Do Not Read This Diary

Okay I read it

And I have to agree with you. Please make it stop the Roberts talk.

Unfortunately it will never end unless he's traded to someone whether it be us or some other team.

It's not like a free agent where the talk ends when he signs somewhere else.

As long as he's an Oriole it will continue.

We are all waiting for that glorious October night when we finally win it all. Until then we will continue to cheer, never do the wave and hope.

by puckishcubsfan on Jan 24, 2008 11:27 AM CST reply actions

If all the Orioles wanted in return for Roberts was Colvin and Gallagher, Roberts would've been at the Cub convention donning a Cubbie hat and rightfully so. I imagine the Orioles want another pitching prospect.

I agree though that this whole thing is way old. Having said that, I believe Roberts will be a Cub onOpening Day.

I reject your reality and substitute my own. ` Adam Savage Mythbusters

by lemon20pie on Jan 24, 2008 11:38 AM CST reply actions

If I was a betting man

I would also say Robert's will be a Cub by opening day (probably before ST).

I realize there is dissagreement over how much of an upgrade he would be over DeRosa, but in my mind, he brings a dimension that was sorely missing the the 07 club.

To get him, I have no problem giving up talent that is not major league proven.

"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel

by MPH73 on Jan 24, 2008 1:02 PM CST up reply actions

My thoughts...

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Jan 24, 2008 11:48 AM CST reply actions

Wait...

the Cubs are going to get Roberts?

Why don't they include some other minor leaguers and try to get both him a Bedard?

MMMMM...my mother-in-law's homemade ravioli!

by Kinky Reggae on Jan 24, 2008 11:49 AM CST reply actions

Yeah, good point

Do you really think the Orioles would trade Bedard though? He's pretty good. I wonder if Patterson and Marshall would be enough. I don't know though, giving up both Marhsall and Patterson might be too much. I mean, what would the Cubs do in a couple years without those 2? They'd clearly be screwed if they started trading away some of their prospects who clearly will be Hall Of Famers and will help the Cubs win World Series for years to come.

They can keep Bedard.

I reject your reality and substitute my own. ` Adam Savage Mythbusters

by lemon20pie on Jan 24, 2008 11:59 AM CST up reply actions

I feel

I feel kind of for Roberts and also the guys on the Cubs talked about.

This can't be easy.

We are all waiting for that glorious October night when we finally win it all. Until then we will continue to cheer, never do the wave and hope.

by puckishcubsfan on Jan 24, 2008 11:51 AM CST reply actions

re: I feel

"I feel kind of for Roberts and also the guys on the Cubs talked about."

Huh?

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Jan 24, 2008 11:54 AM CST up reply actions

I know what shes getting at...

....but if I got traded to another company and was making even the league minimum id shut my mouth and continue to thank God for abilities.

They get 4-5 months off a year get paid a ton, I dont feel for them and their names in trade rumors.

"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry "I strongly dislike Steve Stone." ---Hammer

by Hammer on Jan 24, 2008 12:00 PM CST up reply actions

Yeah WTF???

MMMMM...my mother-in-law's homemade ravioli!

by Kinky Reggae on Jan 24, 2008 3:44 PM CST up reply actions

re: Yeah WTF???

Apparently, a couple other posters here were able to understand what she meant. So I say now that we have someone who can translate Japanese, and I noticed someone else the other day was offering to translate Spanish, maybe a third brave BCBer could volunteer to be our designated KOW translator.

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Jan 24, 2008 4:00 PM CST up reply actions

I half agree with you

I don't feel bad at all for Roberts - he gets to escape what once was a proud and respected franchise in an extremely tough division and come here to a great park, great fans, and great city and gets to hit in front of (or between) the likes of Soriano, DLee, ARam, Fukudome and Zambrano. Oh, and not to mention trading up from crab cakes to deep dish and italian beef. Mmmmm....

However, I do feel for whichever Cubbies are dealt if this trade happens - going to a Mcphail-led organization, run by a meddlesome owner, and faced with almost no chance for post-season play for as long as they stay there. It's situations like this that I think the major league minimum was designed for.

Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."

by ballhawk on Jan 24, 2008 1:54 PM CST up reply actions

Think of it.

If Cedeno is traded to Baltimore, he's going to have to step in and fill the shoes of Cal Ripken and Miguel Tejada.

I don't know if that's funny, sad or both.

I would suggest you learn to truly interrupt all stats before using any selective stats. -- cubswin

by cwyers on Jan 24, 2008 4:11 PM CST up reply actions

I don't have a problem

with all the trade talk. This kind of thing is what makes the offseason interesting. Would you rather be talking about our chances of signing Kyle Lohse? We can debate Roberts usefulness from now until ST but at least we have something to debate. The people who are pleading for the Roberts trade talk to end are probably the same ones who get upset when there is a lack of news. Hey even if you don't think we need Roberts there are people who do, discuss.

