Kenney expects payroll to "bump" up for 09
by ARAM FOR MVP on Oct 7, 2008 12:51 PM CDT
175 comments
http://www.suntimes.com/sports/baseball/cubs/1205705,CST-SPT-csep07.article
This makes me feel like we are going to spend big again, '06 style. I wouldn't say that much as '06, but I would say we'd see some pretty significant signings. Not gonna guess, but Wittenmeyer, Olney, and the guy from Desipio made a list.
Raul Ibanez, Bobby Abreu, David DeJesus, Milton Bradley, and Brian Roberts. They also add in Dunn and Huff at the end. Stay away from Huff...
This is a FanPost and does not necessarily reflect the views of SB Nation or Al Yellon, managing editor (unless it's a FanPost posted by Al). FanPost opinions are valued expressions of opinion by passionate and knowledgeable baseball fans.
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Kenny Williams is now running the Cubs?!
So this is how it ends.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 7, 2008 12:57 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
That's Kenny Lofton.
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 7, 2008 1:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Actually, the name is still misspelled.
Per Jim Belushi, it should be “Kennedy.”
So this is how it ends.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 7, 2008 1:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Those first two scare me..
B/C of their age, and I think Abreu would be subject to the same sort of criticism as Fukudome, in that people might perceive them as power hitters, which neither are.
I love this quote though:
‘’The boom-and-bust cycle’s over,‘’ Cubs CEO Crane Kenney said, even before the Los Angeles Dodgers finished sweeping the Cubs out of the playoffs. ’’I mean, that whole ‘get in in ’98, drought until ’03’ — that should be over.’’
My votes would be for Dunn and either Roberts or Furcal….b/c I can just see Angelos and the O’s trying to highjack any interested team for Roberts again, despite the fact that he is now a year older.
Thats great to hear that attitude from the top, consistently competing for playoff spots is also a great sign of success.
Okay, just so I understand it... in your wildest fantasy, you are in hell. And you are co-running a bed and breakfast with the devil.
by bren on Oct 7, 2008 12:58 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Where would Adam Dunn play?
So this is how it ends.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 7, 2008 1:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
This has been discussed ad nauseum
I like him b/c hes the left handed power hitter they desperately need, and his acquisition would be dependent on moving Lee, but if anyone would consider Ibanez or Aubrey Huff for one of the corner OF spots, you might as well use Dunn, the difference would be negligible.
I love how they refer to getting “an adult” at SS in that desipio article.
Okay, just so I understand it... in your wildest fantasy, you are in hell. And you are co-running a bed and breakfast with the devil.
by bren on Oct 7, 2008 1:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Dunn also strikes out 200 times per season
And I don’t like any of those names.
One day I hope to come up with something worthy of this space.
by chilango2 on Oct 7, 2008 1:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That small detail seems to be left out of his stats around here.
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 7, 2008 1:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
A strikeout is the same as any other out
except that it can’t cause a DP or move a runner up.
The author of this post is not a certified scout, doctor, agent, statistician, manager, or journalist, nor was he ever a very good player, though he tried very hard to be like Ryne Sandberg and was about as scrappy as it gets (in T-ball). Any opinion expressed above should in no way be confused with fact, truth, or reality and is hereby qualified in the following ways: 1) The author does not know as much about baseball as Lou Piniella. 2) The author does not know as much about baseball as Jim Hendry. 3) The author does not know as much about baseball as either Dusty or Darren Baker.
by DGU on Oct 7, 2008 1:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No. There are outs and there are productive outs. A strikeout never advances
a runner. I know that the concept of productive outs is the subject of much debate, but some outs are more equal than others.
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 7, 2008 1:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And it sure doesn't cause a double play
n/t
by rgonzale on Oct 7, 2008 1:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Striking out ensures that you won't drive a run in. I really don't
think you want to argue the merits of striking out over making contact. Double plays are going to happen it’s the nature of the game. Given the choice between the two, I’d rather a player make contact with the ball as opposed to striking out. No positive results come froma player striking out. If you make contact, you have a chance of producing a run.
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 7, 2008 2:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Unless you are the Cubs or pretty much any other team...
And there is one out and the pitcher is up. I would prefer he strike out as opposed to hit into a double play. Guess hitting hack or not, I will take my chances with Alf at the dish and runners on base wih two outs.
"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey
by TheRiot Police on Oct 7, 2008 2:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's an extreme case. All things being equal, making contact
certainly gives the potential for a positive result.
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 7, 2008 2:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
well that's the thing - all things usually aren't equal
when you’re talking about somebody who produces like Dunn, it’s a lot easier to be dismissive of the strikeouts. If you’re talking about somebody like Jack Cust, not so easy.
If you’re going to argue something, make it specific. Are you saying you wouldn’t want Dunn on the Cubs because he strikes out too much? I don’t agree with that, but it’s an arguable point. Otherwise, you’ll just get caught up in semantics and theoretics. I dunno, maybe that’s what you want…
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Oct 7, 2008 5:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
but if you get on base at a
39 percent clip, and hit 40 home runs every year, you have to be doing something right. and when they do get on base, they are either walking or hitting extra base hits…
by scarymonsters85 on Oct 7, 2008 2:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He does a lot of things right. I just don't think you can
argue the merits of stiking out over putting the ball in play. Nothing positive comes from a strikeout. A ball in play has the potential to produce a run.
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 7, 2008 3:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Putting a ball in play requires
the other team to make a play to get you out.
How many times do plays not get made and the hitter is standing on first base?
THAT is why strikeouts are not just another out!
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Oct 7, 2008 4:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
probably as many times
as you ground into DP’s
by DartmouthCubsFan on Oct 7, 2008 7:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The linear weights system I use to evaluate players...
…uses different values for strikeouts and outs on balls in play. (If I wanted to get absurdly technical I could break it down into ground ball outs, pop ups and air ball outs, but that sort of stuff isn’t readily available.)
Even so, he’s still a top run producer.
by cwyers on Oct 7, 2008 1:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
OK, I take it back
His run production outweighs his strikeouts.
But Dunn is a marginal-at-best fielder and would need to learn Wrigley’s difficult corner outfields.
One day I hope to come up with something worthy of this space.
by chilango2 on Oct 7, 2008 2:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Only the Big Donkey can defeat the Goat Curse.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Oct 7, 2008 2:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think we need a picture of that one
:)
When you're eight games behind, it's like eight miles; when you're eight games in front, it's like eight inches. ~ Ron Santo
by gwood on Oct 7, 2008 2:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
A picture banned in 49 states.
But the wind blew me back via Chicago, In the middle of the night
by N Oakley on Oct 7, 2008 2:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He did play with the Reds
and so has been in Wrigley’s outfield fairly regularly. Dunn learning the corners to the best of his ability would not take long
When you're eight games behind, it's like eight miles; when you're eight games in front, it's like eight inches. ~ Ron Santo
by gwood on Oct 7, 2008 2:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The advantage of Wrigley is that it's a small outfield...
…and there’s less ground for him to cover. Better to have Dunn play 81 games in Wrigley than 81 games in Chase Field or Petco.
by cwyers on Oct 7, 2008 2:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Dunn also walks 100+ times per season, which the strikeout-wary crowd doesn't seem to mention either
All hail TTO players!
Some people have 3 layers, like pie. Blog Blog Blog
by berselius on Oct 7, 2008 1:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Believe it or not, some folks in the Reds organization felt that
Dunn was too selective and took walks on borderline pitches that he had the potential to hit out of the park. I don’t necessarily prescribe to that theory, but it does show how the value of a walk to a pwer hitter is seen in different lights.
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 7, 2008 1:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hm, well...
…any way you slice it – somehow putting him in right field (wherefore art thou, Fukudome?) or trading DLee and installing Adam at first — Dunn would be a huge defensive downgrade. His walks and slugging from the left side would be nice, though.
So this is how it ends.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 7, 2008 1:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You might have to increase the size of the post-game buffet.
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 7, 2008 1:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Come Sosa played there for years
and they made the playoffs…..a few times..ha
Okay, just so I understand it... in your wildest fantasy, you are in hell. And you are co-running a bed and breakfast with the devil.
by bren on Oct 7, 2008 1:51 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
How about both Furcal and Roberts?
Your 2008 Missouri Tigers! #2/3 5-0 (1-0). Next up Okie State at home. Live on ESPN in primetime for the second week in a row. Chase Daniel and Jeremy Maclin for Co-Heisman!
by nji232 on Oct 7, 2008 1:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Now your talkin...
…but I think, highly unlikely.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Oct 7, 2008 1:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
With Furcal its just a matter of throwing money at him
Roberts is the tricky one. I won’t get into trade proposals for him because who knows what they would want.
Your 2008 Missouri Tigers! #2/3 5-0 (1-0). Next up Okie State at home. Live on ESPN in primetime for the second week in a row. Chase Daniel and Jeremy Maclin for Co-Heisman!
by nji232 on Oct 7, 2008 1:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Dunn is my first choice, with Furcal coming in at second.
Ibanez and Abreu don’t really do it for me. They are too old for long term deals. I would love to have Roberts, but the Cubs have enough second baseman on the team. DeRosa was as good or better than Roberts and while Fontenot probably won’t be quite as good over a full season and doesn’t offer the speed, he will cost more than ten million less than Roberts. Theriot, our third second baseman, should be the odd man out and I wouldn’t be surprised if he were traded after his career year. Steve Stone just wrapped up a segment in which he stated he thinks Lee will be gone as well. I expect a bunch of changes next year.
by dakoose on Oct 7, 2008 2:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And Stone has been right how many times this year?
his failed predictions have been pointed out endlessly elsewhere on this site. While I don’t necessarily think he is wrong, I am not going to believe that Lee is gone simply because Stone said it.
I would only get rid of Lee if we can get Tex, otherwise it doesn’t make much sense to me.
Otherwise, I agree with the other points you make. We have a lot of 2nd basemen and no real SS. While their offensive numbers may be the same, Roberts causes more problems on the basepaths for opposing teams than Derosa does.
When you're eight games behind, it's like eight miles; when you're eight games in front, it's like eight inches. ~ Ron Santo
by gwood on Oct 7, 2008 3:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Tex isn't the only FA who would be an upgrade over Lee.
Dunn could play first base and would be a huge upgrade over Lee. Not only would he immediately become our biggest power threat(and probably double Lee’s HR output), but he would also bring some balance to the lineup. We need a power lefty and I don’t think he will be as expensive as some think he will be. Lee is clearly on the downside of his career and better to trade him sooner than later.
by dakoose on Oct 7, 2008 3:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I must admit...
…this idea is starting to grown on me. Plus, maybe Dunn could take Hoffpauir under his wing and teach him how to draw some walks.
So this is how it ends.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 7, 2008 3:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Plus we could field a three man
football team :).
More than likely your infield defense would suffer…so you would have to ask if that was worth the risk. It is not all about Jacking Homeruns especially when it comes to low scoring ballgames…i.e. most playoff games
"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey
by TheRiot Police on Oct 7, 2008 4:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, the defense would definitely be the biggest risk.
And it’s also true the team would still need to work some speed into the lineup to succeed in low-scoring postseason games. Then again, the Dodgers certainly had no trouble slugging the Cubs into submission.
So this is how it ends.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 7, 2008 4:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I simply don't think you can win with Adam Dunn playing defense
at ANY position!
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Oct 7, 2008 4:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No doubt the defense would suffer with Dunn at first,
but if the Cubs go out and bring in a shortstop that can actually field the position adequately and make nice, strong throws to first base, the infield defense would probably be just as strong. Basically, the improvement at SS could help “cancel out” the loss of Lee’s glove, which according to THT’s RZR stats wasn’t as outstanding as we all are told it is. He ranked seventh in percentage of balls in his zone converted to outs, behind Carlos Delgado and Ryan Howard. I for one was surprised to see that.
by dakoose on Oct 7, 2008 5:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
wow. interesting stat....
"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.
by zevkalman on Oct 7, 2008 6:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I just remember how much the missed D-Lee defensively in 2006.
Even if you upgrade defensively at shortstop, you will still have Aramis Ramirez at third and D-Lee digs an awful lot of balls out of the dirt from throws from third base.
I’m always wary of downgrading any position defensively. My personal philosophy is to do everything you can to stop your opponet from scoring and defense is a big part of that.
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Oct 7, 2008 7:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm just not ready
to compromise our infield defense that much, yet. Maybe as the winter goes on, but right now, I think Lee is too important to the ability of the left side of our infield.
When you're eight games behind, it's like eight miles; when you're eight games in front, it's like eight inches. ~ Ron Santo
by gwood on Oct 7, 2008 4:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well...
…the payroll would go up in 09 regardless if they add anyone because of the backloaded deals. In fact, I believe it goes up around 15 mil on this piece alone.
Some dough will be freed up, but when you factor in Dempster they would need a big boost in dollars to go after FA to fill holes.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Oct 7, 2008 1:14 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
With the economy...
….struggling, I’m not sure MLB is going to see the same action at the ticket office in 2009. The Cubs could be especially impacted since the majority of their tickets are sold the day they go on sale and it is unlikely the eoconomy will be recovering yet even in the best situation. Granted, they could always sell them later, but the buzz will be killed and with 2008 turning out the way it did, I can’t see the Cubs pulling the same kind of revenue in 2009.
"I'm petrified of nipple chafing. Once it starts, it's a vicious circle." Andy Bernard
by TXCub on Oct 7, 2008 1:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
There is probably some validity...
…to what you say. And the one area I could see impacted is the advertising/sponsorhsip dollars from corporations. I’m not saying this is going to crumble, but you may have some corporations back away from some of these expenditures. Sure, the Cubs would be able to find others to come in, but it may not be for the same dollars considering the overall economic issues.
Also, most of the advertising deals are signed for multiple years, so it really depends on how healthy the companies are that are spending the dough and when the contract expires.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Oct 7, 2008 1:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Implication:
Management isn’t changing prior to the 2009 season, and further, management has been given the go-ahead by Crane KENNEY (not "Kenny") to spend what’s necessary to win.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Oct 7, 2008 1:24 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
It's not spending that's the problem...they need to SELL....
I’m thinking souls to the devil for a WS. Thoughts?
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Oct 7, 2008 1:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Bud Selig doesn't want Lou Pinella's soul
by dr stabbingworth on Oct 7, 2008 1:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
LMAO - comedy gold, Dr.!
Never, but NEVER, put ketchup on a hot dog.
by CaliCub on Oct 7, 2008 1:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No surprise on the managment side...
…but if it truely means they have dough to make some bold moves, please go out and make the right ones.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Oct 7, 2008 1:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Which they appeared to do this past year. Agreed?
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Oct 7, 2008 2:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well..Kenney should at least be put in a dunk tank at the Convention
so that he can be punished for that ridicolous dugout stunt prior to Game 1.
"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey
by TheRiot Police on Oct 7, 2008 2:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's not a bad idea
Charge $5 buck for 3 attempts and give all the money raised to charity. This is definitely something that should be suggested to the organization.
When you're eight games behind, it's like eight miles; when you're eight games in front, it's like eight inches. ~ Ron Santo
by gwood on Oct 7, 2008 2:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And that dunk tank...
…would be filled with holy water, of course.
So this is how it ends.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 7, 2008 2:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The question is, is Crane going to sprinkle the new contracts with holy water?
"When I got to Chicago, fans came to Wrigley Field just to have fun, now they come to see us win. The expectations have changed, for the players and for the fans. It’s about winning." Kerry Wood, 7/14/08
by JB 23 on Oct 7, 2008 1:28 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Their going to need to spend money,
to restore the fanbase to believe that they are too good to fail in the postseason again.
Tamia Lynn Davis:
Born: August 18, 2008
by Unique on Oct 7, 2008 1:31 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Do you think people are really that distraught?
To the point where theyre not gonna follow the team as closely? Im pretty much over it and looking forward to see what changes they make for 09.
I dont think anyone of us became a Cubs fan b/c of their legacy of winning….so a sweep in the playoffs shouldnt really drive real fans away…so I dont know that there is a need to “restore” the fanbase.
Kenney said it himself, the days of sporadic playoff appearances are over.
Okay, just so I understand it... in your wildest fantasy, you are in hell. And you are co-running a bed and breakfast with the devil.
by bren on Oct 7, 2008 1:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You know its amazing...
…how the Sun times gets these stories before the paper that is part of the same organization as the Cubs.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Oct 7, 2008 1:34 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
+1
That is proof of an industrious reporter.
To the Paul Sullivan defenders: he’s a hack who roots for the White Sux. Flame on.
One day I hope to come up with something worthy of this space.
by chilango2 on Oct 7, 2008 1:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Trib in general...
…is very weak on the sports front. This Gordon dude seems pretty sharp, and I was impressed with him on the radio last night.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Oct 7, 2008 1:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I ran the numbers the other day...
…and the Cubs have $115 of comitted payroll to work with. If payroll is held even, that’s $15 million to work with. If payroll increases, the Cubs have $20-$30 to spend in free agency this offseason.
Yowza.
by cwyers on Oct 7, 2008 1:38 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
and who are their free agents
other than Dempster and Wood?
by TC Cubby on Oct 7, 2008 1:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I wrote up...
…a full list for GROTA. Short version: Howry, Dempster, Wood, Edmonds, Johnson, Lieber, Blanco, Ward, Harden. Blanco and Harden have team options.
by cwyers on Oct 7, 2008 1:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
GROTA?
didn’t he catch for the 69 Mets?
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Oct 7, 2008 1:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ganny Grota.
Helluva ballplayer.
So this is how it ends.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 7, 2008 2:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Grota was 1960 NL MVP
Pirates shortstop. Also played college basketball, at Duke.
by Jody Jody Davis on Oct 7, 2008 2:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Isn't he a U.S. Senator now?
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 7, 2008 2:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No, that's Jim Bunning.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Oct 7, 2008 2:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Actually...
…I was referring to Jerry Grote.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Oct 7, 2008 2:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wasn't he a basketball player for Michigan back in the 70's? A guard I think.
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 7, 2008 2:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Different dude I think.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Oct 7, 2008 2:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It was Steve Grote. I was just yanking your chain.
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 7, 2008 2:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Is Dempster a Type A player?
I’d rather have two draft picks and Sean Marshall/Angel Guzman than dump a lot of money into Demp.
by dr stabbingworth on Oct 7, 2008 2:34 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
+1
welcome the voice of reason!
by DartmouthCubsFan on Oct 7, 2008 3:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't think the Organization view's
Guzman as a Starter anymore. I would venture a guess that Guzman has been crayoled in as a replacement for Howry/Marmol (if Woody does not come back).
"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey
by TheRiot Police on Oct 7, 2008 3:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agree.
Guzman’s long injury history has probably scuttled any notion of adding him to the rotation. I still think he has a good shot at Howry’s job.
So this is how it ends.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 7, 2008 3:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Great article, Colin
"There is not a better offense in America. Missouri has had 48 possessions and scored on 33 of them. The nation's No. 1 scoring offense has punted just five times and has yet to go three-and-out." Tom Dienhart, Rivals.com
by PurpleLineToWrigley on Oct 7, 2008 3:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You did not really mean that right right ?
You meant HARDEN has a team option but they way it comes it sounds like ALL of them do.
"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry
by Doggie Stalker on Oct 7, 2008 4:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
$20 or $30?
That’s all they need? Heck, I have more than that in my wallet right now! Can I buy my own free agent?
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Oct 7, 2008 2:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'll take two.
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 7, 2008 2:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You'd probably be able to get Korey Patterson
When the Reds release him for that kind of money.
"Prince Fielder Dies Of Inside-The-Park Homerun" - The Onion
by DTJchris on Oct 7, 2008 2:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
30 mil?
Ok, get Tex, get Furcal, sign Dempster and put the rest on a gift certificate.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Oct 7, 2008 1:44 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
no way you can get all that for 30
Tex = 20
Furcal = 8-10
Demp = 10-12
by DartmouthCubsFan on Oct 7, 2008 1:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I know...
…just trying to be funny.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Oct 7, 2008 1:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well getting Tex would mean getting Rid of Lee
So that would free up 13 M or so, provided the cubs dont pay any of that
Okay, just so I understand it... in your wildest fantasy, you are in hell. And you are co-running a bed and breakfast with the devil.
by bren on Oct 7, 2008 1:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Furcal is expected to take a pay cut?
Is that because of his injury/surgery?
My next sig line quote will also be from Lou Piniella, and the first word will be either "Look", or "Listen", followed by a comma.
by JohnM on Oct 7, 2008 3:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, I'd be surprised if that's all he gets.
My guess is that it will take a similar deal to his last one to sign him – 3 / $36M or maybe 4 / $44.
by Wreckard on Oct 7, 2008 3:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sign whomever it takes,
and for the most part I’ve been impressed with Kenney, but he should be fired by the new owner solely for the holy water/priest incident. Were I Cuban (or whomever), I would not want to employ anybody who takes this “curse” BS seriously.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Oct 7, 2008 1:51 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Sorry
I must’ve missed this. Are we calling the dugout blessing an “incident” now? If so, why?
One day I hope to come up with something worthy of this space.
by chilango2 on Oct 7, 2008 1:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I would call it a "Cubbie occurance"...
…self inflicted.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Oct 7, 2008 1:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
A dugout blessing is one thing
but Kenney specifically called for a Greek Orthodox priest, because Sianis (of Billy Goat fame) was of that religion.
How many other playoff teams brought in priests to bless their dugouts? Anybody? Bueller?
Again, I don’t think Kenney’s a bad guy, but if the Cubs’ own front-office staff lends credence to superstition, then how is anybody else supposed to ignore it?
by Not Bruce Froemming on Oct 7, 2008 2:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
In the U.S., none
It’s a different story around the world.
Ferrari usually takes it’s F1 cars and the whole team to the Vatican before the first race every year.
One day I hope to come up with something worthy of this space.
by chilango2 on Oct 7, 2008 2:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Fine. Last time I checked,
the Cubs play in the U.S.
And if Kenney did it as a joke, as nji232 asserts, there’s two problems with that. No. 1, I don’t consider a priest performing a sacrament a “joke.” No. 2, all it does, even if it is tongue in cheek, is reinforce this “curse” mumbo-jumbo at the most inopportune time.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Oct 7, 2008 2:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well Bruce
Hopefully I get the chance to ride in an Elevator again this year like I did at last year’s convention. If so, I will let him know what an Idiot he is.
"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey
by TheRiot Police on Oct 7, 2008 2:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't think he's an idiot, Riot,
but I do think he did an unbelievably idiotic thing.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Oct 7, 2008 2:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Fair enough
but it makes me wonder…
"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey
by TheRiot Police on Oct 7, 2008 2:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wonder about Kenney's judgment?
I think he did and said all the right things, right up until this. Sometimes one misstep can wipe out a year’s worth of gains.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Oct 7, 2008 2:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes...I wonder
why a President of a Company would take the risk to expose the Warts (i.e misguided perceptions) of his product for the whole world to see. I truly don’t think it was an intentional but that idea from his “Why the Cubs have not won the World Series Root Caus Analysis Team” should have been put in the trash bin as soon as it came out of the interns mouth
"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey
by TheRiot Police on Oct 7, 2008 2:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed
I don’t know why he would have done something like that.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Oct 7, 2008 2:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Has anyone...
…in the media had the balls to ask him?
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Oct 7, 2008 2:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe Al could do another interview...
…and give it a shot.
So this is how it ends.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 7, 2008 2:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I've seen the incident referenced a lot
but I haven’t seen anybody ask him about it. Which is unfortunate.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Oct 7, 2008 2:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
So having some fun before the game isn't allowed
Who actually took that blessing thing seriously? I’m sure Kenney did it as a joke.
Your 2008 Missouri Tigers! #2/3 5-0 (1-0). Next up Okie State at home. Live on ESPN in primetime for the second week in a row. Chase Daniel and Jeremy Maclin for Co-Heisman!
by nji232 on Oct 7, 2008 2:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe, but...
… this team was the one that kept saying, “We don’t believe in all the stuff about curses”, etc.
For the chairman of the team to deliberately make a stunt buying into this, knowing how much attention it would get, was a big, big mistake, because it called attention to the very thing they said they wanted to avoid.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Oct 7, 2008 2:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Nothing good was going to come from it...
Nothing…
Sure it was bad luck that the TBS crew was there setting it up but the fact that it even crossed his mind was crazy.
"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey
by TheRiot Police on Oct 7, 2008 2:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Exactly, Al
Did the Red Sox do this before 2004? If so, I don’t remember it.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Oct 7, 2008 2:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No, I don't think so...
…but I did hear they took sips of whiskey (very small amounts) in the clubhouse to enhance their “idiots” personal.
Maybe it did break the Bambino curse, cause he used to drink before games.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Oct 7, 2008 2:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree, but sometimes turning such a stupidity into a joke works because it diminishes its importance.
The problem with Kenney’s antic was that it contradicted the message they were trying to convey to the fans and the players. If they were going to use the curse talk to turn it into a joke (in other words something not to be taken seriously) they should have done that from the beginning, instead of ignoring the talk or saying they weren’t thinking about it. Therefore, the priest antic called attention to what the team wanted everyone to ignore.
by Fraggin Judge on Oct 7, 2008 4:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Speaking as one of the Eastern Orthodox faith...
(Russian, not Greek – but it’s close enough)
As NBF pointed out early, a priest performing a sacrament is NOT a joke. Orthodoxy tends to be more on the serious side of the religious sanctity scale, and I can’t imagine the priest who did the ritual did so thinking it was a joke. All in all, this was in very bad taste.
If Kenney did indeed want to play up the joke angle of this, he should have gone all out and gotten Fr. Guido Sarducci to perform the ‘ritual’. Seeing as how the Giants didn’t make the playoffs, I’m sure he had nothing else to do…
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Oct 7, 2008 6:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I am Eastern Orthodox as well
Greek, specifically, and you’re correct. I don’t think it should have been done at all, joke or no joke. But if Kenney was dead set on it, get Fr. Guido or the “Bleacher Preacher” to do it, not a real priest performing a holy sacrament.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Oct 7, 2008 7:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
From what I have seen...
…of Kenney, he does appear to be someone who likes to be heard from. Not saying that is bad, but I understand (didnt’ see it) at the ralley, he seemed to take much of the credit for the Cubs success.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Oct 7, 2008 2:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'll say this...
… you can give him credit for eliminating the “we won’t spend” mentality of the MacPhail years.
That’s a major reason the Cubs won the division the last two years, and yes, I think it deserves some credit.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Oct 7, 2008 2:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No question...
…but I still think the fact that they knew they were going to be out from under this soon, is the main reason the checkbook was opened (originally by the X-CEO of Tribune), they figured, what the hell, mine as well spend now.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Oct 7, 2008 2:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
MacP's "Spread It Around" FA Philosophy
hindered more than helped. All it did was fortify the roster with mediocrity instead of one or two studly performers.
Never, but NEVER, put ketchup on a hot dog.
by CaliCub on Oct 7, 2008 2:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I will say this...the current approach has had some success
But we have yet to really miss on a guy. All of the guys we have signed have for the most part produced and have stayed away from the Infirmary.
I just worry that we if we continue down this path as our main strategy eventually we are going to miss and it has the potential to set the team back both financially and on the field.
"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey
by TheRiot Police on Oct 7, 2008 2:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Yankees
They tore up an entire dugout to remove a stupid Red Sox t-shirt. I agree this was dumb, but it’s kinda funny too.
by dr stabbingworth on Oct 7, 2008 2:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Said more about the doofus that put it there
that he used a cheap replica.
But the wind blew me back via Chicago, In the middle of the night
by N Oakley on Oct 7, 2008 2:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And look what it got the evil empire to do?
That was awesome. Now I am biased heavily towards anything beantown when it comes to this kind of crap, but what an excellent publicity stunt by a teams’ fan. Then after all that, the Yankees DO NOT make the playoffs for the first time in what, 13 years? Their ex-manager goes to la-la land and DOES make the playoffs, Hank ends up acting like a bigger nut-job than his old man and the players’ name on the jersey dug up? Ortiz. The guy who first-and-foremost started the greatest comeback in MLB playoff history.
Sweet Lou for Mayor in '11.
by blackhawk24 on Oct 9, 2008 6:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't think he goes...
…because of that, but it was a stupid, stupid thing to do.
In the end, the new owner will want his own person watching over this thing – someone he knows and can trust. Billionairs tend to be funny that way.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Oct 7, 2008 1:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Me too...
in fact I have a hunch he’s punching his ticket out by doing this. Don’t forget, behind the scenes there’s a whole lot going on with the team sale that we have yet to hear.
And I don’t believe bud light one minute when the other day he mentioned as a blurb, there is nothing new on the Cubs sale front.
Sweet Lou for Mayor in '11.
by blackhawk24 on Oct 9, 2008 6:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't know...
…how the timing of the Cub’s sale relates to Zell’s debt payment (I have heard mixed things on this), but if he needs that dough, they better get their asses moving on this thing.
IMO, it looks as though Zell’s people are trying to work every loophole possible to limit tax exposure and I have no idea how long that will take. When they get that straight, I can see things happening quickly, but still not in time for new owners to be on board for offseason moves.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Oct 9, 2008 2:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
This brought a tear to my eye
Crane Kenney from the link:
‘And when it all works, this is what it looks like,’’ he said, referring to back-to-back postseasons and a 97-win season. ’’It’s like the Braves. That’s the model — the Braves and the Red Sox and the Yankees. Play like a big market, flex your muscle like a big market and hopefully perform like one on the field.’’
I’m not the hugest fan of his on a personal level, but this is exactly the type of leadership any organization needs. If the Cubs can become perennial playoff contenders, the breakthrough will come.
Formerly NO100
by jerry morales rules on Oct 7, 2008 2:23 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
You understand...
…he is auditioning for the new owner, don’t you?
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Oct 7, 2008 2:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's okay.
He’s saying what I want to hear.
But the wind blew me back via Chicago, In the middle of the night
by N Oakley on Oct 7, 2008 2:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Also..Do you understand that
we are not even close to the Red Sox and Braves in the sense of having some pieces of the team come from the Farm System. Outside of Zambrano, Soto, Marmol, Theriot most of the contributors to these last two team came from other systems. You could argue that Ramirez and Lee came from the fruits of the System but I still think they and we would prefer that they learn how to develop some young players.
The Braves developed All Star position players and pitchers….that helped to fuel their long run.
"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey
by TheRiot Police on Oct 7, 2008 2:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
+1
The farm system needs to bear fruit. That keeps the payroll at a manageable level. You can’t afford to sign FA’s at every position. This aint’ NY.
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 7, 2008 2:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
We'll see what Wilken's up to soon enough
Colvin and Vitters will likely be the first guinea pigs.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Oct 7, 2008 2:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Cubs just need their own TV network
and we’d be all set
Okay, just so I understand it... in your wildest fantasy, you are in hell. And you are co-running a bed and breakfast with the devil.
by bren on Oct 7, 2008 3:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You nailed it
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Oct 7, 2008 2:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes I understand there is still
a long way to go. This is pointing in the right direction though. The team for 2008 had a lot of help from the minors though I will readily admit that they haven’t produced a big bat in forever. I hope that’s coming with Vitters.
In any event, the first thing is to say the right things and point the ship in the right direction. I think this does that. It is a refreshing distinction from the McPhail years.
Formerly NO100
by jerry morales rules on Oct 7, 2008 7:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh, that is well taken point
but for me if they won the WS (or two or three) in a close time frame when nearly all the players were acquired via trade or free agency, it wouldn’t matter one bit.
Yeah, it’s a nice story line (and makes a great Christmas DVD gift) and documentary if they show Hendry and company drafting, teaching, maturing and developing players on WS champion(s). But there’s no extra banners for doing that so for me it’s all about the title(s).
Sweet Lou for Mayor in '11.
by blackhawk24 on Oct 9, 2008 6:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No to Dunn
The guy hits 40 bombs a year, but over half are solo shots. That is why he barely cracks the 100 RBI/year mark. We already have a team that gets on base. We need guys to drive them in. DLee’s 91 RBI’s in the 3 hole is not going to cut it.
by CubFaninStLouis on Oct 7, 2008 2:25 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
How on earth
is that his fault?
For your information, the Supreme Court has roundly rejected prior restraint.
by Less is Walrond on Oct 7, 2008 2:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think that was a vote for Dunn.
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 7, 2008 2:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He browbeats teammates into making outs in front of him...
…so they don’t distract him when he’s in the batter’s box. Little known fact.
So this is how it ends.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 7, 2008 2:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Just keeping the bases unclogged.
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 7, 2008 3:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He's a really fast runner and needs the paths clear when he zips around the bases
"Just win tonight" - derv
by derv on Oct 7, 2008 4:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Lee has only 1 100RBI season
So Ill take Dunns barely over 100 for the past 4-5 years, plus the 40 HRs, 100 BBs and 380 OBP….plus the best advantage of Adam Dun….
We get to unretire Kyle Farnsworths number!
Okay, just so I understand it... in your wildest fantasy, you are in hell. And you are co-running a bed and breakfast with the devil.
by bren on Oct 7, 2008 3:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
40HRs
115 RBI, 195K…
he won’t have too many OF errors but that is because he is so horifically slow he can’t be charged an error if he’s still 20’ from the ball.
Sorry but this team needs waaaaaay more. Besides the corner OF positions are set. I’m of the opinion Kosuke-san will do just fine. His work ethic and excellent attitude will help him harness his talent. As for LF, I just can’t see the Cubs moving that albatross of a contract.
Sweet Lou for Mayor in '11.
by blackhawk24 on Oct 9, 2008 6:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Boy, talk about taking a few statements and running wild with it....
"What pressure should I have on me? There's no pressure on me." -- Lou Piniella (10/3/08)
by MDBNIU on Oct 7, 2008 2:35 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
What else is there to do in the offseason?
"There is not a better offense in America. Missouri has had 48 possessions and scored on 33 of them. The nation's No. 1 scoring offense has punted just five times and has yet to go three-and-out." Tom Dienhart, Rivals.com
by PurpleLineToWrigley on Oct 7, 2008 3:38 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
I like the idea of signing Orlando Hudson.
He’s a switch hitter and a gold glove second baseman.
He also has a different personality than most of the current Cubs. Most are quiet and Hudson is quite chatty (an understatement!). He has been a leader with the snakes (and a vocal leader at that).
What does everyone else think?
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Oct 7, 2008 4:34 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Stiff competiton from the Yankees...
If the rumors are to be believed and theyre shopping Cano, they like O Dog
Okay, just so I understand it... in your wildest fantasy, you are in hell. And you are co-running a bed and breakfast with the devil.
by bren on Oct 7, 2008 4:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was thinking
Reed Johnson could help in the recruiting and Tim Wilken who I believe drafted Hudson when he was the scouting director for the Blue Jays could also help.
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Oct 7, 2008 4:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He's great, however
the Cubs already have 3 second basemen. It’s not a position needing help. Can he play SS?
But the wind blew me back via Chicago, In the middle of the night
by N Oakley on Oct 7, 2008 4:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The problem the top free agent shortstops are
Rafael Furcal who is coming off back surgery.
Orlando Cabrera who is a questionable teammate.
My proposal is to use Mark DeRosa as the swingman where his value of playing multiple positions is maximized.
It’s not the perfect solution but seems intriguing to me.
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Oct 7, 2008 4:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Y'know I heard the Sox were probably going to part ways with...
…Orlando Cabrera and started wondering whether he might be an option. But his offensive numbers are pretty bad. He did hit seven more home runs than Theriot (for a grand total of eight), but he barely outslugged Ryan – Cabrera’s slugging percentage was .371 this year compared to Theriot’s .359. And he actually stole fewer bases (19 to Theriot’s 22). I suppose he is better defensively, though.
So this is how it ends.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 7, 2008 5:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I wouldn't touch Cabrera with a ten foot pole.
Seriously, I don’t want him. Ryan is younger and is only two spots behind Cabrera on the Defensive Zone Ratings leaderboard on THT. Ryan had a higher OPS as well. While I would like a new SS, Cabrera isn’t on my wish list.
by dakoose on Oct 7, 2008 5:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, that's about the same conclusion I came to.
I was honestly surprised his numbers were that bad.
So this is how it ends.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 8, 2008 10:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Renteria may not have his option picked up.
The author of this post is not a certified scout, doctor, agent, statistician, manager, or journalist, nor was he ever a very good player, though he tried very hard to be like Ryne Sandberg and was about as scrappy as it gets (in T-ball). Any opinion expressed above should in no way be confused with fact, truth, or reality and is hereby qualified in the following ways: 1) The author does not know as much about baseball as Lou Piniella. 2) The author does not know as much about baseball as Jim Hendry. 3) The author does not know as much about baseball as either Dusty or Darren Baker.
by DGU on Oct 8, 2008 10:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Renteria is on the down side of his career. His stats are
trending downward and he has a lot of miles on him. I’d pass.
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 8, 2008 11:02 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Plus, Mike Fontenot's nose looks bad enough as it is.
So this is how it ends.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 8, 2008 11:12 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The mullet kind of makes the look come together.
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 8, 2008 11:25 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He is an interesting proposition though
He has proven once that he was pretty good when he switched back to the NL. Is this year another year of him just sucking in the AL or is it because he really has regressed. This is where your scouting department has to help ya out.
Sort of indifferent…but interesting nonetheless
"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey
by TheRiot Police on Oct 8, 2008 12:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
one word and one word will describe our offseason
ICHIRO……..he will be in blue pinstripes next year
by BelieveinBlue2314 on Oct 7, 2008 7:05 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Id be on board for that....
doesnt really address the need for left handed power though
Okay, just so I understand it... in your wildest fantasy, you are in hell. And you are co-running a bed and breakfast with the devil.
by bren on Oct 7, 2008 7:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He can hit for power though if he wanted to.
But it fills your leadoff hole, and over the past few days, I’ve heard Kaplan, Sullivan, and Rosenthal say that he’s not leading off next year.
Even if we got Ichiro, we could still get a big bat.
Devin Hester, you are ridiculous! -Jeff Joniak
by ARAM FOR MVP on Oct 7, 2008 7:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And we could try and get Matsui from the Yankees...
to complete the Far East Outfield of Dreams.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Oct 8, 2008 2:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe they would take Soriano back?
So this is how it ends.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 8, 2008 10:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's not as far-fetched as you would think.
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 8, 2008 10:36 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Why didn't the Reds
…try to convert Dunn to a 1B?
Just curious.
He’s a defensive liability in the OF.
by EJThunder on Oct 7, 2008 10:19 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Because he's also a defensive liability at 1st base.
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Oct 7, 2008 10:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
They have a first baseman of the future in Joey Votto.
The dude is a stud in the making and would be the rookie of the year if not for Geo. He will be a thorn in the Cubs’ side for a while.
by dakoose on Oct 8, 2008 1:16 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Milton Bradley
321/436/563 last year… If the price is right he could play RF
by Steves Stoners on Oct 10, 2008 1:25 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
unfortunately
we can’t play a DH in this league
by DartmouthCubsFan on Oct 10, 2008 8:15 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
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