Peavy Update: Cubs frontrunners

Seriously.... if we pull this off.

I’m REALLY excited.

If we get Dempster AND Peavy we will have one of the best if not THE best rotation in major league baseball.

by EJThunder on Nov 5, 2008 11:59 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

I'm not buyin it...yet at least

Kevin Towers can take his time and let the potential suitors for Jake Peavy line up. Peavy has already caved and expanded his list of acceptable locations to include the Yankees and Angels. The Braves, Yankees and Angels all have better and deeper prospect pools to draw from. And what happens if the Brewers find away to get on Peavy’s good side? They could pony up Alcides Escobar and other considerations.

I see no chance that a package of Felix Friggin Pie, Sean Marshall and Jose Ceda is good enough to land a Jake Peavy.

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

by MDBNIU on Nov 6, 2008 12:01 AM CST reply actions 0 recs

Peavy's agent says he has not agreed to the Yankees or Angels.

That report you’re referring to is probably specious.

I has a blog. | Ask a sabermagician!

by cwyers on Nov 6, 2008 12:07 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

All it takes is for the Steinbrenner boys to send message that they will rip up Peavy's existing contract and give him a new one as condition of acquiring him

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

by MDBNIU on Nov 6, 2008 12:09 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

IF you were the Yankees though....

wouldn’t you be more obliged to just go after pitchers on the free agent market?

You knowingly have precedent over any team because of how much money you could dish out.

CC, Burnett, Lowe, Garland?

IF I were the Yankees I wouldnt be looking at Peavy a whole lot.

by EJThunder on Nov 6, 2008 12:11 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

If Peavy's contract is no longer as amenible...

…then quite frankly you’re better off spending the money to sign a free agent and keeping your prospects for another trade. The Yankees are not going to match or exceed the trade package we offer AND significantly increase Peavy’s salary.

I has a blog. | Ask a sabermagician!

by cwyers on Nov 6, 2008 12:12 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

till it happens

let’s just stick with what the established facts are. Peavy’s agent says that he has not agreed to the Yankees or the Angels. Having Demp and Peavy on the same rotation would be great.

"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 6, 2008 10:06 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah...

Heard you say this. Still tampering…

Brian McRae's 5 o'clock shadow

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Nov 6, 2008 10:45 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

lol, one thing I didn't miss in my multi month absence from this place was blue mike....

Barry Axelrod was quoted as saying in order for a trade to the Yankees to occur, Jake would require and extension and a raise in salary.

Not going to the Yankees!

PHISH IS BACK!!!
HAMPTON, VA - MARCH 6, 7 and 8th!!!!

by TheBeerBaron on Nov 6, 2008 12:20 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I don't think

Pie, Ceda, Marshall and Cedeno would be enough to get Peavy. But you gotta factor in Peavy no-trade clause and that fact that the Cubs and Braves are really the only main finalist now. So if the Braves aren’t willing to trade a ton of good prospects, and the Padres really wanna get rid of Peavy contract it’s possible the Cubs could get him. Say what you want about Pie, but he still has good value, because he is still young and has a bunch of raw talent. Not to mention Kevin Towers is a big fan of Pie, and has been trying to trade for a while now. Ceda has a great arm, and seems to be on the fast track to the majors as a late inning reliever, but down the road could be a front line starter. Sean Marshall is probably more of a number 4 starter, but pitching half his starts in Petco will help him alot and he could be a solid number 3 for them. That type of package seems simliar to what the Twins got from the Mets from Santana last offseason. MLB teams rank players different from Baseball America and other systems, so I wouldn’t be surprised at all if the Padres like the Cubs system more then people think. That said I still doubt Peavy will be a Cub, and think he will either stay with the Padres or go to the Braves.

by cubsfan25 on Nov 6, 2008 1:35 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Brilliant

This is the best description of the situation I have heard on T.V., radio, or the internet. Amen to every point you made.

rain delay theatre

by rob9802 on Nov 7, 2008 12:18 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I just read the article in full....

not retaining Wood doesn’t go well with me.

That is, unless, he’d like out of Chicago.

by EJThunder on Nov 6, 2008 12:02 AM CST reply actions 0 recs

Why?

If its b/c of emotions, then try and see past that, Marmol can be a lights out closer. if its b/c you think it weakens our 8th inning, then i would agree. But there would be hope for someone to slide in that spot;whether its Samardzija, Ascanio, Cashner or someone outside the organization, they can find someone, Marmol came out of nowhere afterall (following his stint as a starter)

This might just seem too good to be true.

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 6, 2008 12:05 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

yeah.... the 8th inning part.

by EJThunder on Nov 6, 2008 12:06 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

The 3 guys you mentioned might not even be on the team either...

if the deal get’s done.

I’d still go for it though, the more I think about it.

I lean towards MDB’s reasoning that Wood isn’t necessarily in the greatest shape, arm-wise, even after his healthy season.

by EJThunder on Nov 6, 2008 12:08 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I dont think Cashner is eligible to be traded yet

But I get your point, but I think we can find someone to fill that role, there are plenty of hard throwers in the organization.

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 6, 2008 8:23 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

i'd think

marmol would be included in any peavy trade

by Cubinator on Nov 6, 2008 12:19 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Hendry wouldn't go through with a trade including Marmol....

if in the back of his mind he knows he wont be able to retain Wood if he completes it.

by EJThunder on Nov 6, 2008 1:12 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Agreed..

If he knows he is going to sign wood then adding Marmol to the package makes that trade look that much better. If he isn’t going to try and sign wood or thinks he won’t be able to then we have to keep Marmol

Greg Jennings.. Future All Pro

by mkcubs21 on Nov 6, 2008 9:16 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Huh?

Cashner? In 2009? In the late innings? You’re serious? That’s just plain crazy. He did virtually nothing to show that he even belonged in pro baseball in the few innings he pitched in 2008 and he’s at least a thought for the 7th or 8th innings in the majors? Not a chance.

And before you think I’m saying he’ll never be a major leaguer, I’m just saying he’s not going to be a major league in 2009. Michael Wuertz would have a better chance of being the 8th inning guy in 2009 than Cashner. I know, that’s a pretty scary thought.

Same for Ascanio.

Who needs a stinkin' tag line? What are they for anyway?

by krummy12 on Nov 6, 2008 8:49 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

A few innings is hardly enough time to decide

On someones timeline for arriving in the bigs, and if you remember after he was drafted, there was a buzz that he’d make it up that year….so I wouldnt be shocked, look at Samardzija, did his minor league numbers lead you to believe he’d contribute for the Cubs in 08?

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 6, 2008 10:49 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

2 years max contract is my touch point with Kerry Wood

If he can’t agree to that then it is time to let objective sense rule and let him move on to another organization. We’ve invested too much dollars and faith in Wood for too much disappointment and downtime over the last 11 years to get burned yet again. Fact is Wood’s right arm could once again go boom at any given moment. A year and a half ago the medical professionals were telling him to think about retirement.

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

by MDBNIU on Nov 6, 2008 12:05 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Right About Length Of Contract

The Cubs have had a lot of guys who had one good year as a closer and then gone bad. Mitch Williams, Rod Beck (though he had a lot of good years with the Giants), Tom Gordon, and Joe Borowski come to mind. If Wood wants more than two years, I’d let him walk, too. To echo the sentiment, he’s a big injury risk. I’m confident that Marmol can develop into an effective closer.

"The big possum walks late." - Harry Caray

by memphiscub on Nov 6, 2008 7:18 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Wood won't be giving the Cubs the discount he has in the past....

…….this year. Last year, yeah he could’ve gotten a little more for a 1 year deal elsewhere, but his integrity wouldn’t let him do that and he stayed with the Cubs not only because he felt he hadn’t lived up to his contract but also to prove to other teams that he can stay healthy as a closer. Look, this could be Kerry’s last viable chance to sign that last big contract in his career and with the Cubs having a legitimate and cheap closer in the wings in Marmol, they’re not going to do more than a 2 year contract with Kerry.

The only way the Cubs will retain Kerry’s services, will be if a team is not willing to sign Kerry to a 3 or 4 year deal, which I imagine someone will, which I imagine the Cubs are well aware of. Which is why I think Marmol is basically untouchable. I’m convinced that Kerry will not be a Cub next year.

Over time, your quickness with a cocky rejoinder must have gotten you many punches in the face - Al Swearengen

by lemon20pie on Nov 6, 2008 7:53 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Don't forget...

… that Wood’s wife’s family is from the Chicago area. That apparently is important to him, that he stays here near her family, and further, I think he stayed for reasons other than “proving to other teams that he can stay healthy as a closer”.

Why is it so hard for people to wrap their heads around the idea that some players don’t simply go for the most dollars?

Further, he appears to have put any worries about his elbow or shoulder to rest — he has been healthy now since August 2007 (except for the blister this year, which could have happened to anyone and should not recur).

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

by Al on Nov 6, 2008 8:04 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

So Al, you seriously think...

……That Wood would accept a 2 year deal with the Cubs over a 4 year deal from another team, at a higher annual salary, just to “stay near her family”?

You can put me in that group of people who find it hard for people to wrap their heads around the idea that some players don’t simply go for the dollars. Sure, if it was a matter of comparable contracts, a player will choose comfort in surroundings over dollars, but not when you’re talking about the security of a longer contract and MILLIONS of dollars more and rightfully so. The Cubs would be insane to give Kerry a 4 year deal that he realistically could get from another team. If that’s the case, then Kerry’s as good as gone.I think that’s what you’re missing or misunderstanding what I’m saying.

Over time, your quickness with a cocky rejoinder must have gotten you many punches in the face - Al Swearengen

by lemon20pie on Nov 6, 2008 8:23 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Yes, actually I do think that, if the dollars are close enough.

And I don’t think anyone will give him that many more years than the Cubs will.

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

by Al on Nov 6, 2008 8:47 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I gotta go with the majority on this one Al. KWood would

be nuts to take a 2-year deal at a lesser annual salary than a 4-year deal from someone else. With his health history it would be crazy to accept a contract that has less years.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Nov 6, 2008 8:52 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I agree with Al.

To put it in perspective, if someone offered me $1.50 more per year (which is incidentally a 10% merit increase for me haha) to relocate to the armpit of America – Detroit – I wouldn’t do it.

"Just win tonight" - derv

by derv on Nov 6, 2008 9:06 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

You are assuming that any place other than Chicago is an armpit. Is that really

the case? I know that his wife is from here, but if the offer is much sweeter, don’t you think he would be tempted? I know we all think that palying for the Cubs at Wrigley is every players dream, but there are a few other spots in the league that other players don’t mind moving to. I’m just sayin’.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Nov 6, 2008 9:27 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I spent extensive time in St. Louis from 2005 to 2008 for my job

Trust me, St. Louis is the armpit of America. And I don’t say that because I am Cub fan who doesn’t like the Cardinals. Plus my wife and I are saddled with a condo we purchased down there for my work that we can’t unload. I hate St. Louis with every bone in my body. Respect the Cardinals, hate St. Louis.

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

by MDBNIU on Nov 6, 2008 9:29 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I lived is the St. Louis area for 10 years. There are a lot worse

areas in this country to live. Trust me.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Nov 6, 2008 9:47 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Peoria, IL?

"Just win tonight" - derv

by derv on Nov 6, 2008 9:56 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

You're getting warm.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Nov 6, 2008 9:58 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Across the river

in Pekin. Took years but I got my family out of there.

Sweet Lou for Mayor in '11.

by blackhawk24 on Nov 6, 2008 10:37 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

That's where my family came from

fortunately, my parents decided it would be better to live in a city.

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 6, 2008 11:19 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I will one up you and say

South Pekin,,,

"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 6, 2008 12:04 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Gary, Indiana

by NittanyCub on Nov 6, 2008 1:34 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Gary, Indiana, Gary, Indiana

rhymes with pool

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 6, 2008 1:42 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

That was my first choice.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Nov 6, 2008 1:43 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

East St. Louis is right up there

it just doesn’t have a catchy song associated with it

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 6, 2008 1:44 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Now that's a pit. That's why St.Louis isn't so bad. East St. Louis is

right across the river. By comparison, St’ Louis is pretty good.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Nov 6, 2008 1:53 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Ever been to Brooklyn, IL?

"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 6, 2008 1:59 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Not even at gun point.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Nov 6, 2008 2:01 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I once made a wrong turn...

And turned around in a strip club parking lot in Brooklyn.

I think I had to get a shot for it.

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Nov 6, 2008 2:06 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

That strip club is why I was there.

Friend’s bachelor party. And, well, OK – I think we went one other time just to go.

"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 6, 2008 2:16 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

They have strip clubs across the river from

St. Louis? That’s what those places were! I was wondering where all of my dollar bills went.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Nov 6, 2008 2:19 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

You would be refering to

Roxy’s I believe…enjoy the shower…

"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 6, 2008 2:32 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

ROFL

You nailed it exactly. And I wouldn’t step inside that shower without a hazmat suit. Y’know, upon further reflection, I just realized I’ve been there three times. My friends took me to Roxy’s for my bachelor party, too.

"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 6, 2008 2:34 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Believe it or not, my buddy and his

soon-to-be ex-wife got into a fight in the parking lot of Roxy’s. We were there during his bachelor party night and she followed the bus we had rented. That’s when you know you are trash. You get into a fight with your fiance in the parking lot of a strip club.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Nov 6, 2008 2:45 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Also if your front porch collapses

and more than three dogs get killed.

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 6, 2008 2:46 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

or three rabbits

"Just win tonight" - derv

by derv on Nov 6, 2008 2:52 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

She FOLLOWED him to the strip club?!

Man, that’s brutal. My wife was kind enough to take a “don’t ask, don’t tell” approach to my bachelor party…well, at least until after we were married.

"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 6, 2008 2:49 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

My first wife called the cops to complain

about the noise we were making at my friend’s house before we even started going to the strip joints as a joke and they arrived just as we were leaving and he got a DUI.

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 6, 2008 2:50 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

that is brutal

"Just win tonight" - derv

by derv on Nov 6, 2008 2:55 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Damn, that's rough.

Come to think of it, my friend got a speeding ticket on the way to Roxy’s for my bachelor party.

"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 6, 2008 2:57 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Brutal? yes definitely...but

absolutely hilarious..i was laughing so hard at my desk, my co-workers insisted I tell them what was so funny.

"Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest you also be like to him."
Solomon

by cubfever7 on Nov 7, 2008 2:12 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

It seems funnier now

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 7, 2008 2:23 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Oh?

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

by Shanghai Badger on Nov 6, 2008 2:06 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

OMG

I had no idea my hero had immortalized East St. Louis in song.

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 6, 2008 2:15 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

That's a pretty crappy song.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Nov 6, 2008 2:16 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

What can I tell you

It’s not like there was a wide array of choices.

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

by Shanghai Badger on Nov 6, 2008 2:20 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Well,

Steve made up for it by writing the perfect country western song.

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 6, 2008 2:21 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

With help . . .

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

by Shanghai Badger on Nov 6, 2008 2:21 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

With a little help from my friends.

Yep. Only David Allan Coe album I have.

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 6, 2008 2:31 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

UGH

That’s where my X’s family came from. I truly hated going to that Dump. Pekin sucks.

by Kornchex on Nov 7, 2008 5:57 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I want to be/your kingpin

Livin’ in/Pekin

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

by dat cubfan daver on Nov 10, 2008 11:34 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

why?

he has more money than he can possibly spend. He’s got connections to Chicago. He’s adored here. Why would he move for an extra $15 mill? What’s he gonna DO with it?

"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 6, 2008 10:08 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Human nature

I can’t see anyone turning down 2 more years at the same or better $/year.

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

by Shanghai Badger on Nov 6, 2008 10:09 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I can see it

if the situation is right. Hell, I’ve done it myself — I turned down a job that paid me more than 30% more a year because my family needed me here in Chicago.

"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 6, 2008 10:10 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Sure, but would your salary

Have given you the financial freedom to travel to Chicago as often as possible? Or to live there 6 months out tof the year?

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

by Shanghai Badger on Nov 6, 2008 10:12 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

no, it wouldn't have

but even if it had, it would have ripped up my roots here. I don’t see Kerry Wood wanting to do that.

"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 6, 2008 10:12 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

We'll see

An 8 figure salary difference can be a pretty big motivator.

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

by Shanghai Badger on Nov 6, 2008 10:16 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Buy a plane and visit his beloved Chicago whenever he feels like "coming home"?

Over time, your quickness with a cocky rejoinder must have gotten you many punches in the face - Al Swearengen

by lemon20pie on Nov 6, 2008 10:11 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

wouldn't be the same.

"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 6, 2008 10:11 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Um, yeah, it's not that simple.

"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 6, 2008 11:49 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

See: Brown, Kevin.

I don’t think the use of the Dodgers’ private plane helped things.

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 6, 2008 12:12 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Money is good. People like money.

I love how people enjoy telling other people to turn down money. Shut up. And when you’re done doing that, shut up some more.

Reasons players take more money:

1) People like money. The more you have, the more things you can buy. This isn’t about a living wage. If he wanted a living wage, he wouldn’t do a job that risked turning his arm into the consistency of lemon jello. He wants to be able to buy more things. People that don’t get that are just jealous they can’t buy more things.

2) Taxes. The tax rate for people making 250k or more is about to go up. More money = more take home. (Sleeper team for free agents = Tampa Bay. No state tax in Flordia)

3) Ego. People like being paid more. It makes them feel better.

4) Union. The players union won’t stand for too many hometown discounts. It hurts all players.

5) Longevity. If the Cubs offer two years and another team offers three, and the money is the same, he’s taking the three. That’s basic math. Kerry has an arm that can go at any time. He needs guaranteed money and more of it.

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Nov 6, 2008 1:32 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Whats the minimum wage in Illinois?

Maybe he’ll take that

Okay, just so I understand it... in your wildest fantasy, you are in hell. And you are co-running a bed and breakfast with the devil.

by bren on Nov 6, 2008 1:34 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I'm sure if the Cubs offered him that...

Some fans would say, “He should take it out of loyalty”

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Nov 6, 2008 1:37 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Don't forget about ego. Bigger contract equals more recognition.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Nov 6, 2008 1:36 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I said that. It was 3)

But it bears repeating.

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Nov 6, 2008 1:37 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Sorry about that. I know, reading is a skill.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Nov 6, 2008 1:38 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Gee, thanks, Gordon Gekko.

"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 6, 2008 1:37 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

No problem...

Greed is GOOD! Greed works!

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Nov 6, 2008 1:39 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Jinx!

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Nov 6, 2008 1:39 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Greed is good. Greed works.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Nov 6, 2008 1:39 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

You owe me a Coke!

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Nov 6, 2008 1:40 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Jinx 5-10

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 6, 2008 1:40 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Put it on my Tab. Ha!

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Nov 6, 2008 1:41 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Seriously...

I would bust you in your eye if we were in person. That was that lame :)

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Nov 6, 2008 1:43 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah, I kind of regretted it after I hit the return key.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Nov 6, 2008 1:44 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Do they even still make that?

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 6, 2008 1:45 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I believe they do. That was an awful concoction. Tasted like monkey

piss. (Not that I’ve ever had monkey piss)

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Nov 6, 2008 1:46 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

People like

a lot of things, including not having to move their family. I love how people enjoy telling other people to shut up.

"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 6, 2008 2:13 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Would you take less money

just to hear someone tell you to shut up?

In all seriousness, there are a lot of MLB families that live in cities other than where the player is. Sure, it makes it a bit difficult during the season, but usually only April-early June and September IF there are kids.

No reason that Wood couldn’t keep his Chicago home and have an apartment somewhere else. It’s pretty common.

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

by Shanghai Badger on Nov 6, 2008 2:16 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I know that.

But I think people are overlooking the connection that Wood has with the team and the city.

"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 6, 2008 2:17 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I think the ties are legitimate

But I don’t think they preclude him taking a much sweeter deal.

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

by Shanghai Badger on Nov 6, 2008 2:20 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

maybe.

but he had better offers last year, and didn’t take them.

"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 6, 2008 2:25 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Money talks

But even more, so does security.

Wood is getting older. He will have about 45 years to live after he retires. His arm can go at any time.

