Mailbag: Where will Tracy end up?

10/24/2005
Chad Tracy has played third base, first base, right field and left field. Which is he best at? -- Felix, Tucson, Ariz.
My personal opinion is that Tracy is best at first base. When he played third for the D-Backs in 2004, he made 25 errors, many of which were throwing errors. He admitted that, after he struggled some with his throwing, he developed a little case of the "yips." He has soft hands, and when the Diamondbacks moved him to first at the start of last year and he no longer had to make the throw across the diamond, he became a very dependable defender.
That's not to say that he couldn't work out his throwing issues if he moved back to third, but I think the best spot for him is at first. With the tremendous year he had at the plate last year, I'd stick him at first base and leave him alone.
Do you think the Diamondbacks are going to trade Luis Gonzalez and Troy Glaus to the Red Sox for Manny Ramirez? -- Mary, Phoenix
I'd have to say it's unlikely, Mary. I know it's been said that Arizona would be attractive to Ramirez because his former agent, Jeff Moorad, is the D-Backs' general partner. With Ramirez having three more years left on a deal that averages around $17 million a year, that's a pretty big price tag for a guy who, though he's had a history of putting up big numbers, has also been a distraction at times when he's unhappy.
More than that, though, I don't see Gonzalez waiving his no-trade clause unless the team to which he's being traded agrees to pick up his option for 2007 at $10 million. That's a lot of money for a team to agree to pick up, so, again, I don't think it will be easy for the D-Backs to trade Gonzo this offseason.
You really think Craig Counsell can play shortstop? -- Javier, Surprise, Ariz.
I think he did a pretty decent job there in 2004 for the Brewers, and if the D-Backs don't think Stephen Drew is ready, and if they can't re-sign Royce Clayton for a year, I think Counsell could be plugged in there for a while, with Alex Cintron playing second.
Do the Diamondbacks have a chance to get Brian Cashman as their GM? -- Spencer, New York, N.Y.
It appears the Diamondbacks did ask the Yankees for permission to talk to Cashman, but it was denied. They also had interest in Yankees vice president Mark Newman, but were denied permission to speak to him as well. That pretty much puts Newman out of the running, because his contract runs through Dec. 31, 2006.
Cashman, on the other hand, is free to talk to other teams after his contract expires on Oct. 31. I don't think Cashman will wind up with Arizona, though. First, there's still a good chance he'll re-sign with the Yankees, and, second, he reportedly wants to stay on the East Coast.

Source: http://arizona.diamondbacks.mlb.com/

List of GM candidates shrinks

10/26/2005
PHOENIX -- It appears the list of candidates to become the next Diamondbacks general manager has been reduced by one.
According to a source, Nationals general manager Jim Bowden, who interviewed a couple of weeks ago for the Arizona job, will sign a six-month extension with the club that will run through April 2006. At that time, the new ownership of the Nationals will decide if it wants to keep Bowden.
With Bowden out of the picture, that leaves Arizona's search down to five known candidates, with Boston assistant GM Josh Byrnes beginning to emerge as the front-runner.
Detroit's Al Avila, White Sox executive David Wilder, San Diego GM Kevin Towers and D-Backs interim GM Bob Gebhard are the other candidates.
With the interview process apparently complete, Arizona officials have huddled over the past couple of days to discuss their options. The club cannot announce their new general manager until the end of the World Series, and it may elect to wait until Brian Cashman's situation with the Yankees and Theo Epstein's situation in Boston are resolved.
MLB.com reported last weekend that the Diamondbacks asked for and were denied permission to speak with Cashman, but his contract expires on Oct. 31, and he would then be free to talk to other teams. Baseball observers, though, expect Cashman to return to the Bronx.
Things aren't as clear with Epstein in Boston. Ironically, if Epstein decides to leave the Red Sox, it could hurt the Diamondbacks chances of landing Byrnes, as he would almost certainly be a candidate to replace Epstein.
Byrnes is highly regarded in baseball circles as being able to blend statistical analysis with that of traditional baseball scouting. He previously worked under John Hart in Cleveland, where he was a scouting director at age 27, before spending three years as the assistant GM in Colorado under Dan O'Dowd.

Source: http://arizona.diamondbacks.mlb.com/

D-Backs prospects on Ball in AFL

10/28/2005
Jarred Ball has an eight-game hitting streak, and he's batted safely in 12 of his last 13 contests. This past week, the 22-year-old outfielder, batting leadoff for the Phoenix Desert Dogs, went 8-for-21 (.381) with three runs, a double and a stolen base.
Ball is now batting .339 with a team-high 20 hits. He's also compiled a .443 on-base percentage while reaching base via hit or walk in all 15 of his games.
Here's how the other Diamondbacks prospects fared during the week of Oct. 21-27:
C Phil Avlas: A recent replacement for the injured Miguel Montero, Avlas struck out in his only at bat of the season.
RHP Casey Daigle: Daigle has pitched exactly one inning in each of his eight appearances this season. Last week, the former first-round draft pick had two scoreless outings before giving up two runs on four hits in his last game. Along the way, he earned his third save to tie him with Solar Sox closer John Koronka for the league lead.
SS Stephen Drew: Another former first-rounder, Drew went 4-for-21 (.190) with a triple, a homer and four runs scored. His season average dropped from .405 to .328.
OF Alex Frazier: Frazier is having a rough time in the desert. In his only game, the 24-year-old Floridian went 0-for-3 with a walk and a strikeout. He has one hit in 15 at-bats for a .067 average this season.
LHP Bill Murphy: The former third-round draft pick suffered his first loss in his only start last week. Murphy yielded five runs -- four earned -- on five hits while walking three and striking out seven over 4 1/3 innings.
LHP Doug Slaten: Slaten tossed one inning in each of his two relief appearances. He pitched scoreless ball against the Solar Sox on Oct. 22, and surrendered a run on two hits versus the Rafters three days later. Overall, the 25-year-old Californian is 1-0 with an 8.00 ERA in nine innings.
IF Dan Uggla: Uggla has officially come back to earth. After swinging an unconsciously hot bat early in the season and holding a .500 batting average on Oct. 13, Uggla dropped to .290 as of Oct. 27. He followed a 2-for-16 week by going 2-for-17 last week. Both hits were doubles.

Source: http://arizona.diamondbacks.mlb.com/

Topps Players of the Year honored

11/01/2005
The Topps Company of New York, in conjunction with Minor League Baseball, announced its George M. Trautman Awards on Tuesday, awarded annually to the Player of the Year in each of 16 affiliated leagues. The 2005 winners represent 14 different Major League teams, including two each from the Arizona Diamondbacks and Milwaukee Brewers.
Topps Minor League Player of the Year Delmon Young (Devil Rays) headlines this year's list of winners. The 20-year-old outfielder took the honors in the Double-A Southern League after hitting .336 with 20 home runs and 71 RBIs in 84 games for the Montgomery Biscuits.
The other winners at the Double-A level were Mike Jacobs (Mets) of the Binghamton Mets in the Eastern League and Midland's Andre Ethier (Athletics) in the Texas League.
Tucson's Andy Green (Diamondbacks) was named the Triple-A Pacific Coast League Player of the Year after leading the circuit in hits (182), doubles (46), triples (13), extra-base hits (78) and runs (125). And Shane Victorino (Phillies) garnered the award in the International League with his breakout year at Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.
At the High Class A level, the Minors' home run king, Brandon Wood (Angels), was the California League recipient, coming on the heels of his 43-homer outburst for Rancho Cucamonga.
Leo Daigle's Triple Crown at Winston-Salem assured the White Sox farmhand of the award in the Carolina League and Lakeland's Brent Clevlen (Tigers) led the Florida State League in RBIs (102) and on-base percentage (.387).
In the Low-A ranks, Carlos Gonzales (Diamondbacks) finished in the Midwest League's top five in hits (158), runs (91) and RBIs (92), at the age of 19. He also helped lead the South Bend Silver Hawks to the MWL championship.
Matt Miller (Rockies) had a huge year for Asheville, hitting .330 with 30 homers and 100 RBIs, to win the Trautman Award in the South Atlantic League.
Short-season league winners were Ryan Patterson (Blue Jays) of the Auburn Doubledays in the New York-Penn League and Danville teammates Eric Campbell and Max Ramirez (Braves), who were named Co-Players of the Year in the Appalachian League.
Rookie League recipients included Spokane's Steve Murphy (Rangers) in the Northwest League, Helena's Angel Salome (Brewers) in the Pioneer League, Dodgers prospect Eduardo Perez in the Gulf Coast League and Milwaukee's Lorenzo Cain in the Arizona Summer League.

Source: http://arizona.diamondbacks.mlb.com/

Mailbag: Who will be the new coach?

