Power Rankings 12/23/2021

 

Commentary

The NL Playoff Race is mostly settled by this point, with the Scranton Schrutes as the only non-playoff team left in contention, though their path at 5 games back is narrow with only 7 games remaining. 

The only other NL teams whose fortunes could change are the Montreal Smoked Heaters and Syracuse Syndicate, who are separated by only 1 game in the NL North.

Conversely, three of the AL division races could swing in the season's final three days, with 4 games separating the Cincinnati Boom Sticks and Minnesota Millers, just 1 game separating the Baltimore Dry Docks and Iowa City Small Bears, and 2 games between the Mexico City Diablos and Atlanta Mental Patients.

Additionally, Minnesota, Iowa City, and the Tampa Bay Water Dogs are locked in a dead heat for the final AL wild card spot.

AL North and East Draft Grades!

 

Cincinnati Boom Sticks                   Grade: D+

Rd.1/Pck.27 Player Profile: Josh Mays - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.2/Pck.86 Player Profile: Sean Lasker - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

 

Cincinnati came into Draft night with 4 picks in the top 100, but was only able to sign two. At 27, Cincinnati picked slugger Josh Mays. Mays has very good hitting potential, but with an injury history the size of a CVS receipt, his health is a major concern for his future.

Minnesota Millers                           Grade: C-

Rd.1/Pck.17 Player Profile: Hooks Malone - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.1/Pck.46 Player Profile: Kenneth Girardi - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.2/Pck.71 Player Profile: Keith Wilkinson - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

 

In the first round, Minnesota selected two similar pitchers. Malone; a righty, has a little more potential then Girardi. Though Malone has a below average pitching reparatory, His VR and control can land him at the back end of a rotation.  With a second round selection, Wilkinson could be a decent bat at the plate versus lefties and a good base runner. With low contact and well below average eye, expect a lot of strike outs.

 

Pawtucket Terriers                          Grade: B+

Rd.1/Pck.14 Player Profile: Herman Bootcheck - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.1/Pck.44 Player Profile: Jedd Nappo - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.10/Pck.326 Player Profile: Joe Becker - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

 

In the first round Pawtucket selected the steal of the draft, Herman Bootcheck. A hard throwing righty out of Edison Community College, Bootcheck has a well-developed fastball and a developing slider. Solid VR/VL and decent control. He should be able to fill in at the top of the rotation as Player Profile: Hong-Chih Jung - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports career whines down. In the tenth round, Becker was given DITR which makes him a viable catcher for the minors. He should be able to help grow those young pitchers in Pawtuckets minors.

Rochester Whippets                       Grade: C-

 

Rd.1/Pck. 11 Player Profile: Don Wakeland - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

 

In the first round, Rochester selected Don Wakeland. With strong abilities in the field, at the plate, and on the base path; the only thing holding him back is his health. Wakeland plays a very demanding position and alongside a 162 game schedule, he may spend more time on the DL then on the field.

Baltimore Dry Docks                       Grade: A-

Rd.1/Pck.20 Player Profile: Juan Padilla - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.1/Pck.36 Player Profile: Kenneth Langston - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.1/Pck.40 Player Profile: Aubrey Franco - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.2/Pck.55 Player Profile: Wily Mo McGrady - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.2/Pck.57 Player Profile: Bum O'Halloran - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

 

With three first round picks, Baltimore was able to find 3 MLB future contributors. With their first pick, Baltimore drafted closer Juan Padilla. At 18 yrs old, Padilla lacks control but showcases a lively fastball, topping 95 on the gun, and a developing circle change. Padilla may never be able to fill a MLB closer role, but should be able to bridge the gap to the 9^th. With the 36 pick, Langston has the making of a back end SP, goof VR and a developing fast ball. With their last first round pick, 22 year old Aubrey Franco has the body of a corn stalk and may fit better in Iowa. Standing 6’7 buck 90, he show cases good range and a decent glove, subpar bat but at second base shouldn’t be too much of a drag. In round 2 Baltimore did a nice job drafting two players who can help his minors be competitive.

Indianapolis Swinging Hoosiers  Grade: C+

Rd.1/Pck.7 Player Profile: David Velazquez - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.1/Pck.41 Player Profile: Mac Kidd - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.2/Pck.62 Player Profile: Lewis Hallman - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.3/Pck.95 Player Profile: Paul Scalici - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.4/Pck127 Player Profile: Kendrys Trevino - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.5/Pck.159 Player Profile: Hank Winn - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.22/Pck.703 Player Profile: Rafael Sanabia - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

 

Season 42 was a much better draft haul and approach then last season for the Hoosiers. With the 7^th overall pick, Indy selected David Velazquaz, a soft throwing lefty that has wicked movement on his curveball. With good control and VL split for his age, he should develop nicely into a ML asset. With their second first round pick, Kidd doesn’t have any flashy pitches but should have no problem filling an AAAA role. Indy did a nice job with the rest of their picks filling out the minor league roster with cheap competent players who may be able to fill in for injuries. 

Iowa City Small Bears                     Grade: D+

Rd.2/Pck.76 Player Profile: Hal Carey - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

With no first round pick for the second straight year, there is no Clem Craig to salvage Iowa’s draft. In the second round, Iowa selected Hal Carey, a groundball pitching lefty. Carey has decent splits for a lefty but with no pitching flash and control, he is more likely to throw it into the ground then over the plate.

 

Pittsburgh Pilots                               Grade: C

Rd.1/Pck.18 Player Profile: William Sullivan - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.7/Pck233 Player Profile: Larry Fick - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

 

William Sullivan at 18 seems to be a good pick for Pittsburgh, a DH with some pop and solid VR/VL. Though the Pilots already have two young studs at first base and DH, not sure where he will end up in the lineup. In round 7, Pitts. Selected 19 yr. old second basemen Larry Fick. Fick has better potential in CF with his well-developed range and speed. He will have better success against lefties then righties as he matures. 

 

Power Rankings 12/14/2021

 

Commentary

The AL South is streaking, with three of its four teams making up this week's biggest risers. The AL East and Wild Card races gained some clarity over the last week, but remain jumbled. The NL North is a close race between the Montreal Smoked Heaters and the Syracuse Syndicate, though division races in the rest of the NL are all but officially wrapped up.

Top Risers

The Atlanta Mental Patients have won 9 of 10, climbing 6 spots in these rankings and comfortably in a Wild Card spot, despite a 3 game deficit in the division.

The Tampa Bay Water Dogs have also climbed 6 spots after winning 6 of 10, but remain 7 games out of the division lead and 2 games out of the second Wild Card.

Mexico City, Baltimore, and Iowa City each climbed 5 spots in these rankings, with the Diablos strengthening their grip on the AL South, the Dry Docks surging into a tie for 1st place in the AL East, and the Small Bears working their way back into the playoff conversation.

Top Fallers

The Minnesota Millers have dropped 8 of 10 and 6 in a row, falling from 6th in the power rankings to 18th and losing their playoff position. They are 3 games back of the second wild card and 4 games back of the AL North-leading Cincinnati Boom Sticks.

The New Orleans Breeze have lost 6 of 10 and can now virtually guarantee that they will miss the playoffs at 15 games out of the division lead and 11 games back of the second wild card.

The Pittsburgh Pilots have dropped 4 in a row and 7 of 10 to fall from first place to last in the very tight AL East race, yet remain only 3 games back of the division and the second wild card.

NL South and West Draft Grades!

 

Jackson Generals                             Grade:B

 

Rd.1/Pck.24 Player Profile: Andruw Klassen - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.2/Pck.78 Player Profile: Eric Coleman - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.8/Pck.271 Player Profile: Bosco Argyropoulos - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.12/Pck.399 Player Profile: Red Leach - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

 

With the 24^th pick, Jackson selected Klassen. Much like Player Profile: Vern Shunick - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports , Klassen looks like he will be an average hitter who can field the same positions. At 24, decent pickup. In the second round Jackson selected 18 yr. old Eric Coleman. Flashing decent hitting statistics and nice power, it will be interesting to see if he can develop as a catcher, or will need to move to another position. Round 8 selection is only notable for his name, who wouldn’t love a little Argyopoulos in your life? 12^th round selection Leach already received DITR. Having a good first pitch and potential with VR could land him a AAA/AAAA designation. Not bad for pick 399.

New Orleans Breeze                      Grade: D

 

Rd.1/Pck.21 Player Profile: Caleb Suppan - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.1/Pck.47 Player Profile: Luis Uribe - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.3/Pck.108 Player Profile: Dusty Flores - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.4/Pck.140 Player Profile: Bryan Couch - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

 

After multiple season of spending top draft capital on High School players, New Orleans elected to draft 3-4 year college players this season. With their first two picks, New Orleans selected Suppan and Uribe. With well below average splits and fielding, it’s hard to see him crack a major league roster, which is disappointing seeing as he was the 21^st pick in the draft. Much like Suppan, Uribe is a well below average hitter, though has some up side with his speed and fielding range. Much more forgivable at pick 47. At pick 108, New Orleans found reliever Dusty Flores. Flores has an elite slider and average curveball, He should be able to locate his pitches well and may struggle against lefties. Couch is a two pitch reliever who could make a ML roster one day with the right development coaching.

 

Houston Colt 45’s                             Grade: B-

 

Rd.1/Pck.13 Player Profile: Jay Walker - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.1/Pck.43 Player Profile: Trot Parkers - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.2/Pck.68 Player Profile: Matthew Wisler - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.4/Pck.133 Player Profile: Henry Worth - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

 

Houston did very well in this draft with only signing 7 of their 26 picks. In the first round Houston Selected Jay Walker. Walker may struggle in any skilled infield position and play a full 162 season with his low durability, but will excel at the plate; Any draw back can be overcome with his 30HR/100 RBI potential. In round 4, Houston selected Henry Worth, A high school lefty with a knuckleball/slider tandem. Worth is a very flawed player, but will be interesting to see how well his VR/VL can develop in 4 seasons.

Richmond Brewers                          Grade: D-

 

Rd.1/Pck.9 Player Profile: Jackie Mason - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.5/Pck.161 Player Profile: Courtney Fleming - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

 

With the 9^th pick, Richmond selected Jackie Mason out of Strother High School. Jackie has good groundball/Velocity to pair with good control and a fantastic first pitch. But a lefty with 30/30 splits will struggle as he progresses within the minor league. With other high ceiling players left on the board, it is hard not to scratch your head on this one. Courtney Fleming may have the potential to platoon as a lefty on righty bat.

Anaheim Anteaters                        Grade: C+

 

Rd.1/Pck.33 Player Profile: Charlie Lukasiewicz - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

 

With the 33^rd pick, Anaheim selected Lukasiewicz. Not only is he another player with a sweet name, but a pretty solid draft pick. Luka has pretty good potential as a fielding second baseman/CF. Luka’s bat is what makes him special, sporting a good VR/Eye for a 19 year that has the makings of a ML ball player.

Scottsdale Dirtbags                         Grade: C

 

Rd.1/Pck.5 Player Profile: Lariel James - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

 

Only coming away with 1 notable player, James looks to be a better version of Lukasiewicz. James already has a better range/glove making the transition to second base or CF much easier at his young age. James showcases a bit of pop with decent splits, but walking will not be one of his strong suits. 

Sacramento Scorpions                   Grade: C-

 

Rd.1/Pck.1 Player Profile: Landon Sweeney - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.2/Pck.54 Player Profile: Sal Pence - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

 

With the first overall pick, The Scorpions selected Landon Sweeney. Sweeney is a high flying speedster out of Seton Hall University. Sweeney should have no problems VL and showcasing that home run ability. He will have issues against righties coupled with a low eye and contact. With more complete players on the board, the first overall pick might have been a bit too high for him. In Round two, Sacramento selected Sal Pence. Pence could be a nice fill in player, but will always have trouble staying healthy which will hamper his career.

Las Vegas Desert Dogs                   Grade: A-

 

Rd.1/Pck.4 Player Profile: Anibal Castro - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.1/Pck.14 Player Profile: Enrique Liriano - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.3/Pck.92 Player Profile: Doc Pulsipher - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

 

After a disappointing season and draft last year, JT said BACK THAT DUMP TRUCK UP AND MAKE IT RAIN. JT issues 15.3 million dollars in signing bonuses for his two top picks, and it sure payed off. With the 4^th pick, Las Vegas selected Castro. Castro doesn’t throw anything flashy, but with decent control, splits and FB/Velocity, He should be able to fill out a rotation spot in the ML. With the 14^th pick, Las Vegas selected Liriano. Liriano has a nice fastball to pair with his control and VR. He may struggle a bit against Lefties, but with a good infield he should be able to help anchor a pitching staff. Pulsipher in the 3^rd round is a nice power bat and should be able to help fill a roster spot on a rebuilding team. 

Power Rankings 12/6/2021

 

Trending Up

The New Orleans Breeze jumped 12 spots, the largest move for any team by a large margin, on the strength of 9 wins in their last 10. Despite the streaking, they remain 8 games back of NL South division leader Jackson Generals.

The Pittsburgh Pilots have won 6 in a row and 7 of 10, taking a narrow lead in the AL East - 2 games ahead of the Baltimore Dry Docks, Indianapolis Swinging Hoosiers, and Iowa City Small Bears, all of which are tied with 55 wins.

The Salem Witch Hunts have climbed to number 2 in this week's ranking after winning 9 of 10 and 3 in a row.

Trending Down

Trenton jakes jokers have lost 11 games in a row, falling to 30th in this week's power rankings.

The Scranton Schrutes are the only team in the top half of this week's power rankings to have played worse than .500 baseball over their last 10 games. They remain 8th in this week's poll despite being 5 games back of the Philadelphia Penn Quakers and in prime position for a wild card berth.

NL North and East draft grades!

 

Syracuse Syndicate                         Grade: D+

Rd.2/Pck.73 Player Profile: Bobby Danks - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

 

Syracuse signed FA (A) Harry Cruz, losing their first round pick. With their second pick, Syracuse selected starting pitcher Bobby Danks out of Reseda, California. Danks; a hard throwing righty, fields a good 1-2 pitch combo with below average control and splits.

Montreal Smoked Heaters          Grade: C-

Rd.1/Pck.30 Player Profile: Boots Stephens - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.1/Pck.50 Player Profile: Jack Knight - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.1/Pck.53 Player Profile: Ehire Manto - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.21/Pck.693 Player Profile: Dee Dee Waters - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Montreal entered the Season 42 draft with 3 first round picks due to the departure of Renteria and Armas. With the three selections, Montreal drafted three high school prospects. Stephens and Knight both look to be below average hitters as Stephens could potentially fill the third base position defensively. With the 53^rd pick, Manto could fill a LRA/B postion fielding a good 1 and 2 pitch. Injuries will be his Achilles heel. In the 21^st round, Montreal Selected Dee Dee Waters, a nice late round find as he will have above average control, a fantastic fast ball and good curveball that can make up any split deficiencies.

Chicago Fighting Owls                    Grade: C

Rd.1/Pck.10 Prospect Profile - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.2/Pck.56 Player Profile: Carlos Velez - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.3/Pck.65 Player Profile: Davey Parra - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

 

Chicago has yet to sign their first round pick, but in the second round found Carlos Velez. A right handed bat with good contact, VR and eye who will one day hold down a corner outfield position. The song wild thing is the first thought that popped into my head when analyzing Parra. Has the makings of being a serviceable ML Pitcher if not for the awful control.  

Detriot Motors                                  Grade: B-

Rd.1/Pck.16 Player Profile: Bryan Small - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.1/Pck.45 Player Profile: Reagan Keisler - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.2/pck.70 Player Profile: Eddie Holdridge - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

 

With two first round picks, Detriot selected Bryan Small and Reagan Keisler. Small looks to be more suited for the outfield with the potential of being an average to above average bat. Keisler will mash lefties with good contact and eye. In the second round, Detriot selected Holdridge. If Holdridge can make the transition to CF, he should be able to field the position adequately and be average at the plate. 

Philadelphia Penn Quakers          Grade: C

Rd.1/Pck.26 Prospect Profile - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.2/Pck.80 Player Profile: Ryne Faulk - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.3/Pck.113 Player Profile: Lloyd Bulger - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.4/Pck.145 Player Profile: Timothy Parrish - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

 

Philadelphia’s first round pick elected not to sign, so they will be getting draft compensation for Season 43. With their second round pick, they chose Faulk, a switch hitting power hitter with decent splits but below average contact and eye. In the third round Bulger looks like a steal. The 18 year old has two decent pitches and a good VR. With good development he may work his way in a ML bullpen. Parrish, a switch hitting first basemen, may be able to fill a platoon role at the ML level.

Scranton Schrutes                           Grade: C

Rd.1/Pck.31 Player Profile: Vidal Rodriguez - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.2/Pck.85 Player Profile: Ivan Burks - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.3/Pck.118 Player Profile: Fred Leach - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

 

With their first pick, Scranton chose Vidal Rodriguez…OUCH. Rodriguez went on to sign the largest signing bonus from the 42 draft in the 31 draft slot. Rodriguez showcases an above average fast ball will good control, will be serviceable against righties and may struggle against lefties. Ivan Burks may be a nice tandem SP as he may struggle going deep into games. Burkes has a well-developed fast ball and within a few years may have a respectable VR/VL split. Fred Leach in round 3 seems to be a decent find for where he was selected. Though all-ready 22, may be a good candidate for DITR.

Trenton jakes jokers                      Grade: D+

Rd.1/Pck.23 Player Profile: Rob Rogers - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.3/Pck.110 Player Profile: Harry Matos - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

 

Trenton improved vastly last season, moving from picking top 10 to the 23^rd pick. With the 23^rd pick, they selected Rob Rogers. Rogers will have trouble connecting with the ball, but when he does, he will hit it a very very long way. With below average VR, his ceiling may be a platoon if he makes it to the ML. Matos was selected in the first round and if he can transition to CF and develop his contact and VR, he may find success.

 

New York Empire                             Grade: C+

Rd.1/Pck.12 Player Profile: Vern Shunick - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.1/Pck.35 Player Profile: Greg Spehr - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.3/Pck.100 Player Profile: Huston Gallo - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.9/Pck.292 Player Profile: Grady Mullaney - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

 

With two first round picks, New York selected Shunick and Spehr. Shunick looks to be an average hitter who will one day field corner outfield/first base. Spehr; a ground ball pitcher, has two fantastic pitches in a sinker and changeup. Spehr will struggle to pitch every 5 days though but I am sure can be maintained. 9^th round pick Grady Mullaney has already received the DITR attribute and will no doubt help make New York’s farm system more competitive. 

Power Rankings 11/29/2021

 

Commentary

The Anaheim Anteaters are in a class of their own. Could end up being the best team in the history of Upper Deck and should be hands-on favorites to win the World Series.

Biggest Risers

The Atlanta Mental Patients climbed 8 spots over the last week, beginning at 20 and settling at 12 after having won 6 of 10. Atlanta is now firmly in the mix, but if the season ended today, however, they would be on the outside looking in - 1 game back of both the division leader and the second wild card.

Riding the strength of a five-game winning streak, the Minnesota Millers are among the league's hottest teams and jumped from 12 all the way up to 5. The Millers have established a nice cushion in the division.

Despite winning only 5 of 10, Salem Witch Hunts have done enough to climb from 13 to 6 in this week's rankings. Like Minnesota, they have also built a nice division lead.

Biggest Fallers

After ranking 5th in the previous rankings, the Baltimore Dry Docks are in a free fall, losing 6 of 10 and dropping from 1st place n the AL East into a three-way tie for the two wild card spots. They fell 9 spots to 14 overall, the biggest drop in these rankings.

The AL East took another significant hit with the Iowa City Small Bears, who are on a league-worst 5 game skid. They find themselves dropping from 10 to 17. They remain in the middle of the pack and in wild card position.

The Rochester Whippets are playing .500 ball over their last 10, though with other teams in the league climbing around them, the team fell from 11 to 18. They are two games out of a playoff position, but face a more significant hurdle in-division at 6 games back of Minnesota.

Power Rankings 11/23/2021

 

Commentary

There is a lot of volatility in this week's power rankings, which you would not expect this late in the season. Partially, that is due to a copy error where the L10 column contained team losses, rather than wins in the last 10 games.

Due to the volatility, however, I'll dive into the power ranking methodology briefly.

The power rankings are derived from a simple formula combining overall wins (W), wins in the last 10 (L10), and current streak (Streak). In order to keep the point scale relatively tight, one point is awarded for each overall win above the average number of wins league-wide. This allows better teams to be ranked higher than worse teams, in terms of win/loss record. 

To create some volatility, and to reward teams that are playing hot, an additional half point is earned for each win in the last 10, and a quarter of a point is added for the current streak. An active losing streak results in a quarter point deduction for each loss.

As an example, let's say that the average team has won 40 games.

• Team X has won 42 and has won 7 of their last 10, including 4 in a row.
• Team Y has won 43 but has won just 4 of their last 10, and has lost 3 in a row.

While Team Y has the better win/loss, Team X has been hotter in the last week, and that will show up in the rankings.

Team X Points: (42-40) + (7/2) + (4/4) = 6.5

Team Y Points: (43-40) + (4/2) + (-3/4) = 4.25

So even though Team Y is technically better, Team X gets a lift from its recent play. They would probably pass Team Y soon in overall W/L if the trend continued, so it also serves as a kind of bellwether.

A great example of this in the current standings is Mexico City and Chicago ranked ahead of Iowa City and Jackson. MC and Chicago both have 40 wins but have both won 6 of their last 10, while IC and Jackson are both skidding, despite having 41 wins.

Power Rankings 11/15/2021

 

Commentary

Syracuse Syndicate: Syracuse took advantage of their weaker schedule and ripped off 10 wins in a row, dethroning Anaheim. We will see if Syracuse can keep the momentum going as their next three series are against +.500 teams. 

Trenton jakes jokers: Trenton's free fall down the power rankings is akin to Phil Murphy's reelection bid. Trenton went 2-8 in their last 10 as they seen their team ERA skyrocket. with a series win against Detroit, Trenton hopes to gain some momentum and retake 1st in the division. 

Pawtucket Terriers: The Terriers have had a strong showing so far in season 42, riding their Ace Player Profile: Hong-Chih Jung - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports with 16 innings pitched, 2-0 and an .125 ERA. They will look to continue their success as they play 7 games against the Baltimore Dry Docks. 

 

Power Ranks 11/10/2021

 

Commentary

Anaheim Anteaters - New season, same result. The Anteaters retain their dominance on the power rankings board to start the season, Boasting the top offense and pitching staff in the National League. 

