Jesus Guzman and the Case of the Open Roster Spot

by Grant on Mar 19, 2009 10:39 AM PDT Comment 102 comments

When an organization can add a top-20 prospect for the price of ink and paper, the organization either got lucky or has a terrible farm system. The Giants' farm system might be a little top-heavy, but the latter description certainly doesn't fit. So welcome, Jesus Guzman. We're lucky to have you.

Obviously, Guzman's spring performance has proven that he's worthy of a platoon role at first, at the very least. Maybe he should get the second-base job, or play a little short even, as long as...

Oh, come on. That's not fair. Sensible, maybe. But not fair. Maybe a little fair.

I love the Jesus. I do. I don't care how much older he was than his competition in the Texas league: dude hit .364/.419/.560, and he did it while maintaining a reasonable strikeout rate. But let's not get carried away because of a hot spring. That rarely ends well.

And while Guzman had a fantastic season last year, it wasn't flawless. The .392 batting average on balls put in play is a red flag. Maybe red flag isn't strong enough. If a red flag were embarrassed, drunk, and standing in a snowdrift with rosy apple flag cheeks, and an animal rights activist threw red paint on it for wearing a red fur coat, it would resemble the type of red flag raised by a BABIP of almost .400. This isn't to suggest that his AA performance doesn't count, of course. But it might be prudent to adjust the overall numbers a tick downward. Minor League Splits has a "luck" tab that accounts for things like this, and it spits out a .324/.380/.511 line. Still good, but for a 24-year-old in AA, it's not otherworldly enough to consider him for a starting job in the majors without a little AAA time first.

Guzman's best defensive position is "the armadillo"; just try getting his car keys when he's all curled up like that. As far as baseball defensive positions go? Uh, we'll get back to you on that one. Even Guzman admits he's uncomfortable at third, and his defense at second isn't supposed to be much better. The Giants are giving him the Bowker/Ortmeier treatment, which includes a first baseman's mitt, a Tom Emanski video, and J.T. Snow's cell phone number. Maybe that'll finally give Guzman a position of his very own. If he continues raking in Fresno, the Giants will find a place for him.

If Guzman could already play first, he'd fit pretty well on the roster. As a switch-hitter who's hit lefties well in the past, he'd be a good guy to plonk down in a third-to-first rotation with Pablo Sandoval and Travis Ishikawa. Maybe the Giants would want him to try out first base for the first time in the majors. It worked so well for John Bowker. Somehow, I doubt that either Brian Sabean or Bruce Bochy is too eager to experiment like that again.

I'm elated that Guzman is in the organization. He raked in AA and winter league, and now he's raking in exhibition games. Maybe this is the beginning of something special. Let's find out in Fresno, at least initially. The Giants can always ~~resurrect~~ recall him if it's clear that he's too advanced for AAA.

Poll

Should Jesus Guzman make the Opening Day roster?

Yes

746 votes

No

325 votes

1071 votes | Poll has closed

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Comments

And they give you cash, which is just as good as money

Guzman’s best defensive position is “the armadillo”; just try getting his car keys when he’s all curled up like that.

Awesome.

I think Jesus should be in Fresno as insurance. Ishikawa, Pablo At 3rd, and the dynamic duo at 2B are no sure things.

by Lars The Wanderer on Mar 19, 2009 10:33 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs

The armadillo defense

Baseball is a lot like life. The line drives are caught, the squibbles go for base hits. It's an unfair game. -Rod Kanehl

by j14 on Mar 19, 2009 1:01 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

HAHHAA

Awesome, except for the dudes who probably kept getting hit in the defense

Aaron King is still my homeboy... iffy mechanics and all

If Dustin Pedroia played in Seattle, not many people would be talking about him.

by baetown415 on Mar 19, 2009 1:57 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Put me down as “tempted but it’s probably best he starts at Fresno.” I’m sure we’ll see him before the season’s out, though.

Never has a poster been more correct in the history of the internet. Ever! - ResDog on yours truly

by jcb9 on Mar 19, 2009 10:33 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs

I’d like to see Guzman on the team immediately, but I think it is necessary to figure out whether Ishikawa is as terrible as the projection systems indicate. Finding that out will make the decision easy.

by rotorueter on Mar 19, 2009 10:40 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs

exactly. bingo. it may be bent giants logic but it's our bent giants logic.

by raldoo on Mar 19, 2009 1:40 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

You pose a good arguement, Grant, but with this spring its really tempting to try and see if he can continue this streak in the regular season.

by scout6 on Mar 19, 2009 10:42 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs

I guess he would need to continue his streak thru the rest of spring for that to happen though, so there is still time for the decision.

by scout6 on Mar 19, 2009 10:42 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

So he needs to keep flirting with a Bondsian OPS? I’d allow him to cool off a little and still give him a chance to make the team.

My adopted Giant: "Raptor Jesus" Guzman

by Goofus on Mar 19, 2009 10:53 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I agree entirely, i just didn’t state it correctly in my comment.

by scout6 on Mar 19, 2009 11:06 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Switch hitter?

As a switch-hitter who’s hit lefties well in the past, he’d be a good guy to plonk down in a third-to-first rotation with Pablo Sandoval and Travis Ishikawa.

I thought Guzman just hit <right-handed/a>

My adopted Giant: "Raptor Jesus" Guzman

by Goofus on Mar 19, 2009 10:52 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs

Baseball Cube and Minor League Splits both have him as a switch-hitter, but I’ve never seen him hit, so what do I know?

by Grant on Mar 19, 2009 11:07 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Then he probably is.

My adopted Giant: "Raptor Jesus" Guzman

by Goofus on Mar 19, 2009 11:12 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

so what do I know?

This will be a short list.

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by Natto on Mar 19, 2009 11:48 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

He knows that he doesn’t know.

Aaron King is still my homeboy... iffy mechanics and all

If Dustin Pedroia played in Seattle, not many people would be talking about him.

by baetown415 on Mar 19, 2009 12:51 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Which is a quarter of the battle.

Don't think, it could only hurt the ballclub.

by ResDog on Mar 19, 2009 2:48 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

sounds like a realist GI Joe PSA.

by Giant Voodoo on Mar 20, 2009 12:00 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

According to MILB, he's a right-handed hitter

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?n=Jesus%20Guzman&pos=3B&sid=milb&t=p_pbp&pid=461882

And he don’t look like no armadillo in the picture there.

Adoptive parental unit of Kevin " 2007's Most Spectacular Pitcher" Pucetas.

"I'm a Giant now... I like watching the ball get up there" - Wendell Fairley
"I'm really proud to be on this team." - Nate Schierholtz
"Woo hoo" - Tim "The Kid" Lincecum

by obsessivegiantscompulsive on Mar 19, 2009 1:48 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Maybe he’s experimented with switch-hitting? I don’t know, I’ve only seen one ab where he hit right-handed (rbi double!) but it may have been against a lefty, I can’t quite remember.

Less arm, more talk. Raisingcain is a GAMER.
Adopted Giant: Henry Sosa

by raisingcain on Mar 19, 2009 9:18 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

He Experimented with Switch Hitting

Just that one time at college….what a crazy time that was..
Just remember, don’t ask don’t tell

Tommy Lasorda HATES GIANTSBOARD.COM

by merkin on Mar 19, 2009 9:22 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

let him play everyday in AAA

the dude has 59 AAA at bats. He will have his chance in MLB soon enough when Ishikawa flames out and Sandoval has to move to 3B.

by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 19, 2009 11:11 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs

Sandoval has zero ABs in AAA.

Also, I think you meant “Sandoval has to move to 1B”.

My adopted Giant: "Raptor Jesus" Guzman

by Goofus on Mar 19, 2009 11:14 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

indeed

by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 19, 2009 11:36 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Sounds like Sandoval is probably a better 3b than Guzman, though. I think Guzman needs to start playing 1b/OF full-time.

by Evan on Mar 19, 2009 11:47 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Roster spots and back-up SS and CFers

Jesus Guzman’s best position is in the batters box. Period. If he can somehow learn to field he could make himself very useful. The final spots are going to hinge on what spots are available on the 25 and 40-man rosters and who does Messers Sabean and Bochy feel comfortable at their back-up SS and CF positions.

by wilriv21 on Mar 19, 2009 11:13 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs

They’re back-up CF can be Winn, so I don’t think they need a true back-up CF on the bench.

My adopted Giant: "Raptor Jesus" Guzman

by Goofus on Mar 19, 2009 11:15 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

*Their

argh

My adopted Giant: "Raptor Jesus" Guzman

by Goofus on Mar 19, 2009 11:15 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Winn is in RF for a reason. The same reason they went out and got another CF.

by wilriv21 on Mar 19, 2009 11:16 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Winn is a VERY capabale CF. If you took a poll here, I think you’d find most would agree that the team would have been better off keeping Winn in CF and not signing Rowand.

Besides, who do you see in camp that would be better in CF than Winn?

My adopted Giant: "Raptor Jesus" Guzman

by Goofus on Mar 19, 2009 11:54 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Believe SF signed Rowand to play CF because Winn was lacking. Winn is an excellent RF and that is what is needed at Mays Field.

Non-roster OF Andres Torres plays an excellent outfield and if Rowand was to go on the DL SF would probably call him up to play CF.

by wilriv21 on Mar 19, 2009 12:02 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I believe the Giants signed Rowand because they aren’t very smart.

Never has a poster been more correct in the history of the internet. Ever! - ResDog on yours truly

by jcb9 on Mar 19, 2009 12:26 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

*Ding, Ding, Ding*

We have a winner ! Okay that is a little harsh, but what did they really think they were getting with Scott ?

"Just take the ball and throw it where you want to. Throw strikes. Home plate don't move."-Leroy "Satchel" Paige

My adopted son Matt Downs . Utility Infielder with a Bat !

by nvsfg on Mar 19, 2009 12:40 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

They feel the season ticket holders respond to grit.

by Johnny Disaster on Mar 19, 2009 12:50 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think this season you see why we got Rowand

Adoptive parental unit of Kevin " 2007's Most Spectacular Pitcher" Pucetas.

"I'm a Giant now... I like watching the ball get up there" - Wendell Fairley
"I'm really proud to be on this team." - Nate Schierholtz
"Woo hoo" - Tim "The Kid" Lincecum

by obsessivegiantscompulsive on Mar 19, 2009 1:50 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

What’s your prediction for him? If you don’t mind me asking.

Bay City Ball | Beyond the Box Score

by xanthan on Mar 19, 2009 1:53 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Prediction: RESPECT!

by Lars The Wanderer on Mar 19, 2009 1:54 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

MY prediction:

PAIN

FIRE BRIAN SABEAN... UNLESS HE KEEPS DRAFTING WELL. .. AND SIGNS UNDERRATED PLAYERS LIKE AFFELDT OR PHELPS. .. OR ALRIGHT WHO'S PLAYING WITH THE ALIEN MIND-SWITCHING RAY?
-------
PARPG- Indy post-apocalyptic roleplaying game currently in early planning stages.

by zenbitz on Mar 19, 2009 2:08 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I’m pretty sure that if Rowand went down, your starting outfield would be:
LF – Lewis
CF – Winn
RF – Schierholtz

Torres would be a 4th or 5th OF if he were called up.

My adopted Giant: "Raptor Jesus" Guzman

by Goofus on Mar 19, 2009 1:44 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

winn haters must eat dodger poop

winn would take the cf job from rowand in open comp. rowands contract trumps skill and reason

by shaolinironlion on Mar 19, 2009 1:27 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

he called shit poop!

by Giant Voodoo on Mar 20, 2009 12:02 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Does the team still think Frandsen can back up SS? If not, then we’ve just got Burriss and Uribe as possible backups for Renteria, neither of which is a shoe-in for the opening day roster.

by neurofarm on Mar 19, 2009 11:18 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

If they didn't

then they wouldn’t still be starting him at SS

Adoptive parental unit of Kevin " 2007's Most Spectacular Pitcher" Pucetas.

"I'm a Giant now... I like watching the ball get up there" - Wendell Fairley
"I'm really proud to be on this team." - Nate Schierholtz
"Woo hoo" - Tim "The Kid" Lincecum

by obsessivegiantscompulsive on Mar 19, 2009 1:51 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

If Guzman starts on the ML roster, then who gets pushed off? If it means someone like Uribe doesn’t make the team, then it might be worth the risk. You’d be losing some versatility on defense, but I don’t think that would be the difference between a playoff run and not. For a team in the Giants’ position, I think it’s worth taking some risks.

by neurofarm on Mar 19, 2009 11:16 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs

With the release of Dave Roberts, believe there is 39 players on the 40-man roster. Luis Perdomo is currently on the 40-man roster and could be returned to the Cardinals to open up another spot. Noah Lowry to the 60 day DL would open up yet another spot. Barring any other transaction that would leave three openings on the 40-man roster available.

Brian Medders, Justin Miller, Rich Aurilia, Jose Uribe, Jesus Guzman and Andres Torres could be vying for the final roster spots. Couple that with the scuttlebutt SF is looking for backup catching and long relief help there is plenty rosterbation still to happen prior to opening day.

by wilriv21 on Mar 19, 2009 11:38 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

If I were Rohlinger

I’d want in on your hot listy action

by hairball on Mar 19, 2009 11:53 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

isn’t Rohlinger currently on the 40-man roster?

by wilriv21 on Mar 19, 2009 11:59 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Maybe Aurilia. His role is pretty much exactly what we’re discussing for Guzman: PH/1B with some occasional utility inf.

If the organization decides they’re the same player, I hope they have the good sense realize Guzman can be a part of their future and Aurlia, while still able to contribute, is pretty much “hanging on” at this point.

My adopted Giant: "Raptor Jesus" Guzman

by Goofus on Mar 19, 2009 11:57 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

JesusG versus RichA

But then who do you want as the 25th roster spot – someone hanging on or a part of the future. I want a part of the future to be playing (nearly) everyday. I’m happy with Aurilia as the 25th spot on the roster for now.

In the near future, I think we’ll have a better idea of Fransden, Ishikawa and even Sandoval. I think the current general prediction is FAIL FAIL PASS, but I want to see what Frannie and Ishi can do. Both of their track records have highlights and lowlights, and I’d like to see how they handle being “the guy”.

I love me some Jesus; he’s got pop. But is it Bowkermania? Will we cut of shaft the guys who’s “turn it is” because Jesus hits 25 homeruns in ST? I think he can wait while the chaff separates from the germ with the current crop. or whatever it is i just tried to say.

co-dad of IshikaBOOM w/AfDC.
Ishikawa, let the boy hit against lefties.

by kennv on Mar 19, 2009 12:39 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

this org has shown a propensity (to say the least) of going with the vets early on, only to cut bait later and bring up a younger guy. I see Richie making the squad out of ST. In a month or two, he’ll be released once the team realizes it needs more offense and Guzman will be brought up from AAA.

Bonds stands alone.

Proud adopted parent of future big league slugger Thomas Neal

by nostocksjustbonds on Mar 19, 2009 1:25 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I voted yes

Guzmania has run wild on me, brother!! Even though I have no idea where he’d play.

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by Natto on Mar 19, 2009 11:49 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs

Yeah I am pretty much on this boat.

