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Yankees Sign Teixeira

Well now 3/4 of my "nightmare scenario" is in place, The New York Yankees have signed 1B Mark Teixeira to an 8 year $180 million dollar deal according to ESPN's Buster Onley.

 

ESPN.COM Story

 

I think it is incredible that the Yankees are spending money like this. First CC, Burnett and now Tex. But what will happen if these huge deals dont pan out? We'll just have to wait and see.

 

 

This is a FanPost and does not necessarily reflect the views of SB Nation or Al Yellon, managing editor (unless it's a FanPost posted by Al). FanPost opinions are valued expressions of opinion by passionate and knowledgeable baseball fans.

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How much have they spent now this offseason? $400 mil?

by AGC on Dec 23, 2008 2:42 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

yup

$413.5 million so far.

by AGC on Dec 23, 2008 2:44 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

let's see

161 on CC, 82.5 on AJ, and 170 on Tex. Add in about 21 million more on Swisher’s contract.

Anyhow, their payroll is around in the mid-190’s right now. Most indications are that they’ll shed a contract to allow them the financial room to add Pettite. I’d guess Nady, but it could end up being Swisher that gets shed.

by toonsterwu on Dec 23, 2008 2:44 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

But what will happen if these huge deals dont pan out?

They’ll just spend more. Let’s not worry about it. Teams that spend less than the Yankees win the WS every year.

"Who's Bob Brenly? The guy that used to be the manager for Arizona?" ~ Alfonso Guilleard Soriano

by JohnM on Dec 23, 2008 2:43 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Haha Brewers

The brewers no longer get compensated with the first round NY pick for CC as that will now be going to the Angels.

Haha… the Yankees really donked the brewers this offseason.

by Steves Stoners on Dec 23, 2008 2:43 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Awesome. And, just for old time's sake...

CubsWin-Brewers-1

Yes, yes ... winter is indeed a pond upon which all of us must skate, braving frostbite and runny noses in the hopes that our cars will start and we shan't embarass ourselves slipping on a patch of black ice. Spring is more a quagmire of cold mud and slush, and fall is a pile of fallen leaves that may or may not hide a pile of doggy doo-doo. But summer, ah summer is an oasis of endless green that disappears all too quickly beneath our feet as we rush through its warm, glorious bliss.

by dat cubfan daver on Dec 23, 2008 2:53 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Ahhh...

This is brining back memories of game threads, I’m ready for baseball.

Someday we'll go all the way...

by CubsBullsBears on Dec 23, 2008 2:58 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Me too.

Yes, yes ... winter is indeed a pond upon which all of us must skate, braving frostbite and runny noses in the hopes that our cars will start and we shan't embarass ourselves slipping on a patch of black ice. Spring is more a quagmire of cold mud and slush, and fall is a pile of fallen leaves that may or may not hide a pile of doggy doo-doo. But summer, ah summer is an oasis of endless green that disappears all too quickly beneath our feet as we rush through its warm, glorious bliss.

by dat cubfan daver on Dec 23, 2008 3:00 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

And also...

"That’s what I love about my skip, man. He’ll tell you that you suck...I know I suck. We know we suck...Yeah, we suck. But we’ll see who sucks at the end."
- Gary Sheffield

by DrGalazkiewicz on Dec 27, 2008 4:32 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

What determines which team gets which draft pick?

"Booze, broads, and bullshit. If you got all that, what else do you need?" Harry Caray

by CubbieintheSouth on Dec 23, 2008 3:07 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Elias rankings.

I have an unreasonable dislike of Bill Hall.

by Ted Simmons Speed Camp on Dec 27, 2008 7:38 AM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Bah. I was literally just about to post this.

Good thing I checked one more time before submitting. Anyway, here’s my favorite site’s take on it, which says it could be up to $180MM.

Insane, they’re spending like drunken sailors this winter and I still don’t think I pin them as clear cut favorites to win their division, let alone the World Series. But, much like when Johan went to the Mets, I’m sure everyone (ESPN) will declare the 2009 World Series over and just give the trophy to the Yankees now. This is like Jim Hendry’s offseason a few years ago x100.

Ron Santo should sing TMOTTBG everyday. Period.

by Schwa on Dec 23, 2008 2:44 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

I agree with this...

… the Yankees will be anointed. But this guarantees them nothing, except to have a good-hitting team.

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

by Al on Dec 23, 2008 3:15 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

And one of the best pitchers in the game.

And a pitcher who could be a #1 on many pitching staffs.

The reason the Yankees have been playing below their lofty late 90s/early 00s standards is because of injuries, lack of attention to the rotation, and crappy signings (Carl Pavano, et al). With a rotation of CC, Burnett, Wang, Pettitte (probably), and one other starter, you’ve got one of the top pitching staffs in the AL. So they’ll probably be a pretty decent pitching team as well.

CUBS WIN! CUE THE ORCHESTRA!

by Keith on Dec 23, 2008 3:48 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

What about the bullpen?

And what happens when A. J. Pavano and Chien-Ming Pavano and Joba Pavano get hurt?

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

by Al on Dec 23, 2008 5:22 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

No comparison between Pavano and Wang...

Come on, Al. Wang had a FOOT injury last year running the bases. And because of that, you want to assume he’s going to suffer a serious injury next year?

And again, you’re willing to assume Wang, Chamberlain, and Burnett will get hurt, but you won’t assume the same for Zambrano, Harden, Lilly, and Dempster won’t?

I think it’s fair to put the Yankees’ rotation right there with the Cubs’ staff. Injuries could change that for sure. But that works BOTH ways.

by SouthernCub on Dec 23, 2008 5:31 PM CST up reply actions   1 recs

Point taken.

I just think it’s wrong to anoint the Yankees as champions because of this spending spree.

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

by Al on Dec 23, 2008 5:41 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

You're right about A.J. though!

"I never drink water because of the disgusting things fish do in it" -W.C. Fields

by calicubfan on Dec 23, 2008 9:16 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

If my math is right

And I think it is The Yankees will have spent close to $450 million dollars this off-season so far.

by Galvan316 on Dec 23, 2008 2:45 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

if this is true...

Then I have to give the Yankees credit. They’ll have addressed their biggest needs (defense at 1B, replacing Giambi’s production, and obviously the starting rotation). Easier to do when you can spend like the Yankees, but wow. Impressive haul to get the top pitcher AND top position player on the market.

by SouthernCub on Dec 23, 2008 2:46 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

yup

it is quite impressive, considering that they likely will keep their payroll below what it was last year. I would be a bit concerned about their pen, but they have some pieces in the minors (Melancon/Sanchez) that could perhaps address that.

by toonsterwu on Dec 23, 2008 2:48 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

The pen gets a lot of help...

from moving Chamberlain back there full time.

by SouthernCub on Dec 23, 2008 2:49 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

i'm under the impression

that he is in their rotation – Sabathia, Burnett, Wang, Chamberlain and likely Pettite. They are only talking about adding 1 more guy to the rotation, so the only other option would be Hughes, who I doubt they are going to place in such a high position.

by toonsterwu on Dec 23, 2008 2:54 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

A lot of teams would love to plug

Phil Hughes or Ian Kennedy into their fifth starter role. If the Yankees do resign Pettitte, and some have gone so far as to call it inevitable, I don’t see why they wouldn’t move Joba to the pen. Sabathia, Burnett, Wang and Pettite are good enough to make up for some of the bad outings that Hughes and/or Kennedy will most certainly have. Rivera, Joba and Marte makes for a formidable bullpen and if Humberto Sanchez gets the call up they might have the best pen in the league. This team is stacked, to say the least.

by dakoose on Dec 23, 2008 3:02 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I think they'll move him back...

Sabathia, Burnett, Wang, Pettitte, and Hughes or Kennedy make a solid rotation, and Chamberlain makes for a dominant force in the bullpen.

by SouthernCub on Dec 23, 2008 3:24 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

reading through some early morning articles

and suggestions are still that joba will be in the rotation. Peter Abraham says, as of now, Pettite might not return unless they can deal an OF.

Really, thinking about it, their pen is okay outside of the setup role. If Sanchez or Melancon can step up, or if Edwar Ramirez or Jose Veras perhaps, then they could be fine.

by toonsterwu on Dec 24, 2008 4:20 AM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Can we please sign someone now...

C.C. and Tex were out of our league financially, but can we please fill that void in our lineup already? To stay on topic though, the Yankees had needs (SP, 1st base) and they just filled them in a big way; you can’t really be mad at that (unless you’re a small market team).

Someday we'll go all the way...

by CubsBullsBears on Dec 23, 2008 2:47 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

I'd rather have Dunn...

I just can’t see Bradley staying healthy. It would be like Cliff Floyd (with a temper) part 2.

Someday we'll go all the way...

by CubsBullsBears on Dec 23, 2008 2:52 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I agree.

I’d rather have Dunn.

Also, the “can we please sign someone now” thing isn’t quite right. Just because someone else makes a move, you don’t necessarily have to do something as a knee-jerk reaction.

It’s December 23. Most likely, things will be slow till after New Year’s.

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

by Al on Dec 23, 2008 3:16 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Al, I'm a little shocked to see you give in to the temptation of Dunn.

Welcome to the Dark Side.

Yes, yes ... winter is indeed a pond upon which all of us must skate, braving frostbite and runny noses in the hopes that our cars will start and we shan't embarass ourselves slipping on a patch of black ice. Spring is more a quagmire of cold mud and slush, and fall is a pile of fallen leaves that may or may not hide a pile of doggy doo-doo. But summer, ah summer is an oasis of endless green that disappears all too quickly beneath our feet as we rush through its warm, glorious bliss.

by dat cubfan daver on Dec 23, 2008 3:21 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Correct me if I'm wrong...

…but I don’t think that he was saying “GO SIGN DUNN NOW!!!” I took it as a, it wouldn’t be as bad of a choice as Bradley.

I don’t (personally) think that Dunn is the best choice out there, nor do I think Al was implying that… Even if he was implying that, I still don’t think do ;)

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

by bobby h on Dec 23, 2008 3:25 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

who is "the best choice out there?"

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on Dec 23, 2008 3:28 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

honestly...

…i’m not sure. I think that there’s just a bunch of half-baked choices.

Of the names talked about, I probably like McLouth the best — though I think that the chances of that happening are next to nil. I’d prefer less bat, more field — but I don’t think Lou agrees with me and I don’t think that’s what we’ll get.

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

by bobby h on Dec 23, 2008 3:52 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

and won 97 games.

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

by bobby h on Dec 23, 2008 8:32 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

in the regular season.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on Dec 24, 2008 11:14 AM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Understood.

I didn’t mean to imply Al was advocating the immediate and unconditional acquisition of Adam Dunn. But he was pretty adamantly (ooh, bad pun) against it before under any circumstances.

Yes, yes ... winter is indeed a pond upon which all of us must skate, braving frostbite and runny noses in the hopes that our cars will start and we shan't embarass ourselves slipping on a patch of black ice. Spring is more a quagmire of cold mud and slush, and fall is a pile of fallen leaves that may or may not hide a pile of doggy doo-doo. But summer, ah summer is an oasis of endless green that disappears all too quickly beneath our feet as we rush through its warm, glorious bliss.

by dat cubfan daver on Dec 23, 2008 3:29 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

LOL

Yes, I was. I’m still not 100% sold, because of the defense. But I guess the hitting would make up for it.

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

by Al on Dec 23, 2008 5:22 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Yeah, my party line has been...

…IF the Cubs are going to spend big on name FA lefty slugger, I’d favor Dunn because he’ll likely make the most difference offensively. I liked your idea about Hermida, though.

Yes, yes ... winter is indeed a pond upon which all of us must skate, braving frostbite and runny noses in the hopes that our cars will start and we shan't embarass ourselves slipping on a patch of black ice. Spring is more a quagmire of cold mud and slush, and fall is a pile of fallen leaves that may or may not hide a pile of doggy doo-doo. But summer, ah summer is an oasis of endless green that disappears all too quickly beneath our feet as we rush through its warm, glorious bliss.

by dat cubfan daver on Dec 23, 2008 5:28 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I also like the idea that...

… Dunn is younger than ANY of the free-agent alternatives, and has been healthy all but one of the last seven seasons.

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

by Al on Dec 23, 2008 5:42 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

What about Abreu?

The Angels re-signed Juan Rivera, Tex is off the market, and Manny, IMO, is likely to go back to LA. It seems we should be able to get a bargain on Abreu. Bradley is too much of a gamble!

"I never drink water because of the disgusting things fish do in it" -W.C. Fields

by calicubfan on Dec 23, 2008 9:21 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

If a woman has to choose between catching a fly ball and saving an infant's life, she will choose to save the infant's life without even considering if there are men on base. - Dave Barry

by zm1217 on Dec 23, 2008 3:34 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

And home runs!

Lots and lots of home runs! MUHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!

Yes, yes ... winter is indeed a pond upon which all of us must skate, braving frostbite and runny noses in the hopes that our cars will start and we shan't embarass ourselves slipping on a patch of black ice. Spring is more a quagmire of cold mud and slush, and fall is a pile of fallen leaves that may or may not hide a pile of doggy doo-doo. But summer, ah summer is an oasis of endless green that disappears all too quickly beneath our feet as we rush through its warm, glorious bliss.

by dat cubfan daver on Dec 23, 2008 3:36 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

but HRs are rally killers!

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on Dec 23, 2008 3:37 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Not to mention facist.

Oh, wait, I’m thinking of strikeouts.

Yes, yes ... winter is indeed a pond upon which all of us must skate, braving frostbite and runny noses in the hopes that our cars will start and we shan't embarass ourselves slipping on a patch of black ice. Spring is more a quagmire of cold mud and slush, and fall is a pile of fallen leaves that may or may not hide a pile of doggy doo-doo. But summer, ah summer is an oasis of endless green that disappears all too quickly beneath our feet as we rush through its warm, glorious bliss.

by dat cubfan daver on Dec 23, 2008 3:42 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I always knew K's were fascist...

but I never knew they hated faces!

If a woman has to choose between catching a fly ball and saving an infant's life, she will choose to save the infant's life without even considering if there are men on base. - Dave Barry

by zm1217 on Dec 23, 2008 3:47 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I'll take the cookies, thankyouverymuch.

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

by Al on Dec 23, 2008 5:22 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Sorry, Al.

I think the only snacks left are the muffins from the Jim Edmonds Fan Club.

If a woman has to choose between catching a fly ball and saving an infant's life, she will choose to save the infant's life without even considering if there are men on base. - Dave Barry

by zm1217 on Dec 23, 2008 5:49 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Those are probably stale by now.

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

by Al on Dec 23, 2008 5:55 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I understand...

Not a knee jerk reaction, just for my own impatient reasons.

Someday we'll go all the way...

by CubsBullsBears on Dec 23, 2008 3:42 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

That's why I said "be careful what you wish for"

I’d rather have Dunn too, but it doesn’t sound like Dunn is on the Cubs’ radar. Hopefully that changes.

by SouthernCub on Dec 23, 2008 3:25 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Bradley's the much better fit

…since he’s capable of playing right field well, unlike Dunn.

Dunn would be a butcher in right. We’ll end up with a Brewers-like outfield if we’re not careful. Awful, awful defense.

by Wreckard on Dec 23, 2008 3:26 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

bradley IS capable of playing RF

for 70 games

he’s also capable of playing DL for 90-100

by DartmouthCubsFan on Dec 23, 2008 3:29 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Given our roster depth in the outfield

I think that’s a risk we can take on effectively.

With risk comes a discount in cost and years, which makes him fit our needs even better.

by Wreckard on Dec 23, 2008 3:36 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Doubtful there's a discount in cost...

in years, yes. But I woulnd’t assume Bradley will be cheaper in cost.

by SouthernCub on Dec 23, 2008 3:37 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

i don't see how we know that

i havent’ seen a single speculation even on what it would take in terms of dollars and years to sign either guy

by DartmouthCubsFan on Dec 23, 2008 3:38 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Because no one in their right mind

Would sign a player with that kind of injury risk to a long-term, high cost deal.

It’s common sense.

by Wreckard on Dec 23, 2008 3:44 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

and some

might say the same thing about a defensively challenged DH type…..

you said relative to Dunn the cost would be far less, and i don’t see how we have any evidence to justify that opinion

by DartmouthCubsFan on Dec 23, 2008 3:46 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Where did I say that?

I just said that with Bradley you get a discount in cost in years, versus his value as a player. I didn’t even mention Dunn, who I think will be relatively affordable as well.

My concern with Dunn is his defense, not his cost. I’m surprised after 2007, and after watching the Brewers and Yankees last season, that people are willing to even entertain a outfield with defense that poor.

by Wreckard on Dec 24, 2008 10:36 AM CST up reply actions   0 recs

the discount

has to be relative to SOMETHING, otherwise how do you know it’s a discount

i just assumed the word “discount” meant relative to Dunn, if it didn’t my bad

by DartmouthCubsFan on Dec 24, 2008 12:28 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Yeah, sorry. I can see where it came across that way.

I meant a discount relative to his actual value as a player. Usually a player of his caliber would fetch a long, high-priced deal.

by Wreckard on Dec 27, 2008 5:41 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Better tell his agent that...

Whoever said you can't mix business with pleasure never owned a PuttPutt course---Andy Bernard

by carmen_fanzone on Dec 23, 2008 3:46 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

No, they do towel bar drills.

Yes, yes ... winter is indeed a pond upon which all of us must skate, braving frostbite and runny noses in the hopes that our cars will start and we shan't embarass ourselves slipping on a patch of black ice. Spring is more a quagmire of cold mud and slush, and fall is a pile of fallen leaves that may or may not hide a pile of doggy doo-doo. But summer, ah summer is an oasis of endless green that disappears all too quickly beneath our feet as we rush through its warm, glorious bliss.

by dat cubfan daver on Dec 23, 2008 3:47 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Bingo!

100 years would have been nice, but 101 years still has a nice ring to it.

by airweino on Dec 23, 2008 5:34 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Actually

In order to play right field better than Dunn, you have to play.

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Dec 23, 2008 3:29 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Capable for a few games...

Assuming Bradley plays more than 80 games in the OF next year is incredibly optimistic considering he’s done it all of once in his career.

by SouthernCub on Dec 23, 2008 3:35 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

slight edit...

he’s only topped 100 games once.

Regardless, due to the injury risk (or maybe injury virtual guarantee) Bradley is NOT a better fit than Dunn.

by SouthernCub on Dec 23, 2008 3:36 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

The exact number of games he'll play is unknown...

my edit was to consider the fact that I believe he HAD topped 80 games more than once, but has only topped 100 games twice.

I agree though – it’s extremely unlikely that Bradley plays close to a full season next year.

by SouthernCub on Dec 23, 2008 4:04 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

espcially when he will be...

1) an ass.
b) a big contract.
d) hurt before the break.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on Dec 23, 2008 4:06 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Because we only need Bradley for a dozen games in October.

Our offense is fine. The LH bat is just for the playoffs. Who cares if he’s on the DL for 80 games?

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 Dec 23, 2008 5:53 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

When we're paying him a crapload of cash, then a lot of people care.

The Cubs can’t just piss away that money for a bat that may not be healthy the whole year, especially when he is not likely to repeat the previous year’s performance. We’re better off saving the cash, going into the season with Kosuke in right, and using that cash for a possible midseason acquisition that will probably be better than Bradley. If the Cubs cannot acquire a bat via trade, I believe Dunn is the best option. If Dunn is too pricey, then Kosuke is the best bet.

If a woman has to choose between catching a fly ball and saving an infant's life, she will choose to save the infant's life without even considering if there are men on base. - Dave Barry

by zm1217 on Dec 23, 2008 6:07 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

We're not going into next season without a new, shiny LH bat.

So, the question becomes – which does the least long-term damage to our team.

If it’s Dunn for 5 years, Abreu for 4, or Bradley for 3 (or please, please just 2) AND less cash for Bradley, then just consider the “crapload of cash” like paying not to have bad defense stuck on the roster for many years.

After all, a healthy Bradley is the best option for the Cubs when defense and offense are both taken into account.

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 Dec 23, 2008 6:12 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

funny how some mistake 162 game roster versus playoff roster

Bradley if he is the designated new OF bat, and Piniella makes for a good match to get Bradley to the playoffs healthy

Here is where things come back to Piniella type of game and roster management. Bradley will probably be used sparingly for the first half of the season. DeRosa will be used in RF if he still remains.

Still a big deal to make.

Piniella: "This is a tougher job than I thought it would be, I'm going to be honest with you."

by Ivy Walls on Dec 23, 2008 6:19 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I understand.

The post I linked argues that Bradley for 80 games is better than Dunn for 150. That’s why I posted it, to present that, pretty well constructed as I saw it, argument. The likelihood that Bradley will miss time is one of 2 major reasons people are opposed to him. I’m arguing that, while I understand he’ll miss time, he’s still the best acquisition given the choices.

by philadelphiacub on Dec 23, 2008 4:22 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Those projections rely on a couple of things...

the primary one is that Bradley is worth more offensively than Dunn. I think that’s a faulty assumption, and I’m guessing it’s based on Bradley’s numbers last year.

by SouthernCub on Dec 23, 2008 4:46 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Those are the 2009 Marcels projections

so it’s a matter of how dependable you think those are. While Bradley’s year last year is unlikely to be repeated, last year didn’t come out of nowhere. He’s put up consistently good numbers throughout his career, and looking at that projection, .293/.392/.502, that iline is completely in line with his career norm. Dunn’s 09 Marcel is .247/.374/.497. If you looked at the charts in that post, you’d see that the offensive projections are similiar, but that the defensive projections are where Bradley far outperforms Dunn, at a rate of +5 to -13.

So in a word, no, those projections do not rely on the assumption that bradley is worth offensive worth more offensively than Dunn. They suggest he’s ever so slightly more valuable offensively, but on the whole is more valuable due to defense. So it’s not a faulty assumption, and because the number projection used in that post is in line with career norms, it’s not safe to assume it’s skewed by his numbers last year.

by philadelphiacub on Dec 23, 2008 6:03 PM CST up reply actions   2 recs

Rec'd for truth

Well researched argument.

by Wreckard on Dec 24, 2008 10:39 AM CST up reply actions   0 recs

How come

the “experts” on ESPN didn’t see this coming??

Now the dominoes will start falling..

SORIANO! YESSSSSSSS! JIMBO!!!

by CubFaninCA on Dec 23, 2008 2:48 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

largely because

suggestions are that the Yankees only stepped in in the last couple of days, so most assumed Boston was in the lead.

by toonsterwu on Dec 23, 2008 2:48 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

This was very well played by Brian Cashman.

Reports suggested Boston was assuming they were the big contract and refused to match what Boras brought. If the Yankee interest was more well known, Boston may have been willing to match that contract. Cashman deserves respect for the way he got this done. Teix was always more important to the Yankees going forward than the pitchers, but Cashman feinted like he couldn’t do it, then feinted like he was interested in Manny. Well played.

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 Dec 23, 2008 5:55 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Damn I thought we had a chance

Finally the rest of the off season will get going

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 Dec 23, 2008 2:51 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Had a chance at what?!?!?

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Dec 23, 2008 3:14 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Winning those preseason games at the New Yankee Stadium?

:)

Whoever said you can't mix business with pleasure never owned a PuttPutt course---Andy Bernard

by carmen_fanzone on Dec 23, 2008 3:15 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I was joking

though he’d be a better investment than Soriano

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 Dec 23, 2008 4:47 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Wow, CC, AJ and now MT.

The Yankees scare me. They really do.

Yes, yes ... winter is indeed a pond upon which all of us must skate, braving frostbite and runny noses in the hopes that our cars will start and we shan't embarass ourselves slipping on a patch of black ice. Spring is more a quagmire of cold mud and slush, and fall is a pile of fallen leaves that may or may not hide a pile of doggy doo-doo. But summer, ah summer is an oasis of endless green that disappears all too quickly beneath our feet as we rush through its warm, glorious bliss.

by dat cubfan daver on Dec 23, 2008 2:54 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

i think they are probably the favorites in the AL rightnow

This does make their lineup look more imposing. Prior to this, they were looking at Matsui as their other big bat in the middle. Now, a lineup like

1. Damon, LF
2. Jeter, SS
3. Tex, 1st
4. Rodriguez, 3rd
5. Matsui, DH
6. Nady (my guess), RF
7. Cano, 2nd
8. Posada, C
9. Cabrera, CF

is fairly imposing. If you can get an .800+ OPS out of the 7th spot, that’s sweet.

by toonsterwu on Dec 23, 2008 2:58 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Yep, and then you toss in the rotation...

…of, what, CC, Burnett, Joba, Wang and Petite. Yow. If they all stay healthy, that’s pretty fearsome.

Yes, yes ... winter is indeed a pond upon which all of us must skate, braving frostbite and runny noses in the hopes that our cars will start and we shan't embarass ourselves slipping on a patch of black ice. Spring is more a quagmire of cold mud and slush, and fall is a pile of fallen leaves that may or may not hide a pile of doggy doo-doo. But summer, ah summer is an oasis of endless green that disappears all too quickly beneath our feet as we rush through its warm, glorious bliss.

by dat cubfan daver on Dec 23, 2008 3:02 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

And Phillip Hughes is waiting in the wings for the rotation

Hughes has been lights out this winter. Lots of talent.

by BLou on Dec 23, 2008 3:07 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I guess this means that don't want Jason Marquis then.

Yes, yes ... winter is indeed a pond upon which all of us must skate, braving frostbite and runny noses in the hopes that our cars will start and we shan't embarass ourselves slipping on a patch of black ice. Spring is more a quagmire of cold mud and slush, and fall is a pile of fallen leaves that may or may not hide a pile of doggy doo-doo. But summer, ah summer is an oasis of endless green that disappears all too quickly beneath our feet as we rush through its warm, glorious bliss.

by dat cubfan daver on Dec 23, 2008 3:11 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

But he's from NY!

"Who's Bob Brenly? The guy that used to be the manager for Arizona?" ~ Alfonso Guilleard Soriano

by JohnM on Dec 23, 2008 3:12 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Frankly, I'm not that frightened of that rotation...

… considering Burnett, Wang and Joba all have health issues.

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

by Al on Dec 23, 2008 3:16 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

That's true.

And CC may not be as dominant in the AL East as he was in the NL Central.

Yes, yes ... winter is indeed a pond upon which all of us must skate, braving frostbite and runny noses in the hopes that our cars will start and we shan't embarass ourselves slipping on a patch of black ice. Spring is more a quagmire of cold mud and slush, and fall is a pile of fallen leaves that may or may not hide a pile of doggy doo-doo. But summer, ah summer is an oasis of endless green that disappears all too quickly beneath our feet as we rush through its warm, glorious bliss.

by dat cubfan daver on Dec 23, 2008 3:22 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I'd bank on it.

The offensive caliber of the AL East makes this a certainty.

by Flatley on Dec 23, 2008 3:23 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

...beggars would ride?

Yes, yes ... winter is indeed a pond upon which all of us must skate, braving frostbite and runny noses in the hopes that our cars will start and we shan't embarass ourselves slipping on a patch of black ice. Spring is more a quagmire of cold mud and slush, and fall is a pile of fallen leaves that may or may not hide a pile of doggy doo-doo. But summer, ah summer is an oasis of endless green that disappears all too quickly beneath our feet as we rush through its warm, glorious bliss.

by dat cubfan daver on Dec 23, 2008 3:24 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

If I were the Yankees..

My rotation would be Sabathia, Burnett, Wang, Hughes and Kennedy, with Joba moving back to the bullpen as ace set-up man to Rivera. I’d also take a pass on bringing back Pettitte. Hughes and Kennedy both have high ceilings and it should be time for them to answer the bell.

by BLou on Dec 23, 2008 3:25 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Kennedy has a high ceiling?

Don’t see it . In saying that, I think Kennedy is a fine end of the rotation prospect/young pitcher, but he was ridiculously overhyped.

I’m not saying that rotation is a bad idea, rather that I’ve never seen this high ceiling some folks have suggested. For example, I don’t think Kennedy as a prospect was ever as good as Gallagher.

by toonsterwu on Dec 23, 2008 3:34 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

You misunderstood what BLou was saying...

he meant that Hughes and Kennedy are roomates in a condo with vaulted ceilings, and they never answer the door when BLou rings the doorbell.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on Dec 23, 2008 3:37 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Wang has health issues?

Granted, he just missed most of last year, but that’s not the type of injury I’d be concerned about moving forward. It was a baserunning injury to his leg.

Frankly, you could make the same argument about OUR rotation, Al. Zambrano, Harden, Lilly and Dempster all have had health issues too.

by SouthernCub on Dec 23, 2008 3:28 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Don't remind me.

Yes, yes ... winter is indeed a pond upon which all of us must skate, braving frostbite and runny noses in the hopes that our cars will start and we shan't embarass ourselves slipping on a patch of black ice. Spring is more a quagmire of cold mud and slush, and fall is a pile of fallen leaves that may or may not hide a pile of doggy doo-doo. But summer, ah summer is an oasis of endless green that disappears all too quickly beneath our feet as we rush through its warm, glorious bliss.

by dat cubfan daver on Dec 23, 2008 3:30 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

+1

If Wang has any sort of injury issue, it’d be the blisters he gets on occasion … but a lot of pitchers get them.

by toonsterwu on Dec 23, 2008 3:31 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

blisters on wang...ouch.

Whoever said you can't mix business with pleasure never owned a PuttPutt course---Andy Bernard

by carmen_fanzone on Dec 23, 2008 3:55 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

It puts the lotion on or it gets the hose!

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on Dec 23, 2008 3:56 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Put the f**king lotion in the basket!

Yes, yes ... winter is indeed a pond upon which all of us must skate, braving frostbite and runny noses in the hopes that our cars will start and we shan't embarass ourselves slipping on a patch of black ice. Spring is more a quagmire of cold mud and slush, and fall is a pile of fallen leaves that may or may not hide a pile of doggy doo-doo. But summer, ah summer is an oasis of endless green that disappears all too quickly beneath our feet as we rush through its warm, glorious bliss.

by dat cubfan daver on Dec 23, 2008 3:57 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Agreed

And the Red Sox, I think, have the best bullpen. The Yankees’ pitching isn’t anything to sneeze at, but it’s not exactly the best around either.

"I see great things in baseball. It's our game - the American game." - Walt Whitman

by hip2bsquare on Dec 23, 2008 3:50 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

if healthy, I think the best pen is

in Toronto. Big if, though, as they need a healthy Accardo zipping things in setting up BJ Ryan. red Sox would be close, though, particularly if they keep Masterson in the pen setting up Papelbon.

by toonsterwu on Dec 23, 2008 4:02 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

With the way he's been used over the past few years,

I wouldn’t be surprised if CC gets some as well

"I don't know, I think the Bears should just defer so they don't have to put their offense out there to start" -Tony Kornhesier

by rea5661 on Dec 23, 2008 10:06 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Matsui

Will be dealt

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Dec 23, 2008 3:15 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

If you're right, the Cubs could be in the market.

The author of this post is not a certified scout, doctor, agent, statistician, manager, or journalist, nor was he ever a very good player, though he tried very hard to be like Ryne Sandberg and was about as scrappy as it gets (in T-ball). Any opinion expressed above should in no way be confused with fact, truth, or reality and is hereby qualified in the following ways: 1) The author does not know as much about baseball as Lou Piniella. 2) The author does not know as much about baseball as Jim Hendry. 3) The author does not know as much about baseball as either Dusty or Darren Baker.

by DGU on Dec 23, 2008 5:58 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

He a lefty OF

"There are no curses here...Games are won and lost on the baseball field" - Lou Piniella

by El Borto on Dec 23, 2008 5:59 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I'd rather have Matsui than any of the free agent options.

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

by Al on Dec 23, 2008 6:15 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Even with him coming off an injury?

From Kyodo News, via Rotoworld:

Daisuke Matsuzaka and Ichiro Suzuki are among seven major leaguers included on Japan’s preliminary roster for the WBC.

The others are Hiroki Kuroda, Akinori Iwamura, Kosuke Fukudome, Kenji Johjima and Takashi Saito. Noticeably absent is Hideki Matsui, who will miss the tournament following knee surgery. Also missing are Kenshin Kawakami and Koji Uehara. Both pitched for Japan in the 2008 Olympics, but it appears as though they’ll get a chance to settle in with their new MLB teams next spring.


Coming off of that kind of surgery, and with Cashman himself saying he won’t be ready by then (not to mention his NTC), I’m not sure what we could expect from him.

by Flatley on Dec 23, 2008 6:18 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Hmm.

Not sure what happened with my block quoting. “Coming off…” is all me.

by Flatley on Dec 23, 2008 6:18 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Interesting.

I thought he was going to be healthy for 2009. But maybe the Yankees asked him not to participate.

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

by Al on Dec 23, 2008 6:24 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

There were rumors

that suggested that the Yankees don’t think he can play regularly in the OF anymore. Speculation was that he was slated to be their DH this year, with an occasional appearance in the OF if need be.

by toonsterwu on Dec 23, 2008 8:34 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

His defense in RF would have to be worse than Dunn

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 Dec 23, 2008 6:31 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Ugh...

that sucks. We all know you can’t spend your way to a championship but it can’t hurt. If this doesn’t prove that MLB needs some form of salary restrictions I don’t know what does? Ironically, the Yankees signed him the same day it comes out that they owe $26.9M for the Luxury Tax.

As soon as any potential FA becomes available the teams immediately mentioned are the Yankees, Mets, Red Sox, and sometimes the Cubs. Where will Joe Mauer end up? More than likely re-upping (to the Union’s chagrin) with the Twins or a battle between the Yankees and Red Sox looking to replace Posada and Varitek.

by CubFan81 on Dec 23, 2008 3:02 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

When will Hendry make a move?

I’ve heard rumors of Bradley possibly going to Seattle. http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/seattle_mariners/index.html
The Mariners are also interested in Dunn. Where does that leave our OF? It looks like we’re going to be forced to acquire somebody via trade. Picking between Dunn and Bradley is definitely picking the best of 2 evils.

Andy R.

by WindisBlowingOut! on Dec 23, 2008 3:02 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Money's Not Everything, But...

it sure does help in putting together a competitive ballclub. I’m glad that the Rays had their success last season. The Twins almost beat out the White Sox for the AL Central in 2008. Let’s face it! Chances are that the Yankees are going to win more games in the next 10 years than the Rays or the Twins because of the Yankees’ huge bank roll. I’m glad the Yanks haven’t won a WS since 2000 and haven’t been since 2003, but how long are those droughts going to continue?

"The big possum walks late." - Harry Caray

by memphiscub on Dec 23, 2008 3:02 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Yankees are singular mission...to add to their collection of 26 World Series Championships

I might be in the minority around here, but I get a kick out of the Yankees. And yes, I do root for them to succeed. The Steinbrenner boys are carrying on the legacy of their old man. Personally, I love it.

CC Sabathia AND AJ Burnett AND Mark Texiera…in one offseason !!!

Plus they add the versatile Nick Swisher. Keep in mind the big salaries they have subtracted this offseason in Mike Mussina ($17 M), Andy Pettitte ($16 M), Kyle Farnsworth (several mil), Bobby Abreu ($16 M), Jason Giambi ($19 M)

by BLou on Dec 23, 2008 3:05 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Way way way wait..."the versatile Nick Swisher?"

I thought you hated Nick Swisher. Gomer Pyle and all that…?

Yes, yes ... winter is indeed a pond upon which all of us must skate, braving frostbite and runny noses in the hopes that our cars will start and we shan't embarass ourselves slipping on a patch of black ice. Spring is more a quagmire of cold mud and slush, and fall is a pile of fallen leaves that may or may not hide a pile of doggy doo-doo. But summer, ah summer is an oasis of endless green that disappears all too quickly beneath our feet as we rush through its warm, glorious bliss.

by dat cubfan daver on Dec 23, 2008 3:07 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I do hate him

But how would you like to have the versatile Nick Swisher to serve as “super sub”? Not too shabby in my book.

by BLou on Dec 23, 2008 3:09 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

i don't think he'll be a super sub

i think swisher is either their starting lineup or he is traded. Unless Hal changes his mind and ups the payroll. Because as of now, they can’t bring back Pettite without shedding a contract. It could be Nady, they’d probably prefer to dump Matsui, but it might be Swisher they move.

by toonsterwu on Dec 23, 2008 3:12 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I Root for them also

Blou, but this life after George Steinbrenner appears to be Building a Team more for Attendance than winning a world Series. The Old Man wanted to Win Just as much as he wanted to make money. I don’t get that same feeling from his Son’s

by NYCUB FAN on Dec 26, 2008 5:53 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

How'd you like to be the Milwaukee Brewers right now

They don’t get top compensation for CC Sabathia now. Looks like Ben Sheets will be a very late signing by somebody, meaning the Brewers might not get comp picks for him after all. Plus they are chasing washed up geriatrics to desperately rebuild a pitching staff.

Good luck with a rotation of Suppan, Bush, McClung and Capuano to go along with Gallardo. Also the bullpen is an unmitigated disaster.

Seriously, why aren’t they on the phone right now trading Prince Fielder to the Angels for pitching?

by BLou on Dec 23, 2008 3:11 PM CST reply actions   1 recs

Because Prince ate the phone?

Yes, yes ... winter is indeed a pond upon which all of us must skate, braving frostbite and runny noses in the hopes that our cars will start and we shan't embarass ourselves slipping on a patch of black ice. Spring is more a quagmire of cold mud and slush, and fall is a pile of fallen leaves that may or may not hide a pile of doggy doo-doo. But summer, ah summer is an oasis of endless green that disappears all too quickly beneath our feet as we rush through its warm, glorious bliss.

by dat cubfan daver on Dec 23, 2008 3:12 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

+1

At least we’ve always got the NBA…….

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Dec 23, 2008 4:12 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

and the NAACP

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on Dec 23, 2008 4:21 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

The IRA?

They are some bad dudes

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Dec 23, 2008 4:21 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

naw, you're thinking of the IRS

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

by ballhawk on Dec 23, 2008 4:39 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

you forgot parra

if parra and gallardo develops, that’s a 1/2 for their rotation, with Jeffress potentially ready within a year or two. That said, yes, they’ll likely take a step back in 2009, but they could be intriguing in 2010.

As for Fielder and the Angels, I’m not sure I love the Angels young pitching enough to swing a trade for Fielder. They supposedly tried for Cain, but the Giants wanted too much. I mean, I like Adenhart and Walden, but they are 2/3 types at best, and Weaver/Saunders are back end of the rotation types. Santana is a mid-back end type imo. Why deal Fielder for that when you can hold on to him and wait a bit more as he is cost-controlleD? If someone offers a legit TOR guy, I think they pull the trigger in a heartbeat. Gives them time to see if Gamel has the power for first base as well.

by toonsterwu on Dec 23, 2008 3:14 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

That's assuming Jeffress makes it.

As I recall, he’s had several issues in the minors already that led to suspensions. Two points make a line….

by Flatley on Dec 23, 2008 3:19 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Compensation for losing a free agent has nothung to do with the timing of losing him.

Unless you meant that the longer he stays out there the more likely it is that the Brewers could re-sign him themselves.

I have an unreasonable dislike of Bill Hall.

by Ted Simmons Speed Camp on Dec 27, 2008 7:41 AM CST up reply actions   0 recs

wasn't someone suggesting

the yankees were trying to shed payroll in another thread…. and that brought up the idea of moving Damon, etc…

yeah… i don’t think they’re trying to shed payroll

by DartmouthCubsFan on Dec 23, 2008 3:15 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

I was the one that brought up Damon

But I wasn’t saying it was to trim payroll. I thought if they signed Manny, Damon would be much more expendable.

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Dec 23, 2008 3:24 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

hmmm....

i could’ve sworn someone’s argument for it was because the yankees are looking to shed payroll… maybe it was someone different or i just mis-interpreted the argument

by DartmouthCubsFan on Dec 23, 2008 3:29 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

And I'm not sure of what your idea of "shedding" payroll is...

Because now that they signed these three, I think they will be trying very hard to move guys like Damon and/or Matsui.

I guess you could call this subtraction by addition?!

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Dec 23, 2008 3:32 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

it's not payroll

its roster spots

if the argument had been they’re trying to unload the roster spot, i would’ve gotten it

but like i said i could’ve completely misunderstood the argument anyway

by DartmouthCubsFan on Dec 23, 2008 3:36 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

their payroll will be lower, in all likelihood, than in 2008

Unless Hal changes his mind, suggestions are that, for them to bring back Pettite, they’d have to cut some payroll.

by toonsterwu on Dec 23, 2008 3:35 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

yes its 18 million lower right now

but again they didn’t need to shed Damon, clearly they were doing ok since they could hand out an additional 20+ million to one player

by DartmouthCubsFan on Dec 23, 2008 3:37 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

i don't think they'd shed damon anyways

he’s their only real leadoff option, unless they go with Jeter. I think the shed candidates are Nady/Swisher/Matsui (perhaps in that order), and they’d love to dump the Igawa deal.

by toonsterwu on Dec 23, 2008 3:40 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

What makes you think Matsui wouldn't be the first they'd like to shed?

I would think that would be there number one guy to chop.

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Dec 23, 2008 3:47 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

*their

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Dec 23, 2008 3:47 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

dh, big contract

which al team really has a huge need for someone like Matsui? If he can play in the field, that changes the equation, but I think enough folks are worried. He was never the power hitter he was in Japan.

Oh, wait, I was referencing likelihood of the guy being shed, and not what they would prefer. I think they’d love to shed Matsui, but I don’t see it happening.

by toonsterwu on Dec 23, 2008 3:50 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

That's a good point

What they want and what they can do, are totally different.

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Dec 23, 2008 3:52 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I'll take the over

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Dec 23, 2008 3:24 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

So are they still after Manny?

Can they truly spend more money 200 gazillion dollars?

Whoever said you can't mix business with pleasure never owned a PuttPutt course---Andy Bernard

by carmen_fanzone on Dec 23, 2008 3:18 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

crap...

…“more than 200 gazillion dollars”

Whoever said you can't mix business with pleasure never owned a PuttPutt course---Andy Bernard

by carmen_fanzone on Dec 23, 2008 3:19 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Doubt it.

When it’s all said & done, I bet Manny’s still a Dodger.

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

by Al on Dec 23, 2008 3:20 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I don't know about that

Sounds like Frank McCourt and his daughter have slapped the cuffs on Ned Colletti.

by BLou on Dec 23, 2008 3:23 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Who do you suppose Manny goes to, then? An NPB team?

Manny’s only option right now is the Dodgers, in my eyes.

If a woman has to choose between catching a fly ball and saving an infant's life, she will choose to save the infant's life without even considering if there are men on base. - Dave Barry

by zm1217 on Dec 23, 2008 3:24 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I'd guess Dodgers

but I wouldn’t be surprised if Manny’s destination was a mild surprise. Say … Toronto, and they move Snider to 1st/DH. Or somewhere else.

The scary part is, if the Yankees shed Matsui and, say, Swisher, and let Pettite go, they might be able to sign Manny and still be under 200 million.

by toonsterwu on Dec 23, 2008 3:38 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I just hope Hendry doesn't bite if the Yanks shop Godzilla.

He’s a corner outfielder, lefty bat with power, and Japanese (expensive Fuku-friend). But he’s older, on the decline, a health risk, bad defensively, and scheduled to make $13 million next year. Yikes. No rumors I’ve seen, but I just hope I don’t START seeing any.

If a woman has to choose between catching a fly ball and saving an infant's life, she will choose to save the infant's life without even considering if there are men on base. - Dave Barry

by zm1217 on Dec 23, 2008 3:53 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Actually, a very good destination for Manny would be...

… San Francisco.

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

by Al on Dec 23, 2008 5:23 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Ah, from Barry to Manny in the matter of a few years.

If a woman has to choose between catching a fly ball and saving an infant's life, she will choose to save the infant's life without even considering if there are men on base. - Dave Barry

by zm1217 on Dec 23, 2008 5:33 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

They can afford him...

… and they could use a box-office boost. It makes a lot of sense.

Plus, don’t they seem to like the over-35 set?

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

by Al on Dec 23, 2008 5:42 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I wonder about his reception though....

given,

1) He’s coming from the Dodgers (and made them successful)
2) He’s an ass
and 3) Did I mention he’s coming from the Dodgers?

It wouldn’t be the first time a guy shifted across that rivalry, but usually those guys were at least likeable. Manny isn’t…

That said, he CAN play the game pretty well…

by CubsWin!Oregon on Dec 23, 2008 8:06 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Meh, I think Giants fans would get over the Dodgers thing pretty quickly.

After all, this is the fanbase that supported Barroid until the (apparently) bitter end.

Yes, yes ... winter is indeed a pond upon which all of us must skate, braving frostbite and runny noses in the hopes that our cars will start and we shan't embarass ourselves slipping on a patch of black ice. Spring is more a quagmire of cold mud and slush, and fall is a pile of fallen leaves that may or may not hide a pile of doggy doo-doo. But summer, ah summer is an oasis of endless green that disappears all too quickly beneath our feet as we rush through its warm, glorious bliss.

by dat cubfan daver on Dec 24, 2008 9:41 AM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Exactly.

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

by Al on Dec 24, 2008 1:23 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

My point about not being likeable...

Was that “likeability” helps Giant fans get over their dislike of all things Dodger. It’s why, for example, Hershiser was able to pitch there without people throwing batteries.

You really have to be around the rivalry to fully appreciate the level of disdain among fans (I think it’s a more fiery rivalry than the Cubs/Cards or Yankees/Red Sox).

With Manny, not only did he help the Dodgers succeed, but he has a lousy me-first attitude that makes it harder to overlook his “sin” of being a former Dodger. So I would be surprised to see fans warm to him.

Bonds was a different creature. He may not be likeable all in all (though I think that’s generally overstated. I think he’s more a private guy ala Mantle), but he gave everything to the Giants on the field, and at least had moments where he did seem to appreciate the fans there.

Anyway, all in all I think you may be right that Giants fans could get over Manny’s Dodger connections, but only because he’s probably looked at as more of a Red Sox.

But that said, don’t underestimate just how much Giants fans loathe anyone associated with the Dodgers. And “Manny being Manny” wouldn’t help any.

by CubsWin!Oregon on Dec 24, 2008 2:20 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

btw...

I hope my comment above doesn’t come off as brash. Tone is always hard to convey on these things.

I think you guys could be right so I’m not trying to be dismissive. I just wanted to note that the rivalry could have some impact as well…

by CubsWin!Oregon on Dec 24, 2008 2:53 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

As I said...

… I think just swiping Manny from the Giants might be enough for the “rivalry” portion of it.

The Giants need a big star. That’s a big market team that had one, although a controversial one, for 15 years before last year. It’s no surprise their attendance dropped.

They’d be smart to sign Manny.

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

by Al on Dec 24, 2008 3:19 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

It would depend on the trade cost

and the health reports. The nice thing about Matsui is that you only have to pay him for one year. I could see a healthy Matsui hitting .300/.375/.475 in the NL Central. I’m not sure he’s good enough for the OF, though. I just don’t know where he’s at health wise.

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 Dec 23, 2008 6:07 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

well ricciardi says they are out of spending

dodgers sitll seem most likely, but i wouldn’t discount a surprise big money offer from a team like baltimore or washington. that said, if he wants a chance to win, those two places won’t be fits.

assuming the angels are out as well, hmm … there isn’t much left for him. i wonder if the braves visit this after their horrible offseason so far. the giants are a thought.

by toonsterwu on Dec 23, 2008 8:36 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

200 GAZILLION dollars.

If a woman has to choose between catching a fly ball and saving an infant's life, she will choose to save the infant's life without even considering if there are men on base. - Dave Barry

by zm1217 on Dec 23, 2008 3:23 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

OT: Nationals sign Patterson and Sosa

(Corey and Jorge)

"Who's Bob Brenly? The guy that used to be the manager for Arizona?" ~ Alfonso Guilleard Soriano

by JohnM on Dec 23, 2008 3:28 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

I suppose those two probably equal the production they would have gotten out of Tex.

It all works out in the end.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on Dec 23, 2008 3:30 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Shrewd to have a backup plan in place.

"Who's Bob Brenly? The guy that used to be the manager for Arizona?" ~ Alfonso Guilleard Soriano

by JohnM on Dec 23, 2008 3:31 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Really, Washington Nationals? Really?

You’re really giving Corey Patterson the opportunity to play major league baseball again? Really?

Yes, yes ... winter is indeed a pond upon which all of us must skate, braving frostbite and runny noses in the hopes that our cars will start and we shan't embarass ourselves slipping on a patch of black ice. Spring is more a quagmire of cold mud and slush, and fall is a pile of fallen leaves that may or may not hide a pile of doggy doo-doo. But summer, ah summer is an oasis of endless green that disappears all too quickly beneath our feet as we rush through its warm, glorious bliss.

by dat cubfan daver on Dec 23, 2008 3:32 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Wait, you said the Nationals, right?

You’re sure that’s major league baseball?

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

by Al on Dec 23, 2008 5:24 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Barely, I suppose.

Yes, yes ... winter is indeed a pond upon which all of us must skate, braving frostbite and runny noses in the hopes that our cars will start and we shan't embarass ourselves slipping on a patch of black ice. Spring is more a quagmire of cold mud and slush, and fall is a pile of fallen leaves that may or may not hide a pile of doggy doo-doo. But summer, ah summer is an oasis of endless green that disappears all too quickly beneath our feet as we rush through its warm, glorious bliss.

by dat cubfan daver on Dec 23, 2008 5:29 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Wait

Why didn’t you create a fanpost for this? Isn’t that what you’re suppose to do with stories like this?

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Dec 23, 2008 3:33 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Do you mean a Fanshot?

Yes, yes ... winter is indeed a pond upon which all of us must skate, braving frostbite and runny noses in the hopes that our cars will start and we shan't embarass ourselves slipping on a patch of black ice. Spring is more a quagmire of cold mud and slush, and fall is a pile of fallen leaves that may or may not hide a pile of doggy doo-doo. But summer, ah summer is an oasis of endless green that disappears all too quickly beneath our feet as we rush through its warm, glorious bliss.

by dat cubfan daver on Dec 23, 2008 3:37 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

postshot?

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on Dec 23, 2008 3:38 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

shotput?

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on Dec 23, 2008 3:44 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

putout?

Yes, yes ... winter is indeed a pond upon which all of us must skate, braving frostbite and runny noses in the hopes that our cars will start and we shan't embarass ourselves slipping on a patch of black ice. Spring is more a quagmire of cold mud and slush, and fall is a pile of fallen leaves that may or may not hide a pile of doggy doo-doo. But summer, ah summer is an oasis of endless green that disappears all too quickly beneath our feet as we rush through its warm, glorious bliss.

by dat cubfan daver on Dec 23, 2008 3:44 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Cop out?

Kwa...Ki...Sur...Pee...Nee...Ku?

by Kinky Reggae on Dec 23, 2008 3:45 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

output?

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on Dec 23, 2008 3:45 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I hate you guys

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Dec 23, 2008 3:48 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I ate cheese fries?

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on Dec 23, 2008 3:50 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Speak up, sonny.

Yes, yes ... winter is indeed a pond upon which all of us must skate, braving frostbite and runny noses in the hopes that our cars will start and we shan't embarass ourselves slipping on a patch of black ice. Spring is more a quagmire of cold mud and slush, and fall is a pile of fallen leaves that may or may not hide a pile of doggy doo-doo. But summer, ah summer is an oasis of endless green that disappears all too quickly beneath our feet as we rush through its warm, glorious bliss.

by dat cubfan daver on Dec 23, 2008 3:52 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Where's blue mike when you need him

He’d set you fools straight.

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Dec 23, 2008 3:53 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Oh, why don't you just go pound sand!

If a woman has to choose between catching a fly ball and saving an infant's life, she will choose to save the infant's life without even considering if there are men on base. - Dave Barry

by zm1217 on Dec 23, 2008 3:54 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on Dec 23, 2008 3:54 PM CST up reply actions   1 recs

Ah, a classic from the '08 season.

Yes, yes ... winter is indeed a pond upon which all of us must skate, braving frostbite and runny noses in the hopes that our cars will start and we shan't embarass ourselves slipping on a patch of black ice. Spring is more a quagmire of cold mud and slush, and fall is a pile of fallen leaves that may or may not hide a pile of doggy doo-doo. But summer, ah summer is an oasis of endless green that disappears all too quickly beneath our feet as we rush through its warm, glorious bliss.

by dat cubfan daver on Dec 23, 2008 3:55 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Didn't I come up with that?

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Dec 23, 2008 3:55 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I thought that was an SWL original.

Do we need to call a copyright attorney in here?

Yes, yes ... winter is indeed a pond upon which all of us must skate, braving frostbite and runny noses in the hopes that our cars will start and we shan't embarass ourselves slipping on a patch of black ice. Spring is more a quagmire of cold mud and slush, and fall is a pile of fallen leaves that may or may not hide a pile of doggy doo-doo. But summer, ah summer is an oasis of endless green that disappears all too quickly beneath our feet as we rush through its warm, glorious bliss.

by dat cubfan daver on Dec 23, 2008 3:58 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Haha he did

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Dec 23, 2008 3:59 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

He is among us as we speak.

Yes, yes ... winter is indeed a pond upon which all of us must skate, braving frostbite and runny noses in the hopes that our cars will start and we shan't embarass ourselves slipping on a patch of black ice. Spring is more a quagmire of cold mud and slush, and fall is a pile of fallen leaves that may or may not hide a pile of doggy doo-doo. But summer, ah summer is an oasis of endless green that disappears all too quickly beneath our feet as we rush through its warm, glorious bliss.

by dat cubfan daver on Dec 23, 2008 3:54 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I'm not sure about you,

but I rarely speak my comments as I type them

by digitalbenjamin on Dec 23, 2008 3:56 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Speaking of which...

…if you haven’t been to YouTube lately, check out their new (?) “audio preview” feature for comments. I actually typed in “pound sand, you idiot” the other day and laughed my ass off.

Yes, yes ... winter is indeed a pond upon which all of us must skate, braving frostbite and runny noses in the hopes that our cars will start and we shan't embarass ourselves slipping on a patch of black ice. Spring is more a quagmire of cold mud and slush, and fall is a pile of fallen leaves that may or may not hide a pile of doggy doo-doo. But summer, ah summer is an oasis of endless green that disappears all too quickly beneath our feet as we rush through its warm, glorious bliss.

by dat cubfan daver on Dec 23, 2008 3:59 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I'm reading Joel Sherman's article right now

Hmm … they were thinking about 2010? Somewhat shrewd thought process … not only do they get a guy better than what was out there in 2010, but they lose all their picks this year in regards to FA signings, rather than potentially losing more high round picks next year.

Suggests Damon/Matsui/Nady/Swisher could get moved. I still doubt Damon, as they lack another leadoff guy and if I’m not mistaken, he has 2 years left on his deal.

by toonsterwu on Dec 23, 2008 3:45 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

I would really like to be right about Damon

and see him patrolling center for us next year.

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Dec 23, 2008 3:49 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

what amazes me

is this is written like it was some sort of epiphany to the yankees

when anyone could see that Tex addressed their biggest organizational needs and should’ve been their top priority this offseason

by DartmouthCubsFan on Dec 23, 2008 3:54 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

what do you mean by "organizational need"

in terms of immediate need, yes, Tex addressed a top spot. In terms of organizational, they do have top prospect Jesus Montero likely headed for first base. Furthermore, Swisher could man first as well. I think pitching was the foremost agenda, with Tex as a bonus once they achieved their pitching needs.

by toonsterwu on Dec 23, 2008 8:38 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

ummm... i mean they don't have a long-term option at 1B in the

next few years

Montero is still 2-3 years away and the Yankees have sold him as a C and done everything they can to keep him there. Since they view him as a C long-term i assumed he didn’t fill their 1B role long-term

as for Swisher… yeah that seemed to be obvious insurance to me given the cost of acquiring him. they can play him in the OF now or DH, he wasn’t a long-term answer at 1B, not for the Yankees

by DartmouthCubsFan on Dec 23, 2008 9:17 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Montero's defense sucks

I think Cervelli or Romine will be the C of the future, unless Jesus suddenly improves. I think he’s a 1st/DH in the making.

by toonsterwu on Dec 24, 2008 4:23 AM CST up reply actions   0 recs

yes...

this is what everyone outside of the Yankees thinks, i get it.

My point isn’t judging their assessment of him, it’s judging how they viewed their long-term plans and if THEY view him as a C then they had NO ONE in the organization to fill 1B for the long-term, making this the most glaring position to fill

by DartmouthCubsFan on Dec 24, 2008 9:01 AM CST up reply actions   0 recs

there was a report

that indicated that’s how the Yankees think as well but they don’t see a need to move him right now. Sort of like the Braves and Saltalamacchia awhile back, when most assumed he would end at 1st, or with Max Ramirez.

That said, Montero wouldn’t have blocked a Tex signing. I was simply pointing out his future isn’t behind the plate. Montero can always DH, as it’s the raw power that the Yankees are after.

by toonsterwu on Dec 24, 2008 10:11 AM CST up reply actions   0 recs

i get your viewpoint

and the scouting world’s viewpoint of Montero

My point simply was from an organizational standpoint the Yankees biggest glaring weaknesses are IMPACT BATS

they just don’t have them coming up in the system and they’ve lost a lot of them as players decline and contracts expire. You could arguably say the only remaining impact bat in the lineup this year was going to be ARod.

Add in that within their system they didn’t have an immediate solution coming anytime soon at 1B, and getting Teixeira, a relatively young player to hit FA, made more sense than anything else. There was only one impact hitter on the market this year that could be counted on for a 5-6 years, and in general there haven’t been many in recent years because of the beneficial impacts of revenue sharing and teams getting smarter about locking up their best talent. So there was unlikely to be another player to come to FA of his caliber anytime soon.

All this to me, pointed to Tex being the biggest need this offseason for them, not CC. If they have anything in their system that’s close to major league ready it’s pitching (and Austin Jackson in CF), so my feeling was they could afford to forego getting the biggest impact pitcher because they had a chance at finding some of those in their system, where they didn’t have that chance with the bat

by DartmouthCubsFan on Dec 24, 2008 10:20 AM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Another Blockbuster Signing!

The Nats sign… Corey Patterson. How much more exciting signings will this day bring?!
http://blogs.denverpost.com/rockies/2008/12/23/embrees-deal-braves-sign-norton-nats-add-patterson-sosa/

Someday we'll go all the way...

by CubsBullsBears on Dec 23, 2008 3:45 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Hello! and welcome to 18 minutes ago!

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on Dec 23, 2008 3:46 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Darn...

I thought I had the late breaking hot stove news.

Someday we'll go all the way...

by CubsBullsBears on Dec 23, 2008 3:48 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

You broke the stove.

Please call a repair service.

Yes, yes ... winter is indeed a pond upon which all of us must skate, braving frostbite and runny noses in the hopes that our cars will start and we shan't embarass ourselves slipping on a patch of black ice. Spring is more a quagmire of cold mud and slush, and fall is a pile of fallen leaves that may or may not hide a pile of doggy doo-doo. But summer, ah summer is an oasis of endless green that disappears all too quickly beneath our feet as we rush through its warm, glorious bliss.

by dat cubfan daver on Dec 23, 2008 3:49 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

So you already heard...

The Yankees signed Tex? Lol.

Someday we'll go all the way...

by CubsBullsBears on Dec 23, 2008 3:50 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

and Houston's...

Whoever said you can't mix business with pleasure never owned a PuttPutt course---Andy Bernard

by carmen_fanzone on Dec 23, 2008 3:53 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

And, I think, the Round Rock Express, too.

"I see great things in baseball. It's our game - the American game." - Walt Whitman

by hip2bsquare on Dec 23, 2008 3:54 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I heard that they annexed The entirety of Prince Edward Island.

To store their 47 new minor league teams.

If a woman has to choose between catching a fly ball and saving an infant's life, she will choose to save the infant's life without even considering if there are men on base. - Dave Barry

by zm1217 on Dec 23, 2008 4:03 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

The Yankees were the second shooter.

Explains the mysterious pinstripe-shaped shadows on the grassy knoll.

"I see great things in baseball. It's our game - the American game." - Walt Whitman

by hip2bsquare on Dec 23, 2008 4:06 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

George Steinbrenner was on the grassy knoll.

If a woman has to choose between catching a fly ball and saving an infant's life, she will choose to save the infant's life without even considering if there are men on base. - Dave Barry

by zm1217 on Dec 23, 2008 4:07 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

you invent a time machine?

BCB Works Miracles: It saved my English grade!

by Chanman25 on Dec 23, 2008 4:16 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

DAMN YANKEES!

That is all.

"I see great things in baseball. It's our game - the American game." - Walt Whitman

by hip2bsquare on Dec 23, 2008 3:46 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Can you take me HIGHHHERRRR

Yes, yes ... winter is indeed a pond upon which all of us must skate, braving frostbite and runny noses in the hopes that our cars will start and we shan't embarass ourselves slipping on a patch of black ice. Spring is more a quagmire of cold mud and slush, and fall is a pile of fallen leaves that may or may not hide a pile of doggy doo-doo. But summer, ah summer is an oasis of endless green that disappears all too quickly beneath our feet as we rush through its warm, glorious bliss.

by dat cubfan daver on Dec 23, 2008 3:48 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Whatever Cashman wants...

Cashman gets.

Bleed Cubbie Blue: Like Drāno for your internet tubes.

by znohitter on Dec 23, 2008 7:03 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Side note, the future of Jeter

I wonder what they do with Jeter when his contract comes up. Many had assumed Jeter was destined for first, as he was always an overrated defensive player. That’s definitely taken now, and I’m hardpressed to see them keep Jeter and his glove at short. Maybe DH? It’d be a bit odd, but it’s a thought.

by toonsterwu on Dec 23, 2008 3:47 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Jeter

wasn’t good last year. I don’t care much for Jeter at his potential costs. That said, Jeter, barring a stunner, retires as a Yankee.

by toonsterwu on Dec 23, 2008 3:48 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

oops, typo

meant to say jeter wasn’t great last year. he was solid offensively, though, at least for the position, but his glove was still poor.

by toonsterwu on Dec 23, 2008 8:40 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

The more they spend

the more wonderful it will be when they fail. It’s like George is on his last years and Hank and Co want to do whatever it takes to win one for him. I will take great joy when they fail again. They deserve it. Not the players, the selfish bastards that throw money around to create unbalance in this baseball market.

Kwa...Ki...Sur...Pee...Nee...Ku?

by Kinky Reggae on Dec 23, 2008 3:48 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

mlbtr.com now states

that the yankees are going to try and trade damon, matsui or nady. I wouldn’t mind seeing the cubs go after damom. He’s a left handed lead off hitter, and it would only be for a year, opposed to a multiple year deal for bradley or dunn.

Andy R.

by WindisBlowingOut! on Dec 23, 2008 3:50 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Damon is old, no thanks

BCB Works Miracles: It saved my English grade!

by Chanman25 on Dec 23, 2008 3:51 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

He throws worse than Jacque Jones now...

Whoever said you can't mix business with pleasure never owned a PuttPutt course---Andy Bernard

by carmen_fanzone on Dec 23, 2008 4:01 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

..and we just got that new turf and all....

Whoever said you can't mix business with pleasure never owned a PuttPutt course---Andy Bernard

by carmen_fanzone on Dec 23, 2008 4:02 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

maybe they'll leave the ice hockey rink there...

…until the first really warm day. That ball will scoot!

Whoever said you can't mix business with pleasure never owned a PuttPutt course---Andy Bernard

by carmen_fanzone on Dec 23, 2008 4:09 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Johnny Damon in CF

Is bleh defensively. That said, I could probably live with it for a year late, as we could bring on a defensive replacement late. I’m just not sold they move him. Their only other leadoff option as of now is Jeter, and he’s really not a leadoff option. Furthermore, adding someone like Damon begs the question of where we add a middle of the order bat?

by toonsterwu on Dec 23, 2008 3:51 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I'd rather have Nady

Whoever said you can't mix business with pleasure never owned a PuttPutt course---Andy Bernard

by carmen_fanzone on Dec 23, 2008 3:52 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Johnny Damon = bad defense

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on Dec 23, 2008 3:52 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

If you're going to get a defensively-challenged outfielder...

…better make it Abreu or Dunn, and at least get some offense to go along with that bad glove. Count my vote on Damon as a big “no thank you”.

"I see great things in baseball. It's our game - the American game." - Walt Whitman

by hip2bsquare on Dec 23, 2008 3:53 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

In this, my baseball knowledge is paltry.

Can a bad CF convert to a servicable RF?

by Flatley on Dec 23, 2008 3:54 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

not in damon's case

as he doesn’t have the arm

by toonsterwu on Dec 23, 2008 3:57 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Sometimes...

…but only if they have a good throwing arm. Damon may have the WORST throwing arm in the game. But if he were to come to the Cubs, it would mean he’d play CF and the Fukudome/DeRo combo would remain in RF – which seems both far-fetched and dumb.

"I see great things in baseball. It's our game - the American game." - Walt Whitman

by hip2bsquare on Dec 23, 2008 3:58 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

There's still the Soriano to RF

possibility, but then you’d be asking Sori to change positions and batting order placement for the same guy.

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 Dec 23, 2008 6:15 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Really?

He’s stats were pretty good last year. .305/.375 OBP 17 HR’s and 29 stolen bases in 143 games

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Dec 23, 2008 3:58 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

That's better than I remembered...

…but still not as good as Abreu’s or Dunn’s career numbers, or Bradley’s admittedly flukey 2008 stat line.

"I see great things in baseball. It's our game - the American game." - Walt Whitman

by hip2bsquare on Dec 23, 2008 4:00 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Here's my point all along

Damon isn’t my perfect fit. I’m not in love with him. But I’d rather him for one year, than those other three for 3 year deals…

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Dec 23, 2008 4:06 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Agreed

If the Yankees to decide to move him, I think he’s the best option. One year of a mediocre outfielder is better than 3. But what would we have to give up to get him?

Andy R.

by WindisBlowingOut! on Dec 23, 2008 8:28 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Unbelievable...

Its crazy how much the Yanks are spending on these players. Sure they are great, but they aren’t worth those contracts, especially Teixiera and Burnett

BCB Works Miracles: It saved my English grade!

by Chanman25 on Dec 23, 2008 3:52 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

personally, the contract i'd be more concerned with

is the sabathia contract. Tex should give you gold glove caliber defense and quality offense. Burnett’s had one bad injury. As physically strong as CC is, I wonder when things catch up. That said, the Yankees are really playing for the next 3 years, and in particular, next year, so the down the line concerns aren’t as big with them.

by toonsterwu on Dec 23, 2008 8:42 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Meh. Just post a link to the infamous "-ography" fanpost.

That should be enough.

"I see great things in baseball. It's our game - the American game." - Walt Whitman

by hip2bsquare on Dec 23, 2008 4:09 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Aw man, that was one of my favorites.

If a woman has to choose between catching a fly ball and saving an infant's life, she will choose to save the infant's life without even considering if there are men on base. - Dave Barry

by zm1217 on Dec 23, 2008 4:10 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Ha, forgot about that one.

Yes, yes ... winter is indeed a pond upon which all of us must skate, braving frostbite and runny noses in the hopes that our cars will start and we shan't embarass ourselves slipping on a patch of black ice. Spring is more a quagmire of cold mud and slush, and fall is a pile of fallen leaves that may or may not hide a pile of doggy doo-doo. But summer, ah summer is an oasis of endless green that disappears all too quickly beneath our feet as we rush through its warm, glorious bliss.

by dat cubfan daver on Dec 23, 2008 4:10 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I just looked at it again...

and laughed my butt off.

If a woman has to choose between catching a fly ball and saving an infant's life, she will choose to save the infant's life without even considering if there are men on base. - Dave Barry

by zm1217 on Dec 23, 2008 4:25 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

It should be required reading for any new members of BCB...

take your time and read through the epicness of awesome.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on Dec 23, 2008 4:28 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Awesomeography

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on Dec 23, 2008 4:39 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

whatever happened to the Canadian Wolverine?

haven’t seen Benoit in ages – did he break his neck again for the umpteenth time?

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

by ballhawk on Dec 23, 2008 4:45 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

wow - no joke, I swear. And I sincerely apologize for not doing more fact-checking.

I had completely forgotten that was him involved in the murder/suicide tragedy.

My reference was going back to his wrestling days where it seemed like he was always missing a few months here and there, most of the time because he was always smashing vertebrae in his neck.

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

by ballhawk on Dec 23, 2008 5:36 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I was certain it was a mistake

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Dec 27, 2008 9:46 AM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I have to assume this is a joke

Not even ballhawk is this much of a jackass.

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Dec 23, 2008 5:35 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

not a joke. more like a brain cramp of the highest degree.

Just me being more of a dumbass than a jackass. See apology above – I completely forgot that was Benoit involved in all that.

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

by ballhawk on Dec 23, 2008 5:41 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Fair enough...

I’m even more grumpy than usual on the subject of wrestling. When I think of how much I supported it in the 80s, I feel like I need to take an industrial-strength shower.

Sorry I got cranky.

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Dec 23, 2008 5:46 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Wow, what a trip.

Yes, yes ... winter is indeed a pond upon which all of us must skate, braving frostbite and runny noses in the hopes that our cars will start and we shan't embarass ourselves slipping on a patch of black ice. Spring is more a quagmire of cold mud and slush, and fall is a pile of fallen leaves that may or may not hide a pile of doggy doo-doo. But summer, ah summer is an oasis of endless green that disappears all too quickly beneath our feet as we rush through its warm, glorious bliss.

by dat cubfan daver on Dec 23, 2008 4:44 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

And in order to afford Texeira, the Yankees announced today...
NEW YORK (AP) — The price of a bleacher seat for the exhibition openers at the new Yankee Stadium will cost far less than a soda.

The Yankees said Wednesday that bleacher seats for the games against the Chicago Cubs on April 3 and 4 will sell for 25 cents and grandstand tickets will be $1.10. That matches the prices for the opener of the original Yankee Stadium against Boston on April 18, 1923.

Whoever said you can't mix business with pleasure never owned a PuttPutt course---Andy Bernard

by carmen_fanzone on Dec 23, 2008 4:07 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

and they will be scalped for 100s

BCB Works Miracles: It saved my English grade!

by Chanman25 on Dec 23, 2008 4:15 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Probably not...

… people will just wait for the price to come down.

Or maybe they’ll sell those on a will-call basis only, ID required.

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

by Al on Dec 23, 2008 5:27 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Are you kidding?

First ever game in that stadium and you don’t think people will pay 100’s, if not 1000’s?

by kanderber on Dec 23, 2008 8:58 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

If I knew the buyer had gotten the ticket free or for 25 cents?

Nope. I’d wait for the price to drop.

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

by Al on Dec 24, 2008 8:51 AM CST up reply actions   0 recs

How can Cub fans ridicule the Yankees???

The Yankees have won 26 World Series Championships, to include 6 during the Steinbrenner regime. Meanwhile we are a “big market team” that is on a 101 year losing streak. And we have had way, way too many horrible free agent signings over the year to mock the Yankees. Unlike us they seem to purchase top shelf free agents instead of has-beens and other dubious characters. Unlike us they also have a farm system that supplies a lot of talent to either play or trade.

by BLou on Dec 23, 2008 4:40 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Who exactly is ridiculing them?

I’m just curious as to who you’re yelling at here.

Yes, yes ... winter is indeed a pond upon which all of us must skate, braving frostbite and runny noses in the hopes that our cars will start and we shan't embarass ourselves slipping on a patch of black ice. Spring is more a quagmire of cold mud and slush, and fall is a pile of fallen leaves that may or may not hide a pile of doggy doo-doo. But summer, ah summer is an oasis of endless green that disappears all too quickly beneath our feet as we rush through its warm, glorious bliss.

by dat cubfan daver on Dec 23, 2008 4:46 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Not sure if anyone posted this yet

but seems a bit ahead of its time now

http://www.theonion.com/content/node/27656

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

by Doggie Stalker on Dec 23, 2008 4:44 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

8yr/180m

Yeah, Boras SUUURE got his comeuppance after the Red Sox and Angels pulled out.

5 percent of 180m is 9 million. What did you do today?

Hate him if you like, but if you could throw the ball 99 mph or hit a 99 mph fastball, you’d want him in that room for you, not some goody-goody pansy.

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Dec 23, 2008 5:34 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Yeah, he's a stud.

I wonder if there’s any sort of agent-ranking system out there… or recognitions, citataions, whatever. He’s gotta be the Barry Bonds of representation.

by Flatley on Dec 23, 2008 5:37 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I will grant you that.

Boras may be responsible for helping to drive ticket prices through the stratosphere by the deals he’s gotten, in part from getting teams to bid against themselves (the original A-Rod deal with Texas, for example).

But there is no doubt that he does the job his clients hire him to do, and does it very well.

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

by Al on Dec 23, 2008 5:44 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Boras' job

is not to give one hairy rat’s butt about ticket prices or the fans.

He gets money for players.

Never ever believe that owners are just benevolent little saints. They bent players over the sawhorse for 100 years before free agency. I giggle every time an owner gets bent over now.

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Dec 23, 2008 9:56 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Boras does have a small Manny problem right now

Boras’ overall best case scenario was for Tex to land in Boston, with Manny going to NY. I applaud him for not trying to manipulate things for the best overall circumstance for himself, but rather, for his players, but I wonder how the Manny situation works itself out now. He either boxed himself into the corner with Manny and leaves the Dodgers, or he has a surprise team waiting, perhaps the Braves.

by toonsterwu on Dec 24, 2008 4:25 AM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Manny to the Cubs!

Just kidding.

"I see great things in baseball. It's our game - the American game." - Walt Whitman

by hip2bsquare on Dec 24, 2008 9:58 AM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Boras plays chicken

As well as anybody else. Manny is a hitting machine. He can walk into some spring training on March 15 and hit.

Teams think they can wait Boras out. They are wrong. They need Manny much more than Manny (and Boras) needs money. That’s why Boras will win.

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Dec 24, 2008 11:12 AM CST up reply actions   0 recs

There is no RIGHT here

There is money. Some make more. Some make less.

This is a serious business, run by serious people. I seriously doubt they worry much about playground ethics.

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Dec 24, 2008 11:10 AM CST up reply actions   0 recs

This seem to come out of nowhere..

I remember reading just last night along the bottom line that Yankees were denying having offer at all for Tex. I guess that follows Al’s thoughts that the most talked about things usually don’t happen and the ones you never hear about do. Granted that was about trades, but nonetheless…

So does anyone have a take on how this effects the cubs and their free agency period. Even with this huge contract, I seem to keep hearing and reading that the market will stay considerably down, which I suppose is good for us, whether it is Bradley, Abreu, Dunn, etc.

Interesting to see you agreeing with the Dunn lovers Al! I had you pinned as too much of a defensive guy for that. I, like many others, like Bradley. However, there is soemthing to say for Dunn being very young and VERY consistent. Sure, part of that consistency is a low batting average, but at least you know you are getting that + power and walks. Not to mention he kills the ball at Wrigley, as we all know. Seems to be a history of signing a guys after their best year ever (Bradleys 08) rather than someone as consistent as Dunn or even Abreu. Just a thought….how many HR’s would Dunn hit on to sheffield in an entire season? over/under? haha

by KButler on Dec 23, 2008 6:10 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Dunn isn't "very" young.

He’s 29. But he’s healthy and he can hit. I will cringe at his defense. But I cringed at Dave Kingman’s, too, and the guy could hit. Dunn has a much better attitude than Kingman, too.

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

by Al on Dec 23, 2008 6:16 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

hell for kicks lets start him at 1b and Lee in RF

couldn’t be any worse, right?

BCB Works Miracles: It saved my English grade!

by Chanman25 on Dec 23, 2008 8:27 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Yea, i guess very young isn't the word

But younger than the rest of the pool and younger than any starter on our offense, save Theriot/Soto. Attitude certainly is much better than Bradley’s past antics, but I still am a little eery about it. We all heard Toronto’s GM talking about him being lazy and when I was going to college in Ohio, I can’t tell you how many shirts I saw literally saying “trade dunn,” and never really met too many people that liked him. I also recall a quote saying that if he wont the lottery he would never pick up a bat again…which seemed just really odd to me.

Still, his best offense road numbers are at Wrigley and he is probably gonna hit 40+ again, though his output would probably suffer not being able to rock Z on opening day. Just kidding. But if anyone remembers a game this past season where he tried to throw the ball in and it literally went behind him and rolled to the wall…one of the funniest and worst defensive plays ive ever seen.

by KButler on Dec 23, 2008 6:31 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Anyone care to mention the Yankees payroll in 09 will be less than 08?

Theyre simply using the 80M that came off the books this year from Giambi/Pavano/Mussina/Pudge/Pettitte(for now)……sure its more money in the total view, but in a year to year basis, its actually lower than they spent in 08, for now.

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 Dec 23, 2008 6:34 PM CST reply actions   1 recs

for now, not to mention they will resign Pettitte

and I wouldn’t doubt if they took a run at Manny. Difference is this money is used for three players instead of a mulitude of players..

BCB Works Miracles: It saved my English grade!

by Chanman25 on Dec 23, 2008 7:48 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Well if they get Pettitte on their terms

It will be for 6M less than his previous salary.

If them going after Manny meant dealing Matsui, thats something that could interest the Cubs

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 Dec 23, 2008 7:56 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

two aging outfielders from Japan...

eeww, um yeah, i’ll have to DISAGREE with you on that one…(sips Initech mug)

BCB Works Miracles: It saved my English grade!

by Chanman25 on Dec 23, 2008 8:18 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

The Bobs called me at home.....

I didnt say Id want it, but he seems to fit the bill for what theyre looking for…left handed, some power, great on base skills, legendary porn collection

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 Dec 23, 2008 9:30 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Yeah...I'm gonna go ahead and take the stapler...

Yes, yes ... winter is indeed a pond upon which all of us must skate, braving frostbite and runny noses in the hopes that our cars will start and we shan't embarass ourselves slipping on a patch of black ice. Spring is more a quagmire of cold mud and slush, and fall is a pile of fallen leaves that may or may not hide a pile of doggy doo-doo. But summer, ah summer is an oasis of endless green that disappears all too quickly beneath our feet as we rush through its warm, glorious bliss.

by dat cubfan daver on Dec 24, 2008 9:45 AM CST up reply actions   0 recs

We need to talk about your flair

"Who's Bob Brenly? The guy that used to be the manager for Arizona?" ~ Alfonso Guilleard Soriano

by JohnM on Dec 24, 2008 11:30 AM CST up reply actions   0 recs

i've been saying that, and another thing to keep in mind

is that the loss of picks is all lumped in one year, rather than losing high picks in back to back years. a small note, but something that is a plus for them.

by toonsterwu on Dec 23, 2008 8:46 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

they also have a 2nd rounder

due to missing on Scott Bittle as well. Forgot about that. If they keep, say, Swisher, I don’t really see them going heavy into FA next year (OF of Swisher/Jackson and one more perhap), so they may have their full allotment of picks. Maybe they spend to add an OF, a potential leadoff option? Either way, this was essentially the ideal year for them to go hard. They had money clearing up now in after 09, and they had extra picks from not signing guys. Ugh for everyone, but they still have a 1st and 2nd? All they are really missing is that 3rd rounder. Sure, it comes with the failure of signing Bittle and Cole, but they spend in the international markets to compensate for the loss of young talent.

by toonsterwu on Dec 24, 2008 4:29 AM CST up reply actions   0 recs

LOL

at the Brewers not getting a first rounder for CC. There was ony one player who could have done that and it was TEX. HAHAHAHAHA..

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

by fischisgod on Dec 23, 2008 7:49 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

It gave Fielder...

Someone to share clothes with for a few months.

Someday we'll go all the way...

by CubsBullsBears on Dec 23, 2008 8:15 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

or think of as a hotdog..

BCB Works Miracles: It saved my English grade!

by Chanman25 on Dec 23, 2008 8:17 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Plus the pick between the 1st and 2nd round.

Oh, and they played one day longer than the Cubs did in 2008.

I have an unreasonable dislike of Bill Hall.

by Ted Simmons Speed Camp on Dec 27, 2008 7:43 AM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Well, it gave them a precious sip of postseason baseball.

But, honestly, the way Yost rode CC down the stretch reeked of desperation.

Yes, yes ... winter is indeed a pond upon which all of us must skate, braving frostbite and runny noses in the hopes that our cars will start and we shan't embarass ourselves slipping on a patch of black ice. Spring is more a quagmire of cold mud and slush, and fall is a pile of fallen leaves that may or may not hide a pile of doggy doo-doo. But summer, ah summer is an oasis of endless green that disappears all too quickly beneath our feet as we rush through its warm, glorious bliss.

by dat cubfan daver on Dec 24, 2008 9:48 AM CST up reply actions   0 recs

How does that work?

The draft pick thing has always confused me, this is just piling it on.

by kanderber on Dec 23, 2008 9:04 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

it's based on elias rankings

i’ll try to find an article, but short of it is this – each player has an elias ranking. those that are offered arbitration that have type a rankings will net another team’s first unprotected, whether it is the first or 2nd rounder (top 16 in the first are protected). If a team signs two guys, the FA with the higher elias ranking gets priority. in this case, tex had a higher elias ranking than CC, so the Angels get the first rounder, not the Brewers. In the Yankees case, they get to keep their additional first rounder from failing to sign Gerritt Cole, so they still have a first rounder.

by toonsterwu on Dec 23, 2008 9:25 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Yanks sign "Cash" to a minor league deal

looks like they are now even paying money for money..

BCB Works Miracles: It saved my English grade!

by Chanman25 on Dec 23, 2008 10:29 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

I really am intrgued what the market for Adam Dunn is.....

I like the board game but, I am not conviced he stays healthy. THat is the only thing that scares me about him…. I dont have a worry about the attitude. He has grown up.

OT: THis just in Two guns found at Plaxs NJ house with the clothes he wore when he cheddar bobbed himself. …

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

by fischisgod on Dec 23, 2008 11:57 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Yankees payroll is actually in line to be LOWER in 2009 versus last season

Gone — Mussina ($17 mil), Pettitte ($16 mil), Pavano ($11 mil), Farnsworth, Abreu ($16 mil), Giambi ($19 mil), Betemit ($5 mil), Pudge Rodriquez (pro-rata share of salary)

Puts into better pespective how they can go out and “afford” the additions of CC Sabathia, AJ Burnett, Mark Texiera and Nick Swisher.

by BLou on Dec 24, 2008 8:13 AM CST reply actions   0 recs

it also shows

how great some of those big spending sprees worked out for them in the past

by DartmouthCubsFan on Dec 24, 2008 9:03 AM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Again, I would say...

World Series appearances in 1977, 1978, 1981, 1996, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2003. Six World Series Championship trophies during Steinbrenner rule. To make the total collection of hardware 26 World Series trophies.

The Steinbrenner strategy might not work every year, but it sure does work an awful lot. And the thing about it is they always have plenty of farm grown talent in the mix that either makes the roster or is used as trade bait.

by BLou on Dec 24, 2008 11:08 AM CST up reply actions   0 recs

They got

The best hitter and the best pitcher available.

You do that, you have a chance.

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Dec 24, 2008 11:13 AM CST up reply actions   0 recs

those world series teams you're referencing

were built from within, not from high priced talent purchased on the open market.

Bernie Williams, Derek Jeter, Mariano Rivera, Andy Pettite, etc were the cogs in those engines. Not from buying the best talent available

I don’t disagree with you that the way the Yankees have done things gives them a great chance at winning titles, but i’m also saying it doesn’t guarantee anything

and when they have won in the past it’s usually been in more important areas the Yankees have dominated other teams, like scouting and player development, not just purse strings.

The Yankees are the most successful franchise in MLB history because they dominated opponents in scouting and player development long before they started outspending everyone by wide margins

by DartmouthCubsFan on Dec 24, 2008 12:32 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Yankees have ALWAYS outspent other teams

Back when Babe Ruth made more than the president, some of this same malarky was out there.

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Dec 24, 2008 1:39 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Well...

There remains a lot of homegrown talent on the Yankees…

Mariano Rivera (Hall of Famer in waiting), Joba Chamberlain, Philip Hughes, Ian Kennedy, Derek Jeter (Hall of Famer in waiting), Robinson Cano, Jorge Posada, Melkey Cabrera. Also, former prospects like Mike Lowell, Alfonso Soriano and others who were traded for valuable pieces.

Yankees literally do it all. They scout well, they develop talent well (e.g., Austin Jackson should be patrolling center field in 2010), they make good trades and they are unabashed in using free agency to their advantage.

I admire the daylights of the Yankees. And yes, I openly root for them too. They use the system to their full advantage. Funny how so many people want to complain about their spending pattern, yet they don’t talk about things like the fact that the Yankees pay the LUXURY TAX without complaint and that their 2009 payroll will actually be LESS than in 2008. If people don’t like the Yankee way of doing business then people should change the rules of baseball.

by BLou on Dec 24, 2008 3:11 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

it's deja BLou all over again...

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

by ballhawk on Dec 24, 2008 6:23 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

yes there is

but most of it is in its decline or before its prime, very little of that homegrown talent is actually in its prime

but my point more than anything was that they don’t simply “buy” championships and most of their titles have come not because of exorbitant spending, but because of shrewd scouting and player development

back in the 90’s they were among the highest payroll teams in baseball but the gap wasn’t by 100’s of ’s, it was by 15-20. That’s a whole different level in the difference in spending

by DartmouthCubsFan on Dec 25, 2008 8:37 AM CST up reply actions   0 recs

A Purist's Proclamation

Henceforth and heretofore, I am giving up on the game of baseball save for my interest in seeing the Cubs win a pennant. I am so tired of the rampant excess and the politics of revenge being played out by owners and agents that once the Cubs make the World Series, I am outta here as far as being a baseball fan goes.

And when that great day arrives, I’m closing shop. The books; the jerseys; the MLB Extra Innings package; the annual trips to Mesa in March; and the participation on Internet message boards. It all goes bye-bye.

by CaliCub on Dec 24, 2008 10:39 AM CST reply actions   0 recs

A Realist's Response

Door.

Ass.

Don’t let one hit the other.

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Dec 24, 2008 11:13 AM CST up reply actions   0 recs

If you hate the business crap

(and I can understand it), why give up the game entirely? Become a season ticket holder at your local college, high school, or semi-pro team. You can still enjoy the sport this way, and without the money involved, it might even be the “pure” experience you are looking for.

"Who's Bob Brenly? The guy that used to be the manager for Arizona?" ~ Alfonso Guilleard Soriano

by JohnM on Dec 24, 2008 11:33 AM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Because he doesn't want to do that...

He wants to make a “statement”

I guess he’ll stop going to movies, because Tom Cruise makes $25 million a picture. Or stop watching TV, because many stars get $1 million an episode.

It’s pretty amazing, how someone with such a low bar still has a hard time getting over himself.

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Dec 24, 2008 11:40 AM CST up reply actions   0 recs

So, just to clarify...

…you’ll give up baseball when the Cubs make the World Series or win the World Series?

Yes, yes ... winter is indeed a pond upon which all of us must skate, braving frostbite and runny noses in the hopes that our cars will start and we shan't embarass ourselves slipping on a patch of black ice. Spring is more a quagmire of cold mud and slush, and fall is a pile of fallen leaves that may or may not hide a pile of doggy doo-doo. But summer, ah summer is an oasis of endless green that disappears all too quickly beneath our feet as we rush through its warm, glorious bliss.

by dat cubfan daver on Dec 24, 2008 2:50 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Here is a question...

while I realize he is not LH and not the best defensive OF, why isn’t manny an option fot eh Cubs now that the market has all but disappeared for him?

Kwa...Ki...Sur...Pee...Nee...Ku?

by Kinky Reggae on Dec 24, 2008 12:03 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

It's a great question

I’d love to have him. One year deal, mind you. Two at the very most.

But I’d love to have him. He will still produce about 75 percent more runs than he gives up defensively.

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Dec 24, 2008 12:08 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

He is a big time addition...

I don’t think he wants a one year deal but I am saying even at a two year and an option for the third. The guy is a machine, and if the Cubs are considering Bradley, would Manny’s antics be worse?

Kwa...Ki...Sur...Pee...Nee...Ku?

by Kinky Reggae on Dec 24, 2008 12:15 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

You don't get much looser in the clubhouse...

That’s for sure.

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Dec 24, 2008 12:22 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I could live with 2

with an option for 3.

The worst beer I had was pretty good.

by Worf on Dec 24, 2008 12:23 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

because we simply can't afford him

remember all those talks about needing to shed payroll?

Manny’s asking for upwards of 20+ million a year

we barely have 13 to play with

by DartmouthCubsFan on Dec 24, 2008 12:33 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

The point was that the market for him

according to reports, has all but disappeared and unless he is actually going to retire, he may have to settle so perhaps playing for a team that has great potential and history (kind of like the Red Sox), might influence his decision. Upwards of 20 may never happen now that the Yankees signed Tex.

Kwa...Ki...Sur...Pee...Nee...Ku?

by Kinky Reggae on Dec 24, 2008 6:30 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Manny is never going to happen

Why even engage in the debate.

by BLou on Dec 24, 2008 3:12 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

You can debate

I just suggested a topic for discussion.

Kwa...Ki...Sur...Pee...Nee...Ku?

by Kinky Reggae on Dec 24, 2008 6:31 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

outfield

sure would love to have manny.imagine not 1 but 2 guys named ramirez in that lineup.what a fantasy.im ready to accept dunn over bradley but i doubt that will happen either.

by NOMAR on Dec 25, 2008 11:34 AM CST reply actions   0 recs

any guy

who thinks he’s more important than the game does not deserve a spot on our team. Faking injury to “make a point,” no matter how talented the individual, reeks of stink in my book.

"Truth does not do as much good in the world as the semblance of truth does evil," - Duc de La Rochefoucauld, Maxims, 64.

by Emelie on Dec 25, 2008 5:35 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Soriano...

with Teixeira setting the new standard for free agent superstars, doesn’t that make Soriano look like a bargain with 6 years left on his $135 million contract? MEANING: is he now tradeable?

"Hey-Hey! Home Run! Attaboy Ronnie!" ~ Jack Brickhouse

by ronsanto10 on Dec 26, 2008 3:52 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

hi

Kwa...Ki...Sur...Pee...Nee...Ku?

by Kinky Reggae on Dec 29, 2008 6:43 AM CST reply actions   0 recs

sup

Yes, yes ... winter is indeed a pond upon which all of us must skate, braving frostbite and runny noses in the hopes that our cars will start and we shan't embarass ourselves slipping on a patch of black ice. Spring is more a quagmire of cold mud and slush, and fall is a pile of fallen leaves that may or may not hide a pile of doggy doo-doo. But summer, ah summer is an oasis of endless green that disappears all too quickly beneath our feet as we rush through its warm, glorious bliss.

by dat cubfan daver on Dec 30, 2008 11:25 AM CST up reply actions   0 recs

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OT: Annual Thanksgiving  Thread
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Cubs 2010 2B and "the L word"
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Is there anyway we trade some of our high-priced players?
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Milton Bradley Named NL "LVP" By Joe Posnanski

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Quick hits of video, photos, quotes, chats, links and lists that you find around the web.

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Cubs By The Numbers

Cubs By The Numbers is a history of the ballclub by uniform number, but the biographies help trace the history of our beloved team in a new way. For everyone who's a Cubs fan, anyone who ever wore the uniform is like family. Cubs By The Numbers reintroduces readers to some of their long-lost ancestors, even ones they think they already know.

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Recent Stories in The Next 100 Years

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Ticket Exchanges: Cubs Convention 2010
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Ticket Exchanges: General 2009 Ticket Exchange
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Ticket Exchanges: September 29-October 4 Homestand

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