September Call-Ups Announced
by hip2bsquare on Sep 1, 2008 11:09 AM CDT
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PrintIt's official now - the Cubs have called up 1B-OF Micah Hoffpauir, C Koyie Hil, 3B Casey McGehee, and RHP Michael Wuertz from Iowa, and also activated RHPs Jon Lieber and Angel Guzman from the DL. The final AAA stats for the four callups:
Hoffpauir - .362/.393/.752, 25 HR, 100 RBI in 290 AB
Hill - .275/.350/.492, 17 HR, 64 RBI in 364 AB
McGehee - .296/.345/.429, 12 HR, 92 RBI in 497 AB
Wuertz - 0-1, 3.60 ERA, 1.35 WHIP, 29 K in 20 IP
Interesting that Felix Pie won't be getting the call, especially since the Cubs have only 4 true outfielders on the roster right now. Perhaps he'll be up later in September. One other item of note - with the additions of Hill and McGehee, the Cubs now seem to have 41 players on the 40-man roster. So, who got bumped? (EDIT: Seems that Chad Fox was moved to the 60-day DL, meaning he's no longer on the 40-man and is officially done for the season.)
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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The Cubs have indicated that they're doing callups in stages.
Pie will probably be left with Iowa for their playoffs and brought up later.
Kevin Hart too
will probably get the call after the I-Cub playoffs.
Pie wasn’t called up right now because Iowa only has three outfielders on their roster, although DuBois can play left field.
The only real surprise there is McGehee. First, I didn’t think he’d get called up and second, if he did, I thought he’d finish out the playoffs in Iowa first.
The Interchangeable Nates, Misters Spears and Samson, have already been called up to Iowa for the playoffs, and one of them could fill in for McGehee (and the other for the injured Bobby Scales.)
I’m going to have to assume that Wellington Castillo is on his way to Des Moines right now, as the I-Cubs have only one catcher. One more reliever will get the call too. I’m assuming it will be Ceda, but Rocky Roquet is a possibility too. It’s going to depend on which guy the Cubs think can still throw more innings this season.
But hey! Congratulations to Casey McGehee! You made it to the show! He’s the only first time major leaguer there. For those who don’t know, it’s pronounced just like McGee, as in “Willie McGee.”
Borowy . . .Sutcliffe . . .Harden?
by Josh Timmers on Sep 1, 2008 11:48 AM CDT up reply actions
I suspect
that McGhee was brought up just to give ARam a few days off. Right now DeRosa is his backup and it will give Lou the chance to rest them both without really distorting the lineup.
If you like Selig's handling of the steroid issue, you'll love his choice for next Cub owner.
Felix Pie will be gone this winter
Regardless whether he gets called up in a week or two I am convinced the organization has given up on him being a major league contributor in a Cub uniform. There is no chance they enter spring 2009 with Felix Pie once again candidate for an outfield job. Most likely Reed Johnson will be re-signed. Jim Edmonds too if he elects to play another year. Either Edmonds or another veteran type until when / if the organization decides Tyler Colvin is ready for big league audition.
Fine, But All I Ask Is...
You show enough integrity to post an “I Was Wrong” in the event that Pie becomes an effective ML player for the Cubs in 2009.
"Sometimes I feel like as a Cubs fan if I’m not worrying about something, I’m not doing it right." - HalfBlindCubbieGirl
I'll be first in line to admit I'm wrong
I did so with Ryan Theriot. I’ll do so again. But it won’t be necessary w/ Felix Pie. He doesn’t have a major league future.
Edmonds resigned?
I really hope the Cubs don’t resign Edmonds and if they get rid of Pie find a better option…Edmonds has had a great run but eventually players too get too old to contribute…case in point Gary Gaetti 1999
Gaetti was 40 in '99....and the Cubs rolled the dice on him
..to play everyday. Edmonds is 38 this year and would only return in a platoon situation which is hardly ideal.
This is a much smarter front office.
"When I got to Chicago, fans came to Wrigley Field just to have fun, now they come to see us win. The expectations have changed, for the players and for the fans. It’s about winning." Kerry Wood, 7/14/08
+1,
regrettably
CRAFTY BEAVER!!!
http://lostinthevines.blogspot.com/
by lostinthevines on Sep 1, 2008 7:35 PM CDT up reply actions
Do you have this on a macro?
n/t
Borowy . . .Sutcliffe . . .Harden?
by Josh Timmers on Sep 1, 2008 11:48 AM CDT up reply actions
You're continuing infatuation with Felix Pie doesn't stack up
I’m done arguing the point on Felix Pie. I’m convinced the organization has given up on a player that has now toiled for three consecutive years in journeyman hell, better known as Triple A ball.
No, you're not done with this
You make the same point every time his name is mentioned. You never add any new information or new evidence. It’s like Pavlov ringing a bell. I got the point. You don’t like Pie.
And what is my “infatuation with Felix Pie”? When have I said anything about him recently, good or bad? In fact, I got into a debate with one poster who wants me to do daily Felix Pie updates on the MWL and I refuse to do so.
I’m not infatuated with Felix Pie. This is a classic example of “projection.”
Borowy . . .Sutcliffe . . .Harden?
by Josh Timmers on Sep 1, 2008 2:01 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Whatever
Your knowledge and understanding of the Cub minor league system is overrated. It’s great gesture and all that you publish your daily reports (thank you), but like it was pointed out your service is to verbalize box scores. I’ve not once read dissection of Felix Pie’s alleged new hitting approach. Or anything of consequential in-depth study on any of the top prospects within the system.
This is like complaining that BA's Daily Prospect Report shows BA doesn't do anything in-depth ever.
Josh will talk in-depth about prospects if you ask and did a lot of in-depth ranking pre-season. I’m getting tired of people running him down for no apparent reason beyond, perhaps, jealousy that his work is now on the front page. Maybe, MDBNIU, if you wrote a daily “Why Felix Pie sucks” fanpost and it got 5 recs every day, you, too, could get added to the front page. The point is – if you don’t like the work that’s being done – it’s an open forum – do the work yourself.
The “box score verbalization” is a daily rundown of what happened in the minor leagues and often a starting point for further conversation. Rather than carp, bring something useful to the conversation.
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 Sep 1, 2008 4:22 PM CDT up reply actions
wow.
your tool-ness is .99 Ecksteins today.
Our 2008 Chicago Cubs -- FINDING WAYS TO WIN!
by drewishdrewid on Sep 1, 2008 6:48 PM CDT up reply actions
+100
CRAFTY BEAVER!!!
http://lostinthevines.blogspot.com/
by lostinthevines on Sep 1, 2008 7:36 PM CDT up reply actions
"Classic example of projection"
What does that mean for Felix Pie when he has now officially toiled most of the past three years in Triple A purgatory? You don’t have an answer do you. But if somebody needs a verbalized box score you’re Josh on the Spot !!!
Regardless of your feelings...
… namecalling, not permitted.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
Take it outside, ladies
as in off this thread
CRAFTY BEAVER!!!
http://lostinthevines.blogspot.com/
by lostinthevines on Sep 1, 2008 7:38 PM CDT up reply actions
But MDB might be right ..
I’ve felt all along that the platooning situation in CF has been a great benefit to the team. Whooda thunk that Pie was going to lose his spot on April 1 and that two guys not even in our spring training camp would arise and fill that spot ohhh so well? Methinks MDB is right and in line with what I’ve been saying. The platooning unexpectedly is giving Felix a last chance to prove that he’s got what it takes to break out and finally take his place on the team. He’s had all this summer to get ready for the Prime Time ..
But it will not last forever. I’d say this fall will be it. If he’s in the next call up, and I’m sure he will, he’ll be on a real, real, real short leash and he’d better be ready to execute when he gets on base, fields and runs or else he is truly history. He’ll be trade bait if he doesn’t rise to his potential this month. We want all the marbles this year and if it means we keep platooning, we’ll keep it going ..
Well, Next Year is here .. and Jack's century's gotta end some time .. GO CUBBIES!
Tough Call on Edmonds
I think wed all agree hes been pretty good, but he’ll be what 39 next season? So will he even want to return? Id take him back for a similar role, though i still think Pie has to be given a real shot, but Im starting to doubt it’ll be at Wrigley.
If the Cubs do pull of this miracle this year, I wonder if Edmonds would be the only player in history to win it all with St Louis and 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.
Depends on what he's looking for
If he’s willing to sign a one-year deal, I say keep him. If he wants more than that, let him go.
Borowy . . .Sutcliffe . . .Harden?
by Josh Timmers on Sep 1, 2008 11:49 AM CDT up reply actions
Depends more on whether or not we win the WS and who the new owner is.
Also, the CF question could depend on the Cubs decison about whether or not Fukudome’s bat will play in RF throughout the rest of his contract. I think the odds of Edmonds coming back are low.
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 Sep 1, 2008 4:25 PM CDT up reply actions
Somebody beat Edmonds to it, actually...
Hugh Nicol played for both Cubs and Cardinals championship teams back in the pre-World Series days. He was part of the National League champion Chicago White Stockings (who would eventually become the Cubs) in 1881-82, and the American Association champion St. Louis Browns (who would eventually become the Cards) in 1885-86.
"I see great things in baseball. It's our game - the American game." - Walt Whitman
How about Neal Cotts
being the first to win a championship with both the Cubs and the White Sox?
Good catch on Nicol.
Borowy . . .Sutcliffe . . .Harden?
by Josh Timmers on Sep 1, 2008 12:13 PM CDT up reply actions
Pretty sure you're right about Cotts.
There doesn’t seem to be anyone who was on the Cubs in 1907 or ’08 who was also on the White Sox in 1901, 1906, or 1917. So, that would be a nice first for him…
"I see great things in baseball. It's our game - the American game." - Walt Whitman
very nice, i was thinking more of 20th c. players though.
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.
If Edmonds wants to be back, then he'll be back
Edmonds is a cost-effective short term solution to 2009. Along with Johnson the Cubs would be exceptionally hard pressed to find a better and more cost-effective solution to center field. Keep in mind that Jim Hendry is faced with an escalating payroll situation that only is going to compound itself with Ryan Dempster and Kerry Wood becoming free agents. Plus the arbitration clock ticking on Carlos Marmol. It also might be prudent to lock Geovany Soto up to a multi year “pre-arb” deal ala what Cleveland is famous for doing (e.g., Grady Sizemore).
re: " If Edmonds wants to be back, then he'll be back"
do you have any idea how ridiculous it sounds when you state these kind of things with such certainty? Truth be told, you have no effin’ idea, and either have an exaggerated sense of yourself or you just enjoy the attention of being criticized for being a gas-bag.
"Enough foreplay- let's get crackin'"- Fred Garvin
FYI
Jim Edmonds is a 38 year old who makes $8 million per year. He’s cost effective to the cubs this year, but next year they won’t have San Diego and St. Louis playing all of that salary.
In the world I see--you are stalking elk through the damp canyon forests around the ruins of Rockefeller Center. You'll wear leather clothes that will last you the rest of your life. You'll climb the wrist-thick kudzu vines that wrap the Sears Tower. And when you look down, you'll see tiny figures pounding corn, laying strips of venison on the empty carpool lane of some abandoned superhighway.
Edmonds won't make $8 million next year if elects to come back
Not even close in fact. A one year deal in the range of $4-5 million is a good investment. Edmonds provides a quality run producing left-handed bat versus righties and fine defense in center field. The Edmonds – Johnson combo has worked very well in 2008. And it should once again in 2009.
$5 million
is way too much for a platoon player like Edmonds. The Cubs have been lucky to catch lightning in a bottle this year. It’s not likely to strike again.
Our 2008 Chicago Cubs -- FINDING WAYS TO WIN!
by drewishdrewid on Sep 1, 2008 6:50 PM CDT up reply actions
Edmondws + Johnson > Pie + Johnson
CRAFTY BEAVER!!!
http://lostinthevines.blogspot.com/
by lostinthevines on Sep 1, 2008 7:38 PM CDT up reply actions
no,
actaully, I don’t think we can make that assessment.
Our 2008 Chicago Cubs -- FINDING WAYS TO WIN!
by drewishdrewid on Sep 1, 2008 8:26 PM CDT up reply actions
OK
CRAFTY BEAVER!!!
http://lostinthevines.blogspot.com/
by lostinthevines on Sep 2, 2008 7:41 AM CDT up reply actions
+1
And Edmonds has been slowly fading after his hot streak.
And no, Edmonds + Johnson is not better than Pie and Johnson. It is this year, when we’re not paying for Edmonds. Pie can play better defense, has speed, and won’t be 39 years old next year. No, he probably isn’t a long term CF solution, but give Johnson the job (assuming there isn’t another signing) and spell him with Pie.
Free Ronny Cedeno
I'd rather start RJ and have Edmonds on the bench than
start RJ and have Pie be the backup. Even if RJ id the starting CF next year, If he doesn’t perform or goes cold, you’d rather roll Pie out there, given his track record?
Old or not, Edmonds has done it in the past and has showed few signs of slowing up.
CRAFTY BEAVER!!!
http://lostinthevines.blogspot.com/
by lostinthevines on Sep 1, 2008 7:46 PM CDT up reply actions
Yes, I'd absolutely rather have Pie out there
he’s the best outfielder on the team, defensively — even better than Dome.
Edmond’s average is down to .223 and dropping.
Our 2008 Chicago Cubs -- FINDING WAYS TO WIN!
by drewishdrewid on Sep 1, 2008 8:26 PM CDT up reply actions
.223?
Where did you get that number? It’s .233 (before today) and with the Cubs .257 — and his OPS with the Cubs, entering today’s game, was .939 — All-Star level.
Edmonds is just fine.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
Edmonds...
is 4 for his last 27. Yes, he is slipping, and a fading year should factor in significantly when it comes time to assess his contract next year.
