Tag Archives: tennessee smokies

by | February 26, 2013 · 3:35 pm

Perfection With Smokies Led to Major League Success for Haren

Dan Haren's Success with Tennessee led to his first big league action in 2003 and postseason action in 2004. Photo Courtesy: Getty Images

Dan Haren’s success with Tennessee led to his first big league action in 2003 and postseason action in 2004. Photo Courtesy: Getty Images

In the same season Dan Haren made his major league debut with St. Louis Cardinals, the 2001 second-round pick of the organization made perhaps his most important stop on his way to the big leagues.

The year was 2003 and the then-22-year-old Haren joined a Tennessee Smokies team that featured future major leaguers such as Rick Ankiel, Chris Carpenter and Yadier Molina after being placed at the Cardinals’ Double-A affiliate out of spring training.   Haren steadily made his way through the Cardinals organization two seasons prior to coming to Tennessee in 2003, and the right-hander earned a spot in Tennessee after he went a combined 13-12 with a 2.92 ERA in 40 appearances at Low-A New Jersey, Single-A Peoria and High-A Potomac.

But a change in geographical location wasn’t the only elevation adjustment Haren made in 2003; the pitcher further elevated his game with the Smokies.

Haren’s march to St. Louis gained considerable momentum when he went a perfect 6-0 with a 0.82 ERA, 49 strikeouts and six walks in 55.0 innings pitched for the Smokies.  The 6-foot-5 right-handed pitcher proved overpowering as he struck out eight batters per nine innings and possessed a WHIP of 0.764.

Dan Haren's 6-0 record and 0.82 ERA sent him quickly to the Triple-A-affiliate Memphis Redbirds. Photo Courtesy: Chirp Chatter

Dan Haren’s 6-0 record and 0.82 ERA sent him quickly to the Triple-A-affiliate Memphis Redbirds. Photo Courtesy: Chirp Chatter

It wasn’t long before scouts and Cardinals’ executives realized the dominance Haren displayed in Tennessee, and after only eight starts in a Smokies uniform, Haren was promoted to Triple-A Memphis where he compiled a 2-1 record in eight starts with the team.  Despite a 4.93 ERA in 45.2 innings of work with the Redbirds, Haren’s impressive numbers with the Smokies propelled him to a spot in the rotation with St. Louis in June of 2003.

Haren’s major league debut came against Barry Bonds and the San Francisco Giants as he pitched six innings and gave up two earned runs on seven hits.  However, the 22-year-old was handed his first loss in the big leagues and went on to make 13 more starts that season as he finished 3-7 with a 5.08 ERA

The Cardinals organization, feeling that Haren needed more experience, sent him back to Triple-A Memphis to begin the 2004 campaign.  Haren gained the skills he needed in what would be his last minor league season and went 11-4 with a 4.15 ERA in 21 starts for the Redbirds.

Haren made two appearances in the 2004 World Series, pitching 4.2 innings total. Photo Courtesy: Getty Images

Haren made two appearances in the 2004 World Series, pitching 4.2 innings. Photo Courtesy: Getty Images

The 23-year-old righty was once again promoted to St. Louis in late 2004 and appeared in 14 games, starting five of those and going 3-3 with a 4.50 ERA.  After playing a small role in the Cardinals’ postseason run to the World Series in 2004, Haren was included in a trade that would forever change his major league career.

With St. Louis feeling the need to add an established starter after being swept by the Boston Red Sox and Billy Beane looking to add another chapter to his Moneyball tactics, Haren was traded to Oakland as part of a trade package for A’s ace Mark Mulder.

“Certainly there’s a lot of the future involved in this,” Beane said at the time of the trade.  “We have to be very patient with three positions, that being the three starting pitchers.”

Haren enjoyed tremendous success in Oakland, going 43-34 with a 3.64 ERA. Photo Courtesy: Getty Images

Haren enjoyed tremendous success in Oakland, going 43-34 with a 3.64 ERA. Photo Courtesy: Getty Images

Oakland displayed patience with Haren, as he became a key part of the rotation alongside Barry Zito for the next two seasons.   The California native became a workhorse for Oakland as he made at least 33 starts and pitched over 215.0 innings from 2005 to 2007.  Haren won 14 games in 2005 and 2006 when he helped the club reach the playoffs both seasons and earned his first All-Star appearance in 2007 as the American League starter before he went on to compile a 15-9 record with a 3.07 ERA.  During his three seasons with Oakland, Haren went 43-34 with 3.64 ERA in 102 starts and 662.2 innings pitched.

Following the 2007 season, however, Haren was traded to the Arizona Diamondbacks for six players in return as Oakland looked to rebuild after a disappointing 76-86 record led to a third place finish in the AL West.

Haren earned two All-Star selections while in Arizona and went a combined 37-26 in his time there. Photo Courtesy: Getty Images

Haren earned two All-Star selections while in Arizona and went a combined 37-26 in his time there. Photo Courtesy: Getty Images

Haren teamed with 2006 NL Cy Yong winner Brandon Webb and continued to carry the load in 2008 as he earned his second All-Star appearance and went 16-8 with a 3.33 ERA in 33 starts and 216.0 innings pitched.  The 215-pound-right-hander followed up in 2009 with a third consecutive All-Star selection and a 14-10 record with 3.14 ERA in 229.1 innings pitched.

But Haren scuffled to begin the 2010 season and was traded to the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim in exchange for pitcher Joe Saunders and three minor league players after the Diamondbacks deemed Haren’s salary to be too costly for the team moving forward.  Haren was 7-8 with a 4.60 ERA in 21 starts before the trade and was due to make $12.75 million in 2011 and 2012.

“At this point, being on the West Coast has a lot of value to me, being near my family and going to a ballclub that is dedicated to winning,” Haren told ESPN Los Angeles after the trade.  “I am really excited about going there and having a chance to win.”

The then-29-year-old finished off the 2010 season by going 5-4 with a 2.87 ERA in 14 starts.

