Sticking Points 2060.2: Who Wants to Be a Pikeman?

[JimSlade]

Spring training is around the corner and the expanded Rockville Pikeman roster includes, so far, no new faces. The Pikeman missed out by this much on a free-agent pitcher the organization had long coveted. They can't remember the last time they completed a trade. No one of note fell off the roster after the 2059 season. "Same as it ever was," as your grandfather's favorite band Talking Heads sang 80 years ago.

There's not a lot of obvious space on Rockville’s 40-man roster and the squad they will take north, but the team also has budget space and no crippling long-term deals. "May the best man win a spot," has been the motto of the team's front office.

The 2059 season saw the debut of a few interesting players who expect to play a role this season. Rightfielder Octavio Martinez was the most impressive rookie. He is expected to be in the opening day lineup. His focus this offseason has been learning how to occasionally take a walk. His 10:1 K:BB ratio is unsustainable.

Around Martinez is a host of gap-hitting corner outfielders who had a look in Rockville last season. Arturo Caro was a regular in the back half of the season, but after a strong start, he put up fourth outfielder numbers. He's expected to be a Pikeman, unless Antonio Correa has a say in the matter. Correa shot up the Pikeman system and had a look in September, but it was ugly. Like Martinez, he didn't see a Ball 4 worth taking. Unlike his young counterpart, he didn't hit half of Martinez' .295. A few dozen at-bats is nothing. We'll see what more than a few dozen at-bats tells us this spring, as Correa expects to get a hard look.

One depth chart position that is definitely up for grabs is in centerfield. Kyle Ray, who had a disappointing sophomore season in 2059 is the only true centerfielder on the 40-man roster, as Paul Strickland was waived to make room for a possible Rule 5 pickup that, alas, was not to be had. Strickland cleared waivers and will be in spring training, but the organization is keeping its eye out for a righthand hitting acquisition. Short of that, perhaps fringe prospect Anuranjana Jeoomal jumps into the mix.

There aren't a whole lot of young pitchers ready to make their case in Rockville, but the name Jorge Ramirez, who has competed at each level thanks to good movement, a 5-pitch arsenal, and that intangible known as guts, is coming up in the prayers of the Pikemen coaching staff.

[Jwalk100]

I beat you to it! I talk about this in the Atlantic preview. You'll have some competition going on in the spring with a lot of pitchers. This team is getting better!

[JimSlade]

Very cool. Good to know you agree what's simmering isn't that bad!

[Trebro]

Seems to be working out for you so far. Baby steps.