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Report: Cubs close to resigning Dempster

Cubs_sweep_tiny by Chanman25 on Comment 490 comments

Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports is reporting that the Cubs are reportedly very close to resigning Dempster to a four year contract. The link can be found here:

 

http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/8812098/Cubs-close-to-re-signing-righty-Dempster?CMP=OTC-K9B140813162&ATT=49

This makes me somewhat happy about the current state of the Cubs. This justifies the dumping of Kerry Wood in a sense. If we were unable to resign him, well I wouldn't have been the only one angry..

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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4/52

is an awful lot for a 31 year old with one very good season.

DEJESUS!!!

by tomas21 on Nov 18, 2008 10:20 AM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Yeah, but he is good for the club, and considering what Marquis got a couple of years ago....

Also, maybe he gave us a hometown discount?

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Nov 18, 2008 10:22 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Also on ESPN1000 Chicago just now

during the 10:20 Sportscentre update, through Bruuuuuuuuce Levine…

Sweet Lou for Mayor in '11.

by blackhawk24 on Nov 18, 2008 10:23 AM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Sounds like 4/52 is right

Sounds a bit much and year too long but meh, what are ya gonna do?

Go All In and Enjoy The Ride.

by Jayo525 on Nov 18, 2008 10:33 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Yeah, this is pretty much how I feel.

Look, Demp wasn’t going to take less than four years and the dollar amount is simply what the market is demanding. Will Ryan go on to disappoint us? Maybe. Then again, his pitching repetoire aside, he’s always struck me as a very smart, focused, honest individual. So I think there’s a good chance that he’ll stay in shape and find ways to adjust as he gets older. And, yes, my glass is half full.

"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 18, 2008 10:53 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Also

Also this is being reported in Texas where they really want him got an email from my friend in Dallas.

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

by cubstoseriesby100 on Nov 18, 2008 10:25 AM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Well, that seals the deal.

Ryan Dempster is a Cub!

"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 18, 2008 10:32 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Thats the ticket!

Great job ace!, hell of a scoop.

by StevenABQ on Nov 18, 2008 12:14 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

4 years, $52 million is insane for Ryan Dempster

I just hope you people remember your strong endorsement for this deal with Ryan Dempster is just as likely to go something like 9-14 with a 4.75 ERA next season. Stupid, stupid, stupid move.

The added pisser is that this big dollar deal shall significantly impinge on the rest of Hendry’s offseason objectives unless he is able to shave a few other salaries. You can bet the ranch Jim Hendry is going to now be shopping in a cheaper bin for the left-handed hitter on his shopping list.

Kevin Gregg, Ryan Dempster and a reasonably priced left-handed hitter should be the end of Hendry’s offseason additions. Other than moving a couple of spare pieces out.

BCB, home of the insidious campaign of the clueless to "Dustyfy" an outstanding manager in Lou Piniella.

by MDBNIU on Nov 18, 2008 10:32 AM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I agree with you

I don’t care how good of a clubhouse guy Dempster is, if this deal is $13 per year for 4 years, it is too much.

by rlpete on Nov 18, 2008 10:34 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Will you admit

Will you just admit you were wrong about him going into 2008?

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

by cubstoseriesby100 on Nov 18, 2008 10:38 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

ok, so before, you said

Nov 15, 2008 11:19 PM CST

“But if the bidding is going to get north of 4 years and $50 million for Ryan Dempster???? Well then I’m sorry I think the Cubs have to think very seriously about taking a pass and looking at other options.”

Is $52 million over four years REALLY that much different than $50 million over four years?

Essentially, the Cubs hit your (personal, unsubstantiated) limit with Demp, and have hopefully locked up arguably their most consistent, best pitcher of the 97-win 2008 season… and you’re moving the goal posts.

Would $40 million have been too much?
$30 million?

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Nov 18, 2008 10:39 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

IMO...

… its not just the dollars, its the length of the deal. But moreso, its this deal on top of a ton of dollars guarenteed to a few guys by the Cubs. People need to understand that unless the new owner is willing to expand the budget well beyond $150M the Cubs are not going to be able to make many moves.

by dmlichte on Nov 18, 2008 10:42 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I would think

that somehow, other dollars will be moved. Hopefully Marquis, for example. And there’s been a lot of discussion about expanding the budget…

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Nov 18, 2008 10:53 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

the budget...

… will be expanded slightly. Crane Kenney has said that. He and Hendry have said not to expect a major acquisition. The budget has to be expanded, though, if only to be able to field a team. The contracts to almost every player on the Cubs are backloaded and now they start to pay the piper.

As for guys being moved, I agree that Marquis may be moved. Beyond that, Lee, Ramirez, Soriano, and others aren’t going anywhere.

by dmlichte on Nov 18, 2008 11:32 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Hendry has almost assured...

…the new owner will need to get the payroll north of 150 mil if all needs are going to be addressed with first rate players. I do like Dempster’s attitude and the way he busted his ass this offseason to get in top notch shape and I don’t think he will lax in this area. What bothers me a bit about the deal is the years and not the money, as 4 years is a significant committment to a 31 year old with only one real good year on his resume. With that said, you have to keep the pitching staff strong and unless Dempster just falls apart, this should help.

With Zell saying they are pushing to sell the club very quickly, you may get a glimpse into what the new owner will spend, because I am sure Kenney is going to have to run expenditures by the prospective new owner as a courtesy.

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

by MPH73 on Nov 18, 2008 5:08 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Screw you mambochicken

BCB, home of the insidious campaign of the clueless to "Dustyfy" an outstanding manager in Lou Piniella.

by MDBNIU on Nov 18, 2008 11:12 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

oooh, a new word.

Now, how about backing up your inane statements, Mike?

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Nov 18, 2008 11:16 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Fuck you mambochicken

You’re a defective human being. You don’t know jack scratch about this team and have made it your life sport to have horseshit response to every single one of my posts.

BCB, home of the insidious campaign of the clueless to "Dustyfy" an outstanding manager in Lou Piniella.

by MDBNIU on Nov 18, 2008 11:20 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

This is really inappropriate...

You may vehemently disagree with him, but please try to be remotely civil. I think you’re way out of line here.

by SouthernCub on Nov 18, 2008 11:23 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

You've clearly got some rage issues, 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 18, 2008 11:24 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

you know

you could just say “I’ve changed my mind, he’s not even worth 4/50” and at least that would be a reasonable statement.

You could say “wow, I’ve read articles that say that the Yanks aren’t really going after Peavy, but I still don’t think the Cubs have what it takes to get him in a trade”.

You could say “I was wrong”.

Almost all of the rest of us here have said something like that. I used to think that Ronny Cedeno was a terrible player, and I thought that Dome was the coming hurricane that would push the Cubs over the edge to the post season and beyond. But consistently, you’ve spouted off a bunch of bull about:

Soriano
Pie
Wood
Dempster
Peavy

Hell, you were even wrong about how much it would take to get Harden on the Cubs, and then, he wasn’t the ace you insisted he was!

And all the while, practically fellating other teams managers and players, and being an utter pr!ck to other Cubs fans.

Get help. And when you’re done, come back and actually defend what you say, rather than simply repeating it over and over again, and never acknowledging that you are consistently and continually wrong.

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Nov 18, 2008 11:26 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Fuck you mambochicken

BCB, home of the insidious campaign of the clueless to "Dustyfy" an outstanding manager in Lou Piniella.

by MDBNIU on Nov 18, 2008 11:27 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

...still doesn't get it

Flagged. I care for the constant, dissenting opinion, but not for stuff like this.

Fukudometer: Created 3/31/08 Wrigley Debut 4/5/08 WGN and Japan TV Debut 4/6/08 Sun Times Debut: 4/20/08 Coffee Table Debut: 7/17/08 (http://www.wearecubsfans.com)

by Fuk-U-Meter on Nov 18, 2008 11:29 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

It's like he's daring Al to ban him.

"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 18, 2008 11:29 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Al can ban me

I have made my position clear. This drewish mambochicken hangs around here for the singular purpose to flame my posts. If Al wants to ban me, then fine.

BCB, home of the insidious campaign of the clueless to "Dustyfy" an outstanding manager in Lou Piniella.

by MDBNIU on Nov 18, 2008 11:30 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Flaming?

I hardly call that flaming.

Fukudometer: Created 3/31/08 Wrigley Debut 4/5/08 WGN and Japan TV Debut 4/6/08 Sun Times Debut: 4/20/08 Coffee Table Debut: 7/17/08 (http://www.wearecubsfans.com)

by Fuk-U-Meter on Nov 18, 2008 11:31 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Yeah, compared to MDBINU deliberately inciting and insulting people

Obviously drewish doesn’t like MDBINU, but I’ve never seen him do anything other than make relatively reasonable replies to him.

by Wreckard on Nov 18, 2008 11:34 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Allow me to expand your vocabulary a bit...

ignore |igˈnôr|
verb [ trans. ]
refuse to take notice of or acknowledge; disregard intentionally : he ignored her outraged question. See note at neglect .
• fail to consider (something significant) : direct satellite broadcasting ignores national boundaries.
• Law (of a grand jury) reject (an indictment) as groundless.

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

by DeRoMyHero on Nov 18, 2008 11:33 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I'm waiting for Al to take the dare.

Impatiently waiting, that is….

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

by DeRoMyHero on Nov 18, 2008 11:31 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

It's not a dare

I have made my position on drewish mambochicken perfectly clear for months.

BCB, home of the insidious campaign of the clueless to "Dustyfy" an outstanding manager in Lou Piniella.

by MDBNIU on Nov 18, 2008 11:31 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Your position is besides the point.

Your language is the dare.

"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 18, 2008 11:32 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

There is simple solution that heretofore has been ignored

The drewish mambochicken can cease responding to my posts. I ceased responding to him months ago. But that hasn’t stopped the whiny Woody Allen clone. Nope. He keeps popping up and responding to my stuff like a bad hemmoroid.

BCB, home of the insidious campaign of the clueless to "Dustyfy" an outstanding manager in Lou Piniella.

by MDBNIU on Nov 18, 2008 11:35 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I've done one better....I've ignored him

But the results on his end continue to be the same.

BCB, home of the insidious campaign of the clueless to "Dustyfy" an outstanding manager in Lou Piniella.

by MDBNIU on Nov 18, 2008 11:36 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

You just don't like being called on your assertions...

and you lack the civil discourse to discuss issues in a rational manner. You are an easy target.

Jimmyeatworld

by Jimmyeatworld on Nov 18, 2008 11:38 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Could you please explain

how replying “F$$$ you mambochicken” can be termed “ignoring” him?

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

by DeRoMyHero on Nov 18, 2008 11:38 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Not only that

He’s actually replied that to others, including me, that weren’t even responding to him.

Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson

by Shanghai Badger on Nov 18, 2008 12:25 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

really?

I’m gonna be insulted if this epithet isn’t an exclusive…

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Nov 18, 2008 12:27 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

oh, that's right.

he thinks you’re my sock-puppet. Or vice-versa.

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Nov 18, 2008 12:28 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Not so much me

The one that has the Nats “Racing Teddy Roosevelt” for the avatar — I forget who that is.

Actually, if he thinks you and I are one and the same, he’s really whacked, because I’ve actually quasi-defended him to you on occasion. Sometimes I wonder why . . .

Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson

by Shanghai Badger on Nov 18, 2008 12:29 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I don't think saying

F-you mambochicken is exactly “ignoring”. Unless my definition is somehow as defective as your logic.

by storkysm on Nov 18, 2008 12:08 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I agree

MDB with your take on Dempster , But Spare us the profanity.

by NYCUB FAN on Nov 19, 2008 6:22 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

bad hemmorhoid?

do you really need that adjective in there? Thanks, though, for the “cleaned up” response…many of us at work or should be working

Fukudometer: Created 3/31/08 Wrigley Debut 4/5/08 WGN and Japan TV Debut 4/6/08 Sun Times Debut: 4/20/08 Coffee Table Debut: 7/17/08 (http://www.wearecubsfans.com)

by Fuk-U-Meter on Nov 18, 2008 11:36 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

but you haven't.

And I’ll respond to the posts I want to, in a reasonable and unprofane manner.

You don’t get to try to control my behavior, Mike. You have to control yours.

I still want to know if you really think there’s a substantive difference between 4 years at $50mill, which you seemed to think was ok on Nov 15, 2008 11:19 PM CST, and 4 years at $52mill, which you are railing against now.

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Nov 18, 2008 11:39 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

The guaranteed money will probably be $50 mil. or below...

I’m willing to bet that there are a ton of incentives in it that take it up over $50 million to close to $52 million.

Jimmyeatworld

by Jimmyeatworld on Nov 18, 2008 11:41 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I agree.

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Nov 18, 2008 11:43 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

You guys

all sound like a bunch of damn babies, grow the fuck up.

"Chicago Cubs fans are ninety percent scar tissue" - George F. Will

by tizzle on Nov 18, 2008 12:27 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Ladies and Gentlemen

The voice of maturity. “Grow the fuck up”

Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson

by Shanghai Badger on Nov 18, 2008 12:28 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   1 recs

'rec'd haha

To see your idol player whom you have grown up watching be cast aside by his loyal organization can make even a grown man choke up...We'll miss you #34!

by Chanman25 on Nov 19, 2008 4:24 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

eh?

I sound like a baby for wanting him to explain his seeming contradiction?

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Nov 18, 2008 12:28 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Yes

you do, and he is right to an extent. Every time he posts, you come by with a comment that totally goes against what he says, no matter what it is. And I think you do it just to piss him off.

"Chicago Cubs fans are ninety percent scar tissue" - George F. Will

by tizzle on Nov 18, 2008 12:35 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Well....

You are right to an extent, and I have commented to Drew on that. I do think sometimes he reacts to the poster more than the post when it’s BM.

However, I do agree with Drew to an extent, too. Blue Mike rarely, if ever, defends his assertions when he’s called on them.

And, the tone of your post wasn’t going to calm anyone down.

Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson

by Shanghai Badger on Nov 18, 2008 12:38 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

my first post

wasn’t meant to calm anyone down, i was simply commenting to show them how stupid they sound fighting all the time.

"Chicago Cubs fans are ninety percent scar tissue" - George F. Will

by tizzle on Nov 18, 2008 12:41 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Poor choice of words on my part

You weren’t likely to make your point that way . . . and it seems you didn’t.

Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson

by Shanghai Badger on Nov 18, 2008 12:41 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

obviously lol

"Chicago Cubs fans are ninety percent scar tissue" - George F. Will

by tizzle on Nov 18, 2008 12:42 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

utterly untrue.

First of all, I let tons of BM posts go by, because they’re so often repetitive. But it wasn’t ten days ago that he was asserting that 4/50 was the boundary for Demp; I think it’s reasonable to ask him why somehow 4/52 is the end of the world.

Secondly, he’s not very nice to the people around him. That ticks me off. But I work hard to not call him names, and to ask him questions that are reasonable for him to answer.

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Nov 18, 2008 12:40 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

 You say he never admits when he is wrong, yet you can’t admit that you wait for him to post something that you can try to tear apart. Come on man, its pretty clear.

"Chicago Cubs fans are ninety percent scar tissue" - George F. Will

by tizzle on Nov 18, 2008 12:45 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I can't admit it

because I can’t admit something that isn’t true.

I post plenty that isn’t BM related, and I post plenty that is. He’s prolific, and he says controversial things. But by no means do I stalk or chase him, nor do I wait for him to post. I’d be perfectly happy for him to leave, and perfectly happy for him to stay. I do wish he’d answer questions. Blogs like this depend on conversation, not [expletive] mambochicken.

He sets the tone for responses.

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Nov 18, 2008 12:53 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I

never said you stalk him. I just said I think you take pleasure in tearing his posts apart. Then after you do, you ask questions that come off very condescending sometimes.

"Chicago Cubs fans are ninety percent scar tissue" - George F. Will

by tizzle on Nov 18, 2008 12:57 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

really?

I almost never mean to be.

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Nov 18, 2008 12:57 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

So

I cant blame him for not responding to them all the time.

"Chicago Cubs fans are ninety percent scar tissue" - George F. Will

by tizzle on Nov 18, 2008 12:57 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

it's the fact that he NEVER responds...

that is the annoying thing. MDBNIU states things in a very condescending manner as if he knows all. Then, when he is wrong (which is frequent as is the case for EVERYONE on this board) he never is willing to discuss it.

Granted, I think drew takes it a bit far sometimes, but not to the degree to warrant the response MDBNIU gives.

by SouthernCub on Nov 18, 2008 1:43 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

You're tired Drew

more tired than BM. He’s just stating his opinion, like most of us do. I agree with him, like many of us do, that 4/50 is too much for Demp.

All these flare-ups are caused by YOU…he’s only ever reacting to YOU starting it!

Demp and Rich: proof that people that live in igloos and say "eh" can contibute!

by Canadian Cubs Fan on Nov 18, 2008 1:45 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

That's a bit overstated, don'tcha think?

"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 18, 2008 1:51 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

FROM YOU, OKAY?!?

I LEARNED IT FROM WATCHING YOU!!!!

If you do a search on BlueMike’s posts, you will see that he frequently responds with profanity and derision to multiple people. He’s got a history here, and he never quite figures out how to make up the ground.

And I slept fine last night, I dunno why you think I’m tired.

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Nov 18, 2008 1:53 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

mmmmm

nope.

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Nov 18, 2008 1:54 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Parents who bait BM

Have kids who bait BM.

What do I win for getting the reference?

Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson

by Shanghai Badger on Nov 18, 2008 1:56 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I got it, too.

I was just too busy shooting heroin to respond.

"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 18, 2008 1:57 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I guess I picked the wrong day to stop sniffing glue.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Nov 18, 2008 1:58 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

a Klondike Bar

just take this certificate and $2.50 down to your local 7-11.

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Nov 18, 2008 2:01 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

You're glib, Matt. You're glib.

"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 18, 2008 1:56 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Wait..."whiny Woody Allen clone"?

I’m not sure how I missed that the first time around. I’d like to hear an explanation.

"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 18, 2008 11:57 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I'm from New York.

Apparently, that’s what matters.

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Nov 18, 2008 11:58 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

That probably explains it.

I’m almost afraid to go any deeper into his mind.

"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 18, 2008 12:00 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I don't get it

what’s this “mambochicken”?

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

by DTJchris on Nov 18, 2008 12:06 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

that, I've no idea.

You’ll have to ask him. However, given his track record for actually answering questions, I would advise you to not hold your breath.

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Nov 18, 2008 12:07 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

ok, I felt like I was missing something

Hey, BM, what’s this mambochicken thing?

Holding breath now…

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

by DTJchris on Nov 18, 2008 12:25 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

prepare

for CPR…

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Nov 18, 2008 12:29 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

ah screw it

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

by DTJchris on Nov 18, 2008 12:29 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I bet your hiccups are gone, though, 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 18, 2008 12:30 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

actually, now that you mention it

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

by DTJchris on Nov 18, 2008 12:32 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I laughed at that, no clue what the heck that is

and man I did NOT intend for this thread to be like this haha

To see your idol player whom you have grown up watching be cast aside by his loyal organization can make even a grown man choke up...We'll miss you #34!

by Chanman25 on Nov 18, 2008 12:13 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Its from a book

Sci fi — imagination meets reality kind of reference.

by StevenABQ on Nov 18, 2008 12:19 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

mambochicken

Is another BCB poster (or former poster). Blue Mike thinks that’s one of at least two alter-egos for Drew.

Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson

by Shanghai Badger on Nov 18, 2008 12:26 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

boy

was I off, I thought it was a weird reference coming from BM…who is pretty steeped between fantasy and reality most of the time…I guess I just assumed he was calling the kettle black.

by StevenABQ on Nov 18, 2008 12:33 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Looks like he's gone silent

This is who our hero is referring to

Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson

by Shanghai Badger on Nov 18, 2008 12:35 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

maybe he's referring to one of these?

from the first chapter:

The goal was complete omnipotence: the power to remake humanity, earth, the universe at large…If the universe isn’t good enough for you, then remake it, from the ground up.

Sounds appropriate for BM.

"...the internet is not something you just dump something on. It's not a truck. It's a series of tubes." - Sen. Ted Stevens

by bobby h on Nov 18, 2008 1:10 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Pitching is the king of his universe.

"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 18, 2008 1:16 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I LIKE it

Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson

by Shanghai Badger on Nov 18, 2008 1:31 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

boy this convo

got real skinny real fast

by Emelie on Nov 18, 2008 3:05 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

TWSS

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 18, 2008 3:06 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

And here, I thought there was going to be 400 posts on Dempster re-signing.

Silly me.

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 18, 2008 5:49 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

We needed another starter

Find me another starter with the potential to be even league-average for that kind of money.

by Wreckard on Nov 18, 2008 11:10 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Sean Marshall

for 13 million less, will likely be league average

by DartmouthCubsFan on Nov 18, 2008 11:12 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Factor in the opportunity cost there though

Moving Marshall into the rotation costs you more than just money – you also lose depth in your bullpen. Now we’d only have one left reliever and only one legit backup starter / swingman.

by Wreckard on Nov 18, 2008 11:19 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I think you could make a case for that.

But you’re also getting a marginal gain from Dempster – even if you expect his numbers to regress, which they will, he’s still a better pitcher than Marshall.

by Wreckard on Nov 18, 2008 11:24 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I'd say the marginal gain is not nearly worth the marginal cost...

which is why I think it’s a bad deal. I certainly hope I’m wrong.

by SouthernCub on Nov 18, 2008 11:25 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

that's my whole argument

and for what you’re arguing is just ONE year

that same argument can be spread out over 4 years (the life of such contract) and we’re talking about spending $48-50 Million more on Dempster than Marshall. Given a reasonable assumption that Marshall would IMPROVE at age 25 and Dempster would DECLINE at age 32-35, I think the marginal gain gap narrows every year

by DartmouthCubsFan on Nov 18, 2008 11:27 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

The problem is Marshall can't go 180 innings

let alone 150.

And you have no idea how many Harden will go.

And Z and Lilly have been durable suspiciously too long.

Marshall would be good for most teams as a starter, but not for our rotation.

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 18, 2008 5:55 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

How do you know Marshall can't go 180 innings?

Yes, I am aware he has never done so. But that doesn’t mean he couldn’t.

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

by Al on Nov 18, 2008 9:44 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

he might be able to

I’m more worried he cant keep his era under 5.00, marshall will get pounded in a regular role IMO

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 19, 2008 12:22 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

It's never a good idea to add more than 30 innings to a pitcher's workload from year to year

especially with guys who have injury problems.

Marshall may be able to go 180 some year. Not next 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 19, 2008 6:52 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Marshall was a reliever this past year...

so counting his innings isn’t really appropriate. We know fully well that their workload is much higher than the inning counts due to warming up and then not entering the game so often.

Further, relievers increase their workload by more than 30 innings whenever they become starters (see Ryan Dempster or John Smoltz, for example).

by SouthernCub on Nov 20, 2008 10:07 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I agree

this had to be done. now go out and swing a deal for Peavy. the starting rotation would be SICK.

by DunstontoSandbergtoGrace on Nov 18, 2008 12:56 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

And just last

night on CTL Phil Rogers said he didn’t think Dempster would be signed by anyone until later next month. Will be interesting to see if any of these reports are correct.

by sue369 on Nov 18, 2008 10:35 AM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Phil Rogers

My dogs water dish is more accurate than Rogers. But Rogers also said the other day he doesn’t think the door is closed all the way on Wood. So hope he’s half right.

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

by cubstoseriesby100 on Nov 18, 2008 10:39 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I have to say

when I found out about Woody, I was disconsolate. I couldn’t bring myself to even comment about it. I hope he comes back.

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Nov 18, 2008 10:40 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   1 recs

+10000

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Nov 18, 2008 10:41 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I'm not saying I believe

anything said by Rogers. It was more about how many different things are being said about the same subject.

by sue369 on Nov 18, 2008 11:01 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

If this is true...

We can lay to rest the Peavy rumors…One would think. I don’t see how they possibly give up the farm for him with Demp coming back. And I highly doubt they seriously pursue the BU now that they have Z, Lilly, Demp, Harden set.

by DMCub on Nov 18, 2008 10:40 AM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I think it does

which is why Towers was pushing to get it done soon. Taking one of his best alternatives off the table weakens his hand.

by rlpete on Nov 18, 2008 10:45 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I agree

It will be interesting to what the Braves do with their offer that was supposedly rescinded?

by DMCub on Nov 18, 2008 10:48 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Peavy/Johnson/Dempster

I thought the Cubs were going to try and get 2 of the 3. Johnson and Peavy or Dempster.

The best part of Dempster over Peavy is being able to hold on to the trading chips for Peavy for another deal.

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

by cubstoseriesby100 on Nov 18, 2008 10:59 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Maybe

But I think they would have to move Marquis in order to get either Peavy or RJ – either in a three team deal for Peavy – or in a trade somewhere else in order to sign Johnson.

by DMCub on Nov 18, 2008 11:02 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I wouldn't be surprised to see Marquis moved

and neither Johnson or Peavy acquired. That’s too much money in the rotation especially when you look at what Peavy’s salary jumps to next season.

by rlpete on Nov 18, 2008 11:05 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Me either

And quite frankly, I think that would be the prudent move. Keep our trade chips (we are already the low stack at the table) and let some of the young arms compete for the #5.

by DMCub on Nov 18, 2008 11:09 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Agreed

Couldn’t agree with you all more. Move Marquis and let some of the younger guys battle for the #5 spot. Marquis money can be used to better our chances of getting a LH bat.

by Tangled Up In Blue on Nov 18, 2008 11:18 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I agree with that on one level

- however, if the market for Peavy is tilted in our favor as much as it appears sometimes, you have to trade for him, because our trade chips are never going to get anything that good if you keep them.

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 18, 2008 7:26 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

As I've thought about Towers saying it might need to be a 4-team deal

I think Marquis’ contract plays into it – the Cubs need one team to get prospects and one more team to get salary relief.

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 18, 2008 7:24 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

BBBBBOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Too many year’s and too much money for a 1-year wonder.

Yep, he’s a great guy and everyone likes him. Blah, blah, blah. His regression back to what he really is will make this a bad deal. I do hope I am wrong, but I am not a fan of this. I’d rather have 2 years of Randy Johnson and Ben Sheets than 4 years of Dempster. And this ends the Cubs hopes to upgrade further. I hope this is no the end of the off-season, but it may very be.

by socalbob on Nov 18, 2008 10:40 AM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

"Regression"

Regression to the mean assumes that there is some magical “mean” that Dempster needs to regress to. Actually, he’s a changed pitcher with one or two new/better pitches, a new flakey hand movement during his stretch to confuse the batter, better exercise regiment, etc., etc. Pitchers and hitters adjust, and there might not be a static “mean” to regress to.

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Nov 18, 2008 10:44 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

that's your position and I repsect that

I think he will pitch more like he did in previous years. I get the changes he made. I just don’t think it will be sustainable. I wouldn’t be surprised to see him go 9-11 with a 4.29 ERA in 2009. Is that worth $13MM annually? That’s my point. I certainly would not expect him to be 17-6 with a 2.86 again. As I said, I hope I am wrong.

In my opinion, we will be viewing this signing like the D Lee contract. Some ridiculous number of BCB fans want to trade Lee today and thought his deal when he was a .330 46 HR guy was worth it. We’ll see.

by socalbob on Nov 18, 2008 10:52 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

not from me

De Ro wasn’t held in that regard by me. I thought his versatility, his age, and athletic background made the deal very reasonable. I liked the fact he worked with Jaramillo during his Rangers tenure as well. I even advocated last off-season moving him back to SS if they acquired Roberts because I have faith in him—he’s a very fine athlete. I understand what you are saying as there were sentiments in line with your post.

I think the dollars on Dempster could be spent more wisley. I hope I am wrong.

by socalbob on Nov 18, 2008 11:56 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I guess I consider the Demp signing (if it happens) as wise.

Watching the Braves this year was a huge lesson in the impossibility of piecing together a starting rotation on the fly.

I would much rather have guys who can take the ball every fifth day, even if their ERA is half a run higher than average. The Cubs led the league in runs scored last season; they just need pitchers who will give them innings and keep them in the game consistently.

Demp, Lilly, and Marquis have all shown that durability. Z was durable until last year, and his injury was only tendonitis. That means we only have Harden to worry about, and Sean Marshall can “buddy up” with him.

I would hate to let Demp walk, bring in A.J. (at higher dollars), trade Marquis to make salary room, then have Marshall as my #5 and Donald Veal covering for both Harden and A.J.

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

by DeRoMyHero on Nov 18, 2008 12:08 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

point understood

and I believe your rationale is how Hendry will be able to move Marquis. He takes the ball every 5th day and can give the pen some much needed rest. I really hope this isn’t one of those contracts that handcuffs Hendry a year or two from now. If we can’t re-sign Harden next year because of this contract, then I would have an issue with it—just saying.

by socalbob on Nov 18, 2008 12:14 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Probably the answer to your question lies in the details...

If it is $13M each year for four years, he will be tradable (barring injury) during the last half. If it is severely backloaded (i.e., $7M, $9M, $15M, $21M) it will be an albatross.

And since Hendry is usually in the mood, there will probably be a NTC to muck things up as well.

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

by DeRoMyHero on Nov 18, 2008 12:22 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

what happened to Gaudin?

isn’t he still on the team?

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Nov 18, 2008 12:14 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Rumor has it that Lou was not very happy with Gaudin

over his dumpster incident and cover-up. I’m not sure if he will be back or not, but I’m not counting on it for now.

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

by DeRoMyHero on Nov 18, 2008 12:17 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Ha ha ... you're not sure if he will be "back."

I see what you did there.

"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 18, 2008 12:17 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

lol

Well, Lou is unhappy with all SORTS of things for a team he says only needs some tweaks…

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Nov 18, 2008 12:30 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I"d have to think so

A professional athlete that falls off a curb and hits a dumpster? Late at night?

Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson

by Shanghai Badger on Nov 18, 2008 12:51 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I'm not sure whether he ever actually admitted it...

…but he was walking down a Chicago street late at night with a bunch of friends and fell into a dumpster. So…yes.

"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 18, 2008 12:52 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

rec'd.

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Nov 18, 2008 11:58 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I'll sec that rec.

"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 18, 2008 12:00 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I spec’d that my rec would get a sec rec in just a sec.

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Nov 18, 2008 12:01 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Well stated

I do expect somewhat of a regression by Demp, but you make a good point — what viable alternative is there?

Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson

by Shanghai Badger on Nov 18, 2008 12:32 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Great news.

I’m going to remember my endorsement of this deal, especially when Demp goes something like 14-8, with an ERA in the mid 3’s. Then I’ll remember the clowns who decried this signing, stating that the going rate for a pitcher of Demp’s caliber was simply too much- and we should weaken the rotation and pitching staff by letting him walk.

Blue, you’ll be unhappy to know that this signing for less than 5 years, and less than 60 million will allow Hendry to sign Woody back to a one or two year deal. The financial constraints are not as tight as you seem to believe. Let’s see what happens on the trade front now…

Jimmyeatworld

by Jimmyeatworld on Nov 18, 2008 10:43 AM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

as long as you're around

in 2010-2012 when he’s posting mid 4 ERA’s with a 1.40 WHIP and making $13 million a year to be a #4 starter

by DartmouthCubsFan on Nov 18, 2008 10:46 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

By then...
  1. starters will be making $25 million.

So quitcherbitchin

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Nov 18, 2008 10:47 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I agree with both of you! :-)

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Nov 18, 2008 10:48 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I know...

KHAN!!!!!!!!!

Jimmyeatworld

by Jimmyeatworld on Nov 18, 2008 10:49 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

This is like...

Hulk Hogan and the Iron Shiek teaming up!

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Nov 18, 2008 10:50 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Wait, I thought Worf was MY adversary!

"The object of a ball game for the fan is not to be entertained. It is to win." - Max Lapides

by CaliCub on Nov 18, 2008 12:55 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

really?

$25 million?

where are you coming up with this figure?

yeah maybe THE BEST SP in all of baseball, but do you really think the average salary for mid-rotation starters is going to be $25 million?

by DartmouthCubsFan on Nov 18, 2008 10:51 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Inflation, my boy!

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Nov 18, 2008 10:52 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

give me your inflation calculation

that reaches 100% in 3 years, while the rest of the world is in a deflationary environment

i’d love to see that one

by DartmouthCubsFan on Nov 18, 2008 10:53 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

MLB

is not like the rest of the world.

Sabathia already is getting 23.3 million as AN OPENING OFFER!

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Nov 18, 2008 10:55 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

from one team

that others are saying is way overbidding AND….

I’ve seen CC Sabathia’s track record, and Ryan Dempster is no CC Sabathia

by DartmouthCubsFan on Nov 18, 2008 10:56 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

No, but Sabathia

is getting that as an opener. In four years, that will be the standard for borderline #1-solid #2.

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Nov 18, 2008 10:57 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

you're using the best SP

to hit the FA market in years and using him as your standard for #2’s???

really?

Why not use the guys that are coming off of pitching like 2’s, not Cy Youngs.

by DartmouthCubsFan on Nov 18, 2008 10:59 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

thanks for the support

Meche got 11 million a year two years ago as a #3-4

Dempster is reportedly getting 13 a year as a #2

doesn’t sound like much inflation to me

by DartmouthCubsFan on Nov 18, 2008 11:06 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

No prob.

It was that whole group…

Zito and Schmidt got HUGE deals, Lilly, Meche, etc…got more reasonable deals that were in line with the market. I expect that to continue. A Meche/Lohse/Lilly guy might get 13 mil in 2012 rather than 11.

Brian McRae's 5 o'clock shadow

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Nov 18, 2008 12:01 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

that's what i suspect as well

i dont think inflation is revamping the game, much like many thought it would the Manny/ARod offseason

meanwhile he was one of only a handful of players making 20+ million, that deal was never a bargain. He had to perform at a very high level every year to earn that deal

by DartmouthCubsFan on Nov 18, 2008 12:05 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Are you not hearing the words that are coming out of my mouth?

IN FOUR YEARS, THE SALARY SCALE WILL BE DIFFERENT!!!!!

I’m about to revoke your talking priviledges!

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Nov 18, 2008 11:00 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

read above on Meche

2 years difference and the price has risen $2 million dollars for a pitcher coming off a significantly better season

by DartmouthCubsFan on Nov 18, 2008 11:06 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

deflationary

sounds gross but isn’t

Fukudometer: Created 3/31/08 Wrigley Debut 4/5/08 WGN and Japan TV Debut 4/6/08 Sun Times Debut: 4/20/08 Coffee Table Debut: 7/17/08 (http://www.wearecubsfans.com)

by Fuk-U-Meter on Nov 18, 2008 11:34 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Is "quitcherbitchin" the new "shut up"?

If so, I like it. In fact, I suggested naming a band that once, except I think I spelled it “Kwitcherbitchin.”

"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 18, 2008 10:55 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I'm actually thinking of something more polite.

“Sir, your talking priviledges have been suspended!”

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Nov 18, 2008 10:56 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Or perhaps:

“I’m taking away the talking stick!”

"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 18, 2008 10:57 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Those are all pretty good

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Nov 18, 2008 11:01 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I'm talkin' bout Shaft

Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson

by Shanghai Badger on Nov 18, 2008 12:38 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Damn 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 18, 2008 12:42 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

That Shaft is a mean ....

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 18, 2008 12:56 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

shut your mouth

sorry, had to be done

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

by DTJchris on Nov 18, 2008 4:01 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

That's how it started here....

Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson

by Shanghai Badger on Nov 18, 2008 8:28 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Actually, the line is -

They say that cat Shaft is a bad mother…..shut your mouth. But I’m talking about Shaft.
He’s a complicated man and no one understands him but his woman….John Shaft!

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Nov 18, 2008 4:09 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

That's the one I'm talking about

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 18, 2008 4:19 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Isaac Hayes aka Jerome McElroy aka Chef

RIP

"The object of a ball game for the fan is not to be entertained. It is to win." - Max Lapides

by CaliCub on Nov 18, 2008 10:54 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Chef

Now children, playing football is just like making love to a beautiful woman.

I will miss that voice.

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 19, 2008 12:22 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

The king of Hot Buttered Soul will be missed.

RIP Black Moses

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Nov 19, 2008 10:05 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Like Marquis?

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Nov 18, 2008 10:54 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I thought you said he wouldn't get an offer for 4/52...

I’m not confident he’ll get the ERA in the mid-3s (the w/l is irrelevant for discussion as it is team-based). I expect him to be a low-to-mid-4s ERA guy. I’ll be very happy to be wrong though.

As for financial constraints, a 4/52 is worse than a 5/60 in terms of re-signing Wood. Would would be on a short-term deal, so it’s the per-year dollars which would be relevant (and 4/52 is more per year than 5/60). Wood is VERY unlikely to return.

by SouthernCub on Nov 18, 2008 11:06 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

wow...

… this is mature. The funny thing is that all those people who were head over heals for the signings of guys like Soriano and Marquis never come back to give credit to those of us who were against the signings.

by dmlichte on Nov 18, 2008 11:35 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

no kidding....

we’ve been talking about the financial constraints we’d likely run up against for two years now, then when the organization admits its tight with money and can’t re-sign a key cog like Wood, everyone goes nuts

those of us that warned this would happen get forgotten….

such is the way things work today where feedback is graded as immediate and people don’t think longer-term than the next season

by DartmouthCubsFan on Nov 18, 2008 11:37 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

wait...

I thought Woody wasn’t resigned because Lou didn’t want him, not because of financial issues. Woody would have taken a one year deal for a few million (don’t remember the exact number), I thought.

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Nov 18, 2008 11:40 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Who are these people

these people who aren’t giving you credit for being right on the internet about one thing 2-3 years ago

by Wreckard on Nov 18, 2008 11:50 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Ungrateful bastids.

"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 18, 2008 11:53 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Hi Em!

Haven’t seen you around much lately.

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

by DeRoMyHero on Nov 18, 2008 6:48 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

lurking, mostly

and enjoying the postulating…

by Emelie on Nov 19, 2008 2:27 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

you're missing the damn point

I don’t need nor want any credit. I’ve been right about more than one thing and I’ve been wrong about more than one thing. But I love the “I’m going to come back and rub it in your face” crap when we all know damn well that this same type of person is going to remain amazingly silent on the issue if a.) Dempster regresses to his career averages or b.) the Cubs suddenly have no money to make improvements.

I am fully willing to acknowledge that Dempster may prove to earn this contract, but there is a real basis for the other side of the coin on this one and thats not being readily acknowledged.

by dmlichte on Nov 18, 2008 12:04 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

That's fair.

Especially when those certain people in question are wrong so often and fail to acknowledge any counterpoints people have.

by Wreckard on Nov 18, 2008 12:15 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

i'm not a fan

way too much money and years for a guy with practically zero track record

I like Ryan, I appreciate a tremendous career season and I appreciate the antics he brings. Seems like a genuinely good character

just wish he made his big bucks somewhere else and we collected draft picks and signed someone with more certainty attached to their track record

by DartmouthCubsFan on Nov 18, 2008 10:48 AM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I'm so-so.

I’d be more against this if I didn’t have Kyle Lohse’s signing fresh in my memory.

On the other hand, if we find out Hendry COULD have gotten Peavy but didn’t because he preferred Dempster, then I’ll be a bit more disappointed.

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 18, 2008 7:32 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Good move!

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Nov 18, 2008 10:48 AM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Demp

In a way, I am glad he is resigning. I like Dempster and like having him on this team. However, I do not like the numbers on the contract. Dempster better have another good season or two because if he doesn’t, he may be boo’d out of Wrigley before this contract is over. Maybe not though… but I do fear some high ERA’s.

by TheHawkRules on Nov 18, 2008 10:53 AM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

well...

his career ERA is 4.55

so start with the expectation that he’ll likely be around that range for the next 4 years

http://www.baseball-reference.com/d/dempsry01.shtml

by DartmouthCubsFan on Nov 18, 2008 10:55 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Me likes this move... A lot

Dempster was really really really good in all but two games last year (sox @ the Cell and Dodgers) THere is no reason to think that he wont continue his workout regimen that has kept him in tip top shape that made him such an effective pitcher…

I think we only really need that LH bat now and maybe thew Big Unit if we can move Marquids. But i am happy.. Our rotation was a strong part of our club last year and it looks like it will stay that way.

Count me as an optimist

"I played with one of the best pitchers in history, Greg Maddux," Zambrano said"

by fischisgod on Nov 18, 2008 10:56 AM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

there are plenty of reasons to think he won't continue to be in tip top shape

reportedly about 52 million reasons….

the guy NEVER worked this hard before and it happened to come in a contract season, so why are we all assuming he’s going to keep working this hard when he didn’t for his other 9 years in the bigs

by DartmouthCubsFan on Nov 18, 2008 10:58 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I mean, this is maybe way off...

But MAYBE he LIKED being a top-tier pitcher an pitching in the all-star game…I mean, I’m sure some guys enjoy the success and that is why they are willing to put in the work…Sounds CRAZY though, I know…

Brian McRae's 5 o'clock shadow

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Nov 18, 2008 11:00 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

he had success before

he went to the All Star game, why didn’t he work hard then?

by DartmouthCubsFan on Nov 18, 2008 11:01 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

He was much younger then.

Growing up, getting married, having kids and, yes, getting a taste of what it’s like to be an elite pitcher…these things can mature a person.

"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 18, 2008 11:09 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

i suppose

but aren’t we going on a whole lot of “faith” and a lot less of what’s been produced in the past?

isn’t that kind of a recipe for disaster?

by DartmouthCubsFan on Nov 18, 2008 11:11 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Well, we as fans usually have little more to go on than faith (and perhaps statistics).

I would guess that Jim Hendry and Lou have been able to glean a lot more about Demp’s attitude and willingness to stay in shape from interacting with him. FWIW, I can definitely see the logic in letting Demp walk for the draft picks and looking for more creative ways to fill out the rotation, but I don’t think Jimbo ever seriously considered doing that. To be honest, I’m just happy he apparently has kept the contract length under five years.

"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 18, 2008 11:16 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Last year

is the past too. And last year, he REALLY produced.

Look at Geo Soto. Last year, he kicked butt. Four years ago, he was projected as a so-so player. And this year, he’s NL ROY.

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Nov 18, 2008 11:17 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

you're comparing

a developing player/prospect to an established major league player with 9 years of major league data to evaluate

its not apples to apples

for the most part veteran players don’t have HUGE improvements that then are maintained, especially past the age of 30. We’re paying him as if we expect him to do exactly what he did last year for the next four, and i don’t think that’s a reasonable expectation (its based off of throwing 9 years of data out the window and focusing on just one)

by DartmouthCubsFan on Nov 18, 2008 11:20 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I don't know if I expect him to do exactly what he did last year.

But I do expect him to be closer to that than previously. He’s remade himself as a starting pitcher. I’m not sure you can use his closing years as that good of a comparison, and he doesn’t pitch anything like he did back when he was a starter the first time.

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Nov 18, 2008 11:29 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

he would certainly

be an exception to the rule then

most players don’t come close to “re-inventing themselves” and becoming completely different levels of players at age 31

some do it for a season, but they usually revert to the previous (extended) set of data

by DartmouthCubsFan on Nov 18, 2008 11:33 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

ok.

Well, we’ll see, right?

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Nov 18, 2008 11:34 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I hope you're wrong too.

:D I love baseball…

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Nov 18, 2008 11:40 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

unfortunately

if i am right, no one will care. we’ll just bitch about how to correct it

same thing has happened with Marquis and Soriano as DML noted above.

by DartmouthCubsFan on Nov 18, 2008 11:41 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

well

I don’t think that Soriano is the disaster that other people do. And I’ve come around on Marquis some. He did well in the second half.

I do think that the back-loaded contracts are a bad situation for us to be in, but when you build a team to WIN NOW…

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Nov 18, 2008 11:42 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Built to win now

You’re right – therein lies the problem. To those against the deal, there are valid reasons to feel that way. But the way that the team is constituted, not to mention Hendry wanting to keep his job, they need to stay competitive and avoid a rebuilding year.

So, without a viable in-house candidate to step up in 2009, this signing is probably necessary.

Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson

by Shanghai Badger on Nov 18, 2008 12:44 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

i don't disagree

with needing to sign someone from FA, because we’re built to win now.

I disagree with who the choice was. I believe there’s more certainty in Lowe’s production for next year than Dempsters AND i believe there’s less long-term risk is signing someone like Johnson

by DartmouthCubsFan on Nov 18, 2008 12:49 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

A reasonable argument

Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson

by Shanghai Badger on Nov 18, 2008 12:50 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Except

I don’t think Lowe is a serious option unless you significantly overpay. I’m not sure about the Johnson possibility but he would be a safe option.

by rlpete on Nov 18, 2008 12:56 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

And signing

a Lowe, Burnett, RJ, Penny, Sheets is still a significant gamble in itself. Basically there are only a few “safe bets” when it comes to signing a pitcher (and I am not saying you are advocating signing any of the aforementioned).

So, I say you have to go on a combination of “faith” and what has been produced in the past…and for the record – I do think we are paying too much for Dempster, but I also think we will be better off than signing one of the above, or trading for Peavy.

by DMCub on Nov 18, 2008 11:19 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Lowe

has an established track record of his performance that is in a tight range. It’s reasonable to expect him to perform close to what he’s done the last 3 years.

Dempster’s range is MASSIVE, the possible outcomes here are vast and I think we just saw the high end this past season.

I’d much rather have had Lowe or RJ (the benefits of RJ being its a 1 year deal and doesn’t tie up future finances to a team already struggling to meet current financial demands)

by DartmouthCubsFan on Nov 18, 2008 11:21 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Lowe/RJ

I wouldn’t have a problem with RJ for one year. I would be somewhat weary of signing a guy for multiple years, who will be 36 this year…and who made 10 mil last year.

by DMCub on Nov 18, 2008 11:42 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Don't forget

Getting hammered at Guthrie’s w/ the locals!

Go All In and Enjoy The Ride.

by Jayo525 on Nov 18, 2008 11:15 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

isn't it just possible

that he’s changed? In a year, he went from being a worrisome closer to being a beloved starting pitcher. That’s a big deal. I can’t imagine he wants to stop being that guy.

I’m totally different from the way I was four years ago. It does happen.

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Nov 18, 2008 11:10 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

its possible

but as i just wrote above do you want us making decisions based on faith rather than previous track record

by DartmouthCubsFan on Nov 18, 2008 11:11 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I guess I just don't understand

why his previous track record doesn’t include last year.

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Nov 18, 2008 11:18 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

It does...

it’s just not limited to ONLY last year, which is what the ardent supporters seem to be suggesting.

by SouthernCub on Nov 18, 2008 11:20 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

it does

and his Career ERA, INCLUDING LAST YEAR, is now 4.55

by DartmouthCubsFan on Nov 18, 2008 11:22 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

No need to

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 18, 2008 7:06 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

4/52

This is the going rate for pitching right now in this free agent market. If Hendry doesn’t sign Dempster to this deal and sticks to the 4/50 principal that some on this site suggested, and Dempster would have signed elsewhere for 4/55, for sake of argument, we would have called for Hendry’s head.

These things have a way of working themselves out. There are good contracts and bad contracts. The Cubs aren’t the only team with both examples on the roster. I don’t think we can say, right now, that this is a good or bad deal for Dempster. Let’s revisit in a season or two.

IMHO I am glad Hendry was able to retain one of our own guys. I am willing to bet there is another team out there who would have gladly paid Dempster more. All I will say right now is, good news for a good guy. Congrats to Dempster and I hope that he continues his 2008 form.

by Tangled Up In Blue on Nov 18, 2008 11:16 AM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I'll think we'll find this to be a bit below market when the off-season's done.

Remeber the Aramis contract? It seemed so high. Not so much now. Compared to Kyle Lohse’s deal, I think this is a bit undermarket.

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 18, 2008 7:38 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

LOOK at Ryan Dempster's career....

LOOK at each year of his career. Focus on the WHIP. Look at all those hits and walks. Ryan Dempster had a career year for the ages in 2008. I’m not saying he can’t remain a decent starting pitcher, but you don’t pay decent starting pitchers $52 friggin million !!!

The SMART move would have been to wave bye-bye and take chances with Sean Marshall augmented by a reclamation project. Either that or go for broke on a superior pitcher in Jake Peavy.

Hope you all are happy too, because the only move left in Jim Hendry’s offseason plan after paying this sort of money for Dempster is to acquire a “meh” type left handed hitter.

BCB, home of the insidious campaign of the clueless to "Dustyfy" an outstanding manager in Lou Piniella.

by MDBNIU on Nov 18, 2008 11:18 AM CST reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Reclamation project

We haven’t had much success with those lately (see Miller, Wade; Trachsel, Steve; Fox, Chad; heck, even Lieber, Jon).

by John Q Freejazz on Nov 18, 2008 11:21 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

If choice is between $52 million on Dempster versus a few million on something like Carl Pavano and Sean Marshall???

Choice is easy then.

BCB, home of the insidious campaign of the clueless to "Dustyfy" an outstanding manager in Lou Piniella.

by MDBNIU on Nov 18, 2008 11:22 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Carl Pavano?

hah…no..

To see your idol player whom you have grown up watching be cast aside by his loyal organization can make even a grown man choke up...We'll miss you #34!

by Chanman25 on Nov 18, 2008 11:26 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

You get the point though

I’m not saying Carl Pavano is the answer. But I am much more willing to take a flyer on somebody, or invest in a one year deal on Randy Johnson, then dish out $52 million on Dempster.

BCB, home of the insidious campaign of the clueless to "Dustyfy" an outstanding manager in Lou Piniella.

by MDBNIU on Nov 18, 2008 11:29 AM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Maybe if Duncan were out pitching coach

Rothschild and the Cub organization have created more reclamation projects than they have saved.

by dr stabbingworth on Nov 18, 2008 12:57 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Next to Hendry...

…if there is anyone in the Cub’s organization who should be labled “teflon”, it’s Rothschild.

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

by MPH73 on Nov 18, 2008 5:15 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

What, you think you know more than Larry Rothschild with all his years of experience in the game?

Just kidding…

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 18, 2008 7:42 PM CST to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs