Super Two Update

There have been a few changes, so I decided to re-post the Super Two class, as best as I can tell.

Andrew Knapp, Phillies (2.171)
Wandy Peralta, Giants (2.167)
Jessie Biddle, Rangers (2.166)
Hunter Renfroe, Padres (2.165)
David Hale, Yankees (2.163)
David Dahl, Rockies (2.162)
Brent Suter, Brewers (2.161)
Cody Bellinger, Dodgers (2.160)
Jharel Cotton, Athletics (2.158)
Tyler Glasnow, Rays (2.158)
Jordan Montgomery, Yankees (2.153)
Tyler Austin, Milwaukee (2.150)
Keynan Middleton, Angels (2.150)
Kyle Freeland, Rockies (2.143)
Noe Ramirez, Angels (2.139)
Kyle Ryan, Cubs (2.139)
Johan Camargo, Braves (2.135)
Daniel Roberston, Rays (2.133)
Chris Martin, Braves (2.133)- Due to a stipulation in his contract, Martin will be a free agent.
Luis Cessa, Yankees (2.131)
Dinelson Lamet, Padres (2.130)
Gio Urshela, Yankees (2.127)
Paul DeJong, Cardinals (2.127)- DeJong is already under contract for 2020.
Derek Law, Blue Jays (2.126)
JaCoby Jones, Tigers (2.125)
Jonathan Holder, Yankees (2.124)
A.J. Cole, Indians (2.124)
Julio Urias, Dodgers (2.122)
J.T. Riddle, Marlins (2.118)
Josh Hader, Brewers (2.115)

FIRST FIVE PLAYERS OFF OF THE BUBBLE:

Jarlin Garcia, Marlins (2.114)
Tyler Olson, Indians (2.114)
Luke Weaver, Diamondbacks (2.112)
Matt Chapman, Athletics (2.109)
Ryan Brasier, Boston (2.109)

The 2019 Super Two Class

Update on October 28:  It looks like Derek Law (2.126) and Jharel Cotton (2.158) are going to be Super Two as well.

Update on October 27.  It looks like Jarlin Garcia ended the season with 2.114.  If this is accurate, he is just off the bubble.

Heard today that the Super Two threshold this year is 2.115.

That happens to be exactly Josh Hader's service time: Two years, 115 days. He will get a raise.

— Adam McCalvy (@AdamMcCalvy) October 25, 2019

So with this revelation, I think I see things clearly. I think Julio Urias must have more than the service time, I show him with. Wasn't sure how his suspension affected service time. If this is the case Hader and Garcia are tied for the 28th spot and thus the quota of 29 is filled. I look forward to seeing the official Super Two class when it is posted. UPDATE on October 10: I missed one.  J.T. Riddle of the Marlins ended the year with 2.118 in service time.  He should be a Super Two with that number.  Since Olson and Urias are tied for 29th with Riddle's inclusion, I think they will still both be in the class.  (hat tip to MLB Trade Rumors for the catch of Riddle's status.)

With the arrival of the final day of the regular season, I am ready to present the 2019 Super Two class, as best as I can figure it.

According to my records, a total of 132 players will end the season:

1. On a 40-man roster
2. With at least two years of service time
3. With less than three years of service time
4. With at least 86 days of service time in 2019

Based on these numbers, 29 players(including ties) should receive Super Two status.  Here are the players that I project to be in that class.

Andrew Knapp, Phillies (2.171)
Wandy Peralta, Giants (2.167)
Jessie Biddle, Rangers (2.166)
Hunter Renfroe, Padres (2.165)
David Hale, Yankees (2.163)
David Dahl, Rockies (2.162)
Brent Suter, Brewers (2.161)
Cody Bellinger, Dodgers (2.160)
Tyler Glasnow, Rays (2.158)
Jordan Montgomery, Yankees (2.153)
Tyler Austin, Milwaukee (2.150)
Keynan Middleton, Angels (2.150)
Kyle Freeland, Rockies (2.143)
Noe Ramirez, Angels (2.139)
Kyle Ryan, Cubs (2.139)
Johan Camargo, Braves (2.135)
Daniel Roberston, Rays (2.133)
Chris Martin, Braves (2.133)- Due to a stipulation in his contract, Martin will be a free agent.
Luis Cessa, Yankees (2.131)
Dinelson Lamet, Padres (2.130)
Gio Urshela, Yankees (2.127)
Paul DeJong, Cardinals (2.127)- DeJong is already under contract for 2020.
JaCoby Jones, Tigers (2.125)
Jonathan Holder, Yankees (2.124)
A.J. Cole, Indians (2.124)
Josh Hader, Brewers (2.115)
Jarlin Garcia, Marlins (2.115)
Tyler Olson, Indians (2.114)
Julio Urias, Dodgers (2.114)

FIRST THREE PLAYERS OFF OF THE BUBBLE:

Luke Weaver, Diamondbacks (2.112)
Matt Chapman, Athletics (2.109)
Colin Moran, Pirates (2.107)

One more Reason to NOT Support Jim Crane's Business

Not That I Needed It, but I now have One More Reason to NOT Support Jim Crane's Business

For the record,  I have been a avid Non-Supporter of Jim Crane's baseball-themed business venture based on Texas Avenue for at least five years now.  At some point during that business's transition to new ownership, I realized that the thought of supporting the new version of the business I formerly referred to as the Astros in any public way made me sick to my stomach.

I have been very content with my conscious decision to take on this position and carry it out silently.
However, the recent episode involving the unacceptable bullying behavior of the team's assistant general manager towards female journalists (and by extension, all females) and the  attempt by Mr. Crane's organization to defend said behavior (or at least deny it), compels me to raise my voice.

Today, as Game 2 of the World Series is about to start, the thought of supporting this business makes me as sick to my stomach as it ever has if not more.

Thanks for your attention.

Unofficial Skeeters' 2019 Play-off Page

All Times are Central Time

Atlantic League Championship Series vs. Long Island (Best of 5 Series)
Ducks win series, 3 games to 2.
October 1, at Long Island; Long Island, 7-5
October 2, at Long Island; Sugar Land, 7-0
October 4, at Sugar Land; Sugar Land, 7-5
October 5, at Sugar Land; Long Island, 3-2 (10 innings)
October 6, at Sugar Land; Long Island, 8-4

Freedom Division Championship Series vs. York (Best of 5 Series)
Skeeters win series, 3 games to 1.
September 24, at Sugar Land; York, 8-1
September 25, at Sugar Land; Sugar Land, 5-2
September 27, at York; Sugar Land, 9-1
September 28, at York; Sugar Land, 5-4

Skeeters' Play-off History

2018

Atlantic League Championship Series
Defeated Long Island, 3 games to 2.

