Forum: slam
Page 373
Subject: ~~~~~L2 Season 8~~~~~

  Posted by: skinneej - [54838249] Mon, Dec 25, 19:34
Welcome to Season 8. The Dodgers, fresh off their first championship, will find the going tough after losing the heart of their lineup. The Royals will look to extend their string of AL West division titles to 6 consecutive while trying to fend off the resurgent Whitesox. The Cubs look to bounce back from their first missed postseason, and retake the NL East from the Mets. The Yankees were spared the loss of several retirement age players, but should be in a dogfight for the AL East crown with the Orioles.

The Free Agent signing period is heating up, and AROD's deal doesn't look so big now. It's a good thing I don't wait for FA to fill a hole as the salaries are through the roof even for players that are borderling scrubs. Either someone has some very deep pockets, or is trying to bankrupt a team. I even recieved a very interesting offer from the Mets: 50 Million dollars for Scott Downs. Maybe 80 Million, and I would start to consider it! ;)
 
1Put me in Coach...
      ID: 595461119
      Mon, Dec 25, 21:44 		I think i have to wait for my prospects to grow up. I cant see to muster a starting lineup this year that can compete. But on the other hand I have one of the best starting staffs in the NL. I still might be favored in the west.
Has anyone checked out my minors lately? I have a player with 4stars at AVG and HR at c, 1b, 1b, 2b, 3b, of. And they will join Gonzalez and Carvajal. I dont think there is a better minors.
 
2Synocco
      ID: 351152257
      Mon, Dec 25, 22:08 		I think the Dodgers have as good a chance of winning the division as anyone. I just don't see anyone else in that division mounting a challenge.
 
3Put me in, Coach....
      ID: 39416321
      Mon, Dec 25, 22:57 		No, i might win by default. But have no chance getting to the WS.
 
4Coglin
      ID: 28592321
      Tue, Dec 26, 00:36 		Wow I never thought Astros would make a run and actually land Clemens, feel little nervous coach?:)
 
5Dave
      ID: 011241814
      Tue, Dec 26, 00:38 		With the addition of Clemens and Guzman my pitching staff is looking better. I still need another top starter and probably 1 or 2 good hitters to have any chance of being in contention. I also have to get lucky and have Clemens stay for more than 1 year or i'll just end up in the same position next year (but minus nearly 30m!).
 
6Synocco
      ID: 351152257
      Tue, Dec 26, 07:18 		Dave: THANK YOU! I am so relieved that the Mets didn't land Clemens. The Cubs are back with a vengeance after a one year sabbatical!
 
7Put me in, Coach....
      ID: 39416321
      Tue, Dec 26, 09:22 		I am making MATT WILLIAMS available for a trade but I would like alot in return.
 
8Synocco
      ID: 351152257
      Tue, Dec 26, 11:08 		For the curious, during yesterday's sim I somehow signed Corey Koskie from the northern leagues. I have no idea how this happened, and neither does Coglin. It appears to have been a glitch in the sim since Corey Koskie is retired and has no contract. I have released him.
 
9MR MET
      ID: 3311462611
      Tue, Dec 26, 11:46 		I have to say, Cubbies have the advantage going into season 8. Atleast they do right now, I'm going to be a busy GM in the next few days.
 
10Coglin
      ID: 28592321
      Tue, Dec 26, 17:55 		Cubbies have gone through some major changes ever since we realized that we were not going to compete in season 7. After sending 2 OF, 2 IF, 1 SP,1 RP and tons for minor leaguers to various teams, the Cubbies have a re-newed look and Confidence. With perhaps the best Cubs team ever assembled, we are looking to retake the division title crown back from the Mets and try to make the WS for the 5th time in 6 years.
Go Cubs!!:)
 
11Synocco
      ID: 351152257
      Wed, Dec 27, 08:20 		A long reliever and spare change for Bohannon? Amazing, especially considering what the previous owner gave up to acquire Bohannon. OK, now it's going to be messy in the NL East.
 
12Put me in, Coach....
      ID: 39416321
      Wed, Dec 27, 08:54 		Bohannon has put the GIANTS in such a hole. Maybe BOHANNON isn't a good clubhouse man? Anyway, I have a bunch of huge trades in the works but no replies in days. I mean, 4 different teams. This league has to be more active.
Still weighing my options with WILLIAMS.
 
13 Mr. Blonde
      ID: 5211572715
      Wed, Dec 27, 15:58 		Hey Put Me In, I seem to remember when I wanted a lot for Jose Hernandez you mocked me because he was too old. Now, you want a lot for Williams-but I'm sure you'll explain why that's different. Nice value drop for Bohanon-and what's with the 100 million dollar 2B? I see a lockout on the horizon.
 
14Damn Yankees
      ID: 1011391917
      Wed, Dec 27, 18:24 		Dodger,
Ever heard of Christmas? GSB took kind of a low priority for me the last couple of days. That's why I didn't get back to you.
Looks like I am going to get my money's worth with Monds as he decided to come back for another year. Damn my team is old!
 
15Put me in, Coach....
      ID: 39416321
      Wed, Dec 27, 21:38 		Yes, i have a different view, 34 yrs old and 38 yrs old is a big differce.
 
16Dave
      ID: 011241814
      Wed, Dec 27, 23:29 		Got Lawton in FA which hopefully will help my hitting, only trouble now is my borderline 30+ hitters, i realise most of the teams that post here don't need them but i would of thought that some of the other GM's could find them useful but as yet have not recieved any offers. I am still looking to add to my roster so if anyone wants to trade please send me offers. Good luck to all for the new season.
 
17Put me in, Coach....
      ID: 39416321
      Thu, Dec 28, 04:24 		Mr Blonde,
Besides the age difference there is a big difference in skills. Williams 501avg 462hr 456gap 377spd thats a total of 1796. I dont remember your players skills but I know he couldnt compare. You can't be serious!

