Possible 2010 Roster
by Matt Geiger on Oct 20, 2009 9:52 PM CDT
226 comments
25 Man Roster
1. Chone Figgins, CF
2. Ryan Theriot, SS
3. Derrek Lee, 1B
4. Aramis Ramirez, 3B
5. Brad Hawpe, RF
6. Alfonso Soriano, LF
7. Mark DeRosa, 2B
8. Geovany Soto, C
9. SP Spot
SP Rotation
2. Ted Lilly
3. Ben Sheets
5. Randy Wells
Bullpen:
- John Grabow
- Jeff Samardzija
BENCH:
- Jeff Baker, IF (AAA Iowa?)
- Micah Hoffpauir, IF-OF (AAA Iowa?)
- Reed Johnson, OF
- Jake Fox, IF-OF
- Kosuke Fukudome, OF
- Mike Fontenot , IF
-Koyie Hill, C
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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You can edit your Fanpost, y'know.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 21, 2009 9:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Figgins is center huh?
That’s something worth trying if the Cubs sign him I suppose. However, he hasn’t done it since 06.
"That pitch wasn’t down and in, that pitch was down and up." Tim McCarver
by wrigleyrocker12 on Oct 20, 2009 10:00 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
After watching this playoffs
I’d prefer Figgins sign elsewhere, he’s an outmaker in the Juan Pierre mold. Do not want
Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.
by nji232 on Oct 20, 2009 10:05 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
agreed on Figgins
I thought the same thing watching him………..he is Juan Pierre reincarnated. Sometimes we hear about these guys or just glance at numbers and think he’s the next savior. I was pumped to get Pierre but it didn’t take long for him to wear me out………..I think Figgins will get a contract that far far exceeds his worth and the Cubs should stay far away
by plenz on Oct 21, 2009 1:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Figgins makes Dome look like a GG CF.
His idea of playing CF is to watch the ball reach its apex, then run after it. Andruw Jones would be a better CF even if he weighs 280 — he knows how to get a jump on the ball.
Figgins does the least damage to your defense at 3B.
"I've never complained about it. I'm thankful to have a jersey." Mark DeRosa, 22 Aug 2007
by DeRoMyHero on Oct 21, 2009 3:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Lots of gambles in that lineup.
Would Figgins make smooth transitions to a new position and league? Would Hawpe do anything outside of Coors? Would DeRosa be healed?
Surprisingly, the least of the gambles might be Hawpe. His home/road splits aren’t as glaringly distorted as most Rockies are.
It’d be poetic justice for him to come to the Cubs and contribute since, IIRC, he hit the line drive that broke Mark Prior’s elbow.
Joe, you coulda made us proud!
by copingwiththecubs on Oct 20, 2009 10:06 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Kosuke
would be an expensive bench player, dont see that happening.
Three left handers in the bullpen?
Ben Sheets is intriguing but he’s basically a Rich Harden type… can be dominant but very fragile.
Aaron Miles and He Who Shall Remain Nameless disappearing? That’s cool… Can they take Heilman with them?
Andres Blanco needs to be on the bench as does another catcher. Where’s Koyie?
As much as I love DeRo, I dont see him coming back.
by FloridaCubsFan on Oct 20, 2009 10:08 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
exactly
Fukudome is not going to be riding pine for his price tag
baseball is a game of outs......pop out, ground out, line out, pitch out, strike out, fly out, and Fox and Bud's favorite black out
by Cubbie-Tim on Oct 21, 2009 11:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
well what do you think it will be then
by Matt Geiger on Oct 20, 2009 10:11 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I'll give you a roster that tries to balance bold hope and mild realism
Jose Reyes SS
Kosuke Fukudome RF
Derrek Lee 1B
Aramis Ramirez 3B
Alfonso Soriano LF
Jeff Baker 2B
Geovany Soto C
Rajai Davis CF
Mike Fontenot 2B
Koyie Hill C
Andres Blanco SS
Randy Winn OF
Fernando Tatis Util
SP Z, TL, Demp, Wells, Gorz
RP Marmol, Guzman, Grabow, Caridad, Gaub, Heilman, Kelvim Escobar
Inspector #23 certifies that the above post is sarcasm free, most certainly not what she said, and chock full of intangibles, although regressing to the intangible mean, as you'd expect.
by DGU on Oct 20, 2009 11:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Somehow we turn Bradley, Riot, Fox, Hoffpauir, and Marshall into Reyes and Davis?
I’d say that’s very bold hope and minimal realism, but I’d love to see it.
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Oct 20, 2009 11:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't think Rajai Davis should cost that much in trade.
I think Reyes is only on the trade market if the Mets want to get rid of him and if they want to get rid of him, the hope is that they’d want to replace him with a guy who loves to smile in interviews. And, of course, it would cost more than Theriot, too.
Oh, and I assume Hoffpauir has no trade value.
Inspector #23 certifies that the above post is sarcasm free, most certainly not what she said, and chock full of intangibles, although regressing to the intangible mean, as you'd expect.
by DGU on Oct 21, 2009 6:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe before the season, but now? Don't think so.
Davis had a breakout (for him) season – .305/.360/.423 with 47 steals, 49 RBIs and 65 runs in only 390 ABs. Had a really strong second half and pretty much took over the CF job in Oakland.
Yes, he’s 29 and that’s a little old for breakout seasons but he only made $410K last season so he seems to be an ideal player for the A’s philosophy. Not familiar with their minor league system but the only one pushing him (if you can call it that) on the big league roster is Eric Patterson.
Obviously there are no untouchables when you’re talking about Billy Beane, but I don’t see them trading Davis unless someone wants to overpay. And I don’t see the Cubs overpaying for him.
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Oct 21, 2009 9:34 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You make a good case.
Hm. Who do I swap in for Davis? Coco Crisp?
Inspector #23 certifies that the above post is sarcasm free, most certainly not what she said, and chock full of intangibles, although regressing to the intangible mean, as you'd expect.
by DGU on Oct 21, 2009 10:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Don't get me wrong - I'd love to have Davis in CF. Or Granderson. Or even Cameron for a year.
But Crisp? Meh… if we have to drop down to the levels of Crisp/Winn/Rowand, I’d just as soon stick with some kind of Reed/Fuld combo (and Dome when he’s not playing RF) and use our limited chips to improve the club elsewhere.
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Oct 21, 2009 11:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I know what you're saying.
I’d like to have a guy from that Crisp/Winn/Rowand circle be a super 4th-OF for us, spelling Dome, Sori, and whomever the real CF is, but finding that real CF…
Inspector #23 certifies that the above post is sarcasm free, most certainly not what she said, and chock full of intangibles, although regressing to the intangible mean, as you'd expect.
by DGU on Oct 21, 2009 11:16 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
But what does Crisp/Winn/Rowand give you that you don't already have with Fuld/Reed?
I just don’t see spending $ to get something we already have when it’s not a clear upgrade. Rowand might be the exception, not because he’s an upgrade, but because it might be our only way to get rid of Bradley.
I’m guessing Hendry is going to have $ to find – at most – one upgrade; be that at CF, RF, SS or 2b. And that’s assuming Ricketts will up the budget – not a sure thing at this point.
Similar situation if we stick to trades – we probably only have the chits to make one upgrade.
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Oct 21, 2009 12:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
But what does Crisp/Winn/Rowand give you that you don’t already have with Fuld/Reed?
Crisp and Winn are switch hitters, so while they put up similar numbers to Reed Johnson, they do it while not in a platoon.
Fuld isn’t a major league player, and if he’s platooning in center next season we’re in serious trouble.
by Wreckard on Oct 21, 2009 1:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Crisp/Winn/Rowand vs Fuld/Reed discussion was as a super 4th OF, not as a starter
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Oct 21, 2009 1:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think that Winn and Crisp both have higher ceilings than Fuld and RJ
I think that RJ is a very poor option to have on the field v. RHP; so I’d like to upgrade that. Winn and Crisp also give you more speed and defense than RJ.