I think this argument is more about next season rather than the current, and an aging and struggling Edmonds would not be an improvement over Pie. It’s worked this season…but it would be a mistake next year.
Free Ronny Cedeno
The D'backs chose to pay Eric Byrnes 10 M
rather than play Carlos Quentin.
Anyway, this is moot. If the Cubs don’t win this year they’re going all-in next year and Edmonds doesn’t represent an all-in move. If the Cubs do win, Edmonds could be re-signed as a gesture to keep the winning team together, but it’s more likely that the Cubs will be able to do as the Red Sox did and build a dynasty by developing younger players.
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 Sep 1, 2008 9:12 PM CDT up reply actions
Apples, Oranges....
Byrnes was 31 when he resigned, coming off a career year.. And I really hope you’re not comparing Pie to Quentin. The two situations are completly different.
The only stats I care about are the ones on the back of a baseball card
by carmen_fanzone on Sep 1, 2008 11:08 PM CDT up reply actions
They're not completely different at all.
In 2005 Pie and Quentin were rated 31 and 22 by BA’s top prospect list. In 2006, Pie and Quentin were rated 26 and 20. In the winter of 2007, Quentin was a busted prospect that the D’backs practically gave away. Byrnes was a veteran known for diving catches. Sounds similar to me. Pie-detractors only object to the comp because they KNOW Pie will NEVER hit at the majors. Well, the D’backs sure were convinced that Quentin wasn’t going to amount to much also.
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 Sep 2, 2008 6:58 AM CDT up reply actions
LOL...
Byrnes,31, coming off two of his best years….
Edmonds, 38, slowly decling his last 3…
How are they similar again? Oh, yeah, they both dive for balls in the outfield.
Interested to see what Pie and Quentin were rated after the 2007 season. At least Quentin showed promise and a decent amount of production in his time with the Dbacks, which Pie never has.
The only stats I care about are the ones on the back of a baseball card
by carmen_fanzone on Sep 2, 2008 12:29 PM CDT up reply actions
When you're done laughing, note that you've made my case for me.
If choosing Byrnes (coming off two of his best years) over Quentin was a bad idea, then choosing Edmonds (slowly declining) is even worse. The direct similarity is that Edmonds and Byrnes make Sportscenter so that their current defensive abilities are overrated and make them popular.
Quentin wasn’t rated in 2007 because he had too much playing time. Pie was a top 50 prospect (I think it was around 50).
Quentin looked absolutely horrendous in 2007. There was no “promise” there. He hit .214/.298/.349 overall and .144/.226/.189 away from his bandbox home park.
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.
Almost done....
Note that the comparison was Byrnes vs Edmonds/Pie vs Quentin, not the “choices” each team needs(ed) to make. At least that’s what I’m arguing….I’m not sure what you are anymore.
And didn’t Quentin suffer a torn labrum and rotator cuff during last year? Maybe I’m thinking of the 2nd half of 2006, where he was impressive enough for them to trade their starter.
The only stats I care about are the ones on the back of a baseball card
by carmen_fanzone on Sep 2, 2008 4:19 PM CDT up reply actions
For me the argument has always been about the choices teams make.
Do you take the risk of playing youth with upside or do you sign mediocre veterans? Edmonds, over the course of a season next year, isn’t likely to be much better than mediocre. Byrnes isn’t likely to be much better than mediocre.
Go back to Kansas25’s original post – the question on the table is/was: Who do we play in 2009? And my answer is that to choose to pay Edmonds isn’t good in any situation, that we should either trade for a more certainly good CF or play Pie. If we choose to pay Edmonds, rather than play Pie, it will be like the D’backs move of choosing Byrnes over Quentin.
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 Sep 2, 2008 4:42 PM CDT up reply actions
I gotcha...
I guess I was focusing more on the “Pie is no Quentin” argument.
The only stats I care about are the ones on the back of a baseball card
by carmen_fanzone on Sep 3, 2008 4:53 PM CDT up reply actions
Knowingly throwing an historically offensively-challenged
AAA baller such as Pie DOES represent an all-in move? Maybe so, in the “We will develop Felix Pie if it’s the last thing we do!” category, but not in the “we want the best team possible on the field” category.
CRAFTY BEAVER!!!
http://lostinthevines.blogspot.com/
by lostinthevines on Sep 2, 2008 7:47 AM CDT up reply actions
I must not have been clear.
If the Cubs fail to win the Series, I don’t think Edmonds or Pie will be our CF.
If the Cubs win the Series, Pie could be our CF, but Edmonds would be unlikely.
My guess is that if the Cubs go all in, Dome is the CF next year, because it will be easier to get an impact corner bat than to get an impact CF.
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 Sep 2, 2008 7:49 AM CDT up reply actions
Name an impact RF they could go after....
The only stats I care about are the ones on the back of a baseball card
by carmen_fanzone on Sep 2, 2008 12:31 PM CDT up reply actions
Milton Bradley
We also know they like Ibanez (who I wouldn’t want to see in RF, but they’ve been kicking him around even with the current roster, so you have to wonder if they think he can play RF). Bobby Abreu isn’t a guy I’d add at this age, but he’ll be available. Then there’s a trade market which hasn’t taken shape yet, but is likely to have some corner bat out there.
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.
all I can post
is what I saw on the Tee-vee.
Our 2008 Chicago Cubs -- FINDING WAYS TO WIN!
by drewishdrewid on Sep 1, 2008 9:31 PM CDT up reply actions
Pie has shown time and time again
that he cannot compete at an MLB level. It’d be foolish to shun (let alone release) a perennial All-Star – even in merely a back-up role – in favor of Felix Pie.
That said, if we do win our last game this year (that’s as specific as I’ll get), maybe we do indeed let Jim go and bring Pie up. But RJ’s the starter, in my book.
CRAFTY BEAVER!!!
http://lostinthevines.blogspot.com/
by lostinthevines on Sep 2, 2008 7:44 AM CDT up reply actions
When can you safely determine that a prospect won't hit ML pitching?
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 Sep 2, 2008 7:50 AM CDT up reply actions
After he has spent a bunch of time with the big boys
like, say, Pie has. How much more do you need to see? Great defense does not a great player make. Right, Corey Patterson?
CRAFTY BEAVER!!!
http://lostinthevines.blogspot.com/
by lostinthevines on Sep 2, 2008 9:12 PM CDT up reply actions
So, when Rick Ankiel had played 50 games at the big league level
and had a career hitting line of .207/.250/.310, that was a good indicator of what he could do if he was given a regular chance at hitting?
Earlier in the year, I pointed to the fact that Evan Longoria had the same batting average as Pie on the day Pie was sent down, that Longoria had more regular ABs, that the Rays decided to stick with him and were richly rewarded.
Fact is – Pie hasn’t had the kind of shot most major prospects get to work through their problems. You can call him “Corey Patterson” all you want, but all it does is show how little you have compared their two careers.
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 Sep 3, 2008 7:48 AM CDT up reply actions
Yes.
We should certainly give Edmonds the backup job because he is a perennial All-Star. Forget little things like salary, age, and ability. The dude earned another year.
I’ll be really disappointed if we bring Edmonds back.
Free Ronny Cedeno
Experience is an intangible,
especially in the playoffs. Ability is not really a valid point of contention, as Jimmy has more at 38 (and will have more at 39) than Pie will. And you don’t pay his salary, so forget that one, too
CRAFTY BEAVER!!!
http://lostinthevines.blogspot.com/
by lostinthevines on Sep 2, 2008 9:15 PM CDT up reply actions
Didn't Iowa qualify for the playoffs?
Why would they deplete Iowa’s roster just to crowd the mlb dugout?
In the world I see--you are stalking elk through the damp canyon forests around the ruins of Rockefeller Center. You'll wear leather clothes that will last you the rest of your life. You'll climb the wrist-thick kudzu vines that wrap the Sears Tower. And when you look down, you'll see tiny figures pounding corn, laying strips of venison on the empty carpool lane of some abandoned superhighway.
Because the Cubs are much less worried about the remainder of the schedule...
…than fans are, and they’re prepping to start resting guys, audition some minor bench/bullpen tweaks, and get ready for October.
so they think they have it sewn up?
or are they just wanting to make the playoffs? Milwaukee is 4.5 games back and don’t seem to be letting off. It seems like there’s plenty of guys on the team already to rest guys like Ramirez, Lee and Soriano.
Wouldn’t it be wiser to start resting guys and giving tryouts once they’ve clinched something? Btw, it’s never a good idea to take your foot off the pedal in September.
In the world I see--you are stalking elk through the damp canyon forests around the ruins of Rockefeller Center. You'll wear leather clothes that will last you the rest of your life. You'll climb the wrist-thick kudzu vines that wrap the Sears Tower. And when you look down, you'll see tiny figures pounding corn, laying strips of venison on the empty carpool lane of some abandoned superhighway.
Cubs - 10 Games Up In The WC Race
So maybe the front office is emphasizing this over the division race? As long as the Cubs maintain a healthy lead with respect to the WC, you may in fact see them do the stuff Cwyers points out.
"Sometimes I feel like as a Cubs fan if I’m not worrying about something, I’m not doing it right." - HalfBlindCubbieGirl
I totally get that
it’s just that with the actual teams they’ll be playing down the stretch with a rather hot Brewer team gaining ground and not backing off, wouldn’t you want to guarantee that you won the division first? The alternative is to make the wild card and forfeit the home field advantage the cubs would have throughout the LDS and LCS.
In the world I see--you are stalking elk through the damp canyon forests around the ruins of Rockefeller Center. You'll wear leather clothes that will last you the rest of your life. You'll climb the wrist-thick kudzu vines that wrap the Sears Tower. And when you look down, you'll see tiny figures pounding corn, laying strips of venison on the empty carpool lane of some abandoned superhighway.
Point Well Taken
Given how dominant the Cubs have been at home this year, it would be nice to secure home field advantage through the playoffs.
"Sometimes I feel like as a Cubs fan if I’m not worrying about something, I’m not doing it right." - HalfBlindCubbieGirl
The Cubs don't care
much about Iowa winning the PCL Championship. They’re not calling up Pie yet so Iowa can field three outfielders. But with the exception of McGehee, I think the Cubs need all these players right now, and Hendry clearly disagrees with me on McGehee.
Iowa’s already gotten Nate Samson from Peoria, and I expect they’ll get a couple of players from Tennessee too, whose season ends today.
Borowy . . .Sutcliffe . . .Harden?
HUH?
WHAT THE F&%$ ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT?
Where is my expectations of the contributions of the callups? Where in the world have I said anything about what they’re going to do this September? I’ve made comments on their status as prospects, but nothing about what they’ll do this September.
I’ve tried to ignore your silly rantings and just let you have your say. But now you’ve officially entered into La-La Land of delusion.
You’re a liar. You’ve lied about me twice in this diary. Nothing you say should be taken seriously.
Borowy . . .Sutcliffe . . .Harden?
Just ignore him
For the record, your minor league wrap-ups are much appreciated.
by dr stabbingworth on Sep 1, 2008 2:15 PM CDT up reply actions
AAA is there in support of the MLB team
CRAFTY BEAVER!!!
http://lostinthevines.blogspot.com/
by lostinthevines on Sep 1, 2008 7:39 PM CDT up reply actions
I think youre judging too quick.
Watch any Iowa games? I dont mean to sound argumenative but we’ve got some quality guys down there. I trust Lou will throw them in during situations condusive to contributing.
There are six callups.
That makes a 31-man roster with a 15-man pitching staff. How much work do you think Lou can get for all those guys?
Prediction: no further callups will be made.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
Agreed
Regarding the Great Felix Pie Debate, the burden of proof is on his supporters at this point. Those of us negative on Pie have seen the Cub organization validate our thinking time and time again. I don’t care if Felix Pie is only 23 years old and “projectable” (whatever that means)…you don’t toil at Triple A for three consecutive seasons and get passed up for September promotion without there being grave doubt about your future within the organization.
how many years
has Casey McGeehee been in the minors?
Six.
How many years has Micah Hoffpauer been in the minors?
Four.
There’s no burden of proof to be borne. He’ll play or he won’t, it’s not some victory of ours if he does and it validates nothing of yours if he doesn’t.
Our 2008 Chicago Cubs -- FINDING WAYS TO WIN!
by drewishdrewid on Sep 1, 2008 7:30 PM CDT up reply actions
Your broken record act on Pie has become self-parody.
There’s no point reminding everyone that the organization doesn’t have one mind on Pie.
There’s no point defining “projectable” when it’s a concept you readily use for other NL team prospects (e.g. Jay Bruce).
There’s no point, really, in going on pro- or con- on Pie until he gets a real chance at the MLs. Pie wasn’t going to get a chance if he was brought up anyway. Sept callups on a winning squad is not the time to give someone a chance. It’s the time to establish your playoff team.
Now, Lou has said in the past that he wishes he had more speed and defense on his bench, two things Pie has succeeded at in the MLs; with rosters as expanded as they are, it doesn’t matter if you don’t think Pie can hit, he brings something to the table Lou has requested. So, not bringing Pie up says one of two things – 1) They’re serious about winning in Iowa (I agree with you that this is doubtful); 2) Lou has an issue with Pie that goes beyond what’s demonstrably best for the club (something that seemed apparent back on day five of the season).
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 Sep 1, 2008 7:32 PM CDT up reply actions
Jay Bruce vs. Felix Pie ???
Again, thank you for proving the point. Jay Bruce HAS adopted quite readily to the major leagues and reasonably PROJECTS at this stage as a very good major league ballplayer. As in Larry Walker good.
Thanks for playing our game.
I'm certainly not going to defend Pie;
my impatience and distaste for him are well documented on this site and elsewhere.
But slow your roll, my man. Make your point and move on. You’ve been here a long time – you know how to play the game.
CRAFTY BEAVER!!!
http://lostinthevines.blogspot.com/
by lostinthevines on Sep 1, 2008 7:41 PM CDT up reply actions
you're COMPLETELY
missing the point of DGU’s post. He’s not comparing Pie to Bruce. He’s using Bruce as an example of a contradiction you have perpetuated upon yourself.
But then, it’s par for the Blue-Mike course.
Our 2008 Chicago Cubs -- FINDING WAYS TO WIN!
by drewishdrewid on Sep 1, 2008 8:28 PM CDT up reply actions
You guys can have this argument around and around all you want.
But I stand by my prediction: Pie will not be recalled.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
Like I said .. methinks he'll be given a final shot
.. and be on a realllllllll short leash this month. The experiment will likely end by the time we take on the Brewers at the very end of days ..
Well, Next Year is here .. and Jack's century's gotta end some time .. GO CUBBIES!
Sept callups on a winning team is not the time to give someone a shot.
And besides Lou thought Pie had his shot on day 5 of the season. Lou’s done with Pie as a regular in 2008. It’s debatable whether he’d give him another shot in 2009.
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 Sep 1, 2008 9:23 PM CDT up reply actions
+1
CRAFTY BEAVER!!!
http://lostinthevines.blogspot.com/
by lostinthevines on Sep 2, 2008 7:49 AM CDT up reply actions
I think your prediction is likely true.
The question for me is: Why? (Is this an unaided prediction, or does solid inside information stand behind this?)
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 Sep 1, 2008 9:21 PM CDT up reply actions
Thought so.
Can you give any explanation for why he won’t be brought up?
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 Sep 2, 2008 6:59 AM CDT up reply actions
I mean to ask -
is it frutstration with Pie, or that they don’t believe he’d be helpful, or personal, or what?
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 Sep 2, 2008 7:00 AM CDT up reply actions
A combination of factors, some of which you have mentioned.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
If I ask more detailed questions
will you give more elusive answers? Just kidding – thanks for the information you can give.
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 Sep 2, 2008 7:40 AM CDT up reply actions
LOL
Now, I did read in this morning’s Sun-Times that Lou “expects” Pie to be recalled after the AAA playoffs. I know there is a lot of conflict in the organization about Pie and whether or not he can play at the ML level.
With six callups already in Chicago, I can’t see adding two more. To travel to all those road games with 33 players? What’s the point?
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
I wonder if different sources are saying different things
precisely because the conflict remains unresolved. Like in a family when you can’t come to an agreement, one side says, I assume we will be spending the holidays with her family (even though I don’t want to), while the other side says, I assume we won’t get to see my family at all (even though I want to).
What’s the point? All you have to do is look at Dave Roberts and Endy Chavez in recent playoff situations. Even if you never plan to let Pie swing the bat once, he brings something to our bench that would be more valuable than a 12th pitcher in the playoffs.
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 Sep 2, 2008 8:35 AM CDT up reply actions
What about Hoffpauir as an extra bat in the postseason?
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
I think he'll be eaten alive when the scouting reports come out.
He swings at too much out of the zone.
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.
Since Pie wasn't on the roster in August
he can’t be on the playoff roster. Same with Hoffpauir, unless I’m mistaken and he was called up August 31.
In the world I see--you are stalking elk through the damp canyon forests around the ruins of Rockefeller Center. You'll wear leather clothes that will last you the rest of your life. You'll climb the wrist-thick kudzu vines that wrap the Sears Tower. And when you look down, you'll see tiny figures pounding corn, laying strips of venison on the empty carpool lane of some abandoned superhighway.
There's a loophole.
You can name any player on the disabled list to the playoff roster so long as they were on the DL on August 31, because they are technically eligible. Then, you can replace them with any player who was on your 40-man roster as of August 31st.
Correct.
The Cubs had four players on the DL as of 8/31: Jon Lieber, Angel Guzman, Chad Fox and Rich Hill, who was recalled 8/31 for the purpose of disabling him and creating another postseason availability.
So, the Cubs can put as many as four people on the postseason roster who were NOT on the 25-man roster on 8/31, as long as they were on the 40-man roster on that date.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
right
and Pie and Hoffpauir don’t fall into that category, right?
In the world I see--you are stalking elk through the damp canyon forests around the ruins of Rockefeller Center. You'll wear leather clothes that will last you the rest of your life. You'll climb the wrist-thick kudzu vines that wrap the Sears Tower. And when you look down, you'll see tiny figures pounding corn, laying strips of venison on the empty carpool lane of some abandoned superhighway.
Pie and Hoffpauir were on the 40 man roster.
Thus, they are eligible to be on the postseason roster.
yup, my bad
In the world I see--you are stalking elk through the damp canyon forests around the ruins of Rockefeller Center. You'll wear leather clothes that will last you the rest of your life. You'll climb the wrist-thick kudzu vines that wrap the Sears Tower. And when you look down, you'll see tiny figures pounding corn, laying strips of venison on the empty carpool lane of some abandoned superhighway.
that's fine
and I understand your reasons for it.
The same can not be said for… others.
Our 2008 Chicago Cubs -- FINDING WAYS TO WIN!
by drewishdrewid on Sep 1, 2008 9:33 PM CDT up reply actions
Pie will be called up
but he won’t play much. According to the manager, anyway, on his pre-game radio interview yesterday.
On callups: “Probably get a couple more, I think Pie and probably Hart.”
Then: “we’re not in a position (laughs) where they’re gonna be playing”.
My next sig line quote will also be from Lou Piniella, and the first word will be either "Look", or "Listen", followed by a comma.
Yep, Lou Piniella is at fault when it comes to Felix Pie...
That’s the pat response of his unabashed supporters. Lou Piniella, successful ballplayer and manager has it in for Felix Pie. With total disregard to his lengthy history of having gifted young talent flourish under his leadership. To include of most recent GEOVANY SOTO and RYAN THERIOT.
Big bad Sweet Lou is just being a meany with Felix Pie.
break out the See-N-Say!
Our 2008 Chicago Cubs -- FINDING WAYS TO WIN!
by drewishdrewid on Sep 1, 2008 8:29 PM CDT up reply actions
Two misinterpretations off of one post. There must be a special going on.
I didn’t say (in this post) that Lou is at fault. I said there’s something weird going on when Lou asks for a bench player that looks like Felix Pie and doesn’t take that player when he’s available. Lou’s issue with Pie could be completely justifiable. There are plenty of things that we’ll never know that go on in the clubhouse(s). Pie could be getting a message that is good for him. I don’t know. I’m just saying it’s weird and hoping someone might have some insight.
Your “insight” is not helpful, because even if Pie has no future role on the club, he has present value when Lou constantly runs Jason Marquis out to pinch-run (cue MDBNIU saying, “Who said Felix Pie can run better than Jason Marquis?!?”)
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 Sep 1, 2008 9:20 PM CDT up reply actions
Keep taking potshots at Lou Piniella
I think his two year record in Chicago speaks for itself. That and his excellent track record as manager throughout the years to go along with the three World Series Championship rings in his collection. Felix Pie is done being a legitimate major league prospect in the eyes of the Cub organization.
Do you actually read my comments?
I didn’t take a shot a Lou. I said he could have a good reason for what he’s doing.
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 Sep 2, 2008 7:01 AM CDT up reply actions
I kinda agree;
i think it depends on how thi season turns out. I said above that if the Cubs win their last game this year, that Pie may be more of a part of the picture next year and down the road. That, or will be traded.
CRAFTY BEAVER!!!
http://lostinthevines.blogspot.com/
by lostinthevines on Sep 2, 2008 7:52 AM CDT up reply actions
In hindsight, that is a really vague, noncommittal prediction
on my part. Please disregard my flip-floppiness.
CRAFTY BEAVER!!!
http://lostinthevines.blogspot.com/
by lostinthevines on Sep 2, 2008 7:54 AM CDT up reply actions
It's hard to be specific on predictions
when we don’t know who the owner is. In a certain sense, if the Cubs win the Series, it makes a lot of sense to play Pie and Fontenot and see if you can build around Soto to win for the next 5 years. The more important issue, however, may be that a new owner may prefer to pay to bring in splashy names. It’s hard as a new owner to say, “We’re not resigning Edmonds and trading Lee, and really, I am committed to winning.”
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 Sep 2, 2008 8:00 AM CDT up reply actions
Felix Pie HAS been afforded opportunity
The Cub organization has been patient with Pie. At some point you need to trust the evaluation of the baseball people who run this organization. The tired rationale of “yeah, but he should be given another big league trial to see what he can do” no longer plays. And you’ve never explained why the organization who has invested so much time and money into Felix Pie would unintelligently give up on him. The answer is they wouldn’t if they still thought he was worthy investment.
And the answer is:
No, you aren’t reading my comments.
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 Sep 2, 2008 8:38 AM CDT up reply actions
are you surprised?
Our 2008 Chicago Cubs -- FINDING WAYS TO WIN!
by drewishdrewid on Sep 2, 2008 10:29 AM CDT up reply actions
Hill is on the DL...
and Pie deserves a shot. Hoffpauir deserves this more than anyone, he has been raking.
"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." - Alvin Dark
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