At $51.7 million, the Texas Rangers have the opportunity to grace Yu Darvish's presence.
Now it's time for him to sign that deal. Reportedly, Darvish is looking for a five-year deal for around $75 million. The ownership of the Rangers are really breaking the bank to get this kid.
While unproven in the majors, I believe this was a risk that needed to be taken. The suave and rogue Jon Daniels and his team of scouts liked what they saw when they took trips to the island in the Far East. Daniels just needed to convince the ownership to take the chance. And boy, did they.
Texas has 30 days to sign the 25-year old right-hander from Japan. It's plenty of time, and I expect a deal to get done.
But once he is officially a Ranger, what then?
I'm asking this because Texas has a few too many starting prospects to fill a five-man rotation.
Let's look at our candidates, shall we?
Yu Darvish - If he is signed, there will be no doubt he will be in the rotation. The Rangers are not signing him to be a long reliever. Even if he has a mediocre spring training, he will be a starter. That's what Texas is paying him for. Consider him a lock.
Colby Lewis - He has been fairly consistent in a starting role, going 14-10 last year. Yet, he had a 4.40 ERA. At age 32 and with one more year on his contract, it's highly possible Lewis may be trade bait. He should be making around $3.25 million for 2012. While not a lot of cash, every little bit helps, and with Lewis being the oldest and least amount of upside, he could be the one to be traded for prospects or cash considerations.
Derek Holland - Unless he has an atrocious spring training, I would consider the 25-year old Dutch Oven to be locked into the rotation for 2012. The Rangers are currently negotiating a new five-year deal for the young pitcher, which is to be expected. The lefty performed quite well last season, going 16-5 with a 3.95 ERA. Not to mention his spectacular Game 4 of the World Series, where he went 8.1 innings, giving up no runs on two hits and seven strikeouts. Many believe that was the single greatest postseason pitching performance in Texas Rangers history, and I tend to agree. Holland shouldn't be going anywhere for a while.
Matt Harrison - There's no doubt Harrison had a breakout season in his first full year in the rotation. He went 14-9 with a 3.39 ERA. Harrison is arbitration-eligible, and will not be a free agent until 2015. At 26 years old, Harrison is still young and with plenty of potential. While he had a shaky postseason, those will be kinks Harrison can work out in the offseason. I would expect Harrison to have a strong chance to make the rotation.
Alexi Ogando - Just like Matt Harrison, Ogando came out of nowhere for the Rangers. He had an 13-8 record with a 3.51 ERA. 2011 was Ogando's first year to be a full-time starter, but he had his share of difficulties as well. He was bothered by a blister on his index finger through the early part of the season. Then, he practically ran out of gas after the All-Star break. But for a pitcher who threw about four innings of relief work a week to suddenly jumping up to 15 innings of starting pitching a week, his problems were to be expected. Since Ogando is no stranger to the bullpen and with Neftali Feliz expected to receive a starting nod, Ogando may find his way into the bullpen to start out the season. Yet, spring training tends to get pitchers injured. Anything can happen.
Neftali Feliz - With the signing of closer Joe Nathan and the fact that very few fans want to see him close out a game ever again, Feliz should find his way into the rotation for the 2012 season. Of course, I believe he needs to earn it like everyone else. Past blogs have stated my views on Feliz, and whether or not he can be a starter. The potential is there, but he must learn to master his offspeed pitches before he steps back onto the rubber. He will probably be a starter, but I would rather see him earn it first.
Scott Feldman - The dark horse in the race to be a starter, Feldman had a decent latter half of the season, going 2-1 with a 3.94 ERA. He had 11 appearances on two spot starts. We all remember his spectacular 2009 season as well as terrible 2010 campaign. Feldman seems to have worked out the kinks to his knee injury, and should contend to start in the year of 2012. Yet, like Ogando, Feldman has bullpen experience, and will probably land a spot there to start the season.
Brandon Webb - To be honest, I almost didn't put him on this list because I completely forgot he was still on the roster. Webb only had a one-year deal, so he is technically a free agent. It would be in Texas' best interest to just accept that this experiment was a failure and move on.
Now, if I had my way, this would be how the rotation would look to start out the season.
1. Darvish
2. Holland
3. Lewis
4. Harrison
5.Ogando
Though, this will probably what it will be.
1. Lewis
2. Holland
3. Darvish
4. Harrison
5. Feliz
As stated earlier, spring training tends to injure players. This rotation could be way different once the actual year starts. Until then, it is a lot of fun to speculate.
All opinions are solely those of Dustin McWilliams. If you have any questions or feedback, please message McWilliams at dmcwilliams82@gmail.com
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Yu Darvish - A new shot of charisma from the Texas Rangers?
Some people were glad to see him go, others thought this could be the start of a downward spiral. Either way, C.J. Wilson's departure garnered quite a bit of attention and conversation Thursday. While he was wonderful in the regular season, posting a 16-7 with a 2.94 ERA, his postseason was atrocious, where he was 0-3 with a 5.79 ERA.
So now, what should the Rangers do? Should they shop the free agent market for a replacement? Maybe make a trade? There are a few options Texas can make in its starting pitching department, and there could be one that could definitely bring charisma.
Cue the half-Iranian, half-Japanese 25-year-old phenom from Japan's Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters, Mr. Yu Darvish. Last season, he had an 18-6 record with a 1.44 ERA and an outstanding 276 strikeouts. He's also never had an ERA above 1.88 in his career. Pretty impressive, but do keep in mind, that's just in the Nippon Professional Baseball league. How his game translates to the MLB is another story.
But it's definitely a story the fans want to see. Currently, the frontrunners in the bidding war to even talk to Darvish are the Texas Rangers, Toronto Blue Jays, and the Washington Nationals. The New York Yankees have analyzed the situation, but aren't expected to make a bid. With Wilson gone, Texas is expected to make a strong effort to render Darvish's services.
Darvish could be considered a star in Japan. He is a spokesmodel for a Japanese canned coffee, and he isn't bad looking either. He could have star written all over him?
But is that what the Texas Rangers want? Texas, lately, has adopted a team first mindset, which has been fundamental for their recent success. Sure, they have members that tend to receive a lot of attention from the media, such as manager Ron Washington and outfielder Josh Hamilton. But could Yu Darvish adapt to that mindset?
If he produces, then I am sure he could easily blend in to the fun and well-liked Texas squad. Darvish has an arsenal of pitches. His fastball usually rests in the mid-90's, but his biggest strength is his breaking balls. Perhaps he could teach Neftali Feliz something on how to throw those.
Here you can see Darvish in action. His pitches look crisp and effective, something Mike Maddux would be happy to see in his rotation. But if he does join the rotation, who becomes the odd man out? Colby Lewis and Derek Holland are locks to be starting pitchers, while Feliz (who I need to see to believe) is apparently locked in place as well. Both Matt Harrison and Alexi Ogando have plenty of bullpen experience, so I imagine it will be one or the other. The discussion for that could go on and on.
But I am obviously ahead of myself. Darvish will be an expensive product, and there is no guarantee that the Rangers will make an attempt for his arm. But if they do, I would be thrilled to have him on the roster, even though there is no cemented fact that he can produce in the Majors. Regardless, it should be a fun ride for the next week, so stay tuned to your favorite media outlet, because Darvish to Texas could be a perfect replacement for Wilson.
All opinions are solely those of Dustin McWilliams. McWilliams is a sports writer at the Denton Record-Chronicle. If you have any questions or feedback, please message McWilliams at dmcwilliams82@gmail.com
So now, what should the Rangers do? Should they shop the free agent market for a replacement? Maybe make a trade? There are a few options Texas can make in its starting pitching department, and there could be one that could definitely bring charisma.
Cue the half-Iranian, half-Japanese 25-year-old phenom from Japan's Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters, Mr. Yu Darvish. Last season, he had an 18-6 record with a 1.44 ERA and an outstanding 276 strikeouts. He's also never had an ERA above 1.88 in his career. Pretty impressive, but do keep in mind, that's just in the Nippon Professional Baseball league. How his game translates to the MLB is another story.
But it's definitely a story the fans want to see. Currently, the frontrunners in the bidding war to even talk to Darvish are the Texas Rangers, Toronto Blue Jays, and the Washington Nationals. The New York Yankees have analyzed the situation, but aren't expected to make a bid. With Wilson gone, Texas is expected to make a strong effort to render Darvish's services.
Darvish could be considered a star in Japan. He is a spokesmodel for a Japanese canned coffee, and he isn't bad looking either. He could have star written all over him?
But is that what the Texas Rangers want? Texas, lately, has adopted a team first mindset, which has been fundamental for their recent success. Sure, they have members that tend to receive a lot of attention from the media, such as manager Ron Washington and outfielder Josh Hamilton. But could Yu Darvish adapt to that mindset?
If he produces, then I am sure he could easily blend in to the fun and well-liked Texas squad. Darvish has an arsenal of pitches. His fastball usually rests in the mid-90's, but his biggest strength is his breaking balls. Perhaps he could teach Neftali Feliz something on how to throw those.
Here you can see Darvish in action. His pitches look crisp and effective, something Mike Maddux would be happy to see in his rotation. But if he does join the rotation, who becomes the odd man out? Colby Lewis and Derek Holland are locks to be starting pitchers, while Feliz (who I need to see to believe) is apparently locked in place as well. Both Matt Harrison and Alexi Ogando have plenty of bullpen experience, so I imagine it will be one or the other. The discussion for that could go on and on.
But I am obviously ahead of myself. Darvish will be an expensive product, and there is no guarantee that the Rangers will make an attempt for his arm. But if they do, I would be thrilled to have him on the roster, even though there is no cemented fact that he can produce in the Majors. Regardless, it should be a fun ride for the next week, so stay tuned to your favorite media outlet, because Darvish to Texas could be a perfect replacement for Wilson.
All opinions are solely those of Dustin McWilliams. McWilliams is a sports writer at the Denton Record-Chronicle. If you have any questions or feedback, please message McWilliams at dmcwilliams82@gmail.com
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Breaking down Sunday's Cowboys-Cardinals matchup
As a fan and as an amateur analyst, the Dallas Cowboys are giving me something to write about. While their current 4-game winning streak isn't the most impressive, style points do not matter in the NFL. A win is a win is a win.
The Cowboys will be going for their fifth straight win tomorrow against the Arizona Cardinals. The Cardinals come into this game 4-7, but don't let the record fool you. This team can play (sometimes) with some good squads.
The player that the Cowboys will need to contain (if at all possible) is stud wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald. By far one of the best receivers in recent years, Fitzgerald can make good secondaries look paltry. Unfortunately, the Cowboys own a Dr. Jeckyl and Mr. Hyde secondary. It can be good on one day, to a terrible secondary the next.
Sure, Mike Jenkins should be back for the 'Boys, but covering Fitzgerald is still a ridiculously difficult task. Fitzgerald will, inevitably, get his tomorrow. It's up to Dallas to contain that.
Here are my keys for a Cowboy W:
1. THE PASS RUSH MUST EXCEL. Of course, this is usually a necessity every game. Kevin Kolb should be making his return at quarterback for the Cardinals, so what better way to welcome him back than with a tough pass rush? Kolb can make passes if given time, and Fitzgerald is one of the best "bad ball" receivers in the league. In order to prevent easy receptions to Fitzgerald, or even Early Doucet, Kolb must be continuall flushed out of the pocket. Make him put that healing turf toe to the test. If Kolb continues to have time, then the only hope for the Cowboys is to outscore the Cardinals.
2. KEEPS BEANIE WELLS DOWN. While he is questionable, it appears that Wells is likely to play. Last week, Wells set a franchise record against the lowly Rams with a 228 yard outing on 22 carries. He was also able to add a touchdown to that. Lately, the Cowboys rushing defense hasn't been up to par. Dallas will need to quickly plug up the holes on running plays. Sean Lee and the rest of the linebacker crew should be quite busy Sunday.
3. KEEP FEEDING DEMARCO MURRAY THE BALL. As the media (and I) like to smash into your brains, DeMarco Murray is the harbinger of great things to come for the Cowboys. No doubt his running abilities have changed many opposing defensive coordinators' game plans, and it will continue to do so as long as he keeps performing. Whether it be handing it off for a sprint up the middle or a pass in the flat, Murray is a great weapon for Dallas. As long as he keeps getting the ball, defenses will creep up to the offensive line. Then, Tony Romo will use the play action to catch the defense off-guard. That is where Romo is most effective.
They are simple keys, but keys nonetheless. The defense will be tested, and I am quite curious to see how they perform. Also, I would like Murray to have 300 total yards with three touchdowns, but hey, that's just Fantasy GM Dustin talking.
Prediction: Cowboys 27, Cardinals 17
All opinions are solely those of Dustin McWilliams. McWilliams is a sports writer at the Denton Record-Chronicle. If you have any questions or feedback, please message McWilliams at dmcwilliams82@gmail.com
The Cowboys will be going for their fifth straight win tomorrow against the Arizona Cardinals. The Cardinals come into this game 4-7, but don't let the record fool you. This team can play (sometimes) with some good squads.
The player that the Cowboys will need to contain (if at all possible) is stud wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald. By far one of the best receivers in recent years, Fitzgerald can make good secondaries look paltry. Unfortunately, the Cowboys own a Dr. Jeckyl and Mr. Hyde secondary. It can be good on one day, to a terrible secondary the next.
Sure, Mike Jenkins should be back for the 'Boys, but covering Fitzgerald is still a ridiculously difficult task. Fitzgerald will, inevitably, get his tomorrow. It's up to Dallas to contain that.
Here are my keys for a Cowboy W:
1. THE PASS RUSH MUST EXCEL. Of course, this is usually a necessity every game. Kevin Kolb should be making his return at quarterback for the Cardinals, so what better way to welcome him back than with a tough pass rush? Kolb can make passes if given time, and Fitzgerald is one of the best "bad ball" receivers in the league. In order to prevent easy receptions to Fitzgerald, or even Early Doucet, Kolb must be continuall flushed out of the pocket. Make him put that healing turf toe to the test. If Kolb continues to have time, then the only hope for the Cowboys is to outscore the Cardinals.
2. KEEPS BEANIE WELLS DOWN. While he is questionable, it appears that Wells is likely to play. Last week, Wells set a franchise record against the lowly Rams with a 228 yard outing on 22 carries. He was also able to add a touchdown to that. Lately, the Cowboys rushing defense hasn't been up to par. Dallas will need to quickly plug up the holes on running plays. Sean Lee and the rest of the linebacker crew should be quite busy Sunday.
3. KEEP FEEDING DEMARCO MURRAY THE BALL. As the media (and I) like to smash into your brains, DeMarco Murray is the harbinger of great things to come for the Cowboys. No doubt his running abilities have changed many opposing defensive coordinators' game plans, and it will continue to do so as long as he keeps performing. Whether it be handing it off for a sprint up the middle or a pass in the flat, Murray is a great weapon for Dallas. As long as he keeps getting the ball, defenses will creep up to the offensive line. Then, Tony Romo will use the play action to catch the defense off-guard. That is where Romo is most effective.
They are simple keys, but keys nonetheless. The defense will be tested, and I am quite curious to see how they perform. Also, I would like Murray to have 300 total yards with three touchdowns, but hey, that's just Fantasy GM Dustin talking.
Prediction: Cowboys 27, Cardinals 17
All opinions are solely those of Dustin McWilliams. McWilliams is a sports writer at the Denton Record-Chronicle. If you have any questions or feedback, please message McWilliams at dmcwilliams82@gmail.com
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