In the end, I’m just not convinced by Fuld.
Inspector #23 certifies that the above post is sarcasm free, most certainly not what she said, and chock full of intangibles, although regressing to the intangible mean, as you'd expect.
by DGU on Oct 21, 2009 4:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
So who would the Cubs trade for Reyes?
I see you still you have Z in the rotation.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 21, 2009 9:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I didn't want to have to think about it too hard.
But, I guess I should. For me, the key to any plausibility in a trade like this is that the Mets have to dislike Reyes’ attitude and injury-proneness at a level approaching how we view MB here. And if that’s the case, then Ryan Theriot is the opposite of Reyes while still being a plausible lead-off hitter to a front office that isn’t too bright.
Despite the longer time of control and cheaper price tag on Theriot, they shouldn’t consider swapping the two straight up. So, what else do we have that they might want? C is a hole for the Mets, right? What if we make the trade Soto and Theriot for Reyes and Niese? Then we flip Niese with Fox for Davis and sign sign whatever 1-year catcher looks best to us. This is really pushing the limits of plausibility with so much roster turnover…
Got a better idea?
Inspector #23 certifies that the above post is sarcasm free, most certainly not what she said, and chock full of intangibles, although regressing to the intangible mean, as you'd expect.
by DGU on Oct 21, 2009 11:02 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I haven't seen that much flipping...
…since the Lion’s Club Pancake Fest of ‘92. But seriously, I really don’t have any better ideas. If Hendry could pull something like that off, I wouldn’t necessarily be opposed to dealing Soto. Perhaps the Cubs could go into “make do” mode catcher-wise until Wellington Castillo is ready? Of course, any deal for Reyes will be a huge gamble that he’ll fully recover from the surgery he recently underwent.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 21, 2009 11:25 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The other thing here is that if the Cubs are bullish on Castro
and think he’ll move fast, there’s no motivation to trade Soto for a SS, even putting aside the questionable value of Theriot.
Inspector #23 certifies that the above post is sarcasm free, most certainly not what she said, and chock full of intangibles, although regressing to the intangible mean, as you'd expect.
by DGU on Oct 21, 2009 4:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ok, I'll play along - this looks like fun...
1) What happens to Bradley?
2) How do we acquire Hawpe?
3) Is Soto going to catch all 162 games?
4) That looks like a 26-man roster…
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Oct 20, 2009 10:48 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Man you're a harsh crowd, LOL.
"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks
by dtpollitt on Oct 20, 2009 11:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
- we trade bradley for cash.
- we trade blanco, scales, and prospects for Hawpe
- Jake Fox can catch. He’s a better hitter than Koyie.
by Matt Geiger on Oct 20, 2009 11:03 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
you mean
another team is gonna pay us to take Bradley off our hands?
by FloridaCubsFan on Oct 20, 2009 11:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think
What he meant to say was we’ll trade Bradley for two low-A left-handed pitchers with 0 upside that won’t pan out until we trade them years later.
I bleed blue... and red, but that's not my fault. I didn't get to choose that one.
by BabeRuthPose on Oct 23, 2009 12:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh man...I don't know how to say this nicely...
…but these three statements are epic fails.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 21, 2009 9:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Blanco, Scales and prospects for Brad Hawpe?
Why would the Rockies do that — even if they wanted to trade Hawpe (which they don’t)?
by elgato on Oct 21, 2009 11:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'll give this a whirl... considering what we have now.
Lineup:
1) Kosuke Fukudome – RF
2) Reed Johnson or Sam Fuld – CF
3) Derrek Lee – 1B
4) Aramis Ramirez – 3B
5) Geovany Soto – C
6) Alfonso Soriano – LF
7) Jeff Baker or Mike Fontenot – 2B
8) Ryan Theriot – SS
9) SP
Rotation:
1) Ted Lilly
2) Carlos Zambrano
3) Ryan Dempster
4) Sean Marshall or Tom Gorzelany
5) Randy Wells
Bullpen:
Carlos Marmol – Closer
Angel Guzman – SU
John Grabow – SU
Marshall or Gorz – LR
The remaining spots filled by Justin Berg, Jeff Stevens, Esmalin Canidad (sp),John Gaub, David Patton?
Bench:
Jake Fox
Andres Blanco
Koyie Hill
Fuld/Johnson
Fontenot/Baker
Bullpen obviously needs work with the departures of Gregg and Heilman. Keep Shark in the minors and have him start. Don’t shuttle him back and forth.
Bradley has been outrighted to Mesa rookie league lol I don’t know. It’s hard to do a line up for next year when this guy is taking a huge chunk of the payroll.
by FloridaCubsFan on Oct 20, 2009 11:11 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Given what we know right now, this is not an unreasonable take.
You’re basically taking a “stand pat” approach, which I’ve found myself doing to a certain extent, too – though I remain open-minded to any reasonable trade scenario.
Assuming no feasible contract-swap can be had for Milton, the Cubs could just release Bradley (worst case scenario), re-sign Reed Johnson and go with a Fuld/Johnson platoon in centerfield. Kosuke goes back to right field with Jeff Baker spending some time there vs. LHP. And if Lou REALLY wants his left-handed bat to break up the middle of the order, he could put Dome there (I know, I know…it’s not ideal) and go with Fuld in the leadoff spot (vs. RHP, RJ leads off vs. lefties).
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 21, 2009 10:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Absolutely
With some of the albatross contracts we have and not too many chips to trade, standing pat is something we might have to do. We had some minor leaguers that had nice years but how good is the trade value of Castro, vitters, jay Jackson and Casey Coleman? Obviously vitters is the big name and I really hope Castro makes it. Are jay Jackson and Casey Coleman Sean Gallagher types?
by FloridaCubsFan on Oct 21, 2009 11:45 AM CDT via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
THIS WOULD BE THE GREATEST BENCH TEAM EVER.
"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks
by dtpollitt on Oct 20, 2009 11:21 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
That happens when you have 26 players
"It's been my policy to view the Internet not as an 'information highway,' but as an electronic asylum filled with babbling loonies." - Mike Royko
by DTJchris on Oct 21, 2009 1:38 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
This is absurd
Colorado wants to keep Hawpe. Figgins is an IF. Ben Sheets? Really? And I am so sick of hearing about DeRosa. His time in Chicago is over. He’s getting old and starting to decline.
by Mulhollandmania on Oct 20, 2009 11:30 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I don't agree with Figs in center
But he has played there.
"That pitch wasn’t down and in, that pitch was down and up." Tim McCarver
by wrigleyrocker12 on Oct 21, 2009 7:15 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
1,918 career innings with below-replacement-level UZR numbers.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 21, 2009 9:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I know he played there before
What I meant was at this stage in his career, he is not fit to be an everyday CF
by Mulhollandmania on Oct 21, 2009 1:46 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree 100%
"That pitch wasn’t down and in, that pitch was down and up." Tim McCarver
by wrigleyrocker12 on Oct 21, 2009 5:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The only thing you're 100% on is the bench
Very little chance of getting Figgins… everyone seems happy with trotting Theriot out there and having him hit .300 all year. DeRosa is not coming back. We all need to get over it. That ship has sailed, probably to San Francisco. And Hawpe? Really? I dunno, I like the guy, just not sure it’s going to happen.
I think FloridaCubsFan hit the nail on the head… pretty much the same thing you saw this year, just minus Bradley. I wouldn’t be surprised to see Jake Fox in RF over Dome. However, Lou seems to hate playing the guy so who knows.
by lswaidz on Oct 20, 2009 11:42 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
hawpe is already on the roster
…in my MLB 2K9 franchise. outside of video games, not gonna happen.
by nathew on Oct 21, 2009 7:40 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
What's the fascination.....
with Figgins around here?? Anyone been watching the playoffs? Plus he’s gonna get paid quite a bit for his oft-injured self!
Ben Sheets and Nolan Ryan seem to like each other quite a bit, so I see him signing with Rangers!
