Holliday traded to A's

lol

I just posted this like 30 seconds in a diary.

Dear Santa:: All I want for X-mas this year is an official 2009 Jake Peavy Cubs Jersey. Oh and a Beimel one too. I've been a real good guy for the most part!!!

by cubsluver22 on Nov 10, 2008 2:02 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Just to clarify

Holliday didn’t sign with the A’s, he may have been traded to them. It doesn’t seem to be a done deal yet.

"Prince Fielder Dies Of Inside-The-Park Homerun" - The Onion

by DTJchris on Nov 10, 2008 2:08 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

espn

is reporting its a done deal

Dear Santa:: All I want for X-mas this year is an official 2009 Jake Peavy Cubs Jersey. Oh and a Beimel one too. I've been a real good guy for the most part!!!

by cubsluver22 on Nov 10, 2008 2:17 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Still no details huh?

"Prince Fielder Dies Of Inside-The-Park Homerun" - The Onion

by DTJchris on Nov 10, 2008 2:23 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

their

speculating that it could be at least greg smith and brett anderson

Dear Santa:: All I want for X-mas this year is an official 2009 Jake Peavy Cubs Jersey. Oh and a Beimel one too. I've been a real good guy for the most part!!!

by cubsluver22 on Nov 10, 2008 2:31 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Ken Rosenthal @ Fox Sports

reported on XM radio, the deal is not final. They are still finalizing the players invovled but he expects the deal to get done soon.

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Nov 10, 2008 2:24 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I posted this in the other thread

but what happens to the outfield? Does it go Holliday LF, Sweeney CF, and Cust to RF?

I doubt the A’s included Sweeney in this deal, Beane is smart enough to know to hang on to that kid.

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Nov 10, 2008 2:25 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Murton in Left

Then Sweeney in Center, Holliday in Right, Cust DH’ing?

"Prince Fielder Dies Of Inside-The-Park Homerun" - The Onion

by DTJchris on Nov 10, 2008 2:33 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I don't know anything about Cust's fielding....?

Would he really be the odd man out?

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Nov 10, 2008 2:37 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I may be wrong, but I don't think its very good

"Prince Fielder Dies Of Inside-The-Park Homerun" - The Onion

by DTJchris on Nov 10, 2008 2:46 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Cust is really a DH

which is one of the reasons he spent so much time in the minor leagues.

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Nov 10, 2008 2:46 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Cust isn't totally a hack

just a little bit of a hack as a fielder.

by Cubinator on Nov 10, 2008 5:32 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Cust makes Adam Dunn look like a good OF.

He is the dictionary definition of a DH.

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

by DeRoMyHero on Nov 10, 2008 6:34 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Jack Cust sucks

At absolute best he is a platoon DH type.

McGrath: I got a good deal on those boys. The scouts said they showed a lot of promise.
Reggie Dunlop: They brought their f***in' TOYS with 'em!
McGrath: Well, I'd rather have em playin with their toys than playin with themselves.
Reggie Dunlop: They're too dumb to play with themselves. Boy, every piece of garbage that comes into the market and you gotta buy it!

by MDBNIU on Nov 10, 2008 2:48 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Really??

He’s Adam Dunn Lite. He is well above average offensively and would make for a very, very good DH.

by dakoose on Nov 10, 2008 3:05 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

No, please stop

Jack Cust is terrible. He’s taken on folklore being for no apparent reason. A journeyman who bounced around a bunch of organizations and ultimately got a decent shot with Oakland. But the lightening in a bottle moment wore off a long time ago when pitchers adjusted.

McGrath: I got a good deal on those boys. The scouts said they showed a lot of promise.
Reggie Dunlop: They brought their f***in' TOYS with 'em!
McGrath: Well, I'd rather have em playin with their toys than playin with themselves.
Reggie Dunlop: They're too dumb to play with themselves. Boy, every piece of garbage that comes into the market and you gotta buy it!

by MDBNIU on Nov 10, 2008 3:08 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I'm actually going to agree with BlueMike here

Cust is the AL Hoffpauir.

