Gameboard, Set, Match: Milton Bradley Signs With Cubs
by Al Yellon on Jan 5, 2009 5:30 PM CST
in The Next 100 Years
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PrintThe deal, expected to be in the three-year, $30 million range, will be finalized after the two sides work through language issues and Bradley passes a physical, sources said.
We also don't yet know how that $30m is going to be split up, whether it might be another of Jim Hendry's patented backloaded contracts. For that, we'll have to wait and see.
Since I've been anti-Bradley since the rumors of his possible signing began, I thought it'd be worth a front-page post to discuss what he can -- and shouldn't -- bring to the Cubs. It's clear that the Cubs have never had a player quite like this before. When healthy, his combination of power and speed and plate discipline has been matched by few major league hitters. He led the AL last year in OBA and had a .999 OPS, higher than any 2008 Cub.
Unfortunately, about 2/3 of his 2008 games were played at DH, the results of a healing knee injury that was suffered during an altercation with umpire Mike Winters on September 23, 2007. Bradley went crazy and had to be tackled by his own manager, resulting in the knee injury. To be fair to Bradley, he was apparently baited by umpire Mike Winters, and according to this, that wasn't the first time Winters had pulled a stunt like that.
photo via images.athlonsports.com
You can call that passion, or you can call it stupidity. In reality, it's a little of both. It winds up being stupid when it costs your team games while you can't play. Bradley hit .313/.414/.590 in his 42 games with the Padres -- don't you think they could have used him that final week of 2007? It can be reasonably argued that Bradley's tirade may have cost the Padres a playoff spot, which they lost by one game in a tiebreaker. Maybe Bradley would have helped them win one more game that last week, had he been available, and they wouldn't have had to go to the tiebreaker. You can say all you want that "half a season of Bradley is 'better' than a full season of Abreu or Dunn", and statistically speaking, you'd be right. But Bradley can't win games for his team when he's hurt, and he has played 140 or more games in a season once in his career -- in 2004 with the Dodgers. Perhaps NOT coincidentally, that was LA's only postseason appearance between 1995 and 2008.
Teammates and managers of Bradley's have said that he wants to win so badly that he sometimes goes off the deep end, which is true -- we have seen evidence of it in several different uniforms, and the story is that he had such a bad relationship with Eric Wedge, his manager in Cleveland, that they almost had to trade him.
Passion and desire to win are great. That's something that every professional athlete should have. That said, they have to channel it in ways that go into winning on the field, not running after umpires -- even when you're right -- and not chasing after the opposing team's broadcaster when you think you've heard something you don't like (haven't we had enough of our players calling up our OWN broadcasters when they didn't like what they heard?).
You know that this is the first thing the Chicago media is going to ask him about at the press conference announcing his signing. The way he reacts to the questions will tell us a lot about how he will approach his time in Chicago. He has played in "big markets" before -- but LA's pretty laid-back, Oakland isn't really a big baseball town, and Texas doesn't have the passion for its team the way Cubs fans do.
I'd rather have had Adam Dunn or Bobby Abreu. But I'll say this: Jim Hendry has done a fine job since the end of 2006, putting together good teams that are cohesive and win, and Lou Piniella, in spite of pitcher and lineup handling that sometimes makes our heads spin, is a good leader of men. I hope he will be someone who can help channel Milton Bradley's considerable passions into winning baseball. If Lou can do that for Milton -- and if Milton can stay healthy for a full season -- then I'll be happy to say I was wrong, and I think I'll also be celebrating another Cubs division title.
Welcome to Chicago, Gameboard. You're in for a hell of a ride.
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YEAH!!! Get him a body bag!!!
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.
Yes
Great move by Jim Hendry signing Bradley .. Over a 300 career avg .. 22 homeruns last year .. More at Wrigley Field 28 ? 29 ? hrs ??? One signing down . Now two trades to go … Roberts and Peavey ..
roberts AND peavy?
I’d say there is literally a .0001% chance of that happening. Maybe peavy, and MAYBE roberts but not both, no way.
Neither.
I think Hendry’s done, with the exception of a minor tweak or two.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
Was Hendry forced to this signing Cubs need a LH bat
MB is young
Abreu. 35
Dunn: Too many Ks
trades: Can’t do it b/c of the possibilities of either JP or BR/ (wishful thinking)
or the trades that did happen to cut down payoll Marquis/DeRosa
What else could he have done?
"Loyal? I'm the most loyal player money can buy."
- Dodgers, Astros, Brewers, A's & Angels pitcher Don Sutton
Thanks CUBFANINAZ
I mean the money is not bad, its just the whole DL thing
what else, who else, is out there to fit for this team
Did it had to be 3 years?
Is there a no trade clause?
"Loyal? I'm the most loyal player money can buy."
- Dodgers, Astros, Brewers, A's & Angels pitcher Don Sutton
Read today in mlb
Read today on mlb that Hendry himself said he had a couple of moves to go .. Hope the writer of article is right … also in Baltimore Sun news paper said Orioles are probably going to trade Brian Roberts .. and yes , as a fan of the Cubs i am really hoping to trade for Roberts .. great glove , swich hitter , great arm , scores a ton of runs .. steals bases , also heard he is a really good person on and off the field .. line up would be set .
I don't think
the Cubs can add any more salary at this point. They clearly had to dump DeRosa and Marquis before signing Bradley. I don’t think we could add Roberts’ salary, let alone Peavy as others are suggesting.
Roberts
Hendry can’t get enough 2nd basemen..you are probably right..he goes after Roberts
The journey is the reward!
No, Roberts isn't mediocre
Hendry only loves AAAA roster filler 2B
by dr stabbingworth on Jan 6, 2009 9:14 AM CST up reply actions
I think Hendry
isn’t done pursuing Peavy for two reasons. One, he rarely stops until he gets the guy he wants (I know there are a few examples, Roberts being one of them), two, I still can’t believe he would trade DeRosa unless that meant he was going to be make another run at Peavy.
I'm finally moving on...
Sigh.
Seriously. The Peavy thing is done. The Padres are about to be sold, which means they can keep him. They’ve already publicly stated — BOTH parties — that Hendry’s done with this.
What part of this don’t you see? It’s not posturing, that’d be ridiculous.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
When did Hendry say he was done with it?
He said he’d never close the door on such an opportunity. Maybe that’s code for “done”, but I’m not so sure. What’s Peavy going to do for the Padres in ‘09 or ’10 or even ’11? All he can do for them is sell a few season tickets for ’09 right now in January. After that, he’s expensive and useless to them.
I’m not saying I think the trade will happen. Too many moving parts and what-ifs involved. But I can’t see why even the future new owner of the Padres would be so keen to keep him.
"Who's Bob Brenly? The guy that used to be the manager for Arizona?" ~ Alfonso Guilleard Soriano
What's he going to do in the next few years for SD?
We can’t answer that until the new owner of the Padres decides what he wants to spend on payroll.
Somehow, I doubt that’ll be less than a guy going through a nasty divorce.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
The payroll may be bigger, that is true
be he is still facing a year coming off a last place finish and entering into a potential 2-year recession; the revenue projections for the franchise can’t be pretty. Plus he needs to find the money to buy the team first.
"Who's Bob Brenly? The guy that used to be the manager for Arizona?" ~ Alfonso Guilleard Soriano
The latter has apparently already happened.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
And he may have Peavy in his budget going forward
but I don’t think it’s a slam-dunk that they decide to keep him. The San DIego media is saying as much,
"Who's Bob Brenly? The guy that used to be the manager for Arizona?" ~ Alfonso Guilleard Soriano
Why then are Miles, Sullivan, Levine, Rosenthal, Olney, Stark, and the yahoo people
saying its a possibility? I admit, they say the chance is slim (Rosenthal said 10%), but to continue insisting that its dead while every media outlet says its not just because you think it’s not the best move for the team is stubborn and ignorant. It’s even possible that it’s not the best move for the team if they have to give up 7 ML players or Soto or something irreplaceable- having that opinion is fine. But to keep insisting that its done while all the sources say its possible makes little sense.
by philadelphiacub on Jan 6, 2009 11:49 AM CST up reply actions
Maybe your right,
but add the Marquis deal, I don’t think it’s the last we have heard of the Peavy deal. Only time will tell, but I don’t think it’s ridiculous at all to speculate something could still happen. I think it’s more ridiculous to think the deal is over bc the GM’s say it is, GM’s rarley tell the full story to the press.
I'm finally moving on...
Well, except for Kevin Towers, who blabs every time he goes to the men's room.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
If he's done the De Rosa deal will be recorded as one of the worst in the history of the Cubs.
It only makes sense if the players acquired are to be included in a future deal for a top player.
by Fraggin Judge on Jan 7, 2009 12:34 AM CST up reply actions
so you're saying there's a chance! Alright!!
"I got a PBS mind in an MTV world"...Jimmy Buffett
by The Ryno and I Know on Jan 6, 2009 9:15 AM CST up reply actions
Maybe not someone quite like Roberts...
I don’t think Miles will cut it as an everyday second basemen.
"Check the magic of a winning season and there are always reasons beyond the talent." Ned Colleti
by wrigleyrocker12 on Jan 5, 2009 6:18 PM CST up reply actions
Sorry but
Bradley is a career .280 hitter not a .300 hitter
I like the idea about more HR but 22 was his career high,
I do hope we can get another arm and/or bat. I just looks like we replaced Bradley for DeRosa
"Loyal? I'm the most loyal player money can buy."
- Dodgers, Astros, Brewers, A's & Angels pitcher Don Sutton
Bradley replaces Edmonds.
Miles replaces stands in the same position as DeRo.
"I've never complained about it. I'm thankful to have a jersey." Mark DeRosa, 22 Aug 2007
Lets just say Bradley production replaces Dero...
Well, at least thats the idea…
If he stays healthy and plays 140+ games...
then this is a good signing. Since that’s incredibly unlikely to happen, to me this is a very poor acquisition.
Here's a question.
If he plays only 15 regular season games, but plays every post-season game, hitting .325/.425/.550, leading the Cubs into the World Series, will he still be a very poor acquisition?
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 Jan 5, 2009 8:25 PM CST up reply actions
I won't care what happens at that point.
We’d be in the World Series.
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
And if my aunt had a you-know-what...
she’d be my uncle. What kind of crazy hypothetical is this?
As for my answer...
I’d say that it would then be an unbelievably lucky bad acquisition. There are any number of potential realities that could occur based on this signing. The actual outcome relies on random chance. The results would be nice, but they wouldn’t suggest that the acquisition was a good one. Just a lucky break at the end.
My point
is that we don’t need Bradley in the regular season. We’ll score runs without him just fine. The vaunted LH bat was “needed” just for the post-season and the Cubs will do everything they can to have him and Harden healthy for the post-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 Jan 5, 2009 8:33 PM CST up reply actions
And Bradley is less likely to play in October than any other Cub...
Saying that the Cubs will do everything they can to have him healthy for October is pointless and naive. The Cubs can only do so much to avoid Bradley getting hurt. Simply putting Bradley on the baseball field has resulted in Bradley missing close to half his time in the big leagues. Unless they simply don’t play Bradley all year, he’s at a greater risk of being hurt in October than any other option available.
I grant that
Again, the point is that his regular season playing time isn’t an issue Cub fans should be worrying about.
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 Jan 5, 2009 8:37 PM CST up reply actions
I'd be worried about BOTH the regular season and playoffs...
I think we’re going to need Bradley’s bat to offset the loss of DeRosa and Edmonds and the weakened bullpen.
The regular season playing time may very well be relevant.
Sure it is.
You can’t just assume that this team will make the playoffs. Unfortunately it’s not that easy.
Exactly, there is a reason why the Cubs had the best offense in the NL in 08...
Even without Derosa, this team will have great offense. Keep in mind D-Lee had a bad season (well, that is for D-Lee standards), and Soriano had a freek injury. If Soriano can avoid any freek injury and D-Lee can avoid those horrendous double plays, then expect the cubs offensive production to be close to last year. Even if the Cubs have Bradely for 80 games, I bet the Cubs will have similar numbers to last year.
I wish I had the same confidence in the Cubs' 2009 offense, but I don't....
The team is depending on D.Lee and Fukudome to rebound from dismal 2nd half seasons and Lee’s was a dismal 3/4 season. That Johnson will also produce at similar levels and that bradley is healthy. If this is the O that we go with then we need better starting pitching and bullpen.
Agree
DeRosa, Theriot, Fontenot, and Soto had career years. Jim Edmonds added an excellent punch. I doubt they all repeat those career years, and Edmonds and DeRosa are gone.
I still think they will win the division, but I highly doubt they score crazy runs like last year.
by dr stabbingworth on Jan 6, 2009 9:37 AM CST up reply actions
I wouldn't be that overconfident about our offense, either...
without Bradley, we won’t be nearly the offensive juggernaut we were last year. We won’t have Edmonds and we won’t have DeRosa, and it’s debatable whether we’ll have as productive a season from Theriot and Fontenot. We may very well NEED Bradley’s offense during the season to make the playoffs.
Well, their SP will certainly be better than last year
Since the Cubs have a full year of Harden (I have him to pitch about 24 games), with the sharp decline of the Brewers, and the Cardinals yet not to make a major move this year, don’t expct the NL central to be competitive as last year.
Certainly?
You’re assuming that:
1) Dempster pitches close to as well as his career year again;
2) Harden stays healthy for 20+ starts;
3) The #5 spot is adequately filled by Marshall/Samardzija/??; and
4) We don’t have any injury issues with Zambrano.
I wouldn’t say the rotation will certainly be better. It’s very possible that the rotation is better, but I wouldn’t count on it.
The good news is that, as you say, the division should be weaker next year. But we’ll still have to hope that Bradley doesn’t find his way to the DL by October if we are going to have a good shot of making an impact in the postseason.
Well, I never said that Demps will pitch like last year..
But would you love to have Harden from the start of the seasn rather than just having Lieber/Marshall/Marquis as your potential 4/5 SP? Of course a full year of Harden in the rotation could mean more hell for the NL, but again…its all projections.
Thus, same can be said about the Cubs offense…
Can Fuku rebound from a bad season? Can Lee avoid the DP’s and put up better numbers? Will Soriano be more healthy than last season (in other words, hope of avoiding a freek injury)? Will Fontenot prove to be a reliable hitter etc.
The Cubs offense can possibly put up similar numbers to last year or maybe not.
They can possibly do lots of things...
You used the words “certainly” in terms of the starting pitching being better. That was my beef. It’s definitely a possibility, but to say it’s a certainty is quite an assumption.
This team has a lot of potential – there’s no denying that. But it has added tons of risk as well. For a team that won 97 games last year, I think the expectated win total is now lower. There’s certainly the possibility of doing a lot worse than last year’s win total, and also the possibility of doing a bit better.
Question #1: How will Bradley handle adversity?
My biggest question is how he will handle adversity. For someone that feels like he has been picked on his whole life (and in many cases he has), he doesn’t seem to have very think skin. He does his best when he is accepted.
How will he do when the RF bleachers turn on him after a slump? (And I think they’ll be quick to turn on him. He won’t have the 150 game grace period that Fukudome got.) I really don’t worry about him in the clubhouse, with his teammates. But I do worry about him keeping his head in the game when his own fans get on him (i’m sure he’s very used to being heckled on the road).
by Ghost of Fred Merkle on Jan 5, 2009 5:41 PM CST reply actions
yay.
By the way, given the choices of Abreu, Dunn, Bradley and Ibanez……I’m happiest with Bradley. But I still have reservations (like everyone else).
by Ghost of Fred Merkle on Jan 5, 2009 5:43 PM CST up reply actions
That's a good point, too.
Some of his new teammates, who have been here longer, have to sit down with him and have a talk so that maybe they can head that off.