Giant Dirtbags: Brian Anderson, Todd Jennings, Steve Hammond, John Bowker
Don't F with the Affeldt

by Giant among Angels on Mar 19, 2009 8:04 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Minor White > Ansel Adams

by say hey nation on Mar 19, 2009 11:54 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs

His range on defense

Minor White > Ansel Adams

by say hey nation on Mar 19, 2009 11:56 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I LOL’d

My adopted Giant: "Raptor Jesus" Guzman

by Goofus on Mar 19, 2009 11:58 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hahahaha

Matt Cain: He'll save children, but not the Dodger children.
PABLO SANDOVAL AM STEAL DEATH, DESTROYER OF WORLDS.

by jponry on Mar 19, 2009 3:56 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Win..

/saves bouncing Jesus to photobucket account

"Just take the ball and throw it where you want to. Throw strikes. Home plate don't move."-Leroy "Satchel" Paige

My adopted son Matt Downs . Utility Infielder with a Bat !

by nvsfg on Mar 19, 2009 12:47 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Awesome

When it's all said and done, America will be remembered for three things: The Bill of Rights, jazz, and baseball.

by cornball on Mar 19, 2009 2:36 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Need to incorporate an animated gif with this:

Sergio Romo will gladly hand you a bench to sit on / GIANTSPACE™ / Adopted brother of the AnVil

by SoFa King Mike on Mar 19, 2009 4:23 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IONyLZn0pLI

by KrazyKrabMeat on Mar 19, 2009 4:58 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I know projections aren't everything....

But Guzman’s look really really horrible.

AAA for him indeed.

Aaron King is still my homeboy... iffy mechanics and all

If Dustin Pedroia played in Seattle, not many people would be talking about him.

by baetown415 on Mar 19, 2009 12:55 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

I like this poll

It is telling me the opposite of what I expected to see. I thought it would be 2:1 in favor of sending him to AAA.

co-dad of IshikaBOOM w/AfDC.
Ishikawa, let the boy hit against lefties.

by kennv on Mar 19, 2009 1:00 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

You underestimated...

…the combined power of blind optimism and sheer desperation.

Adoptive father to the All-Father. Does that make me the All-Grandfather?

by EliminateMe on Mar 19, 2009 9:12 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

i LOLed

co-dad of IshikaBOOM w/AfDC.
Ishikawa, let the boy hit against lefties.

by kennv on Mar 20, 2009 5:38 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I’m more in favor of him staying in AAA for the time being, while the Giants sort out the futures of Ishikawa and Sandoval (as well as Frandsen/Burriss). If one or more of them suck for an extended period of time, Guzman can be brought up and they can sort out what they have in him. Otherwise you’ve got too many guys they need to determine what they can do with, and too many younger guys are going to have to sit and rot on the bench.

I'm thinking but nothing's happening.

by JRPhillips on Mar 19, 2009 1:04 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

I'm pretty much 100% behind this.

Proud new co-dad of Travis Ishikawa. And ishikaBOOM Goes the Dynamite.

by Andy from DC on Mar 19, 2009 1:10 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Voted no.

Bay City Ball | Beyond the Box Score

by xanthan on Mar 19, 2009 1:10 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

You hate the Giants, don’t you?

Sergio Romo will gladly hand you a bench to sit on / GIANTSPACE™ / Adopted brother of the AnVil

by SoFa King Mike on Mar 19, 2009 1:16 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

He hates Jesus. MOSLEM TERRORIST!

