Should be interesting this year.
So far, Boston has declined their option on Alex Gonzales (SS), picked up their option on Victor Martinez (shocker!) and extended Tim Wakefield another 2 years.
That last bit is interesting. If Wakefield can hang on and, somehow, pick up 18 wins over the next two seasons, he'll take first place in all-time wins for Boston. Ahead of Roger Clemens. And Cy Young.
Wow.
Go, old man. Do it.
....and they also didn't pick up the option on Varitek..interested to see what their plan is for SS
I'm not sure *what* they thinking re: SS. Lowrie? He's still unproven.
Gonzales hit .280-something last year. That's fine for someone with his glove.
The Roy Halladay Saga, part II
QuoteNew Jays GM Alex Anthopoulos said on Tuesday that he would generally be willing to consider trades within the American League East, with the only caveat being that he'd be more inclined to accept a trade outside the division if it was exactly equal. So Anthopoulos -- who called Halladay "the greatest Blue Jay player or pitcher" -- appears much more likely to be open to a deal to the Red Sox or Yankees. His main message was that the Jays need to get better, and that he is willing to do whatever it takes to meet that goal.
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/baseball/mlb/11/11/yankees.halladay/index.html
Not that anyone cares, but it'll be interesting to see how the young orioles progress over the offseason. There are high hopes for our young pitchers and that catcher guy. :wink: But we're gonna need to sign a free agent third baseman since Melvin Mora is now gone. There are talks of moving either Luke Scott or Nolan Reimold over to first. But I wouldn't mind signing a first baseman as well.
you're right - nobody cares :wink:
Ser. though Baltimore needs to get their shit together..the Jays have had their chance but now they're toast so I would like to see Baltimore be somewhat of a contender in the AL East - tired of NY/BOS
Quote from: mehead on November 11, 2009, 02:08:04 PM
you're right - nobody cares :wink:
Ser. though Baltimore needs to get their shit together..the Jays have had their chance but now they're toast so I would like to see Baltimore be somewhat of a contender in the AL East - tired of NY/BOS
:-D
Dude, at this point, I'd be happy if we played better than .500 baseball. We haven't had a winning season in 12 years, but I think we finally have the tools to do so. Yes, I'm well aware of how pathetic that is.
But I would agree, I'm tired of a Yankees/Red Sox dominated AL East.
Should be interesting, if I were Boston or NYY I'd really consider signing Lackey before I gave up a ton of prospects for 1 year of Halladay... then try and sign him next year.
When exactly did the Jays have their chance? It was a rough year in 2009 but we still have a wealth of young starters, one of the best 2Bs in baseball, Adam Lind will hit 30+ homers for the next 10 years, Travis Snider is about to prove why he was the best prospect in baseball, and nobody gives them a shot ever.
There is just something wrong with the O's, it's weird.
Quote from: mattstick on November 11, 2009, 02:15:56 PM
There is just something wrong with the O's, it's weird.
qft
They're not *that* small budget.
MY guess: the biggest thing wrong with BAL is Peter Angelos.
http://www.drunkjaysfans.com/2009/11/gm-meetings-tuesday-afternoon-bullshit.html
"It was reported that former Blue Jays GM J.P. Ricciardi asked for Ruben Tejeda, Jonathan Niese, Fernando Martinez, and Bobby Parnell," writes Mike Silva of New York Baseball Digest, of the Mets offer for Halladay this summer. "It's a deal that, if offered and rejected, I am sure the Mets would like to have back."
"If the July deal doesn't get it done I would offer to replace Niese with Mejia and Parnell with Holt. ... I would even explore if the inclusion of Mike Pelfrey could replace a prospect or two or sweeten the deal. ... Let's go one step further. Would I make Ike Davis untouchable? The answer is no. Obviously I wouldn't just throw players in the deal to acquire Halladay, but if Toronto wants Davis perhaps you downgrade the pitchers in the deal and ask for Lyle Overbay (if he still is with Toronto at that point)," he adds.
"Reality is such that the Mets are built to win now. If you are not going to trade Beltran and Santana then you might as well go for it in a one to two year period. ... You might not like hearing this, but right now the Mets don't have the luxury of winning now and building for the future. Incompetent management has destroyed that opportunity and only breaking this down and building it up can fix that. Unfortunately there is a team across town that makes any idea of rebuilding dangerous. A conservative plan threatens to set the franchise back a decade and reap long term harm to fan loyalty. Remember, the kids want to root for a winner, not share in the pain of their parents. The Mets need star power both on the field and in the box office. Roy Halladay meets both those needs."
In case you hadn't seen this, antelope:
QuoteFOXSports.com reports that the Orioles and Giants have shown the most interest in Dan Uggla.
The Red Sox have even considered Uggla as a potential alternative to Jason Bay in left field, although he hasn't played in the outfield since the 2004 season in Double-A. Uggla, 30, figures to play third base should he be acquired by the Orioles or Giants, according to the report, but they would be taking quite a leap of faith considering his defense. He should make roughly $8 million in arbitration this winter.
Quote from: Play_It_Leo on November 11, 2009, 03:15:24 PM
In case you hadn't seen this, antelope:
QuoteFOXSports.com reports that the Orioles and Giants have shown the most interest in Dan Uggla.