Dempster would be my first choice to do that.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
mine would be
DLee
"This is a game to be savored, not gulped. There's time to discuss everything between pitches or between innings." -- Bill Veeck
Mine would be
DR. Phil, Plato and the shrink on the Soprano’s
"Have You heard of the Boom on Mizar 5?"
Dr. Melfi. The bravest shrink since Dr. Ben Sobel.
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Jan 6, 2009 8:45 AM CST up reply actions
Dr. Katz would be a good option, too.
I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg
He can use Big Z's punching bag...
The one with Michael Barrett’s face on it.
I'm not going to even bother trying to update this sig everyday anymore... that's what the standings column on ESPN is for.
Updated on May 25, 2008
The players that struggle with the fans when the going gets tough are the ones who fight it....
….as opposed to embracing it and going along with it. I have seen countless examples over the years sitting in RF of both approaches, and its simple human/crowd sociology.
That is what Dempster and other veterans need to convey. They might boo you but you gotta go with the flow, throw some balls into the stands, smile and joke with the fans and never rip the fans in the media.
The right and wrong of that can be debated forever, but when your dealing with a crowd mentality, that is reality…
New sig currently under construction
At least we can stop speculating
and start rooting for Bradley. I flip flopped from wanting Bradley to wanting Dunn after seeing his EXTENSIVE injury list and games missed. However, the time for that debate is over. Now we can just simply hope that he stays healthy and hope that he produces outside of an extremely hitter friendly ball park instead of debating whether or not he will.
I will say the yes he can be a cancer and yes he might get hurt. But neither of those things, IN MY OPINION, would destroy this club. Soriano went down for a month and a half and the cubs were fine. (I realize that much of us feel his is overrated now, but still) This team will probably win the division rather easily considering every other team has gotten worse (most significantly) in the division and we just want the post season now. As far as locker room, Z is crazy, things still work out though. If he gets too nuts, lou benches him for a while and we move on with Fuku. We dont NEED him to be a good team and thats why we can take this risk. At least thats how i feel.
(Still should get peavy…hahahahaha)
Cancer?
I havent seen any evidence of that.
Z should out crazy Bradley on his first day. Ya know, establish the looniness pecking order.
Reed Ballgame - best CF in the MLB
by californiachicagoan on Jan 5, 2009 5:48 PM CST up reply actions
alright maybe not in the clubhouse
but to the fans for sure. And apparently announcers, umpires and coaches at times too. But like I said, I want him to do well and in all honesty like the signing.
Z doesn't fight umpires
They all back down when they see him coming!
by dr stabbingworth on Jan 6, 2009 9:41 AM CST up reply actions
that's because they see
Ted Lilly standing behind him.
"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella
by drewishdrewid on Jan 6, 2009 1:03 PM CST up reply actions
Need crystal ball
I agree .. Hope he stays healthy .. and watches his temper .
After calming down a bit
I will say this……. Maybe..hopefully..he can have the 3 best years of his career. I don’t like the signing one bit but I will be his #1 supporter from this point forward. As always go cubbies!
Dear Santa:: All I want for X-mas this year is an official 2009 Jake Peavy Cubs Jersey. Oh and a Beimel one too. I've been a real good guy for the most part!!!
All I can say is
this signing makes me nervous.
A baseball game is simply a nervous breakdown divided into nine innings. ~Earl Wilson
Better than Abreu
Bradley is a better signing than Abreu, given Abreu’s age and salary demands. I was a Dunn proponent, but I was thinking the other day how Dunn was soundly criticized in late 2006 for disappearing in September, when the Reds had a shot of beating the Cardinals in the Central. I seem to recall that Dunn had like two RBIs in September that year.
I don’t know how Bradley has fared in the postseason, for the record. But maybe Hendry and Lou think Bradley will perform better under pressure.
Postseason stats are up and down, but overall impressive with great ALCS
In 2004 NLDS LAD vs STL, he went 3 for 11 (.273 / .500 / .636) with 1 HR and 1 RBI
In 2006 ALDS OAK vs MIN, he went 1 for 13 (.077 / .077 / .308) with 1 HR and 2 RBI
In 2006 ALCS OAK vs DET, he went 9 for 18 (.500 / .500 / .944) with 2 HR and 5 RBI
Overall postseason 13 for 42 (.310 / .383 / .667) with 4 HR and 8 RBI in 11 games
"Every team will win 60 games, every team will lose 60 games, it's what the team does in the other 42 games that decides the season."
Odd.
In the one series he didn’t hit, his team won.
The other two series, his team got swept.
Just sayin’.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
It is now cast in stone the Cubs OF for the next 3 years
Soriano in LF, Fukudome in Cf and Bradley in RF, unless Hendry can or has to unload any of these contracts.
2009= $37.5M (RJ’s $3M & G’s $800K or $41.3M), 2010= $41M (RJ’s & Gath’s arb) and 2011=$41.5M (+ 4th & 5th )
Also I wonder if Hendry front and back loaded the contract where he offered $12M this year and $13M final year and put a donut in 2010 of $5M to help out his problem in 2010?
Also looking at the recent years Bradley has played the corner OF and not CF so I think Fukudome will be moved in later innings and either RJ or Gathright will be a substitution in late game defensive situations.
Again Cubs are now $135.5M in 2009 without the three expected minor subtractions if this is a straight $10-$10-$10M deal. That is the level the Tigers were at and above the Red Sox last year and again about a 12% increase from last year.
Piniella: "This is a tougher job than I thought it would be, I'm going to be honest with you."
Actually Bradley played CF in 07
But yeah, unless his knee is significantly better than it seems he wont play center now.
Reed Ballgame - best CF in the MLB
by californiachicagoan on Jan 5, 2009 5:57 PM CST up reply actions
except in Detroit and Comiskey this year
He will be DH’ing
Piniella: "This is a tougher job than I thought it would be, I'm going to be honest with you."
interesting splits
As a LHB he hit 11 HR’s with 278 AB’s and a .929 OPS but as a RHB he hit 11 HR’s in 136 AB’s and a 1.139 OPS….he mashes lefties…..a HR in almost 12 AB’s almost Ruthian.
Day/Night splits a bit better at night but not much, especially as he likes grass.
Piniella: "This is a tougher job than I thought it would be, I'm going to be honest with you."
No.
There are only three turf parks left: Toronto, Tampa Bay and Minnesota. We don’t play in any of those in 2009.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
Good thing
I feel like every turf series ends with at least one player having a knee or foot problem.
Let the Blaine Gabbert era begin.
Not anymore
The new style turf is actually very easy on the body. The nightmare days of astroturf are a thing of the past.
I guess the Toronto turf is what is sticking out in my mind
I know at least Edmonds got injured because of it this past season.
Let the Blaine Gabbert era begin.
Must be...
Not sure why they haven’t joined the 21st century yet up there.
And at least two of those turf parks (Tampa and Minnesota)...
are no longer the bad kind of turf. They’re probably as good or better on the body than natural grass.
I heard the Twins are getting a new ball park
will that be artificial or natural
"Loyal? I'm the most loyal player money can buy."
- Dodgers, Astros, Brewers, A's & Angels pitcher Don Sutton
As a Minnesotan
I can tell you the condition of the grass: FROZEN. No roof at the Twins new stadium is up there with some of the stupidest things a team has ever done in constructing a new stadium.
Dan
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
Seriously
No Roof
C’mon
"Loyal? I'm the most loyal player money can buy."
- Dodgers, Astros, Brewers, A's & Angels pitcher Don Sutton
Agreed.
Building that new park in Minneapolis without a retractable roof is suicidal. They will be playing in horrendous conditions all of April and most of May.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
I am really starting to think that all cold cities need one
How cold was it at the Winter Classic compared to opening days? I went the year we brough Maddux back when we got shallacked 13-6 by the Pirates i think and that WAS TERRIBLE…
"I played with one of the best pitchers in history, Greg Maddux," Zambrano said"
The problem I have with the retractable roofs
is that teams use them to much. They close the roof if there’s even a chance of rain!
I went to a Cubs/Brewers game at the end of last season and it was a beautiful day outside and they had the roof closed because it might rain.
Baseball is meant to be played outside. I enjoy sitting outside to watch a game when unless it is freezing cold or raining/snowing. Sitting in a stadium with the roof closed on a nice day just seems silly.
I would like to point out that retractable roofs in some cities don’t really make financial sense. The Cubs did not have a single rain out last year and most years don’t have more than one.
I think retractable roofs only make financial sense in cities where extreme weather happens often during the season (like the heat of Arizona or Texas or the rain of Florida).
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Jan 5, 2009 10:45 PM CST up reply actions
LOL
Minnesota needs a roof more than Texas or Arizona does.
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
Before the Twinkies played in the Metrodome,
they played in an outdoor stadium (without a roof). I don’t remember that and would be interested to hear from fans who attended games during that time.
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Jan 5, 2009 10:53 PM CST up reply actions
I saw my first game
at the old Metropolitan Stadium. Seemed like a nice place to me, but I was only seven.
Minnesota successfully played major league baseball outdoors for 21 seasons, including one World Series and two ALCS. Now the season does go about two or three weeks later these days, but I really don’t think it’s going to be as big an issue as people think. They may have to play more double-headers than 21st century teams like to.
by Josh Timmers on Jan 5, 2009 10:59 PM CST up reply actions
On that point you are incorrect
For every day it’s intolerably cold in Minnesota it’s over 100 degrees in PHX. They most certainly need a roof down there.
WOXY.com - The Future of Rock and Roll
by Gibbon Jockey on Jan 5, 2009 11:33 PM CST up reply actions
How many times has MLB cancelled or postponed games due to hot weather? I’d like to think that number is significantly lower than cancellations or postponements due to snow.
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
It wouldn't be how many times have they cancelled a game
But how many less tickets are sold due to the hot weather? I know that is a main detractor of fan attendance in Miami (and the fans there suck)
I think Miami's rain is the bigger culprit...
Nobody wants to drive way across town to potentially see a game rained out.
But yeah, Miami could use a retractable roof too.
The new ballpark will have a retractable roof
It is scheduled to open in 2012.
The proposed site is located near the Miami Arena. Currently that land is earmarked for a Juvenile Courthouse.
"Every team will win 60 games, every team will lose 60 games, it's what the team does in the other 42 games that decides the season."
Hendry said...
that he may have two more other moves. I’m not sure if the moves will minor or major, but I don’t expect the JP talks to resurface until the mid-season.
As for the Roberts trade talk, I don’t expect McFail to be reasonable with the Cubs. If the Whitesox rumor was true (Floyd for Roberts, but the trade being denied), then why would anyone expect that McFail will take Pie/Cedeno/3 prospects from the Dero deal? All those players haven’t even proven to be at least above average ML material, but Floyd from Sox has shown some success in the major leagues.
Basically, the MB signing can go either way…a damn good signing or a bad signing. I like the stat that cwyers pulled up about “1/2 of MB in a season is worth more than a full season of Dunn,” but I would like to see him playing at least playing 120 games. It all depends on how Lou plays MB and I can see MB being given a 1-2 games of per week. Overall, I gives this signing a 3.5/5.
I've been a Bradley fan for years
although I have to say that his injury history has made me very leery of this signing. But let’s not forget he was the best hitter in the AL last season—better than A-Rod, better than Joe Mauer and better than his teammate Josh Hamilton, who got all the publicity. Sure, that was a little flukey, but even with a normal progression, he’s a hitter who can help us. And the only reason he DH’d last season is because of that leg injury. If he’s back to 2007 form, he’s a great defensive outfielder.
Still, he’s ours now and I know that almost everyone on this board is going to be pulling for him now. We don’t need to be blind to his faults, but let’s not be blind to his strengths either. Either way, it’s going to be an interesting season.
by Josh Timmers on Jan 5, 2009 5:52 PM CST reply actions 3 recs
+1 I like LOVE your arguement
normal regression, that’s exactly right!
I just hope he plays more than 125 games bc we’ll need him to
"Loyal? I'm the most loyal player money can buy."
- Dodgers, Astros, Brewers, A's & Angels pitcher Don Sutton
Actually
not to be too confident, but we really will only need him for about a month or so.
Reed Ballgame - best CF in the MLB
by californiachicagoan on Jan 5, 2009 6:02 PM CST up reply actions 1 recs
Oh really? And what if that month happens to be April?
Or May, June, July, August or September? Let’s forget about playing russian roulette with the calendar and just hope he stays reasonably healthy all year.
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
I completely agree,
he is an often forgotten top player, mostly due to his injury history. His on base percentage is freakish for a switch hitter who has decent power. If the Cubs get 125 games this year from him, it will be a miracle.
Maybe I’m being foolish, the least thing I’m worried about is how he acts. I think this team, and coaching staff will balance hiim out. The only caviet is if he doesn’t start quickly, the boo birds will be all over him, not sure how he will handle that. I just had a LaTroy Hawkins flashback.
I'm finally moving on...
Rec;d
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 Jan 5, 2009 8:33 PM CST up reply actions
If you look at 2008 like an extended rehab stint....
It makes you feel a little better. ( At least it makes ME feel better.) Sure it would have been bette if he’d played in the field more in 08, but at least we know he has his stroke back, without a year of grind and wear and tear on his knee. I would expect the knee to be in pretty good shape at this point.
"Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true!" -Homer J. Simpson
Well said
Milton is a Cub now, and while that doesn’t mean we should all look at him with sunshine and rainbows, we owe it to him to give him a chance.
With some rest (Fukudome can slide over to RF with Johnson in CF), I think he can make it through the entire year and really help this team.
I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg
As my friend in Cleveland said about him
“He got game”.
"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry
or...
He got gameboard!
I haz blurg: hotbeans.wordpress.com
by digitalbenjamin on Jan 5, 2009 9:16 PM CST up reply actions
His...name...is...Milton...Bradley...
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
I'm not worried about...
…his attitude. In fact, I tend to believe his temperment might indeed be a good thing for a group of veterans who are fairly subdued.
With that said, I believe this is either going to workout really well or it could be a failure. If he ends up on the shelf for prolonged periods of time, this could be Hendry’s unduing as GM. I understand the risk, and with the short window this club has, it is one that is worth a try for the potential upside.
I still think Hendry may take another run at Peavy, but that remains to be seen.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
The first time he starts to get mad about something I'll bet DLee will take him aside and talk to him
If he gets mad again they are just going to tell Big Z to kick his ass. Either way we won’t have more than two attitude issues.
And just in case he is able to fight off Big Z, Ted Lilly is waiting.
Let the Blaine Gabbert era begin.
Remember on thing...
…pitchers are rarely leaders to the everyday players on any team. I can’t explain why that is, but they are viewed as a different group amongst a ballclub. Regarding Lee, I’m actually hoping Bradley’s fire rubs off on guys like Lee, Ramirez etc. vs them trying to calm him down.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
He won't mess with Lily.
Lilly could slit a man’s throat just by looking at him if he wanted to. Fortunately for mankind, he hasn’t wanted to. Yet.
Haha true that,
I remember last year when he hit Yunel Escobar and Yunel wanted to go after him. Ted just caught the ball stared at him for a sec and smiled, almost lauged at him. Yunel just kinda went on his way after that.
I hope Not
Maybe his passion for play can infect the team like Fuku’s willingness to work a count.
Also, I sure hope Lou will do the right thing and put him in the 3 hole.
Prediction
Bradley and Z are two birds of a feather and end up best of buddies in the clubhouse. Bradley will rake like he usually does and the naysayers will wonder why in the world they thought this signing was bad. This guy is a professional hitter which is what the Cubs need in the middle of their lineup.
Who needs a stinkin' tag line? What are they for anyway?
