MLB Offseason Thread

Lets get that talk started guys.

Yankees re-sign Cashman.

In future news Red Sox sign Milwood to something outrageous that the Indians can't possibly match, but the signing backfires in their face because karma's a *****. Red Sox likely also pursue Konerko, but I think the Angels will make a run for him as well. Erstad is wasted at first, they could move him back to the outfield and put Konerko at first and fix their offence a little. Odds are Konerko stays with the Sox though.

worst world series ratings ever

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2005/baseball/mlb/specials/postseason/2005/10/27/world.series.ratings.ap/

icw will call some gm an idiot and that gm will then win the world series just like he did with ken williams last offseason

I'm guessing there's going to be some fairly big moves. Konerko will probably stay, as the only team that it seems he'll want to go to, the Angels, won't have a ton of room for him(w/Kotchman coming up and Erstad still great defensively on first). I'm guessing Damon will stay with the Sox, but it wouldn't surprise me to see him go elsewhere, like the Angels or Yankees(wow, I'm bringing up the Angels alot). Matsui will more than likely stay in New York, and I could definetely see some other outfielders moving, like Brian Giles to a place like New York, and Reggie Sanders maybe to a place like Chicago or something like that.

As for pitchers, Clemens will most likely stay in Houston or retire, I see Millwood heading to Boston, and Burnett landing in Toronto. I'm guessing both Washburn(near guarantee) and Byrd will leave Anaheim, and they'll probably go after Jeff Weaver to replace him(although going after Millwood or Burnett wouldn't surprise me).


As for trades, I see a few happening this offseason. Manny will probably be dealt. It'll probably be between Toronto, Cleveland, and Anaheim, but I'm not sure what either of the three teams could give up for him. I'm guessing Torii Hunter is headed to the Yankees, although they aren't exactly stocked up on prospects, but it'll probably happen anyway. Steve Finley will probably be shipped out of Anaheim, maybe to the Yankees if they miss out on the good FA center fielders, or maybe to the Red Sox in a Manny Ramirez deal(to balance out the salary for one year at least). Boomer's also likely gone from Boston, but I don't know where he'll end up.

If you really think they won BECAUSE of Scott Podsednik, you need your head checked.

Of course, Kenny Williams actually DID do some intelligent things this off-season and during the season.

1. That pitching coach (and Williams) deserve a lot of credit for the Bullpen. Cotts Jenks and Politte are jawesome. Marte isn't bad either, and somehow they got a good year from DUSTIN HERMANSON, who last had an ERA below four in 1999.

2. He had Gold Glove Defense at CF, SS, and above average defense at 2B.

3. With relation to note #2, Kenny Williams didn't trade Aaron Rowand for "veteran leadership" in mid-season.

4. Also with relation to note #2, Iguchi had a good year on D and a 104 *OPS+. Good signing and a Ballsy move IMO after the bust that was Kazuo Matsui

5. Again, distribute credit between Williams and pitchign coach as you like, but Jose Contreras not stinking up the joint? Jon Garland cutting his walk rate by almost a half and cutting his dinger rate by 25%? Of course you have to credit WIlliams for bringing thsoe guys, but the pitchign coach turned them around.

6. Dealt with the injury of Frank Thomas.

7. Brought in AJP. I'm not sure how somebody that has a .308 OBP is a GOOD signing, but I guess when the previuos guys were Ben Davis and Sandy Alomar, you gotta start somewhere.

To wrap up the pro side:
The White Sox had great pitching and defense, which is how they won, which teh credit can go to Williams and the coaching staff (which he hired)

Not to mention the fact a Cy Young Mark Buherle helped. Best *ERA+, best bb/9 and Hr/9 rate in his career certainly helps.

And now I gotta argue my side that Kenny Williams is still not the most brilliant man on this planet:

1. That bench was junk. He had Timo Perez who's arguably the WORST player in baseball, and Geoff Blum who's pretty close to that honour himself. At least Geoff Blum used to not completely suck. And then somehow Timo Perez got 180 AB's.

2. That offense was krap, and you know it. THe scored 741 runs last year, which was good for 9th in the AL. (Note AL and not majors). Out of the 9 hitters on the Sox last season, they had THREE that hit above league average. (Konerko, Iguchi, and Dye, who was SLG heavy but was still decent despite a .333 OBP)

Granted they didn't have Frank Thomas, but that offense was junk.

3. You don't trade for Scott Podsednik. You just don't. You ESPECIALLY don't trade Carlos Lee for Scott Podsednik and Vizcaino (who had a decent year btw.).

The only reason Scott Podsednik did as well as he did was because he raised his OBP to .351 (which was good for SECOND BEST on the team btw.), and not because he actually became good at walking, but becuase his BA went up. A BA heavy OBP, not a big deal right? His SLG was .349.

The point is that BA fluctuates while walk rates normally remains constant. If Scott Podsednik returns to his 2004 form in which his BA drops to the .250's whiel retaining his career walk rates, his OBP will drop to around the .310-.320's, with ZERO power whatsoever, which will probably mean the complete shutdown of the Chicago Offense.

(The best example of thsi is really Ichiro. He was bloody magnificent when his BA is like up in the .350-.360's without that great walkrate, but when his BA drops he isn't nearly effective, because a BA heavy OBP drops heavily with the BA. Of course, Ichiro somehow still has more power than Podsednik, and I'm not counting defense here either)

4. The Chicago White Sox managed to outperform their Pythagoras by 8 wins. I call this "luck" or a "natural consequence of probability" when something not as likely to happen just happens becuase it's simply possible, but I'll just get called a Stathead who knows nothing about how the World works and be beaten by the mangerial brilliance of Ozzie Guillen. Of course the fact that the Twins hit couldn't their way out of a paper bag and the fact that the Indians collapsed down the stretch didn't help at all.

Of course some smartass here is just going to go "OH BUT PODS HIT A WALK OFF HOMERUN! HE'S SO HOT!! AND GEOFF BLUM in game 3!!! HE'S SO 1337 AND HE TOTALLY PWN3D the Stros!"

EDIT: Lots of Typos. And I'm so damn sick of having to type "Podsednik" 800 times in one post. Almost as sick of hearing the jib-jab nonsense from the Fox broadcaster. I wonder if there's some sort of baseball Abu Gharaib where i can send Tim McCarver and Kevin Millar too.

As much as I want ManRam back, Dolan won't pay for it.

The Indians will get one of: Encarnacion, Marrero, or White (Rondell). They'll re-sign Wickman, pick up Ronnie B's option, Elarton (if they don't get Millwood).

I think Millwood goes to Detroit and the Indians get Brian Anderson back to pitch long relief and spot start, while Jason Davis re-enters the rotation as a 5th starter.

Heh, the Sox will have 7 quality starting pitchers next year with Buehrle, Garland, Garcia, Contreras, McCarthy, Cotts, and El Duque.

As much as I want ManRam back, Dolan won't pay for it.

The Indians will get one of: Encarnacion, Marrero, or White (Rondell). They'll re-sign Wickman, pick up Ronnie B's option, Elarton (if they don't get Millwood).

I think Millwood goes to Detroit and the Indians get Brian Anderson back to pitch long relief and spot start, while Jason Davis re-enters the rotation as a 5th starter.
my god, please don't say the name Brian Anderson in the same breathe as the Cleveland Indians again. I don't want nightmares.

Heh, the Sox will have 7 quality starting pitchers next year with Buehrle, Garland, Garcia, Contreras, McCarthy, Cotts, and El Duque.


The Red Sox or Phillies will take one.

As will the Mets.

DRays should be hiring their manager and GM in the next few weeks. I don't expect any big moves out of the new owner yet. Huff may be on the market as well as Lugo for some pitching to clear room for BJ Upton and Delmon Young.

Heh, the Sox will have 7 quality starting pitchers next year with Buehrle, Garland, Garcia, Contreras, McCarthy, Cotts, and El Duque.
A lot of those guys had career years.

If you are expecting them all to return to the same form as this year you might be in for a suprise.

Has anyone with credibility speculated on the Manny to Toronto trade? What would the Jays have to give up? I presume Vernon Wells would be included and the Sox would let Damon walk away.

(Damon is an FA right?)

As will the Mets.

What's wrong with our current 4590874598734259 starters?

DRays should be hiring their manager and GM in the next few weeks. I don't expect any big moves out of the new owner yet. Huff may be on the market as well as Lugo for some pitching to clear room for BJ Upton and Delmon Young.
D'backs named their new gm today in former Red Sox assistant Josh Byrnes.

Has anyone with credibility speculated on the Manny to Toronto trade? What would the Jays have to give up? I presume Vernon Wells would be included and the Sox would let Damon walk away.

(Damon is an FA right?)
he won't be traded within the division.

D'backs named their new gm today in former Red Sox assistant Josh Byrnes.

Overrated and fired within 4 years, write it down.

As for the Devil Rays all signs point to either Bobby Valentine or Joe Maddon being named manager, Gerry Hunsicker has a chance to be named GM.

Overrated and fired within 4 years, write it down.

As for the Devil Rays all signs point to either Bobby Valentine or Joe Maddon being named manager, Gerry Hunsicker has a chance to be named GM.
I think the Devil Rays should have to win 75 games before they get mention in off-season threads.

my god, please don't say the name Brian Anderson in the same breathe as the Cleveland Indians again. I don't want nightmares.
He'd be good long relief if we ever had to package Tallet/Traber for anything. Plus he's a good guy in the clubhouse. It wouldn't take much money to bring him back as he's from Geneva, Ohio. Which is about an hour northeast of Cleveland up 90 towards Erie. I wouldn't mind bringing him back to have him in the organization as a consultant a la Chuck Nagy upon his retirement.

I think the Devil Rays should have to win 75 games before they get mention in off-season threads.

They would if they played the Indians more often. 6-4 against the Indians , 5-1 at Jacobs Field. You like taking shots at the Rays, but your own team couldn't get above .500 against em.

The Sox are bringing back Millar:

http://www.boston.com/sports/baseball/redsox/extras/extra_bases/2005/10/report_timlin_c.html

Edit: Did I write "Millar?" Oh, silly me! I meant Timlin. I could hear the sound of ICW's heart stopping all the way in Pennsylvania.

The Sox are bringing back Millar:

http://www.boston.com/sports/baseball/redsox/extras/extra_bases/2005/10/report_timlin_c.html

Edit: Did I write "Millar?" Oh, silly me! I meant Timlin. I could hear the sound of ICW's heart stopping all the way in Pennsylvania.

You son of a b....DON'T SCARE US LIKE THAT!

