abreu?
by hapa17 on Nov 3, 2008 4:50 PM CST
112 comments
mlbtraderumors.com is projecting bobby abreu could be a fit as a left-handed bat in the outfield. not sure how doable this is, but it's another name to be bandied about. i personally like the fact that he's a veteran and a patient hitter, though he's 35 and a type A free agent, meaning the cubs would have to surrender a high draft pick (i think) to sign him. that would fit in with the "win now" mantra, but how well does he fit in with the team as currently constructed?
he'd be another one of these solid hitters who don't blow your mind with their numbers, but are still above-average (like d-lee, ramirez, and soriano). is that the kind of player we desire? he's a lefty, which is good. if we could get a lefty of abreu's perceived caliber along with a speed merchant in, say, center, i'd feel pretty decent about things. i think a speedy spark in the lineup could help open things up in a short playoff series. or perhaps this is my kneejerk reaction to this year's speedy WS participants. i don't know, but you'd think a speedy player to put pressure on opposing pitchers would help open things up for the middle of the order. that kind of player is another potential runner in scoring position and more fastballs to the following batters.
This is a FanPost and does not necessarily reflect the views of SB Nation or Al Yellon, managing editor (unless it's a FanPost posted by Al). FanPost opinions are valued expressions of opinion by passionate and knowledgeable baseball fans.
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Abreu's a definite possibility, I think.
Although I look at Jeremy Hermida and see a younger Abreu with potential to be better than that even, and I wonder why we don’t trade for Hermida instead of signing Abreu.
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 3, 2008 5:03 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
I'd rather trade with the Marlins for Hermida than sign Abreu, too.
Abreu is going to cost lots of $. The Cubs aren’t going to spend that $ because they have backloaded deals and will have to spend $ to keep Dempster and Wood.
Hermida will cost money, but not for a couple of years. He’ll cost prospects. Get it done.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Nov 3, 2008 5:29 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm high on Hermida
I’m influenced by how well he played in Wrigley, but there’s no doubt the kids got talent.
by Cubinator on Nov 3, 2008 10:56 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yes he'll cost prospects
Just a reminder: we really don’t have any of those.
by Wreckard on Nov 4, 2008 12:45 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Abreu is actually my first choice FA
But as DGU said above, I would be very excited about prying Hermida away from the Marlins if at all possible.
Steve Phillips on his computer use as Mets GM, "I played solitaire on my computer in my office."
by Tate491 on Nov 3, 2008 5:12 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Steinbrenners and Cashman say they want Bobby Abreu back
Yankees keep (and get) what they want. Plus Abreu would be very expensive for the Cubs and doesn’t fit Lou Piniella’s objective of getting younger and more athletic.
Interesting that the Yankees are apparently going to go full tilt to sign CC Sabathia, AJ Burnett and Mark Texiera.
"Listen, if you start worrying about the people in the stands, before too long you're up in the stands with them." -- Tommy Lasorda
by MDBNIU on Nov 3, 2008 5:14 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
don't forget Manny
Hank wants everyone to know that he knows how to acquire big names, just like Daddy did.
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Nov 3, 2008 5:29 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Abreu may actually be "younger and more athletic" by Lou's definitions.
I’m not trying to be smart-mouthed here.
Abreu’s not young, but he runs, and I wouldn’t be surprised if when Lou looked at options like Dunn, Abreu, Ibanez, and Milton Bradley, Abreu was the one who looked most “younger and more athletic.”
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 3, 2008 6:05 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Of that group, I think Bradley is probably the most "athletic", followed by Abreu
but I also think that Lou and just about everybody else in baseball (except whoever ends up signing Bradley) realizes that Bradley’s “athleticism” does not include durability. As for Abreu, I’ll admit I haven’t looked at him too close lately but I do remember he got noticeably bigger and slower when he went from Philly to New York. And I thought pinstripes were supposed to be slimming… ;-)
Of the ones you listed, I’m still in the Dunn camp. I think his bat outweighs his defensive liabilities, and the incremental impact he would have on our other hitters is just icing on the cake.
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Nov 3, 2008 6:25 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I agree about Dunn.
I don’t know that Abreu’s defense is any better than Dunn’s. And Dunn actually has some speed, although Abreu has the SB totals. Bradley is athletic, except, as you point out, that he’s so fragile that his athleticism doesn’t bring what I think Lou is looking for.
