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Wood done as a Cub? It appears so.

From the Tribune

Pitcher Kerry Wood and the Cubs will part ways after 14 years with the organization, general manager Jim Hendry said today.

Wood, who came up in the Cubs organization as one of the team's most heralded prospects ever, had the longest tenure of any Cubs player on the 2008 roster.

Earlier today, the Cubs acquired right-handed reliever Kevin Gregg from Florida on Thursday to plug a hole in the bullpen, sending Double-A prospect Jose Ceda to the Marlins.

And from the Sun-Times:

The obvious question to ask and address is, `What about Kerry Wood?’ " Cubs general manager Jim Hendry said. "We all feel Kerry is deserving of a three- or four-year, long-term contract. We’re just in a position now, as Kerry understands, that the length of that deal for the salary he would command right now is not our first priority."
Hendry said he spoke in recent days to Wood about that and said that based on their tight relationship that it was only fair to Wood and his family to encourage him to seek the best deal he could on the free agent market rather than leave him "dangling" over a possible chance to return, possibly at a discount. "I don’t think I’ve had a longer or more special relationship with anybody else in baseball," Hendry said of the star-crossed Wood, a first-round draft pick in 1995 who won the National League Rookie of the Year award in 1998 and earned All-Star recognition as both a starter (2003) and closer (2008).

Star-divide

There may be a small opening where Wood could come back if he truly wants to remain a Cub (and forgo a 3 or 4-year contract offer), but it does appear that the Cubs can't/won't be able to match a long-term contract offer.

So let me say thank you, Kerry Wood, if you really are leaving the organization, for the 14 years of service and the memories you provided.

This is a FanPost and does not necessarily reflect the views of SB Nation or Al Yellon, editor-in-chief (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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I hope that isn't true...

…It almost feels like what the Padres did to Hoffman. There has to be more to this than we see, or, the article is garbage.

by TheHawkRules on Nov 13, 2008 2:39 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

At least

Hoffman was 41 and had a horrid season…

by hmlee on Nov 13, 2008 3:31 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Ummm, I don't think so...

Wood is treated well here and Hoffman was with the padres, too. Hoffman is 41 and mediocre at best, he wasn’t treated badly, IMO. If Hoffman doesn’t know when to hang it up, that’s not the padres problem.

by DudeVf11 on Nov 13, 2008 4:00 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Hoffman was treated badly

He only wanted a one year deal, they offered him chump change and ran in the other direction. D’Backs are doing the same to Johnson. I do not think that is what Hendry is doing with Wood even if I am disgusted by it.

"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry

by Doggie Stalker on Nov 13, 2008 4:17 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Hoffman

It wasn’t the offer with Hoffman, it was the way it was done.

It’s obviously only one side of the story but the Padres made him an offer. He asked to talk with management and/or owner about the team’s direction. Instead the team faxed a response to his agent that they were pulling the offer. No one ever talked to him.

For someone that has been with the franchise that long, that is bad. Compare that to Hendry. I’m sure he and Wood and his agent had numerous discussions. They both knew where each other stood. The separation seems a lot more agreeable than Hoffman and the Pads.

by rlpete on Nov 13, 2008 4:28 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Yeah, during his Score interview today...

…Hendry mentioned having dinner with Wood within the last few days.

"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 13, 2008 4:30 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Hoff

I didn’t mean that theior situations are the exact same. I just referred to it because this story just came out of nowhere and at the time, the details hadn’t been released. It just seemed like Hendry was ditching Wood without giving much reason….

That’s why I made the comment that “there has to be more to this than what we see”

by TheHawkRules on Nov 13, 2008 4:31 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

What the hell Hendry?

Now I really hate the Gregg trade. Best of luck to Wood, hopefully some miracle comes through in the last second.

Your 2008 Missouri Tigers! #12 8-2 (4-2). Next up at Iowa State . Jeremy Maclin, Jeremy Maclin, Jeremy Maclin.

by nji232 on Nov 13, 2008 2:39 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Wow

I’m really hoping this isn’t true.

by polly on Nov 13, 2008 2:39 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Sad...

Woody’s optimistic attitude and seemingly struggles seemed to epitomize Cubdom (for better and worse). A stand up guy that I’ll continue to root for. I just hope he goes to the AL.

"In theory there is no difference between theory and practice. In practice there is." - Yogi Berra

by wrigley's ivy on Nov 13, 2008 2:41 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

*seemingly endless

not sure what happened there

"In theory there is no difference between theory and practice. In practice there is." - Yogi Berra

by wrigley's ivy on Nov 13, 2008 2:42 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

It appears

that someone is taking the attitude that we did not win with some of these guys so maybe we need to try a different avenue……….I dont get what were doing I guess we will all find out together

Let go cubs

by cubsfaninkc on Nov 13, 2008 2:43 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

and oddly enough

Wood didnt have anything to do with the playoff losses this year.

by AndHart120 on Nov 13, 2008 2:51 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

No, but...

There are financial considerations, aren’t there? What were the Cubs’ shortfalls? Where might that money be better spent??

by rgonzale on Nov 13, 2008 2:57 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Why

Id rather have wood as the closer then Dempster as a started. Jim Hendry’d relationship with Woody was supposed to be stronger then with demp. Sad Sad day

by Kchance on Nov 13, 2008 2:46 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

This blows!!

Well, this is a shitty way to start Free Agency!! Hate to see leave Kerry, but thanks for the memories.

by McRipper on Nov 13, 2008 2:47 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

thoughts

I hate to see wood go but at the end of the day no way do you give him a 3-4 yr deal at 10 mil plus. this is his last big payday I gotta believe and if I were him I would do the same thing. that is go to the highest bidder. I feel it will be a bad move for whomever does it whether it be the mets,angels,brewers,cards or whomever. good luck wood in all you future endeavors, you were a class act but at the end of the day this is a business decision for both sides.

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 13, 2008 2:48 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Gregg Vs. Wood as closer.

I would rather have Wood closing a ballgame than Gregg… hands down.

I don’t know where Hendry supposely said this, but I can’t find any official quotes. Maybe this is just a writer taking a few liberties with this trade…

by TheHawkRules on Nov 13, 2008 2:48 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Marmol is the closer

unless he proves in ST that he can’t do it.

"Sports are a crazy business. If there was a template, we'd all be champions, right? But there's one winner and 29 or 30 losers; one guy wins, everybody else is tied for last. That's the way it works" -- Mark Cuban

by TheRiot Police on Nov 13, 2008 2:50 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

WTF?????????????????????