Al's statement about passion holds true for both Z and Bradley
You can call that passion, or you can call it stupidity. In reality, it’s a little of both. It winds up being stupid when it costs your team games while you can’t play.
Every time Z breaks a bat over his knee, I think of the chance of stupid injury.
"Every team will win 60 games, every team will lose 60 games, it's what the team does in the other 42 games that decides the season."
With the Padres likely sold by the time the season begins...
… I think they’ll be keeping Peavy.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
that sucks
make the move now
"Loyal? I'm the most loyal player money can buy."
- Dodgers, Astros, Brewers, A's & Angels pitcher Don Sutton
How are you going to "make the move now"...
… when new ownership has probably told Towers to keep him?
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
Good call AL
You could be right with the pads Al with keeping Peavey
Not sure if JP will be happy with that...
he was pissed that the deal with peavey was not done.
Honestly, Cubs fans should just forget about JP and focus on the Cubs weaknesses. SP shouldn’t be much of a concern, but right now I’m concerned about the bullpen and leadoff hitter. Besides Marmol and Jeff Spellcheck, I dont see Greg/Vizcaino/Wuertz being the reliable setupman and I am not sure how well Guzman can pitch out of the pen as a RP.
As for the leadoff hitter, I was hoping Furcal would be signed by the Cubs for a reasonable contract, but that wasn’t going to happen.
Bingo!
Moorad doesn’t have much left there with star quality. Peavy’s the guy he’ll build around.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
I guess that eliminates a Peavy/Adrian Gonzalez dream package
"Every team will win 60 games, every team will lose 60 games, it's what the team does in the other 42 games that decides the season."
Could be...
…and if the pads owner is looking to sell that quick (in this economy), he will be getting pennys on the dollar for the club.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
+1
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 Jan 5, 2009 8:42 PM CST up reply actions
Well, Hendry said it himself...
that he may have two more other moves. I’m not sure if the moves will minor or major, but I don’t expect the JP talks to resurface until the mid-season.
As for the Roberts trade talk, I don’t expect McFail to be reasonable with the Cubs. If the Whitesox rumor was true (Floyd for Roberts, but the trade being denied), then why would anyone expect that McFail will take Pie/Cedeno/3 prospects from the Dero deal? All those players haven’t even proven to be at least above average ML material, but Floyd from Sox has shown some success in the major leagues.
Basically, the MB signing can go either way…a damn good signing or a bad signing. I like the stat that cwyers pulled up about “1/2 of MB in a season is worth more than a full season of Dunn,” but I would like to see him playing at least playing 120 games. It all depends on how Lou plays MB and I can see MB being given a 1-2 games of per week. Overall, I gives this signing a 3.5/5.
Hendry's bane?
No, I think this team has the depth to withstand Bradley absences so long as it doesn’t stack on a simultaneous absence of Ramirez/Soriano. Fukudome, if he can’t be a productive player, is a lot more likely to be Hendry’s “undoing” if even that will undo him.
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 Jan 5, 2009 8:35 PM CST up reply actions
Because of this I hope they hang on to Pie
I like the idea of Pie and Johnson able to back up soriano/dome/bradley, both in late innning situations and for dl stints
I think you're likely to be disappointed...
the Cubs signed Gathright specifically for the role you just described for Pie. I’ll be very surprised if Pie isn’t traded.
Yes MPH73, you hit the nail on the head
a guy like Bradley can do wonders for the attitude of our team. One key hit could have got us going last year vs. the Dodgers. I said this way early on Bradley that every good team needs a “rat”, a guy who can get the nasty going when the situation is tough. If Bradley can do that for us, I’m all for it. I think we can all look at his past and wonder. We can also look at the future and wonder. A favorite saying I have is that you can’t do anything about yesterday but you can work today for tomorrow. Bradley might have the injuries behind him. He’s ours now and we can’t change his past, but his future? Could be awesome. Let’s hope.
This is only the beginning....Lou Pinella end of '07 season and Chicago Transit Authority (the band when they were really good).
You guys and gals all seem to think
that Bradley’s temper and attitude is a negative, but you’re all missing the possibility that one night after a game he could finally end Jay Mariotti’s career once and for all. :-)
Didn't you hear?
Mariotti says he’s going to be nice in his new job.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
I'll give Mariotti this much...
he is smart enough to see the death of the newspaper business fast approaching. Granted, most of his opinions are smarmy and inane so that tends to moderate his acumen somewhat.
I can see his point about being tired of bashing the same five teams over and over. I’m pretty sure they were tired of it, too.
"They say we live and learn. Often what we learn is what damn fools we have been." ~Thomas Sowell
So that's where Mariotti ended up.
It’s fitting – I’ve always considered AOL the paragon of lame.
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.
I love the signing;
The deal isn’t too long (i.e. Soriano, Fukudome) — and it’s a fairly decent price for a player of his talent. I think a strong personality like Bradley could be the thing this team needs to get over that hump.
However, I feel like this is the only good deal Hendry has made this offseason.
Tamia Lynn Davis:
Born: August 18, 2008
by Unique on Jan 5, 2009 6:02 PM CST reply actions 1 recs
Apathetic?
Thats pathetic.
Reed Ballgame - best CF in the MLB
by californiachicagoan on Jan 5, 2009 6:13 PM CST up reply actions
Nah
They’re going to call up Nate Spears at some point so we can have the scrappiest team in the majors. :0)
Hendry is not done yet
One more big move to follow
I sure hope so
"Loyal? I'm the most loyal player money can buy."
- Dodgers, Astros, Brewers, A's & Angels pitcher Don Sutton
Rec'd
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 Jan 5, 2009 8:59 PM CST up reply actions
This is the best place for Milton.......
If there is a manger who can get the most out him, it is Lou…. for the most part Lou lays down the law, and will sit a player if needed… There our a few exceptions ( Soriana as he is sold hot and cold as a hitter you never know when he is going to break out of a slump…. And D.Lee who doesn’t get enough rest)… Im looking forward to seeing how Lou uses him…. No doubt he can be a big help if he stays healthy and falls in line
LouPrules
DLee doesn't get enough rest partially because he makes it a point to try and play every game
I remember a couple times last season where Lou said he might sit him but then Derrek talked his way back into the lineup.
Let the Blaine Gabbert era begin.
I think that is the key to getting more production from Lee.
When Lee got a couple of days off in a row at the end of the season, he seemed refreshed.
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Jan 5, 2009 10:50 PM CST up reply actions
Lee's wrist
Lee’s wrist will determine whether he returns to form. All I witnessed was an appendage that prevented its owner from powering a ball to the opposite field. Plus his inability to lay off low and outside pitches for strike three doesn’t help.
I am very excited about 2009 but Lee has to step it up.
Check out my Cubs shrine: http://picasaweb.google.com/vegascubfan/CubsRooms#
The wrist or the back
I thought it was his back that caused him some problems last year.
"Who's Bob Brenly? The guy that used to be the manager for Arizona?" ~ Alfonso Guilleard Soriano
That's why I think some rest throughout the season would benefit Lee.
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Jan 6, 2009 9:07 AM CST up reply actions
Me too.
And I never thought I’d say this, but maybe this is why keeping Hoffpauir on the roster may actually pay some dividends.
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.
Too bad Peavy was a lower priority
After how poorly our pitchers competed in the playoffs, you would think it would have been a higher priority. The truth is that we only have one true #1 (Harden) and he is only good for a limited number of starts. Z is a second starter, while Demps, well, we’ll see if he can string together two good seasons.
While Harden is one of my favorite players
He isn’t a number one, IMO. You can’t be a #1 starter if you can’t go out there every 5 days and not have your arm fall off.
Tamia Lynn Davis:
Born: August 18, 2008
I don't like calling Harden a number 1 because he cannot pitch an entire season
Dempster will regress a bit this season, I think he ends up more as the 4 starter as the year goes on. Big Z is the ace of this staff no matter what people like to say.
In game 2 this year he brought his A game only to see the infield make every error possible. Big Z seems to always step up when we need him I refuse to blame him for the defense imploding.
Let the Blaine Gabbert era begin.
You are a #1 starter
if you have #1 stuff.
Just ask yourself this — who did you really want starting Game 1 for the Cubs last off-season? Which of the staff did you want to possible make two starts — Dempster? Z? or Harden?
Z
Reed Ballgame - best CF in the MLB
by californiachicagoan on Jan 5, 2009 6:13 PM CST up reply actions
Why would you want Harden to start game 1?
such a large chance that the bullpen would be overworked in game 1 of a playoff. I’ll be honest, the only reason I’m not mad the Cubs picked up Harden’s option is because there is very little risk being 1 year.
I'm finally moving on...
I wanted Zambrano starting game 1
Because I know that Harden can’t make it past the 5th most of his starts and when he does it usually means he will have 6 or 7 days before his next start.
Let the Blaine Gabbert era begin.
Give me Harden
and is 1.71 ERA and +32 IP over Hs (or his .97 WHIP). I agree he doesn’t go long enough, but he is the only consistent dominant pitcher on the staff — Z can be dominant, just not consistently dominant.
Again it is hard to be consistent when you are missing chunks of the season
I would rather have Rich Harden on my team when it comes to comparisons to most pitchers in baseball, but Zambrano is one of the few who I would rather have if I had to pick one.
Let the Blaine Gabbert era begin.
Exactly, he's more reliable...
in terms of durability. Harden can be the number 1 SP, but till he can prove to be more durable, Z is the number 1 SP.
But he was healthy
In the playoffs, Harden was healthy — why you don’t start your most dominating P in Game 1 — too much old school loyalty.
Harden was not healthy in his playoff start
He didn’t even look close to healthy
Let the Blaine Gabbert era begin.
Yeah, his fastball only clocked 93 MPH at max
and that is not Harden like stuff.
Harden hasthe potential to be the number 1 SP...
By staying healthy. Right now Z is the number 1 SP.
A #1 starter
can pitch every 5 days. Pitching only every 7-8 days and mostly on cool nights does not constitute a #1 starter.
I agree.
Ace stuff + consistency + durability = True No. 1 starter
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.
Well then
that indicates Dempster as the #1 Zambrano, Harden and Lilly are far from either durable/consistant.
Its funny, you spend most of your life gripping a baseball. And in the end, its almost always the other way around.
Just by career numbers...
Z is clrearly number 1. Sure Demps had an amazing season (for his standards), but unlike Demps (who is likely to regress), you can expect Z to put up solid numbers and remain durable.
I'm saying
if you’re going off dat cubfan daver’s criteria for an ace, z hardly fits the bill. Does he have ace stuff, yes. Is he durably? Not always. Is he consistant? Hell no. Most people would agree Z is a #2 disguised as a #1.
Its funny, you spend most of your life gripping a baseball. And in the end, its almost always the other way around.
does it matter?
so we have three 2.5’s, a 3, and a 5. I understand the value of a “stopper,” but I think Z, Harden, Dempster, or even Lilly can serve that role.
Well, actually
it does matter in reference to what dat cubfan daver’s defination of an ace is. No one is saying that Z stinks, he’s just not a #1. Also, it certainly does matter because there is a pretty substantial difference between a 1 and a 2. Its the difference from Z to Johan. There is a big difference in my book.
Its funny, you spend most of your life gripping a baseball. And in the end, its almost always the other way around.
And in my heart of hearts...
…this is what I consider Big Z: A high No. 2. If Demp surprises us all (again) and maintains his ’08 numbers (which is doubtful) then, yes, maybe you could start arguing for him as a No. 1. But his career has been so up and down, his status as such would still be highly debatable.
When I think of a true No. 1, a guy like Johan Santana comes to mind. He goes out there and puts up large amounts of innings and insane numbers year after year after year. Assuming Lincecum can stay healthy, I could see him turning into a true No. 1 as well. They’re a rare breed and not every team has 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.
Playoff losses were due to hitting.
We had two guys hit in the playoffs. Lee and DeRosa. TWO!
Meanwhile the only starter to pitch decent was Z, not Harden.
Reed Ballgame - best CF in the MLB
by californiachicagoan on Jan 5, 2009 6:11 PM CST up reply actions
Can we stop talking about the 08 playoffs now?
I feel my ulcer imploding again.
Tamia Lynn Davis:
Born: August 18, 2008
Not my favorite topic
But Im not a fan of rewriting history either
Reed Ballgame - best CF in the MLB
by californiachicagoan on Jan 5, 2009 6:15 PM CST up reply actions
Heard Bradley is good
been hearing Bradley is pretty good with the glove in the outfield
and Dempster couldn't throw a strike
Check out my Cubs shrine: http://picasaweb.google.com/vegascubfan/CubsRooms#
I don't blame Z for the playoffs
The defense let him down in Game 2.
I love this signing...
I’ve been watching film of him hit and he can flat out hit.
The best part about it is that we have the bench to give him a day off when he needs it. (Fukudome in RF, Johnson in CF) Hopefully, that will keep him healthy all year.
There is more flexibility in the Cubs OF...
Pinella can rotate Fuku whenever he plans to bench MB. Also, If Soriano were to get hurt, MB can fill the void in LF with Fuku playing RF.
But...
… what about Gathright? He’s the true backup. If Bradley is hurt, BOTH Fukudome and Johnson have to play, then Gathright is the 4th OF.
I’d rather have Pie.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
Yeah...
I would rather not start Gartwright at all (even if Bradely or Soriano were to get hurt)…I agree about Pie, but it seems right now that he will be traded since he is out of options. Keep in mind Hendry said that he might have couple of moves remaining and I believe Pie/Cedeno will be involved in one of those deals.
I have to say
I like a Bradley signing a lot better if Pie is our 4th OF and competing to steal playing time from Dome than with Gathright and Reed back there, but so it is.
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 Jan 5, 2009 9:12 PM CST up reply actions
I agree...
Unfortunately, that ship has sailed.
he's not gone yet.
"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella
by drewishdrewid on Jan 6, 2009 1:09 PM CST up reply actions
I think it's only a matter of time at this point...
We have six OF not including Hoffpauir. We have major money invested in three of them, and none are going to be moved. Pie is out of options, so he can’t go to the minors. We signed Johnson to be the 4th OF and platoon mate for Fukudome if necessary. And we have just signed a speedster to be the defensive sub and pinch runner. There isn’t a role for Pie on this team anymore.
we actually signed Reed ...
to platoon in center with Pie in spring training 2008. That was when everybody thought Fukudome would come up big. But I agree with the rest of what you said.
And we RE-SIGNED Johnson this past offseason...
to be the 4th OF and platoon mate for Fukudome if necessary. We could have let him walk.
Yes to Pie
But instead of Gathright. That move still baffles me. Pie is younger, cheaper, and better.
by dr stabbingworth on Jan 6, 2009 10:11 AM CST up reply actions
I wonder if the Gathright signing...
was in preparation for a Peavy deal, which would almost certainly have involved Pie. Since that deal fell apart, we’re now sitting with both players.
Keeping Pie for the fifth OF/defensive sub role doesn’t make much sense. It made sense to package Pie for something better elsewhere. But now it appears more likely to just dump him for prospects or a lefty reliever since Peavy is out of the picture.
Welcome to Chicago Milton!
I like this signing. Though his health concerns are obvious, our depth gives him the opportunity for days off without losing TOO much and he’s certainly the impact bat I was hoping for. I wanted Dunn (who cares about K’s when you have all those BB’s and can mash) but I’ll take him – especially if we pay him with Monopoly money.
I think his “tunnel vision” created by his passion to win will be a positive influence in the playoffs as I don’t see his personality as one to get rattled by bogus curses.
This is a playoff signing if you ask me. I think we have that luxury because Milwaukee is on the decline and Astros and Cardinals can’t hang.
"In theory there is no difference between theory and practice. In practice there is." - Yogi Berra
The days off idea is interesting
someone posted Bradley’s lengthy injury history awhile ago. Apart from the knee problem (and maybe something else I’m forgetting), the conclusion seemed to be that he had many minor, nagging injuries, ie, he didn’t like to play hurt.
I wonder if putting him on a schedule that plans for 40 or 50 off days would be wise, or if it would be better just to put him in there every day that you have him.
I'm sure he'll get lots of days off...
with either Gathright or Johnson subbing for him. The Cubs will try their best to keep him off the DL.
This is actually where I would give Lou Piniella a lot of credit.
His in-game moves are sometimes frustrating but, overall, Lou was excellent at managing the playing time of guys like Reed Johnson, Fontenot and Rich Harden to get the most out of them. I think Lou will go into the season with a plan for mitigating Bradley’s health concerns. Also, I want to say that I read somewhere recently that the Cubs’ medical staff was named one of the best in baseball, so we’ve got that goin’ for us.
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.
knee injury
It should also be noted that Bradley worked really hard to come back from his knee injury about twice as fast as doctors had projected. The guy obviously worked extremely hard to get back on the field and was extremely productive even though he wasn’t 100% healthy.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 6, 2009 10:42 AM CST up reply actions
The Cubs also have an excellent training staff
headed up by Mark O’Neal. They were voted by their peers as the top staff in MLB in 2008.
Hiring Mark O’Neal and his staff is one of the best moves Jim Hendry has made during his tenure as GM.
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Jan 6, 2009 11:32 AM CST up reply actions
The fans
Its not so much the media I’m worried about in regards to Bradley, its the fans. Expectations have gone through the roof and Cubs fans seem to be pretty ruthless these days. It has become a pressure cooker on the north side and I think fans need to be conscious that at times, their behavior doesn’t make Chicago all that great a place to play.
I don’t buy the racism crap that was dealt out with players like Jacque Jones and LaTroy Hawkins… every fandom has some racist meatballs. But Cub fans as a whole could afford to turn the pressure down a notch.
Welcome to the CHi Milton
also I want Pie to make the roster, instead of Hoffpower
"I played with one of the best pitchers in history, Greg Maddux," Zambrano said"
Bradley also has proven that he can hit in the postseason a bit
here
I can’t seem to get the direct link working, but look at the October 11 game and click the 4 RBI link.
I know its just a one game deal, but he shows power from both sides and a little speed. Also we get to listen to announcer Lou Pinella.
Let the Blaine Gabbert era begin.
Projected Line-Up Anyone?!?
Not sure how this shakes things up. But would be curious to hear your input.
’09 Prediction: Fukudome has a big year and returns to the form of the first couple months with a modest regression and plays a significant role in the offense. Seriously.
"In theory there is no difference between theory and practice. In practice there is." - Yogi Berra
hmmm....
Soriano LF
Theroit SS/Fonetnot 2B
Lee 1B
MB RF
Aram 3B
Soto C
Fuku/RJ CF
Miles/Fontenot 2B
SP
I can see D-Lee being moved down, but Pinella will not move Soriano (that is unless the cubs get a true leadoff hitter).
Thats what I said...D-Lee might move down
I was thinking about putting Aram at 3, but Pinella will most likely place D-Lee at the 3 spot. However, I think that will change somewhere around June.
As it is now
line up by Geo4MVP looks about right
I would flip flop Fuku & Soto
"Loyal? I'm the most loyal player money can buy."
- Dodgers, Astros, Brewers, A's & Angels pitcher Don Sutton
Well, if Fuku can hit better
Then I can see Soto and Fuku being flipped. As of right now Soto will most likely hit 6th.
I would
definately hit Bradley before Ramirez. Ramirez is the one guy you can routinely count on to drive in runs in that lineup. Given Milton’s OB% I’d much rather have him in front of Aram.
Its funny, you spend most of your life gripping a baseball. And in the end, its almost always the other way around.
well, you gotta look at Lou's philosophy of hitting
He clearly wants a balance lineup and he wants a left handed hitter to break up Lee and Aram. Thus, regardless of where D-Lee/Aram hits, expect MB to hit 4.
Thats fine
then Aram hits 5.
Its funny, you spend most of your life gripping a baseball. And in the end, its almost always the other way around.
If you think that ARAM is our best hitter
like I do…then Lou needs to be put him in a spot to get the most ABs. Therefore, he needs to be placed in the Third Hole and Lee put in the 5 hole. If you bury ARAM in the 5 hole, he is going to get less ABs and that just does not make sense for your best clutch hitter.
"When two Whales Fight, many Shrimp Die" - Korean Proverb
by TheRiot Police on Jan 5, 2009 11:09 PM CST up reply actions
This will be the 2009 Opening Day Lineup
Assuming the opposing pitcher is RH. Notice, LH Fukudome will be hitting 2nd, because if Soriano is on first, the opposing 1B will have to hold him on, opening up right side of the infield for Fukudome to slap one through and move Soriano to 3rd. Plus he is very patient and I will assume Soriano legs will be 100% and he will be running next year. I think he has a little chip on his shoulder (esp after all the freak injuries he’s had here in Chicago) and will be looking to put up a 40-40 year ( He won’t but with the effort, he might get 40+hr’s and 30+sb’s
Soriano LF
Fukudome CF
Aramis Ramirez 3B
Milton Bradley RF
Derrek Lee 1B
Geovanny Soto C
Mike Fonenot 2B
Ryan Theriot SS
Carlos Zambrano
Talk about balance, 2 switch hitters, 2 lefties, and 5 righties
If all these guys stay healthy, we could win 100 games.
Dome is not going to be batting in the two hole.
Last year he was in the two hole in only 20 games.
And considering his average fell every month of the season, and that he lost a good deal of favor—and playing time—with Lou in September/October, I just don’t see Dome being slotted into that position unless he really comes out firing in spring training.
Dan
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
I think Dome's Spring Training...
will help determine where he hits in the line-up. If he’s hitting well, I could see him in the 2nd spot.
I haz blurg: hotbeans.wordpress.com
by digitalbenjamin on Jan 6, 2009 9:14 AM CST up reply actions
You cannot put Fukudome in a position of importance to start the season
His production has to be a bonus instead of something the team needs.
Let the Blaine Gabbert era begin.
Agree.
If that’s the lineup in principle, I would guess Fontenot will bat second.
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.
Break it down futher...
Lou needs to put him in a spot to drive in the most runs, because thats what he does best. Which is behind Milton.
Its funny, you spend most of your life gripping a baseball. And in the end, its almost always the other way around.
no conventional #2 hitter
Your lineup looks pretty good to me. But, don’t put it past Lou to skip the Theriot/Fonenot spot and move everybody else up.
Soriano
Lee
Bradley
Ramirez
Soto
CF
2B
Theriot
P
The bottom part could change based on who is hot or the opposing pitcher.
by roscoevillage on Jan 6, 2009 12:16 AM CST up reply actions
Roscoe, you don't think
Kosuke Fukudome can’t turn himself into a good #2 hitter.
1. A Good Eye
2. Patient/ takes a lot of pitches
3. Hit’s from the left side
4. Has decent power and above average speed
Sounds like a good #2 hitter if he can straighten his stance up and stop bailing out of the batters box which will limit his K’s. I actually think he’s probably the best #2 hitter on our team. (unless Ryan Theriot can repeat last year’s magical season)
I agree...
If Fukudome bounces back to the .380ish OBP and .780-.800 OPS, he’s an ideal #2 hitter.
So... what are we missing now?
Backup C?
Backup 3B/1B?
A real friggin SS?
I'm not going to even bother trying to update this sig everyday anymore... that's what the standings column on ESPN is for.
Updated on May 25, 2008
Missing pieces
Backup C ciuld be Bako.
Backup 1B…I hope its not Huff-power, but someone like Sean Casey.
A real freekin SS…haha, i wish. I would have liked the cubs to sign Furcal to a reasonable deal, but that was never going to happen.
Casey would be a nice bat to have on the bench
I'm not going to even bother trying to update this sig everyday anymore... that's what the standings column on ESPN is for.
Updated on May 25, 2008
Does anyone know if Blanco
is willing to come back at a low rate? Or is he wanting top back-up catcher $?
I haz blurg: hotbeans.wordpress.com
by digitalbenjamin on Jan 5, 2009 9:22 PM CST up reply actions
I think they are looking to go with a left handed back-up catcher.
Koyie Hill and Paul Bakko would fit the profile.
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Jan 5, 2009 10:56 PM CST up reply actions
We almost have answers for those
Backup C- Im pretty sure a Paul Bako signing is close
Backup 1B- Hoffpauir should make the team out of ST
Backup 3B- we have one in Cedeno, but I realize he wont make the team so that is still an issue. I have heard Rich Aurillia mentioned by Dave Kaplan
A real friggin SS- dream on
Let the Blaine Gabbert era begin.
Sigh
I really didn’t want this to happen.
I’m very uncertain how Milton is going to handle the pressure of playing at Wrigley, the Chicago media, and the constant attention. He can’t hide behind a crappy team (Texas) or a lackadaisical city (Oakland). I’m uncertain how we are going to do with an outfielder that has played 140+ once in his career. Like Al said, this could really deplete our bench and its versatility. And finally, I’m certain that if the trading of DeRo and the letting go of Wood were precursors to signing GameBoard, then I didn’t want it to happen. We went from having two head-strong leaders to having a case of TNT in the dugout.
As much as I want to cheer for him, I’ll have no qualms in screaming here on BCB when he starts to screw up, lose his cool, or sit on the bench too much. As a Cubs fan, I have to be the eternal optimist, but right now, Milton’s cup is half empty, not half full, in my opinion.
Dan
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
by dtpollitt on Jan 5, 2009 6:52 PM CST reply actions 6 recs
I think
something a lot of people are failing to take into concideration is the environment in which he will play in. He has harldy played for a relevant team. Monreal, Cleveland, Oakland, San Diego and LA. Say what you want about LA, they have been irrelevant for many years. I really think playing for a contending team, that is as relevant to a city and to baseball as the Cubs are can motivate him to keep his head where it needs to be.
Its funny, you spend most of your life gripping a baseball. And in the end, its almost always the other way around.
I would also like to add,
he’s never played for a manager with the stature of Lou Piniella.
He’s played for:
Eric Wedge (Indians)
Jim Tracy (Dodgers)
Ken Mache (A’s)
Ron Washington (Rangers)
What all of these managers had in common was they were relatively in experienced. I wonder if the experience of Lou and his staff will have an impact of Bradley.
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Jan 5, 2009 11:01 PM CST up reply actions
Rec'd.
The first thing I thought was, “oh crap – this is gonna get ugly”.
He is going to have to learn to adjust to the small size of that media room at Wrigley – where a couple dozen media folks pack into a room the size of a bathroom and proceed to pounce on a player after a poor performance.
"Just win tonight" - derv
Cub Fan 'Optimism' . . .
. . .is a funny thing, in my experience.
Optimism, to me, indicates a positive attitude and a feeling like you really have a chance.
‘Cubbie Optimism’ (whether understandably this way or not) is more like a ‘well, I’ll cheer for them this year no matter what, but I’m looking for any reason at all that the wheels will fall off, and I’ll be happy to say ‘I told you so’ when they do.
Kinda sad, really.
"From childhood's hour I have not been as others were - I have not seen as others saw." - Alone, Edgar Allan Poe
I'm not really sure if you're insulting me or not...
…but I’ll be an optimist and say no.
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
No insult, sir . . .
. . . just an observation. And I meant ‘in my experience’ quite literally – in honesty, I’d have to lump myself in quite often with the type of attitude I was talking about.
Just one of those ‘elephant in the living room’ things, I guess. Things have been this way for so long that I think many fans don’t realize that they aren’t actually optimists in the strictest sense of the word, but rather battle scarred vets bravely heading off once more into the breech.
More nobility and honor, less optimism.
Yeah, I like that. :)
"From childhood's hour I have not been as others were - I have not seen as others saw." - Alone, Edgar Allan Poe
Sadly, in many cases, I think you're right.
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.
It starts with Ron Santo and his "geezes"
“Here we go again!”
"Every team will win 60 games, every team will lose 60 games, it's what the team does in the other 42 games that decides the season."
Yup.
Has it really been that long since we’ve had a gamethread? Oh, how time erases everything.
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Jan 6, 2009 12:44 PM CST up reply actions
I can't wait to prove that he's wrong.
I keed I keed. It sort of did get like that last year, didn’t it. Sigh
Go All In and Enjoy The Ride.
Not worried about his personality
We have several low keyed players in D Lee, Dome, Aramis, Soriano, Theriot. Even though DeRosa talked a lot he was pretty low key. Maybe we can use another stick of TNT to go with Z.
At least when Bradley plays he’s dynamite.
How many think
The contract will include some kind of protection for the Cubs in case he is injured? It has been rumored that the contract will include some options, I just hope to hell these aren´t player options.
3 years seems very very risky for a guy who has never put two healthy seasons in a row.
It should have been 2 yrs with a 1 yr team option
IMO, the idea behind this deal is similar to the idea behind the Harden trade.
The Cubs do have some back end protection if Bradley has injury issues
Not sure the specifics but they are there.
Let the Blaine Gabbert era begin.
Roberts would be nice,
but not at the prices he was being dangled with (rumored) last winter. Fontenot is about to break out big time, so it might be wise to stay out of the Roberts mix for now.
"Hey Hey, Holy Mackerel, No Doubt About It!"
by scottsdalecubs on Jan 5, 2009 7:10 PM CST up reply actions
Bill James has Fontenot projected to put up numbers close to Derosa...
I can see Fontenot playing above average defense at 2B and putting up numbers close to Derosa.
It would be interesting to see Fontenot get that chance.
I’ll be rooting for him and the Cajun Connection!
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Jan 5, 2009 11:03 PM CST up reply actions
Not gonna happen.
I think Jim Hendry would rather do Tae Bo with Billy Blanks than deal with MacPhail & Co.
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.
And with good reason
They have no need for Roberts for now or the near future, and if he walks out as a free agent and all they get is a first round pick (two years too late) it will not be good roster managing IMO. And the more time passes the less they will get if they do decide to trade him.
Picture Jim Hendry shirtless in spandex shorts...
…and you’ll have your answer.
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.
That reminds me
Someone called into ESPN1000 last year and said they saw Piniella at Nordstrom’s trying out shirts…..in the middle of the store.
Go All In and Enjoy The Ride.
Question for anyone ho might know...
Are the players reporting earlier this year to Arizona due to the Classic? In past years, some pitchers and catchers begin trickling in around the 5th -8th or Feb. Maybe this date now will be late Jan.?
"Hey Hey, Holy Mackerel, No Doubt About It!"
Probably not...
… I think all the mandatory dates have been moved up because of the WBC.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
Aaron Miles will be on WGN at 7:35.
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.
I better not miss Becker...
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
Corey/Jacque/Milton
It must be written somewhere that we have to have one of these dog-asses so the fans have someone to rag on….. by May most of the Bleacher Bums will be getting the finger from him….. he will go into a sulk and be a 245 hitter by July ….. he will spend most of
his time defending his lack luster play…… by Sept 1st he will have shut down with a
injury of some sort………….. Sad But True
Milton might get annoyed by the fans...
but that will not affect his hitting. The main concern is his injury proneness, but when healthy he’s a damn good hitter.
Well, that's certainly sad.
But it’s not true.
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.
Hmm.
“Bradley went crazy and had to be tackled by his own manager, resulting in the knee injury.”
This paragraph could probably be reworded to “Bradley attempted to confront Winters over his derogatory remarks, but was blocked by his first base coach and manager, who clearly had an issue with the remarks as well.” The way you describe it, it seems as though Bradley was freaking out and chasing Winters around the diamond.
CUBS WIN! CUE THE ORCHESTRA!
Meh, stuff happens.
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.
The slurs don't justfiy the attempted assault...
The manager and coach took issue with the comments, but they weren’t trying to attack the umpire.
I agree that the umpire is most certainly at fault. But it’s silly to try to absolve Bradley of any blame in the situation.
I'm not saying he's innocent.
I’m saying that “went crazy” is a very strong term to use in this situation.
CUBS WIN! CUE THE ORCHESTRA!
I think it's accurate to say he went crazy...
He did go crazy. It’s just not the entire story. He went crazy after being baited by the umpire. Had he not gone crazy, he doesn’t require the aggressive restraining effort, and the injury doesn’t happen. By the same token, had the ump not baited him, it wouldn’t have happened. It took both the ump being a jerk AND Bradly going crazy for the injury to happen.
Don't forget he went crazy on the Royals announcer, who had every right to analyze Bradley.
Now magnify the attention he’s gonna get at Wrigley Field’s RF and Chicago’s media. Let’s see how crazy he goes then.
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
That's one thing I worry about.
His first press conference will set the tone for his tenure here.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
We don't know what he did
I think it’s more fair to call the umpire incident “going crazy” than an incident that we didn’t see or haven’t gotten a clear account of.
We know he was going to confront him, but for all we know he did it while strolling calmly and whistling Mozart.
No
If I am to believe all the experts here, he “attacked” or “tried to attack” a broadcaster.
(He says he was going to talk to said broadcaster. But he was intercepted. So we’ll never know. But that doesn’t stop anyone from making the leap that he “attacked a broadcaster” so that is now Exhibit F on the dossier).
The Greg Couch column today is especially repugnant. Everyone seems to be willing Bradley on to misbehaving, in order to prove themselves right.
"Who's Bob Brenly? The guy that used to be the manager for Arizona?" ~ Alfonso Guilleard Soriano
That's exactly my point
People have a tendency to exaggerate Bradley’s incidents. I’m not going to make excuses for him, because he’s done a lot of dumb things, but people like to make the incidents out to be a lot worse than they actually were.
That scares the
hell out of me. Also BB was pretty critical of some of the players last season what happens if he is critical of MB?
Right.
I did say that Winters was mostly at fault. In fact, he got suspended. I think a lot of umpires have to have their way of doing their job examined. Winters is not the only one who does this.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
And, don't we hope
Bradley has learned from his past mistakes? As others have said, that’s where Lou’s role is important, if not crucial. I think Lou will set the tone. He has not problems being in charge. I suspect Milton will respect that.
This is only the beginning....Lou Pinella end of '07 season and Chicago Transit Authority (the band when they were really good).
I hope he does as well as our last RF who wore 21....
I think he will be fabulous
"I played with one of the best pitchers in history, Greg Maddux," Zambrano said"
Fun to watch...
IF the mild mannered strapping Jacque Jones couldn’t take the abuse from the bleacher fans, I wonder how things will go for Milton Bradley. That and it will be interesting to watch the reaction from Zambrano when Bradley misplays a routine play in RF. An outfield of Soriano in LF, Bradley in RF, the CF is going to need to cover a lot of ground and cover a lot of misplays by the guys to his right and left.
Bradley is now on his 7th team in his 10th season and just finishing what might amount to a “career year.”
Thanks for sharing.
Your picture didn’t work.
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.
That's the facts...
Bradley is a very good offensive player, coming off a (potential) “career year” where he batted behind Josh Hamilton in a very park that is very “hitter friendly.” Bear in mind too that last year, Bradley played 97 games at DH, 19 in RF and 1 in LF. Bradley turns 31 this April and had major knee surgery after the 2007 season.
This signing has red flags all over the place and could very well backfire for the Cubs. And that outfield defense could simply be terrible.
Oh, I'm well aware of the red flags.
I’m not particularly worried about the outfield defense, though. One of the good things about Bradley NOT playing much outfield last season is that his knee should be well healed by the time spring training rolls around. And with Dome, Gathright and Reed Johnson on the team, Lou has plenty of defensive outfield options. Fear not, I’m sure Bradley will DH when the Cubs visit the Cell.
And Wrigley Field can be pretty hitter friendly when the weather heats up. And Bradley will be facing NL pitchers as well. So his good hitting should reap benefits for the Cubbies. He’s really not that old, either. So last season being his “career year” is far from a certainty.
Sure, the move could backfire. It could also be just fine.
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.
Offensive...
I’m not particularly worried about the outfield defense, though. One of the good things about Bradley NOT playing much outfield last season is that his knee should be well healed by the time spring training rolls around. And with Dome, Gathright and Reed Johnson on the team, Lou has plenty of defensive outfield options. Fear not, I’m sure Bradley will DH when the Cubs visit the Cell.
This signing is about offense and Bradley is a terrific offensive threat. I expect that Bradley and Soriano may be planted on the bench late in games.
Between Soriano, Bradley and Ramirez, the Cubs make for a good AL team and have plenty of options for DH.
OK, so our opinions are actually very similiar.
And I hope you’re right about Soriano and Bradley being switched out regularly for defensive purposes. Last season, Lou was a little lax to do that with Soriano, though he seemed to do it a little more toward the 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.
Soriano =/= Bradley
Bradley is actually a good fielder who might not have the range he used to. Soriano has range, but is not a good fielder.
Reed Ballgame - best CF in the MLB
by californiachicagoan on Jan 6, 2009 6:49 PM CST up reply actions
Bounce...
It could also be just fine.
I don’t expect it to backfire, at least offensively. IF Bradley can stay healthy, something that has been an issue in his career as he’s averaged 97 games a year even with nixing the first year of his career, then it could be much better than fine but a very good signing.
Bradley has been a very strong offensive talent. Makes you wonder though why he’s bounced around so much in his career…
He's certainly a unique player.
But so are Soriano and Zambrano, and they’ve both paid dividends for the Cubs.
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.
Hamilton got to bat in front of Bradley
What is this “batted behind” stuff about? Anything to put a guy down? You get protected by the bat behind you not the one in front of you. In fact, Hamilton had his incredible year in part due to having Bradley batting behind him.
In fact, Lee may have a great year assuming he gets to hit ahead of Milty.
Reed Ballgame - best CF in the MLB
by californiachicagoan on Jan 6, 2009 6:48 PM CST up reply actions
He's got a lot of balls, I'll say that much for him...
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Jan 5, 2009 7:49 PM CST up reply actions 1 recs
As a "ballhawk"...
… that comes as no surprise.
Maybe you should position yourself outside the RF wall this season.
probably will, at least until he hits his first gamer out on the street.
if I should be so fortunate to catch it, it’ll be interesting to see if he wants it back. I can’t recall him hitting any street shots as a visitor at Wrigley so he might want it.
I’ll be honest though – over the holidays, I had visions of Dunn dancing in my head…
and yes, SWL – I expect to see a picture of a 6’6" 300 lb dancing lumberjack within the hour… ;-)
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
Out of curiosity...
and if this is too personal, then I understand, but how do you go to every (or nearly every) game? Do you not work?
He lives in Wrigleyville. Which helps.
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
well, as I get ready for my 20th season on Chicago's North Side...
I have to say I’ve been on both sides of Elia’s rant. Oddly enough, probably at about those same ratios too (85% working, 15% not). Those seasons when I was between jobs, it was easy enough to hang out during BP and stick around for games.
As for when I was working, first few years it was rough – client work and lots of traveling. Got to see lots of games in other parks though. Switched jobs and after a few more years, got into a position where I could work from home a lot. As Dan pointed out, I live in Wrigleyville, so that let me go to BP during my lunch hour. Then depending on whether I had meetings or not in the afternoon, who was in town, and of course, which way the wind was blowing, sometimes I went back over for the games.
Then again, you may be confusing me with some of the other ‘ballhawks’ who either don’t work at all, are teachers or have almost total control of their work schedule.
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
I'm sure
if not for the (as i consider) freak accident with the umpire, Bradley would have missed substantially less time last year and I’m sure he would have had much more GP in the outfield. Now this is all speculation but weren’t MOST of his injury problems last year due to that incident?
In a hurry and didn’t have time to look it up…
The Cubs really didn't have any other options.
If Bradley can stay healthy, he is a freak hitter, I just don’t see that happening. There weren’t really any other options for a RF, who can hit from the left side with some power. I am not thrilled with what Hendry has done this year. It was down right stupid the Cubs didn’t sign Wood to a 1 year deal, didn’t Wood say he would? When the Cubs bullpen is sputtering, and Marmol’s arm falls off in July, the blame goes directly to Hendry and Lou. I’ve read speculation that Wood was in Lou’s doghouse after the 6 week blister, if that’s the case his dog house has cost the Cubs 2 solid relievers, Eyre and Wood. With the signing of Bradley, it even makes less sense to me why they traded DeRosa and signed Miles, was that to get more left handed bats or to get a leadoff hitter?
I realize most of these thoughts are thrown together, I haven’t been posting on BCB for a while, mostly due to my anger over the moves and needed to vent. Hope it makes sense.
I'm finally moving on...
A
d
a
m
D
u
n
n
RF, power, left-handed.
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
however, a butcher in RF
Alas, every elite OF that are available has some sort of downfall.
As long as he's surgical with the bat
I don’t care what he does in the field.
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
Defense is always key my friend...
the 08 playoffs proved that defense was one of the reasons why the cubs lost.
You know i completely blacked out the defensive meltdown that was game 2
Bourbon helped but jesus that was bad. I just now remembered it.
"I played with one of the best pitchers in history, Greg Maddux," Zambrano said"
I think we may have been at the same bar...
…Game 2 I woke up and had a bar tab that was larger than I remembered…
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
I remember afterr the last error on the infield i beleive everyone had one
i ordered a triple bourbon smoked a cigarette and started cracking up
"I played with one of the best pitchers in history, Greg Maddux," Zambrano said"
I was there for that second game
and thought we can hit ourselves out of this
"Loyal? I'm the most loyal player money can buy."
- Dodgers, Astros, Brewers, A's & Angels pitcher Don Sutton
REALLY?
Cuz I thought it was that we scored 6 runs in 3 games and that our starting pitchers threw 4.2, and 6.1, and 4.1 innings. The errors didn’t hurt, but I don’t think 6 runs is going to win any 3 game series.
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
Errors do a make a difference...
They can mentally drain the SP, the SP will lose focus etc. An extra out is always problematic (ESPECIALLY in the playoffs).
BTW, if defense is not so important...
Please, tell that to the Cardinals 06 champs. They won by solid SP and great defense.
The Phillies made 6 errors in the World Series in 2008. That's a lot.
But it was their 9 homers, .371 OBP and .482 SLG that probably won them the championship (that, and Cole Hamels). We can each find our own stats to pad. The 2008 Chicago Cubs were 2nd in MLB in defensive efficiency. I am more than willing to sacrifice RF for Dunn’s bat.
Dan
PS – As always, new window
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
And the Rays made 5 errors...
And, their offense was OK (15 runs in 5 games, but an average of 3 runs per game), but their errors didn’t help them.
Regardless, you can’t expect for the other team to also make so many errors. My point is that I dont want the Cubs to have even worse defense when it comes to playoff time because we just don’t know how well the offense will play out.
I think you missed the point...
the point is that, in a playoff series, defense isn’t always key. So many different things can determine who wins four games first. Defense is one possibility. Great hitting or great pitching are others.
Ideally, you have all three. Last year, we had the best offense, one of the best pitching staffs, and one of the best defenses. And we got swept.
Thank you, SC.
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
REALLY?
Cuz I thought it was that we scored 6 runs in 3 games and that our starting pitchers threw 4.2, and 6.1, and 4.1 innings. The errors didn’t hurt, but I don’t think 6 runs is going to win any 3 game series.
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
I am actually
very excited the more i think about it. He will be an animal in the middle of that lineup. I also love that he is a switch hitter. Keith Law says he has plus power from both sides. Sign me up as excited.
"I played with one of the best pitchers in history, Greg Maddux," Zambrano said"
I like the signing, and I'll add this dimension to the argument...
Milton Bradley has had a sordid past. But now for the first time in his career he is operating under a lucrative multi-year contract and for a team that wanted him and made it happen. I think we will be pleasantly surprised by how Milton Bradley returns the faith. The man can flat out hit a baseball. And he is a multi-tool player when healthy….power, speed, average, defense.
Jim Hendry did good. It would have been preferable not to have had to yet again dish out big money on a free agent outfielder, but blame the failings of Hendry’s farm system for that.
It's big money but not that big
He’s the worst paid free agent starter on the team.
"Who's Bob Brenly? The guy that used to be the manager for Arizona?" ~ Alfonso Guilleard Soriano
Fair enough.
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.
He hits a lot of XBH
also K’s a bit
"I played with one of the best pitchers in history, Greg Maddux," Zambrano said"
I did
It made me smile… Really made me smile. I also like his beard.
"I played with one of the best pitchers in history, Greg Maddux," Zambrano said"
Haha finally,
Cubs lost their only beard in Wood it’s always good to pick another one up.
I got Bradley’s autograph in Seattle when he was with the A’s a few years back. Being as nervous as i was i muttered to him “…you gonna hit a home run tonight?”, he look up at me, smiled, and said “You know it.” And sure enough he hit a solo blast into the bar/pavilion area in deep center. I swear while he was running he looked over at me and winked.
by nick_reny on Jan 5, 2009 8:54 PM CST up reply actions 1 recs
Did he charge you for the autograph?
"Loyal? I'm the most loyal player money can buy."
- Dodgers, Astros, Brewers, A's & Angels pitcher Don Sutton
Why didn't you ask him to hit two home runs?
"Who's Bob Brenly? The guy that used to be the manager for Arizona?" ~ Alfonso Guilleard Soriano
Ha man i donno,
He’s a pretty big, intimidating guy. Plus I was in a hurry to get Rich Harden’s auto.
I also got Swisher and a unknown players water bottle at the same game.
Gameboard??
Is that actually his nickname or is Al just trying to coin something? Either way, I don’t like it. Surely Bradley has or can have a better nickname that that. In sticking with current Cubs… M-Brad? No. Hmm…
He's got the same name as the maker of just about every damn board game in the world.
GameBoard will be his name until he starts screwing up, then I will name him a curse word.
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
Somebody else on BCB came up with "DHL" a few days ago
That’s my favorite so far. Designated Hitter + Disabled List = DHL. aka a defunct shipping company…
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
We need to find out who to give this amazing nickname credit to...
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
well the search function tells me it was a platoon of Bren and SWL.
Bren provided the “DH/DL” material and SWL took it from there and came up with DHL.
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
So....
….are you saying that DHL "no longer delivers…?
"Who's Bob Brenly? The guy that used to be the manager for Arizona?" ~ Alfonso Guilleard Soriano
Not in the US.......
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Jan 6, 2009 9:10 AM CST up reply actions
So let's keep the DHL moniker on hold
….until Bradley is an actual bust, and not a projected one.
"Who's Bob Brenly? The guy that used to be the manager for Arizona?" ~ Alfonso Guilleard Soriano
Can't we have two Milton's?
This is only the beginning....Lou Pinella end of '07 season and Chicago Transit Authority (the band when they were really good).
I think it's quite obvious
Jimbo didn’t think about this.
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
he did think about it
not much he can do
Really
"Loyal? I'm the most loyal player money can buy."
- Dodgers, Astros, Brewers, A's & Angels pitcher Don Sutton
Oh, I was there for this giveway
it was Cubs logo red stampler night
"Loyal? I'm the most loyal player money can buy."
- Dodgers, Astros, Brewers, A's & Angels pitcher Don Sutton
and stapler night too :D
"Loyal? I'm the most loyal player money can buy."
- Dodgers, Astros, Brewers, A's & Angels pitcher Don Sutton
To CrawDad
And Bradley is better than anyone on your team, minus maybe Quentin.
Bradley is an MVP calibre player when healthy. He’s got it all. Hopefully he gets it right.
The past 2 years, with OAK and TEX, Bradley has been a really cool guy apparently. He and Z seem like they will be best friends. Just go look up some pictures of him. With the big glasses, or the afro..
Anquan Boldin please?
He was 17th in...
AL MVP voting last year, which was by far his best season. He’s never scored 80 runs in a season. He’s never driven in 80 runs in a season. I think calling him an MVP caliber player is a bit over the top.
He did say when HEALTHY he is MVP calibar, lol
If he can stay healthy for 140 + games (which most unlikeley), then he can really tear up the stat-)-meter.
Don't forget
the RBI machine Josh Hamilton sucked up majority of his RBI chances, and no matter how many hits you get, you need someone to drive you in.
Its funny, you spend most of your life gripping a baseball. And in the end, its almost always the other way around.
Ugh, enough of the RBIs
Just look at his OPS…
I take it
you’re agreeing that people are looking way too far into the number of RBI he has
Its funny, you spend most of your life gripping a baseball. And in the end, its almost always the other way around.
In general
I think that using RBI’s to measure the worth of a player is a terrible way of doing so.
But when you have a guy who has never driven in 80 runs in a 9 year career (or scored 80 runs) and we’re talking about his potential candidacy for MVP, I think it’s a valid point to bring up.
MVP Voting
Is a pretty worthless argument over someone’s value, since it’s voted on by sportswriters who Milton Bradley is notoriously unfriendly too and are so knowledgeable about the game that three of them voted for Edinson Volquez for ROY last season, despite Volquez not being a Rookie.
Bradley led the AL in OPS and OPS+ last season. I think anyone who wouldn’t call that an MVP caliber season has a great career as a sportswriter ahead of him.
by Josh Timmers on Jan 5, 2009 10:31 PM CST up reply actions
to be fair, aren't these % only stats?
I realize and readily admit OPS and OPS+ are great indicators of performance, but to look at them by themselves can be misleading, no? Do these stats carry some sort of minimum playing time indicator similar to needing a certain number of PAs to qualify for the batting crown?
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
You have to qualify
for the batting titles to qualify win the OPS title.
Sure, it’s not accurate to say “Bradley lead the league in OPS+ so he should win the MVP.” There are reasons not to vote for him including his playing time, his lack of defensive value and that he played for a team out of the running. But I think it’s silly to not even consider the guy who led the league in OPS+ for the MVP award. Apparently a lot of sportswriters refused to consider him.
But when you’re in the discussion (or should have been) like Bradley was last season, I think that qualifies as an “MVP caliber” season. In any case, even if you disagree, I don’t see how the argument that the OPS+ leader had an “MVP caliber” season is an “over-the-top” argument. Perhaps you value other things. But one should acknowledge that it’s a valid point.
by Josh Timmers on Jan 5, 2009 11:10 PM CST up reply actions
knowing now that there is some sort of sample size control factor, i.e. enough PAs to qualify for batting title
then yes, the OPS+ leader ought to be in the discussion – or at least in the next room.
My concern was what if MB only played half the season, but was on fire enough to give him some really great % stats. Not really an issue last year as he played 126 games with 414 ABs. But his 2007 NL numbers (.313/.414/.590 and 167 OPS+) were as good or better than last years – but that was based only on 42 games and 144 ABs.
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
oh yes it is
"Loyal? I'm the most loyal player money can buy."
- Dodgers, Astros, Brewers, A's & Angels pitcher Don Sutton
Glad to see the posts calming down...
To me, a lot of the first posts from cubs2234’s fanposts were kneejerk. I remember around this time last year being less than excited about “Kosuke Fuku-whatever it is” coming to the team. He has to prove it to me, I thought, never being one to pay much heed to hype. By May I had a Fukudome jersey and was completely happy to have him on our team. Case in point, there was a lot of pro-Kosuke hype in the beginning and now it seems like a lot of people want to throw him to the lions. I’m not ready to do that, I think he still can become a fine player. I don’t care for Gameboard’s antics too much, but he does have great skills when healthy. Perhaps he will prove me wrong about the bad attitude. Right now I’m cautiously optimistic but I’m not getting into any arguments over it. I hope he will be a great addition… GO CUBS 2009!
and Jimmy Ballgame was D-O-N-E
Let’s give the guy a chance before we put him on the “L” to O’Hare.
"Every team will win 60 games, every team will lose 60 games, it's what the team does in the other 42 games that decides the season."
cautiously optimistic
nice choice of words
I guess we’ll just hope that he plays 125+ games that’s all.
"Loyal? I'm the most loyal player money can buy."
- Dodgers, Astros, Brewers, A's & Angels pitcher Don Sutton
Heh heh...
Learned that one from an old-timer at work… My main thing is that whoever comes, I hope they help the team. For instance, I never thought I’d be a fan of Jim Edmonds!
I think it's pretty pathetic to be happy if an everyday player plays more than 125 games.
If he’s a catcher or in a platoon, sure. But to pay a guy $10,000,000+ to play 77% of his team’s games to me is silly, and pathetic. Goes to show you the standards for GameBoard are already lower.
Dan
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
I don't think it's pathetic considering
his injury-prone (self induced or otherwise) history. It’s actually fairly realistic. I’m pretty sure everyone knows this is a gamble, but the fact is, he’s here. Do I like the guy? Not much. Will I support him? Damn straight.
You do know FanGraph had him valued at 16.9 mill...
And his Value Wins was listed at 3.7…
I'm not familiar with FanGraph...
are those numbers yearly or lifetime? Sorry I have to claim ignorance on this one.
Yearly...those numbers I listed were of his value from 2008.
Just google search fangraph…its a pretty good website and it has projections of all the players in 09 from both Bill James and Marcel.
Yeah man, G4M is right
FanGraphs is just the shit these days. They had a huge revamp a few months ago and now it is a baseball stat mecca.
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
You do know that GameBoard's 2008 stats were his career best, right? Like, far and away his career best.
Highest AVG, OBP, SLG, HR, R, RBI, etc. Some like to call this “Buying High”.
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
Could be that he's a
flash in the pan, could be that he’s entering his prime. I don’t know which, and I definitely won’t call Hendry a prospector by any strech of the imagination. I just don’t want to throw him under the bus the way I did Edmonds. Everybody, everybody thought he was finished. Like I stated before, I don’t like Gameboard’s attitude, but I don’t always like Z’s either. Basically if he shows up and puts up the numbers, I’m good. If not, and he goes lame again, or treats the bleacher crowd like shite, I’ll gladly eat my words :-)
I also find it interesting that last year
was the first year Bradley played in a hitter’s park.
He spent most of his career in pitcher’s parks (Dodger Stadium, Petco Park, Coliseum). I think the Jake is considered a “fair” park.
He’s also spent most of his career in “warm” cities. Cleveland is the only “cold” city he has played in.
It will be interesting to see how he reacts to playing in the Jekyll and Hyde of Wrigley.
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Jan 5, 2009 11:16 PM CST up reply actions
Idk if this is a good idea
Would moving Soriano to RF and MB to LF put less strain on MB? I know Soriano does not have amazing defense, but I’m sure he would fare better in RF than MB in terms of avoiding injuries…
Well, I like Sori,
but he also has leg injury problems. I think you’d be robbing Peter to pay Paul. I still like Kosuke in left… wish he could get the bat to wake up.
Not really...
Unless you consider arm strain to be a big deal. LF and RF pobably put the same amount of strain on the legs though. The primary difference in physical exertion is that RF can require a longer throw (to 3B) than LF.
I am not a big fan of this signing
However, if the guy can stay in the field for 120 games, he will put up some very solid numbers.
Welcome to Chicago Milton, all we want to do is win.
"Have You heard of the Boom on Mizar 5?"
what will this OF look like if...
Both Soriano and Bradley are dealing with their seemingly annual injury issues over an extended an overlapping stretch? So is $10mm a fair price given his baggage and injury issues? Yes. I think they are not overpaying him (per market value), but that doesn’t necessarily make it a great signing.
I would have preferred Ibanez, or better yet to have gotten Roberts to play 2B and keep DeRosa and keep him in RF. If Bradley explodes and gets tossed for a couple games, so what? I don’t think he’s a clubhouse cancer, and to be honest I’d rather have too much emotion in the clubhouse than not enough
Ibanez would have been a butcher in right
And Soriano’s injuries have been largely freak occurrences.
Almost all injuries are freak occurrences...
The type of injuries Soriano has had (hamstring/leg injuries) begin as freak occurrences and then become chronic problems.
Johnson alone in center,
Fontenot and Theriot deep at 2nd and short, respectively. Seriously though, we still have Kosuke and Aaron Miles can play OF too.
Fukudome is the reason Bradley is here now
His inability to be a legitimate major league hitter made this left handed thing such a priority again this offseason.
Let the Blaine Gabbert era begin.
Hard to judge a guy
in only one season in the U.S. You can’t say he didn’t start off hot. He started slumping when he picked up that goofy corkscrew thing, pulling his head clear out to right field. I don’t want to jump the gun on Kosuke either. I’m also giving Bradley a chance too, I don’t know if you saw my earlier posts.
I want to give Dome a third chance, but I refuse to count on him for anything beside late inning defense
Let the Blaine Gabbert era begin.
Kosuke = Sunk Cost
Cannot run your business hoping that sunk costs turn into anything. The Cubs made the right call by assuming Kosuke was going to be bad and signing the best (when healthy) option.
by serbianking33 on Jan 5, 2009 10:00 PM CST up reply actions
korrecto ..
Dome’s failure required an immediate fix ..
Well, Next Year is here .. and Jack's century's gotta end some time .. GO CUBBIES!
I agree 100% and applaud Hendry for recognizing that he needed to take care of the problem right away
Let the Blaine Gabbert era begin.
You cheerin for Texas?
I think I’m cheerin for OSU, which is just about the hardest thing I can possibly do. I need the Big 10 to at least win TWO bowl games this year…
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
I have sort of a soft spot for tOSU, but at the same time I want Texas to win more
I thought Texas would use the game tonight to try and prove they deserved to be in the championship game.
Let the Blaine Gabbert era begin.
I should add that Pryor is awesome and I think he is going to be something really really special the next two years
Let the Blaine Gabbert era begin.
As he catches a jump ball for a TD
He would also start for their basketball team if Tressel would let him play both sports.
Let the Blaine Gabbert era begin.
meh... Utah has rendered that point meaningless... ;-)
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
True, I forgot about them
If only there was some sort of system where the six best teams (Utah, Texas, USC, Florida, Oklahoma, Penn State) could duke it out to see who is number 1.
Let the Blaine Gabbert era begin.
Penn State?
"Every team will win 60 games, every team will lose 60 games, it's what the team does in the other 42 games that decides the season."
You kind of have to give a Big 10 team a berth into any playoff
You don’t have to give the Big East or the ACC a berth tho.
Let the Blaine Gabbert era begin.
Ohio State is about to make a statement!
"Every team will win 60 games, every team will lose 60 games, it's what the team does in the other 42 games that decides the season."
They sure are looking a lot better than I thought they were
They just took the lead, but as Big 12 fans know, its not very smart to give a Big 12 team the last chance to score for the win.
Let the Blaine Gabbert era begin.
Considering Texas had every right to be in the BCS Title game
"Every team will win 60 games, every team will lose 60 games, it's what the team does in the other 42 games that decides the season."
That stupid Missouri team should have let Texas play in the Big 12 Championship game
That way Texas and OU could have finished their bickering.
Let the Blaine Gabbert era begin.
Statement made...21-17
2:05 left in regulation
"Every team will win 60 games, every team will lose 60 games, it's what the team does in the other 42 games that decides the season."
Texas down to their last down
If only they had Vince Young right now
Let the Blaine Gabbert era begin.
I bet the Titans would be willing to trade him back to UT.
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
Its a shame he hasn't panned out so far in the NFL
He can be such an exciting player to watch
Let the Blaine Gabbert era begin.
Colt McCoy can run, too
"Every team will win 60 games, every team will lose 60 games, it's what the team does in the other 42 games that decides the season."
OH MY!
Texas scores!
"Every team will win 60 games, every team will lose 60 games, it's what the team does in the other 42 games that decides the season."
This has been one hell of a game
Hopefully the National Championship game is this exciting, but with a bit more scoring.
That penalty could really help tOSU on the return, they only need a FG.
16 seconds, two timeouts and a solid kicker.
Let the Blaine Gabbert era begin.
This has been a lame game.
Ohio State kicked the hell outta Texas in the first half. Two blown plays by OSU in the 2nd half and this is a totally different game. L-A-M-E.
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
If it was the Bears, they'd squib kick right about now...
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
I didn't want to be the one to say it
Ohio State needs one nice pass here and then they can get the FG try.
Let the Blaine Gabbert era begin.
Sacked!
"Every team will win 60 games, every team will lose 60 games, it's what the team does in the other 42 games that decides the season."
I smell laterals
"Every team will win 60 games, every team will lose 60 games, it's what the team does in the other 42 games that decides the season."
This game sucked.
It had no vibe, no energy, nothing. The Utah game was much more exciting. Hell, the Northwestern vs. Mizzou game was more enjoyable to watch.
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
they should just re-air the Boise St. Oklahoma game every year... ;-)
I’d watch it.
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
Follow that with Texas-USC Rose Bowl
That would be a nice double header
Let the Blaine Gabbert era begin.
Yup and yup.
I’m outta here. Good chattin, ball and nji.
Dan
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
The problem with the Utah game was it had such a boring fourth quarter
I agree the first half was real exciting. This game had the exciting fourth quarter going for it.
Let the Blaine Gabbert era begin.
Holy sweet mother of ham, that was long.
“Best Trade Thread of 2009” (Time)
“I Laughed, I Cried, I Pounded Sand” (Roger Ebert)
“aramis and CubFreak give the first great action scene of the year” (USA Today)
“I was told there would be punch and cookies?” (Milton)
So, welcome to the Cubs, Gameboard!
Bleed Cubbie Blue: Like Drāno for your internet tubes.
Not "punch and cookies"
The man said “punch and judy”
"This is an environment of welcoming, and you should just get the hell outta here." --Michael Scott
Great recap
"Loyal? I'm the most loyal player money can buy."
- Dodgers, Astros, Brewers, A's & Angels pitcher Don Sutton
Ideas For Milton Bradley Bobblehead Day?
Well, Next Year is here .. and Jack's century's gotta end some time .. GO CUBBIES!
it would have to be on May Day
Well, Next Year is here .. and Jack's century's gotta end some time .. GO CUBBIES!
International Stress Awareness Day is November 1
IIRC, couldn’t this year’s World Series extend into November?
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
Well,
according to this article,
there exists the possibility for a World Series Game 7 on Nov. 5, 2009 — if the postseason schedule follows the 2007-08 procedures.
So working backwards, Game 6 is on the 4th, Game 5 is on the 2nd, and Game 4 is on the 1st.
The Hundred and One Year Sweep?
Bleed Cubbie Blue: Like Drāno for your internet tubes.
The second coming of...
NOMAR GARCIAPARA! C’mon! 101 years and we still haven’t learned our lesson. This move is soooooooo Cub. To many things that have never happened in his career need to happen for this to be a good move. Abreau for one year would have given us a better shot. However it will be nice to see a player get upset when things aren’t going well!
by HomerInTheGloamin' on Jan 5, 2009 10:11 PM CST reply actions
Which is why it will work
"I played with one of the best pitchers in history, Greg Maddux," Zambrano said"
OT: Reminder: Cubs Spring Training tickets go on sale Tuesday at 10 a.m. CT
The White Sox game (March 27) will sell out quickly. All others should stay available for awhile. Giants and Padres are usually sellouts, too.
Indians will be interesting. Wood. DeRosa. Back in Cactus League (Goodyear, Arizona) after 15 years in the Grapefruit League (Winter Haven).
"Every team will win 60 games, every team will lose 60 games, it's what the team does in the other 42 games that decides the season."
If Kosuke sucks in ST...
Do we send him to AAA and keep Pie if he is still here???
I would be fine now with a lineup of
Soriano
Fonty
Lee
Bradley
Rammy
Soto
Pie / Reed
Theriot/Miles…
Pie cant hit 8th becasue he will never see anything but curveballs unless Z is hitting..
"I played with one of the best pitchers in history, Greg Maddux," Zambrano said"
I believe we can and i would do it to keep Pie if Pie is any bit decent in ST
"I played with one of the best pitchers in history, Greg Maddux," Zambrano said"
Pie will not be here in ST.
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.
Probably not...
I don’t see the team sending their expensive free agent to the minors. Also, I don’t anticipate Pie being a Cub come spring training.
Any idea when those Milton Bradley Cubs jerseys will go on sale?
I may be in the market for one, as well as some other follks I know
by philadelphiacub on Jan 5, 2009 10:35 PM CST reply actions
Probably the day after he is officially introduced
So hopefully later this week
Let the Blaine Gabbert era begin.
any idea what # he'll wear?
I haz blurg: hotbeans.wordpress.com
by digitalbenjamin on Jan 5, 2009 11:01 PM CST up reply actions
Probably #21 once Marquis is gone
"Every team will win 60 games, every team will lose 60 games, it's what the team does in the other 42 games that decides the season."
21 or.....
24 if Blanco is gone, possibly 22 if Kevin Hart gives it up.
Unless he pulls a Dennis Rodman and switches to 91.
Whoever said you can't mix business with pleasure never owned a PuttPutt course---Andy Bernard
by carmen_fanzone on Jan 5, 2009 11:10 PM CST up reply actions
Probably #21 once Marquis is gone
"Every team will win 60 games, every team will lose 60 games, it's what the team does in the other 42 games that decides the season."
shouldn't 21 be retired?
Let the flaming commence, but c’mon Sosa was the man for 8 years.
Check out my Cubs shrine: http://picasaweb.google.com/vegascubfan/CubsRooms#
A few more years will have to pass
And Jenkins/Maddux have to go first.
Let the Blaine Gabbert era begin.
No way.
Just compare him to the others: Santo. Williams. Sandberg. (Eventually) Jenkins/Maddux. He’ll never be revered in Wrigley like the others who’ve had their numbers retired.
Whoever said you can't mix business with pleasure never owned a PuttPutt course---Andy Bernard
by carmen_fanzone on Jan 6, 2009 8:25 AM CST up reply actions
Just wait till the kids of the 90s are sentimental middle aged fans
…and a lot of water has passed under the bridge.
"Who's Bob Brenly? The guy that used to be the manager for Arizona?" ~ Alfonso Guilleard Soriano
Exactly
As one of those people, I can tell you that I am a Cub fan becasue of Sammy Sosa. He was THE star in Chicago, and while it is somewhat tainted because of the way it ended and because of the steroid issues, he is still the all time Cub home run leader and one of 6 guys who has ever hit 600 career homers.
Let the Blaine Gabbert era begin.
+1
Sammy made a lot of really bad seasons worth watching.
by dr stabbingworth on Jan 6, 2009 10:28 AM CST up reply actions
Steroids....
…makes it a little more than “somewhat tainted” in my book. Ask Bonds. Ask McGwire.
It will be interesting to see if the fans/sportswriters ever let the boys of the steroid era off the hook.
Whoever said you can't mix business with pleasure never owned a PuttPutt course---Andy Bernard
by carmen_fanzone on Jan 6, 2009 11:51 AM CST up reply actions
People in St. Louis still defend McGwire and he will honored by them if he hasn't been aleady
Same with Bonds in San Fransico, I know right now he may seem to b the bad guy, but give it five years and they will have a nice ceremony for him as well.
The only reason Sosa will take a bit longer is because his exit from the team wasn’t exactly clean. Time heals all, Sammy Sosa will have his number retired by the Cubs at some point in the future.
Let the Blaine Gabbert era begin.
"Time heals all".....
…..don’t tell Pete Rose that.
I just don’t see it ever happening.
Whoever said you can't mix business with pleasure never owned a PuttPutt course---Andy Bernard
by carmen_fanzone on Jan 6, 2009 12:21 PM CST up reply actions
actually Pete Rose fits in this category as well
Revered might be a bit strong, but he’s still well-liked and defended in Cincy.
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
But is Pete's number retired?
Whoever said you can't mix business with pleasure never owned a PuttPutt course---Andy Bernard
by carmen_fanzone on Jan 6, 2009 4:00 PM CST up reply actions
No, it's not.
It’s never been issued to another player (except when Pete Jr was issued it for his cup of coffee w/ the Reds), but it’s never been officially retired.
Whoever said you can't mix business with pleasure never owned a PuttPutt course---Andy Bernard
by carmen_fanzone on Jan 6, 2009 9:41 PM CST up reply actions
And considering....
Santo waited 19 years, Williams and Banks 11, and Sandberg 8….there’s no way they would retire Sosa’s in just 5, if they do at all.
Whoever said you can't mix business with pleasure never owned a PuttPutt course---Andy Bernard
by carmen_fanzone on Jan 6, 2009 12:31 PM CST up reply actions
McGwire's still a touchy subject here.
Hell, an entire section at Busch is the McDonald’s-sponsored Big Mac Land.
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Jan 6, 2009 12:46 PM CST up reply actions
The answer is yes..
He hit 500 f’n home runs here. he brought fans back to baseball… Of course. Baseball and Chicago have been very good to Sammy
"I played with one of the best pitchers in history, Greg Maddux," Zambrano said"
Under a cloud of steroid use, corked bats, and quitting on his team...
Whoever said you can't mix business with pleasure never owned a PuttPutt course---Andy Bernard
by carmen_fanzone on Jan 6, 2009 4:03 PM CST up reply actions
Manny only has a couple more of those to go...
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 6, 2009 4:14 PM CST up reply actions
steroids
lots of talk about Sammy being on roids but never proven. Yes, he sure bulked up and if you look at other players who got off roids (Giambi and Tejada comes to mind) and the steep dropoff for the 2 seasons following, it sure appears Sammy could be a candidate. but he was never proven or even shown to be on anything. Unlike other sluggers (Bonds, Palmeiro [unfortunately])
Check out my Cubs shrine: http://picasaweb.google.com/vegascubfan/CubsRooms#
I put a 1.00
into the betting pool that TLR orders a high and tight one to Bradley to introduce him to the rivalry. For those who laugh…this is totally within TLR’s MO of playing psychological games with the opposing team in order to get a leg up.
"When two Whales Fight, many Shrimp Die" - Korean Proverb
High and Tight
I’ve never heard of that before. Is that rum or vodka?
by dr stabbingworth on Jan 6, 2009 10:29 AM CST up reply actions
Those were my two roomates in college.
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Jan 6, 2009 10:34 AM CST up reply actions
So you named them?
and you called them roomates
How cute.
"Every team will win 60 games, every team will lose 60 games, it's what the team does in the other 42 games that decides the season."
That's an old alcoholic's trick.
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Jan 6, 2009 10:52 AM CST up reply actions
Isn't Bradley th 3 hitter now?
At least he should be!
by HomerInTheGloamin' on Jan 6, 2009 12:00 AM CST reply actions
Probably should be...
but probably will bat fifth to break up the RH power bats.
GROTA posters
have been mentioned our surplus of the 25 man roster. Does this point to another trade?
Also, if GameBoard plays his typical 100-120 games, where are we going to get production from in the OF besides Soriano? I can’t expect offensive production from Joey, another stellar year from Reed, and a big question mark besides Dome. Hmm.
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
roster
PIe and Cedeno have both become expendable due to acquisitions of Miles and Gaithright.
In regards to production from RF, Bradley’s production combined with an average replacement such as Johnson or Fukudome will net the team more production than Ibanez, Abreu or Dunn would have. That also takes into account that the latter 3 are very poor defensively thus costing you games.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 6, 2009 1:14 AM CST up reply actions
There will be more trades...
Pie, Cedeno, and one of Guzman, Wuertz, and Vizcaino will be traded. It’s unclear if there’ll be a big trade for a key piece or whether it will be several little trades to “restock the farm system” (i.e., dump excess players).
Your second paragraph points to the concern with trading DeRosa. With Fukudome a question mark offensively and Johnson being mediocre offensively and Gathright being terrible offensively, the Cubs now lack insurance offensively for a Bradley injury.
I doubt Guzman goes
He showed some flashes of being a Marmol-like arm from the bullpen.
I suspect Jim will try to shore up the bullpen. Maybe another lefty in case Marshall goes to the rotation.
by dr stabbingworth on Jan 6, 2009 10:30 AM CST up reply actions
I agree...
I think Wuertz and/or Vizcaino will go.
Actually, it's unlikely all of those relievers
will be healthy at the end of ST. It seems like every year at last one pitcher isn’t ready to go at the beginning of the season and that is why depth is so important.
Personally, I’d keep all of them, at least until the end of ST, unless you can use one or more in a trade to get a better reliever (or upgrade another position).
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Jan 6, 2009 11:36 AM CST up reply actions
Can't keep all of them...
As they are all out of options. Spring training is the latest we can reasonably stick with all of them, unless the Cubs decide not to address the lack of a lefty specialist.
an article on Bradley worth re-posting
When I first read it back in July it changed my view of Bradley and everyone convinced he is some animal who
will go off as soon as the minority of morons in RF start riding him might do well to read it, though I doubt it will change
anyone mind .
"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry
by Doggie Stalker on Jan 6, 2009 4:45 AM CST reply actions 2 recs
That article does a great job of reminding you the Bradley isn't this bad awful guy he has been made out to be
Michael Young has the best quote
"I think that Josh needs to be apologetic for some things that he’s done in the past. And I think he’s sincerely apologetic. Milton doesn’t see the need to apologize for the things that he’s done. What’s he have to apologize for, you know? Throwing some balls on the field? Who cares?"
Let the Blaine Gabbert era begin.
If Michael Young is wondering what Bradley has to apologize for...
… it’s running after Ryan Lefebvre. Who knows what might have happened if he hadn’t been stopped? I don’t see other players who get criticized by visiting broadcasters going up to “introduce themselves”, as Bradley so quaintly put it.
Let’s hope there are ZERO incidents with him in a Cubs uniform.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
Don't forget that something of that nature happened with the Cubs in 2004
Nobody tried to go up and attack Steve Stone, but they sure made their opinion heard about what they didn’t like in the broadcast.
Let the Blaine Gabbert era begin.
That was just as wrong.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
actually it was two different things
Steve Stone was criticizing the teams’ play and the players got upset. Lefebrve was attacking Bradley as a person and it wasn’t just one time, it was the entire series. Don’t people get banned here for attacking someone’s “character”? Maybe going after him wasn’t the best decision but we have no idea if he was going to attack him. There is very little context put around those events but yet everyone assumes Bradley was going to get physical.
You pick that one?
He didn’t attack the broadcaster. Maybe he would have – we’ll never know. But ths is like Greg Couch this morning, telling all of Chicago that the newest Cub player is going to blow up in an ugly fashion.
I agree with Kevin Kaduk when he wrote that Lefebvre owes Bradley an apology for what he said about him on the air.
"Who's Bob Brenly? The guy that used to be the manager for Arizona?" ~ Alfonso Guilleard Soriano
Maybe Lefebvre does owe Bradley an apology.
It’s still not right for a player to do what Bradley did. Do you think his intention was just to “introduce himself”, as he stated? Somehow, I doubt that.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
Why do I have visions of Milton meeting Marty Brennaman?
“Mr. Brennaman, this is Mr. Bradley. He’ll be listening in on your broadcast this evening. Try not to criticize the Cubs or their fans tonight.”
I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg
I don't understand
Why do you assume it was going to be violent? because the GM and Manager went after him? Maybe they thought it wasn’t worth the time because the media would have field-day and blow it out of proportion like they so often do..you know because they have less credibility nowadays so they tend to skew the facts to gain readers.
Because of his past behavior.
Whether he likes it out not, Bradley has a reputation as a result of the way he has behaved in the past.
He will have to live with the consequences of his behavior and those types of assumptions will be made based on it.
If he doesn’t like that, he needs to demonstrate that he has changed his behavior. And then keep demonstrating good behavior and his reputation will improve but it will never be totally repaired.
Time will tell if Bradley really is committed to good behavior and repairing his reputation. I’m willing to give him a chance to prove it but there are people who are not and it will be interesting to see how he handles those types of situations.
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Jan 6, 2009 11:44 AM CST up reply actions
Seems to me
his intention was to tell him off. Like Kaduk says, probably not the best idea, and he should have waited till the next pre-game during BP to raise his concerns, but since he never actually reached the broadcast booth, what would he be apologizing for?
Maybe his intention was worse than that, but I don’t think the manager and GM had to physically stop him. They just told him it wasn’t a good idea to go up there, and so he stopped.
"Who's Bob Brenly? The guy that used to be the manager for Arizona?" ~ Alfonso Guilleard Soriano
No matter his intentions
I don’t think under any circumstances it’s acceptable for a player to leave the clubhouse, during a game for that matter, and confront a member of the media. And me thinks he had more on his mind than simply, “Hello Ryan, I’m Milton Bradley, although you might not recognize me w/o my posse, The Parker Brothers.” And yes they did tell him it wasn’t right to go up there, but didn’t they so while physically restraining him? Don’t get me wrong, I love the signing and think he’ll be huge pick-me-up but I also believe he may be the first OF to actually scale the ivy into the stands.
Go All In and Enjoy The Ride.
Accountability
People should be held accountable for their actions however, you can’t judge him for what he “might” have done. This whole wanting to confront the broadcaster issue is just silly. The fact of the matter is he never even talked to the guy. So what? It’s no wonder so many players get frustrated with media and fan criticism. I just love how fans act like they’ve never done anything wrong in their own lives and can sit in judgment of athletes. Good thing we don’t all have hundreds of media members at our jobs every day analyzing our every move and subscribing motivation to our actions.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 6, 2009 10:39 AM CST up reply actions
OK
you “think” he intended more. By all means, might as well say he attacked the broadcaster.
It was after the game, not during. And while he is described as “storming up the stairs”, there was no report that he had to be physically restrained.
There are actual things he’s done to get judgmental about, if you must. Attacked a broadcaster? If you say so.
"Who's Bob Brenly? The guy that used to be the manager for Arizona?" ~ Alfonso Guilleard Soriano
covering bases
It would seem that those who didn’t want to see Bradley in a Cubs uni are laying the ground work to say “I told you so,” in the event that he doesn’t work out. There are a lot of people that delight in the downfall of others and actually hope for them to crash and burn. That is sad. People have taken the broadcasting incident and blown it way out of proportion to try to bolster their prejudice against the guy. The one thing we know for sure is that he can really hit the baseball. Speculating about his character and his affect on the clubhouse are really pointless endeavors because we don’t know. Ignore that his teammates in Texas have gone on and on about what a good guy he was and rip the guy for what he might have done or said to some obnoxious announcer.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 6, 2009 10:57 AM CST up reply actions
You got me.
I’m actually assembling a Countdown To The Meltdown board as we speak. As John stated, the Lefebvre incident occurred after the game and they never did cross paths, so perhaps the situation has been blown out of proportion. However, I do know it’s not the only baggage that surrounds him. And it’s not as if I accused him of being any sort of clubhouse cancer. I hope he’s just the opposite, b/c just as Ron Washington said, he get’s a bad rap, “because he cares too much.” Let’s wait and see. And as I said before, I personally love the signing, as I think it’s a huge offensive upgrade. But apparently, my prejudice shines through and I’ve already made up my mind on what a detriment he’ll be to this team. I would never cheer against a player on my team, let alone someone I’ve yet to see play. Ok maybe, Bobby Howry late last season, but can you blame me? As far as discussing and speculating on the guy, well I thought that was the point of a forum like this.
Go All In and Enjoy The Ride.
protest much?
My comments were not directed at you specifically. Do you dispute the fact that people enjoy the downfall of others? Do you deny people love to say I told you so? That’s my point, sorry if you took it personally. You yourself demonstrated that people can exaggerate incidents in the fact that you claimed he left the clubhouse during the game. Things tend to get blown out of proportion and flat out inaccurate descriptions of events are passed around as fact. I certainly am not saying there shouldn’t be discussion on his past behavior but at least get your facts straight. I also think fans blow off about what he will be like in the clubhouse when they really have no idea.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 6, 2009 12:10 PM CST up reply actions
Bradley's behavior should be the #1 problem to worry about...
Can he hit away from Texas? That’s your #1 problem.
I'm not going to even bother trying to update this sig everyday anymore... that's what the standings column on ESPN is for.
Updated on May 25, 2008
outside of Texas
If you are going to say Texas, a hitter’s park much like Wrigley, inflated his numbers then you have to assume playing in Oakland, LA and SD, all pitcher’s parks, deflated his numbers. If you accept first premise you must acknowledge second as well.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 6, 2009 11:17 AM CST up reply actions
Nice article- thanks for posting it.
The thing that sucks about the Bradley signing and the fan reaction is that it seems like it’s emerging as a lose-lose situation for him. If he plays out a 3 year contract without incident, the fan perception will be that it’s not because he’s done it for himself- it will be because Dempster or Derek Lee took him under their wing and “helped him learn the ropes of character improvement”. If he does have a blow up, then he did just what fans expected him to do. He doesn’t have the possibility of being a person with struggles who improves himself. But with all the opining on here about how Milton better behave or what a bad history he has that we expect him to repeat, not a single person on here knows him personally. That’s whats so exasperating about this reaction.
by philadelphiacub on Jan 6, 2009 12:20 PM CST up reply actions
Agreed
How dare you bring logic into the discourse?
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 6, 2009 12:26 PM CST up reply actions
I don't know about that.
This kind of reminds of the Rodman signing. I was young but I’m sure he wasn’t necessarily welcomed w/ open arms. And it’s not like the off the court antics ever ceased (i.e. Rodman Bride incident), but he played hard and played well. I don’t know if he’s especially revered here, but I do know he helped us win 3 championships and many people appreciate him for it.
Go All In and Enjoy The Ride.
The thing is...
I don’t have one dog turd’s worth of care about his “character imprevement” or his “blow up’s”….now staying healthy and being the left handed power hitter…that I sort of care about.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 6, 2009 12:34 PM CST up reply actions
bingo....
Whoever said you can't mix business with pleasure never owned a PuttPutt course---Andy Bernard
by carmen_fanzone on Jan 6, 2009 12:36 PM CST up reply actions
thats fine, and essentially health is my concern as well.
He’s a great hitter there’s no question about that. I don’t mean to characterize everyone as having the same view- I’m just responding to what some people are expressing.
by philadelphiacub on Jan 6, 2009 12:37 PM CST up reply actions
I sort of care about what kind of
PS’in you can do w/ him playing Connect Four
Go All In and Enjoy The Ride.
Gordon Edes (now with Yahoo)
has an interesting story about the Cubs signing Bradley. Apparently Jim Hendry met with Bradley and his agents during the GM meetings.
Hey, it's a new century!
An interesting quote from that article
The Cubs and Padres appeared close to a deal for Peavy in Las Vegas, but the Padres backed away, leaving the Cubs convinced that someone over Towers’ head pulled the plug.
I was under the impression it was the Cubs who walked away from the deal because Towers was asking too much. But this is implying the opposite.
I haz blurg: hotbeans.wordpress.com
by digitalbenjamin on Jan 6, 2009 9:23 AM CST up reply actions
mistaken
Every other source including Towers said Hendry backed away. Hendry said himself Pads wanted too much. Peavy’s agent said same thing
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 6, 2009 11:39 AM CST up reply actions
Combine this thread with the previous Fanpost about Bradley...
…and you’re lookin’ at well over 1,000 comments. Y’know I really wish Cubs fans would get off their asses and take an interest in this signing.
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.
Yeah, what's all this fuss over an announcer. I knew that Bradley was never
going to manage the Brewers. He has a sweetheart deal to announce with the Cubs and there is no way he was going to give that up. What I don’t understand is how the Cubs can afford to pay an annoucer that kind of money. Must be nice. I really thing the need to find a solid LH power bat. Adam Dunn would……….what?…………Brenly?…………not Bradley?…………….oh…………..never mind.
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Jan 6, 2009 11:07 AM CST up reply actions
Holy shit. That defines awesome.
I’m gone a few months and I miss all the new toys.
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Jan 6, 2009 12:49 PM CST up reply actions
All credit goes to znohitter.
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.
that's...
beautiful…
"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella
by drewishdrewid on Jan 6, 2009 1:26 PM CST up reply actions
I'd guess....
Zambrano, Dempster, Lilly, Harden, and the winner of the Marshall/Gaudin/Samardzija battle for the #5 spot.
Gaudin will battle for a role in the rotation? Man am I behind on news. Interesting.
Wait a minute... who am I here?
Based on last year? I don't see it. He never impressed me as a reliable starter. Maybe
if he is healthy this year, he will compete for the 5th spot.
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Jan 6, 2009 11:51 AM CST up reply actions
I think Gaudin is total speculation....
5th spot is Marshall’s to lose, then I think Shark gets the next shot.
Whoever said you can't mix business with pleasure never owned a PuttPutt course---Andy Bernard
by carmen_fanzone on Jan 6, 2009 11:53 AM CST up reply actions
Agreed.
I’m starting to wonder whether Lou might give Samardzija a token “shot” at a rotation spot during spring training with the real intention of sending the Shark down to Triple A to stretch out as a starter and to work on his secondary pitches.
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.
Based on 2007...
when he started 34 games and had 200 innings of solid work.
I’m not saying Gaudin will win the job, but he has shown he can start in the past, and I think he’ll get a shot at it in the spring.
I expect Marshall to win the job out of spring.
I would be thrilled to see that Gaudin. Based on the shaky health of Z and Harden,
a healthy Gaudin would make Lou’s job much easier.
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Jan 6, 2009 12:05 PM CST up reply actions
Gaudin was serviceable in 2007
He had a 1.53 WHIP, which is not great, but he had an excellent first half (2.88 ERA in 109 IP) and moving from the AL West to the underpowered NL Central will be good for him.
Also, if it keeps him out of the bullpen, that is a bonus.
by dr stabbingworth on Jan 6, 2009 1:33 PM CST up reply actions
I have this image of Bradley and those sensitive ears
playing outfield, combined with hot/humid July/August day games. Can we guarantee every fan within ear shot of having 100% good behavior and not shouting something that gets under his skin?
We all know the answer. Lou & Hendry better invest in a ton of anger management for Bradley as RF and fans that combine beer and hot sun will be an ugly combination for him to deal with. I have my doubts that Bradley can make it through the entire hot summer without snapping at least once.
I hope I am wrong…
"When you are in a hole, stop digging." - anon.
thin skin
Let’s also hope no pitchers tell DLee to take his base after they hit him. I don’t believe Bradley has ever thrown a punch at another player on the field or in the dugout but you never know.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 6, 2009 12:01 PM CST up reply actions
I have this image of Milton Bradley ignoring the morons in the bleachers,
putting up quality numbers, and enjoying playing for a winning ballclub. Then the fans who want him to fail so much being disappointed, and still not liking him.
by philadelphiacub on Jan 6, 2009 12:24 PM CST up reply actions
Who wants him to fail?
Patterson and Neifi got booed for legit reasons.
Jones got booed for being overpaid.
Hawkins got booed for being a jerkass.
Granted, there seems to be an undercurrent of racism for these players, as I don’t recall Burnett being mercilessly booed despite sucking. But Bradley is an excellent performer* and was signed to a very reasonable deal. Unless he completely tanks, I think he will have a Kosuke-like reception.
by dr stabbingworth on Jan 6, 2009 1:36 PM CST up reply actions
there is precedent
Last year there were morons in the bleachers still heckling Edmonds in June even though he had been putting up solid numbers for the Cubs.
If you look at the reaction here it would appear that a lot of fans aren’t happy about the MB signing and expect the worst. There is no reason to believe in light of past experience that MB will be universally embraced by Cubs fans. They will cheer when he homers but they will be just as quick to turn on him if he struggles.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 6, 2009 2:19 PM CST up reply actions
Unfortunate
I don’t sit in the bleachers so I guess I get to miss the antics. Hopefully he will put up big numbers early and it won’t be an issue.
by dr stabbingworth on Jan 6, 2009 3:16 PM CST up reply actions
I hope you are right.
My only point is that heat, humidity & excessive beer are a bad combination for fans that are already big mouths. I just hope Bradley does not exhibit the thin skin that he has shown in past situations.
I am cheering for Bradley to succeed with the Cubs. I just think the situation will be a tough one.
"When you are in a hole, stop digging." - anon.
Milton Bradley is not Jacque Jones!
Jacque was damaged goods- I think the main reason people booed Jacque was because he could not make a throw from the outfield that didn’t bounce about 50 ft in front of him.
Jacques hitting was below average but OK- his arm was obviously broken and I think most Bleacher Bums realized they could throw farther…..
Cubs Karma: Don't take anything for granted.....
This is ridiculous
1. Milton Bradley is a passionate player who wants to win more than anything. More than cock-fighting, more than having his name in lights, more than bunny-hopping in LF, more than Instant Messaging until his arm cramps up, more than towel drills, more than ANYTHING.
2. Ryan Lefebvre stated that Milton Bradley needed to be apologetic for his actions the same way that Josh Hamilton was. Huh? Josh Hamilton was a heroin addict. He was a felon. He has admitted to stealing from friends, family, loved ones to feed an addiction. Milton Bradley gets so fired up over his passion to win and play the game that he throws a tantrum ON the field, not off. Wow! It isn’t as if he is a manager who gained acclaim and respect by throwing bases, kicking dirt on umpires, and throwing things around his office. Who in the world would want that? Lefebvre’s comments were uncalled for. Bradley has made some on the field miscues, but only out of passion for the game. Lefebvre has since apologized for the way in which he presented his argument, and the two have resolved their issues.
3. Milton Bradley can hit. Can he field in the toughest RF in baseball? We will see. Can he stay healthy for 150 games? We will see. He doesnt have the power of Dunn, but we already have a “Dunn” type player in Soriano. Does he have the speed of Abreu? Probably. Abreu is older, less likely to give it his all, and last time I checked, was looking for 3 yrs, $48 mil. Bradley is a gamer, a team player, and will be passionate about wins and losses. These are all characteristics that we wish we saw a lot more of in our “All-Star” players each year. Let the guy at least put the jersey on prior to having shipped our on a rail.
"How's your mother?"
"She's on her way out."
"We all are. Act accordingly."
Agree for the most part.
I’m not sure you want to try equating Alfonso Soriano with Adam Dunn, but I think I know what you’re saying.
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.
+1
I’d put Barry in RF if he helped win the World Series. Bradley can hit. I hope he stays on the field.
Worst case, it will be entertaining.
by dr stabbingworth on Jan 6, 2009 1:38 PM CST up reply actions
Don't know if this article has been posted
But it’s a pretty in-depth interview w/ Bradley.
Go All In and Enjoy The Ride.
5 years ago
He has grown up a lot since
"I played with one of the best pitchers in history, Greg Maddux," Zambrano said"
Bradley
Mully and Hanley this morning on the Score read a piece about him about the all star selection this morning. I’m trying to find the article and just emailed them to see where it was from.
This could be really more than most a signing that could be terrible and could be great.
If healthy and with positive teammates like Lee and such this could be great.
Barbara V. October 14, 1941 - December 19, 2008. A great lady who was a friend to all and like a second mom to her children's friends (she was my best friend's mom)
ny times
The article from July was in the NY times, sorry, don’t have a link.
Why do people assume a guy needs teammates to control his behavior? It’s no win for Bradley if he screws up he is crazy if he doesn’t the credit goes to guys like DLee. I don’t know about others but I don’t need co-workers to keep me in line. His teammates in Texas had only good things to say about him and none of them were credited for “keeping him in line.” I imagine the manager is more important than teammates in letting a player know what type of behavior is acceptable. And, I’m not sure DLee should be the guy giving out advice considering he likes to throw punches at pitchers when he gets hit by pitch.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 6, 2009 1:34 PM CST reply actions
Some guys are just super competitive
I’m pretty quiet, I never start fights, and I rarely talk to people I don’t know. But when I played basketball and baseball as a kid or Ultimate as an adult, I ended up talking so much trash and picking so many fights. Some guys just get into a competitive mode that makes them do things they normally wouldn’t.
I suspect Bradley is the same. If anything, that would mean he’s a fierce competitor who wants to win really bad. I’ll take that on my team. I bet some of the other players need a guy like Bradley to get them fired up. Bradley and Z seem like a good combination of spirit.
by dr stabbingworth on Jan 6, 2009 1:42 PM CST up reply actions
Trash Talking...
this is one of the worst things to creep into all sports in the last half century. Seriously…why?
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 6, 2009 1:47 PM CST up reply actions
Come on now
“The mailman doesn’t deliver on Sunday”
Classic
by dr stabbingworth on Jan 6, 2009 2:00 PM CST up reply actions
He never did
I loved when we played the Jazz on Sundays
"I played with one of the best pitchers in history, Greg Maddux," Zambrano said"
How else would they make And 1 mix tapes?
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
I agree - it's pointless...
It’s just a sign of immaturity and ego in my opinion. Sad that it’s just a part of the game (all games) now.
So maybe it's time we started making tasers a part of the game.
“I’m sorry, were you heckling one of the players on your own team for no reason? You were? Could I ask you to step over here for a second, Chad, was it? Out of the crowd? I want a picture of this…”
ZAP
(I’m kidding… sort of)
Bleed Cubbie Blue: Like Drāno for your internet tubes.
no...it's time that sportsmanship make a return to sports.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 6, 2009 6:00 PM CST up reply actions
That would be preferable.
My method just… y’know, nudges that along a little. Gives the process a “jump start,” so to speak. :P
Bleed Cubbie Blue: Like Drāno for your internet tubes.
I was just going to post that maybe the Cubs need to issue tazers to their coaching staff
to stop Bradley from reaching the latest target of his anger. If Bud Black had used a tazer then Bradley wouldn’t have injured his knee and the Padres probably make the playoffs. Think about it, in a world where trash talking makes sense then why not tazers for coaches to control their gladiators?
Yes, that trash talking has done Big Z alot of good...
…It was especially helpful when his opponents homered off him…Trash talking and Ultimate (I hope you mean fighting and not frisbee? Trash talking in Ultimate—so totally against the Spirit of the Game.
The more I think about this signing the happier i get...
He will be fine. And just maybe he will stay healthy, which i think he will
"I played with one of the best pitchers in history, Greg Maddux," Zambrano said"
Ugg!
Brenly better prepare for a visit from Bradley in the middle of a broadcast.
Although, if Bradley were to play that stunt on Marty Brenneman I suspect he would be welcome as a hero by many fans in Chicago. After all, they are “the worst”, right Marty?
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