If we don’t upgrade that bullpen, were gonna regret it badly. Take that to the bank! I said it 50 times last offseason and I was right and I will say it again this offseason!
Hawpe is going nowhere as has been said by their front office candidly several times! Why can’t we get that through our heads around here? Every year it’s 5000 post about a player on another team that we want and it goes on and on and on! Besides even if he were available we have nothing of value to trade them. That of course being low paid, very high upside guys under team control for a few years!
I would sleep with Blou if it meant the Cubs would win a WS. by Doggie Stalker on Aug 22, 2009 4:11 PM EDT
by cubsluver22 on Oct 21, 2009 8:32 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I've seen enough of Fontenot
he’s not worth a spot on the 25
There is no such thing as an ugly female breast
by Worf on Oct 21, 2009 9:45 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
So 2008 was an anomaly...cajun voodoo?
And if we have any hope of moving him, we’d better hope other teams don’t feel the same way.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 21, 2009 10:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
So 2008 was an anomaly…cajun voodoo?
probably
"hey
by jesus christos on Oct 21, 2009 4:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed
He was used selectively - and very well- in 2008. Lightning in a bottle. Thanks for the contributions, but I have zero interest in him being a part of the team moving forward.
by shoemile on Oct 21, 2009 11:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Whoops
I really did mean to say he was used very well in 08.
by shoemile on Oct 21, 2009 11:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If you think his usage pattern led to a .900 OPS
then why wouldn’t you want him to be a part of the team, especially if he was used the same way he was used in ’08?
Inspector #23 certifies that the above post is sarcasm free, most certainly not what she said, and chock full of intangibles, although regressing to the intangible mean, as you'd expect.
by DGU on Oct 22, 2009 8:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm of the opinion it was lightning in a bottle
Also, I’m a bit wary of stacking the bench with guys who aren’t playing because they’re part of a platoon. We already know the cubs will have to someone on the bench to platoon with Fukudome. Personally, I don’t feel Fontenot will be able to replicate his 08 season. Add in the fact that he’s not someone you’d ideally pinch run with nor be used as a defensive replacement anywhere else but second and I’m not all too crazy about him returning. I guess we’ll have to wait and see what Jim does.
by shoemile on Oct 22, 2009 9:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If Baker is going to have a Mark DeRosa type role
then Fontenot makes sense to me. Yeah, some speed would be nice, but that’s not readily available.
If Baker is a bench player with added playing time, then I think Fonty’s gone anyway and we’re getting someone like Hudson/Lopez/Figgins.
Inspector #23 certifies that the above post is sarcasm free, most certainly not what she said, and chock full of intangibles, although regressing to the intangible mean, as you'd expect.
by DGU on Oct 22, 2009 9:25 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Baseball is filled with players
who had one good year. Time to stop trying to squeeze production out of a turnip
There is no such thing as an ugly female breast
by Worf on Oct 21, 2009 10:26 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Right, but given how good he was in 2008 at the plate...
…and how good he appears to be defensively at second base (suffice to say UZR and RZR smile upon him), I think he deserves at least another season in a utility or even platoon role – either with the Cubs or another team. Depending how the 25-man shakes out, I could see Hendry dealing him.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 21, 2009 10:37 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If you give Baker the 2B job
Fontenot is the perfect complement. Fontenot has the defense down pat and hits LH.
If the Cubs are convinced that Fontenot can’t cut it, then I’d call Atlanta and see about Kelly Johnson’s price.
Inspector #23 certifies that the above post is sarcasm free, most certainly not what she said, and chock full of intangibles, although regressing to the intangible mean, as you'd expect.
by DGU on Oct 21, 2009 11:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's also filled with players who've had one bad year
Oh no, which cliché will we believe! If only there was some way to project his statistics based on his entire body of work, rather than reacting to one year!
by Wreckard on Oct 21, 2009 12:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
His entire body of work is three years
and when he went from 284 plate appearances last year to 419 this year, he got exposed.
Trade him while some stupid GM still has some fond memories of him in 2008.
This isn’t Derrek Lee or Aramis Ramirez or even Carlos Zambrano. There is more reason to believe he is a fluke that got exposed with more playing time and who opposing pitchers figured out.
There is no such thing as an ugly female breast
by Worf on Oct 21, 2009 12:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He played in the minors as well you know
Minor league statistics can be used to project major league statistics. Obviously not as accurately as major league stats, but they are useful, which is why all of the projection systems use them.
This isn’t Derrek Lee or Aramis Ramirez or even Carlos Zambrano.
No one ever said he was.
There is more reason to believe he is a fluke that got exposed with more playing time and who opposing pitchers figured out.
When you have a guy who’s been relatively successful at all levels, including the majors, until last season you can either assume he’s trash like you’re doing here or you can assume that he may still be a useful player. There is, in fact, more reason to believe last season was a fluke than that he “got exposed”.
by Wreckard on Oct 21, 2009 12:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Cubs' big move this offseason will be a Bradley for Rowand trade
Not saying I think this is a great idea. But I see how the deal lines up financially and logistically (Kosuke back to right) and how Rowand’s good clubhouse rep will appeal to Hendry.
As for the original posters’ projection …
1) DeRosa’s gone. Deal with it.
2) Figgins is not the answer
3) What happened to Aaron Miles?
by elgato on Oct 21, 2009 12:15 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
3) Legally changed his name to "Mark DeRosa."
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 21, 2009 12:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Such a trade would work for me.
But the Cubs would be taking on a lot more money — Rowand has a lot more left on his deal than Bradley does. Not saying I don’t want to do this, only that management may not want to.
Signing Rowand would also likely bring Reed Johnson back, as he and Rowand are very close friends.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Oct 21, 2009 12:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
you've made the Reed/Rowand comment before, Al
Reed is essentially a poor man’s Rowand. Why would the Cubs pay Reed $3 million or so when they have a $12 million version?
And, no, Al — I don’t think Reed would take a significant discount just to play with his buddy. I think you often use small bits of info (Reed’s friendship with Rowand, Wood’s happiness in Chicago) to assume players will turn down millions to return to the Cubs.
by elgato on Oct 21, 2009 4:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sometimes players do that.
Further, the Cubs would need a poor man’s Rowand (as you put it) to back him up when Rowand crashes into the brick wall at Wrigley.
:-)
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Oct 21, 2009 4:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
How much do you think Reed would be willing to lop off of his contract ...
for the privilege of playing with his friend?
by elgato on Oct 21, 2009 5:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That depends on the market for players like him.
I really can’t predict a dollar amount. But I also know Johnson likes being a Cub. Sometimes playing in a place where you enjoy your job is worth more than a few extra dollars, particularly in a business like baseball where virtually every decent veteran player is making way more money than they’ll ever need.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Oct 21, 2009 5:46 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's possible that Reed is a Cub next year
… and hats off to the guy if he likes being a Cub and he likes Aaron Rowand THAT much. But if the Cubs offer him $1.5 million, and somebody else offers him $2.5 million, I think he’s gone.
by elgato on Oct 21, 2009 5:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And with Reed, playing time is also a factor.
Everyone wants to be good at their job. If someone offers Reed a full-time job, he might leave for that, too.
Inspector #23 certifies that the above post is sarcasm free, most certainly not what she said, and chock full of intangibles, although regressing to the intangible mean, as you'd expect.
by DGU on Oct 21, 2009 7:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You still need a platoon partner for Dome
after you have a CF, so there could be a role for RJ even with Rowand on board. You also have to plan for at least one Rowand DLing.
Inspector #23 certifies that the above post is sarcasm free, most certainly not what she said, and chock full of intangibles, although regressing to the intangible mean, as you'd expect.
by DGU on Oct 21, 2009 4:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree Kosuke needs a platoon partner ...
but given the fact that the Cubs have about $135 million on the books — not counting the difference between Rowand and Bradley — do you really think the Cubs will pay $3 million to keep Reed?
I sure don’t. If Rowand is a Cub, I’d bet dollars to donuts that Reed isn’t. And that’s not a slam on Reed.
by elgato on Oct 21, 2009 5:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That makes sense
And depending on what happens at 2B, the Cubs may already have a platoon partner for Kosuke in Jeff Baker.
Inspector #23 certifies that the above post is sarcasm free, most certainly not what she said, and chock full of intangibles, although regressing to the intangible mean, as you'd expect.
by DGU on Oct 21, 2009 7:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I wouldn't do it.
Rowand is not very good, and he has more years left than Bradley. At this point, I might rather cut Bradley than trade him for Rowand. Rowand also has a full no trade clause, so while that would make him a good fit on the Cubs, San Fran might not be able to deal him.
Metal sharpens metal.
And this guy right here understands and knows what leadership is all about: The coach, the hall of famer......... Dick Butka! George Ryan
by dakoose on Oct 21, 2009 1:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Rowand...
… hit a lot better in 2007 in Philly than he did in 2008/09 in SF. Getting to Wrigley might help his batting average improve.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Oct 21, 2009 2:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Rowand
Has one thing we need sorely——HEART!!!! He’s a gamer an all out do whatever takes to get the job done guy. That kinda stuff rubs off much like Reed Johnson’s game!
I would take Rowand and be quite happy!
I would sleep with Blou if it meant the Cubs would win a WS. by Doggie Stalker on Aug 22, 2009 4:11 PM EDT
by cubsluver22 on Oct 21, 2009 3:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
+1
Nobody one this team, minus Reed, plays with extreme heart.
"That pitch wasn’t down and in, that pitch was down and up." Tim McCarver
by wrigleyrocker12 on Oct 21, 2009 5:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh, come on
No one? Dempster, Theriot, Lee, Marmol, Lilly, Z — they don’t play with “extreme heart”?
For the record, Z’s problem is his head.
by elgato on Oct 21, 2009 5:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not the Same IMO
The kind enthusiasm and heart players like Rowand, Reed, Eckstein etc have is immeasurable! We need that on this team! It’s not always about flashy or power.
I would sleep with Blou if it meant the Cubs would win a WS. by Doggie Stalker on Aug 22, 2009 4:11 PM EDT
by cubsluver22 on Oct 21, 2009 6:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm not sure ...
that a team’s success is based on how many of its players crash into walls. Reed and Rowand weren’t on playoff teams this year, Rowand wasn’t last year and Reed wasn’t in 2007.
by elgato on Oct 22, 2009 7:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
i was told it can be measured
baseball is a game of outs......pop out, ground out, line out, pitch out, strike out, fly out, and Fox and Bud's favorite black out
by Cubbie-Tim on Oct 22, 2009 6:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
TWHS
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 23, 2009 11:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I didn't know you had the ability to look into players' hearts.
Despite the struggles, Aaron Miles plays with heart. Just no one talks about his intangibles because his tangibles were so bad.
Inspector #23 certifies that the above post is sarcasm free, most certainly not what she said, and chock full of intangibles, although regressing to the intangible mean, as you'd expect.
by DGU on Oct 21, 2009 7:57 PM CDT up reply actions 5 recs
I'll third this Rec.
“Extreme heart” – gimme a break.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 22, 2009 10:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
well stated
"When you're going through hell, keep going." - Winston Churchill
by vonde6 on Oct 26, 2009 3:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You had me at the first sentence
Any post proposing Figgins in CF isn’t worth my time.
by rlpete on Oct 21, 2009 12:52 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Ya had me and then ya lost me.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 21, 2009 1:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Why do people hate Figgins?
He’d be a true leadoff hitter, a guy who gets on base. A lot of speed too, can get SB’s. He may not have played CF since ’06, but Fukudome had never played CF and we still put him there lol
by DiMarini on Oct 21, 2009 2:32 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
That's not true about Fukudome.
He appeared in 12 games as a centerfielder in 2008 and, I believe, played the position in Japan as well.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 21, 2009 2:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Let's see....
His .176 career playoff avg? His oft-injured self? Maybe it could be his contract demands?
I would sleep with Blou if it meant the Cubs would win a WS. by Doggie Stalker on Aug 22, 2009 4:11 PM EDT
by cubsluver22 on Oct 21, 2009 3:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't hate him - matter of fact, I'd love to have him here as a leadoff hitter for the next two years
Trouble is, he’s going to be wanting – and he’ll probably get – a four year deal at more dollars than we have to spare. Even if we had the money to throw at him (we don’t), I don’t think he’d be worth it in years 3-4.
But even more problematic is there’s really no place to put him on the field for the Cubs. His best position (3rd base) is one I think we’re pretty well set at.
So even though he fills an offensive need (leadoff), realistically he’s just not a very good fit for the Cubs.
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Oct 21, 2009 3:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Why...
Does everyone presume to know how much money this team may or may not have??? We have new ownership coming into play very soon. Has Ricketts publicly said he is tightening the purse strings? Maybe his intentions are to spend like crazy…..who knows????
In Heaven there is no beer, That's why we drink it here, and when were gone from here, all our friends will be drinking all our beer!!
by By Santo's Grace on Oct 22, 2009 8:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
you're absolutely right. And Theriot might hit 50 home runs next year... who knows????
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Oct 22, 2009 1:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
One small point...
…I’ll make that few want to talk about.
Rickett’s will have $500 mil in debt to service each year, and that is something the Trib didn’t have to worry about.
Any idea what that will cost each year? I’ll give you a clue; if Ricketts immediately slashed payroll by $30 million from what is was in 2009, his expenses would still be the same in 2010 as they were in 2009. To say it another way, if the payroll is the same in 2010 as it was in 2009, that would be the equivalent of the payroll going up $30 million compared to what the Trib had to deal with.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Oct 22, 2009 1:51 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I almost agree with you.
Slight correction is the Trib didn’t have debt directly attributable to the Cubs to service. The overall Trib organization had boatloads of debt to service with revenue from all entities, including the Cubs.
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Oct 22, 2009 2:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
True...
…but the Cubs were run as a completely different entitiy from the rest of Tribune company.
The powers at be knew what the revenues were each year and how much expenses were and they could figure out the payroll they wanted to commit to. With Ricketts, you are adding about $30 mil to the Cub’s expense line that the Trib didn’t have to deal with, and that is very signficant.
There is no question that Rickett’s is going to explory new revenue streams for the club, but that will take time to incorporate. Selling naming rights would probably net half of his debt payment per year, and that may be the first thing he does.
Either way, I don’t think Rickett’s is going to be in this to bleed red, and this is why I would be surprised if the payroll went up more than a token amount in 2010.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Oct 22, 2009 2:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Forget Figgins in CF, Dome on the bench & Sheets in the rotation.
You are keeping Hoff over FULD !!. No thanks.
"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry
Me either Jim
by Doggie Stalker on Oct 21, 2009 3:29 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Yep, dealbreaker.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 21, 2009 3:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Heartbreaker
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Oct 21, 2009 4:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Lovetaker.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 21, 2009 4:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Brubaker
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Oct 21, 2009 4:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Run this prison like a man!
"Criticism may not be agreeable, but it is necessary. It fulfills the same function as pain in the human body. It calls attention to an unhealthy state of things." ~Winston Churchill
by Goodie1969 on Oct 21, 2009 4:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
donchu mess around...
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Oct 21, 2009 5:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
IT ALL COMES DOWN TO THIS
I’m not sure about the rest of you, but i would like to see the Cubs win the World Series sometime in my life time, sooner the better. As we all saw last year, the team we have now isn’t going to get it done, sorry, but that’s the truth. The good news is we are not far off of having a team that can reach the playoffs (and not get swept out of the first round). All it takes is a few key additions. That may be as simple as adding one more quality starter to the rotation.
by Matt Geiger on Oct 21, 2009 6:02 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
You had me till that last sentence.
Let’s see things needed before another quality starter.
1. Actual leadoff hitter
2. Actual SS
3. Actual 2B ( Please note 2 or 3 can also be 1)
4. Actual RF OR actual CF.
5. Closer that knows how to throw strikes
I would say another quality starter is the least of the Cubs worries.
"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry
Me either Jim
by Doggie Stalker on Oct 21, 2009 6:38 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You think Theriot isn't a shortstop?
Last time I checked he was the most underrated shortstops in the league
Eamus Catuli! AC0164101
by Matt Geiger on Oct 21, 2009 11:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I like theriot but he is a bad fielder
and I don’t want a bad fielding SS unless he maybe hits 40 plus homers and event then I am not so sure. He also is
bad baserunner. He is fast but has bad baseball sense. Nice BA I grant you but in my view this is outweighed by his poor fielding.
"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry
Me either Jim
by Doggie Stalker on Oct 21, 2009 11:34 PM CDT up reply actions 7 recs
Double Rec'd
Inspector #23 certifies that the above post is sarcasm free, most certainly not what she said, and chock full of intangibles, although regressing to the intangible mean, as you'd expect.
by DGU on Oct 22, 2009 8:09 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Couldn't agree more...
…and I would love to see the Cubs upgrade their defense up the middle, but it may not be feasable without raising the payroll beyond what Rickett’s would want to do in his first year.
I am going to guess that the 2010 roster looks very similar to what you saw in 2009 (only minor changes). The 2010 version of the Cubs will need to be successful from certain guys playing better, some guys staying healthy and others hopefully maintaining their current production.
IMO, spending top dollar on a hitting coach is not a signal that Rickett’s is going to spend freely on payroll his first year, but is more a signal they need the hitters they already have to get better.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Oct 22, 2009 9:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
As is my solemn duty...
…I must point out that there are at least two very comprehensive, well-regarded defensive measuring systems that disagree with your statement that Ryan Theriot is a “bad fielding SS.” I would agree that he’s not what one would call a “strong baserunner.”
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 22, 2009 10:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
While I admit I am not a stat head anyway
this is a case of stats just being wrong as in do you want to believe the stats or your lying eyes. You simply can not watch Theriot on a daily basis and see him as anything but below average. I don’t know how the stats
take into account his double clutch and limited range. I am sure they try but somehow it just does not work. Didn’t the same stats say Soriano was among the best defensive LF in the NL up till this year when I am guessing even they couldn’t save him.
I think the Cubs options of replacing him are VERY limited but I also think pitchers feel a knot in their stomach
when they go out and see him beyond them.
"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry
Me either Jim
by Doggie Stalker on Oct 22, 2009 11:36 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, it's ironic you use the term "lying eyes"...
…as that’s often the problem when it comes to judging a player’s defense. Look, I’m not saying Ryan Theriot is the second coming of Alan Trammel (waitaminute…), but if he was as bad as so many Cubs fans seem to believe, the team would have likely lost a few more games over the past three years (winning seasons, all) and I don’t think Lou would’ve put up with him. He didn’t hit that well in ’07 or ’09.
You can look for yourself right here how Theriot stacked up range-wise in 2009 with other qualifying starting NL shortstops. It’s surprising, I know! I see Theriot’s apparent lack of range, too. I see his double-clutching and often weak-looking throws to DLee, too. Or do I?
What I like to point out is the people who compile/calculate these metrics aren’t sitting in the stands (or on their couches) enjoying the game with a cold one. (OK, maybe they’re ‘on their couches.) They’re watching (and recording) every single play of every single inning of every single game. And when all that data is compiled, somehow or another, Ryan Theriot is simply not as bad defensively as our eyes tell us.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 22, 2009 11:52 AM CDT up reply actions 4 recs
dcd, you're right about the defense of the stat, although
we do need the qualification that defensive stats are still getting their legs under them. As far as I understand it, a stat like UZR can be thrown off if the player in question takes an excessive number of the popups, calling off other players. I’d be interested in a further, in-depth analysis of Theriot’s range, because it has never looked good to my eyes.
That said, Bob Brenly watches more games than I do and he touts Theriot’s defense. So there are people watching who like what they see and know what they’re talking about.
Inspector #23 certifies that the above post is sarcasm free, most certainly not what she said, and chock full of intangibles, although regressing to the intangible mean, as you'd expect.
by DGU on Oct 22, 2009 12:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, I realize the defensive metrics aren't perfect...
…but, in the case of both UZR and RZR, we have a pretty large sample size of innings to draw from at this point. After all, Theriot has now played almost three full seasons at the position. And, like I said, I’ve come to take these systems fairly seriously because they’re grading every single play – something very few, if any, fans truly do.
Something Bruce Miles has mentioned is that Theriot does seem to make all (or almost all) of the “routine” plays – which is probably more than half the battle when it comes to being a decent major league shortstop. Granted, DLee probably plays a certain role in this.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 22, 2009 12:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't buy the Theriot makes all the routine plays
because I’ve seen him miss plays. If we go to the generally less useful fielding % stat, he’s looking fairly average there.
I’m not dogmatic on fielding either way.
Inspector #23 certifies that the above post is sarcasm free, most certainly not what she said, and chock full of intangibles, although regressing to the intangible mean, as you'd expect.
by DGU on Oct 22, 2009 12:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, "all" is obviously an overstatement.
But even an average major league shortstop is still, well, a major league shortstop – something many fans refuse to give Theriot credit for.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 22, 2009 12:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't either...
…and to top it off, he has a below average arm and he tends to double clutch on top of that.
The arm strength wouldn’t be such a big deal if he got rid of the ball quickly, but he is a double whammy – weak arm, slow release. That’s not a good combination for a SS, even if that guy had terrific hands and good range.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Oct 22, 2009 1:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe I just don't get how the data is compiled
buy my lying eyes see al the double clutches and miscues. Since again the same stats rated Soriano as top defensive LF ( again I am assuming not this year but last year would be bad enough) I have trouble taking them seriously. Maybe the guys going over every play are related to C.B Bucknor Batting and pitching stats can be less than perfect but fielding stats are questionable at best.
I do actually like Theriot and I a don’t see how the Cubs can afford to get a better SS until Castro is ready or they can afford more payroll but he is not a good fielding SS.
"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry
Me either Jim
by Doggie Stalker on Oct 22, 2009 12:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
My guess is, like many of us...
…your eyes REMEMBER all of the double-clutches and miscues while conveniently filing away the many, many routine plays Theriot makes. Again, this is why I’ve taken such an interest in defensive stats – because they give you the total picture (or at least a total picture, I know they’re not perfect).
And about Soriano, his high defensive ranking came about mostly because UZR ranked him as the best left fielder during a certain period. (I want to say it was between 2006-2008.) This is because UZR measures runs saved and Soriano made a ton of outfield assists and holds during that time – literally saving runs.
This may have swung things a little too much in his favor, though I believe UZR does factor in range as well. He did have an awful 2009 UZR-wise, but this could mean he simply had an awful year – not that the defensive measures were inaccurate in previous years.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 22, 2009 12:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Dlee is one more controversial figure for UZR
where he ranks out fairly average despite his reputation. This has been discussed before, and my general feeling is that Lee is a picking machine, something I think UZR underrates for 1B.
Inspector #23 certifies that the above post is sarcasm free, most certainly not what she said, and chock full of intangibles, although regressing to the intangible mean, as you'd expect.
by DGU on Oct 22, 2009 12:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, I wonder about that, too.
I really should cough up the cash and buy The Fielding Bible II, as I think John Dewan goes into detailed explanations there. I believe he comments specifically on Ryan Theriot, too.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 22, 2009 1:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ah, good advertisement.
I like what they’re doing in the Fielding Bible crowd.
Inspector #23 certifies that the above post is sarcasm free, most certainly not what she said, and chock full of intangibles, although regressing to the intangible mean, as you'd expect.
by DGU on Oct 22, 2009 1:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I should get a percentage on that comment, shouldn't I?
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 22, 2009 2:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not if I buy it used.
Inspector #23 certifies that the above post is sarcasm free, most certainly not what she said, and chock full of intangibles, although regressing to the intangible mean, as you'd expect.
by DGU on Oct 22, 2009 2:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
How can someone be both
the most overrated and underrated at the same time?
I think Theriot is the most underrated interviewee in the league.
Inspector #23 certifies that the above post is sarcasm free, most certainly not what she said, and chock full of intangibles, although regressing to the intangible mean, as you'd expect.
by DGU on Oct 22, 2009 8:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Marmol's control was much improved once he was made closer
So I disagree with point six — at least, at this point.
by elgato on Oct 22, 2009 7:35 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
True...
…but this could change as the wind blows.
Marmol is not any different than a lot of other short relievers that have dominating stuff; they can go from being unhittable, to looking like they couldn’t get my mother out. Hopefully, he has found some stable ground and limits the time that he struggles.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Oct 22, 2009 9:10 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I can see that
My point is that Marmol is likely our closer next year.
by elgato on Oct 22, 2009 9:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes he is!
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Oct 22, 2009 9:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
But, Matt, buddy...that's not what you're suggesting in your Fanpost above.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 22, 2009 10:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Its gonna be a long off season
I prefer to discuss actual rumors that are possibilities.
"There are no curses here...Games are won and lost on the baseball field" - Lou Piniella
by El Borto on Oct 21, 2009 7:07 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
3rd base
Ramirez misses time every year and this past year his injury was the start of the team’s decline. Can we please get someone on this dream roster who can play third base when Rami goes down? Baker doesn’ count if you have him penciled in as the starting second baseman. Not having a back up at third base makes all of you general managers just as bad as Hendry was this year.
by PalatineRol on Oct 21, 2009 7:13 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Baker counts if you have a valid 2B backup.
Inspector #23 certifies that the above post is sarcasm free, most certainly not what she said, and chock full of intangibles, although regressing to the intangible mean, as you'd expect.
by DGU on Oct 21, 2009 8:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
...which the Cubs should have...
…in Andres Blanco (backing up both SS and 2B), Mike Fontenot (assuming he remains on the team) or, gulp – God save us, Aaron Miles (if Hendry can’t trade him and doesn’t release him).
Jeff Baker should absolutely be looked at as the 3B backup – as well as 2B and RF.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 22, 2009 10:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm not sure I buy into Andres Blanco.
Inspector #23 certifies that the above post is sarcasm free, most certainly not what she said, and chock full of intangibles, although regressing to the intangible mean, as you'd expect.
by DGU on Oct 22, 2009 10:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Why?
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Oct 22, 2009 10:53 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
.303 OBP MLB 2009
.327 OBP AAA 2008
Defense counts, but in Blanco’s case, it has to count for everything.
Inspector #23 certifies that the above post is sarcasm free, most certainly not what she said, and chock full of intangibles, although regressing to the intangible mean, as you'd expect.
by DGU on Oct 22, 2009 12:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Those really aren't bad numbers for a backup infielder...
… who plays defense as well as Blanco does.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Oct 22, 2009 1:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
They're bad numbers no matter what defense he plays.
The question is whether or not he really plays defense well enough to cover for it, and the further answer is “No he certainly does not if Lou plays him at 2B and not SS when he plays him.”
I’m not against Blanco; I’m just not convinced he’s the answer with our roster and manager.
Inspector #23 certifies that the above post is sarcasm free, most certainly not what she said, and chock full of intangibles, although regressing to the intangible mean, as you'd expect.
by DGU on Oct 22, 2009 1:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Still better than Miles
I maintain that, if given a full season, Blanco would hit enough to justify keeping him on a roster because of his phenominal defense. He’s not the guy you want to put up there as a pinch hitter or anything.
by Mulhollandmania on Oct 22, 2009 5:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes, they are.
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 22, 2009 2:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not even as a backup middle infielder?
He appears ideal for that role.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 22, 2009 10:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
To me, he appears ideal
as a SS you stash at AAA to be a backup for a better backup.
Inspector #23 certifies that the above post is sarcasm free, most certainly not what she said, and chock full of intangibles, although regressing to the intangible mean, as you'd expect.
by DGU on Oct 22, 2009 12:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, hey, if Hendry can find...
…a better-hitting middle-infield backup, I’m all ears.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 22, 2009 12:51 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Unfortunately
Hendry may still feel he already has that if – I hesitate to say it – Aaron Miles is healthy.
Inspector #23 certifies that the above post is sarcasm free, most certainly not what she said, and chock full of intangibles, although regressing to the intangible mean, as you'd expect.
by DGU on Oct 22, 2009 12:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If Jim Hendry thinks Aaron Miles can play shortstop...
…Tom Ricketts should relieve him of his duties immediately. Hendry, I mean. No, wait, both Hendry and Miles.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 22, 2009 12:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hendry should be gone as soon as Ricketts takes control
Hendry made a huge mess this offseason, and other GM’s have been fired for less. Get someone in here who won’t blow up 97 win teams and replace winning players with guys like Bradley, Vizcaino, Miles, and Gregg. I won’t hold my breath though…
by TheGrinch13 on Oct 25, 2009 11:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That appears unlikely to happen.
I think Jimbo has earned a chance to redeem himself this off-season. If he continues to overvalue Aaron Miles, however, I could be persuaded otherwise.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 26, 2009 9:22 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think a guy that helped us two straight playoff appearances
deserves a second chance.
Obviously this season didn’t work out at for Hendry, but I honestly believe that if he had done nothing and we finished this season the same way, there would be many whining and complaining that Hendry should have done something in the offseason.
"This season has been everything most of us feared it would be[.]"
Mike Rutherford, Card Chronicle
http://www.cardchronicle.com/
by Villeslgr on Oct 27, 2009 10:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes, he is.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 23, 2009 11:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
none were noted
You are correct but I didn’t see any other middle infielders except Fontenot listed. And sorry, the National League caught up to him this past year and he couldn’t adjust.
When Ramirez is out of the lineup we have got to have someone who can step in and give some production.
by PalatineRol on Oct 21, 2009 11:07 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Bruce Levine ...
said this week that he thinks Fontenot is gone.
by elgato on Oct 22, 2009 7:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Fontenot does have trade value...
… despite his mediocre-to-poor 2009. He could be part of a package.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Oct 22, 2009 8:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I do hope for Mike's sake
that he gets another shot to be a mostly-full-time 2B, starting against only RHP and not having to learn a new position. It was a tough year for him to try and become a full-time player.
Inspector #23 certifies that the above post is sarcasm free, most certainly not what she said, and chock full of intangibles, although regressing to the intangible mean, as you'd expect.
by DGU on Oct 22, 2009 8:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
other players have succeeded when presented with such obstacles
Our own Ryan Theriot was the 25th man in 2007 before becoming the full-time shortstop. Now, Theriot is kind of a divisive figure among Cubs fans, but the point is that he was able to make the adjustment — and parlayed it into a full-time job.
It can be done, and the fact that Fontenot was presented with different challenges than he expected in March is not much of a defense, IMO.
by elgato on Oct 22, 2009 9:25 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Theriot wasn't really much more successful as a hitter in 2007 than Fontenot was in 2009
Fontenot’s ‘09 OPS+ is two points higher than Theriot’s ’07 OPS+.
The reason you think Theriot was a success and Fontenot a failure is because Theriot works harder than any man in baseball to pad his reputation.
Inspector #23 certifies that the above post is sarcasm free, most certainly not what she said, and chock full of intangibles, although regressing to the intangible mean, as you'd expect.
by DGU on Oct 22, 2009 9:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Explain what you mean in your second statement
Also, I’d argue that someone who can play short — even at Theriot’s level — doesn’t have to have the stats of someone who plays a less demanding position. Do you disagree?
by elgato on Oct 22, 2009 9:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Some explanations
1) Theriot has worked hard to get sports media and coaches behind him; it shows in his coverage and in the amount of time he gives doing interviews. It shows in articles constantly calling him
“underrated.” It shows in the yearly suggestions, which are absurd, by sports writers and coaches that he should be an All-Star. He is covered in an extremely positive way. That doesn’t just happen. He has worked to make it happen. He’s smart to work this hard. He is earning himself a lot of money by the work he puts in off the field before the microphone.
2) In general, SS is harder and a player who hits .280/.350/.400 at SS is more valuable than a player at any other position save C who hits .280/.350/.400. But 2B is a lot closer to SS than any other position. And…
3) Your argument was that Theriot had to overcome the same challenges that Mike had to overcome. In this case, Ryan was shifting from 2B to SS, a position he had played before. Mike was shifting form 2B to 3B, a position that is easier than SS, but not a position he had played before. Additionally, Theriot was in a position where successful play could earn him a starting job, where he had nothing to lose and everything to gain. Fontenot, on the other hand, was just getting that starting job chance, and now was in danger of losing it to other 2Bs playing his position. He had little to gain personally at 3B, and a lot to lose.
Inspector #23 certifies that the above post is sarcasm free, most certainly not what she said, and chock full of intangibles, although regressing to the intangible mean, as you'd expect.
by DGU on Oct 22, 2009 9:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
response
1) I’d like to see statistics that show how Theriot works harder than any man in baseball (your words) to pad his reputation. As much as I love Mark DeRosa, I’d say he works as hard or harder than Theriot.
2) 2B is closer to SS than any other position. But most guys who can no longer hack it at 2B don’t end up playing SS. They go to third, the outfield, or maybe first.
3) I’ll grant you that Theriot had more experience at short than Fontenot had at third. But I don’t buy the point about Fontenot “just getting that starting job chance, and now was in danger of losing it to other 2Bs playing his position.”
So he couldn’t hit when he was playing third because he was worried that slugger Aaron Miles would outperform him and take the starting job when Aramis got back? C’mon. And if you’re talking about Jeff Baker, Fontenot had about two months between Aramis’ injury and the Baker trade, IIRC.
The best defense of Fontenot, IMO, is that the Ramirez injury forced him to hit against lefties, which he was not really supposed to do.
by elgato on Oct 22, 2009 9:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
LOL
1) I’m arguing this from a scouting standpoint. :)
2) Sure.
3) I think Fontenot’s situation was mildly more difficult and quite a bit because of, as you say, needing to face LHP. But it’s not the main point. The point is that Theriot did not succeed with the bat in 2007 any more than Fontenot did in 2009; yet I think most Cub fans would agree with your recollection of Theriot as a success story and Fontenot as a failure story. That’s all about how things are reported and about the image of these players as cared for by our media shepherds.
Inspector #23 certifies that the above post is sarcasm free, most certainly not what she said, and chock full of intangibles, although regressing to the intangible mean, as you'd expect.
by DGU on Oct 22, 2009 10:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'll stand by the point I made earlier
Theriot took over a more difficult defensive position, played every day (after replacing Izturis) and still hit a little better than Fontenot did in 2009. Therefore, I would characterize Theriot’s 2007 as a success and Fontenot’s 2009 as a failure. I’d also like to see Theriot’s numbers as a starter compared with his time as a bench player, but whatever — that might actually hurt my argument.
by elgato on Oct 22, 2009 10:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
To clarify
Theriot hit .266/.326/.346 for an OPS+ of 72.
Fontenot hit .236/.301/.377 for an OPS+ of 74.
If you value OPS+, then Fontenot hit better. If you value OBP more than SLG (and I do) then Theriot hit a smidge better, but not so much that there’s really any difference.
And yet you are happy to call one a failure and the other a success? I cannot see how this is based on the stats.
Inspector #23 certifies that the above post is sarcasm free, most certainly not what she said, and chock full of intangibles, although regressing to the intangible mean, as you'd expect.
by DGU on Oct 22, 2009 10:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Theriot's 2007 numbers, at short ...
were acceptable. He doesn’t have to hit as well if he plays a more demanding defensive position — as I said earlier.
by elgato on Oct 22, 2009 11:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
i really dont buy into that "fontenot was bad because he had to learn 3b" argument
his numbers in april werent that pretty either
"hey
by jesus christos on Oct 22, 2009 3:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No, but his numbers were bad because he had to play every day.
I believe it’s safe to assume Fontenot’s numbers would have looked better if he had a platoon partner to face LHP. Not that the Cubs would have been better off by having Miles play the other half, but Fontenot would have looked better.
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Oct 22, 2009 3:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I thought this too, but I just checked out the numbers ...
Fontenot hit .236, with an OBP of .301 and a slugging percentage of .377 in 2009. Out of 377 at-bats, 325 came against right-handers. In those 325 at-bats, Fontenot hit .240/.301//.388 — in other words, only slightly better.
In 2008, in 243 at-bats, he hit .305/.395/.514 — with decent numbers in limited at-bats against lefties.
Fontenot had a very, very disappointing year. I’m pretty tired of people making excuses for him, frankly.
by elgato on Oct 22, 2009 4:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's no certain thing.
I think it would be the combo of learning 3B, of playing against both LHP and RHP, etc.
But he could also just have been really lucky in 2008.
Inspector #23 certifies that the above post is sarcasm free, most certainly not what she said, and chock full of intangibles, although regressing to the intangible mean, as you'd expect.
by DGU on Oct 22, 2009 4:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
im guessing the latter is correct
unless fontenot is a really really really really late bloomer
"hey
by jesus christos on Oct 22, 2009 6:46 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I would agree...
…I think they have seen what they need to see here.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Oct 22, 2009 9:12 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Can you post a link for this - or did he say this on the radio?
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 22, 2009 10:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
it was in a chat he did ...
http://espn.go.com/chicago/chat?id=28977
“I do not expect Fontenot back with the Cubs”
by elgato on Oct 22, 2009 11:02 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thanks.
It’s hard for me to take Levine too seriously – especially when he implies the Cubs could trade Soriano and he calls Starlin Castro “Winston.” But interesting stuff nonetheless.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 22, 2009 11:15 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I actually think Levine's a pretty good reporter
He’s very radio — in that he’s a little faster and looser with speculation. But I think he does a good job and doesn’t usually say anything DEFINITIVE that ends up being crap.
Also, Starlin is a much cooler name than Winston. Unless you’re a Ghostbuster.
by elgato on Oct 22, 2009 11:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
70's reference coming up.
I hope that when Starlin Castro makes the majors, we nickname him “Vocal Band”.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Oct 22, 2009 12:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
♪♫ Sky rockets in flight...BOWWWWWWWWWW...afternoon delight ♪♫
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 22, 2009 12:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I prefer
“El Presidente.”
"Criticism may not be agreeable, but it is necessary. It fulfills the same function as pain in the human body. It calls attention to an unhealthy state of things." ~Winston Churchill
by Goodie1969 on Oct 22, 2009 2:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The obvious
The obvious solution to all of this infield mess is to go get Figgins. He should be the Cubs first priority. Let him start at 2nd. He can play 3rd if Ramy gets hurt. You can keep Baker and Fontenot to cover 2B although there is still a hole at SS if Theriot gets hurt. Thats when you bring up Blanco or the kid Castro.
by matt_g3 on Oct 26, 2009 5:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
no
the obvious answer is to sign chone derosa
"hey
by jesus christos on Oct 26, 2009 7:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Is this your other account, Mr. Geiger?
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 26, 2009 7:38 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's not, but...
… this “matt” is wrong, too. No on Figgins.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Oct 27, 2009 8:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
here is hoping
Castro gets a REAL chance to make the team as a starting shortstop. Move Theroit to second. Baker as super utility, teach him outfield and train him to sign Derosa’s name.
Goodbye little Babe Ruth, and relase Miles and be glad no one tried to beat up Jim.
by Kchance on Oct 22, 2009 9:20 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Castro will be 20 years old next March.
He’s at least another year away from being major-league ready. He has played 31 games above A-ball. Do you want another Gary Scott on your hands?
Leave Castro in the minor leagues in 2010 — maybe he gets a September callup.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Oct 22, 2009 10:01 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed - Castro appears to be turning into a pretty exciting player.