This is a blow!
Thanks for all the memories Woodie………..along with your loyalty to the organization. Obviously…………that loyalty is not a 2 way street with the Cubs.
Sad sad sad

My fav Cub ever…………………shit!!!!!!!!!!!!!

by plenz on Nov 13, 2008 2:48 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

think with your brains

wood at 10+ mil/yr is a waste of money – the difference between wood and gregg next year is minimal and you save 10 mil

by uwbadger on Nov 13, 2008 2:51 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

want to add

I still hate the Ceda deal, but I am very much against paying top dollar to a closer

by uwbadger on Nov 13, 2008 2:55 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

The difference between Wood and Gregg is hardly minimal.

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 13, 2008 3:01 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

minimal difference?

wood was a good closer and was in his first year at the job……..Gregg walks a lot of people and blows a decent number of saves…..(a guy that lou probably wont like)

by cubsmania on Nov 13, 2008 4:46 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I hate to say this... but...

Gregg will be the next Bob Howry.

Woody will pitch for the Cardinals.

And Ceda will pitch in a World Series before any of the current Cub staff.

this sucks.

by blakation on Nov 13, 2008 2:52 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

This is an awful day for Cubs fans

Gregg over Wood!?!? ridiculous

Obviously $$ has a lot to do with it.

by dlee25 on Nov 13, 2008 2:52 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Tragic and probably as sign

of major budget constraints. I am truly devastated.

"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry

by Doggie Stalker on Nov 13, 2008 2:53 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Result of Hendry's spending

For those of you who thumbed their noses at me and others when we tried to raise hell at the insane spending and the horrible back loaded contracts of Jim Hendry well you are now starting to see the impact. I’m not sure if letting Wood go is a bad baseball thing. Four years guaranteed to a pitcher wit a history of health problems is questionable at best. But the fact is that with the contracts given to to Soriano and Marquis, along with the structure of deals given to those two along with Lilly, Lee, Ramirez and others have now come home to roost. Jim Hendry is a GM who makes his move by throwing around money and those decisions are now severely hampering him as he has a ton of money already allocated for the 2009 team and some real holes to fill.

by dmlichte on Nov 13, 2008 2:56 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

This could be the case.

And it would be sad.

That said, if Wood will not budge from a long-term deal, I’m not sure I give it to him, despite the long history between him and the club.

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 13, 2008 3:02 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I think has more to do with Woody's injury history.

I don’t think the Cubs are willing to sign a player with the injury history Woody has to a 4 year guaranteed deal.

Frankly, I agree with Hendy that it doesn’t make sense to take that kind of risk. This is a business decision and you can’t allow emotion to cloud your judgment.

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Nov 13, 2008 3:37 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I hope Kerry

kicks the Cubs ass for years to come! In fact……..it’d be nice to see him clinch a pennant for the Cards right in Wrigley. This is devastating

by plenz on Nov 13, 2008 2:56 PM CST reply reply actions actions   1 recs

Well

that’s pretty ridiculous.

"I love when they play that Go Cubs Win song."

by BMoney79 on Nov 13, 2008 3:28 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Um, yeah, that's pretty twisted.

Try some herbal tea, dude.

"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 13, 2008 3:31 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Wow

Tough love. LOL.

"I love when they play that Go Cubs Win song."

by BMoney79 on Nov 13, 2008 3:45 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Rec'd

Tommie Agee was out.
"This field, this game, is a part of our past. It reminds us of all that was once good, and it could be good again." TM

by Weeghman Park on Nov 13, 2008 3:45 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Seconded.

"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 13, 2008 3:47 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Fifth'ed.

"Just win tonight" - derv

by derv on Nov 13, 2008 4:59 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Good Lord!

yeah it sucks, but to make a statement like that, please!

You ARE freaking out MAN!

by crw89 on Nov 13, 2008 3:58 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

This makes me sick....

It’s one thing to be outbid on trying to sign a player, but to just give up and state in public that we are parting company at the beginning of the free agent season… well, this just makes me sick.

I’ve been a Hendry fan… but this is a move that really hurts. It’s one thing to say we couldn’t get him, it’s another to give up after little effort….

I’m really bummed and this is going to hurt for a long time…. a very long time.

by TheHawkRules on Nov 13, 2008 2:58 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

My take is exactly the opposite

I applaud Hendry’s loyalty to the man and that he wouldn’t leave Kerry hanging going into the free-agent process.

by leothelip on Nov 13, 2008 3:07 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I'd agree...

….if Wood didn’t really care about staying here. Sullivan wrote that all Wood wanted was something fair.

It isn’t about the money to Wood…. he’s probably already set for life, it’s about being a Cub and wanting to win with the Cubs. Hendry has basically made it to where even if Wood wanted to take a HUGE payout, he still isn’t welcome back.

http://blogs.chicagosports.chicagotribune.com/sports_hardball/2008/11/cubs-wave-bye-t.html

Andre Dawson basically had to do the same thing in ‘87. He just handed them a blank contract and told them to write in whatever. They wrote like 500k as a joke, not thinking he’d sign it, but he did. He then won the MVP.

To some people, it’s not about money. It’s about winning at all costs. It’s about giving 100%. Why is it that the Cubs have a history of giving up on people like this? Wood, Maddux, Dawson, etc… Is it no wonder then we can’t ever get to the WS?

by TheHawkRules on Nov 13, 2008 3:20 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

OF COURSE IT'S ABOUT MONEY

Don’t ever believe for a second that money isn’t a big deal.

Wood wanted a three- or four-year deal. He could be hoping this is his last big contract.

I love how people assume everyone is just “set for life”

Wood probably has 45 more years to live. His taxes are about to go up and he was in the highest bracket to begin with. He’s not broadcaster material.

He wanted money. He wanted long-term. The Cubs wouldn’t do it.

Your Dawson story is heartwarming, but it also came about as a result of collusion. The union eventually made the owners pay big time for that. My guess is Dawson got his cut.

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Nov 13, 2008 3:46 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

LOL

your a funny Klingon…

by TheHawkRules on Nov 13, 2008 4:06 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I would also like to add

That though Kerry asked him to make a fair deal, .Jim did not want to make him an offer that was fair for the Cubs but below his supposed market value knowing full well that the Cubs were not going to sign him. He helped Kerry by not setting his price and by announcing to the world that the Cubs are not going to sign him. How many legit offers would Kerry get if everybody thought he was going to sign with the cubs for 2 to 3 years.

"Sports are a crazy business. If there was a template, we'd all be champions, right? But there's one winner and 29 or 30 losers; one guy wins, everybody else is tied for last. That's the way it works" -- Mark Cuban

by TheRiot Police on Nov 13, 2008 3:49 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

wow stop acting like little babies.

the cubs couldn’t afford to pay him with dempster and such so they made a move. get over it.

by lexmarklover on Nov 13, 2008 2:58 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Rec'd

Brian McRae's 5 o'clock shadow

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Nov 13, 2008 3:04 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I dont know about that

if you ask me the fact that Jim hendry wont take Wood on a 1 year deal in this day and age in stupid and makes him a horrible manager. If he signs wood he would look smart for having such a good relationship and it would be an example of how that plays out.

and also Jim hendry is making decisions based on friendships and what best for his friends how the hell is that any better. This whole situation makes Hendry look like a horrible GM

by Glacier on Nov 14, 2008 7:32 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

But we know

1) that Hendry’s not a horrible GM
2) that Hendry likes Wood
3) that Hendry tends to be good to people who want to stay Cub

which is why it seems clear that this was Lou’s decision. The Wittenmeyer article at ST suggests Kerry knew this was coming all year, which suggests to me that Lou made up his mind last year and Jim gave Kerry a year to come to grips with it. Sue’s saying she heard on the radio Lou is behind this and I believe it. If you’re angry, be angry at Lou.

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 14, 2008 7:44 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

why would i be angry at lou?

first off there is no proof this is lous fault.
second Jim hendry runs the team its his decision. he gets the palyers and then lou the manger manages them.
third hendry is a shitty gm. Our farm system is a joke we have way to many ridiculous contracts. Hendry has done few good things like lee, ramirez yada yada yada. but he has also done some extremely stupid shit that far outweigh that in my opinion.

by Glacier on Nov 14, 2008 7:49 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

also

if hendry is letting lou completely control who gets signed and shit then that more proof Hendry is a horrible GM

by Glacier on Nov 14, 2008 7:49 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Maybe it's just me.

But just because we didn’t sign him before other teams could talk to him doesn’t mean he couldn’t come back. Yes, Hendry is telling him to go get the best deal possible. But everyone keeps saying that the closer market almost seems saturated. So will Wood really be able to demand four years and $10 million? Maybe Hendry’s “letting him go” as a gesture of goodwill, but who’s to say he couldn’t come back?

As a GM, I’d rather take a chance on Fuentes or K-Rod. They’re younger and do not have an injury history. And if a lot of teams are trying to cut back on spending because of the economy, I don’t think anyone can justify giving him a huge contract. So why can’t he find his way back?

Note that this isn’t wishful thinking. I’m not crying that he’s gone, though I liked him. I’m just saying the door is still open, although only barely.

by varrys on Nov 13, 2008 3:01 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

This isn't a terrible move by the Cubs

But it’s a sad, sad day. Wood has been my favorite Cub for a decade.

I understand Hendry’s logic. It’s probably not smart to sign Wood to a 3- or 4-year deal, given his injury history. Except for last season, he hasn’t been healthy since 2003.

I don’t know much about Kevin Gregg, but he’ll certainly be cheaper. I also think trading Ceda probably means the Cubs are out of the Peavy sweepstakes. I think this means the Cubs re-sign Dempster. I have mixed emotions about that, mainly because I don’t think he’ll repeat his 2008 performance.

I also think this is evidence of how players rarely give hometown discounts, and why the Cubs — and we, as fans — shouldn’t expect them to.

by elgato on Nov 13, 2008 3:02 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Yeah...

I would rather have Wood than Dempster actually. Dempster has only has one great season. There is no way he will repeat last year…. with Wood, if he’s healthy, he’s good. To me, that seems safer than signing Dempster.

Plus, we spent all of that money while he was hurt so that we would get him back healthy. Well, now he’s back and healthy. So what do we do? We let him go then. Wow. It would have made more sense to let him go years ago.

One other thing… I dont think we know exactly what Wood is wanting. Is all of these financial figures just speculation?

by TheHawkRules on Nov 13, 2008 3:05 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Obviously

Obviously from a personal standpoint I am almost in tears.

My email box is full guys this has hit the national news as well. My best friend actually called me!

But as a Cubs fan I think Marmol can take over as closer hopefully Greg can slip into Marmol’s role.

Thngs of worth are worth fighting for regardless of the odds.

by cubstoseriesby100 on Nov 13, 2008 3:10 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I can hear Ron Santo's "oh jeez" if that happens lol

"WGN, Channel 9 Cubs Baseball, Excitingly, Importantly, Dramatically Yours." - Jack Brickhouse

by BigJohnAZ on Nov 13, 2008 3:11 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Or worse, the Brewers.

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

by Al on Nov 13, 2008 4:49 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Or the Cards.

"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 13, 2008 4:50 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   1 recs

The Cardinals, at least I have some respect for.

I would absolutely despise seeing him in a Milwaukee uniform.

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

by Al on Nov 13, 2008 5:05 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   1 recs

Well, let's just give him $100 million and 10 years guaranteed!

To keep him from going to another team!

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Nov 13, 2008 7:58 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

No one is suggesting that.

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

by Al on Nov 13, 2008 8:31 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

He'll be an Indian

that’s where I’ll predict he goes.

I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg

by Trey2317 on Nov 14, 2008 9:47 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

That's a possibility I hadn't thought of.

One of the Tribe’s biggest troubles last year was closing. He’d fit in well there. I could see it, if they’re willing to pay it.

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

by Al on Nov 14, 2008 1:46 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

this one hurts

its the right move from a baseball perspective, I can’t argue that.

but there isn’t a cub player in my lifetime that has understood what it meant to be a Cub more than Kerry Wood

I love Kerry and I will miss him dearly

by DartmouthCubsFan on Nov 13, 2008 3:14 PM CST reply reply actions actions   1 recs

My thoughts exactly.

Tough call, but probably the right one when all is said and done.

"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 13, 2008 4:41 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

summed it well, dartmouth

this is such a sad day… sometimes the business of baseball flat out sucks

All generalizations are false.

by Emelie on Nov 13, 2008 4:49 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

yep.

"Just win tonight" - derv

by derv on Nov 13, 2008 5:12 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Thx for the Memories Kerry

You will be missed! Best of luck wherever you go.
————
As for this decision, I can understand trying to save some money in relief when we have such a good option in Marmol. The Gregg addition makes a lot more sense now, and I think he’ll be pretty good. I just hope the money saved is well spent to help put the Cubs over the top next year.

by Cubinator on Nov 13, 2008 3:17 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Very sad.

Baseball business moves aside this is very sad. Woody has pretty much been the face of the Cubs the last decade for the good and for the bad. I just cant see him in a another uniform, just the same way I couldnt see Ryno in another uniform.

Thank you for everything and showing how much you loved the team, the city, and the fans.

Picture stuck in my head right now… Ronnie kissing Kerry on the cheek after clinching in 2007.

by AndHart120 on Nov 13, 2008 3:21 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I know things happen

for a reason but this really hurts. I will miss Kerry and wish him well.

by sue369 on Nov 13, 2008 3:22 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

a very sad day

It will be hard to see him playing for someone else.

Kerry I wish you all the best…

by coral on Nov 13, 2008 3:22 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Sometimes...

….it seems to get that way.

by TheHawkRules on Nov 13, 2008 3:25 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Grow up

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Nov 13, 2008 3:48 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

LOL

Geez… why you being such a jerk? Oh, I guess I just can’t state my opinions.

Get a life turdboy. ’nuff said.

by TheHawkRules on Nov 13, 2008 4:08 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

No, he was replying to turdboy.

Oh, wait…

"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 13, 2008 5:28 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Both of them

were being immature asses

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Nov 13, 2008 7:59 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Excuse my french

BUT WHAT IN THE FLYING FUCK IS GOING ON!

If that gets me a suspension I don’t care, I cannot believe this.

by jbertram on Nov 13, 2008 3:23 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Hendry on The Score right now.

"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 13, 2008 3:24 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Good to hear that as long as Hendry is around

Wood will always be a Cub, even if/when he goes elsewhere this offseason.

I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg

by Trey2317 on Nov 13, 2008 3:27 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

What is he saying?

I don’t have the radio at work

by hmlee on Nov 13, 2008 3:28 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

A few highlights:

1. He and Kerry Wood have a brotherly relationship – Wood will always have a role with the Cubs.

2. Payroll will go up.

3. They’ll negotiate with Dempster – they want him around.

I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg

by Trey2317 on Nov 13, 2008 3:31 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

More highlights:

1. “This isn’t an overhaul team. It’s a team that if you make the right 2, 3, 4 moves, it’s capable of winning a championship”

2. “We’re going to keep getting better and keep trying to get better until we knock that [World Series] door down.”

I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg

by Trey2317 on Nov 13, 2008 3:33 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

payroll will increase

because of the ridiculous backloaded contracts Hendry signed off on. Question is…….will the Cubs be better next year? Right now the guess is no

by plenz on Nov 13, 2008 3:52 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Yeah, my overall impression...

…from what I can read through Hendry’s typical GM doublespeak is that this was purely a financial decision. They just don’t want to allocate the dollars to a long-term deal for a closer.

"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 13, 2008 3:32 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Correct...

…and it basically means he won’t have enouph dough to take care of the starting rotation and add the lefty bat, if he gives Wood what he wants.

I agree with him prioritizing the way he is.

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

by MPH73 on Nov 13, 2008 3:35 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

LH bat>leadoff>closer?

What’s your take?

One day I hope to come up with something worthy of this space.

by chilango2 on Nov 13, 2008 3:36 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Sounded like Dempster was priority No. 1

then the Cubs move on from there to LH bat. Gregg and Marmol will be first 2 closer options (Marmol first, then Gregg).

I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg

by Trey2317 on Nov 13, 2008 3:37 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Yep, Hendry specifically mentioned that Marmol and Gregg...

…will be options for closer. I’d think Marmol would get first dibs given his time with the teams and sick numbers last season.

"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 13, 2008 3:39 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I would hope so.

I would for Ascanio to be given a long look at throwing the 7th or 8th innings, potentially, in spring training, too.

A Guzman, Samardzija, Gregg, Ascanio, Marmol bullpen sounds like something Lou would enjoy – lots of hard-throwing RHPs in there.

I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg

by Trey2317 on Nov 13, 2008 3:41 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Ascanio wasn't good enough to pitch the 7th in AAA

let alone the majors last year.

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 13, 2008 4:45 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I just said he'd be given a look

no guarantees he’ll be able to.

I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg

by Trey2317 on Nov 14, 2008 9:48 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Saying?

“Dempster is better than Wood. Peavy will come to Wrigley and win the World Series, Cy Young, all sorts of MVP awards and become the face of the organization. Marquis will be a solid, 15+game winner. Fukudome will hit for average AND power. Theriot will win a Gold Glove at SS.”
I’m a bit depressed and I apologize for the stupid post.

One day I hope to come up with something worthy of this space.

by chilango2 on Nov 13, 2008 3:30 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Please advise what is said.

btw, this is probably all your fault.

But the wind blew me back via Chicago, In the middle of the night

by N Oakley on Nov 13, 2008 3:31 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Wait, what's my fault?

"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 13, 2008 3:33 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

You should have shown more love and then Woody would have stayed.

Wrong week to stop amphetamines.

Tommie Agee was out.
"This field, this game, is a part of our past. It reminds us of all that was once good, and it could be good again." TM

by Weeghman Park on Nov 13, 2008 3:35 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Maybe Kerry's fed up with all the sand pounding.

Sorry about that.

"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 13, 2008 3:36 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

He might be,

after all, all the Cubs read this blog and take it all seriously. Lemme tell ya, what more do you want me to say. Uh, Uh, all the guys just want to win. What more can I say except to say Kerry has been the “face” of the Cubs for a while, and I don’t know who will replace him in that role, certainly not Pie or Fukedome. But we have some good prospects. Yeah. Good prospects. If we could get Sori to stop swinging at every fucking ball that is thrown his way he might be a good candidate. Oh wait, he is not a prospect anymore; he is a superstar. gosh darn it all to heck. This is getting old and tiring. What should the Cubs do now, BM?

Tommie Agee was out.
"This field, this game, is a part of our past. It reminds us of all that was once good, and it could be good again." TM

by Weeghman Park on Nov 13, 2008 3:44 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Ha

exactly

But the wind blew me back via Chicago, In the middle of the night

by N Oakley on Nov 13, 2008 3:48 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

This is where...

…you have to put the emotion aside, and use your objectivity.

Wood is one tweak away from being on the shelf for good, and anything beyond 2 years guaranteed (for a closer especially), would not be wise.

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

by MPH73 on Nov 13, 2008 3:27 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Wood pitched healthy ALL year

he’s no closer or further from the end than any other pitcher. That line of thinking is insane

by plenz on Nov 13, 2008 3:28 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Sorry...

…but to ignore his history (and knowing the fact he has a tear in his cuff right now) and to give him a guaranteed deal of more than 2 years, would be to make a decision on pure emotion.

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

by MPH73 on Nov 13, 2008 3:32 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Blister? Four weeks? McFly?

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Nov 13, 2008 3:49 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Correct....

…but you have to consider who is more likely to have that “tweak”.

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

by MPH73 on Nov 13, 2008 3:37 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I've heard this young whippersnapper by the name

of Prior has scientifically perfect mechanics!

Brian McRae's 5 o'clock shadow

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Nov 13, 2008 3:38 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

He can sure pick up pumkins OK

Tommie Agee was out.
"This field, this game, is a part of our past. It reminds us of all that was once good, and it could be good again." TM

by Weeghman Park on Nov 13, 2008 3:47 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

that being said..............

doesn’t Dempster have history on the operating table?
Seems many are more than willing to give him 4-5 years and big $$

by plenz on Nov 13, 2008 3:40 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

You can rationalize all you want...

…but it won’t work with me. If this allows them to improve in higher priority areas, than IT WAS THE RIGHT MOVE!

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

by MPH73 on Nov 13, 2008 3:42 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Agreed...

but was Gregg the right move as a replacement in the bullpen?

Free Ronny Cedeno

by Kansas25 on Nov 13, 2008 4:09 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

IMO...

…you are basically replacing Howry, so you go ahead and make that call.

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

by MPH73 on Nov 13, 2008 5:13 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

come on guys...

…love Kerry like a brother, but every time he took the ball I held my breath.

"Just win tonight" - derv

by derv on Nov 13, 2008 5:17 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Pshaw.

We know what Kerry can do as a reliever.

If Hendry hadn’t thrown silly money at the likes of Marquis and Fukudome, Wood would still be a Cub. Period.

MLBMilestone.com - following the numbers to Cooperstown

by D98 on Nov 13, 2008 5:44 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Hindsight, 20/20, yadda yadda.

"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 14, 2008 10:06 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I think this board was unanimous about Marquis.

MLBMilestone.com - following the numbers to Cooperstown

by D98 on Nov 14, 2008 2:34 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Mm, yes and no.

I’d guess most believe that Hendry did overpay for Marquis to a certain extent. Then again, market value is what it is. But many feel Hendry has gotten what he paid for – a back of the rotation guy who doesn’t break down and lends some stability to the rotation. And, when all was said and done, Jason did have a pretty decent 2008.

"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 14, 2008 2:45 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

the funny part

will be watching Woody make Soriano look sick in a big spot

The Brewers could be a fit………..

by plenz on Nov 13, 2008 3:29 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

You're really

on a roll. Sucks to lose Kerry, there’s no doubt. But buck up ‘lil camper, it’s how these things go.

"I love when they play that Go Cubs Win song."

by BMoney79 on Nov 13, 2008 3:31 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

it just hurts

how can anyone be optimistic about 09 now? Nice loyalty on the Cubs part. Screw em!

by plenz on Nov 13, 2008 3:34 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

So losing Kerry Wood dooms the 2009 season?

"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 13, 2008 3:35 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I wouldn't say that...

But I would say that it starts any off-season acquisitions on a sour note (I mean the Gregg trade was already kinda blech, but I’m talking further things). Whomever we pick up with the extra money is going to have to be damn good on a baseball level to make up for the loss of Woody on a personal level… if that’s even possible

by hmlee on Nov 13, 2008 3:37 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Yeah, neither one of these moves is particularly a cause for celebration.

"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 13, 2008 3:41 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Exactly

Now if we flip Gregg to get Peavy then maybe this is okay… but if we jettisoned Kerry to pick up someone like Adam Dunn (I know he’s loved as a possibility by some people here, but I’m not sure that our OF can take another slow masher type) I’m not going to be very happy going into spring training

by hmlee on Nov 13, 2008 3:43 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Actually, there seems to be about a 50/50 split on Dunn around here.

As scary as his defense might be, I’m actually willing to roll the dice on him. A 40-HR, massive-OBP lefty bat in the middle of the lineup sounds pretty good to me.

"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 13, 2008 3:50 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Likewise

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 13, 2008 4:02 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

yeah....a troll

because I like Kerry Wood and think he’s a Cub icon?
Too funny

by plenz on Nov 13, 2008 3:38 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

No, because of your comments on this page

"it’d be nice to see him clinch a pennant for the Cards right in Wrigley. "

“the funny part will be watching Woody make Soriano look sick in a big spot”

“Nice loyalty on the Cubs part. Screw em!”

Brian McRae's 5 o'clock shadow

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Nov 13, 2008 3:39 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I am just bitter right now

I can’t see the logic behind this other than a cost cutting move……..which plain sucks!

Even if he got overpaid……………..we have 2 other contracts on this team that are frikkin absurd

by plenz on Nov 13, 2008 3:41 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Yeah, but that doesn't mean

you should want to see Wood “clinch a Pennant for the Cards in Wrigley.” No matter how bummed I am , I would NEVER wish that…

Brian McRae's 5 o'clock shadow

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Nov 13, 2008 3:43 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

got to admit ur right there..........

a knee jerk reaction…………….but still sad to see him go

by plenz on Nov 13, 2008 3:55 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Then step away from the keyboard

Until you calm down.

Don’t ever bring rooting for the Cardinals back here. Ever.

I don’t care if they burn Wrigley to the ground, fire Santo and change the name to the “Fighting Grizzlies”

You don’t ever root for the Cards.

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Nov 13, 2008 3:57 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

only way I root for the Cards is

if they play the White Sox in the series…..calm down dude

by plenz on Nov 13, 2008 3:59 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I didn't bring the Cards love

You did. So don’t tell me to calm down.

And you don’t even root for them then. You don’t watch the series. Or you root for a meteor to hit the stadium.

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Nov 13, 2008 4:00 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

For that matter...

Don’t even refer to them by name for the next 30 days.

"Just win tonight" - derv

by derv on Nov 13, 2008 5:20 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

See

This is why we (that means you, plenz) should not drink and blog. Although, even drunkeness is not an excuse for the rooting for the Cards thing. Just sayin’

by StevenABQ on Nov 13, 2008 3:59 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I want Hendry to be loyal towards one goal...

…winning a championship, not signing players because they are fan favorites. Sometimes decisions like this have to be made to make the team better in other areas, and that is exactly what this is.

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

by MPH73 on Nov 13, 2008 3:41 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Exactly

The teams that can compete year-in, year-out for the playoffs are the ones who can make cold, rational decisions and use younger players in place of aging, more-expensive veterans.

Carlos Marmol is someone whom many of us would look at as a future closer. Now is the time to make that move, as painful as it is for sentimental reasons.

I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg

by Trey2317 on Nov 13, 2008 3:44 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Won't happen...

Soriano mashes sliders away… oh… wait…

But the wind blew me back via Chicago, In the middle of the night

by N Oakley on Nov 13, 2008 3:32 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Right on,

Hell, I could make Sori look sick by throwing him a 55 foot pitch 2 feet outside of the plate. Woody is going to feast on the Cubs for a few years. I hope he enjoys it and gets paid well. If he’s not on the Cubs roster in 2009 I’m not sure I care who else is.

Tommie Agee was out.
"This field, this game, is a part of our past. It reminds us of all that was once good, and it could be good again." TM

by Weeghman Park on Nov 13, 2008 3:32 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Sad day for Cubs fans

Kerry Wood will be pitching for another team next year? That sucks, man. I’ve always loved Kerry, always loved his intensity, his work ethic, his never-say-die attitude. I really loved watching him and Geo high five so many times this past year after getting the final out. It will be hard to see someone else do that.

But, with that said… Kerry does deserve a pretty good sized raise. And the Cubs aren’t in a position to give it to him. If he really wants the money (and nothing against him if he does), then he should move on.

Sad day though.

by kanderber on Nov 13, 2008 3:38 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Wish Wood the best

Hopefully he goes to the A.L. and doesn’t come back to haunt the Cubs. And just goes to show, never know what’ll be going on in the offseason. And sometimes (or most of the time?) sources are just plain wrong.

by lamentir on Nov 13, 2008 3:39 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Don't know what to say.

After Sandberg Woody was my favorite Cub. If his agent is asking for 4 years, goodness. I still can’t believe that the Cubs couldn’t work a deal out.
 If he stays in the division, Brewers and God help us the Cards, it will make me ill.
Kevin Gregg meet Bob Howry, Bob Howry meet Kevin Gregg,
Sorry, this is wrong.

"Have You heard of the Boom on Mizar 5?"

by Grockcubs on Nov 13, 2008 3:39 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Agreed...

I’m sorry but Gregg + 6M or Wood and Ceda?…I would have liked to keep what we had.

by jbertram on Nov 13, 2008 3:45 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Hes got Rangers written all over him...

Or possibly the Mets, but a 4 year deal is a bit much, so I cant fault Hendry on that, but Kevin Gregg….seriously?

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 13, 2008 3:49 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I'll bet you are correct on the Rangers.

Texas boy and all.

But the wind blew me back via Chicago, In the middle of the night

by N Oakley on Nov 13, 2008 3:53 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Thats what I was thinking Rangers or Stros

…and bren I agree, Kevin Gregg, seriously? You put the words right back in my mouth.

by jbertram on Nov 13, 2008 3:55 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I'd prefer the Rangers.

"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 13, 2008 4:01 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

And if he signs there...

We’ll know he has no interest in winning, contrary to what some of the people here think.

He’s about money and security.

And I don’t blame him a bit. His arm can go at any time. He has no college education. He has 45 years of his life left. His taxes will go up. He isn’t going to be a broadcaster and probably won’t coach above the high school level.

He needs one more big payday.

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Nov 13, 2008 3:55 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

You hit the nail on the head

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 13, 2008 3:56 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

That's a little harsh

I coach at high school level and I know Kerry could do it better. You can’t blame him for looking out for his needs though. That’s what we all do. Owners, managers, fans, and wannabee players.

Tommie Agee was out.
"This field, this game, is a part of our past. It reminds us of all that was once good, and it could be good again." TM

by Weeghman Park on Nov 13, 2008 3:58 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

The Rangers had the best Offense in the AL last year

As always, pitching has been their problem

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 13, 2008 4:03 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I think hes made more than enough $ to offset a lack of college degree..

Come on, hes made more at his age than most of us will in a lifetime

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 13, 2008 4:04 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

He doesn't live like you and me

Someone making $80k a year looks at Kerry’s earnings — Almost 49m lifetime — and says, “Welp, he’s set for life!”

Taxes take 40-50 percent. Agent takes another 5 percent. So, already, cut it in half what he makes and will make.

He is funding his retirement with this contract. Take every damn dollar you can get Kerry!

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Nov 13, 2008 4:08 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

And the last 90 days probably reduced his nest egg by 40%.

But the wind blew me back via Chicago, In the middle of the night

by N Oakley on Nov 13, 2008 4:10 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

It probably did...

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Nov 13, 2008 4:13 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Unless he spends like MC Hammer or Mike Tyson

Im sure he’s got plenty left, even with your math, he should be around 20M, not to mention investments, his money must be making him money.

This is about his love of the game and his willingness to convert a reliever, and doing so quite successfully and his desire to continue doing so….and he would be smart to take advantage of his success w/ the largest deal possible

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 13, 2008 4:13 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

He had no choice

He couldn’t cut it as a starter and stay healthy. He just couldn’t do it.

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Nov 13, 2008 4:15 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Nobody's money is making them money...

…unless they are betting on the inverse funds or are doing something illegal.

"Just win tonight" - derv

by derv on Nov 13, 2008 5:24 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

The point was...

hes been getting paid Millions for a decade, I seriously doubt he’s in dire straights

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 13, 2008 6:00 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Team that signs Kerry Wood to a 3 or 4 year deal will be making a mistake

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 13, 2008 3:55 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

That is a risk

that I am not sure I would take

"Just win tonight" - derv

by derv on Nov 13, 2008 5:25 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Sad, Sad Day

I’ve stated he’ll be easily replaced by Marmol in the ninth, but this is a really sad moment in recent Cubs history. Hes been completely synonymous with the Cubs over the past decade or so.

To be dispensed for what is essentially Kevin Gregg is a shame, I’ll be interested to see how far apart Hendry and Wood were

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 13, 2008 3:44 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I can't fault the decision to let Kerry Wood go

The Cubs have paid a lot of money for a lot of Kerry Wood downtime over the years. If it is the objective decision of Jim Hendry and his staff not to meet Kerry Wood’s salary demands then how can we fault that? Hendry OBVIOUSLY has informed perspective on the condition of Wood’s right arm.

I’m not going to bash in the Cubs on this one. For once it seems they are letting smart and objective decision rule the day instead of letting heart take over.

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 13, 2008 3:44 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Smart and objective

Except for the part where they traded our #2 prospect for Kevin Fing Gregg.

by jbertram on Nov 13, 2008 3:45 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Well...

I’ve got to believe the decision came down to Jim Hendry and staff not having confidence in the future health of Kerry Wood. If that is the case then how can any of us find fault with the move?

Kevin Gregg has a live arm and is durable. Perhaps the plan is for him to serve as primary set-up man to new closer Carlos Marmol.

Jose Ceda? What does it mean to be our # 2 ranked prospect? It takes good quality to get good quality. If Hendry and company did their homework on Gregg (which I assumed they have done thoroughly) then I’m okay with them trading a top prospect to get the guy they wanted. Cubs clearly targeted Gregg. Must be good reasons for that.

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 13, 2008 3:49 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Just like...

they did their homework on Dome, right?

Its not Gregg vs. Ceda. Its trading one of our very few trade chips for a guy who has 1 year left on his deal.

by jbertram on Nov 13, 2008 3:57 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Cubs are built to win now

Hendry could have had lots of available closers and set-up man. Especially if he was trading a chip like Jose Ceda. Therefore I have got to believe he really, really did his homework on the guy and feels that he can be a primetime set-up man, thereby enabling Carlos Marmol to become one of the best damned closers in baseball. Or, Marmol sticks as 8th inning guy and Gregg shuts down the opponent in the 9th.

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 13, 2008 4:00 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Agreed

What would everyone rather have? Wood walks and we do nothing to bolster the bullpen?

by StevenABQ on Nov 13, 2008 4:01 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

What I read into this most of all is that Wood is damaged...

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 13, 2008 4:02 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

That...

IMO, would be the only thing making this justifiable.

by jbertram on Nov 13, 2008 4:03 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

No, it means the Cub payroll

is too backloaded to commit to years 3 & 4 on Wood.

But the wind blew me back via Chicago, In the middle of the night

by N Oakley on Nov 13, 2008 4:04 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Would YOU give Kerry Wood a 3 or 4 year contract knowing his history???

Seriously. I find it refreshing for a change that Jim Hendry isn’t letting sentimentality for a player or denial over his ongoing ability overcome smart decision. We’re all sad that Kerry Wood is a goner. But I’m willing to bet we won’t be saying the same thing down the road when his arm has blown up again and the team that handed over all that big fat dough is crying in their beer.

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 13, 2008 4:06 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I would not guarantee year 3 unless

he triggered a clause on innings pitched in 1 & 2. That said, I do not believe Hendry refusing to offer the other two years has anything to do with knowledge that Wood is damaged that you keep spouting.

Hendry has inflation issues looming in the budget and has limited room for long term contract gambles. I guess he will gamble on Dempster’s health.

But the wind blew me back via Chicago, In the middle of the night

by N Oakley on Nov 13, 2008 4:09 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I don't think he's damaged...

…and Hendry said as much during the press conference. I just think the Cubs do not want to allocate a substantial amount of dollars to a long-term contract for a closer while they have Marmol and now Gregg as options. Simple as that.

"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 13, 2008 4:04 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Point well taken

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 13, 2008 4:07 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Oh yeah? Well same to you, buddy!

Wait…what?

"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 13, 2008 4:32 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

lol!

All generalizations are false.

by Emelie on Nov 13, 2008 5:02 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

is that a first?

"Just win tonight" - derv

by derv on Nov 13, 2008 5:28 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

It is for me!

"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 13, 2008 5:28 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I hope you are right for a change.

Tommie Agee was out.
"This field, this game, is a part of our past. It reminds us of all that was once good, and it could be good again." TM

by Weeghman Park on Nov 13, 2008 4:01 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Again...

Like they did their homework on Dome right? Or Fonzie, where was the concern for the health of his legs when they gave him the mammoth contract?

Point is you may do your homework, and get it wrong…not everyone is a straight A student and judging from the Juan Pierre move and others that sure as hell includes Hendry.

by jbertram on Nov 13, 2008 4:02 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

If you want a GM

to predict every injury and slump, then stop rooting for any baseball team. You’ll just give yourself a heart attack.

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Nov 13, 2008 4:03 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I'm not

I am simply arguing with MDBNIU’s sentiment, that “they must have done their homework on gregg”.

by jbertram on Nov 13, 2008 4:04 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

True

but seriously, we all knew that Wood was a 50/50 chance for a resign…so there ya go. At least there appears to be some judgement being used to try and fill that hole, like Gregg or not its a move in the right direction…Shark and Marmol cannot work it out alone.

by StevenABQ on Nov 13, 2008 4:05 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I've seen em

I’m not making an argument that Gregg is a “replacement” for Wood. What I am saying is that if what Hendry said is true (taking his word on it) that the Cubs cannot commit to the kind of long term deal that is likely coming Woods way, then at least picking up a set-up man/situational closer is a wise move. If we’re losing Wood anyway the Gregg move at least is not as sour as before. IMHO.

by StevenABQ on Nov 13, 2008 4:09 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I might agree...

if he had only cost the money…but not when you factor in one of our top trade chips sent to Florida for him.

by jbertram on Nov 13, 2008 4:10 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Its a valid point

I’m not happy with losing Ceda for him either. But I’m trying to think about the net end result. If Ceda is a small part of the means to an end that we all want then cool. I kinda look at losing Wood as something that JH has known about for awhile.

by StevenABQ on Nov 13, 2008 4:12 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Texas

Expect him to go to the Rangers. That’s the speculation down there. In their dreams of dreams they get both him and Dempster.

Thngs of worth are worth fighting for regardless of the odds.

by cubstoseriesby100 on Nov 13, 2008 3:54 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Do they have the payroll leeway to do it?

n/t

One day I hope to come up with something worthy of this space.

by chilango2 on Nov 13, 2008 3:55 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I'm guessin' the market for Kerry Wood won't be robust

If Jim Hendry took a pass on the likely contract terms to bring back Kerry Wood then that should send up red flags all around baseball that his arm health is not worth anything beyond an incentive-laden and relatively short contract.

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 13, 2008 3:58 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I doubt you are correct on this.

I’m guessing Kerry signs for 4/40 quickly.

But the wind blew me back via Chicago, In the middle of the night

by N Oakley on Nov 13, 2008 4:01 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

And I'm guessing...

That team will pay someone to buy out the third or fourth years.

I’m with Hendry on this one. Kerry probably deserves three or four.

But we don’t deserve to have to give it to him.

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Nov 13, 2008 4:02 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Don't disagree at all.

But the wind blew me back via Chicago, In the middle of the night

by N Oakley on Nov 13, 2008 4:03 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I don't think that it necessarily raises questions about arm health...

but it does send a message to another team that you are going to have to take a chance on Kerry and throw a good number of years & dollars at him to sign him. I still think he comes back to the Cubs, for less years and money.

Jimmyeatworld

by Jimmyeatworld on Nov 13, 2008 4:04 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Stickin' to your guns, eh Jimmy?

Well, FWIW, I hope you’re right.

"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 13, 2008 4:05 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Certainly am. This story seems overblown, and smacks of negotiation...

I was right about ED, (Edmonds). We will see if I’m right about this…

Jimmyeatworld

by Jimmyeatworld on Nov 13, 2008 4:06 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I don't see it.

I believe Kerry’s agent already has full knowledge of teams ready to make offers.

But the wind blew me back via Chicago, In the middle of the night

by N Oakley on Nov 13, 2008 4:07 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Trading Ceda has to mean pursuit if Jake Peavy is over...

I’m guessin Ryan Dempster signs a new contract with the Cubs by the weekend.

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 13, 2008 4:01 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

My thoughts exactly

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 13, 2008 4:05 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Yeah

Agreed on this, as if the Braves offer wasn’t damning enough for our chances.

by StevenABQ on Nov 13, 2008 4:13 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

...

Obviously, Wood will not return

Want a left handed hitter

Want to get pitching lined up early so they can focus on hitting rest of winter.

Nothing really new..

by Rezze21 on Nov 13, 2008 4:10 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Codeword for "Ryan Dempster is on the verge of re-signing with us."

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 13, 2008 4:11 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Its not Ceda, per se, that hurts...

Its his value as a trade chip, someone said up above that the Cubs churn out power righties like cigarettes, which is true. What really separates Ceda from Ascanio, at least Ascanio made it to the bigs briefly and Cashner is on the fast track.

So its his loss as a possible trade chip in a larger deal that hurts the most, except for Wood leaving 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 13, 2008 4:07 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Well...

Will you be singing the same tune if Kevin Gregg ends up being a smart financial bargain in route to being a dominant set-up man that allows Carlos Marmol to become a dominant closer?

Like I said before, Hendry had his pick of plenty of options. Huston Street is one example of a guy who could probably be pried from Colorado. But Hendry decided to go with Gregg. I think he has very good reasons for this move. I’ll give him the benefit of the doubt for now.

The problem is we are all mixing this subject up with our shock of Wood being a goner.

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 13, 2008 4:11 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I'm sure Ryan Braun will miss him....

If he goes to the A.L…. Dude absolutely OWNS Kerry

"Who ever heard of the Cubs losing a game they had to have?" -Frank Chance 1B/Manager 1908 World Champion Chicago Cubs

by imknowdummy on Nov 13, 2008 4:13 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

True on the emotion part

Marmol will be a dominant closer regardless, and I bet Cashner is the 8th inning guy by ’10 at the latest.

I just think Ceda couldve been used in a trade with more impact. Street has had injuries in the past anyway and probably would cost even more.

But man, Marmols fantasy value just absolutely sky rocketed.

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 13, 2008 4:16 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Favorite Wood Memory?

Mine has to be his HR in game 7 of the NLCS, that was crazy, way more memorable than the 20Ks

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 13, 2008 4:09 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

20Ks -- hands down

One of the most dominating pitching performances in history. Yes, it was a one-hitter, but that was a fluke infield hit. The Astros had nothing.

That game ranks up with perfect games for pure pitching dominance.

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Nov 13, 2008 4:11 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

This is good news...

I’m convinced that the Cubs will not return to the N.L.C.S. until they have purged their roster of all remaining players from 2003… Aramis goes next?

"Who ever heard of the Cubs losing a game they had to have?" -Frank Chance 1B/Manager 1908 World Champion Chicago Cubs

by imknowdummy on Nov 13, 2008 4:09 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Shut up

And when you’re done, shut up some more.

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Nov 13, 2008 4:11 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

It's a joke

Lighten up already… WHY SO SERIOUS?

"Who ever heard of the Cubs losing a game they had to have?" -Frank Chance 1B/Manager 1908 World Champion Chicago Cubs

by imknowdummy on Nov 13, 2008 4:17 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

You have to admit

It was pretty damned poignant.

by StevenABQ on Nov 13, 2008 4:21 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

It's almost like

you can’t joke anymore on this board or someone thinks your a Cards fan…..

"Who ever heard of the Cubs losing a game they had to have?" -Frank Chance 1B/Manager 1908 World Champion Chicago Cubs

by imknowdummy on Nov 13, 2008 4:22 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Well

I took it coming off a little on the lighter side. But I could be wrong. As for the Cards fan thing, usually there is the one guy (plenz) who go absolutly nuts about “not rooting for the Cubs” and “its the end of days” etc. And, that usually gets everyone a little irrated and sharp in their comments.

by StevenABQ on Nov 13, 2008 4:28 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I spit on your attempts at humor

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Nov 13, 2008 4:31 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Heh

I guess I’ll be dry since I have not made any attempts. Frankly, I suck at humor — thats why I laugh at your comments.

by StevenABQ on Nov 13, 2008 4:33 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I'm not saying, i'm just saying

you should consider not watching Cubs games anymore… If they have such a negative effect on you…

"Who ever heard of the Cubs losing a game they had to have?" -Frank Chance 1B/Manager 1908 World Champion Chicago Cubs

by imknowdummy on Nov 13, 2008 4:34 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

What is the world?

The Cubs traded Billy Williams, Fergie Jenkins and Ron Santo. Greg Maddux walked as a free agent. Hank Aaron and Willie Mays were traded.

I’d like to see Wood come back but for 4 years, no way. It’s baseball, Hendry has to do what he thinks is right. I can understand the posts about this not being the right move but I don’t get all the “I want to cry” posts.

I felt like crying when the Cubs traded Billy Williams but I was in still in grade school.

by rlpete on Nov 13, 2008 4:12 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Well the sentimental argument...

Al and others made proved incorrect. Players aren’t going to turn down big bucks and more years out of blind loyalty and being part of the community. It ultimately comes down to cashing in.

Free Ronny Cedeno

by Kansas25 on Nov 13, 2008 4:12 PM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Damn right...

Nor should they.

We root for laundry, not people.

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Nov 13, 2008 4:14 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I don't think this disproves it.

Would Kerry have taken 4/35 or 3/30 to stay? Maybe, but the sentimental argument is only valid if those were offered back. If the only offer was 2/20 and he expects 4/40, what do you expect?

But the wind blew me back via Chicago, In the middle of the night

by N Oakley on Nov 13, 2008 4:14 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Yeah, it does...

Kerry took what he deserved rather than settle on a lower Cubs offer. Demp will do the same, although it appears JH will give him market value.

Free Ronny Cedeno

by Kansas25 on Nov 13, 2008 4:17 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

No, a hometown discount is when a player takes

something a little less, like What Z took to stay. 1 fewer year or 10% less money. Agreeing to 50% less guaranteed money to stay is not a hometown discount, it’s crazy.

But the wind blew me back via Chicago, In the middle of the night

by N Oakley on Nov 13, 2008 4:21 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

But going back to that whole thread about it...

people were convinced Kerry would accept a 2 year deal because it was the Cubs. Yes, Kerry would stay if Jim was close, but that whole thread bordered on insanity about player’s desires.

Free Ronny Cedeno

by Kansas25 on Nov 13, 2008 4:27 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I think its a question of what.

Most believed Hendry would only offer 2 years at market rate and consider a 3rd with triggers. Most thought the most he would get is three.

I’m just sayin choosing 4/40 (if he gets it) over 2/20 doesn’t disprove anything on whether or not he would take a discount. a 2/20 difference is not a discount, it’s charity.

But the wind blew me back via Chicago, In the middle of the night

by N Oakley on Nov 13, 2008 4:42 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

It is a matter of degree

If Hendry is offering 2 years and Wood think he can get 4 years at a higher salary, who can blame him? It’s not like we are talking a million or two difference. This is likely over a $10 million dollar difference. Of course, if Wood can’t get the deal he thinks he can, he might be back.

by rlpete on Nov 13, 2008 4:15 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Exactly...

JH would have had to be pretty damn close to market level for Kerry to stay.

Free Ronny Cedeno

by Kansas25 on Nov 13, 2008 4:16 PM CST to parent up reply reply