John Perotto at Baseball Prospectus ($$$) wrote this:
They would be willing to offload the big contracts of outfielders Alfonso Soriano (six years, $106 million) and Kosuke Fukudome (three years, $38 million), but aren’t likely to find any takers.
That’s the only way I think we get Dunn – is if Soriano is traded w/o us paying his contract.
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 3, 2008 6:40 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Exactly what do you mean by...
……“Dunn actually has some speed.”?
Over time, your quickness with a cocky rejoinder must have gotten you many punches in the face - Al Swearengen
by lemon20pie on Nov 3, 2008 8:07 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
He gets to the buffet line first every time.
"I've never complained about it. I'm thankful to have a jersey." Mark DeRosa, 22 Aug 2007
by DeRoMyHero on Nov 3, 2008 8:18 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
HA
Over time, your quickness with a cocky rejoinder must have gotten you many punches in the face - Al Swearengen
by lemon20pie on Nov 3, 2008 8:33 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm still in the Dunn camp, too...
…though I usually only admit if someone else says it first.
"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 5, 2008 10:44 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Chicken!
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Nov 5, 2008 10:49 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Teixiera
I read something that says the Yankees, Angels, Red Sox and Orioles all will be hot and heavy in the bidding. Texiera grew up in the Baltimore area as huge Orioles fan. He has said on more than one occasion that he would love to play for his hometown O’s. It should get real interesting. Some think the bidding could approach $200 million. Don’t laugh. Scott Boras is his agent and says Texiera is in line for an 8 to 10 year contract.
"Listen, if you start worrying about the people in the stands, before too long you're up in the stands with them." -- Tommy Lasorda
by MDBNIU on Nov 3, 2008 5:28 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
teixeira is a badass
but he’s no a-rod. no way he gets close to $200 mil.
bring up felix.
by kylejo on Nov 3, 2008 5:45 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I wouldnt
bet my savings on it.
I BELIEVE!!!! GO CUBBIES!!!!!!!!!!
by cubsluver22 on Nov 3, 2008 5:50 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
He won't get it from Peter Angelos. I don't care if he was born in Baltimore. No way Angelos forks
over $200M for a ballplayer.
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Nov 4, 2008 12:00 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I'd rather spend the money on Orlando Hudson
n/t
by elgato on Nov 3, 2008 5:56 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
I want the Cubs to get Hudson either way.
Trade for Hermida or whoever to play RF and hit LH, get the Peavy deal done (use whatever prospects that would be dangled for Roberts-although it’d probably take less prospects with Peavy’s backloaded contract), Re-sign Woodie, say thanks for the career year and way to go on following Cubs tradition and choking in the playoffs, to Dempster and pick up another bullpen arm and see ya in March. I’d settle for this lineup:
Hudson
Theriot
Soria-no more leadoff Lou!!!
LH-RF
Ramirez
Lee
Soto
CF platoon
Soriano in theory should see more fastballs with those guys who have decent speed on the bags and the hitters behind him and Derosa is a super sub and best hitter coming off the bench in the NL. I would love if the Cubs could get Crisp for a decent price and I know it’d basically empty the farm system getting those 3 guys, but this team would be in my opinion, much better in the playoffs and what’s that old saying “Speed doesn’t slump”?
be happy with a rotation of:
Peavy
Zambrano
Lilly
Harden
Marquis
See, that was easy!
Over time, your quickness with a cocky rejoinder must have gotten you many punches in the face - Al Swearengen
by lemon20pie on Nov 3, 2008 8:33 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Oh yeah
If in my very unsober world, that the Cubs actually added Hudson, Crisp and Hermida, use Derosa as trade bait and see what you can get for him, maybe the Tigers would be willing to give up a bullpen arm for Derosa or sumtin.
Over time, your quickness with a cocky rejoinder must have gotten you many punches in the face - Al Swearengen
by lemon20pie on Nov 3, 2008 8:36 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
DeRo won't be a supersub, not at $5.5M.
He could bring back something more useful than a bullpen arm, though. There are several teams that would be very interested if he became available.
It won’t matter, though. The Cubs can’t afford Hudson. Also, if they get Peavy (or keep Demp), they won’t be able to afford Marquis.
"I've never complained about it. I'm thankful to have a jersey." Mark DeRosa, 22 Aug 2007
by DeRoMyHero on Nov 3, 2008 8:40 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Unfortunately, I know.
Beside’s the fact that Hudson doesn’t play SS, he would be perfect for this team. SH who can leadoff and great defensively.
Over time, your quickness with a cocky rejoinder must have gotten you many punches in the face - Al Swearengen
by lemon20pie on Nov 3, 2008 8:47 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
5.5 mil is chicken feed...
..look at Fukudome, they may have 12 mil riding the pines.
Anyway, I like DeRosa, and I highly doubt he is relegated to sub status if he isn’t traded.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Nov 3, 2008 9:14 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Mark DeRosa is secure
For crying out loud the guy has been a virtual MVP of this team two years in a row. I see no chance of the Cubs trading him, or of Piniella diminishing his role in any way shape or form.
"Listen, if you start worrying about the people in the stands, before too long you're up in the stands with them." -- Tommy Lasorda
by MDBNIU on Nov 3, 2008 9:39 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
How much does DeRo help
if he becomes the RF with Roberts/Hudson/? at 2B? As a RF, he would have a slightly above average glove and an average bat. Also, he would not be moving around as much. Would he still be the team MVP, in your opinion?
"I've never complained about it. I'm thankful to have a jersey." Mark DeRosa, 22 Aug 2007
by DeRoMyHero on Nov 3, 2008 9:45 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Noone is doubting how good Derosa...
….has been with the Cubs, but the bottomline that most fans believe that the upgrades this team needs to make to get past the first round is to add more speed and a LH bat and right now the market is dictating that the most talent available in those 2 areas is 2nd Base and RF. Unfortunately, Derosa offers neither of those attributes and therefore I think could be a valuable piece to get 1 of those needs.
I disagree with you that he is secure or has no chance of being traded. Quite the contrary actually; I honestly believe Derosa will be traded to help bring in one of those needs and I wouldn’t have a problem with it. Maybe a 3 way deal or sumtin, oh don’t ya know.
Over time, your quickness with a cocky rejoinder must have gotten you many punches in the face - Al Swearengen
by lemon20pie on Nov 4, 2008 12:46 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Actually, I believe he will be traded.
First, Teflon Lou has to have a scapegoat. DeRo is a likely candidate due to his error and lack of a NTC.
Second, they can’t afford to keep both him and Brian Roberts if their payroll is $130M.
Third, as you say, they need a leadoff hitter and will most likely find a 2B.
Fourth, you have to get rid of a RHB in order to add a LHB.
What I do say is that he won’t be benched. He will either be an everyday player for the Cubs, or an everyday player somewhere else.
"I've never complained about it. I'm thankful to have a jersey." Mark DeRosa, 22 Aug 2007
by DeRoMyHero on Nov 4, 2008 11:13 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Scape goat for Teflon Lou?
You are really a piece of work with your rational thoughts.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Nov 4, 2008 11:26 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
DeRosa's bat...
…doesn’t change if he flips positions. I understand that you are comparing him to other 2nd baseman, but that isn’t how you put a ballclub together. In today’s world, it isn’t important whether your RF has an average bat, it mattters whether your entire lineup is constructed to deliver optimum opportunities to pressure opposing pitchers and score runs.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Nov 4, 2008 8:59 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
His point is -
that it should be a whole lot cheaper to get a LH bat that is better than DeRosa’s at RF than it is at 2B.
I think your view, though, is that you want a lead-off hitter who runs and expect 2B is the easiest place to find that bat.
How much nicer it would be if Furcal tested the market.
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 4, 2008 1:36 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Might as well go with Dunn
Abreu is not exactly Ichiro out there, and Abreu would struggle to even hit 25 HRs……I say no to Abreu
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 3, 2008 6:12 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Another Abreu link
from espn, this clip is from a GM survey asking what would be smarter: Signing Abreu to play RF or Burrell for LF.
Although Abreu is regarded within the industry as slightly better defensively, neither player is much of a bargain with a glove. Statistician John Dewan’s plus-minus system ranked Abreu as the second-worst right fielder in the game in 2008 (ahead of Colorado’s Brad Hawpe) and Burrell as the second-worst left fielder in the game (ahead of Minnesota’s Delmon Young.
So there you have it, Abreu’s offense might not outweigh his hitting, plus if he’s batting third, he wont be running that much….so you might as well go for the gusto and get Dunns 40 HRs 100RBI and 100BBs
heres the full link.
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 3, 2008 6:40 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
**********
What I meant to say was Abreus hitting might not outweigh his poor fielding.
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 3, 2008 6:42 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Which is it?
I don’t get some of you guys and your analysis of OF defense. You’ve already got an above-average defensive RF in Fukudome but everyone washed their hands of him because of his poor offensive second half. Now an option may be Abreu but apparently some folks on here don’t believe he’s worth a look because his defense may not outweigh his offense. Well which is it that you want? A RF that hits below average but fields his position or an above-average offensive RF that may be below average defensively? For me, I’ll take the former but apparently some of you would rather have the latter. I just don’t get it. Neither do you.
Who needs a stinkin' tag line? What are they for anyway?
by krummy12 on Nov 4, 2008 8:13 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I think people want both
someone who can hit and catch. I trust Dome to bounce back, but the Cubs don’t so, we’re trying to figure out where they’ll go.
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 4, 2008 8:31 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Understood
My comment was mostly rhetorical because obviously everyone wants both. But that being the case, the Abreu option is clearly more attractive than anything else out there. Ibanez can’t play RF, Dunn can’t play anywhere in the field, Fukudome may or may not improve…right on down the line. Abreu’s offensive numbers speak for themself and his play in RF is not nearly as mediocre as some would believe. Put him in RF and he’d be an improvement to the lineup and the OF defense wouldn’t suffer irreparably. Besides, last I checked all of that good defense played in RF last year resulted in a first round playoff exit just the same.
Who needs a stinkin' tag line? What are they for anyway?
by krummy12 on Nov 4, 2008 9:53 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Abreu gives us a degree of 2009 certainty
at the cost of another big contract. I’d rather try a Kubel or a Hermida, run the risk of the player disappointing, but have a young guy who could pull an Aramis Ramirez and blossom on our watch. The other nice thing about having a Kubel or Hermida is that if you can manage to keep Pie, you can run Pie, Dome, and Kubel/Hermida out there and let them fight it out for playing time, increasing the odds of finding a bat that works.
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 4, 2008 1:38 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
That's the second time I've seen Delmon Young listed as the worst LF
Saw him quite a bit in spring training when he was with the Rays and he never struck me as being terrible defensively, but numbers and ratings don’t lie so I guess he is pretty bad. Anyone watch enough AL games to confirm he stinks in the field?
Which makes the Rays all the more smarter for moving him when they did AND getting Garza out of the deal. It’s just gotta kill everyone in the Twins organization to see such bad defense out of someone so young (no pun intended). Doesn’t fit the mold of Tom Kelly/Ron Gardenhire baseball at all.
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Nov 3, 2008 7:57 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Young Trade.
Part of the reason IMO, for that trade was for Bill Smith to make a mark. Everyone up here is always clamoring because the Twins (namely Terry Ryan) NEVER made any significant deals, and they have a ton of good young pitching. I know from hearing about it, people were just pissed that the Twins were content every year with being good, just not good enough. People are still mad they didn’t make another deal at the dealine this year.
by jbertram on Nov 3, 2008 8:56 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Well the Twins have the luxury DHing Young
Whereas we are not so fortunate……but back to the case at hand, i just dont think Abreu would be a good fit, particularly long term.
If they accomplish nothing else this offseason, I hope they get a real leadoff hitter.
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 3, 2008 9:15 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
After hearing all of this,
Luke Scott doesn’t sound so bad, after all.
"I've never complained about it. I'm thankful to have a jersey." Mark DeRosa, 22 Aug 2007
by DeRoMyHero on Nov 3, 2008 6:56 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Right.
You’d have to have a platoon partner for him, because he really doesn’t hit lefthanders. But it could work.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Nov 3, 2008 8:15 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Al,
Scaling back your grand plan from last week…
Just one trade, O’s and Cubs, who would you be willing to give up to get Scott? Who would the O’s likely demand?
"I've never complained about it. I'm thankful to have a jersey." Mark DeRosa, 22 Aug 2007
by DeRoMyHero on Nov 3, 2008 8:20 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Um, you're proposing a trade with the O's?
Andy McPhail is interested in making only two types of trades; either looking to rob the other team blind or dump salary.
No thanks!
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Nov 3, 2008 8:38 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
The idea is to make a deal which makes each team happy.
Would the O’s be happy with DeRo for LF and Theriot/Cedeño for SS? DeRo drastically outproduced Scott and can play more positions; Scott is 3 years younger. Scott will probably be a Super 2, but that is less expensive than DeRo. DeRo will be at least a Type B next year.
The O’s are the one team for whom Theriot would represent a major upgrade at SS. Thus, that trade fills their two biggest position player holes.
From the Cubs’ standpoint, they would get their coveted LHB (actually two, since LBR would take over at 2B), but that price might be too much to pay.
"I've never complained about it. I'm thankful to have a jersey." Mark DeRosa, 22 Aug 2007
by DeRoMyHero on Nov 3, 2008 8:50 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
If there was one thing that seemed clear during the last year,
is that Andy McPhail is only interested in making either a deal he can clearly win (Erik Bedard, Miguel Tejada) or a salary dump (Chad Bradford).
Yes, looking for a matchup that makes both teams better is the way most trades are made. But it seems clear to me that Andy McPhail is not operating under that premise.
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Nov 3, 2008 8:57 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Theriot or Cedano
or Both. If that is the case and Dero is included as well, who plays Short in your scenario. It forces you to go out and get somebody else…who is that somebody else?
"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 4, 2008 8:29 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Theriot or Cedeño, not both.
"I've never complained about it. I'm thankful to have a jersey." Mark DeRosa, 22 Aug 2007
by DeRoMyHero on Nov 4, 2008 11:15 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Al - do you get the impression that the Cubs would be satisfied with a platoonable lefty?
I’m all for thinking creatively, but the impression I’m getting is that the Cubs want an everyday lefty who could hit in the middle of the order.
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 4, 2008 1:28 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, it appears that way.
I wonder, though, if no creative deal can be found, if Hendry will try to talk Lou into going with Pie as a platoon partner for Johnson, and trying Fukudome full-time in RF again in 2009.
You could also platoon him with DeRosa in RF, with DeRo playing 2B the rest of the time, and Fontenot playing 2B when DeRo doesn’t. Of course, this means Fontenot playing 2B vs. LHP, which doesn’t really make a lot of sense.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Nov 4, 2008 4:10 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Do you really think if the Cubs chose to do...
….what you suggested, that they become a better team? I certainly don’t, quite the contrary.
Over time, your quickness with a cocky rejoinder must have gotten you many punches in the face - Al Swearengen
by lemon20pie on Nov 4, 2008 10:36 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Crazy idea that came to mind
Carlos Zambrano and Felix Pie for Carlos Beltran. Fukudome stays in right.
I wouldn’t like it, being “zambranofan” and all, but if you’re looking for LH outfielder…
Fontenot (fon-te-no): Cajun for "scrappy"
by zambranofan on Nov 3, 2008 7:11 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Not that Crazy
Beltrans a great player and you never know when Z will implode
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 3, 2008 7:16 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
It will never happen
but I’d give my pinky finger on my left hand for Beltran.
by jbertram on Nov 3, 2008 8:17 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
like that scene from Black Rain?
or was it Year of the Dragon – I forget…
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Nov 3, 2008 9:21 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Not entirely crazy...
What is the Mets’ payroll?
The Mets do have a true ace, but that might make Z better. The main problem is that the CF market isn’t much better than the SP market, and the Mets are trying to add OFs. They would have no reason to believe that Pie will produce next season, so how would they fill LF and CF?
Just guessing that they would demand Z, RJ, and DeRo minimum. It’s still not a great matchup.
"I've never complained about it. I'm thankful to have a jersey." Mark DeRosa, 22 Aug 2007
by DeRoMyHero on Nov 3, 2008 8:23 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Mets and Cubs ????
I’d give my right nut if somehow the Cubs could unload Alfonso Soriano on the Mets. It might not be the most far-fetched idea in the world either. While the Mets have lots of dough to go along with screaming need for pitching I could see Omar Minaya at least being interested in a discussion centered around Soriano. Maybe they agree to take on his salary and we get Ryan Church and some spare parts??
"Listen, if you start worrying about the people in the stands, before too long you're up in the stands with them." -- Tommy Lasorda
by MDBNIU on Nov 3, 2008 8:49 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Ryan Church and spare parts???
No thanks, not unless they are taking Dome off our hands as well.
by jbertram on Nov 3, 2008 8:52 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
The problem is that the Mets need a LF.
If they trade their CF or RF for a LF, they haven’t helped themselves.
Now, if they thought that Dome would be OK with a change of scenery, they could trade Church for Dome and cash (or DeRo in lieu of cash), then sign Burrell for LF. That could give them the 2-for-1 they need in position players, if they can afford the cash.
"I've never complained about it. I'm thankful to have a jersey." Mark DeRosa, 22 Aug 2007
by DeRoMyHero on Nov 3, 2008 8:54 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
like that scene in...
…oh, never mind…
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Nov 3, 2008 9:22 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
You already gave up your right nut...
…for Harden. You got one more to deal. I suggest you think it through carefully.
"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 5, 2008 10:47 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Left nut went to Oakland
Right nut is still available for trade.
"Listen, if you start worrying about the people in the stands, before too long you're up in the stands with them." -- Tommy Lasorda
by MDBNIU on Nov 5, 2008 10:52 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Can we get a LH leadoff, RF starting pitcher for it?
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Nov 5, 2008 10:59 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I'll update my scrotal scorecard.
"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 5, 2008 1:04 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
That's really disgusting.
There are ladies here, you know.
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Nov 5, 2008 1:21 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Please disregard his comments. We try to keep him away from mixed
company, but sometimes he sneaks out.
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Nov 5, 2008 1:23 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Would it help if I told you I'm a doctor?
I’m not really, but would it help if I told you 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 5, 2008 1:35 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Depends on if you take Blue Cross.
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Nov 5, 2008 2:47 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Don't worry.
A scrotal scorecard can be useful to us in determining future dates.
"I've never complained about it. I'm thankful to have a jersey." Mark DeRosa, 22 Aug 2007
by DeRoMyHero on Nov 5, 2008 1:48 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I have to hand it to you...
…that’s got to be the most intriguing, yet plausible, deal I’ve heard thrown about BCB this off season. I’m not sure either team goes for it…but it’s very interesting.
by MarchHare on Nov 4, 2008 12:50 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Thanks!
Usually my trade ideas are pretty unrealistic and complicated, like most people’s!
Fontenot (fon-te-no): Cajun for "scrappy"
by zambranofan on Nov 4, 2008 1:43 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
None of the above
Personal opinion is that Cubs aren’t in the market for Milton Bradley, Bobby Abreu, Adam Dunn, Raul Ibanez or the oft-mentioned Jeremy Hermida. These names have become default considerations because the first four our free agents and the last (Hermida) is conceivably available via trade because of his impending arbitration eligible status.
Well, I think Hendry is fishin’ in a different pond. Who? I don’t know. But I feel confident it won’t be any of those 5 names.
"Listen, if you start worrying about the people in the stands, before too long you're up in the stands with them." -- Tommy Lasorda
by MDBNIU on Nov 3, 2008 8:46 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
I actually think its Ichiro...
but I’m sure that won’t happen.
by jbertram on Nov 3, 2008 8:53 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Ichiro would be nice
If they can get Hermida for a reasonable price, itd be worth it, but I wouldnt depend too much on him, theres a lot of negative reviews about him floating around
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 3, 2008 9:17 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
No chance on Ichiro
He IS the Seattle franchise. A franchise owned by Japanese interests and playing in a market with major Japanese American population. My mother retired out to the Seattle area several years ago so we get out there at least once a year. You should see the adoration and respect Seattle fans give Ichiro. He’s got to be the biggest singular hero among a franchise’s fan base than anybody else in the game. Suffice to say he is going nowhere. Seattle will get rid of the 24 other guys before they get rid of Ichiro.
"Listen, if you start worrying about the people in the stands, before too long you're up in the stands with them." -- Tommy Lasorda
by MDBNIU on Nov 3, 2008 9:37 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
From the reports I've been reading,
they might just have to get rid of the other 24 guys. Seems that no one talks to Ichiro in the clubhouse, including Johjima. They have some serious chemistry issues.
"I've never complained about it. I'm thankful to have a jersey." Mark DeRosa, 22 Aug 2007
by DeRoMyHero on Nov 3, 2008 9:49 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yes there are
But Ichiro isn’t going anywhere. Like I said he IS the Seattle franchise.
"Listen, if you start worrying about the people in the stands, before too long you're up in the stands with them." -- Tommy Lasorda
by MDBNIU on Nov 3, 2008 9:55 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
...and I agree
I’m just posting my christmas list.
by jbertram on Nov 3, 2008 9:57 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Nice idea, but the Cubs will be looking for a less expensive option for a LH outfielder.
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Nov 4, 2008 12:03 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Who wouldve imagined Ichiro would be T.O.?
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 3, 2008 10:36 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I have the same sense,
but I can’t figure out who it might be. DeRoMyHero had me thinking about Johnny Damon, but the Cubs appear to be opening RF, and Damon can’t play RF.
Maybe Ethier will be available.
Or. here’s a name we haven’t thrown out, a guy similar to Hermida, but coming off a better year instead of off a bad year: Jason Kubel.
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 4, 2008 1:34 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Oh yeah,
Nate McLouth is the other guy I was wondering about. He’s definitely “younger and more athletic.”
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 4, 2008 1:57 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Definitely in the younger and more athletic camp
But the Pirates shot down Cano for McLouth earlier. What would the Pirates demand from the Cubs?
I also have a concern with McLouth being a one-year wonder. Though his work ethic, I think, will help him maintain his production.
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 4, 2008 9:54 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
You've gotten a little carried away of late
Why on God’s green earth would Pittsburgh trade away a young franchise player and rapidly becoming “face” of the team to the Cubs?
Time to start THINKING before you continue with these insistences that all low revenue teams around baseball exist for the privilege of trading us their best assets for a bag of magic beans.
"Listen, if you start worrying about the people in the stands, before too long you're up in the stands with them." -- Tommy Lasorda
by MDBNIU on Nov 4, 2008 10:13 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Hello, Pot, the Kettle has a response for you.
McLouth’s name has been in the rumor mill for a month now. That’s in the New York Post.
As for Kubel, here’s a Twins’ fan blog post arguing why trading Kubel makes the most sense. All they want back is a reliever.
Besides, your post invited creative thinking about whom Hendry might be after. To invite that and then step on it is sad.
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 4, 2008 1:48 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Good grief
If you honestly think Nate McLouth can been had by the Cubs then there really is nothing more I have to say. You’ve started to go off the deep end with a lot of this stuff.
"Listen, if you start worrying about the people in the stands, before too long you're up in the stands with them." -- Tommy Lasorda
by MDBNIU on Nov 4, 2008 2:09 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Better yet
why not take the time to read and consider what I’m actually saying. I didn’t throw out a Soriano for McLouth idea or the ubiquitous, Pie-Cedeno-Hart package. I tried to consider what LH OFs Hendry might be eyeing. Of course, it would be expensive to put together a convincing offer for McLouth. Of course.
I don’t get why you try to antagonize even the people who try to have a civil conversation with you.
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 4, 2008 2:30 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Crikey
I like you. But have you read a lot of your trade proposals of late? Again I will say this. The low revenue ballclubs around baseball don’t view their existence to serve as farm system to the Cubs or to eagerly engineer trades of their top talent for mass quanties of dubious Cub players and “prospects.”
Every offseason it is the same thing. Some Cub fans concoct off the wall trade proposals that have as their underpinning that other teams can’t wait to get hands on our AAAA players and fringe major leaguers.
"Listen, if you start worrying about the people in the stands, before too long you're up in the stands with them." -- Tommy Lasorda
by MDBNIU on Nov 4, 2008 3:40 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I fully admit that I have trouble putting together realistic trades.
At the same time, much of what I’ve been arguing recently has been to suggest that someone somewhere could well overvalue a guy like Mike Fontenot. Just the other day a Giants’ blogger came to BCB wondering if Fontenot could be their 2B answer. I think we were all surprised when Patterson, Murton, Gallagher, and Donaldson netted us, not only Harden, but Gaudin, too.
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 4, 2008 4:09 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I don't think Pittsburgh is looking at anyone as the face of the franchise right now
Neal Huntington’s edict is to improve, at any cost. Jason Bay was the face of the franchise – Huntingtin didn’t have a problem trading him or Xavier Nady.
McLouth began last year as the 4th or 5th outfielder for the Pirates, and won the CF job late in spring training. There’s no reason to think that McLouth couldn’t be obtained with an offer (though it would take a lot), especially with Andrew McCutcheon waiting at AAA.
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 4, 2008 2:04 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
nate mclouth
would be awesome. all the guy does is spray line drives, his doubles were off the charts, i think his power is legit, and really his power took away from some of his stolen base opportunities. mclouth would be a perfect solution, though it would take a hell of a lot to get him you’d have to think.
bring up felix.
by kylejo on Nov 5, 2008 7:49 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I don't know that Pittsburgh would listen
But it never hurts to make the phone call and see what the price would be, but I can guarantee it would be steep.
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 5, 2008 10:30 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
We could re-sign Bobby Hill and then...
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 5, 2008 11:10 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm sure Bobby Hill, Jose Hernandez
and possibly Bobby Brownlie would get the job done.
Wait, Dave Littlefield is in the Cubs organization now. Crap.
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 5, 2008 11:26 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
stop with all this jeremy Hermida talk.
he’s a below average hitter that strikes out too much, not that great defensively. Stop with all this talk just because he had a great series at Wrigley. Doesnt mean one damn thing.
by lexmarklover on Nov 3, 2008 10:00 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Jeremy Hermida is 24 years old.
He’s got a pretty good shot at improving. However, he hasn’t hit LHP much in his career. This could be an issue.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Nov 4, 2008 4:11 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Hermida has also hit much better on the road than in Miami.
Miami: .248/.320/.404
Road: .284/.363/.467
NOT small sample sizes, and actually MORE AB on the road than at home.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Nov 4, 2008 4:13 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
he actually
had over 100 walks one year in the minors in just over 300 ab’s. so the skills are there if he wants to use them.
bring up felix.
by kylejo on Nov 4, 2008 8:18 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
we are better if....
we offer demps and wood arb and they dont resign and take that money and give it to abreu and two solid relievers….
I am not sold on 14 mil for demps and propably 9 for kerry…..
at that price offer sabathia 6 years 23 million
"I played with one of the best pitchers in history, Greg Maddux," Zambrano said"
by fischisgod on Nov 4, 2008 1:31 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
6 years 23 Million for Sabathia is idiotic.
More like 6 years 100 Million, idiot boy.
Over time, your quickness with a cocky rejoinder must have gotten you many punches in the face - Al Swearengen
by lemon20pie on Nov 4, 2008 1:38 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
dumb ass i am saying 6 years at 23 a year
its so nice u dissapeared after sprng training
"I played with one of the best pitchers in history, Greg Maddux," Zambrano said"
by fischisgod on Nov 4, 2008 1:40 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Let's knock off the name calling, NOW.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Nov 4, 2008 4:11 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
BTW i am all for hermida.....
he ls waht we need if we believe he wants to play baseball….
"I played with one of the best pitchers in history, Greg Maddux," Zambrano said"
by fischisgod on Nov 4, 2008 1:31 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
Waht???
Waht exactly do you think the Cubs think he wants to play? Tiddly-Winks?
Waht are you talking about?
Over time, your quickness with a cocky rejoinder must have gotten you many punches in the face - Al Swearengen
by lemon20pie on Nov 4, 2008 1:40 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
no the people who tknow him say he might not like the game
and has no passion to play it… i dont want a player that doesnt care… If hermida does care then i want him bad.
"I played with one of the best pitchers in history, Greg Maddux," Zambrano said"
by fischisgod on Nov 4, 2008 1:41 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Hermida
The marlins are looking to dump him for two reasons, he is getting more expensive (for them) and 2. Alledgedlly he lacks motivation and doesn’t play hard. SOmething Lou would despise. Yet the Marlins will want a good young player for him, i’d be leery of dealing with the Marlins for him.
by CubsnWrigleyfield on Nov 6, 2008 4:49 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
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