But let’s not rush things.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 22, 2009 10:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
+1
Meanwhile, I put Theriot in the Marmol category — flawed but workable. Especially given our other issues.
by elgato on Oct 22, 2009 11:13 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 22, 2009 11:15 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Do you really, really think that Castro's abilty level is on par
with Gary Scott’s? If you do, that says one thing. If you don’t, well, I guess that says another.
"Enough foreplay- let's get crackin'"- Fred Garvin
by davidalanu on Oct 22, 2009 5:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Obviously, Castro is a better player.
But that still doesn’t mean you rush him to the majors at 19.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Oct 22, 2009 6:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Take a deep breath
Castro is still a teenager who has barely played as high as AA. Thinking he could start in 2010 is over the top. Maybe 2011.
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 22, 2009 4:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And Barry Bonds signs with the Cubs!
World Series 2010!
Eamus Catuli! AC0164101
by Matt Geiger on Oct 22, 2009 9:49 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I'm hoping that you're kidding.
A 46-year-old who hasn’t played in three years? Seriously?
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Oct 23, 2009 8:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Now you're just being silly.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 23, 2009 11:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Matt Murton To St.Louis
Eamus Catuli! AC0164101
by Matt Geiger on Oct 22, 2009 10:01 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
The image failed.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 23, 2009 11:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No Figgins or Hawpe, maybe Sheets
Figgins has already said that he wants to go back to the Angels. The only way that he’ll end up with the Cubs is if the Angels don’t want him and the Yankees don’t either. If you hear him saying anything about wanting to come to the Cubs it’s only to drive up his salary with those other teams.
An article from Denver the other day said that the Rockies are not interested in trading Hawpe for any reason, so forget that one as well. He’d be good in RF, but I don’t think it’s going to happen.
Sheets is an intriguing idea, but I think he’s going to Texas where he’d be able to reunite with Mike Maddux. I think he’s miffed at the way the Brewers treated him last year and he’s ready for a fresh start somewhere else. I’d like to see him come to the Cubs, but I don’t think it’ll happen.
I’m glad to see that you kept Fox on the roster, however. I keep hearing lame brains say that we should trade him somewhere where he can get more at bats and be a DH. Why should we help another team by giving him away for nothing? Go ahead and trade him, and then watch him hit 30HR for someone else. It’s ridiculous that he didn’t play more this year than he did under Piniella, while guys like Scales, Blanco, Fontenot, and Freel got all of his at bats.
by TheGrinch13 on Oct 25, 2009 11:42 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
. Why should we help another team by giving him away for nothing? Go ahead and trade him, and then watch him hit 30HR for someone else. It’s ridiculous that he didn’t play more this year than he did under Piniella, while guys like Scales, Blanco, Fontenot, and Freel got all of his at bats.
nevermind the fact that he cant hit breaking balls and you would make a great point
"hey
by jesus christos on Oct 25, 2009 12:47 PM CDT up reply actions 2 recs
or the fact that he doesn't have a place to play every day on the Cubs ...
and that no one is suggesting giving him away.
by elgato on Oct 25, 2009 1:15 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Hate to tell you
Remember the grand slam he hit this season? Yep, it was a breaking ball. Go to the top plays archive on cubs.com if you doubt what I’m saying. He should be kept for when Soriano or Ramirez inevitably goes down next year, so that we don’t have another Bobby Scales playing 3B instead of someone who could actually hit the ball out of the infield.
by TheGrinch13 on Nov 2, 2009 8:15 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
♪♫ You're overreacting, Mr. Grinch... ♪♫
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 26, 2009 9:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
What About
Zambranoto the Orioles for Nolan Reimbold???.
The Orioles need a “leader” for their young pitching staff. They have a logjam of young skilled outfielders. Reimbold has nice power and a good bat and can play the position. This would be a win – win for both teams.
by frustratedfan on Oct 26, 2009 11:14 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
...
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 26, 2009 1:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think Z has a NT-ETTFBO clause in his contract
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Oct 26, 2009 2:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No Trade Clause
Z may well have such a clause (in fact I would be shocked if he did not) but that does not mean that the trade cannot be made, only that the trade may require the Orioles to pony up some additional things for Z. If the No Trade can work, it seems like a good trade. The O’s have lots of good young pitchers. They need a stable vet at the top to head the rotation. The O’s also have 4 real good young OF (5 if Pie actually has figured it out).
It seems like a good trade. The Cubs get rid of a very talented player that has worn out his welcome but is a youngish Top of the Rotation veteran. The Cubs get a young talented OF with power. The O’s add the top of the rotation veteran that they need on their team and the cost is a player at a position where they have a surplus of players. (Scott, Markakis and Jones will be left…)
by frustratedfan on Oct 27, 2009 9:19 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
You're seriously suggesting that Carlos Zambrano...
…is worth only one (1) largely unproven 26-year-old outfielder? Reimhold did put up decent numbers this year, but he appears to be a LF/DH type. He started only one game for the O’s in right field. Does he have the range to play center? Because that’s where I’d prefer Hendry to focus on for the time being.
Also, what type of additional things could the Orioles pony up for Big Z that would make him want to up and move his family to Baltimore to play for a team mired at the bottom of the toughest division in baseball? Free crabcakes?
I really don’t think Carlos has worn out his welcome with the Cubs. He had a rough season and, yeah, the increasing frequency of his injuries is troubling. But, c’mon, surely we can do a lot better than this for a pitcher of Z’s caliber.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 27, 2009 9:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, I mean
I think we could even get Felix Pie for Z.
Inspector #23 certifies that the above post is sarcasm free, most certainly not what she said, and chock full of intangibles, although regressing to the intangible mean, as you'd expect.
by DGU on Oct 27, 2009 10:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Corey Patterson too
"That pitch wasn’t down and in, that pitch was down and up." Tim McCarver
by wrigleyrocker12 on Oct 27, 2009 6:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Chris Coste available
I know we were looking at him last year, but I think the Cubs will just stick with Hill as backup after his breakout season
by Adam U on Oct 27, 2009 7:53 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Here's my 2010 roster
1B Derrek Lee
2B Mark DeRosa (free agent)
3B Aramis Ramirez
SS Ryan Theriot
LF Alfonso Soriano
CF Aaron Rowand (trade)
RF Adam Dunn (trade)
C Geovany Soto
SP Ted Lilly
SP Carlos Zambrano
SP Ryan Dempster
SP Randy Wells
SP Ben Sheets (free agent)
BENCH Jake Fox
BENCH Jeff Baker
BENCH Micah Hoffpauir
BENCH Mike Fontenot
BENCH Reed Johnson
BENCH Kosuke Fukudome
RP Sean Marshall
RP Jeff Samardzija
RP John Gaub
RP Angel Guzman
RP Carlos Marmol
RP Kerry Wood (trade)
Line-Up:
Theriot SS
Mark DeRosa 2B
Aramis Ramirez 3B
Adam Dunn RF
Derrek Lee 1B
Aaron Rowand CF
Alfonso Soriano LF
Geovany Soto C
This team would win the NL Central again, hands down, and IS possible, no matter what the whiners on this board say. Bring back the leadership, the professionals, and the ones who took pride in being Cubs and let them lead the team into the playoffs.
by TheGrinch13 on Nov 2, 2009 8:48 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Adam Dunn
I’d rather have Bradley. As for Kerry Wood, I wouldn’t be surprised if he plays in AAA for some other team besides the Cubs. Hopefully DeRosa comes back but probably not.
Eamus Catuli! AC0164101
by Matt Geiger on Nov 2, 2009 9:26 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, ok
Milton Bradley: 124 games, 101 hits, 17 doubles, .257 BA, .378 OBP, .397 SLG, 12 HR, 40 RBI.
Adam Dunn: 159 games, 146 hits, 29 doubles, .267 BA, .398 OBP, .529 SLG, 38 HR, 108 RBI.
Yeah…I’d rather have Milton Bradley too…
by TheGrinch13 on Nov 4, 2009 4:02 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
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