The Red Sox have even considered Uggla as a potential alternative to Jason Bay in left field, although he hasn't played in the outfield since the 2004 season in Double-A. Uggla, 30, figures to play third base should he be acquired by the Orioles or Giants, according to the report, but they would be taking quite a leap of faith considering his defense. He should make roughly $8 million in arbitration this winter.
Thanks!
That's interesting. I guess we would still be getting younger since Mora was in his late 30's, but I don't know that he's the answer. Perhaps he's someone they could sign for 2 years until Josh Bell gets some more seasoning.
I'm weary of Uggla, I can see him settling into a long-term contract and floating by for the rest of his career...
The Angels and Tigers have discussed a trade for center fielder Curtis Granderson, according to Ken Davidoff of Newsday. Davidoff says the Halos would use Granderson in left field and either shift Juan Rivera to DH or trade him. In my opinion, the Angels could fill several needs cheaply for the Tigers with players such as Mike Napoli and Brandon Wood. Davidoff adds that the Yankees "think very highly" of Granderson and the Cubs are "expected to inquire."
Granderson, 29 in March, hit .249/.327/.453 in 710 plate appearances this year. His defense is at least respectable. His contract is reasonable - $25.75MM guaranteed over the next three years. ESPN's Keith Law, however, considers Granderson a platoon player given his inability to hit lefties.
Quote
Blue Jays signed shortstop Alex Gonzalez to a one-year, $2.75 million contract.
The contract includes a $2.5 million club option for 2011. Gonzalez, 32, batted .238/.279/.355 with eight home runs and 41 RBI in 391 at-bats between the Reds and Red Sox in 2009. He comes with a fine reputation on defense, ranking as one of the best shortstops in the league. Like it or not, the Blue Jays have committed to a pair of veteran defensive specialists in Gonzalez and John McDonald over the past 24 hours. Marco Scutaro will have to find employment elsewhere
So the Jays and Red Sox swapped SS's.
Marco Scutaro signed a deal with Boston last night.
Hey Matt - are you feeling OK?
that's the 1st time I've seen you post about the Sox without throwing in a few 4 letter words or mentioning how much you hate the Sox and Boston.
Granderson To Yanks, Edwin Jackson To D'Backs, Scherzer To Tigers
Quote
The Yankees receive center fielder Curtis Granderson, who turns 29 in March. Granderson is owed $5.5MM in 2010, $8.25MM in '11, and $10MM in '12, with a $13MM club option/$2MM buyout for '13. That's $25.75MM guaranteed over the next three years. Melky Cabrera could now be expendable for the Yankees, and the Cubs are one possible suitor.
The Diamondbacks receive a pair of starting pitchers: Edwin Jackson and Ian Kennedy. Jackson, 26, is under team control for '10 and '11 and is owed an arbitration raise on this year's $2.2MM salary. Kennedy, 25 this month, missed most of the '09 season due to surgery to remove an aneurysm near his shoulder. As far as I can tell he is under team control for another six seasons. This is the second year in a row Jackson has been traded at the Winter Meetings.
The Tigers receive four players: starter Max Scherzer, relievers Daniel Schlereth and Phil Coke, and center fielder Austin Jackson. The Tigers get five years of Scherzer, six of Schlereth, five of Coke, and six of Jackson, potentially 22 years of control in total. Scherzer, 25, and Jackson, 23 in February, are probably considered the prizes of the haul.
Nice haul all the way around...
This isn't exactly going to change the landscape in the AL East. I'm posting it because it's...just...awesome.
The Red Sox claimed Ramon Ramirez (TB) off waivers. What the... :? I didn't know he left?
He didn't. He's still on the roster. Now they just have two Ramon Ramirezes. :lol:
Quote
Orioles acquired RHP Kevin Millwood and cash from the Rangers for RHP Chris Ray and a player to be named later.
:-D
Bob Elliott of The Toronto Sun reports that the Blue Jays have signed speedy outfielder Joey Gathright.
The 28-year-old Gathright is a career .263/.327/.303 hitter in the big leagues, and has spent the better part of his baseball life bouncing between Triple-A and the Majors. Gathright just needs to hook on with the Yankees one of these years to complete the AL East quintuple crown.
It appears the Red Sox no longer have to worry about Facing John Lackey in the playoffs.
http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091214&content_id=7807410&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb
In other (not yet finalized) news...Halladay to the Phils?
http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091214&content_id=7808166&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb
Quote from: Alumni on December 14, 2009, 04:34:40 PM
It appears the Red Sox no longer have to worry about Facing John Lackey in the playoffs.
http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091214&content_id=7807410&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb
Just read this. NICE!!! :-D
Quote from: thatfargone on December 14, 2009, 04:45:16 PM
Quote from: Alumni on December 14, 2009, 04:34:40 PM
It appears the Red Sox no longer have to worry about Facing John Lackey in the playoffs.
http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091214&content_id=7807410&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb
Just read this. NICE!!! :-D
another sawx fan? :shakehead:
Lackey's Fenway numbers are garbage, I'm surprised he took That deal. It fucks over the Jays compensation pick for Scutaro....
So Halladay to Phillies, Lee to M's and the Jays get a boatload of prospects? I'm ok with that - especially if Cole Hamels is in the package.
Quote from: mattstick on December 14, 2009, 05:01:30 PM
Lackey's Fenway numbers are garbage, I'm surprised he took That deal. It fucks over the Jays compensation pick for Scutaro....
So Halladay to Phillies, Lee to M's and the Jays get a boatload of prospects? I'm ok with that - especially if Cole Hamels is in the package.
It's worth bearing in mind that, to date, Lackey's numbers at Fenway have only come against one team. And a team that makes a living scoring runs there. He might just do a little better wearing the home uni.
$.02
Quote from: antelope19 on December 14, 2009, 04:55:31 PM
Quote from: thatfargone on December 14, 2009, 04:45:16 PM
Quote from: Alumni on December 14, 2009, 04:34:40 PM
It appears the Red Sox no longer have to worry about Facing John Lackey in the playoffs.
http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091214&content_id=7807410&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb
Just read this. NICE!!! :-D
another sawx fan? :shakehead:
Yep! :-D
In other news, Hideki Matsui to Anaheim.
Quote from: mattstick on December 14, 2009, 05:01:30 PM
So Halladay to Phillies, Lee to M's and the Jays get a boatload of prospects? I'm ok with that - especially if Cole Hamels is in the package.
He's not, but your favorite player, Kyle Drabek, is.
Yeah it looks like the Jays are getting Kyle Drabeck, Micheal Taylor and a catching prospect - the flipping Taylor to the A's for Brett Wallace.
World Series 2012!
I really can't believe that the Phillies gave up Cliff Lee after what he did last season... The dude was legend in the playoffs... Halladay is great, but Lee was off to a great start in Philadelphia...
and in other news, it looks like Boston is looking to buy a world series... What kind of shit is that?? its total bullshit...
http://www.hardballtimes.com/main/blog_article/halladay-lee-blockbuster-change-complexion-of-three-teams/
Halladay, Lee blockbuster change complexion of three teams
Posted by Evan Brunell
In one fell swoop, the Philadelphia Phillies handed the Seattle Mariners the A.L. West title while giving the Toronto Blue Jays the kick in the pants their rebuilding phase needed.
The particulars first: Philadelphia receives SP Roy Halladay and $6 million from Toronto in exchange for prospects in P Kyle Drabek, OF Michael Taylor and C Travis D'Arnaud. Seattle takes Cliff Lee from the Phillies for RP Phillippe Aumont, OF Tyson Gillies, P Juan Ramirez, all prospects. The Jays then flipped Taylor to the Oakland Athletics for 3B Brett Wallace.
On Philadelphia's end, I completely understand the logic behind the deal. The Phillies were able to get the pitcher they originally wanted and immediately lock him up through 2014 (three years, $60 million is the reported figure along with two club/vesting options). Halladay is an absolute workhorse who should carve up National League hitters, and is a better bet to hold up down the line than Cliff Lee is. Of course, if Lee was willing to sign a three-year extension like Halladay was, this blockbuster likely never happens. It's the three-year deal -- very club-friendly -- that makes this a significant upgrade from Lee when isolated in a vacuum. Sure, the upgrade could be neutral in 2010, but you've got to be forward-thinking in your deals, and the odds that Lee left Philadelphia after 2010 were looking rather high.
The Phillies overextended themselves financially last year and are trying to keep payroll steady (the $6 million they're receiving in the deal helps tremendously). In addition, the prospects back to Philadelphia help to replenish a farm system gutted by the Lee and Halladay trades. Unfortunately for Philadelphia, I don't think they're receiving anything more than midlevel prospects who are a long shot to have long-term value in town. They all look like eventual major leaguers, but are they anything more than replacement level? We can't answer that definitively. I do credit GM Ruben Amaro, however, for recognizing the need to replenish the farm system.
The Seattle Mariners made a tremendous move acquiring Cliff Lee for three prospects that don't rank as even guaranteed future major leaguers. Any time you can get a top five pitcher in that scenario, you have to strike. Lee is also very affordable for 2010, as he will pull in $9 million. Of course, he's a free agent the following year and is reportedly looking for a deal around $20 million annually. I'd be surprised if he gets it, but $18 million should be a lock. I do wonder about Lee's long-term potential: after all, it was only 2007 that he was demoted to the minor leagues.
What transformed Lee from a midrotation starter to one of the best pitchers in the game was an increased ground ball rate, improved command and a couple of ticks on his fastball velocity. When Lee signs his eventual long-term contract, I'll worry about deteriorating command and a fall-off from his fastball. It remains to be seen if Seattle will be that team to commit five or more years to Lee.
Putting aside any long-term valuation of Lee, this deal is still tremendous when looking through the lens of 2010. Lee will be a Cy Young candidate... acquired without giving up any of their top three prospects.
Onto Toronto. Toronto had no chance of holding onto Halladay long-term and even through all their blustering, I don't think anyone (at least, anyone not a Blue Jays fan) truly felt the team was being serious about letting Halladay play the string out. They had to deal him this year -- even with the two compensatory draft picks they could have gained, having prospects with minor league track records is much more valuable.
If former GM JP Ricciardi had been willing to allow Roy Halladay to talk contract extension with the Phillies this past July, I bet they could have gotten an extra piece out of the Phillies. Other than that, it wouldn't surprise me if this was the exact trade that would have gone down in July. Toronto made out extremely well, netting a high-upside pitcher in Kyle Drabek that they don't have anywhere in the system. Toronto has solid rotation depth, especially in the major leagues, but no one you can give the ball to on Opening Day and expect to win. Drabek can be that guy.
Travis D'Arnaud has been coveted by Toronto ever since he was selected a pick ahead of the Jays in 2007. The Blue Jays have J.P. Arencibia in their farm system, but there are questions about his ability to stay behind the plate, and D'Arnaud is the better value anyways. Michael Taylor was a Blue Jay for only the briefest of moments, as he was immediately shipped to Oakland for Brett Wallace.
While Taylor might evolve into a 20/20 player and provide good overall value out of the outfield, Wallace is the type of hitter Toronto needs in its next wave of youngsters. Toronto absolutely needs the upside that Wallace brings with the bat and can afford to worry about defense later. Assuming Wallace can't stick at third (which is not a done deal just yet), he has the options of moving to first or designated hitter, with no one blocking him at either position.
Toronto has put themselves in great position to field a young, competitive club as soon as 2012. That's all they could have asked for in a trade of Halladay. Seattle has two aces atop their rotation, but put themselves in a tough financial position in terms of extending both aces. Philadelphia remain the favorites to win the NL pennant in 2010, although their settling of prospects from Seattle's end could greatly compromise their long-term future.
why is it total bullshit w/ what Boston is trying to do?
Quote from: mehead on December 15, 2009, 09:42:49 PM
why is it total bullshit w/ what Boston is trying to do?
It seems like they're reallocating money from Jason Bay to John Lackey. I'm not sure how that's bullshit, either. Unless they were already 'in trouble' for overspending...
It's just smart management. Bay is a really nice player, but Lackey has a higher value added. They can replace most of what Bay does on the cheap (relatively speaking; this is still MLB) - and by getting Cameron and Hermida, they probably have.
Quote from: Alumni on December 16, 2009, 01:17:15 PM
Quote from: mehead on December 15, 2009, 09:42:49 PM
why is it total bullshit w/ what Boston is trying to do?
It seems like they're reallocating money from Jason Bay to John Lackey. I'm not sure how that's bullshit, either. Unless they were already 'in trouble' for overspending...
It's just smart management. Bay is a really nice player, but Lackey has a higher value added. They can replace most of what Bay does on the cheap (relatively speaking; this is still MLB) - and by getting Cameron and Hermida, they probably have.
Apparently you all didn't get the memo. Unless the move is somehow beneficial to the Orioles and/or Blue Jays, it's total bullshit.
:samurai:
:-D
I'll be shocked if they don't sign Bay or Holliday. They're the Red Sox they have to out-spend everyone but the Yankees.
Cameron and Hermedia aren't going to cut it against the Yanks lineup.
The final option is trading for Adrian Gonzalez, which they still might do.
Quote from: mattstick on December 16, 2009, 01:54:26 PM
I'll be shocked if they don't sign Bay or Holliday. They're the Red Sox they have to out-spend everyone but the Yankees.
I dunno. They've been outspent by the Mets and Tigers for a couple years running. It's no longer the Yanks and Sox against the World.
I think the caste system is more like
1) The Yankees [~$240M]
2) The Haves [about 10 teams $100M-$140M]
3) The Middle Class [another 8-10 teams $70M - $99M]
4) The Have-Nots [$40M - $69M]
5) The Marlins
ETA:
As for the outfielder situation, I'm not sure how it'll shake out. I think Gonzalez is probably their preferred option. (Not to play the outfield. But to use their OF and pitching depth to make a play for Gonzalez).
I've never been a huge Mike Cameron fan, but he may not be a huge step down form Bay. Bay's numbers in his last full season in Pittsburgh were decent, but hardly MVP caliber. He didn't just get more attention because he went to Boston. Bay got more attention because he was a better player in Boston.
Cameron may hit a few less HRs, but he's stronger defensively. And as a right-handed pull hitter, he may find Fenway more friendly than some of the parks he's recently called home (esp. SafeCo and PetCo). Is it an even swap? Probably not. But I'd take Lackey and Cameron over Bay in a heartbeat. Hermida's just insurance. I don't think you'll see him playing alongside Cameron unless (until?) Drew gets hurt.
+ the $zillion they paid to negotiate with Dice-K, the 4th starter...
Quote from: mattstick on December 16, 2009, 02:35:32 PM
+ the $zillion they paid to negotiate with Dice-K, the 4th starter...
Please don't remind us of this. :shakehead: :cry:
Quote from: mattstick on December 16, 2009, 02:35:32 PM
+ the $zillion they paid to negotiate with Dice-K, the 4th starter...
$50 million. It's a lot of dough, but it was a one-shot deal. The Yanks spent a little more than half of that on Kei Igawa.
Kei Igawa!. At least Matsuzaka is respectable. :)
WEEI's Alex Speier says Boston's payroll is at an all-time franchise high and projects to be just under the $170MM luxury tax threshold. Once they get over $170MM there is a 22.5% penalty.
I'm not disputing it, but it would be helpful if he could post some breakdown of that figure.
I don't keep track of salaries in my head. I just rely on sources like
http://mlbcontracts.blogspot.com/2004/12/boston-red-sox.html
http://content.usatoday.com/sports/baseball/salaries/totalpayroll.aspx?year=2009
If they did jump from about $120M to about $170M, I'd be curious to know where the extra $50M/year went.
ETA
Here's a spreadsheet. The baseline for 2010 is $108M. There are some blanks, but the only one with a big salary is Papelbon. Papelbon, Cameron, and Lackey, plus the others don't add up to $62M per year. Unless there's someone I'm forgetting...
http://spreadsheets.google.com/pub?key=tz8qHiYrIzlFtVnly7gibjw&output=html
http://www.weei.com/sports/boston/baseball/red-sox/alex-speier/2009/12/15/breaking-bank-look-red-sox-payroll-2010
I get it now.
Speier has the average annual values - which is what you really want to know.
That means the online databases I know about must use actual salaries (with corresponding spikes for signing bonuses). Good to know.
Quote from: mattstick on November 13, 2009, 11:21:14 AM
The Angels and Tigers have discussed a trade for center fielder Curtis Granderson, according to Ken Davidoff of Newsday. Davidoff says the Halos would use Granderson in left field and either shift Juan Rivera to DH or trade him. In my opinion, the Angels could fill several needs cheaply for the Tigers with players such as Mike Napoli and Brandon Wood. Davidoff adds that the Yankees "think very highly" of Granderson and the Cubs are "expected to inquire."
Granderson, 29 in March, hit .249/.327/.453 in 710 plate appearances this year. His defense is at least respectable. His contract is reasonable - $25.75MM guaranteed over the next three years. ESPN's Keith Law, however, considers Granderson a platoon player given his inability to hit lefties.
As a Tigers fan, it was tough losing Granderson, but only because he was such a likable player who seemed to have a lot of potential, especially when he hit over 30 home runs, 30 triples and stole 30 bases three years ago. Since then, he has been very inconsistent at bat. He strikes out way too much for a lead-off hitter.
But as far as his fielding, he is one of the best out there.
http://www.thanksroy.com/
Some nice tributes there, but this made me laugh...
QuoteHey Roy. Fuck you.
—Cliff Lee, Seattle
10 players left worth watching.
http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/Ten-best-names-left-on-the-market-Perry
ETA
Pickin' up the slack for the NYY fans among us :) Melky Cabrera to ATL for Javier Vazquez
Quote from: Alumni on December 22, 2009, 02:32:43 PM
10 players left worth watching.
http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/Ten-best-names-left-on-the-market-Perry
ETA
Pickin' up the slack for the NYY fans among us :) Melky Cabrera to ATL for Javier Vazquez
Think they'll keep Damon?
Quote from: antelope19 on December 22, 2009, 03:02:16 PM
Think they'll keep Damon?
Who else would field that turncoat SOB!!! :-P
Nah, the Royals have more class than that. :-D
Jason Bay to the Mets..he'll regret not re-signing w/ the Sox by June (if not b4)
"A Surprisingly Sensible Signing?"
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/lee_jenkins/12/29/jason.bay.mets/index.html
I have my doubts about whether Bay will rebound to hit .280-.300 and 34-38HR playing @ Citi, but the article has a point. The Mets needed someone to play the OF and provide a little power and there were only a couple guys left who fit the bill. Bay's one of them. And I'm not as sold on Holliday as others. He might not be a total creation of Coors Park, but his transition to Oakland was eye-opening to say the least...
Quote from: Alumni on December 30, 2009, 09:50:00 AM
"A Surprisingly Sensible Signing?"
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/lee_jenkins/12/29/jason.bay.mets/index.html
I have my doubts about whether Bay will rebound to hit .280-.300 and 34-38HR playing @ Citi, but the article has a point. The Mets needed someone to play the OF and provide a little power and there were only a couple guys left who fit the bill. Bay's one of them. And I'm not as sold on Holliday as others. He might not be a total creation of Coors Park, but his transition to Oakland was eye-opening to say the least...
[/b]
IMO it's the AL vs NL..if I was going to be dishing out some serious cabbage I'll take Holliday over Bay
Can't wait for my Cards to confirm the Holliday signing... should be within the week from the sounds of things. It's been a few years since we had somebody hitting behind Pujols consistently.
Quote from: Play_It_Leo on December 31, 2009, 09:08:24 AM
Can't wait for my Cards to confirm the Holliday signing... should be within the week from the sounds of things. It's been a few years since we had somebody hitting behind Pujols consistently.
Have patience.
The longer Holliday takes, the better off the Cards will be. Delaying tactics (made infamous by Boras) only work when there's competition. The more this gets drawn out, the easier it gets for StL to obtain him at something like a rational price -- as long as Boston and New York stay quiet. And I've got a feeling they will.
Forget patience. I heard on the radio yesterday that the Cards have told Boras that they're not willing to wait indefinitely -- that there's a sort of expiration date on their current offer. 5 years ago I would have laughed at the gambit. But it wasn't that long ago that Boras's stalling cost A-Rod money when he was forced to take a *cough* reduced *cough* contract offer...
Looks like Boston is going to take a flyer on Adrian Beltre. I don't think he's guaranteed to be productive, and I don't think he's guaranteed to get a ton of playing time if he's not productive. But he's a nice insurance option to have. I think it means Epstein & co don't want to play Youkilis at third. Memo to Casey Kotchmann: I'm not sure they were serious when they said they'd let you compete for a starting role. Better be hot as a pistol at the plate to start the season...
In other news, the Mets' offer to Bay apparently includes a 5th year option that can be triggered if Bay makes x number of plate appearances the preceding season. That fifth year: $17M. Wow. That's kind of silly money, but who knows . . . maybe it'll work out. Then again, it's the Mets. Maybe it won't.
5 years from now, $17 mil will be like $12 mil now.
Beltre's D is what would scare me about Boston adding him. But they won't be able to sign Beltre without trading Lowell (luxury cap), and nobody is going to trade for Lowell, so my bet is Beltre ends up in Oakland.
I dunno -- Beltre seems to have signed a 1-yr deal w/ Boston. Seems kind of strange to sign a player to a 1yr deal and *then* trade him...
http://sports.espn.go.com/boston/mlb/news/story?id=4795915
Goes to show, ya don't ever know.
Further proof that the Red Sox are just as bad as the Yankees.
When will baseball level the playing field and institute a salary cap or balanced schedule?
Quote from: mattstick on January 05, 2010, 10:31:06 AM
Goes to show, ya don't ever know.
Further proof that the Red Sox are just as bad as the Yankees.
When will baseball level the playing field and institute a salary cap or balanced schedule?
On one hand, this isn't the most expensive transaction in the world. $9M for one year with a cheaper team option for a second year...
On the other...I see exactly what you're saying. The specifics of the deal are less important than the fact that BOS is in a position to make the gamble in the first place. They're buying depth. There aren't a lot of teams that have money to burn on roster depth. It's hard enough just hanging onto your players when they do well and replacing them when they don't...
They have, under contract, 2 recent All-Stars who can play THE SAME POSITION.
Quote from: mattstick on January 05, 2010, 10:40:07 AM
They have, under contract, 2 recent All-Stars who can play THE SAME POSITION.
And that's true at more than one position.
The logjam is starting to clear, though. Looks like I was right about Kotchman. He's going to Seattle in return for general utilityman Bill Hall plus a minor leaguer.
So that leaves Youkilis to play first, with some starts by Victor Martinez. Youkilis can play a little at third when Martinez is at first. The only conflict left is having Beltre and Lowell. From the sound of things, Lowell is as good as gone.
The bubble is about to burst for your Red Sox....
Papi will hit like .180 this year, Lackey will be a bust in the AL-East, Dice-K will continue to walk people and regress, Papelbon's best days are behind him.
Quote from: mattstick on January 06, 2010, 01:33:47 PM
The bubble is about to burst for your Red Sox....
Papi will hit like .180 this year, Lackey will be a bust in the AL-East, Dice-K will continue to walk people and regress, Papelbon's best days are behind him.
:lol:
I hope this comes true.
Quote from: mattstick on January 06, 2010, 01:33:47 PM
The bubble is about to burst for your Red Sox....
Papi will hit like .180 this year, Lackey will be a bust in the AL-East, Dice-K will continue to walk people and regress, Papelbon's best days are behind him.
Schadenfreudestick? :evil: :-P
Quote from: mattstick on January 05, 2010, 10:31:06 AM
When will baseball level the playing field and institute a salary cap or balanced schedule?
I have never seen a salary cap as a level playing field. It just opens the realm of signing bonuses. Sure you can't pay a player 50 million with a salary cap, BUT, you can pay them 20 million with a 30 million signing bonus. I don't think it would change anything. Bigger markets have more money, so they spend more. Baseball is as American as a game comes, I'm all for the open market capitalist aspect being a part of it. But then again, as a Sox fan...what am I gonna say. :wink:
I guess you don't follow NBA or NHL, because that's not how it works.
A signing bonus would count against the cap.
I agree, it's doubtful that there will ever be a salary cap in MLB but when the entire league competes for the wildcard, and the teams play uneven schedules it is clearly not a level playing field.
Or just move the Jays to the NL West, either way I'm fine.
Even if the luxury tax were switched to a hard cap, clever teams will find ways to work around the margins.
Boston signs Beltre to one year at 9M with a player option for year 2 at 5M. They know Beltre will never accept the option, unless he really, really tanks. But player options count as guaranteed money. Presto, Beltre's contract is down to 7M for luxury tax purposes.
What would really help, I think, is true revenue sharing coupled with a salary floor.
Quote from: mattstick on January 06, 2010, 05:43:35 PM
I guess you don't follow NBA or NHL, because that's not how it works.
Nope. Actually only follow Baseball and the US Soccer Team.
Alumni, thats also a great example of how exploits would most likely exist.
Quote from: Alumni on January 06, 2010, 05:56:16 PM
Even if the luxury tax were switched to a hard cap, clever teams will find ways to work around the margins.
Boston signs Beltre to one year at 9M with a player option for year 2 at 5M. They know Beltre will never accept the option, unless he really, really tanks. But player options count as guaranteed money. Presto, Beltre's contract is down to 7M for luxury tax purposes.
What would really help, I think, is true revenue sharing coupled with a salary floor.
Again, look at the NHL for a cap system that works and isnt' flexible at all.
I'm not saying it will ever happen, I know it won't - but it would make MLB so much more enjoyable in small markets.
I do forsee a day when there is a balanced schedule, I'm sure the West and Central teams would love the revenue bonus from a few extra home dates with the Red Sox/Yankees and the O's/Rays/Jays would benefit from actually being in a wildcard race occasionally.
Red get Aroldis Chapman for $30 mil.
Hot Stove is pretty much done for the year, how many days 'til pitchers & catchers report?
QuoteScott Boras would have gotten Fred Astaire's attention with the tap dance number he did all over the Cardinals front office. It's arguably his best work to date.
On that other side, the Cardinals will regret the signing no later than spring training 2012, when either Chris Carpenter or Adam Wainwright or both are playing elsewhere, and possibly as soon as they begin negotiating with Albert Pujols. If you're agreeing to pay Holliday until 2029, you best be ready to pay Albert's great-great-great grandchilden in 2129.
