Looking Towards 2010: Second Base
by wrigleyrocker12 on Oct 4, 2009 3:37 PM CDT
170 comments
It's never to early to look forward to 2010, so I;m going to make a fanpost about the Cubs starting second basemen for next year. We all know that Jeff Baker has been putting up great number since, well, thew beginning of August. He's hitting 321 with a OPS over 800 since then, and he can play several infield positions. But should the Cubs trust him enough to make him the starting second basemen for next year? Will they be making the same mistake they did with Fonty if they do?
Here are Jeff Bakers numbers with the Cubs this year. 220 plate appearances is almost a half of a season, so we have a fairly large sample size. We have also had plenty of time to see him as a starter. Since August 9th, he has played in 46 games, started in 42 of them, and hit 329.
Now for his fielding. Here are his fielding numbers for his whole career, although I will focus on his second base numbers for his career. In 100 games there, he's posted a solid .986 fielding percentage, and he turned a average 65 double plays in those games also. Even though he costs his team almost 1 run in the field each year, his range factor is decent. His range factor per 9 is 5.13, almost .5 above the league average of 4.85. All in all, his defense is decent and can be dealt with.
I've showed you the stats, there's not much else to do, but the Cubs NEED a solid second basemen in 2010. Here's a look at the free agent second basemen.
Jamey Carrol
The first four can be eliminated just due to being too old. Orlando Hudson is an interesting name, and I remember many Cubs fans, me included, who were very upset that the Cubs didn't sign him. Sure enough, he got picked up off the scrap pile by the Dodgers and is a very solid starting second basemen for them. Is he worth the risk for next year? Akinori Iwamura is a name that intrigues me. It seems almost pointless for the Rays to resign him, in my opinion at least, just due to the breakout year Ben Zobrist has had. I wouldn't mind him starting at second for the Cubs in 2010. Omar Infante is actually putting together a decent year, hitting 301 in 222 plate appearances, but he seems to similar to Jeff Baker too me. I wouldn't mind Felipe Lopez either, he has usually maintained a high average, and he even hit 23 home runs with the Reds in 05. Placido Polanco and Freddy Sanchez I see as guys who I think will be resigned by their respective teams, but if they aren't I would love to see the Cubs jump on wither one of them, both who have great career batting averages. Chone Figgins is the one guy there that I want the Cubs to get most of all, because he has speed, which the Cubs lack, he's been the leadoff hitter for a very successful team, always maintained a high average, and can play 3 infield positions. His only dark spot is his defense. Last and certainly not least, is DeRo who we all want back.
The last option the Cubs will have for 2010, is to sign a shortstop and move Theriot to second, a move I know many people here hope happens, due to Theriots "bad" defense. Here's what the free agent shortstop class looks like.
Alex Gonzalez
Most of those guys are defensive players, even though defense is of value, I'd rather have a bat than a glove. Marco Scutaro had a great year this year, and I know how many people wanted him on the team, but he's getting old, and it's highly unlikely he'll ever have a year like this. Even though Orlando Cabrera is old, at 34, he has a career average of .275 and good defense. I wouldn't mind seeing the Cubs jump on him. The final two big bats in this are Khalil Greene and Miguel Tejada. Khalil Greene, let me think, umm, no. Finally Miguel Tejada, who is a team leader, a good bat, and has good defense. It's hard to tell if his age will hinder him, but I can't say I would be upset if the Cubs ever picked him up.
Well, Take your pick. Second base was a black hole for the Cubs this year. Another thing I didn't mention is minor leaguers. I suppose their could be some minor leaguers fit to play second like Darwin Barney or Tony Thomas could be fit to play. Their options are Baker, Fonty, a minor league, or a free agent. I will attach a poll.
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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Theriot
I'm singing, "GO CUBS GO! GO CUBS GO!" -- DrCrawdad on Jun 12, 2009 7:23 AM CDT
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! -- Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Oct 4, 2009 4:02 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Who plays short
"That pitch wasn’t down and in, that pitch was down and up." Tim McCarver
by wrigleyrocker12 on Oct 4, 2009 4:42 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
Is that a question or a declaration?
I’d like to see them make a deal for a SS
I'm singing, "GO CUBS GO! GO CUBS GO!" -- DrCrawdad on Jun 12, 2009 7:23 AM CDT
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! -- Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Oct 4, 2009 4:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Got any names in mind?
Not criticizing this approach. Just curious.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 5, 2009 9:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well . . .
I’d love to see them pursue a trade for Reyes. There are questions with him, but there would have to be to be able to pry him away.
I'm singing, "GO CUBS GO! GO CUBS GO!" -- DrCrawdad on Jun 12, 2009 7:23 AM CDT
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! -- Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Oct 5, 2009 10:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
thehat34's suggestion below might work, too
Especially if the Cubs are convinced Castro could be ready by 2011
I'm singing, "GO CUBS GO! GO CUBS GO!" -- DrCrawdad on Jun 12, 2009 7:23 AM CDT
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! -- Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Oct 5, 2009 10:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh yeah - forgot about the Reyes thing.
Well, this Jon Heyman article reports that it looks like he’s headed for off-season surgery. The article says he should be ready for spring training but Heyman takes a typically cynical approach to that part of the story. Reyes at SS is a nice thought, but it would be a gamble and I’m not sure how the Cubs would get the trade done. Zambrano is the obvious choice, but that would leave the rotation short-handed.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 5, 2009 10:55 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Zambrano, Bradley and cash
For Reyes and Maine
I'm singing, "GO CUBS GO! GO CUBS GO!" -- DrCrawdad on Jun 12, 2009 7:23 AM CDT
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! -- Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Oct 5, 2009 12:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hm, well, that'd be an interesting gamble.