Damn Yankees,
I had 7 or so deals on the board and I was suprised that I had no replies. Who are you to attack someone because they were suprised that no one is Jewish, Buddist or anything else. There is a whole world out there, look around not everyone is like you!

Boy, I feel I am disliked as much as that guy Brian Koontz! Getting attacked by two team can cut back on trade possibilities. Can't make everyone happy!
 
18Damn Yankees
      ID: 1011391917
      Thu, Dec 28, 07:41 		What's up with this Brian Koontz guy anyway? I rarely even look at that board anymore because it is all about him.

Coach, I presume your comments are in jest as were mine. And I sure hope everybody out there is not like me. It would be a pretty sad world if everybody spent as much time playing some fantasy baseball game as I do. Or would it?
 
19Synocco
      ID: 351152257
      Thu, Dec 28, 12:00 		From what I've followed of the discussions, that Brian Koontz follow seems to be arrogant, pompous, irrational, etc, etc... Oh wait, that would describe everyone in this league! ;) Just kidding! Lighten up everyone, and Happy New Year!
 
20MR MET
      ID: 2811112816
      Thu, Dec 28, 16:11 		We are falling behind. In my other league, L2 was only one week behind all of last year. However, they have already had week 2 simmed and we are still in free agency.
 
21Dave
      ID: 211532816
      Thu, Dec 28, 16:53 		The commish was having some server problems, he posted a message about it. I don't know whether he will try to catch up on the leagues that are behind but one of my other leagues simmed early today (well before 5pm) so maybe he will. Have to say it didn't help waiting up all night for the F.A only for it not to sim!. Fortunately i still got the player i wanted so all is well anyway.
 
22MR MET
      ID: 2311412817
      Thu, Dec 28, 17:41 		Yeah, I read that message too. I'm just getting confused with some leagues simming and others not. The commish has done a fantastic job so far so we should all cut him as much slack as he needs to get everything running again.
 
23Dave
      ID: 211532816
      Thu, Dec 28, 19:28 		I completely agree Mr Met. i was only joking about the sim, i'm guessing the commish has a set order for when the leagues get simmed, and ours must have been towards the end of the line and he ran out of time.
 
24Put me in, Coach....
      ID: 39416321
      Fri, Dec 29, 05:00 		Well, my retooling process is almost complete. Next on their way put is HUNDLEY, HAYES and BLUMA but Im not sure what I need. It will take me a few seasons before being a team that can challenge for a WS but I think the division is wide open.
The ASTOS have put down some cash to make a run with the never aging CLEMENS. 20mil and probably worth every penny. Oh, by the way my payroll is now cut in half from last year's 90mil.
Wouldn't be something is a guy like CLEMENS was still in the FAs pool and people were still bidding! What are crazy time this would be with 3 extra days of bidding!
 
25Damn Yankees
      ID: 71142916
      Fri, Dec 29, 16:04 		1 year 105,000,000 for Ryan Miller? Ha ha ha! That's hilarious. There is just way too much money out there.
 
26Synocco
      ID: 351152257
      Fri, Dec 29, 16:05 		That offer was made the owner of the Giants by mistake. He meant to make a 5 year 105 million offer.
 
27Synocco
      ID: 351152257
      Fri, Dec 29, 16:06 		BTW, that information was posted on the GSB message board. I'm not really psychic. :)
 
28Put me in, Coach....
      ID: 39416321
      Mon, Jan 01, 00:26 		Ok, I decide to throw this season to the dogs! I am waiting 1 more year before promoting my BIG TIME rookies. I rather have that extra year out of them without worry of having to resigning them. My fans are going nuts but I have to put my plan into place for the future. Oh well!

Go luck to all.
 
29skinneej
      ID: 54838249
      Mon, Jan 01, 15:54 		The Cubs have pulled a sign and demote. Did we not have a gentlemen's agreement that all teams would not intentionally use any of the known loopholes in the game? As for the Giants, I have no problem with the commish changing the conract to a 5 year deal, but teams are responsible for their actions whether a mistake or not. Of course, the loophole could be used in that player's case as well, but I'll leave that up to the league's consensus.
 
30Synocco
      ID: 351152257
      Mon, Jan 01, 16:56 		Now waitaminute, this wasn't a loophole demotion. I didn't need to go and fiddle with the depth charts to send Scheffer down as you needed to do with Osuna. The Commisioner intended that players with contracts below a certain amount (I think $500,000) be feely demoteable.

In any case, I didn't see this as using a loophole. But if you guys really object, then we can fix the problem. Note, however, that the Yankees did the same thing two sims ago and no one objected.
 
31Synocco
      ID: 351152257
      Mon, Jan 01, 16:57 		Spelling correction: feely = freely
 
32skinneej
      ID: 54838249
      Mon, Jan 01, 18:12 		I was only half serious, and I must have missed the Yanks doing it. I didn't really care since it was a player with a small salary, and I was not aware that the amount mattered. I figured you'd bring up the Osuna thing. I stumbled across that by accident thinking that the loophole had been closed, although I have used it since in other leagues that don't care about loopholes. Leave him in AAA since there is no apparent wrongdoing. ;)
 
33Damn Yankees
      ID: 8013119
      Mon, Jan 01, 19:13 		Cubs, who did I supposedly sign and drop down? I am always amazed how closely some of you watch what other teams are doing. I may have done it, but I checked my roster and I can think who I did it to. You apparently no my team better than I do.


Actually, I don't think it is working a loophole. If the guy signed for 500,000 there is no significant monetary gain. And wouldn't his contract still be at 500,000 if he is brought back up? Moves like this are not done for money reasons. They are done because you acquire a player for the future incase you loose someone on your ML team. They are insurance policy players or tradeable players that would make no sense to use up a season eligibility on because they are not as good as players you already have. I see nothing wrong with saving a year of eligibilty.
 