Has anyone with credibility speculated on the Manny to Toronto trade? What would the Jays have to give up? I presume Vernon Wells would be included and the Sox would let Damon walk away.

(Damon is an FA right?)
on espn radio in Columbus last week they said Manny has told the Sox he will accept a trade to the Indians or Angels, didnt mention anyone else and said no dice on the Mets

and I believe he is a 10&5 guy now so he can pick where he goes now

I absoltely love the MLB off-season.... There is just so much loyalty in the baseball free-agent market it isnt even funny.....

on espn radio in Columbus last week they said Manny has told the Sox he will accept a trade to the Indians or Angels, didnt mention anyone else and said no dice on the Mets

and I believe he is a 10&5 guy now so he can pick where he goes now

Yeah, that seems to be the case. I added T-O in because of the money they can spend this offseason, and because of previous rumors of Manny to the Jays. But anyway....

I can't really see the Indians make a big pitch at him, so the Angels are probably the most likely destination if they want to deal him. As an Angel fan, I'm wondering, what would it take to get him to come to Anaheim? I'm guessing Juan Rivera would have to be included to replace him, and they'd probably want Figgins or Kennedy to fill their hole at second base(most likely Figgins). I'm also guessing the Angels would want to include Steve Finley, and the Red Sox would likely be willing if Damon left. So, what else would have to be added?

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2207349


players who have filed for free agency.


I'll give the world for Matt Morris

Frank McCourt, you're a son of a ***** (http://www.latimes.com/sports/baseball/mlb/dodgers/la-sp-dodgers29oct29,1,3328935,full.story?coll=la-headlines-sports-mlb-dodger).

Frank McCourt, you're a son of a ***** (http://www.latimes.com/sports/baseball/mlb/dodgers/la-sp-dodgers29oct29,1,3328935,full.story?coll=la-headlines-sports-mlb-dodger).


and why is that

and why is that Caving into idiots TJ Simers and Bill Plaschke after two years, the first of which was a division title, the second of which was rife with injuries? It's embarassing. I stopped caring about the Phillies because I finally had it with their incompent ownership. Frank McCourt isn't doing much better by giving up on DePodesta after 2 years--and one of them was the most successful season for the Dodgers in nearly a decade. So he's reacting to one year--one year with just about everybody injured. That's absurd.

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2207349


players who have filed for free agency.


I'll give the world for Matt Morris

I doubt that the Phils will sign anyone big, I'd resign Wagner over anything right now and that will probably be 8-9 mill per year for a few years and I think they're trying to move down the payroll.

I doubt that the Phils will sign anyone big, I'd resign Wagner over anything right now and that will probably be 8-9 mill per year for a few years and I think they're trying to move down the payroll.

Well, they'll likely have some stiff competition for him. Many teams need a closer, and he's the creme de la creme of this year's crop.


Also, it seems Manny's again asked for a trade, but this time might not report to spring training if his reqeust isn't granted. Linky (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2207464)

Well, they'll likely have some stiff competition for him. Many teams need a closer, and he's the creme de la creme of this year's crop.


Also, it seems Manny's again asked for a trade, but this time might not report to spring training if his reqeust isn't granted. Linky (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2207464)
Wagner might be the best of the bunch but 7 guys with closing experience filed for free agency friday including, BJ Ryan, Trevor Hoffman, and Todd Jones

A lot of those guys had career years.

If you are expecting them all to return to the same form as this year you might be in for a suprise.

Garland is the only pitcher who really overachieved, but then again, he was a first round draft pick. Buherle has always been solid, and so has Garcia. Contreras finally found a comfort zone, and why would he not be comfortable next year? I'm not sure what the Sox plan to do with Hernandez, but McCarthy is more than capable of taking over as the #5 guy. A rotation of Buherle, Contreras, Garcia, and Garland (who likely won't equal his 18 wins of last year, but should still win his fare share of games) and McCarthy is pretty good if you ask me.

Frank McCourt, you're a son of a ***** (http://www.latimes.com/sports/baseball/mlb/dodgers/la-sp-dodgers29oct29,1,3328935,full.story?coll=la-headlines-sports-mlb-dodger).
Depo completly dismantled a good team for no reason. I told you how it was going to be last year, and why. I think Depo just didn't understand the game well enough yet. I am all for his statistical analysis, but he knew nothing about baseball itself. Billy Beane played ball all his life, and in the majors. He knew better than to just blindly trust stats. The combination worked well, but once Depo had to do it alone he was just lost. He just isn't ready yet.

They would if they played the Indians more often. 6-4 against the Indians , 5-1 at Jacobs Field. You like taking shots at the Rays, but your own team couldn't get above .500 against em.
my team won 93 games, cry me a river. Also, I have no doubt that the Devil rays are for once an actual up and coming team. In large part due to the success they had against my team, and the Yankees. They just need some more starters.

Depo completly dismantled a good team for no reason. I told you how it was going to be last year, and why. I think Depo just didn't understand the game well enough yet. I am all for his statistical analysis, but he knew nothing about baseball itself. Billy Beane played ball all his life, and in the majors. He knew better than to just blindly trust stats. The combination worked well, but once Depo had to do it alone he was just lost. He just isn't ready yet.

I'm not a DePo homer, but I don't see your 'dismantled a good team for no reason.'

Dodgers pitching staff to begin 2004: Weaver, Perez, Ishii, Lima, Nomo. DePodesta saw a need to improve the starters, and he made the Lo Duca for Penny swap. At the time, I thought it was a solid deal for the Dodgers and still do. It was strangely timed no doubt, but Mota didn't pitch well for the Marlins this year, and Lo Duca is 33.

Then basically the 2004 offseason saw him change Beltre/Green/Cora into Valentin/Drew/Kent. I thought DePo made a good decision to pass up on overpaying Beltre, but made a mistake in bringing in Drew to compensate.

I don't think the 2004 Dodgers would have done better in 2005 than the 2005 Dodgers.

C: Paul Lo Duca
1B: Shawn Green
2B: Alex Cora
SS: Cesar Izturis
3B: Adrian Beltre
RF: Milton Bradley
CF: Steve Finley
LF: Jayson Werth

[Billy Beane] knew better than to just blindly trust stats.
Oh really? If Michael Lewis's account was at all accurate, this statement would only be true if "stats" were replaced with "what one sees." Putting faith in numbers over observations is what he is all about, and at one time the guy who was fired today was his primary means to that end.

...and I believe [Manny] is a 10&5 guy now so he can pick where he goes now
This is only partially true. Let's not forget that he has a contract, which means that the club has the final option on whether he gets traded. I think it's more accurate the write that he can reject any trade, but that doesn't mean he could go wherever he wishes. They could just tell him to show up, shut up, and play.

The Sox have Pedoria coming up, and it's projected that he will probably start at second next year or at least share time. If there's a trade for Manny, they'll get something useful now and good prospects, and grab someone to play LF (Giles?). There's no way the Sox would improve now, but it's also true that he wouldn't come for free.

Eh, I'm so over Manny, regardless of how valid this edition of the trade requests happen to be. This is the year of Stan being Stan.

This is only partially true. Let's not forget that he has a contract, which means that the club has the final option on whether he gets traded. I think it's more accurate the write that he can reject any trade, but that doesn't mean he could go wherever he wishes. They could just tell him to show up, shut up, and play.

The Sox have Pedoria coming up, and it's projected that he will probably start at second next year or at least share time. If there's a trade for Manny, they'll get something useful now and good prospects, and grab someone to play LF (Giles?). There's no way the Sox would improve now, but it's also true that he wouldn't come for free.

Eh, I'm so over Manny, regardless of how valid this edition of the trade requests happen to be. This is the year of Stan being Stan.
thats what I meant, the Red Sox hands are tied as far as he can veto any trade he wants to, not that he can just up and leave

Gammons latest rumor is that Orel Hershiser becomes GM and Bobby Valentine becomes Manager.

He also says that Lasorda could be named interem GM.

I doubt that the Phils will sign anyone big, I'd resign Wagner over anything right now and that will probably be 8-9 mill per year for a few years and I think they're trying to move down the payroll.


obviously, I'd like for them Phils or Red Sox to get him.

Depo completly dismantled a good team for no reason. None of the players he let go were any good in 2005. Shawn Green was an average player in 2005, and he was the best of the ex-Dodgers.

[Billy Beane] knew better than to just blindly trust stats. So did DePo.

The combination worked well, but once Depo had to do it alone he was just lost. He just isn't ready yet. You don't have a clue about what is going on in LA.

Adrian Beltre isn't any good?

Adrian Beltre isn't any good? Did you look at the season he had?

http://www.baseball-reference.com/b/beltrad01.shtml (http://www.baseball-reference.com/b/beltrad01.shtml)

He reverted back to his pre-2004 form, just as I said he would.

EDIT: I should note, my anger isn't at DePo being canned. It's at the way it happened. Three weeks after saying this:

"The tremendous success we had last year and the huge disappointment this year just reinforced that it is a path, a plan, an overall approach to win consistently," McCourt said. "You can't get too high with the highs and too low with the lows. We're not as smart as we seemed in 2004 and not as dumb as we seemed this year.

"You've got to be steady and have a plan and be smart enough to adjust the plan, but stay the course."

Frank McCourt does a 180. He does not appear to have any semeblance of a plan laid out.

Sounds like he has a plan to contradict himself in the press conference. Not as smart as 2004, not as dumb as 2005. Can't get too high, too low. Then why fire the GM?

Did you look at the season he had?

http://www.baseball-reference.com/b/beltrad01.shtml (http://www.baseball-reference.com/b/beltrad01.shtml)

He reverted back to his pre-2004 form, just as I said he would.

EDIT: I should note, my anger isn't at DePo being canned. It's at the way it happened. Three weeks after saying this:

[/i]

Frank McCourt does a 180. He does not appear to have any semeblance of a plan laid out.
I got the impression that you only said Beltre would start sucking because of sour grapes, even though I too knew he would. If I recall correctly, you were practically offering yourself to him before he left, singing his praises. I think the Dodgers are making a mistake removing him from the organization entirely. Depo made some awful trades, but that is moreso with the fact he has only been around baseball for 4 or 5 years. The guy just doesn't come from a baseball background so he is in a word lost out there. I think one day he will become a great gm, but he just needs to learn the game until then.

The Sox are bringing back Millar:

http://www.boston.com/sports/baseball/redsox/extras/extra_bases/2005/10/report_timlin_c.html

Edit: Did I write "Millar?" Oh, silly me! I meant Timlin. I could hear the sound of ICW's heart stopping all the way in Pennsylvania.

YOU SON OF A !@#$%#!@$PIOO@#&I)$^~()#!@&*%*$

I got the impression that you only said Beltre would start sucking because of sour grapes, even though I too knew he would. If I recall correctly, you were practically offering yourself to him before he left, singing his praises.


Actually, we all knew he'd suck before 2004 was so out of line with his career levels that he was bound to regress to the mean. But manipulate as you wish.

I think the Dodgers are making a mistake removing him from the organization entirely.


They would have made a smaller msitake had they signed Kevin Millar.


Depo made some awful trades, but that is moreso with the fact he has only been around baseball for 4 or 5 years.


Name ONE trade where he got fleeced.


The guy just doesn't come from a baseball background so he is in a word lost out there.

Neither did Theo Epstein

Depo made some awful trades, but that is moreso with the fact he has only been around baseball for 4 or 5 years.


Name ONE trade where he got fleeced.



Paul LoDuca???

Did you look at the season he had?

http://www.baseball-reference.com/b/beltrad01.shtml (http://www.baseball-reference.com/b/beltrad01.shtml)

He reverted back to his pre-2004 form, just as I said he would.




He also played hurt half the season

If I recall correctly, you were practically offering yourself to him before he left, singing his praises.
You recall incorrectly.

He also played hurt half the season
He sucked before he got hurt.

Paul LoDuca???

You've got to be sh!@#ing me right?

Paul Lo Duca: 92 *OPS+
Guillermo Mota: 85 *ERA+ in 67 IP
Juan Encarnacion: 113 *OPS+


Brad Penny: 175 IP 104 *ERA+
Choi: 110 *OPS+

Please.

It only doesn't look decent for the Marlins because somehow Encarnacion transformed himself from among THE WORST OUTFIELDERS IN THE MAJORS (84 *OPS with a .299 OBP in 04) to somebody not completely garbage.

Paul LoDuca???

Penny and Choi were excellent in LA. I'd call it in LA's favour by just a bit.

You've got to be sh!@#ing me right?

Paul Lo Duca: 92 *OPS+
Guillermo Mota: 85 *ERA+ in 67 IP
Juan Encarnacion: 113 *OPS+


Brad Penny: 175 IP 104 *ERA+
Choi: 110 *OPS+

Please.

It only doesn't look decent for the Marlins because somehow Encarnacion transformed himself from among THE WORST OUTFIELDERS IN THE MAJORS (84 *OPS with a .299 OBP in 04) to somebody not completely garbage.
same could be said for Choi.

same could be said for Choi.

Choi hit 116 *OPS+ in 2005

Try Fact Checking

Choi hit 116 *OPS+ in 2005

Try Fact Checking
but he has been absolute **** before that. Besides, he still sucks. His OPS+ may look good, but the guy just sucks. He isn't a capable starter in the big leagues.

but he has been absolute **** before that. Besides, he still sucks. His OPS+ may look good, but the guy just sucks. He isn't a capable starter in the big leagues.
What about him sucks, since he's clearly a fine hitter and he's also a fine defensive first baseman?

Silver Slugger awards announced today

AL-
C-Varitek
1B-Teixeira
2B-Soriano
SS-Tejada
3B-Rodriguez
OF-Manny
OF-Vlad
OF-Sheffield
DH-Ortiz

NL-
C-Barrett
1B-Derrek Lee
2B-Kent
SS-Lopez
3B-Ensberg(this obvously only counts towards the regular season)
OF-Andruw Jones
OF-Carlos Lee
OF-Miggy Cabrera
P-Jason Marquis

What about him sucks, since he's clearly a fine hitter and he's also a fine defensive first baseman?
how is he a fine hitter? he hits for a low average with a truckload of strikeouts. That's like saying Russel Branyan was a good hitter because he could hit it out of the park 15 times a year.

I think MLB.com was rooting for the Astros ;)

http://shop.mlb.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2140395

how is he a fine hitter? he hits for a low average with a truckload of strikeouts. That's like saying Russel Branyan was a good hitter because he could hit it out of the park 15 times a year.
Because he put up a 110 OPS+ in 2005 and 116 in 2004. That's a fine hitter. Not great, but fine.

Has anyone with credibility speculated on the Manny to Toronto trade? What would the Jays have to give up? I presume Vernon Wells would be included and the Sox would let Damon walk away.

(Damon is an FA right?)

Don't laugh at this yet but word on the street here in Phoenix a week or so ago stated.
Manny Ramirez to the D-Backs for Gonzo and Troy Glaus
it makes sense Manny's salary is right in line with what Gonzo and Glaus make combined. Boston gets a left fielder back and a 3rd baseman too.

Silver Slugger awards announced today

AL-
C-Varitek
1B-Teixeira
2B-Soriano
SS-Tejada
3B-Rodriguez
OF-Manny
OF-Vlad
OF-Sheffield
DH-Ortiz

NL-
C-Barrett
1B-Derrek Lee
2B-Kent
SS-Lopez
3B-Ensberg(this obvously only counts towards the regular season)
OF-Andruw Jones
OF-Carlos Lee
OF-Miggy Cabrera
P-Jason Marquis

How did Soriano beat out Brian Roberts?

Don't laugh at this yet but word on the street here in Phoenix a week or so ago stated.
Manny Ramirez to the D-Backs for Gonzo and Troy Glaus
it makes sense Manny's salary is right in line with what Gonzo and Glaus make combined. Boston gets a left fielder back and a 3rd baseman too.
Boston would want better players than that, and last we heard Manny said he would want to go to Anahiem or Cleveland. And as a 10-5, he has veto power.

Theo Epstein isn't returning to the Red Sox:

http://redsox.bostonherald.com/redSox/view.bg?articleid=109723

A leading contributing factor, according to sources close to the situation, was a column in Sunday’s Boston Globe in which too much inside information about the relationship between Epstein and his mentor, team president and CEO Larry Lucchino, was revealed -- in a manner slanted too much in Lucchino’s favor. Epstein, according to these sources, had several reasons to believe Lucchino was a primary source behind the column and came to the realization that if this information were leaked hours before Epstein was going to agree to a new long-term deal, it signaled excessive bad faith between he and Lucchino.

Boston would want better players than that, and last we heard Manny said he would want to go to Anahiem or Cleveland. And as a 10-5, he has veto power.

Only stating what the word on the street out of the desert is. Personally i don't want him in Arizona he is a huge defensive liability. And his attitude is geared more towards a big market organization. That has PR people to deal with his eternal MEism.
But that does not change the fact that boston needs a 3rd baseman and if Manny leaves for Az. they would get the 3rd baseman and a left fielder for around the amount they are paying Manny. But it would make sense to keep in the A.L. where there's not much strategy and he can play DH for someone. he is one of the biggest liabilities in the entire major leagues as a fielder. Wherever he ends up, that team needs a speedy Center fielder to bail him out. And it sounds like Damon is going to be gone

I hope Larry Lucchino strangles to death on his giant ego. That slimeball just ****ed our franchise to all hell.

Only stating what the word on the street out of the desert is.
I didn't mean any offense, my apologies if I came across that way. I don't doubt he's a topic of rumors there. But the DBacks don't have much to offer the Red Sox compared to say, the Mets (although I'd say they have more to offer than the Angels), and there's been no indications that Arizona is a likely destination for Manny. That's all I'm saying.

I hope Larry Lucchino strangles to death on his giant ego. That slimeball just ****ed our franchise to all hell. No doubt that Lucchino is a *****, but I'm more than willing to bet that two years ago you would have taken a WS victory at any cost. Well, that cost seems to have come. You can't have it both ways Red Sox fans.

Oh well, it was a good run under Epstein. Byrnes leaving for AZ a few days ago was a huge loss as it was, now it's crushing. He restocked the farm system more than could have been hoped and of course, the Series win. I don't see how this can't set them back.

I'll bet they do much that they did with Epstein, and look for someone young and bright rather than someone established. Maybe they'll get someone to hold the bright, young folks together and get someone from that group.

Edit: From the ha-ha-ha files: http://www.boston.com/sports/baseball/redsox/articles/2005/10/31/epstein_red_sox_agree_on_a_three_year_contract/

Obviously, seeking to lose as much credibility as possible.

Don't laugh at this yet but word on the street here in Phoenix a week or so ago stated.
Manny Ramirez to the D-Backs for Gonzo and Troy Glaus
it makes sense Manny's salary is right in line with what Gonzo and Glaus make combined. Boston gets a left fielder back and a 3rd baseman too.

Why does Manny Ramirez do it though? Arizona wasn't a great team to begin with, and if they were to do that move, they probably get worse. I can't see him wanting to play there.

But that does not change the fact that boston needs a 3rd baseman and if Manny leaves for Az. they would get the 3rd baseman and a left fielder for around the amount they are paying Manny. But it would make sense to keep in the A.L. where there's not much strategy and he can play DH for someone. he is one of the biggest liabilities in the entire major leagues as a fielder. Wherever he ends up, that team needs a speedy Center fielder to bail him out. And it sounds like Damon is going to be gone

Kevin Youkilis will be the everyday 3B in Boston next year with Tony Graffanino as the veteran backup IF. This is assuming, of course, they don't bring back a 34y.o. with bad knees - Bill Mueller.

As far as Johnny Damon, my thoughts on him will depend entirely on the length of the contract. It has been rumored that he wants a 5 year deal which would make him 36 when the contract expires. I'm not sure the Sox, or anyone else for that matter, want to be paying him big bucks at that age.

No doubt that Lucchino is a *****, but I'm more than willing to bet that two years ago you would have taken a WS victory at any cost. Well, that cost seems to have come. You can't have it both ways Red Sox fans.

...?

No doubt that Lucchino is a *****, but I'm more than willing to bet that two years ago you would have taken a WS victory at any cost. Well, that cost seems to have come. You can't have it both ways Red Sox fans.

Larry Lucchino did not bring us the World Series.

I hope Larry Lucchino strangles to death on his giant ego. That slimeball just ****ed our franchise to all hell.

You know, if the Curly Haired Boyfriend was brownnosing Theo Epstein isntead, he'd write some krap about how Larry Lucchino being an anti-semite.

How did Soriano beat out Brian Roberts?
it all started when Roberts played like a minor leaguer for the entire second half.

Larry Lucchino did not bring us the World Series.
Doesn't matter. Red Sox fans finally got a WS title. Countless people said things like "I'd give anything to see the Red Sox win the World Series." Well, this is that anything. Don't ***** about it.

it all started when Roberts played like a minor leaguer for the entire second half.

And still finished with much better numbers than Soriano.

Doesn't matter. Red Sox fans finally got a WS title. Countless people said things like "I'd give anything to see the Red Sox win the World Series." Well, this is that anything. Don't ***** about it.