I know that you believe that you understood what you think I said, but I am not sure you realize that what you heard is not what I meant. - Robert McCloskey

by pageian on Jan 24, 2008 12:05 PM CST reply actions

hendrys digging his own grave

if they trade for roberts and roberts doesnt have an outstanding season, or if anyone who is traded shines in 08 he'll be tarred and feathered.

this is all ridiculous, please just concentrate on spring training, i really dont understand how if these guys want a deal done, its not done. just let it go. i have never seen so much back and forth from the media for such a long time for a player with a .760 career OPS.

Bill James Felix Pie 2008 Projection: .283/.333/.456 16 HR 21 SB

by kylejo on Jan 24, 2008 12:05 PM CST reply actions

Considering new owners

are coming in, Hendry's grave is already half way dug. The only way for him to crawl out, is to make a DEEP playoff run, and this is why I think he will go for it.

"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel

by MPH73 on Jan 24, 2008 1:05 PM CST up reply actions

...and since the sale has dragged on and on

who knows if it'll be a foregone conclusion that Hendry will have job security for 2009 guaranteed.

I mean the sale went from end of the '07 calendar year to just before the '08 season to the end of the '08 season.

There's still 2 buyers yet that have to see the books; 3 already have as I understoond.

This could drag out until late '08 then it'd be almost too late to change GM's with what the GM meetings and winter meetings each being held within 50 days of the end of the WS.

by blackhawk24 on Jan 24, 2008 1:42 PM CST up reply actions

Hendrys contract

Doesn't Hendry's contract end after 08?

He might up and leave on his own if things are in flux.

Let's hope we're all clamoring for him to stay at the end of 08 because that can only mean the Cubs have gone places.

We are all waiting for that glorious October night when we finally win it all. Until then we will continue to cheer, never do the wave and hope.

by puckishcubsfan on Jan 24, 2008 5:30 PM CST up reply actions

I believe Andy

did him a favor and put a clause in his deal that extends it one year if the team is sold.

All in all, new owners would eat that in a minute if they were set on bringing in their own people, which is why I think he needs a deep run in the playoffs to make that a difficult call.

"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel

by MPH73 on Jan 24, 2008 6:30 PM CST up reply actions

Don't you know that

the only surefire way to get someone to read the diary is to say not to read it? I'm living proof!

Nice :)

by jjmarie30 on Jan 24, 2008 12:10 PM CST reply actions

I honestly spent 30 minutes arguing with myself...

...over whether or not to post a diary on this or just to try and bury it in the bottom of the Phil Rodgers diary from yesterday.

All of this would be a lot easier if at some point I could figure out how to shut my mouth - then I wouldn't sit there figuring I had to share the information with someone.

I would suggest you learn to truly interrupt all stats before using any selective stats. -- cubswin

by cwyers on Jan 24, 2008 12:15 PM CST up reply actions

30 minutes? Wow

This isn't an issue. Don't beat yourself up on this. Isn't this what the blog is supposed to be about, the discussions? Yeah its old but it's not like there's that much player movement possibilities to discuss.

Like the article mentions, the slow market this winter allows McPhail to take his time.

by blackhawk24 on Jan 24, 2008 12:19 PM CST up reply actions

Wasn't really worried about the diary police...

...just was trying to figure out if there was some way I could hide it, because I knew that starting yet another Brian Roberts diary was a quick route to Groundhog's Day.

I would suggest you learn to truly interrupt all stats before using any selective stats. -- cubswin

by cwyers on Jan 24, 2008 12:24 PM CST up reply actions

Ned, Ned Ryerson?

n/t

by N Oakley on Jan 24, 2008 2:10 PM CST up reply actions

I believe burying something in the bottom...

...of a Phil Rogers' diary would be the blogging equivalent of "composting".

Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."

by ballhawk on Jan 24, 2008 1:59 PM CST up reply actions

re: I believe burying something in the bottom...

I'll go one better and say that Phil Roger's columns are the journalistic equivalent of fertilizer.

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Jan 24, 2008 2:28 PM CST up reply actions

AAAURGHHH!! MY EYES!!! MY EYES!!!

That one almost blinded me, cwyers. I should have followed your advice and not read the article. Gee, another Roberts trade rumor. McPhail needs to either trade the guy or not but for the love of everything holy, do something. I'd like to see him in Cubbie blue but am really tired of hearing about it.

That said, on to other things. How many pitchers are they going into spring training with and how many do you think will be on the 25 man roster? 11 or 12? I'd think there'll be at least one trade in the next three weeks as it does look like we're top heavy with hurlers and could use another LH bat.

"Who are you going to believe, me or your own eyes?"

by Jettero2112 on Jan 24, 2008 12:16 PM CST reply actions

Including NRI's

it's gotta be upwards of 22 when they report in just under 3 weeks.

My guess is they'll carry 12 into the opener unless significant move(s) are made before then.

by blackhawk24 on Jan 24, 2008 12:21 PM CST up reply actions

There's some idea...

...that Marquis could be dealt, even in the Roberts deal. I know, I know - sounds too fantastic to be true, but Ken Rosenthal is an amazing person and I trust him to know what he's talking about.

I would suggest you learn to truly interrupt all stats before using any selective stats. -- cubswin

by cwyers on Jan 24, 2008 12:21 PM CST up reply actions

...and more teams are said to be interested

in Marquis since the Lieber signing...hmmmm.

So other than the O's there maybe other players for Marquis.

by blackhawk24 on Jan 24, 2008 12:50 PM CST up reply actions

He also brought up Murton to

San Diego or Baltimore as a possibility as well. Who would we want from the Fathers for Murton?

"Who are you going to believe, me or your own eyes?"

by Jettero2112 on Jan 24, 2008 1:05 PM CST up reply actions

Heath Bell...

or Greene if we include a prospect.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 24, 2008 1:06 PM CST up reply actions

Greene at SS, Roberts at second ans

DeRosa as Util. Keep Theriot as bench? What about guys like Fontenot. Trade bait? Nice scenario I wouldn't mind seeing happen.

"Who are you going to believe, me or your own eyes?"

by Jettero2112 on Jan 24, 2008 1:26 PM CST up reply actions

Want v. Get

What we would want from the Padres for Murton would be Chris Young or Jake Peavy or Trevor Hoffman......

What we would likely could get would be a lot less...

by frustratedfan on Jan 24, 2008 1:42 PM CST up reply actions

...and I want C-notes

growing on all the trees on my property...

The statement was want for Murton. So I guess the odds-on favorite response would be Greene...?

by blackhawk24 on Jan 24, 2008 1:49 PM CST up reply actions

I want a full house...

...and a rock and roll band.

Anyone?

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Jan 24, 2008 1:58 PM CST up reply actions

Baseball, beer and babes....

n/t

"Who are you going to believe, me or your own eyes?"

by Jettero2112 on Jan 24, 2008 3:13 PM CST up reply actions

re: Baseball, beer and babes....

Ha, I'll take those, too. Actually, and I should have been clearer about this, I was challenging posters to name the song those lines come from and the artist who wrote them. (Hint: The songwriter is from the same state as Ryan Theriot.)

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Jan 24, 2008 3:22 PM CST up reply actions

Passionate Kisses

Written by: Lucinda Williams
Performed by: Mary Chapin Carpenter

"Who are you going to believe, me or your own eyes?"

by Jettero2112 on Jan 24, 2008 3:45 PM CST up reply actions

DING-DING-DING

Ladies and gentlemen, we have a winner!

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Jan 24, 2008 3:55 PM CST up reply actions

re: Passionate Kisses

And I would add that Lucinda does a really good version herself.

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Jan 24, 2008 3:57 PM CST up reply actions

LOL

You guys forgot the pony. Don't we get a pony?

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al Yellon on Jan 24, 2008 4:28 PM CST up reply actions

Don't let my daughter hear about the pony

She wants to get one and seems to think we could keep it in the garage...

"Who are you going to believe, me or your own eyes?"

by Jettero2112 on Jan 24, 2008 4:33 PM CST up reply actions

re: LOL

Daver replies in a Jerry Seinfeld voice, "Who leaves a country packed with ponies to come to a non-pony country?"

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Jan 24, 2008 4:34 PM CST up reply actions

If I had a pony

I'd ride him on my boat.

Ooops, sorry wrong artist.

by rlpete on Jan 24, 2008 5:06 PM CST up reply actions

I don't know about ponies

But I've been through the desert on a horse with no name. You know, it felt good to get out of the rain.

by Shanghai Badger on Jan 24, 2008 8:21 PM CST up reply actions

In Lou's podcast a few weeks back

he revealed that the Cubs were looking for a left handed fast guy, and that his granddaughter got a pony for Christmas. Random but true.

Why does everybody stand up and sing "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" when they're already there? ~Larry Anderson

by JohnM on Jan 25, 2008 4:17 AM CST up reply actions

Can the pony hit lefthanded?

n/t

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al Yellon on Jan 25, 2008 8:33 AM CST up reply actions

I don't know...

if getting Roberts is a good move or a bad one. But what I do know is that if I have to hear about this potential trade for the next three weeks I'm going to scream.

Both McPhail and Hendry should know by now what each other is wanting. Are they just waiting for one other to give in? Either way this is getting ridiculous.

by nmrudge on Jan 24, 2008 12:26 PM CST reply actions

Anyone else starting to feel like...

...this is just a deal to do a deal?? Sorta like in my fantasy football team this year when I traded a few guys just because I was itching to do something?

Just doesn't seem right to me that this trade has been hovering over us for the last 4-6 weeks.

Dan

Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.

by dtpollitt on Jan 24, 2008 12:39 PM CST reply actions

re: Anyone else starting to feel like...

I don't feel like this is a deal just to do a deal as much as I feel this may be a case of the Cubs having had Roberts on the line so long (and being so intent on acquiring a left-handed-hitting, speedy middle infielder) that they just can't bring themselves to let it go. Kinda like the old man in Hemingway's The Old Man and the Sea. Let's hope things turn out a little better for the Cubs.

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Jan 24, 2008 1:05 PM CST up reply actions

Can you believe

I have the DVD version of The Old Man and the Sea. ALso read the book, love it

"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry "I strongly dislike Steve Stone." ---Hammer

by Hammer on Jan 24, 2008 1:10 PM CST up reply actions

re: Can you believe

I was obsessed with Hemingway in college and remain a big fan. I've never seen that movie, actually. My favorite novel of all time is The Sun Also Rises.