10/31/2005
Who are the candidates for the opening on the coaching staff?-- Daniel A.
The candidates, as first reported on MLB.com, were former coach Dwayne Murphy, Minor League outfield coordinator Lee Tinsley, former Cubs Minor League instructor Vince Coleman and Triple-A Tucson manager Chip Hale. Tinsley won out and could be named first-base coach as soon as Monday. He was selected for a number of reasons, one of which is that the club likes to promote from within, and he also had the edge over Hale because he was an outfielder during his playing career and, in addition to being the first-base coach, the person who holds that position also works with the outfielders.
Do you think that Russ Ortiz will stay in the starting rotation or will he be a middle reliever? He was 5-11 as a starter. Also, do you think that his broken rib had anything to do with his pitching problems?-- Emmaleigh C., Roane Co., W.Va.
I think it's a safe bet that Ortiz will be in the starting rotation come Opening Day. He's owed $7 million next year and a total of $16 million in 2007 and 2008, so I think the club will be very careful in writing him off just yet. As for his broken rib, I'm sure that the two months he spent on the DL did not help his effectiveness, but he had struggled earlier in the year as well. I think his biggest problem last year was simply his command. He fell behind hitters way too often and walked too many batters. Whether he can rebound next year, I don't know, but you can count on the team giving him every opportunity to do so.
Is there a chance that the D-Backs will pick up Jeff Weaver or do a trade for a good pitcher like Kerry Wood?-- Jered, Apache Junction, Ariz.
How active the Diamondbacks are in terms of going after a top free agent pitcher or trading for one will depend on whether or not Javier Vazquez exercises his right to demand a trade. If he doesn't, I don't see the Diamondbacks going after a top-of-the-rotation starter. Keep in mind the free agent pitching market is a little thin this year and that means that the price for the few really good ones will be very high.
Royce Clayton was one of the three or four best players for the D-Backs last season. Alex Cintron, however, is the one who will bring the greatest rewards in a trade. Why is there hesitation in trading Cintron and signing Clayton to a two- or three-year deal? Also, why talk about trading Luis Gonzalez now, instead of after his 50-plus homer season when he was a hot property? Am I missing something here?-- Allen M.
I'm not sure that if you look at Clayton's numbers you could say he was one of the best three or four players the D-Backs had last year, but you are right when you say that Cintron could bring a good return on the trade market. I can tell you in two words why they don't want to sign Clayton long term: Stephen Drew. Drew has played well in the Arizona Fall League and some feel he could be ready for the big leagues on Opening Day. Certainly at this point it doesn't look like he will need another full year in the Minors, and if you signed Clayton to a three-year deal, where are you going to play Drew?
As for trading Gonzalez, the reason there has been talk about trading him is because his production has gone down and they have young outfielders coming up through the Minors for whom they would like to find a spot.

Source: http://arizona.diamondbacks.mlb.com/

Tinsley named D-Backs' first-base coach

11/01/2005
PHOENIX -- The Diamondbacks filled out their Major League coaching staff Tuesday when they named Lee Tinsley first-base coach.
Tinsley, who has spent the past three years as the organization's Minor League outfield coordinator, will also work with the club's outfielders. He takes the place of Brett Butler, who filled a similar role in 2005.
The 36-year-old played 14 years in professional baseball, which included time in the big leagues with the Mariners, Red Sox and Phillies. In 361 Major League games, Tinsley compiled a .261 career average with 13 homers and 79 RBIs.
Tinsley made his coaching debut in 2001 with the Diamondbacks' Double-A affiliate in El Paso.
Tinsley will be one of two new faces on the coaching staff as Bryan Price was named pitching coach last month, replacing Mark Davis.
In other news, recently named general manager Josh Byrnes began reshaping the D-Backs' baseball operations staff by naming Jerry Dipoto director of professional scouting.
In the newly created position, Dipoto will oversee all aspects of professional scouting, including the evaluation of Minor League talent, and will report directly to Byrnes. The 37-year-old recently completed his first season as director of professional scouting for the Rockies. Before that, he spent two years in the scouting department of the Red Sox.
Dipoto pitched for eight seasons in the big leagues, the last four of which were with the Rockies from 1997-2000. The right-hander was forced to retire in the spring of 2001 due to a bulging disc in his neck.
Still unclear is the status of scouting director Mike Rizzo and assistant GM/farm director Bob Miller, who saw their contracts expire Oct. 31. Many believe that Rizzo will be re-signed, but are less certain about Miller.

Source: http://arizona.diamondbacks.mlb.com/

D-Backs name Byrnes new GM

10/29/2005
PHOENIX -- Before they began drawing up a list of candidates to interview for their general manager's job, Diamondbacks managing general partner Ken Kendrick and general partner Jeff Moorad first came up with the profile of their ideal GM.
They wanted someone with a background in player evaluation and development, someone with character, intelligence and leadership skills.
And after interviewing seven candidates, they felt like they found their man in Red Sox assistant GM Josh Byrnes.
"At the end of the day, we think we did an outstanding job of finding someone that met every one of those needs in a way that each of the three of us that made this decision together were unanimous in our choice," Kendrick said referring to he, Moorad and team president Rich Dozer.
Brynes impressed the Diamondbacks with his preparation for the interview, during which he shared an intimate knowledge of their organization and its practices, some of which were even news to Kendrick and Moorad.
That should come as no surprise as the 35-year-old Byrnes is known for his preparation and attention to details. He has risen steadily through the baseball ranks -- first with the Cleveland Indians where he became one of the youngest scouting directors at the age of 27. He was the assistant GM with the Rockies for three seasons before filling a similar role with the Red Sox under Theo Epstein from 2003-2005.
"He's been an invaluable member of the Red Sox, both in terms of assembling our big league team and the behind-the-scenes work in scouting and player development," Epstein said of Byrnes. "We would not have won the World Series without him."
With baseball people seemingly split down the middle with those favoring statistical analysis on one side and those who rely on more traditional methods of scouting, Byrnes said he falls somewhere in the middle.
"I think everyone is declaring affiliations out there, and as I said, I like information," he said. "I think both are valuable. I think when they overlap as a decision maker, you feel like you've got a good process in place. When they don't connect, maybe you pull aside and look at another player or another move. I think I'll get my hands on as much information as I can, both subjective and objective."
For Byrnes, it all comes back to balance -- balancing old school vs. new school, wanting to win now but not at the expense of the future and balancing numbers vs. subjective judgment.
The team gave Byrnes a four-year deal with a club option for a fifth season and his first task will be to shape his baseball operations staff. The contracts of assistant GM/director of player development Bob Miller and scouting director Mike Rizzo are set to expire on Oct. 31, and Byrnes will have to decide whether to retain them.
Bob Gebhard, who filled the GM position on an interim basis after Joe Garagiola Jr. left to take a job with Major League Baseball in August, will likely stay on in some capacity. Byrnes talked with Gebhard about that on Friday and was set to meet with Miller later in the evening. He will spend the weekend talking with the rest of his staff.
"Until I sort of hear what was here and talk about job descriptions and my own expectations, it's hard to forecast what we're going to do," Byrnes said.
It wouldn't be surprising to see Brynes hire Jerry DiPoto in some capacity. The former pitcher has been the Rockies director of pro scouting and the two are close.
Byrnes spent some time talking with manager Bob Melvin, and though they hardly know each other, organizational insiders feel the two will get along fine as they both are highly intelligent and share a passion for learning.
"It was a good conversation," Byrnes said of the meeting. "We don't really know each other very well. I've heard great things about him so I'm looking forward to working with him."
While there's been talk that Moorad wants to continue to have a significant say in personnel decisions, both he and Kendrick said on Friday that their only interference would come if acquiring a player meant going over the club's payroll budget.
"For the most part, we have concluded when we looked at this profile that we needed to recognize that we aren't baseball guys [though] we are baseball fans and have a passion for the game," Kendrick said. "I've been one in my life who wanted to become associated with people who were expert and then who were given the responsibility and authority to act on their expertise. So for the most part, that's what we're going to do."
Speaking of payroll, Arizona's was around $57 million last year and will likely range between $60-$65 million this year. That's a far cry from what Byrnes was used to in Boston, but he said it's more than enough.
"I think, in this division, it will be a very competitive payroll," he said. "Again, it's only an obstacle to the extent that you want it to be. You can build a culture around what your payroll is, what it means, what kind of players you target. I think the payroll is more than enough to win games and win championships."

Source: http://arizona.diamondbacks.mlb.com/

Pitchers shine in recent AFL action

11/04/2005
It's hard to pitch better than Desert Dogs southpaw Bill Murphy did in his last start.
In his only game of the week on Nov. 1, the former third-round draft pick matched the Arizona Fall League's longest outing of the season, limiting the Scorpions to just one hit in six innings. He struck out 10 and did not walk a batter to move to 3-1 with a 4.07 ERA. In 24 1/3 innings this season, Murphy has fanned 33 batters, good for a first-place tie with Surprise's Scott Mathieson.
Here's how the rest of the Diamondbacks' prospects fared during the week of Oct. 28 to Nov. 3:
C Phil Avlas -- Avlas has not played since he struck out in his only at-bat of the season on Oct. 25.
OF Jarred Ball -- After going 1-for-7 in his first two games, Ball went 2-for-3 against the Scorpions on Nov. 2 with two runs, two RBIs, a double and a triple to raise his season average to .333.
RHP Casey Daigle -- The Desert Dogs closer made three appearances, tossing one inning in each. His only earned run allowed came against the Scorpions on Nov. 2 when he recorded his league-leading fourth save.
SS Stephen Drew -- Drew collected at least one hit in every game but still saw his batting average drop three points to .324. The former first-round draft pick sandwiched a 2-for-3 around two 1-for-5 performances to finish the week 4-for-13 (.308) with two runs, a double, two RBIs and a stolen base.
OF Alex Frazier -- After starting this season 1-for-15 (.067), Frazier went 1-for-3 in each of his two games this past week and made each of those hits count. On Oct. 29, he ripped a two-run triple against the Javelinas and followed that with a three-run homer against the Scorpions four days later. While Frazier has just three hits and a .143 batting average this season, he's walked five times and knocked in nine runs.
LHP Doug Slaten -- Slaten made three relief appearances, pitching one inning in each. On Oct. 28, he surrendered three hits to the Scorpions but escaped without allowing a run by striking out the side. The 25-year-old Californian pitched scoreless ball in his other two outings to lower his ERA to 6.00.
IF Dan Uggla -- After seeing his batting average tumble to a season-low .290 on Oct. 27, Uggla, who plays for Peoria, responded by going on a 7-for-19 tear, including a two-out, two-run home run in the bottom of the ninth that gave the Javelinas a 3-2 victory over the Saguaros on Nov. 1.