You're right. I'm not thrilled by Theo leaving, but I also would not want him around if his head isn't in the game, burned out or whatever other burning reason this is.

How did Soriano beat out Brian Roberts?

he took a crap in the second half

Doesn't matter. Red Sox fans finally got a WS title. Countless people said things like "I'd give anything to see the Red Sox win the World Series." Well, this is that anything. Don't ***** about it.

Here's the things we've had to put up with:

1. Kevin F Millar
2. Manny Ramirez in LF
3. Curt Schilling's Mouth
4. Slappy McERod
5. Curly Hair Boyfriend

Is that not pain enough?

Here's the things we've had to put up with:

1. Kevin F Millar
2. Manny Ramirez in LF
3. Curt Schilling's Mouth
4. Slappy McERod
5. Curly Hair Boyfriend

Is that not pain enough?

:whine:

I feel ZERO sympathy for Red Sox fans.

yeah 'putting up with' manny and schilling has gotta be rough

1. Kevin F Millar - boo freaking hoo

2. Manny Ramirez in LF - more than worth it at the plate

3. Curt Schilling's Mouth - two other teams did

4. Slappy McERod - what?!?! You won that series. No complaining about that.

5. Curly Hair Boyfriend - Dodgers fans have got to put up with TJ Simers AND Bill Plaschke. Ditto Yankee and Mets fans with Mike Lupica and M&MD. Ditto Cubs and White Sox fans with Jay Mariotti. And on and on. Also just about every national reporter it seems is from Boston.

No one feels sorry you Red Sox fans. You waited your whole lives for last year, you can't have your cake and eat it too.

Here's the things we've had to put up with:

1. Kevin F Millar
2. Manny Ramirez in LF
3. Curt Schilling's Mouth
4. Slappy McERod
5. Curly Hair Boyfriend

Is that not pain enough?


...I'm pretty satisfied with a world championship.

I didn't mean any offense, my apologies if I came across that way. I don't doubt he's a topic of rumors there. But the DBacks don't have much to offer the Red Sox compared to say, the Mets (although I'd say they have more to offer than the Angels), and there's been no indications that Arizona is a likely destination for Manny. That's all I'm saying.


Dr Love
No offense taken what so ever. Just reporting what was said on local news a few weeks back. It struck me as odd also, but it did make a 20 second spot on the local sports news. But no offense taken at all. P.S. sorry to dig into Manny so hard there, that is just how i see him

Why does Manny Ramirez do it though? Arizona wasn't a great team to begin with, and if they were to do that move, they probably get worse. I can't see him wanting to play there.


He probably won't come to the D-Backs ( MANNY ), but we have incredible talent at AAA Tucson, some of these players down there will give the big leaguers a run for their money come spring. So i don't see us getting any worse than we have been the last 2 seasons. And also we do have fairly decent starting rotation all in place allready.

Cleveland has multiple young starters to offer up for ManRam, it's just a matter of how much money Boston will cover. Between Martinez and Belliard, I think Manny could get along with the majority of the clubhouse. Martinez is really a lot of the gel that holds this team together and keeps them motivated. The same with Crisp.

If Boston covers enough salary, I could see a deal. Pitching wise, untouchables are Jeremy Sowers and Adam Miller. That still leaves Tony Sipp, Jeremy Guthrie, Fausto Carmona, and maybe a couple of others. I see possibly see Kevin Kouzmanoff packaged with an arm or two. It's possible that a deal could include a Brad Snyder or Stephen Head player (1B).

Word is that Sowers could be helping this Indians team as soon as next year, so that'd be why he's out. Sipp had some great K/IP numbers in the minor leagues, and Guthrie's a 1st rounder who has just not found it in the Indians organization. Carmona's our best control pitcher. I'd love to see Manny back here in Cleveland, but Millwood and Wickman are our top priorities. And since they'll cost a nice chunk of change, that would determine what we could handle for Manny.

http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/story/361147p-307706c.html

Furcal, a rifle-armed shortstop who filed for free agency yesterday, would be willing to play second base in Flushing, his agent, Paul Kinze, said yesterday. The Atlanta-based Kinzer said Furcal's preference is to remain a shortstop, but said about the Mets: "I think they'll be a player. ... He would be willing to explore it."

Furcal's brother and extended family live in the Bronx. And Kinzer said the Mets' Hispanic-friendly clubhouse, which includes fellow Dominicans Pedro Martinez and Reyes, is alluring.

"It'll help the comfort level," Kinzer said. "And he has a lot of family there."
Oh the speed they would have at the top of the lineup if the Mets could pull this off. :yo:

http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/story/361147p-307706c.html


Oh the speed they would have at the top of the lineup if the Mets could pull this off. :yo:

Furcal would bat 6th i would think

Furcal would bat 6th i would think
I imagine he would bat second, who else did you have in mind?

I'll tell ya who should be batting second is Beltran and then move Wright up to the third spot in the lineup where he belongs, but that's not going to happen as long as the Mets are paying Beltran all that money.

Why isnt DePo being mentioned in any of these rumors as the new Sox GM? You would think he would be the obvious choice in this situation as opposed to Towers or the FA crazy Sabean.

Why isnt DePo being mentioned in any of these rumors as the new Sox GM? You would think he would be the obvious choice in this situation as opposed to Towers or the FA crazy Sabean.


His track record. The trades he made. The fact that he took a playoff team and failed to make the playoffs in a division where the winner of the division was 2 games over .500 while his team was 20 games under .500.

His track record. The trades he made. The fact that he took a playoff team and failed to make the playoffs in a division where the winner of the division was 2 games over .500 while his team was 20 games under .500.

Yes, lets ignore the fact that he took the Dodgers to the playoffs for the first time since 1996 in his first year as a pro GM. Lets also ignore that THE ENTIRE TEAM WAS INJURED last year, including their allstar closer (13 blown saves after he was out btw). Jesus christ man.

You want to talk about bad trades? How about Bay and Perez for Giles (Towers) or any old free agent for 3 first round picks (Sabean).

:whine:

I feel ZERO sympathy for Red Sox fans.

You're not the only one. I wish the Rays had to "put up" with a hitter like Manny or a pitcher like Schilling.

AL Gold Gloves winners were named
C: Jason Varitek
1B: Mark Teixeira
2B: Orlando Hudson
3B: Eric Chavez
SS: Derek Jeter
OF: Tori Hunter, Ichiro, Vernon Wells
P: Kenny Rogers

AL Gold Gloves winners were named
1B: Mark Teixeira
2B: Orlando Hudson
3B: Eric Chavez
SS: Derek Jeter
OF: Tori Hunter, Ichiro, Vernon Wells
P: Kenny Rogers

Don't forget Jason Varitek at catcher, the first Red Sock since Tony Pena to win a Gold Glove at any position.

And Jeter again? ***?

Don't forget Jason Varitek at catcher, the first Red Sock since Tony Pena to win a Gold Glove at any position.

And Jeter again? ***?

I knew I was forgetting someone thanks

yeah I know, Jeter :shakehead I felt Orlando Cabrera was robbed

Yes, lets ignore the fact that he took the Dodgers to the playoffs for the first time since 1996 in his first year as a pro GM.with dan evans players...

with his own saber geek players he finished fourth in the worst division of all time

Orlando Cabrera was robbed

O-Cab was robbed. The rest were pretty good picks, though. Might've gone with Erstad over Tex, and maybe A-Rod over Chavez, but that's just me.

Might've gone with Erstad over Tex,
Not when you compare their numbers defensively. Oh yeah Cabrera was absolutely robbed. Thats 2 years in a row Jeter has completely undeservedly won a gold glove because of his name and where he plays.

Torii Hunter over Aaron Rowand?


:biglaugh: :shakehead

I think the Sox are much in the same scenario that they were three years ago. They aren't sure where to go with it because they have someone in Hoyer whom they'd like in the role but don't feel is ready. Epstein was the assistant to then-interim GM Mike Port until ownership decided HE would make a good choice.

I think they'll go with a proven name who speaks the same language in the short term with the onus on keeping the young, bright folks around and eventually in front of the organization. That's just my hunch.

Also just about every national reporter it seems is from Boston.


Hey, we didn't ASK for Bill Simmons, Bill Simmons came onto US.

Let's not forget we have to put up with stupid celebrities at Fenway too. Matt Damon I could live with, but his bum buddy... yuck.

Did I mention Jimmy F Fallon and his blasphemous abomination of a movie?














































Jennifer Garner is welcome at Fenway anytime.

Gillick to be named Phillies GM.

http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/5044354

Wow, no love for the White Sox on those Gold Gloves

Wow, no love for the White Sox on those Gold Gloves

Juan Uribe and Aaron Rowand were jobbed

So was O-Cab.

Thank god they picked O-Hud. They got one right

with dan evans players...

with his own saber geek players he finished fourth in the worst division of all time
And none of the players he let go were any good in 2005. It's not his fault that so many players got hurt.

Gillick to be named Phillies GM.

http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/5044354 (http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/5044354)
From Slow Hand to Stand Pat. Phillies ownership deserves Gillick. He was a really good GM in Toronto, but he bailed on Baltimore and Seattle.

Wow, no love for the White Sox on those Gold Gloves

Don't feel bad, Gold Gloves don't mean anything now, for example Bobby Abreu winning one this year.

Don't feel bad, Gold Gloves don't mean anything now, for example Bobby Abreu winning one this year.
I was just about to post that. If you needed any further proof that Gold Gloves are meaningless--and 1999 was proof enough, Bobby Abreu is getting one.

From Slow Hand to Stand Pat. Phillies ownership deserves Gillick. He was a really good GM in Toronto, but he bailed on Baltimore and Seattle.


Sweet. Went from a GM who wasn't qualified to a GM who has done absolutely nothing.

I was just about to post that. If you needed any further proof that Gold Gloves are meaningless--and 1999 was proof enough, Bobby Abreu is getting one.


I'm sorry, can you please use english? 'Bobby Abreu' and 'gold glove' does not match.

Very happy that O-dog and Vernon got gold gloves as they both were great on the field. Orlando defensively in my opinion is right up there with Robert Alomar when he was a Jay.

Sweet. Went from a GM who wasn't qualified to a GM who has done absolutely nothing.

Done nothing? Gillick did something in Toronto...2 World Series titles.

I was just about to post that. If you needed any further proof that Gold Gloves are meaningless--and 1999 was proof enough, Bobby Abreu is getting one.

That was Viagra Boy's DH GG right?

I'm still waiting for the day Manny Ramirez gets a GG

Done nothing? Gillick did something in Toronto...2 World Series titles.
12 years ago. Since then he's done nothing. He left the Blue Jays a mess, and bailed on Baltimore and Seattle.

http://www.birdsinthebelfry.com/gillick.htm

That was Viagra Boy's DH GG right?
Yup. 28 games at 1B and he gets a GG. You'd think Selig or someone would go "wait a minute..."

I'm still waiting for the day Manny Ramirez gets a GG
He's next. Abreu is Ramirez Lite (not a poor man's Ramirez, he's better than that and you don't pay poor men $13M). Outstanding hitter, terrible fielder, and in his own state of being.

Doesn't matter. Red Sox fans finally got a WS title. Countless people said things like "I'd give anything to see the Red Sox win the World Series." Well, this is that anything. Don't ***** about it.

That's some interesting logic...

anyone else wondering if this 1PM EST Presser by Theo is to say he has accepted the GM position in LA?

anyone else wondering if this 1PM EST Presser by Theo is to say he has accepted the GM position in LA?

I was wondering that also. Or he is announcing that he is taking a year off.

For those with ESPNNEWS Theo is scheduled to speak at one on the channel.

I was wondering that also.

For those with ESPNNEWS Theo is scheduled to speak at one on the channel.

I have that channel ... I'll tell you all whether or not it is a Dodgers/Theo presser or just a Theo presser

That's some interesting logic...
This clip illustrates my point.

http://www.redsoxconnection.com/soxmastercard.wmv

Matt Lawton tests positive for Steroids
http://rotoworld.com/includes/topblurbs.asp?sport=MLB

We were all joking that the AL Playoff OF was going to be a joke backup like Tony Womack, but who knew we'd be that close?

with dan evans players...

with his own saber geek players he finished fourth in the worst division of all time

Look at a list of the players he let walk: Adrian Beltre, Steve Finley, Shawn Green and Alex Cora. They all sucked this year (and seem to be ready to suck in the future as well). Depo also restocked the farm system quite nicely.

Oh yeah. AND THE WHOLE TEAM WAS INJURED!

Look at a list of the players he let walk: Adrian Beltre, Steve Finley, Shawn Green and Alex Cora. They all sucked this year (and seem to be ready to suck in the future as well). Depo also restocked the farm system quite nicely.

Oh yeah. AND THE WHOLE TEAM WAS INJURED!
I wouldn't say Green sucked.

I wouldn't say Green sucked.

I would agree. Suck is too strong a word. But still, 8.5 mil is a lot for 22 HRs, 72 RBIs and a .286 average. Was the Drew signing a mistake? Probably, but at the time it was a reactionary move to losing their team MVP. The press would have eaten him up if he didnt do it.

Suck is a strong word I would agree. But still, 8.5 mil is a lot for 22 HRs, 72 RBIs and a .286 average. Was the Drew signing a mistake? Probably, but at the time it was a reactionary move to losing their team MVP. The press would have eaten him up if he didnt do it.
there were better moves out there. Their division crown was a fluke, you can't change that. Depo didn't make them better that year, and he certainly didn't make them better this year when they had one of the most polarized clubhouses in baseball. Like a writer for espn said. Stat sheets don't show that Jeff Kent and Milton Bradley can't coexist together. Bringing in Jeff Kent ruined any clubhouse chemistry the team had.

there were better moves out there. Their division crown was a fluke, you can't change that. Depo didn't make them better that year, and he certainly didn't make them better this year when they had one of the most polarized clubhouses in baseball. Like a writer for espn said. Stat sheets don't show that Jeff Kent and Milton Bradley can't coexist together. Bringing in Jeff Kent ruined any clubhouse chemistry the team had.

Kent was also the only person who did anything offensively. Without him they would have been a lot worse off. Next year with Werth/Gagne/Drew/Bradley back, Penny and Perez healthy and some supplemented youth they are fine.

*edit*

Now were there better moves out there? Yes. But there were also worse ones (signing Beltran or getting Sosa being a few of them). It has only been two years on any account. Way to early to do this IMO.

Kent was also the only person who did anything offensively. Without him they would have been a lot worse off. Next year with Werth/Gagne/Drew/Bradley back, Penny and Perez healthy and some supplemented youth they are fine.

*edit*

Now were there better moves out there? Yes. But there were also worse ones (signing Beltran or getting Sosa being a few of them). It has only been two years on any account. Way to early to do this IMO.
I don't think Beltran would have been bad, Sosa on the other hand would have ben horrendous, you are perfectly right about that.

Gerry Hunsicker to be named GM by the Devil Rays.

http://tampabay.devilrays.mlb.com/NASApp/mlb/news/article.jsp?ymd=20051102&content_id=1263900&vkey=news_tb&fext=.jsp&c_id=tb

Depo didn't make them better that year,
Without Milton Bradley, the Dodgers don't win the division. Yes, Dan Evans players for the most part were responsible. But DePodesta put the icing on the cake (Bradley, Werth, Saenz.. those guys aren't Dodgers if someone else is there. I won't include Finley because he limited his teams to west coast teams, and another GM probably would have made that move).

Without Milton Bradley, the Dodgers don't win the division. Yes, Dan Evans players for the most part were responsible. But DePodesta put the icing on the cake (Bradley, Werth, Saenz.. those guys aren't Dodgers if someone else is there. I won't include Finley because he limited his teams to west coast teams, and another GM probably would have made that move).
now I know your just lying. Originally it was without Gagne they don't win the division, then when Bonds won mvp you said without Beltre the team goes nowhere. So which is it. You don't have 3 mvps.

I seen on the SC highlights that A.J. Burnett was with Roy Halladay at the Raptors game and they both took part in some on court fun.

I seen on the SC highlights that A.J. Burnett was with Roy Halladay at the Raptors game and they both took part in some on court fun.

Yes, I "saw" that as well.

JP Ricciardiaiicciediabacardi was there, too.

now I know your just lying. Originally it was without Gagne they don't win the division, then when Bonds won mvp you said without Beltre the team goes nowhere. So which is it. You don't have 3 mvps.
Please, show me where I said anything close to "Milton Bradley was the MVP of the team."

I'll be waiting, because I didn't. I simply said that without the addition of him (and other players), the Dodgers don't make the playoffs. He was not the main reason, but A reason.

Don't put words into my mouth.

Please, show me where I said anything close to "Milton Bradley was the MVP of the team."

I'll be waiting, because I didn't. I simply said that without the addition of him (and other players), the Dodgers don't make the playoffs. He was not the main reason, but A reason.

Don't put words into my mouth.
Without Milton Bradley, the Dodgers don't win the division.
you may not have actually called him mvp. but you certainly implied it.

you may not have actually called him mvp. but you certainly implied it.
No, I didn't imply it. I can't be any more clear. Without Tadahito Iguchi, the White Sox don't make the playoffs. Am I saying Iguchi is the MVP of the White Sox? Of course I'm not.

Mets Rumors:


The Mets' big offseason prize is rumored to be Billy Wagner, as well as Dotel as a setup man(don't particularly care for that one, but it's a new rumor anyway that doesn't have the legs the Wagner rumor does). As far as second base goes, the Mets are rumored to be interested in a pair of Braves...both noted Met-killers--Raffy Furcal and Marcus Giles. Mike Cameron is likely to be traded, probably for nothing since he's making so much money, but with a few teams badly needing a center fielder, you never know. As far as first-base goes, the team is pretty committed to Mike Jacobs, though I expect him to cool off from his torrid pace after being called up. Defensively, he's decent, but his bat provides some pop that we haven't had since Olerud left.

Mets Rumors:


The Mets' big offseason prize is rumored to be Billy Wagner, as well as Dotel as a setup man(don't particularly care for that one, but it's a new rumor anyway that doesn't have the legs the Wagner rumor does) Dotel is out for something like half of 2006. If the price is right (although money isn't a problem for the Mets) it's a good gamble. He's an excellent set up man.

I can't see a reason why the Braves would trade Marcus Giles to the Mets.

Dotel is out for something like half of 2006. If the price is right (although money isn't a problem for the Mets) it's a good gamble. He's an excellent set up man.

I can't see a reason why the Braves would trade Marcus Giles to the Mets.


Hm, I thought he was a free agent. To be honest, I only heard that once...and my mentioning it was mostly my wishful thinking, not that Furcal would be a bad consolation prize. Reyes changed the pitching strategy of the opposition when he was on base, and Furcal would provide a similar tool.

Hm, I thought he was a free agent. To be honest, I only heard that once...and my mentioning it was mostly my wishful thinking, not that Furcal would be a bad consolation prize. Reyes changed the pitching strategy of the opposition when he was on base, and Furcal would provide a similar tool.
Furcal is a free agent, but maybe you're thinking Marcus Giles is too because his brother Brian is? Maybe you heard Furcal's name then Giles' name as possible targets for the Mets and were driving or something while listening or something. Perfectly understandable. The added bonus of Furcal at 2B is when (and you know it's when, not if) Reyes gets hurt you're not missing a beat at SS, and it's easier to find a utility infielder that can step in at 2B than step in at SS.

Are players free to neogeotiate with other teams even though only their "current" team can sign them?

Are players free to neogeotiate with other teams even though only their "current" team can sign them?

No money can be mentioned, teams can have contact with free agents but they arn't allowed to discuss a contract.

Im sure it happens though.

Yes, I "saw" that as well.

Thanks for the English lesson on my before waking up post, good thing I "seen" your post.

wow, I can honestly say I didn't expect this, not even I would do this........


http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?page=powerrank2006_early

Actually, Dr. Love, there has been a lot of speculation on who the Braves will be able to keep this year. There budget is inflexible and they have a lot of contracts due. After picking up the option on Thompson, their budget is getting slimer.....It has been rumored on several Braves sites that Giles could be gone....Of course, he does have 1 year left on his contract. I'm not sure if they would deal with the Mets unless the value is there.

No, I didn't imply it. I can't be any more clear. Without Tadahito Iguchi, the White Sox don't make the playoffs. Am I saying Iguchi is the MVP of the White Sox? Of course I'm not.

YELLOW POWER WHATUP

http://www.time.com/time/asia/2003/heroes/hideki_matsui.html

Indeed, his only eccentricity, if it can be called that, is his extensive private library of adult videos. His refreshing ability to laugh self-deprecatingly about his porno collection, reporters say, is one reason why fans and even nonfans have taken to him so much. Says former reporter Isao Hirooka: "Hideki just wants to be like ordinary people."

:biglaugh:

I just saw SNL Weekend Update... last week's episode had Scott Podsednik.

I hate SNL

Ryan Howard NL Rookie
Huston Street AL Rookie

Ryan Howard NL Rookie
Huston Street AL Rookie

Way to go Huston!! Well deserved! :handclap:

And maybe I could dig up Dr. Love's comments on Ryan Howard :sarcasm: ;)

http://www.time.com/time/asia/2003/heroes/hideki_matsui.html



:biglaugh:
***?! And, of course, he likes to watch his much vaunted porno collection, tapes that he often trades with Japanese reporters. As one Japanese journalist put it, describing Matsui's affinity for such unique Japanese cultural institutions like the no-panties shabu-shabu in Japan, "Matsui is a horny guy. All of us are horny, more or less. But Matsui doesn't attempt to hide the fact." Yet another win for the Japanese Everyman.
:biglaugh:

This HAS to be hacked. There's no way this is true.

Can't be true.

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2217678



Colon wins AL Cy Young

Padres interested in Mike Cameron, Mets will "beat any offer" for Billy Wagner, also high on Ramon Hernandez and Benji Molina at the C position. Mike Piazza talking about DHing with the Blue Jays.

***?!
:biglaugh:

This HAS to be hacked. There's no way this is true.
I'm sure some of us remember the Kazuhito Tadano gay porn story.

Padres interested in Mike Cameron, Mets will "beat any offer" for Billy Wagner, also high on Ramon Hernandez and Benji Molina at the C position. Mike Piazza talking about DHing with the Blue Jays.

I expected Piazza to be a DH next year but the Blue Jays wasn't a team I was thinking of. I wouldn't be surprised to see the A's make a run at him, espeically with Hatteberg gone(Thank God :bow: )

I want no part of Piazza in Toronto

I want no part of Piazza in Toronto


Why? His production slowed over the past couple of years, but he still hit some clutch home runs, and I think that if he didn't have to put the stress of catching on his body, his hitting would go back up. He still had the most power in his bat of anyone on the Mets, outside Floyd...and that includes guys like Beltran, Wright, etc...

Why? His production slowed over the past couple of years, but he still hit some clutch home runs, and I think that if he didn't have to put the stress of catching on his body, his hitting would go back up. He still had the most power in his bat of anyone on the Mets, outside Floyd...and that includes guys like Beltran, Wright, etc...

Exactly, which is why I would love to see Oakland go after him. His right-handed power would be GREAT.

C- Kendall
1B- Johnson
2B- Ellis
SS- Crosby
3B- Chavez
LF- Payton
CF- Kotsay
RF- Swisher
DH- Piazza/or some other right handed power bat.

Throw in the A's strong pitching and I'm loving our team next year!

Padres interested in Mike Cameron, Mets will "beat any offer" for Billy Wagner, also high on Ramon Hernandez and Benji Molina at the C position. Mike Piazza talking about DHing with the Blue Jays.

Where did you see this about Wagner?

Where did you see this about Wagner?


NYDN a couple of days ago. They also said BJ Ryan and Trevor Hoffman are their "backup plans"

I expected Piazza to be a DH next year but the Blue Jays wasn't a team I was thinking of. I wouldn't be surprised to see the A's make a run at him, espeically with Hatteberg gone(Thank God :bow: )

Expect the Angels to throw their hat into the ring as well. It seems doubtful at best that Molina returns, and Jeff Mathis needs a mentor. I'd rather have one of the best catchers ever mentoring him than Jose Molina.

BTW, good to see Barty win the Cy Young. I'd say Santana probably should've won it instead, but Barty isn't a bad choice by any means.

Johan Santana was f'ing jobbed.

Go to B-Ref. Take a look at their *ERA+, BB, and K's.

both pitched nearly the same IP (227 Colon, 231 Santana)

Santana:
*ERA+ better 153>120
Dingers: Santana coughed up 4 less dingers
BB+HBP = Identical with 46
Strikeouts: Santana struck out like 80 more guys than Colon did.

Colon was great, but Santana was God's Left Hand. He was jobbed.

Johan Santana was f'ing jobbed.

Go to B-Ref. Take a look at their *ERA+, BB, and K's.

both pitched nearly the same IP (227 Colon, 231 Santana)

Santana:
*ERA+ better 153>120
Dingers: Santana coughed up 4 less dingers
BB+HBP = Identical with 46
Strikeouts: Santana struck out like 80 more guys than Colon did.

Colon was great, but Santana was God's Left Hand. He was jobbed.
who cares. Everyone knew Santana had no shot. You have to actually win games. 16 wins just isn't good enough. Its been that way since the beginning of time. You need somewhat respectable win totals, and Santana just didn't have it.

who cares. Everyone knew Santana had no shot. You have to actually win games.
Sadly, that is true. Almost every year, the Cy Young winners are selected based on wins and wins alone.

ERA: Santana > Colon
BAA: Santana > Colon
WHIP: Santana > Colon
SO: Santana > Colon
Runs: Santana > Colon
Hits: Santana > Colon
HR: Santana > Colon

On top of that, Santana pitched more innings.

Sadly, that is true. Almost every year, the Cy Young winners are selected based on wins and wins alone.

ERA: Santana > Colon
BAA: Santana > Colon
WHIP: Santana > Colon
SO: Santana > Colon
Runs: Santana > Colon
Hits: Santana > Colon
HR: Santana > Colon

On top of that, Santana pitched more innings.


Plus, Santana didn't crap the bed in the playoffs vs the Yankees and then White Sox.

who cares. Everyone knew Santana had no shot. You have to actually win games. 16 wins just isn't good enough. Its been that way since the beginning of time. You need somewhat respectable win totals, and Santana just didn't have it.

Just because he didn't meet some stupid arbitrary requirement in which he has no control of doesn't mean he wasn't jobbed

Plus, Santana didn't crap the bed in the playoffs vs the Yankees and then White Sox.
how did Colon crap the bed? If by crap the bed you mean **** up his arm and miss the playoffs minus like 5 innings then I guess your right.

Just because he didn't meet some stupid arbitrary requirement in which he has no control of doesn't mean he wasn't jobbed
there have been worse decisions. He was never a contender for the award at any point during the season, so you can't say he was jobbed.

He was never a contender for the award at any point during the season.

What the hell is that supposed to mean? Of course he was considered a contender, he had a good first half, and he did win LAST YEAR, of course he was a "contender."

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/columns/story?columnist=stark_jayson&id=2217711

Hitters who faced Colon had a batting average of .254 against him. The on-base percentage against Santana was .250. Any more objections, your honor?

Also, not from the same article, but someone else at another board did this...

Additionally, the twins staff blew two saves for Santana, while the Angels blew none for Colon. Two of Colon's wins are due to his team scoring the go-ahead runs after he threw his last pitch. Also, the Twins won 24 of Santana's starts, while the Angels only won 22 of Colon's starts.

What the hell is that supposed to mean? Of course he was considered a contender, he had a good first half, and he did win LAST YEAR, of course he was a "contender."

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/columns/story?columnist=stark_jayson&id=2217711



Also, not from the same article, but someone else at another board did this...
he was never a serious contender in the eyes of any experts. I know this is a big blow to your saber numbers, but you should have been objective about it an realized that when it comes to cy young in your not within a win or 2 of the leader you have no shot.

Johan Santana or Mariano Rivera should have won the award. Colon pitched well, but only got the award because of his 21 wins. No disrespect to Colon, but Rivera and Santana both pitched better.

BTW, FOTS if one expert says he would have picked Santana doesnt that means that an expert considered him a contender. So as for him "never being a serious contender to the experts" is a false statement. Even Gammons this morning said (along with saying Rivera should have won it) Santana was the best starter in the AL this year. Being the best starting pitcher in the AL would make a serious contender, would it not?

Kim Ng as GM in LA, that would be nuts, a female GM, how cool!

Kim Ng as GM in LA, that would be nuts, a female GM, how cool!

I think she has about as much a chance of getting the job as she has vowels in her name.

There is no way Lasorda would let Ng become GM. Besides, given how much the Dodgers care about the media's opinion no way would they give a woman that much power, the first trade that appeared slightly bad she would be roasted.

I dont know anything about her, but if she doesn't get the job, I got $10 on a bunch of whiney feminists complaining about it.

Colon also got like 6 runs pergame. i dont remember a time when Santana got more then 3 runs in a game.
Stark from ESPN.com also said that Santana should have won it i dont know if hes an expert though.

who cares. Everyone knew Santana had no shot. You have to actually win games. 16 wins just isn't good enough. Its been that way since the beginning of time. You need somewhat respectable win totals, and Santana just didn't have it.

Of course the fact that Santana got like 1.3 less runs per game of support had something to do with his win totals. Wins aren't a very good stat to judge a pitcher, because a pitcher simply doesnt have control over that.

Of course the fact that Santana got like 1.3 less runs per game of support had something to do with his win totals. Wins aren't a very good stat to judge a pitcher, because a pitcher simply doesnt have control over that.
I know, I'm not disputing that. My point is that it has been this way since the beginning of time, so why is anyone surprised?

Johan Santana or Mariano Rivera should have won the award. Colon pitched well, but only got the award because of his 21 wins. No disrespect to Colon, but Rivera and Santana both pitched better.

BTW, FOTS if one expert says he would have picked Santana doesnt that means that an expert considered him a contender. So as for him "never being a serious contender to the experts" is a false statement. Even Gammons this morning said (along with saying Rivera should have won it) Santana was the best starter in the AL this year. Being the best starting pitcher in the AL would make a serious contender, would it not?
I'm not saying nobody thought he should win, I'm saying nobody thought he would win. The only thing surprising about Colon's win was by how much.

I dont know anything about her, but if she doesn't get the job, I got $10 on a bunch of whiney feminists complaining about it.

At least that'd keep Martha Burke away from the NHL...

what would it cost the tribe to pick up Richard Hidalgo? I think he would be a great pickup. Plays right field, bats right handed with power. Exactly what the Tribe needs. Any chance the Rangers let him go for cheap?

what would it cost the tribe to pick up Richard Hidalgo? I think he would be a great pickup. Plays right field, bats right handed with power. Exactly what the Tribe needs. Any chance the Rangers let him go for cheap?

He's a free agent. And he was absolutely HORRIBLE in one of the best hitters parks in the league. Have fun with that spare.

He's a free agent. And he was absolutely HORRIBLE in one of the best hitters parks in the league. Have fun with that spare.
well he hit 16 homers in 88 games. I'd love to see that average go up considerably. He seems like a good fit. All the tribe would need out of him is .270 and 25-30 homers.

well he hit 16 homers in 88 games. I'd love to see that average go up considerably. He seems like a good fit. All the tribe would need out of him is .270 and 25-30 homers.
whats Juan Gonzalez up to these days? he's a lock for 30+ homers

well he hit 16 homers in 88 games. I'd love to see that average go up considerably. He seems like a good fit. All the tribe would need out of him is .270 and 25-30 homers.


