EHCC Trehde Rumors: Deadline Looming

Quebec City and Las Vegas finalized their second blockbuster trade of the season, sending Joey Votto to Canada. Since then the league has been relatively quiet, leading us ever closer to the EHCC non-waiver Trade Deadline (August 1st). With an unofficial semi-league wide retreat scheduled for late July in Boston, other things are bound to happen. Here's a few rumors of things that may be working themselves out from around the league, and where some teams stand with the deadline around the corner.

EHCC Trehde Rumors: Deadline Looming

By: Jim Fierkes, www.EHCCTrehdeRumors.com

After finally unloading Jon Lester, Las Vegas no longer have any starting pitching to pawn off. With no one around the league truly understanding what manager Hank Scorpio is doing, including ownership it seems, the Doggs are destined to finish in 7th place, making their draft picks mediocre, and the fanbase disgruntled at the same time. They'll be doing what any good non-playoff contender will do at the deadline and try to pawn off their elder statesmen (Carpenter, Kinsler) for some fringe prospects or a pick or two, but the Doggs may have made their biggest moves well ahead of the deadline. 

Quebec City on the other hand may be looking to continue to go all-in on 2017. After barely missing another championship in 2016, it's obvious the Piglets ownership is ready to do what it takes to get their name back on the plaque. Yoan Moncada is off the table (and in all honesty, will probably be a part of that playoff run this year anyway), and Gleyber Torres has already been dealt, but QC still has top prospect Kolby Allard and Jose Peraza to dangle out there for one more piece to round everything out. The biggest rumor is the availability of Julio Urias, who's literally wasting a roster spot for Quebec as he's out of options. Holding a spot for an NA player may not be a big deal for a rebuilding team, but for a franchise on the brink of a championship run it could be the difference in a tight H2H playoff match up. Look for Quebec to add another upper tier arm to their rotation utilizing what's left from their farm. 

Rakeville doesn't have a history of making big waves at the deadline, though rumors are swirling they think they're just a piece or two away from a decent chance of not only making the playoffs but going deep. With San Juan faltering, and Vegas destined to miss out, Rakeville actually has an outside chance to take the East over Weymouth down the stretch. Just look at Rakeville final 3 match ups of the regular season. After what could be a decisive match up against Shaddupu in Week 18, the finish the season facing off against Bridgewater (currently 11th place), San Juan (currently 10th place), and San Fernando Valley (currently, and forever in 12th place). Rakeville may have their eye on very select players around the league, mostly notable Dee Gordon (LV), Mallex Smith (SJ), and Eduardo Nunez (RIO) - all assuming Billy Hamilton (QC) is not on the table to add speed to their line up. What they won't be going after is a closer - as they have publicly stated that Sam Dyson is perfectly capable of taking care of the entire bullpen the rest of the way. 

Rio de Janeiro is officially in sell mode, as they send young stud closer Roberto Osuna packing for what is destined to be a low first round MiDP. One may expect Edwin Diaz would be available for a slightly lower cost if a team would simply offer it up. The Cristos are rumored to be looking for a similar package the Doggs got back for Votto in order to part with one of their older, but still productive bats, most notably Robinson Cano. In his age 34 season, Cano has been as productive as ever and would be an upgrade at second base for most teams trying to make a run. If Yoan Moncada doesn't gain 2B eligibility, Quebec City would make a good landing spot for Cano. Weymouth and Santo Domingo are also expected suitors.

Weymouth may be struggling, but don't expect them to make any rash moves at the deadline. Sure, Daniel Murphy is doing just fine and Cody Bellinger is mashing, but that Aaron Judge trade last year near the deadline is still haunting GM Yukon Cornelius. No one expects any big moves by the Poo this year. They recently welcomed back Mike Trout to the line up, and that may be the biggest move they needed to make. 

Tijuana made their biggest splash recently acquiring a new third baseman Evan Longoria from Quebec City. It's been noted that Tijuana ownership has been trying for years to get Longoria on their roster, but finally, with his production down and no clear need for the 31-year old on the Piglet's roster, the Hispanics got their man. Does anyone in the league value MiDP's less than Tijuana? Two years in a row they traded a 2nd round MiDP for a future 2nd round MaDP, and now gave up a 1st round MiDP for Longoria - a guy Quebec City has been trying to pawn off all season. He was supposed to sent to Las Vegas in the Bogaerts/Arrieta deal, but the Doggs took a chance on McCutchen instead (by the way, why hasn't Las Vegas cashed in on that yet? Why are there no rumors swirling around him at the deadline?). Tijuana is about to have a big hole in their bullpen, an area that has helped carry them all season, as Jim Johnson and Bud Norris are expected to lose their closer positions. With literally no farm system (seriously, they don't have ANY protected MiPlayers), it's hard to believe Tijuana will make a big splash at the deadline. 

Jim Fierkes is the founder and sole writer for www.EHCCTrEHdeRumors.com. He spent half of the 2005 season as the bat boy for the Plymouth Bells, but quit halfway through the season to follow his dream to become a trapeze artist. He's a weird dude. 

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EHCC Trehde Rumors: Eastern Division

With all the focus on the "slumping" Western division, the East side of the EHCC is the one that only sports three teams at or above .500 going into Week 10 (West has 5). The picture in the East has become a bit more clear for some as to what the next few weeks hold, and the rumors swirling enforce what everyone is already thinking. Click below for a team-by-team breakdown of all the rumors collected from around the Eastern Division, and other insights as to the direction of each franchise.

EHCC Trehde Rumors: Eastern Division
By: Jim Fierkes, EHCCTrehdeRumors.com


Weymouth Shaddupu

Let's start with the juggernaut shaddy poo. The islanders have had one of the strongest starts in EHCC history, but all it takes is that one loss to get the fans clamoring for reinforcements. Don't expect any big moves from Yukon this trade deadline. While the team waits for Ryan Braun and Mike Trout to come back the Poo would be wise to simply bring up Cody Bellinger to get a taste of winning at the highest level. Fans would really love to see Aaron Judge out there instead, but alas, he's stuck down the street in Bridgewater doing his best Daniel Murphy impression. If they're going to make any move, Bellinger is the guy to dangle and the best way to do it is put him in the field and show him off to his upcoming opponent list (SD, RIO, QC), who could all potentially become sellers by the deadline. But seeing Aaron Judge perform at the level has this year may be enough to give GM Yukon Cornelius second thoughts about trading their next best outfield prospect. When asked if Weymouth had anything in the works, Cornelius stated simply "I've got nothing". (First reported by Kai Yack of the Islander Issues)

San Fernando Valley Jets

From the best to the worst - San Fernando is not in an enviable position by any standards. They have the least desirably assets of any potential seller, the one asset that is expected to be of any value (2018 1st round MaDP) is simply off the table, and there's simply no end in sight. The Jets were one of the teams interested in trading for Kyle Schwarber, but with Las Vegas now expecting to be sellers at the deadline (more on them later), this is not looking like a likely match. The three assets that should end up being on the move by time the deadline roles around should be Mike Moustakas (3B), Marcell Ozuna (OF), and Corey Knebel (RP). With no clear, long term answer for losing Adrian Beltre, Dublin would be the logical landing spot for Moustakas, though word has it plenty of teams could use an upgrade at the hot corner. Ozuna has been reportedly unhappy in San Fernando ever since moving there. "No one cares, not even the fans. I'm a winner, simple as that. I need to be somewhere that wants winners," Ozuna told a group of Tijuana reporters after a recent road trip where the Jets lost 2-8. Ozuna is playing at the start of his "prime" and would net the biggest return, but Corey Knebel may be the first Jet to take off for a new destination. Talks have already been had with Rakeville, Las Vegas, and Tijuana regarding the young power bullpen arm. Tijuana makes the most sense here, and they should end up being the strongest "buyer" at the deadline of the three, willing to give up what San Fernando needs. (First reported by Holly Woodsign of the San Fernando Valley High School Pearl Post)

Rakeville Rockets

The newest info out of Rakeville is that they still want to win. After winning 3 of their last 4 match ups they have put away the fire sale signs and they're considering buying - of all things though they're in the market for bullpen help. The Rockets are one of two teams that have yet to win the Saves category all season (Quebec City is the other), and they have racked up a total of 2 whole saves all season - both thanks to their Tony Watson trade(s) earlier this season. GM Jack Reed has a reputation of being stingy and unwilling to answer requests for information unless tempted with Bagel Bites, but the rumors are swirling pretty strong around the Rockets listening to offers on Eric Thames (OF) and Jose Abreau (1B). However, even with all the assumptions of a veteran purge in Rakeville, teams aren't getting their hopes up as they might have in the past regarding star 1B Miguel Cabrera. "Miggy is gunna die wearing maroon and gold, but the dong master Thames is as good as gone in Rakeville," one rival GM assumed. (First reported by Aviator McShadesless of the Rakeville Times)

Las Vegas Doggs

The most active team in the league this season (43 moves made leads the league as of midway through Week 10) has already made three trades before the end of May., and shows no signs of stopping. They've made no secret of their desire to trade away veteran starter Jon Lester and disable listed starter Drew Smyly. They've also got a lot of old junk on the bench that could be considered desirable at the deadline to a team looking for an impact bat - but no one is biting. Look for guys like Kinsler (2B), McCutchen (OF), and Carpenter (1B) to end up being waiver trade dumps after the deadline - something the Doggs are typically the ones to jump on as they did with Justin Turner last season. The defending champs biggest hole is easily their minor league system, and trading away their two best protected arms to Quebec City didn't help any. With Villar and Matt Carpenter already publicly announcing they both refuse to play the hot corner next year, the Doggs main target looks to be 3B prospect Rafeal Devers, San Juan's prized piece. Las Vegas has been aggressive so far, but reports are saying San Juan will be standing pat on Devers until the end of July, though trading him is not out of the question if they think it'll help them catch the poo. (First reported by Max Powers of Baseball Tri-Weekly)

San Juan Guertites

Speaking of San Juan, the Guertites have been going through some clubhouse pains as of late, stemming from their recent struggles (losing 3 of their last 4). The loss of Chapman (RP), Syndergaard (SP), and Bumgarner (SP) have really taken its toll on the rest of the San Juan pitching staff and it's showing on the field. Between weeks 4 and 9, the San Juan pitching staff has only won 8 out of a possible 20 pitching categories, failing to take Wins or Strikeouts in any of those match ups. In that same time the Guertites have gone 1-3-1, but all the while their bats keep clicking: they took over half of the possible offensive categories in that same time. "It's time these pitchers got their act together and started pitching like they give a damn," Joey Batista told reporters after their 8-1 blow out loss to Tokyo. GM Dave Femino isn't the type of take this type of drama laying down has he's proven back in 2014 when he traded away Robinson Cano after he reportedly insulted the team bat boy who happened to be Femino's cousin's neighbor. "A spark may need to be lit," an anonymous source from inside the organization told beat reporter Stephen Eh Smith. (yes, Stephen Eh is a beat reporter now too. You got a problem with that?!). Rumors are now swirling that San Juan might make a quick move to make a point and it may involve a big name like Chapman, or a young piece like Vince Velasquez (SP). Joey Bats may also get the boot finally, as he's become the biggest voice of frustration from the line up, which isn't helping overall morale. Long term, look for San Juan to be buyers as they dangle prospect Rafeal Devers and MiDP's to the few sellers in the league (SD, LV, SFV, QC) for some pitching help that will push their rotation where it needs to be. (First reported by yours truly Stephen Eh Smith of Wherever He Damn Well Feels Like!)

Bridgewater Weasels

Up and coming team out of nowhere one week, back in their parents' basement the next. The Weasels are a few more Daniel Murphy-for-Aaron Judge trades away from making the long term jump. Their most obvious trade piece worth a damn is elder statesman Fernando Rodney (RP), whom Bridgewater would be smart to shop now while he's on a nice little streak. It would make a nice reunion with the Rockets if they are serious about getting some bullpen help in Rakeville. Plus Bridgewater already has his heir-apparent in Archie Bradley waiting in the wings. Beyond that the Weasels are pretty bare in most other areas and are expected to hold onto all their MiPicks this. There's always the possibility they decide to sell high on someone like Justin Smoak (1B). Staying with the theme, fans are expecting Weymouth to go all in and make the same trade with Bridgewater this year as they did last year. So, expect a Justin Smoak/Fernando Rodney combo headed to Weymouth, in return for Cody Bellinger and 3 1st round picks. (First reported by Aaron Judge. He does everything for this team.)


Jim Fierkes is the founder and sole writer of www.EHCCTrehdeRumors.com. In his spare time he likes working on a VW van that sits in his neighbor's back yard under the light of the moon, unbeknownst to them.

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EHCC Trehde Rumors: Western Edition

With Dominican Today reporter Freddie May saying the Western Division is having a down season, rumors can't help but start swirling. Someone will have to end up on top, and it'll be the team willing to make the right moves that takes full advantage. With literally every team in the division feeling as if there's still light at the end of the tunnel, we may see all 6 teams as buyers this deadline season, but you can't buy what's not being sold. Here's a 6-team breakdown of the rumors swirling around the Western Division, as first reported by others, and compiled by EHCCTrehdeRumors.com.

EHCC Trehde Rumors: Western Edition<
By: Jim Fierkes


Quebec City

One week they're threatening to trade away every veteran with a pulse, the next week they're playing San Fernando Valley and feeling like champions again. The ownership goes back and forth each week trying to figure out what to make of the 2017 season, but our gut is they'll be sellers come the deadline - even if they have a shot at the playoffs - which they do since they're in the Western Division. The biggest moves will revolve around slugger Edwin Encarnacion. Edwin has the best ability to make an impact on a contending team this season, even with his slow start to 2017. He'll bring back the biggest haul to Canada, as the Piglets look to build for 2018 around Yoan Moncada at 2B and [George] Springer and [Michael] Conforto in the outfield. Sure, other rumors swirl around longtime piglet Evan Longoria, as Pat Renaud has been trying to unload him for over a season now, but unless the Piglets are able to convince a team to take his contract (like they did with McCutchen to Vegas), don't expect Longoria to be the centerpiece of any deal. Possible waiver trade after the deadline. [First reported by Kole DasHale of the Canadian Freeze Press]

Rio De Janeiro

As first reported last month, Rio is stead fast on their approach to the upcoming trading season. They've improved considerably already with the "additions" of Josh Donaldson, Troy Tulowitzki, and Robinson Cano. They continue to utilize their 12th waiver priority to their advantage, picking up young, unprotected talent that other teams are unwilling to use their waiver priority out of fear of missing out on "the next best thing". Look for Rio to become buyers come July, as they will realize that those waiver pick ups won't win them a championship. As the only 'Claffey brother' without a ring, Rio ownership has felt a lot of pressure from fans and family alike to stop being a terrible disappointment. All signs point to Rio going out and buying up depth in their rotation - value they won't be able to find on the waiver wire. [First reported by Emma Zonnrevar of the Rio Times]

Tokyo

It's been really difficult to get any information out of Japan. The Omyoujis have one of the best firewalls installed and leaks are very difficult to come by. Fans are clamoring for more winning, as they've finally gotten a taste of the good stuff - something they've been without for over four seasons. Fans are hoping their new robot overlords have been programed to be buyers after the MiDraft. Their biggest need? You guessed it, starting pitching. The biggest asset to spare: Draft Picks. The team rarely makes it to the drafts anyway, so these things should be flying off the shelf in Tokyo come July. Making a move before the 2017 MiDraft should also be on the table, but unless management has been reprogramed they will probably only look to move those picks for future picks so that they can move them closer to the deadline. [First reported by Kim Moanoe of the Japanese Gazette]

Tijuana

The Hispanics have found a way to take advantage of a weakened Western Division thus far, but they'll need to do more to sure up their roster to keep it going for the entire season. With Rio already making moves, Tokyo showing life, and Dublin bound to push along, Tijuana just doesn't have the roster to sustain their early track record all season. Other issue, Tijuana ownership has simply forgotten how to be "buyers". When you've been sellers for the past 3 seasons, you get into a sort of groove. The last time they made a "buyers" trade was 2012 when they traded for Jake Peavy and Rex Brothers (yes, Rex Brothers) at the deadline. Rumors do say Tijuana will look to solidify their relief pitching core, as they look to win saves every week for the entire season - even if it's at the cost of making the playoffs all together. [First reported by Bill Dawahl of the Cartel Chronicle]

Dublin

With the strongest chance of winning the division heading into the season, the Snake Chasers have tried everything they can to stay under the radar. It's their way of life really. No one expects them to make any moves at all. But maybe that's how they get you? No, it's not, it's just who they are. Ownership continues to to be happy with their excellent core of starting pitching and simply feels there's nowhere to improve their line up. They are just that good. Look for ownership to 'try' to unload one of their many middle infielders for an additional ace, or top tier closer, but in the process fail to return calls and refuse to negotiate, because Dublin.[First reported by a drunk fan in a nameless sports bar - because, Dublin]

Santo Domingo

Even with their poor start to the season, Santo Domingo will look to be buyers at the deadline. Their biggest hole is middle infielders (ring ring Dublin ring ring), or outfield. Depending on how they want to play it, or what becomes available in July, the All-Star Factory could part ways with Carlos Gonzalez to another team looking to buy low, and then spin the goods they can get for him for an upgrade in their line up. With the deepest bullpen in the league, Santo Domingo also has assets to burn to a team looking to sure up the category and isn't willing to fight for waiver wire closers in August (ring ring Tijuana ring ring). Cole Hamels will be a nice addition when they get him back, but not enough to hold firm. All-Star Factory should be targeting rotation depth, possibly even before the MiDraft as they hold 2 of the top three picks in the upcoming draft - which could net a good haul if there's a team already looking to sell and think about 2018/2019/2020 (ring ring Quebec City ring ring). [First reported by Don Minokan of the Caribbean Broadcast System]


Jim Fierkes scours the internet looking for anything that resembles an EHCC rumor. He does no reporting of his own and lives in his aunt's attic, unbeknownst to her. 

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EHCC Trehde Rumors

In the wake of the Quebec City/Las Vegas mega trade that sent Xander Bogaerts packing to cover the hole in Vegas, while asking Jake Arrieta to sure up the Piglet's rotation, the EHCC is a buzz with new rumors across the league. Every team wants to make their team better, whether it's better now to win the current match up, or to win it all in 2019 - there's usually something for everyone out there, you just have to be willing to dig deep to find it. Here's some rumblings that have been heard from around the league....

EHCC Trehde Rumors

By: Jim Fierkes, EHCCTrehdeRumors.com

Selling Low on Schwarber?

The Las Vegas Doggs have reportedly received 3 separate phone calls regarding the availability of slugger Kyle Schwarber. GM Howe Dogg has recently added Schwarber, along with about half of the current Doggs' roster, to the league trading block, making him an intriguing "buy low" candidate for any team. Seems like a long shot for the Doggs to give up the outfield for anything less than they gave up for him just last season, considering his age and current position versatility, though it's expected Schwarber will have no chance of putting on the mask and pads behind the plate in 2018, but may have a future at First Base as well as in the Outfield instead. (The information was first reported by Connor Intabedd of the Reno Weekly Rag)

McCutchen Requests Trade

Andrew McCutchen has been benched by manager Hank Scorpio in Vegas, as he hasn't bounced back into form as quickly as Scorpio was hoping he would after acquiring the veteran from Quebec City, replacing Jay Bruce in the Vegas outfield. After hearing the news of his benching, McCutchen has requested that GM Howe Dogg take the reigns and trade him to a place where he's wanted. Howe Dogg has stated that he will do just that, only issue is that no one seems to want him. 

"We barely wanted him. He doesn't fit with our future at all. We chose him over [Evan] Longoria just because he was still able to play the outfield and we thought he might be able to supplement the lose of Jay [Bruce]. We were wrong it seems," manager Hank Scorpio told reporters in yesterday's post-game press conference. It seems as though there's already bad blood in Vegas between McCutchen and Scorpio, and we wouldn't expect to see McCutchen cut any time soon, as Scorpio has shown he can be stubborn toward his players who don't perform. (This information was first reported by Max Powers of Baseball Tri-Weekly)

Closers Changing Hands

With Tijuana's recent signing of Brad Hand, he adds to the list of shaky closers making up the Hispanics' bullpen. Tijuana has dominated the Saves category this season, currently leading the lead in the stat, and has yet to lose or even tie the category in any of their first seven match ups. If they want to continue their dominance in the 'pen, they'll need to start making phone calls for some more solid options to assist Brandon Kintzler. Multiple Tijuana pitchers (Feliz, Cishek, Mauer) have already lost their jobs it seems, and Hand is slated to move cities in the coming month or so, probably losing his newly announce closing responsibilities. Lucky for Tijuana, it looks as though there's a few teams out there looking to shop their closers San Fernando and San Juan have both expressed their interest, or intention or shopping around at least one, or multiple closers for the right price. In the past 3 seasons, at least two established closers have been traded between the MiDraft and the Trade Deadline each year, so the odds are someones' bullpen is getting an upgrade. (This information was first reported by Skip Clifton of the San Diego Chronicle)

Rocketeers

While the league was buzzing about Eric Thames and all his dongs, Jedd Gyorko has quietly lived in his shadow raising his stock under the radar. GM Jack Reed has taken notice and has been busy working the phones. His phones only work in one direction - outgoing calls only - so if he doesn't get through to another GM they'd never even know Gyorko was on the market. And ultimately, there's no way for another GM to get in touch with Reed beyond carrier pigeon. Rumors are swirling the only conversations that have actually taken place are with new manager/AGM Hank Scorpio in Vegas. Scorpio has already made one deal with Rakeville, shipping off Tommy Watson for a conditional 2018 MaDP, which is shaping up to be a terrible deal for both teams as Watson has given up 5 ER in 4.2 IP for Rakeville thus far, but only needs 15 more Saves to activate the 1st Round condition on the MaDP. Rakeville would prob be best to try to move Watson soon before he regains form, or before he does more damage. Rakeville is currently in line to have the #3 overall MaDP. (This information was first reported by J.C. Stapelton of EhSPN)

Rio Making Upgrades with Themselves

It seems it's going to be tough for the Cristos to make a deal as they simply don't know what they need. They're ultimately trading with themselves int he next few weeks, as they's recently seen the return of Robinson Cano (an upgrade over their previous 2B option of, well, the ghost of Ryne Sandberg) and is expecting to upgrade SS and 3B with Troy Tulowitzki and Josh Donaldson respectively. Their rotation should also get a jolt in the coming week or two with the addition of David Price and Steven Matz. So it should come as no surprise that Rio's GM Tom Brady has formally told other teams that he is not in the market for anyone except his own players at the moment. We'll expect him to change his stance when inevitably Ryan Zimmerman contracts Lyme Disease and Nelson Cruz gets scurvy. (This information was first reported by a squirrel at the Rio Times. Apparently all their reporters are sick and have temporarily been replaced by wild rodents. That breaking news is an EHCCTrehdeRumors.com original)

Jim Fierkes is the editor and contributor to www.EHCCTrehdeRumors.com. When he's not scouring the internet for the next big scoop to post on his blog that was ultimately heard and written by someone else first, he's collecting peach pits that look like the late Al Davis. 

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EHCC Key Trades

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2013 EHCC Trade Deadline Winners and Losers

Who were the Winners and Losers at the EHCC Trade Deadline? Click to find out!


2013 Trade Winners and Losers
By: Max Powers and Skip Shadeless

The EHCC trade deadline, one of the most active days of the season for the league, has come and gone for the 2013 season. This season's deadline was the most active since 2010 when the highlight ended up being Arlington being involved in 3 transactions at the deadline, and the eventual champion Weasels not being involved in any.

2013 has seen the league become very top heavy, making it easy to determine the buyers and sellers weeks prior. At the top of the Eastern division no one was surprised to see Las Vegas make a move, as they've been part of at least one trade on deadline day for 8 of the past 10 seasons. Sellers were the most active, with both Tokyo and Weymouth selling off star players for multiple prospects and future considerations with multiple teams looking to make a run. Let's take a look at exactly what each team did for themselves, either for 2013 or beyond... 

Weymouth 
Powers Statement: Less than one month after trading for the star lefty Cliff Lee, Weymouth had a bad case of buyer’s remorse as it became clear Lee wasn't going to be enough to push them into playoff contention. Luckily for Weymouth the deadline brings the value of older pitchers to their peak and they were able to recoup everything they initially gave up to bring in the lefty, and it could be argued they came out ahead after it was all said and done. Giving up Rick Porcello, Jarred Cosart, Leonys Martin on July 8, and taking on Allen Webster, Mike Zunino, Nick Castellanos in their replacement. Long term this has the potential of working out much better than their original threesome would have for the Poo of Shaddy. They bolstered their youth talent by bringing on pitcher Danny Hultzen from Tijuana and dumping veteran Jake Peavy. With these types of rebuilding trades only time will tell for sure how they will turn out, but considering whe Weymouth was going this year and the makeup of their current roster this may have been their best time to start thinking of 2015. Grade: B+

Shadeless Rebuttal: Weymouth are a bunch of idiots. They traded for Cliff Lee to try and make a run, then pussied out on making a run and traded him for a bunch of (Shaddy) poo. Martin and Cosart have set the EHCC on fire since the trade, while Porcello has continued a solid breakout season. Zunino? He’s J.P. Arencibia 2.0, but with more injuries. He could’ve got that off the wire for free. Webster? A bum. The new Derek Lowe, but with less talent and height. Castellanos? More like CastellaNO, am I right? And Hultzen is an injured bum, while Peavy has been spectacular for Tijuana, and might lead them to a playoff bye. Shaddypoo? After all that, those bozos will probably make the playoffs, minus a trio of aces in Peavy, Lee, and Weaver (generously donated to Las Vegas’s playoff run for a bunch of bullshit). Enjoy your 1st round exit, Islanders of Weymouth. Hope it was worth it. Grade: F+ 

Tijuana
Powers Statement: The Hispanics have never found themselves in quite this situation before: obvious buyers at the deadline. After making the playoffs last season the Hispanics have only gotten stronger and made strides this season in bolstering their lineup with the addition of Adam Jones and their pitching staff with Ryan Dempster and Kris Medlen earlier in the season. At the deadline they tried rounding out their bullpen with the addition of Jake Peavy from Weymouth and Rex Brothers from Quebec City. All in all, they only piece of real value they gave up was prospect Danny Hultzen, and for what they did for their roster in return, in the name of a championship run, may prove to be the best value overall of all the trades made at this year's deadline. If Peavy can tread water the rest of the way he adds stability, strikeouts, and wins to Tijuana's currently fluctuating rotation. Brothers fills the void left by Jose Veras in the closer role, and for a 4th round pick it's an easy pick up. Even if they don't take the gold this year, the Hispanics didn't lose enough for these trades to be considered a bust, but one has to wonder if there's more they could have done as most teams don't get into the position Tijuana is currently in, with one eye on the EHCC plaque and one eye on the rest of the league. Grade: B

Shadeless Rebuttal: Tijuana are a bunch of idiots. They wasted a 2nd round pick using a waiver claim on the corpse of Jayson Werth, then went out and gave away a better Util option in Ryan Zimmerman for a 1st rounder from a playoff team. What the hell, muchachos? Then they gave away a Johnny Cueto and Ryan Dempster and a some picks for Kyle “No MLB team wanted me in the offseason because they all know I’m not actually that good” Lohse and Huston “I’m not really that great, and also I play for a shitty team, so I don’t get a ton of save opportunities anyway” Street. Hey, you know what would’ve been great? If you hadn’t traded a 1st Rd. Minor league pick and an established closer in Jim Johnson for Ryan Dempster in the first place. Maybe then you wouldn’t have had to give him away for a new closer 3 months later. And don’t get me started on that Peavy trade. You traded a potential stud prospect in Hultzen plus what’s left of your picks for an injured bum like Peavy? Over/under until his arm falls off: 4 Tijuana starts. Take the under. Grade: F+

Quebec City
Powers Statement: Congratulations to the Piglets on their newly acquired 4th Round MaDP. There was a possibility they could have dumped Brothers on a team during the waivers trade period for a 2nd round pick, but really, who cares. Grade: C+

Shadeless Rebuttal: Quebec City are a bunch of idiots. They gave away Rex Brothers for nothing—literally, nothing. That guy is a lights out closer. QC brass will try and tell you that Rafael Betancourt was due back to take over as closer soon, so Brothers value was low, but everyone knew Betancourt’s arm was held together with silly putty and shoelaces, and now his career is just about over with news of Tommy John surgery, while Brothers racks up the saves for Tijuana. Nice job, you Canuck clowns. They also gave up a guy who hit 30+ homers last year for Anthony Rendon. Who? Exactly. Let me keep it simple for you—he sucks. Way to turn a championship team into a laughingstock. Grade: F+

Tokyo
Powers Statement: An obvious seller at the deadline as well, Tokyo added to their stash of 2014 MiDP's by dumping off former all star Josh Hamilton and Dexter Fowler for a pair of 2nd rounders. Hamilton could very well go on to pushing Rakeville into playoff contention, but he wasn't going to help Tokyo this year, and possibly ever again. Though it was an obvious sell low situation for both Fowler and Hamilton, Tokyo didn't want to have either of them go the way of Grady Sizemore or Carl Crawford, both highly sought after players who lost their way, and their value, earlier than expected. Grade: B-

Shadeless Rebuttal: Tokyo are a bunch of idiots. They gave away Josh Hamilton for basically nothing. What the hell? Did Enkidu Ishtar break into Hamilton’s stash when he made that trade? Ridiculous. And their return for Cliff Lee was pathetic. Martin and Cosart haven’t exactly set the EHCC on fire, and Rick Porcello has a long history of being sucky. The only trade worse would have been if they flipped him for, I don’t know, something like Mike Zunino, Allen Webster, and Nick Castellanos. Plus, they traded stud Adam Jones for stupid Gerrit Cole. Hey, next time try trading for a guy who knows how to spell ‘Garrett’, okay? The circus must have come to town, because Tokyo is full of bozos. Grade: F+

Augusta
Powers Statement: The Albatross lived up to their name this trade season by talking a big game in the early season, and then failing to live up to their self-imposed expectations. Under the pressure to perform caused by their owner’s early-season smack talk, they made a rash trade that sacrificed future flexibility in unloading their 2014 Minor League draft picks for the underperforming Nick Markakis and injured Brandon Morrow. At the time, it was expected that Morrow would be back shortly, but he ended up missing the rest of the season and Augusta went into a free-fall shortly thereafter. They tried to make up for that deal by shipping out beloved SP Adam Wainwright for a minor league pick, Yovani Gallardo, and prospects, but time will tell if that was enough. Grade: C-

Shadeless Rebuttal: Augusta are a bunch of idiots. They traded all kinds of good stuff for bums. That’s what happens when you put a junkie in charge of a baseball team. What’s that? He’s not a junkie? Oh, well, whatever. He’s bad at general managing even if he is drug-free.

Rio de Janeiro
Powers Statement: Rio was quiet at the deadline, only making a small move, giving up a 2nd Rd. Minor league pick in 2014 for Dexter Fowler. It was good depth at a reasonable price for Rio, who didn’t want to break the bank while they continued to evaluate whether or not they were a true contender this year. Grade: B

Shadeless Rebuttal: Rio are a bunch of idiots. Dexter Fowler sucks. A 27th round Minor league pick would’ve been too much for that piece of crap. Now they’re going to miss the playoffs and have nothing to show for it. I hope Fowler puts up huge numbers in the consolation bracket (spoiler alert: he won’t. Because he sucks). Grade: F+

Rakeville
Powers Statement: A year after winning a long-awaited championship, Rakeville found themselves in much different territory this year. Although they weren’t looking to be playoff-bound, they couldn’t pass up the once great Josh Hamilton at a bargain price of a minor league 2nd round pick. It all appears to be for naught, though, as Rakeville has been mathematically eliminated from playoff contention at press time. That 2nd round pick could have been a key rebuilding piece. Grade: D

Shadeless Rebuttal: Rakeville are a bunch of idiots. Their complete mismanagement of a championship team has made Quebec City look like the class of the league. Who’s managing this squad, the douchebag who used to run Arlington? Give me a break. Anytime you can run a championship team into the ground and throw away a minor league draft pick for nothing at the same time, hey, you gotta make that move, right Jack Reed? Grade: F+

Santo Domingo
Powers Statement: The All-Star Factory decided to get serious about making a run after last year’s heartbreaking run at the playoffs ended with a spot in the consolation bracket. They gave up a number of promising prospects for stud SP Cliff Lee, and also gave up a 1st round pick for an aging Ryan Zimmerman. It’s a risky move, but the results are paying off in spades so far, as Santo Domingo closes in on the franchise’s first playoff berth. Grade: B+

Shadeless Rebuttal: Santo Domingo are a bunch of idiots. You can’t give up stud prospects like Zunino, Castellanos, and Webster for an old bum like Cliff Lee. Remember Cliff Lee? That dumbass who sucked for Cleveland for all those years? That guy stinks. I don’t buy this turnaround, I don’t care how many Cy Youngs he wins. Once a bum, always a bum. Just like the Santo Domingo GM. Enjoy your first round playoff loss. Hope it was worth it when Zunino and Castellanos are hitting bombs in Weymouth for years to come and Webster is firing no-hitters you dumbasses. Grade: F+

San Juan
Powers Statement: The Guerites made a calculated risk in upgrading their 3B by giving up young stud 2B prospect Anthony Rendon for Chase Headley. Headley has been a disappointment following last year’s breakout season, but the pedigree is there, and San Juan had a gaping hole at 3B. A calculated risk that could pay off big in the playoffs if Headley heats up. Grade: B-

McShadeless Rebuttal: San Juan are a bunch of idiots. Who gives up a stud, minor protected prospect for a piece of garbage like Chase Headley? They might as well change the name on his jersey from ‘Headley’ to ‘Fluke’ because that’s all last season was. He sucks, and so did that trade. Grade: F+

Dublin
Powers Statement: Dublin didn’t make any moves at the deadline, preferring to keep a 1st place roster built on youth intact for the playoffs. Is that the right move? Perhaps they learned how to play the trading game from ‘War Games.’ The only true way to win, is to not play at all. Grade: A

Shadeless Rebuttal: Dublin are a bunch of idiots. How do you not upgrade that pitching staff for the playoffs? That whole squad is built on young SP who are all going to hit their innings limits at the most crucial time for this squad. Enjoy watching all your SP sit on the bench while you lose in the championships, dummies. Grade: F+

Bridgewater
Powers Statement: As always, Bridgewater opted to stand pat at the deadline, refusing to unload veterans who might have brought in good young talent or picks to help stock the next Bridgewater champions. As it is, they’ll be wearing the pink jersey again at the Winter Meetings, with no end to the losing in sight. Grade: F

Shadeless Rebuttal: Bridgewater are a bunch of idiots. Unload your shitty veterans—god knows you have enough of them. Why stand around and watch your team suck for years when you can do something about it? They’re like the Mike Trout of terrible General Managers – they’re awful in all facets of the game. Grade: F+

Las Vegas 
Powers Statement:  The Doggs tightened up their rotation in the weeks leading up to the deadline by bringing in Tim Lincecum, and then they upgraded again at the deadline and waiver deadline by bringing aboard Adam Wainwright and Jered Weaver. The Doggs once again look primed to make a run at the title. Grade: A-

Shadeless Rebuttal: Las Vegas are a bunch of idiots. They made a shit-ton of good trades though. Seriously, I got nothing. Grade: A+

Max Power is a beat reporter for the Reno Weekly Rag. He knows that there are three ways to do things--the right way, the wrong way, and the Max Power way (which is the wrong way, but faster). Skip Shadeless is a freelance reporter who has covered the EHCC at various media outlets for nearly a decade. He likes long walks on the beach, Tim Tebow, and of course, race-baiting.

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EHSPN: Monsters Big Pick Up

Rejoice! Monster fans, your favorite team didn't make any moves at the deadline, which I'm sure everyone is so surprised, what the team did do is hang on to Francisco 'Lights Out' Liriano. Who is poised to be the biggest pick up of this trading season.

After an abysmal start to the year, posting an 11.32 ERA in 3 starts, Liriano was sent down to regain the confidence he once had prior to undergoing Tommy John surgery. After correcting his problems in the minors, posting a 3.43 ERA and striking out 121 in 123 innings, Liriano has been called up to the big club, and is poised to help a staff who has been mired in mediocrity.

I thought I was ready, and during spring training I started to doubt I'd ever get back to where I was in 06. That doubt in my head was all it took for me to be unsuccessful.

With all doubts cleared, and Liriano's first start this Sunday, the Monsters are hoping he is to be the biggest pick up of the 2008 season, and can ride his coattails all the way to the playoffs, and do some damage in a top heavy season this year.

Throughout the year, the Monsters have exemplified inconsistency, only taking winning streaks to a 2 week maximum. Hoping this call up can right the ship for the last few weeks of the season, the Monsters are pinning all their hopes on the last 5 weeks for their team to pick up the pace and close out the season with a bang.

GM Wally Bachman's stingy approach to raising home grown players, has raised numerous questions to his baseball IQ, as well as his sanity. He hopes that it all comes together, and people can start to understand what his intentions were.

I know all our fans were calling for us to make a trade, to improve our pitching staff, but we just felt like teams were asking far too much for rental players, and unproven rookies with little upside.

So the Monsters will begin their trek towards the ultimate prize, with a focus, and a rejuvenation that will help them finally get over the hump.

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Baseball Tri-Weekly: August Cover 2008

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