Milton Bradley Will Not Return To Texas
by Al on Oct 2, 2009 8:59 AM CDT
125 comments
So says MLB.com Rangers beat writer T.R. Sullivan:
The Rangers are not interested in Milton Bradley. Sources have made that clear. He is not coming back. So stop it.
That confirms this response in a recent Ft. Worth Star-Telegram mailbag:
Do you know anything about how Milton Bradley was perceived by his teammates, manager Ron Washington and the front office? I have read snippets over this year, mostly from national writers, to the effect he wore out his welcome with the Rangers. But other than maybe not wanting to tough through some injuries at the end of 2008, I never saw anything specific at the time. Do you think the Rangers would be open to having him back, if the Cubs eat a lot of salary? — Michael, Texarkana
Bradley got along well with his teammates, and Washington still wishes he had a hitter with the plate discipline Bradley showed last year. But opinions cooled some in March, when he told Gil LeBreton that he could have played at times last year but opted to sit out to make his stats look better for potential suitors. That didn’t sit well some players and management, especially when Young was playing with broken fingers on each hand. Bradley pushed himself way down the wish list with those comments, and probably pushed himself off it completely.
Which probably leaves a bad contract for bad contract swap, as noted in this MLBTR transcript of a Ken Rosenthal video:
Teams have already called the Cubs about Milton Bradley. The Giants, Padres, Rangers, Rays, and Mets are among the clubs with possible interest. The Cubs are confident they can deal Bradley without paying the overwhelming majority of the $21MM still owed to him over the next two years. They could either trade Bradley's bad contract for another bad contract, or use the old sliding scale of "the more money we pay, the better the players we get in return."
It would appear to me that the best match might be the Giants and Aaron Rowand's contract. Since the money Rowand has left on his deal is more than the dollars remaining on Bradley's, maybe the Cubs could get the Giants to take Aaron Miles, too.
This is a FanPost and does not necessarily reflect the views of SB Nation or Al Yellon, managing editor (unless it's a FanPost posted by Al). FanPost opinions are valued expressions of opinion by passionate and knowledgeable baseball fans.
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Al, all this tells me is that Arlington writers are in cahoots with Chicago writers.
/sarcasm
I'm singing, "GO CUBS GO! GO CUBS GO!" -- DrCrawdad on Jun 12, 2009 7:23 AM CDT
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! -- Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Oct 2, 2009 9:09 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Drew still wants him back
There is no such thing as an ugly female breast
by Worf on Oct 2, 2009 9:25 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Luckily, Drew won't be making the decision.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Oct 2, 2009 9:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe not anymore.
But probably.
I'm singing, "GO CUBS GO! GO CUBS GO!" -- DrCrawdad on Jun 12, 2009 7:23 AM CDT
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! -- Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Oct 2, 2009 9:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Drew is like a battered wife
“No, really, he’ll change! I just have to love him more! It was my fault.”
There is no such thing as an ugly female breast
by Worf on Oct 2, 2009 9:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No, a battered wife blames herself unfairly
He blames the media.
I'm singing, "GO CUBS GO! GO CUBS GO!" -- DrCrawdad on Jun 12, 2009 7:23 AM CDT
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! -- Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Oct 2, 2009 9:36 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
and the fans
Nothing is Milton’s fault.
"Fasten those seatbelts"-Pat Hughes
by katie casey on Oct 2, 2009 9:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was okay with him back until Hendry suspended him.
I didn’t believe his comments in the Herald, alone warranted the suspension, but now that Hendry has cut the cord, I don’t believe MB can be a productive teammate on the north side.
I believe he’s too fragile to overcome the public humiliation of the suspension and not be a distraction. He does now have to go, whether to a new team or on paid home leave. Lou’s proven he can manage a team with only 24 players every year. So the 25th player is not on the bench, but home on the sofa?
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Oct 2, 2009 10:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He sat to make his stats look better for potential suitors
If this guy somehow returns to the Cubs next year, I’m out.
There is no such thing as an ugly female breast
by Worf on Oct 2, 2009 9:17 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Don't worry.
He’ll be gone.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Oct 2, 2009 9:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
This is my off-season #1 priority.
/somewhat sarcasm
"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks
by dtpollitt on Oct 2, 2009 9:22 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Interesting that no one remembered it over the last 6+ months
And that no one referenced the incident during MB discussions.
I'm singing, "GO CUBS GO! GO CUBS GO!" -- DrCrawdad on Jun 12, 2009 7:23 AM CDT
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! -- Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Oct 2, 2009 6:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hmmm...
Well, Rowand for Bradley and Miles is interesting. Aaron hasn’t hit well in San Francisco, but he had a nice year in ’07 in the more hitter-friendly Philadelphia. His UZR numbers have suffered in San Fran, too, but he still appears to be a strong centerfielder – which would enable the Cubs to move Kosuke to right field.
The downsides: Well, there are the inevitable injury concerns what with Wrigley’s brick outfield wall and Rowand’s propensity to fling himself into such ballpark structural elements. Also, I’m guessing if this deal were to occur, we would have to say bye-bye to Reed Johnson, which is kinda funny because I believe RJ and Rowand are friends.
And, of course, there’s the financial side of things. Would it really be worth adding another financial hinderance to the Cubs budget just to get rid of Bradley and add an outfielder who may play himself onto the DL? I still can’t help wondering whether the Cubs would be better off just eating Bradley’s contract, re-signing RJ and going with a Fuld/Johnson platoon in center.
Still, the Rowand option interests me.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 2, 2009 9:18 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Actually...
… I’m guessing if Rowand became a Cub, RJ would probably re-sign below market value — just because the two of them are that close. We’d still need a backup like RJ to fill in for Rowand and Fukudome.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Oct 2, 2009 9:19 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Couldn't the Cubs just go with Sam Fuld as that backup?
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 2, 2009 9:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Fuld is more a fifth-outfielder type.
You’d have Soriano, Rowand and Fukudome as starters, Johnson and Fuld as backups.
That’d be a strong defensive OF — well, at least in CF and RF.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Oct 2, 2009 9:25 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Y'know that would be a nice outfield.
Particularly if the Giants would agree to take Miles in the deal, I’d strongly consider it. Rowand’s contract still gives me pause – he’s signed through 2012 and, as you mentioned, owed more money than Milton. But, well, that would be a nice outfield – especially if Soriano comes back healthy and reasonably productive.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 2, 2009 9:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't know. If they truly believe Colvin is the guy in 2011
Is Rowand someone that you block him with?
Not going after Beltran was ridiculous, but Rowand’s not in the same category.
I'm singing, "GO CUBS GO! GO CUBS GO!" -- DrCrawdad on Jun 12, 2009 7:23 AM CDT
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! -- Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Oct 2, 2009 9:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, I would look at Colvin...
…as being more Fukudome’s replacement than anything else. I think Tyler’s considered more of a natural RF than CF.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 2, 2009 9:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Fair enough.
So if he’s ready to go in a year, they consider trading Dome . . . or ease him into the lineup.
Might not be a bad fit.
I'm singing, "GO CUBS GO! GO CUBS GO!" -- DrCrawdad on Jun 12, 2009 7:23 AM CDT
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! -- Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Oct 2, 2009 9:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, I could see...
…Colvin playing most of ‘10 at Iowa and then being brought in as a 4th/5th OF in ’11 as Dome’s contract winds down. Maybe he could be Kosuke’s apprentice – I think I saw that anime once.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 2, 2009 10:01 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed re: Colvin.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Oct 2, 2009 10:02 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Colvin might be ready to play by 2011
replacing Fukudome, but I doubt he will be ready to play next season at the MLB level, so they need someone for 2010. A CF would be preferable as that would allow Fukudome to move to his more natural RF spot. Rowand would not be my first choice, but he has been a big disappointment for the Giants, so maybe the Giants would be willing to trade him for the Cubs high priced bust. If taking on Rowand is the price to get rid of Bradley, so be it. At least Rowand is not an idiot.
I always turn to the sports section first. The sports page records people's accomplishments; the front page has nothing but man's failures.
~Earl Warren
by lookingdeadred on Oct 2, 2009 10:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed.
I wasn’t particularly in favor of signing Rowand as a free agent a couple years back (mainly because of the likelihood he’d get injured), but I’d consider rolling the dice on him as a way out of the Bradley debacle. And, like I said, if the Giants will take Aaron Miles off our hands, the idea looks even better.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 2, 2009 10:16 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Colvin Needs Experience at AAA
I’m not a fan of rushing players through the minors. Colvin doesn’t have any experience at AAA. Let him start 2010 at Iowa and call him up during the season, if he does well at AAA.
"The big possums walk late." - Harry Caray
by memphiscub on Oct 2, 2009 11:13 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Lots of players jump from AA to MLB.
That doesn’t mean I think Colvin’s ready.
I'm singing, "GO CUBS GO! GO CUBS GO!" -- DrCrawdad on Jun 12, 2009 7:23 AM CDT
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! -- Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Oct 2, 2009 11:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
AA to MLB
I can think of Matt Murton and Adam Greenberg with the Cubs getting called up to Chicago from former AA affiliate West Tenn. You see that a good bit with September call-ups like Colvin. AAA ball is much better than AA ball. The pitchers at AAA can get their breaking balls over the plate for strikes a lot more often than AA pitchers.
"The big possums walk late." - Harry Caray
by memphiscub on Oct 2, 2009 11:39 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And Murton and Greenberg
are not exactly endorsements for bringing up a kid from AA to the bigs.
I always turn to the sports section first. The sports page records people's accomplishments; the front page has nothing but man's failures.
~Earl Warren
by lookingdeadred on Oct 2, 2009 4:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'd said:
That doesn’t mean I think Colvin’s ready.
Now, neither of you are saying that I did, but none of those names refute that guys do indeed skip AAA.
I'm singing, "GO CUBS GO! GO CUBS GO!" -- DrCrawdad on Jun 12, 2009 7:23 AM CDT
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! -- Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Oct 2, 2009 5:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Nitpick much?
It does show the risks in planning for a guy to make that huge jump, that was my point. Guys have made the jump from A ball to the show, but I wouldn’t recommend it. Finally, Colvin has struggled much of his minor league career, so just because he had a pretty good year this year, does not mean he is ready to make the big club.
I always turn to the sports section first. The sports page records people's accomplishments; the front page has nothing but man's failures.
~Earl Warren
by lookingdeadred on Oct 3, 2009 9:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No, if I was nitpicking, I would have ripped on you for making it sound like I said Colvin was ready.
I suppose if you’re looking for a reason to get pissed, you could find one in what I wrote.
I'm singing, "GO CUBS GO! GO CUBS GO!" -- DrCrawdad on Jun 12, 2009 7:23 AM CDT
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! -- Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Oct 3, 2009 4:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Nitpick if you want
but that a few AA players make the jump successfully to the bigs does not refute the fact that lots more go through AAA.
I always turn to the sports section first. The sports page records people's accomplishments; the front page has nothing but man's failures.
~Earl Warren
by lookingdeadred on Oct 4, 2009 11:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
What is your problem here?
I said lots of players jump from AA to the majors.
I never said Colvin was ready, and I never said most skip AAA.
It seems like you’re trying to pick a fight. I really don’t know why you are taking this tone and arguing things I didn’t say, but I’m done.
I'm singing, "GO CUBS GO! GO CUBS GO!" -- DrCrawdad on Jun 12, 2009 7:23 AM CDT
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! -- Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Oct 4, 2009 12:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The White Sox are have promoted
a number of players from AA over the years…..from what I remember reading (some time ago, so I won’t be able to provide a link) they were very bullish on promoting from AA, if the situation warrants.
by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on Oct 4, 2009 12:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If anyone was picking a fight, it is you
Memphiscub correctly stated that Colvin, like most minor league players needs time in AAA before being ready to make the jump to the bigs. You flippantly chipped in with "Lots of players jump from AA to MLB. " While true, it is the exception and not the rule. And if you truly believe that Colvin is not ready for the bigs, why question him going to the minors. To pick a fight?
I always turn to the sports section first. The sports page records people's accomplishments; the front page has nothing but man's failures.
~Earl Warren
by lookingdeadred on Oct 5, 2009 4:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And
It would be a miserable offensive OF. In fact, unless No. 12 finds either the fountain of youth or reverses his slide towards oblivion, it might be one of the worst offensive OF’s in all of baseball in 2010.
Who needs a stinkin' tag line? What are they for anyway?
by krummy12 on Oct 3, 2009 7:13 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
We'll see.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 3, 2009 9:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Fuld
Again, this idea that he’s a fifth-outfielder type belies the fact that his skillset is actually an ideal fit for what the Cubs need in CF in 2010, a strong defender, and the type of offensive player that the Cubs need, a guy who gets on base at a solid rate, has good discipline, sees pitches, works the count, moves the ball around, runs the bases well, and is more than a slap-and-beat it out type guy, as there’s enough charge in his bat to make defenses be a tiny bit honest (now, he’s not Mike Fontenot, who does have more charge in the bat).
Long run, is Fuld going to be a bench guy for most of his career? Probably, and based on interviews I’ve seen that Fuld has made, I think he might even acknowledge that if he was being honest with himself or in a private setting (no one wants to settle for being a bench guy, at least, publically). But he fits the Cubs for 2010, whereas Rowand offers very, very little. From what I’ve seen of the Giants this year, I don’t know if I’d classify him as a strong defensive player anymore. He’s more Fukudome level in CF, passable to solid, occasionally will make a good play or two, but may make a bad move once in awhile. He’s getting older. Offensively, Rowand offers squat that the Cubs need for 2010, unless you think he will revert to 2007 version, and even then, his away line struggled in 2007 and he was buoyed by a relatively high BABIP for him.