Also... the Cardinals are considering using Mark McGwire as a pinch-hitter...
It's funny - I thought the Cards were in a great position to call Boras on his bluff. I didn't expect them to panic.
Maybe they were paranoid that one of the big spenders was secretly interested in Holliday after all?
Cuban phenom pitcher Aroldis Chapman signs with the Red Sox for $30M for 6 years, plus a $16M signing bonus.
Wait, what?!?
[doublechecks story on mlb.com]
Make that the Reds. Who'd have guessed? Cincinnati wins the prize. Score one for the little guy, even if it is the exception that proves the rule...
http://www.bugsandcranks.com/bradbortone/baseball/5-things-this-offseason-taught-me-about-the-mets/
5 Things This Offseason Taught Me About the Mets
Yesterday, I received an email from a fairly regular reader, saying the following:
"Brad – why have you been so quiet? Jason Bay got signed. Gary Matthews Jr. is coming to Citi. Are you not planning to write about these things? What do u think about the mets offseason so far?"
I should be able to sum this up in one sentence — I'm not writing anything about the Mets' moves because there's really nothing to write.
Oh sure, we got Bay (an average deal for a decent player) and somehow managed to get a workmanlike outfielder for Brian Stokes. But what else?
Nothing...and to be frank, I don't feel like being the umpteenth blogger to babble speculation about players we a) can't have b) shouldn't want or c) don't need.
The Mets haven't really done much at all, and it's this overwhelming sense of "wait and see" apathy that taught me a few lessons this past month. In no particular order...
1. The Mets really don't think they have any problems
Jason Bay is a good hitter. Jason Bay is a better fielder than people give him credit for. Jason Bay is a good clubhouse guy. But here's a sentence you'll likely never hear: "We wouldn't have won this World Series without Jason Bay." And since the Mets effectively bid against themselves to get the man, it's pretty clear that the rest of the league feels the same way. I like the signing, because I think he's going to be a good player at Citi — but Hernandez for Allen and Ownbey, this ain't.
Likewise, any efforts to move Luis Castillo were lukewarm at best. And the recent trade of Brian Stokes for Gary Matthews Jr. — one that makes sense to me, even if it's currently popular to whine like we just traded for a $2 million ass tumor — indicates that the Mets really don't seem to think the team has any holes. Have they really tested the waters on Orlando Hudson? Are they really in touch with Cincinnati about Harang or Arroyo? Did Milwaukee really offer Corey Hart for John Maine?
Probably not, because while these options sit out in the ether, the Mets are spending their time in Puerto Rico, debating between having Carlos Delgado limp around first base, or bringing back Fernando Tatis to try and win an unprecedented third comeback player of the year award.
In other words, we'll probably be seeing many of the same players who couldn't get it done in 2009, 2008, 2007...
2. Mets fans overreact worse than my mother
Exhibit A: The Mets' doctors, and how they suck.
Folks, we need to get a grip. As ridiculous as 2009 was for the Medi-Mets, to think that the team's doctors and trainers are somehow to blame for it, is inane. The Mets' injuries happened the same way many of us did — by accident. Jose Reyes plays a game based on speed and aggression, and paid for it. Carlos Delgado has been nursing minor injuries most of his career — a career that began 17 years ago. John Maine throws nothing but fastballs.
I can continue, but why bother? The 2009 Mets featured so many injuries, because they have a slew of players that are prone to injuries. Period.
The idea that the Mets — a major professional sports franchise featuring some of the largest pockets in the world — is somehow employing less-than-stellar medical staff, is dumber than people who are taking sides in the Leno/Conan debate. Yes, the team mismanages a lot of things, but I highly doubt this is one of them.
Exhibit B? Every mouth-breather on the forums that think the Mets should "just go all out and get _________ or _________." Seriously, dude — We could trade $5 billion and the Colonel's secret recipe, and we'd still never have Pujols. Get over it and go outside.
3. The Mets are no longer on that proverbial short list of elite teams
For Mets fans living in the shadow of the Bronx, it's easy to forget that outside of this city, the Mets are a major franchise. Sure, if you're not a fan, it's easy to hate them. And their annoying "little stepbrother" routine makes them an easy target for detractors. But for professional players looking to make a ton of cash while playing on the world's biggest stage? Ummm, yeah, the Mets are elite.
Or, I should say, "...were elite."
After seeing Bengie Molina take considerably less money to stay in San Fran, and Joel Pineiro decide to commit professional suicide by going back to the AL, it's becoming clear that the lure of playing in the Big Apple is no longer enough to get players to sign in Queens. And public squabbles between Mets players, management and ownership aren't doing anything to help.
Media attention is usually craved by ego-driven players. But in the last few years events such as Willie's moronic pink slip and the recent Beltran nonsense have done nothing but make the Mets' front office look like a well-paid bunch of rank amateurs.
4. The Mets should have traded Carlos Beltran
And no, this isn't just because of his attitude problem with Mets' brass about his knee. This is because, at 33, Carlos is likely on the decline as a highly-marketable five tool guy. Injuries or not, the team would have gotten takers had they tried to move him this offseason. And those takers would have likely given up some of the young pitching and infield depth the Mets so desperately need.
