An Important Message

Royals · Post by **Royals** » Sat Apr 05, 2008 6:22 pm

This is kind of a long message, but I hope you'll all read the whole thing as some of it is pretty important.
Nine or Ten months ago I made the decision to start the ExCo for a couple reasons. The first was that I was tired of being the target, doing all sorts of work and getting very little credit or appreciation for it but no shortage of complaints or criticism. I hoped that the formation of the ExCo, sharing responsibilities and authority, would help mitigate this.
It hasn't.
If anything, things have been worse in a lot of ways. Part of this is my fault because at times I'm unwilling to take the initiative because I want things to be done "by the ExCo" not "by me through the ExCo" and many of the ExCo members simply have no idea how to handle certain things. None of them have ever run a successful sim league before, half had never even tried it or even considered it before.
How have things been worse? ExCo as a whole has been slow to respond to problems and issues. It took almost a month to remove a horribly inactive new GM. We've been talking about updating the Rules almost from Day One and every month or so, someone will say "We should update the rules" everyone agrees and then no one does it. When problems come up, as the TRC did recently, everyone agrees we should discuss it, then nothing happens. The most work the ExCo has done as an entity was when it was first formed when everyone started proposing removing rules they didn't like, such as the ban on pick trading, something JP recently admitted to me should probably be undone, for the exact reasons I've said all along that the rule was needed. That cracks me up every time I think about it.
Part of the problem too has been the choice I made in ExCo members. JP is well-liked, including by me, and has long been a valued adviser. However, he is not a good decision-maker, he's unwilling to apply penalties or make unpopular decisions, even if they're the right one. He's extremely dedicated to the league, but I should have born in mind the success rate of the leagues he's tried to start in the past when I chose him. Shawn has been extremely valuable in his work on OOPSS but he and JP rarely disagree. Jim and Brett...haven't really been visible enough for me to have an opinion on them as ExCo members. They have taken little to no initiative on issues. Jake as well. I don't dislike any of these people, quite the contrary for the most part and I wouldn't have invited them onto the ExCo in the first place if I hadn't (because that would have been stupid and just created more problems than it could have ever solved). That doesn't mean they're suited to running the league.
Too often I've found myself frustrated by a bad decisions by the ExCo or, even worse, no decision or action is taken on something that deserved it. I hesitate to take the initiative on issues because I don't want the ExCo to be seen as a vehicle for the prior system. Yet I see nothing done and get maddeningly frustrated by it.
Which brings me to the second reason I decided to form the ExCo. I wanted a vehicle in place for the time when I felt it was necessary to leave. And that time has come. I felt it was imminent when i decided to start the ExCo and I wanted to make sure the league kept going, that all the work, late nights, sweat and even tears i put into it wouldn't come to nothing. I'm less confident now than i was then that it will work, but I hope that my first instinct was right and that it will.
There are multiple reasons for why I'm leaving.
The first and most simple is that this stopped being fun. It's been a long time since I thought being part of the IBC was fun.
Another factor is of time. I have other interests now and less free time than ever. Even on a day when i only spend half an hour on the IBC, I'd rather spend that time going for a run, riding my bike, swimming, reading a book or even working on my thesis.
The third is a result of decisions of the ExCo. I've seen too many bad or lazy decisions made or actions not taken and it's wrong and frankly makes me sick to my stomach.
Some of you will be thrilled about this. Aaron springs to mind. I'm actually rather proud of Aaron's dislike of me. Anyone as closed minded, racist and ignorant (and apparently proud of those qualities)as he is is someone I'm proud to call an enemy.
Others may not know what to make of it.
A few will miss me. I think there are a few of you who realize how much the league and it's success mean to me. They know I would do, and have done, anything to insure it's success and vitality. Occasionally I would get a note of thanks from a member. They were few and far between but they meant more than I could express with words.
A few recommendations and requests before I go.
The first Request is that Nils be allowed to move to Boston. In fact, this isn't a request, if it's not done I take back everything I said before and I'm sticking around. Nils is the Co-Founder of the IBC and has done more for the league than anyone else in the league realizes. Boston should remain the home of the Co-Founders and it's not far enough into the season that this should be a problem.
Second is that Jake Hamlin accept my place as a permanent member of the ExCo. I'd nominate Nils, but I know he doesn't want it (actually his answer was "Hell no!"). Jake's a smart guy, level headed and he is committed to the league.
Third is that Ken or Andrew take the absent 6th ExCo member, for similar reasons.
Fourth is that I would appreciate it if you left my team vacant for the year. If someone would be kind enough to mind the roster for me. Give it a chance to do what it can. I know GM-less teams aren't supposed to be allowed to make the playoffs, but maybe in this case you can make an exception, if my team earns it.
Beyond that, some gifts before I depart.
The first is that I've uploaded everything I have on the IBC to the server. Notes on history, GM's, past databases, old team breakdowns, old copies of the rules, logos, etc... everything is in there. Some of it's pretty fun from a nostalgic perspective, I hope it gets used in some way.
The second is an auto-simmer, which I've attached, which will allow each GM to sim batches of seasons automatically. Very useful for decision making. (see your email)
Now I'm going to go off and finish up the games for this evening, get the database in order following tonight's games and send it out one last time. Admittedly I'm a little sad. And I'll miss the league in a way, though probably not in the way some of you think. But more than anything, I think I feel a sense of relief. It's that relief and comfort that tells me I'm doing the right thing.
Anyone who wants to say hello, you know how to find me, I'm almost always on AIM. To everyone else... Live long and prosper.