Never has a poster been more correct in the history of the internet. Ever! - ResDog on yours truly

by jcb9 on Mar 19, 2009 1:20 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

/laser points to pie chart

Bay City Ball | Beyond the Box Score

by xanthan on Mar 19, 2009 1:47 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

/chases laser pointer

New to McCovey Chronicles? Check out the McFAQs! McFAQ I & II
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by Natto on Mar 19, 2009 2:08 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

He loves communism

Aaron King is still my homeboy... iffy mechanics and all

If Dustin Pedroia played in Seattle, not many people would be talking about him.

by baetown415 on Mar 19, 2009 2:01 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Don't think, it could only hurt the ballclub.

by ResDog on Mar 19, 2009 2:58 PM PDT up reply actions 2 recs

in the bible their is a gap from jesus' childhood to his 30's

now we know he’s the savior, lets let him hash out who he is in the minors for a couple months (a couple being the max), and than replace franny (sorry franny lovers) or platoon first, than he can die for us, or win the division. he might be the best hitter we have by the end of the season, but he’s not goin anywhere, aaa is not permanent.

by shaolinironlion on Mar 19, 2009 1:23 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

let's just say

Eddie Murphy had a better “Best Defense”
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0086955/

by zenbitz on Mar 19, 2009 2:07 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

Guzman over Holm

Pablo: 100 games at third, 40 games at catcher (20 off)
Ishikawa: 120 games at first (40 off)
Guzman: 60 games at third, 40 games at first (60 off)

by JesseSeg on Mar 19, 2009 2:41 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

FO/Management would never allow this

Using this scenario, we would see BMoney clogging up the base paths in the 7th-9th innings with the Giants down by 1. Meaning the Giants would lose dozens of games with Benji getting thrown out at the plate. I would rather see a permanate backup C.

Proud supporter of the Fightin' Hydrants.

by Little Napoleon on Mar 19, 2009 5:50 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Nice on the top, but Jesus's MLE for last seson was not that good

MLE AA: .290/.332/.426/.758, 10 HR in 352 AB, BABIP .329
MLE total: .277/.318/.405/.723, 11 HR in 412 AB, BABIP .317

Neither would be that good for us at 1B or 3B (from Minor League Splits)

McKamey’s MLE is better but still not great:
MLE AA: .290/.337/.432/.769, 12 HR in 400 AB

According to his system, his BPV was 45 and prospects are considered good at 50+, so he was borderline. For example, Sandoval’s BPV was 62 in 2008, Schierholtz had 53 and 57 the past two seasons. Velez had a 40 for his 2008 in minors and Ishikawa had a 56. Bowker had a 41 in 2007. Brett Harper had 46 in 2008.

Those are comparable to Chase Headley (65, 45 last two seasons), Travis Snider (47), Denard Span (43), Ronnie Paulino (50), Matt Antonelli (45 in 07), Wladimir Balentien (39, 51), Daric Barton (50 in 07), Ivan DeJesus (42), German Duran (52), Yunel Escobar (47 in 07), Nick Evans (52), Brandon Jones (48, 23), Matt Kemp (57 in 07).

The caveat here is that they are also close to former Giants prospect Brian Buscher, 43 and 39. And that Nelson Cruz had 66 and 62 and still not done anything.

Adoptive parental unit of Kevin " 2007's Most Spectacular Pitcher" Pucetas.

"I'm a Giant now... I like watching the ball get up there" - Wendell Fairley
"I'm really proud to be on this team." - Nate Schierholtz
"Woo hoo" - Tim "The Kid" Lincecum

by obsessivegiantscompulsive on Mar 19, 2009 3:07 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

I voted yes

but the caveat is assumign that someone with even a WORSE chance of doing offensive damage is left off. With the Giants, that’s practically a given.

by zenbitz on Mar 19, 2009 3:47 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

The Giants are giving him the Bowker/Ortmeier treatment, which includes a first baseman’s mitt, a Tom Emanski video, and J.T. Snow’s cell phone number.

Guzman wouldn’t really fall into this category as he already plays in the infield.