"Hey! If the moon were made of ribs, wouldja eat it? I know I would!"

by cubs0505 on Nov 10, 2008 3:16 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Hmm he did hit 30+ homers last year

If I’m not mistaken. I never said he was anything special, but he’s got pop.

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Nov 10, 2008 3:24 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

U wanna give me some reason for his supposed suckiness?

I look at Cust and see a DH with a .231/.375/.476 line, good for an OPS of .851, thirty points higher than D-Lee’s. Even in the OF Sky Kalkman had him rated as the tenth most valuable player at his position. I’m a numbers guy and just because you say he stinks doesn’t mean he does. How about you give me some reasons.

by dakoose on Nov 10, 2008 3:28 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

He's all yours...

You can take Jack Cust, Micah Hoffpauir and Jason Dubois to go form a barnstorming beer league softball team.

McGrath: I got a good deal on those boys. The scouts said they showed a lot of promise.
Reggie Dunlop: They brought their f***in' TOYS with 'em!
McGrath: Well, I'd rather have em playin with their toys than playin with themselves.
Reggie Dunlop: They're too dumb to play with themselves. Boy, every piece of garbage that comes into the market and you gotta buy it!

by MDBNIU on Nov 10, 2008 3:32 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I'll ask again.

Tell me why he’s bad, and please say something other than his BA. And theres a huge difference between a guy that has had an OPS of 850 at the big league level and two guys that have had nothing more than an unsubstantial cup of tea.

by dakoose on Nov 10, 2008 3:34 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Actually, Cust reminds me a lot of Adam Dunn.

He hits a bunch of home runs, strikes out, walks and is a bad defensive player.

Since Cust is under arbitration rules, he’s probaly more valuable as a team only needs to go year to year. You get the flexibility instead of making a multi-year committment.

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Nov 10, 2008 3:46 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Thats what I said above.

Cust strke out a little more and has less power, but he is as much a three true outcomes player as Dunn is. Good to see not everyone here thinks Cust blows.

by dakoose on Nov 10, 2008 4:23 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Cust, at least, draws a lot of walks.

Hoffpauir never will.

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

by Al on Nov 10, 2008 4:25 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Exactly.

Thats why Hoff has never garnered much attention for his robust minor league stats. The kid has no plate discipline, and players that can’t differentiate between balls and strikes don’t stick around for too long. He’s a bit old and probably will be a bench player for the remainder of his career.

by dakoose on Nov 10, 2008 4:26 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

you realize you're asking Blue Mike for substantial, factual, logical information

here right. And in BM’s world, that doesn’t include stats. Stats are manipulatable bullshit spun by “sabermagicians” who know nothing about baseball and should stick to computer programming and role playing games.

by philadelphiacub on Nov 10, 2008 4:46 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Wow, big move by the A's

Its usually the other way around. Thankfully for them, the AL West isnt that great, apart from LAA

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 Nov 10, 2008 2:37 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Heard it will be done within 48 hrs

only physical’s are pending. Other names were not released yet.

Sweet Lou for Mayor in '11.

by blackhawk24 on Nov 10, 2008 2:41 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

According to Yahoo!

The Rockies get:

Pitchers Huston Street and Greg Smith
Outfielder Carlos Gonzalez

That seems to be a pretty good haul for the Rockies. Gonzalez is a very good prospect from what I remember. They get the closer they need in Street after losing Fuentes. And don’t know much about Smith.

"Prince Fielder Dies Of Inside-The-Park Homerun" - The Onion

by DTJchris on Nov 10, 2008 2:51 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Yeah, I'd say Street is who they were really after.

"I see I'm not the only one around here who can't hold his water." - Last words of the leaky pipe in the visiting team dugout, Dodger Stadium, October 4, 2008.

by dat cubfan daver on Nov 10, 2008 2:57 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

That's a very good haul for Colorado

A primetime closer, a solid starting pitcher prospect and the talented albeit enigmatic Gonzalez.

