What one (backup) player would you add?
by zambranofan on Feb 8, 2009 12:42 PM CST
110 comments
As the Cubs near Spring Training, the roster seems pretty set. There will be some competition for the fifth starter spot, and in the bullpen. The 13th non-pitcher has been the subject of some debate on this site.
If you could advise Jim Hendry to acquire ONE MORE player before the season, who would it be and what do you think it would cost?
For me, the answer has been the same all offseason: Ben Zobrist. Tampa will not be eager to deal him unless Reid Brignac seems ready, but they are somewhat redundant players. Tampa doesn't have a lot of holes, but might be open to acquiring some young bullpen arms. I'd love for a couple young Cubs to have great Springs, like Guzman or Stevens, and be a credible offer. I would offer something like Guzman, Tony Thomas, and Darwin Barney for Zobrist. Ben would be the primary backup at SS and 3B, replacing Hoffpauir as the prime LH pinch-hitter.
Maybe you think a shut-down LH reliever is more important? Another starting pitcher, so Marshall, Heilman, and Gaudin will all be in the pen? A veteran LH hitter who can play the infield corners?
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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Not a backup.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Feb 8, 2009 1:05 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
yea i know
if the cubs sign him, then he would push back fontenot or miles
by lexmarklover on Feb 8, 2009 2:39 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Wait.
You’d give up a possible shutdown reliever, a good IF prospect and a possible future backup infielder for a guy who has a career batting line of .222/.279/.370?
For that, I’d rather just put Darwin Barney in the spot right now — he can hit that well. Or bring Neifi back. (That’s a joke, I wouldn’t really bring Neifi back.)
This was a serious offer? You weren’t kidding?
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Feb 8, 2009 1:07 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
I don't think Barney is MLB ready
Call me nuts but I would still take Nomar ( cheaply) over the above. I would love to have Grudz ( I am NOT trying to spell that whole name)but I don’t know how good he would be at 1st or 3rd which I think is bigger need.
Please note we have been saved from worrying about Aurilla as he signed with the Giants.
"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry
by Doggie Stalker on Feb 8, 2009 1:26 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Barney ISN'T major league ready.
But I would rather put him there than give up three good prospects to get the mediocre Ben Zobrist.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Feb 8, 2009 1:42 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Serious
I don’t think 200 AB two years ago is a great read on Zobrist’s potential. Neither is the 200 AB this year. But I would expect him to fall somewhere between the .224/.260/.311 from 2006 and the .253/.339/.505 from 2008, and closer to the latter. His career minor league OPS progression is .896/.880/.884/.858 from 2004-7, with only 24 games in the minors last year. His OBA has been over .400 every season in the minors. He has more power from the left side, but has never hit as many homers before as the 12 he slugged last season in 198 AB. A guy with great plate discipline starts hitting with more power at age 27? Not a fluke, IMHO.
He can play an adequate shortstop, a decent 3B or 2B, and OF. I would expect him to outhit Aaron Miles (in OPS, not BA) in limited playing time, and be better defensively than Fontenot, especially at 2B or 3B. In comparison, Fontenot had a grand total of 4 major-league ABs prior to his age 27 season. Miles had 12 AB. Mark DeRosa had 188 AB with a line of 0.277/0.343/0.372.
Barney, Thomas, and Guzman are all “ifs” as well. Perhaps I underrate them. But I see Zobrist as a very valuable player over the next 4 years.
Plus, he was born in Eureka, IL.
Fontenot (fon-te-no): Cajun for "scrappy"
by zambranofan on Feb 8, 2009 2:06 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Wow.
You’re talking him up based on minor league numbers and pushing him as if he’s the second coming of DeRosa. I don’t see any of that, certainly not enough to give up three prospects for him.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Feb 8, 2009 2:14 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Well, we shall have to see
But yes, on the basis of his minor league numbers, I think Ben Zobrist is a good comp for Mark DeRosa from age 28-32. I suppose part of it is that I trust the Astros and Rays systems to teach good hitting philosophy.
More Win Shares over the next 4 years, Angel Guzman or Ben Zobrist? Maybe a wager?
Fontenot (fon-te-no): Cajun for "scrappy"
by zambranofan on Feb 8, 2009 2:28 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Sure.
Guzman may be a closer by then. Zobrist may be out of baseball.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Feb 8, 2009 2:29 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Of course, with Guzman's injury history
the opposite is probably just as likely, unfortunately.
"Enough foreplay- let's get crackin'"- Fred Garvin
by davidalanu on Feb 8, 2009 2:49 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
much as I am a fan of Zobrist
for what he does, I don’t see the point. He’s a BA-dependent offensive utility player. To expect similar power next year would be unrealistic. I think overall, his power is a bit less than Fontenot’s, but he’s more useful defensively (able to handle short and provide solid OF defense), but his assets aren’t enough for me to buy any deal for him. Don’t see the point of adding someone like that right now. Off the bench, I think the last spot needs to have a bit more pop to it.
Only way I would add Zobrist is if we can move Aaron Miles as a result. Otherwise, a bench of Miles/Gathright/Johnson/Zobrist would be rather weak.
I also don’t think the Rays are going to deal him, as I think they love the versatility he offers them off the bench. If Brignac is ready, they’ll shop the overhyped Jason Bartlett (and there were rumors that they were willing to do this last year). Short of it is, I don’t think Brignac and Zobrist’s paths definitely intertwine for the Rays as Zobrist is their utility guy, whereas if Brignac comes up, he’ll either challenge at short, or be the backup shortstop.
by toonsterwu on Feb 8, 2009 3:05 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
That's a good analysis.
I like Zobrist, think Zfan offered too much, and would rather get Wilson Betemit, who gives toonsterwu the power he’s looking for.
The author of this post is not a certified scout, doctor, agent, statistician, manager, or journalist, nor was he ever a very good player, though he tried very hard to be like Ryne Sandberg and was about as scrappy as it gets (in T-ball). Any opinion expressed above should in no way be confused with fact, truth, or reality and is hereby qualified in the following ways: 1) The author does not know as much about baseball as Lou Piniella. 2) The author does not know as much about baseball as Jim Hendry. 3) The author does not know as much about baseball as either Dusty or Darren Baker.
by DGU on Feb 8, 2009 3:30 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Betemit makes too much money, and it's doubtful the Sox want to get rid of him
Sox are counting on Wilson Betemit providing insurance at 3rd base behind Josh Fields, and at 2nd base behind Chris Getz or Brad Lillibridge. Plus he will be primary backup to Paul Konerko at 1st.
by BLou on Feb 8, 2009 4:13 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I agree with that.
But Betemit’s still the guy I want. If the Sox push their Cuban 3B as fast as they pushed Alexei Ramirez, Betemit may become available mid-season. I can deal with Rivas to start the season.
The author of this post is not a certified scout, doctor, agent, statistician, manager, or journalist, nor was he ever a very good player, though he tried very hard to be like Ryne Sandberg and was about as scrappy as it gets (in T-ball). Any opinion expressed above should in no way be confused with fact, truth, or reality and is hereby qualified in the following ways: 1) The author does not know as much about baseball as Lou Piniella. 2) The author does not know as much about baseball as Jim Hendry. 3) The author does not know as much about baseball as either Dusty or Darren Baker.
by DGU on Feb 8, 2009 4:34 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I don't get the fascination with Rivas
In this regard – if Rivas wins this last spot, we’re looking at a bench of Rivas/Miles/Gathright/Johnson. That’s just bad. If Rivas wins a spot, which I’m not against, I imagine Miles or Fontenot gets moved with Rivas as the main backup. But considering Fontenot’s performance last year and Miles contract, I imagine Rivas will go to AAA, where he may get playing time at 3rd base (along with the MI). Short of it is, I don’t want 4 guys on the roster whose best roles are at 2nd base.
by toonsterwu on Feb 8, 2009 5:58 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
No - I agree with that.
But I don’t think the Cubs have to start the season with a perfect roster.
The author of this post is not a certified scout, doctor, agent, statistician, manager, or journalist, nor was he ever a very good player, though he tried very hard to be like Ryne Sandberg and was about as scrappy as it gets (in T-ball). Any opinion expressed above should in no way be confused with fact, truth, or reality and is hereby qualified in the following ways: 1) The author does not know as much about baseball as Lou Piniella. 2) The author does not know as much about baseball as Jim Hendry. 3) The author does not know as much about baseball as either Dusty or Darren Baker.
by DGU on Feb 8, 2009 6:16 PM CST up reply actions 1 recs
Rec'd
Adjustments can be made at any time. Did anyone guess this time last year that two of the most important Cubs in 2008 would be Jim Edmonds and Rich Harden?
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Feb 8, 2009 7:44 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed
Which is why I’m perfectly fine letting Micah Hoffpauir get the “last” job. Maybe he flops, but on paper right now, he still, moreso than Rivas, fits our bench needs in terms of providing a power bat.
by toonsterwu on Feb 8, 2009 8:57 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I say this
As a person who isn’t sold on Micah Hoffpauir as anything more than a bench guy … and perhaps just a AAAA guy. But … the whole search for the “25th guy” in these multiple posts somehow leaves him out of it.
by toonsterwu on Feb 8, 2009 8:59 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Well
I do think there’s a difference between “What’s your ideal?” and what the Cubs may do practically. Micah’s not my ideal 25th man; but then I didn’t like Fontenot as a 25th man last year, so what do I know?
The author of this post is not a certified scout, doctor, agent, statistician, manager, or journalist, nor was he ever a very good player, though he tried very hard to be like Ryne Sandberg and was about as scrappy as it gets (in T-ball). Any opinion expressed above should in no way be confused with fact, truth, or reality and is hereby qualified in the following ways: 1) The author does not know as much about baseball as Lou Piniella. 2) The author does not know as much about baseball as Jim Hendry. 3) The author does not know as much about baseball as either Dusty or Darren Baker.
by DGU on Feb 9, 2009 7:06 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
To take it back a step then
My “ideal” bench has a pinch hitter with pop, and a versatile player defensively. Right now, we don’t have that pinch hitter with pop in his bat, which is why I’d rather go with Micah compared to the other options available. I don’t view him as the “25th” guy in that respect.
In all honesty, the problem with our bench isn’t really Miles, it won’t be Micah if he makes it out of the box. Miles is your typical backup option, the versatile utility guy. The fact that Theriot isn’t a good shortstop makes Miles defensive questions at short seem bigger than it is, but Miles is fine as a backup. Hoffpauir is, on paper, your typical slugger off the bench. The problem is more Gathright AND Johnson in that, they both cover similar defensive purposes.
One side note is this – everyone, including myself, has given Joey Gathright a spot. After the Red Sox won their first World Series, a lot more teams have gone searching for a Dave Roberts-type off the bench. So … Gathright may fill that role, as a speedy pinch runner. But, the difference between Roberts in his prime and Gathright is this – in his prime, Roberts offered decent offensive value most years. I’m still not sold Gathright can do it consistently. He was awful last year. The other thing to say about Gathright is this – a pinch base stealer off the bench isn’t the most significant thing. A pinch runner? Yes. A guy who comes in and smartly runs the bases is important. A guy coming in to steal is a luxury. The number of times teams in late innings of close games giving the green light to a guy isn’t going to be that high.
In saying all that, I think Gathright makes it on at the start of the year. But, it is “just” $800 grand. Not that much … in baseball.
______________________________________
Oh … one other 2nd baseman that could become available midseason – Mark DeRosa. A lot will depend on how they align their IF at the start of the year. If DeRosa is at 3rd, they are less likely to ponder dealing him this year. If he’s at 2nd, it’s possible that, if Luis Valbuena develops, that they decide to move him. Early reports suggested they wanted to have DeRosa at 3rd, which I find ridiculous (with Peralta still at short). They should have Asdrubal at short, with DeRosa at 2nd and Peralta at 3rd, thus, when Valbuena is ready, they just slide him in.
by toonsterwu on Feb 9, 2009 8:30 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I totally agree about the Indians' defensive alignment - it's astounding, really.
As for Gathright – I like the defense he adds. I won’t be surprised in 3/4 of our games end with Gathright in CF.
I do agree his offense is highly questionable. All-in-all if Pie wasn’t going to be bringing back an important player in trade, I’d rather have had him and Kosuke competing for playing time. The potential problem of ending up with a millstone-weight of a sunk cost in Dome is lessened if his replacement ended up being the cost-controlled Pie. Having one of Pie/Dome on the bench also increases the bench power quite a bit over Gathright.
What’s done is done, though.
The author of this post is not a certified scout, doctor, agent, statistician, manager, or journalist, nor was he ever a very good player, though he tried very hard to be like Ryne Sandberg and was about as scrappy as it gets (in T-ball). Any opinion expressed above should in no way be confused with fact, truth, or reality and is hereby qualified in the following ways: 1) The author does not know as much about baseball as Lou Piniella. 2) The author does not know as much about baseball as Jim Hendry. 3) The author does not know as much about baseball as either Dusty or Darren Baker.
by DGU on Feb 9, 2009 8:58 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I'd think it's more likely...
… that Gathright winds up in RF or LF. Both Fukudome and Johnson are plus defensive CF…. unless you’re suggesting that Fukudome could more to RF for Bradley while Gathright goes to CF, and/or Johnson goes to LF for Soriano with Gathright in CF.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Feb 9, 2009 9:12 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Gathright will be a significant upgrade on Johnson/Dome in CF
I was expecting Dome or Reed to move over in these games.
Of course, Lou played Cedeno at 2B and Theriot at SS, so we could see all sorts of defensive alignments if he wants to make a point about Reed Johnson being higher on his depth chart.
The author of this post is not a certified scout, doctor, agent, statistician, manager, or journalist, nor was he ever a very good player, though he tried very hard to be like Ryne Sandberg and was about as scrappy as it gets (in T-ball). Any opinion expressed above should in no way be confused with fact, truth, or reality and is hereby qualified in the following ways: 1) The author does not know as much about baseball as Lou Piniella. 2) The author does not know as much about baseball as Jim Hendry. 3) The author does not know as much about baseball as either Dusty or Darren Baker.
by DGU on Feb 9, 2009 9:23 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Late Game
OF could look like this
Gath LF
Reed CF
Fuku RF
Keeping Sori and Milton fresh and their legs more healthy.
"I like coconuts, you can break them open and they smell like ladies lying in the sun" Widespread Panic
by Cubbie-Tim on Feb 9, 2009 9:30 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
That would work for me...
…but I’d prefer to see Gathright in center. I think he’s got better range than RJ.
We are a fever ... we are a fever ... we ain't born typical.
by dat cubfan daver on Feb 9, 2009 9:36 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
For what it's worth...
Reed Johnson rates below average in CF by a number of different measurements.
Gathright has put up some spectacular CF #s in the past.
The author of this post is not a certified scout, doctor, agent, statistician, manager, or journalist, nor was he ever a very good player, though he tried very hard to be like Ryne Sandberg and was about as scrappy as it gets (in T-ball). Any opinion expressed above should in no way be confused with fact, truth, or reality and is hereby qualified in the following ways: 1) The author does not know as much about baseball as Lou Piniella. 2) The author does not know as much about baseball as Jim Hendry. 3) The author does not know as much about baseball as either Dusty or Darren Baker.
by DGU on Feb 9, 2009 9:44 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yup, say what you will about Slappy Joe's bat...
…but he could turn out to be a huge plus defensively.
We are a fever ... we are a fever ... we ain't born typical.
by dat cubfan daver on Feb 9, 2009 9:50 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
What I wouldn't mind seeing is
If Richie Robnett’s struggles were due to rust from recovering from the benign tumor, and if he has a strong start , showing some power that was missing last year, either in spring or at AAA in the early going, I might prefer him over Gathright, as Robnett’s minor league record has shown the ability to hit righties, and Reed Johnson shows some pop against lefties. That would allow the team to have a bit more flexibility with the last two roster spots off the bench. Robnett can pinch in CF in emergencies, but he’s a better corner option than either Reed or Joey defensively.
Granted, that’s a couple big IF’s, so I’m not banking on it, but he is on the 40 man.
_____________________
The argument against Gathright in CF would be that you’d like to limit the number of defensive moves you make. That said, depending on the park, I could see it happen with some regularity, and Reed moving to LF.
by toonsterwu on Feb 9, 2009 9:38 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Would you rather see Robbnett play every day
and be ready for the inevitable injury?
The author of this post is not a certified scout, doctor, agent, statistician, manager, or journalist, nor was he ever a very good player, though he tried very hard to be like Ryne Sandberg and was about as scrappy as it gets (in T-ball). Any opinion expressed above should in no way be confused with fact, truth, or reality and is hereby qualified in the following ways: 1) The author does not know as much about baseball as Lou Piniella. 2) The author does not know as much about baseball as Jim Hendry. 3) The author does not know as much about baseball as either Dusty or Darren Baker.
by DGU on Feb 9, 2009 9:45 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
you mean down in AAA, right?
Um … I don’t think it matters to me that much, as I don’t buy Robnett as anything more than a stopgap option/bench player, if he can stick in the bigs. Sure, it’d be nice, but if he shows he can be decent off the bench, we are in a win-now mode, and I don’t buy him as a key part of the future, so why not?
by toonsterwu on Feb 9, 2009 10:02 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I mean, if an injury happens
Reed Johnson will be the first one in. If another OF injury happens, I’d guess we’d be on the trade market as quick as possible.
(assuming long term injuries that is)
by toonsterwu on Feb 9, 2009 10:03 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Totally agree.
I should preface this by admitting that I don’t know much about Rivas, but his UZR/UZR 150 numbers at both second base and shortstop are awful. And he’s played only one game at 3B in his major league career. Assuming we’re all in agreement that he’s a weak hitter with a .681 career OPS, I’m not really seeing the upside for the Cubs here.
We are a fever ... we are a fever ... we ain't born typical.
by dat cubfan daver on Feb 9, 2009 9:21 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
But... but...
… he’s SCRAPTASTIC!!
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Feb 9, 2009 9:23 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
With Rivas, Theriot, Fontenot and Miles all on the 25-man...
…the Cubs would need to contact Square D about installing a scraptastical surge protector in the Cubs dugout. One bad lineup by Lou and they could take down the entire grid.
We are a fever ... we are a fever ... we ain't born typical.
by dat cubfan daver on Feb 9, 2009 9:38 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
actually
i wouldn’t be surprised if betemit if the favorite entering the year. as for making too much money? 1.3 million is too much money? I think we have the space for one big move, but even if we didn’t, i’d imagine 1.3 mil is doable. Even if it isn’t, there’s ways to clear 1.3 million off the books.
Not saying there is a match, just that I think we can handle 1.3 million.
by toonsterwu on Feb 8, 2009 5:55 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
On a more serious note
Greg Dobbs or Geoff Blum
by Rev Gunia on Feb 8, 2009 1:17 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Howabout...
Rich Aurilia, with DeRosa gone we need a sure handed backup at 3rd and 1st. He would be a great vet in the lockerroom as well.
Heroes get remembered but legends never die
by CubbieBlue1138 on Feb 8, 2009 1:26 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
GONE
See above. Signed with Giants. WHEW
"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry
by Doggie Stalker on Feb 8, 2009 1:27 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed.
Minor league deal to Aurilia from the Giants.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Feb 8, 2009 1:41 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
interesting another minor league deal
hmmm…..market place getting limited but if the economics continues I bet a lot of minor league contracts will be DFA’d.
Piniella: "This is a tougher job than I thought it would be, I'm going to be honest with you."
by Ivy Walls on Feb 8, 2009 2:11 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Not yet
They just made the offer
Some people have 3 layers, like pie. Blog Blog Blog
by berselius on Feb 8, 2009 4:43 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm guessing he takes it, since there don't seem to be any others out there.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Feb 8, 2009 4:46 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I wonder if Aurilla
May be waiting on Crede. If Crede moves to SF, I don’t know if Aurilla wants to be stuck there on a minor league deal in spring.
by toonsterwu on Feb 8, 2009 5:59 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Ok Ok...
No matter who we sign for the corner infield spots we won’t be satisfied because their no DeRo.
Heroes get remembered but legends never die
by CubbieBlue1138 on Feb 8, 2009 1:44 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
I wondered if anyone would say that
The Royals are rumored to be willing to try him at 2B this Spring. He just signed for $3.75 M. Not sure he’s worth that much.
Fontenot (fon-te-no): Cajun for "scrappy"
by zambranofan on Feb 8, 2009 2:29 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Not really...
worried about the cash; it’s not like you couldn’t dump Vizcaino in Spring Training, in a pinch. Truth be told though, I’m really hoping the Cubs stand pat. The trade deadline could be a bargain hunter’s delight this year. I expect to see some very big names dangled, so I’d like to see them keep their powder dry until then.
by Damen Jackson on Feb 8, 2009 2:35 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed.
If there’s anyone not now on the roster who’s got a shot at the last bench spot, it’s Luis Rivas, who got a NRI. Rivas is mostly a 2B, but he did play more games at SS than 2B last year.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Feb 8, 2009 2:47 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Ken Griffey Jr.
Him and Reed Johnson in Center. No Joey.
"Have You heard of the Boom on Mizar 5?"
by Grockcubs on Feb 8, 2009 2:26 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
and were is Fuku then?
Erm, well if we are going to call Milton Bradley nicknames, mine is Fischer Price: yes, you heard it here first..
by Chanman25 on Feb 8, 2009 5:38 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Seriously?
We are a fever ... we are a fever ... we ain't born typical.
by dat cubfan daver on Feb 9, 2009 9:01 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Nobody's said a LH reliever? I'm surprised.
Fontenot (fon-te-no): Cajun for "scrappy"
by zambranofan on Feb 8, 2009 2:29 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
aurillia
"I played with one of the best pitchers in history, Greg Maddux," Zambrano said"
by fischisgod on Feb 8, 2009 2:32 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Luis Rivas
As I’ve stated elsewhere it is my growing opinion that Jim Hendry has been told he can’t spend anymore. And in fact may be asked in the coming months to shed payroll given that Tom Ricketts, once approved as owner, is going to have to pay annual repayment on $500 million of debt plus come up with strategy to fund a Wrigley renovation plan.
I’m very happy that Ricketts is the owner. But do not act all surprised o’ faithful readers of BCB if you see the Cubs with a decidedly lower payroll this time next year.
Luis Rivas makes sense for the 25th spot on the roster.
by BLou on Feb 8, 2009 2:50 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
I think that Jim will scout players on other rosters and see where those apples fall by the end of spring training…
by leothelip on Feb 8, 2009 5:56 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Beimel
but i’m not sure I’d sign anyone in addition to what we already have. I would have done a lot of things differently this off-season, but at this point it seems like it’d be best to wait and see how things look in ST.
by Cubinator on Feb 8, 2009 6:03 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Sammy Sosa for the 25th spot!
lol, but seriously…
NO WAY trade Guzman for Zobrist…
Sign O-Hud…
Trade Fontenot, Hart, Stevens, and Marshall For Peavy (would that be enough w/o Vitters)
Orlando Hudson
Kosuke Fukudome
Alfonso Soriano
Milton Bradley
Aramis Ramirez
Derrek Lee
Geovany Soto
Ryan Theriot
Best lineup + Best rotation = fun year
haha… wont happen though and im more than content with a combo of Miles/Fontenot but I would like to see someone like Joe Beimel to shore up an already solid pen… However, I have heard nothing on the Cubs interest in Beimel besides fans blogging.
So I guess my realistic 25th player would be Rich Aurilia
by Jblatt on Feb 8, 2009 8:14 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Manny or Dunn
No one has signed them to start, offer them a minor league deal with a ST invite
"I like coconuts, you can break them open and they smell like ladies lying in the sun" Widespread Panic
by Cubbie-Tim on Feb 8, 2009 9:25 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
LOL
But seriously, I think both of them will be sitting at home when ST begins.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Feb 9, 2009 3:59 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
it is crazy to think
that the two of them cannot seem to find a home, but that is the problem with wanting a lot more than is offered. people (players, fans, agents) forget that the amount the player is worth is the market demand, not personal wants or what a fan thinks is fair. just like a baseball card, Beckett may say it is worth $200 but if the market is not offering more than $50, well, there is the cards worth $50
"I like coconuts, you can break them open and they smell like ladies lying in the sun" Widespread Panic
by Cubbie-Tim on Feb 9, 2009 9:32 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
In this Sunday's Trib, that brillant baseball scribe Phil Rogers...
…flotated the idea of the Astros picking up Dunn. He speculates they’d put move Punter Hence to center and Bourn to the bench. I’m not adequately familar with Houston’s payroll situation to say whether it’s feasible from a financial perspective.
It would give them one hell of a lineup at the plate, obviously. But, oh, that OF defense with El Caballo in left and Dunn in right. And, looking at his UZR/UZR 150 ratings, Punter doesn’t appear to be a particularly good centerfielder either.
We are a fever ... we are a fever ... we ain't born typical.
by dat cubfan daver on Feb 9, 2009 9:49 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I think we can be assured...
… that the Astros won’t be doing this, since Rogers printed it.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Feb 9, 2009 9:53 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
i have not heard anything about this
but what a (bad) defensive OF that would be (Pence/Dunn/CLee). Would be like watching kingman in stereo down there. And who do you move to RF, Lee or Dunn?
Seems they should not make this signing for the same reasons the Cubs didn’t.
"I like coconuts, you can break them open and they smell like ladies lying in the sun" Widespread Panic
by Cubbie-Tim on Feb 9, 2009 10:11 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I'd guess Dunn would go to right...
…but, any you slice it, opposing teams would be scalding balls to the gaps like nobody’s business.
We are a fever ... we are a fever ... we ain't born typical.
by dat cubfan daver on Feb 9, 2009 10:13 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Here are...
…some Astros fans’ thoughts on the subject. Their SBN blogger posits putting Dunn in left, Berkman in right and El Caballo at first base. He doesn’t mention centerfield, but I presume Punter Hence would still go there.
We are a fever ... we are a fever ... we ain't born typical.
by dat cubfan daver on Feb 9, 2009 10:20 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
interesting
CLee would be a huge drop off in defense vs Berkman (have personal reasons to hate Berkman, but have to admit he is a hell of a player). Berkman is average in RF at best.
I like it. Would be a lot of fun and entertaining to watch that circus act of defense
"I like coconuts, you can break them open and they smell like ladies lying in the sun" Widespread Panic
by Cubbie-Tim on Feb 9, 2009 10:31 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
one mentione CLee
moving to 3B there. WOW! I have no clue how that would work. Anyone know if that would even be feasible?
"I like coconuts, you can break them open and they smell like ladies lying in the sun" Widespread Panic
by Cubbie-Tim on Feb 9, 2009 10:38 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, I can't tell whether that guy is serious or not.
Regarding the feasibility of putting Carlos Lee at third base, the rational human in me says, “Um, no,” but the Cubs fan says, “Oh, yes. Please, yes!”
We are a fever ... we are a fever ... we ain't born typical.
by dat cubfan daver on Feb 9, 2009 10:43 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
the Cub fan in me
is interested in contacting Drayton McLane and offering to start a CLee for 3B fund, where fans of other teams make donations, and McLane only gets to keep the money if CLee plays 140 games at 3B this season.
"I like coconuts, you can break them open and they smell like ladies lying in the sun" Widespread Panic
by Cubbie-Tim on Feb 9, 2009 10:56 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Lee actually came up as a 3B.
He played there in the minor leagues, and was moved to LF because, well, he was awful at 3B (he had a .902 fielding percentage and made 35 errors in 127 games there in Double-A in 1998).
To put him there now would be ridiculous. But we can hope, right?
Berkman in RF — well, usually players go FROM the outfield TO first base as they get older, not the other way around. Berkman has been a below-average RF (when he’s played there) for at least four years.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Feb 9, 2009 12:37 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Berkman
is a natural 1B who played RF due to a good bat and Bagwell being ahead of him. I would love to see Berkman back in RF, last time he was there I heckled him enough dueing a Cubs weekend set, me flipped me the Bird.
Then again I had a personal encounter with some friends of mine where he was a complete egotistical jacka$$ on a ranch.
"I like coconuts, you can break them open and they smell like ladies lying in the sun" Widespread Panic
by Cubbie-Tim on Feb 9, 2009 2:10 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Was it his ranch?
Maybe he just didn’t want you and your friend trespassing.
We are a fever ... we are a fever ... we ain't born typical.
by dat cubfan daver on Feb 9, 2009 6:21 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
no a friends ranch
who happens to be an attorney in San Antonio, and has not watched one inning of baseball since the strike. He didnt know who Berkman was, and Berkman was a dick once my friend told him he refuses to watch baseball again.
"I like coconuts, you can break them open and they smell like ladies lying in the sun" Widespread Panic
by Cubbie-Tim on Feb 9, 2009 7:07 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Well, just to play devil's advocate...
…that is a bit of an extremist stance on your friend’s part, isn’t it?
We are a fever ... we are a fever ... we ain't born typical.
by dat cubfan daver on Feb 9, 2009 7:16 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
he figures
if they want to walk out on the fans, over $$$ why should he give them his $$$. He watches other sports, and it is his opinion and choice. Does not give a valid excuse to act like a jerk. If i go to your home for dinner, and you know nothing about a bill collector, does that mean i should be a jerk to you (ok, i know collectors are pegged as jerks, but you get the idea)
"I like coconuts, you can break them open and they smell like ladies lying in the sun" Widespread Panic
by Cubbie-Tim on Feb 9, 2009 7:31 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Unless they get a bump
from McLane on payroll, I don’t see how they can fit in Dunn. They are somewhere around 96-102 million right now, off a quick scan from Cots. I don’t remember any reports suggesting that they were allowed to get near 110. It’s possible, but I thought they were supposed to be around 100.
by toonsterwu on Feb 9, 2009 10:56 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Cristian Guzman
Can situationally platoon with Theriot and LBH and handle third when ARam hurts his hammy.
by Seamer on Feb 8, 2009 9:53 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Seems like all Hendry has added is that “25th” man on the roster. The Cubs seem to stack up good in their division, but are trailing some teams “on paper” in the National League.
by Comfortably Numb on Feb 9, 2009 4:32 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
......
Kevin Millar… he will probably be very cheap, can back up first (third maybe?) and provides a professional bench bat
by blueballs on Feb 9, 2009 6:44 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
Millar has signed with the Blue Jays.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Feb 9, 2009 7:49 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
all i see
is that he was nearing a deal with the blue jays haven’t seen it finalized anywhere… maybe i’m wrong
by blueballs on Feb 9, 2009 10:52 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
You're right.
I suspect this one will happen, though.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Feb 9, 2009 12:38 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Stand pat...see how the team looks for the first month or so...
…and keep an eye out for bargains. The lack of depth at SS and 3B is worrisome but, outside of Nomar (who’s an injury risk and probably not in Hendry’s sights), I’m just not seeing a way to gain some depth there without virtually voiding the bench of any possible pop. Hoffpauir is far from ideal but, for now, he at least has potential at the plate and can back up DLee at 1B.
We are a fever ... we are a fever ... we ain't born typical.
by dat cubfan daver on Feb 9, 2009 9:16 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
+1
Nobody cares about your fantasy baseball team
by carmen_fanzone on Feb 9, 2009 9:29 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
good call
"I like coconuts, you can break them open and they smell like ladies lying in the sun" Widespread Panic
by Cubbie-Tim on Feb 9, 2009 9:33 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Orlando Hudson
I think he would fit in well in the infield.
by cubprofessor on Feb 9, 2009 10:07 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
Well, considering the Cubs already have...
…three second basemen in the infield, how so?
We are a fever ... we are a fever ... we ain't born typical.
by dat cubfan daver on Feb 9, 2009 10:12 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Aurilia
He’s the best of the remaining guys and can spell Rami and D-Lee.
So far only a Giants minor league offer has been presented to him.
Sweet Lou for Mayor in '11.
by blackhawk24 on Feb 9, 2009 10:58 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
Interesting
to see a list of FA not signed. 32 of the top 100 ranked are available. Who would have thought this close to ST this many would be looking for work, including 7 of the top 25 FA’s. In a few weeks, might be able to throw some really low offers out for a one year deal and get lucky.
Updated: February 9, 2009
Player Rank
Manny Ramirez, LF 3
Adam Dunn, LF 7
Orlando Hudson, 2B 12
Bobby Abreu, RF 14
Juan Cruz, RP 16
Orlando Cabrera, SS 21
Ben Sheets, SP 23
Mike Mussina, SP 29
Jim Edmonds, CF 32
Joe Crede, 3B 34
Ken Griffey Jr., RF 37
Paul Byrd, SP 38
Braden Looper, SP 43
Pedro Martinez, SP 44
Ivan Rodriguez, C 46
Will Ohman, RP 51
Garret Anderson, LF 55
Frank Thomas, DH 57
Greg Maddux, SP 58
Eric Gagne, RP 61
Dennys Reyes, RP 62
Brian Shouse, RP 65
Ray Durham, 2B 67
Joe Beimel, RP 72
Kenny Rogers, SP 75
Nomar Garciaparra, SS 76
Sean Casey, 1B 77
Emil Brown, LF 85
Mark Grudzielanek, 2B 88
Curt Schilling, SP 90
Moises Alou, LF 97
Luis Ayala, RP 98
Mario Alvarez, SP NR
Rich Aurilia, 1B NR
Gary Bennett, C NR
Ambiorix Burgos, RP NR
Miguel Cairo, 1B NR
Jairo Cuevas, SP NR
Damion Easley, 2B NR
Scott Elarton, SP NR
Sal Fasano, C NR
Randy Flores, RP NR
Keith Foulke, RP NR
Tom Glavine, SP NR
Livan Hernandez, SP NR
Orlando Hernandez, SP NR
Chuck James, SP NR
Jon Lieber, RP NR
Aquilino Lopez, RP NR
Ramon Martinez, 2B NR
Kent Mercker, RP NR
Doug Mientkiewicz, 1B NR
Kevin Millar, 1B NR
Mark Mulder, SP NR
Jay Payton, LF NR
Sidney Ponson, SP NR
Ricardo Rincon, RP NR
Rudy Seanez, RP NR
Julian Tavarez, RP NR
Mike Timlin, RP NR
Ron Villone, RP NR
Ty Wigginton, 3B NR
Matt Wise, RP NR
Jamey Wright, RP NR
Luis Gonzalez, LF NR
Jason Isringhausen, RP NR
Paul Lo Duca, C NR
Todd Jones, RP NR
"I like coconuts, you can break them open and they smell like ladies lying in the sun" Widespread Panic
by Cubbie-Tim on Feb 9, 2009 11:05 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
I honestly wouldn't mind bringing back
Will Ohman … but that ain’t happening. He was, as usual, superb against lefties, and last year, he was solid on righties as well.
by toonsterwu on Feb 9, 2009 11:35 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
agreed...
… however he is looking for a big contract. IIRC he initially wanted 3 yrs at like $15M. He won’t get that, but he likely is out of the Cubs price range.
by dmlichte on Feb 9, 2009 11:36 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
+1
"I like coconuts, you can break them open and they smell like ladies lying in the sun" Widespread Panic
by Cubbie-Tim on Feb 9, 2009 11:54 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
latest reports indicated his demands were down
that said, even if it’s down, i doubt lou would take him back.
by toonsterwu on Feb 9, 2009 12:13 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Why is Greg Maddux still on that list?
He’s retired.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Feb 9, 2009 12:39 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
He hasn't handed in his papers?
Don’t know, just guessing.
Sweet Lou for Mayor in '11.
by blackhawk24 on Feb 9, 2009 12:47 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I would think...
… he filed retirement papers around the time of his press conference.
I suspect wherever that list came from just didn’t get around to updating.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Feb 9, 2009 12:59 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
that list
was “updated” this monrning per MLB.COM where i found it. Jeff Kent was on it as well, who knows. Maybe the steroids are being used in their front office now as well
"I like coconuts, you can break them open and they smell like ladies lying in the sun" Widespread Panic
by Cubbie-Tim on Feb 9, 2009 2:11 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Sure Economics play a part
but I wonder how much is also being affected by teams having kids who are MLB ready or close, and the team no longer wants to continue to block these kids, or risk DFA and losing them.
"I like coconuts, you can break them open and they smell like ladies lying in the sun" Widespread Panic
by Cubbie-Tim on Feb 9, 2009 11:53 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
Thoughts
About contacting Pedro Martinez and seeing what his asking price would be at this point? I know he has been injured a few tiems, but if he was not asking too much, how would he look in Cubbie Blue as a 5?
"I like coconuts, you can break them open and they smell like ladies lying in the sun" Widespread Panic
by Cubbie-Tim on Feb 9, 2009 11:55 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
The question you have to ask is....
… how would he look on the DL? Because that’s where he’d spend most of his time.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Feb 9, 2009 12:39 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Why is...
Ty Wigginton on that list? he signed with the Orioles for 2 years Also, while I like the idea of Nomar, it won’t happen. Nor will Aurillia. An interesting name on that list is Durham. I’m not sure if he has the arm strength to play 3B, but he was top 3 in a lot of offensive categories for 2B last yr. He’d come cheap if nothing else. Finally, there are no names on that list that will either fit the Cubs need, or is realistic. I think we’ll have to deal with Fonte or Miles trying not to butcher 3B in ST, and hope for a potential trade. I’ll throw 3 names out there, just for the hell of it. Wes Helms (currently a Marlin), Andry Marte (Indians), and Jack Hannahan (A’s). Helms is a veteran who can play both corner spots, provide some pop of the bench. Marte is a young guy that the Indians don’t need anymore, and could do well in a part time role. Hannahan is a good reserve who is versatile and bats left handed….pure speculation of course.
by MDavis on Feb 9, 2009 6:44 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
andruw jones
matt wise and rudy seanez all to minor league contracts.
I really would like to see Hendry take a couple of “chances” on some of the middle tier FA and see if any stick
Andruw could be a Jim Edmonds from last year… and no I don’t care what that means happens to Dome, Reed, Gathright or anyone else. If taking a chance during Spring Training helps the team then do it.
by KyCubsFan on Feb 9, 2009 6:49 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
I think Andruw Jones signed a minor league deal with the Rangers
500K if he makes the roster, with incentives could go up to $1M. Has an out clause that he can leave by March 20 if he finds something better.
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Feb 9, 2009 10:25 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
RE
And that’s my *badly made) thought sign a guy to a minor league deal with incentives and see what shakes out. there are a lot of these OLD players who are on the way out who aren’t getting contracts so find a couple sign them to cheap deals and see if someone flushes out. If a “seanez” were to pitch a good month then it might be worth one to two wins
Big contracts no … minor league deals yes.
by KyCubsFan on Feb 11, 2009 9:36 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
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