Source: http://arizona.diamondbacks.mlb.com/

Mailbag: Who's closing in the desert?

11/07/2005
Will the D-Backs try and get Billy Wagner as their closer for next year or will they leave the job to Papa Grande (Jose Valverde) and search for other players for the bullpen? -- T.J., Tempe, Ariz.
I don't see the Diamondbacks going after Billy Wagner. It seems more than likely he'll re-sign in Philadelphia and will get a lot of money to do so. Bob Melvin talked at the end of the year about Valverde being his closer in 2006 and unless new GM Josh Byrnes has other thoughts, I think that's what you'll see come Opening Day.
Do you think the bullpen problems of the last few years will be corrected by Bryan Price or will there be a clear-out and a rebuild?-- Dave P., Cardiff, UK
First off Dave, it's great to know that you're keeping up on the D-Backs from all the way across the Atlantic. To answer your question, I don't think that the club feels that the addition of Price will solve the bullpen problems. I think they know that they simply need better pitchers and not just a different pitching coach. One of the things that general partner Jeff Moorad said at the end of the season is that the team was committed to having as much of a "bulletproof" bullpen as possible in 2006. While I think you'll still see Valverde as the closer and some of the younger arms the team likes there next year, the team will also try to supplement that with some quality veteran arms such as a Tim Worrell, who pitched very well for them down the stretch.
I would like to ask, are there any big names or decent names the D-Backs could go after in a trade or free agency? Manny Ramirez would be great. And Stephen Drew should start on Opening Day. And lastly, I'm really looking forward to seeing Justin Upton, who they say is the next A-Rod or Griffey. When will he be up and at what position?-- Dan R., Scottsdale, Ariz.
First things first Dan, they've got to get Justin Upton signed before we can know how long it will take him to reach the Majors and at what position. There hasn't been much going on with those negotiations and they may not heat up for a little while yet. As for his position, the Diamondbacks viewed him as a shortstop when they drafted him. Some scouts, though, have said he has the skills to play center field. Only time will tell.
I wouldn't count on seeing Manny Ramirez in a D-Backs uniform for reasons I outlined in last week's mailbag. And as for free agents, maybe someone like catcher Ramon Hernandez might make sense, but unless Arizona unloads one of its high-dollar contracts (Russ Ortiz, Troy Glaus, Luis Gonzalez), I don't think you'll see them pursue what you might think is a big-name free agent. The market is pretty thin this year and there a bunch of teams with money to spend and that will only drive the salaries higher.
The mediocre year and disappointment at season's finale appears to be the work of Bob Melvin. Shouldn't the D-Backs start looking for new manager?-- Howard B., Window Rock, Ariz.
The Diamondbacks had a mediocre year last year because they didn't hit well in the clutch, weren't balanced on offense and pitched very poorly in relief. It wasn't because of Melvin, who did an excellent job communicating. I think it was telling that the team played well down the stretch because it showed they had not quit on their manager, which they easily could have done.

Source: http://arizona.diamondbacks.mlb.com/

D-Backs looking to charge battery

11/09/2005
PHOENIX -- Josh Byrnes barely had time to unpack his suitcase in the Valley before he was due to head out of town again.
The newly named Diamondbacks GM spent last week back in the Boston area, gathering his family's belongings and preparing for their move to Phoenix. He was back in his Chase Field office Friday to continue his work restructuring the baseball operations staff.
Then it was off to the GM meetings, where Byrnes will certainly talk with other teams about players, but will spend as much, if not more, continuing talks about his own players.
"We'll have a lot of internal discussions while we're there," Byrnes said. "More than you would normally have at the meetings."
That's because after three years as the assistant GM for the Red Sox, Byrnes is now in charge of trying to improve a Diamondbacks team that went 77-85 in 2005.
"I'm still in the information-gathering stage," Byrnes said. "It's important that I talk to people who know the club better than I do."
As he has those discussions, Byrnes is likely to find he has several challenges facing him this offseason, among those are:
Shoring up the bullpen: Though it improved down the stretch, the bullpen was a sore spot for the club for much of the year. Jose Valverde did a nice job as the closer in the second half and Byrnes will have to decide whether he sticks with him or goes hunting for an established veteran like Trevor Hoffman.
Even if the D-Backs go with Valverde, which is highly likely, they would like to add some veteran depth in the bullpen. Tim Worrell, who pitched well for Arizona in September, would be a good fit, and the D-Backs have already begun discussions with his agent about bringing the right-hander back.
Bucking up the backstop: The Diamondbacks got very little production offensively out of their catchers in 2005. Chris Snyder, who wound up getting the bulk of the playing time, earned manager Bob Melvin's respect for his work behind the plate and handling the staff, but hit just .202. Koyie Hill did not impress in his limited time, and while the club still has hopes that one or both will rebound, it's clear this is a position in need of an upgrade.
Ramon Hernandez and Bengie Molina are two of the higher-profile catchers on the free-agent market, but the Diamondbacks could wind up making a deal for a backstop, with Paul Lo Duca's name mentioned by some in the media.
Sorting out the outfield: The Diamondbacks have to decide what to do with the logjam they have of corner outfielders. Luis Gonzalez and Shawn Green are both under contract for next year and the club also has promising rookie Carlos Quentin. In addition, if Conor Jackson plays first, Chad Tracy would have to move to the outfield.
It's possible that Arizona would have Quentin play center with Gonzalez in left and Green in right, but then it would have to either platoon Tracy and Jackson at first (and let's not forget about 30-homer man Tony Clark) or trade one of them.
The club could also decide to play Green in center and Tracy in right, start Quentin off in the Minors and platoon Clark and Jackson at first. But that scenario really weakens the D-Backs defensively.
The many different scenarios and possible trades they would open up are certain to occupy Byrnes' mind this offseason.
"Just looking at it initially, I would say we want to improve up the middle," Byrnes said. "We'd also like to add some depth to the bullpen and inject a little speed on the team."

Source: http://arizona.diamondbacks.mlb.com/

D-Backs' Vazquez requests trade

11/11/2005
PHOENIX -- Javier Vazquez may have thrown his final pitch in a Diamondbacks uniform.
The right-hander confirmed Friday that he has decided to exercise his right to request a trade, though a Diamondbacks official said a formal request had not been received by the club.
"I have decided for family and personal reasons to request a trade," Vazquez said in an email. "I thought about it carefully and at the end of the day it was too tough on my family to be out west."
As a player traded in the middle of a long-term contract, Vazquez had the right to request a trade. The Diamondbacks, who acquired Vazquez last January in a trade that sent Randy Johnson to the Yankees, have until March 15 to deal the right-hander. If they do not trade him by then, he can elect to become a free agent or he can rescind his trade request.
If he elects free agency, he would void the final two years remaining on his contract at a total of $24 million.
"I'm shocked," manager Bob Melvin said. "I didn't see this coming. I thought he was going to stay. I didn't really discuss it with him during the season; we talked about the present rather than the future."
Vazquez, who makes his offseason home in Puerto Rico, also has family there, as does his wife, Kamille. He had said throughout the season that if he decided to request a trade it would be because the travel from Arizona to Puerto Rico was too arduous for his wife and children.
That appears to be what happened, as he told ESPN.com: "The toughest thing was that flight [from Arizona to Puerto Rico], especially with two young kids [ages 1 and 2] who have to move around and can't be still for two seconds. It was a whole-day trip. You leave at 9 [a.m.] and get in at 9-10 o'clock at night, and then have another hour and 20-minute ride to our house. It was just very hard. ... So for me and my family, it would just be easier to be closer to the East Coast."
With that in mind, the report said he wants to go to a team east of the Mountain Time Zone.
Vazquez was the Diamondbacks' Opening Day starter in 2005 and compiled an 11-15 record and a 4.42 ERA in 33 starts.
"I had a lot of thinking to do because I had a lot of fun with my teammates," Vazquez said. "Hopefully it'll all work out for both parties."
While trading Vazquez would open up a hole in the starting rotation, depending on who they receive back in a trade it could give the Diamondbacks some money to spend. The right-hander is set to make $11.5 million next year and $12.5 million in 2007.
"We've been given the indication and are aware of the probability but have not received an official request at this time," Diamondbacks spokesperson Derrick Hall said. "If we do receive that request we will investigate all of our options and [GM Josh Byrnes] and his staff will do what's in the best interests of the Arizona Diamondbacks."