Greg Smith came over from Arizona in the Dan Haren deal. Ditto Carlos Gonzalez.

McGrath: I got a good deal on those boys. The scouts said they showed a lot of promise.
Reggie Dunlop: They brought their f***in' TOYS with 'em!
McGrath: Well, I'd rather have em playin with their toys than playin with themselves.
Reggie Dunlop: They're too dumb to play with themselves. Boy, every piece of garbage that comes into the market and you gotta buy it!

by MDBNIU on Nov 10, 2008 3:00 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Good haul indeed

I guess Atkins will be staying now…..maybe Taveras is on his way out 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 Nov 10, 2008 3:16 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

They could still be looking to shed Atkins

Seems like Colorado is in full rebuild mode, probably will not start to sign big names until after Helton’s contract is off the books. That’s just my guess though.

"Prince Fielder Dies Of Inside-The-Park Homerun" - The Onion

by DTJchris on Nov 10, 2008 3:22 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Is Gonzalez a center fielder or corner outfielder?

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Nov 10, 2008 3:31 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Center fielder.

He’s supposed to have a sick glove

by dakoose on Nov 10, 2008 3:31 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Theyre not that far off...

If Jimenez and Francis can pitch like they did in 07, they still have a pretty good, young lineup, except Helton of course:

Tulowitzki
Atkins
Hawpe
Ian Stewart
Chris Iannetta
Carlos Gonzalez
Barmes

Tulo, Hawpe and Iannetta are all All Star caliber players and the NL west is pathetic, so I think they can do it, pitching is the question of course

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 Nov 10, 2008 3:36 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I think they will still try to deal Atkins, but they aren't really in rebuilding mode.

In the case of Holliday, they knew that they couldn’t sign him as a FA with Boras as his agent. They simply are looking for the best haul they can get, and it looks like they did pretty well.

In the case of Atkins, he is really a 1B who has been forced to play 3B because of Helton. Since Helton’s contract has a few more years to run and the Rockies have a true 3B in Ian Stewart ready to take over, an Atkins trade would be one to move a veteran for a rookie with a lot better glove and just as much offensive potential.

They definitely want to dump Taveras via trade or non-tender; he managed an OPS that was a full 6 points higher than Jason Marquis’ last year despite being in a better hitters’ yard.

If their pitching holds up they will be very competitive next year; they aren’t exactly in a tough division anyway.

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

by DeRoMyHero on Nov 10, 2008 6:43 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

+1

better than I thought the Rockies might get when I heard Billy Beane was involved. but for an MVP-type Holliday…I would have held out for Gio Gonzalez or Brett Anderson.

by PrincetonCubs on Nov 10, 2008 4:00 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

or Trevor Cahill

Beane got away with having to trade any of his top pitching prospects.

by rlpete on Nov 10, 2008 4:04 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

yeah

didn’t mention Cahill because I figured he’s near untouchable (unless, of course, the Red Sox were looking to deal Youkilis…)

by PrincetonCubs on Nov 10, 2008 4:18 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Not so sure...

Closers are o-ver-ra-ted.

Since the Eck days he A’s always seem to have a decent closer, they wait for him to get overvalued, then they spin him.

Some keep their value, but for every Isringhausen you get a Billy Koch or a Billy Taylor that folds the second they leave the Coliseum.

Smith is a flyball pitcher, not so good @ Coors. Won’t be drafting either in my fantasy leagues next year.

Gonzalez is the wild card, maybe he makes the deal worthwhile.

I don’t see how this was the best offer the Rox could get, esp. if they waited until the deadline.

My question is, what do the A’s do with him? I don’t see the A’s competing against the Angels next year (name 3 A’s pitchers) and the road to the WIld Card always goes through the East. Is there another trade afoot?

by nuflattop on Nov 11, 2008 1:26 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Looks like Tavares is going to be moved soon.