Trenton jakes jokers - Last seasons surprise is this years known quantity. The jokers sit on top of the NL East and second on the board.  Thus far, The Jokers are a well balanced team with an offense fueled by Player Profile: Rodrigo Dotel - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports and Player Profile: Rodrigo Dotel - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports and a pitching staff anchored by Player Profile: Ender Aquino - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Cincinnati Boom Sticks - The Boom Sticks are off to a sluggish start as they round out the AL North in last place. As we approach mid season and the weather starts to get warmer, Look for the Boom Sticks to start hitting their stride as Season 41 AL MVP/Silver Slugger Player Profile: Keith Gray - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports propels the team back into World Series contention.

Rochester Whippets -  The offseason saw the departure of long time owner jwperry and the introduction of npb7768. Perry finished his career in Upper Deck with a record of 2062- 2474 and three division titles. Npb takes over a well stocked farm system and a competitive roster that should be contending within the next few season. Look for the Whippets to populate the top half of the rankings this year. 

 Franchise Rankings

Season 41

Power Rankings 9/14/2021

 

Green = Division Leaders

Yellow = Wild Card Holders

Playoff's on the Horizon

Two competitive races are under way in the NL. We first start with the NL East as the two Pennsylvania teams battle it out for first place. Philadelphia sits 5 games behind the newly #1 ranked Scranton with both teams slated to meet on the 19th. With Philadelphia's bullpen issues resolved, look for them to close that 5 game gap and give Scranton a run for their money for the division crown. 

In the NL South, The Jackson Generals still hold a 4 game advantage over New Orleans. Jackson has hit quite the slump recently, Losing series against Montreal, Syracuse and Scottsdale. As Jackson heads to the West Coast to battle Anaheim, New Orleans has a chance to close the gap more with a 4 game series against Chicago. 

The AL has two Competitive Divisions as well. In the South, Mexico, Tampa and Atlanta are all vying for first place. It is a good bet that whichever two teams do not win the division, will hold both wild card spots. 

In the AL East, Pittsburgh has significantly closed the gap and are within 1 game of the division leading Small Bears. Baltimore (2 games back) are right on the heals of both teams. If Pittsburgh can win the next three series, they will be sitting in a good spot as they enter Division play to round out their season. 

The Hunt for October

What looked to be a sinking ship, Trenton surged at the right time and now sit 7 games over .500 and tied for the second Wild Card spot with New Orleans. With series slated against Detroit and Chicago, look for them to try and solidify their playoff birth. 

Atlanta holds a comfortable 5 games on Pittsburgh and 6 on Baltimore. At this point, both AL East teams have a better shot at the division then Wild Card. New Britain has an outside chance for the Second wild card spot, but will need to string together a couple of win streaks. Something they have not been able to do much of the season. 

Power Rankings 9/7/2021

 

Commentary

Anaheim Anteaters - The Anteaters Continue their reign as #1 on the power rankings board for the second consecutive week. With just 3 series remaining against above .500 teams, Anaheim should be a lock for the best record in baseball and that coveted first round bye.

Scranton Schrutes - Scranton continues its second half push as they sit 5 games up on second place Philadelphia. Montreal is on their heals fighting for the second first round bye. Scranton's road to the playoffs will have to go through New Orleans, Philadelphia, Jackson, Anaheim and Montreal. A much tougher remaining schedule then Anaheim. 

Mexico City Diablos - Mexico sits with the second best record in the AL, But have the worse Division Record for a division leader in the league. With a comfortable 8 game lead on Atlanta, The Diablos may want to look to pad that lead a little more before the end of the season. 

The AL East - The Small Bears, Dry Docks and Pilots are competing for first place in the worse division in the league. Whoever comes out in first may be an underdog in the wildcard game. With 47 games remaining, Pittsburgh will need to rack up a few more wins before facing off against the Small Bears and Dry Docks. To Date, The Pilots are 4-10 against those two. 

Salem Which Hunts - Salem quietly continues to chug along as they sit atop the rankings board with the best record in the AL. Holding 7 games on Cincinnati, Salem looks good for that first round bye.  

Power Rankings 8/30/2021

 

Commentary

Atlanta Mental Patients - Atlanta did what it had to against sub .500 teams, taking series wins against Helena and Rochester and sweeping what was a top 10 teams in New Britain. 

Philadelphia Penn Quakers - In what was the beginning of a downward spirl, Philadelphia was saved by the All Star break after losing 3/4 to Anaheim and 2/3 against Detroit. Philadelphia will also be without All-Star SP Player Profile: Casper Lewis - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports after pulling his back out issuing a free pass to Player Profile: Bob Becker - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports. Lewis will miss his next start. 

Pawtucket Terriers - After losing 2/3 to Helena, The Terriers got back on track with a sweep against Salem and Baltimore, taking 3/4 from Louisville and 2/3 from Pittsburgh. Player Profile: Vic Soriano - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports has been the catalysis for the teams resurgence. Batting .322 with 4 HR and 8 RBI in the last 10 games. 

Houston Colt 45's - After radioing in to Houston a few weeks ago, the problems have seem to been corrected and Houston now rides a 6 game win streak. with a young exciting core of Player Profile: Chia-Jen Tanaka - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports Player Profile: Javier Olmeda - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports and Player Profile: Farmer Robinson - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports , expect improved play from this team during the second 1/2 of the season. 

Season 41 AL Draft Grades

 

Atlanta Mental Patients                                Grade:D+

Rd.1/pk.41 Player Profile: Diego Pulido - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.3/pk.103 Player Profile: Spencer Spencer - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.3/pk.124 Player Profile: Tim Perisho - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.4/pk.156 Player Profile: Brent Crede - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

 

With only 1 comp pick in the first round, Atlanta selected Pulido. If Pulido was 18 yrs old, he would be slated for a ML roster. Because he is 22, it’s highly unlikely he will be anything more than a AA/AAA CL. Spencer may turn out to be a solid fielding CF, steal some bases and make contact. Though it is hard to trust a player with two first names. Perisho and Crede are ok AAA roster fillers for 3^rd and 4^th round selections. Crede may have an outside chance of making a big league roster.

Baltimore Dry Docks                       Grade: B+

Rd.1/pk.20 Player Profile: Clay Wayne - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.1/pk.38 Player Profile: Fernando Cruz - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.1/pk.53 Player Profile: Jayson Barney - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.5/pk.182 Player Profile: Deven Belle - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

 Baltimore went heavy on the high school players, drafting Clay Wayne and Jason Barne. Wayne looks better suited for 3^rd base, exhibiting an exceptional bat for his age. Barne on the other hand looks more adequate for SS and an ok bat against lefties. Cruz, a closer with 5 pitches, headlined by a dominate fastball and good curve, can be penciled in as the future closer of the Dry Docks. Belle in rd.5 seems to be a nice late round find. Belle’s power and splits may be enough to overcome his contact and eye. Belle will probably make the move to 1^st base or RF as his fielding is subpar for a 3^rd baseman. 

Boise Potatoes                                  Grade: C

Rd.1/pk.4 Player Profile: Banjo Coulombe - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

A 6”4 188 pitcher named Banjo should fit right in with a team from Idaho named Potatoes. Coulombe is slower than a snail but should develop a good sinker to pair along with the ability to keep the ball in the park. If he can keep his walks down he should be a nice mid rotation piece for Boise. 

Cincinnati Boom Sticks                Grade: C-

Rd.1/pk.58 Player Profile: Bill Stubbs - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

There are worse things in the world then Bill Stubs at 58. Control issues will always plague him, but with a 4 pitch repritare, able to keep the ball in the park and decent splits. He may work his way up to the ML

Helena Roughnecks                        Grade: B-

Rd.1/pk.10 Player Profile: Sammy House - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Sammy House was a very nice pick at 10. House has great control, velocity, inducing groundballs and two decent pitches. If House can stay healthy, he will be a corner stone piece for the Roughnecks.

Indianapolis Swinging Hoosiers  Grade: D+

Rd.1/pk.1 Player Profile: Roger Pratt - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.2/pk.63 Player Profile: Keyvius Hernandez - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.3/pk.100 Player Profile: Kevin Black - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

 

Confusing draft for the Hoosiers, with the first overall pick, The Hoosiers selected Roger Pratt (my No. 9 college prospect) and passed over players like Guerrero and Francis. Pratt relies on his decent command and inducing groundballs to get players out, as he exhibits below average pitches. He will probably crack a ML roster at some point, but one would expect more out of the first pick of the draft. 

Iowa City Small Bears                     Grade: B-

Rd.1/pk.59 Player Profile: Clem Craig - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

 

Iowa gave up their first round pick to Sacramento, leaving them with only a comp pick. Iowa was able to salvage their draft by choosing Craig. As a second baseman, Craig has a way to go with his glove. But once developed, should be a top 5 hitter at his position.

Louisville Horseman                        Grade: D+

Rd.1/Pk.9 Player Profile: Ralph Wolf - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

With the 9^th pick, Louisville selected Ralph Wolf. Wolf has a nice slider to pair with an up and coming fast ball as well as good velocity. Being a lefty, it’s imperative for wolf to either have great splits, or exceptional control, which he has neither. Much like Indy, there was much better options at 9 causing the grade to dip. 

