It actually made me happy to see Leftridge at the game because of primarily defense. So often at this age defense is forgotten about because of HRs. Remember, a great play is just like saving a run... at least. Having seen him play, he makes tough plays look easy... one game he easily saved DBAT from 5 runs.
I will say Tim Maitland also from Colleyville Heritage is a GREAT center fielder. The jumps he gets are amazing. I play with him all the time, and yes you can say he lacks a cannon, but this was his first year of full health and it showed in his improved arm. My coach asked me one time where he played for CHS when my HS played them, I told him second base, and my coach responded, "Are you kidding? Any coach that doesn't stick that kid in center field hasn't seen him play center field." This is not a bash to that coach, their center fielder was just as fast last year, and after explaining that to my coach, he understood... but I don't know many more people that get better reads on balls than Timmy and Leftridge.
quote:It will take him a while to adjust at the plate, but he is a big league defensive player right now.
I agree with the quote above
Train,
Listen, if you don't care for us... just come out and say it! We are proud of every one of the 38 picks. We are proud of the 29 first round drafts that we selected to play in the past three Aflac Classics. And we are proud of the fact that more than 1 of every 3 past Aflac players were drafted in the first two rounds. We are proud of the past Aflac players who will be drafted early out of college. And we are especially proud of this years selections. It's the best group yet and you will see that next June!!!
The player you decided to slight, though it was said you were just disagreeing with us (you did mention him by name) is a kid we really like a lot. I agree, he has a ways to go with the bat, but we think he will get there! He is a 6.4 runner, with a MLB average arm and amazing instincts for the game. He scores very BIG in the make up department and he is extremely projectable. Out of all the 38 Aflac All Americans this year, he has the most room to get stronger.
I don't know who you are "Train", but you and anyone else is welcome to disagree with us. However, I doubt if this one selection is all it took for your serious doubts. We understand there are folks who disagree with us. We even disagree with ourselves at times. We are far from Perfect!
There are a few baseball people in Texas (and other places) who hate us, so we've been told. Of those we hear about, who hate us, they seem to have two things in common.
1. They have a personal agenda or in some way compete with what we do.
2. They don't know us, they don't know what we really do and why we do it!
PGSTAFF....just an opinion. Your program is great....again just an opinion. nothing more.
Touchy Monday morning!
Touchy Monday morning!
I struggle with quoting... so here:
We even disagree with ourselves at times. We are far from Perfect!
Wait, admitting they aren't perfect? They are PERFECT game. OK just kidding, PG does a ton of help for every kid out there looking to be seen. Do they mess up? Yes. Does everyone? Yes. Don't fault people for doing their best in good intentions. Like my earlier post, I bet Leftridge has at least 1 play every game that saves a run, it may not be obvious... but it happens.
We even disagree with ourselves at times. We are far from Perfect!
Wait, admitting they aren't perfect? They are PERFECT game. OK just kidding, PG does a ton of help for every kid out there looking to be seen. Do they mess up? Yes. Does everyone? Yes. Don't fault people for doing their best in good intentions. Like my earlier post, I bet Leftridge has at least 1 play every game that saves a run, it may not be obvious... but it happens.
PGSTAFF -- I don't recall posts indicating that anyone on this message board hates PG -- most posters are very complimentary of your organization. I appreciate all that you do for HS kids ---- and the AFLAC game was exciting to watch, especially for those that have HS players.
Train -- speed is not PantherSon's greatest asset!
Train -- speed is not PantherSon's greatest asset!
Train, you lack all credibility. I have been watching the kid play centerfield for years now and I have never seen him have to even dive for a ball because he gets such a good jump and is so fast he doesn't need to. If I was going to have to pitch a big game there is no one else I would rather have in centerfield than him. End of story.
Joe could play center with me in left and Guthrie in right and we'd still have one of the better outfields.... 
Lots of love to PG from Texas for all they do!
Lots of love to PG from Texas for all they do!
quote:Originally posted by DBAT GM:
...and Guthrie in right...
Not at AFLAC, though...
PD....I know its his father! After hearing Reggie speak I hope it hits home with most.
Baseballdude....read the posts. I NEVER said the kid could not play CF. IMO, he was not #30 in my eyes. He proved my point AB against the best pitchers.
Enough said ....12-15th rounder or later at best if he jacks 15HR or more. He might make more $$$ working for DBAT. just kidding everyone.
After hearing Reggie speak I hope it hits home with most.Baseballdude....read the posts. I NEVER said the kid could not play CF. IMO, he was not #30 in my eyes. He proved my point AB against the best pitchers.
Enough said ....12-15th rounder or later at best if he jacks 15HR or more. He might make more $$$ working for DBAT.
just kidding everyone.quote:Originally posted by Texan:quote:Originally posted by DBAT GM:
...and Guthrie in right...
Not at AFLAC, though...
No, your wrong Texan. It could happen at AFLAC. I am a huge supporter of that program as they promote the individual through team events.
AC and Perfect Game/AFLAC are two totally different venues.
Fuqua, you would have to play right cause I ain't got the arm anymore.
quote:Originally posted by swingbuilder:quote:Again folks, individual events such as this do not showcase the great game as it should be
Mr. Guthrie, AFLAC and AREA CODE isn't intended to SHOWCASE BASEBALL. ITS to SHOWCASE THE PLAYER, some of the best HS TALENT in the COUNTRY.
Just like the McDonalds Basketball high school all stars, it isn't good basketball and there is no defense. BUT its a showcase of the players and their athletic ability.
AFLAC, East Coast Pro Showcase and the Area Code Games are the equal to the McDonald high school basketball deal.
Let the kids enjoy it! You would have if you had been that good and if they had that way back when you were young.
They didn't have it when I was young. Only thing I got was a number on my back and a tryout. I guess it all worked out at the end though.
Regardless, I ain't knocking what Perfect Game/ AFLAC does. I support the venue tenfold. I just hope people realize the play won't be pretty. Perfect Game promotes the individual through team events. Their individual venues do not interfer with team schedules and if they did, I know Jerry and Andy would rather the kid not attend vs. miss something with their team.
AFLAC is after the CMWS for a reason.
quote:Originally posted by Train:
PD....I know its his father!
Baseballdude....read the posts. I NEVER said the kid could not play CF. IMO, he was not #30 in my eyes. He proved my point AB against the best pitchers.
Enough said ....12-15th rounder or later at best if he jacks 15HR or more. He might make more $$$ working for DBAT.
Since you know so much, who is your top 30?
Ken,
I support what Perfectgame does as well but to say that AFLAC is after Farmington is not really the truth. The workouts started on wednesday or thursday while CMWS is still going on. The CMWS final didn't start until 7:30 pm friday with AFLAC being at 1:00 pm on saturday. Not quite enough time to do both if you go to win CMWS in my opinion.
We have been to a number of Perfectgame events as well as AC and I really don't see much difference except Perfectgame runs better events.
I support what Perfectgame does as well but to say that AFLAC is after Farmington is not really the truth. The workouts started on wednesday or thursday while CMWS is still going on. The CMWS final didn't start until 7:30 pm friday with AFLAC being at 1:00 pm on saturday. Not quite enough time to do both if you go to win CMWS in my opinion.
We have been to a number of Perfectgame events as well as AC and I really don't see much difference except Perfectgame runs better events.
quote:Originally posted by Ken Guthrie:
Joe Lethridge may be the closest thing to a big leaguer DFW HS has right now.
It will take him a while to adjust at the plate, but he is a big league defensive player right now.
Let's let him get out of high school before we put him in the hall of fame.
quote:Originally posted by honest and unbiased:
Ken,
I support what Perfectgame does as well but to say that AFLAC is after Farmington is not really the truth. The workouts started on wednesday or thursday while CMWS is still going on. The CMWS final didn't start until 7:30 pm friday with AFLAC being at 1:00 pm on saturday. Not quite enough time to do both if you go to win CMWS in my opinion.
We have been to a number of Perfectgame events as well as AC and I really don't see much difference except Perfectgame runs better events.
Trust me when I tell you....
If a player that was on the AFLAC team was in the CMWS, Andy and Jerry would rather have the kid finish the CMWS and then get to AFLAC. At least that what both of them have told me.
I don't know if the same could be said of AC. Maybe a AC guy could answer that.
Ken,
From what I have seen from Jerry at the PG events my son has attended I would agree with you.
From what I have seen from Jerry at the PG events my son has attended I would agree with you.
quote:Originally posted by Outsider_2007:
Let's let him get out of high school before we put him in the hall of fame.
Who's putting him in the HOF.
Just stating my opinions. Nowhere did I mention the HOF.
You'd be surprised at the number of AFLAC participants who DO NOT PLAY Connie Mack anymore.
quote:Originally posted by swingbuilder:
You'd be surprised at the number of AFLAC participants who DO NOT PLAY Connie Mack anymore.
Well, that's not because Jerry and Andy promote it that way.
quote:Ken,
I support what Perfectgame does as well but to say that AFLAC is after Farmington is not really the truth. The workouts started on wednesday or thursday while CMWS is still going on. The CMWS final didn't start until 7:30 pm friday with AFLAC being at 1:00 pm on saturday. Not quite enough time to do both if you go to win CMWS in my opinion.
I personally know of many players who have played in the Connie Mack World Series and missed the Area Codes.
Regarding the post above by honest and unbiased.
Aflac and Farmington and Area Codes all do overlap.
This year there were 4 Aflac All Americans who did not get to San Diego until their teams were eliminated from the CMWS. This includes Michael Burgess, Justin Jackson and Sam Runion all with Midland and Kentrail Davis who did not arrive until game day after the Florida Bombers were eliminated. Aflac flies them in as soon as possible after their team is eliminated, even if it's the championship game in Farmington.
These players are picked because of ability, and almost always there will be an Aflac player whose on a team in Farmington. We know this ahead of time. I wish things could be scheduled differently, but there are many other issues. I would hate to see a player show up for the first day at Aflac knowing his team is in Farmington. To be honest I would think less of the player and would have a hard time talking to him!
Last year we had Aflac All Americans who showed up late because their teams were in the CMWS. Over the past few years we've had several Aflac All Americans who have not missed their team's games in the CMWS. The big thing is Aflac does not ask them to leave their team. And if they did... We wouldn't be selecting the players anymore. If a player asks and some have, we tell them to stay with the team. Can't understand why they need to ask.
It's really tough on these kids that get dragged in every direction. Do they go to the event for individual recognition or play with the team that helped them get recognized in the first place. If my sons were still young and had that decision... It would be a no brainer!
Not picking on Joe, I have watched him play for 7 years now, in fact he played for us for 3 years. Joe's hitting is good, but it is not the strongest part of his game the weakest part of his game today. He will most likely continue to improve in that area. But he is a tools player, you can't teach speed, you can't teach baseball instincts. I know I would want him on any team I coached!!
PD- I think the word hate is taken out of context, I have spoken with the PG tournament staff several times about getting thier product into our region. This area with BBI, lonestar,super 8,Premier league ect, (and the fascination with AABC) has been very difficult for them to break into the region. (competition)they will eventually break in they run too good a program not to. (May be a good time for the DBAT contention to step up and facilitate)
Guthrie- I would like to hear your opinion on the three individuals who are added to each AABC Team and how those individuals are good for the "team" concept, I have noticed that this can create some turmoil on these teams. (parents excluded)
Guthrie- I would like to hear your opinion on the three individuals who are added to each AABC Team and how those individuals are good for the "team" concept, I have noticed that this can create some turmoil on these teams. (parents excluded)
Guess I could talk about this stuff forever.
In 2005 we had perhaps the weakest hitter ever at an Aflac Classic. In BP he could not make contact half the time. He struck out every AB in the game including ending the game. He didn't even have a true position, but he did have a strong arm and could run in the 6.35 area. People joked about how could we possibly pick him.
This June he was drafted in the second round! Because he is a true athlete! Brent Brewer signed as a shortstop with the Milwaukee Brewers.
In 2005 we had perhaps the weakest hitter ever at an Aflac Classic. In BP he could not make contact half the time. He struck out every AB in the game including ending the game. He didn't even have a true position, but he did have a strong arm and could run in the 6.35 area. People joked about how could we possibly pick him.
This June he was drafted in the second round! Because he is a true athlete! Brent Brewer signed as a shortstop with the Milwaukee Brewers.
quote:Originally posted by John G.:
PD- I think the word hate is taken out of context, I have spoken with the PG tournament staff several times about getting thier product into our region. This area with BBI, lonestar,super 8,Premier league ect, (and the fascination with AABC) has been very difficult for them to break into the region. (competition)they will eventually break in they run too good a program not to. (May be a good time for the DBAT contention to step up and facilitate)
This has been discussed in the past and may be a good time to try to develop something again.
quote:Guthrie- I would like to hear your opinion on the three individuals who are added to each AABC Team and how those individuals are good for the "team" concept, I have noticed that this can create some turmoil on these teams. (parents excluded)
I don't think it's fair to ask my opinions without specific examples. Maybe that's best left via PM.
As far as pick up players in general, I am all for keeping the players that got you there together as a unit.
Maybe a pitcher or two to help the rotation but only to that extent.
For proof, just ask DBAT GM.
quote:Originally posted by PGStaff:quote:Ken,
I support what Perfectgame does as well but to say that AFLAC is after Farmington is not really the truth. The workouts started on wednesday or thursday while CMWS is still going on. The CMWS final didn't start until 7:30 pm friday with AFLAC being at 1:00 pm on saturday. Not quite enough time to do both if you go to win CMWS in my opinion.
I personally know of many players who have played in the Connie Mack World Series and missed the Area Codes.
Regarding the post above by honest and unbiased.
Aflac and Farmington and Area Codes all do overlap.