Not saying it won’t happen … but I’d rather eat MB’s entire salary then pursue this Rowand route. I’d rather take a bad arm back. I’m probably sounding like a Fuld fan, and I’m not. I think, ideally, he gets shifted to the bench long run, but I’ll say it – it wouldn’t surprise me if, with a full complement of AB’s, that Fuld is more useful and a better player than Rowand in 2010. Not expecting Fuld to get the AB’s or opportunity, but I just don’t like this Rowand route.
by toonsterwu on Oct 2, 2009 10:39 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
At this stage
we probably need a backup for Soriano too
There is no such thing as an ugly female breast
by Worf on Oct 2, 2009 9:25 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Eh... I dunno, Al
It’ll depend on what offers Reed gets.
Friendship is great, but they can stay in touch via e-mail if they are that close.
Reed isn’t going to break the bank on any deal, even if he gets market value. He’d be silly to take below market if he has another option.
There is no such thing as an ugly female breast
by Worf on Oct 2, 2009 9:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Rowand
I have very little interest in that at all. Fully aware it might happen, but I’d rather just eat the entire MB contract. You are paying more money for a guy that doesn’t add anything great to the Cubs needs in 2010, and he definitely isn’t a part of the future.
Is there a chance Rowand becomes the 2004 and 2007 version? Perhaps, but keep in mind that he struggled in 2006 in Philly, and in 2007, while he was improved all around, his away line was far lower than his home line. He’s an aging CF (32 turning 33 next year) who right now, is only an average defender at best. Offensively, he isn’t a guy you look at and think, hey, he’s ideal for the top of the order. He’s also not a solid 5 hitter, and probably not a solid 6 hitter. Actually, he is best at basically where the Giants are hitting him right now, at the end.
Really what does he add? I hope to heck that we don’t go this route. Eating money and giving Sam Fuld the job would save money and it would probably give us a better, more useful player for the Cubs in 2010 (I’d trust Fuld over Rowand defensively, and Fuld at least will get on base, and heck, he might not be all that off from Rowand’s 2008 ISOP), and would be more of a long term outlook, and I’m not a huge Sam Fuld fan. I’m not expecting them to go that route either, but I just don’t see the point or have the desire for Aaron Rowand. I’d rather just turn it over to Reed Johnson, who can probably produce at a similar level to Rowand, and go for say, Oliver Perez (another name that’s been tossed around) even though I don’t want Oliver Perez either.
by toonsterwu on Oct 2, 2009 10:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Your points are well taken.
I’m sorta trying to talk myself into this Rowand thing but I, too, am still finding it hard not to think the Cubs should just do the fiscally responsible thing and eat Bradley’s contract rather than taking on an even longer term, more expensive player.
And if I may continue to talk crazy for a second, how ’bout this idea: Re-sign Reed Johnson and platoon him and Sam Fuld not only in centerfield, but also in the leadoff spot. So who would bat fifth then? Kosuke Fukudome.
I know, I know – Kosuke’s not a traditional No. 5 hitter and he’s much better suited for the leadoff spot. But if Lou insists on wanting a left-handed hitter break up the middle of the order, there ya go. Kosuke has actually hit fairly well in the five-hole careerwise – .856 OPS in 346 PAs. At the very least, he’d force opposing pitchers to throw a lot of pitches perhaps increasing the likelihood they’d make a mistake against Soriano. (I know I’m stretching here.)
So here’s how the lineup could break down:
Vs. RHP
Fuld CF
Baker 2B
DLee 1B
Aramis 3B
Dome RF
Soriano LF
Soto C
Theriot SS
Pitcher
Vs. LHP
RJ CF
Baker RF
DLee 1B
Aramis 3B
Soriano LF
Soto C
Theriot SS
Blanco 2B
Pitcher
Crazy? Probably. Likely to happen? Probably not. But it’s an idea that’s been running through my head.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 2, 2009 10:53 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
I dunno, but I know I've seen worse
opening day lineups at Wrigley.
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Oct 2, 2009 11:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And worse teams, too
but I thought the goal was to get better?
I always turn to the sports section first. The sports page records people's accomplishments; the front page has nothing but man's failures.
~Earl Warren
by lookingdeadred on Oct 2, 2009 11:13 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hey, I'm not saying this is ideal.
I’m saying if the Cubs want to free up their budget sooner rather than later – much later – here’s an option.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 2, 2009 11:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed, but the contractual and budget restraints on signed
players who will actually play is great, let alone however the financial repurcussions of the Bradley saga resolve.
As for the lineup, I see no Bradley or Miles. Barring other moves, Fox, Fontenot and Hill as backups with a little money spent to bolster the bullpen. Probably more in the budget to address need in the season.
Hell of a lot better than spending $10-$15M on the next LH power hitting right fielder who can’t hit for power or hit left handed and not having room to maneuver.
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Oct 2, 2009 11:19 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'll take that as an endorsement.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 2, 2009 11:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Okay.
I noakley, hereby endorse daver’s really bland, but fiscally conservative plan. Subject to daver’s willingness to consider upgrades as needs are addressed after opening day.
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Oct 2, 2009 11:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Daver hereby signs off forthrightly on said agreement.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 2, 2009 11:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I guess to be official, I have to rec said plan.
Done.
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Oct 2, 2009 11:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
by mistake to soriano do you mean the slider will be out of the strikzone
but not in the dirt?
Geovany Soto is the new 2008 Derrek Lee
by jesus christos on Oct 2, 2009 4:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 3, 2009 9:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You know what, I know this might not be in the best interest of the Cubs
but in a strange, sick way I sort of hope they just eat his contract. It would serve him right. He doesn’t deserve to play ANYWHERE. Let him rot and get a couple years older. Argghhh, he makes me soooo mad. That sitting to make his stats look better thing really disturbs me.
OK, sorry-lost my mind for a second…rant over….so who do you think we can get for him? I’m not familiar with this Rowand. Any good?
"Fasten those seatbelts"-Pat Hughes
by katie casey on Oct 2, 2009 9:58 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
This would make me happy...
…maybe the Cubs could get the Giants to take Aaron Miles, too.
Someday we'll go all the way...
by CubsBullsBears on Oct 2, 2009 10:08 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
It would make ALL of us happy.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Oct 2, 2009 10:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Brian Sabean does have a sweet spot for aging veterans.
I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg
by Trey2317 on Oct 2, 2009 10:16 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
this would make life much better in Wrigleyville
i hope the Giants get overzealous in their therapy-laden little la la land there and sign MB up and feel that MIles has been overlooked and unaffirmed ..
Blue mountains high .. Blue valleys low
I don't know which way we will go ..
One summer dream .. one summer dream ..
coda
ELO, 1975
by cubnational on Oct 3, 2009 1:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think we've managed to find one player
with less value in a trade than Milton Bradley. I can’t see a single team taking Miles.
Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.
by nji232 on Oct 2, 2009 10:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe the Cards...
Will want him back after we re-sign DeRosa this offseason… (some sarcasm).
Someday we'll go all the way...
by CubsBullsBears on Oct 2, 2009 10:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Rowand
would be fine by me. Could you imagine the crowd reaction when Milton would play in Wrigley?
If the Cubs get something serviceable like Rowand they should consider themselves lucky.
by Grockcubs on Oct 2, 2009 10:50 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Burnin' Bridges
Burnin’ bridges fallin’ down
Got a nasty reputation
From town to town
Burnin’ bridges fallin’ down
Burnin’ bridges fallin’ down on you
The song is about Vinnie Vincent, but I think it’s appropriate for Milton Bradley.
And the eighth and final rule: if this is your first time at Fight Club, you have to fight.
by Ace Venom on Oct 2, 2009 10:50 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
You want the best, you got the best! The hottest band in the land!
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 2, 2009 11:30 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's actually a Slaughter song
Mark Slaughter was the vocalist for Vinnie Vincent Invasion before he went solo. Kiss still rocks.
And the eighth and final rule: if this is your first time at Fight Club, you have to fight.
by Ace Venom on Oct 2, 2009 11:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ah, assumed it was Kiss.
And I had that Vinnie Vincent Invasion album in high school. Oh man, the memories…
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 2, 2009 12:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
a passing thought on Milton
Would he be better suited hitting in a more spacious ballpark? Not to defend him, but he seemed to hit a lot of line drives this year that MIGHT have fallen for hits in a park like AT&T?
Also, I love the idea of getting Rowand.
by elgato on Oct 2, 2009 11:26 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Just guessing, but he may also benefit from a newer stadium with
a much more spacious clubhouse. players
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Oct 2, 2009 11:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Plus, everything is so much more mellow and positive in San Fran.
This is the fanbase that embraced Barry Bonds, no?
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 2, 2009 11:34 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You know that's crap.
They tolerated Barry. They endured him. At his worst behavior, he was carrying the rosters of aged vets and journeyman and other social misfits who couldn’t survive on other rosters, but were mostly hidden in SF.
Hell, look how long it took DB to wear out his welcome as manager with all the sun shining on Barry.
If MB can produce, they’ll tolerate.
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Oct 2, 2009 11:37 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, I seem to recall seeing a lot of pro-Barry signage...
…but perhaps “embraced” is too strong of a word.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 2, 2009 11:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And there is also the little matter
That Barry Bonds on his worst day was a better player than Bradley ever dreamed of being.
There is no such thing as an ugly female breast
by Worf on Oct 2, 2009 4:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
In the words of Weird Al
Just Eat it….
trading crap for crap is well crap. And trading for more crap than you are giving up just means that you have to deal with the crap longer.
"All I want is food and creative love" - Rusted Root
by TheRiot Police on Oct 2, 2009 11:43 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Name calling has no place here
:)
www.facebook.com/craighudak
by Craig in South Bend on Oct 2, 2009 12:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Meh...