I’m not sure the Mets would go for it, though. They might bite on Zambrano, as a 1-2 of Johan-Big Z would be pretty killer. But I’m not sure they’d want to deal with Bradley.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you might post the idea over at Amazin Avenue and see what kinda response you get.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 5, 2009 1:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not a bad thought
Maybe I will when I’m avoiding work work instead of homework . . .
I'm singing, "GO CUBS GO! GO CUBS GO!" -- DrCrawdad on Jun 12, 2009 7:23 AM CDT
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! -- Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Oct 5, 2009 1:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Zambrano and Theriot
for Reyes and Niese
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 5, 2009 1:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Mets would be more likely to go for that
But I’d rather have Maine in 2010.
I'm singing, "GO CUBS GO! GO CUBS GO!" -- DrCrawdad on Jun 12, 2009 7:23 AM CDT
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! -- Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Oct 5, 2009 1:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
that would be quite a gamble
as he has had 2 consecutive injury seasons. 2007 Maine would be nice.
by socalbob on Oct 5, 2009 2:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
We don't need another starter
"That pitch wasn’t down and in, that pitch was down and up." Tim McCarver
by wrigleyrocker12 on Oct 5, 2009 7:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If "we" trade Zambrano, yes "we" do.
I'm singing, "GO CUBS GO! GO CUBS GO!" -- DrCrawdad on Jun 12, 2009 7:23 AM CDT
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! -- Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Oct 5, 2009 11:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
♪♫ We don't need another hero ♪♫
(80s flashback.)
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 6, 2009 8:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
♪♫ We don't need no education.
We don’t need no thought control . ♪♫
(late 70’s-early 80’s flashback)
Not sure which of us is having a worse flashback-The Wall or Thunderdome?
"Fasten those seatbelts"-Pat Hughes
by katie casey on Oct 6, 2009 9:14 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm not sure either.
I’d say “The Wall” is a better movie artistically, but it always gives me nightmares.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 6, 2009 9:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm sure Thunderdome gives you nightmares as well, but not at all
similar.
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Oct 6, 2009 9:36 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
How about Fukudome?
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 6, 2009 10:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Perhaps. Especially if he's dressed like Tina.
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Oct 6, 2009 11:00 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
his spinning
pirouets after brutal swings does resemble some of Tina’s better moves on stage.
by socalbob on Oct 6, 2009 11:09 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree.
I’d like to see Theriot at 2nd, but not sure yet who I’d like for SS.
"Fasten those seatbelts"-Pat Hughes
by katie casey on Oct 5, 2009 10:12 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
SORIANO
Geovany Soto is the new 2008 Derrek Lee
by jesus christos on Oct 4, 2009 4:04 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Felipe Lopez
Leadoff hitter, switch hitter, plays good defense, perfect fit IMO
Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.
by nji232 on Oct 4, 2009 4:06 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
He's a 4 win player this year
won’t command much money as a FA and actually has range at second.
Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.
by nji232 on Oct 4, 2009 6:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Very true
He would be one of my picks to play second next year. He also has some pop.
"That pitch wasn’t down and in, that pitch was down and up." Tim McCarver
by wrigleyrocker12 on Oct 4, 2009 6:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
This is a perfect example
of why this kind of player evaluation is a bunch of horse manure.
I saw Felipe make more boneheaded plays that cost his team (D’Backs and Brewers) games this year than I care to remember. There isn’t anything stupid you can do on a baseball field that Felipe hasn’t done….more than once.
by azjazzman on Oct 4, 2009 7:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes, that one time you saw Felipe play nullifies all records of his performance
by vivaelpujols on Oct 4, 2009 11:46 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
See, this is why I sometimes have problems with those of you who are statistically oriented.
It’s the attitude that only the statistical record means anything and observation means nothing.
You have no idea how many times he saw Lopez play. Perhaps you are correct in your analysis of Lopez. But saying things like this isn’t going to win anyone over to your way of thinking.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Oct 5, 2009 8:02 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And saying without any shred of doubt that Felipe Lopez sucks
Because he saw him screw up a handful of times is any better? Give me a break. If I came on here after Randy Wells had his worst outing of the season and said he was incapable of pitching in the major leagues, you’d have gone straight to his season stats to prove me wrong.
The 2009 White Sox....like a 40 degree day.
by Ozzie Montana on Oct 5, 2009 11:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
True.
Most likely, however, a combination of both statistics and observation give you a more complete picture than either one by itself.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Oct 5, 2009 3:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes, stats and QUALIFIED observations
That either means a professional scout, or someone who is an expert on judging defense, or a large amount of fans who can balance out the outliers. We can’t just take one fan’s word for it. For example, based on The Fans Scouting Report for 09, he has been ranked almost exactly average:
http://tangotiger.net/scout/index4.php?teamid=109&team=Arizona%20Diamondbacks
Does ajazzman’s opinion count more than 66 fans? Of course not, he only drops the average slightly lower.
He’s recieved about 66 votes in total, which still isn’t a great sample size.
by vivaelpujols on Oct 5, 2009 8:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I not only saw Lopez play almost every game
for half a season with the D’Backs, but I also saw him play many, many times when he was with the Reds for 4 years and the Nats for 2 1/2 and the Cards for 1/2.
Please keep in mind that he was RELEASED by the Nationals, not re-signed by the Cardinals, traded for a PTBNL by the Blue Jays and traded for two minor league non prospects this past season. If he is so desirable, how come four teams gave up on him and got rid of him with essentially nothing in return. Getting released mid-season by the Nationals tells you all you need to know.
Because Felipe Lopez does not play winning baseball. Never has and at this point in his career, it is safe to say he never will.
by azjazzman on Oct 5, 2009 4:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
What does "winning baseball" mean?
David Eckstein was always considered a “winning” ballplayer, mainly because he played alongside Pujols, Edmonds, Rolen, Walker, Morris, Carpenter and a lot of other amazing players. He went to the Padres this year, and they have been one of the worst teams in baseball.
by vivaelpujols on Oct 5, 2009 8:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Al, please
This isn’t stats vs. scouts, this is just certifying how meaningful the posters opinion who I replied to is.
He said this:
I saw Felipe make more boneheaded plays that cost his team (D’Backs and Brewers) games this year than I care to remember.
Obviously, we need a lot more information before we trust his opinion. How many times has he seen him play? How does he define bone-headed play (it could be an error, which we all know has almost no correlation to a players actual defensive ability).
We also know that even if Lopez has looked awful in the times that he has seen him play, it doesn’t mean that he has played poorly the other times. Defense is a skill like anything else and is prone to random variation.
What we do know is that the stats say that Lopez has been around an average defender. Other professional scouts have said he is solid. Unless azjazzman has any sort of evidence or qualifications to back up his assertion that Lopez is terrible defensively, we can take it with a boulder of salt.
by vivaelpujols on Oct 5, 2009 8:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree that one observation isn't enough.
Sounds like azjazzman saw him many, many times. The statistical record may “prove” he’s an “average” defender — but there’s got to be something going on with him when several teams have let him go for virtually nothing, despite the fact that he’s a decent hitter, too.
I’d stay away from him.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Oct 6, 2009 9:39 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Even if you ignore the statisitcal record (which you never should, especially since it's a very large sample size)
You can check out the link I posted here:
http://www.bleedcubbieblue.com/2009/10/4/1068558/looking-towards-2010-second-base#22342089
That links to the Fans Scouting Report, which is simply the opinion of random fans who are just like azjazzman and watch all of their teams games. They rated him 2.95 this year, compared to a league average mark of 3.0. I think those 66 fans opinions should be weighted more heavily that one fan here’s.
I do agree that he’s not great, and will likely be overpriced due to the excellent year he’s having though.
by vivaelpujols on Oct 6, 2009 8:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Felipe Lopez
is the laziest, most disinterested, knuckleheaded, waste of a roster spot player I have seen in Phoenix in 12 years of watching D’Backs baseball. Worst. Signing. Ever. We couldn’t ship him out of town fast enough.
I would think you guys would have learned your lesson about picking up TLR’s cast offs with Miles this year.
by azjazzman on Oct 4, 2009 7:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I have to agree
with a lot of the posters here about Lopez. If he is motivated he does nice things. But as the fans in Washington and Arizona found out that once he gets his payday, his motivation quickly decreases exponentially along with the amount of the contract.
He did very nice things for the Brewers this year, but I would go Iwamura or Hudson before him. At least with Iwamura you get a great work ethic. And In ODog you get very good defense, a switch hitter and a guy who can hit nicely in either the 2 or 7 hole.
by backtocali on Oct 5, 2009 4:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think the Cubs will sign few domestic free agents this offseason
They might go after a rare talent, like Chen from Taiwan, if he is declared a free agent in Japan. But I would guess the Cubs would add a middle infielder through trade, not free agency.
Felipe Lopez has had his problems on defense and off the field. Iwamura does not hit for any power. I think Baker is a better choice for next year than anyone on the list above except Figgins, and I’m not sure he’s worth what he will get.
I’d like to see what the Cubs could get for Theriot, acquire a veteran, defense-minded shortstop to hold the place for Starlin Castro in 2011, and only improve on Baker if it’s cheap. There’s more to be gained in the outfield and bullpen.
Fontenot (fon-te-no): Cajun for "scrappy"
by zambranofan on Oct 4, 2009 4:11 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I agree
A trade would seem more likely. I’ve advocated in the past looking at Dan Uggla. I think he’s priced himself out of Florida. Rumor has it Florida is planning on blowing up the lineup again this offseason. He’s got the bat to put in the middle of the order and I think would be serviceable in the field (all star game performance not withstanding). I would like him over any of the free agents and remember, the last infielder we got from Florida has worked out pretty well for us.
"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 4, 2009 6:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Uggla defensively
is not serviceable, he would have to improve a lot to get to serviceable.
I always turn to the sports section first. The sports page records people's accomplishments; the front page has nothing but man's failures.
~Earl Warren
by lookingdeadred on Oct 5, 2009 4:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
As I recall
This was the case for A-Ram as well. He has worked his butt off and, even though he hasn’t won one, is pretty damn close to gold glove caliber. I think the bat truly overcomes a lot of other concerns. I would certainly look into it anyway.
"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 5, 2009 5:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Uggla would have to hit .300 with 40 HRs
to make up for his iron glove. he is DH masquerading as a 2b.
I always turn to the sports section first. The sports page records people's accomplishments; the front page has nothing but man's failures.
~Earl Warren
by lookingdeadred on Oct 6, 2009 12:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
His average reeks too.
"That pitch wasn’t down and in, that pitch was down and up." Tim McCarver
by wrigleyrocker12 on Oct 5, 2009 7:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I like this idea. And if that's the route, I'm not sure you're going to do much better
than Blanco for a defensive-minded shortstop. I don’t think going to a Jack Wilson-type will be enough of an upgrade to justify the cost.
"Enough foreplay- let's get crackin'"- Fred Garvin
by davidalanu on Oct 6, 2009 7:42 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Put Baker there and worry about something else
There is no such thing as an ugly female breast
by Worf on Oct 4, 2009 5:59 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I'd have to with Figgins. Everyone else up there can't be too much better than Baker
Figgins would supply that leadoff spot that Lou wants so much. I heard Gammons today praising Figgins’ leadoff ability. Though, if Figgins decides to not resign with the Angels, I think he may ask for more than the Cubs will pay for. Fox will be that rbi guy that Lou wants, if he can find a position that he play everyday.
by Cubbiegoon on Oct 4, 2009 6:43 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Put Fox in right.
"That pitch wasn’t down and in, that pitch was down and up." Tim McCarver
by wrigleyrocker12 on Oct 4, 2009 6:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
His numbers deteriorated badly as the season went on
Trade him while if you can
I always turn to the sports section first. The sports page records people's accomplishments; the front page has nothing but man's failures.
