Sneak Preview Of Tom Ricketts' First Comments As Cubs Owner
by Al on Oct 30, 2009 9:57 AM CDT
in News
117 comments
I'm off to Wrigley Field shortly, but wanted to share with you several quotes that I just received in an email from NPR -- there is going to be a full-length interview with Tom Ricketts on NPR News' Weekend Edition tomorrow at 9 am CDT.
You can find out more here and below the fold.
I'll have a full story posted late this afternoon after the news conference, which can be seen live on CSN Chicago at 11 am CDT. Some of the questions you wanted me to ask are at least partly answered in the quotes he gave NPR.
On why he wants Piniella to stay on as manager, Ricketts says: "We think Lou is one of the best managers in baseball. He has an option to return next year, and from what I understand, I think he is planning to."
Asked about the future of Wrigley Field, he states: "First of all, we want this to be the best franchise in baseball, and you can’t be a world-class franchise and have third-class facilities." He goes on to say that "there is land that is just adjacent to the stadium, along Clark Street, that the team owns and we intend to develop that into a part of the stadium, that will give fans more options on game day, but as importantly free up space inside of the stadium to build in some of the clubhouse functionality that other teams enjoy."
Even if park improvements cause higher ticket prices, Ricketts says one thing fans "should keep in mind is that with family ownership now, we intend to reinvest all the profits that we can get on the team and put that back into preserving Wrigley Field and to putting a better team on the field. So it's not like it's going away to some kind of corporation and never will be seen again."
On how he wants to build the team, Ricketts says: "Undoubtedly the way to build the long-term winner is through player development. You got to draft the right people and you got to have scouts and coaches that are coordinated and working together to turn the right players into real producers at the major league level. Free agency, I think, is something you look at when you got a hole to fill or when you haven’t been able to produce a player from your own system. The real key for consistent performance and trying to win the division every single year is developing our own players."
Asked whether any other sports franchise is a model for the Cubs, he responds: "I think obviously what they've done with Fenway is a good thing for us to look at in terms of how to improve the stadium. Because we really do want to preserve and keep improving the special experience that Wrigley Field is. On the field we also wouldn’t mind copying the Red Sox. I think it's time for the team to push forward and to win a World Series."
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Excellent.
If he can follow along with what he’s said in this interview, then the Cubs appear to be in the right hands moving forward.
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 30, 2009 10:10 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
He sounds like a good guy, feeling like we are in good hands.
Go Cubs. Go Irish.
"I was in awe every time I walked on to the field." -- Ryne Sandberg
"No player in baseball history worked harder, suffered more, or did it better than Andre Dawson. He's the best I've ever seen." -- Ryno
by ctinsley12bsu on Oct 30, 2009 10:23 AM CDT via mobile reply actions 0 recs
He's 5 for 5 with those remarks as far as I'm concerned - especially this one:
There is land that is just adjacent to the stadium, along Clark Street, that the team owns and we intend to develop that into a part of the stadium, that will give fans more options on game day, but as importantly free up space inside of the stadium to build in some of the clubhouse functionality that other teams enjoy.
Aw, hell yeah. I happen to be working from home this morning, so I’m looking forward to watching the press conference.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 30, 2009 10:27 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
That's nice...
… but I much prefer this quote:
On how he wants to build the team, Ricketts says: “Undoubtedly the way to build the long-term winner is through player development. You got to draft the right people and you got to have scouts and coaches that are coordinated and working together to turn the right players into real producers at the major league level. Free agency, I think, is something you look at when you got a hole to fill or when you haven’t been able to produce a player from your own system. The real key for consistent performance and trying to win the division every single year is developing our own players.”
by Flatley on Oct 30, 2009 10:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, that one is good, too - in the long-term.
From a more short-term perspective, I’d like to see the players on the team in the near future have better facilities to support their play on the field.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 30, 2009 10:36 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No reason they can't both happen simultaneously.
I’m just saying that the team and club will be more positively impacted by a renewed focus on player development and scouting. Equipment is all well and good, but I’d appreciate no longer having to feel dread when I hear the opposing pitcher is making his major league debut.
by Flatley on Oct 30, 2009 10:39 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I like the fact that he denies curses immediately
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 30, 2009 10:53 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Here's a link to the Crain Chicago Business story
by chilango2 on Oct 30, 2009 10:28 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
The best news of all is Ricketts
plans to fix the bathrooms for next season! Sounds fabulous to me!