Haren returned to form and threw a career-high 238.1 innings in 2011. Photo Courtesy: Getty Images

Haren returned to form and threw a career-high 238.1 innings in 2011. Photo Courtesy: Getty Images

Haren bounced back to form in 2011 as he made 34 starts in a career-high 238.1 innings pitched and went 16-10 with a 3.17 ERA.  Yet Haren’s numbers dipped early on in 2012 and caused some to wonder whether the 31-year-old was battling injuries.

Indeed Haren was hurt, and for the first time in his 10-year career, Haren went on the 15-day disabled list, thus ending a streak that saw Haren go eight-plus seasons without missing a start.

“That’s probably the biggest reason I didn’t do this earlier,” Haren told the LA Times regarding his decision to go on the DL.  “In eight or nine years, I’ve pitched through a lot of pain, and I pride myself in taking the ball every fifth day, regardless of how I feel.”

“The pain was manageable, but it was almost like my mind was telling me yes and my body was telling me no,” said Haren.

Haren was 6-8 with a 4.86 ERA prior to going on the DL, but bounced back to finish the season 12-13 with a 4.33 ERA in 176.2 innings pitched.

Despite a strong comeback during the second half of the season, the Angels declined Haren’s 2013 club option and granted him free agency after a proposed trade that would have sent Haren to the Chicago Cubs in exchange for closer Carlos Marmol fell through.

Video: Nationals Sign Dan Haren

Haren was not on the free agent market for long as the Washington Nationals signed Haren to a one-year, $13 million deal for the upcoming 2013 season, helping complete a rotation with the likes of Stephen Strasburg and 2012 NL Cy Young runner-up Gio Gonzalez.

“He’s one of the most accomplished pitchers in the past couple years,” Nationals general manager Mike Rizzo said. “We feel really good that he’s with the Washington Nationals. Once we expressed interest in him, he certainly focused in on us.”

But perhaps Dan Haren will one day focus in on his playing career and think back on his road to the major leagues.  Chances are he’ll reminisce about his days as a Tennessee Smoky.  And if there were a word he could use to describe his time in Sevierville, that word would most likely be “perfect.”

Nick Roark is a Broadcast & Media Associate for the Smokies Radio Network.  You can follow him on Twitter here: @NickRoark4.

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by | February 20, 2013 · 12:21 pm

Before Becoming a Superstar, Werth Found his Game in Tennessee

Coming up with the Orioles, Catching prospect Jayson Werth was far from a sure thing. Photo: Bowie Baysox

Coming up with the Orioles, Catching prospect Jayson Werth was far from a sure thing. Photo: Bowie Baysox

Before the World Series ring, the infamous beard, and the seven year $126 million dollar contract, Jayson Werth was once just a young, hit-or-miss catching prospect. Drafted by the Orioles with the twenty-second pick in the 1997 draft, Werth put his collegiate plans of playing at the University of Georgia on the back-burners and signed with Baltimore.

After a successful stint in the Rookie league, Werth began his career in Class A in 1998.

Werth’s tall and lanky frame did not translate well behind the plate, and in 1998, he struggled at the plate as a batter as well. However, he began to hit his stride in the 1999 season in which he hit .305 in 66 games in  Class A Advanced ball before getting bumped up to Double A and positing a .273 average in 35 starts.

Unfortunately, the Baltimore organization was never completely behind Werth as a professional prospect, so in December of 2000, the O’s shipped him to Toronto for lefty reliever John Bale.

Just like that the organization had shipped its number one pick of the 1997 draft for Bale, who would only make fourteen appearances in Baltimore.

And that is when Jayson Werth’s career with the Tennessee Smokies began and when his career as a catcher ended. Werth strived in Double-A Tennessee posting a .285 average while showing some flashes of power with 18 home runs while knocking in 69 RBIs in 104 games as a first baseman. His athleticism was also on display as he stole 12 bases and showed speed on the base paths.

He was once again promoted and was sent to Triple-A where he posted another 18 home run season while upping his RBI total to 82.  Werth would get his first  cup of coffee in the majors as a September call-up in 2002.

2003 was a struggle for Werth, and he was traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers in March of 2004 for another relief pitcher, Jason Frasor.

An elbow injury while with the Dodgers brought Werth's career to a crossroads. Photo: James A. Finley/AP

An elbow injury while with the Dodgers brought Werth’s career to a crossroads. Photo: James A. Finley/AP

Once with the Dodgers, he tore up Triple-A in Las Vegas hitting over .400 before getting called up for good to the majors. However, following the trend of his career, it was one step forward met with two steps backward.

In 2005, Werth underwent two surgeries and was released by the Dodgers; with no team and no real interest, he contemplated retirement. It was then that the Phillies reached out to him and helped resurrect his career.

After almost a decade came the beard, the World Series Ring, and, after posting huge numbers in 2009 and 2010, the Nationals gave him the $126 million contract.

While in Philadelphia Werth became something like a cult hero with his gritty play and wild facial hair, something that has continued in Washington.

The Washington Nationals rely on Werth for veteran leadership. Photo: AP

The Washington Nationals rely on Werth for veteran leadership. Photo: AP

A career full of ups and downs has finally steadied. Werth and the Nationals posted the best record in the National League in 2012 and are the early favorites to win the National League East.

How would Jayson Werth’s career have been different if he did not get traded to the Toronto Blue Jays organization and landed with the Tennessee Smokies? It is a fair question. After all, it was in Tennessee that he first moved from behind the plate to first base paving the way for him to eventually settle in the outfield, a position he has thrived in.

Werth’s career highlight came last season in Game Four of the NLDS when he hit a walk-off home run to give Washington their first ever home playoff win.

Jonathan Reed is a broadcast and media associate for the Smokies Radio Network. You can follow Jonathan on Twitter here: @jon__reed

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by | · 10:16 am

What We’re Reading (2/20/13)

Throughout the 2013 baseball season, the Smokies on Radio staff will be rolling out all the Cubs, Smokies, and baseball news each weekday. To stay current with all the latest news, follow Smokies on Radio on Twitter and like the Smokies on Radio Facebook page.

Cubs’ Samardzija expects Garza to challenge for Opening Day start despite setback.

