Squirrels Winter Meeting Preview

As the 2013 Winter Meetings and Draft approach, the Springfield Flying Squirrels of Republic are loaded up for a run at their first eMLB Championship. The team returns an outstanding core that led the team to a surprising 3rd place finish in 2012.

The offense features a talented group of young stars in Robinson Cano, Freddie Freeman, Mike Moustakas, Josh Willingham and 2012 eMLB MVP Mike Trout. Unconfirmed reports say that the team may already have an under the table deal for a contracted impact OFer as well.

The SPing, which was the downfall of the 2012 Squirrels team, returns four quality arms headlined by Adam Wainwright and Roy Halladay. GM Adam Anson expects Halladay to return to form in 2013 after battling an injury for most of 2012 and expects Adam Wainwright to be even better than he was in 2012, now a full season removed from Tommy John surgery. Dan Haren and Anibal Sanchez both seemed to find their old form towards the end of the 2012 season, and if they can continue to build upon that success, the Squirrels' rotation could be one of the best in the league. "Our top four guys are all capable of 200K's and they all play for solid teams. It's a stretch, but four fifteen game winners all topping 200K's isn't out of the realm of possibility with these guys," said Anson.

Looking to the Winter Meetings, the Squirrels will look to be aggressive in any opportunity to move up in the first round, and would likely package their first round pick with picks or players, likely a pitcher, to do so. "I'm not saying I want to trade one of my arms, but if the right deal was there, we'd definitely consider it."

Here is a brief rundown of available players in easy to understand categories:

"Blow Me Away"

Mike Trout- 2/13 He's the MVP. He's the man. Think of your best offer...then throw in an extension and your first round pick. :)

Robinson Cano- 5/16 Best player at his rather scarce position and a top 5 player overall. Perfect age to make every year of this contract worthwhile.

"Come Big or Don't Come At All"

Freddie Freeman- 3/13 Had a solid sophomore campaign, and I expect about the same this year with better average and more walks. .280/25hr/95rbi/80r/60bb is pretty solid from you1B.

Mike Moustakas- 2/13 Excellent power numbers and an extension worthy guy at a scarce position.

Adam Wainwright- 2/13 Really came on at the end of 2012, and looked like the Wainwright of old.

Roy Halladay- 3/13 Should be back after battling an injury for most of last year.

"Let's Make a Deal"

Anibal Sanchez- 2/13 Really turned it on late last year after he finally figured out the AL. If he dominates, extend him, if not, let him go...that's the beauty of an expiring contract.