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Oct 30, 2009 10:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You mean Restrooms
Although I suppose you could take some kind of bath in the troughs.
"Ask Dad. He'll know. And on the off chance he doesn't, he'll make something up"
by StevenABQ on Oct 30, 2009 12:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
There is no word in the English language...
… to describe how horribly, horribly disgusting that is.
"I see great things in baseball. It's our game - the American game." - Walt Whitman
by hip2bsquare on Oct 30, 2009 1:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't go there to rest either ;)
"I feel sorry for people who don't drink. When they wake up in the morning, that's as good as they're going to feel all day." ~ Frank Sinatra
by DMCub on Oct 30, 2009 1:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
For live streaming of the press conference
here is the link to WGN’s coverage.
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 30, 2009 10:31 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Um he does say ticket prices will INCREASE next season.
So much for our hopes that they would not.
"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry
Me either Jim
by Doggie Stalker on Oct 30, 2009 10:34 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
The good news is the exorbitant increases appear to be in the past.
According to the Crain’s article, ticket prices will go up in the future about the same as inflation which sounds reasonable.
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Oct 30, 2009 10:39 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not that I'm complaining about Ricketts...
but for what it’s worth, based off the Consumer Price Index (CPI-U), we’ve actually had deflation since March. (See here). Of course, it’s very possible that with all of the stimulus spending, we’re in for horrible inflation in the not too distant future anyway…
(And anyway it’s more outragous that the cost of University admission continues to skyrocket irrespective of inflation than the fact that Cubs tickets might go up slightly. So I’m not complaining…)
by CubsWin!Oregon on Oct 30, 2009 2:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Actually, just for accuracy's sake I should probably amend that...
That website might be listing the marginal difference of month to month, though I’m not really sure. the WSJ lists the CPI in August as 0.1%, so now I don’t know what to think. Other than I think if we aren’t inflationary right now, we will soon be…
(I realize this all neither here no there…just wanted to correct myself.) :)
by CubsWin!Oregon on Oct 30, 2009 3:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If additional profits are reinvested in the team and park then I can live with that.
It’s not the best time to raise ticket prices, obviously, but if it helps build the triangle building and upgrade Wrigley Field, I won’t complain.
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 30, 2009 10:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Obviously depends on the amount
but being unemployed and waiting for my $5,000 plus bill is not the best feeling. To be fair I sell off a lot of them since I don’t live in Chicago I only use a small portion ( ( I also sit in the bleachers) . Anyway the Cubs have me hooked. I would rather sleep in the streets and go without health insurance than give up my season tickets.
"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry
Me either Jim
by Doggie Stalker on Oct 30, 2009 10:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
My family shares the same sentiment.
And if, as mentioned above, ticket costs rise only with the cost of inflation, I can handle that.
I think as long as Cubs fans can see tangible results of the ticket increase – nicer facilities for players/fans, triangle building, better team, etc., then they can live with it. When ticket prices go up without any of that happening, then I think there will be major issues.
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 30, 2009 10:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sounds Like Crane Kenney
Not necessarily good or bad, but I don’t think anything there is really breaking new ground.
by 08Cubs on Oct 30, 2009 10:42 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Also from the NPR article:
There is no curse, there is no Billy Goat, there is none of that stuff. Let’s move on. We’re one of the best teams in baseball; we will be the best team in baseball going forward.
Amen.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 30, 2009 10:53 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Ah, simulatneous
Yeah, I liked that one a lot.
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 30, 2009 10:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
simulatneous?
simulation, stimulation, igneous, gelatinous?
"When you're going through hell, keep going." - Winston Churchill
by vonde6 on Oct 30, 2009 11:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
something like that
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 30, 2009 11:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm assuming somebody will post what is being said
but if nobody was planning on doing it, I would appreciate somebody doing it. Stuck in class right now.
Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.
by nji232 on Oct 30, 2009 10:58 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Ricketts
He is a good man. My Dad has had indirect dealings with him. He is a good man and runs a solid organization from everything my Dad has heard.
My uncle in law has had more direct dealings with him and said he is trustworthy and again a good man.
Thank you to all who have offered prayers when I made mention. My nephew Nathan Allan Cubtoseriesby100 was born on Thursday and at his size starts on the O line fot the Bears; 9 lbs 10 ounces and 22 inches!
by cubstoseriesby100 on Oct 30, 2009 10:58 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
To add
to that, when I was stationed at Offutt AFB near Omaha my wife worked for Ameritrade. The only bad things she had to say about working there revolved around the customers :) Seriously, she never once complained about working there, in fact that was one of her favorite jobs. Employees were treated well and working conditions were good. As to what the family is saying, they are hitting all the right buttons and saying the right things as any new owner should and would, but the fact that the entire family is involved and they plan to keep the team in the family for a long time and plan on re-investing profit into the team and facilities really makes me hopeful for the future.
"There is no tomorrow for you, and that makes you very dangerous people."--Jimmy McGinty (Gene Hackman) The Replacements
Time is an illusion--lunch time doubly so.
by snowyman28 on Oct 30, 2009 2:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Another thing
Another thing is that I think from all I have read is that the baseball people will run the baseball side of the organization with Ricketts running the business end of things.
Thank you to all who have offered prayers when I made mention. My nephew Nathan Allan Cubtoseriesby100 was born on Thursday and at his size starts on the O line fot the Bears; 9 lbs 10 ounces and 22 inches!
by cubstoseriesby100 on Oct 30, 2009 11:00 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Hopefully
I hope the weather today isn’t a harbinger of things to come.
Thank you to all who have offered prayers when I made mention. My nephew Nathan Allan Cubtoseriesby100 was born on Thursday and at his size starts on the O line fot the Bears; 9 lbs 10 ounces and 22 inches!
by cubstoseriesby100 on Oct 30, 2009 11:01 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
………
"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks
by dtpollitt on Oct 30, 2009 11:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Dan, you should know better . . .
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 30, 2009 11:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wow, this really is a family affair.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 30, 2009 11:03 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
That comes on after the Spelling Nanny, right?
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 30, 2009 11:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Must see TV!
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 30, 2009 11:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
"Slight increases in payroll and ticket prices."
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 30, 2009 11:13 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Ricketts, “we are going to win the world series”
by drodd on Oct 30, 2009 11:14 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
That's what McDonough said
Still, I like it. Sounds a hell of a lot better than, “We’re going to play meaningful games in September.”
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 30, 2009 11:14 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ricketts Hit a 3 run HR
in his first official AB. Finish it off Mr. R. Bring us that trophy.
This is only the beginning....Lou Pinella end of '07 season and Chicago Transit Authority (the band when they were really good).
by mrcubsfan on Oct 30, 2009 12:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He is sure saying all the right things
This answers the higher-level questions that I had. I guess that we’ll see how much more specific he is willing to be at the following news conference…
"When you're going through hell, keep going." - Winston Churchill
by vonde6 on Oct 30, 2009 11:14 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
What's a PSL?
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 30, 2009 11:15 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Personal Seat License
A way of milking more money out of season ticket holders.
"When you're going through hell, keep going." - Winston Churchill
by vonde6 on Oct 30, 2009 11:16 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
more common in the NFL
"When you're going through hell, keep going." - Winston Churchill
by vonde6 on Oct 30, 2009 11:16 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ah, OK. Thanks.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 30, 2009 11:16 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Same as the Bears
"Repetition is only good when you've been winning." - Valet
by propheteer on Oct 30, 2009 12:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Boy, Kaplan's adding a lot
What the hell does Joe Ricketts sitting on a roof have to do with the direction of the team?
They are Cub fans . . . we get it. Next question.
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 30, 2009 11:18 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
somebody invited Kaplan?
gross
Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.
by nji232 on Oct 30, 2009 11:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Isn't he on the team payroll?
Wait, he only THINKS he is
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 30, 2009 11:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
when was the last time Kaplan added anything?
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 30, 2009 11:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
PHENOMENAL QUESTION! JUST PHENOMENAL!