This year there were 4 Aflac All Americans who did not get to San Diego until their teams were eliminated from the CMWS. This includes Michael Burgess, Justin Jackson and Sam Runion all with Midland and Kentrail Davis who did not arrive until game day after the Florida Bombers were eliminated. Aflac flies them in as soon as possible after their team is eliminated, even if it's the championship game in Farmington.
These players are picked because of ability, and almost always there will be an Aflac player whose on a team in Farmington. We know this ahead of time. I wish things could be scheduled differently, but there are many other issues. I would hate to see a player show up for the first day at Aflac knowing his team is in Farmington. To be honest I would think less of the player and would have a hard time talking to him!
Last year we had Aflac All Americans who showed up late because their teams were in the CMWS. Over the past few years we've had several Aflac All Americans who have not missed their team's games in the CMWS. The big thing is Aflac does not ask them to leave their team. And if they did... We wouldn't be selecting the players anymore. If a player asks and some have, we tell them to stay with the team. Can't understand why they need to ask.
It's really tough on these kids that get dragged in every direction. Do they go to the event for individual recognition or play with the team that helped them get recognized in the first place. If my sons were still young and had that decision... It would be a no brainer!
There you go folks. From the PG staff itself. Maybe this might help you the next time your son is faced with a decision to fulfill team commitment or attend said event.
Thanks PG for all you do in promoting the game while keeping the team concept important.
Kudos to the great posts by Jerry Ford. 
As for adding players for post season it completely depends upon the need. For the past two years we haven't added any players (although we discussed it) and we had room to do so (20 player max). After we were eliminated this summer, five of our players were chosen to play on teams at the CMWS (1-DBAT 17, 2-Wildcats & 2-Farmington). The needs for these teams were different: DBAT needed an extra pitcher and only had one spot available, Wildcats' 3B went down with a back injury so they needed an IF and also some offensive help, Farmington needed a starting catcher and pitching help. Each of those five kids came away with a fantastic experience and I for one am appreciative of the opportunity for them.
As for adding players for post season it completely depends upon the need. For the past two years we haven't added any players (although we discussed it) and we had room to do so (20 player max). After we were eliminated this summer, five of our players were chosen to play on teams at the CMWS (1-DBAT 17, 2-Wildcats & 2-Farmington). The needs for these teams were different: DBAT needed an extra pitcher and only had one spot available, Wildcats' 3B went down with a back injury so they needed an IF and also some offensive help, Farmington needed a starting catcher and pitching help. Each of those five kids came away with a fantastic experience and I for one am appreciative of the opportunity for them.
Joe Leftridge will be a Major League Baseball player.........
quote:Originally posted by FormerObserver:
Joe Leftridge will be a Major League Baseball player.........
And Train will continue to be an A$$ as usual.
Quote by SWAC
Continue your class SWAC...I expected you to protect your own. So predictable. Like I said he is a great CF.
quote:And Train will continue to be an A$$ as usual.
Continue your class SWAC...I expected you to protect your own. So predictable. Like I said he is a great CF.
Can I play peacemaker? Train has his opinions... they may be (for lack of a better word) provoking. Lets remember they are opinions and either respectfully disagree or simply dismiss them, after all... no one makes anyone believe anything on this site. If I said I was the next Nolan Ryan... surely wouldn't expect anyone to believe it.
Dtiger - Are you sure you are just in HS? .... Your thoughts display wisdom beyond your years....your parents have done a nice job raising you...
Ditto, cheapseats. Maybe someday I'll see you play, dtiger before you graduate.
He's the short kid with the nasty stuff.
let me tell you.. the kid is absolutly brilliant to say the least..
he knows the game of baseball as well as anyone our age, and he helps me with my homework
he knows the game of baseball as well as anyone our age, and he helps me with my homework
quote:Originally posted by Train:
Quote by SWACquote:And Train will continue to be an A$$ as usual.
Continue your class SWAC...I expected you to protect your own. So predictable. Like I said he is a great CF.
You are so right I'm going to protect my own, "I wonder exactly what that means?", However you need to become a part of an organization that you can protect as well. You are certainly not part of the Tiger Organization. I have know those parents for many years and they always carry themselves with class. You are a Tiger wanna be and that is a fact.
Boys...boys...this is a discussion on AFLAC -- are we done? 
Has anyone ever considered that the Little Red Engine says things simply to stir up the pot? I am amazed at how upset people get over his comments. Maybe if you didn't respond he would go away....just a thought.
Juiceless I agree with you but I'm sick and tired of this person, may it be female or male always cutting down people. I will let it go when the person discontinues bashing players or other people.
Ring him up SWAC!!!
quote:Originally posted by juiceless:
Has anyone ever considered that the Little Red Engine says things simply to stir up the pot? I am amazed at how upset people get over his comments. Maybe if you didn't respond he would go away....just a thought.