'07 Angelswin Prospect Hotlist, 17th Edition

1. Freddy Sandoval, 3B, Class AA, Arkansas Travelers

Freddy claims the #1 spot for the 2nd time this year! Saying he's been red hot is an understatement. In the month of July, specifically in his last 10 games in which he’s hit .512 with 7 multi-hit games in those last 10 contests. Sandoval a representative of the Angels in the Futures Game for the World squad is hitting .317 on the season with a .406 on-base pct. (54 walks, 58 strikeouts) while stealing 18 bags. He’s also hit for more power this year pounding out 24 doubles, 4 triples and 10 home runs.

2. Rich Thompson, RP, Class AAA Salt Lake Bees

The Australian was Sandoval’s teammate on the World Roster for the Futures Game has posted a 0.77 ERA since being promoted to Triple-A Salt Lake, fanning 15 in 11 2/3 innings. Opponents are hitting just .183 off the Aussie in 2007 between 3 levels. Eddie Bane’s son Jaymie who is a scout for the Red Sox raved about his fastball after seeing him pitch in the Futures Game. Thompson also shows a knee buckling curve ball which he uses as his punch out pitch.

3. Patrick Phillips, SS, Low Class A, Cedar Rapids Kernels

While his brother Brandon for the Cincinnati Reds is on the verge of a 30/30 season his little brother Patrick is showing why the Angels drafted him for the same reasons in the 2^nd round in the ’05 draft. Patrick is hitting .325 in his last 10 games, 5 of which were multi-hit contests, has shown speed on the bases (29 stolen bases) and leads the club with 10 home runs. While Phillips has the athleticism and tools, he needs to play better defense at SS as he also leads the club in errors with 31 errors and he need show better plate discipline as he’s only walked 10 times while going down swinging 107 times.

4. Nick Adenhardt, SP, Class AA, Arkansas Travelers

Adenhart has pitched brilliantly since coming off the DL at the beginning of the month, hurled an 8 inning gem in his last start, giving up just 1 run for the victory. In the start before (July 18^th vs. Wichita) he fanned 9 in 6 1/3 innings notching a victory as well.

5. Christopher Pettit, OF, Class A Rancho Cucamonga

Pettit has seen his average drop a few points since last week, but he’s still getting on base and making things happen on the bases (26 stolen bases total). Pettit who is hitting .343 in High-A ball has knocked 8 over the fence while clubbing 10 doubles resulting in a 1.011 OPS. Playing left field, Pettit looks to claim a spot vacated by both Garret Anderson and Juan Rivera by 2009 providing the Angels some power and speed from the corner spot.

6. Nate Sutton, 2B, Class A Rancho Cucamonga Quakes

Nate who is repeating High-A Ball in Rancho, cracks the hot-list for the first time this season as he pushed his average over .300, hitting .372 in his last 10 games playing 2B for the Quakes. Sutton has a chance at being a solid reserve off the bench in the future, showing solid defense, speed & he has some pop in his bat.

7. Gregory Porter, OF/DH/1B, Class AAA, Salt Lake City Bees

The 6’5, 240lb Porter has been a beast since being promoted to Triple-A earlier in the month, clubbing 6 home runs, while ripping 8 doubles, posting a solid .984 OPS. Porter’s 4 hit performance on Friday combined with his 3-4 night on Saturday keep him on this week’s prospect hot-list.

8. Terry Evans, OF, Class AAA Salt Lake Bees

Evans continues his fine season by providing 5 multi-hit games in his last 10 for a .326 average (hitting .313 on the season going into Sunday’s game). Evans like Patrick Phillips has a package of speed and power but needs to show better plate discipline if he wants to make succeed in the big leagues. Evans has fanned 93 times this, walking only 12 times.

9. Sean O’Sullivan, SP, Low Class A, Cedar Rapids Kernels

O’Sullivan’s ERA (2.46) and WHIP (1.16) have continued to decrease as the season has progressed but more notably his strikeouts have increased lately, something that he wasn’t getting a lot of early on in the season which is good to see. Sean has fanned 34 in his last 34 innings!

10. Brad Coon, OF, Class AA Arkansas Travelers

Coon leads the entire organization with 43 stolen bases (through Saturday’s game) and has hit a lot better of late (hitting .310 in his last 10) with 3 multi-hit games in a row to push his average near .300 with the Travs.

Player to keep and eye on:

Miguel Gonzalez, SP, Class AA Arkansas Travelers

Miguel blanked the Tulsa squad on Friday for 8 innings, the 3^rd time he’s giving up no runs in a start in the last month (7, 8 and 9 innings). When I asked Eddie Bane about Miguel, this is what he had to say: “Abe Flores and Bo Hughes found Miggy pitching in an adult league in Los Angeles. We signed him and gave him a chance, but he took the ball and ran with it. Now, he is throwing harder and has a chance if he keeps improving a little more.”

On the outside looking: Matt Sweeney, Brok Butcher, Jose Arredondo, Peter Bourjos, Andrew Romine, Jordan Renz, Anthony Ortega, Young-Il Jung, Chris Garcia, Jordan Walden, Hank Conger, Robert Mosebach, David Herndon, Steven Marek, Trevor Bell, Hanley Statia, Sean Rodriguez, Brandon Wood, Chris Armstrong, Matt Brown, Gordon Gronkowski, Jeremy Haynes, Nick Green, Mark Trumbo, Jay Brossman, Michael Anton, Douglas Brandt and Ben Johnson

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Atlanta vs. Los Angeles in Teixeira Sweepstakes

If John Schuerholz get his way the Braves could be adding Mark Teixeira to their lineup, batting between the Jones's by next Tuesday. The Braves are said to be offering Jarrod Saltamacchia, Matt Harrison and Elvis Andrus for Tex. Sounds good on the surface, but let's dig a little further to see who actually would be offering the better deal to the Texas Rangers for Teixeira's services.

If the rumor is true that the Angels are offering Kotchman, Santana & either Terry Evans or Nathan Haynes, but for all intents and purposes, lets say Hainley Statia, a SS prospect in the Angels organization playing for the Quakes in High-A Ball.

Let's see why the Angels have the better offer by far and why Bill Stoneman may win out in the Teixeira sweepstakes despite his inability to improve the team's offensive woes in past deadline deals.

Casey Kotchman > Salty - Kotchman has better plate discipline (37 walks to only 39 strikeouts), will hit for a higher average (has a .325 minor league batting average), he is a more accomplished defensive 1B and has room for power in the future, plus he profiles well in the power dept. with that short porch in Arlington. Remember, Salty was just moved to 1B 4 weeks ago so they could get his bat in the lineup after McCann proved he was healthy enough after battling minor injuries to start the season.

Here's another thought, perhaps the Rangers are looking at Salty as a C, not a 1B, with their intentions of moving Wilkerson to 1B. Doubtful, with Taylor Teagarden their top C prospect raking in High-A Ball.

C Taylor Teagarden's #'s in High-A Ball: (.314, .451 OBP, 24 2B's, 20 HR's)

Ervin Santana > Matt Harrison - Harrison is a southpaw with decent #'s at Double-A but not overpowering stuff by any means. He's at best, a #3 type if everything comes together for him with his secondary pitches.

Santana meanwhile, despite his struggles this year, has the potential of a front of the rotation starter, though he hasn't shown the mental toughness or command to tap into that potential as of yet. Still, he's a guy that could go right into the rotation and replacement the Kameron Loe's and Jamey Wright's of the world.

Matt Harrison's #'s (5-7, 3.39, 76 K's in 116.2 innings, .262 BAA) in Double-A

Terry Evans, Hainley Statia or Nathan Haynes > Andrus - Haynes is a guy that could replace Kenny Lofton who is rumored to be going somewhere other than Texas before or on July 31st in centerfield.

Terry Evans who was a 30/30 breakout prospect last year acquired from the Cardinals in the Jeff Weaver deal, is having a good season in Triple-A , also impressed in his first major league start on June 20th, clubbing a Home Run at Anaheim Stadium.

Hainley Statia is a solid defensive middle infielder that is threat on the bases. Question is this, why would the Rangers want Andrus or Statia, both of whom are in High-A Ball when they have SS Michael Young locked up, Ian Kinsler at 2B and prospect Joaquin Arias.

Terry Evans: (.315, 13 Hr's, 30 2b's, 18 SB's) in Triple-A

Nathan Haynes: (.386 BA, .462 OBP, 4 Hr's, 14 SB's in 44 games) in Triple-A

Hainley Statia: (.272 BA, 19 2b's, 19 SB's) in High-A Ball

Elvis Andrus: (.237 BA, 3 Hr's, 23 SB's) in High-A Ball

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Trade Deadline Wishlist

By Eric Denton
AngelsWin.com

Angel fans are as excited as little kids at Christmas time waiting to see what Santa will bring them. Will they get the baseball glove they want or a lump of coal in their stocking ?

The trade deadline is once again approaching and Angel fans are hoping that this is the year Bill Stoneman doesn't sit back and not improve the team. With the team struggling offensively, it's obvious that the club could use another hitter. But is that all they need ?

First priority - Get a power hitter.

With Chone Figgins able to shift around the diamond it gives the Angels flexibility as to what player or position they fill. Ideally, if the Angels are going to give up some of their top prospects, they'll be able to acquire a young impact player.

The biggest rumor out there is Mark Teixeria. The 27 year old, switch hitter would give the team a big boost either at first-base or designated hitter. The Angels have allegedly offered Casey Kotchman, Ervin Santana and either Nathan Haynes or Terry Evans. I'd personally prefer they keep Kotchman while trying to get something for Kendry Morales instead. However, this deal would be acceptable as long as the Rangers don't try to raise the ante by asking for Joe Saunders instead of Santana.

Other rumored players are Jermaine Dye, Mike Piazza and Troy Glaus.

The Angels probably have the prospect in Brandon Wood that could re-acquire the former Angel, but there are conflicting media reports about whether or not the Blue Jays are even willing to deal him. Blue Jay officials feel 2008 could be their year. Angels fans would be thrilled if Stoneman was able to get Glaus back into Angel red as many feel his departure is what caused the offensive problems the team has suffered since the 2005 season.

Dye could also help, adding power at either right or left field and DH. Dye is going to be a free agent at the end of the season and probably wouldn't cost the Angels any of their top tier prospects.

Piazza could help at designated hitter or even catching games in place of light hitting rookie Jeff Mathis when Mike Napoli needs a day off.

Second Priority - Starting pitcher.

If the Angels can acquire a decent starting pitcher it would free up Ervin Santana or Joe Saunders to be included in a trade for a hitter. If the Angels were to acquire a pitcher like Jon Garland, Javier Vazquez or the recently available Dontrelle Willis, the Halo rotation could be stacked for the postseason. With Bartolo Colon put and Ervin Santana at Triple-A Salt Lake City, it would be not a surprise for the pitching centric Angels to acquire another starter.


Third Priority - Reliever

The Angels have a stable back end of the bullpen with Justin Speier, Scot Shields and closer Frankie Rodriguez. However, Chris Bootcheck and Darren Oliver have been shaky. With Dustin Moseley looking at a potential starting job due to the elbow injury to Colon the Angels could use some bullpen help. Maybe that will come from recently re-called Marcus Gywn, but it probably wont come in the form of Greg Jones.

Relievers worth taking a look at include St. Louis's Russ Springer, New York's Scott Proctor and Chad Qualls or Dan Wheeler from the Astros.

I do believe this will be the season that Bill Stoneman is able to come through with the big trade many fans have said the team has needed for a couple seasons now. His contract is up at the end of the season and Stoneman may want to either continue as general manager in 2008 or retire after this season. Which ever way he may be leaning. Winning another World Series has got to be his top priority. He did the prudent thing building the farm system into one of the best in MLB. But it's now time to deal from strength. Aside from perhaps Brandon Wood and definitely Nick Adenhart, no player in the minor leagues should be deemed untouchable.

My prediction. Jermaine Dye to Angels

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The Eddie Bane Connection, July Edition

Q: (Angelswin) - Christopher Pettit, wow what more can I say? This guy has been on an absolute tear this year, especially after his promotion to High-A ball in Rancho Cucamonga. What can you tell us about Pettit, is he really a full package of speed, power and disciplined at the plate? How do you rate his defense and arm, and what position do you see him playing in the future, a corner OF spot or centerfield?

A: (Eddie Bane) - Chris is a good baseball player first and foremost. He is going to hit no matter where he plays. His spot will be as a corner outfielder more than likely and he will make himself into a good defender no matter where we put him. His bat is going to be his best tool and no question about that. We are very happy to have Chris and in a hs organization like ours it is great to have a player with a college background come through as Petit has.

Q: (Angelswin) - Eddie, is it safe to say that the minor league player of the year at this stage is Brok Butcher? This guy pitched lights out in the Cal League which is a notorious hitters league and now he has two solid starts under his belt in Arkansas, Double-A. I've corresponded with his brother Jason and we see a lot of Fausto Carmona and Brandon Webb as someone to compare with, with that sinking fastball, solid changeup and slider of his. What is the talk around the scouts table regarding Brok Butcher?

A: (Eddie Bane) - First of all Chuck I would jokingly say that it is not best to get a scouting report from a players brother. My mom thinks I should still be pitching.(LOL). Seriously Brok is having a great year, but I would not be giving out the player of the year honor just yet. We have over a month to play in the Minor Leagues. Brok is certainly on the list though. He does have a good sinker, but Brandon Webb is on a different planet. If he gets to that point then both Brok and Eddie Bane will be really happy.

I would think others on the list for player of the year would be Schoeniger, Sweeney, Trumbo, Petit, Sean Rodriguez, Adenhart and a few others. People somehow forget that Nick Adenhart is 20 years old and dominating in 2A. Also Conger was having a big year before getting hurt in Cedar Rapids.

Q: (Angelswin) - What's going on with Hank Conger? Injury? if so what's his prognosis?

A: (Eddie Bane) - Hank had a problem with his back and is very close to being ready to play again. Hank was playing very very well and we are thrilled with his progress. Great makeup, great learner, great kid and a great talent. Everything we could want in a player in his first full season. He and Sweeney have both exceeded expectations this year.

Q: (Angelswin) - Nick Adenhart has been a lot better after his stint on the DL. Have their been any changes to his mechanics or were the #'s that were not all that spectacular before the DL stint, a result of the injury?

A: (Eddie Bane) - Nick dominated at the beginning of the season in Arkansas. Went through a tough stretch and is now dominating again. We do not have anyone else pitching as good as Nick right now with the possible addition of Sean O'Sullivan.

Q: (Angelswin) - Miguel Gonzalez has come out of nowhere, what can you tell us about the right-handed hurler that boasts a 2.98 ERA in 13 starts in Double-A this year.

A: (Eddie Bane) - Abe Flores and Bo Hughes found Miggy pitching in an adult league in Los Angeles. We signed him and gave him a chance, but he took the ball and ran with it. Now, he is throwing harder and has a chance if he keeps improving a little more.

Q: (Angelswin) - Rich Thompson & Darren O' Day have been lights out this year in relief. Since the Angels could use some bullpen help, could you see them as potential September call ups?

A: (Eddie Bane) - Bill Stoneman's department. But, they both have been very good. My son, Jaymie who is a big league scout for the Red Sox watched Thompson in the Futures game and raved about his fastball. O'Day has that tough Laredo angle to hit against and will always have a chance to be a good major leaguer.

Q: (Angelswin) - With the trading deadline just less than a week away and the Angels are starved for a power hitter, are there any prospects in the organization that the Angels feel are can't miss, untouchables? or if the right guy can be had, is anyone is available?

A: (Eddie Bane) - I still believe that Bill and Arte''s approach has been really solid and almost flawless. People want Brandon Wood, Adenhart, Morales, Butcher, Bourjos and all the other prospects we have. They will have a very tough time getting those players. We are happy with what we have and the facts that other teams would kill to be in our position. This organization is going to win now, but is built for the long haul and will also win in the future. The top power prospects we have are Brandon Wood, Mark Trumbo and Matt Sweeney. Some of those are closer than others. Also remember that Juan Rivera is working very hard in Arizona to help us at some point this season. Juan had great power numbers in 2006.

[Angelswin] As always Eddie, we thank you for your time and efforts. Your fans are many in the Angelswin.com community

[Bane, Eddie] Thanks folks for putting up with my stuff and as always these are just my opinions and I certainly welcome your thoughts and disagreements just as much as I want to hear from my scouts when they want to tell me I am crazy for thinking the way I do.

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Angelswin Summer Softball Tourney was a Hit!!

The F'n Stoneman's win Game 1, 23-17 in 9 innings.

July, 23rd, 2007 (Orange, CA) -- Angel25Fan managed a power packed lineup that sent shivers down Bill Stoneman's spine with all of the circling of the bases this last Saturday in Orange, CA. LTH managed to strike out the side in one inning, while Napalicious son made a running grab in the outfield, the defensive play of the game.

The game's MVP award is shared between Blake Dodge (Brother of A-Holes manager Adam Dodge), LTH & Milwaukee Halo, while Wopphil from the A-Holes was credited with the longest home run of the day.

When the final score was posted, the hands were firmly shook and the goodbyes were said, July 21st, 2007 went down as a day in which a large community of Angels fans put not only faces with the names, but lasting friendships into motion.

For the entire details of the contest, navigate here:
http://angelswin.com/Snitz/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11721&whichpage=1

Game 2 is set for August 11th, at noon. Thereafter, Angelswin.com will be holding it's annual Website Extravaganza at Hooters, then off to the Ballpark to watch the Angels defeat the Minnesota Twins.

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'07 Angelswin Prospect Hotlist, 16th Edition

1. Matthew Sweeney, 3B, Low Class A, Cedar Rapids Kernels

Matt has been on fire going 12 for his last 29 (.413avg) in his last eight games. He also had three hrs, a triple, three doubles and 13 RBI in that stretch. Just 19 years old, the native of Maryland has shown tremendous power for his age in what is generally considered a pitcher’s league. On the season he has 14 hrs, and 18 doubles while maintaining a fairly decent average (.276) and bb/k ratio (26/57).
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2. Chris Pettit, OF, Class A Rancho Cucamonga Quakes

Ho Hum. Chris must have felt like he was neglecting his RBI total so he decided to drive in 10 over his last five games. Oh, he also happened to go 8-17 with two hrs, two doubles, five steals, and eight walks (four of which were today). If he keeps this up he’s going to give Brandon Wood and Nick Adenhart a run for their money as the Angels top prospect.
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3. Sean O’Sullivan, SP, Low Class A, Cedar Rapids Kernels

After a 10 day layoff Sean showed no signs of rust in his most recent start. He pitched eight innings giving up only 4 hits and 0 runs while striking out eight. On the season, the 6’1” right hander has thrown 98.1 innings while striking out 78 and holding opponents to a .240avg. After seeing teammates Schoeninger and Doug Brandt getting the call to Rancho, Sean is certainly making a case to be the next one promoted.

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4. Warner Madrigal, RP, Low Class A, Cedar Rapids Kernels

Warner has run his scoreless innings streak to 14, and lowered his season ERA to 2.68. In his last four outings he has thrown 5.1 innings and recorded 3 saves while striking out 10 batters in the process. It appears that perhaps the Dominican native is having success in the development of his secondary offerings to go along with his mid nineties fastball.

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5. Freddy Sandoval, 3B, Class AA, Arkansas Travelers

Freddy has been a solid performer for the Travs this year and has showed a little power as of late. Over his last ten games he has 2hrs, 3 doubles, and a triple while plating 10. He is 7 for his last 14 and those two homers have come in his last two games. Not generally considered a long ball threat, the former University of San Diego star has showed good plate discipline posting a bb/k ratio of 52/56 and has swiped 16 bags.

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6. Nick Adenhardt, SP, Class AA, Arkansas Travelers

Nick had a solid outing today giving up 3er on 8 hits, but for the first time in awhile he made people miss totaling 9 punch outs. He also went 6 innings in his previous outing and gave up only two earned runs. We’ll continue to keep close tabs on him as the big club deals with some rotation ‘issues’. A late season call up is felt unlikely considering his age and injury history, but stranger things have happened.

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7. Gregory Porter, DH/1b, Class AAA, Salt Lake City Bees

Although Greg is well past the stage of being considered a legitimate prospect, his recent numbers warrant some consideration. After being called up to AAA, the native New Yorker has played in 17 games hitting .328 with 5 hrs, 5 doubles, and 16 RBI. Somewhat of a forgotten man, the former Aggie has some size on him at 6’5” and 240lbs. Still 26 years old, perhaps we could have a bit of a late bloomer on our hands.

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8. Brok Butcher, SP, Class AA. Arkansas Travelers

Brok looked real sharp in his Arkansas debut going six innings without giving up a run and striking out four. On the season, the 6’1” 210lb righty has a 2.55 ERA in 116.1 innings while striking out 68 and holding opponents to a .247avg.

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9. Timothy Schoeninger, SP, Class A, Rancho Cucamonga Quakes

After a rocky start following his call up to Rancho, Tim has righted the ship in his last two starts. The 22 year old righty has given up three earned runs in 13.2 innings and fanned 15. His season ERA of 3.82 is somewhat elevated due to a couple of blowup starts upon his initial promotion to Rancho.

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10. Andrew Romine , SS, Short Season, Class A Orem

Andrew has a 14-game hit streak going. Since the last hotlist he is 14-30 (.467) with three triples, and 9 RBI in his last seven games. In limited at bats, the switch hitter has fared better as a lefty hitting .429 with an OPS of 1.145.

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Player to keep and eye on:

Peter Bourjos, CF, Rookie League, AZL Angels

It’s good to see Peter back on the diamond getting reps. He went on the DL on May 18^th with a ruptured ligament of his left ring finger and has recently joined the AZL angels going 4-8 in his first two games with a triple, a walk, and two RBI. I would imagine that after spending some time in the rookie league, the speedy, future gold glove CFer will make his way back to Cedar Rapids.

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On the outside looking: Jose Arredondo, Brad Coon, Jordan Renz, Anthony Ortega, Young-Il Jung, Chris Garcia, Rich Thompson, Jordan Walden, Hank Conger, Robert Mosebach, PJ Phillips, David Herndon, Steven Marek, Trevor Bell, Hanley Statia, Sean Rodriguez, Brandon Wood, Chris Armstrong, Matt Brown, Barrett, Gordon Gronkowski, Jeremy Haynes, Mark Trumbo, Jay Brossman, Michael Anton, Douglas Brandt, Miguel Gonzalez, and Ben Johnson

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'07 Angelswin Prospect Hotlist, 15th Edition

1. Chris Pettit, OF, Class A Rancho Cucamonga Quakes

Not a tough call here. Chris followed up his 5 for 5 performance with a 10-19 stretch that helped him run his season avg. to .351 with 15hrs, 59 rbi, 20 steals, and an ops of 1.019. As he was a bit old for his level of competition at Cedar Rapids, the real test will be if he can sustain this hot start at Rancho to be considered one of the organization’s top hitting prospects.
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2. Miguel Gonzalez, SP, Class AA Arkansas

Less than an hour before this was written, Miguel polished off a 3 hit complete game shutout lowering his ERA to a Texas league best 2.80. And to think he started the season as a reliever. The 23 year old righty has now surrendered only 5 earned runs in his last 35.0 innings pitched, pretty impressive for a guy that didn’t really seem to be on anyone’s radar until recently.
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3. Kasey Olenberger, SP, Class AAA Salt Lake Bees

Kasey is one of the unsung heroes of the Angels minor league system. At 29 years old he is way beyond being considered a true prospect yet his is having a very solid season in the hitting friendly PCL. Over his last two starts the Long Beach State product has gone 14 innings while giving up 10 hits, 2 earned runs, 3 walks, and striking out 10. On the season he has thrown 122 innings (1^st in the PCL) and is 5^th in the league in ERA at 3.69. Although plagued by the long ball a bit he has shown good control with 83k’s to only 26bb.
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4. Nick Adenhardt, SP, Class AA Arkansas

It’s about time he pitched his way back on the list. Nick dominated Midland in his last start going 6 innings giving up 2 hits, 0 bb and striking out 5. It’s not like he’s been terrible but just a bit ‘un-adenhardt-like’. His season ERA of 3.33 is still very respectable, but his string of somewhat mediocre starts has likely been related to control issues as he had walked 24 in his last 51.2 innings prior to his last outing.

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5. Douglas Brandt, RP/SP, Class A Rancho Cucamonga Quakes

Doug hasn’t missed a beat since being called up to Rancho posting an ERA of 2.70 in 10ip while striking out 14 and only walking 1. He’s been very good overall as a reliever as well as making several starts early in the season. Between the two levels, he has an ERA of 2.40 striking out 78 in 71.1 innings holding opposing batters to a .235 avg.
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6. Michael Anton, SP, Rookie League, AZL Angels

Mike has been very impressive to start his professional career. The 6’3” lefty had another great outing today striking out 6 in 5innings without giving up a run. On the young season he has 17k’s to only 3bb in 14ip and a microscopic ERA of 0.64. The 2007 12^th round pick is a product of the Virginia Military Institute.
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7. Jay Brossman, 3b, Short Season, Class A Orem

The 6’2” University of Utah product has started the season 40 for an even 100 leading the league in hits. He broke the career U of U hits record ending with a total of 307 over four years ending his tenure with the team hitting .359 as a four year varsity letterman. Drafted in the 36^th round by the halos, this 3b prospect hopes to be back in Utah playing for the bees sooner than later.
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8. Andrew Romine , SS, Short Season, Class A Orem

This 5^th round pick got a bit of a late start with the Owlz due to the CWS but he has made the most of his short time in the pioneer league. After going 0-5 in his first game as a pro, Andrew has subsequently hit in all 7 games since, going 12-31 (.387avg) in that stretch with 2hr and 10rbi. A fairly light hitting SS in college, word has it that this kid has some untapped power potential.
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9. Mark Trumbo, 1b, Low Class A Cedar Rapids Kernels

Hopefully, Mark has figured it out. He has a modest 6 game hit streak going 9-25 over that stretch to raise his season avg. to .283. He still has a long way to go in that he could be more patient and strike out a bit less, but this is a good sign after watching his avg. drop to .220 last year. He is still young at 21 years old and has the large 6’4” 220lb. frame that could produce big power in the future.

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10. Jeremy Haynes, SP, Low Class A Cedar Rapids Kernels

Jeremy has been very good over his last four outings going 23.1 innings allowing 15 hits, 3er, 4bb, while striking out 15. In any of his last ten starts, the 6’2” righty has not surrendered more than 2 earned runs posting a 1.78 era over that 50.2 inning stretch.

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Player to keep and eye on:

Tommy Mendoza, SP, Low Class A Cedar Rapids Kernels

The 19 year old righty is back on the mound for the Kernels which is good news in and of itself. He has shown some rust in his first couple of starts posting an ERA of over 10 but we will cut him some slack for a bit and let him find his form.

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On the outside looking: Jose Arredondo, Brad Coon, Jordan Renz, Anthony Ortega, Young-Il Jung, Chris Garcia, Matt Sweeney, Freddy Sandoval, Rich Thompson, Brok Butcher, Jordan Walden, Hank Conger, Robert Mosebach, PJ Phillips, David Herndon, Steven Marek, Trevor Bell, Hanley Statia, Sean Rodriguez, Brandon Wood, Chris Armstrong, Matt Brown, Warner Madrigal, Barrett Browning, Sean O’Sullivan, Gordon Gronkowski, and Ben Johnson

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Grading the Angels First Half Performance

LOS ANGELES ANGELS (53-35) 1st Place AL West

At this point in 2006, the Halos were 43-45, 2 games behind in the AL West. A hole dug too deep to overcome at the end of the season.

So far so good for the Angels in 2007. A lot of the pre-season worries about potential offensive woes seem to be alleviated. They rank second in average (.284), fifth in runs (437), fifth in on-base percentage (.340) and ninth in slugging percentage (.413) this season.

Obviously, there is always room for improvement. The question for Mike Scioscia and Bill Stoneman will be where. With Juan Rivera expected to return in August, will there be a need ?

The big question mark is Garret Anderson. Since his return from the disabled list, Anderson has hit .409 with a slugging percentage of .500. Is Anderson healthy or is this just a blip before a return to the DL ?

Currently the Angels have four regulars batting .300 or better with Howie Kendrick at .297 & Casey Kotchman at .291. Led by MVP candidate Vladimir Guerrero (.325 14 hr 75 rbi) and short-stop Orlando Cabrera (.328 5 hr 51 rbi).

Rookie Reggie Willits (.408 ob%) took his opportunity and ran with it giving the Angels what they have lacked for since the departure of David Eckstein. A lead off hitter who will take pitches, work the counts and take a walk.

Two of the biggest question marks during Spring Training was what production would the Halos get from center-field and first-base.

Gary Matthews Jr. has given the team exactly what they needed. Especially after moving from the lead off spot to the 4th or 5th hole (.279 10 hr 43 rbi).

Casey Kotchman after starting the season in a terrible slump took off and at one point was in the top five in league OPS. After a mild concussion and a week off, "Kotch" has struggled to find his stroke and his average has fallen from .338. However his production (.291 9 hr 38 rbi) was exactly what the Angels were missing last season.

Chone Figgins has also gone from the outhouse to the penthouse thanks to a 53 hit barrage in June.

Offensive inconsistency can still hit this team at any time and they do not hit as many home runs as you'd like to see. But overall, they are getting the job done scoring runs. With a returning Juan Rivera or a potential trade for a slugger, the offense may get even better later in the season.

GRADE : B

Pitching has been the Angels strong point the last few seasons.

This year Kelvim Escobar (10-3, 3.19 1.16 whip) and All Star John Lackey (11-5, 2.91 era 1.17 whip) have stepped up again to be two of the premiere starters in the American League.

All Star closer Francisco Rodriguez (24 saves) and set up man Scot Shields (20 holds 0.88 whip 1.79 era) are having stellar years yet again.

Free agent signing Justin Speier was dominating hitters in the 6th & 7th innings before taking ill. Thankfully, it appears he is on his way back to the team when they return from the All Star Break. Dustin Moseley (4-1, 2.60 era) has filled in well in set up situations to pick up the slack.

Overall though, the Halos pitching has not been as dominate as one would like. Starters Bartolo Colon (6-4, 6.44 era) and Ervin Santana (5-10, 5.97 era) have been down right horrible at times. Santana continues to get rocked on the road and has given way too many home runs this season.

Jered Weaver (6-5, 3.67 era) has battled some shoulder soreness, an illness and a bit of a sophomore slump. Spot starter Joe Saunders has started 5 games and gone 3-0 2.97 era. If Santana continues to struggle, Mike Scioscia may want to sent Santana to AAA to think about his struggles.

Darren Oliver has not pitched well, especially against left handed hitters. .420 ba, 3 hr against.

Hector Carrasco was also not coming through and was designated for assignment.

If the Halos are to fend off the Seattle Mariners. Ervin Santana and Bartolo Colon are going to have to step up their game.

GRADE: C

It's night and day compared to 2007. With Casey Kotchman and Gary Matthews solidifying problem spots at first and center. Orlando Cabrera is again a vacuum at short and his double-play partner Howie Kendrick has done well playing his natural position of second-base.

DEFENSE: A

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2007: PART II

Angels Look Towards Playoffs, Beyond in Second Half
By Adam Dodge

Aside from the team’s first road trip, a lackluster 1-7 performance and a 4-8 stretch to heading into the All-Star break, the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim played outstanding baseball in the first half. At 53-35, the team sits atop the American League Western Division 2.5 games ahead of the surprising Seattle Mariners.

In a bit of a role reversal from the last few years, it was the Angels’ offense which has carried them to the second best record in the American League. Strong first half performances from Orlando Cabrera, Vladimir Guerrero, Reggie Willits, Chone Figgins and solid contributions from Casey Kotchman, Howie Kendrick and Gary Matthews Jr. have the Angels near the top of the league in batting average and runs scored.

For the Angels to hold off the surging Mariners, the offense will need to continue to shine. No one expects the Angels’ top hitters to hit at their current pace. Reggie Willits has cooled of late and Orlando Cabrera has not produced as well over his past few weeks. Likewise, Chone Figgins set an impossible pace by hitting better than .460 in June. The Angel bats will collectively cool off a bit in the second half. But that does not mean the production has to. Expect big halves from MVP candidate, Guerrero and hard hitting second baseman, Kendrick who is rounding into shape. Guerrero had a good first half by his standards, hitting over .320 and driving in more than 70. But consider that he only hit 14 homeruns, a number he is certain to surpass in the second half. Kendrick suffered a couple of injuries in the first half, but has been swinging a hot bat of late and looks primed to take off down the stretch.

Gary Matthews Jr. has been consistently productive for the Angels, but has lacked RBI production since mid-June. After starting the season in the lead-off spot, Mike Scioscia has primarily used Matthews in the 4 and 5 spot since May. Expect more tinkering, especially if Willits continues to struggle. It wouldn’t be a surprise if Matthews finds himself in one of the top three spots as the season progresses.

What is noticeably certain is that Scioscia has to adjust his current line-up, which has Guerrero hitting clean-up, rather than third. A healthy and productive Garret Anderson (no pun intended) could go a long way in helping Scioscia with that decision. Any thought of the Angels’ all-time hits and RBI leader as a legitimate clean-up man has evaporated more quickly than an Al Gore III doobie. But if Anderson can produce in 2007’s second half the way he did in 2006, or even in the last week, the Angels could hit him 5th or 6th, allowing Kendrick to possibly move up in the line-up as well.

The Angels have enough good players to absorb slumps from a few provided the team stays relatively healthy.

Juan Rivera may also return in the second half and could play a huge role protecting Vlad down the stretch. Rivera, a proverbial long shot at this point due to his slow recovery, is nonetheless yet another quality bat Scioscia can use as the Angels reach the pennant race.

Assuming that the Oakland A’s are unable to overcome their early season hole and injuries, a big assumption based on their performance in the second half in recent years, which has been the best in baseball, the Seattle Mariners will be the Angels’ sole hurdle to another AL West championship. From the Angels’ “been there, done that” perspective, only with a World Series Championship will the 2007 season be a success.

So, how do they get there?

While the offense has been for the most part outstanding, and should function well in the second half, the Angels must pitch their way to another ring. Expected to be the strength of the team entering the season, the pitching has underachieved.

Sure, John Lackey, an All-Star and Kelvim Esocbar, an All-Star snub are having career years, but the rest of the rotation has not pitched as advertised. Jered Weaver has been good, not great but appears to be hitting a stride at the right time. Expect a very good final 15 or so starts from Weaver who missed a lot of spring training and has looked really good of late.

The problem with the Angels’ pitching lay in the four and five spots in the rotation. The Angels are above .500 when Bartolo Colon pitches, but hardly due to the stocky right-hander’s efficiency. Colon got off to a good start but has been lunch meat on the mound for the last 5-6 weeks as fans have seen his ERA rise to the mid 6.00’s. It seems unfathomable that Colon will continue to pitch as poorly as he has and improvement can be expected. Colon’s first half in 2007 is reminiscent of his 2004 first half – bad! Let’s hope he replicates his second half from that season. With the All-Star break, and the second half rotation set, Colon will receive nine days off before his next start, which could be key to his ability to get off to a good start in the second half.

Most alarming has been the performance of Ervin Santana, who was off to great start to his career, posting 28 wins in less than two years of service. Santana has been awful on the road and just adequate at home. There’s no doubt that Santana has Major League stuff, but the fire he showed in big games in his first two seasons has been non-existent in 2007. His face has exuded defeat from the very first pitch of most all of his starts. If he’s unable to get on track immediately after the break, expect Santana to be sent down or to the pen and replaced by Joe Saunders, who has pitched well and with grit and determination is his handful of spot starts this season.

If the Angels are to win the West and go deep into post-season, they will not only need the starting staff to improve, but also the bullpen. Only Scot Shields and Frankie Rodriguez have excelled. Middle relief has been a huge problem for the club and must get better. Dustin Moseley has been good, but can’t be expected to continue to consistently pitch as well as he has. A 4.00+ ERA in the minors suggests that Major League hitters will catch up to the right hander, something that has already begun recently. It seems that hitters have already figured Chris Bootcheck out, as he has been shelled in his most recent outings. The Angels have already designated an ineffective Hector Carrasco for assignment. Darren Oliver has been better of late, but will need to continue to improve in the second half if he is to be counted upon to get left-handers out late in games.

The good news is Justin Speier appears to be on the verge of returning to the Angels in the second half. Speier was lights out before a viral infection sidelined him early in the season. Speier, along with an improving Oliver may or may not be enough to solidify the bullpen.

Bill Stoneman has been ridiculed for his stubborn attitude towards trades since he took over GM duties. With the Angels’ offense performing consistently well, it’s the pitching that can use an upgrade in 2007. As Stoneman is a pitching first general manager, he may be motivated to move pieces to gain an arm, specifically for the bullpen.

The Mariners may not go away. Regardless, the Angels have enough to get by them and capture another Division title. The Mariners have played beyond their ability and should be taken seriously. However, their bullpen cannot be expected to pitch as effectively in the second half as it has in the first based on past performance and their rotation has over achieved. Offensively, they are good, but lack consistent production in the middle of the line-up as Richie Sexon and Adrian Beltre are prone to long hitting slumps. Losing Hargrove and his leadership is huge. Ichiro Suzuki’s contract situation and the always volatile Jose Guillen are potential distractions down the stretch. Look for the M’s to fade around mid-August.

Once in the playoffs, Mike Scioscia can shorten the rotation. Lackey, Escobar and Weaver are as formidable a trio as any in the American League. But against patient hitting teams like Boston, Detroit and Cleveland, the Angels will be hard pressed to get their starting pitchers through seven innings. The bullpen will be a huge factor in determining whether or not the Angels can get past those teams. Another quality arm in the bullpen might make the difference between winning a World Series or being knocked out in the first round, even more so than the elusive “big bat,” which does not appear to be available, and unlikely to be acquired even if it was.

We can analyze and speculate all we want, but in the end, as with every season it will come down to the games played on the field. The Angels, to reach their ultimate goal will need to beat the Mariners (and A’s for that matter) head to head. With ten games remaining against Seattle the opportunity is there for either team to seize control of the division.

How will it turn out?

You just never know.

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'07 Angelswin Prospect Hotlist, 14th Edition

1. Gordon “The Gronk!” Gronkowski, 1b/DH, Short Season, Class A Orem

I’m not sure if they really call him ‘The Gronk’, but it seems like a solid nickname for a more that solid guy. At 6’6” 250lbs Gordi is hands down this week’s #1. Thru 17 games he’s hitting .472 with 4hrs, 24rbi, and 20runs. He leads the league in all offensive categories and in 11 of his last 12 games he has had at least two hits. Yes, you read that right – only in one of his last 12 games has he failed to get multiple hits. A 49^th round selection of last year’s draft, the U of Jacksonville product looks to build on limited at bats with last year’s Orem squad. Not sure about the DH/1b’s defense, but who freakin’ cares.

2. Michael Benjamin Johnson, C/1b, Class A Rancho Cucamonga Quakes

The 25yo Catcher has hopped around a bit this year getting at bats at Salt Lake, Arkansas, and Rancho. He has spent the bulk of his time with the quakes where he is 9 for his last twenty with 4hrs, 7rbi, and 9runs. On the season, the University of Washington product has a .282avg with 13hrs, 45rbi, and 43runs while swiping 12 bags.

3. Christopher Pettit, OF, Class A Rancho Cucamonga Quakes

So much for a slow start after being called up. With the help of a monster 5 for 5, 2hr performance the other night, the hot prospect regular has run his Rancho avg. to .318. Overall, the Loyola Marymount grad has a .340avg. with 13hr, 53rbi, and 19 swipes.

4. Sean O’Sullivan, SP, Low Class A Cedar Rapids Kernels

The 19 year old righty finds his way back on the list with two very impressive outings. In his last two starts, Sean has thrown 15innings giving up 8 hits, 1er, 1bb, and striking out 14 to run his season ERA to 2.59 in 90.1ip. Just another in the long line of stud pitching prospects for the Halos.

5. Warner Madrigal, RP, Low Class A Cedar Rapids Kernels

He’s got a closers name, and now he is putting up the numbers to match. In his last nine innings, he has given up 5 hits, 0er, 1bb and has fanned 14. The converted SS has dropped his season ERA below 3 (2.97) and has 2 saves in his last 3 outings as the org appears to be giving him some opportunities to finish ballgames.

6. Barrett Browning, RP, Low Class A Cedar Rapids Kernels

After a slow start to the season, the 22 year old lefty has come on strong posting a 1.17era in his last ten games. Over that span he has pitched 15.1 innings, giving up 9 hits while walking 4 and striking out 15. He has limited opponents to a .193avg on the season and has been stellar against lefties (.141BAA).

7. Matthew Brown, 3b, Class AAA Salt Lake Bees

Matt continues to put up solid numbers. After a bit of a slide, he has come back strong going 13 for his last 32 (.406) with 5hrs, and 11rbi in his last 10 games running his season totals to .272/9/41. He is blocked on all sides yet at 24 years old is still young enough to refine his game at AAA while waiting for his shot.

8. AZL Angels Offense

A true team effort! The entire team is red hot to go along with the Arizona heat scoring 91 runs in their first 11 games with a team avg. of .335 and team OPS of .905. Led by the likes of Ivan Contreras (.450avg in 40abs), Anthony Norman (.395avg, 8rbi) and Seth Loman (3hrs, 13rbi, 1.066ops), the AZL Halos are 10-2 to start the season.

9. Christopher Armstrong, SP, Rookie League, AZL Angels

The Arizona heat has had little effect on this 19 year old lefty from Oklahoma. In three starts for the AZL Angels, Chris has an ERA of 1.93 over 14ip with 13ks.

10. Brandon Wood, SS/3b, Class AAA Salt Lake Bees

After a 3-5 night, Wood’s avg. is holding steady around .260. Although he didn’t exactly rip the cover off the ball this past week, he still had 2hr and 7rbi in his last 8 games. His k’s are creeping up a bit, but with all due respect to all the other top prospects in the Angels system, Brandon will find his way onto the list as long as he doesn’t go ofer the entire week. Let’s be honest, we are just flat out interested in what he does.

Keep and eye on: Sean Rodriguez, SS, Class AA Arkansas

Sean continues to struggle in his effort to figure out AA pitching. Although he has hit for some power, his avg. has dropped to .244 and he has fanned 87 times in 83 games. He makes the list because he needs to. Hopefully it will give him a little mojo for the the second half of the season.

On the outside looking: Jose Arredondo, Brad Coon, Jordan Renz, Anthony Ortega, Mark Trumbo, Young-Il Jung, Chris Garcia, Jeremy Haynes, Matt Sweeney, Freddy Sandoval, Rich Thompson, Doug Brandt, Brok Butcher, Jordan Walden, Hank Conger, Robert Mosebach, Nick Adenhardt, PJ Phillips, David Herndon, Steven Marek, Trevor Bell, and Hanley Statia.

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