Giant Dirtbags: Brian Anderson, Todd Jennings, Steve Hammond, John Bowker
Don't F with the Affeldt

by Giant among Angels on Mar 19, 2009 7:26 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

Its not just Jesus's numbers

The manager, the general manager, the hitting coach, and a bunch of giants scouts, really like the way this guy hits. They do not think it is a fluke. I have not seen him play yet. Why waste his hitting talent in Fresno.

by bradleybear on Mar 19, 2009 8:07 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

Yes, and all these people have a spotless and entirely trustworthy track record of evaluating young hitters, don’t they?

Never has a poster been more correct in the history of the internet. Ever! - ResDog on yours truly

by jcb9 on Mar 19, 2009 10:33 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Whatever Their Record They Are A Hell Of Alot More Likely To Be Right Then Anyone Here Including You.

by giantsrainman on Mar 19, 2009 11:19 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Really?

You sure about that?

by bondslegend on Mar 20, 2009 12:53 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yes. I Am.

by giantsrainman on Mar 20, 2009 1:33 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Good for you

I don’t share your optimism. Please tell me the last time the “experts” in this organization successfully evaluated and developed a good young hitter.

by bondslegend on Mar 20, 2009 8:36 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Fred Lewis Is Now Proven And Pablo Sandoval Proving Himself Is Just Around The Corner.

I am also expecting a couple (and perhaps even more) of Ishikawa, Frandsen, Burriss, Schierholtz, and Velez to do so in 2009 as well. You sir are living in the past. The Giants have gotten alot better at finding and developing hitting and you are just too blinded to see it.

by giantsrainman on Mar 20, 2009 5:37 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah

are they holding the Canton induction ceremony for any of those guys yet? There’s a big difference between expected production (which most of us have) and actual production. I’m not going to fall for that line until I actually see these guys perform well on the field. I certainly hope I’m wrong, but the track record suggests I’m not.

In RE: Lewis, it only took them like 3 years too long to actually give the guy a decent shot. Most teams don’t wait until their good young hitters are 26 to give them a long look.

by bondslegend on Mar 20, 2009 10:07 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

By canton

I of course mean cooperstown. Theres the football guy in me again

by bondslegend on Mar 20, 2009 10:08 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Sense When Are Only Hall Of Fame Hitters Considered ""Good Young Hitters"?

I answered your challange “tell me the last time the "experts" in this organization successfully evaluated and developed a good young hitter” and all you can come back with is that they aren’t Hall of Famers.

Here is an idea, how about just admitting that you are wrong.

by giantsrainman on Mar 20, 2009 11:34 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

You are missing my point

and doing so in (sic)tastic fashion. I wasn’t saying that you have to be in the HOF to be a decent player, what I was saying is that you’re sighting guys like Pablo and Ishi as examples of the FO producing good young hitters, but those guys have done exactly jack shit at the major league level. In fact, all of the guys you mentioned (aside from Fred, who took WAYYYY too long to get his shot) are not at all proven. They have potential, which is great, but potential gets coaches/managers fired. Potential doesn’t win you games, production does.

Is that to say I’m hoping they fail? Obviously not, but what I am saying is that this FO hasn’t earned an ounce of benefit of the doubt from me with its track record, and I’m going to go ahead and wait until I actually see results on the field before I start patting them on the back. And I’m not even paying for season tickets.

I’m very excited to watch Sandoval play, because I think he is actually something special, but that’s all I have- what I think. That’s all you and anyone else has too, because we really haven’t seen him play for long enough to have anything concrete to go on.

by bondslegend on Mar 22, 2009 11:01 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

You Asked For One. Fred Lewis Is One. Your Were Wrong. Just Admit It.

by giantsrainman on Mar 23, 2009 2:37 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Actually, no I'm not

but I am done with this discussion, because we’re talking about different things. Lewis is league-average, not what you’d call especially “good”, we just think he’s really good because all of our young hitters have sucked so bad for the last however long. Plus, he’s not young. So yeah.

by bondslegend on Mar 23, 2009 7:13 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Sorry

In fairness, your original challenge didn’t specify “really good” or “especially good”, just “good”.