 

Mexico City Diablos                         Grade: A-

Rd.1/pk.22 Player Profile: Erik Hill - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.1/pk.24

Rd.1/pk.39 Player Profile: Marty Fox - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.1/pk.56 Player Profile: Don Damon - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.2/pk.87 Player Profile: Andrew Bonderman - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.3/pk.122 Player Profile: John Tabaka - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.5/pk.186 Player Profile: Pepper Darr - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.6/pk.218 Player Profile: Kane Osborn - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

 

The Diablos found a home run pick in Hill. Hill is a balanced pitcher with a devastating sink who will one day find himself helping to anchor a pitching staff as a number 2. The Diablos have yet to sign their second first round pick, Comp picks Marty Fox and Don Damon both exhibit ML talent. Fox shows signs as a ML hitter and Damon a back end starter. In the later rounds, Mexico was able to find at worse AAA players in Tabaka, Darr and Osborn. Darr is the most likely candidate out of the three to crack a ML roster as a middle reliever, Tabaka a close second as a platoon hitter.

New Britain Rock Cats                    Grade: C+

Rd.1/pk.17 Player Profile: Damian Patterson - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.2/pk.81 Player Profile: Steve Priest - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.20/pk.660 Player Profile: Blaine Veres - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

At 17, The Rock Cats selected Patterson. A hard throwing righty who can control his pitches, he may be able to fill out the Cat’s starting rotation. Steve Priest could develop into a solid defensive catcher who could bat low to mid .200’s. Veres at pick 660 is a nice find as he may develop into a defensive SS with a bit of pop.

Pawtucket Terriers                          Grade: F*

Rd.1/pk.23 Prospect Profile - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.1/pk.55 Prospect Profile - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

An ouchy of a draft, Pawtucket has yet to sign their two first round picks. If they sign, it might salvage their draft for season 41

Pittsburgh Pilots                               Grade: A

Rd.1/pk.5 Player Profile: Pablo Guerrero - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.1/pk.45 Player Profile: Karl McHugh - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.2/pk.69 Player Profile: Ned File - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

 

Guerrero was expected to go number 1 on my mock draft, being the most complete player in fielding, hitting, base running and durability. Though it might have been his ML only contract that scared the teams off. Guerrero can be penciled in alongside of Martin, Wakeland, Jackson and the rest of Pittsburgh’s young core for the next 8 seasons.

Rochester Red Wings                     Grade: F*

                Rochester has yet to sign any draft pick for the season 41 draft. We will revisit the picks if signed.

Salem Witch Hunts                          Grade: B-

Rd.1/pk.27 Player Profile: Gabby Clevinger - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.2/pk.91 Player Profile: Luther Krol - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.3/pk.125 Player Profile: Vitas Sewell - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

 

My favorite pick in the draft; Clevinger is a groundball pitcher with two great pitches, a 4 seam fastball and a curveball. His low control may cause issues here and there, but nothing that can’t be worked around when his splits fully develop. A great late first round pick. Krol and Sewell both have outside chances of one day making a ML roster, though it might be on a rebuilding team.

Tampa Bay Water Dogs                 Grade: D+

Rd.1/pk.30 Player Profile: Andres Guillen - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.2/pk.95 Player Profile: Quilvio Ramirez - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.3/pk.128 Player Profile: Midre Phelps - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

 

Tough draft for Tampa, with their first pick they selected Andres Guillen. Guillen is a speedy second baseman whose saving grace is he’s left handed. Better suited for the outfield, Guillen has a lot to overcome to crack a ML roster. Ramirez is a left hand starting pitcher with two nice pitches and a decent lefty split. Though VR and Control may hold him back from reaching his full potential. Phelps could be a GG shortstop with well below average hitting ability. 

Vancouver Nighthawks                 Grade: C-

Rd.1/pk.3 Player Profile: Neifi Rosales - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.1/pk.28 Player Profile: Marshall Singleton - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

Rd.4/pk.134 Player Profile: Kyle Cunningham - Hardball Dynasty Baseball | WhatIfSports

 

This is Jkorns second season as the gm of the Nighthawks and had two first round picks to work with, 3 and 28. Rosales boasts a nice sinker, can induce groundballs as well as throw it by a hitter. Rosales may find success as a tandem starter, though control issues and an inability to get right handers out will be an issue for him. Singleton was a nice pick at 28, a good building block for jkorn. Cunningham has a good chance of filling out the back of a rotation, though control issues will plague his development.