MLB The Show 18 Franchise Discussion Thread

Collapse

Recommended Videos

Collapse
X
 
  • Time
  • Show
Clear All
new posts
  • MightyMaxxx13
    Rookie
    • Aug 2012
    • 407

    #1051
    Re: MLB The Show 18 Franchise Discussion Thread

    Atlanta Braves Franchise

    End of 2018 Minor League Season


    My Braves are 56-81, and have all but clinched a 5th consecutive losing season. We are 24.5 games out from the division-leading Nats as the rebuild continues. No good news at the major league level so let's check in on how the minor league season wrapped up:

    AAA Gwinnett Stripers - 78-62, They won the IL South Division by 10 games and will compete for the International League Title.

    AA Mississippi Braves - Finished in last place in the second half at 32-38. They did not win the first half division either, so their season is over.

    Minor League Player of the Year: OF Anfernee Seymour (AA)

    133 G, 424 AB, .269/.347/.413, 7 HR, 40 RBI, 52 R, 20 2B, 10 3B, 20 SB

    The 22-year-old Bahamas native had a solid year for Mississippi, narrowly beating out platoon-mate Drew Waters for the honors. His 80 speed helped him leg out 20 2B and 10 3B to go along with 20 SB. There were always questions about his bat since he came over from Miami in a 2016 trade, but he proved he can be a regular contributor to a lineup during 2018 and a serious threat on the base paths.

    Minor League Pitcher of the Year: LHP Kolby Allard (AA/AAA)

    29 GS, 9-6, 171.0 IP, 2.47 ERA, 150 SO, 65 BB, 159 H, 1.26 WHIP

    The organization's #2 prospect lived up to the hype in 2018, dominating at 2 levels. Though he doesn't have the overpowering stuff of fellow prospects Kyle Wright, Mike Soroka, or Ian Anderson, Allard proved the best pitcher of the bunch in 2018 showing major league command and the ability to work deep into games. The 20-year old lefty is on track to reach the majors by 2020 at the absolute latest and has the tools to be a frontline starter in the bigs.

    The following farmhands will get the call to the majors for September call-ups (some after the AAA playoffs wrap up):

    SP Tanner Scott (waiver acquisition from BAL)
    SP Mike Soroka (making MLB debut)
    RP Sam Freeman
    RP Aaron Blair
    RP A.J. Minter
    RP Daniel Winkler
    RP Akeel Morris
    RP Jason Hursh
    RP Jake Thompson (waiver acquisition from PHI)
    C David Freitas
    C Tyler Marlette
    3B Austin Riley
    3B Ryan Flaherty
    3B Rio Ruiz
    CF Lane Adams

    September cannot end quick enough. This team is limping to the finish line. Hopefully these call-ups prove they are ready to contribute to a winner next season.

    Comment

    • boxboy99
      MVP
      • Feb 2006
      • 2320

      #1052
      Re: MLB The Show 18 Franchise Discussion Thread

      Cubs beat the Pirates 8-7 tonight in a 15 inning marathon. Arrietta had a poor start and after some back and forth early the game was 5-3 Pittsburg much of the game.

      In the eight, Rizzo homered to make it 5-4.

      Top of the 9th. Jeff Scruggs pinch hits a solo shot to tie the game. Rizzo then hits a 2 out rbi double to put the cubs up 6-5

      Pirates score in the bottom of the 9th to push the game in to free baseball.

      Herb Fuentes, Mr Clutch, homers in the 13th to give the Cubs a 7-6 but Pittsburg ties it up again.

      Finally, in the 15th Baez homers to seal the game.

      Cubs move to 66-42, 2 game behind the Red Birds. Pirates are 3rd in the division about 9 games back.

      Cubs are set for a series vs the struggling Padres next.


      Sent from my iPhone using Operation Sports
      MLB the Show - Cubs
      2015: 80-82
      2016: 96-66 - Lost Game 7 of WS (18 innings to Red Sox)
      2017: 93-69 - Swept by Red Sox in World Series
      2018: 100-62 - Swept by Dodgers in NLCS
      2019: 14-11

      Comment

      • countryboy
        Growing pains
        • Sep 2003
        • 52723

        #1053
        Re: MLB The Show 18 Franchise Discussion Thread

        With about 4 weeks left to go in the season we are now atop the wildcard standings thanks in part to the Padres and Braves recent collapse and us winning 12 of our last 15. We have a 1/2 game lead on the Padres right now in the wildcard. We also only trail the Reds by 1 1/2 games for the Central division crown as they have fallen on hard times.

        We continue to win despite suffering injuries as we had Matt Carpenter out for a few days due to a sore back, Lance Lynn just came back from the 10 Day DL and now Trevor Rosenthal is out a few days with a knee issue.

        Miles Mikolas has been a bright spot as we brought him up with Alex Reyes struggling. Mikolas is 2-0 with a 1.13 ERA.

        Strong bullpen, solid starting pitching, and hot bats have put us on this streak. Hopefully we can maintain this pace over the next 25+ games. In two days the minor league season will be over and we'll get our September call ups, at least from Memphis. Springfield will be playing in the post season.
        Last edited by countryboy; 06-26-2018, 03:30 PM.
        I can't shave with my eyes closed, meaning each day I have to look at myself in the mirror and respect who I see.

        I miss the old days of Operation Sports :(


        Louisville Cardinals/St.Louis Cardinals

        Comment

        • ktd1976
          MVP
          • Mar 2006
          • 1936

          #1054
          Re: MLB The Show 18 Franchise Discussion Thread



          TIGERS SWEEP BOSTON. Stava out duels Sale in 1-0 Classic.

          <p><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CQuQjyYiWOE" width="635" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
          <p><a href="dynasty.php?s=mlb&amp;u=kdutch98&amp;view=ne ws&amp;id=3919">CLICK FOR BOX SCORE</a></p>
          It had all the makings of a mismatch. Cy Young winner Chris Sale, pitching for the Red Sox, and the Tigers countering with a rookie, making just his 13 career MLB start, and his first in the post season. Nerves would undoubtedly be a factor. Instead, it turned into one of the classic pitching matchups. A majestic pitching gem twirled by both hurlers. In the end, though, the rookie was just a little (or maybe a lot) better on this night, as the Tigers beat the Red Sox 1-0 in game three of the ALDS, sweeping the series, and punching their ticket to the ALCS against the Houston Astros.

          Cy Young winner Chris Sale was wild, but outstanding, going 8 innings, allowing a run on 6 hits, striking out 8. However, Sale was in and out of trouble all game long, allowing 7 base on balls. he pitched well enough to get the win for sure. But, on this night, it was the rookie who outshined the veteran Sale. Rick Stava, making his first career post season appearance, was simply amazing. Stava pitched 8 scoreless innings, allowing just 3 hits. Most impressively, he struck out 17 Red Sox hitters. Every single Red Sox hitter in the starting lineup went down via strikeout at least once against Stava. His fastball topped out at 100mph, and his curveball was dropping off the table. "That's the best I've ever seen anyone pitch, much less a rookie" Tigers manager Ron Garedenhire said. "They just couldn't touch him. The only question was could we finally capitalize on the chances and break through against Chris Sale"

          For a while, it looked like that might not happen. The Tigers loaded the bases in the first inning, and again in the 4th, but failed to score. Sale and Stava put up matching zeros for the first seven innings. Finally, in the top of the 8th inning, the Tigers made something happen. Shortstop Kyle Dutcher, who went 4-4, led off the inning with a single. After Miguel Cabrera struck out, Dutcher stole second. Nicholas Castellanos then also struck out, and it looked like Sale would escape yet another jam. But Victor Martinez laced a shot just by Boston third baseman Rafael Devers into left. Dutcher Scored from second, giving the Tigers a 1-0 lead.

          Stava then retired the Red Sox in order in the bottom of the 8th inning. Shane Greene slammed the door in the 9th with a 1-2-3 inning, vaulting the Tigers into the ALCS for the first time since 2013. What was supposed to be a rebuilding year, has now seen everything go right so far. "It's magic, no other way to describe it" said Gardenhire. "It just seems that every time we need a big hit, someone comes through, And Victor did that for us tonight" Indeed he did. In what may end up being his swan song season, the 39 year old Martinez has enjoyed maybe the greatest season of his career. He has had better years average wise, but his 37 home runs and 136 RBI are career highs. More, though, he has come up with clutch hits and home runs all season. Seven times he has tied a game, or given the Tigers a lead with a clutch hit in the 8th inning or later. And he did so again tonight.

          The Tigers will now move on to face the Houston Astros in the ALCS, beginning Saturday night in Detroit. Pitching matchups have not been announced yet, but it is likely that Michael Fulmer will start game one against former Tiger Justin Verlander. Houston beat the New York Yankees 9-6, sweeping their series.

          In the National League, the Chicago Cubs have moved on, beating the Washington Nationals 3 games to 1. They await the winner of the Los Angeles Dodgers/Atlanta Braves series. The Braves beat LA today 7-6 to tie that series at 2 games apiece. Clayton Kershaw will face Julio Teheran in game 5 on Wednesday night. The NLCS will begin on Friday night. If the Dodgers win, they will host game 1 against Chicago. If the Braves win, they will travel to Chicago for game 1.

          Comment

          • Itsma806
            Pro
            • Aug 2016
            • 958

            #1055
            Re: MLB The Show 18 Franchise Discussion Thread

            2021 Chicago White Sox Opening Day Update

            Lots of changes coming into 2021. We had to trade a few big name players to make room budget wise.

            TEAM RANKINGS
            OVERALL:5TH
            CONTACT:13TH
            POWER:4TH
            PITCHING:5TH
            DEFENSE:24TH
            SPEED:18TH

            2021 STARTING LINEUP
            1. Tim Anderson 90 OVR SS
            2.Yoan Moncada 96 OVR 2B
            3.Jose Abreu 89 OVR 1B
            4.Matt Davidson 79 OVR 3B
            5.Michael Conforto 83 OVR LF
            6.Leody Taveras 81 OVR CF
            7.Avisail Garcia 86 OVR RF
            8.Wellington Castillo 85 OVR C
            9.Johnny Shinjo 80 OVR DH

            BENCH
            Eloy Jimenez 81 OVR RF
            Jose Rondon 75 OVR SS
            Tucker Barnhart 75 OVR C
            Casey Gilllaspie 75 OVR 1B

            Starting Rotation
            Gerrit Cole 91 OVR RHP
            Lucas Giolito 89 OVR RHP
            Reynaldo Lopez 87 OVR RHP
            Michael Kopech 83 OVR RHP
            Stephen Gonsalves 80 OVR LHP

            [B]Bull Pen[
            LRP/b]
            Zack Littell 76 OVR RHP
            Gregory Infante 80 OVR RHP

            MRP
            Von Jordan 75 OVR RHP
            Bruce Rondon 80 OVR RHP

            SU
            Brad Brach 85 OVR RHP
            Jose Torres 85 OVR LHP

            CLOSER
            Nate Jones 84 OVR RHP





            Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk

            Comment

            • MightyMaxxx13
              Rookie
              • Aug 2012
              • 407

              #1056
              Re: MLB The Show 18 Franchise Discussion Thread

              Originally posted by Itsma806
              2021 Chicago White Sox Opening Day Update

              Lots of changes coming into 2021. We had to trade a few big name players to make room budget wise.

              TEAM RANKINGS
              OVERALL:5TH
              CONTACT:13TH
              POWER:4TH
              PITCHING:5TH
              DEFENSE:24TH
              SPEED:18TH

              2021 STARTING LINEUP
              1. Tim Anderson 90 OVR SS
              2.Yoan Moncada 96 OVR 2B
              3.Jose Abreu 89 OVR 1B
              4.Matt Davidson 79 OVR 3B
              5.Michael Conforto 83 OVR LF
              6.Leody Taveras 81 OVR CF
              7.Avisail Garcia 86 OVR RF
              8.Wellington Castillo 85 OVR C
              9.Johnny Shinjo 80 OVR DH

              BENCH
              Eloy Jimenez 81 OVR RF
              Jose Rondon 75 OVR SS
              Tucker Barnhart 75 OVR C
              Casey Gilllaspie 75 OVR 1B

              Starting Rotation
              Gerrit Cole 91 OVR RHP
              Lucas Giolito 89 OVR RHP
              Reynaldo Lopez 87 OVR RHP
              Michael Kopech 83 OVR RHP
              Stephen Gonsalves 80 OVR LHP

              [B]Bull Pen[
              LRP/b]
              Zack Littell 76 OVR RHP
              Gregory Infante 80 OVR RHP

              MRP
              Von Jordan 75 OVR RHP
              Bruce Rondon 80 OVR RHP

              SU
              Brad Brach 85 OVR RHP
              Jose Torres 85 OVR LHP

              CLOSER
              Nate Jones 84 OVR RHP





              Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk
              Nice team. Hardly any 70’s on that roster

              Comment

              • boxboy99
                MVP
                • Feb 2006
                • 2320

                #1057
                Re: MLB The Show 18 Franchise Discussion Thread

                Interesting matchup today. Travis Wood SD 44-66 VS Chris Tillman CHC 66-42. We traded Wood last off-season to save cash and signed Chris Tillman as a cheap replacement. The game was tied at 0 until the bottom of the 7th when Solar hit a solo shot. Cubs at another in the 8th. Tillman gets a CGSO as the Cubbies win 2-0.

                In other news, the Cubs have completed the Chris Sale trade to save offseason money to resign Rizzo.

                The Cubs gets Juan Durham SP and a promising SS Henry Torres from Oakland. Durham 13-7 3.60 is schedule to start tomorrow.


                Sent from my iPhone using Operation Sports
                MLB the Show - Cubs
                2015: 80-82
                2016: 96-66 - Lost Game 7 of WS (18 innings to Red Sox)
                2017: 93-69 - Swept by Red Sox in World Series
                2018: 100-62 - Swept by Dodgers in NLCS
                2019: 14-11

                Comment

                • ktd1976
                  MVP
                  • Mar 2006
                  • 1936

                  #1058
                  Re: MLB The Show 18 Franchise Discussion Thread

                  Game one of the ALCS goes to Detroit, 3-0

                  <iframe width="635" height="400" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/z-wrBiLZEvo?start=3" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe>
                  <br>


                  With aces Michael Fulmer, and Justin Verlander on the mound, it figured to be a pitchers duel, and it lived up to the hype. But Fulmer was a little bit better than Verlander, as he held the Astros to just one hit in a coplete game shutout. Verlander was great, but he made a couple mistake pitches. Both of which were hit over the left center field wall, and that was all the Tigers needed to take game one of the ALCS, 3-0.

                  Michael Fulmer struck out the side in the first inning, a sign of things to come. Fulmer ended up striking out seven, walking three, and allowing just a lone 5th inning single to Marwin Gonzalez. He allowed just 4 base runners, but pitched to just one batter over the minimum, as three of the four base runners were eliminated via double play balls.

                  It seemed like an ominous start for Verlander. He allowed a leadoff single to Alex Croix, who then promptly stole second base on a pitch out. But Verlander would recover to strike out both D.J. LeMahieu, and Miguel Cabrera. But, Kyle Dutcher, as he has done all season long, came up with a clutch hit. Dutcher took a 2-2 fastball and drilled it over the left center field wall for a two run home run. Verlander then settled down, and matched Fulmer putting up zeros in the run column until the 6th. In the 6th, Miguel Cabrera connected on his first post season home run, a towering shot into the bullpen in left center, giving the Tigers a 3-0 lead. That was more than enough for Fulmer, who continued to carve up the Astro's lineup.

                  Tigers manager Ron Gardenhire contemplated taking Fulmer out for the 9th, but elected to let him try to finish the shutout. Fulmer allowed a one out walk to J.J. Reddick in the 9th, and Gardenhire again thought about pulling Fulmer, deciding to give him one more hitter. "I wasn't going to let him pitch to the tying run, if one more guy got on base, I would have put Greenie in." He said. But Fulmer got George Springer to ground to Cabrera at first, who quickly fired down to second for the force, and the relay throw back to first by Lemahieu was in the dirt, but Cabrera made a great scoop to complete the double play, and end the game. With the win, the Tigers take a 1-0 lead in the series.

                  Game 2 is tomorrow (Sunday) night in Detroit. Francisco Liriano (1-0, 5.40) faces Dallas Keuchel (1-0, 2.25). There is an off day after game two. Game three will be Tuesday night in Houston. Gerrit Cole (1-0, 6.00) will pitch for the Astros. Gardenhire hasn't yet named a starter, but it is likely it will be rookie Rick Stava, who struck out 17 in his ALDS start against the Boston Red Sox. Game four will be Wednesday night. Lance McCullers Jr. (13-10, 3.59 in the regular season) is the listed starter, although Astros Manager A.J. Hinch said he could possibly go with Justin Verlander on short rest if the Astros face elimination. If Rick Stava starts game three as expected, then Mike Fiers (18-5, 3.34 in the regular season) would start game four.

                  NLCS
                  The Chicago Cubs defeated the Los Angeles Dodgers 6-2 to take a two games to none lead in the NLCS. Albert Almora Jr., and Anthony Rizzo hit two run home runs in a four run 9th inning, Almora's coming off of losing pitcher Pedro Baez, and Rizzos off of Josh Fields. Jason Heyward hit a two run home run off of Dodger starter Alex Wood in the third inning. Jon Lester pitched 7 strong innings, but Carl Edwards Jr. pitched a scoreless 8th inning to get the win. Chicago has won both of the games in Los Angeles, and goes home for the next three games with a 2 games to none lead. They have an off day tomorrow. Game three will be Monday night at Wrigley Field. Kyle Hendricks (1-0, 1.00) will face Clayton Kershaw (1-0, 1.59). Game four will be Tuesday night, with Jose Quintana (0-0, 1.42) facing Hyun-Jin Ryu (0-0, 4.05).
                  Last edited by ktd1976; 06-28-2018, 03:24 AM.

                  Comment

                  • boxboy99
                    MVP
                    • Feb 2006
                    • 2320

                    #1059
                    Re: MLB The Show 18 Franchise Discussion Thread

                    Juan Durham was shaky to start in his Cubs debut giving up 2 runs early to SD. Starlin Castro would homer in the bottom of the first but the Padres would lead 2-1.

                    That score would hold through until the bottom of the 9th when another interesting matchup would occur. Former Cub closer Hector Robson, who was traded to the Nats a couple years ago in the Anthony Rendon deal, would come into the game as the closer for SD again the top of the Cubs order.

                    Things got interesting with one out as Baez walked and Anthony Rizzo came to bat. Baez took second on a past ball and with a 2-2 count Rizzo had a rare opposite field line drive directly to the left fielder for the second out. AJ Pollack grounded out and the Cubs lose 2-1. Still 2 games back to the Cards falling to 67-43.


                    Sent from my iPhone using Operation Sports
                    MLB the Show - Cubs
                    2015: 80-82
                    2016: 96-66 - Lost Game 7 of WS (18 innings to Red Sox)
                    2017: 93-69 - Swept by Red Sox in World Series
                    2018: 100-62 - Swept by Dodgers in NLCS
                    2019: 14-11

                    Comment

                    • countryboy
                      Growing pains
                      • Sep 2003
                      • 52723

                      #1060
                      Re: MLB The Show 18 Franchise Discussion Thread

                      And on September 12th the Cardinals have taken over as division leaders in the Central as we are now up 1/2 game on the struggling Reds. The Cubs have moved to within 4 games out. We have 6 games left with the Cubs (3 home - 3 Road) and 3 left with the Reds (Season series finale in Cincy)

                      We have been playing well as we've won 10 of our last 13 games. We just swept the Pirates in PNC Park outscoring them 28-7 in the 3 game series.

                      Next up is 3 in Milwaukee as we look to stay hot and possibly clinch our 3rd Central division crown in 4 years.
                      I can't shave with my eyes closed, meaning each day I have to look at myself in the mirror and respect who I see.

                      I miss the old days of Operation Sports :(


                      Louisville Cardinals/St.Louis Cardinals

                      Comment

                      • kenp86
                        MVP
                        • May 2008
                        • 2979

                        #1061
                        Re: MLB The Show 18 Franchise Discussion Thread

                        Originally posted by kenp86
                        30 team control.

                        Miami during 2018 season were out of it. I traded Realmuto, Castro and Bour. Somwhow they strung together a decent 2nd half after the deadline. Gave "management" a vision toward thw offseason. In offseason, We signed Manny Machado. He got his championship with St.Louis after being dealt there at deadline. Now got his payday and is "closer" to home which was important to him. Also added Keon Broxton as well.

                        2019 season, Miami finished .500. Again, management knew they are close to being a true contender. So in the offseason, Miami went out and brought hometown guys Lance McCullers Jr and Anthony Rizzo home. Also adding Yasiel Puig.

                        C - Joey Bart
                        1B - Anthony Rizzo
                        2B - 2018 1st round draft pick (77 overall)
                        3B - Brian Anderson
                        SS - Manny Machado
                        LF - Louis Brinson
                        CF - Keon Broxton
                        RF - Yasiel Puig

                        This is the 2020 Miami lineup thats ready for their chance at the divison title and potential WS run
                        Off to a horrendous start in the 2020 season. Sitting at 1-5. Pitching has been pretty good outside of the first game or two of the season. Rizzo, Machado and Puig have been absolutley terrible. Later of the two hitting below .150 on the season so far.

                        The latest defeat was my own doing. Going into the 5th, we were down by 2. Machado hit an oppo shot for a 2 run HR to tie it. In the 8th. Matt Duffy comes up and drills one to dead center and it gets past a diving Michael Taylor all the way to the wall. Thats were my boneheaded decision came into play that ultimately cost us. Instead of sticking for the sure triple, i thought he could have possibly have a chance for a inside the park HR. Well he was thrown out by around 5-6 feet. There were no outs... ugh.

                        We didnt score then or at all the rest of the game. Andrew Miller gave up the go ahead run in the 17th inning. A play where i wanted to break my controller. Turner hit a liner to center. Routine shot. Well Keon Broxron basically army crawls to the ball and takes his sweet time throwing it in and Turner takes second because of this. Two long outs later and he gets in. So defeating. I just had to turn off the game after that loss.

                        Hopefully we can right the ship here soon
                        Oakland A's - Seattle Mariners - Detroit Tigers
                        Pittsburgh Steelers - Green Bay Packers
                        Detroit Red Wings

                        Comment

                        • MightyMaxxx13
                          Rookie
                          • Aug 2012
                          • 407

                          #1062
                          Re: MLB The Show 18 Franchise Discussion Thread

                          Atlanta Braves Franchise

                          End of 2018 Season


                          Braves Record: 63-99 (4th in NL East)

                          2018 season is in the books and as you can see by our record, I am quite happy to be putting it behind us. The Braves finish 36 games under .500, for the franchise's worst record since losing 106 in 1988. Only the lowly Marlins (52-110) and Tigers (55-107) finished with worse records. I did not expect the team to contend this year, so I made the decision to sell my impending free agents at the trade deadline. While that was mostly successful from a prospect-acquisition standpoint, I thought the young guys who came up to fill in down the stretch would provide some excitement for next season. Boy was I wrong. This team totally quit on me. The Nats won the division at 96-66 and will try for their first World Series title. The 2nd NL Wild Card ended in a 3-way tie which was interesting. The Brewers had to beat the Giants at home, then the Cardinals on the road just to have the opportunity to play in the one-game playoff in Arizona. The AL wild card also featured a game 163, with the Mariners beating the Yankees to sneak in. Here is a wrap up of my Braves' season:

                          Offensively we were one of the worst teams in baseball, finishing last in NL in batting average, runs, hits, home runs, RBI's, and slugging percentage. I have some major work to do in the offseason as I try to figure out how to get some power into this lineup as my young stars continue to develop. In stark contrast to our offensive woes, we sported the best defensive team in baseball. We had four players take home gold glove awards: 2B Ozzie Albies, SS Dansby Swanson, CF Ender Inciarte, and OF Ronald Acuna. Is this a major league record? I couldn't find out on google, but it could be. We had the best fielding percentage and the fewest errors in the majors. Clearly, it mattered little as we lost 99 games.

                          Pitching Staff

                          Julio Teheran was consistent as the ace, falling just a single out short of 200 innings and pitching to a 3.88 ERA. Behind him, my staff was very up and down. Brandon McCarthy pitched to an ERA under 3 but was shipped to Tampa before the deadline. Foltynewicz was in and out of the rotation and was wildly inconsistent. He finished with a 4.99 ERA and his place on this team long-term is in a bit of doubt. 21-year old rookie Luiz Gohara was consistent as the fifth starter all year, then fell off a cliff in September. We still believe in him as a future star however. He finishes 6-12 with a 4.41 ERA. Sean Newcomb looked like a left-handed version of A.J. Burnett - when he was on he was awesome, but when he was bad he was really bad. He walked over 100 batters in 176 innings, and also finishes 6-12 with a 4.69 ERA. Lucas Sims filled in adequately down the stretch, making 11 starts and pitching to a 3.95 ERA. He may have a spot in the rotation next season. Finally we got a taste of #3 prospect Mike Soroka in September. He made 4 starts, losing his first 2 then winning his last 2 by pitching 12 consecutive scoreless innings against the Mets and Phillies while striking out 16. He should compete for a spot in the rotation next season as well.

                          My bullpen was a bit more consistent: Closer Arodys Vizcaino recorded a career-high 35 saves and was a first-time all-star. He is a free agent and we hope we can bring him back. Behind him was another surprise all-star, Grant Dayton, who pitched 76.1 innings and recorded a 2.24 ERA. The rest of my pen was unspectacular, most of them pitching to an ERA in the 4's. Not great, but certainly not our biggest weakness.

                          Catchers

                          Tyler Flowers was a stud but was also a casualty of the trade deadline, as was Kurt Suzuki. 4-A journeymen Carlos Perez and Rob Brantly filled in down the stretch and were uninspiring. I have two future prospects here in Alex Jackson and Andres Alvarez who are each a couple years away, so finding a reliable starting catcher in free agency will definitely be a focus this offseason.

                          Infield

                          Freddie Freeman was a stud as expected, playing 161 games, batting .280 and belting 32 homers. He is far and away our top player and is luckily signed for 3 more seasons so he is going nowhere. Up the middle Albies and Dansby Swanson were defensive wizards. They both displayed ridiculous range to go along with the arm strength to make highlight reel plays night after night. They both win their first gold glove awards. Offensively they were pretty lackluster. Albies finishes at .257, 10 HR, and 48 RBI in his first full season. The 24-year old Swanson batted just .230, with 10 HR and 32 RBI. He has now tallied over 1,100 at-bats in the show and is a career .239 hitter. This is firmly below expectations, and as he moves into his arbitration years will have to prove that he can be the top player we think he can be. Shortstops with great gloves but no bat no longer last very long in the majors. Third base was a problem all year and became a revolving door. Charlie Culberson, Christian Colon, Johan Camargo, and Austin Riley all took turns playing poorly. Riley and #6 prospect Ryan Mountcastle are my future prospects here, but for 2019 this looks like another free agency need.

                          Outfield

                          Ender Inciarte was just phenomenal in the outfield, not making a single error all season. He gets ridiculous jumps and seems to track down everything hit in the air past second base. He won his 3rd consecutive gold glove award and hit a career-high 13 homers. Like Freeman he is locked up through 2021 and is a welcome contributor to our team. Ronald Acuna stuck in the majors all season. He batted .213 but hit 17 homers and stole 18 bags. After the Markakis trade we shifted him from left to right where his arm plays a bit better, and he too was spectacular in the field taking home gold glove honors in his rookie season. He also finished 2nd in Rookie-of-the-Year voting to Marlins first baseman Garrett Cooper. Ezequiel Carrera was a solid contributor as a fourth outfielder and then as the starting left fielder, batting .281 and racking up more than a few walkoff hits during the season. He will be back next year with an outside shot at keeping his starting LF job.

                          Overall, this team was not a good one. We showed some heart in the early months but totally bottomed out after selling at the deadline. It's all in the name of planning for the future. My #1 goal in free agency is to find a power bat to stick in this lineup to help Freddie produce some more runs, as my top power prospects likely need another year or two. This team's future success will be buoyed by how big of a step guys like Swanson, Albies, and our young pitchers can take in 2019.

                          Team Leaders

                          Games Played: Freddie Freeman - 161

                          Runs Scored: Freddie Freeman - 77

                          Hits: Ender Inciarte - 167

                          Home Runs: Freddie Freeman - 32

                          RBI: Freddie Freeman - 85

                          SB: Ender Inciarte - 19

                          Batting Average: Ezequiel Carrera - .281

                          OBP: Freddie Freeman - .390

                          Slugging: Freddie Freeman - .522

                          Doubles: Ozzie Albies - 33

                          Triples: Ozzie Albies - 5

                          Wins: Julio Teheran - 11

                          Innings Pitched: Julio Teheran - 199.2

                          Strikeouts: Julio Teheran - 177

                          ERA: Grant Dayton - 2.24

                          WHIP: Grant Dayton - 1.10

                          Games Pitched: Miguel Socolovich - 85

                          Saves: Arodys Vizcaino - 35

                          Holds: Grant Dayton - 21

                          On to the offseason, which for us means watching the postseason from the couch. We have cleared a decent amount of payroll at the deadline, so we should be reasonably active in free agency. Will probably go the way of several moderate signings as opposed to a major star player acquisition. I have needs at several positions (C, 3B, OF) and am not sure if this team will be ready to contend in 2019.

                          Comment

                          • ktd1976
                            MVP
                            • Mar 2006
                            • 1936

                            #1063
                            Re: MLB The Show 18 Franchise Discussion Thread

                            Walk off win gives Tigers 2-0 lead in ALCS.
                            <iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FKQ3orJbsyk" width="635" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>


                            This game was one that the Astros needed. It was a nail biter. But, in the end, the Tigers were just a little bit better. Detroit defeated Houston on a walk off home run in the bottom of the 10th inning, by catcher Pat Lemmon. The win gives the Tigers a 2 games to none lead in the ALCS, and puts them two games away from the World Series.

                            Francisco Liriano and Dallas Keuchel matched each other for the first 6 innings. Keuchel allowed one run on 5 hits, striking out 4, while walking 4. Meanwhile, Liriano allowed just one run on 7 hits, walking two and striking out 4. Houston would take the lead in the fifth, on an RBI single by Evan Gattis. Detroit tied the game in the bottom of the 6th, on an RBI single to center by Kyle Dutcher. Then the rain started coming down harder. In the top of the seventh, with one out, the game was delayed. The delay would last about an hour, forcing both starters out of the game.

                            Both bullpens pitched well Paul Corba relieved Liriano, and went an inning and a third, giving up just one hit. Will Smith came on in the top of the 8th, and struck out Marwin Gonzalez on a nasty curve ball to end the 8th with a runner on second. Hector Rondon releived Keuchel in the seventh, and pitched a scoreless seventh and 8th.

                            Joe Jimenez came on in the top of the 9th, and ran into a bit of trouble. With one out, Yuli Gurriel doubled, putting the go ahead run on second. But, Jimenez got Evan Gattis to strike out. With two outs, George Springer hit a ground ball to third. Jeimer Candelario fielded it clean, then threw high to Miguel Cabrera at first. Cabrera had to jump to catch the ball, but came down on the bag, just ahead of Springer to end the inning with the score still tied at one. Ken Giles pitched a scoreless 9th inning, sending the game into extra innings.

                            Shane Green releived Jimenez, and retired the Astros in order in the top of the 10th. Ken Giles remained in the game for Houston. Catcher Pat Lemmon led off the 10th, worked the count to 2-2, then launched a drive deep into the right field seats for a walk off home run, and a 2-1 Tiger win.

                            Detroit held serve at home, and now has an off day tomorrow before heading to Houston for games three, four, and if necessary, game five. Ron Gardenhire finally named Rick Stava as his starter for game three. He will oppose Gerrit Cole. Mike Fiers will start game four, against either Lance McCullers Jr., or possibly Justin Verlaner on short rest.

                            In the National League Championship Series, the Cubs have a two games to none lead on the Dodgers. Game three is tomorrow in Chicago, with Clayton Kershaw facing Kyle Hendricks. Game four is Tuesday night, Jose Quintana against Hyun-Jin Ryu.
                            Last edited by ktd1976; 06-28-2018, 03:25 AM.

                            Comment

                            • Itsma806
                              Pro
                              • Aug 2016
                              • 958

                              #1064
                              Re: MLB The Show 18 Franchise Discussion Thread

                              Originally posted by MightyMaxxx13
                              Nice team. Hardly any 70’s on that roster
                              Thanks! Our team isnt as good as last season as we had to make some trades to fix budget (Anthony Rendon and Michael Fulmer) but we still field a solid team. They however, are not playing up to their ability early in 2021. I'll have more on that once we get through April.

                              I enjoy reading your Braves franchise as well. Tough season and hopefully you can add someone to help Freeman. I'll be waiting for that offseason update.

                              Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk

                              Comment

                              • Rocket32
                                MVP
                                • May 2016
                                • 1639

                                #1065
                                Re: MLB The Show 18 Franchise Discussion Thread

                                2 games into the ALCS Vs Houston in my Yankees franchise. What a series it’s been so far.

                                Game 1: Severino Vs Keuchel at Yankee Stadium. Wasn’t looking good for the Yankees early on as Severino imploded in his first start of the postseason. Severino only lasted 3.2 IP while giving up 7 runs. One in the first, then the Yankees came out swinging in response with Sanchez showing why he won MVP bashing a two run shot to put the Yankees up 2-1. Severino then went on to get mauled in back to back 3 run innings for the Astros. 7-2 Astros. Yankee Stadium was left in stunned silence.

                                Tyler Austin got the Yanks back on the board with a lead off solo shot in the 5th. A few batters later Stanton launched a 2 run shot over the wall to cut it 7-5 restoring hope to the Stadium and bringing the crowd back in to it. Keuchel left the game in the 6th after 5.1 innings of work. Hoyt relieved Keuchel with two men on, Neil Walker came off the bench to pinch hit for Austin against the righty. Walker then blasted a ball 378 feet, 3 run HR! 8-7 Yankees!

                                Likely Walker’s signature Yankee Moment. A series altering swing. A scoreless 7th from Betances, a scoreless 8th from Kahnle, then Chapman slammed the door shut to earn the save, striking out 2 of the 3 batters he faced.


                                On to game 2, a Day game in the Bronx. Tanaka Vs Gerrit Cole. Gardner opened up the game in the bottom of the first with a lead off solo shot, 1-0 Yankees. Yankees would score two more, 1 in the 3rd and one in the 5th. Fast forward to the 7th, 3-0 Yankees. Tanaka has a shutout going through 5, gave up a lead off solo shot to Springer, then a single. Betances came in to relieve him, surrendered 2 runs before being replaced with Green who gave up back to back hits before being yanked for Robertson. Robertson put in the clutch performance the Yankees needed striking out 3 batters in a row with the bases loaded to stop the bleeding.

                                4-3 Astros. Bottom of the 7th, 2018 AL MVP Sanchez crushed a 2 run blast to put the Yankees up 5-4. Game over? Nope. This game still had more twists to come. Robertson gives up one run before being relieved by Kahnle who finished off the inning. Kahnle shut Houston down in the 9th sending it to the bottom of the 9th tied 5-5.

                                The sidearmer Joe Smith on the mound. Judge at the plate. First pitch of the bottom half of the 9th. JUDGE CRANKS IT 438 FEET TO LEFT! FAIR BALL, GONE! CYA! YANKEES WIN! 6-5 win, walkoff HR. That bomb sent Yankee Stadium into hysterics as the team gathered at home plate.

                                Yankees head to Houston with a commanding 2-0 series lead. One win away from returning to the ALCS. Intense series so far, both games could have easily gone either way. A well needed day off is next, The Yankee bullpen is a bit gassed.

                                Postseason Notes from around the league: Kluber batted around by LA in G1 5-2 Angels win. 3 hits 3 RBI’s from Trout.

                                Game 2 Nats vs Dodgers, Strasburg demonstrated why he took home the NL CY YOUNG award tossing a complete game shut out against the Dodgers. 5-0 Nationals won. Series tied 1-1.

                                Game 2 Arizona Vs. Chicago. 6-2 Cubs win. Series tied 1-1.

                                Game 2 Indiana Vs Angels. AL CY Young winner Carlos Carrasco had a meltdown in his first and potentially only postseason start of the year. Got hit hard for 5 runs through 5 innings. Meanwhile Heaney threw a complete game shutout. 2 hits 4 RBI’s from Trout, 1 HR. 5-0 Angels win, 2-0 series lead.

                                Trout is here to play this postseason, leading the charge for LA in G1 and G2 vs Cleveland. 2 HR’s, 7 RBI’s, 625 BA. Nice start there.

                                Comment

                                Working...