If he gets four years guaranteed from another team, he’s gone. He’s got the rest of his life to strengthen the ties to his family or his wife’s family.

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Nov 6, 2008 8:42 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

IIRC

Wood turned down slightly more money last year, for a single season and this situation this year is NOWHERE near last year’s. Last year Wood was not an, well I won’t say 1 healthy season mean’s he’s established but this year he proved that he can stay healthy for a complete season as a closer. Also, he chose less money last year to stay with the Cubs I think more for his integrity and knowing as a man he had not lived up to the contract he signed with the Cubs, more than because he LOVED Chicago.

Wood will get more years and money from another team and loyalty only goes so far. This is a no brainer and I am amazed people still think that he would stay with the Cubs on a 2 year deal over another team who will pay him more annually and probably a 4 year deal, because he loves Chicago so much? C’mon, this is potentially Wood’s last chance for a guaranteed contract for a nice payday and the security of knowing where he’ll be for the next 4 years.

Face it Cub fans, Wood is as good as gone and just appreciate the fact that he has been this loyal up to this point, which I certainly will.

Over time, your quickness with a cocky rejoinder must have gotten you many punches in the face - Al Swearengen

by lemon20pie on Nov 7, 2008 7:29 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

From one extreme to the other?

I think it’s Pollyannish to suggest that Wood would walk away from potentially $10M more and extra years.

However, “good as gone” is hardly true, either. Let’s wait and see what he’s offered.

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

by Shanghai Badger on Nov 7, 2008 7:44 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I used to know a girl named pollyann

WHile it’s true that I don’t know what Kerry is thinking or am a member of his posse, I still am not buying the general opinion here that he would turn down a more lucrative and secured contract with another team and take a significant amount of less money, just to stay with the Cubs, because he loves the City and the organization so much.

Like you said though, we’ll see. I guess if there is any player left in the game to do something like that, it’d be Kerry.

Over time, your quickness with a cocky rejoinder must have gotten you many punches in the face - Al Swearengen

by lemon20pie on Nov 7, 2008 8:03 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

If the choice is between a two and four year deal...

…I don’t see why the dollars would be particularly close. And why wouldn’t some team give Wood four years? Scott Freaking Linebrink? Four years! Francisco Cordero? Four years! Justin Speier? Four years!

I has a blog. | Ask a sabermagician!

by cwyers on Nov 6, 2008 9:34 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah and Howry won't get a multi-year offer so don't bother offering him arb.

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 6, 2008 9:35 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Disagree Al

It is time that prudent and objective decision making take hold in the Cub front office. At some level I could care less that Kerry Wood loves Chicago and his wife is from here. We’re trying to build a winning ballclub, not cater to the Kerry Wood family.

If Wood can accept a two year deal from the Cubs then fine. If not the informed decision is to let him walk. Let the New York Mets give him a crazy 3 or 4 year contract, then watch him spend half the time on the DL or ineffective. A year and a half ago the medical people were saying Wood’s arm was further damaged and even went so far as to advise he consider retirement.

We’ve got Carlos Marmol waiting in the wings. Plus I adhere to the belief that closers are made and not born. We can find late inning replacements.

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

by MDBNIU on Nov 6, 2008 8:38 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Bob Howry for closer!

Just kidding.

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

by MPH73 on Nov 6, 2008 8:39 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

He could close the doors at Wrigley field after the clean up crew is done.

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 6, 2008 2:19 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

LOL!

Now there’s a job he could finish.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Nov 6, 2008 2:20 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

No, the doors would probably homer off him

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

by Shanghai Badger on Nov 6, 2008 2:21 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

And then they would start singing, "This is the end, the very end, my friend."

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 6, 2008 2:22 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Or they'd lock him on thie inside

and they’d sing “Break on through to the other side” just to taunt him.

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

by Shanghai Badger on Nov 6, 2008 2:25 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

LOL

followed by People are Strange.

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 6, 2008 2:26 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Then he can go home and his boyfriend would sing him

“BACK DOOR MAN”

"Just win tonight" - derv

by derv on Nov 6, 2008 2:32 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

oooooohhhhh

Muddy Waters

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 6, 2008 2:33 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I would still have someone warming up in case he blows it.

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 6, 2008 2:21 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I don't think Al was contesting that logic...

I think his point was merely that Wood’s priorities are that he wants to stay in Chicago for the rest of his life, and he is not strictly motivated by the almighty dollar as others are (Manny).

Sure, he would love a longer term deal for financial stability into the future, but if he gets the RIGHT deal he should be more than willing to cooperate in alignment with the organizations long term plans.

I would bet my paycheck that if Selig expanded the divisions again, and Fargo, ND was given a ballclub and they offered Manny a $50M/year deal for 5 years, he would take it.

"Just win tonight" - derv

by derv on Nov 6, 2008 9:14 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I don't get this...

What is with this underlying firm belief around here that Ryan Dempster and Kerry Wood are only too willing to sacrifice contract years and significant dollars to stay with the Cubs??

And sorry, but I won’t fault Manny Ramirez or any other professional athlete for looking out for # 1. Seems to me Manny was HUGE, HUGE, HUGE reason why the Boston Red Sox won two World Series championships. So in that respect one of all-time greatest run producers in the game DELIVERED on his previous contract. If Manny wants to go for every last cent out there in the market then God bless him. He’s earned that right.

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

by MDBNIU on Nov 6, 2008 9:27 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Because some people have priorities other than money

It really is as simple as that. The modern baseball player is never going to starve. Wood and Dempster have already made enough money so that they never have to work after their baseball careers end, if they have invested it properly.

That gives them the freedom to choose the best personal situation for themselves and their families. In both cases, I believe that will result in them staying with the Cubs.

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

by Al on Nov 6, 2008 9:34 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Okay, but the vast majority of baseball players...

…do sign for, if not the largest contract, close to their market value. You haven’t offered any evidence other than your own personal feelings that show that Wood and Dempster won’t at least look to push the Cubs closer to their market value.

I has a blog. | Ask a sabermagician!

by cwyers on Nov 6, 2008 9:37 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I agree with you that most go for the most dollars.

In some cases, that works against them in terms of getting them the best personal situation.

I believe the desire of Wood and Dempster to remain Cubs is well-documented, not just my own personal feelings. Will they try to get the most money they can out of the Cubs? Sure they will. But in the end, I believe they will stay even if a few more dollars are offered elsewhere.

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

by Al on Nov 6, 2008 9:46 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Demp could well stick around on a four-year deal...

…which is what Rosenthal says the Cubs are offering right now. Maybe some team goes to five years, but that can be bridged over.

Wood, on the other hand – Wood wants four, and I think he can get it. And I think the Cubs want to stick to two. That’s a big gap.

I has a blog. | Ask a sabermagician!

by cwyers on Nov 6, 2008 9:53 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

It's also hard to give Demp what he wants

and turn around and tell Wood – we’re not doing that for 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 6, 2008 9:54 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

yeah, but....

….the Cubs have a cheap and viable replacement for Wood in Marmol. If you sign Wood to a 4 year deal, what do you do when Marmol is up for his big pay day? You’d have to let him walk, because he’ll garner a big pay day and you couldn’t justify paying a set up man, closer salary.

Over time, your quickness with a cocky rejoinder must have gotten you many punches in the face - Al Swearengen

by lemon20pie on Nov 6, 2008 10:09 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

The case of Aramis Ramirez supports Al here

Aramis pushed the Cubs hard and it almost looked like we’d lose him. But his deal still turned out to be below-market. It’s worth trying too keep people that want to be Cubs if we believe they will produce more than we pay 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 6, 2008 9:53 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

You have to look at market rates...

…if you didn’t, you would be considered foolish.

To compare this discussion to what I do for a living – I work in a sales environment selling outsourced labor. 75% of our sales activity is capitalized by potential customers testing the market for current market labor rates. Do they always switch vendors and go with the cheapest? Some do, but not always. The others go back to their current vendors and ask them to sharpen their pencils, because at the end of the day the transition to a new vendor and uncertainty of what lies ahead is often too large of a risk to take.

Demp has made it clear that he wants a new house – and he likes the size of Lilly’s which is an entire city block so I hear. I think Demp has his bar set high – and probably too high for the Cubs at this point. His skillset and cost is worth more to other teams than the Cubs.

"Just win tonight" - derv

by derv on Nov 6, 2008 9:49 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Also you have to factor in the simple fact that

ITS CHICAGO CUBS! it should be an HONOR to play here. who doesn’t want to play for the cubs?

by xene on Nov 6, 2008 10:49 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

No question!

We all work for one primary reason – money. I know I do. And I do agree that Manny delivered on his Boston contract. I just think that Kerry has different priorities than these guys do.

He is a family man. He has a modest house. He has chosen Chicago to be his permanent home. His kids go to school with the rest of our kids. He drives himself to the dry cleaners. He is just a different sort of individual who doesn’t spend thousands of dollars a night at the clubs and winding up on TMZ. His priorities are different.

"Just win tonight" - derv

by derv on Nov 6, 2008 9:38 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Bingo.

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

by Al on Nov 6, 2008 9:46 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Well said

The wives and children of ballplayers have to deal with their husbands being gone for long periods on the road during the season. If Kerry’s wife is truly committed to staying in Chicago, I don’t see there even being a question of whether or not he’ll return.

Of course it’s all speculation, but IF he were to sign elsewhere, my money would be on one of the Texas teams.

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

by cubs0505 on Nov 6, 2008 6:35 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Aramis Ramirez stayed with the Cubs for, more than likely, a lower amount.

Carlos Zambrano made it clear he wanted to stay here for family reasons as well. I don’t think it’s unreasonable to believe that Wood and Dempster will do the same. Once a player’s income reaches a certain level, other factors likely come into play. In fact, I think Aramis himself said something along the lines of, “How much money do you need?”

"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 6, 2008 9:39 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Well...

So is Jim Hendry supposed to accumulate players who like being in Chicago enjoy the fact that they can walk to the friggin dry cleaners or should he instead let OBJECTIVE ANALYSIS rule player acquisition and retention decisions.

For crying out loud some of you are painting Kerry Wood as a working Mom type whose primary concern isn’t really his career but whether he can get home in time after work to meet the kids at the bus!!!

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

by MDBNIU on Nov 6, 2008 9:44 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Once again, you have completely missed the point.

No, Hendry shouldn’t just go out and get players who happen to like Chicago.

But in the case of two players who produce AND like it here, why wouldn’t you want them to stay?

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

by Al on Nov 6, 2008 9:47 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

So long as we make smart contract decision on Dempster and Wood

But under NO circumstance do I want Kerry Wood back on anything more than a 2 year incentive driven contract (that gives him performance potential to earn monster dough and an option year).

I’m also not willing to get into the bidding war for Ryan Dempster. If the bidding gets north of 4 years at $45 million (which it will) then I say let him walk. In a year from now we will be thanking our lucky stars.

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

by MDBNIU on Nov 6, 2008 9:49 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I would agree with you, basically.

Except I would go a bit higher on dollars for Dempster.

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

by Al on Nov 6, 2008 9:52 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

This is barely worth responding to...

…but, no, of course Hendry shouldn’t focus on players who love Chicago. What you’re conveniently overlooking is that, in 2008, Kerry Wood established himself as a solid closer, and he had no arm troubles. (Just the blister.) There’s no reason not to believe Wood can’t build on that success.

Similarly, Ryan Dempster put up fantastic numbers in 2008. Will he be able to match that performance in ‘09? It’s hard to say. But even if he regresses a little bit, he’s still a good middle of the rotation guy.

So here you have two good baseball players with good attitudes who are comfortable with their living situations in the Chicago area. Sounds like a recipe for success to me.

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

by dat cubfan daver on Nov 6, 2008 9:49 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Personally, Ithink we should be concentrating on players

who absolutely dispise the Chicago area and who really suck at their game. At least we wouldn’t have to give up much to sign them.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Nov 6, 2008 9:53 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

the whole

“I’ll play better so that another team can trade for me” gig?

"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 6, 2008 10:13 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

So huge

that the Dodgers won too—- oh, wait.

"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 6, 2008 10:09 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Spurrious

How many has Wood or Dempster won?

Mike didn’t say he single-handedly won the WS for them — he was a big part of those teams.

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

by Shanghai Badger on Nov 6, 2008 10:11 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

what he said was

Seems to me Manny was HUGE, HUGE, HUGE reason why the Boston Red Sox won two World Series championships.

that’s more than “he was a big part of those teams”. That’s responsibility.

"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 6, 2008 10:14 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

C'mon, Drew

I like talking with you, but you’ve got your Blue Mike blinders on. Had most anyone else said it, you would have ignored it.

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

by Shanghai Badger on Nov 6, 2008 10:15 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

sorry, I don’t agree. But then, most anyone doesn’t talk like BM.

"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 6, 2008 10:15 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Fuck you mambochicken

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

by MDBNIU on Nov 6, 2008 11:44 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

right on cue.

"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 6, 2008 2:14 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

What do you do Drew, carry him around in your back pocket?

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Nov 6, 2008 2:16 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I swear, I don't.

I’m just commenting the same way I do on anything else…

"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 6, 2008 2:17 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

As well he should...

There is no reason to work except for money. Period. Work sucks.

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Nov 6, 2008 1:33 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Could be worse.

When you’re unemployed, there’s no vacation.

"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 6, 2008 1:38 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Unemployed people in France went on "strike" back in the 70s.

I never figured that one out.

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 6, 2008 1:40 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

It was the French. It need no explanation.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Nov 6, 2008 1:41 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Long live...

freedom fries. And freedom kisses. And freedom toast.

Free Ronny Cedeno

by Kansas25 on Nov 6, 2008 2:19 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Geez, I had forgotten all about that crap.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Nov 6, 2008 2:22 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

You guys are on a roll today...

must be the nice weather

"Just win tonight" - derv

by derv on Nov 6, 2008 2:22 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Naw, it's the alcohol.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Nov 6, 2008 2:23 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Freedom salad dressing?

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

by Shanghai Badger on Nov 6, 2008 2:22 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Freedom Maids Outfits

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 6, 2008 2:22 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Winner

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

by Shanghai Badger on Nov 6, 2008 2:22 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Winner, winner poulet dinner!

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Nov 6, 2008 2:25 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Freedom tickler?

Have I said too much?

"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 6, 2008 2:25 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Yep

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Nov 6, 2008 2:26 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

No girls on this board in the offseason

…its OK

"Just win tonight" - derv

by derv on Nov 6, 2008 2:26 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Too fu#*!@)(#$ dirty...

Oops, pardon my freedom.

Free Ronny Cedeno

by Kansas25 on Nov 6, 2008 2:27 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

"Tell them we are from Freedom."

Now we must consume mass quantities.

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 6, 2008 2:34 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

These guys can play in one location

and then live anywhere they want. There are so many major leaguers living in Northern San Diego County it’s hard to keep track. The overwhelming majority of them don’t play for the Padres. To really think any player is married to any team out of ‘loyalty’ is well… a bit naive, in modern times. They are independent contractors. And, why not? These guys have a short time to maximize their income.

The players are mercenaries. They will make the wrong decision about teams for the money, even when it seems obvious they have a good situation, and signing a new contract with their current team — for less money — makes good sense.

Most players take their agent’s advice. It’s rare when they make decisions NOT based on dollars. It happens, but it’s the exception.

That’s why it’s best to not get attached to any player. Root for the laundry.

by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on Nov 6, 2008 2:03 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Im still on the fence, crazy as that sounds

Peavy is obviously amazing, and he would provide coverage should Harden get hurt, Dempster revert and Z go nuts…..but if this costs us Wood, then our bullpen is weaker. I think Marmol can be a better closer than Wood, but who steps up to the eighth? And if this costs Marshall, there goes our best swingman.

And what would this “less expensive” left handed OF be?

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 6, 2008 12:03 AM CST reply actions 0 recs

Prudent decision making, not emotional attachment, has to rule on Kerry Wood

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

by MDBNIU on Nov 6, 2008 12:06 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Henry Rodriguez!

by EJThunder on Nov 6, 2008 12:06 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

What makes you think the Cubs will sign Wood...

……and should sign Wood to anything more than a 2 year deal, when they already have a cheaper closer of the future in Marmol? He can easily get a longer contract elsewhere.

Over time, your quickness with a cocky rejoinder must have gotten you many punches in the face - Al Swearengen

by lemon20pie on Nov 6, 2008 7:59 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

if wood is gone, won't bother me

I hate spending money on closers, the difference between the best and league avg isn’t that much. I’d rather pay for a guy that gets 200IP than 60 any day of the week.

by uwbadger on Nov 6, 2008 12:58 AM CST reply actions 0 recs

I think the Cardinals would disagree with your comments about the importance of a solid bullpen

The lead the league in games leading after 7th…you see what happened to them.

The bullpen is just as important as the Starting Pitching since nobody throws complete games anymore. Peavy had 0 the year he won the Cy Young…

You really need three things to be successful year in and year out…Solid SP, a Solid Bullpen/Closer, and clutch hitting. We may get the Super Rotation but if we don’t have arms to protect the lead in the 7th, 8th, and 9th what is the point. Peavy is much like Harden in that he does not pitch deep into games which makes the bullpen even more important.

Marmol will be a fine closer but what happens when you have to rely on Shark, Guzman, etc to get the ball to him. That is putting a lot of faith in unproven talent when your window with this current roster is a 2-3 years.

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

by TheRiot Police on Nov 6, 2008 8:24 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

That is my biggest concern with adding Peavy.....

…..not so much just Peavy, but when you factor in Harden as well and even Lilly, you really do need a deep bullpen.

Over time, your quickness with a cocky rejoinder must have gotten you many punches in the face - Al Swearengen

by lemon20pie on Nov 6, 2008 8:27 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

If the Cubs really want both Demp and Peavy

then Lilly seems likely trade bait to me. We’re going to have to unload some dollars somewhere.

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 6, 2008 9:26 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I agree...

…someone making good dough would probably be dealt if the Cubs acquired Peavy and also signed Dempster (unless Kenney got Zell to ok a bunch more money, which I doubt).

Regarding Lilly, I would think Lou would only want to trade Lilly if he was confident he could replace him with another reliable lefty and those are hard to come by.

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

by MPH73 on Nov 6, 2008 10:04 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I'll bet Terry Mulholland is available.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Nov 6, 2008 10:05 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Danny Jackson?

wait, he’s not reliable…

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 6, 2008 11:22 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Wouldn't it be better to unload Harden?

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

by DeRoMyHero on Nov 6, 2008 11:38 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

How the World Champs

the Phillies, there bullpen and Lidge really sucked all year. That is how they won it all. Got clutch hits, Hamels was the deal, and most importantly there bullpen was lights out and most of all Lidge.
Pay Wood, sign him.

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

by Grockcubs on Nov 6, 2008 8:32 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Here Here

In addition to the need for the strong bullpen, the other way I look at this is….

Who would I rather have on the Mound in game 7 of a NLCS or a WS protecting a one run lead. The grizzly veteran who has a ton of experiencing pitching and has the mental fortitude to put aside the grativity of the situation or a reliver who at times has shown that he can lose his focus when things start to go astray. I love Marmol and no matter who is in that situation I am not sure I can watch, but I think I prefer Woody and his experience over Marmol and his stuff.

"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 6, 2008 8:42 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

One other thing...

…the Phillies had was a legit offensive threat of the stolen base. In fact, if you look at both of the world series teams, they both were near the league lead in stolen bases.

In those tight playoff games, it can really help the hitter when the pitcher has to concentrate on whether a guy is going to steal or not. Pitchers make more mistakes, and it allows the hitters to do some damage.

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

by MPH73 on Nov 6, 2008 8:51 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

There are decent arguments for SBs

but the two WS teams doesn’t cut it. What about last year? How SB reliant were those offenses? And why is it that the biggest proponents of small ball, the Angels and Twins, bow out year after year after year in the first round?

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 6, 2008 9:28 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

If you could have one player in baseball to add to the Cubs...

Jimmy Rollins would be near the top of the list. His overall game is precisely what the Cub lineup screams for.

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

by MDBNIU on Nov 6, 2008 9:31 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I'd take

B.J. Upton over Rollins.

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

by cubs0505 on Nov 6, 2008 6:43 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Oh no,

BJ is OK as a hitter but I can only stand one lollygagging, heart attack inducing outfielder at a time and we already have Sori.

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 6, 2008 6:57 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Oh, if we're playing this game,

I don’t hesitate at all and take GRADY SIZEMORE.

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 6, 2008 7:23 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Hanley Ramirez

"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 7, 2008 10:20 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

What I am trying to say...

…is the Cubs need more balance in their offensive attack. If you look at their playoff performance in 07 and 08, the stolen base (or even the threat of a stolen base), may have been the difference between a hitter or two getting a pitch they could launch. As it stands, pitchers can bear down on Cub hitters with little attention paid to the baserunners, and it makes their life a bit easier.

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

by MPH73 on Nov 6, 2008 10:08 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I know. I'm much more open to your general argument.

It’s the idea that we can copy last year’s WS teams, which I resist. Different kinds of teams win the WS every year. The Cubs need to find out how to augment their own 97-winning club, which is a different, and very good team. We shouldn’t say, “We were beat by the Dodgers; we better copy 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 6, 2008 10:24 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Not looking to copy anyone...

…but they do need to be congnizant of how they can make themselves a more difficult team to pitch against.

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

by MPH73 on Nov 7, 2008 10:28 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

What's up with the first line in that article?

“DANA POINT, Calif. – Imagine a Cubs rotation that featured Jake Peavy, Carlos Zambrano, Ryan Dempster and Ted Lilly.”

Um, hey Ken. You realize we have Rich Harden, who is arguably better than every one of those guys, right?

by kanderber on Nov 6, 2008 7:25 AM CST reply actions 0 recs

What if Harden has to be part of the deal to get Peavy?

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

by Shanghai Badger on Nov 6, 2008 7:34 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Done.

Over time, your quickness with a cocky rejoinder must have gotten you many punches in the face - Al Swearengen

by lemon20pie on Nov 6, 2008 8:00 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

No

So this deal would potentially cost us Pie, Harden, Marshall, Ceda, and Cedeno?…in addition to Wood (since we wouldn’t sign him)?…

No thank you. I would rather keep Harden AND Wood AND still have those three to dangle for someone else. There is no way I would make that trade (and I’m only speaking if Harden is included) if I knew we were pretty certain to lose Woodie too.

by jbertram on Nov 6, 2008 8:53 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

If I'm San Diego, I'd jump at that deal.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Nov 6, 2008 8:56 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I doubt theyd want him back

they want young pitching

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 6, 2008 8:29 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

They won't want Harden

He has one year left on his contract, and the Padres will not be contending next year. Or the year after that.

by Wreckard on Nov 6, 2008 10:33 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

They don't need Harden to pitch for them in 2009,

but they can flip him for some prospects to the Braves, Yankees, etc.

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

by DeRoMyHero on Nov 6, 2008 11:40 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

The bullpen will be key.............

…………..if Peavy comes over.

I heard on XM Radio yesterday, that over the past two seasons, Jake Peavy has only thrown 15 PITCHES beyond the 7th inning.

Not sure if that is accurate, but if a Cy Young winner can get away with being just a 6-7 inning pitcher, it can’t be all bad. However, I was stunned to hear this because I equate Peavy with “horse”.

"Happiness? A good cigar, a good meal, a good cigar and a good woman - or a bad woman; it depends on how much happiness you can handle." ~ George Burns

by tville on Nov 6, 2008 7:38 AM CST reply actions 0 recs

That's quite simply not true.

A quick look at his BR pages shows that.

by kanderber on Nov 6, 2008 11:23 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I'm not gonna do others research.

I will report what others say, but I’m not going to act as ombudsman.

"Happiness? A good cigar, a good meal, a good cigar and a good woman - or a bad woman; it depends on how much happiness you can handle." ~ George Burns

by tville on Nov 6, 2008 9:01 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I'm not buying this.

For one thing, I heard from Deep Goat yesterday, who said nothing is going on right now.

Second, this article couches its language with words like “perhaps”:

The Cubs have emerged as a front-runner in the Peavy sweepstakes, perhaps even ahead of the Braves, according to major-league sources.

I’m still concerned about the idea of Peavy pitching with his home park not being Petco.

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

by Al on Nov 6, 2008 7:50 AM CST reply actions 0 recs

Rosenthal has a decent track record

Don’t really know against whoever you call Deep Goat though. Guess time will tell in the next month or so.

I wouldn’t be too concerned about Peavy pitching away from Petco. He’ll be fine at Wrigley, sure HRs will be up, but that can be said about a lot of pitchers who come to Wrigley (i.e. Ted Lilly).

by lamentir on Nov 6, 2008 9:11 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I woudn't worry about Peavy...

…at Wrigley either. He is a very good pitcher, plain and simple.

The other thing is this, Wrigley is really two ballparks. When the wind blows in, the park is one of the best pitcher’s parks in baseball. When it blows out, it becomes one of the better hitter’s parks in baseball. All in all, the wind appears to blow in a tad more than it blows out and the other days it is fairly netural. At the end of the day, Wrigley is not the hitter’s haven everyone makes it out to be.

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

by MPH73 on Nov 6, 2008 10:12 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

To be fair...

I think the argument is more “Has Peavy already reached the peak of his career” rather than the obsession with Home/Away splits.

In 2007 Peavy had a 2.51 ERA at home and 2.57 ERA on the road. Had a bad split in 2006, but 2005 and 2004 were both similar to 2007.

Did he reach his peak in 2007 seems to be a more relevant argument, as his home/road splits have not been consistently similar to 2008. Also must keep in mind that almost every pitcher has a better home ERA than road ERA.

Not necessarily supporting Peavy, but I don’t buy the Home/Away argument as much as some.

Free Ronny Cedeno

by Kansas25 on Nov 6, 2008 12:42 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Great potential rotation but...

you would need both a deep bullpen and some qualified 6th and 7th starters to make this work. Harden and Peavy are injury risks and Dempster has only one year back as a starter. If Marquis and Wood are traded / let go to make payroll room, and Marshall is part of the deal for Peavy, who are our backup starters (assuming Shark would need to stay in the bullpen with Wood gone)?

by John in DC on Nov 6, 2008 8:05 AM CST reply actions 0 recs

IF this were to happen...

the Cubs don’t resign Dempster. I don’t care what they say… Then there would be money for Wood or other RP help.

I still am very nervous about the Cardinals making a move for Peavy.

by Ghost of Fred Merkle on Nov 6, 2008 8:17 AM CST reply actions 0 recs

Cubs talking to Marlins for Hermida?

Not sure if it has been mentioned elsewhere here, I’m sure it has, but on another popular Cubs blog, someone mentioned that they heard on AM 1000 yesterday that Levine reported that the Cubs were in disucssioons for both Hermida and Olsen, which the Cubs would presumably turn around and use Olsen as a piece to get Peavy. Has this been discussed?

Over time, your quickness with a cocky rejoinder must have gotten you many punches in the face - Al Swearengen

by lemon20pie on Nov 6, 2008 8:30 AM CST reply actions 0 recs

Scott Olsen is from Crystal Lake.

Maybe they want him here.

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

by Al on Nov 6, 2008 8:48 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

And Scott Olsen is a dang good pitcher...

The heck with Jake Peavy. Lets just go get Scott Olsen and be done with it. But Larry Beinfast is expert and exacting heavy price for the talent on hand in Florida.

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

by MDBNIU on Nov 6, 2008 8:56 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah,

like Hee Seop Choi. Hendry’s been taken by the Fish, but he’s done alright taking them, too, especially when their motivation has been to shed salary.

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 6, 2008 9:31 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Scott Olsen is a talented pitcher,

but he also has a reputation as being very temperamental, and possibly having an alcohol problem. He supposedly threatened his manager in Florida. Can Lou handle that type of player?

I don’t think that the Cubs would keep him, if they got him.

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

by DeRoMyHero on Nov 6, 2008 11:44 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Yes, I know

He and my little brother played little league baseball together at Canterbury Elementary school, Babe Ruth ball at Veterans acres and played High School ball together at CL Central. From what he tells me, he’s the biggest jag-bag he’s ever met too. I personally don’t care about that, as long as he’s good, which I wouldn’t call Olsen. Mediocre, yeah. 4th starter yeah.

Over time, your quickness with a cocky rejoinder must have gotten you many punches in the face - Al Swearengen

by lemon20pie on Nov 6, 2008 9:37 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I've heard that too from a long time Crystal Lake pony league coach

Scott Olsen has maturity issues and can be a real prick.

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

by MDBNIU on Nov 6, 2008 9:46 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I have heard the same things about Olsen.

It might be worth trying if it didn’t cost too much in terms of players. It obviously won’t cost too much money.

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

by Al on Nov 6, 2008 9:47 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

This has been reported somwhere, I think maybe Gammons

and someone with more interest than I might google around for it. Either way, the point is that it’s more than just anecdotal.

We could have a whole lot of fun if our two major pickups this off-season were Olsen and Milton Bradley.

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 6, 2008 9:56 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I believe there was a shoving match in the dugout of a game in 2007 or 2008.

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Nov 6, 2008 4:24 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

In 8th grade?

Brian McRae's 5 o'clock shadow

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Nov 6, 2008 10:50 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

EDIT: Little bro played High School ball at CL South, not Central.

I went and played at CL Central.

Over time, your quickness with a cocky rejoinder must have gotten you many punches in the face - Al Swearengen

by lemon20pie on Nov 6, 2008 9:48 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

My high school team used to play you guys in the 1978 to 1981 time frame

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

by MDBNIU on Nov 6, 2008 9:51 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

A little before my time....

…..but a close relative of mine was the coach of that team then. You guys probably smoked them.

Over time, your quickness with a cocky rejoinder must have gotten you many punches in the face - Al Swearengen

by lemon20pie on Nov 6, 2008 10:02 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I heard that on the radio yesterday.

If Jimbo can get Hermida and Olsen, why would he want to give up players and take on Peavy’s contract.

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

by N Oakley on Nov 6, 2008 8:49 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Olsen has his own question marks.

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 6, 2008 9:33 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

True, but...

… he’d be a lot cheaper than Peavy, he is 25 in January, and… he’s lefthanded.

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

by Al on Nov 6, 2008 9:35 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Olsen is intriguing

but Peavy is preferable if we can afford him. Never forget about Marlin pitchers that their home park is almost as good at sapping offense as PETCO.

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 6, 2008 9:36 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I don't think...

I want to trade with the Marlins…Choi not withstanding, they seem to pry all of the “diamonds in the rough” out of everyone’s system.

by jbertram on Nov 6, 2008 8:58 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Like Dontrelle Willis?

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Nov 6, 2008 4:25 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I don't know what to think...

…about all this. Usually, a big name guy like Peavy takes a while to move, so some of this is probably over reaction. Also, I just don’t see how they can have both Peavy and Dempster and still address the lineup holes. That is, unless Hendry plans on trading at least one of his high salary guys to make room.

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

by MPH73 on Nov 6, 2008 8:41 AM CST reply actions 0 recs

It is possible that the numbers we are expecting for payroll are low.

The Cubs could have fed misinformation on that.

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 6, 2008 9:34 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I think if you resign Dempster and trade for Peavy you find a way to dump Marquis' salalry.

Presumably you still have somelike like Gaudin around to use as a caddy for Harden.

I has a blog. | Ask a sabermagician!

by cwyers on Nov 6, 2008 9:38 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

When you look at all the Cubs' offseason goals

it seems like dumping Marquis salary is necessary whether you add Peavy or Dempster, let alone both. Besides the pitching, we need a LOOGY, and a LH RF, and Jim/Lou wants to add a Name Lead-off man to drop Soriano.

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 6, 2008 9:41 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Agreed.

I still think Hendry should be calling the Mets and Yankees to see if they’ll take Marquis’ contract off our hands.

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

by Al on Nov 6, 2008 9:48 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

He should have them on speed dial.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Nov 6, 2008 9:49 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

If Hendry is trying to do all that we're reading

especially now Peavy AND Demp – then he’s asking Omar if he has interest in Soriano, too. I’m serious. If the 130 # is accurate, significant cost-cutting has to come – more than just Marquis. I think Hendry would love to unload Soriano and replace him with Ibanez.

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 6, 2008 9:57 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

wont happen

no one is gtaking sorianos contract from us. ANyone know if he has a NTC also?

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

by fischisgod on Nov 6, 2008 11:58 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Sori does have a full NTC,

but he would likely waive it (for a fee) for a return to NY. He loves the Apple, and I think he still has an apartment there.

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

by DeRoMyHero on Nov 6, 2008 12:07 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I think he would thrive in LA, too

under either Scoscia or Torre, again. I also think the two LA teams could have interest if they miss out on Manny and we don’t ask for too much back.

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 6, 2008 12:37 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

The problem is that Sori is still very useful.

Guys that can put up an .870 OPS in a bad year don’t grow on trees. This isn’t a bad contract in the grand tradition of Barry Zito.

Sure the Dodgers might be interested if Manny leaves, but I would want a decent return — maybe Andre Ethier and a young pitcher? If I trade Sori for no return but salary relief, I’m left with the dregs of the FA market — or Micah Hoffpauir — in LF.

That is the problem with wanting such a grandiose rotation — you can’t ruin the offense, or you are back at square one. The Cubs don’t have Steinbrenner’s checkbook.

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

by DeRoMyHero on Nov 6, 2008 1:04 PM CST

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