~Earl Warren
by lookingdeadred on Oct 5, 2009 4:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, then the Cubs have another probelm
You don’t wanna start Bradley again do you?
"That pitch wasn’t down and in, that pitch was down and up." Tim McCarver
by wrigleyrocker12 on Oct 5, 2009 7:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Just because I think Fox is overrated
does not mean I want Bradley back
I always turn to the sports section first. The sports page records people's accomplishments; the front page has nothing but man's failures.
~Earl Warren
by lookingdeadred on Oct 6, 2009 12:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I figured
But who do you think should start in right then?
"That pitch wasn’t down and in, that pitch was down and up." Tim McCarver
by wrigleyrocker12 on Oct 6, 2009 4:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not Bradley or Fox
If not Fukudome, then someone new
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 7, 2009 4:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You want to put Jake Fox in right field?
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 6, 2009 8:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Better than Bradley, no?
It was kinda sarcastic too.
"That pitch wasn’t down and in, that pitch was down and up." Tim McCarver
by wrigleyrocker12 on Oct 6, 2009 4:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Productionwise, no, he wouldn't be better than Bradley.
But that’s neither here nor there.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 7, 2009 8:37 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ugh on Figgins.
He’s Juan Pierre with a few more walks. Sign him and in a year, you’ll be really, really sorry.
Fox is a marginal major leaguer who’s had a couple good months. Trade him now while he still has value.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Oct 4, 2009 9:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He's hurt all the time too!
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 4, 2009 9:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Fox can fill a roll on the bench, if necessary.
He will be exposed (and has to an extent) by playing every day. Now, if he goes to Winter Ball and conditions himself to hit breaking pitches, he could improve his standing.
But for now, he’s still a poor man’s Phil Nevin.
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 5, 2009 1:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wow
Figgins is second in the AL in runs scored, has a ,400 OBP and hit almost .300. What is it you want in a leadoff hitter that he doesn’t give you? Oh yeah, he stole 42 bases in 59 attempts, too. He might be the #1 leadoff guy in baseball.
This is what cracks me up about BCB…Felipe Lopez gets praised and Chone Figgins dissed. Makes me wonder if some of you guys have ever actually SEEN a baseball game.
by azjazzman on Oct 5, 2009 5:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
+1 on Figgins
He’s fantastic. Supposed to be a good guy too.
"That pitch wasn’t down and in, that pitch was down and up." Tim McCarver
by wrigleyrocker12 on Oct 5, 2009 7:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
So if we don't agree with your opinion on a player
We haven’t watched baseball?
by vivaelpujols on Oct 5, 2009 8:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, good thing you're here to set us straight.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 6, 2009 9:00 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
♪Straighten up and fly 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 6, 2009 9:09 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No, Al
He’s been a lot more valuable than Pierre. Figgins gets on base at about a .60 point higher clip and is a better defender.
by vivaelpujols on Oct 5, 2009 8:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And he's likely to be overpaid...
… and at age 32, his speed may be the first thing to go.
Once again, Lou has identified a problem (“speedy leadoff guy”) that doesn’t really exist. The Cubs already have a decent infield — if they want to replace someone, a new shortstop would be better than a new second baseman.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Oct 6, 2009 9:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
lou wont let theriot go
Geovany Soto is the new 2008 Derrek Lee
by jesus christos on Oct 6, 2009 4:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Lou won't, but...
… if Hendry can improve the infield by trading Theriot, I don’t think he would hesitate to do so.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Oct 6, 2009 5:51 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree about Lou identifying a problem that really isn't a problem
But I do think that you are undervaluing Figgins. He really is very good, even if his speed declines.
by vivaelpujols on Oct 6, 2009 8:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Keep baker and forget Figgins
I always turn to the sports section first. The sports page records people's accomplishments; the front page has nothing but man's failures.
~Earl Warren
by lookingdeadred on Oct 5, 2009 4:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'd let some combo of Baker, Fontenot, and Theriot
fight for playing time at 2B and seek to trade for a young SS upgrade.
That said, 2B is the easiest place to get veteran leadership and/or a bad contract in return for Bradley. 2B might be fulfilled by necessity with an overpaid player like Freddy Sanchez or Luis Castillo.
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 4, 2009 7:59 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
So in a trade for a SS
Say, Reid Brignac, (I think you mentioned him before), do you offer Starlin Castro as part of the deal?
Fontenot (fon-te-no): Cajun for "scrappy"
by zambranofan on Oct 4, 2009 8:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm not sure who the Rays would want
but I’d be prepared to give up real prospects to get ML-ready, cost-controlled young talent.
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 5, 2009 6:02 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If Theriot is moved to 2B
He won’t be fighting for a spot. Baker would become supersub and Fontenot better hope he has options to go back to AAA.
by ak123 on Oct 4, 2009 11:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If Theriot isn't fighting for a spot, it won't be because he earned it.
Versus RHP in 2009:
Theriot: .279/.339/.351
Baker: 293/.352/.415
Fontenot .240/.309/.388
To put things in perspective, on their careers versus right handed pitchers, Ryan Theriot is basically Aaron Miles plus a few walks.
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 5, 2009 6:01 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm aware of that
It’s because he’s highly regarded by Lou and I doubt Piniella would make him fight for a position when he’s done a good job IMO at SS.
I don’t want to get into an argument right now with anyone if Theriot should be starting or not, I just wanted to point out that I have a strong feeling Lou will not make him fight for a starting spot on the team.
by ak123 on Oct 5, 2009 8:15 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree with you about Lou's attitude.
That said, we don’t know what Lou would do if there was a better SS option, at least one that was the kind of player Lou could like.