Likewise, if anyone thinks that Carlos wouldn't waive his no-trade clause to leave the team, think again. Recent events have shown that he's not fond of the Mets, and I still stand firm that he only really ever saw the Mets as a cash cow option, anyway. That's not to say he didn't learn to like it in Queens — but it's pretty apparent that the love affair is "off again."
Like many, I wonder just how legit Fernando Martinez is, at this point. I wasn't wholly impressed in his extended audition last year, and his injury totals are frightening. But if he is to be a star, then maybe it's time to let him take a shot at it.
Carlos has done a great job for the Mets, and he's earned his lofty paycheck. But as the contract expires and communication with the front office dwindles, the best plan for the Mets and Beltran is to simply part ways. Of course, this isn't going to happen — but let's see where his marketability stands in the winter to come.
SB
Os brought tejada back!
Quote from: mattstick on January 25, 2010, 03:49:10 PM
Jason Bay is a better fielder than people give him credit for.
The uber-dorks who calculate runs prevented say otherwise. As does Boston's medical staff, which was more worried about his knees than about his other, better-known health issues.
I guess there's one way to find out if they got off the Bay bandwagon at just the right time. Wait and see what happens.
Is it time for spring training yet?
I didn't write that, so you probably shouldn't attribute the quote to me.
Bay is an adequate fielder who more than makes up for his lack of range with his gawdy offensive production.
Quote from: mattstick on January 27, 2010, 04:29:27 PM
I didn't write that, so you probably shouldn't attribute the quote to me.
I figured the 5 people who follow the thread would understand. :-D
But...point taken.
Look out AL East! The Jays are comin' back!
http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/hotstove09/columns/story?columnist=kurkjian_tim&id=4860251
Interesting read. Sure, I'm a Sox fan but nothing would make me happier that a truly competitive East.
Quote from: thatfargone on January 27, 2010, 04:04:16 PM
Quote from: antelope19 on January 27, 2010, 03:45:45 PM
Os brought tejada back!
And his B-12 shots too?
As an O's fan desperate for a winning season, I'll say: LET'S HOPE SO! :-P Seriously though, they signed him for one year to keep the third base seat warm for Bell while he's at Triple A. I hope that the transition from short -> third isn't a tough one for him. I know plenty of others have done it, but can a 36? Oh wait, we don't even really know how old the guy is either........
Aww fu** it, if he can bat .315 with 90 RBI and 15 homers again like he did last year, I'll be happy. Lord knows he'll have ample opportunity in the top of our line up to drive in runs.
Quote from: thatfargone on January 28, 2010, 09:00:51 AM
Interesting read. Sure, I'm a Sox fan but nothing would make me happier that a truly competitive East.
I agree with this sentiment wholeheartedly. Imagine how much fun it would be to watch our division with 4, or even 5 competitive teams. I know I'm wearing the rose-colored glasses when I say this, but I think the O's and Jays are gonna surprise some people this year.
My biggest concern is while the Jays and Os are looking better, I still don't see them competing against the Sox and Yanks. Angelos will not fill in gaps heading into the trade deadline, he NEVER does. Jays are pretty much tapped financially going into the season and will not have funds to make moves of fill holes.
How many years do the Os come out of the gate tough, lead at the break, and then completely fall apart due to no trades/pickups???
I hear you on Tejada, I always admired the way he played the game, I really enjoyed watching Roberts, Tejada, and Palmeiro together....but in hindsight, how can I look back with anything but disgust???
is it time for the fantasy draft yet?
The O's usually need a lot more help than late-season acquisitions.
The Jays are looking way ahead, although they could be the "08 Rays" in 2011 if everything goes well.
Quote from: thatfargone on January 29, 2010, 12:16:06 PM
My biggest concern is while the Jays and Os are looking better, I still don't see them competing against the Sox and Yanks. Angelos will not fill in gaps heading into the trade deadline, he NEVER does. Jays are pretty much tapped financially going into the season and will not have funds to make moves of fill holes.
How many years do the Os come out of the gate tough, lead at the break, and then completely fall apart due to no trades/pickups???
I hear you on Tejada, I always admired the way he played the game, I really enjoyed watching Roberts, Tejada, and Palmeiro together....but in hindsight, how can I look back with anything but disgust???
Because we haven't had a winning season in more than 12 years! But I hear ya.
Quote from: mattstick on January 29, 2010, 12:23:10 PM
The O's usually need a lot more help than late-season acquisitions.
The Jays are looking way ahead, although they could be the "08 Rays" in 2011 if everything goes well.
Eh, for the first time in I don't know how long, we have a solid group of young pitchers.
Tillman
Matusz
Bergesen
Arieta
Hernandez
Patton
Berken
I'm optimistic to say the least.
Yeah, I feel ya man. Fucking Jeffrey Maier!!! :evil:
Quote from: antelope19 on January 29, 2010, 12:26:17 PM
Quote from: mattstick on January 29, 2010, 12:23:10 PM
The O's usually need a lot more help than late-season acquisitions.
The Jays are looking way ahead, although they could be the "08 Rays" in 2011 if everything goes well.
Eh, for the first time in I don't know how long, we have a solid group of young pitchers.
Tillman
Matusz
Bergesen
Arieta
Hernandez
Patton
Berken
I'm optimistic to say the least.
Who are those guys? :P
You've been talking about the O's young pitching since I met you.
Seen Markakis' beard lately? Bruce Sutter-style.