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Jan 24, 2008 1:12 PM CST up reply actions

I dunno

I would do a gallagher and colvin trade, but I doubt it will happen.

Live is boring until March 31st strolls by..

by Chanman25 on Jan 24, 2008 12:45 PM CST reply actions

They'd probably take a pass on that one

...the O's that is. My guess is they'd ask for Pie ahead of Colvin unless the Cubs gave them a 3rd player.

Just like the Twinkies with Santana, the O's are still looking for someone to overpay.

by blackhawk24 on Jan 24, 2008 12:52 PM CST up reply actions

I watch the Wire...

...which is why I know you can't believe anything you read in the Baltimore Sun.

by Chadnudj on Jan 24, 2008 1:00 PM CST reply actions

It's all in the game, yo...

...wait til you get around to episodes 5, 6, and 7. GONNA BLOW YOUR MIND.

Dan

Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.

by dtpollitt on Jan 24, 2008 8:07 PM CST up reply actions

Here is...

... the pertinent paragraph in the Sun article:

The Chicago Cubs remain the likely landing spot for Roberts for a package that is expected to include pitcher Sean Gallagher and one of the Cubs' young outfielders. The teams have discussed several scenarios but have yet to agree on a package.

"Is expected"? By whom? There's no attribution here, and the preceding paragraphs basically lay out the same old "MacPhail taking his time" scenario.

I agree with cwyers. For the love of God, make this go away.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al Yellon on Jan 24, 2008 1:05 PM CST reply actions

here's an article from AZcntral.com

It's about Cub fans and how imprtant they are to the Mesa area economy during Spring Training.

I reject your reality and substitute my own. ` Adam Savage Mythbusters

by lemon20pie on Jan 24, 2008 1:30 PM CST up reply actions

We are all keeping it alive

though I'm not sure why. The more I look at Roberts' numbers, the less impressed I am. He's DeRosa with speed, though it would give the Cubs some impressive depth.

My question is why -- if indeed he hasn't -- Hendry doesn't put all his focus into landing Bedard. The Cubs will likely be sunk in 2008 if they lose a front-end starter. Granted, most teams would, but adding a solid No. 2 would make the Cubs the clear NL favs.

My guess is that Hendry does not want three lefties in the starting rotation and does not want to give up Hill. This logic also makes me think he'd much rather deal Marshall than Gallagher.

When all is said and done, enough already indeed on Roberts. Hendry should be focused on a No. 2 starter and a shortstop.

"It's a long fly to left field. And there it goes. Ahhh crap." -- Harry Caray

by cubz1963 on Jan 24, 2008 2:40 PM CST up reply actions

Can someone

explain to me why the Orioles would consider dealing either one of these guys? Are their contracts up this year with free agency looming?

I don't get it. The list of needs according to the article is long for the Orioles. If the motivation is to rebuild, why not build around a couple of guys like these two.

Many of you on this site I really admire with the knowledge some of you have. So if anyone has time or an inclination, please explain to me.

"You can't take life to seriously, you don't get out of it alive"

by wild bill on Jan 24, 2008 1:13 PM CST reply actions

i think

both of their contracts are up in two seasons (08 and 09). So they are basically trying to dump them for some value now.

Live is boring until March 31st strolls by..

by Chanman25 on Jan 24, 2008 1:19 PM CST up reply actions

Thank you

for the reply. I guess this is a case of getting more potentially good bodies for a couple guys. Still the feeling must be than that the Orioles must feel if they keep these two that they will be priced out come time for new contract(s).

"You can't take life to seriously, you don't get out of it alive"

by wild bill on Jan 24, 2008 1:32 PM CST up reply actions

basically they have trade value for an overhaul

McPhail was hired to overhaul nd reorganize the once mighty O's. Looking at the O's is there anyone you want to build a club around? Bedard and Roberts are not core players but they are good and are at the top of their trade value right now.

And yet they are complimentary players, Bedard is a good middle of the rotation pitcher on a true contender, let us say another Lilly. Roberts is a solid lead off hitter who could finish off a regular order, like Pods did with the Sox. But what is the price.

Cubs think they could and should win now so having them for two years would be quite beneficial but at what cost.

It appears to me that the CF the O's want is Pie, and the pitcher they want is Gallagher with compliments of Murton and possibly Marshall or someone else. Cubs have to decide whether it is Pie for the next four or five years or Colvin or Eric Patterson for that matter? This is where good decisions come into play. Pie has a big upside, power, speed, defense, batting and an arm, Colvin is an athlete still developing.

My bet is that the Cubs are hoping the price falls as the demand is not yet going at the O's, my bet is that Bedard is more attractive since he would instantly make the Cubs have a top 4-man rotation and they still have two veterans vying for the final rotation spot.

I would trade Patterson, Gallagher and Marquis for Bedard and then make a deal with Texas with Murton and keep Pie and Marshall. This way Cubs could find a 4th OF'er like Byrd and go north with the best staff in the NL and one of the best defenses.