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 5, 2009 8:36 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't think they will go for a SS for that very reason
But a power upgraded 2B, if someone is on the Cubs radar I think they’ll sign him.
by ak123 on Oct 5, 2009 9:37 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
There aren't many power hitting 2B. If they want a power hitting middle infielder
than Tejada would be the way to go. A lot of it depends on what they can do with Bradley and who can they sign for CF. They have more internal options for 2B than CF in my opinion.
by thehat34 on Oct 5, 2009 9:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
They need to turn things around
A healthy Soriano and good Soto would allow the Cubs to keep Baker at 2B. But I’d personally like to see Baker be the utility guy on the team this year.
by ak123 on Oct 5, 2009 10:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'll echo the Baker as utility guy sentiment, but
I’ll also add that there’s not enough to Dan Uggla in my mind to make him worth trading when you already have Jeff Baker on roster. Baker could be a power-hitting 2B, as 2B go.
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 5, 2009 1:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed
Mark DeRosa and Chase Utley really are the only 2 2B who hit for power right? And DeRosa has mostly been 3B this year if I’m not mistaken.
by ak123 on Oct 5, 2009 1:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
08 and 09
Have really been DeRo’s only two power years. Uggla is power too.
"That pitch wasn’t down and in, that pitch was down and up." Tim McCarver
by wrigleyrocker12 on Oct 5, 2009 7:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not enough glove, not enough average,
more than too much pay check.
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Oct 5, 2009 2:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That could change if he's non-tendered
"Enough foreplay- let's get crackin'"- Fred Garvin
by davidalanu on Oct 6, 2009 7:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Okay...
Considering up the middle defense is already suspect and the Cub budget is already tight, how much money would be less than too much for an All Star.
31 Hrs, 90 RBI, OPS over .800. 150 strikeouts and 16 errors.
He’s a pretty good power bat, but is prone to prolonged cold streaks and is a miserable defender. IMO the Cubs are already overcommitted to a player in this mold.
I’d rather see any money spent on decent bats and solid gloves.
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Oct 6, 2009 9:02 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think Lou...
…appreciates that Theriot clearly gets the most out of his natural talent, but I highly doubt he would balk at having a better option.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Oct 5, 2009 3:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Theriot?
I come to bury Theriot, not to praise him.
by rmonday557 on Oct 6, 2009 8:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm suprised no one has mentioned DeRosa
I would like him back, not just for second base, but for insurance at third base and the corner outfield positions. As long as we can get him back at a reasonable price.
by dlee25 on Oct 4, 2009 8:13 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
If we're looking for a guy who can do that
Then let’s just keep Baker. I know we haven’t seen him play the corner outfield spots, but I thought it’s been said he could. Plus he’s younger and cheaper.
by shoemile on Oct 4, 2009 8:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
i heard that the cubs will try to work with the muffin man in the outfield next year
Geovany Soto is the new 2008 Derrek Lee
by jesus christos on Oct 4, 2009 8:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
muffin man?
"Enough foreplay- let's get crackin'"- Fred Garvin
by davidalanu on Oct 6, 2009 7:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Jeff Baker, of course.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 6, 2009 9:01 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thank you, I was thinking there was a chubby chaser joke
in there somewhere I was missing.
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Oct 6, 2009 9:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not sure where his preferences lie, but I'll look into it.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 6, 2009 9:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
weak
I always turn to the sports section first. The sports page records people's accomplishments; the front page has nothing but man's failures.
~Earl Warren
by lookingdeadred on Oct 6, 2009 12:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hey, I'm open to suggestions.
I wasn’t crazy about at first either, but it’s kinda stuck (at least for me anyway).
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 6, 2009 1:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Baker has played 33 games in the outfield
"That pitch wasn’t down and in, that pitch was down and up." Tim McCarver
by wrigleyrocker12 on Oct 4, 2009 8:54 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
And yes, it was in half the ABs
but Baker outhit DeRosa in 2009.
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 5, 2009 6:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Cubs have a guy who can do that
Baker
I always turn to the sports section first. The sports page records people's accomplishments; the front page has nothing but man's failures.
~Earl Warren
by lookingdeadred on Oct 5, 2009 4:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Baker n/t.
"Pounding sand since 1982...."
by cubswynn on Oct 4, 2009 9:04 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I'd take Miggy for a year at SS
It would be worth kicking the tires to see what he wants. He still has some good pop. Put Theriot at 2nd, and allow Baker to be the super-utility.
by Nibbles on Oct 4, 2009 9:31 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Absolutely opposed.
The Cubs should NOT spend money on a player of his age and dubious history who, despite flirting with 200 hits, still couldn’t get his OPS past .800. Plus, he’s not a good defensive shortstop and consistently leads the NL in GIDPs. No to Miggy Stardust.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 5, 2009 10:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
ah.
I'm singing, "GO CUBS GO! GO CUBS GO!" -- DrCrawdad on Jun 12, 2009 7:23 AM CDT
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! -- Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Oct 5, 2009 10:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
choo?
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 5, 2009 10:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Read it after I posted above re: Tejada
I'm singing, "GO CUBS GO! GO CUBS GO!" -- DrCrawdad on Jun 12, 2009 7:23 AM CDT
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! -- Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Oct 5, 2009 12:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
the new LH OF we seek?
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 5, 2009 1:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm starting to think that Lou's "rbi guy"
could mean Tejada.. The Cubs would probably love to have Figgins to leadoff, but doesn’t seem they have the money for him. Tejada should come at a much cheaper rate and they can bat Fukudome leadoff.
SORIANO! YESSSSSSSS! JIMBO!!!
by CubFaninCA on Oct 5, 2009 11:25 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Adam Everett for SS
He is an excellent defender. Then we can move Theriot either in a trade (leaving the job to a baker/fonty platoon) or to second base forcing one of the other guys off the roster.
by zambrosa on Oct 4, 2009 9:38 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Adam Everett?
You mean he of the .648 career OPS? What an awful, awful hitter he is.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Oct 5, 2009 8:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The team cannot afford an automatic out like Everett in the lineup
I always turn to the sports section first. The sports page records people's accomplishments; the front page has nothing but man's failures.
~Earl Warren
by lookingdeadred on Oct 5, 2009 4:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
yeah
we already have a few of those
Geovany Soto is the new 2008 Derrek Lee
by jesus christos on Oct 5, 2009 6:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
We have an Everett
His name is Andres Blanco.
"That pitch wasn’t down and in, that pitch was down and up." Tim McCarver
by wrigleyrocker12 on Oct 5, 2009 7:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If we're talking about a defensive minded player...
Why don’t we just give Blanco a chance? He’s young, cheap, and a fantastic defender. I would much rather have him playing 2B or SS than someone like Adam Everett. If we went the offensive route, which we likely will, I think a year or two of Tejada could be a good way to go. He’s a leader, a team player, and is clutch.
by Mulhollandmania on Oct 4, 2009 10:22 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I would agree with this....
if the Cubs can acquire some offensive help this offseason. I love Blanco’s defense (who wouldn’t?) but Baker can play second more than adequately on defense and is far superior offensively. But I can’t tell you how many times during the season while watching Blanco, I was thinking “if only this guy could hit!!”
"Don't complain to me about the stormy weather, boys. Just bring the ship into port." --Steve Stone, September 2004
by ctcoff99 on Oct 5, 2009 10:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It could be plausible...
…for the simple reason it’s not likely Hendry has any dough to through at problems this offseason.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Oct 5, 2009 3:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Keep Blanco around to back up the starters at SS and 2B
He doesn’t hit enough to let him play everyday
I always turn to the sports section first. The sports page records people's accomplishments; the front page has nothing but man's failures.
~Earl Warren
by lookingdeadred on Oct 5, 2009 4:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
...
Here are Jeff Bakers numbers with the Cubs this year. 220 plate appearances is almost a half of a season, so we have a fairly large sample size.
No, 220 plate appearances is practically worthless towards projection next years performance. However, he’s probably a decent player. His career Park Adjusted Batting Runs, found on FanGraphs, is -1 in nearly 900 plate appearances. His UZR at second is +1 run (although it’s a very small sample size). If you prorated his career numbers out over a full season, he’d be a slightly above average player due to the fact that he plays a somewhat skilled position. Of course, his career is still a relatively small sample size, so any projection is going to have a lot of error bars to it.
Anyway, I think the best option is probably to platoon Baker with Mike Fontenot. Fontenot’s been awful this year with the bat, but was very, very good last year. His defense is also very good. If you used that platoon, it would be very solid IMO.
Looking at that list however, there are a lot of players who would be better than a Baker/Fontenot platoon. Felipe Lopez, Placido Polanco, Marco Scutaro, CHONE Figgins and Orlando Hudson would all likely be better than any in-house options that the Cubs have. The question is whether or not the extra money required to net one of those players nullifies the surplus value. Probably. And the Cubs may not even have enough money left to real in any of those guys.
by vivaelpujols on Oct 4, 2009 11:56 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I agree with a Fontenot and Baker platoon
Although I’d let Baker start against some righties as well, to get them closer to a 50/50 split. I just don’t see any of those options as being worth the cost versus trying to develop some of our younger talent.
I’m still for upgrading at SS, although I don’t think Theriot should have a starting position in that case. His bat is not strong enough to justify starting at 2B.
by madcow256 on Oct 5, 2009 12:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
None of the free agent second basemen or shortstops...
…do much to turn my crank. None of them seem like significant upgrades offensively and all will likely come with high price tags that the Cubs just don’t need to pick up.
So barring a particularly enticing trade scenario, I think I would roll with Jeff Baker as my starting second baseman. But I would view him very much as a DeRo-like role player – also seeing time at third base (regularly relieving Aramis) and perhaps right field (perhaps relieving Kosuke, whom I hope to see back in RF next season, against LHP).
I’ve always liked and tried to defend Mike Fontenot, and I don’t want to give up on him. So maybe he will have a role. It’s hard to envision a straight-up platoon – at least initially – based on his awful offense season. But I’m not necessarily opposed to that. Problem is, I could just as well see Andres Blanco backing up second base when Baker isn’t there as well as regularly backing up Theriot at shortstop.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 5, 2009 10:27 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Doesn't Cabrera have a reputation of
being a clubhouse problem? Whatever else happens in the offseason, I’m hoping the brain trust contemplates player history and avoids costly talent with reputations of attitude issues.
This is the offseason to play it safe and avoid divas and me first guys. Not advocating signing DeRosa unless he’s cheap and there are no better options, but erring on the side of more good character seems wise.
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Oct 5, 2009 10:42 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
He was fine in Oakland this season
I always turn to the sports section first. The sports page records people's accomplishments; the front page has nothing but man's failures.
~Earl Warren
by lookingdeadred on Oct 5, 2009 4:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
you may be right, I didn't read anything either.
Well, either he was fine, or nobody was covering the team to report on it.
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Oct 6, 2009 9:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Of course any move is dependent on money, but...
I would definitely kick the tires on Aki Iwamura.
I am fine with stats, so someone can add more advanced metrics to the discussion… but friends in Tampa say he is a solid defender, handles the bat pretty well, and can lead off. Career #s: BA .281/ OBP .354/ OPS .747. He also stole 9 bases in part-time type duty in half a season coming off of knee surgery, which suggests his leg is fine. He turns 31 in February and made ~$3.3M this year.
I know I’m in the minority, but IMO our offense doesn’t need a huge upgrade. IMO, it needs a healthy ARam, Soto to split the difference between his two seasons, and Sori to bounce back to being 75% of the player he used to be. If the pitching stays solid, I see no reason this lineup couldn’t score enough runs:
CF Johnson/Fuld
2B Iwamura
1B Lee
3B Ramirez
RF Fukudome
LF Soriano
C Soto
SS Theriot
(Could also slide Iwamura up, Theriot to #2 and CF down to #8.)
Bench: Johnson/Fuld, K Hill, Baker, Blanco, TBD (whatever we get for Bradley?)
Is this ideal? Nope. But IMO it is a solid enough starting 8. But without knowing how much, if any, financial flexibility (several raises kick in, plus IMO we need to consider an extension for Lilly) we have, I consider this a starting point (BTW… I am assuming at this point we just pay Bradley to go away, though a trade certainly seems to be possible).
by fsuapollo on Oct 5, 2009 12:41 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I love Reed Johnson
But I do not want to see next year come around with him penciled in as even a part-time starter. He’s very much a backup OF and we already would have a guy in right (Dome) who needs to be spelled against 25% or more of the starters. One of Fuld and Johnson should probably be that guy, as they hit lefties well enough. But we really should be trying to focus our money and attention on another OF than trying to fix a perceived problem at 2B.
by madcow256 on Oct 5, 2009 12:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't disagree
RJ does “scare” me a little. But I feel comfortable with him playing half the time, if he can stay healthy (which is admittedly a fair question).
The other thing with the OF for me is I would prefer to not sink a bunch more money out there. We’re already paying Sori and Fuku for sure… and presumably most of Bradley (or the acquired “bad contract” to get out from under MB). I’m just not thinking we’ll have a bunch more money to throw around. Given that, I’m okay with the CF platoon along with what I am expecting (hoping?) will be a continued uptick for Fuku.
Also agree on resting Fuku ~25% which is roughly 40 games… but I figure that can be done by RJ (10), Baker (20 – in my “proposal”, Baker becomes the supersub), and Fox (10 – who I inadvertently left off my initial roster… he would be the TBD).
But, much like I replied to DCD below, I’m not 100% behind my idea… just a thought. Like DCD’s, I’m not opposed to your strategy, either (though I am a bit hesitant about pushing more $ to the OF).
by fsuapollo on Oct 5, 2009 2:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Mike Cameron Campaign Begins Here
I totally agree about RJ. Dome must sit and rest. Soriano is now questionable for full-season play. And we don’t have anyone that can play CF very well. Let’s say we get someone like Rick Ankiel or Curtis Granderson. They’d also need someone to platoon with one of them. That’s why Mike Cameron should be someone we have our eye on. We could easily promise Cameron 400 PAs, with the possibility that a major injury gives him a full season’s worth of PAs. He’s a free agent who knows the NL Central. He’d be a big upgrade on RK for us.
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 5, 2009 3:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
RK should read RJ
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 5, 2009 3:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The remarkable thing about Cameron is...
…for a guy his age, he’s kept up his defense really well. In 1,267.2 innings in CF for the Brewers this year, he put up a 13.0 UZR – and he put up an 11.3 UZR last season. (He struggled much more when playing for the Padres.) So I think he’d do quite well in Wrigley Field. Plus, he’d allow Kosuke to move back over to right field, which has kinda become a priority of mine. Suffice to say, I like the Cameron idea if the budget will allow. How long of a contract would he ask for, though?
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 5, 2009 4:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
36 years old
Anything longer than a year or two would definitely be taking a risk. He does seem like someone that would fit our needs fairly well though.
by madcow256 on Oct 5, 2009 5:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed.
Could the Cubs get him for a year with a club option? I’m also wondering about the Brewers odds of re-signing him or whether they even intend to.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 6, 2009 9:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Cameron...
I like it. I might prefer the MB for Rowand idea (it no MB money is eaten), but I like the Cameron one too.
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Oct 6, 2009 9:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, the Rowand things is intriguing.
Biggest problem is he’s owed more money than Bradley and signed through 2012.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 6, 2009 9:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Right, but...
… the Giants seem fairly motivated to get rid of Rowand. Perhaps they could equalize the dollar value of the two contracts and both teams get what they want (Giants get salary relief, Cubs get rid of Bradley).
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Oct 6, 2009 9:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Understood, but which is the bigger problem.
Digesting $10M each for 2010 and 2011 with nothing in return or paying $3M more for 2010 and 2011 and then $13M for 2012 for a guy who is supposedly a positive spark in the clubhouse, is only 32 and play a position of need.
By 2012, the Cub salary landscape will look different.
If the other option is to sign Cameron for under $5M each for two years and eat the Bradley contract, I prefer the Bradley deal. As Cameron made $8M for 2009 and had a productive season, I don’t see him accepting $5M or less.
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Oct 6, 2009 9:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
To be clear about my original intentions
I don’t want Cameron as a full-time CF. I’d still want to add a LH CF bat. What I want is a 4th OF who can play as a starter on other teams, a guy with plus CF defense, the arm to play RF, and a solid track record. Then I want that 4th OF to play a lot more than other 4th OFs, spelling all our OFs regularly, because Dome definitely needs it, Soriano probably needs it, and any LH CF I can think of will need a platoon partner anyway.
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 6, 2009 10:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
With the various constraints, does an outfield of
Soriano (healthy), (Cameron or Rowand), Fukudome, & Fuld (with Fox on the bench as PH power and the double switch equilivant of pulling the goalie) meet what you want?
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Oct 6, 2009 10:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm fairly bearish on Fuld
I’d really like to add someone like Curtis Granderson (and not bat him lead-off).
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 6, 2009 1:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Mike Cameron to the Cubs
YES, this must happen. He will slay Cubs fans with his strikeouts, but he is a good player and fits neatly into that five spot of our lineup
Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.
by nji232 on Oct 6, 2009 12:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Reed needs to go
He’s not that good and he is injured too much.
I always turn to the sports section first. The sports page records people's accomplishments; the front page has nothing but man's failures.
~Earl Warren
by lookingdeadred on Oct 5, 2009 4:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
RJ's injuries
In fairness to Johnson, his injury this year (broken foot ) cannot really be attributed to being injury prone.
Eamus Ursuli!
by WGNstatic on Oct 5, 2009 7:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Eh, I dunno...
…I think RJ’s very strong splits against LHP and outfield versatility make him a good platoon partner. He’s got the cranky back but, as WGNstatic points out, the foot injury really wasn’t his “fault.”
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 6, 2009 9:04 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Better to get a younger and healthier CF to replace RJohnson
I always turn to the sports section first. The sports page records people's accomplishments; the front page has nothing but man's failures.
~Earl Warren
by lookingdeadred on Oct 6, 2009 12:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Such as?
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 6, 2009 1:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Let's wait to see who might be available
Johnson has missed a lot of games the last couple of seasons and really is not all that good to begin with. I understand he is a crowd favorite, but I prefer better players to popular players.
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 7, 2009 4:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Johnson missed two months this year....
… because he fouled a ball off his foot. You can’t really call him “injury-prone” as a result of that.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Oct 7, 2009 6:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I can if he has spent time on the DL two seasons in a row
I am sure someone will correct me if I am wrong, but I recall RJ going on the DL in 2008 also. If true, that makes two seasons in a row for a guy who will 34 next year. Yes, he is a gritty player who gets the most out of his limited talent and is a fan favorite, but I prefer talent to charisma. If he stays as the 4th or 5th OF, fine, but I hope he does not start.
I always turn to the sports section first. The sports page records people's accomplishments; the front page has nothing but man's failures.
~Earl Warren
by lookingdeadred on Oct 8, 2009 5:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm not suggesting he should start.
He’s a useful backup.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Oct 9, 2009 7:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
As a 4th or 5th OF
I suppose, just don’t want to count on him.
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 9, 2009 3:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
On what basis are you saying he's "not all that good to begin with"?
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 8, 2009 10:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
On his stats
If he could stay healthy, he is useful only as part of a platoon, as he is useless against RH pitching. His numbers against LH pitching are pretty good, but I would prefer the Cubs find someone with more talent and less mileage.
I always turn to the sports section first. The sports page records people's accomplishments; the front page has nothing but man's failures.
~Earl Warren
by lookingdeadred on Oct 8, 2009 5:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think we'd all prefer a full-time centerfielder...
…with balanced, productive splits and a good defensive acumen. Problem is, those guys are really, really hard to find. With RJ you get a good platoon partner, a guy who can play centerfield adequately (though his career UZR numbers there are actually kinda scary) and, at the risk of bringing intangibles into this, an all-around hardworking player with a great attitude.
Regarding his injury history, he has indeed taken one 15-day DL stint in each of the last two years as a Cub because of his back. So that should be considered, though it’s possible the further he gets from the back surgery he had in, I believe, 2007, the less of a concern that will be.
Ultimately, I’m not saying Reed Johnson is a slam dunk. But I still think he should be kept in the conversation for centerfield.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 9, 2009 8:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I like RJ
but I just think they have to try to find someone better than a mid 30s guy whose health and abiltities are trending downward.
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 9, 2009 3:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Iwamura looks decent enough...
…but, at least according to UZR, he doesn’t really appear to be an upgrade over Baker or Fontenot defensively. And I still think Baker has more upside to hit for power. I’m still not seeing the need to spend on a free agent what the Cubs already essentially have in house.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 5, 2009 1:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agree on Baker
and I am NOT overly fascinated with handedness, but Iwamura does hit lefthanded. That would put three lefties (Fuld and Fuku) in the “regular” lineup against RHP.
For me, that would put Baker in the “supersub” role, for which he is well suited, IMO.
At this point I am just kind of down on Fontenot. Outside of catcher, I want my bench guys to be more versatile. If Aki were the “starter” at 2B, that would free up Baker to be used at more positions.
But like I said originally, I am not 100% sold on the “need” for a new 2B, so I am not opposed to your idea DCD.
by fsuapollo on Oct 5, 2009 2:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Bradley
Here is where the MB situation gums up the works. The way I see it, 2B, SS, CF, & RF are the positions where the Cubs have a fair amount of flexibility to add players.
They will need to trade (or cut) MB quickly to figure out which (if any) of those positions winds up getting filled in that move. I certainly don’t want to turn this into a Bradley discussion, but it is relevant.
Eamus Ursuli!
by WGNstatic on Oct 5, 2009 7:11 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
sadly, every discussion will be Bradley centric until
Hendry determines what can be done.
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Oct 6, 2009 9:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Trades can be agreed upon during the playoffs.
Bud frowns on major deals being announced during the postseason, but that doesn’t mean that Hendry couldn’t make a deal involving Bradley that would be announced right after the WS ends.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Oct 6, 2009 9:42 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I remember.
But we’re stuck in radio silence until the playoffs pass.
What’s the over/under on Cub 2009 failure/Bradley references during the TBS/Fox playoff broadcasts?
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Oct 6, 2009 9:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well....
… Bob Brenly is serving as an analyst for the Cardinals/Dodgers series. He’s working with Dick Stockton. So I’m guessing it’ll be in the first inning of game 1.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Oct 6, 2009 11:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I believe it, I'm setting the over/under on mentions on
25 times throughout the playoffs. To qualify both the team not meeting expectations and Bradley have to be mentioned to qualify.
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Oct 6, 2009 11:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Freddy Sanchez, please
I supported trading for him this season and I still think that he’d make a big impact for the Cubs.
by Pre on Oct 6, 2009 6:45 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
What exactly would this big impact be?
He didn’t exactly give the Giants the boost they needed. Looking over his career, he had one huge year (2006) and one decent one (2007). He’s still a below league-average OPS guy for his career who doesn’t get on base enough to justify his lack of pop. No thanks.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Oct 7, 2009 8:42 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
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