Source: http://arizona.diamondbacks.mlb.com/

Drew struts his stuff in AFL

11/12/2005
PHOENIX -- Stephen Drew put up huge numbers all season but cranked it up a notch at the end.
In the final week of the Arizona Fall League campaign, the Phoenix Desert Dogs shortstop collected hits in four of five games, going 7-for-18 (.389) with a double, three triples, a home run and six RBIs.
Drew, the younger brother of Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder J.D. Drew, finished with a .337 average to go with six homers, 17 RBIs and 25 runs scored in 23 games. His four triples tied him for the league lead, while his .708 slugging percentage ranked second.
Drew led Phoenix to an AFL title game win over the Surprise Scorpions.
Here's how the Diamondbacks' other prospects performed during the final week:
C Phil Avlas -- In his only game, Avlas -- a recent replacement for the injured Miguel Montero -- went 2-for-4 with a run scored. He struck out in his only other at-bat of the season.
OF Jarred Ball -- Ball went 4-for-15 with a run scored and an RBI. The 22-year-old Texan finished the season at .321 with two homers, 13 RBIs and 17 runs scored.
RHP Casey Daigle -- The former first-round draft pick allowed two unearned runs in the title game, and made two relief appearances, tossing a scoreless inning in each, in the run up to Saturday. Daigle picked up a win in his first outing and notched his league-leading fifth save in the regular-season finale, ending up 2-0 with a 3.46 ERA.
OF Alex Frazier -- Things never got better for Frazier. The 24-year-old Floridian went 1-for-6 this week to finish with a .148 batting average. Although he managed just four hits all season, he collected 10 RBIs. Half of his hits went for extra bases -- a triple and a homer.
LHP Bill Murphy -- Murphy went from fantastic to forgettable. In his only start since one-hitting the Surprise Scorpions on Nov. 1, the former third-round draft pick was rocked for eight runs on 12 hits -- and the loss -- in three innings to finish 3-2 with a 6.26 ERA. His 36 strikeouts ranked second in the AFL.
LHP Doug Slaten -- Slaten got a scoreless third of an inning in the title game on Saturday, and tossed 2 1/3 innings and recorded seven strikeouts in the regular-season's final week. He wasn't unhittable, however, as he surrendered one run in each of his two relief appearances. In the second game, he earned the win to finish 2-0 with a 6.28 ERA and 13 strikeouts in 14 1/3 frames.
IF Dan Uggla -- Uggla has done more rebounding than Ben Wallace this season. After his average dropped to a season-low .286 on Nov. 7, the 25-year-old responded with five hits in his next 11 at-bats to get back over .300 at .304. Three of those five hits were for extra bases.

Source: http://arizona.diamondbacks.mlb.com/

Gonzalez nabs Branch Rickey Award

11/12/2005
DENVER -- Arizona Diamondbacks outfielder Luis Gonzalez stayed quiet after Hurricane Katrina caused devastation in the Southeastern U.S., but don't confuse that with suffering in silence.
"I actually was on a road trip, so when I got home they were sending people to Houston, where I played for a long time, and they actually sent a bunch of the victims of Katrina to Phoenix," said Gonzalez, who played college baseball at the University of South Alabama in Mobile and was familiar with the areas affected. "I went down to the convention center, served food, spent a day over there, bought some televisions and PlayStation games for the kids.
"They'd just had a major tragedy and had nothing to do but sit in there and ponder that. I just wanted to do something small, minute. I'm a human being, too. I'm more than aware of what's going on in the world. I think a lot of athletes are special like that, they like to give back."
Gonzalez made his contribution without drawing notice.
"No TV cameras, no press, no public spotlight at all," Diamondbacks general partner Jeff Moorad noted. But such contributions were noted in a big way Saturday night, when Gonzalez was presented with the 14th annual Branch Rickey Award for humanitarian service at the Marriott Denver City Center.
Gonzalez has donated time and money to several organizations, such as Kids Going Gonzo for School, Arizona Quest for Kids, the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Phoenix Family Museum, Boys and Girls Clubs, Phoenix Children's Hospital, Sunshine Acres, Phoenix Fire Department and the Brain Injury Foundation. On top of that, Gonzalez and his wife, Christine, are parents of triplets. Also, in January 2003, President George W. Bush appointed Gonzalez to serve on the President's Council on Service and Civic Participation.
The award is a project of the Rotary Club of Denver, which also inducts the winner into its Humanitarian Hall of Fame. So prestigious is the award that Commissioner Bud Selig visited Denver to present Gonzalez with the bronze statue. The Branch Rickey Award program and awards banquet are benefits for Denver Kids, a program benefiting at-risk students in Denver Public Schools.
"It's one thing to be a great player, but it's another thing to be a great human being, and a great human being off the field," Selig said. "That's what Luis Gonzalez is. I'm proud to be the Commissioner of baseball when it has players like Luis Gonzalez."
Gonzalez is the third Diamondbacks representative to win the award. Pitcher Todd Stottlemyre won in 2000 and fellow pitcher Curt Schilling took it in 2001. In addition, longtime baseball executive Roland Hemond, who was associated with the Diamondbacks before returning to the Chicago White Sox, won it in 2003; and Brett Butler, now coaching in Arizona's Minor League system, took it as a player with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1996.
Manager Bob Melvin said Gonzalez helped establish the club's tradition of community service.
"Luis is an institution in Arizona and not only the face of our team but of our organization since he got here," Melvin said. "It has a lot to do with what he does on the field, being our MVP as a player, but also what he does off the field. If ever there was a giver, it's 'Gonzo.' He's out in the community all the time.
"And in his relationship with kids, you can see how he lights up. I just called him the other day and he's on a field trip with his kids. He's a guy that just loves to give back. We're fortunate to have a guy like that be the face of our organization."
Gonzalez is best-known for knocking a ninth-inning single to give the Diamondbacks the 2001 World Series title over the New York Yankees and being a four-time All-Star Game participant.
But Gonzalez might be better known as a player who personally puts effort into children's education.
In the Kids Going Gonzo for School program that he started six years ago, he rewards disadvantaged students for attending school, giving an effort and living by 'Gonzo's 20 Ground Rules,' and even speaks with teachers about the importance of the program.
Gonzalez also personally put his efforts and money behind another project, Luis Gonzalez Field in Tempe, Ariz. The Diamondbacks' foundation and APS (the public utility of Arizona) spearhead a project in which state-of-the-art Little League fields are named in honor of players. Gonzalez contributed $50,000.
"You do it because you want to make a difference," Gonzalez said. "You're going to play and put your numbers up, but when you're done there are going to be players that come right after you. Eventually, your name will go off into the past as far as being a baseball player. It's just the difference you make in the area that you play in."

Source: http://arizona.diamondbacks.mlb.com/

Mailbag: All Vazquez, all the time

11/14/2005
So Javier Vazquez comes to Phoenix and has a mediocre year and now he wants to leave? Is it for sure that he's not coming back next year?-- Paul W., Phoenix
Paul, while it may be likely that Vazquez will not return, it is not a sure thing. He has the right to request a trade since he was traded in the middle of a multiyear contract. But that doesn't mean it's going to happen. If the Diamondbacks don't find a trade to their liking, they could simply hang onto Vazquez until March 15, when he can elect to become a free agent or rescind his request.
This doesn't seem fair that a player can demand to be traded. Who negotiated this? This is a no-lose situation for him, and the Diamondbacks are the ones that lose their No. 1 starter. What do you think?-- Jacob, Glendale, Ariz.
The right of a player to request a trade when dealt in the middle of a long-term contract is something that is part of the Basic Agreement between the owners and players. As for it being a no-lose situation for Vazquez, I'm not so sure about that.
While he can request a trade, he doesn't have the right to refuse one. He can give the Diamondbacks a list of up to six teams to which he doesn't want to be traded. Let's assume he picks all the teams on the West Coast (Seattle, Oakland, San Francisco, Angels, Dodgers and San Diego). That means there are several teams to which he could be traded that do not play in pitcher-friendly ballparks (the Rockies and Rangers come to mind) or that he could be traded to a team that has really struggled in the standings, like, say, the Royals.
I'm not saying any of those are likely destinations, but they are possible. And keep in mind the team that trades for him has him under contract for the next two seasons and possibly the season after that as that team would have the right to offer him salary arbitration for the one year after his deal expires. That means he could have to spend the next three years in a place that might be less attractive than Arizona. That's a gamble on his part.
I'm worried that we are going to get halfway through Spring Training and then lose our best pitcher if Vazquez becomes a free agent on March 15. Can we get another pitcher at that point of the season?-- Ken R., Tucson, Ariz.
Ken, I don't think that's going to happen. My guess is that this situation gets resolved well before the March 15 deadline. First, with the limited amount of quality free-agent starting pitching this offseason, I think there will be a strong market for Vazquez. His $24 million in salary over the next two years will probably not be that far out of line given some of last year's signings and this year's thin class. Second, I'd be very surprised if he elected free agency. He'd be forfeiting that guaranteed $24 million in salary and teams don't usually have a lot of money sitting around in their budgets on March 15.