I’m lukewarm on Rowand. Honestly, I still think that the best match for both sides is the Mets, but anything that makes Bradley go away while getting at least something semi-useful back is fine with me.
by Damen Jackson on Oct 2, 2009 12:13 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
My God...
Bradley and Panda playing on the same team may be like matter and anti-matter touching.
www.facebook.com/craighudak
by Craig in South Bend on Oct 2, 2009 12:16 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I canna change th' laws of physics
but hopefully Jimbo can. He got the Cubs into this mess, I’d say he’s the one to get the Cubs out.
Blue mountains high .. Blue valleys low
I don't know which way we will go ..
One summer dream .. one summer dream ..
coda
ELO, 1975
by cubnational on Oct 3, 2009 2:00 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Return? Huh?
Honestly, I would be surprised if Milton “RETURNS” to any team he used to play with.
by TheHawkRules on Oct 2, 2009 1:43 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Worthless reports
None of these “do want/don’t want” reports are worth the electrons they are printed on the screen with. It’s all speculation.
I think I speak for everyone here when I say, "Wait, what the hell are you talking about?"
by Ross on Oct 2, 2009 5:51 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I'm reminded of an old Dennis Miller bit
It was about buying cheap suits. Basically he was railing on the places where you buy one and get another suit free. “Two of s*** is s***”, was his punchline. That is how I feel about taking a bad contract to get rid of Bradley. I haven’t seen enough of Rowand to know if he has anything left. Maybe moving to Wrigley would help. But, I don’t want any deal made that doesn’t make the team better. Otherwise eat the money.
by Nibbles on Oct 2, 2009 9:34 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
milton
bradley must go so take anything. im sure he is still a good player so someone will have interest. amazing that teams keep signing this guy with his track record. just a spoiled athlete with a chip on his shoulder. grow up.
by NOMAR on Oct 3, 2009 6:31 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
The Mets have contacted the Cubs about MB?
Now that’s the funniest thing I’ve heard all day. If Bradley couldn’t handle the fans and media in Chicago, I’m sure New York would be a perfect fit for him.
"Don't complain to me about the stormy weather, boys. Just bring the ship into port." --Steve Stone, September 2004
by ctcoff99 on Oct 3, 2009 12:44 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Have you heard/seen the old clip from Randy Johnson's...
…apparent first encounter with NY media as Yankee? There’s a verbal confrontation and it ends with the media person saying, “Welcome to New York.”
They might as well sell tickets to a cage match for MB’s first press encounter as Met. I think there would be some friction.
by DudeVf11 on Oct 5, 2009 7:34 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I could
definitely live with Rowand. He is a much better fit I think. There is never any doubt that he’s giving 100%.
by iowacubfan69 on Oct 3, 2009 4:10 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Rowand
Personally, I’m not a fan of getting Rowand. He’s been a below average hitter for a couple years. Plus his K/BB ratio is horrible. Lifetime, it’s around 1:3.
I have a problem getting a guy like Rowand who isn’t very good anymore and giving up someone who is a damn good hitter. I know Bradley’s had his issues here, and as much as I’d wish otherwise, he’s probably going to have to move on. I have full confidence that Bradley can respond with a great season next year. I just don’t like the idea of trading a good hitter for hitter who is probably past his prime and makes more than Bradley.
by LetsMakeADeal on Oct 4, 2009 2:23 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Regardless of what Bradley may or may not do next year...
… he won’t be back. He WILL be traded. So let’s at least get something of some value — and Rowand could, if he can come back to his 2007 level — rather than just eating the contract.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Oct 4, 2009 7:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
but what if he can't come back to his 2007 level?
I think the Cubs need to take more of a worst-case scenario perspective here when they’re evaluating trade possibilities. Obviously, the overall worst-case scenario would be if Bradley stays.
So in looking at a Rowand deal, I think you’d need to assume that he won’t return to his 2007 levels. And you’d have to weigh the cost/benefits of having current-day Rowand on your roster for the rest of his contract vs. just eating Bradley’s.
Same for Michael Young, Luis Castillo, Maggio Ordonez, etc.
Of course, any kind of deal that includes Miles will be the winner, trumping all previously stated attempts at applying logic here.
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Oct 4, 2009 11:02 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It may very well be...
… that Bradley’s contract will simply be eaten. That would be another worst-case scenario. I suspect Jim Hendry will exhaust every other possibility before doing that.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Oct 4, 2009 6:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Fanpost/Article idea:
Make a list of all the reasonably conceivable bad-contract-swap-for-Milton candidates and break down just how each contract (and said player’s projected production) compares to Bradley’s. As awful as doing so sounds, eating Bradley’s contract may turn out to be the most fiscally responsible move.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 5, 2009 9:17 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think the financial planner types call that a "stunk cost"
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Oct 5, 2009 10:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Incidentally...
… there was an ominously-headlined post at MLBTR today: “Cubs Might Not Trade Milton Bradley”. This was all based on this Carrie Muskat article which quotes Jim Hendry:
Bradley is the wild card. Hendry suspended the outfielder for the final 15 games of the season, and the outfielder has two years remaining on his contract. Will he be back in 2010?
“You deal with the cards you have now,” Hendry said. “Right now, he’s still a member of the Cubs. It’ll be a long process trying to get a roster we think is better, obviously, than what we did in the standings this year. Until people come or go, you have to play the cards you have now.”
Hendry was expected to try to move Bradley, who is owed $21 million on his contract. Manager Lou Piniella has indicated he’d like another RBI producer as well as some speed. Hendry didn’t tip his hand.
“We’ll just see how it goes,” Hendry said. “Maybe we make trades more than [sign] free agents. First and foremost, we’re not here to be critical of our own guys, but we all know we have four, five guys who are used to having better years than they had. The main requirement would be for those guys to be themselves, and I think they’d be the first to admit that.”
None of this, to me, says that Bradley “won’t” be traded. Hendry, obviously, is stating fact: Bradley is still under contract to the Cubs, and thus a “member” of the team, though under team suspension (or whatever you want to call his being sent home with pay). I have heard from multiple sources that he WILL be traded, that there have already been inquiries, and Hendry was just being nice.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Oct 4, 2009 6:49 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Not just nice
It’s in his best interest to make other teams think this could still be worked out. That way, he is only halfway over the barrel.
There is no such thing as an ugly female breast
by Worf on Oct 4, 2009 6:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Exactly.
I’ll repeat what I’ve said before, and above. Milton Bradley WILL be playing in another uniform (not the Cubs) in 2010. Book it.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Oct 4, 2009 7:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Bradley
no argument here Al.
by If we only had Hubbs on Oct 4, 2009 8:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Bradley belongs on the Cubs as much as Piniella and Hendry deserve to have their jobs next season. It’s time to start fresh with Steve Stone and Ryne Sandberg at the helm. Get a few new people in on the roster, and close the book on this regrettable season.
I MISS YOU STONEY
Geovany Soto is the new 2008 Derrek Lee
by jesus christos on Oct 4, 2009 8:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Stoney
has a tremendous understanding of the game. I would take him back in any capacity with the Cubs.
by If we only had Hubbs on Oct 4, 2009 8:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Stoney
is a hack. He’s still from a school of thought that wins are the ultimate stat to judge a pitcher on. That’s all he cites when he criticizes Zambrano.
He also thinks that RBIs are a great personal stat to judge a hitter on (See: Milton Bradley criticism).
When I was young and growing up to Harry and Stone, I enjoyed it. I thought they were a great team to listen to. I also liked him when him and Chip were calling the games. However, over the past year he has rubbed me the wrong way with his constant smarmy comments towards the Cubs organization, management, and players.
I’m not really aware of everyone’s feelings towards Z, but I say this to you: If Stone is the GM (the hypothetical new position for him), Zambrano is gone. If you’re fine with that, then pine for Stone. Personally, I’d rather have Zambrano stay a Cub.
by LetsMakeADeal on Oct 4, 2009 9:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Steve Stone...
… is a glib communicator who is able to talk intelligently about baseball on television.
That skill does NOT translate into management. Steve Stone is NOT qualified to be a general manager, manager, or anything else on a baseball team. He will be 63 years old next year; no one starts such a job at that age.
Can we please stop the Steve Stone love? He’s gone. Done. Finished with this franchise. And not qualified to be in management.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Oct 4, 2009 9:30 PM CDT up reply actions 5 recs
But if Brenly gets the Indians job
I’d take Stoney back in a heartbeat to announce.
It’s not even on his merits at this point.
It would be the ultimate F—- you to Dusty, Moises, Mercker, Walker and the rest of the 2004 squad.
And you can’t tell that team F—- you enough.
There is no such thing as an ugly female breast
by Worf on Oct 4, 2009 10:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't think they care.
Worf, it was 5 years ago….let it go. I can’t stand that team any more than you, but bringing Stone back wouldn’t change anything.
I'm singing, "GO CUBS GO! GO CUBS GO!" -- DrCrawdad on Jun 12, 2009 7:23 AM CDT
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! -- Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Oct 4, 2009 10:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It would make ME happy
and frankly, that’s been the problem this season. It wasn’t about Worf enough.
There is no such thing as an ugly female breast
by Worf on Oct 4, 2009 10:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And after 10AM tomorrow
It’ll never be about Worf again!
I'm singing, "GO CUBS GO! GO CUBS GO!" -- DrCrawdad on Jun 12, 2009 7:23 AM CDT
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! -- Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Oct 4, 2009 10:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed and triple Rec'd.
OK, I only Rec’d it once but I would if I could.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 5, 2009 9:13 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You get credit for 2
Because you inspired me to rec it, too.
I'm singing, "GO CUBS GO! GO CUBS GO!" -- DrCrawdad on Jun 12, 2009 7:23 AM CDT
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! -- Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Oct 5, 2009 9:42 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
They say the triple rec is hardest thing to get when going for the cycle.
Well, I just took care of the hard part. Someone else can step up and hit the homerun…
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Oct 5, 2009 10:39 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agree totally, Al.
I still remember Stone on the radio making fun of Boston when they hired Epstein. In arguing that he was too young and not a baseball guy, Stone sounded like the old man telling the kids to get off his lawn. The man is stuck back somewhere in the Reagan Administration.
by the nth on Oct 5, 2009 3:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Glib ?
C’mon Al. I agree with most of what you have to say. Have you ever talked to him one on one ? He cant talk intelligently in any venue. Also never say “never”. Unless you are a member of the Cubs organization………it’s not love but respect I have for him.
by If we only had Hubbs on Oct 5, 2009 4:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Respect for his ability to analyze baseball on television...
… or, maybe in talking to him in person.
That’s a completely different skill than making trades with men who are shrewder than you are, or negotiating multimillion dollar contracts with free agents.
Stone has the former. He doesn’t have the latter, and starting such a job at his age with no experience is a recipe for disaster. Just ask Hawk Harrelson or Jim Frey how that transition worked out.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Oct 5, 2009 8:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
For those who think...
…it was only Dusty and a few of the players that couldn’t stand Stone, you don’t know the whole story.
Stone was disliked by many in the Cub’s organization for many a year, and no one shed a tear when he didn’t come back in 05. The reason for this is simple, he has a tendancy to treat people like he is a superior being.
Furthermore, Stone would be eaten alive if he was ever in a GM post. Most GM’s wouldn’t put up with his arrogant approach and wouldn’t want to have much to do with him.
Just as Roger Ebert isn’t qualified to start directing movies, Stone isn’t qualified to be a GM. There is a huge differency between being a professional critic and being the guy actually making decisions that now will expose you to critiscism.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Oct 5, 2009 11:34 PM CDT up reply actions 2 recs
Perfect analogy to Roger Ebert.
In fact, Ebert did write a couple of screenplays in the 1970’s — see them here. Both were critical and box office flops.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Oct 6, 2009 10:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
"Beyond the Valley of the Dolls" is worth seeing for its camp factor.
Some great lines like: “This is my happening and it freaks me out!”
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 6, 2009 11:05 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
outstanding analogy!!!
I always turn to the sports section first. The sports page records people's accomplishments; the front page has nothing but man's failures.
~Earl Warren
by lookingdeadred on Oct 6, 2009 12:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
This idea just slays me
The guy is a talking head and some here think he is some sort of baseball savant.
I always turn to the sports section first. The sports page records people's accomplishments; the front page has nothing but man's failures.
~Earl Warren
by lookingdeadred on Oct 6, 2009 12:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'd be willing
to bet he is “heads” above you……………….
by If we only had Hubbs on Oct 6, 2009 6:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Probably so
If the Cubs’ GM was not heads and shoulders above me, they would be in a whole lot of trouble. It would even worse if the new GM was not head and shoulders above you though.
Still sore that I didn’t agree with your sanctification of Ken Hubbs, I see.
I always turn to the sports section first. The sports page records people's accomplishments; the front page has nothing but man's failures.
~Earl Warren
by lookingdeadred on Oct 8, 2009 3:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You mean
when you spoke ill of the dead . Bad Karma man, real bad. Keep it up !
by If we only had Hubbs on Oct 9, 2009 5:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Never spoke ill of him
just said he was not as good as you seem to think he was. He had two seasons in the bigs, the first was good and the second was not. The main reason some Cub fans like you think so highly of him was his tragic death. If you look at his playing career, there is reason to believe that he would have lost his starting job (to Beckert) and been a good field no hit backup infielder or out of baseball entirely.
I always turn to the sports section first. The sports page records people's accomplishments; the front page has nothing but man's failures.
~Earl Warren
by lookingdeadred on Oct 10, 2009 9:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No offense, but this just reminds me...
…of how so many baseball fans are in love with names without regard for reality.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 5, 2009 9:19 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
This is just another example of some of Hendry's good points.
He’s not going to weaken his already poor position with unnecessary statements in the media—AND he’s not going to add any fuel to the controversy over the player.
by DudeVf11 on Oct 5, 2009 7:38 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
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