34Synocco
      ID: 351152257
      Mon, Jan 01, 19:58 		Damn Yankees: I believe it was Mike Murhpy, an OF in your AAA team. I like to keep close tabs on the league transactions because you never know when the Mariners might release a superstar onto waivers. ;)
 
35Damn Yankees
      ID: 8013119
      Mon, Jan 01, 20:16 		Could have been Murphy. Murphy is an excellent example of what I was trying to say. He is 415 in avg. Certainly, not good enough to make my ML, but since he has only 6 years in, it is possible he may still improve. So I took a chance on him, but it there is no reason for me to waste a year of eligiblity on him because he simplay isn't ready right now. he is a minor league talent right now. Heck, I'll pay the 500,000 salary to keep the year eligiblity. The move wasn't an attempt to use a loophole.
 
36Damn Yankees
      ID: 8013119
      Mon, Jan 01, 21:37 		Could have been Murphy. Murphy is an excellent example of what I was trying to say. He is 415 in avg. Certainly, not good enough to make my ML, but since he has only 6 years in, it is possible he may still improve. So I took a chance on him, but it there is no reason for me to waste a year of eligiblity on him because he simplay isn't ready right now. he is a minor league talent right now. Heck, I'll pay the 500,000 salary to keep the year eligiblity. The move wasn't an attempt to use a loophole.
 
37Synocco
      ID: 351152257
      Tue, Jan 02, 08:36 		Wow, anyone notice the 9-inning complete game pitched by Bohannon? I don't remember if I've seen that before.
 
38Synocco
      ID: 351152257
      Tue, Jan 02, 15:37 		Ryan Miller's contract situation seems to have been resolved by the Commisioner.
 
39MR MET
      ID: 57051215
      Tue, Jan 02, 15:51 		I know, the Bohanon complete game was the first I've seen. It is a prediction of the type of season I am going to have. A season of firsts. My first NL title, my first world series championship, along with a ton of others. You better watch out Coglin and Synocco, I'm NOT going away.
 
40Trainer - L2
      ID: 351152257
      Tue, Jan 02, 16:18 		Brian Bohanon has suffered an injury to his Elbow. He will be out of action for 15 weeks.
 
41MR MET
      ID: 33027216
      Tue, Jan 02, 16:27 		HAHAHAHAHAHA! The trainer has the same I.D. as Synocco! I smell a cheater! So, THAT is how you've been taking the east all these years!!??!!
 
42Synocco
      ID: 351152257
      Tue, Jan 02, 17:23 		Hey, everyone's got to earn a living somehow. :)
 
43MR MET
      ID: 32028217
      Tue, Jan 02, 17:28 		I am curious to find out everyone's thoughts on the GRT Growth Rate Theory. Personally, I don't like it at all. I knew that there was an simple mathematical equation that could figure it out, but I never had the motivation to figure it out. It takes all of the surpise out of watching your prospects develop, and gives an unfair advantage over those who know the algorithim. Now that it is common knowledge, I find myself with a dilema, do I use it or not? I am leaning towards No, because I have neither the time or motivation. It is to much like math homework and if this game becomes like that it takes a lot of the fun away. Just out of curiosity, how many of you have used this in the past?
 
44Dave
      ID: 211532816
      Tue, Jan 02, 18:02 		I am still fairly new to GSB and so have not had the time to use the GRT. I don't usually have the time to track player development too closely so even if i wanted to i couldn't fully take advantage of it anyway. I would personally prefer that player development could be slightly more randomised so that like Mr Met says the game stayed fun and not like maths homework. The problem now is that if managers don't use the GRT they could lose out long term in the game. Hopefully the commish may be able to change the way rookies develop to compensate for the GRT (i think some suggestions have been posted on this already), in the mean time i will probably use the GRT as a basic outline for the draft so as to stay competitve.
 
46Synocco
      ID: 351152257
      Tue, Jan 02, 18:10 		Coglin and I have known about the GRT for the past season or so. We have toyed with it, and used it to project some of our minor leaguers. However, it is very time consuming to apply. Unless you apply it religiously, it doesn't really tell you anything that you can't "eye ball" intuitively. However, we have never used it on the draft, as our many failed drafts picks will testify to.
 
47MR MET
      ID: 1018218
      Tue, Jan 02, 18:18 		Then I want to be the first to say that you two are great GM's. Not because you haven't used the GRT that much, but because you have been able to win year in and year out without it. In fact, you have more than done that, you have been downright dominant. After tons of trades, drafts, and NL signings my Mets still can't compare with your Cubs. I tip my cap to you two.
 
48Damn Yankees
      ID: 8013119
      Tue, Jan 02, 18:43 		I am pretty much like you Mr. Met. I assumed there was a way to figure things out, but I never attempted to do it. I don't have that kind of time and it does kind of take the fun out of it. I currently have 3 teams and if I wanted to use the GRT I think I would have to drop down to just one team. I have done pretty well without it, so I doubt I will bother.
 
49Put me in, Coach....
      ID: 39416321
      Wed, Jan 03, 19:14 		Does anyone have a tougher schedule than me to start this season?



Mets Mets Mets Mets Giants Giants Giants



Giants Cubs Cubs Cubs Cubs Royals Royals



Royals Royals Astros Astros Astros Astros
 
50Put me in, Coach....
      ID: 39416321
      Wed, Jan 03, 19:18 		I personally havent used the GRT, actually I didnt even read about it until now.
 
51MR MET
      ID: 58033321
      Wed, Jan 03, 21:33 		It's good to know that most people haven't used the GRT. I wouldn't blame anyone for doing so, but it is good to know most haven't. My schedule has been pretty tough to Put me in, Coach, and my record reflects that.
 
52Synocco
      ID: 351152257
      Thu, Jan 04, 11:33 		The Commisioner posted a message on the GSB board saying that the GRT problem will be addressed shortly. I think we should all be quite pleased.

Here is what he posted:
#1 is in the process, the GRT will need to be reworked by the end of the week. The development formula used to be much more complicated, but it was simplified last April when we realized that players were never reaching full development. It won't become completely random, because I believe in rewarding owners that pay close attention to development, however there will be enough randomness that you won't be able to tell anything about a player by comparing his ratings on consecutive weeks. You will have to watch him for a season or two to try to gauge his development, and even then you won't be able to predict an exact value for a rating (at least until the new, more complicated equation is figured out).

Obviously, this game is driven by mathematical equations, and it always will be. The goal is to create equations that will approximate something that resembles MLB, while keeping the specifics of the equations unknown. Hopefully, this will result in the best approximations of the equations being derived from knowledge of baseball and not knowledge of Statistics.
 
53MR MET
      ID: 19039413
      Thu, Jan 04, 13:39 		The commish never lets us down. I am estatic about the update. Just when I thought I was losing interest in what was becoming a game of statistics, the commish comes through again. Now if I could just win in this league all would be well....
 
54Put me in, Coach....
      ID: 39416321
      Thu, Jan 04, 16:55 		I am extremely excite about that news also. I use to play SMALL WORLD BASEBALL + BASKETBALL and I have finished in the TOP 10 in their games in the past, and yes I recieved my game from them months later. Well anyway, I lost interest when someone figured out which player's values would rise the greatest each week.

I like to play a game at face value not make it scientific. When I read about the GRT yesterday, I debated to fold my team. I'm glad that all will be fixed soon.
 
56Synocco
      ID: 351152257
      Thu, Jan 04, 20:03 		Second Annual Power Rankings

1. Royals
Added Brad Guy over the offseason to bolster an already stellar pitching staff. Veteran 2B Coquillette, acquired at the trading deadline last season, completes an all-star lineup.

2. Cubs
After missing the playoffs last year, the Cubs are hungry. Long-time Mets prospect Ohka has finally earned a spot in the rotation, and the hitting is as good as it has ever been.

3. Mets
After a disappointing first-round exit from the playoffs last year, the Mets acquired the best starter in the league in Bohanon. Bohanon gives the team the bonafide ace it has sorely needed.

4. Yankees
The days of Bohanon and Thompson are in the past, but the Yanks haven't forgotten how to win. Retaining the services of Reed and Monds was key, as will the contributions of rookie outfielder Anthony Iapoce.

5. Dodgers
A surprise firesale over the offseason sent Matt Williams and Dave Newhan packing. With Manny Ramirez and Neifi Perez roaming fairways instead of the clubhouse, the lineup has lost some thunder. Nevertheless, a great pitching rotation will pick up most of the slack.

6. Orioles
After playing dead during the first half of last season, the Orioles roared back to life and gave the Yanks something to think about with two weeks left to play. Randy Brown might be the best hitter in the league, and Matt Montgomery is pitching like an ace.

7. Astros
Ownership loosened the purse-strings during the offseason, signing veterans Roger Clemens and Matt Lawton to fat contracts. The lineup has some pop, but Clemens needs some company in the rotation if the Astros want to make some real noise.

8. White Sox
Has been in the thick of things in the AL West over the past couple of seasons, but doesn't seem to have what it takes to reach the next level. Needs pitching -- like everyone else.

9. Rangers
The strategy of harvesting the best minor league free agents year after year is slowly paying off. Silvestri is a Rookie of the Year candidate, while former #1 draft pick John Sneed has finally broken into the bigs.

10. Padres
Long-time underachievers, the Padres seem poised to make a move. But they have a long way to go to reach the top. So far, Sean Bergman has continued to flash his Cy Young credentials of last year and the hitting is actually awake for once.

11. Giants
After trading away Bohanon, the Giants promptly turned around and gave $100 million to free agent Ryan Miller. Former Royal Bill King has been a flop so far in Bohanon's place, but there's at least one happy man in San Fran.

12. Red Sox
A series of deals with the Astros has given the Red Sox' lineup some semblance of respectability. Mike Bertotti is a poor man's ace, but he needs some help from his teammates.

13. Braves
A plethora of unknowns like Jason Giambi, Carlos Beltran, Vladimir Guerrero, and Paul O'Neill clutter a lineup full of holes. The pitching staff has definitely seen better days.

14. Mariners
A few hitting stars remain from the Mariners' golden era, but the pitchers seem to have been borrowed from a beer league. This is one year when the Mariner's hitting won't be able to cover for truly horrendous pitchers.

15. Cardinals
Non-existent ownership has gutted the franchise. The AAA affliate has folded and the AA club might soon follow. With 22 players eligibile for free agency at the end of the year, the Cardinals might not have enough players to field a team next season.

16. Indians
The ill-fated Indians just can't catch a break. The Cubs' AA team could probably beat the Indians on a regular basis. Like the Cardinals, the Indians need a miracle and dedicated ownership.
 
57skinneej
      ID: 07162116
      Thu, Jan 04, 20:45 		I think you guys are being a little modest. The Cubbies get my vote for the top team after retooling right before the trade deadline last season. Your team is solid from top to bottom. I do hope Trace sticks around another few years, or I gave up too much to you guys to get him. So far Guy has been disappointing, but he's a vet and will bounce back I'm sure. I felt I had to go out and make a move to offset the additions your team made. I feel pretty good about my team now, but I'm always looking to improve!! BTW, I do have an abundance of starters now, so I will entertain any offers for Rubio from any team looking for a top pitcher.
 
58Put me in, Coach....
      ID: 39416321
      Fri, Jan 05, 05:38 		Did anyone notice:

Cardinals Top Prospects
Position Players.....................Pitchers
1. Scott Morgan OF 21 AA ..... 1. Ray Beasley SP 24 A
2. Luis Figueroa 3B 20 A ....... 2. Jason Jimenez SP 21 A
3. Jeff Abbott OF 23 A .......3. Jeff Hafer SP 22 A
4. Randy Betten OF 24 A ...... 4. Allen McDill SP 22 A
5. Chris Woodward SS 25 AA ......5. Will Malerich SP 24 A
6. Brooks Kieschnick OF 25 AA ...... 6. Jeff Abbott OF 23 A
7. Jeff Hafer SP 22 A ..... 7. Scott Morgan OF 21 AA
8. Jason Jimenez SP 21 A ..... 8. Luis Figueroa 3B 20 A
9. Ray Beasley SP 24 A ...... 9. Chris Woodward SS 25 AA
10. Will Malerich SP 24 A ...... 10. Randy Betten OF 24 A

Boy, they need a good draft!
 
59Damn Yankees
      ID: 8013119
      Fri, Jan 05, 05:56 		Synocco,

Were these power rankings made before our series with the Mets or after? It is hard to understand how the 6-10 Mets can be placed ahead of our 11-5 Yanks, especially after we took 3 of 4 against them. We don't mind being overlooked though.
 
60Synocco
      ID: 351152257
      Fri, Jan 05, 07:32 		skineej: Thanks! We've been quite pleased with Fagget so far - I had no idea that he would keep improving. I think the trade hinges on Zosky and the two pitchers I sent you since there is no shortage of outfielders. I hope Coquillette beats up on the Mets!

Damn Yankees: Everything is open to debate, and the reason why I wrote the power rankings was to encourage debate. :) Those are the rankings that I would have come up with in Week 1, before the first sim. I based those rankings mostly on my judgement of the team quality, not on the current record or stats since the season is so young. When I look at the Mets, I see a superior rotation to your own and a lineup that is almost as good. However, your bullpen is much stronger (as your recent series demonstrated), especially with newly acquired Rich Rodriguez. In any case, I think the top 4 spots are pretty close.
 
61Dave
      ID: 211532816
      Fri, Jan 05, 17:55 		7th is looking generous the way my Astros are playing at the moment. My farm system is not great and the ML roster is probably 3 or 4 players away from contending. I am still trying to make some moves but will have to wait and see what happens.
 
62Synocco
      ID: 351152257
      Sun, Jan 07, 09:20 		Coglin and I are still wrestling with the GRT as it applies to this coming draft. I don't think something like this should be in the game. But at the same time, we want to stay on equal footing with those managers that have decided to use the GRT. Personally, I don't think the GRT is a loophole. However, I believe that the Commisioner made a poor choice in using such a simple algorithm. The ethics of using it are debatable. The discussions on the main GSB message board are certainly interesting, though it has devolved to mostly mud flinging.
 
63Coglin
      ID: 5305388
      Mon, Jan 08, 08:59 		Hmm it looks like the Commish did something to the GRT, or did he? Some of cubs prospects are improving in an abnormal rate while some stats that had stoped improving have changed both for good and bad. At least this can end the debate about GRT in the GSB message board:)
Any one saw Bell's 8 inning 1 hitter last night:)?
 
64Put me in, Coach....
      ID: 39416321
      Mon, Jan 08, 13:18 		No, i didnt have my dish hooked up. lol
 
65Coglin
      ID: 28592321
      Mon, Jan 08, 16:16 		Hmmm.. you mean there are places in North America where you can't catch a Cubs game on regular cable??? Hey Synocco, we need to work out a new TV contract!!


 
66Coglin
      ID: 28592321
      Mon, Jan 08, 17:04 		Brandon Knight, umm.. the first pitcher in GSB history to have 505 control.....
 
67MR MET
      ID: 1307818
      Mon, Jan 08, 18:07 		YES! My 24 year old stud SS LOSING AVG! I am one hell of a GM!
 
68Synocco
      ID: 351152257
      Mon, Jan 08, 18:32 		It appears that the commish has restored all of the ratings for players that had already stopped improving before the new growth system was applied.
 
69Damn Yankees
      ID: 8013119
      Mon, Jan 08, 19:23 		Not completely. My Randy Niles is still down 3 points in changeup.
 
70MR MET
      ID: 40036819
      Mon, Jan 08, 19:36 		No, he hasn't yet. Hernandez is still down a few points in average, and he was still improving, too.
 
71Synocco
      ID: 351152257
      Mon, Jan 08, 19:55 		Right. What I said that that the guys who had already stopped were restored. Niles and Hernandez don't count because they were (and presumably still are) improving? There seem to be a few exceptions among the "501" hitters, who are down to 500. I don't have a theory for Wonderful Monds. :)
 
72MR MET
      ID: 29057819
      Mon, Jan 08, 19:57 		Ahhh. I understand now Synocco. You could be right, I just wish we could get some kind of update from the commish. I suppose he is working hard to get this corrected.
 
73Damn Yankees
      ID: 8013119
      Tue, Jan 09, 05:47 		I'm not sure, but I don't think Niles is still improving. He has 7 years in. I printed out the stats after week 4. I hadn't done it before that, so I'm not sure where he started the season. After week 4 his changeup was 479, now it is 476.
 
74Damn Yankees
      ID: 8013119
      Tue, Jan 09, 17:36 		He went down to 474 this time. This isn't good.
 
75Synocco
      ID: 351152257
      Tue, Jan 09, 17:58 		I wouldn't be too worried. I don't know if Niles was still improving or not, but if his ratings are still changing, then it should just be random fluctuations caused by the new growth formula. I predict he'll be back up to 477 (or something close) by tomorrow and eventually peak in the low 480's within the next 10 weeks or so. Just a stab in the dark. :)

Put me in, Coach: Any regrets about your firesale?
 
76Put me in, Coach....
      ID: 39416321
      Wed, Jan 10, 05:11 		I figured I would probably win my division(5th straight) but my record is unbelievable considering the lack of talent in my lineup.
I dont regret a "firesale", actually I only traded NEWHAN (2B with 474ba and good speed) and WILLIAMS (3B 501ba 450HR). I am now awaiting my young prospects to mature. I was just hoping to get another season out of NEFFI PEREZ and MANNY RAMIREZ who was only 34 with back to back MVPs and a World Series ring when he retired. Boo-hoo!
 
77Damn Yankees
      ID: 8013119
      Wed, Jan 10, 17:51 		Niles is down another two points. This is just like watching my stocks in the market.
 