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 30, 2009 11:19 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
EXACTLY right
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 30, 2009 11:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You're killing me here
I was going to wait for the transcript later, but what was the phenomenal question?
I hope that a phenomenal answer followed.
"When you're going through hell, keep going." - Winston Churchill
by vonde6 on Oct 30, 2009 11:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I like...
…his comments regarding what it takes to be successful; concentrate on player development, scouting etc.
I also liked his comment in regards to holding personal to the highest standards and holding them accountable.
Neither one of these have been an organizational strength, so I think he is on the right track.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Oct 30, 2009 11:18 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
“the team is understaffed, and if we want a world-class team on and off the field, we may have to supplement.” Nice.
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 30, 2009 11:22 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
That's definitely a key
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 30, 2009 11:22 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe the biggest thing the Cubs need to upgrade, IMO.
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 30, 2009 11:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yep - and that goes back to Any Mac
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 30, 2009 11:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
*Andy
What a disappointment that era was.
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 30, 2009 11:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
thoughts of that era elicit a long sigh.
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 30, 2009 11:25 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes
I was pretty encouraged when he was hired, but he didn’t seem to have a plan. A former minor league exec with the Twins that I know was really disappointed after 3-4 years; he’d expected more from MacPhail with the Cubs.
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 30, 2009 11:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
As was I.
He just never seemed to get rolling on a coherent plan for the franchise, unfortunately.
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 30, 2009 11:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And still thought he was running a small market team
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 30, 2009 11:30 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed.
Hopefully the Ricketts have an organizational philosophy from the top-down. And based on this presser, it seems like they do.
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 30, 2009 11:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
To be honest I'm more excited for his Boers and Bernstien interview this afternoon
They won’t give Kaplan softball questions. Bernstien will actually grill him, not just let him tell us what we want to hear.
Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.
by nji232 on Oct 30, 2009 11:25 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Pretty good answer on how involved they will be
“Tom’s coaching first base and I’m coaching third.”
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 30, 2009 11:25 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Seems like they have a good sense of humor
When the wireless mic went out, he leaned over had his sister talk directly into his clip-on microphone.
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 30, 2009 11:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
This is already many kinds of awesome.
"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks
by dtpollitt on Oct 30, 2009 11:28 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I WANT TO CRY
I’m SO EXCITED FOR 2010 and Beyond!!!!!!
by stixball21 on Oct 30, 2009 11:33 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
With regards to ticket price increases
“It’s important for families to be able to come to Wrigley Field.”
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 30, 2009 11:33 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Interesting that they have no plans to shut it down for a year
Rennovations could be tricky without doing so.
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 30, 2009 11:34 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Packers managed to pull it off
Though I don’t know how similar the situations would be
Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.
by nji232 on Oct 30, 2009 11:35 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And they did it well
But as you suggest, it’s different.
8 regular season games per year vs. 81, plus a shorter season — and a spring/summer off season vs. winter
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 30, 2009 11:36 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah the day to day games won't help
That construction crew will have to be ready for some hard winter labor I guess.
Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.
by nji232 on Oct 30, 2009 11:37 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
In a sense the Cardinals did it too -
and when they did it their season was extended because of world series
by doofus cubs guy on Oct 30, 2009 1:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I suppose that's true
But it wasn’t as big of a project; most of the work was done before the season began.
The W.S. was irrelevant to the construction.
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 30, 2009 1:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That ship sailed long ago
Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.
by nji232 on Oct 30, 2009 11:34 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
"Anyone on our team that thinks we are cursed will be moved to a lesser-cursed team"
Love it
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 30, 2009 11:34 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I hope like hell
Al gets some face time!!
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 30, 2009 11:35 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Guess it's over
Darn
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 30, 2009 11:35 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well he got Al's vote
with the comment about the bleachers being special.
"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry
Me either Jim
by Doggie Stalker on Oct 30, 2009 11:36 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
The guy "GETS IT."
How refreshing from an owner, not a corporation. I’m excited for the future. Now I’m really geeked to attend this year’s Cubs Convention as the kick-off to the season…
Now only 12,859 on the "Cubs Season Tickets Waiting List"...
by Zeke on Oct 30, 2009 11:40 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
This guy rules. Friggin awesome.
"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks
by dtpollitt on Oct 30, 2009 11:41 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
He might make a good first base coach.
"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry
Me either Jim
by Doggie Stalker on Oct 30, 2009 11:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'll reserve judgement until I see him act on his plans
It sounds like he has a plan in place, and that its a good plan, but I want to actually see it in action before I celebrate.
Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.
by nji232 on Oct 30, 2009 11:48 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Direct answers to questions.
How refreshing.
Some people say the glass is half empty, some say half full. I say, are you going to drink that?
by BleedsbluinMI on Oct 30, 2009 11:50 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Any news on Crane Kenney?
I haven’t heard a peep as to how this will affect him.
Chicago Cubs baseball is on the air...
by slocs55 on Oct 30, 2009 11:51 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Looks like Kenney and Henrdy stay
based on this interview with Darren Rovell: http://www.cnbc.com/id/33550407
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 30, 2009 12:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
We knew that before today...
…the question that remains is based on this; since Rickett’s said (and I paraprhase), the key to success is not signing that one FA, but is in developing players through scouting and coaching. He also said they are going to have world class standards to uphold and will hold people accountable.
This is what I wanted to hear and I am sure he meant it. Now, who will be the judge of whether the baseball organization is on the right track to meet the standards he mentioned today? Will it be Ricketts himself? Since he is not a baseball guy, I highly doubt it. Will it be Kenney? Don’t think so. Someone has to give Rickett’s an expert opinion on Hendry and his people, and I would bet that will be established in the next little while.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Oct 30, 2009 1:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'd be willing to bet that, too.
I can see a scenario in which Kenney handles many of the off-the-field matters for the Cubs, overseeing marketing, further development of the triangle building, etc., and the Ricketts bring in someone to oversee the baseball operations as well.
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 30, 2009 1:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'd be shocked....
…if that doesn’t happen.
Furthermore, some of his comments today almost seemed to be a diss towards Hendry:
“short term solutions are nothing but fools gold”
“the key is to develop players through scouting and coaching through the system”
Hendry has been all about short term solutions, and he has also come up way short in the 2nd point as well.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Oct 30, 2009 1:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wow. Hadn't seen it that way.
Good catch. Wonder how that relationship will pan out.
by chilango2 on Oct 30, 2009 2:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
In Hendry's defense, that appeared to be the mandate to him. Win now. Period. Damn the torpedos. Full speed ahead.
Pinella wasn’t hired as the long term solution. He was hired to “win now.”
If longer term was the case, Joe Girardi would have been the logical managerial hire.
Now only 12,859 on the "Cubs Season Tickets Waiting List"...
by Zeke on Oct 30, 2009 2:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Could be...
…but it is also the comfortable approach for Hendry as well.
Remember, Hendry ran player development from 1994-2002 and yielded very little in regards to building a farm system that either scouted well or developed players (especially position players) worth anything.
I think we have seen enough of Hendry to know he is not a “builder” of quality baseball organizaitons. Hendry is much more of a reactionary type of guy who makes a lot of decisions based on whether he likes someone or emotions and not sound baseball objectivity. It takes a lot more energy (and smarts) to build it from the ground up, than it was from the top down with a checkbook in hand.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Oct 30, 2009 3:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes, I do agree with your assessment here.
He is reactionary…
Now only 12,859 on the "Cubs Season Tickets Waiting List"...
by Zeke on Oct 30, 2009 3:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Nice little intro
It was a good way to meet the family but I would have liked to hear a little more in terms of specifics. Does he anticipate any of the current front office being replaced or reorganized? Where specifically does he see “supplementing” the current organization personnel?
I
by dmlichte on Oct 30, 2009 11:57 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Was it really as good as it sounds here?
Eamus Catuli
Well, I never heard it before, but it sounds uncommon nonsense.
- The Mock Turtle, Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll -
by eths on Oct 30, 2009 12:02 PM CDT via mobile reply actions 0 recs
It was pretty damn good, IMO.
Some additional details are needed, as dmlichte said, but overall, Ricketts provided clean, concise answers to the questions asked and seemed to have an idea for a top-down organizational philosophy.
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 30, 2009 12:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm looking forward to reading a detailed summary
Seeing as I couldn’t watch from Europe
Well, I never heard it before, but it sounds uncommon nonsense.
- The Mock Turtle, Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll -
by eths on Oct 30, 2009 12:11 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
It was streamed at Cubs.com. Mlb.tv might have it available to re-watch.
Some people say the glass is half empty, some say half full. I say, are you going to drink that?
by BleedsbluinMI on Oct 30, 2009 12:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I saw the first part of it before I had to go to class
And I must say that I was really impressed with his answers, though I’m still not sold on the idea of the Triangle Building. I think that he really wants the Cubs to succeed and will do everything in his power to make sure that we win a World Series.
by Pre on Oct 30, 2009 12:06 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Extended coverage
For those in the Chicago area, CSN is now doing an hour long special with interviews with Ricketts and other Cubs personnel.
First question that was a big fail is that Ronnie Woo Woo will remain a part of the Cubs family.
by dmlichte on Oct 30, 2009 12:13 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I loved it
I loved it even if I screwed up my routine by taking lunch at 11 to watch it in the breakroom.
he said the right things but of course what is he going to say “We want to finish last and rake in the money, Wrigley needs to be blown up and the Cub fans are all ugly and their mothers dress them funny”
Oh and a side note Kerry Wood will be on Bob Sirrots Sunday night WGN radio show.
Thank you to all who have offered prayers when I made mention. My nephew Nathan Allan Cubtoseriesby100 was born on Thursday and at his size starts on the O line fot the Bears; 9 lbs 10 ounces and 22 inches!
by cubstoseriesby100 on Oct 30, 2009 12:19 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Player development
The most important thing he uttered….we’re all obviously tired of our horrible, overpaid OF.
"Repetition is only good when you've been winning." - Valet
by propheteer on Oct 30, 2009 12:21 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Mr. Ricketts just sent me a letter
well ok he sent to all season ticket holders. Pretty much what he said in the press conference. Any season ticket holder with better skills can post it but nothing new there.
"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry
Me either Jim
by Doggie Stalker on Oct 30, 2009 12:28 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
What a good first impression!
I’m really excited. Except for the part about a slight ticket increase, I loved everything he said. Especially loved his response to the curse-priceless!
I was skeptical about how big of fans they were until they described it as being sucked in. Yes, the Cubs have a way of doing that to people.
"Fasten those seatbelts"-Pat Hughes
by katie casey on Oct 30, 2009 1:04 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Encouraging to say the least.
I can’t wait to see his plan in action. Time will tell of course, but it appears he has a plan in place top-to-bottom for this franchise, which is excellent.
by Tangled Up In Blue on Oct 30, 2009 1:05 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I recorded it to
watch later and after reading the comments in here I can’t wait to watch.
Recipe for Disaster;
C'mon Cubs, hurry up and blow this so I can relax.
by Bluekoolaide on July22, 2009 3:08 PM CDT
by sue369 on Oct 30, 2009 1:31 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Definitely seems like a guy with his head on straight....
From this interview I feel like this team could will be headed in the right direction. When he says that we’re going to win the world series, I believe him because he’s in our shoes and knows how much we deserve it.
His bald bro, all the way to the left, can’t remember his name, doesn’t seem like he’s been as gung-ho on the Cubs as the rest of the family but, no doubt, he’s on board. Some of his remarks kind of puzzled me
I think we’ve got a lot to look forward to.
"It's hard to win 97 games, it's hard to win the division. Our attitude is if you get in every year, you get in most of the time, sooner or later you are going to knock that door down." -- Jim Hendry
by EJThunder on Oct 30, 2009 2:15 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
And Ricketts never once said anything about instituting a "College of Coaches"...
This is all new ground for everyone associated with the Cubs. A family owner who by all accounts, is on the ball.
Think about it. In my whole life (and everyone else’s), the Cubs have either been owned by the Wrigleys or the Tribune.
This is a whole new ballgame for all…
Now only 12,859 on the "Cubs Season Tickets Waiting List"...
by Zeke on Oct 30, 2009 2:31 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
That part about building the team through player development
and THEN filling holes through free agency is the best thing I’ve ever heard from anyone in Cub management.
by Mapmaker on Oct 30, 2009 3:10 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
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