Carrie Muskat / Cubs.com

The Cubs and Samardzija both hope Matt Garza returns healthy enough to compete for the Opening Day start. Photo Courtesy: Getty Images

The Cubs and Samardzija both hope Matt Garza returns healthy enough to compete for the Opening Day start. Photo Courtesy: Getty Images

“To sit and count Garza out wouldn’t be the smartest thing to do. I want that competition,” Samardzija told reporters Tuesday.  “I want me and Garza and Edwin [Jackson] to go out and compete for that spot. It’s only going to make us better and build us as a core of the rotation.”

Samardzija was listed atop the Cubs’ depth chart headed into Spring Training, but the 28-year-old is looking for competition to push him this spring after his training partner Ryan Dempster was traded to the Texas Rangers in July and then signed with Boston this offseason.  The Cubs announced Tuesday that pitcher Matt Garza will be sat down for a week after an MRI revealed a mild lat strain on his left side.

Starlin Castro aiming for a Gold Glove award in 2013.

Carrie Muskat / MLBlogs Network

Starlin Castro's .964 fielding percentage ranked 10th among NL shortstops in 2012.

Starlin Castro’s .964 fielding percentage ranked 10th among NL shortstops in 2012.

“I know that God gave me [the ability to] hit,” Castro said on Tuesday. “That’s why when I went to the Dominican, I worked hard every day on my defense. I want to be like [Darwin] Barney and win a Gold Glove.

Castro committed 27 errors last season, the most among all shortstops in the National League, and ranked 10th in fielding percentage (.964).  Cubs second baseman Darwin Barney won his first Gold Glove last season after improving his defense with former infield coordinator Pat Listach.

“It’s one thing I challenged him to do,” said Cubs manager Dale Svuem.  “[I said] ‘Your next step now is to win a Gold Glove,’ and obviously that takes a lot of focus and hard work and being focused for 150 pitches a game and 162 games.”

Cubs’ Epstein says he’s pleased with progress of the organization.

David Kaplan / CSN Chicago

Theo Epstein characterized the Cubs rebuilding plan as being 30 percent complete.

Theo Epstein characterized the Cubs rebuilding plan as being 30 percent complete. Photo Courtesy: Getty Images

“We feel great about where we are going. It was a huge year for the farm system and everything that happened behind the scenes,” said Epstein.  “We don’t want to keep talking about it. We can’t wait for the season to start so we can go out and do it so our prospects can continue to develop. I think we are going to surprise some people at the major-league level with the quality and depth of our pitching staff.

However, Epstein said if the major league club looks to be struggling half way through the season, things could “get ugly for the last couple of months.”

Changes expected to the Cubs’ seventh inning stretch after listening to fan feedback.

Paul Sullivan / Chicago Tribune

Vince Vaughn sings "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" during a 7th inning stretch in 2012. Photo Courtesy: John Gress/WireImage

Vince Vaughn sings “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” during a 7th inning stretch in 2012. Photo Courtesy: John Gress/WireImage

Cubs in-game programming director Jim Oboikowitch announced Tuesday the team will bring in less “A listers” and will instead focus on brining in those with Chicago ties.

“They should know something about the Cubs. They should know the background of Harry Caray and what we are doing, and I think it will be a little more teaching them and exposing them,” said Oboikowitch.

Reds’ manager Dusty Baker still frustrated by the way things ended in Chicago.

David Kaplan / CSN Chicago

Baker admitted Monday that he wishes he'd been give a better opportunity in Chicago. Photo Courtesy: Steve Grayson/WireImage

Baker admitted Monday that he wishes he’d been give a better opportunity in Chicago. Photo Courtesy: Steve Grayson/WireImage

Baker gathered with media Monday as part of the Cactus League media day at Chase Field in Phoenix.  While Baker discussed the excitement surrounding his Cincinnati Reds team, he also admitted he views his four years in Chicago as a period he tries to forget.

“I’ve made (it) invisible, like that was a part of my life that never was,” Baker said. “When I get back to Chicago, then it hits me front and center. You know, in life you can make anything invisible, because if you don’t then, you know, some of the pain that you might have felt will always be there and you don’t need that.”

Baker told reporters he was not ready to go in 2006 after the Cubs did not renew his contract.

“At the time when I was sent out I wasn’t ready to go then. When I was there they quit spending money and they quit reloading,” he said. “Then right after I left they started spending money again.”

Cubs new Mesa Riverview Stadium only a year away.

East Valley Tribune / Mike Sakai

The Cubs will begin next spring by playing their games in the new Mesa Riverview Stadium. Photo Courtesy: City of Mesa

The Cubs will begin next spring by playing their games in the new Mesa Riverview Stadium. Photo Courtesy: City of Mesa

The Cubs new 125-acre spring training facility will resemble Wrigley Field and seat 15,000 fans.  The complex will have 70 percent of its seating in the shade, a large concourse with a party deck over left field and state-of-the-art weight and training rooms.

“It marks a new beginning,” Cubs CEO Tom Ricketts said last year.  ““The Chicago Cubs are a part of the City of Mesa and we look forward to being a good neighbor.”

Nick Roark is a Broadcast & Media Associate for Smokies Radio Network.  You can follow Nick on Twitter here: @NickRoark4.

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by | February 19, 2013 · 3:05 pm

The End of an Era for the Smokies Was Only the Beginning for Vernon Wells

Vernon Wells, now with the LA Angels, spent 1999 with the Smokies.

Vernon Wells, now with the LA Angels, spent 1999 with the Smokies.

The 1999 season was a time of beginnings and ends in the Smokies organization.  For Vernon Wells it was his first season with the Smokies, and later that year would be his first call-up to the Majors.  For Knoxville, it was the last season the Smokies would call Bill Meyer Stadium home.

Bill Meyer Stadium was the home of the Smokies organization from 1955-1999.  Though the organization began and ended its run at Bill Meyer as “The Knoxville Smokies”, the organization was also called the Knoxville White Sox (or Knox Sox) and the Knoxville Blue-Jays (or K-Jays).  Only in 2000, when the organization made the move from Bill Meyer (located in downtown Knoxville) to the Smokies’ current home of Smokies Park (the greater Sevierville area), did they become the Tennessee Smokies.

Bill Meyer Stadium during the 1995 Season. (Photo Courtesy: minorleagueballparks.com)

Bill Meyer Stadium during the 1995 Season. Photo Courtesy: minorleagueballparks.com

For the Smokies this was the end of an era.  For Vernon Wells, he was just getting started.

Wells was selected by the Toronto Blue Jays as the 5th overall pick in 1997 MLB Draft.  He would spend the 1999 season with the Smokies (then the AA affiliate of the Blue Jays), Syracuse Sky Chiefs, and then was a September call-up to the majors.

During his time with the Smokies Wells played in 26 games batting .340 with 3 HR 6 Doubles and 17 RBI in 106 at bats.  He also showed his ability on defense with a 1.000 fielding percentage in 26 games as a Center Fielder.

Wells spent 8 full seasons with the Toronto Blue Jays, winning 3 straight Gold Gloves.

Wells spent 8 full seasons with the Toronto Blue Jays, winning 3 straight Gold Gloves.

Once Wells became an every day player beginning in the 2002 season for Toronto, he hit .275 with 23 home runs, 100 RBI and 87 runs.  He also began to set himself apart as one of the best defensive center fielders in the league committing only 3 errors in 394 chances.

Wells followed up by batting .317 in 2003 with 33 home runs, 117 RBI and 118 runs scored. He also led the league with 215 hits, 49 doubles, and 373 total bases and made his first All-Star Team.

Wells was rewarded for his defense with his first of 3 straight Gold Gloves in 2004.  In 2006, along with his Gold Glove, Wells hit 3 Home Runs in a game against the Boston Red Sox, a game-winning Home Run against Mariano Rivera of the New York Yankees, and collected his 500th RBI.  He was rewarded in the off-season with a new contract for $126 million over seven years.

Wells was plagued with injuries the next 4 seasons, including a shoulder injury in 2007, a broken wrist in 2008, and various hamstring injuries.  However, he was still producing.  Hitting the 1,500 hit milestone in 2010 and launching over 30 Home Runs, placing him in an elite class that includes former Smokies Carlos Delgado and Fred McGriff as Blue Jays players that had 3 or more seasons with 30 or more Home Runs.

Wells was traded after the 2010 season to the Los Angeles Angels for Catcher Mike Napoli and outfielder Juan Rivera.  He got off to a slow start in his first season with his new team, but finished strong hitting 11 home runs in two months including the first pitch he saw in his return to Toronto as an Angel.

The upcoming season could be a struggle for Wells.  2012 was a down year with Wells getting only 262 plate appearances due to injury and lack of production.  In the offseason the Angels acquired Josh Hamilton from the Texas Rangers, signing Hamilton to a 5-year contract worth $125 million.

Due to the signing of Hamilton, Vernon Wells became the subject of trade rumors to various teams including the Philadelphia Phillies.  None of the rumors materialized due, in large part, to Wells’ large contract.

Vernon Wells now finds himself in a very similar position as he was in 1999 with the Smokies.  He will be working hard to earn playing time, and show his value to the Angels organization.

Jay Lifford is a Broadcast and Media Intern for the Smokies Radio Network. You can follow Jay on Twitter here: @JayLifford

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by | February 18, 2013 · 10:53 am

What We’re Reading (2/18/13)

Throughout the 2013 baseball season, the Smokies on Radio staff will be rolling out all the Cubs, Smokies, and baseball news each weekday. To stay current with all the latest news, follow Smokies on Radio on Twitter and like the Smokies on Radio Facebook page.

Monday is the 15th anniversary of the passing of legendary Cubs broadcaster Harry Caray. Photo Courtesy: Chicago Tribune File Photo

Monday is the 15th anniversary of the passing of legendary Cubs broadcaster Harry Caray. Photo Courtesy: Chicago Tribune File Photo

Friends and Fans Remember Harry Caray 15 years after his death
Chicago Tribune

Caray’s fans get together once a year around the anniversary of his death, and this year the restaurant he once owned will hold its annual Toast to Harry on Feb. 28 at the Harry Caray’s Tavern at Navy Pier. Ernie Banks, Dutchie Caray, Billy Corgan and Tom Ricketts will lead the toast at 5:30 p.m., and a fireworks show over the lake will begin after 6 p.m.

WGN-TV has been the home for Cubs baseball since 1948. Photo Courtesy: Bleacher Nation

WGN-TV has been the home for Cubs baseball since 1948. Photo Courtesy: Bleacher Nation

With Lucrative TV Deals a Norm, Cubs May Say Farewell to WGN-TV
Chicago Tribune

“Obviously local media rights have been increasing in value,” he said. “Hopefully at some point we will be able to get more value for our media rights. It’s just something that’s playing out over time.”

Cubs Players Play Practical Joke on Sveum During First Full Squad Meeting
Chicago Tribune

“Halfway into the meeting they all took their jackets off and they all had bright orangehunting gear on, and hats,” Sveum said. “Of course they gave me one with a target.”
The reference was to the infamous hunting accident over the off-season in which Sveum was accidentally shot in the ear by Hall of Famer Robin Yount during a quail hunting trip.

Theo Epstein Defeats GM Jed Hoyer in Bunting Compeition
Carrie Muskat / Cubs.com

“The most important match of the year was the first one,” Epstein said of beating Hoyer. “I’ve got to get better — better than Jed, which isn’t saying much. I will say, Jed and I have a long history of playing pickup basketball and other sports. That one felt good. Nate, he might get an invite to camp on a Minor League contract — that was impressive.”

Wrigley Field saw its first night game on August 8, 1988. Photo Courtesy: Dave Herholz/Flickr

Wrigley Field saw its first night game on August 8, 1988. Photo Courtesy: Dave Herholz/Flickr

Cubs Will Not Add Night Games in 2013
CSN Chicago

He also said that there is no plan on the table for a Wrigley Field renovation that would require the Cubs to play somewhere else while the venerable stadium was being remodeled.

“We feel that we can accomplish our goals in a handful of offseasons and we have no plan that we are considering that has us playing somewhere else while the work is done on the ballpark,” he said.