Royals · Post by **Royals** » Sat Apr 05, 2008 6:34 pm

One other thing.
I emailed Kevin Goldstein the other day to ask him:
"I'm wondering what the success rates of Minor league players are, particularly those below AA. How likely is the average prospect to make it to the majors as a productive player?"
He just got back to me:
Not very likely. Go see an A-ball game and generally 3-4 guys on each team will even make it. Some have way more, some even have less.

I wrote something kinda sorta about this here.

http://www.baseballprospectus.com/artic ... cleid=4878

KG

The article result was that about 30% of prospects (based on the entire contents of a single BA prospect handbook) see MLB time, the rest never get there.

Dodgers · Post by **Dodgers** » Sat Apr 05, 2008 6:45 pm

RedSox wrote:One other thing.
I emailed Kevin Goldstein the other day to ask him:
"I'm wondering what the success rates of Minor league players are, particularly those below AA. How likely is the average prospect to make it to the majors as a productive player?"
He just got back to me:
Not very likely. Go see an A-ball game and generally 3-4 guys on each team will even make it. Some have way more, some even have less.

I wrote something kinda sorta about this here.

http://www.baseballprospectus.com/artic ... cleid=4878

KG

The article result was that about 30% of prospects (based on the entire contents of a single BA prospect handbook) see MLB time, the rest never get there.

Almost completely invalidated due to the fact that 100% of those players are not on IBC teams. If 30% of players are on IBC teams and 30% of all minor leaguers see MLB time, the percentage of IBC prospects who see major league time is far higher.

Royals · Post by **Royals** » Sat Apr 05, 2008 6:48 pm

Dodgers wrote:
RedSox wrote:One other thing.
I emailed Kevin Goldstein the other day to ask him:
"I'm wondering what the success rates of Minor league players are, particularly those below AA. How likely is the average prospect to make it to the majors as a productive player?"
He just got back to me:
Not very likely. Go see an A-ball game and generally 3-4 guys on each team will even make it. Some have way more, some even have less.

I wrote something kinda sorta about this here.

http://www.baseballprospectus.com/artic ... cleid=4878

KG

The article result was that about 30% of prospects (based on the entire contents of a single BA prospect handbook) see MLB time, the rest never get there.
Almost completely invalidated due to the fact that 100% of those players are not on IBC teams. If 30% of players are on IBC teams and 30% of all minor leaguers see MLB time, the percentage of IBC prospects who see major league time is far higher.

I'm saying goodbye, adding a last piece of information for reference and you want to argue?
It's information. Use it. Get someone to do a similar study that might be more applicable and use it.

Mets · Post by **Mets** » Sat Apr 05, 2008 7:05 pm

We would need to run a study of how many A-Ball players who have spent time on rosters actually get a useable SIM at some point during their careers.

They may never get above AA, but if DMB projects them, and they make a difference, what's it matter if they reach the majors?

DBacks · Post by **DBacks** » Sat Apr 05, 2008 7:23 pm

well I do have to tip my hat to you. you founded the ibc and saw it through some tough times and for that we should all be grateful. a couple of things though...

1) a lot of times, aaron plays a character around here. he's one of the smartest guys I know and in reality is calm and pretty much nonviolent.

2) who the fuck am I going to fight with now?

3) if your team is going to be left vacant, nils should wait to move until after the season. that only seems appropriate.

Mets · Post by **Mets** » Sat Apr 05, 2008 7:30 pm

There is no possible way there should be any franchise switching during a season.

This effects multiple pennant races, and pretty much makes the whole season irrelevant.

If Nils wants to call his team the San Francisco Red Sox, I have no problem with that, but you can't just go sticking franchises in different divisions after the season starts. Especially if it's a postseason contender.

Mariners · Post by **Mariners** » Sat Apr 05, 2008 8:21 pm

Bren, Thank you for inviting me into, and building the best 'fake' league I've ever been a part of. Thanks again. -Jag

Mariners · Post by **Mariners** » Sat Apr 05, 2008 8:39 pm

And to the moving thing, I also would like Nils to wait till the end of the season. I too would like to move, to San Francisco, and have "Bren's" team play in Arizona, but I can for sure see how that could reek havoc.

But, when the time comes, I want to move to the Bay. I was born in Mountain View Calif. (Bay Area), so the Giants were always my team growing up in Seattle until we got the M's. When we moved to Oregon, we found that there were just as many Giants fans here as M's fans, especially with my Bocce buds, who are diehard Giants fans. To the power that be, when the right time comes, please allow me to move to S.F.. In my case a division shift is not even needed as I will be staying in the N.L. West (just move closer to home).

Angels · Post by **Angels** » Sat Apr 05, 2008 8:52 pm

Bren - I know the headaches involved in running a league. I haven't run a SIM league but I'm the commish of my local fantasy league. My responsibilities pale in comparison to what yours must have been, I surely understand your frustration. Good luck to ya.

DBacks · Post by **DBacks** » Sat Apr 05, 2008 8:58 pm

I understand that this announcement has probably given the exco a lot to discuss, but I think some of these decisions should be talked about amongst everyone.

first. the exco members. as far as determining who is permanent and who is on the council at all, I think we should vote. I mean two of the positions are temporary and should be voted upon soon anyway. if we are going to put the league through a leadership change we should do it all now and then do our best to get through this season smoothly.

also, as much as I respect bren's wishes, are we all okay with leaving a major contender and possible playoff team unmanned? is that fair to anyone?

Rangers · Post by **Rangers** » Sat Apr 05, 2008 9:13 pm

Gabe, not all of the exco guys have been around since Bren made his announcement, so we haven't all been able to get together and talk as of yet. However, the ones who have been around have, and later today once all of us have been able to communicate, we're thinking we'll post what we would like to do as far as Bren's roster and all of that.

I will say that I personally agree with your sentiment on wanting the year to proceed smoothly and with continuity.

Astros · Post by **Astros** » Sat Apr 05, 2008 10:13 pm

Yeah there's no way Nils should be able to move during the season. After the season, sure thing, but for him to move right now is unfair to everyone.

Thanks for your work with the league Bren. Yeah, I can't stand you but losing a good GM always sucks. You know what, I'm not taking the high road here.

WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! YOU CAN PUT IT ON THE BOAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARD.......................YES!

Nationals · Post by **Nationals** » Sun Apr 06, 2008 1:14 am

Bren, it has been a joy and pleasure competing with you over the past 6 years...I respect your decision and wish you happy runnings.

As for your request that I go ExCo, if they and the league want me in that role, I am honored. If not, I'll find new ways to put off this seminar paper.

But seriously, I'll miss your abrasiveness.

Reds · Post by **Reds** » Sun Apr 06, 2008 8:33 am

Bren,

I am sorry to see it has come to this. It's unfortunate that the IBC has become more of a chore than a pleasure for you. Since you are one of the founders I have to believe you gave this decision much thought before posting it. Thanks for the opprotunity to join the league and the few occasion you talked me into sticking it out. I wish you were staying.

As for your recommendation regarding the ExCo, thanks and if that is what the league wants I would be willing to serve on it.

Ken

Yankees · Post by **Yankees** » Sun Apr 06, 2008 12:18 pm

Best of luck Bren - this league has been a constant source of pleasure and a staple of how I waste my time during the workday and weekends. Your efforts are truly appreciated here.

That being said, no way in hell should Nils move until after the season - and as sentimental as it will be to have your flag run half staff for the year, if we find a good GM they should get the team. I can't begin to state my thanks for your efforts, but we need to keep moving forward.

Tigers · Post by **Tigers** » Sun Apr 06, 2008 1:11 pm

Good luck with your marathoning & triathalons and the best of luck in life.

Your contributions to the league over the years were invaluable and the league wouldn't be in existence with the great foundation of GM's it has now without you.

Thanks doesn't do it justice, but Thank You for all your time and efforts on all of our behalfs.

Mets · Post by **Mets** » Sun Apr 06, 2008 5:56 pm

PS....someone would have to keep up with the DL on Red Sox until the GM is replaced.

Rangers · Post by **Rangers** » Sun Apr 06, 2008 10:41 pm

Tigers wrote:Gabe, not all of the exco guys have been around since Bren made his announcement, so we haven't all been able to get together and talk as of yet. However, the ones who have been around have, and later today once all of us have been able to communicate, we're thinking we'll post what we would like to do as far as Bren's roster and all of that.

I will say that I personally agree with your sentiment on wanting the year to proceed smoothly and with continuity.

FWIW, we're still planning on sending that out as soon as someone can get a hold of Jake. He disappeared yesterday afternoon when we started to try to talk with him online, and we haven't been able to catch up with him yet. I'm sure he'll be back around and we'll have that out shortly.

In the mean time, simming and DB are going on as mentioned.

Orioles · Post by **Orioles** » Mon Apr 07, 2008 12:26 am

Good luck Bren, and a sincere thanks for all your hard work and dedication to the league. Despite the occasional butting of heads, I have tremendous respect for how far you've helped bring this league and am grateful for the immense commitment of time and energy you've made to the IBC since I've been a part of it.

Now please don't delete this post. Heh.

Orioles · Post by **Orioles** » Mon Apr 07, 2008 12:28 am

Royals wrote:no way in hell should Nils move until after the season - and as sentimental as it will be to have your flag run half staff for the year, if we find a good GM they should get the team.

Agree.