Freedom Division Championship Series
Defeated Lancaster, 3 games to 2.


2016

Atlantic League Championship Series
Defeated Long Island, 3 games to 0.

Freedom Division Championship Series
Defeated York, 3 games to 0.

2014

Atlantic League Championship Series
Lost to Lancaster, 3 games to 0.

Freedom Division Championship Series
Defeated York, 3 games to 2.

2013

Freedom Division Championship Series
Lost to Somerset, 3 games to 0.

Thank You, Tim Howard

The video above features Tim Howard's 16 save performance in the 2014 World Cup against Belgium.  It is my favorite soccer memory (not including games that included my child). 

This was truly an impressive performance by Mr. Howard.  However to me, this soccer game is far from the most impressive thing about Tim.

In case you don't know, Howard has a neurological condition known as Tourette Syndrome.  During his career, he has been a great role model for individuals who share the condition, not allowing it to hamper him in any way as he pursues excellence in his chosen field.

In addition, he has been a consistent spokesman and advocate, promoting awareness of TS.  He is involved in an academy at Rutgers in his home state of New Jersey held for teenagers that have TS.  This annual event is designed to help teenagers learn more about TS and become more prepared to thrive with it as a part of their lives.

Personally, I have a vested interest in Tourette Syndrome, so Mr. Howard's efforts have been exceedingly meaningful and inspirational to me. 

Tim Howard's final game as a professional is scheduled for this weekend. I am sad to see him hang up his soccer kit, but I wish him the best off the pitch.  I look forward to hearing of his efforts in the years to come.

If you're looking for more information about Tourette Syndrome, I suggest you start your search with the New Jersey Center for Tourette Syndrome.

How the Super Two Cut-off Could Have Been Even Lower

Yesterday, I looked at how the month-long demotion of three players led to a lower-than-usual Super Two cut-off this season.  

Today,  I dig a little deeper and see how two other moves prevented an additional drop in the Super Two threshold.

Two players were involved in this case.

Tyler Austin, Milwaukee.

Austin was dropped from the Giants' 40-man roster and became a free agent on August 9.  At that point, he fell out of the Super Two picture.  He would not have been included in the Pool used to determine the 22%.

However, Milwaukee selected Austin's contract on September 1, and it appears he will conclude the season on their active roster.  This will give Austin a career service time total of 2.150.  He is in position to claim a Super Two spot.

Wandy Peralta, San Francisco.

Peralta had a service time of 2.138 when the Reds demoted him on August 6. After a 26 day minor league stint, he was promoted on September 1. 

Peralta has since been picked up via waivers by San Francisco, but he is still in line to end the year with 2.167 of service time, a number which lands him in a Super Two spot.


What Effect Did These Moves Have?

In retrospect, If Austin has not been added to a big league roster and Peralta had stayed in the majors for the 26 days he went down, neither would be part of the Super Two picture. 

As a result, the cut-off point would be projected to drop to 2.112.  Under this scenario, Luke Weaver of Arizona would be in position to take the 28th and final Super Two spot at season's end.

Why is the Super Two Cut-Off Going to be So Low?

As I projected 10 days ago, this year's Super Two cut-off mark (2.114) will be much lower than it has been in the last decade.  Since 2009, the previous cut-off mark is (2.122). 

Throughout the 2019 season, the numbers were trending towards a lower number.  However, three significant demotions contributed to an even larger drop-off in the height of the Super Two threshold.


Dylan Covey, White Sox.  

At the season's mid-point, Covey was injured but he was a strong Super Two contender if he could get back onto the big league roster and stick.  However, Covey spent 32 days in the minors during the season's second half. 

He is on course to end the season with only 2 years and 93 days of service time.  He drops off the bubble and the cut-off number drops as well.

Antonio Senzatela, Colorado.

By the season's mid-point, who was injured early in the season, was recovered and on the Rockies roster. He was tracking strongly for a Super Two slot.  However, in July/August, Senzatela spent 35 days in AAA.

As a result of the brief demotion, he will end the season with only 2.105 of career service time.  He is off the bubble, and the number drops.

Ryan Brasier, Boston.

I don't want to sound like a broken record, but Brasier was in essentially the same position as Cover and Senzatela (Super Two-wise) in mid-July. 

Brasier spent 32 days in the AAA after the All-Star break and fell off the bubble as well. He projects to end the season with 2.108 in service time.

What Effect Did These Moves Have?

Based on the service time counts that I have on record, if these three players had stayed up in the big leagues instead of being demoted for 30-plus days, the effect on the Super Two picture would have been large.

Rather than a cut-off mark of 2.114, the cut-off mark would be projecting at 2.124.

Of course, in this scenario the three players mentioned above would be projecting to be Super Twos and four players (four  rather than three due to ties) would be heading for a less-lucrative spot out of the Super Two picutre:  Josh Hader, Jarlin Garcia, Tyler Olson, and Julio Urias.

September 4 Super Two Projection

Andrew Knapp, Phillies (2.171- projected service time at season's end)
Wandy Peralta, San Francisco (2.167)
Jessie Biddle, Rangers (2.166)
Hunter Renfroe, Padres (2.165)
David Hale, Yankees (2.163)
David Dahl, Rockies (2.162)
Brent Suter, Brewers (2.161)
Cody Bellinger, Dodgers (2.160)
Tyler Glasnow, Rays (2.158)
Jordan Montgomery, Yankees (2.153)
Tyler Austin, Milwaukee (2.150)
Keynan Middleton, Angels (2.150)
Kyle Freeland, Rockies (2.143)
Noe Ramirez, Angels (2.139)
Kyle Ryan, Cubs (2.139)
Johan Camargo, Braves (2.135)
Daniel Roberston, Rays (2.133)
Chris Martin, Braves (2.133)
Luis Cessa, Yankees (2.131)
Dinelson Lamet, Padres (2.130)
Gio Urshela, Yankees (2.127)
Paul DeJong, Cardinals (2.127)
JaCoby Jones, Tigers (2.125)
Jonathan Holder, Yankees (2.124)
A.J. Cole, Indians (2.124)
Josh Hader, Brewers (2.115)
Jarlin Garcia, Marlins (2.115)
Tyler Olson, Indians (2.114)
Julio Urias, Dodgers (2.114)

FIRST THREE PLAYERS OFF OF THE BUBBLE:

Luke Weaver, Diamondbacks (2.112)
Matt Chapman, Athletics (2.109)
Colin Moran, Pirates (2.107)

2019 Faces of Super Two- Volume 2.24

Tyler Austin, Milwaukee.

Milwaukee's selection of Tyler Austin's on September 1 will have a substantial impact on the Super Two bubble.

If Austin stays on the big league roster through season's end, he will earn a Super Two spot with 2 years and 150 days of service time.  If Austin had not had his contract selected that Super Two spot would fall to the last player on the bubble- at the moment, that appears to be Luke Weaver of Arizona.

Super Two Projection- With 30 Days to Go

With 30 days left in the season, I still project 2.112 as the Super Two cut-off.

A few September call-ups (or lack thereof) could affect this picture:

For my projection, I assume that Daniel Mengden AND/OR Charlie Tilson will be promoted.  If neither is promoted, there will likely be one less Super Two slot.

I also assumed that Johan Camargo and Daniel Robertson will both be promoted.  If one is not promoted, it will open up a Super Two slot.  If neither is promoted, two slots will become available.

Andrew Knapp, Phillies (2.171- projected service time at season's end)
Wandy Peralta, Reds (2.167)
Jessie Biddle, Rangers (2.166)
Hunter Renfroe, Padres (2.165)
David Hale, Yankees (2.163)
David Dahl, Rockies (2.162)
Brent Suter, Brewers (2.161)
Cody Bellinger, Dodgers (2.160)
Tyler Glasnow, Rays (2.158)
Jordan Montgomery, Yankees (2.153)
Keynan Middleton, Angels (2.150)
Kyle Freeland, Rockies (2.143)
Noe Ramirez, Angels (2.139)
Kyle Ryan, Cubs (2.139)
Johan Camargo, Braves (2.137)
Daniel Roberston, Rays (2.137)
Chris Martin, Braves (2.133)
Luis Cessa, Yankees (2.131)
Dinelson Lamet, Padres (2.130)
Gio Urshela, Yankees (2.127)
Paul DeJong, Cardinals (2.127)
JaCoby Jones, Tigers (2.125)
Jonathan Holder, Yankees (2.124)
A.J. Cole, Indians (2.124)
Josh Hader, Brewers (2.115)
Jarlin Garcia, Marlins (2.114)
Tyler Olson, Indians (2.114)
Julio Urias, Dodgers (2.114)
Luke Weaver, Diamondbacks (2.112)

FIRST TWO PLAYERS OFF OF THE BUBBLE:

Matt Chapman, Athletics (2.109)
Colin Moran, Pirates (2.107)

2019 Faces of Super Two- Volume 2.23

Charlie Tilson, White Sox and Daniel Mengden, Oakland.  

Both Tilson and Mengden are currently in the minors.  However, they will have substantial effect on the Super Two picture if they are promoted in September.

Neither Tilson (2.020) nor Mengden(2.018) has enough career service time, but if either one reaches the 86 day of service time threshold for this season, the Super Class could be increased.

Tilson has 74 days of service time this season.  Mengden has 62 days.  Reaching the 86 day threshold adds another player to the pool used to determine the 22% who earn Super Two slots. 

2019 Faces of Super Two- Volume 2.22

Isiah Kiner-Falefa, Texas.

Kiner-Falefa was demoted by the Rangers either last Tuesday or last Thursday. Either way, it is now mathematically impossible for him to reach two full years of service time by the end of this season.

Kiner-Falefa's demotion could have a significant impact on the Super Two picture.  According to my currently projections, he was in line to be the 132 player to qualify for the pool of players used to determine the 22% who qualify for Super Two status.

Doing the math:

If there are 132 qualifiers, there are 29 Super Two positions.

If there are 131 qualifiers, there are only 28 Super Two positions.

In essence, Kiner-Falefa's demotion could well mean that one player gets bumped from the Super Two bubble.

The most likely candidate is Arizona pitcher Luke Weaver.

2019 Faces of Super Two- Volume 2.21

Johan Camargo, Atlanta(2.106) and Daniel Roberton, Tampa Bay(2.104).

Both of these players spent a majority of the season accruing big league service time, although a substantial amount of that time they were injured.  However, with a week remaining until September call-ups become a reality, Camargo and Robertson are both in the minors. 

What happens to them in September will significantly affect the Super Two bubble.

Option A:  Both Camargo and Robertson are promoted in September and close out the season accruing big league service time.

In this scenario, Camargo and Robertson each earn a Super Two spot, and the Super Two Bubble looks like this:

(29 spots available)

#25- Hader, Milwaukee (2.115)
#26tie- Olson, Cleveland (2.114)
#26tie- Garcia, Miami(2.114)
#26tie- Urias, Dodgers(2.114)
#29- Weaver, Arizona(2.112)

First off the bubble
Chapman, Oakland(2.109)

Option B: One of the two is promoted and the other is not.

In this scenario, the promoted player earns a Super Two spot, and the Super Two bubble looks like this:

(29 spots available)

#24- Hader, Milwaukee (2.115)
#25tie- Olson, Cleveland (2.114)
#25tie- Garcia, Miami(2.114)
#25tie- Urias, Dodgers(2.114)
#28- Weaver, Arizona(2.112)
#29- Chapman, Oakland(2.109)

First off the bubble
Newcomb, Atlanta(2.108)
Brasier, Bostoan(2.108)

Option C: Neither Camargo nor Robertson is promoted.

Neither one will be a Super Two and the bubble will look like this:

(29 spots avialable)

#23- Hader, Milwaukee (2.115)
#24tie- Olson, Cleveland (2.114)
#24tie- Garcia, Miami(2.114)
#24tie- Urias, Dodgers(2.114)
#27- Weaver, Arizona(2.112)
#28- Chapman, Oakland(2.109)
#29tie- Newcomb, Atlanta(2.108)
#29tie- Brasier, Boston(2.108)

First off the bubble
Moran, Pittsburgh(2.107)

2019 Faces of Super Two- Volume 2.20

Wandy Peralta, Cincinnati.

After Peralta recovered from an injury three weeks ago, the Reds optioned him to AAA.  Peralta currently has a career total of 2 years and 138 days of service time.

If Peralta had not been demoted, he was on course to accrue the three years of service time needed to earn arbitration eligibility without Super Two status.  However, now unless he is promoted within the next four days, Peralta is headed for a Super Two spot.

If this plays out, someone will be bumped off of the Super Two bubble.

The only other way this bump would be avoided is if Cincinnati decides to outright Peralta off of their 40-man roster before season's end.

2019 Faces of Super Two- Volume 2.19

Julio Urias, Dodgers.

Urias started a 20-game suspension on Saturday. The five games(seven days) he spent on administrative leave will count towards his suspension.  According to my math, Urias will need to serve 15 games (16 days) to complete his sentence.

Based on this information, Urias will finish the season with 2 years and 114 days of service time.  This number will put him right on the bubble.of the Super Two class.

NOTE:  I am working on the assumption that Urias' time on administrative leave did not count towards his service time total.  Of course, my calculations will be off if this assumption is faulty.

2019 Faces of Super Two- Volume 2.18

Ryan Brasier, Boston.

Boston promoted Brasier back to the major leagues on Saturday.  Brasier spent 32 days in the minors. 

After spending a month in the minors, the highest career service time Brasier could end this season with is 2 years and 108 days.  This number would put Braiser within viewing distance of the Super Two class, but, after his AAA stint, he is almost certain to be excluded from that group.

2019 Faces of Super Two- Volume 2.17

Johan Camargo, Atlanta.

Camargo was optioned to AAA by Atlanta on Friday.  He had spent the entire season on the big league roster. 

Prior to his demotion, I was projecting Camargo to earn a Super Two spot. 

If Camargo is recalled when rosters expand on September 1, he would end the season with 2 years and 135 days of service time.  This number would land him a Super Two slot.

If Camargo is not recalled, he will in all likelihood fall off of the Super Two bubble.

2019 Faces of Super Two- Volume 2.16

Tyler Austin, Milwaukee

Does Milwaukee's signing of Tyler Austin pose a threat to Josh Hader's Super Two chances.

Click here to see my Super Two projection with 50 days to go in the season.

At the moment, Hader is 25th or 26th out of 28 or 29 Super Two spots. Today, the Brewers signed Tyler Austin to a minor league contract.

Austin has 134 days of service time this season and 2.121 of career service time.  If he makes it onto the Brewers' 40-man roster and stays on it until the end of the season, he is in position to claim a Super Two spot.

UPDATE:  Maybe Hader should be nervous.  According to this tweet, the Brewers are looking at Jung Ho Kang.

#Brewers have NOT signed INF Jung Ho Kang to a minor-league deal. At least, not yet. He is with @missionsmilb working out with hopes of getting deal done but GM David Stearns said there are things to settle. So, we shall see.

— Tom (@Haudricourt) August 16, 2019

If Austin claims a spot, it will bump someone off of the bubble.  It appears that Hader is high enough in the rankings to avoid such a bump.  However, if the Brewers(or some other team) were to sign Jung Ho Kang as well, Hader might start worrying.

The Brewers picking up of Tyler Austin (and considering picking up of Kang) reminds me of 2017 when I wondered if Houston picked up Jumbo Diaz with an eye on manipulating the BACK END of the Super Two process.

Kang is currently a free agent with 129 days this season and 2.132 of career time.  Like Austin, Kang would claim a Super Two spot if he ends the season on a 40-man roster.

Super Two Projection with 50 Days to Go

With 50 days left in the season, I am still projecting a Super Two class of 29 players.  The cut-off point projects at 2 years and 112 days of Major League service time. 

Andrew Knapp, Phillies (2.171- projected service time at season's end)
Wandy Peralta, Reds (2.167)
Jessie Biddle, Rangers (2.166)
Hunter Renfroe, Padres (2.165)
David Hale, Yankees (2.163)
David Dahl, Rockies (2.162)
Brent Suter, Brewers (2.161)
Cody Bellinger, Dodgers (2.160)
Tyler Glasnow, Rays (2.158)
Jordan Montgomery, Yankees (2.153)
Keynan Middleton, Angels (2.150)
Kyle Freeland, Rockies (2.143)
Noe Ramirez, Angels (2.139)
Kyle Ryan, Cubs (2.139)
Johan Camargo, Braves (2.137)
Daniel Roberston, Rays (2.137)
Chris Martin, Braves (2.133)
Luis Cessa, Yankees (2.131)
Dinelson Lamet, Padres (2.130)
Gio Urshela, Yankees (2.127)
Paul DeJong, Cardinals (2.127)
JaCoby Jones, Tigers (2.125)
Jonathan Holder, Yankees (2.124)
A.J. Cole, Indians (2.124)
Julio Urias, Dodgers (2.122)
Josh Hader, Brewers (2.115)
Jarlin Garcia, Marlins (2.114)
Tyler Olson, Indians (2.114)
Luke Weaver, Diamondbacks (2.112)

FIRST TWO PLAYERS OFF OF THE BUBBLE:

Matt Chapman, Athletics (2.109)
Colin Moran, Pirates (2.107)

2019 Faces of Super Two- Volume 2.15

Wandy Peralta, Cincinnati.

The Reds optioned Peralta to AAA about a week ago.  At this time, Peralta has two years and 138 days of service time.  He could still make it back to the big leagues and pick up the 34 days needed to reach three years of service time, and thus, be arbitration eligible. 

However, if he doesn't accrue at least 34 days this and is able to stay on the Reds' 40-man roster until season's end, Peralta will almost certainly earn a Super Two slot with his current service time.  If this were to happen, one player would be bumped off the Super Two bubble.

Super Two Projection at the 2/3 Pole

Through Monday, the season in 2/3 over.  With that in mind, here is a look at a projection of this season's Super Two class.  Please note (at the bottom) that four recent demotions have led to a lower projected cut-off number.

I am currently projecting that there will be 29 Super Two slots.

Andrew Knapp, Phillies (2.171-projected service time at end of season)
Jessie Biddle, Rangers (2.166)
Hunter Renfroe, Paders (2.165)
David Hale, Yankees (2.163)
David Dahl, Rockies (2.162)
Brent Suter, Brewers (2.161)
Cody Bellinger, Dodgers (2.160)
Tyler Austin, Giants (2.159)
Tyler Glasnow, Rays (2.158)
Daniel Robertson, Rays (2.156)
Jordan Montgomery, Yankees (2.153)
$Jordan Schlitter, Athletics (2.152)
Keynan Middleton, Angels (2.150)
Kyle Freeland, Rockies (2.143)
Noe Ramirez, Angels (2.139)
Kyle Ryan, Cubs (2.139)
Johan Camargo, Braves (2.137)
Chris Martin, Rangers (2.133)
Luis Cessa, Yankees (2.131)
Dinelson Lamet, Padres (2.130)
Gio Urshela, Yankees (2.127)
Paul DeJong, Cardinals (2.127)
JaCoby Jones, Tigers (2.125)
A.J. Cole, Indians (2.124)
Julio Urias, Dodgers (2.122)
Josh Hader, Brewers (2.115)
Jarlin Garcia, Marlins (2.114)
Tyler Olson, Indians (2.114)
Luke Weaver, Diamondbacks (2.112)

FIRST PLAYER OUT OF THE CLASS:
Matt Chapman, Athletics (2.109)


$Schlitter has been designated for assignment by Oakland.  If he is claimed by another team and stays on their roster, he will maintain his spot in the Super Two class.


Antonio Senzatela, Colorado (2.069), Ryan Brasier, Boston (2.064), Jonathan Holder, Yankees (2.063) and Dylan Covey, White Sox (2.063) have recently been demoted to AAA by their respective organizations.  With 62 days remaining in the season, any of these four players could potentially jump back into a Super Two slot if he gets back to/and stays in the majors quickly.

More Bucks for Hader? Part 6

Dylan Covey,  White Sox.

The White Sox are optioning Covey to AAA on Monday.  He will have two years and 61 days of service time when he is demoted.  He was on a path to claim one of the final Super Two spots.

The trip to the minors puts a crimp in that journey for Covey.  If he spends just 12 days in the minors, he will end the year with 2.112 of career time.  This number would make it very likely that a few bubble dwellers would leap-frog Covey and drop him out of the Super Two race.

More Bucks for Hader? Part 5

Tony Kemp, Houston.

Houston designated Kemp for assignment on Friday.  Through Friday, Kemp has two years and 47 days of career service time. 

Best Case for Hader:

The best case scenario for Josh Hader's Super Two chances in regards to Kemp sees Kemp moved to another organization and staying on that team's 25-man roster.   Kemp has enough service time to be included in the 22% but not enough to challenge for a Super Two slot.  Due to Kemp's particular status, it is better for Hader (and other players on the bubble) if Kemp stays on a big league roster.  That occurrence has the potential to create an extra Super Two slot.

More Bucks for Hader? Part 4

Pat Valaika, Colorado. 

At the moment, Valaika is still in AAA for the Rockies.  He currently has 2 years and 67 days of career service time.  If he were to be recalled today and stay up, he would end the year with 2.114.  This would put him on the bubble of Super Two status, yet one day of service time behind Josh Hader(2.115).

Best case for Hader:  

Valaika cannot catch Hader in service time; however, he still needs 36 more days of service to accrue 86 days this season.  If he can reach this threshold, it increases the number of players used to determine the 22%, which potentially benefits players on the Super Two bubble, such as Hader.

More Bucks for Hader? Part 3

Two players in the Super Two picture were designated for assignment in the last few days.  Interestingly, their each of their destinations could have unique effects on the status of the players on the Super Two bubble.

Tyler White, Houston.  (DFA'd on July 20).  Through Monday, White had 2 years and 47 days of service time.  It is better for players on the bubble if White is picked up by another team and stays on a 40-man roster through season's end.  Here's why:

White doesn't have enough career time to attain a Super Two slot.  His maximum for this season is 2.101.  If he stays on a 40-man roster he COULD, (based on the formula used to determine Super Two slots) however increase the number of available Super Two slots.

Dalton Pompey, Toronto.  (DFA'd on July 23). Through Monday, Pompey had 2 years and 97 days of service time.  If he manages to stay on an active roster through the end of the season, he will end with 2.151.  This is prime Super Two territory. 

It is better for players on the bubble if Pompey ends up being outrighted by Toronto. 

2019 Faces of Super Two- Volume 2.14

Jonathan Holder, Yankees.

The Yankees recalled Holder from AAA on Monday.  Through Monday, Holder has 2 years and 62 days of career service time. 

If Holder stays in the majors until season's end, he will have 2.131 of service time.  This number would put him in a Super Two slot and knock someone off of the lucrative Super Two bubble.

Super Two Projection with 70 Days to Go

Through Sunday, there are now 70 days of service time left to be had this regular season.  At this point, I am projecting 29 Super Two slots will be available.  Here is a list of who I project to get the extra year of arbitration eligibility.

(Number in parenthesis is each player's projected service time at season's end.)

Andrew Knapp, Phillies (2.171)
Jesse Biddle, Rangers (2.166)
Hunter Renfroe, Padres (2.165)
David Hale, Yankees (2.163)
David Dahl, Rockies (2.162)
Brent Suter, Brewers (2.161)
Cody Bellinger, Dodgers (2.160)
Tyler Austin, Giants (2.159)
Tyler Glasnow, Rays (2.158)
Daniel Robertson, Rays (2.156)
Jordan Montgomery, Yankees (2.153)
Brian Schlitter, Athletics (2.152)
Dalton Pompey, Blue Jays (2.151)
Keynan Middleton, Angels (2.150)
Kyle Freeland, Rockies (2.143)
Noe Ramirez, Angels (2.139)
Kyle Ryan, Cubs (2.139)
Johan Camargo, Braves (2.137)
Chris Martin, Rangers (2.133)
Luis Cessa, Yankees (2.131)
Dinelson Lamet, Padres (2.130)
Gio Urshela, Yankees (2.127)
Paul DeJong, Cardinals (2.127)
JaCoby Jones, Tigers (2.125)
Dylan Covey, White Sox (2.125)
A.J. Cole, Indians (2.124)
Julio Urias, Dodgers (2.122)
Josh Hader, Brewers (2.115)
Tie Jarlin Garcia, Marlins (2.114)
Tie Tyler Olson, Indians (2.114)

FIRST PLAYER TO MISS THE CUT
Luke Weaver, Diamondbacks (2.112)


Check out how I projected the Super Two class 23 days ago, at the mid-point of the season.

2019 Faces of Super Two- Volume 2.13

Antonio Senzatela, Colorado.

The Rockies demoted Senzatela on Sunday.  At the time of his demotion, he was on track to earn Super Two status with 2 years and 69 days of service time.

Senzatela's demotion has the same potential to affect the Super Two picture as Ryan Brasier's demotion by Boston last week.  If Senzatela stays in the minors for 27 days or more, he will fall behind several players on the Super Two bubble and lose his chance for Super Two status.

Players on the bubble (projected end of year service time):

Josh Hader, Milwaukee (2.115)
Jarlin Garcia (2.114)
Tyler Olson (2.114)

#Through Sunday, there are 70 service days left in the 2019 season.

2019 Faces of Super Two- Volume 2.12

Brian Schlitter, Oakland.

When Oakland selected Schlitter's contract in late June, he had a career service time total of 2 years and 53 days.  Schlitter has been able to avoid a demotion and through Thursday, he had 2 years and 79 days. 

If he performs well enough to stay in the big leagues through season's end, he will finish with 2.152 of career service time.  This number will certainly garner him a Super Two spot.

2019 Faces of Super Two- Part 2.11

Mac Williamson, Seattle.

The Mariners outrighted Williamson on Wednesday.  He has 75 days of service time this season and a career total of 2.016.

Juan Minaya, White Sox.

The White Sox outrighted Minaya on Wedesnday.  He has 73 days of service time this season and a career total of 2.030.

So what?

Neither of these players was in a position to claim a Super Two spot at season's end.  However, they were on track to be two of the qualifiers for the group used in determining the 22%.

With Williamson and Minaya most likely no longer on a 40-man roster, the chances of there being one less Super Two spot goes up.

2019 Faces of Super Two- Volume 2.10- Red Sox Demote Brasier

To be honest, most of the transactions carried out during the baseball season are only of minor importance (if of any importance at all) in relation to the developing Super Two picture. However, the Red Sox made a move yesterday that in the Super Two world is huge.

On Tuesday, Boston optioned reliever Ryan Brasier to AAA.  Through Monday, Brasier had accrued a career total of two years and 64 days of service time.  He WAS on track to finish the year with 2.126 in service time.  This number put him in line to be one of the final four or five players to earn Super Two status.

This demotion could alter that destination for Brasier.

If he stays in the minors for 15 or more days, his career total at season's end could very easily drop below the threshold needed to earn an extra year of arbitration eligibility.  A stay of 25 days in the minors will put him on track to end the season with 2.115 of career service time, at great risk to be left out of the Super Two circle.

Super Two- What Does 22% Mean?

22% is a key number when it comes to determining Super Two status.  Here's why.

At the end of the MLB regular season(September 29 in 2019), there will be a specific number of players who are

1) On a 40-man roster.
2) Have at least two full years of MLB service time.
3) Have less than three full years of MLB service time.
4) Have at least 86 days of service time during the 2019 season.

Once this number is determined, 22% kicks in.  Of the players who meet the four qualifications listed above, the top 22% in terms of over-all MLB service time gain status as a Super Two(rounding is not included in this calculation).  As a result, these players gain an extra year of arbitration eligibility, with their first year of abritration being this off-season.

NOTE:  If two or more players are tied for the final Super Two spot, all the players involved in the tie receive the designation.

Here's a breakdown of how the math works out:

If there are 91-95 players in the Qualifying Group, there will be 20 Super Twos.
If there are 96-99 players in the Qualifying Group, there will be 21 Super Twos.
If there are 100-104 players in the Qualifying Group, there will be 22 Super Twos.
If there are 105-109 players in the Qualifying Group, there will be 23 Super Twos.
If there are 110-113 players in the Qualifying Group, there will be 24 Super Twos.
If there are 114-118 players in the Qualifying Group, there will be 25 Super Twos.
If there are 119-122 players in the Qualifying Group, there will be 26 Super Twos.
If there are 123-127 players in the Qualifying Group, there will be 27 Super Twos.
If there are 128-131 players in the Qualifying Group, there will be 28 Super Twos.
If there are 132-136 players in the Qualifying Group, there will be 29 Super Twos.
If there are 137-140 players in the Qualifying Group, there will be 30 Super Twos.
If there are 141-145 players in the Qualifying Group, there will be 31 Super Twos.

More Bucks for Hader? Part II

Yesterday, I looked at the first factor that will influence the chances of Josh Hader qualifying for Super Two status.  If you missed it, check out How Many Players with More Service Time than Hader Qualify for Super Two Status?

Today, let's take a look at the second factor.

How many players with LESS service time than Hader are qualified for Super Two status?

The number of Super Two slots is based on the number of players who end a given season with at least two years of career service time, less than three years of career service time, and at least 86 days of service time in the completed season.

The top 22% of the players with these qualifications(not including remainders BUT including ties) are granted SUPER TWO status.  Doing the math, there is one SUPER TWO slot for every 4.5 players in the group.

Keeping this in mind, it is beneficial for Josh Hader (and other bubble dwellers) to have more players earn at least two years of service time, as long as though players don't pass Hader's 2 years and 115 days of service time.

The following seven players have no chance for Super Two status.  However, if they make it to two years of service time, they could potentially be responsible for the opening of an additional Super Two slot for someone on the bubble.


Daniel Mengden, Oakland- (1.166, career through July 8) (38 days in 2019)- needs at least 48 days.

Phil Maton, San Diego- (1.159) (52 days)- needs at least 34 days- currently in minors.

Jarrett Parker, Angels- (1.149) (6 days)- needs at least 80 days.

Yadiel Rivera, Miami- (1.130) (25 days)- needs at least 61 days.

Jose Cisnero, Detroit- (1.109) (17 days)- needs at least 69 days.

Dustin Garneau, Angels- (1.097) (39 days)- needs at least 75 days.

Rookie Davis, Pittsburgh- (1.090) (45 days)- needs at least 82 days.

More Bucks for Hader? Part I

Now that the All Star Break has arrived, the Super Two picture is starting to take shape. One person of interest who has surfaced in the race is Milwaukee reliever Josh Hader.

Hader is on pace to end the season with 2 years and 115 days of big league service time.  Historically, that amount of service time has landed outside of the Super Two qualification range.  However, as I have tracked the Super Two picture to this point in the 2019 season, it appears that Hader's number puts him squarely on the bubble of that lucrative group.

There are two factors which effect Hader's chances of being a Super Two.  Today, we will look at the first of those two factors.

Factor #1:  How many players with more service time than Hader qualify for Super Two status?

Simply put, more players in this category equals less slots for Hader (and other bubble dwellers) to jump into.

Grant Dayton, Atlanta.  (2 years, 95 days, career through July 8) (21 days in 2019).

Two scenarios for Dayton will be beneficial to Hader's chances.

1.  Dayton stays in the big leagues for at least 77 more days this season.  That would give him a full three years and move him out of the Super Two picture entirely.

2.  Dayton stays in the big leagues for less than 64 days.  In this case, Dayton would not have at least 86 days of service time this season, and he would fall from the Super Two picture.

Brian Schlitter, Oakland. (2 years, 69 days) (16 days).

Schlitter poses a problem for Hader and other bubble dwellers if he stays in the big leagues for at least 70 more days.  That number would give Schlitter the necessary 86 days this season and a career total of 2 years and 139 days.  This would certainly give him a Super Two spot.

Pat Valaika, Colorado. (2 years, 43 days) (46 days).

Where Valaika spends the remainder of the season could help Hader's chances or it could hurt them.

Valaika helps Hader the most if:  

Valaika spends 40-72 days in the big leagues.  In this case, Valaika reaches 86 days for the season and at most ends tied with Hader in service time at the end of the season.  This means Valaika is included in the Super Two picture, but if he and Hader ARE tied at 2.115, they would share a SUPER TWO spot.

Valaika hurts Hader if:

Valaika spends more than 72 days in the big leagues.  In this case, Valaika is ahead of Hader in service time and takes a bubble spot from him.

Valaika hurts and helps Hader if:

Valaika spends less than 40 days in the big leagues.  In this case, Valaika doesn't reach 86 days of service time for this season.  The result of this event is that one less player will be used to calculate (multiply by 22%) the number of Super Two spots.

He won't take a spot from Hader in this case, but there could potentially be one less Super Two spot to be had due to Valaika's absence.


Next Up: Part II, How many players with less service time than Hader are in the Super Two group?

2019 Faces of Super Two- Volume 2.9

Burch Smith, Milwaukee.

The Brewers called Smith up from AAA on Saturday.  With Saturday included, Smith has a career total of 2 years and 59 days of service time.

In all likelihood, a demotion back to the minors is in Smith's near future.  However, if Smith grabs the opportunity with a stellar performance and stays in the majors until season's end, he would end the year with 2.144 of service time.  This number would put Smith in prime position to earn a coveted Super Two spot.

Super Two Projection at the Mid-Point

Friday was the 93rd day of the MLB season. This means exactly one half of the season has completed.  Therefore, I am posting my first Super Two class projection of the year.

According to my currently calculations, 29 players (not including ties) will earn the lucrative status at season's end.

Here's the projection (number in parenthesis is each player's projected service time at season's end):

Andrew Knapp, Phillies (2.171)
Jesse Biddle, Rangers (2.166)
Hunter Renfroe, Padres (2.165)
David Hale, Yankees (2.163)
David Dahl, Rockies (2.162)
Brent Suter, Brewers (2.161)
Cody Bellinger, Dodgers (2.160)
Tyler Austin, Giants (2.159)
Tyler Glasnow, Rays (2.158)
Daniel Robertson, Rays (2.156)
Jordan Montgomery, Yankees (2.153)
Dalton Pompey, Blue Jays (2.151)
Keynan Middleton, Angels (2.150)
Noe Ramirez, Angels (2.139)
Kyle Ryan, Cubs (2.139)
Johan Camargo, Braves (2.137)
Chris Martin, Rangers (2.133)
Luis Cessa, Yankees (2.131)
Dinelson Lamet, Padres (2.130)
Gio Urshela, Yankees (2.127)
Paul DeJong, Cardinals (2.127)
Ryan Brasier, Red Sox (2.126)
Antonio Senzatela, Rockies (2.126)
JaCoby Jones, Tigers (2.125)
Dylan Covey, White Sox (2.125)
A.J. Cole, Indians (2.124)
Julio Urias, Dodgers (2.122)
Josh Hader, Brewers (2.115)
Jarlin Garcia, Marlins (2.114)
Tyler Olson, Indians (2.114)

FIRST PLAYER TO MISS THE CUT

Luke Weaver, Diamondbacks (2.112)

Super Two (Not the) Class of 2021

UPDATE ON JUNE 27:  The Brewers are reportedly on the brink of promoting Keston Hiura tomorrow.  If Hiura's promotion comes to fruition on June 28, he stands to finish the year with 115 days of service time. 

Incidentally, 115 days is also the number of days that Josh Hader accrued with the Brewers during 2017, his rookie season.  Hader will likely fall just short of Super Two status this season.

Now that June has arrived and the Super Two threshold has passed, a few top prospects have become "ready" to make it to the big leagues.

Here is a look at the top prospects who have been deemed ready since June 3:


Called up June 9(114 days of service time remaining)

Jordan Alvarez, DH, Houston- #3 Astros prospect

Called up June 8(115 days of service time remaining)

Colin Poche, P, Tampa Bay- #17 Rays prospect

Called up June 6(117 days of service time remaining)

Peter Lambert, P, Colorado- #4 Rockies prospect

Called up June 4(119 days of service time remaining)

Adam Hasely, OF, Philadelphia- #3 Phillies prospect

SPECIAL CASE: Demoted on June 3- after being promoted on May 14

Keston Hiura, IF, Milwaukee- #1 Brewers prospect

Hiura was promoted by Milwaukee in May when Travis Shaw was injured.  After Hiura's more-than-respectable 20 days with the Brewers, Shaw was ready to return and Hiura was sent back down to AAA.

The result of this sequence of events is that Hiura won't be clear of the Super Two window until the end of June.

2019 Faces of Super Two- Volume 2.8

Brian Schlitter, Oakland.  The Athletics selected Schlitter's contract on Sunday.  Through Wednesday, Schlitter has two years and 57 days of service time. 

If Schlitter is able to stay up in the majors through season's end, he will have two years and 152 days of service time. That number would assure him a spot in the Super Two class.

Please Allow Me to Share a Positive Experience with Houston Metro

Recently, a media source that arrives (unsolicited) on my driveway on a regular basis included an unsavory review of the city of Houston's public transportation system.  After reading the column, I was convinced that the author has had minimal personal experience with said transportation system.

Prior to this summer, I also had had little experience with Houston Metro.  However, since this summer's beginning, I have had experience with the system and it has been very positive.  This experience combined with good/great experiences I have had with various other public transportation systems over the past few decades(these experiences are listed below), compel me to share in this space.

MY EXPERIENCE:

Thanks to a city program for high school students, my son has a job in downtown Houston this summer.  Also, thanks to the city, he is able to ride Metro buses for free all summer.  As a result of these two facts, my son is riding the bus to and from the Northwest Transit Center to downtown four days a week.  Through two weeks of work, this bus riding experience has been a success.

In preparation for his commute, I made the bus trip with my son twice before the job started, and I was impressed.  The wait for buses was minimal, never more than 10 minutes.  Also, Metro's website proves very accurate as far as indicating when the next bus would arrive.  

I was especially surprised at the positive interaction between riders and drivers.  I did not expect to hear so many "Thank Yous" and "Have a nice days"  shared! These interactions are evidence to me that many riders are having positive experiences.

One negative factor that I did encounter involved Metro's system that allows passengers to receive text messages indicating when the next bus will arrive at a certain stop.  This feature was not working when I rode the bus.  

To have a helpful feature like this not function is, of course, disappointing.  However, the fact that the feature was not working was clearly announced on Metro's website, and the website had other resources that gave me similar information. 

While I'm discussing Metro's website, in my experience on the website, it was very easy to plan trips to various landmarks in the city.  This includes NRG Stadium.   

I cannot speak to why others who have written about their Metro experience in other spaces had trouble finding location information for NRG Stadium through the website.  I will give that author the benefit of the doubt and assume that a tight deadline and/or a bad technology day made it difficult for him to navigate the website in a way he normally would have..

On another note, Metro did a very satisfactory job of helping riders prepare for an inconvenience at the Transit Center.  Metro is renovating the parking lots at the Northwest Transit Center.  For several weeks before construction began, Metro had at least two representatives at the Transit Center informing riders about the upcoming construction and helping them prepare for the changes. Further, Metro runs a shuttle all day so riders don't have to walk 200 yards across the street to the free temporary lot that has been provided for their convenience.

Admittedly, my experience with Metro has been minimal.  However,  I have found it very user friendly.  I have found the website very helpful, and I have not seen any homeless people sleeping on any benches when I have been waiting for the bus.

Thanks for allowing me to share my experiences with Houston's public transportation system.

My previous interactions with public transporation:

Lived in Japan for 2.5 years(6 months in Tokyo) and traveled almost exclusively via public transportation.

Took family vacations to Boston, Washington, D.C. and New York, during which travel was completed almost exclusively via public transportation.

Used Milwaukee's public transport system to attend at least 25 Milwaukee Brewers games.

Traveled from Washington, D.C. to Seattle, Washington via bus.

2019 Faces of Super Two- Volume 2.7

Pat Valaika, Colorado. 

Valaika was promoted on Tuesday.  This makes three promotions already this season for Valaika. Through Tuesday, he now has two years and 23 days of service time.

If Valaika can stay in the majors through the end of the season, he will accrue two years and 126 days of service time.  Although that number would not guarantee Valaika a Super Two spot, it would put him on the bubble of contention.

2019 Faces of Super Two- Volume 2.6

Jorge Bonifacio, IF, Kansas City.  

The Royals promoted Bonifacio to the majors for the first time this season on Friday.  Bonifacio service time count stood at one year, 95 days at the time of his promotion.  If he stays up for the remainder of the season, he would end 2019 with two years and 31 days of service time.

Yadiel Rivera, IF, Miami.

The Marlins selected Rivera's contract on Friday.  At that time, Rivera's service time count was one year, 105 days.  If he stays up for the remainder of the season, he would end 2019 with two years and 41 days of service time.

Neither Bonifacio nor Rivera can qualify for Super Two status this season.  However, if they stay up in the majors, they will add to the number of players with at least two years of service time, thus increasing the number of Super Two slots.

2019 Faces of Super Two- Volume 2.5

Ryan O'Rourke, Mets.  The Mets promoted O'Rourke on Thursday.  This was his second promotion of the season already.

Through Thursday, O'Rourke has accrued a total of 2 years and 11 days of MLB service time.  If he can stay in the big leagues approximately 120 of the 129 remaining days in the season, he will be in a prime position to snag a Super Two spot.

2019 Faces of Super Two- Volume 2.4

David Hale, Yankees.  The Yankees selected Hale's contract on Monday.  At that time, he had 2 years and 31 days of MLB service time.

If Hale stays up through the end of the season, he would end 2019 with 2 years 163 days of service time.  In that case, Hale would certainly qualify for Super Two status.

2019 Faces of Super Two- Volume 2.3

Ryan Feierabend, Toronto. 

The Blue Jays selected Feierabend's contract on Saturday starting his service time clock again. Before Saturday, Feierabend had one year and 159 days of service time.

If he performs well enough to stay in the big leagues through season's end, Feierabend would end the year with 2 years and 122 days of service time.  That number would put him on the Super Two bubble with a slim chance of earning the Super Two label. 

2019 Faces of Super Two- Volume 2.2

As the end of April arrives, three players are newly in prime position to earn Super Two status in the next five months.  If they can stay up in the big leagues for an extended period of time, that is.

Grant Dayton, Atlanta.  Dayton was promoted by the Braves on Monday.  He will have 2 years and 76 days of service time at the end of April.  If Dayton stays up through the end of the season, he could arbitration eligible with three full years of service time.  

Additionally, he could get that designation with just 86 days of MLB service time as a Super Two.

Ty Blach, San Francisco.  Blach was also promoted on Monday.  He will have 2 years and 34 days at April's end.  Like Dayton, Blach can reach three years if he stays up until the end of the season.

He needs another 100 days of service time to be in serious Super Two contention.

UPDATE: Blach was optioned back to Triple AAA on Wednesday.

Gio Urshela, Yankees. Urshela wasn't even on a 40-man roster at the beginning of the season.  However, the Yankees selected his contract on April 6, and now he has legitimate Super Two aspirations. 

Urshela will end the month with one year and 152 days of service time.  If he stays up with the Yankees the remainder of the season, he would have two years and 132 days of service time.  That number would put Urshela right in the thick of the Super Two race.

2019 Faces of Super Two- Volume 2.1

So the season is only ten days old, and two faces have already been promoted to the Faces of Super Two list.

Pat Valaika, Rockies. The Rockies demoted Valaika to AAA near the end of Spring Training.  At that time, he had 1 year and 169 days of service time, making him a prime Super Two candidate if he could spend a large portion of the season in the big leagues(around 135 days). 

Valaika's time in the minors was short as an injury to Daniel Murphy led to his promotion on April 1.  If he stays up in the majors, his Super Two chances are very much alive.

Kyle Ryan, Cubs. Like Valaika, Ryan was demoted by the Cubs before opening day.  However, Ryan only had one year and 139 days of service time.  He can only withstand a very short stay in the minors before his Super Two window closes.

The Cubs promoted him on April 6, so he is still capable of earning a full year of service time.  At this time, his Super Two chances remain viable.

Faces of Super Two: Spring Training Edition

Update on March 29:  One player can be added to this list.  The Cubs optioned Kyle Ryan to AAA before the season opened.  Ryan has one year and 139 days of MLB service time.

With just four days until opening day, three players who have been optioned to the minor leagues face a decreased chance of qualifying for Super Two status at season's end.  These three have a service time level that puts them in strong contention for Super Two status if they are on the big league roster for a whole season.  However, without a full 172 days of service time, that accomplishment is unlikely.

NOTE:  A player needs to have at least 2 years, 120-135 days of service time to at season's end to have a shot at SUPER TWO

Ian Happ, Cubs,   1 year, 142 days.
Jarlin Garcia, Marlins, 1 year, 132 days.
Juan Minaya, White Sox, 1 year, 129 days.


SECOND NOTE:  Pat Valaika with the Rockies was optioned to AAA with one year and 169 days of service time.  He has a little bit of leeway; however, more than six weeks in the minors will end his Super Two chances this season.

My Super Two Spreadsheet is Ready

With the regular season a month away, I have my database for tracking the 2019 Super Two class ready.  303 players, according to Cot's Contracts, have at least one full year of MLB service time and less than three full years of MLB service time. 

This group comprises the Faces of Super Two heading into the season.  Historically, about 60% will leave this group during the season.  They will either surpass the three year threshold, fail to reach the  two year plateau or fall short of 86 days of MLB service during the upcoming season.

The players who remain at season's end (likely in the 120-135 range) will be used to determine the Super Two class. 

I am looking forward to tracking this process again and hope you will join me.

23-4A Standings

Final Standings

x-Yates- 14-0
x-Wheatley- 11-3
x-Washington- 9-5
x- Furr- 9-5
North Forest- 5-9
Worthing-5 -9
Scarborough- 2-12
Kashmere-1-13