78Coglin
      ID: 28592321
      Wed, Jan 10, 17:56 		LOL, Nice comparison!!:)
 
79Synocco
      ID: 351152257
      Thu, Jan 11, 13:35 		Hey guys,

Just for fun, I calculated the Pythagorean winning percentages for each team in the league. Basically, the expected wins column lists how many games each team should have won given "average luck". The sample size of 36 games is really too small to draw any conclusions from, but it does confirm a few casual observations. For one, the Mets have had the worst luck. :)

Team Runs Scored Runs Allowed Expected Winning % Expected Wins Actual Wins Difference
Mets 189 147 0.623 22 18 -4
Astros 178 214 0.409 15 12 -3
Royals 287 146 0.794 29 26 -3
Cubs 249 123 0.804 29 27 -2
Mariners 225 197 0.566 20 19 -1
Yankees 246 165 0.690 25 24 -1
Braves 140 220 0.288 10 10 0
Padres 172 169 0.509 18 18 0
Orioles 167 173 0.482 17 18 1
Rangers 162 257 0.284 10 11 1
Indians 121 232 0.214 8 9 1
WhiteSox 197 165 0.588 21 23 2
RedSox 172 215 0.390 14 16 2
Dodgers 156 132 0.583 21 23 2
Giants 170 196 0.429 15 18 3
Cardinals 139 186 0.358 13 16 3

 
80Put me in, Coach....
      ID: 39416321
      Fri, Jan 12, 22:19 		looking at the cart avove can anyone explain my team with my salary?

Totals $40,013,000 $2,500,812

I have an answer... luck and overachieving. And paying off the umpires!
 
81Put me in, Coach....
      ID: 39416321
      Sat, Jan 13, 05:35 		My whole starting lineup(hitters) cost me under 10mil. That is why i dont have faith getting past the Cubs/Mets. Thus, a "mini-firesale".
 
82Put me in, Coach....
      ID: 39416321
      Sun, Jan 14, 22:24 		It looks like CARMODY mad his CY YOUNG bid official. He beat BARNSBY 7-0 and now leads the league in wins and era. The CUBS are dominating the awards this year.

If anyone had any trade offers for me, I'm sorry I didnt reply because I was sick and unable to get online to check.
 
83 sginter
      ID: 6052157
      Mon, Jan 15, 08:18 		Hey, Im the new owner of the Cardinals. This is my first year. How long does the off season go for. So, how long until its Season 9 after this season ends?
 
84Coglin
      ID: 14038158
      Mon, Jan 15, 09:00 		Coach: Yeah, after an off year last year, Cubs are back at it with full force.
It certainly does appear that we have a player being the favorite in each of the 3 award categories. Carmody have been phenomenal, and with Bohanon traded to the AL, he has all but secured his second Cy Young title. Although I think he might still face some competition even within his own team, Mike Bell and Richard Negrette(potential Reliever of the year, although we have no such award:P) might still give him a run at his money.
Synocco and I have pulled off a few trades last season that had made us look like a couple of geniuses. Keith Mitchell and David Newhan are front runners for many offensive categories, and are good candidates for the MVP honour, and Ethan Fagget, a formal Royal is probably one of the best bet for ROTY! Could this be the second time in L2 history that the Cubs sweep the awards?(last time it was Carmody winning the Cy Young and Robinson Cancel taking both MVP and ROTY):)

sginter: The regular season ends after week 16, and then there will be 1 week for tie breaker and 4 weeks of post season. After the WS Champion have be determined, I believe there will be a 3 weeks of off season where some wheel'n and deal'n can be done, along with the ever popular FA signing of course. Its always good to see an active GM, and even sweeter if he actively posts in this message board!!


 
85skinneej
      ID: 159241222
      Mon, Jan 15, 11:40 		Well, with the addition of Bohannon, I now feel I can match the Cubs and set up a potential dynamic WS rematch. Of course, it's not a given that I'll make it to the WS and I can't expect the Whitesox and Yanks to go quietly. Thank goodness I don't have to play those Indians again! Go figure, the Indians team which is now batting .199 was able to score 21 runs on the AL's best pitching staff and take 3 of 4. My usually sound bullpen lost two games, and Scott has been in a slump of late with his ERA ballooning to over 4.00 now. Brad Guy continues to struggle with his new team and has been demoted to long relief as Jeremy Callier gets another chance at the 4th spot. This spot may be "by committee" until the end of the season as Dixon and Burnside are also capable starters...the beauty (and curse it seems) of having 7 starters.

Welcome to the league, sginter. Good luck with the Cards as they need a lot of work to return to the top. The previous managers left the team for dead and did a poor job of replenishing the minors.
 
86Synocco
      ID: 351152257
      Mon, Jan 15, 15:14 		I laughed my head off when I saw the scores in the Royals-Indians series. :)
 
87Coglin
      ID: 50121612
      Tue, Jan 16, 12:53 		For the purpose of making this board more interesting than it already is, I figure it would be neat if we keep track of some player milestones. Of course, the past retired players are not included, so everything will be counted starting now.

The 1000 Hit Club
Matt Lawton Astros 1038
Wally Joyner Cubs 1030
DaRond Stovall Cubs 1005

All Time Hits Leader
Matt Lawton Astros 1038

The 100 Home Run Club
Todd Hundley Cardinals 111
Rico Brogna Yankees 119
Matt Williams Mets 100

All Time Home Run Leader
Rico Brogna Yankees 119

All Time Steals Leaders
Matt Lawton Astros 157
Nick Johnson Royals 155
Steve Huls Braves 137

100 Win Club
No One Yet

All Time Wins Leader
Pedro Martinez Cubs 97

1000K's Club
Brian Bohanon Royals 1130
Roger Clemens Yankees 1004

All Time Strike Out Leader
Brian Bohanon Royals 1130

100 Saves Club
No One Yet

All Time Saves Leader
Blake Mayo Astros 97

All Time ERA Leader
Roger Clemens Yankees 3.04

All this, of course are subject to change as the season progresses. If any of you think that some of those clubs are not prestige enough, or if there are some things we need to add to it, please post. This is for everyone to check, play, and edit:) Who knows, maybe we can even set up a hall of fame!!


 
88Put me in, Coach....
      ID: 39416321
      Tue, Jan 16, 14:43 		Maybe, RBIs and Runs Scored
 
89Coglin
      ID: 28592321
      Tue, Jan 16, 22:01 		Ack, where did Astros get those SPs, Cubs were completely shut down for the first time this season.
 
90Dave
      ID: 31001623
      Tue, Jan 16, 23:00 		It was a long time coming but finally my team put in a decent performance. The Astros are 14-6 in their last 5 series', if we had started like that we'd be in contention right now. Oh well, theres always next year!.
 
91Put me in, Coach....
      ID: 39416321
      Tue, Jan 16, 23:05 		I know, I just looked at my pitching matchups with the 'stros and I think each game is a toss up. Looking foward to battle with you over the next few years. You probably haven't heard but my Dodgers have problems beating teams from texas.
 
92Put me in, Coach....
      ID: 39416321
      Wed, Jan 17, 17:11 		The best (Worst) pennant race might be in the NL West. My dodgers have only a 3 game lead over the Giants and the Astros after getting swept by the 'stors and having the Giants next. Boy, what a late season slump.
 
93 sginter
      ID: 6052157
      Wed, Jan 17, 19:12 		Im the owner of the Cards and Im still kinda new at this. But, how long does a player last before he retires (age)? Like around low/mid 30's or is it closer to 40. Im trying to figure out whose gonna be retiring on my team and I was just curious if anyone new.

Also, after my first 1/2 of season, my team needs ALOT of work. Does anyone know, by chance, what the Cards record was last year? I kinda want to know if I improved or not.
 
94MR MET
      ID: 540321719
      Wed, Jan 17, 19:32 		Retirement age is supposedly random. When a player hits 34 they are eligible for retirement. To me, it seems my players retire around 34-36 rather than 37-40. Sorry, I don't know the Cardinals record for last year. Anyone else?
 
95Synocco
      ID: 351152257
      Wed, Jan 17, 19:39 		sginter: Any players who is 34 or older at the end of the World Series may choose to retire. The decision to retire is completely random.

Also, I've tracked your roster movements, and I've been puzzled by some of your decisions. For example, why did you sign Jason Grabowski to a long term deal? A player with his ratings should be in AA. Heck, with his "stars" he should be cut altogether. Yet, you've cut some of your better players. Don't forget that player names have no bearing on their skill. The best pitcher in the league is Brian Bohanon and one of the best hitters in the league is Wally Joyner. Most of the superstars are no-name players. You should not be making any roster decisions based on a player's name or real-life reputation. This is a mistake that many new managers make.

You should check out the rosters of the best teams: Cubs, Yanks, Royals, etc, and see the winning teams do.
 
96Synocco
      ID: 351152257
      Wed, Jan 17, 19:41 		The Cardinals were 17-47 last season. I have a lot of this data saved for the sake of posterity. :)
 
97MR MET
      ID: 160151720
      Wed, Jan 17, 20:15 		I see you've left me off the list of best teams Synocco...bitter about last year??
 
98Synocco
      ID: 351152257
      Wed, Jan 17, 20:55 		lol, that was hardly meant to be an exhaustive list of "good teams" in L2! I simply listed the 3 teams with the best winning percentage... how's that?
 
99Put me in, Coach....
      ID: 39416321
      Thu, Jan 18, 04:34 		Maybe, does someone want to keep track of franchise records? If you have some of the past season(s) records we can use they as well.
 
100MR MET
      ID: 20019186
      Thu, Jan 18, 06:19 		I know you weren't making a full list...but my players don't. They are a bit angry, watch out next year...you're gonna lose.
 
101Put me in, Coach....
      ID: 39416321
      Fri, Jan 19, 19:46 		This might be interesting, we should compose an allstar team including both leagues that will name the best C, 1b, 2b, ss, 3b, 3-of, 4-SP 2-RP. What do you guys think?
 
102Damn Yankees
      ID: 240121917
      Fri, Jan 19, 20:11 		I think you need to throw in DH as well. You can put the best hitter not selected at a position at that spot.
 
103Coglin
      ID: 28592321
      Fri, Jan 19, 20:15 		hmm I nominate Carmody, Bell, Negrette, Keith Mitchell, and David Newhan from the Cubs:P
 
104skinneej
      ID: 159241222
      Fri, Jan 19, 21:39 		Royals Notes: The team finished the season on a strong note winning their last 12 and head into the post season brimming with confidence. Scott Downs completed his perfect season going 13-0 and topped newcomer Bohanon for the AL ERA title. Bohanon went 4-0 with his new team and gives the Royals a seasoned vet heading into the playoffs. The Royals are working hard to convince Brian to return next season, and have promised him that they will pick up his option for the next season if he does.

All-star and post-season nominations: In addition to having the best two pitchers in the league, several other Royals deserve mention for their great seasons: John Hernandez (C), Nick Johnson (1B), Trace Coquillette (2B), Vinny Castilla (3B), Virgil Chevalier, and Antonio Osuna (RP).

 
105Damn Yankees
      ID: 240121917
      Sat, Jan 20, 05:13 		Yankee nominations

C Jim Horner
1B Rico Brogna
2B Bob MaCrory
Of Wonderful Monds
OF Rich Amaral
RP Romulo Martinez

ROY Anthony Iapoce
Cy Tom Evans
 
106Coglin
      ID: 28592321
      Sat, Jan 20, 14:02 		What do you guys think of the commish's message? Synocco and I are all for it and going to stay. Anyone else?

 
107Damn Yankees
      ID: 240121917
      Sat, Jan 20, 14:41 		I tend to doubt I will stick around. If I decide to play, I probably will keep my other team. Its been fun.
 
108skinneej
      ID: 159241222
      Sat, Jan 20, 15:03 		With the work I've put into this team and my team in W2, I don't want to walk away. It will be interesting to see how many leagues survive and what the restructuring will be like. With the new leagues going to 30 teams, I expect that L2 will fold and we will need to join an established league. I'd like for all of us that are going to stay end up in the same league. If I understand the commish's message correctly, we can take our current team with us. Our team name may change and some player's names will have to change, but that the ratings and prospect improvements will stay the same.
 
109Synocco
      ID: 351152257
      Sat, Jan 20, 15:06 		I think that a benefit of the change would be the elimination of those managers who aren't serious about their teams. If paying a nominal fee meant an improvement in the number of dedicated owners, then it'd be worth it.
 
110Coglin
      ID: 28592321
      Sat, Jan 20, 16:01 		skineej: yeah, it would be awsome if all of us L2 Alumni can be together in the new 30 team league:)
 
111skinneej
      ID: 159241222
      Sat, Jan 20, 16:22 		Taking a cue from you guys, I am seriously considering adding a co-manager to my teams. With 30 teams, league scouting will become much more difficult and I'm still getting a handle on the new growth rate formula. I have a few vets in mind, but I've got to find out if they are staying and if they are keeping their teams. I look forward to the changes to come.
 
112MR MET
      ID: 420412020
      Sat, Jan 20, 20:41 		I hope to stick around. Unfortunately, I have a few teams and as a high school senior saving up for college I can not afford to keep them all. Providing we can keep our old teams, the L2 Mets will not be a thing of the past.
 
113Coglin
      ID: 28592321
      Sat, Jan 20, 21:08 		Synocco and I only have one team, so I think we can manage $3/month(or $1.50 each:D)
 
114Synocco
      ID: 351152257
      Sun, Jan 21, 10:54 		$1.50 each? I thought you were paying for it all.
 
115Damn Yankees
      ID: 240121917
      Sun, Jan 21, 15:02 		Just in case you didn't get the email, all the Mariners players are up for trade. Please make some offers. Don't be discourage just because it is middle of the playoffs. Make him some offers!
 
116skinneej
      ID: 07162116
      Sun, Jan 21, 20:33 		If the Mariners are scrapping their team because they are not staying, then I hope that the ones that are staying will not take advantage of managers like this. I have worked to maintain my teams competitive edge, and I would not want to improve it by taking freebies. If others of you are thinking of doing this, I would hope you would reconsider. If some teams do, then I don't want to play in the same league with you.
 
117Damn Yankees
      ID: 240121917
      Mon, Jan 22, 05:40 		I don't know if they are staying or not, but I play in two different leagues with Ty and he sends the same type of email about everyday and sometimes two or three times a day. I was just making fun of it because there isn't even any trading allowed during the playoffs and he still sent it.
 
118Put me in, Coach....
      ID: 39416321
      Mon, Jan 22, 06:19 		Personally, I am now considering starting a new. I dont think I can compete with stacked teams.
 
119Coglin
      ID: 32034226
      Mon, Jan 22, 06:39 		Start a new team probably won't be that easy either since you'll probably get assigned with a random team. I do agree with you that there will be a lot of stacked teams in the new league though.
 
120MR MET
      ID: 10049226
      Mon, Jan 22, 06:49 		I am thinking starting new too. I think there will be an option of a draft league, to level out the teams though.
 
121Dave
      ID: 70252212
      Mon, Jan 22, 12:25 		If i stay it will be with a new team, as i haven't been playing GSB that long i have not been able to build up any stacked teams and so would be at a disadvantage if i moved to an established league. The new leagues will have a draft option (commish posted on board).
 
122Damn Yankees
      ID: 240121917
      Mon, Jan 22, 16:29 		To be honest If I stay I would like to keep my Royals from league P and move them into this league. I enjoy this league much more than my other leagues, but I have been in league P for 12 seasons now and I feel more of a connection to that team. I wonder if that will be possible. I do forsee some real problems with keeping active owners in any of these new leagues and getting everyone to play by one set of rules. Particularly if you now have 30 teams. More competition often leads to more people trying to bend the rules.
 
123Coglin
      ID: 28592321
      Mon, Jan 22, 16:43 		we just need to set up a union:)
 
124skinneej
      ID: 07162116
      Mon, Jan 22, 19:39 		There are other gurupie leagues trying to merge into one, and I think we should find one or two leagues and do the same. Now that the Commish has instituted a "No dumping" policy, we should feel better about not competing against intentionally stacked teams. Also, with the new trades feature, we can monitor teams that propose to join our new league and see if they make questionable trades. I'm also for some form of self-governing body that can enforce a set of agreed upon rules, and levy fines or sanctions against any renegade managers.
 
125Coglin
      ID: 28592321
      Tue, Jan 23, 05:58 		Wow, what a close series in the ALCS, Yankees came just short of another amazing come back(last time yanks did it to the cubs back in season 6 WS).
 
126skinneej
      ID: 159241222
      Tue, Jan 23, 06:37 		You aren't kidding. My heart is still pounding. First to beat Bohanon and then Downs, but to have the lead going into the 9th of game 7...Nick Johnson deserves a pay raise! My hitters are going to have to come alive if we are to beat the Cubbies. This may be the last WS in L2 as we know it, so here's hoping it's a good one (meaning a Royals win!)
 
127Damn Yankees
      ID: 240121917
      Tue, Jan 23, 15:35 		Good job Royals!
 
128Synocco
      ID: 351152257
      Tue, Jan 23, 16:14 		That series is one you'll be telling to your grandchildren. ;) Great series for both teams.

I figure we'll have at least another season left in L2, but the clock certainly is ticking.
 
129 Lisa
      ID: 2973530
      Wed, Aug 03, 2011, 01:35 		Slam dnuikn like Shaquille O'Neal, if he wrote informative articles.