One of the many proposed improvements to Wrigley Field is an added section of seating. Photo Courtesy: BizofBaseball.com

One of the many proposed improvements to Wrigley Field is an added section of seating. Photo Courtesy: BizofBaseball.com

Progress is Being Made in Wrigley Field Renovation Efforts
USA Today

Speaking Sunday during his annual spring training address with reporters, Ricketts praised the mayor for being involved in the Cubs’ efforts to get the permission to closing Sheffield Avenue for game day street fairs and to lift restrictions blocking the team from putting up more advertising at the ballpark.

World Baseball Classic Helps Global Growth of Baseball
Forbes

“People understood that the debate was going to be about why can’t we have Major League Baseball players perform in the Olympics during the season, and we started thinking, what’s the magic of the Olympics that we have to replace,” said Brosnan.  ”It was simple – premier athletes of the world playing under the flag of their country.”  The WBC is not just about putting together the best players on a variety of teams and having them show off their skills in a new type of venue.  In fact, this year the WBC has been able to satisfy one of the real goals that the WBC strategy was meant to achieve – there are non-traditional baseball playing countries, such as Brazil, that have succeeded at some level of baseball in a worldwide competition.

Michael Wottreng is a Broadcast and Multimedia Assistant for the Smokies Radio Network. You can follow Michael on Twitter here: @MWottreng

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by | February 14, 2013 · 12:36 pm

What We’re Reading (2/14/13)

With the beginning of baseball season, the Smokies on Radio staff will be rolling out all the Cubs, Smokies, and baseball news each weekday leading up to the season. To stay current with all the latest news, follow Smokies on Radio on Twitter and like the Smokies on Radio Facebook page.

Former Smokies outfielder Brett Jackson worked in the off-season on his swing with Cubs manager Dave Sveum. Photo courtesy: MLBBlogs

Prospect Jackson takes hitting session to heart
 Carrie Muskat/ MLB.com

Former Tennessee Smokies outfielder Brett Jackson is know to strike out, a lot. This past off season, Jackson worked with Cubs manager Dave Sveum to work on his swing to lower his number of strike outs.

Wrigley Field didn’t add lights until the late 21st century, but the Cubs are hoping to add more night games this season. Photo courtesy: Flickr

Cubs push for more night games this season could be in jeopardy
 Chicago Tribune

Famous for its matinee games, the Chicago Cubs are pushing for the ability to play more games under the lights at Wrigley Field.

A defining year awaits Roy Halladay
 Jayson Stark/ESPN.com

On the first day of spring training, Phillies pitcher Roy Halladay was the first pitcher on the bump. But after a disappointing 2012 season, Halladay is entering this season a completely new man.  A new workout regime and a new pitching delivery are just two things that will make 2013 different for Halladay.

Tigers’ manager Jim Leyland talks about his journey from being a minor league catcher to becoming a World Series winning manager. Photo courtesy: Sports Illustrated.

Column: ‘I Had an Idea I Wasn’t Going to Make It’
 New York Times

Tigers manager Jim Leyland wasn’t the world’s best baseball player. In fact, he described himself as “a Double-A backup, flunky catcher” who never hit better than .243. But then Leyland became a World Series winning manager.  

Retiring type? Mariano Rivera to reveal plans soon
 USA Today

Yankees’ closer Mariano Rivera, returning from a torn ACL, had expected to retire after this season but now those plans are unsure.

Matthew Osborne is a Broadcast and Media Intern for the Smokies Radio Network. You can follow Matthew on Twitter here: @OsborneMatthew

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by | February 13, 2013 · 11:10 am

What We’re Reading (2/13/13)

With the beginning of baseball season, the Smokies on Radio staff will be rolling out all the Cubs, Smokies, and baseball news each weekday leading up to the season. To stay current with all the latest news, follow Smokies on Radio on Twitter and like the Smokies on Radio Facebook page.

Samardzija looks to improve off last season before discussing a long-term contract. 

Carrie Muskat / MLB.com

Jeff Samardzija hopes an improved 2013 season will help him land a bigger contract in the future. Photo Courtesy: Justin K. Aller/Getty Images

Jeff Samardzija hopes an improved 2013 season will help him land a bigger contract in the future. Photo Courtesy: Justin K. Aller/Getty Images

“I still haven’t proven myself to where I want to be as a player,” Samardzija told Cubs.com. “I was happy with last year, but I don’t want to stay there, I want to improve and get better. I think the more I show them that, the more comfortable they’ll be with getting a deal done. [Contract discussions are] not even close to the front of the burner right now. It’s so far on the back, it’s history, to tell you the truth.”

The former Smokies pitcher signed a one-year, $2.64 million contract after being arbitration eligible this past offseason.  Samardzija, a candidate to be the Cubs’ Opening Day starter, is coming off a season that saw him go 9-13 in 28 starts.  The right-hander was shut down after reaching 200 innings on the season, which included innings pitched during Spring Training.

King Felix can now sit atop his $175 million throne as he and the Mariners completed a record contract extension Tuesday.

Greg Johns / MLB.com

The Mariner's locked up the 2010 Cy Young Award winner Tuesday through the 2019 season. Photo Courtesy: Otto Greule Jr./Getty Images

The Mariner’s locked up the 2010 Cy Young Award winner Tuesday through the 2019 season. Photo Courtesy: Otto Greule Jr./Getty Images

After negotiations were held up late last week due to concerns about Hernandez’s elbow, the two sides completed a seven year, $175 million contract extension yesterday.  The 2010 Cy Young Award winner has two years and $40.5 million remaining on his contract, but those two years will be replaced by the new deal, which runs through 2019.

“I would send along my congratulations to [Hernandez's agents] Scott Pucino and Wil Polidor. They were very professional in working this agreement with us,” Mariner’s general manager Jack Zduriencik told MLB.com.  “I think it’s a great thing for the Seattle Mariners and it’s a great thing for Felix Hernandez. We’re looking forward to this guy being here for a long time, obviously.”

He’s Back: Kerry Wood returns to Cubs’ Spring Training as a special instructor.

Carrie Muskat / MLB.com

Kerry Wood returns to the field with the Cubs for the first time since retiring last May. Photo Courtesy: Phil Velasquez/Chicago Tribune

Kerry Wood returns to the field with the Cubs for the first time since retiring last May. Photo Courtesy: Phil Velasquez/Chicago Tribune

Wood, who retired last may after a 14-year career, joined the Cubs in Arizona Tuesday to take on his new role as a special instructor.

“It’s just a presence and giving him the opportunity to get on this side of the wall and see if he enjoys this part of it, front office, development, whatever it might be,” Cubs’ manager Dale Sveum told Cubs.com.

Veteran Scott Rolen will not attend Spring Training with the Cincinnati Reds.

John Fay / Cincinnati Enquirer

Scott Rolen's career could be over after he declined to attend the Reds' Spring Training. Photo Courtesy: Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images

Scott Rolen’s career could be over after he declined to attend the Reds’ Spring Training. Photo Courtesy: Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images

The Cincinnati Reds tweeted a statement Tuesday saying third baseman Scott Rolen has declined to attend the Reds’ camp.

“Right now I’m simply not ready to make a commitment. I would like to leave my options open, without closing any doors. I am looking forward to all of the challenges, both personally and professionally, I will face in the future,” Rolen said in the statement.

The 37-year-old spent the past 3 ½ seasons with the Reds, but was limited by injuries during his time with the club.  Rolen was the 1997 NL Rookie of the Year.  Rolen was also a seven-time All-Star and an eight-time Gold Glove winner during his career.

Major League Baseball will not enter Spring Training with protective headgear for pitchers, as previously hoped.

William Weinbaum / ESPN.com

MLB officials hope to prevent future injuries to pitchers by developing hats with protective lining. Photo Courtesy: Michael Zagaris/Oakland Athletics

MLB officials hope to prevent future injuries to pitchers by developing hats with protective lining. Photo Courtesy: Michael Zagaris/Oakland Athletics

MLB senior vice president Don Halem said Monday that baseball officials have spent the offseason considering protective lining in pitcher’s hats with the hopes of presenting the product for pitchers to try on a voluntary basis.

Halem said no new designs have met the expectations of MLB officials and that proposals from six different companies are being considered.

The search for protective hats accelerated in September when Oakland A’s pitcher Brandon McCarthy underwent emergency brain surgery after suffering life-threatening injuries from a line drive hit.

Halem has not ruled out a new cap design being ready for use by Opening Day.

Nick Roark is a broadcast and media associate for the Smokies Radio Network. You can follow him on Twitter here: @NickRoark4

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by | February 12, 2013 · 3:29 pm

From Tennessee to Cleveland, Mark Reynolds has Delivered Power

Mark Reynolds wore the blue and red for the Tennessee Smokies during the 2006 season. Photo courtesy: milb.com.

Before being a major league corner infielder, Mark Reynolds made an impression onto the hills of the Smoky Mountains. The impression just happens to be behind the fences at Smokies Park.

Reynolds’ first at-bat as a member of the Tennessee Smokies was quite memorable – a home run.  In fact, Reynolds hit two home runs in his first two games as a Smokies.

Reynolds’ time in Sevierville during the 2006 season was not long. In fact, Reynolds only donned the red and blue 30 times with 114 at bats. But the numbers he finished with in the 2006 season were impressive.

A .272 hitter, Reynolds finished with eight home runs, 21 RBIs and seven doubles.  Reynolds averaged over a strikeout a game with Tennessee, something that has plagued him throughout his career.

The Pikeville, Ky. native was drafted in the 16th round of the 2004 MLB Draft out of the University of Virginia by the Arizona Diamondbacks. Reynolds’ path to the majors was short and sweet.

He played a total of 194 games with two Single A teams and 67 games with two Double A affiliates before making his major league debut.  Reynolds made his debut on May 16, 2007 in Denver, Colorado as a member of the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Reynolds best season in Arizona was in 2009 when he hit 44 home runs and drove in 102 runs. Photo courtesy: Sports Illustrated.

He has spent the last six seasons in major league parks as members of the Diamondbacks and the Baltimore Orioles.  During the off season, Reynolds signed a one year deal worth six million dollars with the Cleveland Indians.

In those six seasons, he has accumulated 181 home runs, 500 RBIs, 148 doubles and 995 strike outs. He has been named the NL Player of the Week three times.

Reynolds’ 2009 season at the plate brought out the fireworks. His stat line at the end of the season read: 44 home runs, 102 RBIs and 223 strike outs.

A 2011 story by Dan Connolly of the Baltimore Sun constructed Reynolds to be the perfect baseball player for the city of Baltimore.

Reynolds was the told of the Orioles broadcast booth when the trade occured.  ”Reynolds is a guy that has got what the Orioles have needed for a long time: power at third base. He’s already proven that,” said MASN broadcaster and former Oriole Rick Dempsey. “If the work ethic is really good and he makes himself an average to above-average third baseman, the sky is the limit in Baltimore for him.”

Connolly wrote that while Reynolds sounds like the perfect player for Balitmore, who traded for Reynolds in 2010, but his flaws needed an inspection. Connolly talks about Reynolds’ big bat comes with consequences – Reynolds’ ability to strike out. A lot.

In 2010, Reynolds become the first position player in major league history to have a higher number of strikeouts than points in his batting average.

Reynolds is looking to reestablish himself now with a new team. After being non-tendered by the Orioles at the end of last season, he signed a one-year deal with the Indians. Reynolds is expected to play first base and be a designated hitter for new Indians manager Terry Francona.

While Reynolds is with a new team for the third time in four seasons, fans of the Tennessee Smokies will remember Mark Reynolds for his power display –  if only for a little time.

Matthew Osborne is a Broadcast and Media Intern for the Smokies Radio Network. You can follow Matthew on Twitter here: @OsborneMatthew

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by | February 7, 2013 · 5:52 pm

Joe Girardi’s Connection to the Cubs Reaches All the Way to Tennessee

Joe Girardi spent seven seasons with the Cubs, earning an All-Star appearance in 2000. Photo Courtesy: Tom Hauck

Joe Girardi spent seven seasons with the Cubs, earning an All-Star appearance in 2000. Photo Courtesy: Tom Hauck

Joe Girardi’s ties with the Chicago Cubs go further than the ivy-covered walls of Wrigley Field, past the famous rooftop seats surrounding the Friendly Confines and all the way to Smokies Park in Kodak, Tennessee.  Smokies fans might be surprised to know that Girardi spent a brief stint with the Smokies in 2003 while playing in his last major league season for the St. Louis Cardinals.

The then-38-year-old Girardi signed with the Cardinals in the offseason leading up to the 2003 season by agreeing to a one-year, $750,000 contract to back up then-Cardinals catcher Mike Matheny.  Girardi played in three games for the Smokies while he worked his way through the minor league system on rehab assignments.  His numbers were impressive over the three games as he was able to hit .400 with a .455 on-base percentage and an .855 OPS.

Girardi played in three games with the Smokies during his only season with the St. Louis Cardinals. Photo Courtesy: Retro Simba

Girardi played in three games with the Smokies during his only season with the St. Louis Cardinals. Photo Courtesy: Retro Simba

A native of Peoria, Illinois, Joe Girardi was drafted in the 5th round of the 1986 draft.  The 23-year-old catcher, fresh out of Northwestern University, returned home when he went straight to class-A Peoria and played in 68 games where he hit .309 with a .360 on-base percentage, 13 doubles and 28 RBIs, thus beginning his march to the big leagues.

Girardi made his big league debut with the Cubs in the 1989 season but experienced his first full season as a major leaguer in 1990 when he played in 133 games.  His offensive numbers were solid as he put up a .270 batting average with a .300 OBP.  But Girardi’s defensive skills turned out to be most impressive as he ranked among the top five NL catchers in eight different defensive and fielding categories, including first place finishes in passed balls and runners caught stealing.

The scenery changed for Girardi in 1992, however, as he was drafted by the Colorado Rockies as the 19th pick of the expansion draft.  Girardi spent his next three seasons with Rockies before he was traded to the New York Yankees in November of 1995 for right-handed pitching prospect Mike DeJean. 

Joe Girardi celebrates after the Yankees won the 1996 World Series over the Atlanta Braves. Photo Courtesy: John Ianco/Getty Images

Joe Girardi celebrates after the Yankees won the 1996 World Series over the Atlanta Braves. Photo Courtesy: John Ianco/Getty Images

Joe Girardi proved to be a reliable catcher for the Yankees and a vocal leader in the clubhouse as he helped New York win the World Series in 1996, 1998 and 1999.  But Girardi was most productive for the Yankees in 1996 as he turned out what was his best all-around year as a catcher.  Girardi hit .294 with a  .346 OBP and a .720 OPS while he also finished in the top five of eight defensive and fielding categories for the second time in his career.

The Yankees allowed the 35-year-old Girardi to walk after the 1999 season as Jorge Posada had become the everyday catcher for the team, and Girardi returned to where he first started his big league career in 2000.

Girardi’s first season back with the Cubs proved to be special as he garnered his first and only All-Star appearance of his career.  Girardi hit .278 with a .339 OBP, a .714 OPS, six home runs and 40 RBIs.

But Girardi’s numbers declined the next two seasons and the Cubs allowed Girardi to test free agency after the 2002 season, which led to the catcher signing a one-year deal with the Cardinals.

Joe Girardi retired following a brief stint with the Yankees during Spring Training of 2004 and began to focus on a managerial career.  Girardi joined the YES Network in 2004 as a commentator and the became a bench coach for New York Yankees manager Joe Torre in the 2005 season, a job that would propel him to managerial status.

Girardi's tenure with the Marlins was successful but brief. Photo Courtesy: Jamie Squire/Getty Images

Girardi’s tenure with the Marlins was successful but brief. Photo Courtesy: Jamie Squire/Getty Images

Girardi earned his first managerial job with the Florida Marlins in 2006 after former-skipper Jack McKeon smoked his cigar and rode off into the sunset following an 83-79 season in 2005.  But Girardi’s 2006 season turned out to be one of the more bizarre storylines that year.

The up-and-coming manager led his 2006 Marlins team to a 78-84 record after starting 11-31 on the season.  The sub .500 record was viewed as impressive by baseball executives for a team with a collective payroll of nearly $15 million.  Girardi won the 2006 NL Manager of the Year Award for the accomplishments of his team but was fired by Marlins owner Jeffrey Loria immediately following the conclusion of the season.

Girardi and Loria’s relationship was known to have been tenuous from the start as they argued over front office issues such as player personnel and clubhouse access.  But the relationship reached a breaking point in August of 2006, when the two engaged in a verbal confrontation during a game against the Los Angeles Dodgers.  Girardi told Loria to quiet down after the owner began arguing ball and strikes with home plate umpire Larry Vanover during the game.  Loria nearly fired his manager after that game, but decided to hold off until the season was over.

Girardi returned to the YES Network in 2007 before being hired by the Yankees. Photo Courtesy: Robert Caplin/Bloomberg

Girardi returned to the YES Network in 2007 before being hired by the Yankees. Photo Courtesy: Robert Caplin/Bloomberg

Things looked up for Girardi following 2006, despite his departure from the Marlins.  Girardi, regarded highly for his job with the Marlins, was considered by many to be the favorite to land the Cubs’ managerial position after they dismissed Dusty Baker.  However, Chicago chose to hire Lou Piniella and Girardi returned to the YES Network in 2007.

Girardi was hired by the Yankees in October of 2007 to replace Joe Torre as manager after the club and Torre decided to part ways following the season.  Girardi’s first year with the team was not what New York fans had in mind as the team finished 89-73, third in the AL East, and missed the playoffs for the first time since 1993.

But the 2009 Yankees made up for the 2008 season as they went 103-59 and won the 27th World Series in franchise history, a number Girardi wore to signify his goal of leading the team to their next World Series.  Girardi has continued his success in New York and won his 500th career game in June of 2012 before the Detroit Tigers swept his team in the American League Championship Series.

Although Girardi’s stop in Tennessee was brief, Smokies fans can take solace in the fact that one of their own has gone on to be one of the most respected mangers in the game of baseball.  Joe Girardi isn’t the manager of the New York Yankees or a former Chicago Cub.  Girardi is a former Tennessee Smokie, a distinction that goes beyond Yankee Stadium, further than the marquis of Wrigley Field and all the way to home plate of Smokies Park.

 

Nick Roark is a Broadcast & Media Associate for Smokies Radio Network.  You can follow Nick on Twitter here: @NickRoark4.

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by | February 6, 2013 · 2:17 pm

What We’re Reading (2/6/13)

With Spring Training right around the corner, the Smokies on Radio staff will be rolling out all the Cubs, Smokies, and baseball news each weekday leading up to the season. To stay current with all the latest news, follow Smokies on Radio on Twitter and like the Smokies on Radio Facebook page.

Former Smokies pitcher Chris Carpenter is out for the 2013 season and likely will never pitch again, the St. Louis Cardinals announced Tuesday. 

Chris Carpenter went a combined 144-94 with a 3.76 ERA during his 15 seasons with the Blue Jays and Cardinals. Photo Courtesy: Patrick McDermott/Getty Images

Chris Carpenter went a combined 144-94 with a 3.76 ERA during his 15 seasons with the Blue Jays and Cardinals. Photo Courtesy: Patrick McDermott/Getty Images

The 37-year-old Carpenter experienced a recurrence of nerve injuries that forced him to miss most of the 2012 season until he appeared in three games after coming back from surgery in July to his nerve ailments.  Carpenter compiled a 95-44 regular season record during his time with the Cardinals and went an impressive 10-4 with a 3.00 ERA in 18 starts during the postseason. The right-hander will seek further medical evaluation, but Cardinals general manager John Mozeliak believed Carpenter has thrown his last pitch.

According to ESPN, Carpenter is likely to stay on the DL for the 2013 season so he will not lose his salary.  Carpenter is owed $12.5 million for 2013, of which $2 million is deferred without interest and is to be paid in $200,000 payments each July 1 from 2017-2026.

Carpenter first joined the Smokies in 1995 after being drafted 15th overall by the Toronto Blue Jays in 1993 and went 3-7 in 12 starts.  Carpenter returned to the Knoxville Smokies in 1996 and went 7-9 with a 3.97 ERA in 28 starts.

Ryan Braun says he has “nothing to hide” as his name surfaces in connection with Biogenesis and Tony Bosch.

Ryan Braun will spend a second offseason defending his name after he was connected to Tony Bosch and Biogenesis. Photo Courtesy: Mark Hirsch/Getty Images

Ryan Braun will spend a second offseason defending his name after he was connected to Tony Bosch and Biogenesis. Photo Courtesy: Mark Hirsch/Getty Images

In a statement released to USA TODAY Sports, Braun said the following:

“During the course of preparing for my successful appeal last year, my attorneys, who were previously familiar with Tony Bosch, used him as a consultant. More specifically, he answered questions about T/E ratio and possibilities of tampering with samples.

“I have nothing to hide and have never had any other relationship with Bosch.”

This marks the second consecutive offseason in which Braun has been directly or loosely connected to PEDs.  However, it is important to note that Braun’s name does not appear next to PEDs on any lists made available to the media.

It’s official: The Chicago Cubs and Northwestern University announced on Tuesday a long-term partnership that will bring football back to Wrigley Field. 

The new partnership between Northwestern University and the Chicago Cubs ensures five football games will be played at Wrigley Field. Photo Courtesy: Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images

The new partnership between Northwestern University and the Chicago Cubs ensures five football games will be played at Wrigley Field. Photo Courtesy: Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images

A symbiotic relationship has formed between Northwestern and the Cubs organization as the Wildcats officially announced a long-term deal that will allow five Northwestern football games to be played at Wrigley field.  The partnership is not limited to football events, however, as baseball, lacrosse and additional sporting events will be held at the Friendly Confines.

“The Cubs are excited to establish an ongoing partnership with Northwestern that leverages our brands and facilities to help grow both fan bases for years to come,” Cubs President of Business Operations Crane Kenney told NUSports.com “We enjoyed working with the university in 2010 to host the first college football game at Wrigley Field since 1938 and look forward to entertaining a variety of collegiate sporting events in the future.”

New evidence suggests that Alex Rodriguez had an alleged doping pattern “almost unheard of in baseball,” as SI’s Tom Verducci writes. 


VIDEO: Cashman, Girardi discuss A-Rod’s offseason

The Miami New Times released new evidence Monday evening that allegedly connects Yankee’s third baseman Alex Rodriguez to Florida wellness clinician Tony Bosch.  According to Verducci, the New Times released notebooks belonging to Bosch, which chronicled the alleged doping pattern of Rodriguez from 2009-2012.

Verducci wrote that the notebooks showed Rodriguez allegedly took “a staggering array of drugs and supplements to be used literally morning, noon and night and through multiple delivery systems, including lozenges, creams and injections.”  Rodriguez was also linked to banned substances such as testosterone and HGH, as well 17 other substances. The 37-year-old Rodriguez has denied being treated by Bosch and characterized the documents as “not legitimate.”

The New York Mets are looking to build a casino next to Citi Field in an effort to recoup some of the $162 million lost in the Bernie Madoff Ponzi-scheme. 

Mets ownership will continue to attempt building a casino next to Citi Field to recoup losses in the Bernie Madoff scandal. Photo Courtesy: Nick Laham/Getty Images

Mets ownership will continue to attempt building a casino next to Citi Field to recoup losses in the Bernie Madoff scandal. Photo Courtesy: Nick Laham/Getty Images

Mets owners Fred Wilpon and Saul Katz are looking to develop a 62-acre Las Vegas-style casino that would include “a massive casino with gaming tables and slots, a 500-room, full-service hotel, 1.8 million square feet of retail and other amenities to the Willets Point development site in Queens.”

The Wilpons offered $100 million for the 62-acre site this past year, but were awarded a compensation package that included 23 of the 62 city-owned acres because live-dealer casino gambling is currently illegal in New York, except on tribal land.  New York City mayor Michael Bloomberg has endorsed the project and news of the proposed casino comes as state Legislature is considering an amendment to allow Las Vegas-style table gaming.

Nick Roark is a Broadcast & Media Associate for Smokies Radio Network.  You can follow Nick on Twitter here: @NickRoark4.

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