career .313 wOBA against left-handers, so the 7th Council to be his agents according to a report by Jon Heyman of spot suits him well. I also wouldn’t mind seeing him hit 9th, so CBS Sports. 8

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Touki Toussaint, rhp & No. 16 pick overall in 2014 draft by “Things are exactly as they were a week ago, two weeks ago, #dbacks, has hired rick thurman & nate heisler at @BHSCouncil we’re in exactly the same place,” D-backs general manager Dave Stewart said of negotiations with the two players. “There has not Toussaint was the Diamondbacks first round pick (#16 overall) been any movement to the positive, so we’re still preparing in the 2014 First Year Player Draft out of Coral Springs ourselves as if we’re going to have to go [to a hearing].” Christian Academy in Coral Springs, California. The Diamondbacks believe that once he develops, the 16 year old “I don’t think anyone is looking forward to going to an can be a top of the rotation starter in the future. arbitration hearing,” Stewart said. “I don’t think that the team is, and I don’t think that the agent looks forward to the process, This is what former Diamondbacks G.M. Kevin Towers told and I know that the player doesn’t. I’ve been a player and I know Steve Gilbert of MLB.com about Toussaint: that in that period of time, I wasn’t looking forward to going into a room and sitting there listening to a team tell me all the “Ball comes out of his hand real easy, he’s got a power breaking things that I can’t do, all of my shortcomings. It’s not a good ball, in the mid 90s, good athlete, fields his position process. It doesn’t do anybody any good to go into a room and, well,” Towers said. “He’s a guy that we think once our I guess, air out your laundry.” development people wrap their arms around him, a kid that we think has a chance to be a top-of-the-rotation-type starter here in Being in the same place two weeks before Spring Training is not the very near future.” a good sign. Reed filed at $5.6 million, and the D-backs came in at $4.7 million. Trumbo filed at $6.9 million, and the Dbacks The Diamondbacks pushed him last year during his first filed at $5.3 million. professional season. He pitched for Missoula in the Pioneer League, and while his numbers look bad, you have to remember The last time the Diamondbacks went to a hearing with a player how young he is, and where he is in his development. He was with catcher Damien Miller, and teams generally try to avoid actually did really well. This season he will probably stay with the it. rookie level teams. 13 Days Until Diamondbacks Pitchers & Catchers Report This is what Bleacher Report said about Toussaint who has a By Tristan Leohard / TruSchooSports.com projected ETA of 2016: http://www.truschoolsports.com/2015/02/13-days-until- diamondbacks-pitchers-catchers-report/ “Toussaint possesses one of the highest ceilings in the class among his pitching peers, as there’s obviously a lot to like in his 13 days until #Dbacks pitchers and catcher report for ST. #13 two present plus pitches and chance for a third down the road. worn by Jason Conti, Midre Cummings and . The athleticism and arm strength will make him too intriguing to pass over come a certain point in the first round, and, With only 13 days until the Arizona Diamondbacks pitchers and surprisingly, he’s also a rarity in the sense that he’s Vanderbilt catchers report, let’s take a look at 13 things to get excited about commit who seems more likely to sign as a first-rounder than heading into the 2015 season. pursue a college career.” 13) Revamped Pitching Staff He is projected by most scouts to be a no.2 starter in the big leagues, though the Diamondbacks believe he can be a no.1 guy. For better or worse, the 2015 pitching staff looks a lot different His command and control need a lot of work but he has plenty than the 2014 one did. There are a few different ways that spring of time to perfect his mechanics and his delivery. Here is some training can shake out, but there is an outside change that four video of him: of the five chosen starters didn’t pitch a single in a Diamondbacks uniform last season. While the staff may be a Diamondbacks Preparing for Arbitration Hearings with work in progress for part of the year, it’s important to note that Trumbo, and Reed there is a lot of upside among those names and Collmenter, at 29 By Joseph Jacquez / Venom Strikes years old, is the elder of the group. Here’s to hoping Dave http://venomstrikes.com/2015/02/06/diamondbacks- Stewart found a few diamonds in a rough off-season. preparing-arbitration-hearings-trumbo-reed/ 12) New Manager Chip Hale The Arizona Diamondbacks have not gone to a salary arbitration hearing with a player since 2001. Process that for a second. The For starters, he isn’t Kirk Gibson. Even though I was a vocal D-backs have not had to negotiate one of their players salary for supporter of Gibson in his tenure with the Dbacks, it was the upcoming season with an arbitrator in 14 years. apparent by the end that both team and manager needed some time apart. Chip Hale isn’t a household name, but has had That could be changing this year. The Diamondbacks have not coaching success back when he was the AAA manager of the been able to reach an agreement with either Addison Reed Tuscon Sidewinders, winning the 2006 PCL Championship. or slugger Mark Trumbo. Negotiations are at a standstill, and it From all accounts, Hale seems like more of a team “builder” looks like Dave Stewart and the rest of the front office are than a “leader”, which in my point of view is a fresh change preparing to go to court. from years past. This team isn’t going to win ball games in 2015 by out slugging the other team, but it’s going to take a full effort This is what Stewart told Steve Gilbert of MLB.com: from each and every guy, night in and night out. 9

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innings if called upon. The future of the bullpen is looking 11) The Fascinating Catcher Position bright.

The good news is that things can’t get any worse at catcher for 6) The Barrage of Righties the Dbacks this season. So, it’s exciting because some way, somehow, things have to get better. Seriously. It’s really can’t get Bradley, Blair, and Shipley. All high ceiling, top of the rotation any worse. like arms coming from the minors. All are close and could see a start or two in Arizona in 2015. All ranked in MLB’s Top 100 10) Lower Minor League Levels prospects, I took a quick look at them a couple of days ago HERE at TSS. While the Diamondbacks don’t have one of the best minor league systems in baseball, they certainly aren’t the worst. Off- 5) Goldschmidt Becoming #1 seasons acquisitions have helped bring in new talent including and incredibly tall pitcher Jeferson There was a debate the other night on MLB Network on who Mejia, and while he had a rough start to his professional career was the top in all of baseball. The names involved last summer, right hander Touki Toussaint will look to rebound weren’t or , but they were trying to in Rookie or Low-A ball. Hopefully somewhere between short decide between Miguel Cabrera and Paul Goldschmidt. The vote season and Low-A, will regain his form and start was 2-1 in favor of Cabrera, but all three panelist agreed that mashing again as well. while Miggy was trending downward, no one knows if we have seen the best that Goldschmidt has to offer. Goldy hits for 9) …and the Higher Levels too power, high average, drives in a ton of runs, and even steals the occasional bag. All around, Goldschmidt is already one of the Outside of the minor league pitchers that everyone is gushing top two first baseman in the league and he just turned 27 years about, the Diamondbacks have some depth at AAA and AA that old a couple of months ago. With a least four more years in a could see some time this year in Arizona. Peter O’Brien leads Dbacks uniform, the west coast is going to hold the best first this list and while he needs to work on his mechanics behind the baseman in the game for years to come. plate, the power in his bat is for real and someday soon could be hitting 20+ home runs out of . Robbie Ray and 4) A Full Season of AJ Pollock Andrew Chafin could both use some time against minor league hitting, but both are extremely close to contributing to the big I am extremely excited to see what AJ Pollock can do with a full club. season patrolling center field. He was off to a monster start last season before getting bit by the injury bug, but still managed to My favorite name to watch right now is Brandon Drury. put up 7 home runs, 14 stolen bases, and a .302 average in 75 Originally a third basemen, Drury has logged some time now at games. While his average could regress a little as he probably second base in an attempt to expedite his path to the majors. He won’t maintain a BABIP near .350, a 10 home , 20+ stolen has hit at every level without signs of slowing down. The only base, .275 season isn’t out of the question. If the Dbacks could thing in his way is Aaron Hill, and with a decent season out of get something close to that near the top of their order, things him, Hill could be sent packing towards the deadline. Don’t will be looking up. expect Drury this year, but 2016 isn’t out of the question. 3) The June Player Draft 8) Mark Trumbo Rebounding As I talked about a week ago, the draft this year could be a When Trumbo was traded to the desert, everyone envisioned his turning point in the organization. It could go many different 30+ home runs for the Angels turning into 40+ home runs in ways and depending on fill needs or going for a big bat, the front the hitter friendly Chase Field. A slow start coupled with a office really can’t go wrong. broken foot put a large damper on his first season in Sedona red though. Even with his below-average defense in right field, look 2) Yasmany Tomas for Trumbo to rebound offensively and put up 30 home runs with a .250 batting average in the middle of the Diamondbacks After giving him a 4 year / $68.5 million contract in the off- lineup. season, Diamondbacks officials and fans alike are excited to see what Tomas will deliver. While his defense at third may be a 7) The Bullpen work in progress, there is no getting around his raw power. There might be some adjustment time as Tomas makes the While a sore spot last season, a familiar bullpen is looking to changeover to big league pitching, but there is room for rebound and be a source of strength this year. The return of excitement. Fans shouldn’t expect a Jose Abreu or Puig type Daniel Hudson and Matt Reynolds will bring a new look and breakout, but offense something like Cespedes isn’t out of the some added power to the later innings of games and while Brad question. Ziegler had micro-fracture surgery shortly after the 2014 season ended, he should be ready to go towards to the beginning of the 1) Baseball is almost back! year. AAA Reno has a few pieces too that can come up and supply some fire if need be. Matt Stites, Jake Barrett, and Henry ONLY 13 MORE DAYS! I don’t have to say anything else. Rodriguez are all capable of being placed into high leverage Baseball is almost here and it cannot come fast enough.

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MLB All-Stars Corbin, Bautista, Martin Highlight Chipola Alumni Weekend It's a huge honor for me," said Corbin. "I haven't been around as By Greg Brzozowski / wjhg.com long as those guys, so hopefully I can continue my career and http://www.wjhg.com/sports/headlines/MLB-All-Stars- come back from the injury I had last season. I'm looking forward Corbin-Bautista-Martin-Highlight-Chipola-Alumni-Weekend- to getting back there and competing with these guys. The names 291187951.html that you mentioned, I mean, these guys are the best in the game. It's just great to see them come from this school and them to Marianna, FL---You could look anywhere across the country and come back as well and support this program. That's what we're you won't find anything quite like Saturday at Chipola College. all here for." The Indians baseball team and the local community welcomed back past players at the program's seventh annual Alumni WCCS retires Simmons’ jersey Weekend. By Daniel Evans / Selma Times-Journal http://www.selmatimesjournal.com/2015/02/08/wccs-retires- Former players from the program's past returned to Marianna to simmons-jersey/ celebrate the accomplishments of each other and each Chipola team. Wallace Community College Selma’s Kevin Simmons, middle left, had his jersey retired by the school Saturday. WCCS Saturday's events were highlighted by the presence of three MLB president James Mitchell, left, holds a Simmons jersey that will All-Stars, Jose Bautista, Russell Martin, and Patrick Corbin, the be retired, while Arizona Diamondbacks scout Joe Mason and latter serving as the guest of honor. The Arizona Diamondbacks WCCS head baseball coach Frank Elliott help Simmons hold on became just the fourth former Indian to have his to the jersey presented to him as part of the ceremony. Simmons jersey retired, joining the Tornonto Blue Jays' Bautista and was named the most valuable pitcher of his minor league team Martin, and manager . last season, the Missoula Osprey, which are a minor league affiliate of the Diamondbacks. Also in attendance was a pair of Marianna High School alums, Jeff Mathis and Michael Mader, the former, not a Chipola player, but an adopted member of the program's family.

After signing autographs for the fans in attendance, Bautista, Martin, and Mathis highlighted the participants in the annual alumni Derby, alongside defending and two-time champ Mat Gamel. Bautista won his first Chipola Derby Championship, finishing the finals with the most long balls.

"It just seems to get bigger and better every year," said Chipola head coach Jeff Johnson, who's spent the last 18 seasons coaching the Indians. "We started off the first year, we had it Reynolds armed with ‘clean bill of health’ seven years ago, we had a good turnout." By Kevin Druley / Kane County Chronicle http://www.kcchronicle.com/2015/02/06/reynolds-armed- "I got lucky enough that I was here in Marianna and I'm very with-clean-bill-of-health/aj6hekb/ grateful," said Bautista. "That's the main reason why I want to come back. I want to show support back to the people that Left-hander Matt Reynolds generally avoided MRIs and supported me." extended injury absences during the first six-plus seasons of his career. "Coming here, I was able to focus on baseball all year round and I think that's when I made a big step into continuing my career On Sept. 29, the day after the Arizona Diamondbacks played and being able to get drafted," said Corbin. "I wouldn't change it their 162nd game of 2014 without him, the for the world." St. Charles East product underwent what he hopes is his final "It's fun to see that Chipola's doing well, that the program's procedure for awhile. headed in the right direction," said Martin. "And then seeing the guys you don't really get to see that much and they're growing Especially since the results came back positive on the reliever’s up, they're starting to have families and stuff like that." throwing elbow more than a year after Tommy John surgery.

"To have three Major League All-Stars here this weekend, Pat, “It was kind of nice to be able to say, ‘All right, I’ve got a clean Russell, and Jose, it says a lot about what they thought of our bill of health and can have a pretty normal offseason,’ ” program when they were here," added Johnson. Reynolds said.

As for Corbin, a 2013 All-Star with the D-Backs who's coming To be sure, that prospect suited Reynolds, 30, who hasn’t off Tommy John surgery, he's not only excited to get back on pitched in the majors since June 9, 2013. the mound this season, but to be mentioned around Marianna alongside the previous three players to have their numbers taken He suffered a slight tear in the elbow’s ulnar collateral ligament out of rotation. after growing discomfort, derailing what was shaping up as his 11

│ strongest big league season in his third year in the Major “Just kind of a coincidence,” Reynolds said.”It didn’t really Leagues. affect me at all. It’s kind of neat that the team I’m playing for is kind of the minor league team in town, but that’s about it.” Reynolds’ final appearance of 2013 was his 30th, putting him on pace to challenge his previous career high of 73 set in 2011, Since he relocated to Tennessee, Reynolds still stays in touch when he pitched for the Colorado Rockies. His ERA was under with some former Saints coaches and teammates. 1.00 as late as May 15, and finished at 1.98. He’s elated the topic of conversation has shifted from matters of After multiple evaluations, Arizona ultimately decided to shut inaction to action. Reynolds down for the season. He underwent Tommy John surgery in late September 2013. So began the arduous stages of As with his rehab, slowly reaching its final stages, it was simply a rehab, which proved especially jittery in the early going. matter of time.

“There’s not a lot to it,” Reynolds said. “You try to do as much as you can, but you can’t really start throwing until about four months out. and even then, it’s a really slow, drawn-out process.”

Once he was cleared to throw, Reynolds began doing so with a half-weight baseball, gradually progressing in distance. He then shifted to a regulation baseball, repeating the earlier process.

When the Diamondbacks were at home, he rehabbed at Chase Field. When the club was on the road, he traveled to its facility in February 9, 2015 • sports.yahoo.com/mlb/morenews nearby Scottsdale, Arizona. http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/morenews

The climb won’t fully reach a crescendo until Reynolds appears February 9, 2015 in his first game of 2015. Still, he at least approached that  James Shields and San Diego Padres agree to 4-year milestone in October, pitching in instructional league games contract 11:33 am EST (The Associated Press) while working to bump his velocity from the mid-80s to the  The fifth greatest general manager of all time built a optimal 89-90 mph. team that won 14 of 16 pennants. Then he was fired 11:22 am EST (NBC Sports) “Right now it might be a tick lower than that, but usually it is  Rare Shoeless Joe Jackson autograph photo may bring until spring training,” Reynolds said. “Usually my good velocity $100,000 11:19 am EST (The Associated Press) doesn’t come back until I’m a little bit into camp, for whatever  White Sox 'first round' talent Spencer Adams gets his reason.” due 11:03 am EST (Comcast SportsNet Chicago)  Padres likely out of Hamels race after adding Shields Reynolds plans to report to spring training about a week earlier 10:44 am EST (Comcast SportsNet Philadelphia) than the mandated Feb. 19 date for D’backs pitchers and  Breaking down the offseason’s biggest free agent catchers. contracts 10:31 am EST (NBC Sports)

 Who’s your least favorite player? 10:11 am EST (NBC He’s maintained a sturdy physique – 6-foot-5 and about 240 Sports) pounds – through the rehab process. Charting a handful of Arizona’s offseason moves offered his psyche some sustenance,  Reds and agree to 2-year, $12 million to boot. contract 10:06 am EST (The Associated Press)  Report: James Shields to sign four-year deal with New manager Chip Hale called Reynolds shortly after the Padres 10:04 am EST (Comcast SportsNet Chicago) D’backs hired Hale as Kirk Gibson’s successor in October.  Video: pulls a Happy Gilmore, drives a ball 340 yards 9:30 am EST (NBC Sports) They’ve exchanged text messages since, discussing Reynolds’  How Shields to Padres could affect Orioles 9:24 am rehab and the shared optimism surrounding the season. EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic)  James Shields reportedly agrees to four-year deal with “From what I hear, he’s a pretty fiery guy and it should be fun to Padres 9:17 am EST (Yahoo Sports) work with him,” Reynolds said.  The Padres’ offseason moves may not guarantee the playoffs, but they certainly guarantee enthusiasm 9:00 Reynolds also stayed abreast of Arizona’s search for a new Class- am EST (NBC Sports) A affiliate. In late September, the club agreed to a two-year  Derek Holland’s knee beats Shin-Soo Choo’s ankle in a player-development contract with the Cougars. foot race 8:30 am EST (NBC Sports)

 Reynolds remembers attending Cougars games with his family Julio Franco, still going at age 56 7:54 am EST (NBC about once a year growing up. Sports)  Report: Padres sign James Shields to a four-year contract 2:12 am EST (NBC Sports) 12

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 Draft Strategy: ADP Outliers 1:02 am EST (Rotoworld)  Casey Janssen has big shoes to fill as Nats' 9:58 am EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic) February 8, 2015  Video: MLB teams depart for spring training 9:46 am  Jose Fernandez could rejoin the Marlins as early as June EST (NBC Sports) 15 11:25 pm EST (NBC Sports)  Many factors should prevent an early trade  Athletics hoping to get and A.J. Griffin 1:25 am EST (Comcast SportsNet Philadelphia) back in June 10:30 pm EST (NBC Sports)  Cuba beats Mexico 3-2 to win 1st Caribbean Series February 7, 2015 since 1960 10:00 pm EST (The Associated Press)  Kevin Cash won’t tinker with Rays’ lineup like Joe  not expected to miss much time at the Maddon did 11:02 pm EST (NBC Sports) beginning of the season 9:35 pm EST (NBC Sports)  Cuba beats Venezuela, faces Mexico in Caribbean  Nationals roster preview: Matt Thornton 9:32 pm EST Series final 11:00 pm EST (The Associated Press) (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic)  Report: James Shields never rejected a $110 million  Report: Padres’ most recent offer to James Shields was offer 9:55 pm EST (NBC Sports) between $72-80 million over four years 8:39 pm EST  open to signing an extension with the (NBC Sports) Padres 8:45 pm EST (NBC Sports)  Marlins reliever Dunn agrees to $5.8 million, 2-year  Giants interested in finding an instruction role for deal 8:11 pm EST (The Associated Press) 7:35 pm EST (NBC Sports)  Mike Dunn avoids arbitration with the Marlins 7:51 pm  sends cryptic tweet about 'Peter' 7:27 pm EST (NBC Sports) EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic)  Melvin suggests A's may shift gears in search of offense  Giants notes: Players' chemistry in midseason form at 7:42 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Bay Area) FanFest 7:07 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Bay Area)  Danny Espinosa is giving up switch hitting 6:05 pm  Walt Jocketty: “I don’t know if we have a fit” for EST (NBC Sports) Dayan Viciedo 6:25 pm EST (NBC Sports)  Comcast SportsNet California Announces 2015  Walker and Parker lose in arbitration; teams improve to Coverage 5:19 pm EST (Comcast 3-1 5:48 pm EST (The Associated Press) SportsNet Bay Area)  Reds add RHPs Burke Badenhop and Kevin Gregg  Marlins “have touched base” with Francisco Rodriguez 5:34 pm EST (The Associated Press) 4:25 pm EST (NBC Sports)  apologizes for tweet regarding Sandy  Melvin confident A's 'pen can withstand Doolittle Hook shooting 5:30 pm EST (NBC Sports) injury 3:22 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Bay Area)  Bochy wants to find role for Bonds with Giants 5:27  New-look A's play meet and greet at FanFest to learn pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Bay Area) faces 3:01 pm EST (The Associated Press)  UPDATE: Padres still favorites for James Shields, but  Phillies GM Amaro gives honest answer on trade several teams remain “heavily involved” 5:07 pm EST chances 2:34 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic) (NBC Sports)  Report: Badenhop signs one-year deal with Reds 2:32  Pirates win arbitration against Walker, who gets $8 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet New England) million 4:50 pm EST (The Associated Press)  Report: Marlins in talks with top free agent closer 2:14  2015 MLB roster outlook: 4:27 pm pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic) EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic)  Reds avoid salary arbitration with Todd Frazier with  Mets sign Duane Below 4:20 pm EST (NBC Sports) two-year, $12 million contract 2:09 pm EST (NBC  Reports: A's win arbitration hearing against RHP Sports) Parker 4:01 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Bay Area)  Active offseason didn't hurt White Sox farm system  Pirates win arbitration case against 3:10 pm 1:29 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Chicago) EST (NBC Sports)  “Only approximately 4-6″ MLB general managers  Rob Manfred says Super Bowl-type bidding will voted in favor of ban on defensive shifts 12:52 pm EST determine host city for MLB All-Star Game 2:19 pm (NBC Sports) EST (NBC Sports)  2015 outlook: 12:29 pm EST (Comcast  Reds sign Kevin Gregg to a minor league deal 1:55 pm SportsNet Mid Atlantic) EST (NBC Sports)  Former Nats OF Nate Schierholtz lands with AL team  Reds sign Burke Badenhop to a one-year, $1 million 11:24 am EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic) deal 12:49 pm EST (NBC Sports)  James Shields’ decision expected soon 10:59 am EST  Yankees finally agree to meet with (NBC Sports) 12:27 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic)  Countdown to Clearwater: 's health  Parker loses to A's in arbitration and will make 10:24 am EST (Comcast SportsNet Philadelphia) $850,000 11:42 am EST (The Associated Press)  Five dates to look for during O's spring training 10:12  Athletics win arbitration hearing against Jarrod Parker am EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic) 11:41 am EST (NBC Sports)  Watch Harper annihilate golf ball like Happy Gilmore  Players To Avoid: AL West 11:20 am EST (Rotoworld) 10:01 am EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic)

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 The Giants unveiled new home alternate black jerseys Pittsburgh 11:10 am EST (NBC Sports) Neil Walker Signed, ( 2015)(loses arbitration) Pirates  Rob Manfred says Joe Maddon tampering investigation is ongoing 10:09 am EST (NBC Sports) San Diego Signed to a Minor League Zack Segovia  Jon Niese says it felt like he was pitching with knives in Padres Contract his shoulder last season 8:55 am EST (NBC Sports)  How many of these Orioles free agents will be back? Friday, February 6, 2015 8:55 am EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic)  Nationals roster preview: Drew Storen 12:51 am EST Team Player Transaction (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic) Colorado Signed to a Minor League Josh Vitters February 6, 2015 Rockies Contract  Rockies sign Josh Vitters to a minor league contract Colorado Yohan 11:35 pm EST (NBC Sports) Outrighted to Minors Rockies Flande  leaning towards batting third 10:45 pm EST (NBC Sports) Kansas City Signed, ( 2015)(avoids  Venezuela remains undefeated in Caribbean Series Royals arbitration) 10:36 pm EST (The Associated Press)  Tim Hudson considering retiring after the 2015 season Nate Signed to a Minor League 9:35 pm EST (NBC Sports) Schierholtz Contract

Toronto Blue Signed to a Minor League Luis Perez February 9, 2015 • MLB.com Jays Contract http://www.cbssports.com/mlb/transactions Toronto Blue Danny Signed, ( 2015)(wins arbitration) Jays Valencia Sunday, February 8, 2015

Team Player Transaction

Baltimore Signed to a Minor League Julio Borbon Orioles Contract

Cincinnati Signed, ( 2015-2016)(two-year Todd Frazier Reds contract, avoids arbitration)

Signed, ( 2015-2016)(two-year Mike Dunn contract, avoids arbitration)

Saturday, February 7, 2015

Team Player Transaction

Cincinnati Signed to a Minor League Kevin Gregg Reds Contract

Cincinnati Burke Signed as Free Agent, ( 2015;

Reds Badenhop Opt 2016)(one-year contract)

Los Angeles Ramon Signed to a Minor League

Dodgers Troncoso Contract

Los Angeles B.J. Signed to a Minor League

Dodgers Rosenberg Contract

Signed to a Minor League Miami Marlins David Adams Contract

New York Signed to a Minor League Duane Below Mets Contract

Oakland Jarrod Parker Signed, ( 2015)(loses arbitration) Athletics 14