Source: http://arizona.diamondbacks.mlb.com/

Giants, D-Backs to host inaugural WBC

11/14/2005
PHOENIX -- The venue field for next year's inaugural World Baseball Classic was nearly completed on Monday, when it was announced that first-round games, which include the U.S., Canada, Mexico and South Africa, are scheduled to be played at Chase Field (the former Bank One Ballpark) and Scottsdale Stadium on March 9-11.
The other first-round pools are scheduled for the Tokyo Dome (March 3-6), Hiram Bithorn Stadium in San Juan and most probably the Disney complex in Orlando, Fla. Both the latter pools will be played concurrently with the pool in Arizona.
The second round is scheduled for March 13-15 in Puerto Rico and Angel Stadium in Anaheim with the semifinals and finals at San Diego's PETCO Park on March 18-20. Only the first-round games in Florida have yet to be formalized. Scottsdale Stadium is the Spring Training home of the San Francisco Giants, and Chase Field is the regular-season home of the Diamondbacks.
"The continued cooperation of the Diamondbacks and the Giants is another example of the great support from our clubs for the World Baseball Classic," Commissioner Bud Selig said in a release. "Chase Field and Scottsdale Stadium are fine facilities in prime locations, and we thank both clubs for their enthusiasm."
MLB International officials are at organizational meetings in Florida this week to be followed by the owners meetings on Wednesday and Thursday in Milwaukee. Last week in Indian Wells, Calif., Paul Archey, MLB's vice president of international business operations, addressed general managers about their WBC concerns.
A technical committee is expected to review pitch counts, roster size, eligibility and a number of other issues regarding the tournament, which includes 15 nations and the territory of Puerto Rico and will feature Major League players in international competition for the first time. Sixty-man rosters have to be submitted 45 days before the WBC begins. An estimated 270 Major League-affiliated players are expected to be involved in the tournament.
Bob Watson, MLB's vice president of on-field baseball operations and Team USA general manager, said this past weekend that his search for a U.S. manager is narrowing and could be completed shortly.
Buck Martinez, Don Baylor, Davey Johnson and Lou Piniella are among the top contenders, with Piniella being a late addition. Johnson is in the Phoenix area this week as manager of the U.S. team that will compete in an Olympic qualifier scheduled to be played from Tuesday to Saturday. Team USA, Mexico, Canada, Panama, Nicaragua and Guatemala are the participants.
"I need to have one more conference call," said Watson, who is in town for this week's Olympic qualifier. "Then we'll see what happens."
As far as the WBC is concerned, the U.S., Japan, Korea, Chinese Taipei, China, Canada, South Africa, the Netherlands, Italy, Venezuela, the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Panama and Australia have all accepted invitations. Cuba is still working out logistics, but will join the first-round pool in San Juan.
Don Fehr, the executive director of the Major League Baseball Players Association, said the tournament couldn't have better Western first-round venues than the two in Arizona. The retractable-domed Chase Field opened in 1998 for the Diamondbacks' first season and the new and improved Scottsdale Stadium opened in 1992 and began a wave of retro Spring Training parks that have now sprouted throughout the Phoenix area. The Scottsdale facility is currently under renovation and will be ready in time for Spring Training.
"We are pleased to have Chase Field and Scottsdale Stadium, two first-class baseball venues, play host to the inaugural games of the World Baseball Classic," Fehr said. "Launching the Classic in Arizona, which has long supported the sport on every level, will provide fans and players with a memorable experience."

Source: http://arizona.diamondbacks.mlb.com/

Spring starts with Sox, ends with Yanks

11/17/2005
PHOENIX -- The Diamondbacks open a 33-game Spring Training schedule against the world champion White Sox on March 2 at Tucson Electric Park, but it's the way they close out the spring that figures to draw the most attention.
Arizona will play host to the New York Yankees on March 31 and April 1 at Chase Field before opening the regular season April 3 in Colorado. March 31 will be a night game, while April 1 is an afternoon affair.
The ticket proceeds from the two exhibition games against the Yankees will benefit The Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation. It is the first time the two teams have met in exhibition play and the fourth time overall. The D-Backs beat the Yankees in a thrilling seven-game World Series in 2001 and visited the Bronx in June 2002 for a three-game series. New York came to Phoenix for a three-game set June 15-17, 2004.
Of the 33 games, 21 will take place in Tucson, Ariz., with 18 of those at TEP and the other three at Hi Corbett Field, home of the Rockies.
The Diamondbacks' first game in the Phoenix area will be March 7 against the Angels at Tempe Diablo Stadium. Arizona will play back-to-back games in the Valley March 9-10 against the Padres and Brewers and three straight from March 21-23 against the Mariners (twice) and Athletics.
The Diamondbacks get plenty of opportunity to test themselves against the world champion White Sox. With the two teams sharing TEP, they will face each other six times, including the first four games of the spring.

Source: http://arizona.diamondbacks.mlb.com/

Vazquez submits list of blocked teams

11/18/2005
PHOENIX -- It appears that if Javier Vazquez is traded by the Diamondbacks, it won't be to the Phillies, Rangers or Mariners.
An industry source told MLB.com that those are three of the six teams on Vazquez's list of clubs to which he cannot be traded. While not revealing the rest of the teams, the source said Seattle is the only team west of Arizona to be included on the list.
Diamondbacks general manager Josh Byrnes declined to comment on the list other than to say that the team had received it.
"We'll let any details come from their side," Byrnes said.
Vazquez's agent, Seth Levinson, reiterated his stance from last week that the request for a trade is based only on family considerations.
"Look, the Diamondbacks are a classy organization," Levinson said. "They are decent and respectful people. This has nothing to do with the Diamondbacks as an organization. Arizona is just a geographical nightmare for Javier."
When he requested the trade last weekend, which he is allowed to do as a veteran traded in the middle of a multiyear contract, Vazquez said he did so in hopes of being dealt to a team closer to his home in Puerto Rico. That's because his wife and small children travel frequently to and from Puerto Rico during the season.
Why, then, the Phillies, an East Coast team, would be on the list is not exactly known. It could be because Citizens Bank Park is regarded as a hitter's park, which could also explain why the Rangers, who play in Ameriquest Field, were also on the list. The Rangers' inclusion must have disappointed Arizona, which could have had interest in young catcher Gerald Laird.
At first glance, it seems odd that Vazquez would not have included teams on the West Coast other than Seattle, but he could think the Diamondbacks would not trade him to one of their division rivals and that the A's might not be able to fit his contract in their budget.
Vazquez has two years remaining on a deal he originally signed with the Yankees. He is scheduled to make $11.5 million in 2006 and $12.5 million in 2007.
That does still leave open the possibility of a trade to the Angels, who have a deep farm system, but may be hesitant to deal for a player making $24 million over the next two years and who would be unhappy being in their city.
"It's out of fairness to the teams that are blocked that we keep the identities and reasons for them being on the list confidential," Levinson said. "We told the Diamondbacks that we will remain open-minded throughout the process."
The Vazquez trade is the key move for the Diamondbacks, because what the club gets in return for him will go a long way toward determining their moves the rest of the offseason.
"That's a big trade with big implications," Byrnes said. "We need to know where we are with Vazquez before we sharpen the rest of our offseason strategy."
With a thin free-agent market and teams with some money to spend, the Diamondbacks' best bet at improving could come via trades rather than free agents.
"We've been very active talking to agents and clubs," Byrnes said. "Probably more from the club side."
Lessard leaves: Head athletic trainer Paul Lessard left the organization to join the Red Sox in a similar role.
Lessard, who had been with the Diamondbacks since their inception, wanted to be closer to his two young daughters, who live the Boston area.
"I'm leaving a good organization," he said. "I'm not taking this job looking for greener pastures. I was looking for inner peace."
Roster rumblings: In other news, the Diamondbacks added four players to their 40-man roster. Right-handed pitcher Mike Schultz, left-handed pitcher Doug Slaten, catcher Miguel Montero and infielder Sergio Santos were put on the roster to protect them from next month's Rule 5 Draft.
The Diamondbacks also removed three players from the roster, left-handed pitcher Bill Murphy, infielder Jerry Gil and outfielder Marland Williams. All three players cleared waivers and were outrighted to Triple-A Tucson.
With the moves, the Diamondbacks now have 37 players on their roster.

Source: http://arizona.diamondbacks.mlb.com/

Mailbag: Glaus on trading block?

11/21/2005
I heard a possible trade that would include Troy Glaus going to the Oakland A's for Barry Zito. A few other players are involved, but are the Diamondbacks really looking to trade Glaus this offseason, and is there any truth that Zito could be dealt to the D-Backs?-- Mike Hartman, New Ken, Pa.
I don't know if the Diamondbacks are going to trade Glaus this offseason. It's certainly possible, but his contract is a pretty big one to move and it would have to be to a market that could absorb it. I don't think that Oakland fits that description. Glaus also has a limited no-trade clause, though -- to my knowledge, that list has never been made public.
The Marlins are looking to trade Josh Beckett, who is a good young pitcher. With Miami being as close as possible to where Vazquez wants to be, could this trade be a possibility? And what other East Coast teams do you think he could go to, and what good pitchers could we possibly get in return?-- Benjamin S., Phoenix
Benjamin, I don't see Vazquez going to the Marlins as they appear to be shedding rather than taking on salaries. Plus, I've read reports where they want the team acquiring Beckett to also take on Mike Lowell's contract, which calls for $18 million over the next two years. I don't see the Diamondbacks doing that. As for other East Coast teams, it would not surprise me to see the Mets be a player in the sweepstakes for Vazquez as they clearly have the money to spend.
Could you please tell me if Andy Green is on the 40-man roster? I know at the beginning of last season he wasn't. Could he possibly play shortstop or will he be our next Craig Counsell?Joe C., Phoenix
While Andy Green is on the 40-man roster and can play shortstop, I don't see him being the starting shortstop next season if that's what you were asking. It's certainly possible, though, depending on the makeup of the roster next year, that he could be kept as a utility player. He's valuable defensively in that he can play second, short, third as well as the outfield.
What are the chances the D-Backs would go after Sammy Sosa? I think he will come cheap and we need help in right field.Tommy A., Phoenix
I'm not sure that Sosa has much left, but either way, I don't think the Diamondbacks would have any interest in him. If anything, they have too many corner outfielders and adding another one would not help.
Is it true that the Diamondbacks will try to go for SS/3B Nomar Garciaparra? Do you think that Nomar will sign for a one-year deal? What will the Diamondbacks do with Carlos Quentin? After all, isn't he a top prospect?G. Iverson, Phoenix
I'd have to say no on Garciaparra. First, it looks like Stephen Drew will make his debut sometime in 2006 at short, and with Glaus at third and a glut of corner outfielders, I don't know where you would play Garciaparra. Unless something radically changes with the roster, I don't see Garciaparra being a fit.

Source: http://arizona.diamondbacks.mlb.com/

D-Backs name Woodfork asst. GM

11/23/2005
PHOENIX -- As expected, the Diamondbacks named Peter Woodfork assistant general manager on Wednesday.
Woodfork had been the director of baseball operations/assistant director of player development for the Red Sox over the past three seasons, where he teamed with then Red Sox assistant GM and newly named Arizona GM Josh Byrnes.
"We have certainly upgraded our already talented baseball staff with the hiring of Peter," said Byrnes. "I have had the honor of working closely with him and have firsthand knowledge of his experience, intellect and passion."
Woodfork is the second hire Byrnes has made in the baseball operations department since taking over last month. Two weeks ago, Byrnes hired Jerry Dipoto as director of pro scouting. More hires are expected in the coming weeks.
Woodfork, 29, worked in the Labor Relations department for Major League Baseball before joining the Red Sox in March 2003.
"He has built a tremendous reputation in this industry due to his successful track record with the Commissioner's Office and the Red Sox," Byrnes said.
Indeed, one West Division executive said upon hearing about the hiring, "They've got themselves a good man. He's smart, very enthusiastic and has great people skills. That's a great hire."
Woodfork holds a degree in psychology from Harvard University, where he started at second and third base for four years before graduating in 1999. He helped lead the Crimson to three Ivy League championships and NCAA Regional appearances.

Source: http://arizona.diamondbacks.mlb.com/

D-Backs prospect on Team USA

Nov. 4, 2005
One of the Diamondbacks' top pitching prospects was named Thursday to the United States team that will compete against five other countries in a regional Olympics qualifying tournament to be played this month in the Valley.Left-hander Bill Murphy was one of 24 minor league prospects chosen to play under manager Davey Johnson, who led the Mets to a World Series championship in 1986 and was named American League Manager of the Year with the Orioles in 1997.The tournament is scheduled for Nov. 15-19 with six countries from North and Central America pairing up for three games a day at Phoenix Municipal Stadium, Maryvale Ballpark and Hohokam Stadium in Mesa
Four of the six teams will advance to the next Olympics qualifying round in Havana in August. They will compete against four teams from South America and the Caribbean for two spots at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.Murphy, a third-round draft pick of the Oakland A's in 2002 who was traded to Florida, came to the Diamondbacks as part of the deal that sent Steve Finley to the Los Angeles Dodgers in July 2004. He spent the past season at Triple-A Tucson and struggled, going 6-8 with a 5.65 ERA in 121 innings, but remains highly regarded by scouts. With Double-A Carolina in 2004, he struck out 113 in 103 2/3 innings.Murphy pitched one scoreless inning and struck out two at the Futures Game in Detroit during the All-Star break. He is 3-1 with 33 strikeouts in 24 1/3 innings so far in the Arizona Fall League.Joining Murphy on the USA roster is former Horizon High shortstop Brandon Wood, a top prospect in the Angels organization. Wood started the season at Class A Rancho Cucamonga and hit .321 before being called up to Triple-A at the end of the season.
Murphy, Wood and the rest of Team USA were drawn from professional players who aren't yet protected on major league teams' 25-man rosters.The United States will face Guatemala at Maryvale Ballpark on Nov. 15, then takes on Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama and Canada. The USA-Mexico game will be at Phoenix Municipal Stadium on Nov. 16.

Source: http://www.azcentral.com/

Brewers extend Melvin's contract through 2009

11/05/2005
MILWAUKEE, Wis. -- Milwaukee Brewers Chairman and Principal Owner Mark Attanasio today announced that the club has extended the contract of Executive Vice President and General Manager Doug Melvin for three additional years. The move extends Melvin's agreement with the Brewers through the 2009 season.
"Doug is one of the most highly respected executives in baseball and this extension validates our belief that his leadership is vital to the Milwaukee Brewers continued development," Attanasio said. "In just a few short years, Doug and his staff have exemplified the commitment necessary to build a winning organization, and with the development of our young players we started to see the fruits of his labors in 2005. We're excited that he will be on board to lead the way as we strive to become one of the league's most consistently competitive teams."
Melvin was named to his current post on September 26, 2002 when he became the eighth General Manager in Brewers history. In 2005, the Brewers improved their won-loss record by 14 games, the third best mark in the Major Leagues. The team's 81 wins snapped a streak of 12 consecutive seasons in which the team finished with a record below .500. The Brewers' improvement was spurred by acquisitions made by Melvin and his staff last year, including trading for Silver Slugger Award winner Carlos Lee (32 home runs, 114 RBI) and claiming closer Derrick Turnbow (39 saves) off waivers. Other key players currently at the Major League level who were brought to the organization by Melvin and his staff include draft pick Rickie Weeks; waiver claims Brady Clark and Doug Davis; trade acquisitions Chris Capuano, Lyle Overbay and Tomo Ohka; and free agents Damian Miller and Matt Wise.
"I'm very pleased that Mark Attanasio and his ownership group have extended this opportunity for me to remain with the organization for the long term," Melvin said. "We have made some significant strides to date, but it is important that I see this process through to its successful completion. There are many people who have worked very hard with me and we are all committed to establishing a winning tradition for everyone connected to the Milwaukee Brewers organization."
Other highlights of Melvin's first three seasons with the Brewers included execution of the biggest trade of the 2003 off-season when the team landed six players in a deal with the Arizona Diamondbacks. All six (Capuano, Craig Counsell, Jorge De La Rosa, Chad Moeller, Overbay and Junior Spivey) played in the Major Leagues for the Brewers in 2004.
From 1996 through 2001, Melvin served as General Manager of the Texas Rangers where he led the team to the first post-season appearance in franchise history. His efforts earned him recognition as the Major League Executive of the Year from Baseball America (1998) and The Sporting News (1996). He also was named American League Executive of the Year by Baseball America (1996).
Prior to his time with the Rangers, Melvin held posts with the Baltimore Orioles (1986-87) and New York Yankees (1979-85) and pitched for six seasons in the Pirates and Yankees systems.

Source: http://washington.nationals.mlb.com/

Last baseball man

November 6, 2005
Ten years since he became general manager of the Padres without even applying for the job, Kevin Towers now finds himself in another role he did not expect.
Towers is an elder statesmen among GMs, which is like saying Peter Pan is heading the AARP.
The boyish former pitcher with the graying hair is now a bridge between eras, no small feat in an industry where GMs increasingly either blow up (Theo Epstein) or get blown out (Paul DePodesta) before they can last even half a decade.
When Larry Lucchino tabbed him for the job in 1995, Towers, just two years a scouting director, improbably was thrust into a foreign world of wheeling and dealing, but at least his colleagues were of the same species.
Baseball men, they were called. A vague term, it seemingly applied to anyone who spat both tobacco juice and salty words, brokered deals between tee shots and whiskey shots, and gabbed about his days as a pro ballplayer or scout.
Tomorrow, when nearly 30 GMs convene in Palm Springs, Towers, 44, will try to fathom the new breed of GM. Whiz kids, they are called. Many are Ivy League-educated. Few were ever paid to play baseball. They talk of "metrics," "regression to the mean," and "variance of expected outcomes."
Towers, who is nothing if not versatile, will seek out these brainy young chaps. That is, if he can find them.
"When you go to the GM meetings now, you don't find many GMs at the hotel bar, because they're not old enough to drink," Towers joked. "It's different than when I first started."
Back in the day, Towers recalled that he and "Sweet" Lou Piniella, then the manager of the Seattle Mariners, sketched out a trade on a cocktail napkin. The details are still a tad hazy to the San Diego GM, but he said it's possible those bar scribblings later brought him left-handed pitcher Sterling Hitchcock, who would make the Braves appear hung over in becoming Most Valuable Player of the 1998 National League Championship Series.
Nowadays, Towers finds himself behind only two GMs for longest run with the same NL club: John Schuerholz of the Braves and Walt Jocketty of the Cardinals.
He didn't expect to become an Old Guard GM so soon, because he didn't foresee so many departures.
Consider the rival Dodgers. They are searching for their sixth GM in 10 years.
"Because of the economics of the game and the pressures that are put on GMs nowadays, it's a very volatile position," Towers said. "You have a lot more turnover because expectations are higher."
As part of the new world order, GMs are becoming the news, not merely the makers of it. Their comings and goings, from one job to the next, rate headlines in the biggest media outlets.
Towers recently visited the circus ring for the first time.
Three weeks ago he spent four hours in the desert interviewing with the rival Arizona Diamondbacks for their vacant GM job.
Strange bedfellows, those two.
Towers not long ago described manager Bob Brenly's Diamondbacks as arrogant. Two summers ago he all but accused then-Diamondbacks GM Joe Garagiola Jr. of handing the NL West to the Dodgers by trading them Steve Finley instead of dealing him to the Padres. "They treated us like a leper colony," Towers said.
So it was strange brew for Towers as he awaited word on whether he would succeed Garagiola.
Even before he lost out on the job to former Red Sox assistant GM Josh Byrnes, a Harvard-trained 35-year-old who reportedly attacked the interview with a 20-page breakdown of how he could improve the franchise, Towers mused on how sad it would have been to part with his Padres chums.
"I really starting feeling a little bit rotten," he said. "When Arizona decided to go with Josh, it's almost like there was a sense of relief. My wife's from San Diego. I've been with the Padres for more than 20 years. There are so many people with this organization that mean lot to me.
"But I brought it on myself. I was interested when Arizona asked for permission to interview me. It's a West Coast team. It's in the same division, and I like Phoenix. It was kind of flattering that someone called and maybe recognized that I had some ability."
This week, the Dodgers also came calling. Their mercurial owner, Frank McCourt, had fired his Harvard-educated GM, DePodesta, just two years after giving him a five-year contract. At the same time, the Red Sox made it known they were interested in Towers as a candidate to replace his former protege Epstein, an alum of Yale and the USD law school who unexpectedly left the job after reported disagreements with Lucchino.
Even after Towers made it known he wasn't leaving, a Red Sox intermediary continued to lobby him early Friday, but Towers didn't budge.
"I'm very comfortable here," he said. "I really did some soul-searching and came to the realization this is where I want to be. I'm a big believer in fate. This is where I need to be. With all the speculation, it just got out of control."
When Lucchino stunned him by giving him the job at the 1995 GM meeting as the two walked the grounds of a grand old hotel in Phoenix, Towers inherited the keys to a car that was faster than commonly thought.
The Padres' player talent included future Hall of Fame candidates Tony Gwynn and Trevor Hoffman, future NL MVP Ken Caminiti and future All-Stars such as Finley, Andy Ashby and Brad Ausmus.
The Padres also were free to spend and had little dead money on the books. Hungry for a new ballpark, Padres ownership would more than double the payroll within five years. Within four years, improvements by Towers helped the club win the franchise's second and third division titles, reach its second World Series and gain public approval to spend hundreds of millions of dollars on a downtown baseball palace that became Petco Park.
When 1999 arrived, the Padres' GM job was less attractive, partly because Lucchino/Towers had spent unwisely, investing nearly $40 million in a cluster of past-their-prime players that included Randy Myers, Chris Gomez, Wally Joyner, Dan Miceli and Carlos Hernandez. Partly, too, because their farm system was spotty and would be further ill-treated by a disastrous draft that June.
Expanding the picture, Towers was headed down a bumpy toll road because the club's rivals became far more formidable from 1999-2003. The Diamondbacks, Dodgers, Rockies and Giants ramped up their spending while Padres Chairman John Moores reduced or leveled the Padres' spending.
Towers, working for an array of presidents after Lucchino left in July 2001, wasn't able to work an Oakland-like miracle. Sometimes the Padres were outsmarted. Almost always, they were outspent.
"We had to pick our spots on where to allocate the dollars," Towers said. "There were years we couldn't go for it, and we had to put the money that was available into our farm system."
Call this the third era of Towers, one that began with the club's move into Petco Park in 2003.
Towers said he's never had it better. He said his boss, Sandy Alderson, who holds two Ivy League degrees and is former GM of the brainy Athletics, has helped him improve his planning and budget skills.
Petco Park, which has allowed the Padres to become an upper mid-revenue club, is giving Towers more spending power. For the first time, he said he's able to aggressively fund both the major league payroll and talent searches in the amateur draft and international markets.
Further, the NL West has become more pliable, so much so that the Padres in September became the first team in a nonstrike year to clinch a division title without a winning record at the time.
"I thought this year would be the best chance we would have of winning our division since we did it in 1998, and we did," Towers said. "We want to do better than 82-80. We want to go past the first round of the playoffs.
"But we have a chance to win our division every year, and I couldn't have always said that. I think we have a very good chance of repeating, but there's a lot of work to do."

Source: http://www.signonsandiego.com/

Epstein, Sox reportedly close to deal

BOSTON -- A day after Red Sox general manager Theo Epstein and club president/CEO Larry Lucchino had contract discussions over lunch, many Red Sox fans were hoping they'd get to dessert, i.e., the finalization of a new deal for Epstein.
However, while there are indications that the sides have made considerable progress the past couple of days with regard to the re-signing of Epstein, a Red Sox club official indicated that no announcement was expected by the close of business on Friday.
Another team official said that even if an agreement was struck this weekend, it likely wouldn't be announced until Monday.
Epstein's current contract expires on Monday night at midnight. If the unexpected occurs and no deal is made by then, Epstein would become a free agent.
There was one formal announcement with regard to the Red Sox on Friday, as Josh Byrnes, Epstein's valued assistant the past three years, was set to be formally introduced as the next general manager of the Diamondbacks.
"We are all thrilled for Josh," Epstein said in an e-mail. "He's been an invaluable member of the Red Sox, both in terms of assembling our big league team and the behind-the-scenes work in scouting and player development. He blended intelligence, creativity, baseball instincts, and integrity to become a force in our baseball operation. We would not have won the World Series without him."
There are many people out there who would say the same about Epstein, some of whom wear Red Sox uniforms.
In a radio interview Friday morning, Red Sox ace Curt Schilling admitted that earlier this week he was pessimistic about the chances of Epstein being retained. The big right-hander now has a much sunnier outlook on the matter.
"From what I'm hearing, I'm excited," Schilling told WEEI-850 AM in Boston. "I really, honestly thought that this was not going to happen. I thought that Theo was going to be gone, and I was upset and disappointed at the thought of that happening. My impression of everything that's happened is that if he came back, he was going to have a lot more latitude to do the things he wants to do as the general manager, and I wasn't sure that was necessarily going to happen, and I'm guessing it is now."
Red Sox reliever Mike Timlin shared Schilling's optimism.
"I believe he's pretty close to getting that done," Timlin told MLB radio. "I talked to him, I asked him what his status was and he said, 'We're kind of close, just a few things here and there.' But hopefully they'll get his done. He's a great guy to work for and I've enjoyed it, so hopefully that will be done."
The Boston Globe reported Friday that Epstein and the Red Sox were on the verge of reaching a new three-year agreement. Reportedly, Epstein rejected a three-year offer worth $1.2 million annually earlier this week, but that figure wasn't far off from what he was seeking. Epstein, according to reports, was hoping to reach the $1.5 million per year mark.
As far as Schilling is concerned, it would be money well spent by the Red Sox.
"I think Theo wanted to be -- and I think in a sense, rightly deserves to be -- one of the better-paid GMs in the game," said Schilling in his interview with WEEI hosts John Dennis and Gerry Callahan. "I look at his situation and I see a general manager who is equivalent to an arbitration-eligible player. He's after his third year, he's put together a club that has gone out there and gone to the postseason three times and won a World Series. He's certainly deserving of whatever he can get financially."
Of course, one of the most storied moves Epstein made was the deal struck over the Thanksgiving holiday in 2003, when he persuaded Schilling to waive his no-trade clause and come to Boston.
While Schilling's first impressions of Epstein were favorable, the right-hander has gained more respect for his general manager over the past two years.
"The most important to me is, Theo is a good person first and foremost," Schilling said. "And I think that has a lot to do with it. He's not deceitful. He's an honest guy, a good guy. There's a lot more to this thing than it being a job for him, being born and raised here, the Red Sox being as important as they are to him. Above all else, Theo understands he's a compromiser. A lot of teams I've been on, the players don't even want to see the general manager, much less see him in the clubhouse. Theo understands that the clubhouse is our home. He doesn't invade that privacy often. When he does, he doesn't make you uncomfortable, and that says as much about him as anything."
The business of baseball may have been slowed on Yawkey Way because of Epstein's uncertain status, but it hasn't stopped.
The Red Sox next week will announce the re-signing of trusted reliever Timlin, who would have been eligible for free agency. The sides have agreed to terms, and the only hurdle that needs to be cleared is Timlin passing a physical.
The Red Sox were also quick in hiring third-base coach DeMarlo Hale, who replaces Dale Sveum.
There are other issues coming up. Center fielder Johnny Damon and Tony Graffanino filed for free agency on Friday. First baseman Kevin Millar and third baseman Bill Mueller did so on Thursday. John Olerud and Mike Myers are also set to become free agents. Will the Red Sox accommodate David Wells and trade him to the West Coast? Is Manny Ramirez still happy in Boston?
All these issues will be tackled in the near future, presumably by Epstein, who appears poised to remain with the team that has qualified for postseason play three times in a row for the first time in franchise history under his watch.

Source: http://boston.redsox.mlb.com/

Looking for a future complement to the rotation, the Rockies reached into their past.

10/29/2005
Looking for a future complement to the rotation, the Rockies reached into their past.
They expressed interest in left-hander Shawn Estes on Friday, contacting his agent. No Rockies left-hander won more games in a season than Estes in 2004. He went 15-8 with a 5.84 ERA, leading the staff in victories and innings pitched.
Estes was a casualty of a youth movement last winter, deemed too expensive when the team had to clear room in the budget to keep Joe Kennedy and Shawn Chacon. Both have since been traded, and the Rockies have about $9 million to spend in free agency, a stark contrast to past seasons when they were hamstrung by big contracts.
"This is a place of opportunity," Rockies manager Clint Hurdle said. "And Shawn is someone we have a history with."
Estes' agent, Dave Meier, indicated Estes would at least consider returning to the Rockies. He walked away from a multiyear deal with the Washington Nationals last offseason, signing a one-year $2.5 million contract with Arizona, where he makes his year-round home.
Estes went 7-8 last season with a 4.80 ERA. However, he was 6-5 with a 3.75 ERA and pitched into the sixth inning in all 15 games before suffering a stress fracture in his foot.
"Shawn had an absolute blast when he was with the Rockies," said Meier. "We look forward to continuing our dialogue and see where it goes from here.".
Pedro Astacio, another starter the Rockies like, filed for free agency Friday, but Colorado had not yet spoken with his agent.

Source: http://www.denverpost.com/

Kerry Wood pitches in for Children's Memorial Hospital with celebrity bowling tournament and bartending event to help strike out pediatric cancer

11/01/2005
CHICAGO - On Saturday, November 12, Chicago Cubs Pitcher Kerry Wood and his wife Sarah will pitch in to help children with cancer by hosting a celebrity bowling tournament at 10-Pin Bowling Lounge, 330 N. State, to benefit Children's Memorial Hospital in Chicago.
Celebrities confirmed for the event include Chicago Cubs players Mark Prior and Ryan Dempster, Hall of Fame retired second baseman for the Cubs Ryne Sandberg, retired first baseman for the Cubs and Arizona Diamondbacks Mark Grace and Boston Red Sox pitcher Matt Clement.
For the second year in a row, Kerry Wood's Strike Zone - A Celebrity Bowling Tournament to Help Strike Out Cancer benefiting Children's Memorial Hospital will feature celebrities joining each of 24 corporate-sponsored teams for a day of bowling and camaraderie. Last year's inaugural event raised more than $400,000 for pediatric cancer research at the hospital. A silent auction will be conducted during the bowling tournament, featuring items such as Bat Boy for a Day with the Chicago Cubs; First Pitch at Wrigley Field; a clubhouse toilet seat signed by past and present players; one-of-a-kind baseball memorabilia; tickets to sporting events, concerts and much more. A limited number of corporate lane sponsorships and standing room only packages are still available. For more information, contact Tracey Colligan at 713-693-8341 or Molly Riley 773-880-6868 or visit www.kerrywoodstrikezone.com
After the tournament, Kerry and Sarah Wood will host a celebrity bartending event at Le Passage, 937 N. Rush Street, where celebrities will compete for tips while pouring drinks for customers. Doors open to the general public at 9:00 p.m and the event will go until 11 p.m. Included in the evening's festivities will be a live auction to win an evening at Le Passage with Cubs pitcher Todd Wellemeyer. Proceeds from the auction as well as a cover charge of $30 and all tips will be donated to Children's Memorial Hospital.
Children's Memorial Hospital, Chicago, is recognized as one of the top pediatric hospitals in the country and number one in Illinois by rankings published in U.S. News & World Report. Its physicians are on the faculty at the Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine. Children's Memorial is a not-for-profit charitable organization serving more than 102,000 children annually and is largely supported by private donations.

Source: http://chicago.cubs.mlb.com/

Agent not confident about Hoffman staying in S.D.

SAN DIEGO (AP) -- Trevor Hoffman's agent made a counteroffer on Tuesday to the Padres, but wasn't optimistic that the closer would remain in San Diego.
"Trevor's first choice has always been to remain a Padre. But it's looking more and more like it won't happen," agent Rick Thurman said. "Put it this way -- their offer made Trevor upset enough to have his locker cleaned out at the stadium."
The Padres last week offered Hoffman $10 million over two years. Thurman is seeking between $25 million and $27 million over three years.
"He's the best at what he does, and what he brings to the city and the team," Thurman said. "Now, if we're out on the open market, as soon as we can negotiate with other clubs, whatever proposal we're giving to the Padres, I'm sure Trevor will make much more than that. This is not so much a money thing, it's more of a respect thing."
Hoffman is second on the career saves list with 436, with all but two of them coming with the Padres.
The Padres have until Nov. 11 to negotiate exclusively with Hoffman, but nearly 10 other teams have expressed interest, Thurman said.
"There are 16 teams where their closer spot is up in the air right now. It's a pretty good year to be a free-agent closer," Thurman said.
General manager Kevin Towers didn't immediately return a call seeking comment.
Hoffman's older brother, Glenn, interviewed with the Padres Monday for their vacant third base coaching job.

Source: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/

BK Files for Free Agent

11-02-2005
Kim Byung-hyun of the Colorado Rockies filed for free agency on Monday.
The 26-year-old sidearmer pitched in 40 games, over 148 innings, to a record of 5-12 with 4.86 ERA, displaying decent starting performances for a player based at Coors Field, one of the least favorable ballparks for pitchers.
Kim, former Arizona Diamondbacks closer, is the sole South Korean Major Leaguer who played in the World Series in 2001 with the Diamondbacks as they won the champions' title. He also played with the Boston Red Sox as they became the champions last year but wasn't included in the World Series roster.
Kim is one of several players who filed for free agency on the same day. They include Baltimore Orioles slugger Sammy Sosa, Atlanta Braves shortstop Rafael Furcal and relief pitcher Kyle Farnsworth, as well as Jose Vizcaino of the National League's champion Houston Astros, Boston Red Sox pitcher Mike Myers, Detroit Tigers outfielder Bobby Higginson and Dan Wilson, a Seattle Mariners catcher.

Source: http://times.hankooki.com/

Sky is the limit for reliever Accardo

11/02/2005
MESA, Ariz. -- You could call pitcher Jeremy Accardo an overachiever -- then again, maybe he's right on schedule.
One of his targets this year was to compete in the Arizona Fall League, a high-powered, elite circuit designed to showcase baseball talent and provide excellent offseason challenges.
These are national stars-to-be, not -- they hope -- merely supernovas who burn brightly for a few years then fade into the black hole of Minor League journeyman status or, curses, wind up selling baseball cards rather than being on them.
And Accardo's quest was secured, as the Giants' prospect is currently playing on the Mesa Solar Sox of the AFL, gaining experience, working on pitches and happy to be playing ball right in his own backyard, just a few miles from where he grew up.
Cheers. Here's to ya, kid.
Oh yeah. We almost forgot. The 23-year-old right-hander also had a stupefyingly super ride through the 2005 season, playing at four levels in the San Francisco organization: Class A San Jose, Double-A Norwich, the Triple-A Fresno Grizzlies and, yes, the parent Giants.
With his whip-arm style and mid-90s fastball, Accardo virtually came out of nowhere to establish himself as a probable bullpen mainstay for San Francisco next season after compiling a 1-5 record and 3.94 ERA over 28 games for the Giants this year.
On the surface, not that great, but Accardo -- a non-drafted free agent in 2003 and a non-roster invitee in Spring Training this season -- logged a 2.76 ERA over 18 appearances in the second half, was unscored upon in seven of his final eight outings and overall pitched scoreless ball in 20 of 28 games.
"He's a confident kid," said Giants manager Felipe Alou. "He throws the ball well, is a fearless kid who'll benefit from being under fire."
Accardo was "scorched" a bit on consecutive days in Los Angeles when Jeff Kent slammed a two-run homer in the bottom of the 10th, lifting the Dodgers to a 4-2 victory over the Giants on Sept. 6, then issued the game-winning hit the following night.
But he bounced back to finish the season strong.
"I sat down with parents for dinner [after the season] and I was kind of in awe of the whole deal," said Accardo of his Giants' stint. "It happened so fast I never had time to soak it all in. I did get to savor it but the whole point is getting there and staying there, and that's my goal now. I got a lot of stuff to work on for next year."
Over his initial seven bullpen outings for the Solar Sox, Accardo was 1-1 with a 5.23 ERA spanning 10 1/3 innings, and while a bit fatigued after a long season his velocity is still strong and he's learning to utilize his changeup and slider in tough counts.
Despite rookie pitfalls in his big league debut campaign, Accardo feels the experience was invaluable.
"I had a couple of rough games, but I thought I had good outings and made good outs," he said. "I'm proud of myself for what I've done so far but I've got a lot of things to improve on.
"Every time I went out there it was great," said Accardo, who made his debut May 4 at Chase Field in Phoenix against the Diamondbacks with parents, relatives and friends watching -- and cheering on every pitch.
"[Catcher] Mike Matheny helped a ton, as did [pitching coach] Dave Righetti, LaTroy [Hawkins], Armando [Benitez]. There's a lot of stuff they told me I have to keep in my head. In LA, they told me [what happened] is not going to be the last time. They said you're here for a reason and you've got good stuff -- just forget it and come out tomorrow and kick butt."
For an official 88-day Major Leaguer, it sounds like the perfect goal for 2006.

Source: http://sanfrancisco.giants.mlb.com/

U.S., Canada Announce Olympic Qualifying Rosters

November 3, 2005
USA Baseball announced its full roster for the first-stage Olympic qualifying tournament, scheduled for Nov. 15-19 in Phoenix, and Arizona Fall League products dominate the team.
The AFL season wraps up early in deference to the event, and USA Baseball had several top officials, such as general manager of professional teams Bob Watson and national teams director Eric Campbell, in the AFL to scout. USA Baseball also relishes having alumni of its amateur programs on its professional rosters, so AFL players such as Royals outfielder Billy Butler, Braves catcher Jarrod Saltalamacchia and Angels righthander Jered Weaver were among the prominent alumni on the roster. The team features 19 players who were in the AFL, such as Angels middle infielders Howie Kendrick and Brandon Wood, two of the top hitters in the minor leagues.
"It's definitely a huge honor to represent the United States against the best competition in the world," Saltalamacchia said. "It's not a showcase. It's about bringing your best day in and day out on the international stage and hopefully we'll come home a winner--the goal is to win, not just go out there and go through the motions."
The six-team event will also include teams from Canada, Guatemala, Mexico, Nicaragua and Panama. The Canadian roster include