My money is on tavares going to the south side.

by dakoose on Nov 10, 2008 3:30 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

That's a rumor I don't get.

Isn’t he the same player as Jerry Owens?

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Nov 10, 2008 3:31 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

If only we could trade them Theriot first.

Please, Jim!

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 Nov 10, 2008 3:39 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Willie Tavares to the White Sox has been rumored a long time

Apparently Kenny Williams sees a relative low cost solution to their screaming need for speed and a real centerfielder. Tavares is an okay ballplayer.

McGrath: I got a good deal on those boys. The scouts said they showed a lot of promise.
Reggie Dunlop: They brought their f***in' TOYS with 'em!
McGrath: Well, I'd rather have em playin with their toys than playin with themselves.
Reggie Dunlop: They're too dumb to play with themselves. Boy, every piece of garbage that comes into the market and you gotta buy it!

by MDBNIU on Nov 10, 2008 3:34 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

But Jerry Owens is a 0-3 player

and Tavares is arbitration eligible. Is there much of a difference between the two? Neither walks much, both have good speed and little power. Both have also been hurt with leg injuries during their careers.

Personally, I’d go with the cheap, speedy player as paying for speed seems rather dicey since it seems to be more susceptible to injury.

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Nov 10, 2008 3:50 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Do you really, truly, in your heart think that Taveras is an OK ballplayer?

His OPS+ the last four years have been 75, 74, 89, and 56. That’s right. Willy Taveras managed a 56 OPS+ last season. For reference purposes, Jason Marquis had a 51 OPS+ last season. While Willy may cover more ground, Jason has a much better arm.

KW doesn’t need to trade for Taveras; he can’t wait until the non-tender list comes out.

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

by DeRoMyHero on Nov 10, 2008 6:49 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Sox are looking for speed and athleticism

Willy Tavares answers that bell. And he does so in cheap fashion which fits the White Sox need. If they can shove him into the #9 hole in their lineup then it wouldn’t be a bad move.

McGrath: I got a good deal on those boys. The scouts said they showed a lot of promise.
Reggie Dunlop: They brought their f***in' TOYS with 'em!
McGrath: Well, I'd rather have em playin with their toys than playin with themselves.
Reggie Dunlop: They're too dumb to play with themselves. Boy, every piece of garbage that comes into the market and you gotta buy it!

by MDBNIU on Nov 10, 2008 7:52 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

KW is looking for speed and athleticism...

Doesn’t the ability to play baseball have to fit into the equation somehow? He’s not even a great CF, and he hasn’t yet figured out what cut-off men are for. He can’t steal 1B. Ryan Theriot is a better player. Heck, even Brian Anderson is a better player.

Fine with me. We play the Sox 6 times. The weaker their team is, the better.

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

by DeRoMyHero on Nov 10, 2008 10:05 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

that was my thought as well

dude can run

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 Nov 10, 2008 3:34 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Also read

they are pursuing furcal to leadoff.

Dear Santa:: All I want for X-mas this year is an official 2009 Jake Peavy Cubs Jersey. Oh and a Beimel one too. I've been a real good guy for the most part!!!

by cubsluver22 on Nov 10, 2008 3:02 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

The A's or the Rockies?

"I see I'm not the only one around here who can't hold his water." - Last words of the leaky pipe in the visiting team dugout, Dodger Stadium, October 4, 2008.

by dat cubfan daver on Nov 10, 2008 3:17 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I'd guess A's

"Prince Fielder Dies Of Inside-The-Park Homerun" - The Onion

by DTJchris on Nov 10, 2008 3:20 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Ken Rosenthal @ Fox Sports

reported on XM that the A’s are also looking to sign Furcal.

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Nov 10, 2008 3:32 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Fine by me

I don’t want Rafael Furcal at any cost.

McGrath: I got a good deal on those boys. The scouts said they showed a lot of promise.
Reggie Dunlop: They brought their f***in' TOYS with 'em!
McGrath: Well, I'd rather have em playin with their toys than playin with themselves.
Reggie Dunlop: They're too dumb to play with themselves. Boy, every piece of garbage that comes into the market and you gotta buy it!

by MDBNIU on Nov 10, 2008 3:33 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Interesting that so many smart GMs seem to disagree with you on Furcal.

Get used to him. We’re getting him.

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 Nov 10, 2008 3:39 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah, you've mentioned that a few times.

"I see I'm not the only one around here who can't hold his water." - Last words of the leaky pipe in the visiting team dugout, Dodger Stadium, October 4, 2008.

by dat cubfan daver on Nov 10, 2008 3:43 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I do so under keen "reinforcement / brainwash" philosophy

Guess the “Pitching is King” thing didn’t set in your brain,huh? I’m losing my fastball.

McGrath: I got a good deal on those boys. The scouts said they showed a lot of promise.
Reggie Dunlop: They brought their f***in' TOYS with 'em!
McGrath: Well, I'd rather have em playin with their toys than playin with themselves.
Reggie Dunlop: They're too dumb to play with themselves. Boy, every piece of garbage that comes into the market and you gotta buy it!

by MDBNIU on Nov 10, 2008 3:51 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I'm too busy pounding sand to be brainwashed.

"I see I'm not the only one around here who can't hold his water." - Last words of the leaky pipe in the visiting team dugout, Dodger Stadium, October 4, 2008.

by dat cubfan daver on Nov 10, 2008 4:04 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

twss

THIS SIGNATURE HAS BEEN CONFISCATED BY THE GRAMMAR POLICE

by Chanman25 on Nov 10, 2008 4:04 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Reinforcement/brainwash philosophy, huh? My ex-wife used to try that shit. She was

about as effective and just as annoying.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Nov 10, 2008 4:07 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I suspect...

it’s more like he realizes that the Angels are a bit more beatable than he may have thought a year ago, so why not take a shot now? It’s probably rushing his rebuilding strategy a bit, but as long as Oakland doesn’t get caught up in crazy long-term deals, why not? The Holliday contract has only one year left, and they’ve plenty of good prospects.

I mean, if he’s right, Oakland can steal a playoff appearance in 2009, and go back to rebuilding thereafter; likely with an extra pick or two for Holliday leaving. If he’s wrong, he can deal Holliday at the deadline, and get his prospects back then.

by Damen Jackson on Nov 10, 2008 4:18 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Sorry...

Wrong thread. I do not want to get in the middle of this one.

by Damen Jackson on Nov 10, 2008 4:25 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

twss

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

by ballhawk on Nov 10, 2008 4:34 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Surprising

Since Holliday is in line for a big raise soon. Billy Beane typically tries to find under the radar guys who he thinks will overperform, not bonafide stars. Maybe its a signal of a new philosophy in Oakland?

"Hey! If the moon were made of ribs, wouldja eat it? I know I would!"

by cubs0505 on Nov 10, 2008 3:17 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Thats a misconception.

Beane has always looked for undervalued guys because he has had to. This offseason he has some money to spend and therefore can afford to go for a big money guy. And who says Beane plans on resigning him when his contract is up?

by dakoose on Nov 10, 2008 3:31 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

He'll probably deal him....

At some point before that contract is up….hes a great GM, he turned Mark Mulder into Dan Haren and Dan Haren into Dana Eveland and Carlos Gomez and now into Matt Holliday and Huston Street.

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 Nov 10, 2008 3:39 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

And all of that into 1 whole playoffs series victory.

Catherine whispered into my ear, her breath rich with faraway spices, that she desire to make love. She wanted to try shinshi shinshi. Now, I'd been begging her to try shinshi shinshi for months. She'd refused on the grounds that it was unclean. Finally, she was willing to accept her lover's body in places no one had ever trespassed. Specifically, the ear canal.

by Tackle Box on Nov 10, 2008 5:08 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

did NOT see this coming.

certainlty goes against the philosophy of the A’s of building a team from prospects, then ultimately trading those players for prospects. Interesting..

