Klaw: Snarky action at a distance … it’s Klawchat.

MikeyMike: Lindor your choice for AL RoY?
Klaw: Yes, he would be, slightly over Correa, with Sano a distant third after those two.

@outfieldgrass24: Thanks for the chat Keith! When a player makes his stateside debut in Instructs at 18, should that signal that the org sees particular value in him or are they sometimes just getting him extra work?
Klaw: I wouldn’t read into it because, as you just hinted, the club may simply have wanted him to work with a specific coach or get some extra games. But I will say that there’s no negative to it. It means something good, I just don’t know exactly what.

Dan: Ausmus says he doesn’t care what people say about his handling of Norris because they don’t know the game like he does. Can the Tigers hit the reset on their decision?
Klaw: Except that all available evidence is that he doesn’t know the game. That was unconscionable; two AGMs texted me during that first inning to ask what the fuck (their word) Ausmus was doing.

Chris: Our country is petrified by the threat of terrorism, but we’re 1000x more likely to be killed by our own citizens with guns. At this point, what sort of disaster is required to enact any meaningful change to gun regulation?
Klaw: Barring the child of a prominent politican getting killed in such an event, I do not expect to see meaningful gun control laws enacted in my lifetime. Our gun culture is truly the only thing that would cause me to want to leave the U.S. to live in another country.

Jay: What kind of hitter will Andrelton Simmons be in the next couple of years? Is that 22 homerun year a complete aberration or will he find some of that pop again?
Klaw: I don’t think he can hit for that kind of power and simultaneously do much else at the plate. His ideal profile is a very low-K, low-power season where he hits in the high .200s just by putting the ball in play all the time.

Damon: Who’s your NL Cy Young? I don’t remember if you answer these questions or not
Klaw: I’ll answer on any award except NL ROY (which I have – and the form explicitly states DO NOT REVEAL YOUR BALLOT). I’d have Kershaw first, but I don’t think Greinke or Arrieta are a ‘wrong’ choice here.

Bob: Have you seen Jerad Eickhoff, yet? I realize the change up is making lefties hit him, but it looks like a huge mistake for the Rangers to almost let him be a throw in on the Hamels deal. Can he stick in the rotation? Slider is a plus pitch according to Pitch fx and well the amount of strike outs.
Klaw: He wasn’t a throw-in, not according to either side at the time of the deal, but he was not as highly regarded by scouts I talked to who saw him this year. He’s clearly something – maybe a mid-rotation guy if that changeup improves substantially (or he adds a splitter or something along those lines).

Justin: Is evolution going to make your top board games list? I saw your paste article and I’m intrigued.
Klaw: It’s OK, not great; if I take my all-time list to 100 it’s on there. I may not go that deep.

Tim: who should the Twins start in the OF next year? They should let the youngsters out there and let hunter walk right?
Klaw: Yes, Hunter has been terrible (and man he needs to stop saying stupid stuff). If he’s that great a ‘leader’ in the clubhouse, which I find hard to believe given what comes out of his mouth, make him the bench coach.

Walewander: Hi Keith. Thanks for the chat. Do you think Michael Fulmer or Ryan McMahon will make impacts at the big league level next year? Have you read The Heart is a Lonely Hunter?
Klaw: Fulmer yes, McMahon no shot, and I love that book – it’s in my top 50.

Drew: After this utter disaster of a season, what do the Nationals have to do to be competitive next season? Is that just a pipe dream?
Klaw: Fire the manager and probably add one starter while letting the kids play (Turner, Taylor, using their various rookies in the rotation) and firing Papelbon into the heart of the sun.

Anthony: Hey KLaw. Did Beane get 100% hosed on the Donaldson deal? Is Barreto going to be a good pro, in your opinion? Seems like it might be the worst trade of the decade, no?
Klaw: Barreto is going to be a star (he’s already a pro, BTW, if you’ll allow me to be pedantic for just a moment … you’re asking about the big leagues), and I hated the deal at the time for Oakland. I didn’t like the Shark trade either because Semien is not an everyday player, esp not at SS.

Tim: Do you have any issue with people reporting matt Williams is going to be fired before it is official?
Klaw: This isn’t exactly Deep Throat secrecy here.

Haymaker: Arrieta beats Cole in the Wild Card play in game, right? Cubs go on to win the NL, then the World Series? The curse will finally be broken and “Back to the Future 2” writer Bob Gale will be revered as a prophet? Just nod your head and smile, Keith. It will make me feel better.
Klaw: (nods while making ‘crazy’ circular motion around my ear)

Garren: Have you heard anything about “Lazarito”, the latest buzzed about Cuban defector?
Klaw: Only what you’ve heard from folks like MLB’s Jesse Sanchez.

Chris H: At this point I feel bad for Matt Williams, and I’m a Mets fan. That Washington Post article was brutal. Can you remember a Manager-to-be-fired who has been this universally derided?
Klaw: It’s his own fault; I have no sympathy for folks like him and Ausmus who are so obstinate about their way of doing things. You want to succeed in this game, you make adjustments. They haven’t.

Anonymous: I don’t know what to think about Wilson Contreras. Obviously, his stock went up this year, but how does he project at the MLB level?
Klaw: Above average regular behind the plate.

White haired clown: Is fair to be skeptical of coppolella in Atlanta because he worked for clown wren for so long ?
Klaw: Grossly unfair and, frankly, kind of dumb.

addoeh: Not baseball related, but L. Fournette should at least have the option of playing in the NFL now, right?
Klaw: Absolutely. I hope he fights it; it could help baseball players break the NCAA’s three-year BS rule too (which MLB has agreed to, for no good reason at all).

Pat: Bundy, Harvey, now Branden Kline — are arm injuries to O’s prospects just fluky or do they do something wrong?
Klaw: I don’t think it’s entirely coincidental.

Ed: Aren’t Arrieta’s and Greinke’s ERAs within the range of error at this point? I keep hearing Greinke’s ERA as his trump card in the Cy Young race. Seems to be splitting hairs at this point.
Klaw: Yes, although Arrieta has had some absolute joke opponents of late too – that Brewers game where they started a AAA lineup comes to mind. Again, I don’t think either guy is clearly better.

Woodman: Rumor here is that the Giants want to coach up Kelby Tomlinson to be a CFer. While he’s done an admirable job filling in for Panik at 2B, does he have the skill set to be an everyday CFer?
Klaw: I don’t see it – he’s not even as good as the Duffy/Panik group who’ve been better in the majors than they were in the minors.

Ryan: Kyle Zimmer threw over 60 innings after returning from injury this year and was pretty effective. Is that enough for him to jump back up into your top 50 or even top 25 ranking like he was previously?
Klaw: I’d be too leery of his injury history to stuff him like that but he’s definitely a mid-100 guy.

Alex: Joe Musgrove–how much has he grown in your eyes?
Klaw: Not at all.

TedT: Travis Shaw or Greg Bird – expectations and upside?
Klaw: Bird’s the better prospect but Shaw is a legitimate big leaguer with a chance to be a regular at 1b. I don’t see him being able to handle another position.

David Saba: In 2016, can JP Crawford make an impact the way Lindor has this year? Or will the Phillies hold him back no matter what?
Klaw: I think he can and probably will, because he’s going to be ready to do so by midyear.

David Saba: Has the performance spike of Jerad Eickhoff, Nick Williams & Jake Thompson since the Hamels trade altered your view of the haul? Or is it just SSS?
Klaw: For the last two, you’re looking at about a month of playing time, which is SSS for anything we might look at. I liked the trade a lot at the time, though.

Ken (Ann Arbor): Is Tyler Collins a: a) MLB regular corner outfielder
b) A regular till he gets expensive in arbitration
c) 4th outfielder who can play some CF
d) 4th outfielder — corners only
e) 4A

Klaw: Probably d.

Mark: Tyler White is supposedly moving back to catcher, and the last time he played it, he was 50 pounds lighter. What do you think of the Astros’ decision?
Klaw: Worth a try but awfully unlikely to work. Granted, the downside is limited (injury risk?) but the upside is substantial.

Bill: Can Conforto be a .280 30 hr hitter? too much on the power?
Klaw: I think he’s more likely to post a .400 OBP with 20 bombs.

John: Do you think Reynaldo Lopez can be a frontline starter in time?
Klaw: I think he’s a reliever. It’s all arm, no lower half, and his secondary stuff isn’t great.

Michael: I know Kim Ng has very little scouting experience, but do you think she is qualified to be a GM? Is gender a factor in her not getting hired?
Klaw: She’s as qualified as someone like David Stearns, certainly; his background is similar to hers, all office-based/administrative, although I can’t speak to either of their skills in terms of analytics awareness or people management.

Forsyth: Is Conforto a reasonable comp for Benintendi?
Klaw: Benintendi’s a better runner with more power and a chance to play CF. Conforto has the better eye and simpler swing. Both great players but I think Benintendi may have the higher chance to end up a star.

Michael: I know it’s the rule, but I’m not crazy about guys who clearly beat the throw being called out on replay because they lost touch with the base for a split second. Any way to fix this?
Klaw: I agree – it’s the rule, and it’s a bad one that has only come up because of replay. I don’t know a simple fix but I think it’s one to address.

Jeff: Thanks for the insight and wisdom, Keith. Have you seen anything with Corey Seager that indicates that he could remain a shortstop?
Klaw: No, not for the long term. It’s like Severino being a starter – they could hold their present roles for a little while, but when we look back in five or ten years (maybe ten is too long) it’s much more likely IMO that Seager will have spent the bulk of the time at third and Severino will have been in relief.

Andrew: Do you think Tyler White would be more productive in 2016 than Evan Gattis as the Astros primary DH? Team needs upgrades at 1B, 3B, DH…
Klaw: Yes. They should non-tender Gattis and let Reed and White play.

Andy: While you would never actually want a player to get hurt, if Severino goes down next year will you be finding everyone who’s asked the same damn question on Twitter and pestering them about how you could do their job better?
Klaw: It’s one of the most awkward aspects of my job – if I predict a player will get hurt or won’t be able to do something, and I’m right, I can’t say a word without appearing to gloat over injury or failure.

J: Last month NPR did a 9 minute piece on Spandau Ballet and last week USA Today used half the fold on Korn. Does mainstream media have a duty/obligation to give time to new up and coming music instead of that old and tired stuff? Most people think music sucks now (logic fail) because they don’t know what’s out there
Klaw: I didn’t see/hear either of those pieces (Spandau Ballet? Really?) but I do make an extra effort to find more obscure artists for my monthly playlists because does the world really need Pitchfork to review the latest Taylor Swift album?

Michael: If you were commissioner, would you allow any roster expansion in September? A lot of people propose a set 25 man roster for each day in September, but then 4 starting pitches would just be left off.
Klaw: The number would have to be 20-22.

RBI, Saves, & Wins: Our first comment on the new chat! Just give the Cy young to the pitcher with the most wins. It works with RBI for the MVP…
Klaw: Welcome back now please go away.

Derek: Does Dusty manage again in 2016?
Klaw: I would bet against it and I don’t understand the media members who appear to be pushing his candidacy. He got worse at every stop and had enough history of misusing young arms that we shouldn’t want to see him manage – and I say that as someone who has tried to help a few candidates of color get more consideration for managerial openings.

Charlie Lapin: Would you ever be interested in returning to the front office of a Major League club? Why or why not?
Klaw: I’ve answered this before and my response is still the same: I don’t close any doors, but I will only take a job that makes sense for my family. My daughter is 9 now and I don’t regret any of the time I’ve been able to spend with her rather than sitting in an office or an airport.

Nick: Kyle Schwarber appears to have some adjustments to make now that pitchers have exposure to him. Can’t imagine his struggles hold up though. Thoughts?
Klaw: He got to the majors awfully fast – we’re not even having this conversation with other kids from his draft class. I do think he’ll be fine in time, just perhaps not the MVP type that the early hype bestowed upon him.

Jay: Any optimism for Rio Ruiz next year? Is it still likely he is the 3B of the future for the Braves
Klaw: After this year I’m pretty down on him. How does anyone hit for that little power and hope to play a corner in the majors?

John: What are your thoughts on Domingo Santana? Average regular or 4th outfielder or more?
Klaw: Star tools, but fourth outfielder approach.

Anonymous: Between J Parker and Williamson, do the SFGS have a future starting outfielder?
Klaw: I think it’s more likely Williamson than Parker.

Tim: Who is the better prospect going forward G. Torres or Y. Moncada?
Klaw: Moncada has more upside at the plate, but Torres is definitely a shortstop. I’d take Moncada right now because of his age and physical maturity, and I think we know more about his bat than we do about Torres. They’re both studs though.

Matt: If you ever emigrated from the US it would be to (where) and (why)?
Klaw: Either some place warm or some place with great food (Italy, probably, since that’s where my people come from too). But any other country will likely have its own problems as a tradeoff.

Tom: So our big lesson of the week is that Harper needs to learn to play the game the “right way.” But just once, I want to see a guy play the game the “wrong way.” What would he do? Run to third after hitting the ball? Chuck the ball in the stands to stop the clock because his team is out of timeouts? Take a dive at the plate so the ump awards a penalty kick?
Klaw: Barry Svrluga’s piece from the other day covered this well, defending Harper in a way without coming off as unfavorable. Harper’s makeup is not and has never been a concern, except to idiots.

Andy: Cy Young ballot is only 3 deep right? If so, there should only be three people who get votes.
Klaw: It was expanded to five after the whole imbroglio in 2009 that some tiny fraction of Cardinals fans still can’t get over or get right.

Adam Trask: Is Starlin Castro more valuable as a second baseman or as a trade piece for a team that needs a shortstop?
Klaw: I don’t think many teams view him as a shortstop; he just wasn’t very good there defensively. But he might have a lot of trade value to a team that needs a second baseman.

Glen: How good can Kaprielian be?
Klaw: Mid-rotation starter good? It’s not a huge fastball, but there are a lot of quality mid-rotation starters or better who work with average to slightly above-average fastballs because they have at least two of command, life, or secondary weapons.

Tom Christopher: Will Jacob Gatewood ever make enough contact to even sniff the big leagues, or is there way too much swing and miss?
Klaw: My guess is he gets to the majors but doesn’t become a regular for the reason you outlined. He’s like Michael Gettys: if it clicks, you get a star, but the probability that it clicks is low.

Liam: Is Rougned Odor the next breakout 2B in the same way that Cano emerged without great fanfare at first? What do you think is Odor’s ceiling at this point?
Klaw: All-Star ceiling.

Papelboner: I thought you don’t believe in clubhouse chemistry. If true, then why should the Nats get rid of Papelbon?
Klaw: Choking a teammate is not a clubhouse chemistry issue. It’s assault and freaking battery.

Skippy: Thank you for reffering to it as a “tiny fraction”. As a cardinals fan I get sick of being judged as arrogant because there’s a group who always refers to themselves as “the best fans in baseball”. Likely the same group who complains about it. My experience with them is those ones are the worst fans but every fan base has to have black sheep
Klaw: Exactly – every fan base has its clown car. They just come out more when the team is winning. Except for the Cubs’ fan base, where the clown car had “Junior Lake for MVP” bumper stickers on it.

TJ: Which would you rather have going into 2016- Detroit with Ausmus as manager and that bullpen full of gas cans or the Nats with Williams at the helm and a bullpen that still includes Papelbon? Death not an option…
Klaw: Woof. I actually think the Nats could have won in spite of Williams if they’d been healthy all year. They weren’t healthy, so they weren’t good enough to overcome his derpity derp.

Enad: If you could have one of these become a reality tomorrow which would it be: DH in both leagues; Banning the Phantom DP; Banning the 3-0 “Gentleman’s Strike;” Robotic Ball/Strike ump machine?
Klaw: I want them all, of course. I think the DH in the NL is the easiest to implement and does the most to enhance the fan experience.

NICK: What are your thoughts on Jake Bauers?
Klaw: It’s a really tough profile. A prospect, not an elite one. Wish he was a better athlete and/or played another position.

Jim: Do you think the M’s made the right choice with Dipoto over Eppler or Jeff Kingston?
Klaw: I think DiPoto was an excellent choice, but that’s no knock on Kingston or Eppler. They wanted someone with experience, and DiPoto has had to deal with a similar payroll issue (heavily invested in a few players who may not earn their pay) before.

Ridley Kemp: I don’t think “narrative” is a good way to pick a Cy Young or MVP since we can measure the value of players with a reasonable degree of certainty. That doesn’t seem to be true of managers, though. Is “narrative” as good as any way to pick a manager of the year? Just pick the guy whose team overachieved and give him or her credit for it? Is there a better way to go about it?
Klaw: There is no good way to pick MOY in my opinion. Honestly if someone told me they voted for the guy who called for the fewest non-pitcher sac bunts regardless of team record I’d shake his hand.

Rick: Coppolella seems like a smart guy, but needs a whole lot of work on public speaking.
Klaw: I don’t think public speaking is a critical part of being a GM. People often confuse eloquence with intelligence. I can think of at least one former GM who is highly articulate but is an empty suit, and I feel very strongly that Latino candidates for GM spots are at a huge disadvantage because they interview in their second language and their interviewers subconsciously downgrade the candidates’ acumen.

Wade: We know your love of CHVRCHES and other synch-pop type music, but have I missed your thoughts on Purity Ring’s newest album?
Klaw: You may have since I wrote about it in the spring. I liked a few singles but the deeper tracks were very disappointing, and I hate the production through which they put her voice.

El Chapo Jr: Roasted Cheese filled squash blossoms? Yes or no?
Klaw: Deep fry them suckers.

Scott of Lincolnshire: For all of these questions on “can prospect xyz hit 30 home runs in the MLB?”, note that Rizzo just barely got past 30 home runs and Bryant isn’t going to get there this year. And those are two guys who have legit power. Bottom line: 30 home runs are hard to hit in a single season.
Klaw: They are now, but I’ll forgive fans who got very used to 30 HR during the first decade of the century.

Derek: Hey Keith, love your chats. See that you like metal–my 15yr old son and I recently got to watch Metallica FROM THE STAGE. Pretty amazing deal–my kid has no clue how lucky is is.
Klaw: That’s amazing because as far as I’m concerned Metallica vanished from the face of the earth before the end of the first track on the black album.

Enad: If you were a GM would you offer Rich Hill a guaranteed, incentive-filled, $2M MLB contract with a top end of, say $12M based on starts or or $5M based on appearances?
Klaw: I like your thinking. But i bet someone guarantees him more than that. I truly don’t know what to make of his September. It has to be fool’s gold, right? Right? Who’s with me here?

Brian G.: Has your music taste changed over the years? If so how? Obligatory thanks for continuing to host these chats!
Klaw: Absolutely it has. I’ve become much more open-minded as I’ve aged, and I also tend to steer away from more derivative stuff because I’ve been an avid music fan for more than 30 years now and it’s easy for me to hear something and think “I’ve heard this before.”

Theodore Williams: Confusing eloquence with intelligence….sounds like you were talking about the POTUS.
Klaw: That’s a different fallacy: confusing someone holding differing political or economic views from yours as a sign of a lack of intelligence. You may dislike Obama’s policies, but I think he’s one of the most intelligent Presidents we’ve had in my lifetime. Jimmy Carter is pretty bright and many of his policies ran from bad to disastrous.

JF: What’s the ceiling on Erick Fedde, and how do you think he has looked so far?
Klaw: Third starter, maybe fourth. Slider hasn’t come all the way back yet. More volatile than most because we don’t know if there’s more to come as he works his way back.

Matt: Do you have a recommended source to discover new music?
Klaw: Me! Seriously, I don’t have a single source, but part of why I spend time hunting is to curate these lists so readers don’t have to do it.

Adam Trask: Even smart, analytical GMs choose “leader of men” managers over strategists. Could it be we underrate the Mathenys of the world?
Klaw: I’d say we don’t know how to rate them. There is absolutely a black box aspect to the job that can’t be measured or even fairly discussed by outsiders, so we focus on we can see, which is OH MY GOD STOP BUNTING.

Aaron: Anything to get excited about for the Phillies next year?
Klaw: A lot, right? Nola, Eickhoff, Franco, maybe Crawford, possibly Thompson and Williams, maybe Knapp – there’s a lot on its way. They do need some impact starting pitching, but this is a great free agent market for that and it would make sense to look at grabbing one of those guys.

Khal Drogo: Do you ever play any of the longer-form board games (that aren’t really meant to be played in one sitting)? Do you enjoy that kind of experience?
Klaw: I’m not sure what games you mean; I haven’t played anything longer than Agricola, which is two hours or so and I would consider very long.

Jason: Hi Keith. Thanks for hosting all of us. Do you think the Tigers have enough in place to bounce back into contention next year?
Klaw: I don’t, and I don’t think that’s the right strategy at the moment. The division should be very tough, with Cleveland not far off, KC still strong, and the Twins maybe one good starter away from a possible 90 win ceiling with full seasons from Sano and Buxton. Plus the Tigers have too many holes to fill in one winter.

Stinky Rodney: Is there a type of prospect that is the most “fun” to scout? Insane power? Nasty breaking ball? Incredible fielding?
Klaw: I love seeing guys who do anything that seems superhuman like that. Jose Iglesias fielding, Andrelton Simmons throwing, Bryce Harper’s power, Billy Hamilton running. Part of why I love JP Crawford as a prospect is that he does everything so freaking easily.

El Chapo Jr: How soon until your FA rankings come out?
Klaw: After the World series, I think. I do have to write those soon.

Rick: Is Lucas Sims’ stock back up for you at all? They aggressively promoted him after he returned from the bus crash, and he held his own. He’s gotten his strikeouts back.
Klaw: He’s been better, yes, although I may have rated him too highly after that first year.

Derek: Do you think Michael Reed can handle CF?
Klaw: I’d try it. He’s a pretty good athlete and that’s a hell of a player (with those OBP skills) if he can even be average.

Stan: Pretty amazing season NOBODY is talking about: Abreu joined Pujols as the ONLY person in MLB history with 30HR/100RBI. I know Donaldson/Trout will win MVP, but Abreu 3rd?
Klaw: It wasn’t an amazing season at all; he’s a DH with a .348 OBP and a .506 SLG playing half his games in a good HR park. He wouldn’t make my top 20 if I had an AL MVP ballot.

Greg P: Do you think Miguel Almonte helps the Royals anytime soon? Reliever or Starter?
Klaw: I think he ends up a starter. Maybe a reliever in the short term.

Jason: How does traffic on this chat compare with the old ESPN chats?
Klaw: I don’t know, but these are much easier for me to handle, and when I need to reschedule I can just do it myself.

Andy: When did you start HP with your daughter? I’m worried about starting too soon because of the darker later books.
Klaw: Three months before she turned 8. We finished seven months later. She did fine.

Matt in Portland: The Astros could potentially play sunday in Arizona, Monday in Minnesota, Tuesday in Anaheim and Wednesday in New York. Can we take a vote to make this happen?
Klaw: I’m only a member of Team Entropy – Jay Jaffe is President for Life – but sign me up.

El Chapo Jr: Why havent more franchises taken over minor league franchises from a ownership point of view? It seems like the development process could be streamlined even more.
Klaw: It is the inevitable outcome. I also think it’s high time MLB leans on the Carolina League to add two more teams; owners there have resisted it because they are propping up their own franchise values, but we don’t need teams in Bakersfield or High Desert, and there are plenty of towns in the VA-NC-SC corridor that can support A-ball clubs.

Alex in Austin: The move of the year was the kid writing his thesis on how GM’s are undervalued. Guaranteed internship. It’s like winning an Oscar for a movie making heroes out of Hollywood.
Klaw: And that happens only … oh, every year, actually. That’s all for this week. I believe I’ll be able to chat on Thursday next week and the week after that as well. No Periscope this week due to Bristol travel. Sorry about that, but thank you as always for reading and for all of your questions!

Re-education for the infants. It’s Klawchat.

Bill Brewtown: Brewers on the Upgrade with new GM ?
Klaw: I believe they are, although I have a real issue with a process where the candidate was apparently selected before they even discussed or interviewed other candidates. It’s a death knell for candidates of color. That’s absolutely nothing against Stearns, but against ownership. That said, they needed better analytical capabilities, which he’ll bring, and an overhaul in player development, which I don’t know if he brings.

Chris: With a very strong AFL performance — could Lucas Sims get into a top 100 prospect list?
Klaw: I can only speak to my own list, which doesn’t have anything to do with small-sample performances like the AFL would present.

Jay R.: Keith, I don’t disagree with you on this, I’m just curious as to your logic: what’s the difference between your stated rationale that potential future career success should factor in to Rookie of the Year voting, and another voter who thinks an MVP candidate should get a boost for playing on a contending team?
Klaw: The MVP rules say explicitly that the winner doesn’t have to be on a playoff team, and considering his team’s record introduces his teammates into an individual award. For the record, though, I’ve never argued that potential future success should be a major variable in ROY voting. I think player age should be a major one – a 28-year-old and a 20-year-old having the same season statistically aren’t equally impressive.

Dana: How good is Greg Bird? Seems like he’s a star in the making with patience, power and at least adequate D at first.
Klaw: Below average defense, probably a low average hitter, but 25-30 homers with a slew of walks is still a hell of a player and maybe a star.

Hudson vs Zito!!!!: Hey Keith! I apologize if you’ve answered this already, but your thoughts on Sean Nolin in Oakland? Do you think he could be a solid “middle of the rotation” guy?
Klaw: Nope, back-end starter at best for me. Big guy with iffy stuff and below average athlete.

John Houser: The Reds are featuring all rookies in the rotation. Any of these guys a long term solution?
Klaw: Lamb for sure. Iglesias probably. Finnegan is a reliever. Desclafani I’m not sold on but he has had an excellent season.

drew: Do you have any concerns over letting Arrieta finishing the game last night? I see a 29 year old who keeps himself in ridiculous shape and is completely capable of going 120 once in a while. His chances on CY?
Klaw: I don’t. He was facing a AAA lineup anyway.

Matt: It’s only been 30 or so games but how concerned are you about Buxton?
Klaw: Zero percent concerned because it’s only been 30 or so games … but it’s clear that Correa was the right call at 1-1 over him back in 2012.

Matt: Better career: Dansby or Brendan Rodgers?
Klaw: Rodgers.

HawkTalk: Keith, play Kreskin for us. When and where will Tony Kemp get his big league shot?
Klaw: Why should he? I don’t get the fascination. Poor defender, zero power, probably 5’4″, and didn’t hit in AAA.

Jay P.: Keith, do you think Harper will be a unanimous MVP this year?
Klaw: No because of narratives and because there are definitely writers who dislike him for having a personality.

Kevin: How high could you see Anderson Espinoza getting to next year? Is AA out of the question?
Klaw: My guess is he’ll be on some sort of workload limit that will keep him from advancing that fast.

Kyle: Does McCullers have a chance to stick as a starter or do you still see him as a closer long-term?
Klaw: Has the three pitches to start but not the command right now.

John: Bogaerts has been hitting for a little bit more power recently. Can he be a 20-25 HR guy?
Klaw: I think so – ball comes off his bat well, has the bat path to hit for power.

Howey: Just started college this week. During undergrad or graduate school did you ever envision yourself working in/around baseball for your career?
Klaw: Never. And I’m not sure if I would have done anything different if I had. Obviously playing baseball would have helped but with my size and metabolic disorder that wasn’t in the cards.

Anonymous: What do you think was Mets thinking in taking Cecchini over Seager in the 2012 draft?
Klaw: Seager would have required an over slot bonus and the Wilpons just don’t do that.

Ben: Before watching Lindor over the past few months would you have said the offensive profile of JP Crawford was similar? We can’t expect this of JP, right?
Klaw: Yes, I would have, and yes, I think we can.

Dave: Do you think Miller and Betances control issues are linked to their usage this season?
Klaw: I think it’s a fair question to ask but impossible to prove either way. I would love to see them get a few days off before the playoffs though.

Dan: More success in the next 5 years: Cubs or Astros?
Klaw: Cubs. Astros might have more talent in the system but Cubs have more predictable talent and will likely have a lot more money to spend.

Christian: Who should Braves target early in next year’s draft?
Klaw: Best player available, regardless of position. There’s no clear 1-1 in the draft right now, or even clear top two, so I wouldn’t pin them down to any player or class of players.

Chris, Larchmont: The playoffs are all about riding the hot hand. Am I crazy to think the Mets should start Matz in Game 1 of NLDS? He’s got plus stuff and, at the moment, has less questions than Harvey or even deGrom.
Klaw: The “hot hand” does not exist. It’s a myth. The few studies that purport to show that it does all end up exposed as having major methodological flaws.

Daniel: Do you support reseeding after the regular season, or sticking with current playoff format? NL Central is gonna get screwed by the current format, but this is a pretty rare circumstance
Klaw: I don’t like changing rules in response to one outlier circumstance that is just a question of (subjective) fairness.

Frank: You generally had positive things to say about Schwarber, but you justifiably ranked him low on your lists due to defensive concerns and whether he’d find a spot on the field. Are there any guys in the near future who might be low on your ranks but have a similar high floor if they can get on the field?
Klaw: Bird would have been higher if I thought he could play good defense at first (on which I’m not sold). AJ Reed still isn’t very good at first but obviously he can hit.

James: About when should we expect your offseason prospect extravaganza on espn?
Klaw: End of January. Takes me a good month to put it all together.

Nick: What would be a reasonable trade package for the Red Sox to give up for Matt Harvey?
Klaw: If I’m the mets I’m insisting on one of the big 3 of Bogaerts, Betts, or Swihart, plus two other guys from the system. Ask for the moon and you might get it. The problem is that Boston can just say screw you, we’re going to go sign two elite starter free agents.

Godd Till: Have you read Underworld? Have you caught Norris’s last two starts? Thoughts on either?
Klaw: Haven’t and won’t read it. Norris looked so much better last night – stuff seems to be all the way back now.

Will: Who’s the next breakout stud from the Cubs after Torres and Contreras this year?
Klaw: Cubs fans gettin’ all greedy now.

Seth: Tim Anderson’s ceiling?
Klaw: Above-average everyday shortstop. Good defense, avg, low OBP, some pop.

Django: Chance that Appel turns out to be a better 1-1 than Bryant? (And is it true the Cubs preferred Appel?)
Klaw: Don’t think there’s a chance of that, and I have mixed intelligence on their prefs so I don’t know.

Tony: Any scouting updates on Luis Ortiz from the end of the season?
Klaw: Heard he was 95-97 again but in short bursts. Still a big fan.

Nick: Frazier or Zimmer the better Indians OF prospect right now?
Klaw: Zimmer, not close for me. Saw Frazier in the playoffs – same issues with swinging and missing at stuff in the zone, not picking up spin. Reminded me of Michael Choice although choice was older.

Bobby: Hey Klaw. Corey Seager is a bad a**. That’s all I got.
Klaw: He is absolutely a badass, and over here you don’t have to censor yourselves!

Eric: Can the voters be wrong if any of the following 3 win the NL Cy Young between Greinke, Kershaw or Arrieta?
Klaw: I’m fine with any of them, but I don’t like Arrieta getting pushed up for the win total. Let’s do it for the right reasons, shall we?

Dave: Do they Mets re-sign both Murphy and Cespedes? I can’t see them sending Conforto down to make room next year.
Klaw: I think neither. Murphy isn’t worth the cost anyway and Cespedes seems likely to be overpaid based on August.

J: Starting Marilynne Robinson’s Houskeeping this week. If I remember correctly you liked it?
Klaw: Loved it. I adore her writing, and the prose in that book has this haunting sparse quality that I will never forget.

Mrs. Grichuk: Injured recently, but has Grichuk moved up to a legit daily corner OF as opposed to a platoon/4th OF?
Klaw: Not for me. I don’t think you can be an everyday corner guy with plate discipline that poor.

Chris Wilcox: How does Michael Conforto only have 12 PA vs lefties in almost 2 months in the majors? Considering the problems that Murphy, Duda, and Granderson have against left handed pitching, is he really any worse of a candidate to face lefties than they are? He seemed to hit lefties reasonably well in the minors, no?
Klaw: He’ll never learn to hit them if they don’t let him face them … and they’re winning that division so it’s not like they have to bench him to help the team right now.

MJ: What do you think the Jays SHOULD do with Osuna next year? Leave him as closer or stretch him out to start? If they start him, how would you manage his innings? Start him in the bullpen and stretch him out by ASB, shut him down early, skip starts, or some other way?
Klaw: Can’t just jump him to 180 innings, so I’d consider making him a sort of long reliever early in the season to stretch him out. I do think he should get a chance to start again.

Ed: I’ve heard that Dillon Cease’s fastball is looking good, but that his control isn’t there at all. Does this line up with where he was at pre-TJ? Is he progressing as you’d expect or is it still too early to tell? Thanks!
Klaw: He walked 16 in 25 innings about a year off surgery. I don’t think that’s remotely alarming or surprising. If he’s still walking 6 per 9 in 2017 I’d be worried.

Phil: Do you think the Mets are going to trade Harvey in the offseason?
Klaw: I think they’ll entertain offers, but if they do so, they almost have to get a young starter back because they traded away their depth in Fulmer and Meisner. Without Harvey they’re at five starters, with Colon presumably gone as a free agent, and of the five remaining three have had some kind of significant injury in the past.

Dave: Do we see james kaprielian up at some point next year?
Klaw: I think he could but the Yankees don’t always move recent draftees aggressively. He’s more command than pure stuff so I think he’ll rip apart A ball next year.

Tom: I think it’s interesting that Twitter/Chat Klaw says that Arreita shouldn’t get pushed up for the Wins total, but BBTN Klaw last night mentioned Arrieta’s 20 wins as something that could be considered. Is it harder in a live forum like that to dispel certain stats especially when your co-hosts are bringing it up?
Klaw: Hold on a minute. I specifically said on the show that won-lost records shouldn’t be considered, but that some voters do consider them and that would help his candidacy. There’s a difference between me arguing who should win and me predicting who will win.

Dan: How did Jake Thompson look when you saw him pitch against Bowie?
Klaw: 90-93, above avg cb, avg-ish SL, handful of mid-80s changeups. Fourth starter who could end up a three or better due to his command and control. Delivery works too, very compact and online to the plate.

Rob: Thoughts on Molly Knight’s comments regarding Yadi?
Klaw: I think she’s generally right in the sense that they are not the same team without him calling games. They’re not dead, but it’s hard to replace what he does with that staff.

Dan: If anybody is going to pull away from the pack and be the clear-cut No. 1 overall pick next year, who’s most likely to do that?
Klaw: The one guy I haven’t seen in this group, Alec Hanson at Oklahoma, was up to 98 in their fall scout day with an above avg slider. Listed at 6’7″, 235. He could end up pulling a Gerrit Cole and separating himself quickly.

Scott: Do you think the Giants re-sign Marlon Byrd? Relatively cheap, and while he isn’t awesome, he’s likely better than anybody else they’d throw out there in LF? Horrible contact rate, but does have some pop.
Klaw: Not on Williamson? I think he can be more productive than what’s left of Byrd, who can’t play defense and as you said is a one-trick guy at the plate.

Rob: How did Kang do vs. what you thought he’d do, and how do you think his success will affect the bidding on Park?
Klaw: I rated him pretty highly – top 15 free agent last winter, thought he’d get about twice as much as he did. I don’t think anything will fully convince GMs that Korean hitters or Japanese hitters are safe bets.

Lars: What have you heard about Nick Gordon. Seems like he really raked for the last 3 months of the season. Do you think he’s a top 100 guy?
Klaw: He was a top 100 guy last winter and he still is one for me. High-contact SS with a chance for more pop than Dee.

Chris H.: Heard the new Chvrches yet (it’s streaming on NPR)? If so, initial thoughts?
Klaw: I’m streaming it right now. I’d already heard 4-5 songs though – “Leave a Trace” might be my favorite song of theirs.

Scott: Good call on Williamson, from my earlier question. Are Beede or Crick ready to join the rotation next year? Thanks again for keeping these chats going. I’m sure I’m speaking for many when I say “thank you.”
Klaw: Don’t think so. Crick has to go to the bullpen; Beede is now throwing 88-89 mph sinkers, his slider has backed up, and he had a 5.60 ERA in AA with bad peripherals.

Justin: Thoughts on Stephen A’s tweet about Andrew Miller as non-closer? Don’t know how you deal with working for that network.
Klaw: It was a scorching hot take. You’d have to be quite ignorant of baseball to think of Miller as some generic reliever; he’s been elite for a little while now, and the comparison to Rivera is absurd because Mo is the best one-inning closer in history.

Nick: From a “readiness” standpoint, who would you feel more comfortable slotting into your opening day rotation next year between Urias, Giolito, or Appel?
Klaw: Appel over Giolito way over Urias.

Jay: Re: Coghlan’s slide, something being commonplace and accepted also doesn’t make it ok.
Klaw: Also true. Like, say, ~39 states lacking any laws banning discrimination against transgender people.

Bob: How highly do you rate Yogi Berra? Not to speak ill of the dead, but it seems that some of his ranking by most is due to his being on some great Yankee teams. Looking at the stats, none of his three MVP awards was deserved. Ted Williams smoked him twice but didn’t play on a championship team those years.
Klaw: I think he’s been overrated because of the teams on which he played, the city in which he played, and his personality. His teammates adored him, the media adored him, the fans adored him, he even got a boost because George Steinbrenner treated him like garbage. Definitely a HoFer though.

Kirk: How does Max Kepler fit into the Twins plans over the next year? Don’t expect him to start the the season in the bigs, but by July I would think he’d be banging on the door…
Klaw: Right field? I know they want to re-sign Hunter, but he’s terrible – as predicted – and they need to move on from that nonsense.

Javier: Hot take: Wu-Tang Clan is or is not something to fuck with?
Klaw: Sources say they are not.

Jeff: Didi Gregorious has been a pleasant surprise after a rough start to the season. He will probably finish with a 3 fWAR season. Is that a reasonable expectation for him or is there more upside?
Klaw: Maybe a little more avg. Otherwise this is what I thought he would be.

Tom: I know you disdain the IBB in nearly all cases, but last night Scioscia IBB’d the winning run with 2 outs in the 9th to face Gattis, a guy who strikes out a lot and doesn’t get on base much. And, presto, he struck out to end the game. Because this actually worked, does it make it good strategy for the situation?
Klaw: I think the math on that one – and like it or not, the IBB is a math question, not a question of what your gut flora tell you – is complex, because Gattis isn’t really a major league hitter. Guys with .275 OBPs (or .500 OBPs) probably fall outside the probability distributions covered by run expectancy charts. Gattis vs any RHP with a decent breaking ball is a bad matchup for Houston, to the point where they should be PH for him late in games.

Chris H: physical newspapers or digital?
Klaw: I haven’t gotten a physical paper in over a decade. I do still read physical books as well as e-books.

Bob: Regarding take-out slides, isn’t the concept of physically interfering with a fielder doing his job contrary to the entire spirit of the game? It’s not a contact sport. For instance, we don’t let players use their hands to knock the ball out of a fielder’s glove (like A-Rod a few years ago).
Klaw: It’s also against the rules. If you’ve been called out, and then go walk over to the guy with the ball and put him in a chokehold, you’re going to get suspended. Why wouldn’t sliding into the guy with your knees up get the same response?

Jonny Bison: I have a ten-month old daughter, and I have found myself throttling back career ambitions so that I can devote more time/energy to fatherhood. I know that you have made similar decisions. Do you think there is an age your daughter will reach where you will start considering career options that you aren’t currently?
Klaw: She’s nine and I’m not really there. If anything I want to be home more than ever because we can do so many more things together. We cook together, we read together, we play boardgames together, we’re going apple picking this weekend, I want to teach her to ride a bike this fall … I’d be nuts to want less time at home.

Zach: Astros DH next season is……?
Klaw: Reed or White.

Troy: pretty sure you’re the biggest brewers hater I’ve ever seen? Why is that? You hate the process for hiring a new gm, but they interviewed brooks, bloom, kantrovitz and Montgomery too. you hate the players, hate the former GM, hate the farm system, hate the owner. Why are you so negative? did gord ash do something to you in Toronto? You’re like a little girl.
Klaw: Sorry, I had to stop laughing before I could answer this. You’re the one having a tantrum in my chat, but I’m “like a little girl” (which is offensive to me as the father of a little girl who could quite easily put you in your place). As for the interview process, I know a lot more about it than you do – including where your list of candidates is wrong.

Ben: Keith, why do we still hear the title “best hitter in baseball” assigned to Miggy? He’s had an extraordinary career, but isnt BHIB currently pretty clearly Number 34 in red? (Unless one thinks he has had a career year at age…22.
Klaw: It’s like an honorific or some crap like that. Miggy’s a great hitter still but not what he was a few years ago and of course not likely to stay healthy for 160 games any more.

Joe: Just saw Neftali Feliz pop up with Detroit, hadn’t seen his name in a while. What went wrong/never materialized for him?
Klaw: Wasn’t quite the same after injuries. Maybe wasn’t that good to begin with but the arm was so electric we were all seduced by it.

JP: Klaw – if your daughter is with a friend’s family and they say, “hey we want to take the girls to McDonalds” how do you respond?
Klaw: Fine with me. My daughter might not be pleased though.

JP: Joe Sheehan tweeted that there are now 4 NL Central teams with analytic front offices…..and the Reds. True or False?
Klaw: Brewers aren’t there yet. Maybe in a year.

Pat: Would you sign Jason Heyward to play CF, or just keep him in a corner?
Klaw: Probably in a corner, to avoid a risk of injury.

Chuck: Who is one player that the media fawns over that really drives you nuts? Someone they waaaaay overrate?
Klaw: Francoeur came up earlier this summer. Torii Hunter. Not a player but the idea that Showalter can do no wrong here – when every one of his previous stops has seen him wear out his welcome faster than a vegan in a butcher shop – perplexes me.

Ben: Keith, why do we still hear the title “best hitter in baseball” assigned to Miggy? He’s had an extraordinary career, but isnt BHIB currently pretty clearly Number 34 in red? (Unless one thinks he has had a career year at age…22.
Klaw: It’s like an honorific or some crap like that. Miggy’s a great hitter still but not what he was a few years ago and of course not likely to stay healthy for 160 games any more.

Kris Bryant: Better question is, why is Coghlan playing almost every day which leaves Soler or Baez (or both) on the bench.
Klaw: Veteran presents?

JP: Joe Sheehan tweeted that there are now 4 NL Central teams with analytic front offices…..and the Reds. True or False?
Klaw: Brewers aren’t there yet. Maybe in a year.

Ryan: What are your thoughts on the new developments in the Patrick Kane case and do you think he should be allowed to still play while he is being investigated for these charges?
Klaw: NHL has the right to suspend him pending resolution and then to conduct its own investigation to determine his fitness to play. And they should.

Oliver Samuel: How would you rank Conforto’s tools and has his performance in the majors increased what you think his fielding ceiling is?
Klaw: No, I thought he could be a solid avg defender in left even on draft day. (Thanks to Rising Apple Blog for digging that up earlier this week.) 60/65 hit, 55 power, 50 glove, I think a 50 or better arm, and while it’s not a tool his plate discipline is plus-plus.

Robert: Coghlan plays because he has a 3.1 fWAR this year, while Soler and Baez have combined for a 0.5 fWAR.
Klaw: Soler and Baez had lower WARs because they were hurt/in the minors. On June 15th Kyle Schwarber had a 0.0 fWAR. Maybe they shouldn’t have played him at all after that?

Pat: Is Jorge Posada a HOFer?
Klaw: Not for me, but he’ll get 30-40% of the vote or so. The sad thing is he would have a much better case if they hadn’t buried him behind Girardi till Jorge turned 26.

Ryan: I really enjoyed the movie reviews you used to do more frequently here on the Dish. What some of your favorite movies you have seen in 2015?
Klaw: I lost my movie buddy (Nick Piecoro) when I left Phoenix. I’ve seen Inside Out and Birdman and I think that’s it. It’s awful.

Jeff: One of my favorite articles you wrote was Tim Raines and the HOF. On that note, do you think that Harper’s season is easier to overlook because Trout accomplished these numbers 2-3 years prior?
Klaw: Thank you. That’s possible, although I think Harper having a personality has hurt him more. Remember when Boswell called him the 7th-best player in their lineup? I don’t know how you look at his skillset and say something like that.

Chris H.: Hot dogs: (a) avoid at all costs; (b) fine, in moderation; or (c) more please?
Klaw: I eat maybe one or two a year.

Will: Why does it seem like the O’s have so much trouble with young pitching (Matusz, Arrieta – before he left, Gausman, Tillman, injuries to Harvey/Bundy)? Is it just the natural risk involved with young arms or do you see an issue in their system?
Klaw: Any time you see that many arms fail to pan out in a short period of time you have to at least consider the most likely explanation that it is a systemic problem, and try to rule that out before accepting that it’s a fluke. Showalter has definitely moved too many guys on the rubber to their detriment. And I’ve now heard a few times from different sources about him and their former pitching coach getting into huge arguments with Arrieta.

Chris H.: Do you or does someone else decide the “sports coat, no tie” look on BT?
Klaw: The exec overseeing BBTN this year dispensed with ties. I’m thrilled – I have always found them uncomfortable and I think dressing more casually lends itself to us being more loose on set. Eduardo and I have been joking around on the show a lot this week and I don’t think that’s a coincidence.

Harrison: Does Austin Meadows develop 25 homerun power? Still a Jay Bruce comp?
Klaw: It is in there but he has to hit the ball on a line more and less on the ground. I’m still a believer because he’s young and the pirates do develop players well.

Ed_____: Wow. And so another kitten is lost needlessly.
Klaw: When the current mass extinction event hits Felis catus, you’ll know who to blame. That’s all for this week’s chat – thank you so much as always for joining me. I’ll be on the late BBTN tonight right after the Dodgers/Dbacks game, and on Thursday night as well. Next Periscope and Klawchat will be next week and my annual “players I got wrong” piece will go up tomorrow. Thanks again!

Klaw: Flying in the face of fashion … it’s Klawchat.

Nate: Does Jorge Lopez make your top 100? If so, what range would you slot him?
Klaw: I don’t know if he’s a top 100 guy – I won’t really sit down to work on that until December – although I do like him for what he is, an average FB/good CB guy who can really pitch and has a good delivery.

Jeff: Is Albert Almora going to be good enough offensively to be a big league regular? He finished strong at AA but I would think his glove can only carry him so far.
Klaw: If he doesn’t walk or hit for power, he’ll have to hit .290-.300 on a regular basis to be a quality everyday player. AJ Pollock did something along these lines, but he could also really run, and I think he’s always had better plate discipline than Almora.

Willy: What changed with Jake Thompson since the trade to make him perform so much better with Reading?
Klaw: I don’t know if anything changed, but I’m going to see him tonight at Bowie in their playoff game, which will be fairly loaded with prospects (him, Nick Williams, JP Crawford, Andrew Knapp, Chance Sisco, Trey Mancini). If any of you decide to come to the game, please swing by and say hi.

Jon V: Keith – are you a bit surprised at Lindor’s offensive numbers for his first half year in the big leagues?
Klaw: No, not really. He could always hit and his approach has been very advanced since he was in high school. I had some doubts about him his senior year, but in hindsight I think I was channeling industry fatigue from seeing him so much. He may actually have been *over*scouted.

Tim: DJ Davis…still a prospect?
Klaw: Still not a player. (I never liked that pick. Second or third round, sure, but first, way too risky a profile.)

Cody Rhoads: I liked your suggestion of Ray Montgomery for Phillies GM. Chaim Bloom is interviewing in Milwaukee today, is he another option for Philadelphia?
Klaw: I haven’t heard any specific names in Philly at all. Jayson Stark said last Thursday that MacPhail hadn’t made any calls yet on that spot.

Marcus: Do you think the Angels took away the running game away from Trout or was it his own decision?
Klaw: More the former. Supposedly it bothers Pujols to have Trout running in front of him.

Ben: Is there any chance we’ll get to see a sneak peek of Orlando Arcia in Milwaukee once Biloxi’s playoffs have concluded?
Klaw: He’s not on the 40-man now, so unless he has to go on this winter to protect him from the rule 5 (I don’t know offhand), I would say no.

Mike: Besides Tyler Kolek and Josh Naylor, is there anyone we can actually get excited about in Miami’s system?
Klaw: I’m not sure you should get that excited about those guys either.

JR, Connecticut: Hi Keith, hope you got to see some of the abhorrent nonsense on vaccines during thaat clown show of a debate last night. Do you see the Mets resigning Cespedes in the offseason and if so what would you think a fair contract would be?
Klaw: I didn’t watch the debate, because a room full of science deniers like that isn’t reallly the place for me. I’m not a “single-issue” voter, but I will say that if you deny the basic science on vaccines, evolution, or climate change, I can’t vote for you. Accepting facts is sort of a necessary condition. I don’t think they’ll re-sign him – I think he’ll get wildly overpaid by the market relative to his projected output, probably well north of $20MM/year.

Wally: What would you do this offseason if you were Nats GM – plug in behind the departing FAs, or even more dramatic reconstruction? Let’s assume the manager goes (might not be a slam dunk for them, but is for most fans)
Klaw: Turner to SS, AJ Cole and Tanner Roark to the rotation, Giolito to AAA, Reynaldo Lopez to the major-league bullpen. The tough one is CF: Michael Taylor’s glove is exceptional, but can you live with a year or two of offensive struggles? I can, but ownership might disagree.

C Hoffman: Can I play with madness?
Klaw: There’s no vision there at all.

John Houser: The Rangers have been aggressive with Brinson and Mazara. Is there room for both of them in Arlington next year? I am thinking Brinson could use a full AAA season.
Klaw: Brinson’s glove is ready but I agree with you at least to the extent that Brinson should start in AAA with a goal of maybe 200 or so AB. Mazara seems more ready, but where does he play? Can they dump Choo’s contract on someone? He’s an awfully expensive platoon player, and since they’re both LHB you can’t even work them both in.

Tally Dave: Keith, Jake Arrieta has a 2nd half ERA of 0.90, which if holds up would be the lowest in MLB history…just crazy about his dominance over an extended period…to me it’s a no-doubter but what would be your order between Arrieta, Kershaw, Greinke?
Klaw: Kershaw, Greinke, Arrieta, although if you want to flip the first two I’m fine with that. I don’t see why the second-half ERA should count more than the first (in fact, it should count less as the second half is usually shorter).

Jonathan: As a Red Sox fan do I have a right to be concerned that Dombrowski is going clean out the farm AND bring Frank Wren in as GM?
Klaw: You absolutely have that right, at least until proven otherwise.

Dave: Bryan Mitchell’s 67 ERA+ … SSS slump, not that good, or not ready?
Klaw: Not that good.

Jeff: Travis d’Arnaud looks like a superstar. Is this his ceiling if he can ever stay healthy?
Klaw: I think so. He was my #7 or #8 prospect one year with the Mets, before the injuries started. I’m not sure he will ever be healthy enough to catch 130 games in a season, but I hope I’m wrong.

MSW: So it seems like ESPN isn’t killing chats after all? Schoenfeld and Karabell have held their normal chats this week. Just wondering what’s going on with them in general.
Klaw: I have no idea. Klawchats are here now, and only here.

Larry Dodger: Does Urias hit majors in 2016? It seems like Dodgers have limited his innings so much it does not seem like he goes over 125 IP next year.
Klaw: He also was horrible in a brief AAA stint. Why push him? He should come up when he’s ready to contribute in some role, not when the fans (or the owners, who I imagine see dollar signs with him) demand it.

JR, Ct: Hi Keith, noticed only one New Haven pizzeria on your best of list. Whatof the other big hitters (Sally’s/Modern)?
Klaw: Haven’t been. Might try one next week.

Dave: It is clear the Reds think Michael Lorenzen has a lot of potential. It is also pretty clear he is a pretty bad MLB pitcher right now. What does he need to fix, and do you see him doing it?
Klaw: I think and have long thought he’d have to go to the bullpen. Big fastball without enough life, no above average secondary pitch.

Jerome Seinfeld: If a player who pitches in 30-35 games can win the MVP, why not Cespedes?
Klaw: False analogy time! A pitcher has more impact on the outcome of a game he starts (facing 30 or so batters) than a position player does (about 4 plate appearances and a couple of plays in the field).

CJ: Is Aaron Altherr turning into a pretty good player? Or will he be an average regular?
Klaw: Great athlete but probably an extra/bench guy in the long run. Still young enough to surprise, though.

Corey Anderson: If mlb changed roster sizes and had an active roster and inactive roster for a specific game, how many players would you like to see active on game day? How many player should each team carry as inactive?
Klaw: The real question there is how many bench players and relievers – you need 8 (NL) or 9 (AL) hitters and one starting pitcher as a given. Is a 5-man bench and 6-man bullpen sufficient, giving a little more flexibility to managers in September as they cope with tired/sore players?

Bryan: You’ve talked a lot about position on the rubber for Gausman, Should different pitchers start on different spots on the rubber?
Klaw: Yes. Whatever works for them – some guys want to be on their glove side (1b for a RHP) so they’re more online to the plate; some guys (e.g., Arrieta) want to be on their arm side to get that cross-body deception.

hankpsu: Keith, did you see the slide by Coghlan that (more than likely) ended Kang’s season? Legit play?
Klaw: No, I was here, but if that ends Kang’s season that sucks.

BM: What is your opinion of Servino now….Still think he will end up as a RP? Thanks
Klaw: Yes, I do. Now that everyone has had a chance to see him a few times, don’t you see the same delivery concerns I did – the lack of use of the lower half, the big arm speed generated entirely from his torso and shoulder?

Erix: Hi Keith! Can you tell me a bit about Toronto RHP Connor Greene? The Jays seem to be quite bullish on him.
Klaw: Saw him in HS against Dominic Smith – Greene was a skinny little guy, 89-90 with some control but all projection. He’s been hitting 97 this year, so good job by the Jays with that pick.

MSW: You’ve always been one of the highest on Gavin Cecchini, and it seems like his bat is coming along. However, he has posted 28 errors at SS. Since I can only scout the stat line, I’d love your opinion on his future. Can he stick at SS? Future utility guy? Thanks Keith!
Klaw: Shortstop. Hands, range, instincts all there. Has the arm strength but had trouble with throws in the first half – very erratic, not Steve Sax bad but not good. That tapered off in the second half – I think he had 21 errors in their first half (about 70% of their season), 7 in the second.

BJInIndiana: What are your thoughts about rehab stints during MiLB playoffs? I’m a Cubs fan, but Soler starting for the Pelicans felt a little off to me.
Klaw: Yeah, I’m not a fan, although with Soler playing about half effort level when I saw the game here on Monday it didn’t matter.

Thomas: More upside Adam Warren or Ivan Nova?
Klaw: You guys know my position on this: hitters shouldn’t get ‘time’ except in extraordinary circumstances.

Chris: would Kevin Maitan even at such a young age come anywhere close to a top 100 list?
Klaw: Absolutely not.

Josh: Have you had a chance to watch Mychal Givens pitch? Future closer?
Klaw: Yes. Sidearm guy, though, and had some trouble with LHB in the minors. Great stuff, but if lefties continue to get to him he won’t be able to close.

Dan: No question, just a thanks. Your chats are fun to read, thanks for finding an alternative way to do them.
Klaw: You’re welcome – thank you all for sticking with me and coming over here to keep them going. The chats would be very boring without readers asking questions.

Jake: Iran Deal. Good or bad.
Klaw: Good. Not perfect, but what treaty ever is?

aj: what was your thought on Zagunis when you saw him in Delaware?
Klaw: Saw several games and he was never in the lineup.

John: How far has Wilson Contreras moved himself up the prospect list this year? Is he getting close to a top 100 guy? Thanks!
Klaw: He’s legit and one of the top catching prospects in the minors right now. Really, if you can catch and throw and hit just a little, you’re a top 100 consideration guy at this point. The scarcity of catchers pushes up the value of the few who can really do it.

Ryan: Kang was just taken out of the game on a way-out-of-the-baseline slide in the Bucs-Cubs game. If we’re addressing the Catch collisions, this has to be addressed at some point right? No idea how Kang is doing yet, but someone could easily tear up a knee ligament on one of these.
Klaw: Did Coghlan go for the player not the base? (I don’t want to pause the chat to go watch – I’ll look after) To me that should be an automatic ejection and suspension. Sliding at the fielder while just sticking a hand out at the base doesn’t clear you. Intent to “take out” is intent to injure. Let’s not be naive here.

C Stone: It seems like all the Orioles SPs have regressed like crazy in the second half, after improving greatly during the second half last year. Bad luck? Bad coaching? Or are they just pitching to their true talent now?
Klaw: I have raised the question or even the criticism of Buck and his coaching staff’s culpability and was told I was nuts or biased or whatever. He’s a good manager overall, but if what he’s doing there isn’t working and in fact is actively hurting the team, then that’s a problem. From pitchers there regressing or failing to develop to Arrieta leaving and making simple mechanical adjustments that turned him into an ace, at some point Buck should have to answer for what’s gone on.

Guesto: Not baseball related but writing/journalism related: thoughts on the major layoffs at NYDN, NOLA Times Picayune? Are we watching the death of journalism?
Klaw: Newspapers have been dying for a long time anyway. I’m more upset about NOLA in effect losing its one newspaper than NYC potentially losing one of three. Plus, all this handwringing over the ‘big names’ at the NYDN … first of all, don’t weep for the big names, weep for the little names who never made that much money to begin with. And, second, has everyone forgotten that Bill Madden was an unrepentant strikebreaker back in 1990-91?

Doug: Can you tell me a bit about Ryan O’Hearn. Lead the Sally in HR before being promoted and still finished 1st. Then had a 125 wRC+ in a tough Wilmington park/league. K’s will be a concern, but seems like a perhaps first division profile role 50 possibly. How’s the defense look?
Klaw: He’s not a regular or close to it, power over hit without much of an approach, 1b only … and I don’t know where you got that silly scouting lingo but it makes no sense to me.

Tom: Any other read-aloud suggestions in addition to Jasper FForde? We really liked Sheila Turnage’s stuff.
Klaw: We’ve done the Harry Potter series and all of the Paddington books as well. She also liked Around the World in 80 Days after its somewhat slow start. Treasure Island didn’t grab her so we ditched that.

Mike: I know you aren’t big in to what veteran presence or clubhouse chemistry can bring to a team. I’ve been reading The Happiness Advantage and it says that the biggest factor in team success (granted they mean corporate world) is how well everyone works together. Thoughts on how that applies to baseball and is there a way to measure it?
Klaw: And other books, including Jonah Lehrer’s now out of print Imagine (pulled because he fabricated a bunch of stuff in another chapter), and studies have shown that conflict in the office produces more creative results. Amazon is a good example of that – that NY Times article arguing it’s a horrible place to work (and in some cases it might be) didn’t consider the effect that this crazy internal competition is what has made the company both innovative and successful.

Scott: What are good projections for Trea Turner? I want to know just how bad the Padres are going to regret that trade.
Klaw: That’s going to be some grade 70 regret for them and grade 80 for the Rays.

Daniel Zaudtke: Can we stop and admire the formation of the next great player in Bryce Harper?
Klaw: Works for me. Everyone take a moment. … okay, moment’s over. Thanks.

Schiraldi: Interested in Dom Smith vs Jake Bauers as prospects. Seems like would pick Smith first; is his power simply more likely to come?
Klaw: Yes, and a much better hitter and defender.

Chris: I know he hasn’t pitched this year. Thoughts on ian clarkin when healthy?
Klaw: I liked him quite a bit but at this point anything I say on him seems like empty speculation.

Jim, Rockville: Keith, you suggest AJ Cole to the Nats’ rotation in 2016. Earlier (the off-season? 2014?) you opined that Cole may be better in the ‘pen, since his stuff may not be good enough as a starter. What changed your view? Thanks!
Klaw: I think I said he should break in as a reliever, for a couple of reasons, not least of which is the wobbly command he showed in that one start this spring where Matt Williams decided to burn him at the stake by having him issue an IBB while he was already having trouble throwing strikes.

ar: Why are people so bullish on McPhail? Because he seems to be a good manager? He doesn’t strike me as a particularly progressive thinker. He may be open to new ideas, but are his sabermetric chops really that impressive?
Klaw: Are his “sabermetric chops” the ones that matter? If he surrounds himself with smart people, isn’t that the key?

Frank: What did you make of Harper backing Matt Williams? Does it have any impact of Williams future in DC?
Klaw: A smart kid saying the right things when he knows the manager is dead man walking. What would Harper have to gain from burying the guy?

Mike: I appreciate you doing this, but FYI, the reverse scroll is hard to follow.
Klaw: The transcript I post after the fact (thanks to reader Patrick for the Python script) clears that up. I can’t fix the software I use, but we’ve worked to make the transcripts more user-friendly.

Jon: Who would be the closest comp you can think of for JP Crawford?
Klaw: Oddly enough, he reminds me a lot of Jimmy Rollins, but with more polish at the plate than Rollins had at the same age.

Craig: Should the Twins start Buxton in AAA next year to work on his bat or his the defense simply too good to not have up in Minnesota?
Klaw: I would. Don’t rush the guy if he’s not ready. It nearly derailed Aaron Hicks.

Matt burks: Keith, this may be a stupid question but, do you like dumping on people? I follow you on Twitter and I have to say when you sh*t on people it is hilarious
Klaw: I only dish out the snark when it’s harmless (e.g., impersonal … I avoid personal insults or foul language) and I think it will entertain the bulk of the audience. I’ve had a lot of scouts and MLB execs tell me that’s their favorite part of my Twitter output. If I find I’m getting mean or vicious, though, it’ll be time to stop.

Scott: have you had a chance to see jairo beras at all? do you think he will ever be worth the controversy?
Klaw: Yes, probably worth it, not Mazara/Brinson level good.

Rick: Can Austin Riley stick at 3B?
Klaw: Sounds like it.

NMN: Please make more fun of Cespedes for MVP people. Harper’s season could be unmatched by non-cheaters in the last 50 years.
Klaw: This is driven by media members looking for attention and people who dislike Harper because he plays the game too much the right way. Both groups are worthy of derision.

Chris, Larchmont: Given Mets hold on, do you think they should just keep Harvey off postseason roster. Given the Inning Limit distractions and fact he’ll only pitch 5 innings per outing, why not just ride Matz, Thor, deGrom (who’s getting tired)? Is Harvey more harm than good at this point?
Klaw: That’s a good question without an easy answer. If deGrom is tired, isn’t he at higher risk of injury too? Should he be given the NLDS off in favor of Harvey, and then perhaps you switch them if you get to the LCS?

E.H. Zwick: Are you coming to Toronto for any games down the stretch and if so what restaurants are going to hit? Lots of change since you lived here.
Klaw: No, I don’t travel to playoff games or the like – I’ll be in Bristol next week and a bit of the week after, then I will write up my top 50 free agent rankings before heading out to the AFL in mid-October.

Stephen: What is your favorite Iron Maiden song? For me, I break it down into categories of live and recorded, and it’s Fear of the Dark (live) and The Wicker Man (recorded).
Klaw: Ever? The Number of the Beast, Wasted Years, The Trooper (mostly for that intro riff … the lyrics are not their best). I like the hits.

mi: Travis Snider just homered… What kind of player did you see him becoming as a prospect?
Klaw: Thought he’d be a star, that he’d hit and hit for power and play good corner OF defense. He never could figure out where to get his hands to cover both the inner third and the outside corner.

Frank: Is Mac Williamson a bench guy or does he have potential to be an everyday player?
Klaw: Everyday potential – power, speed, glove, arm, might not hit that much … but the Giants do have some positive history on that front.

Mike: Keith, I know Blake Snell is a top prospect but why is it never mentioned that he only pitches 5 innings and doesn’t ever turn the lineup over a 3rd time I would think this would be a bigger deal
Klaw: Why would it? If that’s a new trend in MLB anyway, and it helps keep pitchers healthy (healthier), I don’t see the problem.

Chris, Larchmont: Marcos Molina start in AA next year?
Klaw: If his elbow hasn’t blown, maybe, but I think that arm slot and delivery are destined for the pen if they don’t give him further trouble.

Andrew: Why does Evan Gattis continue to start for the Astros? At what point do the Astros look for other options (Tucker)?
Klaw: Between Tyler White and AJ Reed, Houston has two good reasons to non-tender Gattis this winter.

Steve: Gary sanchez getting traded? Package of refsnyder and sanchez get anything good?
Klaw: I don’t think that gets you a big impact guy in return. Refsnyder is a great kid and a good story but none of that helps his defense at second.

Scott: Thoughts on Mattingly removing Wood at 78 pitches thru 8?
Klaw: I thought it was great.

Frank: I know it will not impact your vote but do you believe voters for ROY take into consideration or are influenced by pre-season hype or expectations on the players under consideration for the award?
Klaw: Probably, but maybe in both ways – some voters seem to vote against hype.

JR: How worried should KC be about Cueto? Is this SSS that he will work out, or is something else causing his recent troubles? And how much $$, if any, is this costing him?
Klaw: I worry about his health. His free agency will be fascinating – you have to want an MRI before you sign him, right?

Jim, Rockville: Keith, just for historical context, Coghlan also blew up Iwakuma’s knee back in 2009. In that instance everyone said the slide was legit, but it does perhaps show a pattern?
Klaw: Is that true?

Scott: Will Friedman/Zaidi really allow Rollins over Seager to start in playoffs? (I hope not)
Klaw: I want to say I doubt it, but I wonder if this is a situation where they are trying to get Mattingly and perhaps Rollins himself on board.

Charles: Favorite HS position player not named Rutherford in the 2016 draft?
Klaw: Kiriloff, Rizzo, McIlwain, Tuck … but I really liked Bo Bichette at the Metropolitan Classic. He’s way better than his brother – more athletic, better approach, doesn’t have that back-side collapse at the plate.

Steve: Is it possible for a guy with average arm strength to refine his mechanics enough to generate the velocity necessary to succeed on a high level?
Klaw: Sometimes, but it’s not universal. Changing mechanics in general is not simple; we hear about the successes but never the failures.

steve: Have you read Emily St. John Mandel’s Station Eleven? Beautiful book.
Klaw: It’s on my to-buy list. Currently finishing Alison Lurie’s Foreign Affairs, then going to read Hardy’s Far from the Madding Crowd. I also have All the Light We Cannot See coming up in the queue.

Rob: What do you think of Dilmot so far? Worth the price? Would recommend?
Klaw: A little pricey but easy to use and very good customer service so far.

Michael: Will you laugh or cry if Cespedes wins the NL MVP?
Klaw: Laugh. Always laugh – this stuff is hilarious. I get mad over licensed doctors in California helping people avoid vaccinations.

Chris: Where does the Dodgers farm system rank? Still top heavy and lacking in depth?
Klaw: Yes, although the big july 2nd haul helps, or will help in a year or so when we see if any of those kids is any good.

Joe: Wife and I started playing Slendor together. Love it. What game should we add next, knowing that we liked Splendor?
Klaw: How about Samurai? New edition comes out later this month, very simple rules, works for 2 players as well as 3-4. I’ll have a review on Paste next week.

Brad: When’s your next periscope? Thanks!
Klaw: So the plan is one Periscope a week and one Klawchat a week, always on different days. Usually I’ll do the Klawchats Thursdays, but when traveling I’ll move them around and will always let you guys know on Twitter and Facebook.

sammy: are both corey ray and jason groome top 5 picks next june? thx
Klaw: Potentially, yes. No locks for me right now.

Jon: I know you thought highly of Scott Kingery during the draft process, any thoughts on his performance so far and when he could see the majors?
Klaw: Small sample, but I’m glad they pushed him to the Sally League right away. He walked about twice as much there as he did in the spring, which is a good sign. If he stays at second base he could be a year or so away.

Josh: Keith, Is Dbacks SS Isan Diaz a legit prospect? Great numbers in short season at 19, but not sure if a guy or GUY
Klaw: He’s definitely a prospect.

Brad: If severino is a reliever, can he be Betances good?
Klaw: Betances’s stuff when starting was not as good as Severino’s stuff is right now.

Brad: Prospects you say you don’t think Weill be good, do you end up rooting against them or the hope they prove you wrong?
Klaw: Oh God, I never, ever root against a prospect. Those are human beings chasing their lifelong dreams.

Joe: How close was Orlando Arcia to making your prospect of the year list?
Klaw: There wasn’t any “close.” I didn’t do a long ranking or anything.

Pythagoreas: I’ve seen it suggested that run differential is a trailing indicator — that teams whose W/L records don’t match their run differential will, going forward, see their W/L performance stay the same and their run differential correct to match that, rather than the other way around. Do you think there’s any validity in that?
Klaw: That hurt my head just to read it. I see no validity at all to that.

Anonymous: Why don’t we see many prospect for prospect trades in baseball?
Klaw: Now I would make this illegal.

Bob: Does it seem that this chat software allows you to answer questions more quickly?
Klaw: I think the software itself is much more responsive.

Jon: Do you think McIlwain gives up football and goes baseball full time?
Klaw: I hope so. He’d be very foolish to turn down a potential $2 million bonus now to go get the crap beaten out of him in SEC football.

Scott: On taking out Wood: You like it because t was good for Wood? Mattingly said would’ve left him with 4-0 lead. Right move, wrong motives?
Klaw: Hah, yes, right move, wrong motives. I liked it because it was good for Wood and good for the team’s chances to win anyway.

Michael: Keith, I know you said this chat service runs at a cost to you, but thanks for doing it. Usually it seems like lip service a bit when a chatter says “they enjoy doing it” because they of course aren’t going to say they hate it, but you paying essentially to chat with us is awesome. Respect brah
Klaw: Word.

Andy: Why don’t all teams have an MRI machine and check players all the time? Every pitcher gets an MRI every two weeks. It won’t prevent traumatic injuries, but could help with wear and tear.
Klaw: They’re expensive, not simple tests, may have some long-term health concerns, and in some cases (where a dye is injected) put the player on the shelf for a few days.

Robert: Has everyone forgotten about Tyler Skaggs? Hoping to see him, Newcomb, and Richards in the same rotation.
Klaw: Their rotation in 2016 won’t be the problem. They have a lot offensive holes to patch and probably need to shore up the bullpen.

Bob:Is your ranking of prospects based on future ceiling, how close they are to the major leagues, or a combination?
Klaw: Much more the former than the latter – otherwise I’d never have an Anderson Espinoza type on the list, and I feel like you guys need to know about him. That’s all for this week – thank you all so much, as always, for joining me here and for reading. I hope to see a few of you in Bowie tonight and I will hold another Klawchat next week, probably on Wednesday. Thanks again.