Curt Schilling interested in pitching on the North Side.
by Jblatt on Feb 28, 2009 1:28 PM CST
124 comments
http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/orl-curt-schilling-play-cubs-022809,0,2015742.story
Outspoken 3 time world series champion pitcher Curt Schilling informed people he would consider playing again for the Cubs...or Rays and will decide in the next few weeks but would not be ready for opening day either way. I dunno about you guys but I would be a huge fan of his signing with his leadership and experience, he would be a great guy down the stretch.
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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it would obviously
give us a solid 5th starter, and someone who knows how to pitch under pressure.
There's nothing wrong with this team that more pitching, more fielding and more hitting couldn't help......"--Bill Buckner
by laidbackliam on Feb 28, 2009 1:38 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
I'm sure Schilling would want to pitch in either spot
Another ring (especially in Chicago) would go a long way towards helping his Hall of Fame resume.
That said, I don’t know how his ego would fit into the clubhouse. I’m sure the media would love having him, because Curt loves to talk (especially about Curt), but I’d worry about mixing with the clubhouse chemistry.
He might be worth looking at should a starter or two get hurt early in the year.
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 Feb 28, 2009 1:41 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
When did Curt Schilling play for the Cubs?
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
by dtpollitt on Feb 28, 2009 1:45 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
he hasn't
he said he’d be open to pitching for them, or the rays, if they’re in contention this year.
There's nothing wrong with this team that more pitching, more fielding and more hitting couldn't help......"--Bill Buckner
by laidbackliam on Feb 28, 2009 1:48 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
He would consider playing again, for the Cubs or Rays.
Brian McRae's 5 o'clock shadow
by PurpleLineToWrigley on Feb 28, 2009 1:49 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I think the "again"
Was in referencing that he would play baseball again. For which team it would be was a secondary function in the sentence (though it was hard to tell).
by CubsWin!Oregon on Feb 28, 2009 1:50 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
OOOOOOOOOOOOH.
Kinda hard to read…
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
by dtpollitt on Mar 1, 2009 10:44 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
He would give the Cubs a player with WINNING playoff experience
of course Jim Edmonds brought that last year and we all saw how that turned out
by D-rose on Feb 28, 2009 1:57 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Or Derrek Lee
in case you’ve forgotten.
by Josh77 on Feb 28, 2009 5:19 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I love the idea
you can put my name on the list of Schilling backers
"I like coconuts, you can break them open and they smell like ladies lying in the sun" Widespread Panic
by Cubbie-Tim on Feb 28, 2009 1:58 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
I would suspect that Jimbo and Lou have strong opinions on Schilling...
…and the question is – are they positive or negative?……There is no middle ground on a guy like this. Players and coaches either like this guy or they can’t stand him.
IMO, too much of a distraction and way to big of an ego when your trying to build a team atmosphere.
New sig currently under construction
by JB 23 on Feb 28, 2009 2:04 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Please tell me it ain't so
If you had to choose just one characteristic that would get you through life, choose a sense of humor.
by Clutche on Feb 28, 2009 2:19 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Totally OK with the Cubs checking him out
If he still has it and he’s gunning to help the team, who wouldn’t want a clutch playoff pitcher on their staff? You can never have too much pitching.
Sweet Lou for Mayor in '11.
by blackhawk24 on Feb 28, 2009 2:32 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
He's 42..........
and washed up
If you had to choose just one characteristic that would get you through life, choose a sense of humor.
by Clutche on Feb 28, 2009 2:42 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
So you saw him pitch recently?
Sweet Lou for Mayor in '11.
by blackhawk24 on Feb 28, 2009 3:23 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
He probably didn't.
But then again, no one has.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Feb 28, 2009 3:28 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Eh.
I think the Cubs pitching staff is just fine. We don’t need him.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Feb 28, 2009 2:42 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
We agree......
for a change…kudos
If you had to choose just one characteristic that would get you through life, choose a sense of humor.
by Clutche on Feb 28, 2009 2:43 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I'll disagree.
Who would be a better starter, Schilling, Marshall or Heilman? What did the team lack last year in the playoffs? A set of you know what. I would bet good money that most people here were all for the Maddux trade in ‘04, and some were wanted him back last year because of his “experience”. Well, Curt Schilling has just as much, if not more. He pitched in 4 World Series and his team won 3 of them. There is no doubt in my mind his attitude and experience would be a major benefit for the Cubs. Obviously, it depends on what kind of cash he is looking for, but if its a fair offer I’d take him in a second.
I would have thought that the Cubs’ stafff was “fine” last October, and that didn’t prove to be the case. I know you’re going to say that it wasn’t their fault, which it wasn’t. But wouldn’t a complete shutdown start by any of the three have been a big help? Curt Schilling thrives in that role. I also have said since the Peavy circus came to town that the staff is not fine. They have Z who is a maniac who has had some arm trouble, and you never know what you’re going to get. Harden who can wake up with his arm at the foot of his bed, and Dempster that is unlikely to duplicate last year.
Its funny, you spend most of your life gripping a baseball. And in the end, its almost always the other way around.
by TCobb1911 on Feb 28, 2009 3:28 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Counterpoint.
You only need four — possibly only three — starters in the playoffs. The Cubs already have four starters who can pitch in the postseason effectively — OK, so they didn’t last year, but you get the idea.
We don’t NEED Schilling. He would be an expensive luxury, and prone to breakdown.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Feb 28, 2009 3:30 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Counter-Counterpoint
0-6 might say otherwise
"I like coconuts, you can break them open and they smell like ladies lying in the sun" Widespread Panic
by Cubbie-Tim on Feb 28, 2009 4:01 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, I really can't see the downside to a Schilling signing,
and that’s said as someone who can’t stand the guy. I’d be interested in seeing the contract demands and what his recovery status is of course, but given the option of having Marshall/Samardzija/Gaudin or Schilling for 20-25 starts, I lean towards Schilling.
by Damen Jackson on Feb 28, 2009 4:27 PM CST up reply actions 1 recs
Expensive?
He didn’t pitch at all last year and he’s 42. He’s going to have to take a low base with incentives if he wants to pitch this year.
by kanderber on Feb 28, 2009 4:34 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Then let him pitch for the Rays.
As you point out, he didn’t pitch all last year and is 42.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Feb 28, 2009 4:40 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I cant wait to see
Hoff playing at 42 in CF
"I like coconuts, you can break them open and they smell like ladies lying in the sun" Widespread Panic
by Cubbie-Tim on Feb 28, 2009 5:20 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
With
Harden’s reliability, the possibility of Zambrano imploding, and the unlikelihood that Dempster duplicates last year, I’m not sure you can say that he would just be an expensive luxury. First you need to get there, and Schilling is no doubt a better option that the other two. Its not a bad problem to have…. too many solid arms in the playoffs. I would send Lilly to the pen in the playoffs and let the rotation be Schilling, Demp, Z and Harden (no part. order).
I don’t think he will be expensive. The Cubs would hold all the cards, and wouldn’t overspend on him. Also, I’m surprised that no one else sees the possibility of the staff not being all that reliable. I hope I’m wrong.
Its funny, you spend most of your life gripping a baseball. And in the end, its almost always the other way around.
by TCobb1911 on Mar 1, 2009 9:55 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Agree
I dont think he would be too expensive… if he is going to come back he is coming back to win again not for the money. So i think he would take a reduced role in pitching and in salary. I think it could be a handshake minor league type of deal. Something that when we need you you need to be ready and play. In other words I dont see him pitching the whole season. But when a injury happens or just down the stretch when arms are getting tired he could be used and be effective.
by bizzle4 on Mar 1, 2009 12:50 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
i wanted maddux back
just so we could have him back. wasn’t for experience, just that i love having him in cubbie pinstripes.
There's nothing wrong with this team that more pitching, more fielding and more hitting couldn't help......"--Bill Buckner
by laidbackliam on Feb 28, 2009 5:12 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I wanted him back to impart knowledge on all the other players
…and that goes for hitters too.
Sweet Lou for Mayor in '11.
by blackhawk24 on Mar 1, 2009 9:03 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Interesting
If he can still bring it I wouldn’t mind Schilling as a 5 at all.
by Cubinator on Feb 28, 2009 5:15 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Why not?
If he’s willing to take a low, incentive-laden contract then I believe he would be a decent insurance option. Playoff experience is certainly something we could use; and, if it is a cheap deal, then we could part ways with him if he has nothing left/becomes a distraction, correct?
He would most likely not earn a starting playoff spot, but he would be insurance for the bullpen.
Free Ronny Cedeno
by Kansas25 on Feb 28, 2009 5:44 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
+ 100
He’s opinionated and has an attitude .. but if he can accept a bullpen role on the cheap, why not? Really? Just how much did all of his brash persona get in the way of the Red Sox’ championship play? Was he as polarizing and divisive as Barroid Bonds?
Personally, I think it’s all smoke – but if he’s realistic about where he likely is in any kind of “come back” role, he’d be potentially a heck of a better spot starter than Jon Lieber was. If we can see him contribute the same way Jimbo did last year, more power to him.
Well, Next Year is here .. and Jack's century's gotta end some time .. GO CUBBIES!
by cubnational on Mar 3, 2009 6:25 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
sure
if his desire to play for the cubs is high enough to take a really cheap deal
by cubsmania on Feb 28, 2009 5:49 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
I hope
Schilling signs with a team before Manny does
"I like coconuts, you can break them open and they smell like ladies lying in the sun" Widespread Panic
by Cubbie-Tim on Feb 28, 2009 5:49 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
I would sign him
What is there to lose? Hell if he is not ready by July so be it, who knows what can happen from now to then.
I would sign him to heavy incentive deal.
"Have You heard of the Boom on Mizar 5?"
by Grockcubs on Feb 28, 2009 6:36 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
1 year 32 Million
give Schilling that, just to piss off Manny even more lol
"I like coconuts, you can break them open and they smell like ladies lying in the sun" Widespread Panic
by Cubbie-Tim on Feb 28, 2009 7:28 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
I hate this
Anyone who has visited his blog knows what a overblown gasbag this guy is. Please say no, Jimbo.
by leothelip on Feb 28, 2009 7:38 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
agreed
he is a shameless self promoting $#%^##@. He’s on the downside of his career… no thanks.
by dmlichte on Feb 28, 2009 7:57 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
That sounds familiar
A lot of Cubs fans said the same thing about Jim Edmonds last season.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Feb 28, 2009 8:06 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
yeah, that was my view on him
and I’m sure the people of Chicago would love Schilling if he gave them a championship
#34: You'll be missed!
by Chanman25 on Feb 28, 2009 8:44 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
How'd that Edmonds thing work out?
Any championships won?
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 1, 2009 4:03 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
pretty rough on Edmunds
he looked like one of the only Cubs that belonged in the playoffs. I say why not on Schilling…..what could possibly be the harm in giving him a look?
by plenz on Mar 1, 2009 6:46 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
well he clearly wasn't the reason we lost in the playoffs
#34: You'll be missed!
by Chanman25 on Mar 1, 2009 7:09 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I wasn't trying to be rough on Edmonds...
… only saying that the signing of a player with major postseason experience (whether it’s Edmonds or Schilling) guarantees you nothing, and to sign Schilling five years after his heroics in the 2004 WS, is, to me, pointless. We have four good playoff-caliber pitchers.
Also, as has been said elsewhere, this article was pure speculation based on an offhand comment, and lost all credibility with me when the writer mentioned “curses”.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 1, 2009 7:43 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
So you thought Edmonds was a bad pick-up?
I guess you have been against every move the Cubs have made since 1908 since that was their last championship. The reason I brought up Edmonds is that it’s an example of a move very unpopular with fans that was low risk and in my opinion turned out to be a nice pick-up. If Schilling is healthy he has proven in the past he’s a valuable pitcher. Do you think a healthy Schilling can’t contribute to this team? Interesting in light of other veterans like Kevin Millar that you have endorsed picking up.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Mar 1, 2009 11:52 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Healthy?
a huge IF
If you had to choose just one characteristic that would get you through life, choose a sense of humor.
by Clutche on Mar 1, 2009 11:56 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
IFy
Who would just blindly endorse picking up a player without knowing if he is healthy? I would never suggest they should just pick-up Schilling or any other player coming off injury without consideration for their ability to perform. It doesn’t hurt to investigate all available options. “IF” Pedro Martinez pitches in the WBC and looks good I think the Cubs should consider picking him up. How does it hurt a team to pick-up low cost arms? The "IF"s I have suggested are things that can be proven out one way or the other.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Mar 1, 2009 12:03 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
+7
another example
DeRosa was not a popular pick up initially with many Todd Walker fanatics, and now those same fanatics are crying about his trade.
"I like coconuts, you can break them open and they smell like ladies lying in the sun" Widespread Panic
by Cubbie-Tim on Mar 1, 2009 11:57 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
how true
Remember how many people were screaming about counting on Wood to come out of the bullpen? No doubt many of those same people are now lamenting his departure as well as DeRo.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Mar 1, 2009 12:04 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Nonsense.
Ridiculous hyperbole. Of course I haven’t been against “every move since 1908”. And yes, at first I thought Edmonds was a bad pickup. He proved me wrong.
Schilling’s a bit of a different story, with his age and injury history.
I hardly expected Kevin Millar, if signed, to be a major part of this team. He wasn’t, and we move on.
People here are asking Schilling to win a World Series singlehandedly, and maybe with a bloody sock. I think his time is gone.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 1, 2009 12:13 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
His time may be gone no question
I certainly don’t suggest he alone would be the key to winning a title. You seem very averse to his pick-up unlike other veterans. I don’t care for him personally but I can admit that if the guy is healthy he’s a good pitcher. A team really can’t ever have too many good pitchers, can they?
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Mar 1, 2009 12:19 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
You're right.
My point is, Schilling isn’t a good pitcher any more, in my opinion. He’s fat and old, and IMO, done.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 1, 2009 12:43 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I dunno, Al
He hasn’t pitched since 2007, but that year he had a 3.87 ERA for Boston. He still had a 4-1 K/BB ratio, which is mostly because he just never walks anyone anymore.
I’m not saying we should rush out and sign Schilling. But if we’ve got injuries or someone is struggling around Memorial Day, I think Schilling could be a much better option than Mitch Atkins.
The “championship experience” argument is clearly nonsense. We’ve got two players in the starting lineup with WS rings (Soriano and Lee) and that hasn’t gotten us anything. But I don’t see any reason to close to the door on a mid-season Schilling signing.
by Josh77 on Mar 1, 2009 10:59 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe the "correct" championship experience guy
We all know Fonz and D-Lee are not leaders. Schill however certainly could be.
Totally agree on not closing any door. There are simply zero reasons at this time the Cubs would be silly enough to say, “no”.
Sweet Lou for Mayor in '11.
by blackhawk24 on Mar 2, 2009 9:03 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
dont need
another ace pitcher out there, not even a starter, but a reliever that can be put in and get outs when in a jam. Jim Edmonds was no A-rod, but did enough to please Lou and the fans.
by txcubfan85 on Mar 3, 2009 8:02 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
If he is healthy and can be effective, sure, why not?
He’s a proven starter both in the regular and post season. Someone is bound to go down in the season, so he could be useful…
#34: You'll be missed!
by Chanman25 on Feb 28, 2009 8:45 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
I think you're all missing the point...
This is coming from the Chicago Tribune, which has gone from the top of the class in terms of Spors journalism to bottom feeders scrounging around for stories. Look at the first few sentences. He only mentioned Chicago and Tampa Bay as, and I quote “the challenges.” This isn’t even a rumor. Whitley is just throwing this out to see if it’ll stick.
by northernsails on Mar 1, 2009 3:42 AM CST reply actions 1 recs
Rec'd
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 1, 2009 4:04 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Mar 1, 2009 9:05 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
from the link above
this is one reason I am for Schilling
He’s also 10-2 with a 2.23 ERA in the postseason.
"I like coconuts, you can break them open and they smell like ladies lying in the sun" Widespread Panic
by Cubbie-Tim on Mar 1, 2009 10:25 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
It's 2009 not.......
2004 when he won his last post season game. He’s 4 years older and had shoulder surgery to boot. He’s done.
If you had to choose just one characteristic that would get you through life, choose a sense of humor.
by Clutche on Mar 1, 2009 11:35 AM CST up reply actions 1 recs
How do you make that assumption?
Have you seen him pitch?!
Sweet Lou for Mayor in '11.
by blackhawk24 on Mar 2, 2009 9:03 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yyyeah...
I dont see anything about Jim Hendry being at all “interested” in Schilling in the herald article. Doesn’t even mention Jimbo, just some nameless, positionless "operative. This is yet another example of the fine ‘journalists’ at the Boston Herald trying to make an anthill into a cashcow…wait, does that metaphor even make any sense?
by northernsails on Mar 2, 2009 10:10 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Bruce Miles is generally considered to be reliable
And the Daily Herald is not located in Boston.
Other than that, spot on.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Mar 2, 2009 11:20 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
LOL, pwned
My sig line is out for jury duty.
by dat cubfan daver on Mar 3, 2009 10:02 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
oh, ok
This Bruce Miles guy may be considered reliable, but the facts stand as I stated.
by northernsails on Mar 3, 2009 1:54 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
There were facts in there?
The point of my posting the link was to let Al know that he shouldn’t dismiss this so quickly as the Cubs not being interested. I’m pretty sure I got that point across.
That “Bruce Miles guy” is an occasional poster here and is well respected by this community. I tend to believe him if he says the team has interest.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Mar 3, 2009 2:21 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
If you say so
I’m a bit more hesitant to just believe something if there’s nothing in there that states a team shows any more than cursory interest, anonymous members of the organization aside.
by northernsails on Mar 3, 2009 2:32 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Can't reveal all sources
Not if you want them to continue to be sources.
Anyway, this post has gone so far down the list, not many will see it — but I’d wager that most on this site would put more credence in what Miles writes then Muskat, Sullivan, Rogers, etc.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Mar 3, 2009 2:43 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I'd agree with that last...
But it isn’t saying much. Those three all strike me as mere mouthpieces.
by northernsails on Mar 3, 2009 3:55 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
According to Steve Phillips
this morning on ESPN, Schilling is completely out of shape. Schilling would first have to decide that he would want to do it and then it would take months for him to get into shape. He said that Schilling was always a bigger guy, but he’s bigger than bigger right now.
And I don’t know if Schilling right now would be any better than Marshall or Heilman. Right now, he can’t pitch and there’s no guarantee that he could even if he decided that he wanted to and he got himself into shape. Those are all huge if’s. I think there’s a much better chance that Angel Guzman will start a Cub playoff game than Schilling.
by jerry morales rules on Mar 1, 2009 10:14 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
I wouldn't use Guzman as a postseason starter...
… but your point is valid. And in any case, as I have written several times here, the Cubs already have four good starters, and you need only that, or maybe even three, in the postseason.
Signing Schilling would be pointless.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 1, 2009 12:15 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
If injuries occur it won't be pointless
He could prove to be a fairly inexpensive insurance policy. The Cubs have to get to the post-season before they worry about who their top 3 or 4 might be.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Mar 1, 2009 12:22 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
And they can get there without him.
So again, why bother?
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 1, 2009 12:43 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Let's ask Jim Hendry
“We’ll always keep our eye on anybody we think can help us,” he said. “I have a lot of respect for him. Great pitcher. Great big-game pitcher.” -Jim Hendry’s response when asked about Schilling’s comments. I guess Jim doesn’t think it’s nonsensical to consider Schilling. Of course this doesn’t mean the Cubs are on the verge of signing him.
http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/baseball/cubs/chi-01-cubs-bits-chicagomar01,0,7657682.story
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Mar 1, 2009 1:03 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Hendry always says that about "anybody we think can help us".
It’s pretty noncommittal.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 1, 2009 1:07 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
He could have easily put it to rest
Many other times he has said things along the lines of .. we’re happy with what we have and aren’t really looking in that direction. Hendry could have easily dismissed it out of hand just like you have.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Mar 1, 2009 1:09 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
No, he rarely says that.
Hendry has, at least this offseason, has consistently said they’re always looking for more help.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 1, 2009 1:11 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Hendry would never insult
a veteran player like that. If Bob Gibson said he wanted to pitch for the Cubs you’d probably get the same response.
by jerry morales rules on Mar 1, 2009 1:11 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
It's not an insult to say we like who we have and aren't interested
I was using Hendry’s own admission that this team would consider Schilling, if people don’t want to believe that because they would have to admit they’re wrong then so be it. It makes sense to consider Schilling and not just dismiss it out of hand.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Mar 1, 2009 1:24 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Tell me where in that quote he says he would consider Schilling.
He said: we may be looking for help, and I respect Schilling.
At no place in that quote did he say they would consider him.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 1, 2009 1:27 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
context of question
Hendry did not just make those comments in a vacuum, they were in the context of Schilling remarking that he would be interested in playing for the Cubs if he plays this season. When asked by reporters what he thought of Schilling’s remarks Hendry said the Cubs would, “keep our eye on anybody,” in this case Schilling is the specific player in question. To further emphasize his point Hendry said in regard to Schilling, “Great big-game pitcher.” Are you seriously trying to pick his remarks apart to the extent that he isn’t saying they would consider Schilling? It’s obvious from his remarks they would in fact consider him. It is simply disingenuous to suggest otherwise.
If you don’t believe Hendry is interested maybe you would like to hear Lou’s thoughts on Schilling… “This guy, he’s a pro,….I don’t know how accurate (the rumors) are, but you get a pitcher with his credentials and his winning habits, it would be something to explore.”
So, obviously Lou and Hendry both think this guy is someone they should, “keep an eye on” and his acquisition is “something to explore.”
Their quotes obviously disagree with your view that Schilling should be dismissed out of hand. I think I have offered ample evidence that the Cubs would in fact consider picking Schilling up despite how much certain Cubs fans loathe the idea.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Mar 1, 2009 4:42 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
He actually sorta did...
by saying that he hadn’t heard from either the Red Sox or Schilling’s agent at all about it. That pretty much puts it dead to rest as a failed rumor attempt.
by northernsails on Mar 2, 2009 10:12 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
hate to bring this up again
But we can win without Jake Peavy too… We could have won without Milton Bradley and Aaron Miles. We could have definitely won without Aaron Heilman. The way this division is shaping up… we could get to the playoffs with a bunch of guys from Iowa. So why did they do any of it? They could have taken all the money they gave Bradley, Gregg, Miles, Vizcaino… and just kept Wood, DeRosa and Marquis (and Jose Ceda, too). Even though some of their moves were lateral at best just to redistribute some of their payroll, the Cubs are trying to improve the team over what they did last year, and what they could have done this year just by showing up. Schilling cannot hurt this team. Anything this team can do to improve this team, I’m all for. And obviously, they are too.
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Just North of Wrigley Field
by jameslcrockett on Mar 2, 2009 3:17 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I just used Guzman as
an example of a pitcher who is way down the list of available Cub options. There’s many options that would be looked at first before Guzman. Somewhere later after that is Schilling.
by jerry morales rules on Mar 1, 2009 1:13 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Four potentially good starters... none of whom is a sure thing
Harden has the best stuff, but can’t be counted on to stay healthy. Zambrano is meltdown-prone. Lilly took a while to find his control last year. And I still have doubts that Dempster can duplicate, or even come close, to a repeat of last season.
Schilling is worth at least a look.
"That’s what I love about my skip, man. He’ll tell you that you suck...I know I suck. We know we suck...Yeah, we suck. But we’ll see who sucks at the end."
- Gary Sheffield
by DrGalazkiewicz on Mar 1, 2009 3:29 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
If
If he decides that he wants to be a pitcher again,
if he gets into shape,
if he can get to the point where he can throw some ML capable pitches,
then we might have something to talk about. Until then, I have more confidence in Marshall, Hielman and a few others being better capable of getting major league hitters out in October than I do in Schilling right now. He is 42, coming off an injury, out of shape, and hasn’t thrown a ball to a major league hitter since 2007.
by jerry morales rules on Mar 1, 2009 7:47 PM CST up reply actions 2 recs
Yeah, this pretty sums up my feelings as well.
There’s no harm in looking into Schilling – but with a high degree of skepticism. Honestly, if the Cubs really want his playoff experience, perhaps they should just hire Curt as a “postseason consultant” of some sort.
My sig line is out for jury duty.
by dat cubfan daver on Mar 2, 2009 9:47 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Schilling.........
Again……I see no harm in a look see with him. By the way………I heard the Cubs were looking at a guy from SD……..whats his name again???
by plenz on Mar 1, 2009 3:31 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
If anyone still cares
This is what Mr. Schillling said on his web blog “38 pitches” today:
This quote:
"I’m not sure if I am coming back or not, but yes, I’d definitely be interested the Cubs, and in Tampa if I did"
Became
"I’m definitely coming back and would play for the Cubs".
I have said to no one, including myself, that I am definitely coming back, because it’s not true. However if I did, the Cubs, and Tampa, were they to need a starting pitcher for the 2nd half of the season and into October, would be 2 situations I’d be very interested in.
Little ‘misquotes’ lead to news that really isn’t news. First off a team has to want you to make anything of this sort work. I love Joe Maddon, always have, and I’d play for Lou Pinella in a heart beat.
So I’ll be clear here. If I do feel I can be better than I was in 2007, and I do decide to come back, AND either of those teams is in the market for a starting pitcher (because lets face it, both teams have what could be outstanding rotations) I would DEFINITELY be interested in both. The Cubs present as much of a cool challenge for me as the Red Sox did in 04, and Tampa has a roster of guys I’d love to play with.
Again.. If anyone cares..
by jtsurf on Mar 2, 2009 3:10 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
Thanks for posting this.
The key sentence there is:
Little ‘misquotes’ lead to news that really isn’t news.
Happens all the time.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 2, 2009 3:38 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
It's classic Schilling,
and really the reason why I don’t like him personally. He does love spinning the media in whatever manner he seems most productive for him. And he talks too damn much.
Listen, I just finished up a blog post for my site on this, and after some amount of research there was not a single source that said anything to the effect of “I’m definitely coming back and would play for the Cubs” when reporting on this blurb.
David Whitley asked him some point blank questions about his 2009 status, and Schilling chose to specifically mention the Rays and Cubs. No one put those words in his mouth. Now, if he was half-drunk down at the festivities, or chose to ramble on without thinking, that’s fine. I think many fans — and the Cubs — would have some interest in him coming here as well.
But let’s be clear. Schilling spun this whole thing himself, likely to help fuel interest ahead of his decision. And I can’t find a single source that has mis-reported his comments. Him saying otherwise appears to be little more than an attempt to add to the very hype that he created.
by Damen Jackson on Mar 2, 2009 7:36 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I think you're reading things into it that aren't there.
I think the original writer spun it wrong (as I said, he lost me when he mentioned "curses"), and while Schilling is a blowhard, I think way too much has been made of this.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 2, 2009 8:40 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Out of curiosity
Why are you so against Schilling, and cite the fact that he hasn’t pitched in over a year as a reason, yet you think Koskie could be a viable player? Seems a bit inconsistent.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Mar 2, 2009 8:53 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Because the whole reason...
… for signing Schilling is, presumably, because he’d come up big in the postseason (I assume you agree that we really don’t need him in the regular season). Whether he can do this two years after any ML action is debatable.
Koskie would be a backup, a bench player. I think he has the chance to do that. If not, you move on.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 2, 2009 9:31 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I think both are worth a flier
Low-risk, low-reward (Koskie) and low-risk, high-reward. If Schilling were to be given a shot and couldn’t get anyone out in August or September, he wouldn’t be invited to October.
Sure, the Cubs should win the division without Schilling. But you, yourself became an advocate of the Kevin Millar-type character in the clubhouse. I think Schilling’s a narcissist, but he also could help in that character regard.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Mar 2, 2009 9:45 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe.
Or, he could become a giant distraction. I don’t see Millar and Schilling as being the same type of clubhouse influence at all.
Incidentally, since a lot of people have lamented the loss of Mark DeRosa’s clubhouse presence, who do you (or anyone else here) see as a possibility as that presence among the newcomers to the team? Don’t mention anyone who was here last year, for the purposes of this argument I’m interested in how the newcomers will fit in.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 2, 2009 10:08 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Bradley
While I was sorry to see DeRosa go, I really like the Bradley signing. Jim’s Furcal rant at me notwithstanding, if Bradley can stay healthy, I think he brings an edge that the Cubs have been lacking.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Mar 2, 2009 10:20 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm perfectly willing to be wrong about Bradley.
When healthy, there’s no doubt he can rake. It’s the staying healthy part that I worry about.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 2, 2009 1:51 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yes, I agree with you on that.
It’s a calculated risk. Something needed to be done to boost the OF offense, though. So, why not add some fire, too.
I still wish Pie had gotten a legitimate shot — people talk about the Cubs not being in position to let a young player get acclimated, but the Braves managed to do that in the 1990’s . . . but that’s another issue.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Mar 2, 2009 1:58 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I agree with Shanghai.
Bradley is the only one among the ‘09 acquisitions who I could see bringing a significant clubhouse presence to the team. Assuming The Game can stay in the game, the intensity and perfectionism he brings to the park could really drive the team to new heights – much in the way that Dome’s patience at the plate may have help boost the Cubs OBP last season.
My sig line is out for jury duty.
by dat cubfan daver on Mar 2, 2009 10:36 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I think the whole clubhouse thing is BS
but, since you asked, reserves and relief pitchers are not allowed to be “clubhouse presences.” They just don’t play enough to be allowed to set the tone in the clubhouse.
That means we’ve only acquired one regular position player (and no starting pitching) since last season, so the answer to your question is Milton Bradley, by default.
by Josh77 on Mar 2, 2009 12:01 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
You don't think Wood had any influence on the clubhouse?
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Mar 2, 2009 12:15 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
+1 !!!
Yeah, and when Demp was the closer, he didn’t have any clubhouse presence either.
What’s BS is that there’s this magical restriction on who can be a clubhouse leader or have clubhouse presence.
Sweet Lou for Mayor in '11.
by blackhawk24 on Mar 2, 2009 12:55 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
All the nay-sayers here are taking this very moment in a vacuum
This guy? Yes. That guy? No.
Just like trades that are so often viewed as the end-all, be-all, in a vacuum without other considerations, is incorrect, so too is this assumption.
Let’s all take a look at the team right now, this very moment. There’s not one of us here – and I mean no one – that can predict what the team will be come July, let alone October.
Last year….who saw Reed Johnson as a Cub on March 2nd? Who saw Jim Edmonds as a Cub on March 2nd?
Its a curious possibility (without putting a probability of it happening number on it) if nothing else. It is what it is right now. Who knows maybe Corey Koskie can really help the team like many of us though Aurilia could just a month or so ago.
Sweet Lou for Mayor in '11.
by blackhawk24 on Mar 2, 2009 9:08 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
I'm not certain what you're getting at there
Clearly Schilling’s personal memoirs have demonstrated that this whole thing is a huge hot air balloon stoked by David Whitley and the Boston Herald. Whether the man has narcissistic tendencies is another story altogether and completely unrelated. The fact of the matter, and the only thing that should matter, is that Schilling:
1. Never said for certain that he would be back.
2. Never mentioned that he would be a Cub or Ray
3. Is old, out-of-shape, out-of-practice, and has no reason to return to any sort of fitness regimen since neither of the teams that he mentioned have actively shown much interest in him.
by northernsails on Mar 2, 2009 10:38 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
what I'm getting at
is there’s so much consternation about a [potential] move, looking at the move as if it were the end-all, be-all, and not – rightfully – as part of a bigger picture. That is they’re looking at it in a vacuum.
I’m not assuming anything other than the Cubs will take a look at him should he decide to play later in the season and looks good enough to sign.
Just because you haven’t heard what’s going on doesn’t mean it’s not going on. Just like the other poster who said, “he’s washed up”. Did he/she see him pitch recently? Is he/she in-the-know on some information none of the rest of the world isn’t? Answer to either is “no”.
Sweet Lou for Mayor in '11.
by blackhawk24 on Mar 3, 2009 7:20 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Maddux redux
So… this page wanted Maddux… but not Schilling? Curious. I want any player that could possibly help this team actually, you know?… win a playoff game! Schilling might not do it… but he’s won as many playoff games in the last two years as anybody on the Cubs right now. I’d give him a shot… low risk… ridiculously huge reward.
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Just North of Wrigley Field
by jameslcrockett on Mar 2, 2009 2:16 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
also...
maybe he’d take a job in the bullpen… with his splitter as a damn good out pitch.
btw… the Cubs have room for him on this team… we have guys like Vizcaino and Heilman… fringe guys. The Rays… they’re so loaded they’re probably sending David Price down to the minors just for SNG… not because he’s not one of the best pitchers on the team.
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Just North of Wrigley Field
by jameslcrockett on Mar 2, 2009 2:20 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Two problems with that
Would he want to pitch out of the ’pen?
Vizcaino’s getting $4.2M this year. He’s not going to be released.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Mar 2, 2009 2:41 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I’m not saying release Vizcaino… far from it. I’m just saying he shouldn’t stop us from adding more to the team. You can literally count on one hand the number of pitchers on this team that isn’t an injury risk. Schilling probably wouldn’t be ready for the start of the season anyway… his contract would have to be worded in a way that is incredibly incentive-laden… and allows an out for both sides in case he sees opportunities elsewhere. There are very few teams that are headed to playoffs that use him in the rotation come October anyway. I think he would relish an opportunity to come out of the pen in a high-pressure playoff game. If he’s fishing for a legacy and HOF votes, there’s no better place to do it than in the Cubs bullpen. Heck, if he comes up with some kind of “defining moment”, he could have a sub-par season statistically and still add to his credentials.
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by jameslcrockett on Mar 2, 2009 2:59 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I didn't mean to imply that you were talking about releasing him . . . but that's what I did
I meant to say that there is money there that’s not going away, and it’s not so easy to just dismiss Vizcaino (although I’d like to).
For the record, I think it’d be worth it to take a flier on Schilling — and I said so above.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Mar 2, 2009 3:21 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
This page?
My sig line is out for jury duty.
by dat cubfan daver on Mar 2, 2009 2:45 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Win
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Mar 2, 2009 3:21 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
anyone see this?
BCB quoted as saying they would be a huge fan of his signing
I didn’t see that anywhere above.
"Just win tonight" - derv
by derv on Mar 4, 2009 8:56 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
That's a really strange quote.
Anyone want to post a comment on that site saying that?
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 4, 2009 9:24 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I found it ...
…the quote is in the original posters fanpost message.
"Just win tonight" - derv
by derv on Mar 4, 2009 9:33 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Oh, I see it now.
Well, that’s hardly representative of everyone here, or my opinion. I guess whoever posted that didn’t actually read the comments.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 5, 2009 10:19 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
What a ridiculous sentence.
How can they possibly distill a blog as active as this one into ONE opinion? That’s just irritating and irresponsible.
My sig line is out for jury duty.
by dat cubfan daver on Mar 5, 2009 10:27 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
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