Piniella: "This is a tougher job than I thought it would be, I'm going to be honest with you."

by Ivy Walls on Jan 24, 2008 3:05 PM CST up reply actions

I think all of us would

trade Patterson, Gallagher, Marquis for Bedard. But the fact is that's not enough to land him, when other teams (read Mariners, Reds) are interested. I too agree that Bedard helps the Cubs more than Roberts. In my estimation, Cedeno > Patterson, so I'd offer Cedeno, Colvin, plus O's can take one from each of the following pairs: Gallagher/Marshall and Marquis/Dempster. The O's stated needs are: CF, closer, vet SP, SP prospects. This offer fills several of those holes. Then I'd offer San Diego Murton and Patterson for Greene. Greene's bat in the line-up makes Pie fine in center full time, where he can develop into the player he's supposed to be.

by philadelphiacub on Jan 24, 2008 3:43 PM CST up reply actions

when overhauling trades are two fold

seeking a truly talented prospect and getting stop gap players to bid for time. Cubs have the following prospects of talent

Pie
Colvin
Patterson
Vetters
Donaldson
Thomas
Soto
Samardzija
Gallagher
Veal
Ceda
Hart
Petrick
Ascanio

MLB fillers are

Murton
Cedeno
Fontenot
Fox
Mateo

Of those Pie and Soto are immediately ready and slated to be starting with the Cubs. If you decide that you are going with Pie than Colvin and possibly Patterson are available. If you gather another bona fide middle to top of the rotation starting pitcher than Gallagher and Veal are possibly available. The big weakness is at SS (Cedeno) where an injury really causes the middle infield to be in jeopardy, so that is the risk you take. Cubs have Donaldson at 2B but his defense could be worse than Patterson.

Here is my thoughts which dovetail off of yours. Patterson is a bona fide prospect with power, speed and OBP and can play adaquate CF along with Colvin who is about a year away and considered a Finley/Crawford level prospect or a choice of Gallagher/Hart plus Marquis and Dempster for Bedard and a prospect.

Piniella: "This is a tougher job than I thought it would be, I'm going to be honest with you."

by Ivy Walls on Jan 25, 2008 9:14 AM CST up reply actions

Nice insights

"I like the way you think" Sam Kineson

"You can't take life to seriously, you don't get out of it alive"

by wild bill on Jan 25, 2008 7:52 AM CST up reply actions

Say it!... Say it!... Say it!

Out of respect for the all the little cubs fans that frequent this site, I won't cut-n-paste the text but clink on the link if you need to go 'back to school' for a moment this morning. Kids, get your parents' permission...

http://imdb.com/title/tt0090685/quotes

[scroll down about two screens for the Professor Terguson quote]

Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."

by ballhawk on Jan 25, 2008 8:50 AM CST up reply actions

I got to

tell you, one of the best scenes ever. Classic.

"You can't take life to seriously, you don't get out of it alive"

by wild bill on Jan 25, 2008 9:49 AM CST up reply actions

Right...

they are only controlled for a bit longer. And since the Orioles are in no position to compete anytime soon, the idea is to get value for those guys now. Trading for prospects allows them to spend less while getting multiple players who are controlled for a lot longer.

by SouthernCub on Jan 24, 2008 1:33 PM CST up reply actions

Well in that

case give 'em what we can. Personally I would be focusing more on Bedard. I am sure the Cubs could pony up enough farm talent to land him.

"You can't take life to seriously, you don't get out of it alive"

by wild bill on Jan 24, 2008 1:37 PM CST up reply actions

Because...

... Bedard and Roberts are not enough to take on the Red Sox and Yankees. What might be enough is a treasure trove of top prospects, hoping that four or five guys emerge in two years are legit players.

DmL

by dmlichte on Jan 24, 2008 2:29 PM CST up reply actions

I think it's

reach to think that 2 of the 6 or 7 prospects rumored to be going over those two are going to become as good as Bedard and Roberts. None of them are future ace's, and none project to have as much value as Roberts (maybe that's why the deal hasn't been done yet). But add to that the Cubs are in win-now mode, and I think we're better off with the known present than the unknown future.

by jazzypete on Jan 24, 2008 2:39 PM CST up reply actions

Agreed

n/t

I know that you believe that you understood what you think I said, but I am not sure you realize that what you heard is not what I meant. - Robert McCloskey

by pageian on Jan 24, 2008 3:24 PM CST up reply actions

Very simple

the O's will not win anytime soon, so they want to gather as much young talent as their veterans will bring.

"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel

by MPH73 on Jan 24, 2008 6:32 PM CST up reply actions

We should still be...

...enjoying the speculation!

In my view, if it happens: Yeh! If not, no biggie. We don't need the Orioles to get to the World Series, but we do, in my estimation, need one more quality starting pitcher or perhaps an impact bat.

I'm equating people's impatience with the Roberts situation as impatience with the winter. I know I'm itchy for Spring Training to start.

As for McPhail, well, don't we know enough already about his "ways?!" I had high hopes for his regime, but I'm glad that management's changed. - TL

"Why shouldn't we believe that we're going to win the World Series?" - Ted Lilly, 1/19/2008, Daily Herald interview w/Barry Rozner

by timlacy on Jan 24, 2008 1:27 PM CST reply actions

Deadlines

McPhail's deadline may be the start of ST, but I seriously doubt that Hendry can wait that long. He has to trade Murton (whose permanent residence is Lou's doghouse), preferably to get a CF -- either to replace or platoon with Pie. He has to trade Marquis (Murton's roommate in the aforementioned doghouse). He has to trade DeRo to get a couple of prospects to restock the farm, and avoid another clubhouse insurrection.

But... he can't do anything until he knows the exact price of Brian Roberts or whether he will even get him.

So... Hendry may have to declare a deadline date (Jan. 31?) earlier than McPhail's to allow him to make these other moves before ST.

"I've never complained about it. I'm thankful to have a jersey." Mark DeRosa, 22 Aug 2007

by DeRoMyHero on Jan 24, 2008 1:32 PM CST reply actions

My thoughts...

I would rather the Cubs trade for Greene than Roberts, just my thoughts...and he'd probably be cheaper too.

by airmidget1 on Jan 24, 2008 3:00 PM CST reply actions

I would have to agree...

that bringing in Greene would be the more logical choice for two reasons. One, it fills a glowing need that the Cubs have had for many years. Finally having stability at the shortstop position would be great for this ball club. Greene has power and plays great defense. He slugged .468 last year, playing half of his games at a very pitcher friendly PETCO Park. He just needs to better his K/BB ratio. Two, Roberts would be replacing a fan and clubhouse favorite in DeRosa. While I understand that baseball is not a game in which you can hold on to someone based solely on personality, DeRosa was the unsung hero of last year's team. In my mind, he is a Mark Grace type of character for the team. Removing him after his first year in town would be a bad move by this organization. Keep DeRo, get Greene!

by gacubbie20 on Jan 24, 2008 3:38 PM CST up reply actions

Agreed

I don't see why they want to replace DeRo so much. Yeah he doesn't possess the speed of a typical middle infielder, but he can hit the ball, so it shouldn't be a big deal. Greene is the top notch SS that we need. He's not a top 5 SS, but he's still top 10, and I don't think there has been a SS for the Cubs that has been top 10 in forever! So, trade Murton, Cedeno, and Marquis for Greene and I'll be happy.

by airmidget1 on Jan 24, 2008 3:53 PM CST up reply actions

Coup DeGrace

"Mark Grace type of character" in terms of role/impact on the team and not personality, right? It's funny because I see what you're saying, but the two personalities/affects seem like they couldn't be that much more different!

by dizzle on Jan 25, 2008 1:52 AM CST up reply actions

That is what I meant...

Sorry about not clarifying about that! He is similar to Grace in the fact that he is a great on the field leader and means a lot to the team. I agree with you that their personalities couldn't be much different!

by gacubbie20 on Jan 25, 2008 11:32 PM CST up reply actions

100% Agree

It seems the only knock on DeRo is his speed. He's not slow, he's just not fast. I don't understand the Roberts trade, but would love to get Greene. I think this offense is capable enough of putting up big #s without production from the SS and Greene would put up decent #s. Focus on Bedard and get Greene.

"You rub snot on the ball?" Ricky Vaughn

by McRipper on Jan 25, 2008 2:13 PM CST up reply actions

You say the Baltimore Sun

says the Cubs are trying to get Brian Roberts? Who is this character? Never heard of him. What team is he on?

PIE!!!

by LilLPLancer23 on Jan 24, 2008 3:23 PM CST reply actions

This mentioned before?

Marquis be a possible candidate in an O's trade?

Sun is reporting O's are talking to Boras about Lohse. It would appear that is a fallback plan, or could signal Bedard is not leaving.

Why would they sign Lohse and trade Bedard? It's a downgrade and money loser.

Perhaps Marquis would be a cheaper, nearer term solution to Lohse.

http://weblogs.baltimoresun.com/sports/roch/blog/2008/01/forward_and_backward_thinking.html

by blackhawk24 on Jan 24, 2008 3:51 PM CST reply actions

Can't imagine why they'd want Marquis...

he's mediocre, he's somewhat expensive, and he's only under contract for two more years. For a team that's in rebuilding mode, it seems strange. Unless they are just trying to be somewhat terrible next year rather (rather than cannon fodder), I really don't see what he offers them.

Marquis seems more useful to a playoff contender who needs a #4 or #5 starter to be mediocre but eat innings at the regular season rotation (a team like the D-Backs).

But, I guess you can just never tell. And that's of course assuming that the Orioles actually do have interest in Marquis.

by SouthernCub on Jan 24, 2008 4:00 PM CST up reply actions

My only guess...

...is that they plan on doing something clever, like using him for half a season and spinning him off for prospects at the trade deadline when his value could be at peak. And that's... tenative.

I would suggest you learn to truly interrupt all stats before using any selective stats. -- cubswin

by cwyers on Jan 24, 2008 4:07 PM CST up reply actions

Warning.

There is a monster at the end of this thread.

Before each game, please remember to feed the bats.

by Cool Hand on Jan 24, 2008 4:08 PM CST reply actions

ROFL.

Simply.

Perfect.

I would suggest you learn to truly interrupt all stats before using any selective stats. -- cubswin

by cwyers on Jan 24, 2008 4:35 PM CST up reply actions

THIS JUST IN

Stright from baltimore, they are willing to make the trade if we throw in Al,cwyers and Josh.
I say no way we make the deal.

I can't believe I'm batting 9th again -Ted Lily

by NIUcubbie on Jan 24, 2008 6:11 PM CST reply actions

They could start a site called...

...BleedOrioleOrange.com and endlessly talk about a young player called Patterson. Hah! - TL

"Why shouldn't we believe that we're going to win the World Series?" - Ted Lilly, 1/19/2008, Daily Herald interview w/Barry Rozner

by timlacy on Jan 24, 2008 6:55 PM CST up reply actions

Offer them

KOW for Roberts straight up.....

by LT on Jan 24, 2008 7:54 PM CST up reply actions

I thought

Bip Roberts was retired? Why the hell would we trade for him?

"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Jan 24, 2008 6:26 PM CST reply actions

Bip

I thought we were all talking about Robin.

"You can't take life to seriously, you don't get out of it alive"

by wild bill on Jan 25, 2008 7:53 AM CST up reply actions

That would indeed be a pricey trade.

Resurrection will probably cost more than a couple of high-level prospects.

"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Jan 25, 2008 8:49 AM CST up reply actions

Wasn't it David Roberts?

Or Julia?

by Shanghai Badger on Jan 25, 2008 9:55 AM CST up reply actions

Maybe it's

Eric Roberts

"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Jan 25, 2008 4:17 PM CST up reply actions

re: Maybe it's

Daver says in a ridiculously deep voice, "What does it take to turn 25 uncontrollable characters into one unbeatable team?"

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Jan 25, 2008 4:37 PM CST up reply actions

A package deal of

Eric Roberts and James Earl Jones is very enticing. maybe Cub brass should get on this...

"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Jan 25, 2008 7:21 PM CST up reply actions

Robin Roberts isn't dead, by the way

n/t

by Shanghai Badger on Jan 25, 2008 9:59 AM CST up reply actions

Well, then,

since he's only mostly-dead, maybe we can do the swap and get Miracle Max to fix him up for us...

"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Jan 25, 2008 4:10 PM CST up reply actions

Nah, we've got the towel drill!

n/t

by Shanghai Badger on Jan 25, 2008 5:53 PM CST up reply actions

Very True!

I'm sure it'll just take a couple of simulated games to get that 81 year old arm back into shape.

"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Jan 25, 2008 7:19 PM CST up reply actions

Robin Roberts isn't 81!

Looks pretty good, too, even while fighting cancer:

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al Yellon on Jan 25, 2008 7:56 PM CST up reply actions

And here I thought

the joke was exhausted! This Robin Roberts adds an aesthetic element to the trade that an 81 year old pitcher lacks. I guess this why Hendry gets paid the big bucks.

"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Jan 25, 2008 10:05 PM CST up reply actions

HGH

gone terribly wrong or did it?

"You can't take life to seriously, you don't get out of it alive"

by wild bill on Jan 26, 2008 8:36 AM CST up reply actions

why would we trade for a basekball player?

and I thought he was on Dayton..

Live is boring until March 31st strolls by..

by Chanman25 on Jan 24, 2008 7:12 PM CST reply actions

The article is consistent with...

...Padres' honcho, Sandy Alderson indicating yesterday on the radio that the Padres are interested in Murton but that the Cubs are not doing anything until they can acquire Roberts from the Os. It would seem that the roberts deal is not dead. If we do include Pie to acquire Roberts then maybe the Cubs will sign Patterson? That'd be cool.

by DudeVf11 on Jan 24, 2008 8:18 PM CST reply actions

as in Corey?

man I would love to see that experiment...

Live is boring until March 31st strolls by..

by Chanman25 on Jan 24, 2008 8:27 PM CST up reply actions

And another thing....

...if we do trade for Roberts does that mean he'll hit cleanup and Aramis will bat 9th to protect the pitcher? Lou better put a call into Dusty to see how Roberts can be optimized.

by DudeVf11 on Jan 24, 2008 8:20 PM CST reply actions

He'd probably recommend

picking up Neifi to protect Rammy. Also, Neifi will fill the "holes" at SS, 2B, and CF.

"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Jan 24, 2008 8:37 PM CST up reply actions

Who is KOW ?

"Drink,Drugs and shagging models...the rest I wasted." George Best on where his millions went

by Aussie Cub on Jan 25, 2008 4:41 AM CST reply actions

KOW = dat cubfan daver's special friend

i.e. cubstoseries100something

Why does everybody stand up and sing "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" when they're already there? ~Larry Anderson

by JohnM on Jan 25, 2008 4:45 AM CST up reply actions

Yup, KOW is my...

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Jan 25, 2008 8:45 AM CST up reply actions

LMAO!

Perfect!

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al Yellon on Jan 25, 2008 10:55 AM CST up reply actions

re: LMAO!

Thanks. As you may be able to tell, I'm gearing up to challenge santoswoodenlegs for picture-poster supremacy this season. Oh, it's on.

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Jan 25, 2008 11:07 AM CST up reply actions

Then I respectfully say to you...

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 25, 2008 11:25 AM CST up reply actions

CAN SOMEONE PLEASE EXPLAIN

the reference above??

Is that a bear and a banana hugging each other??? Why is that funny?

What is "BFF"???

HELP!!!

by nickler on Jan 25, 2008 8:13 PM CST up reply actions

BFF = best friends forever

by SouthernCub on Jan 25, 2008 8:31 PM CST up reply actions

But which one's daver?

"n/t" is both superfluous AND redundant

Why does everybody stand up and sing "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" when they're already there? ~Larry Anderson

by JohnM on Jan 26, 2008 6:01 AM CST up reply actions

re: But which one's daver?

I guess that depends on who you think is more bananas -- me or KOW.

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Jan 27, 2008 10:22 AM CST up reply actions

Towers expresses interest in Murton

Nothing to significant , just verifies that he has indeed talked to the Cubs about Murton and to the Pirates about Nady.

I reject your reality and substitute my own. ` Adam Savage Mythbusters

by lemon20pie on Jan 25, 2008 7:32 AM CST reply actions

Take Greene, not Roberts

I'd be willing to give up my beloved Murton for that trade. DeRo, however, must stay. Then Theriot can either be a supersub or trade bait.

Would the Padres be willing to take Marquis as well, or does including him lower the value of Murton?

Worst to First in 2007, brought to you by Lou, Sori, A-Ram and D-Lee.

by drewishdrewid on Jan 25, 2008 10:42 AM CST reply actions

I'd pay brisk money to watch that.

Kenny Williams: I just can't understand it, Jimbo! This is a team that has the balance to battle for 162 games!
Jim Hendry: I know what your problem is, Kenny.
Kenny Williams: And what's that?
Jim Hendry: Look at your shortstop! Is he a grinder?
Kenny Williams: ...no.
Jim Hendry: Is he gritty?
Kenny Williams: ...no.
Jim Hendry: Does he get his uniform dirty.
Kenny Williams: Well, no...
Jim Hendry: Well I have just what you need - Ryan Theriot! We can swap.
Kenny Williams: Really? You'd do that for me? w
Jim Hendry: Well, I'm gonna need a throwin with that, so I don't get killed in the press. How about Charlie Haeger?
Kenny Williams: Deal.

I would suggest you learn to truly interrupt all stats before using any selective stats. -- cubswin

by cwyers on Jan 25, 2008 11:16 AM CST up reply actions

Surprisingly there's an intelligent

and cordial discussion about a Murton and Greene swap over at The Padres MLB.COM board

Over 113 posts on this subject.

AC046299

by escapegoat on Jan 25, 2008 11:35 AM CST up reply actions

I wonder

If a Murton/Marshall/Theriot or Cedeno combo would be enough for Greene. He could hit newr 35 HR's and playing in WRigley in this lineup hitting 5th or 6th, he could drive in close to 115 RBI's and with 2 and possible 3 sinker pitchers in the rotation, his glove would be very much appreciated by the pitchers.

AC046299

by escapegoat on Jan 25, 2008 12:17 PM CST up reply actions

Agree

Greene could hit 30+ homers and is solid at SS. His average is much better away from Petco. He would be great at the 6th spot after Dome. I would try to keep Theriot as his back up because Greene is the type of guy who needs a day off once a week. He gets a lot of little injuries so we need to keep him healthy.

PC load letter, what the f*** does that mean?

by cubfaninSTL on Jan 25, 2008 2:23 PM CST up reply actions

Article on Veal

Can be found Here

AC046299

by escapegoat on Jan 25, 2008 2:29 PM CST reply actions

re: Article on Veal

No thanks, I don't eat it. I think it's horrible what they do to those baby cows. Oh, wait ... you probably mean the minor league pitcher. Nevermind.

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Jan 25, 2008 2:44 PM CST up reply actions

HAHA

Yes, the article is about the Cubs AA pitcher, Donald Veal, courtesy of MLB.com.

It's a very good article I must add.

AC046299

by escapegoat on Jan 25, 2008 2:48 PM CST up reply actions

cubs

like eveyone else im sick of hearing about the roberts deal.get it done or stop writing about it. bedard would be pretty costly but i think we have the talent to get it done.i,d love to have greene but why would the padres trade their starting ss????wont happen kids.

by NOMAR on Jan 26, 2008 6:52 AM CST reply actions

If ytou're so sick of hearing about Roberts

Why are you talking about it.

Shut your pie hole then. Just because you have the liberty to toss out whatever meaningless thought that comes into your head on the internet, does not mean you have to subject the rest of the world to it.

"You may say I'm a dreamer, but I'm not the only one" John Lennon

by escapegoat on Jan 26, 2008 12:32 PM CST up reply actions