THIS SIGNATURE HAS BEEN CONFISCATED BY THE GRAMMAR POLICE

by Chanman25 on Nov 10, 2008 3:32 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

I suspect...

it’s more like he realizes that the Angels are a bit more beatable than he may have thought a year ago, so why not take a shot now? It’s probably rushing his rebuilding strategy a bit, but as long as Oakland doesn’t get caught up in crazy long-term deals, why not? The Holliday contract has only one year left, and they’ve plenty of good prospects.

I mean, if he’s right, Oakland can steal a playoff appearance in 2009, and go back to rebuilding thereafter; likely with an extra pick or two for Holliday leaving. If he’s wrong, he can deal Holliday at the deadline, and get his prospects back then.

by Damen Jackson on Nov 10, 2008 4:24 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

With the large number of close games the Angels played and won,

I think it is reasonable to think they could be beaten in 2009.

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Nov 10, 2008 4:29 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Colorado

I wonder if the trade of Matt Holliday kills any chance they might have had of dealing Brad Hawpe. Also, could they flip Huston Street in another deal?

McGrath: I got a good deal on those boys. The scouts said they showed a lot of promise.
Reggie Dunlop: They brought their f***in' TOYS with 'em!
McGrath: Well, I'd rather have em playin with their toys than playin with themselves.
Reggie Dunlop: They're too dumb to play with themselves. Boy, every piece of garbage that comes into the market and you gotta buy it!

by MDBNIU on Nov 10, 2008 3:50 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

There's no reason for Colorado to go into full rebuild mode.

They’ve got a young core, both pitchers and position players. The NL West is wide open. I think they’d trade Atkins because they have Ian Stewart ready. I doubt they’re interested in trading Hawpe or Street.

They traded Holliday because he wasn’t going to re-sign with them and they just got a closer and a centerfielder.

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 Nov 10, 2008 4:01 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

according to CBS

they are, indeed, looking to flip Street. he could go along with Taveras to get a bigger piece, I guess..

http://www.sportsline.com/mcc/blogs/entry/6270335/11618874

by PrincetonCubs on Nov 10, 2008 7:06 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Interesting

I did think Street was an overrated part of this package and wonder what they think they might get for him. Depending on what they get for Street, this could end up being a good deal for the Rox.

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 Nov 10, 2008 7:18 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Since they just signed Hawpe long-term

I doubt they have any interest in moving him. If they did, he would be at the top of my wish list for the Cubs 2009 RF.

by Cubinator on Nov 10, 2008 5:39 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Holliday...

… may turn into stone in that huge ballpark in Oakland.

He has never played there. However, his career stats in Dodger Stadium — a similar park in terms of pitcher friendliness — are .259/.325/.415 in 135 AB.

Want more? In Petco he’s .205/.265/.365 in 156 AB.

Methinks Mr. Holliday will struggle in the American League. And the Rockies did get some pitching talent, but pitching talent doesn’t always succeed in Denver.

It will be interesting to see if this trade pans out for both teams.

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

by Al on Nov 10, 2008 4:28 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Definitely interesting.

Who would have thought Edinson Volquez would have had the season he did after being traded to the Great American Small Park from the launching pad in Texas?

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Nov 10, 2008 4:32 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Point taken.

Volquez, though, was a kid pitcher who had never been given a rotation slot before 2008. Holliday already has a major league track record. It says he hits much worse outside of Coors Field.

We’ll see if the Coors Effect (which has, admittedly, lessened since the humidor was introduced) affects him.

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

by Al on Nov 10, 2008 5:03 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I think you're right to an extent

But I think you may be over estimating the splits, bc (like you said) the humidor affect can’t be ignored. For the most part, guys hit better at home.

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Nov 10, 2008 5:17 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Volquez also benefitted from moving to the lesser league,

something which will be going against Holliday.

by dakoose on Nov 10, 2008 5:17 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Really?

I could be wrong, but isn’t the NL pitching better than the AL?

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Nov 10, 2008 5:18 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Tell that to Miguel Cabrera

honestly though. Since pitchers don’t have to hit in the AL, I think that gives them a bit of advantage in terms of being tired and what not. It might be minor, but I think it does make a difference.

Also, the use of the DH give managers greater ability to use their bullpen, and the better relievers, for a more extended period of time without having to swap them out when they come up in the batting order.

I might be completely wrong though or I’m sure there’s other examples or better proof out there.

"Prince Fielder Dies Of Inside-The-Park Homerun" - The Onion

by DTJchris on Nov 10, 2008 5:28 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Rox did pretty well.

If it really is Smith/Gonzalez/Street, then that’s better than I thought they’d do. If they’re totally rebuilding I could see them flipping Street for another high ceiling prospect.

by Cubinator on Nov 10, 2008 5:43 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Wouldn't be surprised at all if the Indians figure into this at some point at either end

they definitely have a need for a closer so they could be interested in Street now. And they were rumored to be in on the Holliday sweepstakes a while ago, so come July, if they’re in it, Oakland’s not, I could easily see Beane moving Holliday for more prospects.

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

by ballhawk on Nov 10, 2008 6:30 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

You are onto something with Cleveland

They covet Huston Street. Could they do a deal of some sort with Colorado?

McGrath: I got a good deal on those boys. The scouts said they showed a lot of promise.
Reggie Dunlop: They brought their f***in' TOYS with 'em!
McGrath: Well, I'd rather have em playin with their toys than playin with themselves.
Reggie Dunlop: They're too dumb to play with themselves. Boy, every piece of garbage that comes into the market and you gotta buy it!

by MDBNIU on Nov 10, 2008 7:54 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

cbssports.com

is reporting the rockies intention is to spin huston street off to a 3rd team. who might that be??

Dear Santa:: All I want for X-mas this year is an official 2009 Jake Peavy Cubs Jersey. Oh and a Beimel one too. I've been a real good guy for the most part!!!

by cubsluver22 on Nov 10, 2008 7:02 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Another trade

rosenthal is reporting scott olsen and josh willingham to the nats for a package of players. Is this a sign of trades to come from the marlins??

Dear Santa:: All I want for X-mas this year is an official 2009 Jake Peavy Cubs Jersey. Oh and a Beimel one too. I've been a real good guy for the most part!!!

by cubsluver22 on Nov 10, 2008 7:20 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

I wonder if Bobby Crosby is on the market

If so, I wonder if Jim Hendry would legitimately pursue him. I know Crosby has been an injury plagued disappointment for the most part. But…

McGrath: I got a good deal on those boys. The scouts said they showed a lot of promise.
Reggie Dunlop: They brought their f***in' TOYS with 'em!
McGrath: Well, I'd rather have em playin with their toys than playin with themselves.
Reggie Dunlop: They're too dumb to play with themselves. Boy, every piece of garbage that comes into the market and you gotta buy it!

by MDBNIU on Nov 10, 2008 8:12 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

While a healthy Crosby would be a definite improvement defensively at SS,

his OPS+ the last three years have been 67, 68, and 76 — and that 76 came in 556 ABs and included a .296 OPS. Is his glove that much better than Riot’s?

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

by DeRoMyHero on Nov 10, 2008 10:09 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Correction

.296 OBP, not OPS.

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

by DeRoMyHero on Nov 10, 2008 10:09 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

In either case...

…that’s God awful. He’d need to have a glove that magnetically attracts the baseball to justify offensive numbers so low.

"I see I'm not the only one around here who can't hold his water." - Last words of the leaky pipe in the visiting team dugout, Dodger Stadium, October 4, 2008.

by dat cubfan daver on Nov 11, 2008 9:35 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I'd be in favor of bringing in Crosby

as one of a couple options to battle for the SS job. I think Crosby and Maicer Izturis was my original suggestion.

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 Nov 10, 2008 10:24 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs