Jeff Baker Acquired From Rockies; Ryan Freel DFA'd
For those of you who have screamed, about various players, "DFA! DFA!", today you got your wish.
Jeff Baker was acquired from Colorado for minor league pitcher Alberto Alburquerque, and he will be activated tonight (and wear #28). Ryan Freel was designated for assignment; that means he is removed from the 40-man roster, and within 10 days the Cubs have to either trade him, send him to the minors if he clears waivers, or release him.
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Comments
But he's RIGHTHANDED! I'm confused.
Go Green! Go White! GO STATE!
King Leonidas: Spartans! What is your profession?
Spartans: HA-OOH! HA-OOH! HA-OOH!
by Zeke on Jul 2, 2009 12:10 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
thank god we finally have a 2nd baseman
I’ll put it very politely…you can trust me that I’ve played at levels much higher than you might otherwise believe. You may not like my criticism but you cannot question my resume. I suggest you leave it at that.
by krummy12 on Jun 24, 2009 1:03 PM EDT
by joeschmitt on Jul 2, 2009 12:11 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I would hope this means the departure of Aaron Miles when Ramirez returns.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jul 2, 2009 12:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
you would think so but
with jim hendry…. who knows what will happen
by Glacier on Jul 2, 2009 12:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
but then
why DFA Freel?
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 12:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Because Miles is on the DL and cannot be moved right now.
If they wanted Baker active today, someone else had to go.
Remember, Ramirez is coming off the DL on Monday (presumably). Coincidentally (or perhaps not?), that’s the day Miles is eligible to return from the DL.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jul 2, 2009 12:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think
that stinks. Oh, well. Bye bye, Farny.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 12:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
but, but, did they DFA Farney too?
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Jul 2, 2009 12:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't think Farney
had his own contract. He was a rider.
Get it? Rider?
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 12:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Explain how that's a significant coincidence
I’m genuinely confused.
by Wreckard on Jul 2, 2009 3:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, so am I, come to think of it.
Never mind.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jul 2, 2009 3:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
i liked freel… too bad
wells4roty
by jesus christos on Jul 2, 2009 1:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
is this sarcasm?
we have like 400 second baseman.
The day I figure out why Jim Hendry keeps acquiring below average middle infielders is the day I can die happy
by WanderingWanderer on Jul 2, 2009 2:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
We have Fontenot, Miles, and Baker now
Freel is gone now. Scales is still in AAA, and figures to stay there. Blanco’s an SS who can also play 2B. And hopefully Miles will be gone when Aramis comes back. 2 people who primarily platoon at 2B sound about right to me.
Baker’s skills are roughly those of Mark DeRosa, when he was 27. Hopefully he can continue to develop past 27 into being the player Mark was after that age.
by madcow256 on Jul 2, 2009 2:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
yes
I’ll put it very politely…you can trust me that I’ve played at levels much higher than you might otherwise believe. You may not like my criticism but you cannot question my resume. I suggest you leave it at that.
by krummy12 on Jun 24, 2009 1:03 PM EDT
by joeschmitt on Jul 2, 2009 3:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
what are you talking about?
we don’t really need a 2nd baseman as far as defense goes. Blanco, fonty, and even miles can cover 2nd well. what we need is a 2nd baseman who can also hit, and looking at bakers stats, he cant very well. I understand getting rid of freel tho, ive wanted that since we got him. but i dont get why we need another 2nd baseman, we need a backup SS more than another 2B
by CubsFanInWisconsin on Jul 2, 2009 3:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
no kidding dood

I’ll put it very politely…you can trust me that I’ve played at levels much higher than you might otherwise believe. You may not like my criticism but you cannot question my resume. I suggest you leave it at that.
by krummy12 on Jun 24, 2009 1:03 PM EDT
by joeschmitt on Jul 2, 2009 3:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Andres Blanco is a natural SS. He's our backup at that position.
And Baker put up a .791 OPS in 333 PAs in 2008, so it appears he can hit fairly well – or at least well enough for a platoon 2B and backup 3B.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 3:51 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
wow jim hendry thanks
so much for going and getting us such a great bat to score some runs…..not
by wrigley12 on Jul 2, 2009 12:12 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I only like this comment
because I watched Borat on TV last week and it reminds me of the NOT scene.
DEJESUS!!!
by tomas21 on Jul 2, 2009 1:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
*suit
I’ll put it very politely…you can trust me that I’ve played at levels much higher than you might otherwise believe. You may not like my criticism but you cannot question my resume. I suggest you leave it at that.
by krummy12 on Jun 24, 2009 1:03 PM EDT
by joeschmitt on Jul 2, 2009 3:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Miles won't be DFA'd this year...
Just too much money. Glad Blanco wasn’t sent down to make room for this guy.
Someday we'll go all the way...
by CubsBullsBears on Jul 2, 2009 12:12 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
screw Hendry
dfa’s Freel? why not Miles?
by Glacier on Jul 2, 2009 12:13 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
60 days on the DL can be seen as step 1 in the DFA process...
Go Green! Go White! GO STATE!
King Leonidas: Spartans! What is your profession?
Spartans: HA-OOH! HA-OOH! HA-OOH!
by Zeke on Jul 2, 2009 12:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not yet, but he could be.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jul 2, 2009 12:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
yeah
i think he will be joining the chad fox club of ‘you suck, but i guess you can hang around’
by TJ3117 on Jul 2, 2009 12:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He's getting paid a lot more than Chad Fox.
Unfortunately.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jul 2, 2009 1:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No. Just wishful thinking on my part...
Go Green! Go White! GO STATE!
King Leonidas: Spartans! What is your profession?
Spartans: HA-OOH! HA-OOH! HA-OOH!
by Zeke on Jul 2, 2009 12:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Um
Because we know Freel’s done, and we hope Miles can get healthy and become productive. Why keep Freel just to spite Miles?
Randy Wells - You continue to astound me.
by DGU on Jul 2, 2009 12:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Because it makes us...
feel better? :-p
by CubsWin!Oregon on Jul 2, 2009 12:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
why do we know Freel's done, but think Miles can suddenly become productive
I don’t know Freel is done. At least Miles was given consistent playing time……until it was obvious he was horrible
by WanderingWanderer on Jul 2, 2009 3:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I would have thought
the exact opposite — Miles is done, but Freel came back up and did some good things.
Why keep Miles just to spite Freel? Except for the contract, of course.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 3:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Miles has been injured (supposedly)
which means he has a note from his doctor.
Randy Wells - You continue to astound me.
by DGU on Jul 2, 2009 3:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm going to miss Freel
He was the sparkplug this team needed, a fine human being who was almost at the Level of Ted Lilly.
If the world didn't suck we would all fall off.
by carolinacub on Jul 2, 2009 12:14 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
DeRosa!
;-)
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 Jul 2, 2009 12:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Isn't It Possible...
… that Freel would pass through waivers and accept a minor league assignment, thus adding to our depth? I wonder if Freel is still hurt, thus no one would really want him. Then, he can come up in September and help the ball club?
by initram on Jul 2, 2009 3:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's possible
but I don’t think the Cubs really want anything more to do with him. Freel made some comments while he was in Iowa that were…….stupid.
by WanderingWanderer on Jul 2, 2009 3:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
There's a little Coors Field effect to Baker, unfortunately.
Home: .295/.348/.550
Road: .205/.266/.335
I mean, seriously, doesn’t anyone in the front office look at this stuff first? It took me about 30 seconds to look it up.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jul 2, 2009 12:14 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
In an extremely small sample size 16 AB at Wrigley Field...
… Baker has five hits, including four doubles.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jul 2, 2009 12:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Isn't he the guy who hit four doubles in the game the 10-9 Cubs' win?
by Cubbiegoon on Jul 2, 2009 12:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Why, yes. Yes, he is.
All four of Baker’s doubles at Wrigley were in that game on May 31, 2008.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jul 2, 2009 12:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was at that game.
Baker had his best season last year, 12HR, 48 RBI. The Cubs can use a bat like his off the bench. Miles should be next to go, unless they want to send Mike Fontenot down to Iowa.
by tripdenten on Jul 2, 2009 12:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
But...
That was off our pitching!
by Cubbie Cale on Jul 2, 2009 12:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
There's reasons why its been over 100 years
You’d think we’d learn by now. That would be toooooo easy though.
"You just don't know understand how frustrating this is"- Kevin Borseth
by TkGoUWGB on Jul 2, 2009 12:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
but he is a bad defensiuve infielder
hendry loves those
by Glacier on Jul 2, 2009 12:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Baker is an excellent defensive 3B...
He isn’t worth much at 2B. He is the classic ‘tweener: 3B glove and 2B bat. Both he and Ian Stewart were blocked by Garrett Atkins; Dan O’Dowd just wasn’t smart enough to trade him two years ago while he still had value (and options).
He runs very well and isn’t a bad OF.
"I've never complained about it. I'm thankful to have a jersey." Mark DeRosa, 22 Aug 2007
by DeRoMyHero on Jul 2, 2009 3:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Just great...
Colavito for Kuenn it ’aint…
Go Green! Go White! GO STATE!
King Leonidas: Spartans! What is your profession?
Spartans: HA-OOH! HA-OOH! HA-OOH!
by Zeke on Jul 2, 2009 12:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe they actually did the math instead of just looking it up online
I mean, seriously, doesn’t anyone in the front office look at this stuff first? It took me about 30 seconds to look it up.
Baker’s 2008 home batting average was .301. At Wrigley last year that would translate to a respectable .285, at a difference of roughly 4 hits on the season.
I’m going out on a limb here and will suggest that the people who are paid millions to understand these decisions probably take these into account, and actually understand how to make sense of home / road splits.
by Wreckard on Jul 2, 2009 3:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe.
However, Baker hasn’t hit well away from Coors. At all.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jul 2, 2009 3:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's not like the Rockies play most of their road games in SD, LA, and SF
just sayin’. It’s also not like Baker is moving to Petco
People should remember that while they have the right to their opinion, they are not entitled to be taken seriously. -- Bruce Bartlett
by berselius on Jul 2, 2009 3:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
So there’s two possible explanations here.
Either Coors is a magical place that affects offensive numbers in a way that makes players awesome while somehow escaping the ability to be measured by park effects, OR Baker, like many players, is just better when he’s in the comfort of his own ballpark.
by Wreckard on Jul 2, 2009 3:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
To add to my point
So let’s say there’s this player right? He’s young, pretty good, high OPS. His home OPS is .890 and his away OPS is almost 100 points lower – .799.
Woah, read flag time- clearly this guy plays at an offense-friendly stadium, right?
In fact, this player is Andre Ethier, and plays at the 2nd-least offense friendly stadium in all of baseball.
by Wreckard on Jul 2, 2009 3:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
100 points lower? Hardly a significant difference.
Baker’s home OPS is almost 300 points higher than his road OPS.
For exhibit B, I would like to present Matt Holliday, whose OPS dropped by about 150 points when he left Coors.
Maybe the Coors effect isn’t as big as it used to be. Maybe Baker can still hit in other parks. But it does exist.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jul 2, 2009 3:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Matt Holliday went
from Coors to one of the hardest parks to hit in, in the more difficult league. And he might also be one of those players who struggles under the pressure of a free agency year.
Randy Wells - You continue to astound me.
by DGU on Jul 2, 2009 3:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Holliday's OPS drop...
probably as much to do with playing in Oakland than it does him not playing in Denver anymore. I mean, seriously… you can look this stuff up in like 30 seconds.
by shawndgoldman on Jul 2, 2009 4:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't think you even know what you're arguing here.
I didn’t say Coors field doesn’t help players. It does. But so does Wrigley – by a fairly significant amount.
You know what else helps players? Playing at home. Every player gets a boost to their OPS simply from playing at home.
Al you often claim to understand advanced statistics, but it’s clear (again) here that you don’t understand how to evaluate players based on league and park differences. Ethier’s home / road splits take place at an offense-unfriendly park. Of course the difference isn’t going to be as much as Baker’s – he’s playing his home games at Dodger stadium for crying out loud. If Ethier’s home stadium was Coors that 100 point difference would be even greater.
BA is just a component of OPS, but let’s do this exercise here because the math is simple:
Andre Ethier’s home batting average career is .301. If he played at Coors field, his home batting average would be .352 (using Coors’ 2008 Park Effect).
So there’s 50 points to his OPS just from his batting average. It’s safe to assume that Ethier’s home OPS would close much of that 300 point distance pretty quickly.
by Wreckard on Jul 2, 2009 4:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He hits well at Wrigley...
and against LHP.
by shawndgoldman on Jul 2, 2009 4:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe they did...
and took longer than the 30 seconds you took to post this. Maybe they looked at the park factors for Coors and realized that these numbers probably have very little to do with the altitude there.
by shawndgoldman on Jul 2, 2009 4:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I can remember when.....
… people here were clamoring to get a guy like Freel. They did that, and then all hell broke loose.
And, I don’t know how many times it needs to be said, Miles isn’t going anywhere.
"When they signed Fukudome, I knew they were trying to get me fired". - Ron Santo, January, 2008
by BeerCub on Jul 2, 2009 12:21 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
wasn't the clammoring
like 6 years ago?
DEJESUS!!!
by tomas21 on Jul 2, 2009 1:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Again
Chicago Cubs fans: The most neurotic in professional sports.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jul 2, 2009 1:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I wouldn't debate that
But given the team’s track record, doesn’t it kind of make sense?
by elgato on Jul 2, 2009 1:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not really
Not unless you were here for all 101 years of futility. Othewise, you’re just as futile as the Brewers.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jul 2, 2009 2:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
We needed a backup third baseman...
…so all the “clamoring” was pretty justified.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 1:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah define..."clamoring"
"Pounding sand since 1982...."
by cubswynn on Jul 2, 2009 1:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think it's something fishermen do.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 1:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
clam slam?
Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 1:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
no,
that’s something hookers do.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 1:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Gotta pay extra, though.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 1:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
wasn't Clammoring
the name of Gandalf’s sword?
Linus: Life is rarely all one way, Charlie Brown. You win some, you lose some. Charlie Brown: Really? Gee, that'd be neat.
by CyberCyclist on Jul 2, 2009 2:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
yeah
didn’t you read the hobbit?
Nobody who ever gave his best regretted it. -George Halas
by Allie on Jul 2, 2009 3:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wizards can't equip long swords
Duh
Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 3:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
in D&D world, tolkien is a rebel though
Genre mixing alert
by CubsFanInWisconsin on Jul 2, 2009 3:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Is that sung to the tune of
“Fat Man in the Bath Tub” by Little Feat?
"Any old kind of a run wins it!"--Jack Brickhouse
by mattvegas on Jul 2, 2009 4:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
actually. No
I read the Lord of the Rings, books, but never read The Hobbit
by WanderingWanderer on Jul 2, 2009 3:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
he has the sword
in LOTR too.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. [ibid] This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 3:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't get it
I thought Freel was doing fairly well upon his return. Why DFA him?
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 12:23 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Because, he is
a 33 year old right-hander with a career .726 OPS?
by paulucla on Jul 2, 2009 12:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Because Baker is a better player.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jul 2, 2009 12:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Baker > Freel > Miles
Freel looked like he came from the same mold as RJ. Maybe he’s bad in the clubhouse.
Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 12:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
His comments when he was in Iowa would indicate that he's not the best team player
by madcow256 on Jul 2, 2009 1:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
On Oklahoma City pitcher Neftali Feliz’ fastball: "I haven’t seen a guy with an arm like that since probably back in Vietnam and those guys throwing grenades."
Really?
by bdoubleu on Jul 2, 2009 2:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
talk about
a slurve!
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 2:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Once again, thank you for your service, Mr. Freel.
May the road rise up to meet you.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 2:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
wow, I missed the "I was in 'Nam" comment from Freel
that guy is a certified whack job
by WanderingWanderer on Jul 2, 2009 3:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Perhaps was Farney talking then
Seriously, you have to wonder if he’s had one or two concussions too many in his career.
"Pinky, are you pondering what I'm pondering?"--The Brain
by brook on Jul 2, 2009 3:46 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
agreed
also rec’d for the Pinky and the Brain signature
by WanderingWanderer on Jul 2, 2009 3:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Boy.. he ain't the sharpest tool in the shed.. but he got that one right.
Sounds like he was telling the truth – but not sure if he left any info out on WHY he was going to get DFA’d.
by DisCUBbobulated on Jul 2, 2009 4:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Clubhouse guy?
Maybe not the most important issue, but do you know what kind of clubhouse guy he has been?
wccubfan
by wccubfan on Jul 2, 2009 1:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
based one what?
Freel was at least versatile, Baker is yet another second baseman who can barely hit
by WanderingWanderer on Jul 2, 2009 2:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Baker appears versatile as well.
He can backup 3B and platoon with Fontenot at 2B. And he hit relatively well last season – .791 OPS.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 2:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Baker was stretched to become a 2B.
He’s more of a four corners guy.
Randy Wells - You continue to astound me.
by DGU on Jul 2, 2009 2:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Baker is versatile.
Career starts:
1B 22
2B 49
3B 21
OF 52
And he started games in all of those positions as recently as last year. I like this trade. He’s only 28, and cheap.
by Inkin on Jul 2, 2009 4:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Freel represented a decent attempt...
…to find a player who could (theoretically at least) hold down third base while Aramis was out. But he was injured too often, and Lou seemed hesitant to use him at third with any regularity anyway. He was a spare part who served his purpose. Thanks for your service, Ryan.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 12:55 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Exactly
Freel was worth trying. We tried him and it’s time to move on.
Randy Wells - You continue to astound me.
by DGU on Jul 2, 2009 12:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
to another incredibly crappy second baseman
Please god, won’t someone think of the children and fire Jim Hendry?
by WanderingWanderer on Jul 2, 2009 2:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hmmm...
I actually liked Freel’s energy on the basepaths. I have no opinion on Baker, but I’m not sure that (with my limited knowledge) I would’ve picked Freel to be DFA’d…
by CubsWin!Oregon on Jul 2, 2009 12:24 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Jeez I prefer Freel
Much more versatile and seems to hit better than Miles. Pretty much nothing.
"I daydream just like everybody else, I just do it with my body facing the field, so everybody thinks I'm paying attention."- Greg Maddux
by Doggie Stalker on Jul 2, 2009 12:24 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
He's hitting a buck thirty
he’ll fit right in
by katie casey on Jul 2, 2009 12:24 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
You're probably joking...
..but let the record reflect that Baker’s had only 24 PAs so far this season.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 12:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
A bannable offense
Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 1:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Go easy on her
♪Katie Casey was baseball mad . . . .♫
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 Jul 2, 2009 1:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Flagged
Gratuitous use of non-standard characters.
Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 1:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
æ!
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 Jul 2, 2009 1:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
☼ ↕ ‼
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 1:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You're right,
I have the fever and I have it bad. And it’s not more cowbell that I need.
"Fasten your seatbelts"-Pat Hughes
by katie casey on Jul 2, 2009 1:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Excellent
Am I the first to figure out the user name?
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 Jul 2, 2009 2:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes
Can you figure out why I picked the harvest moon as my profile image?
"Fasten your seatbelts"-Pat Hughes
by katie casey on Jul 2, 2009 2:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Big Neil Young fan?
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 3:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
NO
"Fasten your seatbelts"-Pat Hughes
by katie casey on Jul 2, 2009 3:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Small Neil Young fan?
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jul 2, 2009 3:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
no
"Fasten your seatbelts"-Pat Hughes
by katie casey on Jul 2, 2009 3:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You're a farmer?
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jul 2, 2009 3:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
no
"Fasten your seatbelts"-Pat Hughes
by katie casey on Jul 2, 2009 3:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
a vampire?
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 3:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'll trade you a sheep for a wheat
Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 3:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm not going to let you activate your knight that easily.
Randy Wells - You continue to astound me.
by DGU on Jul 2, 2009 3:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was playing that game super-baked with my friends recently
One friend offered a sheep for a sheep and a wheat
The other friend considered it for a solid 3 seconds before denying the trade.
Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 3:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You're a werewolf?
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 3:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
no
but you reminded me that I need to tell my son to shave
"Fasten your seatbelts"-Pat Hughes
by katie casey on Jul 2, 2009 3:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
and get a haircut!
damn hippie
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 3:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
![]()
Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 3:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
are you michael j fox's mom?
Nobody who ever gave his best regretted it. -George Halas
by Allie on Jul 2, 2009 3:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
my son is hairier
but not as hairy as my husband
"Fasten your seatbelts"-Pat Hughes
by katie casey on Jul 2, 2009 3:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You want to see the Cub play in October...
…when the harvest moon is out?
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 3:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
YES!!!!!!
Jack Norworth who wrote “Take me out to the Ballgame”(the original lyrics is where my katie casey name comes from) also wrote “Shine on Harvest Moon”. The harvest moon this year just so happens to fall on Oct. 4th-the last day of the season. So I want it to shine on.
"Fasten your seatbelts"-Pat Hughes
by katie casey on Jul 2, 2009 3:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
welcome to club, dear
we all want that. :-)
Nobody who ever gave his best regretted it. -George Halas
by Allie on Jul 2, 2009 3:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
eh
i think they want that…
as long as they’re right about everything along the way.
Nobody who ever gave his best regretted it. -George Halas
by Allie on Jul 2, 2009 3:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
but you know they get proven wrong...
so I think they wouldn’t just outta spite.
by tootle on Jul 2, 2009 3:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Holy cripes, I got it.
That really was a shot in the dark – no pun intended. Hey, that’s really cool. You definitely put more thought into your name and avatar than many of us.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 3:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
here
You definitely put more thought into your name and avatar thanmany of us.
Fixed that for you.
Nobody who ever gave his best regretted it. -George Halas
by Allie on Jul 2, 2009 3:30 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Thanks...
…though “reed’s johnson” may want to have a word with you.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 4:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
What did I start?
Your answers are all way better than mine. I feel stupid telling now.
"Fasten your seatbelts"-Pat Hughes
by katie casey on Jul 2, 2009 3:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's alright...I'm so proud that no one else got the name ;-)
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 Jul 2, 2009 6:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
in 2007 he played in 85 games
and hit .222
YIPEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE
by WanderingWanderer on Jul 2, 2009 2:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's Milton Bradley like!
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jul 2, 2009 2:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Has there been any mention of Baker playing for the Cubs in the near future?
Milton ...... see the ball hit the ball
by lexmarklover on Jul 2, 2009 12:24 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Well...
… he’s activated for tonight’s game. Could wind up starting at 3B or 2B.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jul 2, 2009 12:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
thanks
Milton ...... see the ball hit the ball
by lexmarklover on Jul 2, 2009 12:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Dusty Baker is too old to play for the Cubs...
Go Green! Go White! GO STATE!
King Leonidas: Spartans! What is your profession?
Spartans: HA-OOH! HA-OOH! HA-OOH!
by Zeke on Jul 2, 2009 12:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I honestly think Hendry would trade for him
if he agreed to play second, and bat left handed
by WanderingWanderer on Jul 2, 2009 2:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Halleluleah
I don’t really care about Baker or Freel, but getting Alburquerque out of the system makes my life easier.
by Josh77 on Jul 2, 2009 12:25 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
LOL
Milton ...... see the ball hit the ball
by lexmarklover on Jul 2, 2009 12:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He needs to get traded to the Dodgers.
That way, he can someday play IN Albuquerque. (Yes, I know it’s spelled differently.)
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jul 2, 2009 12:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's what makes it so tough
reminding yourself it’s spelled differently all the time.
by Josh77 on Jul 2, 2009 12:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You know
Since we’re talking about my home town, there was talk recently to change the city name back to Alburquerque (which is the correct spelling). The name changed over time as maps and offical documents excluded one of the "r"s. To hear it in spanish, particularly from my parents and grandparents – you would wonder why its not spelled with the extra “r”.
Lots of Rrrrrrolling.
"Ask Dad. He'll know. And on the off chance he doesn't, he'll make something up"
by StevenABQ on Jul 2, 2009 2:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Where did the "R" go in the first place?
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jul 2, 2009 2:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He took
a left turn when he got to ABQ. hehe
Seriously though, when you look at city documents from the late 1700s, the name is spelled with the additional “r”, by the territorial days in the mid to late 1800s it was excluded.
"Ask Dad. He'll know. And on the off chance he doesn't, he'll make something up"
by StevenABQ on Jul 2, 2009 2:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
for the record
i’ve been trying to send AlbyAlby to the rockies since april. to call off the patton deal. since patton is soon due for an extended ‘rehab’ assignment, they shuttle off the guy i said to the team i said. we just get a middling infielder instead.
by tim815 on Jul 2, 2009 2:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Dusty Baker is back?
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jul 2, 2009 12:26 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
It's a good trade
While I’m not huge on Baker, I like him enough, and there’s no doubt that he has a lot of ability and was a bit blocked in Colorado. We didn’t give up all that much. Alburquerque is a nice arm (low-mid 90’s fastball with some life, solid slider I believe, and a decent change) and maybe he develops. But, IMO, he wasn’t all that high in the system rankings, and while I hope Al gets a look as a starter, I’m not all that sure he is anything more than a pen arm … if he makes it up. He has sharpened his control this year, so who knows.
That said, Baker gives the lineup some flexibility, with his ability to play in a lot of spots.
by toonsterwu on Jul 2, 2009 12:28 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I'm not certain how there's no doubt he has a lot of ability
He’s had one good season, and one bad one
by WanderingWanderer on Jul 2, 2009 2:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, I'm guessing there are scouting reports.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 2:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Scouting reports...
got us Fukudome too.
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 Jul 2, 2009 2:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And statistics indicating he was an elite hitter in Japan.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 2:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He WAS an elite hitter in Japan.
I wonder if that elbow injury he had — you know, the one that had him out for half the 2007 season there — is still affecting him.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jul 2, 2009 2:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, maybe it flared up in June...
…and his good hitting last night indicates he’s feeling better. I dunno. He’s back to question mark status.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 2:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I hope so.
we need him to succeed as much as we need Bradley to.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 2:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
When he hits ampersand, sell!
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 Jul 2, 2009 2:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm just saying...
scouting reports don’t always do much.
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 Jul 2, 2009 2:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
But those and stats are all a GM can really use to make these choices.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 2:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It was a failed attempt
at messing around.
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 Jul 2, 2009 2:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I remember 8th grade too.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jul 2, 2009 2:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's not a science
that’s for sure
by chitownhawkeye on Jul 2, 2009 4:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
which is why the hindsight
on this board is always 20-20.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 2:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
there were scouting reports saying Felix Pie and Corey Patterson were destined
to be five tool super stars. And even if there ARE scouting reports, I’m doubting toonsterwu has read them
by WanderingWanderer on Jul 2, 2009 2:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Jesus, guy
Talk about thread-crapping. Who kicked your dog today?
Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 2:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I wouldn't be so sure of that.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 2:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
i hope my below comment clears it up
I’m not saying he will ever reach his ability, but at his age, I didn’t think it appropriate to say potential anymore. but maybe it reads better if you plug the word potential in there.
by toonsterwu on Jul 2, 2009 3:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
having ability
doesn’t mean that he’s been a productive player. He has a solid enough minor league track record, was noticeably blocked in Colorado, and has a good enough scouting report. Doesn’t mean he’ll ever put it together, though. For what we gave up, I think the gamble was worth it, though.
by toonsterwu on Jul 2, 2009 3:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Blanco better not go down when miles is activated
actually miles should never be activated
Milton ...... see the ball hit the ball
by lexmarklover on Jul 2, 2009 12:28 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I hope not.
Maybe they can put Miles on the 60-day DL.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 12:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Miles should be fired
from a cannon
Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 12:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, that would probably put him on the 60-day DL.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 12:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
or they can trade him to the Yankees for a single A player
Milton ...... see the ball hit the ball
by lexmarklover on Jul 2, 2009 12:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Why would they want Miles?
Why would anyone want Miles?
Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 1:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
for reasons that could not be explained
Milton ...... see the ball hit the ball
by lexmarklover on Jul 2, 2009 1:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Because
It’s the only way they can sign everybody
by chitownhawkeye on Jul 2, 2009 1:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Take THAT, Cardinals!
"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks
by dtpollitt on Jul 2, 2009 12:30 PM CDT reply actions 30 recs
rec'd because it
made me laugh out loud.
DEJESUS!!!
by tomas21 on Jul 2, 2009 1:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Could be the most rec'd comment ever.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jul 2, 2009 2:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
UNTIL ERIC HANNA GETS HERE!!!
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 2:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Who's Eric Hanna?
The cousin of Eric Bana?
"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks
by dtpollitt on Jul 2, 2009 2:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
fee fi mo manna, Hanna!
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 2:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I dunno, but I think his girlfriend is named Barbara
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Jul 2, 2009 2:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
HE'S STILL LEARNING HIS KEYBOARD!!!
Nobody who ever gave his best regretted it. -George Halas
by Allie on Jul 2, 2009 2:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
WRACK THIS PUST!
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 2:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Peer pressure
Ok, I’m in
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 Jul 2, 2009 2:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Good, I'm in the secret club.
Now, tell me who Deep Goat is.
"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks
by dtpollitt on Jul 2, 2009 2:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He would but then he would have to kill you
"I daydream just like everybody else, I just do it with my body facing the field, so everybody thinks I'm paying attention."- Greg Maddux
by Doggie Stalker on Jul 2, 2009 4:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
So, people have complained that Jim Hendry never buys low.
He’s just bought low on a guy who can play every position Mark DeRosa can with a good bit of power potential, a guy CHONE predicted pre-season to have a very comparable line to Mark DeRosa’s (yes, I know park effects account for some of that).
Randy Wells - You continue to astound me.
by DGU on Jul 2, 2009 12:30 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Good point
Not much risk in Baker’s acquisition. Let’s see if he can hit consistently away from Mile High.
"Yeah, Moe, that team sure did suck last night. They just plain sucked! I’ve seen teams suck before, but they were the suckiest bunch of sucks that ever sucked!" - Homer
by propheteer on Jul 2, 2009 12:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I read that as
“Let’s see if he can hit consistently away from Miles” And that is the opposite of what we want our hitters doing
"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living."
by jkobus on Jul 2, 2009 12:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Chone Figgins predicted that? Wow.
"When they signed Fukudome, I knew they were trying to get me fired". - Ron Santo, January, 2008
by BeerCub on Jul 2, 2009 12:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
CHONE is Sean Smith's projection system
He’s an angels fan, so he named it after him in the tradition of naming systems after forgettable MI (see Pecota, Bill)
People should remember that while they have the right to their opinion, they are not entitled to be taken seriously. -- Bruce Bartlett
by berselius on Jul 2, 2009 12:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I know. It was a joke
"When they signed Fukudome, I knew they were trying to get me fired". - Ron Santo, January, 2008
by BeerCub on Jul 2, 2009 12:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
ahhh.... but how is it pronounced?
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Jul 2, 2009 12:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sheesh.
That means someday there might be a MILES projection system.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jul 2, 2009 2:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I can see it now
“Predictions that are always MILES within accurate.”
Oh, and to get the predictions, you’d have to wildly overpay.
Randy Wells - You continue to astound me.
by DGU on Jul 2, 2009 2:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And they'd get hurt a lot.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jul 2, 2009 2:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
but at least you'd get two years worth of numbers...
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Jul 2, 2009 2:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Exactly. The only knock I have is you have to make a few of these to make
certain one pans out. Only doing this occasionally decreases the chances for one of the moves to surprise and become great.
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Jul 2, 2009 12:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Baker serves two purposes (hopefully)
1. He’s a platoon partner for Fontenot who simply can’t hit lefties, and is a significant upgrade over Blanco offensively (at least we hope so, his numbers away from Coors Field are scary bad, Miles-like).
2. He can play a lot more then just 2nd base, almost DeRo-like.
by paulucla on Jul 2, 2009 12:31 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
He's also a real 3B.
Baker came up as a 3B, but was blocked by Atkins (and to a lesser degree Stewart), and that’s what had him playing all over the place as they tried to find him playing time.
Randy Wells - You continue to astound me.
by DGU on Jul 2, 2009 12:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hasn't Fox
proven that he can be an adequate backup/fillin for Aram? I guess Baker’s an insurance policy on that, but from what I understand he’s no defensive wiz either, just serviceable.
by paulucla on Jul 2, 2009 12:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He hasn't proven it to me.
And I like Fox more than most.
Randy Wells - You continue to astound me.
by DGU on Jul 2, 2009 12:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
An .853 OPS / 0.6 UZR
I’ll take, small sample size or not.
Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 12:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think Fox will keep hitting ML pitching.
I’m not convinced he’ll stick at 3B, when he’s been tried there before in the minors with little success. Minor league records do tell us real things about players.
Randy Wells - You continue to astound me.
by DGU on Jul 2, 2009 1:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
4 total minor league games at 3rd
Leave him out there till he proves he CAN’T play the position.
Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 1:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm not saying I wouldn't play him there.
I’m saying there’s a reason people don’t think he can play there. And it’s 5 games, but plenty of games at 1B to see how he fields a corner IF spot.
Randy Wells - You continue to astound me.
by DGU on Jul 2, 2009 1:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He's been passable for us when used there this year
but the fact that he hasn’t played nearly any 3B in his career there is a pretty good reason to not keep trying our luck.
by madcow256 on Jul 2, 2009 1:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
"Minor league records do tell us real things about players."
I think Felix Pie has that tattooed on his bottom.
"If it's obvious, it's obviously wrong." - a well known stock market guru
by LAcarl519 on Jul 2, 2009 4:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's the $1 million dollar question.
I wonder whether another trade is in the works.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 1:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
he's proved that in about five games he's an adequate fillin
that isn’t PROVING it.
by WanderingWanderer on Jul 2, 2009 2:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's GREAT news.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 12:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Good Hendry, go get Heath Bell now.
Milton ...... see the ball hit the ball
by lexmarklover on Jul 2, 2009 12:32 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
We don't need Bell
and the Padres will, as usual, ask for too much.
by paulucla on Jul 2, 2009 12:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Don't need Bell?
What are ya nuts? Who wouldn’t want Heath Bell to stabilize a bullpen?
"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." - Alvin Dark
by Fishbone2 on Jul 2, 2009 12:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Don't need Bell?
They sure do. Just don’t overpay.
"When they signed Fukudome, I knew they were trying to get me fired". - Ron Santo, January, 2008
by BeerCub on Jul 2, 2009 12:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
we don't need Bell?
The bullpen is still average at best.
Milton ...... see the ball hit the ball
by lexmarklover on Jul 2, 2009 12:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Gregg's fine as the closer
and Marmol will regain his control. Guzman comes back from rehab and we’re plenty fine in the bullpen with Marshall out there as well.
by paulucla on Jul 2, 2009 12:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Gregg and Marmol are very questionable.
Heath Bell is light outs in the 9th.
Milton ...... see the ball hit the ball
by lexmarklover on Jul 2, 2009 12:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
With all due respect
Have you seen Bell? he’s a monster. Have you seen Gregg? Nice guy, but he’s a pussycat next to Bell.
"When they signed Fukudome, I knew they were trying to get me fired". - Ron Santo, January, 2008
by BeerCub on Jul 2, 2009 1:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
bell would be wonderful
but they would want more than i’m willing to give up.
by tim815 on Jul 2, 2009 2:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Bell, Young and Gonzalez
aren’t going anywhere
"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living."
by jkobus on Jul 2, 2009 12:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
We'll see.
Milton ...... see the ball hit the ball
by lexmarklover on Jul 2, 2009 12:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
A padres writer for MLB.com said it.
@FollowThePadres its a few tweets down
"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living."
by jkobus on Jul 2, 2009 12:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm not saying your wrong.
Things could happen by July 31st. In the end, you’re probably right.
Milton ...... see the ball hit the ball
by lexmarklover on Jul 2, 2009 12:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think
Young could be moved, but not the other two (barring a “stupid” trade). Unless they get top talent back, dealing Bell makes little sense as they have other ways they can clear money. And if they deal Gonzalez, well, he doesn’t cost that much, and he’s basically the face of the franchise now.
I don’t ever rule out a “stupid” deal from happening, but I’ll be quite surprised if Bell/Gonzalez are moved.
by toonsterwu on Jul 2, 2009 12:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
This was my point
Bell doens’t make much so they’re only moving him for a lot of big upside talent. They’d want Vitters for sure.
by paulucla on Jul 2, 2009 12:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Should they sew "Trachsel" on the back of his jersey?
And get it over with, what an insignificant move, might as well keep Freel, at least he’s fast and has some balls
Okay, just so I understand it... in your wildest fantasy, you are in hell. And you are co-running a bed and breakfast with the devil.
by bren on Jul 2, 2009 12:34 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Baker's career OPS
against LHP (assuming he’s now in a pretty strict platoon with Fontenot) is a very healthy .902. I don’t know how that breaks down into Home/Away though.
by paulucla on Jul 2, 2009 12:36 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
too many infielders
yet another average infielder. Fontenot, Blanco, Miles, Theriot, Freel (so long, farewell) and now Baker. Atleast we didn’t give up much, Hendry is definitely scrambling.
by tahazen on Jul 2, 2009 12:43 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I think the fact that Baker can play 3rd was the main factor in this...
Rami isn’t going to be able to play everyday as he has said his shoulder isn’t anywhere near 100% I am sure having someone who knows how to play 3rd to spell him will help instead of throwing Fontenot over there who isn’t a true 3rd baseman.
"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." - Alvin Dark
by Fishbone2 on Jul 2, 2009 12:46 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yep, Baker should be the bona fied backup 3B we've been clamoring for.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 1:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I though Fox
was doing a fine job at 3rd.
by Cubs and Hawks fan on Jul 2, 2009 1:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah. I don't disagree but...
There must be a reason. Either there is another trade in the works and Fox is part of it or Lou STILL doesn’t trust him to play there.
"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." - Alvin Dark
by Fishbone2 on Jul 2, 2009 1:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think we're going to get Pujols
by Cubs and Hawks fan on Jul 2, 2009 1:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
This is the only way we're getting Pujols:

Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 1:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's awesome!
well played, sir
by Cubs and Hawks fan on Jul 2, 2009 1:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
do you think we'll trade bradley and dome 2 for 1
OR MAYBE WE’LL GET LIND
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 Jul 2, 2009 1:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
LIND! LIND! LIND!
"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." - Alvin Dark
by Fishbone2 on Jul 2, 2009 1:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Or PV
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 Jul 2, 2009 1:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Get PV!!!
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 1:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
♪I want my . . . I want my . . . I want my♪
♫Jake PV♪♫
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 Jul 2, 2009 1:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
OMG THAT WOULD TOTALLY RULE DOOD
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 1:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
then they could send bradley down AA needs someone who can walk
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 Jul 2, 2009 1:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
BRING UP VITTERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 1:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Matt Walbeck!
Wait, what?
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 Jul 2, 2009 1:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Mark Wahlber?
Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 1:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
g
Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 1:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh jeez, dont say that
or some of these guys will crap all over you.
by Cubs and Hawks fan on Jul 2, 2009 1:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If they do, we'll laugh at him.
Because dr stab was kidding.
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 Jul 2, 2009 1:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
*laugh at THEM
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 Jul 2, 2009 1:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm sorry for teasing you
Your avatar has pacified me
Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 1:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
lol
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 Jul 2, 2009 1:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No pun intended.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 1:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Damn, good point. I missed that one.
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 Jul 2, 2009 1:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
yes soriano could be sent down too
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 1:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
also
send down Lou and bring up Von Joshua!
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 1:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, I like what Fox has done at 3B, too.
I only wish he’d been given the chance earlier. I’m guessing Hendry sees Baker as a more sure thing defensively and a more realistically versatile player (3B, 2B platoon partner, 1B). Or, as mentioned, he may be working out a trade involving Jake.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 1:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
pretty ironic that we acquired that bonafied backup five days before we don't really need on
by WanderingWanderer on Jul 2, 2009 2:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's all too fitting the way things have gone this season.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 2:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Something rockies related
Jason Marquis …. wow
Milton ...... see the ball hit the ball
by lexmarklover on Jul 2, 2009 12:43 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
what?
He’s about the same pitcher as last year. Well, he has sharpened up his command a bit, so he’s a bit better than last year, but there’s half a season to go.
by toonsterwu on Jul 2, 2009 12:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
exactly...
the only thing he’s really doing better at this year is not walking as many batters.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jul 2, 2009 12:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
what do you mean what?
he’s 10-5 and just shutout the Dodgers. That’s what.
Milton ...... see the ball hit the ball
by lexmarklover on Jul 2, 2009 12:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
FFS
Now that DeRo is out of the picture, is it Jason friggin’ Marquis’ time to shine on BCB???
Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 1:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm not regretting the trade, i'm just saying how well he's doing
Milton ...... see the ball hit the ball
by lexmarklover on Jul 2, 2009 1:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ah
Sorry, some other posters were trumpeting this idea. Didn’t mean to jump on you.
Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 1:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He's the kind of pitcher that could do well at Coors Field
This has been noted before.
And the eighth and final rule: if this is your first time at Fight Club, you have to fight.
by Ace Venom on Jul 2, 2009 1:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
his peripherals are all about the same
as last year, outside the improved walk rate. I’m very glad that he has 10 wins on the season and a low ERA, but neither statistic is a great indication of a pitcher’s ability. He’s improved from last year, but only marginally so, imo.
by toonsterwu on Jul 2, 2009 1:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It will likely get him a selection to the All-Star team.
And has it been mentioned that every single team he’s been on has made the postseason?
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jul 2, 2009 2:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
that's what we call a GIANT coincidence
by WanderingWanderer on Jul 2, 2009 2:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, exactly.
Still, if the Rockies get in this year — and they are only a couple games behind the wild card lead — you’d have to wonder.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jul 2, 2009 2:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
There are no giant coincidences. Don't you watch your Seinfeld?
ELAINE: No, no.. but it is quite a coincidence.
RAVA: Yes, that’s all, a coincidence!
ELAINE: A big coincidence.
RAVA: Not a big coincidence. A coincidence!
ELAINE: No, that’s a big coincidence.
RAVA: That’s what a coincidence is! There are no small coincidences and big coincidences!
ELAINE: No, there are degrees of coincidences.
RAVA: No, there are only coincidences! ..Ask anyone! (Enraged, she asks everone in the elevator) Are there big coincidences and small coincidences, or just coincidences? (Silent) ..Well?! Well?!..
(Everyone just kinda shrugs, then murmurs. The doors open)
MAN: Will you put that cigarette out?!
RAVA: (Pointing the lit end at him) Maybe I put it out on your face! (To Elaine) It’s just like Ray said – you and Jerry are jealous of our love. You’re trying to destroy us.
ELAINE: Shouldn’t you be out on a ledge somewhere?
kinda reminds you of a certain recap thread, doesn’t it? ;-)
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Jul 2, 2009 2:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
RAVA CAN SUCK IT!
Though she was hot
by WanderingWanderer on Jul 2, 2009 2:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Reminds me of just about every BCB thread ever.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 3:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thanks!
I’m no Eric Hanna, but I do what I can.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 3:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
read the "cubs need to make a trade" thread
Nobody who ever gave his best regretted it. -George Halas
by Allie on Jul 2, 2009 3:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
no kidding
i’ve been avoiding nearly all fanposts lately… but Badger poked me until I read this one.
I’m glad I did.
Nobody who ever gave his best regretted it. -George Halas
by Allie on Jul 2, 2009 4:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
only the greatest
post on BCB EVAR!
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. [ibid] This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 3:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's a site about nothing.
Say this much for big league baseball - it is beyond question the greatest conversation piece ever invented in America. ~Bruce Catton
by KaliCub on Jul 2, 2009 4:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
check out his career stats
he has a good first half almost every year
by WanderingWanderer on Jul 2, 2009 2:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Apparently...
We got Alburquerque in the Joey Gathright deal with Baltimore, by releasing Freel, we have essentially acquired Baker for Gathright, a deal I will take any day of the week.
by tripdenten on Jul 2, 2009 12:49 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
we didn't get him in the gathright deal
we got freel in the gathright deal, sullivan messed it up.
by toonsterwu on Jul 2, 2009 12:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Never mind then.
Well at least Hendry got rid of Gathright and Freel. Miles can’t have much time left.
by tripdenten on Jul 2, 2009 12:54 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Minor note
Al, I understand why you make these brief posts to bring news to the front of everyone’s attention. However, it would be a nice gesture to link or refer to the discussion that has already gone on from a fanshot. This is one time where someone actually posted news in a timely and concise way, and people have been discussing it for a few hours now.
Fontenot (fon-te-no): Cajun for "scrappy"
by zambranofan on Jul 2, 2009 12:55 PM CDT reply actions 1 recs
I agree with this
Does SBN allow a way to “promote” an existing fanshot or fanpost to the frontpage (while adding a photo or some comments of your own? That would be a useful feature to keep the previous discussion linked.
by madcow256 on Jul 2, 2009 1:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes, I could do that.
Sorry — I definitely should have linked the fanshot. I have also promoted existing fanshots or fanposts on occasion.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jul 2, 2009 2:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Pardon me if this has been mentioned..
…but when is Miles scheduled to come off the DL?
by Cubs and Hawks fan on Jul 2, 2009 12:55 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
early next week
the same day Rami comes back.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 1:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Baker really helps our bench construction.
He gives us right-handed power and the ability to play the four-corners and 2B. Combining all of that in one player gives us a lot of options.
I’m reading a lot of “meh” responses to this trade here, but if you go to the Rox site, they’re sad to see him go.
Randy Wells - You continue to astound me.
by DGU on Jul 2, 2009 12:57 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Chicago Cubs #10 ???
that’s what the link shows anyway. Aw geez!!
"They say that money doesn't buy happiness...but it DOES by Cub tickets. You ever see a sad person with Cub tickets?"
by redivycubs on Jul 2, 2009 1:01 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Yes, sir!
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 1:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I wonder if this...
had anything to do with Freel’s comments he made in AAA prior to being called up? Or anything related to his clubhouse presence? (I have no idea how he is in the clubhouse, just speculating)
by kanderber on Jul 2, 2009 1:02 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Wow, talk about shuffling the deck chairs
….a medoicore player coming off a wrist injury. Way to shore up the team Jimbo
by JB 23 on Jul 2, 2009 1:02 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
This move seems awfully lateral to me.
Freel was just starting to grow on me after he did the “dust off my shoulder” move to the White Sox.
What was your favorite Ryan Freel moment?
"Pounding sand since 1982...."
by cubswynn on Jul 2, 2009 1:02 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
He made a pretty spectacular defensive play at third base...
…in one of his earlier games with the Cubs.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 1:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
stealing
third.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 1:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
scoring the run on Andres's groundout
Milton ...... see the ball hit the ball
by lexmarklover on Jul 2, 2009 1:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That was pretty sweet.
"Pounding sand since 1982...."
by cubswynn on Jul 2, 2009 1:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Winner!
It’s the whole “if a tree falls in the woods..” line.
If a Freel never has a good moment, can you ever pick a favorite?! That’s right, blowing your mind!
"Pounding sand since 1982...."
by cubswynn on Jul 2, 2009 3:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
oops...that was suppose to be to Al.
haha that’s like asking for people to rec my fanpost
"Pounding sand since 1982...."
by cubswynn on Jul 2, 2009 3:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Favorite Freel moment,
today?
Say this much for big league baseball - it is beyond question the greatest conversation piece ever invented in America. ~Bruce Catton
by KaliCub on Jul 2, 2009 2:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
"I'm looking forward to this opportunity,"
-From the one and only, Jeffrey Glen Baker
Milton ...... see the ball hit the ball
by lexmarklover on Jul 2, 2009 1:05 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Well,
I hope this isn’t the final move made.
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 Jul 2, 2009 1:07 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I'd love to get another light hitting shortstop
I bet the Royals would be willing to part with Tony Pena Jr.!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
by WanderingWanderer on Jul 2, 2009 2:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Al Albuquerque
Is he related to Tom Tucumcari? Steve Santa Fe? Larry Las Cruces? George Gallup? (Wait, that one was a real person …)
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jul 2, 2009 1:07 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Seattle Sutton
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 Jul 2, 2009 1:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Cubs once had a second baseman named Al Montreuil.
Jack Brickhouse insisted his name was pronounced “Montreal”, but as he was a Cajun from Louisiana, it probably should have been “Mon-TROY” or some reasonable facsimile thereof.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jul 2, 2009 2:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
does anyone know why Scales just doesn't come back up?
He’s been playing 3rd down here in Des Moines.
by Cubs and Hawks fan on Jul 2, 2009 1:14 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Because he can't hit
He had his hot streak and that was it.
by rlpete on Jul 2, 2009 1:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He's comparable to Baker though, isn't he?
by Cubs and Hawks fan on Jul 2, 2009 1:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I believe Baker has shown more power
throughout his professional career.
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Jul 2, 2009 1:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And Baker is younger.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 1:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Baker has a lot more potential than Scales and has done more in his pro career.
Baker is a lot closer to Mark DeRosa than Bobby Scales.
Randy Wells - You continue to astound me.
by DGU on Jul 2, 2009 1:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
In the same sense that
a Honda Civic is a lot closer to a Cadillac than a Toyota Corolla
by bdoubleu on Jul 2, 2009 2:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Raise your hand if you've heard of Jeff Baker before today...
Raise your hand if, not knowing anything about him beyond a 30-second peek at a player card, you’ve ripped the player as useless…
Randy Wells - You continue to astound me.
by DGU on Jul 2, 2009 2:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I remember seeing him play in the playoffs
with the Rockies in 2007.
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Jul 2, 2009 2:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I have heard of him before today.
I’m not saying he’s useless. He’s mediocre. We don’t need anymore mediocre infielders. Period. Difference of opinion I guess.
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 Jul 2, 2009 2:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well I'm fine with saying, "Difference of opinion" if you want to leave it there.
But I am curious how you developed this certainty that Baker is doomed to mediocrity.
Randy Wells - You continue to astound me.
by DGU on Jul 2, 2009 2:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
*raises hand*
Hey you can get a lot of miles out of a Honda Civic… I’m willing to see where this takes us. I like Baker over Freel. I never said he was useless, I’m just saying he looks to be a lot closer to the Scales end of that curve you’ve drawn there.
by bdoubleu on Jul 2, 2009 2:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Never heard of him.
"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks
by dtpollitt on Jul 2, 2009 2:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
His name sounded vaguely familiar...
…but, as mentioned in the other thread, I really didn’t know anything about him until today.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 2:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
raises hand
he’s mediocre at best
by WanderingWanderer on Jul 2, 2009 2:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You mean he IS or he HAS BEEN?
Because he hasn’t played a single inning for the Cubs yet.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 2:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
In case you haven't noticed
The Cubs have performed in a very mediocre fashion up to this point in the season.
So he should fit right in!
by bdoubleu on Jul 2, 2009 2:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No, I hadn't noticed.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 2:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
he IS a mediocre talent
I’m not sure what playing for the Cubs has to do with it, unless you actually believe being a Cub makes you better
by WanderingWanderer on Jul 2, 2009 4:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
But couldn't he play better as a Cub?
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 4:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wasn't he one of The Fabulous Baker Boys?
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Jul 2, 2009 2:23 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
I have neither heard of him before today
nor ripped him as useless.
Wait, that’s not true — I do remember his name from that game the Cubs came back and won in the bottom of the 9th.
But other then that…
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 2:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
My Civic
much nicer than the Corolla we have as a company car.
Just sayin…
by wallrock on Jul 2, 2009 2:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Best car I've ever owned
60,000 miles and not a spot of maintenance.
Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 2:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
right
the pricetag between the two is about 5 thousand dollars, that’s where I drew the comparison.
Opposed to the Cadillac (that the cubs sold so they could buy a Ferrari that turned out to be a lemon…)
by bdoubleu on Jul 2, 2009 3:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Should've gotten the carfax
Nobody who ever gave his best regretted it. -George Halas
by Allie on Jul 2, 2009 3:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
But he had a note from the previous owner!
Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 3:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
maybe something "weird" happened
when they shipped it up from Texas to Illinois during the dead of winter…
by bdoubleu on Jul 2, 2009 3:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ah the old
’it happened during shipping" excuse.
i love that.
Nobody who ever gave his best regretted it. -George Halas
by Allie on Jul 2, 2009 3:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
So Rami comes off the DL Monday, Reed Johnson and Miles a few days later....
Who goes down?
I think Fuld is a given, but then what? I’d hate to send Fox (hitting) or Blanco (ability to play SS, defense) down. Do we just keep rotating DL stints?
Nobody cares about your fantasy baseball team
by carmen_fanzone on Jul 2, 2009 1:14 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
that's tough
I think the Cubs have had enough of MIles and will do anything possible to get rid of him except straight up release him.
Milton ...... see the ball hit the ball
by lexmarklover on Jul 2, 2009 1:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Miles
doesn’t HAVE to come off the DL. He’s simply ELIGIBLE to come off the DL.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 1:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
well, they brought him back once before once he was eligible
by WanderingWanderer on Jul 2, 2009 2:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
and he sat on the bench for eight days
and went right back on the DL.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 2:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And that was his best contribution to the Chicago Cubs to date.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jul 2, 2009 2:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Do they have a daycare program for employees' children?
I mean, he’s got to contribute to the organization somehow.
Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 2:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
yes but that wasn't the point
by WanderingWanderer on Jul 2, 2009 4:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
it's not?
they could very well extend Miles’ DL stint.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. [ibid] This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 4:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Personally, I think Fontenot is going to be sent to the minors
when Aramis is activated. While Miles may be eligible to be activated, I don’t think he’s going to be ready to play.
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Jul 2, 2009 1:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Fontenot looks lost
I’m all for sending him down.
by elgato on Jul 2, 2009 1:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Since Fontenot has an option left, that's not a bad idea.
Baker can play 2B; Blanco can back him up.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jul 2, 2009 2:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sad to say it, but I'd be OK with this.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 2:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
PLUS, it they send Mikey down,
he would no longer be a super 2 player next year. If he spends the entire 2009 season, he is likely to be a super 2 player which means he would be eligible for arbitraition after his 2+ service years (so he’d have 4 arbitraiton eligible season instead of 3 before he becomes a free agent.)
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Jul 2, 2009 2:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
well, I'd be okay with not offering him arbitration and watching him ride the pine
on some other team
by WanderingWanderer on Jul 2, 2009 2:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
they aren't going to go short pitchers...
Nobody cares about your fantasy baseball team
by carmen_fanzone on Jul 2, 2009 2:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Aaron Miles has pitched though.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jul 2, 2009 2:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hopefully he pitches better than he hits
Still, I bet he gets a chance before Patton.
Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 2:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
i don't ever wish ill on anyone
but um … could fukudome get a dl break? wouldn’t mind seeing fuld up here a bit longer and let fukudome uh … go heal … something.
by toonsterwu on Jul 2, 2009 3:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
after a 2-4 night (double and HR)...yeah...time to sit him.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jul 2, 2009 3:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Here's to hoping we see a lot of these this weekend, break 'em out, boys:

"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks
by dtpollitt on Jul 2, 2009 1:15 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
LOL
Milton ...... see the ball hit the ball
by lexmarklover on Jul 2, 2009 1:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
NEVER FORGET!!!
Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 1:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Or this.

Cubs record since April 2004: 4-0
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jul 2, 2009 1:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Everytime my roomate drinks High Life
I can only think of their 1 second commercials.
"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living."
by jkobus on Jul 2, 2009 1:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
All we can tell you right now is that Ms. Harding is cooperating with authorities
There is no such thing as an ugly female breast
by Worf on Jul 2, 2009 2:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Okay, that's funny, Worf.
"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks
by dtpollitt on Jul 2, 2009 2:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
-1
HWSNBN
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 Jul 2, 2009 1:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
LORD VOLDEMORT
It’s okay, you can say it.
"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks
by dtpollitt on Jul 2, 2009 1:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Even Voldemort doesn't like the sounds that HWSNBN emits
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 Jul 2, 2009 1:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
a pronoun.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 1:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
AKA: a noun that no longer has amateur status...
Go Green! Go White! GO STATE!
King Leonidas: Spartans! What is your profession?
Spartans: HA-OOH! HA-OOH! HA-OOH!
by Zeke on Jul 2, 2009 3:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
TWSS
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 1:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Anyone
Baker was born in a place called Badkissagen Germany. That’s a pretty cool town name.
DEJESUS!!!
by tomas21 on Jul 2, 2009 1:22 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Ted Lilly was born in BadASSagen, Germany.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 1:37 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Probably from a military family, I'd guess.
There have been 13 major leaguers born in the former West Germany. Three of them played for the Cubs (before today): Craig Lefferts, Dave Pavlas, Will Ohman.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jul 2, 2009 2:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Shocked
My name is Steve, I live in Orlando and am currently looking for a summer job…since I have a lot of free time, I should be inputting a lot more around here….anyhow read the Rockies fansite, and someone was “ABSOLUTELY SHOCKED” they didn’t get Josh Vitters for Baker…are they serious?
by sgerring21 on Jul 2, 2009 1:36 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Is Eric Hanna posting over there, too?
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jul 2, 2009 2:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Looking for a summer job ?
Are a below average hitter who rarely makes contact with runners on base and play 2b ?
Send your resume to J.Hendry 1060 W Addison Chicago Il 60657. If you are 5"10’ or under it will increase your chances of geting
the job.
"I daydream just like everybody else, I just do it with my body facing the field, so everybody thinks I'm paying attention."- Greg Maddux
by Doggie Stalker on Jul 2, 2009 3:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
hmmm...
Where’s my pen and paper?…
by CubsWin!Oregon on Jul 2, 2009 3:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I hope they don't check my references.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 3:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
or do a urine analysis lol
"We got some pretty good chemistry here. We got some toughness, and it's starting to show." - Lou Pinella
by Clutche on Jul 2, 2009 3:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That, too.
Damn poppy seed muffins.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 3:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
sger21,,,your first line
just made me have a slight Seinfeld moment…
by cozmotaylor123 on Jul 2, 2009 3:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Umm...
His numbers last year were very comparable to Fontenot’s with 50 more ABs. This trade is not going to do much.
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 Jul 2, 2009 1:42 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Baker came up as a third baseman...
…so he provides legit depth at that position. And just because Fontenot hasn’t been hitting this season doesn’t mean Baker won’t.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 1:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Fox
has done fine, and he’ll out hit Baker two times over. The offensive difference between Fox and Baker will make up for whatever defensive liability Fox is.
He’s been on the DL majority of the year and hasn’t hit in the bigs since late April. How many of these guys do we need? One big old cluster **** of mediocrity. The thought that Baker should play over Fox is preposterous.
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 Jul 2, 2009 1:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Baker can also play 2B...
…making him a platoon option for Fontenot. Fox can’t do that. I agree Jake has done well at third, and I still don’t understand why he wasn’t groomed as a 3B backup from the get-go, but clearly the organization doesn’t see him that way. It’s also entirely possible Jake is being shopped to an AL team as a DH.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 1:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thats fine,
given that its part of something bigger, but I really doubt it is. I just don’t see the need to keep collecting mediocre players. Hendry collects average infielders like old coins. Enough is enough.
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 Jul 2, 2009 1:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Baker simply isn't a mediocre player.
Baker has a lot of potential and even if he doesn’t fulfill it, he’ll have a role on this club.
Randy Wells - You continue to astound me.
by DGU on Jul 2, 2009 2:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
His numbers
are mediocre. There is not denying that. Most players in the bigs have potential. They gave away potential to get him. Making moves for mediocrity does nothing. In that case, every trade would be good because most players “have potential”.
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 Jul 2, 2009 2:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
His numbers are totally scattershot; they don't tell us much.
This is a guy who was legitimately blocked by Atkins and Helton. He had to learn other positions to get playing time, and even then he was fighting against Rockies that were preferred, guys like Hawpe and Clint Barmes. So, he’s fought for playing time against good players. He wasn’t just blocked because he wasn’t any good.
So, Baker’s had weeks where he was really good at hitting and weeks where he was horrid. That’s understandable to me when you’re not getting regular playing time and you have no defined role on a team.
When I say he has a lot of potential, I mean that he has the potential to be Mark DeRosa plus more power. That’s not potential “most players have” and it’s definitely not the same potential our other bench options right now have.
Randy Wells - You continue to astound me.
by DGU on Jul 2, 2009 2:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's stretching...
Fontenot was blocked by DeRosa. His career path is a lot like Fontenot’s. It has nothing to do with being blocked. It has everything to do with trading for mediocrity. They don’t need anymore of his type. Do you know how many people have the potential to be Mark DeRosa?? Quite a few. That doesn’t do much for me, saying someone has the potential of a career utilityman.
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 Jul 2, 2009 2:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
But teams NEED utilitymen.
This team needed a utilityman who could legitimately play third base when Aramis went down. And I know you think Jake Fox is the answer in that role but I’m not so sure – and apparently neither is the Cubs organization. Every player can’t be Albert freakin’ Pujols.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 2:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
OK. Stop taking things to the extreme.
I’m simply saying this isn’t going to do anything for us. I’m not saying he sucks. He’s not a difference maker on this team.
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 Jul 2, 2009 2:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He's not supposed to be a difference maker.
He’s supposed to provide depth.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 2:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thats depth that
we don’t need… in my opinion.
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 Jul 2, 2009 2:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Might as well have
kept the prospect and moved Scales up.
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 Jul 2, 2009 2:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Baker is younger and has more upside than Scales.
And Scales wasn’t brought up as a third baseman as Baker was.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 2:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Last time I'm saying it...
they don’t need a God damn third basemen.
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 Jul 2, 2009 2:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Be happy then...
because we haven’t had one for over a month now.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jul 2, 2009 2:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm saying when Aramis comes back
Fox is good enough to give him a break.
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 Jul 2, 2009 2:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree with this.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jul 2, 2009 2:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Fox has also shown he's capable of contributing as a PH
Maybe he fills that role for us on most days.
by madcow256 on Jul 2, 2009 2:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You're awfully confident...
… in Jake Fox’s now-legendary defensive abilities. The Cubs, apparently, are not.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 3:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
we are going to have
a lot of balls going down the LF line then…..hope Soriano is ready….
by cozmotaylor123 on Jul 2, 2009 3:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe we can sneak Sam Fuld out there...
…to help Alfonso out.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 3:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
what?
much of the difficulties of the season have been because we didn’t have depth.
Let’s be realistic now — there’s just as much a chance that Rami re-injures his shoulder as he doesn’t. We NEED a third-baseman who we can rely on. Fox has not proved that he is that guy.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 2:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
What exactly are your criteria for "proving he is the guy?"
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jul 2, 2009 2:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Fox's offensive production
will benefit the Cubs more than whatever Baker will do.
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 Jul 2, 2009 2:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And his defense has been sufficient
Until he proves he CAN’T play the position, he’s fine.
But Baker will be there regardless to fill in should Fox fail.
Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 2:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't see
how you can know that. It’s all I’m saying. The guy is brought in to be a backup. He’s not here to solve all of our problems, but if he brings some pop, then great. Did anyone REALLY expect Sam Fuld to hit doubles and make strike-throws to the plate yesterday? NO, we expected him to be a passable LF. This guy is a passable utility guy who gives us the same kind of depth DeRosa did — something that EVERYONE was screaming about when Rami went down.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 2:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And they should have
went straight to Fox.
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 Jul 2, 2009 2:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
maybe
but they didn’t. And Fox CAN’T play middle infield.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 2:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't see
how you can know that. It’s all I’m saying. The guy is brought in to be a backup. He’s not here to solve all of our problems, but if he brings some pop, then great. Did anyone REALLY expect Sam Fuld to hit doubles and make strike-throws to the plate yesterday? NO, we expected him to be a passable LF. This guy is a passable utility guy who gives us the same kind of depth DeRosa did — something that EVERYONE was screaming about when Rami went down.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 2:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Baker could easily out-hit Fox from this point forward in the season.
Randy Wells - You continue to astound me.
by DGU on Jul 2, 2009 2:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Easily?
You’re begging. Not a chance.
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 Jul 2, 2009 2:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
This is Fox's first time getting an extended chance;
I like Fox, but it wouldn’t surprise me if he stumbles over the next month. Baker’s been through that and is seasoned.
And Baker’s pre-season projections were good. He had a similar projection to Fox in power and an extra 30 pts of OBP.
So, lots of chances, really.
Randy Wells - You continue to astound me.
by DGU on Jul 2, 2009 2:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Seasoned?
He has been terrible just as much as he’s played well. He’s wildly inconsistent. I think calling him seasoned is generous.
DEJESUS!!!
by tomas21 on Jul 2, 2009 2:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
All I'm saying is that he's played more at the ML level.
Sheesh.
Randy Wells - You continue to astound me.
by DGU on Jul 2, 2009 3:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ask yourself this...
You’re pitching late in a tied game. Do you wanna pitch to Baker or Fox?
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 Jul 2, 2009 2:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Do I throw a knuckler?
Randy Wells - You continue to astound me.
by DGU on Jul 2, 2009 2:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't think we have enough info to say either way.
Remember, Fox was 0-8 against the White Sox.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 2:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
having played the position
more than five times is a start.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 2:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
oh boy.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jul 2, 2009 2:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Their difficulties
have been because they cannot hit. And the reason they didn’t have depth is because Ramirez was out.
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 Jul 2, 2009 2:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
what's your motivation here?
Is it just blind hope?
by bdoubleu on Jul 2, 2009 2:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I've followed Baker somewhat for the past few years.
I know a bit about him as a player. I think he can be very good for the Cubs.
So, I guess you could say my motivation is to share the joy… in a snarky kind of way.
Randy Wells - You continue to astound me.
by DGU on Jul 2, 2009 2:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Okay, well
lets wait until he’s played a few games as a Cub.
I mean, “you wanna crown em go ahead and crown em..”
I hope he does well. I hope you’re right. I doub’t you’re going to convince any of us this afternoon. Not until we’ve seen him play as a Cub.
by bdoubleu on Jul 2, 2009 2:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Check the fanshot.
I say there that I think he could very well flop; banged up players can lose their skills rapidly. See Freel, Ryan. I think the most likely occurrence is that Baker is our 3B/2B/CoF Reed Johnson. But I also think he has a chance of being more than that, too.
In other words, I’m not trying to crown him; I’m trying to counter this insistence that he’s nothing.
Randy Wells - You continue to astound me.
by DGU on Jul 2, 2009 2:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think that's what many of us are saying: Give the guy a chance.
However, a few of us have already written off Baker as a mediocre flop, and that’s not exactly fair.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 3:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I've joked about the ridiculous number of second basemen...
…in the Cubs organization, too. But, in Hendry’s defense, you can’t just pick non-mediocre (i.e., good) players off trees. You have to find available players with certain skill-sets and roll the dice. I’m happy that we now may have a versatile IFer who can play third base and bring some pop to the plate. We’ll see what happens.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 2:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think we have
a backup 3B that can bring more pop to the plate.
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 Jul 2, 2009 2:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
having Baker and Fox
means that Lou can rest both Sori and Rami, remember.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 2:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
assuming both Baker and Fox are on the roster once Rami is back
and that’s not necessarily a sure bet
by WanderingWanderer on Jul 2, 2009 2:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
you think Fox
will be sent back down?
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 2:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
roster spots
After Reed and Aramis get back and assuming we carry 12 pitchers, we’ll have two spots for Miles, Fox, Blanco and Fontenot. Given Miles’ contract and Lou’s lefty fetish, I’d say there’s a very good chance Fox goes back down — unless he gets traded first.
by elgato on Jul 2, 2009 2:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Fox goes down all right

Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 2:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
+1

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jul 2, 2009 2:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 2:59 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
you're really in favor of sending Fox down
And keeping Fontenot up? I can’t think of any reasoning for that that isn’t horrible.
by elgato on Jul 2, 2009 3:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No.....
Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 3:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You got all that from...
a Stormtrooper pelvic-thrusting?
:)
by CubsWin!Oregon on Jul 2, 2009 3:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Speaking of...
The always classic…
by CubsWin!Oregon on Jul 2, 2009 3:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I understand the lefty-righty situation
But I’d like to see Fox and Baker stay with Fontenot going back to Des Moines (if he has options left).
by elgato on Jul 2, 2009 1:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
and have a Baker/Blanco
platoon?
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 2:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
don't care that much
But I’m pretty convinced that Fontenot is not the answer.
Commence Drew telling me why he is …
by elgato on Jul 2, 2009 2:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'll save drew the trouble.
Fontenot needs to pick it up, but I’ll give him more time if we can just get him back to playing 2B only and against RHP only. Fontenot has been asked to do two things this season that he’s really not equipped to do very well or easily. Take that strain away and see what he does.
Randy Wells - You continue to astound me.
by DGU on Jul 2, 2009 2:09 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
hitting major league pitching being the main thing he's not equipped to do
It’s funny to me how many think his .236 average against righties is somehow due to his playing 3rd base
by WanderingWanderer on Jul 2, 2009 2:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
thank you!
Also, look at Fontenot’s .194 average in the past month.
When did the Cubs decide as an organization, along with many fans, that baseball players can’t keep up their performance while moving to a position that isn’t THAT different than the one they’re used to playing?
It’s not like the Cubs asked Fontenot to catch of play center field.
I might be OK giving Fontenot more time, but we might need the roster spot once Aramis and Reed get back. At this point, there’s NO WAY Jake Fox should go to Iowa and Mike Fontenot should stay with the Cubs.
by elgato on Jul 2, 2009 2:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
second and third
aren’t “that” different?
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 2:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
they're both infield positions, Drew
At one point in 2007, the Cubs tried Fontenot at short! I don’t remember anyone worrying about whether he could hit moving from second to short, do you?
by elgato on Jul 2, 2009 2:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
They are very different positions
and many players have reported that learning a new position brings down their hitting.
Randy Wells - You continue to astound me.
by DGU on Jul 2, 2009 2:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
DGU
If it came down to Fox and Fontenot, would you rather have Fontenot on the roster?
by elgato on Jul 2, 2009 2:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'd rather have Fox and Fontenot
and tell Hoffpauir to go swing and miss in AAA.
Randy Wells - You continue to astound me.
by DGU on Jul 2, 2009 3:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
hmmmmm
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 3:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
.554 OPS in the last 28 days
Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 3:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And a third of his plate appearances are SOs.
Randy Wells - You continue to astound me.
by DGU on Jul 2, 2009 3:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Both Fontenot AND Hoffpauir have the same OPS for the last 28 days.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jul 2, 2009 3:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
and Fontenot
can field.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 3:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And has put up sick numbers against lefties
Prior to being jerked around this year.
Also, more Fontenot means less Miles.
Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 3:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Er, against righties
Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 3:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
a consumation
devoutly to be wish’d.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 3:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
we have a lefthanded middle infielder with much better defense
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jul 2, 2009 3:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
...but who will probably never hit as well as LBR feasibly could.
We could do this for days.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 3:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
won't fonty be platooning
with Blanco?
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 3:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
There's enough spots for both
and LBR has a better MLB track record.
Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 3:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
ha!
careful… the hoff fanboys will be here soon for that.
that always gets a little too entertaining
Nobody who ever gave his best regretted it. -George Halas
by Allie on Jul 2, 2009 3:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
it's like having too much fun at the amusement park
sooner or later, you end up puking in a garbage can whilst children scream in the background.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 3:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's like getting drunk at Chuckie Cheese
Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 3:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
see now
I thought I had all those memories blocked out.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 3:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
My wife keeps saving the police blotters
She says they are grounds for divorce.
Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 3:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
sometimes its even worth it
that feeling right before you need a trash can.. awesome.
Nobody who ever gave his best regretted it. -George Halas
by Allie on Jul 2, 2009 3:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Really?
Go to a Nickelback concert. You’ll be in heaven.
Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 3:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
i had the same feeling
at KORN.
it was awesome… until I had to go to school the next day.
Nobody who ever gave his best regretted it. -George Halas
by Allie on Jul 2, 2009 3:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Are there still hoff fanboys?
Do they still admit it in public?
Randy Wells - You continue to astound me.
by DGU on Jul 2, 2009 3:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
just
the one.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. [ibid] This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 3:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Clutche, please pick up the white courtesy phone. Clutche.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 3:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
he's too busy correcting
my grammar in the recap thread from last night.
Nobody who ever gave his best regretted it. -George Halas
by Allie on Jul 2, 2009 3:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Except for the fact that Hoffpauir is on pace to K at a lower rate than Fontenot
this makes sense.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jul 2, 2009 3:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
?
Mike’s K’ing 1/5th of the time and Micah’s K’ing 1/4th of the time.
Randy Wells - You continue to astound me.
by DGU on Jul 2, 2009 3:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
my bad...
I flip-flopped them when I read the numbers.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jul 2, 2009 3:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
he played
ONE GAME there. In fact, he played ONE INNING there last year. That’s it.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 2:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I know he only played one inning there
But were there any concerns that the move would hurt his hitting? I didn’t hear any.
by elgato on Jul 2, 2009 2:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
he wasn't there
long enough for it to matter . Had he played nearly 50 games there and struggled, there would likely have been outcry.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 3:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Lots of players move over a position and continue to hit fine
Jacque Jones in 2007? He actually got better after the move.
by elgato on Jul 2, 2009 3:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm gonna suggest
that there’s less change in moving outfield positions. And yes, I know that goes against my suggestion that Lou played Fuld in left so that Bradley wouldn’t have to move from Right.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 3:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
are you talking about
him moving from second to short?
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 3:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
drew
your signature looks a mile long…
can we lobby for a shortened version? its killing my screen.
Nobody who ever gave his best regretted it. -George Halas
by Allie on Jul 2, 2009 3:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
especially because, um,
how do I say this? Many of your conversations seem to end up smushed on the right side of my screen.
by TC Cubby on Jul 2, 2009 3:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jul 2, 2009 3:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Is that A-Rod making out with himself?
Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 3:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Y'know that wouldn't surprise me at all.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 3:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
MY EYES
ZE GOGGLES DO NOTHING
Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 3:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
that would
indeed be the one
Nobody who ever gave his best regretted it. -George Halas
by Allie on Jul 2, 2009 3:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
yeah
I’m just saying that moving to new positions on the infield can be done — without the player sucking wind at the plate.
by elgato on Jul 2, 2009 3:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
didn't Riot
get to play spring training at SS, tho?
Fonty got tossed into the position with no preparation at all, and had to learn on the job.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 3:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Riot played SS in previous seasons
The point is the adjustment midseason didn’t make him forget how to hit.
by elgato on Jul 2, 2009 3:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
did Fonty
play 3rd in previous seasons?
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. [ibid] This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 3:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I believe Jacque played CF in Minnesota.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 3:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
true -- several years earlier
What about Michael Barrett?
by elgato on Jul 2, 2009 3:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, that's the epitome of a small sample.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 3:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I bring it up to show that ...
moving a player over a position doesn’t seem to be that big of deal — until the Cubs this year.
by elgato on Jul 2, 2009 3:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's about the length of time...
…the player spends at the new position. One game is negligible. Mike Fontenot was asked to essentially learn a new position at the major league level this season when he probably wasn’t expecting to – and play there for an extended period. Seems like a significant challenge that may have affected him at the plate.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 3:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
OK ...
1) Michael Barrett, as a young player, moved from third to catcher and kept hitting, through injuries.
2) Theriot (see above)
3) Jacque Jones in 2007 (moved from right to a much more demanding center)
4) Alfonso Soriano — moved from second to left in 2006 and had his best season.
by elgato on Jul 2, 2009 3:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Soriano moved to LF in spring training, didn't he?
In any case, it may not hold true for every player. And it’s obviously not something anyone can prove absolutely. My gut tells me Fontenot was thrown by the adjustment. Maybe that’s a strike against him, but it doesn’t change the fact that he’s established himself as an excellent defensive second baseman with a nice-looking swing who’s had some significant success at the major league level. That’s why I’m not giving up on him.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 3:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think Soriano moved in the spring
And I think Fontenot is just average defensively. But if he has options left, send him to Des Moines and let him work on his swing.
by elgato on Jul 2, 2009 3:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
UZR shows Fontenot to be well above average at 2B.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 3:51 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
What is average?
Because I read it as 2, 5, 2 or something like that. Is that well above average?
Can you give me an idea of what is crappy/average/above-average/excellent? I haven’t seen enough numbers to make sense of it.
Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 3:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
UZR measures runs saved...
…over a league-average replacement player. So anything positive means a player is saving runs defensively over what your average Triple A could do. Anything negative means the player is costing his team runs at that position.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 3:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I understand that much
But what would be considered the far ends of the range, both positive and negative? Like, what would you consider to be a really good or really bad UZR to be?
I’m trying to get something to reference the numbers to.
Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 3:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I guess I'd say...
…anything in or approaching double-digits is really good (or really bad, if negative).
Mike Fontenot’s career UZR/UZR 150 at second base: 10.6/14.6
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 4:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed and rec'd.
I’ve given up trying to argue that Fontenot may still be an everyday player, but I’m not giving up on LBR himself.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 2:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
even at the expense of keeping one of our hottest hitters with the club?
You really think, between Fox and Fontenot, Fox should go back to Des Moines?
by elgato on Jul 2, 2009 2:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh no - I'm open to sending Fontenot down to Iowa.
I just mean I haven’t given up on him succeeding as a major league second baseman.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 3:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
As a platoon player, he put up real good numbers last year
.911 OPS against righties. Get him back in his comfort zone.
Life is parallel to hell but I must maintain
by dr stabbingworth on Jul 2, 2009 2:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
NOT ... if it means sending Fox to Iowa
Let LBR get back into his comfort zone in Des Moines.
by elgato on Jul 2, 2009 2:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh, I'm all for that
I just don’t see it happening.
by elgato on Jul 2, 2009 2:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
no
I have no real vested interest in Fontenot. I like him, and I think he’s been horribly exposed having to learn a new position, but if he was sent back down, I wouldn’t be particularly upset. I think Blanco is a better defensive player than he is, and at the moment, their bats are relatively equal.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 2:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
cool
Personally, I like Fontenot. But I don’t think there’s any way he should stay with the team at the expense of Jake Fox.
by elgato on Jul 2, 2009 2:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'll agree with that.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 2:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
i wouldn't put it in the bank
yet that Fox would outhit Baker two times over. The only thing we have to go on with Fox, to make such bold predictions, is his minor league season this year. Well, Baker’s got a solid minor league track record to compare as well.
by toonsterwu on Jul 2, 2009 3:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Fox's minor league numbers weren't even all that great until the last couple of seasons.
by dimarco on Jul 2, 2009 3:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Just. Like. Soto.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jul 2, 2009 3:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
but with opposite splits.
This is a very good deal. The Cubs now have the ability to get excellent production out of 2nd base.
by shawndgoldman on Jul 2, 2009 2:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
or the exact same production they've been getting all season
which is almost none at all
by WanderingWanderer on Jul 2, 2009 2:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
We gave up a single-A reliever
It’s not like we would be taking any steps backward.
by madcow256 on Jul 2, 2009 2:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
why play the games? ;-)
"If it's obvious, it's obviously wrong." - a well known stock market guru
by LAcarl519 on Jul 2, 2009 4:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Because baseball is a highly stocastic sport.
I can predict what I think will happen with stats… and much better than I can (or you, for that matter) can without them. That’s the point to them.
by shawndgoldman on Jul 2, 2009 4:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
as did handing a starting job to Mike Freaking Fontenot
by WanderingWanderer on Jul 2, 2009 2:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was OK giving him the starting job against right handers
That doesn’t mean he should keep it based on his performance in the past six weeks.
by elgato on Jul 2, 2009 2:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
whether or not you were okay with it
doesn’t mean it paid off. I was okay with the Gathright signing, had we used him the way he’s most effective, as a defensive replacement and pinch runner. It didn’t pay off
by WanderingWanderer on Jul 2, 2009 2:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Fontenot has not paid off
I wouldn’t argue that.
by elgato on Jul 2, 2009 2:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Considering we dumped Sosa and got Fontenot
Not a bad trade considering those 2005 stats from Sosa…
And the eighth and final rule: if this is your first time at Fight Club, you have to fight.
by Ace Venom on Jul 2, 2009 2:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Totally agree
But Fontenot has not paid off as a starter in 2009.
by elgato on Jul 2, 2009 2:57 PM CDT up reply

by 