He's the most hot\cold player I've ever seen, and those guys seem to draw like flies to the Mets. When he's on, he's your best player...but the problem is the 4-5 weeks in between his "on" periods.

well he hit 16 homers in 88 games. I'd love to see that average go up considerably. He seems like a good fit. All the tribe would need out of him is .270 and 25-30 homers.

In reality, he hit those 16 homers in about 35 games. The other 53, it was like having a pitcher hitting. He has got to be the biggest hot/cold player I've seen. He'll get hot and hit a bunch of HR's in a short span, and then be a complete black hole for the next month.

whats Juan Gonzalez up to these days? he's a lock for 30+ homers
Indians can't afford the 25 million he will certainly demand on the open market.

well he hit 16 homers in 88 games. I'd love to see that average go up considerably. He seems like a good fit. All the tribe would need out of him is .270 and 25-30 homers.
I'd much rather get Rondell White.

The latest Indians rumors I've heard is that we may get Adrian Gonzalez from Texas. They wanted Crisp and Riske, but we said no. I'm sure that some better offer will come along that we might jump at. For the record, our top OF prospect is hitting in the .460s in the Venezuelan league.

There's still a lot of this Manny to Cleveland talk. My roommate and I decided that it would take Garko/Gutierrez + Riske + one of Sowers, Sipp, Guthrie, Miller. Plus Boston would have to cover at least 10 million. If they want to get rid of him that badly, that might be the best offer they could receive from a team he's interested in.

I'd much rather get Rondell White.

The latest Indians rumors I've heard is that we may get Adrian Gonzalez from Texas. They wanted Crisp and Riske, but we said no. I'm sure that some better offer will come along that we might jump at. For the record, our top OF prospect is hitting in the .460s in the Venezuelan league.

There's still a lot of this Manny to Cleveland talk. My roommate and I decided that it would take Garko/Gutierrez + Riske + one of Sowers, Sipp, Guthrie, Miller. Plus Boston would have to cover at least 10 million. If they want to get rid of him that badly, that might be the best offer they could receive from a team he's interested in.


I'm almost willing to put money on Manny to Anaheim.

Who do you all think will be the first major player to change teams this offseason, either via trade or free agency? I'm guessing it'll be Jarrod Washburn to the Milwaukee Brewers for a 3 year, $15 million contract.

Carpenter wins NL Cy Young Award (http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news;_ylt=ApL5o0VJ1dqfqZyjTdooFo85nYcB?slug=ap-nlcyyoung&prov=ap&type=lgns)

No surprise but now it's official.

In reality, he hit those 16 homers in about 35 games. The other 53, it was like having a pitcher hitting. He has got to be the biggest hot/cold player I've seen. He'll get hot and hit a bunch of HR's in a short span, and then be a complete black hole for the next month.

He's a righty. If he remembers how to hit right-handed pitching or faces gawd-awfully weak pitchers, he's fine. If not, he's hitting .230.
Victor Martinez forgot how to hit righties for what? ...the 1st month or two?
Mike Lowell forgot how to hit them entirely.

Carpenter wins NL Cy Young Award

No surprise but now it's official.

I never find it surprising in baseball, just disappointing... that they'll always pass over a better player for a guy on a good team.

I think she has about as much a chance of getting the job as she has vowels in her name.
1 out of five? 20% chance?

Not that bad...

There's still a lot of this Manny to Cleveland talk. My roommate and I decided that it would take Garko/Gutierrez + Riske + one of Sowers, Sipp, Guthrie, Miller. Plus Boston would have to cover at least 10 million. If they want to get rid of him that badly, that might be the best offer they could receive from a team he's interested in.
In the Boston papers, Manny is second in news to the search for a new GM, but where he is discussed it has more to do with Manny's desire to go somewhere else than Boston's desire to trade him. They owe him $60M over three years, the remainder being club-option years. That's not unmanageable. However, I'm sure they wouldn't mind gaining more flexibility in payroll. With that in mind, I'm sure there's a limit to how much they'd be willing to swallow, and based on the A-Rod trade that never happened, I have no doubt that they will not exceed that self-imposed limit (whatever that might be).

They're never going to get equal value in return now, although they always have to option of telling Manny that they can't trade him and he'll remain with the team. He's a 10/5 guy, so he can reject any trade, but that doesn't mean he's going to be able to dictate to the front office.

I think he'll end up a Met, although it won't surprise me to see him remain a Red Sox. Who here wouldn't kill for the kind of problem that Manny Ramirez envisions himself in right now?

Santana should have gotten the AL Cy Young. If the Twins had ANY offense at all, he would have a had a few more wins.

Who do you all think will be the first major player to change teams this offseason, either via trade or free agency? I'm guessing it'll be Jarrod Washburn to the Milwaukee Brewers for a 3 year, $15 million contract.
The Brewers don't need pitching that badly and Washburn is going to get something closer to 7 million a year than 5, after Burnett he's probably the best pitcher out there. I can't see the above ever happening.

The Brewers don't need pitching that badly and Washburn is going to get something closer to 7 million a year than 5, after Burnett he's probably the best pitcher out there. I can't see the above ever happening.

Washburn is a Wisconsin native, and the Brewers do need some pitching to be able to contend. I see him taking somewhat of a hometown discount. I might've been wrong on the dollar amount, but regardless, I see him going to the Brew-crew, and that being the MLB free-agent ice-breaker.

The Mets are going to make some serious noise and I bet their first move is to sign Wagner and then go after Manny and I have a feeling they won't even be close to done with bringing in Molina to catch among the even more moves to expect from them.

I have never been this excited about a off-season in baseball than this year.

The Mets are going to make some serious noise and I bet their first move is to sign Wagner and then go after Manny and I have a feeling they won't even be close to done with bringing in Molina to catch among the even more moves to expect from them.

I have never been this excited about a off-season in baseball than this year.

Too bad this years class is thin in compared to past years....

But yea i think the Mets will make a big splash i think they will get Wagner and add Delgado via trade...

Manny to the Mets is possible but as a Red Sox fan i dont like the Heilman/Cameron/Milledge unless a 3rd team gets involved that invloves the Sox getting a power bat (Glaus is the guy ive wanted for 2 seasons)

The Mets are going to make some serious noise and I bet their first move is to sign Wagner and then go after Manny and I have a feeling they won't even be close to done with bringing in Molina to catch among the even more moves to expect from them.

I have never been this excited about a off-season in baseball than this year.


Careful spending money. We know what happened last time the Mets went out and signed a bunch of 30-somethings who were "good"

Careful spending money. We know what happened last time the Mets went out and signed a bunch of 30-somethings who were "good"
Actually I don't remember, what time are you talking about?

I can't believe the Jays went after macdonald again. in one game he was in RF, there was a fly ball out to the far right corner and then the screen showed him gingerly jogging to the scene..and then the ball lands pretty much right on the line, and the batter advances very far as a result of him being lazy. I've never gotten more disappointed in a player off one play. It was one play, but thats all it took to show me that htis guy doesn't put his heart into the smallest things. Its not like he's Jim Edmonds, he's got allot to prove and its ridiculous to see a player like that manning RF like he could care less. And whats worse now, is that its not even possible for him to sustain a major injury because he barely puts out any effort at all!!!

John McDonald doesn't play RF. Or CF. Or LF.

Also, he's probably the very opposite of the word "lazy," since he kind of sucks and needs to work extremely hard just to get a major league contract.

It sounds like you're talking about Alexis Rios. Which is just baffling, really.

Actually I don't remember, what time are you talking about?


Mo F. Vaughn

Tom F. Glavine






















Speaking of ex-Mets, I was watching the "Konami Asian Champions" tournament yesterday... I saw the Chiba Lotte Marines beat the Sinon Bulls in SEVEN INNINGS...

BENNY AGBAYANI had a huge game. I miss that guy.

Washburn is a Wisconsin native, and the Brewers do need some pitching to be able to contend. I see him taking somewhat of a hometown discount. I might've been wrong on the dollar amount, but regardless, I see him going to the Brew-crew, and that being the MLB free-agent ice-breaker.
The Brewers were 5th in the NL in ERA, 6th in R/G thanks to Mike Maddux, the best pitching coach not named Leo Mazzone. With Sheets, Capuano, Davis, they don't need Washburn, they need additional hitting moreso. And with the inevitable trade of Lyle Overbay, they can get better value pitching in a trade.

I can't believe the Jays went after macdonald again. in one game he was in RF, there was a fly ball out to the far right corner and then the screen showed him gingerly jogging to the scene..and then the ball lands pretty much right on the line, and the batter advances very far as a result of him being lazy. I've never gotten more disappointed in a player off one play. It was one play, but thats all it took to show me that htis guy doesn't put his heart into the smallest things. Its not like he's Jim Edmonds, he's got allot to prove and its ridiculous to see a player like that manning RF like he could care less. And whats worse now, is that its not even possible for him to sustain a major injury because he barely puts out any effort at all!!!

:biglaugh: :biglaugh: :biglaugh:

Mo F. Vaughn

Glavine has not been awful and the Mets didn't sign Mo Vaughn, they traded Kevin Appier for him.

Mo F. Vaughn

Tom F. Glavine

They were signed in different seasons, Vaughn in 2002 and Glavine in 2003 and I would hardly call them a bunch.

They were signed in different seasons, Vaughn in 2002 and Glavine in 2003 and I would hardly call them a bunch. ICW forgot Roberto Alomar. Jeremy Burnitz too. Yeah, they were traded (and Vaughn) but they were salary dumps by the other teams, which is arguably worse (in general) because you're giving up players for them.

But let's be honest. That was with Steve Phillips running the team, it's excusable.

ICW forgot Roberto Alomar. Jeremy Burnitz too. Yeah, they were traded (and Vaughn) but they were salary dumps by the other teams, which is arguably worse because you're giving up players for them.
Yeah I forgot about those bums, probably one of those subconscious things trying to block out those moves, I could never understand the Vaughn move, that was just terrible.

But I do think the difference between then and now is then we always seemed to land 2nd tier players in their 30's or former 1st tier players who's careers are on the downfall and now the Mets are eyeing up the top players no matter what age they are.

But if we do get Manny, I wouldn't be surprised to his numbers take a big dip and that would have more to do with not age but playing at Shea where offensive players go and die.

If I were the Mets I would:

1) Go hard after Wagner

2) Molina and Hernandez are nice but a hitting catcher is a luxury. Save the money and bring in Ausmus and he can split time with Castro.

3) Go hard after Furcal. Speed at the top of the order is nice and it shores up the defense.

4) I really don't want Manny. Why is Giles never mentioned to the Mets?

5) Try to get Zito. Not sure the Mets have what it takes. Start with Heilman and Diaz.

I haven't seen anyone post it, but Javier Vazquez has filed a formal trade demand. All sports websites have it.

2) Molina and Hernandez are nice but a hitting catcher is a luxury. Save the money and bring in Ausmus and he can split time with Castro.
What? Bengie Molina a "hitting catcher"? Hardly, unless you're talking about within the Molina family. A career line of 273/309/397 is anything but "hitting." Well, I guess compared to Brad Ausmus--who Houston adores for no good reason and won't let go--it's good hitting, since Ausmus hits 255/328/353 for an OPS 20 points lower than Molina. And Molina is a better defenisve catcher too.

The Brewers were 5th in the NL in ERA, 6th in R/G thanks to Mike Maddux, the best pitching coach not named Leo Mazzone. With Sheets, Capuano, Davis, they don't need Washburn, they need additional hitting moreso. And with the inevitable trade of Lyle Overbay, they can get better value pitching in a trade.

Well, then why does almost every Brewers rumor involve Washburn if they don't need him that badly? They don't need pitching help, but I do think that Washburn will end up a Brewer anyway.

Well, then why does almost every Brewers rumor involve Washburn if they don't need him that badly? They don't need pitching help, but I do think that Washburn will end up a Brewer anyway.
I haven't seen a single rumor of the Brewers having interest in Washburn. To clarify, I'm not saying they shouldn't sign him, but that they have more pressing needs. But the current crop of FAs might ditate that it's easier for the Brewers to sign pitching than hitting.

I haven't seen a single rumor of the Brewers having interest in Washburn. To clarify, I'm not saying they shouldn't sign him, but that they have more pressing needs. But the current crop of FAs might ditate that it's easier for the Brewers to sign pitching than hitting.

I've seen a few on www.******************* saying he's interested in them. Most of them, mainly saying Washburn might go play for his hometown Brewers, are out of cali, though.

I haven't seen anyone post it, but Javier Vazquez has filed a formal trade demand. All sports websites have it.

I saw that.

He'll be in his fourth city in four seasons.

I've seen a few on www.******************* (http://www.*******************/) saying he's interested in them. Most of them, mainly saying Washburn might go play for his hometown Brewers, are out of cali, though.
I have never heard of that site. Here's what they're saying though:

There has been speculation that free agent lefty Jarrod Washburn, a Wisconsin native, is interested in playing for the Brewers but Melvin said he had not spoken with Washburn's agent, Scott Boras.
With Scott Boras at the helm you can kiss a hometown discount goodbye. And it also clearly states it's speculation.

With Scott Boras at the helm you can kiss a hometown discount goodbye. And it also clearly states it's speculation.
Scott Boras is such a tool. I've read that he thinks he can get Kevin Millwood a five-year deal. That'll obviously push Cleveland out, but who wants to give a five-year deal to a 31 year-old pitcher with a history of shoulder problems. At most, Millwood's worth three and a team option.

What? Bengie Molina a "hitting catcher"? Hardly, unless you're talking about within the Molina family. A career line of 273/309/397 is anything but "hitting." Well, I guess compared to Brad Ausmus--who Houston adores for no good reason and won't let go--it's good hitting, since Ausmus hits 255/328/353 for an OPS 20 points lower than Molina. And Molina is a better defenisve catcher too.

.281
.276
.295

Aren't awful numbers for a catcher.

My point is Molina and Hernandez are going to cost a lot.

.281
.276
.295

Aren't awful numbers for a catcher.Batting average ain't everything. On base percentage is a better talent indicator, and on base percentage plus slugging percentage is even better. Molina is coming off his best season as a hitter, so let's look at his 2004 season, which is about what his average career season is.

Among players with 300+ plate appearances, he was:

10th in batting average
19th in on base percentage
17th in slugging
21st in on base plus slugging

His numbers aren't awful for a catcher if you don't look at the ability to draw walks or hit for any power.

My point is Molina and Hernandez are going to cost a lot.Sure, but you can do a hell of a lot better than Brad Ausmus, who's an even worse hitter.

I saw that.

He'll be in his fourth city in four seasons.

Which makes you wonder if any team would want him.

I do think he had great stuff(at least when we played against him when he was a Yankee), just that nobody ever taught him how to pitch. David Wells demanded to be traded to the west coast, so I might take a flyer on Vasquez if I were the Boston GM(Whoever that ends up being). We'd probably have to throw in something else to make it even, as Wells is about 18 years older than Javy.

John McDonald doesn't play RF. Or CF. Or LF.

Also, he's probably the very opposite of the word "lazy," since he kind of sucks and needs to work extremely hard just to get a major league contract.

It sounds like you're talking about Alexis Rios. Which is just baffling, really.

No, I'm talking about McDonald. He was playing RF in that game at the Rogerscenter

No. you are wrong.

John McDonald has not played in RF in his entire career.

No, I'm talking about McDonald. He was playing RF in that game at the Rogerscenter
According to Baseball Reference.com he never has, scroll about half way down and it shows he has never played in the outfield in his career.

http://www.baseball-reference.com/m/mcdonjo03.shtml

No. you are wrong.

John McDonald has not played in RF in his entire career.
not only this, but he is one of the hardest working players in baseball. There is a reason why he was one of the most popular players in cleveland.

not only this, but he is one of the hardest working players in baseball. There is a reason why he was one of the most popular players in cleveland.

Exactly.

Like I said before, he doesn't have too much talent so he pretty much HAS to work hard to stay in the big leagues.

With Scott Boras at the helm you can kiss a hometown discount goodbye. And it also clearly states it's speculation.

Actually, I really thought he'd take the hometown discount, about up untill I was looking over the rumors on that site and I rememered Boras is his agent, so yeah, I no longer think he'll go there.

To replace that prediction, my new prediction for first big-name FA signing is Bengie Molina to the Mets.

.281
.276
.295

Aren't awful numbers for a catcher.

My point is Molina and Hernandez are going to cost a lot.

Let's not forget Molina is Puerto Rican for "slow".

Hernandez isn't going to be winning any footraces against Ichiro either.

I guess the Sox are bringing back Braves assistant Dayton Moore for a second interview, and he's really emerging as a favorite. Anyone associated with the Braves' front office and their farm system over the last ten years is fine by me. He could definitely solidify our pitching staff.

At this point, as long as they pick somebody Sabre, I don't care who the GM is. This guy fromt eh Braves system sounds pretty good (even though not necessarily sabre)

I just want Lucchino fired.

Let's not forget Molina is Puerto Rican for "slow".

Hernandez isn't going to be winning any footraces against Ichiro either.

Pretty much all catchers are slow, some have decent speed I guess. But pointing out a guy being slow when it comes to comparing catchers is pretty irrelevant.

Anyone associated with the Braves' front office and their farm system over the last ten years is fine by me.

Chuck LaMar is on his way!

Pretty much all catchers are slow, some have decent speed I guess. But pointing out a guy being slow when it comes to comparing catchers is pretty irrelevant.
It's relevant when you're Bengie Molina slow. It's a whole new kind of slow.

Chuck LaMar is on his way!
And Jim Bowden!

It's relevant when you're Bengie Molina slow. It's a whole new kind of slow.


And Jim Bowden!


We Mets fans won't know what to do, after having the blazing speed of Mike Piazza, Ramon Castro, Jason Phillips and even Todd Hundley on the basepaths...

..oh wait... ;)

We Mets fans won't know what to do, after having the blazing speed of Mike Piazza, Ramon Castro, Jason Phillips and even Todd Hundley on the basepaths...

..oh wait... ;)

Todd Pratt and Vance Wilson haven't exactly been speed demons either. ;)

Arod named AL MVP, Ortiz was 2nd and Guerrero 3rd.

Pretty much all catchers are slow, some have decent speed I guess. But pointing out a guy being slow when it comes to comparing catchers is pretty irrelevant.

No...Molina is SLOOOOOOOOOOOWWWWWWWWWWW

He softly grounded into a triple play last year.

Arod named AL MVP, Ortiz was 2nd and Guerrero 3rd.

The correct choice was made...fielding DOES matter.

The correct choice was made...fielding DOES matter.

No it doesn't...

A-Rod won because he had (slightly) better numbers, not because he plays good yet overrated defense at 3rd base.

No it doesn't...

A-Rod won because he had (slightly) better numbers, not because he plays good yet overrated defense at 3rd base.


I hate the Yankees, and especially A-Rod...but I can't argue with his selection as the MVP.

No it doesn't...

A-Rod won because he had (slightly) better numbers, not because he plays good yet overrated defense at 3rd base.
Are you saying overrated defence because he is a Yankee, or because you actually believe that?

No it doesn't...

A-Rod won because he had (slightly) better numbers, not because he plays good yet overrated defense at 3rd base.

You are the most bias poster(of all your favorite teams) on the entire board, so your opinion has little value.

A-Rod is a gold glove caliber player. Take your Sox goggles off for a moment.

No it doesn't...

A-Rod won because he had (slightly) better numbers, not because he plays good yet overrated defense at 3rd base.

He won because his numbers we're slightly better, and because he actually helps out in the field. He plays the whole game. Ortiz only plays half. And this is coming from someone who just despises Pay-Rod.

I know Molina is slow, he's the slowest at the slowest position. I'd still take him over Garces (Boston reliever a few years ago, I think that's his name) in a footrace. Just saying that pointing out that two catchers are slow isn't that important....pretty much all catchers are slow.

I don't think they could have gone wrong choosing ARod or Ortiz. Both deserved the award, but only one could win it. Should be interesting who wins NL MVP, should be Pujols, but there are three pretty strong candidates.

A-Rod is good, but at third base there are better, such as Chavez. He was a Gold Glove Shortstop though.

And Defense has no place in MVP arguments. Barry Bonds has been a terribly lazy fielder in the OF and probably hurting his team by being there for the last 5 years, yet he gets the MVP every year he plays because of his offense.

And Defense has no place in MVP arguments. Barry Bonds has been a terribly lazy fielder in the OF and probably hurting his team by being there for the last 5 years, yet he gets the MVP every year he plays because of his offense.
The award is called the MVP for a reason. Its not the Most Valuable Offensive Player, its the Most Valuable Player. Defense is part of the game. Bonds is a terrible comparison, as he's been putting up just unbelievable numbers for the past few years.