League average in your first full MLB season.and a 105 OPS+ meets my definition of “good”.

My adopted Giant: "Raptor Jesus" Guzman

by Goofus on Mar 25, 2009 11:38 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I’d send him to Triple-A to get regular playing time for awhile, but I think he has a future as a part-time lefty masher. I’d like him more if he could play defense.

Perhaps he could start against lefties switching among first, third and left.

by Dan from NM on Mar 19, 2009 9:48 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

im feeling things about guzman that i felt about velez last year in spring trainging, dirty things about what position to plug him in……..to. but i pray for more than we got from velez last year.

by shaolinironlion on Mar 19, 2009 11:26 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

Must I?

“8 year olds dude”

I vote yes on Jesus to AAA for now with every intention on letting him come up during the season to get some licks, hell even bringing him up during interleague play to DH, even though I think Jesus is probably the only DH that can get an error.

by Giant Voodoo on Mar 20, 2009 12:10 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs

I think this needs to be posted every single time he comes up at bat in the majors.

The Basil Fawlty Moderating Strategy:
"We could run a nice blog here if we didn't have all these members getting in the way."

by WalrusMan on Mar 21, 2009 12:45 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

even though I think Jesus is probably the only DH that can get an error.

its a miracle!

co-dad of IshikaBOOM w/AfDC.
Ishikawa, let the boy hit against lefties.

by kennv on Mar 20, 2009 6:10 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs

I'm not a believer.

Ask me again in June. If Guzman is in double digits in HRs and his defense has not made him the laughing stock of Fresno, I’ll reconsider.

Adoptive father to the All-Father. Does that make me the All-Grandfather?

by EliminateMe on Mar 20, 2009 1:08 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

I’m not for Jesus riding the pine the first couple months of the season when he could be getting 200 AB’s and working on his D in Fresno. And I’m not for him taking AB’s from Frandsen, Pablo, Ishikawa or even Nate during the first half. When interleague comes around, the Giants only have 6 games in AL parks, and the two series are seperated by a month, so that won’t work either.

One of Frandsen, Ishikawa or Pablo will flop, or, just as likely, Bengie will age 5 years and stop hitting, and Pablo will have to catch some games. I think we’ll see Jesus for 200-250 AB’s in the second half.

Brian Sabean figures that if he buys enough bottles, one of them is bound to have lightning in it.

by jasomack on Mar 23, 2009 2:28 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs

With so many balls clanking off his glove, should we call those “Immaculate Deflections”?

My adopted Giant: "Raptor Jesus" Guzman

by Goofus on Mar 25, 2009 11:42 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs

Jesus Guzman: Future 2B...

I am convinced that Jesus will be a late bloomer with the bat (as much as you can consider a 24 year old a late bloomer). I believe he could be anywhere from a good to an excellent hitter at the ML level.

That said, he really has not yet found a position that suits him. If he could play 3B, the Giants would know it by now. He is could be a 1B, but it is too soon to tell (the Giants are reportedly coonsidering trying him there at AAA Fresno this year).

I say, why not consider him at 2B? Why? 1) We know that 3B is not his forte at this point. 2) We have several options at 1B (Ishilkawa now, AnVil later), and 3) Guzman himself recently said he is most comfortable at 2B.

Since he is still only 24, with little time above AA, why not give him a shot at 2B? If he can cut it there (and he is not that far ahead at any other spot) to the point of being adequate, he could be a Jeff Kent type (ordinary fielder, extraordinary hitter).

If successful, that would yield the Giants a future (i.e. 2010) IF of Ishikawa at 1B (with AnVil waiting in the wings), Guzman at 2B (with Frandsen backing up), Burriss at SS (after Renteria, who is only on a 2 year contract) and Sandoval at 3B (with Gillaspie or Rholinger down on the farm).

by kar120c on Mar 25, 2009 11:55 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs