We keep on rolling into Round 3. Some familiar names, some college stars, and some teams finding heirs to their QBs. All of this and more coming once the Cardinals hand in their card.
1 (65). Arizona Cardinals: David Edwards, OT, Wisconsin
2 (66). Pittsburgh Steelers: Emmanuel Hall, WR, Missouri
3 (67). San Francisco 49ers: David Long, CB, Michigan
4 (68). New York Jets: Elgton Jenkins, OC, Mississippi
5 (69). Jacksonville Jaguars: Nasir Adderley, S, Delaware
6 (70). Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jarrett Stidham, QB, Auburn
Jameis Winston may not be an NFL starting QB for long. Stidham gives the Bucs another option.
7 (71). Denver Broncos: Ryan Finley, QB, NC State
We don't know what Joe Flacco has left. and Finley may be the most NFL-ready QB.
8 (72). Cincinnati Bengals: Connor McGovern, OG, Penn State
9 (73). New England Patriots: JJ Arcega-Whiteside, WR, Stanford
Gronk is gone, and Arcega-Whiteside immediately becomes the biggest red zone target for Brady.
10 (74). Buffalo Bills: Jamel Dean, CB, Auburn
11 (75). Green Bay Packers: Michael Jordan, OG/C, Ohio State
12 (76). Washington Redskins: Riley Ridley, WR, Georgia
The Skins WR corp may be the worst in football. Hopefully Ridley can jumpstart it.
13 (77). Carolina Panthers: Amani Hooker, S, Iowa
14 (78). Miami Dolphins: Greg Little, OT, Ole Miss
15 (79). Atlanta Falcons: Juan Thornhill, CB/S, Virginia
16 (80). Cleveland Browns: Will Harris, S, Boston College
17 (81). Minnesota Vikings: Tommy Sweeney, TE, Boston College
18 (82). Tennessee Titans: Dawson Knox, TE, Ole Miss
19 (83). Pittsburgh Steelers: Germaine Pratt, OLB, NC State
20 (84). Kansas City Chiefs: Vosean Joseph, LB, Florida
21 (85). Baltimore Ravens: Kelvin Harmon, WR, NC State
22 (86). Houston Texans: Terry McLaurin, WR, Ohio State
23 (87). Chicago Bears: Miles Sanders, RB, Penn State
The Bears finally make a pick! They traded Jordan Howard to the Eagles, so they need an every down back to help Mitchell Trubisky.
24 (88). Detroit Lions: Michael Deiter, OG/C, Wisconsin
25 (89). Indianapolis Colts: Joe Jackson, DE, Miami
26 (90). Dallas Cowboys: Marquise Blair, S, Utah
27 (91). Los Angeles Chargers: Jeffery Simmons, DT, Mississippi State
There is video of Simmons' punching a woman when he was in high school, though by all accounts he has changed as a person, and had no incidents while in college. That wouldn't cause him to fall in the NFL anyway, cause they don't care about that. Instead, this Top 10 talent ends up in Round 3 because he tore his ACL while training in February. He will likely miss the entire 2019 season.
28 (92). Seattle Seahawks: Hakeem Butler, WR, Iowa State
29 (93). New York Jets: Corey Ballentine, CB, Washburn
Washburn? Yes. Washburn.
30 (94). Los Angeles Rams: Damien Harris, RB, Alabama
31 (95). New York Giants: Ben Powers, OG, Oklahoma
32 (96). Washington Redskins: Beau Benzschawel, OG, Wisconsin
33 (97). New England Patriots: Will Grier, QB, West Virginia
Potentially the heir to Tom Brady, Grier put up video game numbers at WVU. He can sit behind Brady until the G.O.A.T. decides to hang it up, whenever that will be.
34 (98). Jacksonville Jaguars: Justice Hill, RB, Oklahoma State
35 (99). Los Angeles Rams: Isaiah Buggs, DT, Alabama
36 (100). Carolina Panthers: Jalen Hurd, WR, Baylor
37 (101). New England Patriots: Nate Davis, OG, Charlotte
38 (102). Baltimore Ravens: Tre Lamar, ILB, Clemson
Moving on to the Day 3 rounds next, trying to find those hidden gems that will make the biggest impacts. Stay tuned!
Tuesday, April 23, 2019
2019 NFL Mock Draft- Round 2
Back for more! There are lots of good players still on the board in Round 2. Some teams are picking for the first time all draft. The Cardinals get us started again. Note, from now on, I will only be analyzing players I want to highlight.
1 (33). Arizona Cardinals: N'Keal Harry, WR Arizona State
My personal favorite WR in the draft. He is strong, physical, and super-productive. He also has the quickness and wiggle to return kicks. He is the perfect padawan for Larry Fitzgerald, and a weapon for Kyler Murray going forward.
2 (34). Indianapolis Colts: Taylor Rapp, S, Washington
3 (35). Oakland Raiders: Josh Jacobs, RB, Alabama
The Raiders could spend a 1st round pick on Jacobs. On my board, he falls into the 2nd round, and steps in as the starter on Day 1.
4 (36). San Francisco 49ers: AJ Brown, WR, Ole Miss
The actual best receiver from Ole Miss, despite DK Metcalf's insane physical attributes.
5 (37). New York Giants: Jaylon Ferguson, DE, Louisiana Tech
6 (38). Jacksonville Jaguars: Deebo Samuel, WR, South Carolina
7 (39). Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Rock Ya-Sin, CB, Temple
8 (40). Buffalo Bills: Jace Sternberger, TE, Texas A&M
9 (41). Denver Broncos: Erik McCoy, OC, Texas A&M
10 (42). Cincinnati Bengals: Daniel Jones, QB, Duke
I don't really buy that Jones is a 1st round guy, unless a team trades back in. Since we don't project trades, Jones falls down to the Bengals, where he will sit for a year under Andy Dalton, then take over as the starter in 2020.
11 (43). Detroit Lions: Justin Layne, CB, Michigan State
12 (44). Green Bay Packers: Chauncey Gardner-Johnson, S, Florida
13 (45). Atlanta Falcons: Zach Allen, DE, Boston College
14 (46). Washington Redskins: Oshane Ximines, DE/OLB, Old Dominion
15 (47). Carolina Panthers: LJ Collier, DE, TCU
16 (48). Miami Dolphins: Darnell Savage Jr, S, Maryland
17 (49). Cleveland Browns: Lonnie Johnson, CB, Kentucky
The Browns get their first pick of the draft, after trading their 1st rounder for OBJ. They need some help in the secondary beside Denzel Ward.
18 (50). Minnesota Vikings: Jerry Tillery, DT, Notre Dame
19 (51). Tennessee Titans: Chase Winovich, OLB, Michigan
Outproduced Rashan Gary in Ann Arbor. Could be a steal.
20 (52). Pittsburgh Steelers: Trayvon Mullens, CB, Clemson
21 (53). Philadelphia Eagles: Dalton Risner, OT/G, Kansas State
22 (54). Houston Texans: Amani Oruwariye, CB, Penn State
23 (55). Houston Texans: David Montgomery, RB, Iowa State
24 (56). New England Patriots: Dre'Mont Jones, DT, Ohio State
25 (57). Philadelphia Eagles: Mack Wilson, ILB, Alabama
26 (58). Dallas Cowboys: Gerald Willis III, DT, Miami
The Cowboys sent their first pick to Oakland for Amari Cooper, so their 2nd round pick needs to make a difference. Their biggest need, based on suspensions and departures, is defensive line. Willis was second team All-America and All-ACC.
27 (59). Indianapolis Colts: Kaleb McGary, OT, Washington
28 (60). Los Angeles Chargers: Yodny Cajuste, OT, West Virginia
29 (61). Kansas City Chiefs: Deionte Thompson, S, Alabama
Help in a secondary that Tom Brady picked apart. Their first pick went to Seattle for Frank Clark.
30 (62). New Orleans Saints: Dru Samia, OG, Oklahoma
The Saints only pick in the first four rounds goes to solidifying that OL and keeping Drew Brees upright. Samia was a four-year starter at Oklahoma, and can fortify the inside of their line.
31 (63). Kansas City Chiefs: Tytus Howard, OT, Alabama State
32 (64). New England Patriots: Julian Love, CB, Notre Dame
Round 3 coming up!
1 (33). Arizona Cardinals: N'Keal Harry, WR Arizona State
My personal favorite WR in the draft. He is strong, physical, and super-productive. He also has the quickness and wiggle to return kicks. He is the perfect padawan for Larry Fitzgerald, and a weapon for Kyler Murray going forward.
2 (34). Indianapolis Colts: Taylor Rapp, S, Washington
3 (35). Oakland Raiders: Josh Jacobs, RB, Alabama
The Raiders could spend a 1st round pick on Jacobs. On my board, he falls into the 2nd round, and steps in as the starter on Day 1.
4 (36). San Francisco 49ers: AJ Brown, WR, Ole Miss
The actual best receiver from Ole Miss, despite DK Metcalf's insane physical attributes.
5 (37). New York Giants: Jaylon Ferguson, DE, Louisiana Tech
6 (38). Jacksonville Jaguars: Deebo Samuel, WR, South Carolina
7 (39). Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Rock Ya-Sin, CB, Temple
8 (40). Buffalo Bills: Jace Sternberger, TE, Texas A&M
9 (41). Denver Broncos: Erik McCoy, OC, Texas A&M
10 (42). Cincinnati Bengals: Daniel Jones, QB, Duke
I don't really buy that Jones is a 1st round guy, unless a team trades back in. Since we don't project trades, Jones falls down to the Bengals, where he will sit for a year under Andy Dalton, then take over as the starter in 2020.
11 (43). Detroit Lions: Justin Layne, CB, Michigan State
12 (44). Green Bay Packers: Chauncey Gardner-Johnson, S, Florida
13 (45). Atlanta Falcons: Zach Allen, DE, Boston College
14 (46). Washington Redskins: Oshane Ximines, DE/OLB, Old Dominion
15 (47). Carolina Panthers: LJ Collier, DE, TCU
16 (48). Miami Dolphins: Darnell Savage Jr, S, Maryland
17 (49). Cleveland Browns: Lonnie Johnson, CB, Kentucky
The Browns get their first pick of the draft, after trading their 1st rounder for OBJ. They need some help in the secondary beside Denzel Ward.
18 (50). Minnesota Vikings: Jerry Tillery, DT, Notre Dame
19 (51). Tennessee Titans: Chase Winovich, OLB, Michigan
Outproduced Rashan Gary in Ann Arbor. Could be a steal.
20 (52). Pittsburgh Steelers: Trayvon Mullens, CB, Clemson
21 (53). Philadelphia Eagles: Dalton Risner, OT/G, Kansas State
22 (54). Houston Texans: Amani Oruwariye, CB, Penn State
23 (55). Houston Texans: David Montgomery, RB, Iowa State
24 (56). New England Patriots: Dre'Mont Jones, DT, Ohio State
25 (57). Philadelphia Eagles: Mack Wilson, ILB, Alabama
26 (58). Dallas Cowboys: Gerald Willis III, DT, Miami
The Cowboys sent their first pick to Oakland for Amari Cooper, so their 2nd round pick needs to make a difference. Their biggest need, based on suspensions and departures, is defensive line. Willis was second team All-America and All-ACC.
27 (59). Indianapolis Colts: Kaleb McGary, OT, Washington
28 (60). Los Angeles Chargers: Yodny Cajuste, OT, West Virginia
29 (61). Kansas City Chiefs: Deionte Thompson, S, Alabama
Help in a secondary that Tom Brady picked apart. Their first pick went to Seattle for Frank Clark.
30 (62). New Orleans Saints: Dru Samia, OG, Oklahoma
The Saints only pick in the first four rounds goes to solidifying that OL and keeping Drew Brees upright. Samia was a four-year starter at Oklahoma, and can fortify the inside of their line.
31 (63). Kansas City Chiefs: Tytus Howard, OT, Alabama State
32 (64). New England Patriots: Julian Love, CB, Notre Dame
Round 3 coming up!
Monday, April 22, 2019
2019 NFL Mock Draft: Round 1
Hello friends! It's the most wonderful time of the year- NFL Draft Week! As anticipation builds for Thursday night, all the experts seem to know one thing- NO ONE KNOWS ANYTHING! Even the presumptive #1 pick is up in the air. We will see, but I know I have my own opinions on all the pick in the Draft. So, what follows over the next few posts is my full seven round mock draft. I try to draft based on team needs and what I think the teams should do, not necessarily what they will do. Also, I do not project trades, which means this mock will be pretty worthless at about 8:20 PM ET on Thursday. And with that, the Arizona Cardinals are on the clock. And this pick is in. With the first pick of the JFLANland 2019 NFL Mock Draft...
1. Arizona Cardinals: Kyler Murray, QB, Oklahoma
I know. They have Josh Rosen. Nick Bosa is there. But I think that the bridge has been burnt with all of the Murray talk, and that Kliff Kingsbury will win out and get his man. Murray is short, but he is super-talented. Look for Rosen to get traded after the pick is made. Of course, we don't project trades, so we won't discuss that here (do it, Skins!).
2. San Francisco 49ers: Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State
Arguably the most talented player in the draft, and a player who has been atop draft boards since the 2018 draft ended. Bosa heads to California to help sure up what is becoming an excellent young defensive front by the Bay.
3. New York Jets: Josh Allen, OLB, Kentucky
The Jets have been in need of a superior pass rusher for years. Allen could come in and be the best edge rusher on the team immediately. Couple him with Leonard Williams on the line at DE, and CJ Mosley in the middle of the defense, and the Jets could have that formidable D that helped them make the playoffs a decade ago.
4. Oakland Raiders: Quinnen Williams, DT, Alabama
Williams could be the safest and most sure thing in the draft. Alabama D-Linemen produce in the NFL, and Williams looks to join the impact DTs like Jonathan Allen and DeRon Payne. Oakland needs all the help it can get at every position (except QB), and getting a stud DT to anchor they D-line is a great start.
5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Devin White, ILB, LSU
Kwon Alexander left to man the middle of the 49ers defense, so there is a massive hole there for the Bucs. White is a sideline-to-sideline tackling machine, who has a nose for the ball. He is the best player available, and fits a big need.
6. New York Giants: Dwayne Haskins, QB, Ohio State
Ok. Here we go. Every report over the past week has the Giants not wanting to spend this pick on a QB if they can use the #17 pick on a QB or trade it for Josh Rosen. Everyone says their GM is crazy about pass rushers, and there are still a ton of great ones on the board. But I just don't think the Giants can pass over the #2 QB in the draft falling to them at 6 when they do not have a long-term replacement for Eli Manning. Haskins is the guy here. Damn the rumors.
7. Jacksonville Jaguars: Jawaan Taylor, OT, Florida
Yes, TE or WR is important because new QB Nick Foles needs weapons. However, keeping him upright is more important. Cam Robinson and Will Richardson aren't the best tackles in the world. Jawaan Taylor can be an upgrade. Plus, the Florida Gator could be a popular, albeit unsexy, pick for the Jags.
8. Detroit Lions: Montez Sweat, DE, Mississippi State
The Lions' best pass rusher, Ziggy Ansah, is still a free agent and may not come back. Sweat can come in and replace him immediately. He was super productive at MSU, first team All-SEC, and wowed everyone at the Combine with his insane workout. I don't think his heart condition will hurt his stock as much as people are saying, since doctors cleared him.
9. Buffalo Bills: Ed Oliver, DT, Houston
The Bills could go a few ways. There are some great playmakers on the board. They could shore up their OL. But I think they go with the uber-talented defensive lineman from Houston. Oliver has been hyped since last year as a potential top 5 pick. He is super-athletic, though perhaps a bit undersized for a proper 4-3 DT. Still, his ability and explosiveness could translate to all four positions on the line, and even let him stand up in the middle of the defense if need be.
10. Denver Broncos: TJ Hockenson, TE, Iowa
The Broncos traded for Joe Flacco. Flacco, more than any other QB I can remember, throws to tight ends over WRs and check downs. He needs a good tight end to flourish. Hockenson has size, speed, and skills. He is the perfect weapon for a Flacco-led passing game, and he can block too.
11. Cincinnati Bengals: Christian Wilkins, DT, Clemson
That super-successful Clemson defense will produce a fair amount of picks in this draft. Wilkins may be the best of the bunch, anchoring the defensive line. A first team All-American, first team All-ACC star, he could bring stability to a defense in flux in Cincinnati.
12. Green Bay Packers: DK Metcalf, WR, Ole Miss
A shiny new weapon for Aaron Rodgers? Why not. Metcalf is an athletic freak, with a torso that looks like the batsuit and the speed of Flash all in one. His route-running may be questionable, but he is too talented to skip at this point for a team that needs a superstar position player to go with their franchise QB.
13. Miami Dolphins: Rashan Gary, DE, Michigan
They need a QB. They insist they aren't taking a QB. Sure, why not? So they move to pass rusher instead. Gary could be the best player available, fits a glaring need on the Dolphins D, and has all the traits to be a star though his production at Michigan wasn't always there.
14. Atlanta Falcons: Jonah Williams, G/T, Alabama
The most important thing for the Falcons is being able to keep Matt Ryan upright, and keep the running game moving. Williams has that Alabama pedigree, and can play multiple positions on the line.
15. Washington Redskins: Drew Lock, QB, Missouri
So, if the Skins end up trading for Rosen, this pick could easily be best pass rusher or best WR available. As it is, and since we don't project trades, the Skins are still in need of a QB of the future, and Lock has fallen into their lap. I think he can sit most of the season behind Case Keenum/Colt McCoy and get his game up to NFL speed. He has all the physical ability to be a superstar. But can he be consistent? The Skins are banking on it.
16. Carolina Panthers: Andre Dillard, T/G, Washington State
This draft is deeper at defensive line and edge than it is at potential OTs. Dillard joins a squad that needs improve Cam Newton's protection on his blind side. Dillard could slot in at left tackle, help the run game with Christian McCaffery, and keep Cam healthy.
17. New York Giants: Marquise Brown, WR, Oklahoma
OBJ is in Cleveland. The Giants need another playmaker on offense, especially with a new QB on the roster in Haskins. Personally, I don't trust a super-small WR with a lisfranc injury, but folks that know more about football insist he is worth a 1st Round pick. The fit is clear.
18. Minnesota Vikings: Cody Ford, OT, Oklahoma
Back-to-back Sooners. Kirk Cousins' huge contract will only be worth it if he has time to throw the ball. Per Pro Football Focus, Riley Reiff was the only Vikings O-lineman in the top 80 of position rankings. They need a ton of help up front. Ford helped protect Kyler Murray, and is a mauler in the trenches.
19. Tennessee Titans: Dexter Lawrence, DT, Clemson
The Titans' #1 need? Defensive tackle. Dexter Lawrence is a classic nose tackle who can be slotted next to Jurrell Casey and Harold Landry. His comp? Haloti Ngata. Who wouldn't want that on their team?
20. Pittsburgh Steelers: Devin Bush, ILB, Michigan
Bush could have gone to Cincinnati, but I think he falls to the Steelers. They have yet to truly replace Ryan Shazier after his terrifying on-filed accident. Bush is a big play lineback that can bring that toughness back to the Steel Curtin.
21. Seattle Seahawks: Clelin Ferrell, DE, Clemson
The Seahawks are shopping Frank Clark because they can't afford him after Russell Wilson's big contract extension. Ferrell steps in to that vacancy immediately.
22. Baltimore Ravens: Brian Burns, OLB, Florida State
The Ravens managed to lose most of their pass rush to free agency. Brian Burns is being mocked by some into the Top 10. I don't see that, but I think he is a great fit at 22. The Ravens need an explosive pass rusher who could end up being elite.
23. Houston Texans: Garrett Bradbury, OC, NC State
Like other teams, the biggest thing the Texans need to do is keep their QB healthy. DeShaun Watson was sacked a league-high 62 times last season. They could upgrade at every OL position, but Bradbury is the best on the board. Todd McShay says he is the most NFL-ready lineman in the draft, and he can play guard or center.
24. Oakland Raiders: Jachai Polite, DE, Florida
Raiders go with a pass rusher to replace Khalil Mack. Polite's tape is much, much, much better than his workouts, and I think Gruden will do something to surprise everyone. It is the Raiders after all.
25. Philadelphia Eagles: Johnathan Abrams, S, Mississippi State
After the Eagles got Jordan Howard, their top need of an every down RB went away. Instead, they can concentrate on improving their secondary with the best safety available.
26. Indianapolis Colts: Parris Campbell, WR, Ohio State
TY Hilton turns 30 this year, and Andrew Luck needs more weapons to work with. Insert Parris Campbell, who has the ability to play both outside and in the slot.
27. Oakland Raiders: Greedy Williams, CB, LSU
Another piece on the Vikings D. Greedy Williams is the best cover corner in the draft, even if he isn't the biggest fan of tackling. His value is too good at a position of need to pass up.
28. Los Angeles Chargers: Byron Murphy, CB, Washington
If Greedy is CB #1, Murphy is #1A. He plays bigger than his 5-11 frame, and is a total ball hawk. He is a great fit in a division that has to try to stop Patrick Mahomes.
29. Seattle Seahawks: Deandre Baker, CB, Georgia
This was the Chiefs pick when I first published Round 1. Of course they trade it for Frank Clark. The Seahawks, having addressed their Clark replacement a few picks ago, go for Baker. Baker did not have a good Combine, but his tape shows he could be ranked right alongside Murphy and Williams.
30. Green Bay Packers: Noah Fant, TE, Iowa
Another weapon for Rodgers! Fant is more like a slot receiver than a true TE, since he isn't the most keen blocker. Still, his size and speed creates an instant mismatch vs corner, safeties, and linebackers.
31. Los Angeles Rams: Chris Lindstrom, OG, Boston College
Lindstrom is the most athletic interior lineman in the draft, but he can also play right tackle, where he spent most of his time in his junior season en route to 2nd team all-ACC honors. He can help get the best out of Phillip Rivers as he enters the last phase of his career, still chasing a Super Bowl.
32. New England Patriots: Irv Smith Jr, TE, Alabama
Gronk go bye bye, so the Pats have a big hole to fill at tight end. Irv Smith is the best available, and fits that receiver-first mentality that Gronk did. He may not have the size and the strength, but he has good speed and athletic ability to help Tom Brady try to get yet another Super Bowl ring.
There is Round 1! Round 2 will be coming soon, as will Rounds 3-7.
1. Arizona Cardinals: Kyler Murray, QB, Oklahoma
I know. They have Josh Rosen. Nick Bosa is there. But I think that the bridge has been burnt with all of the Murray talk, and that Kliff Kingsbury will win out and get his man. Murray is short, but he is super-talented. Look for Rosen to get traded after the pick is made. Of course, we don't project trades, so we won't discuss that here (do it, Skins!).
2. San Francisco 49ers: Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State
Arguably the most talented player in the draft, and a player who has been atop draft boards since the 2018 draft ended. Bosa heads to California to help sure up what is becoming an excellent young defensive front by the Bay.
3. New York Jets: Josh Allen, OLB, Kentucky
The Jets have been in need of a superior pass rusher for years. Allen could come in and be the best edge rusher on the team immediately. Couple him with Leonard Williams on the line at DE, and CJ Mosley in the middle of the defense, and the Jets could have that formidable D that helped them make the playoffs a decade ago.
4. Oakland Raiders: Quinnen Williams, DT, Alabama
Williams could be the safest and most sure thing in the draft. Alabama D-Linemen produce in the NFL, and Williams looks to join the impact DTs like Jonathan Allen and DeRon Payne. Oakland needs all the help it can get at every position (except QB), and getting a stud DT to anchor they D-line is a great start.
5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Devin White, ILB, LSU
Kwon Alexander left to man the middle of the 49ers defense, so there is a massive hole there for the Bucs. White is a sideline-to-sideline tackling machine, who has a nose for the ball. He is the best player available, and fits a big need.
6. New York Giants: Dwayne Haskins, QB, Ohio State
Ok. Here we go. Every report over the past week has the Giants not wanting to spend this pick on a QB if they can use the #17 pick on a QB or trade it for Josh Rosen. Everyone says their GM is crazy about pass rushers, and there are still a ton of great ones on the board. But I just don't think the Giants can pass over the #2 QB in the draft falling to them at 6 when they do not have a long-term replacement for Eli Manning. Haskins is the guy here. Damn the rumors.
7. Jacksonville Jaguars: Jawaan Taylor, OT, Florida
Yes, TE or WR is important because new QB Nick Foles needs weapons. However, keeping him upright is more important. Cam Robinson and Will Richardson aren't the best tackles in the world. Jawaan Taylor can be an upgrade. Plus, the Florida Gator could be a popular, albeit unsexy, pick for the Jags.
8. Detroit Lions: Montez Sweat, DE, Mississippi State
The Lions' best pass rusher, Ziggy Ansah, is still a free agent and may not come back. Sweat can come in and replace him immediately. He was super productive at MSU, first team All-SEC, and wowed everyone at the Combine with his insane workout. I don't think his heart condition will hurt his stock as much as people are saying, since doctors cleared him.
9. Buffalo Bills: Ed Oliver, DT, Houston
The Bills could go a few ways. There are some great playmakers on the board. They could shore up their OL. But I think they go with the uber-talented defensive lineman from Houston. Oliver has been hyped since last year as a potential top 5 pick. He is super-athletic, though perhaps a bit undersized for a proper 4-3 DT. Still, his ability and explosiveness could translate to all four positions on the line, and even let him stand up in the middle of the defense if need be.
10. Denver Broncos: TJ Hockenson, TE, Iowa
The Broncos traded for Joe Flacco. Flacco, more than any other QB I can remember, throws to tight ends over WRs and check downs. He needs a good tight end to flourish. Hockenson has size, speed, and skills. He is the perfect weapon for a Flacco-led passing game, and he can block too.
11. Cincinnati Bengals: Christian Wilkins, DT, Clemson
That super-successful Clemson defense will produce a fair amount of picks in this draft. Wilkins may be the best of the bunch, anchoring the defensive line. A first team All-American, first team All-ACC star, he could bring stability to a defense in flux in Cincinnati.
12. Green Bay Packers: DK Metcalf, WR, Ole Miss
A shiny new weapon for Aaron Rodgers? Why not. Metcalf is an athletic freak, with a torso that looks like the batsuit and the speed of Flash all in one. His route-running may be questionable, but he is too talented to skip at this point for a team that needs a superstar position player to go with their franchise QB.
13. Miami Dolphins: Rashan Gary, DE, Michigan
They need a QB. They insist they aren't taking a QB. Sure, why not? So they move to pass rusher instead. Gary could be the best player available, fits a glaring need on the Dolphins D, and has all the traits to be a star though his production at Michigan wasn't always there.
14. Atlanta Falcons: Jonah Williams, G/T, Alabama
The most important thing for the Falcons is being able to keep Matt Ryan upright, and keep the running game moving. Williams has that Alabama pedigree, and can play multiple positions on the line.
15. Washington Redskins: Drew Lock, QB, Missouri
So, if the Skins end up trading for Rosen, this pick could easily be best pass rusher or best WR available. As it is, and since we don't project trades, the Skins are still in need of a QB of the future, and Lock has fallen into their lap. I think he can sit most of the season behind Case Keenum/Colt McCoy and get his game up to NFL speed. He has all the physical ability to be a superstar. But can he be consistent? The Skins are banking on it.
16. Carolina Panthers: Andre Dillard, T/G, Washington State
This draft is deeper at defensive line and edge than it is at potential OTs. Dillard joins a squad that needs improve Cam Newton's protection on his blind side. Dillard could slot in at left tackle, help the run game with Christian McCaffery, and keep Cam healthy.
17. New York Giants: Marquise Brown, WR, Oklahoma
OBJ is in Cleveland. The Giants need another playmaker on offense, especially with a new QB on the roster in Haskins. Personally, I don't trust a super-small WR with a lisfranc injury, but folks that know more about football insist he is worth a 1st Round pick. The fit is clear.
18. Minnesota Vikings: Cody Ford, OT, Oklahoma
Back-to-back Sooners. Kirk Cousins' huge contract will only be worth it if he has time to throw the ball. Per Pro Football Focus, Riley Reiff was the only Vikings O-lineman in the top 80 of position rankings. They need a ton of help up front. Ford helped protect Kyler Murray, and is a mauler in the trenches.
19. Tennessee Titans: Dexter Lawrence, DT, Clemson
The Titans' #1 need? Defensive tackle. Dexter Lawrence is a classic nose tackle who can be slotted next to Jurrell Casey and Harold Landry. His comp? Haloti Ngata. Who wouldn't want that on their team?
20. Pittsburgh Steelers: Devin Bush, ILB, Michigan
Bush could have gone to Cincinnati, but I think he falls to the Steelers. They have yet to truly replace Ryan Shazier after his terrifying on-filed accident. Bush is a big play lineback that can bring that toughness back to the Steel Curtin.
21. Seattle Seahawks: Clelin Ferrell, DE, Clemson
The Seahawks are shopping Frank Clark because they can't afford him after Russell Wilson's big contract extension. Ferrell steps in to that vacancy immediately.
22. Baltimore Ravens: Brian Burns, OLB, Florida State
The Ravens managed to lose most of their pass rush to free agency. Brian Burns is being mocked by some into the Top 10. I don't see that, but I think he is a great fit at 22. The Ravens need an explosive pass rusher who could end up being elite.
23. Houston Texans: Garrett Bradbury, OC, NC State
Like other teams, the biggest thing the Texans need to do is keep their QB healthy. DeShaun Watson was sacked a league-high 62 times last season. They could upgrade at every OL position, but Bradbury is the best on the board. Todd McShay says he is the most NFL-ready lineman in the draft, and he can play guard or center.
24. Oakland Raiders: Jachai Polite, DE, Florida
Raiders go with a pass rusher to replace Khalil Mack. Polite's tape is much, much, much better than his workouts, and I think Gruden will do something to surprise everyone. It is the Raiders after all.
25. Philadelphia Eagles: Johnathan Abrams, S, Mississippi State
After the Eagles got Jordan Howard, their top need of an every down RB went away. Instead, they can concentrate on improving their secondary with the best safety available.
26. Indianapolis Colts: Parris Campbell, WR, Ohio State
TY Hilton turns 30 this year, and Andrew Luck needs more weapons to work with. Insert Parris Campbell, who has the ability to play both outside and in the slot.
27. Oakland Raiders: Greedy Williams, CB, LSU
Another piece on the Vikings D. Greedy Williams is the best cover corner in the draft, even if he isn't the biggest fan of tackling. His value is too good at a position of need to pass up.
28. Los Angeles Chargers: Byron Murphy, CB, Washington
If Greedy is CB #1, Murphy is #1A. He plays bigger than his 5-11 frame, and is a total ball hawk. He is a great fit in a division that has to try to stop Patrick Mahomes.
29. Seattle Seahawks: Deandre Baker, CB, Georgia
This was the Chiefs pick when I first published Round 1. Of course they trade it for Frank Clark. The Seahawks, having addressed their Clark replacement a few picks ago, go for Baker. Baker did not have a good Combine, but his tape shows he could be ranked right alongside Murphy and Williams.
30. Green Bay Packers: Noah Fant, TE, Iowa
Another weapon for Rodgers! Fant is more like a slot receiver than a true TE, since he isn't the most keen blocker. Still, his size and speed creates an instant mismatch vs corner, safeties, and linebackers.
31. Los Angeles Rams: Chris Lindstrom, OG, Boston College
Lindstrom is the most athletic interior lineman in the draft, but he can also play right tackle, where he spent most of his time in his junior season en route to 2nd team all-ACC honors. He can help get the best out of Phillip Rivers as he enters the last phase of his career, still chasing a Super Bowl.
32. New England Patriots: Irv Smith Jr, TE, Alabama
Gronk go bye bye, so the Pats have a big hole to fill at tight end. Irv Smith is the best available, and fits that receiver-first mentality that Gronk did. He may not have the size and the strength, but he has good speed and athletic ability to help Tom Brady try to get yet another Super Bowl ring.
There is Round 1! Round 2 will be coming soon, as will Rounds 3-7.
Tuesday, January 29, 2019
The Cold Stove Team: How Baseball's Forgotten Free Agents Could Form a Contender
We live in a world where talented players no longer get contracts they should. This is a world in which, either organically or (more likely) through a bit of collusion, MLB teams have decided that the growing market value for top guys was getting a bit out of hand, so mega-contract may be a thing of the past. Bryce Harper and Manny Machado are still unsigned, and it is almost February. A few teams have made overtures at them. The rest of baseball has stayed away, waiting for the superstar dust to settle. However, everyone seems to have forgotten completely about a sizable number of free agents.
These are players that can improve a team that is a few pieces away from contending. They are guys that could put butts in seats for fan-bases who feel betrayed by owners tanking. They are players who, for rebuilding teams, could be traded away at the deadline for valuable pieces. To that end, I have put together a team of these forgotten players, and I think it could be pretty good. So, no Harper or Machado, but everyone else is available. The Cold Stove Warriors, hailing from whatever city you wish, could contend for a wild card or division title in the right situation. Let's meet the team! (Note: as a National League fan, I have been a 25 man National League roster. No DH. Just plug in a bench guy for the DH if you choose).
Lineup:
1. Marwin Gonzalez, LF (S)
2. Adam Jones, CF (R)
3. Mike Moustakas 3B (L)
4. Mark Reynolds 1B (R)
5. Carlos Gonzalez RF (L)
6. Josh Harrison 2B (R)
7. Jose Iglesias SS (R)
8. Matt Wieters C (S)
Bench:
Lucas Duda 1B (L)
Nick Hundley C (R)
Derek Dietrich OF (L)
Andrew Romine SS (S)
Matt Davidson 1B/3B (R)
These are players that can improve a team that is a few pieces away from contending. They are guys that could put butts in seats for fan-bases who feel betrayed by owners tanking. They are players who, for rebuilding teams, could be traded away at the deadline for valuable pieces. To that end, I have put together a team of these forgotten players, and I think it could be pretty good. So, no Harper or Machado, but everyone else is available. The Cold Stove Warriors, hailing from whatever city you wish, could contend for a wild card or division title in the right situation. Let's meet the team! (Note: as a National League fan, I have been a 25 man National League roster. No DH. Just plug in a bench guy for the DH if you choose).
Lineup:
1. Marwin Gonzalez, LF (S)
2. Adam Jones, CF (R)
3. Mike Moustakas 3B (L)
4. Mark Reynolds 1B (R)
5. Carlos Gonzalez RF (L)
6. Josh Harrison 2B (R)
7. Jose Iglesias SS (R)
8. Matt Wieters C (S)
Bench:
Lucas Duda 1B (L)
Nick Hundley C (R)
Derek Dietrich OF (L)
Andrew Romine SS (S)
Matt Davidson 1B/3B (R)
That lineup and bench is not bad at all. It has excellent left/right balance. It has position flexibility with Marwin Gonzalez, Mark Reynolds, and Josh Harrison, all of whom can move around the diamond on defense. The bench has solid backups, and some guys like Dietrich and Davidson who could break out in the right situation. I'd put that lineup up against some of the ones teams like the Orioles, Marlins, or Royals might have. On to the pitching staff.
Rotation:
Dallas Keuchel (LHP)
Gio Gonzalez (LHP)
Clay Buchholz (RHP)
Wade Miley (LHP)
Jeremy Hellickson (RHP)
Bullpen:
Craig Kimbrel (RHP)*
Greg Holland (RHP)
Tyler Clippard (RHP)
Sergio Romo (RHP)
Nick Vincent (RHP)
Zach Duke (LHP)
Tony Sipp (LHP)
Again, a solid pitching staff, albeit heavy on the lefties. Since we aren't spending money on the big named bats, we can afford to pay Keuchel and Kimbrel to anchor the staff and the bullpen. Gio Gonzalez and Wade Miley helped guide the Brewers to the playoffs last season with solid play. The bullpen, while not outstanding, is solid with a ton of experience.
So there is it. The Cold Stove Warriors. A team of guys who should all have teams by this time of year. Baseball's free agency is broken, and this collection of talent is proof of it. Hopefully the superstars sign soon, so that we can end this silly charade. All of these players are worthy of a spot on a major league roster or an invite to spring training. Or, if someone feels like giving me enough money to start my own team, I will sign them. I bet all the salaries would still fit under the luxury tax, since the only "big" names are Keuchel, Kimbrel, and Moustakas. I'm sure Montreal would love to have this team. Everyone should love to have these players on their team. Baseball needs to make sure all of these guys find a team.
Thursday, November 8, 2018
Predictions on the New Teams for MLB's Top 10 Free Agents
The Hot Stove has been turned on, and the cast iron skillet that is the MLB free agency rumor mill is starting to smoke. All the talk has focused on the two young superstars, Bryce Harper and Manny Machado, but there are some other amazing players out there in need of a new (or old) home. To that end, here are my predictions for where baseball's top 10 free agents will end up.
1. Bryce Harper- Los Angeles Dodgers
I see this race coming down to the Cubs, Dodgers, and Nationals. I think Philly will get their man (see #2 on this list), and the Yankees will concentrate on pitching. I don't think the Cardinals or Giants will offer the kind of money Scott Boras is looking for. So, we then look at the Cubs, Dodgers, and Nats. The Cubs have great fans, history, a great young team, and Bryce's buddy Kris Bryant. That is one hell of a selling point. However, if Harper was to take a decade-plus long deal, that means that a lot of money that could be used to keep Bryant, Anthony Rizzo, and Javier Baez would suddenly be gone. The Cubs have the resources to go over the luxury tax and be fine, but are they willing to? The Nats are the hometown team, and I believe are willing to pay him the money, but I also think they see the other holes in the roster, and future extensions for Anthony Rendon and Trea Turner. Plus, Juan Soto and Victor Robles have been groomed as "Bryce Insurance". They can keep the team competitive or better, though maybe with less star power. The Dodgers, on the other hand, love their star power. It is LA, after all. And they have money and aren't afraid to spend it. They already have Bellinger, Puig, Hernandez, Peterson, and Kemp? So what?! Harper is the kind of star those LA fans come out for. I, for one, will be heartbroken to see him in any other uniform than the Nats, but I am mentally preparing myself for the image of him, courtside at a Laker game on an off day, chatting with LeBron.
2. Manny Machado- Philadelphia Phillies
Now that Harper is gone, there is the other wunderkind. The Phillies have wanted Machado so badly it could almost be called tampering. They have a need at both 3B and SS, and Machado can play both. They have boatloads of money they can throw at Machado as well. And finally, Phillies president Andy McPhail drafted Machado, and has a great relationship with him. I think that this may be the most slam-dunk move of the offseason.
3. Patrick Corbin- New York Yankees
The Yankees need pitching. The Yankees have money. Patrick Corbin is the best pitcher on the market. The Bronx Bombers have solid young pieces in position that make signing Harper or Machado unnecessary. They take all of that capital, and move it on to Patrick Corbin. I could also see them trading one or two of their top young prospects, along with some lower down in the minors, for the likes of Corey Kluber. The Red Sox just won it all. The fans will demand the Yankees do whatever they can to make sure that doesn't happen in 2019.
4. Dallas Keuchel- Washington Nationals
As I mentioned in a previous post, the Nats could use the money they have after Bryce goes elsewhere to fill some major holes on their team, including a quality lefty for the rotation. They will also need a player with a bit of a name to help ease the pain of the game's biggest star playing elsewhere. Keuchel may not be Max Scherzer, but he is an upgrade over Gio Gonzalez, and could be the best #3 pitcher in baseball. Penciling him in every 5th game behind Max and Stephen Strasburg will go a long way to solving one of the big issues from the 2018 season.
5. Craig Kimbrel- Atlanta Braves
The Vulture goes home. The Braves shocked the world by winning the NL East, and have a solid young core of players in place to stay competitive for years. Their only big issue? Their bullpen. They had major issues putting away teams last year. They splurge, and bring back one of the game's premier closer in Kimbrel, who will help anchor a re-vamped bullpen, and those 20,000 or so Braves fans that actually exist will start thinking about another NL East dynasty.
6. Josh Donaldson- St. Louis Cardinals
This is another signing that has been rumored for a while, all the way back to trade talk last year. The Cardinals need a star player with a big name that can produce for them at the hot corner, but doesn't demand the same amount of money as Harper or Machado. Enter Donaldson, a former AL MVP who is still an MVP-caliber player when healthy. He provides more lineup depth, and protection for Jose Martinez and Marcell Ozuna. It is a good fit.
7. Nathan Eovaldi- Boston Red Sox
You come onto a great team, and turn it into an all-time great one? You win a World Series? That is the kind of performance that makes a mid-season trade acquisition worth keeping. The Red Sox could repeat if they keep most of their stellar team intact. I think they offer Eovaldi an extra year to stay in the AL East and compete for titles.
8. Michael Brantley- Atlanta Braves
Those pesky Braves make another signing, and bring in an experienced OF bat to replace the older Nick Markakis. Brantley is a career .295 hitter, who can help solidify the power of that young Braves lineup with Freeman, Acuna, and Albies.
9. AJ Pollock- Chicago White Sox
Call this more of a panic move than anything else. The White Sox are ridiculously young, but they will need to show they are committed to winning in order to draw the quality free agents other teams can. In order to do that, they take a chance on talented-yet-oft-injured AJ Pollock to man an outfield spot. When healthy, he is clearly leaps and bounds better than the projected White Sox outfielders. If he can stay off the DL, it could be a massive steal.
10. JA Happ- Los Angeles Angels
Has there been a more disappointing team over the past decade than the Angels? Let me put it this way- Everyone rags on Bryce Harper and the Nats for not winning a playoff series. Guess what? Mike Trout's Angels have never even won a playoff game! With Shohei Ohtani only hitting next year as he recovers from Tommy Johns, the Angels need a capable arm in their rotation. Happ was great in Toronto and dominant in New York. He can spend the final few years of his career in sunny So-Cal, as the Angels try to make one more push before Mike Trout takes his talents elsewhere.
Tuesday, November 6, 2018
What if Bryce Leaves?: How the Nats Can Spend $40 Million
At some point, every Nationals fan has come face to face with a very real possibility: Bryce Harper, the face of the franchise and arguably the most recognizable player in baseball, may be wearing a different uniform next season. He has even brought that "Who will he choose" theme into his new MLB: The Show cover. It is possible a team like the Giants or Dodgers will break the bank and sign him for the next decade. Maybe Bryce decides he wants to play with his buddy Kris Bryant in Chicago. The point is, the Nats could be without their star next year, and with an extra $40 million or so in cash to spend. How might the Nats use that money to make the team better?
First, we have to address the outfield, where the Nats don't have to spend anything. The only reason that the Nationals are even considering letting Bryce Harper walk is that they have Juan Soto and Victor Robles ready to go. Soto had arguably the greatest season any teenager has ever had, including Harper. Robles has had flashes of brilliance in his limited playing time. Slot them in every day with Adam Eaton, with a Gold Glove-level 4th outfielder in Michael A. Taylor, and you still have one of the better young outfields in baseball. Yes, I believe that Soto/Robles/Harper would be even better, but that is not the scenario we are dealing with.
Next, there is a certain other soon-to-be free agent that helps drive the Nats. They could use a good chunk of that money on extending Anthony Rendon. I would be thrilled if they do that, because he has been the Nationals' most consistent player for years. However, I think good old Scott Boras will try to get his client to test free agency after the 2019 season. We will assume the extension doesn't happen before the season.
So, what to do with all that money? The three biggest holes on the roster, now that the Nationals signed Trevor Rosenthal to help boost the bullpen, are starting pitcher, catcher, and second base. Gio Gonzalez won't be coming back to DC, nor will Daniel Murphy. Catcher has been a big issue since Wilson Ramos left, and none of the Nats prospects are ready to take over. If my last name were suddenly Lerner or Rizzo, here is how I would spend the cash (salaries based on MLB Trade Rumors' projections):
- Sign LHP Dallas Keuchel to a 4-year, $82 million deal ($20.5 million per year). Scherzer, Strasburg, Keuchel. That is one hell of a big three in any rotation. The Nats can not only replace Gio Gonzalez as the staff lefty, they can upgrade. While Keuchel may never regain his Cy Young form, he still is coming off a year with a sub-4 ERA, produces a ton of ground balls, and doesn't give up many home runs. If he does happen to get back to his 2015 ways, it is a steal of a contract. Cheaper option- J.A. Happ, 3-year, $48 million ($16 million per year). Has put up better numbers than Keuchel, but is 36. Wade Miley may be the cheapest option, at about $6 million per year, but is a step below the other two. Either way, the Nats need to add a lefty back into their rotation.
- Bring back Wilson Ramos with a 3-year, $36 million deal ($12 million per year). Talk about a signing that will make fans happy. Everybody in DC loves the Buffalo, and we would be thrilled to have him back with a Curly W on his chest. Ramos has caught 800 innings the past two years, so he can still cut it behind the plate. He knows the staff, he knows the culture. Most importantly, he can hit. The Nationals catchers (Matt Wieters, Spencer Kieboom, and Pedro Severino) combined for a dismal .212 average and an awful .615 OPS in 2018. Ramos, between TB and Philly, hit .306 with an OPS of .845. This is a no-brainer. He may also be able to sub in at 1B when called on. The "cheaper" option? Trade for JT Realmuto. He may be the best every day catcher in the game, but he will come at a massive prospect cost. The Marlins supposedly asked for both Robles and Soto before the season. That is simply impossible if Bryce leaves. If they are willing to take a deal based around prospects like Luis Garcia or Carter Kieboom, then it may be doable.
- Sign DJ LeMahieu to a 2-year, $18 million contract ($9 million per year). I, along with many others, see Carter Kieboom as the National's 2B of the future. However, he has yet to play 2B in his professional career. Since it may take a season or two, why not fill in with a former NL batting champ with Gold Glove defense? LeMahieu is coming off a "down year", where he hit .276 and had a .749 OPS, but is still one of the best defensive second basemen in the game. Plugging him in for 2 years while a prospect learns the position better is ideal. Cheaper option? A 1-year, $10 million shot with Brian Dozier might work, in case he bounces back. Maybe take a flyer on Josh Harrison for less. Or, if Howie Kendrick recovers fast from his achillies tear, plug him in. LeMahieu is the best option until one of the Nats' top prospects is ready, though.
So, Keuchel, Ramos, LeMahieu comes out to $41.5 million worth of salary for next year. Substitute JA Happ for Keuchel, and it becomes $37 million. Throw in a cheap lefty bench bat, and you have a great free agent class. Both of these seem relatively doable, and would be a good use of funds. The Nats may not be as exciting or star studded without Bryce, but they would fill in some gaps that hurt the team this past season. Plus, if you look at the lineup and rotation, it is still pretty impressive:
1. Adam Eaton RF
2. Trea Turner SS
3. Anthony Rendon 3B
4. Juan Soto LF
5. Ryan Zimmerman 1B
6. Victor Robles CF
7. DJ LeMahieu 2B
8. Wilson Ramos C
Rotation- Scherzer (R), Strasburg (R), Keuchel/Happ (L), Roark (R), Ross (R)
That team can still compete for the NL East title and a World Series. It gives the young players in DC a chance to shine outside of Bryce's shadow. If Harper doesn't come back, that is how I'd spend that money.
First, we have to address the outfield, where the Nats don't have to spend anything. The only reason that the Nationals are even considering letting Bryce Harper walk is that they have Juan Soto and Victor Robles ready to go. Soto had arguably the greatest season any teenager has ever had, including Harper. Robles has had flashes of brilliance in his limited playing time. Slot them in every day with Adam Eaton, with a Gold Glove-level 4th outfielder in Michael A. Taylor, and you still have one of the better young outfields in baseball. Yes, I believe that Soto/Robles/Harper would be even better, but that is not the scenario we are dealing with.
Next, there is a certain other soon-to-be free agent that helps drive the Nats. They could use a good chunk of that money on extending Anthony Rendon. I would be thrilled if they do that, because he has been the Nationals' most consistent player for years. However, I think good old Scott Boras will try to get his client to test free agency after the 2019 season. We will assume the extension doesn't happen before the season.
So, what to do with all that money? The three biggest holes on the roster, now that the Nationals signed Trevor Rosenthal to help boost the bullpen, are starting pitcher, catcher, and second base. Gio Gonzalez won't be coming back to DC, nor will Daniel Murphy. Catcher has been a big issue since Wilson Ramos left, and none of the Nats prospects are ready to take over. If my last name were suddenly Lerner or Rizzo, here is how I would spend the cash (salaries based on MLB Trade Rumors' projections):
- Sign LHP Dallas Keuchel to a 4-year, $82 million deal ($20.5 million per year). Scherzer, Strasburg, Keuchel. That is one hell of a big three in any rotation. The Nats can not only replace Gio Gonzalez as the staff lefty, they can upgrade. While Keuchel may never regain his Cy Young form, he still is coming off a year with a sub-4 ERA, produces a ton of ground balls, and doesn't give up many home runs. If he does happen to get back to his 2015 ways, it is a steal of a contract. Cheaper option- J.A. Happ, 3-year, $48 million ($16 million per year). Has put up better numbers than Keuchel, but is 36. Wade Miley may be the cheapest option, at about $6 million per year, but is a step below the other two. Either way, the Nats need to add a lefty back into their rotation.
- Bring back Wilson Ramos with a 3-year, $36 million deal ($12 million per year). Talk about a signing that will make fans happy. Everybody in DC loves the Buffalo, and we would be thrilled to have him back with a Curly W on his chest. Ramos has caught 800 innings the past two years, so he can still cut it behind the plate. He knows the staff, he knows the culture. Most importantly, he can hit. The Nationals catchers (Matt Wieters, Spencer Kieboom, and Pedro Severino) combined for a dismal .212 average and an awful .615 OPS in 2018. Ramos, between TB and Philly, hit .306 with an OPS of .845. This is a no-brainer. He may also be able to sub in at 1B when called on. The "cheaper" option? Trade for JT Realmuto. He may be the best every day catcher in the game, but he will come at a massive prospect cost. The Marlins supposedly asked for both Robles and Soto before the season. That is simply impossible if Bryce leaves. If they are willing to take a deal based around prospects like Luis Garcia or Carter Kieboom, then it may be doable.
- Sign DJ LeMahieu to a 2-year, $18 million contract ($9 million per year). I, along with many others, see Carter Kieboom as the National's 2B of the future. However, he has yet to play 2B in his professional career. Since it may take a season or two, why not fill in with a former NL batting champ with Gold Glove defense? LeMahieu is coming off a "down year", where he hit .276 and had a .749 OPS, but is still one of the best defensive second basemen in the game. Plugging him in for 2 years while a prospect learns the position better is ideal. Cheaper option? A 1-year, $10 million shot with Brian Dozier might work, in case he bounces back. Maybe take a flyer on Josh Harrison for less. Or, if Howie Kendrick recovers fast from his achillies tear, plug him in. LeMahieu is the best option until one of the Nats' top prospects is ready, though.
So, Keuchel, Ramos, LeMahieu comes out to $41.5 million worth of salary for next year. Substitute JA Happ for Keuchel, and it becomes $37 million. Throw in a cheap lefty bench bat, and you have a great free agent class. Both of these seem relatively doable, and would be a good use of funds. The Nats may not be as exciting or star studded without Bryce, but they would fill in some gaps that hurt the team this past season. Plus, if you look at the lineup and rotation, it is still pretty impressive:
1. Adam Eaton RF
2. Trea Turner SS
3. Anthony Rendon 3B
4. Juan Soto LF
5. Ryan Zimmerman 1B
6. Victor Robles CF
7. DJ LeMahieu 2B
8. Wilson Ramos C
Rotation- Scherzer (R), Strasburg (R), Keuchel/Happ (L), Roark (R), Ross (R)
That team can still compete for the NL East title and a World Series. It gives the young players in DC a chance to shine outside of Bryce's shadow. If Harper doesn't come back, that is how I'd spend that money.
Monday, November 5, 2018
And We Are Back. What. A. Summer!
Sometime around 11:00 PM on June 7th, 2018, I found myself outside Capital One Arena in Washington, DC, hugging my girlfriend, on the verge of tears. Happy tears. Very, very happy tears. I had just seen my Washington Capitals win the Stanley Cup, and ran over to join in with the celebration at F and 7th St, NW. Joy embraced the city for weeks after, from the parade, to the endless amounts of drinking, to blasting "We Are The Champions" while swimming in a fountain. Then, sometime around Labor Day, most of us woke up to a frightful sight: The Washington Nationals.
To say that I haven't been writing for a few months because of my beloved Nats is only partially true. As per usual, the real world can get in the way of a hobby. I have been busy living my life and being happy... then going to Nats Park and being sad. I don't quite know what happened to my favorite team. Bryce Harper's early season struggles, the disappearance of Gio Gonzalez and Tanner Roark as reliable rotation pieces, the complete lack of contribution from the catcher position- it was all awful. In the end, they still finished with a winning record, 82-80, and in 2nd place, but that isn't acceptable for a team with such high hopes. Now, with Haper's tenure in DC possibly at an end, we Nats fans face what could be a long, cold winter (though Juan Soto's gleaming smile may be the light that guides us to spring). Nevertheless, I will try to fight through the gloom to give you more content on here. After all, there are some pretty great things going on:
- SYRACUSE IS GOING TO A BOWL GAME, AND IS RANKED! *ahem* Sorry, did I shout that?
- The Caps are back to defend the Cup, and every fan I meet has a big smile on their face, as if a great weight has been lifted. It is lovely.
- The Wizards are playing again, and may have taken the Skins' mantle of "Most Dysfunctional Team"
- The Skins, for the moment, are in first place in the NFC East. Adrian Peterson looks solid. The defense has looked great in most games. Alex Smith is still getting there, but he has no WRs to speak of. We will check in with them closer to the playoffs.
- NCAA basketball starts tomorrow, NCAA football is in full swing, the NBA and NHL have games every night, and we still have half a NFL season to go! It is the most wonderful time of the year!
And yet, part of me is still waiting to hear that news about our beloved #34. Will Bryce come back to DC? Will a team like the Giants break the bank for him? If so, what could the Nats get with that money (check back to see that column). It is a fun time to follow and write about sports. I am happy to be back doing it. Thanks for reading.
To say that I haven't been writing for a few months because of my beloved Nats is only partially true. As per usual, the real world can get in the way of a hobby. I have been busy living my life and being happy... then going to Nats Park and being sad. I don't quite know what happened to my favorite team. Bryce Harper's early season struggles, the disappearance of Gio Gonzalez and Tanner Roark as reliable rotation pieces, the complete lack of contribution from the catcher position- it was all awful. In the end, they still finished with a winning record, 82-80, and in 2nd place, but that isn't acceptable for a team with such high hopes. Now, with Haper's tenure in DC possibly at an end, we Nats fans face what could be a long, cold winter (though Juan Soto's gleaming smile may be the light that guides us to spring). Nevertheless, I will try to fight through the gloom to give you more content on here. After all, there are some pretty great things going on:
- SYRACUSE IS GOING TO A BOWL GAME, AND IS RANKED! *ahem* Sorry, did I shout that?
- The Caps are back to defend the Cup, and every fan I meet has a big smile on their face, as if a great weight has been lifted. It is lovely.
- The Wizards are playing again, and may have taken the Skins' mantle of "Most Dysfunctional Team"
- The Skins, for the moment, are in first place in the NFC East. Adrian Peterson looks solid. The defense has looked great in most games. Alex Smith is still getting there, but he has no WRs to speak of. We will check in with them closer to the playoffs.
- NCAA basketball starts tomorrow, NCAA football is in full swing, the NBA and NHL have games every night, and we still have half a NFL season to go! It is the most wonderful time of the year!
And yet, part of me is still waiting to hear that news about our beloved #34. Will Bryce come back to DC? Will a team like the Giants break the bank for him? If so, what could the Nats get with that money (check back to see that column). It is a fun time to follow and write about sports. I am happy to be back doing it. Thanks for reading.
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