Since it’s never too early to start looking ahead to the next fantasy football season, we asked Bill Bender from Fantasy Source to pay us a visit and offer his post-Super Bowl rankings for 2010. Here’s a look at wide receivers and tight ends:
2010 fantasy WRs: Check out the top 15 for free
Franchise: Andre Johnson, Texans (No. 1). Working on back-to-back, 100-catch, 1,500-yard seasons. That included 193- and 196-yard outbursts in the fantasy playoffs. Please make him the first receiver selected on draft day. Please.
Bounce-back: Calvin Johnson, Lions (No. 11). Is he a top-10 receiver? Talent-wise, yes. Who’s throwing him the ball, though? If it’s Matthew Stafford for a full season, the answer will be "yes." In that case, Johnson becomes a second- or third-round steal, like he was in ’08.
Sleeper: Michael Crabtree, 49ers (No. 26). If not for a ridiculous holdout, Crabtree would’ve led rookies in all major receiving categories. Would you draft him ahead of his very talented classmates (Hakeem Nicks, Percy Harvin, Austin Collie, Jeremy Maclin)? I would.
Bust: Roy Williams, Cowboys (No. 43). Williams’ seven touchdowns made him relevant again, but he had just one 100-yard game. He has never had 10 TDs in a season, and he has only one 1,000-yard campaign. Why do we still care?
Rookie: Brandon LaFell, LSU. Had LaFell played at Texas Tech, he would have put up Crabtree-like numbers. He caught 25 TDs in 175 receptions with a collection of shaky quarterbacks. Ask any LSU fan about Jarrett Lee. With the right landing spot, LaFell will be la bomb.
Also see: 2010 fantasy RBs | Fantasy QBs
Bill Bender writes for Fantasy Source Football. For more coverage, visit Fantasy Source Football today.
Since it’s never too early to start looking ahead to the next fantasy football season, we asked Bill Bender from Fantasy Source to pay us a visit and offer his post-Super Bowl rankings for 2010. Here’s a look at wide receivers and tight ends:
2010 fantasy WRs: Check out the top 15 for free
Franchise: Andre Johnson, Texans (No. 1). Working on back-to-back, 100-catch, 1,500-yard seasons. That included 193- and 196-yard outbursts in the fantasy playoffs. Please make him the first receiver selected on draft day. Please.
Bounce-back: Calvin Johnson, Lions (No. 11). Is he a top-10 receiver? Talent-wise, yes. Who’s throwing him the ball, though? If it’s Matthew Stafford for a full season, the answer will be "yes." In that case, Johnson becomes a second- or third-round steal, like he was in ’08.
Sleeper: Michael Crabtree, 49ers (No. 26). If not for a ridiculous holdout, Crabtree would’ve led rookies in all major receiving categories. Would you draft him ahead of his very talented classmates (Hakeem Nicks, Percy Harvin, Austin Collie, Jeremy Maclin)? I would.
Bust: Roy Williams, Cowboys (No. 43). Williams’ seven touchdowns made him relevant again, but he had just one 100-yard game. He has never had 10 TDs in a season, and he has only one 1,000-yard campaign. Why do we still care?
Rookie: Brandon LaFell, LSU. Had LaFell played at Texas Tech, he would have put up Crabtree-like numbers. He caught 25 TDs in 175 receptions with a collection of shaky quarterbacks. Ask any LSU fan about Jarrett Lee. With the right landing spot, LaFell will be la bomb.
Also see: 2010 fantasy RBs | Fantasy QBs
Bill Bender writes for Fantasy Source Football. For more coverage, visit Fantasy Source Football today.
Fantasy Source’s top 15 WRs for 2010:
1. Andre Johnson, Texans
2. Randy Moss, Patriots
3. Reggie Wayne, Colts
4. Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals
5. Miles Austin, Cowboys
6. DeSean Jackson, Eagles
7. Vincent Jackson, Texans
8. Roddy White, Falcons
9. Brandon Marshall, Broncos
10. Sidney Rice, Vikings
11. Calvin Johnson, Lions
12. Marques Coltson, Saints
13. Steve Smith, Giants
14. Chad Ochocinco
15. Steve Smith, Panthers
For the full ranking of wide receivers and much more, visit Fantasy Source.
Fantasy Source’s top 15 WRs for 2010:
1. Andre Johnson, Texans
2. Randy Moss, Patriots
3. Reggie Wayne, Colts
4. Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals
5. Miles Austin, Cowboys
6. DeSean Jackson, Eagles
7. Vincent Jackson, Texans
8. Roddy White, Falcons
9. Brandon Marshall, Broncos
10. Sidney Rice, Vikings
11. Calvin Johnson, Lions
12. Marques Coltson, Saints
13. Steve Smith, Giants
14. Chad Ochocinco
15. Steve Smith, Panthers
For the full ranking of wide receivers and much more, visit Fantasy Source.
Sporting News staff reports
Free agent outfielder Johnny Damon told the New York Post that he has more suitors than just the Tigers and Braves.
One of those teams is the White Sox. According to the White Sox’s website, the team has interest in Damon but the website speculated he might not fit in the team’s budget. It also suggested that White Sox general manager Ken Williams merely could be trying to drive up Damon’s price for Detroit.
On Thursday, the Tigers offered him a two-year, $14 million deal, according to FOXSports.com. The Detroit News reports the Tigers appear to be "on the brink" of adding Damon and speculates he would hit second behind center field Austin Jackson.
On Wednesday, the Braves offered Damon a one-year deal, which The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported was worth between $4 million and $5 million. However, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution speculated the Braves’ offer won’t be extended to two years because outfield prospects Jason Heyward and Jordan Schafer should be ready to start by next season.
Damon hit .282 with 24 homers, 82 RBIs, 107 runs for the Yankees in 2009.
Sporting News staff reports
Free agent outfielder Johnny Damon told the New York Post that he has more suitors than just the Tigers and Braves.
One of those teams is the White Sox. According to the White Sox’s website, the team has interest in Damon but the website speculated he might not fit in the team’s budget. It also suggested that White Sox general manager Ken Williams merely could be trying to drive up Damon’s price for Detroit.
On Thursday, the Tigers offered him a two-year, $14 million deal, according to FOXSports.com. The Detroit News reports the Tigers appear to be "on the brink" of adding Damon and speculates he would hit second behind center field Austin Jackson.
On Wednesday, the Braves offered Damon a one-year deal, which The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported was worth between $4 million and $5 million. However, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution speculated the Braves’ offer won’t be extended to two years because outfield prospects Jason Heyward and Jordan Schafer should be ready to start by next season.
Damon hit .282 with 24 homers, 82 RBIs, 107 runs for the Yankees in 2009.
NFL: Brett Favre stayed out of the news for, oh, almost five days. On his new Web site on Thursday, he posted a welcome note to fans that sure sounds like he’s setting up for another retirement: "I want to thank all of my fans for a memorable season. While the season didn’t end in Miami as we had all hoped, I couldn’t have enjoyed this season any more than I did. … And to the fans — those in Minnesota, in Wisconsin, and across the country — I want to express my heartfelt thanks for all of the support and goodwill that you’ve shown me, Deanna, and the girls throughout the season. It’s truly humbling to know that so many of you are pulling for us. Regardless of what the future holds, I want everyone to know that I will cherish the memories of the past year for the rest of my life. — Brett Favre" Then again, maybe he’s just one really happy Viking. You can sign up on the site to get a newsletter with the latest about No. 4. (Yeah, Fly did sign up.)
NBA: Speaking of retiring, Stephen A. Smith thinks Allen Iverson might be pondering retirement, even though, "According to those close to the Answer, there’s no truth to that." Smith cites another anonymous source as saying, "I didn’t know a damn thing about his decision to skip [All-Star] weekend until this morning. I’m stunned. Even with the things the way they are, I could’ve sworn he’d be in Dallas by now." What the so-called confidant is referring to is Iverson’s 3-year-old daughter being ill.
• Donnie Walsh issues an assurance that the Knicks don’t want just to rent Tracy McGrady — they’d be interested in re-signing him in July if they trade for McGrady now. "I’m not doing this for immediate satisfaction," Walsh told the New York Post.
Olympics: While you tune in for Olympics action over the next two weeks, might want to save this nifty visual dictionary of snowboarding tricks. NBA fans, you might like the "Frontside Alley-oop."
• Thought jockeys, wrestlers, figure skaters and gymnasts were the only ones that resort to extreme measures to keep their weight down? Ski jumpers are now among athletes prone to eating disorders as they battle the physics of flight.
Other news: Rest in peace Walter Frederick Morrison, inventor of the Frisbee, who died in Utah at the age of 90.
NFL: Brett Favre stayed out of the news for, oh, almost five days. On his new Web site on Thursday, he posted a welcome note to fans that sure sounds like he’s setting up for another retirement: "I want to thank all of my fans for a memorable season. While the season didn’t end in Miami as we had all hoped, I couldn’t have enjoyed this season any more than I did. … And to the fans — those in Minnesota, in Wisconsin, and across the country — I want to express my heartfelt thanks for all of the support and goodwill that you’ve shown me, Deanna, and the girls throughout the season. It’s truly humbling to know that so many of you are pulling for us. Regardless of what the future holds, I want everyone to know that I will cherish the memories of the past year for the rest of my life. — Brett Favre" Then again, maybe he’s just one really happy Viking. You can sign up on the site to get a newsletter with the latest about No. 4. (Yeah, Fly did sign up.)
NBA: Speaking of retiring, Stephen A. Smith thinks Allen Iverson might be pondering retirement, even though, "According to those close to the Answer, there’s no truth to that." Smith cites another anonymous source as saying, "I didn’t know a damn thing about his decision to skip [All-Star] weekend until this morning. I’m stunned. Even with the things the way they are, I could’ve sworn he’d be in Dallas by now." What the so-called confidant is referring to is Iverson’s 3-year-old daughter being ill.
• Donnie Walsh issues an assurance that the Knicks don’t want just to rent Tracy McGrady — they’d be interested in re-signing him in July if they trade for McGrady now. "I’m not doing this for immediate satisfaction," Walsh told the New York Post.
Olympics: While you tune in for Olympics action over the next two weeks, might want to save this nifty visual dictionary of snowboarding tricks. NBA fans, you might like the "Frontside Alley-oop."
• Thought jockeys, wrestlers, figure skaters and gymnasts were the only ones that resort to extreme measures to keep their weight down? Ski jumpers are now among athletes prone to eating disorders as they battle the physics of flight.
Other news: Rest in peace Walter Frederick Morrison, inventor of the Frisbee, who died in Utah at the age of 90.
On Thursday, the window for application of the franchise tag slid open. In two weeks, it’ll slam shut. In the interim, teams have the ability to apply the franchise tag to one player who otherwise would be an unrestricted free agent.
So let’s take a look at 10 players who might, or might not, end up wearing the franchise tag at some point between now and Feb. 25.
1. Julius Peppers, Panthers defensive end
The Panthers haven’t spoken to Peppers about signing a long-term deal, but they don’t need to do so if they plan to use the franchise tag on him for a second straight season.
Vince Wilfork, who has only played for the Patriots, was drafted in the first round in 2004.
As I wrote last night at PFT, the Panthers currently do not plan to do so. Even in an uncapped year, $21.8 million for 16 regular-season games is a price too high to pay for a player who isn’t, hasn’t been, and will never be as good as Reggie White.
Even the transition tag isn’t a viable option for Peppers, since in Peppers’ case the Panthers would still be required to give him a one-year, $21.8 million contract, the value of which would become fully guaranteed the moment Julius puts his John Hancock at the bottom of the page.
2. Vince Wilfork, Patriots defensive tackle
In 2004, Wilfork signed a six-year rookie contract with the Patriots. Now, the contract has expired and Wilfork doesn’t want the team to use the franchise tag to keep him from hitting the open market.
What he wants and what he gets could be two very different things. Indeed, teams have the right to use the franchise tag, and few of the players who ever have been on the wrong side of the restriction ever regarded it as something desirable to have. Though it pays a player handsomely for one season, it keeps him from striking it rich via a long-term deal with an eight-figure signing bonus.
In Wilfork’s case, it’s possible a long-term deal will be reached before the last day for using the tag. If it isn’t, Wilfork can huff and puff all he wants, but he won’t be able to keep the team from doing that which the current labor deal allows it to do.
3. Casey Hampton, Steelers nose tackle
Another guy who wants no part of the franchise tag is Hampton, a nine-year veteran who has nearly eaten his way out of the league on multiple occasions.
But he’s a rare commodity — a large man (6-1, 325) who’s also strong and athletic, and he fills an important role in a 3-4 defense.
For that very reason, the Steelers can’t afford to lose him, even if it means using the franchise tag to keep him in place, against his wishes.
4. Aubrayo Franklin, 49ers nose tackle
Though not as well known as Wilfork or Hampton, Franklin has been every bit as effective lately, and he arguably would be the most hotly pursued of the trio if they each were to hit the open market.
But Franklin won’t. And Franklin has yet to complain about the $7 million one-year salary that goes along with it.
Though it remains to be seen whether the 49ers will ink Franklin to a long-term deal, Franklin apparently will be a member of the team, at least for 2010.
5. Chester Taylor, Vikings running back
Adrian Peterson remains the top tailback in Minnesota, but Chester Taylor more than capably handles third-down duties. He also provides a nice change of pace, especially when Peterson is working through his periodic problems with securing the ball.
But the Vikings need to ask themselves whether it makes sense to pay Taylor more than $8 million for one season when they could draft a guy in the middle rounds who might be able to move the chains.
Then there’s the possibility of using Percy Harvin in the backfield, or finding on the open market a more affordable alternative.
But Taylor remains the best option, and the question is whether the Vikings are willing to pay him accordingly.
6. Shayne Graham, Bengals kicker
The notoriously cheap Bengals could have used the franchise tag in 2009 on Graham, a kicker, or on T.J. Houshmandzadeh, a receiver.
Not surprisingly, they picked the kicker, who received millions less under the one-year franchise tender.
Now, the Bengals have to decide in the wake of Graham’s rough day in the wild-card round against the Jets whether to give him a 20-percent raise under the franchise tag, sign him to a long-term deal, or let him walk.
Given that their decision to dump five-year punter Kyle Larson for fifth-round draft pick Kevin Huber worked out fairly well, don’t be surprised if the Bengals decide to find a much cheaper alternative at an equally fungible position.
7. Karlos Dansby, Cardinals linebacker
The Cardinals like Dansby. They liked him enough in 2008 to use the franchise tag to keep him with the team. They liked him enough in 2009 to use it again. But they probably don’t like him enough to use it a third time.
Under the labor agreement between the NFL and the players union, the third time for the franchise tag is a major charm for the player. The tender increases from the average salary paid in the prior year to the five highest-paid players at the same position to the average salary paid in the prior year to the five highest-paid players in the entire league.
The Cardinals won’t pay Dansby like a quarterback. So either they’ll do a long-term deal with him, or he’ll hit the open market in the uncapped year.
Most likely, it’ll be the latter.
8. Dunta Robinson, Texans cornerback
Robinson wasn’t thrilled with the team’s decision to use the franchise tag on him in 2009, and he likely won’t be happy if he’s tagged for a second straight season.
But the Texans didn’t waver last season, and they likely won’t budge this year.
He voiced his displeasure in 2009 by writing "pay me, Rick" on his cleats, a message to general manager Rick Smith. The team undoubtedly will be paying him again, but not nearly as much as he’d like to receive.
9. Darren Sproles, Chargers running back
With LaDainian Tomlinson all but gone, the Chargers need to keep Sproles around. The question is whether the Chargers want to pay Sproles a year at a time, or whether they’re willing to give him a long-term deal.
If they choose to stick Sproles with a second franchise tag, they’ll face the same problem in 2011 that the Cardinals face now — if there’s a new CBA in 2011 and if it contains the same provision requiring the player to receive quarterback money in year three.
Still, the Chargers can’t let Sproles walk away. Whether he’ll be operating under a one-year arrangement or something more, he’ll be a Charger in 2010.
10. Bo Scaife, Titans tight end
The Titans paid Scaife $4.462 million last year under the franchise tag. It would cost $5.35 million to use it again.
That’s a lot to pay for a guy who caught 45 passes for 440 yards and one touchdown.
With Jared Cook on the roster, it’s likely the Titans will opt not to pay the money. Indeed, Scaife signed his 2009 franchise tender only days after Cook was drafted.
So it would be a surprise if the Titans use it again.
Mike Florio writes and edits ProFootballTalk.com and is a regular contributor to Sporting News. Check out PFT for up-to-the minute NFL news.
On Thursday, the window for application of the franchise tag slid open. In two weeks, it’ll slam shut. In the interim, teams have the ability to apply the franchise tag to one player who otherwise would be an unrestricted free agent.
So let’s take a look at 10 players who might, or might not, end up wearing the franchise tag at some point between now and Feb. 25.
1. Julius Peppers, Panthers defensive end
The Panthers haven’t spoken to Peppers about signing a long-term deal, but they don’t need to do so if they plan to use the franchise tag on him for a second straight season.
Vince Wilfork, who has only played for the Patriots, was drafted in the first round in 2004.
As I wrote last night at PFT, the Panthers currently do not plan to do so. Even in an uncapped year, $21.8 million for 16 regular-season games is a price too high to pay for a player who isn’t, hasn’t been, and will never be as good as Reggie White.
Even the transition tag isn’t a viable option for Peppers, since in Peppers’ case the Panthers would still be required to give him a one-year, $21.8 million contract, the value of which would become fully guaranteed the moment Julius puts his John Hancock at the bottom of the page.
2. Vince Wilfork, Patriots defensive tackle
In 2004, Wilfork signed a six-year rookie contract with the Patriots. Now, the contract has expired and Wilfork doesn’t want the team to use the franchise tag to keep him from hitting the open market.
What he wants and what he gets could be two very different things. Indeed, teams have the right to use the franchise tag, and few of the players who ever have been on the wrong side of the restriction ever regarded it as something desirable to have. Though it pays a player handsomely for one season, it keeps him from striking it rich via a long-term deal with an eight-figure signing bonus.
In Wilfork’s case, it’s possible a long-term deal will be reached before the last day for using the tag. If it isn’t, Wilfork can huff and puff all he wants, but he won’t be able to keep the team from doing that which the current labor deal allows it to do.
3. Casey Hampton, Steelers nose tackle
Another guy who wants no part of the franchise tag is Hampton, a nine-year veteran who has nearly eaten his way out of the league on multiple occasions.
But he’s a rare commodity — a large man (6-1, 325) who’s also strong and athletic, and he fills an important role in a 3-4 defense.
For that very reason, the Steelers can’t afford to lose him, even if it means using the franchise tag to keep him in place, against his wishes.
4. Aubrayo Franklin, 49ers nose tackle
Though not as well known as Wilfork or Hampton, Franklin has been every bit as effective lately, and he arguably would be the most hotly pursued of the trio if they each were to hit the open market.
But Franklin won’t. And Franklin has yet to complain about the $7 million one-year salary that goes along with it.
Though it remains to be seen whether the 49ers will ink Franklin to a long-term deal, Franklin apparently will be a member of the team, at least for 2010.
5. Chester Taylor, Vikings running back
Adrian Peterson remains the top tailback in Minnesota, but Chester Taylor more than capably handles third-down duties. He also provides a nice change of pace, especially when Peterson is working through his periodic problems with securing the ball.
But the Vikings need to ask themselves whether it makes sense to pay Taylor more than $8 million for one season when they could draft a guy in the middle rounds who might be able to move the chains.
Then there’s the possibility of using Percy Harvin in the backfield, or finding on the open market a more affordable alternative.
But Taylor remains the best option, and the question is whether the Vikings are willing to pay him accordingly.
6. Shayne Graham, Bengals kicker
The notoriously cheap Bengals could have used the franchise tag in 2009 on Graham, a kicker, or on T.J. Houshmandzadeh, a receiver.
Not surprisingly, they picked the kicker, who received millions less under the one-year franchise tender.
Now, the Bengals have to decide in the wake of Graham’s rough day in the wild-card round against the Jets whether to give him a 20-percent raise under the franchise tag, sign him to a long-term deal, or let him walk.
Given that their decision to dump five-year punter Kyle Larson for fifth-round draft pick Kevin Huber worked out fairly well, don’t be surprised if the Bengals decide to find a much cheaper alternative at an equally fungible position.
7. Karlos Dansby, Cardinals linebacker
The Cardinals like Dansby. They liked him enough in 2008 to use the franchise tag to keep him with the team. They liked him enough in 2009 to use it again. But they probably don’t like him enough to use it a third time.
Under the labor agreement between the NFL and the players union, the third time for the franchise tag is a major charm for the player. The tender increases from the average salary paid in the prior year to the five highest-paid players at the same position to the average salary paid in the prior year to the five highest-paid players in the entire league.
The Cardinals won’t pay Dansby like a quarterback. So either they’ll do a long-term deal with him, or he’ll hit the open market in the uncapped year.
Most likely, it’ll be the latter.
8. Dunta Robinson, Texans cornerback
Robinson wasn’t thrilled with the team’s decision to use the franchise tag on him in 2009, and he likely won’t be happy if he’s tagged for a second straight season.
But the Texans didn’t waver last season, and they likely won’t budge this year.
He voiced his displeasure in 2009 by writing "pay me, Rick" on his cleats, a message to general manager Rick Smith. The team undoubtedly will be paying him again, but not nearly as much as he’d like to receive.
9. Darren Sproles, Chargers running back
With LaDainian Tomlinson all but gone, the Chargers need to keep Sproles around. The question is whether the Chargers want to pay Sproles a year at a time, or whether they’re willing to give him a long-term deal.
If they choose to stick Sproles with a second franchise tag, they’ll face the same problem in 2011 that the Cardinals face now — if there’s a new CBA in 2011 and if it contains the same provision requiring the player to receive quarterback money in year three.
Still, the Chargers can’t let Sproles walk away. Whether he’ll be operating under a one-year arrangement or something more, he’ll be a Charger in 2010.
10. Bo Scaife, Titans tight end
The Titans paid Scaife $4.462 million last year under the franchise tag. It would cost $5.35 million to use it again.
That’s a lot to pay for a guy who caught 45 passes for 440 yards and one touchdown.
With Jared Cook on the roster, it’s likely the Titans will opt not to pay the money. Indeed, Scaife signed his 2009 franchise tender only days after Cook was drafted.
So it would be a surprise if the Titans use it again.
Mike Florio writes and edits ProFootballTalk.com and is a regular contributor to Sporting News. Check out PFT for up-to-the minute NFL news.
Spring training often resembles a working vacation for most veterans. You know, put in a couple innings of work and then call for your tee time. However, the list of proven veteran players who slumped in 2009 is a long one. For those players, regaining their confidence/swing/swagger starts when they report to their Grapefruit League or Cactus League camp. Which disappointing player from last season is in most desperate need of a strong spring?
Stan McNeal makes his case for Dodgers left fielder Manny Ramirez, but Chris Bahr says it is Cubs left field Alfonso Soriano who most needs to recapture his productive form:
Four years ago while playing with the Nationals, Alfonso Soriano joined the uber-exclusive 40-40 club during a contract year. He quickly cashed in, signing an eight-year, $136 million deal with the Cubs a couple of months before his 30th birthday.
Alfonso Soriano needs to shake off his injury woes to return to his old form.
Beginning this season (and running through the 2014 season), Soriano will earn $18 million annually. His contract was backloaded, but the opposite apparently was true of his production. At least the Cubs don’t have to worry about paying him a $75,000 bonus for winning a Gold Glove.
If the Cubs are going to compete this season — with spring training quickly approaching, there doesn’t appear to be the usual level of this is THE year hype — several things will have to happen. They are going to need a stronger effort from their rotation, better luck in terms of health and a return to form by Soriano. The Cubs fell off the map offensively in 2009, and Soriano’s bat can help rescue them from the depths to which they sank.
Soriano’s revival must start with a strong spring. But what are the chances Soriano will deliver?
The obstacles
Eroding production. Soriano’s homer totals and OPS have dropped in each of the past three seasons, and 2009 was the first full season of his career when he failed to reach double digits in steals.
Health. Over the past two seasons, Soriano has missed 98 games (after missing 42 from 2001-06). That has contributed to his offensive decline, and it is cause for serious alarm.
Xavier Nady’s arrival. Assuming Nady’s troublesome elbow (two Tommy John surgeries) is healthy, he is expected to cut into right fielder Kosuke Fukudome’s playing time. But if Soriano gets off to a slow start, he often could find himself on the bench in favor of Nady.
The optimism
Rudy Jaramillo. The hitting guru brought out the best in Soriano (.274-64-195) during their two years together in Texas. The Cubs hired Jaramillo to repair an offense that finished 21st in OPS, 22nd in runs and 26th in batting average last season.
Lineup position. Soriano might be miscast as a left fielder, but he no longer is miscast as a leadoff man. He is expected to hit fifth this season, and that should result more RBI opportunities and less pressure. In his three seasons with Chicago (primarily in the leadoff spot), Soriano has averaged 27 homers but just 67 RBIs.
More protection. A healthy Aramis Ramirez, who missed much of 2009 because of a shoulder injury and wasn’t 100 percent when he returned, will be key. The addition of center fielder Marlon Byrd (and the subtraction of Milton Bradley) also will be a boost.
Chris Bahr is a senior editor for Sporting News. E-mail him at cbahr@sportingnews.com.
Spring training often resembles a working vacation for most veterans. You know, put in a couple innings of work and then call for your tee time. However, the list of proven veteran players who slumped in 2009 is a long one. For those players, regaining their confidence/swing/swagger starts when they report to their Grapefruit League or Cactus League camp. Which disappointing player from last season is in most desperate need of a strong spring?
Stan McNeal makes his case for Dodgers left fielder Manny Ramirez, but Chris Bahr says it is Cubs left field Alfonso Soriano who most needs to recapture his productive form:
Four years ago while playing with the Nationals, Alfonso Soriano joined the uber-exclusive 40-40 club during a contract year. He quickly cashed in, signing an eight-year, $136 million deal with the Cubs a couple of months before his 30th birthday.
Alfonso Soriano needs to shake off his injury woes to return to his old form.
Beginning this season (and running through the 2014 season), Soriano will earn $18 million annually. His contract was backloaded, but the opposite apparently was true of his production. At least the Cubs don’t have to worry about paying him a $75,000 bonus for winning a Gold Glove.
If the Cubs are going to compete this season — with spring training quickly approaching, there doesn’t appear to be the usual level of this is THE year hype — several things will have to happen. They are going to need a stronger effort from their rotation, better luck in terms of health and a return to form by Soriano. The Cubs fell off the map offensively in 2009, and Soriano’s bat can help rescue them from the depths to which they sank.
Soriano’s revival must start with a strong spring. But what are the chances Soriano will deliver?
The obstacles
Eroding production. Soriano’s homer totals and OPS have dropped in each of the past three seasons, and 2009 was the first full season of his career when he failed to reach double digits in steals.
Health. Over the past two seasons, Soriano has missed 98 games (after missing 42 from 2001-06). That has contributed to his offensive decline, and it is cause for serious alarm.
Xavier Nady’s arrival. Assuming Nady’s troublesome elbow (two Tommy John surgeries) is healthy, he is expected to cut into right fielder Kosuke Fukudome’s playing time. But if Soriano gets off to a slow start, he often could find himself on the bench in favor of Nady.
The optimism
Rudy Jaramillo. The hitting guru brought out the best in Soriano (.274-64-195) during their two years together in Texas. The Cubs hired Jaramillo to repair an offense that finished 21st in OPS, 22nd in runs and 26th in batting average last season.
Lineup position. Soriano might be miscast as a left fielder, but he no longer is miscast as a leadoff man. He is expected to hit fifth this season, and that should result more RBI opportunities and less pressure. In his three seasons with Chicago (primarily in the leadoff spot), Soriano has averaged 27 homers but just 67 RBIs.
More protection. A healthy Aramis Ramirez, who missed much of 2009 because of a shoulder injury and wasn’t 100 percent when he returned, will be key. The addition of center fielder Marlon Byrd (and the subtraction of Milton Bradley) also will be a boost.
Chris Bahr is a senior editor for Sporting News. E-mail him at cbahr@sportingnews.com.
Spring training often resembles a working vacation for most veterans. You know, put in a couple innings of work and then call for your tee time. However, the list of proven veteran players who slumped in 2009 is a long one. For those players, regaining their confidence/swing/swagger starts when they report to their Grapefruit League or Cactus League camp. Which disappointing player from last season is in most desperate need of a strong spring?
Chris Bahr says Cubs left fielder Alfonso Soriano must return to form in order for the Cubs to compete, but Stan McNeal says all eyes should be on Dodgers left fielder Manny Ramirez:
Talk about a fast fall. In less than a year, Manny Ramirez has gone from superstar slugger to drug user to mediocre major leaguer to, well, who knows?
Questions abound as to whether Manny Ramirez can regain his old form.
This we know: At 37 and in the last year of his contract, no player is in greater need of a strong spring to set himself up for a big season. Consider what is riding on Manny’s bat: his team’s playoff chances, his future and his already-tarnished legacy.
Not long ago, Ramirez was the hero that L.A. couldn’t afford to lose. He was coming off a two-month stretch when he carried the Dodgers to the NLCS by hitting .396/.489/.783 with 17 homers and 53 RBIs in 187 at-bats.
Manny was rounding into familiar form in 2009 until his world as he knew it ended in early May. He was suspended for 50 games for a positive drug test, and he hasn’t been the same since. He hit .269/.389/.492 with 13 homers and 43 RBIs in 260 at-bats after his return, and the Dodgers carried him to the playoffs this time.
In the NLCS, the Phillies did what few pitchers previously dared. They challenged Manny with fastballs, and the strategy worked. He hit a two-run homer in Game 1 but ended up drawing more attention in the series for an early shower than for his hitting.
Joe Torre recently admitted to the Los Angeles Times that Manny "wasn’t himself" after his return. Torre believes Ramirez’s struggles had more to do with an unbalanced approach at the plate than declining ability. But not even Torre knows if Ramirez will return to elite status.
Ramirez is at an age when most hitters are in decline — those without chemical assistance, anyway. Manny senses this. According to mlb.com, he told his teammates last year that he’d be better off as a DH. Of course, he is in the wrong league for that.
Manny will make $20 million this season but is as likely as you or me to get that much next season. A strong season, however, could land him a nice enough deal to be a DH. On the other hand, an entire season like the latter part of ’09 and Manny could find himself in the same spot as former teammate Nomar Garciaparra — on the verge of forced retirement.
Manny already killed a certain case for the Hall of Fame with his positive drug test. If he doesn’t show his old form, his reputation will be hurt even more because many will believe his entire career was built on performance-enhancing drugs.
His best chance to remove some of the doubts is with a productive year. A strong spring is the best way to begin.
Stan McNeal is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at smcneal@sportingnews.com.
Spring training often resembles a working vacation for most veterans. You know, put in a couple innings of work and then call for your tee time. However, the list of proven veteran players who slumped in 2009 is a long one. For those players, regaining their confidence/swing/swagger starts when they report to their Grapefruit League or Cactus League camp. Which disappointing player from last season is in most desperate need of a strong spring?
Chris Bahr says Cubs left fielder Alfonso Soriano must return to form in order for the Cubs to compete, but Stan McNeal says all eyes should be on Dodgers left fielder Manny Ramirez:
Talk about a fast fall. In less than a year, Manny Ramirez has gone from superstar slugger to drug user to mediocre major leaguer to, well, who knows?
Questions abound as to whether Manny Ramirez can regain his old form.
This we know: At 37 and in the last year of his contract, no player is in greater need of a strong spring to set himself up for a big season. Consider what is riding on Manny’s bat: his team’s playoff chances, his future and his already-tarnished legacy.
Not long ago, Ramirez was the hero that L.A. couldn’t afford to lose. He was coming off a two-month stretch when he carried the Dodgers to the NLCS by hitting .396/.489/.783 with 17 homers and 53 RBIs in 187 at-bats.
Manny was rounding into familiar form in 2009 until his world as he knew it ended in early May. He was suspended for 50 games for a positive drug test, and he hasn’t been the same since. He hit .269/.389/.492 with 13 homers and 43 RBIs in 260 at-bats after his return, and the Dodgers carried him to the playoffs this time.
In the NLCS, the Phillies did what few pitchers previously dared. They challenged Manny with fastballs, and the strategy worked. He hit a two-run homer in Game 1 but ended up drawing more attention in the series for an early shower than for his hitting.
Joe Torre recently admitted to the Los Angeles Times that Manny "wasn’t himself" after his return. Torre believes Ramirez’s struggles had more to do with an unbalanced approach at the plate than declining ability. But not even Torre knows if Ramirez will return to elite status.
Ramirez is at an age when most hitters are in decline — those without chemical assistance, anyway. Manny senses this. According to mlb.com, he told his teammates last year that he’d be better off as a DH. Of course, he is in the wrong league for that.
Manny will make $20 million this season but is as likely as you or me to get that much next season. A strong season, however, could land him a nice enough deal to be a DH. On the other hand, an entire season like the latter part of ’09 and Manny could find himself in the same spot as former teammate Nomar Garciaparra — on the verge of forced retirement.
Manny already killed a certain case for the Hall of Fame with his positive drug test. If he doesn’t show his old form, his reputation will be hurt even more because many will believe his entire career was built on performance-enhancing drugs.
His best chance to remove some of the doubts is with a productive year. A strong spring is the best way to begin.
Stan McNeal is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at smcneal@sportingnews.com.
Michael Vick wants a chance to start, and more than a handful of NFL teams need a starting quarterback. The Philadelphia Eagles, with Donovan McNabb and Kevin Kolb ahead of him on the depth chart, are in a position to grant Vick’s wish.
Michael Vick wants to be a starter; there are plenty of trade options for the Eagles.
If the Eagles trade Vick, it will happen before March 5, when a $1.5 million roster bonus is due. Including the bonus, he is due to be paid $5.25 million in 2010, the final year of his contract.
The Eagles could command as much as a third-round pick for Vick. So, which teams should be most aggressive in trying to pry away Vick?
St. Louis Rams
This makes sense on a lot of levels: The Rams need a quarterback, Vick likes playing in dome stadiums and Vick’s arrival would spark fan interest.
Playing with Steven Jackson, one of the NFL’s best running backs, would take pressure off Vick to carry an offense that was 29th in the league last season. Rams GM Billy Devaney was in the Falcons’ front office when Vick was in his heyday, so he certainly knows his value.
"The Rams have already hinted that they have an interest," said Charley Casserly, a former NFL general manager and current CBS analyst. "They’re in a position where they have to keep an open mind and discuss it seriously."
The Rams have the No. 1-overall pick in the draft, but there is not a quarterback worthy of that spot. Why not acquire Vick and see if he still has what it takes to be a winning quarterback? It wouldn’t be much of a gamble for the Rams, who have not had a winning season since 2003.
Trent Edwards is an incumbent, but the Bills could do better with Vick at QB.
Buffalo Bills
Trent Edwards and Ryan Fitzpatrick are the quarterback options for new coach Chan Gailey. The coach said he needs to watch more film of Edwards and Fitzpatrick before deciding where the Bills stand at the position.
"I know both guys have had some success playing in the NFL, but they have not done it for a length of time with consistency," Gailey said Thursday. "So can they? We’re going to decide that.
"This is a quarterback-driven league at this point. It hasn’t always been that way, but it seems to have become more so in the last decade or so. You have to have a quality player there. It does not have to be a big-name player. You just have to have quality production. That’s the decision you’re trying to make."
When Gailey turns off the videotape of Edwards and Fitzpatrick, he should instruct new GM Buddy Nix to call the Eagles and ask about Vick. Considering the Bills’ offensive line issues, a mobile quarterback like Vick could be a better fit.
Oakland Raiders
Everybody except owner Al Davis seems convinced that JaMarcus Russell, the No. 1-overall pick of the ’07 draft, is a bust. Bruce Gradkowski was their best quarterback last season, but he is a restricted free agent.
Adding Vick would give the Raiders an alternative should Russell continue to struggle. Despite the Raiders’ huge financial commitment Russell, he has looked better in one of his fur coats than he has on the field.
Davis loves guys who can run and quarterbacks who can throw deep. Vick does both.
Raiders czar Al Davis has a crush on Jamarcus Russell, a poor man’s Vick.
Meanwhile, new offensive coordinator Hue Jackson has a superb reputation working with quarterbacks and likely would relish the chance to work with both Russell and Vick.
Carolina Panthers
Jake Delhomme imploded last season, and the Panthers were better with Matt Moore at quarterback. But is Moore good enough to lead them to the playoffs? Think about Vick, handing off to DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart and throwing to Steve Smith.
Coach John Fox is in the last year his contract and probably will not return unless the Panthers improve on last season’s 8-8 record. Vick is not a perfect quarterback, but he could be a better than Delhomme or Moore.
"The Panthers were not interested in Vick last year," Casserly said. "I’m not sure anything has changed, but we’ll see."
Arizona Cardinals
Kurt Warner’s retirement leaves Matt Leinart as the Cardinals’ starting quarterback. The Cardinals must bring in a veteran anyway, at least in a backup capacity. Why not Vick?
Yes, Vick’s presence could create an instant quarterback controversy and would leave Leinart looking over his shoulder. But if Leinart is injured or is not ready to be a full-time starter, can current backup Brian St. Pierre pick up the slack?
Having Vick could make the difference between winning the NFC West, or not.
This story appears in Feb. 12’s edition of Sporting News Today. If you are not receiving Sporting News Today, the only daily digital sports newspaper, sign up today.
Michael Vick wants a chance to start, and more than a handful of NFL teams need a starting quarterback. The Philadelphia Eagles, with Donovan McNabb and Kevin Kolb ahead of him on the depth chart, are in a position to grant Vick’s wish.
Michael Vick wants to be a starter; there are plenty of trade options for the Eagles.
If the Eagles trade Vick, it will happen before March 5, when a $1.5 million roster bonus is due. Including the bonus, he is due to be paid $5.25 million in 2010, the final year of his contract.
The Eagles could command as much as a third-round pick for Vick. So, which teams should be most aggressive in trying to pry away Vick?
St. Louis Rams
This makes sense on a lot of levels: The Rams need a quarterback, Vick likes playing in dome stadiums and Vick’s arrival would spark fan interest.
Playing with Steven Jackson, one of the NFL’s best running backs, would take pressure off Vick to carry an offense that was 29th in the league last season. Rams GM Billy Devaney was in the Falcons’ front office when Vick was in his heyday, so he certainly knows his value.
"The Rams have already hinted that they have an interest," said Charley Casserly, a former NFL general manager and current CBS analyst. "They’re in a position where they have to keep an open mind and discuss it seriously."
The Rams have the No. 1-overall pick in the draft, but there is not a quarterback worthy of that spot. Why not acquire Vick and see if he still has what it takes to be a winning quarterback? It wouldn’t be much of a gamble for the Rams, who have not had a winning season since 2003.
Trent Edwards is an incumbent, but the Bills could do better with Vick at QB.
Buffalo Bills
Trent Edwards and Ryan Fitzpatrick are the quarterback options for new coach Chan Gailey. The coach said he needs to watch more film of Edwards and Fitzpatrick before deciding where the Bills stand at the position.
"I know both guys have had some success playing in the NFL, but they have not done it for a length of time with consistency," Gailey said Thursday. "So can they? We’re going to decide that.
"This is a quarterback-driven league at this point. It hasn’t always been that way, but it seems to have become more so in the last decade or so. You have to have a quality player there. It does not have to be a big-name player. You just have to have quality production. That’s the decision you’re trying to make."
When Gailey turns off the videotape of Edwards and Fitzpatrick, he should instruct new GM Buddy Nix to call the Eagles and ask about Vick. Considering the Bills’ offensive line issues, a mobile quarterback like Vick could be a better fit.
Oakland Raiders
Everybody except owner Al Davis seems convinced that JaMarcus Russell, the No. 1-overall pick of the ’07 draft, is a bust. Bruce Gradkowski was their best quarterback last season, but he is a restricted free agent.
Adding Vick would give the Raiders an alternative should Russell continue to struggle. Despite the Raiders’ huge financial commitment Russell, he has looked better in one of his fur coats than he has on the field.
Davis loves guys who can run and quarterbacks who can throw deep. Vick does both.
Raiders czar Al Davis has a crush on Jamarcus Russell, a poor man’s Vick.
Meanwhile, new offensive coordinator Hue Jackson has a superb reputation working with quarterbacks and likely would relish the chance to work with both Russell and Vick.
Carolina Panthers
Jake Delhomme imploded last season, and the Panthers were better with Matt Moore at quarterback. But is Moore good enough to lead them to the playoffs? Think about Vick, handing off to DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart and throwing to Steve Smith.
Coach John Fox is in the last year his contract and probably will not return unless the Panthers improve on last season’s 8-8 record. Vick is not a perfect quarterback, but he could be a better than Delhomme or Moore.
"The Panthers were not interested in Vick last year," Casserly said. "I’m not sure anything has changed, but we’ll see."
Arizona Cardinals
Kurt Warner’s retirement leaves Matt Leinart as the Cardinals’ starting quarterback. The Cardinals must bring in a veteran anyway, at least in a backup capacity. Why not Vick?
Yes, Vick’s presence could create an instant quarterback controversy and would leave Leinart looking over his shoulder. But if Leinart is injured or is not ready to be a full-time starter, can current backup Brian St. Pierre pick up the slack?
Having Vick could make the difference between winning the NFC West, or not.
This story appears in Feb. 12’s edition of Sporting News Today. If you are not receiving Sporting News Today, the only daily digital sports newspaper, sign up today.
Fantasy Source’s top 10 fantasy quarterbacks for 2010:
1. Drew Brees, Saints
2. Aaron Rodgers, Packers
3. Peyton Manning, Colts
4. Philip Rivers, Chargers
5. Tom Brady, Patriots
6. Tony Romo, Cowboys
7. Matt Schaub, Texans
8. Ben Roethlisberger, Steelers
9. Brett Favre, Vikings
10. Donovan McNabb, Eagles
For the full ranking of quarterbacks and much more, visit Fantasy Source.
Fantasy Source’s top 10 fantasy quarterbacks for 2010:
1. Drew Brees, Saints
2. Aaron Rodgers, Packers
3. Peyton Manning, Colts
4. Philip Rivers, Chargers
5. Tom Brady, Patriots
6. Tony Romo, Cowboys
7. Matt Schaub, Texans
8. Ben Roethlisberger, Steelers
9. Brett Favre, Vikings
10. Donovan McNabb, Eagles
For the full ranking of quarterbacks and much more, visit Fantasy Source.
Sporting News staff reports
The Reds have won the bidding for hard-throwing Cuban left-hander Aroldis Chapman.
Cincinnati has agreed to a $25 million major league contract with Chapman, according to the Cincinnati Enquirer. The pact, which will become official if Chapman passes a physical this week, is for five years with a player option for a sixth. The club, though, will make payments over 10 years, the newspaper reports.
Chapman, 22, has been in high demand since defecting last July, but Cincinnati was not considered his likely destination. Last week, the Blue Jays and Angels appeared to be the front-runners. Teams like the Marlins, Yankees and Red Sox had dropped out in recent days.
There is debate in baseball circles about Chapman’s readiness to pitch in the big leagues. The Enquirer reports the Reds believe Chapman could reach the majors sometime in 2010.
What isn’t in dispute is his raw ability; he regularly touches 100 mph with his fastball and complements the pitch with a mid-80s slider.
"He’s the real deal," a scout told ESPNBoston.com last week. "He’s not ready for the big leagues yet, but he has a fabulous arm. His slider is going to be a plus pitch, and though he has no feel yet for the changeup, his arm action is good, and that could come with time."
Sporting News staff reports
The Reds have won the bidding for hard-throwing Cuban left-hander Aroldis Chapman.
Cincinnati has agreed to a $25 million major league contract with Chapman, according to the Cincinnati Enquirer. The pact, which will become official if Chapman passes a physical this week, is for five years with a player option for a sixth. The club, though, will make payments over 10 years, the newspaper reports.
Chapman, 22, has been in high demand since defecting last July, but Cincinnati was not considered his likely destination. Last week, the Blue Jays and Angels appeared to be the front-runners. Teams like the Marlins, Yankees and Red Sox had dropped out in recent days.
There is debate in baseball circles about Chapman’s readiness to pitch in the big leagues. The Enquirer reports the Reds believe Chapman could reach the majors sometime in 2010.
What isn’t in dispute is his raw ability; he regularly touches 100 mph with his fastball and complements the pitch with a mid-80s slider.
"He’s the real deal," a scout told ESPNBoston.com last week. "He’s not ready for the big leagues yet, but he has a fabulous arm. His slider is going to be a plus pitch, and though he has no feel yet for the changeup, his arm action is good, and that could come with time."
