Epstein, Hoyer, McLeod: Cubs Put The Band Back Together
by Al Yellon on Nov 1, 2011 4:50 PM CDT
in Chicago Cubs News
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PrintTheo Epstein, Jed Hoyer and Jason McLeod were among the architects of the Boston Red Sox' two World Series championships in 2004 and 2007. Now, they are putting the band back together on the North Side of Chicago, hoping to duplicate their success with the Cubs.
Hoyer joked that he doesn't have any musical talent, so he'd have to "play the triangle" if they actually played music. But the reality is that these three men are exceptionally talented at what they do; McLeod said that to him, the 2007 title was more gratifying because the team on the field for Game 4 (the one where they won that series over the Rockies) had six players who he had scouted and developed. That's what McLeod said he and Hoyer and Epstein want to build in Chicago -- an organization that is a "scouting and player development machine." They cautioned, though, that there is "no shortcut and no magic bullet."
Hey, we've waited this long. I think we can be patient with these three men, who have built other winners, and proven that they know what they're doing. We are fortunate, too; both Hoyer and McLeod said that this wouldn't have happened -- bringing all three men together again -- if not for Epstein being suddenly available and hired by the Cubs. For this, we can all be grateful; McLeod, in particular, said it was tough for him to leave San Diego, which is home for him.
All three men thanked the Ricketts family for the opportunity and said they looked forward to working with men already in place -- Oneri Fleita, Tim Wilken and Randy Bush. Implicit in their statements was the idea that Bush will be kept on in some unspecified role, though that wasn't stated outright. It was telling that Tom Ricketts was not at this news conference; it was clearly Theo's show, sitting in between his cohorts, showing that Theo is the guy in charge. Both Hoyer and McLeod will report to Epstein; Hoyer will act as day-to-day GM, making decisions on trades and free agent signings, but it was also clear that Theo will, should he desire, have the final say.
Several specific topics of recent and future interest to us were discussed specifically at the news conference.
First, Epstein said that if compensation for his hire wasn't decided on by the end of the day -- and it didn't sound like they were close -- that MLB would probably give the teams an extension. How long that extension might be wasn't mentioned. A Boston Globe article from earlier today gave a hint:
Today is the deadline for the Red Sox and Cubs to agree on compensation for Theo Epstein and no tangible progress has been made, according to general manager Ben Cherington.
"It’s a difficult deal to work out because it’s too hard to quantify the value of Theo Epstein," Cherington said. "I have an idea of it and Theo doesn’t think he’s worth as much as I do. We haven’t been able to bridge that gap yet."
"Theo doesn't think he's worth as much as I do." Hee hee. I can just imagine the conversation.
Cherington: You've won two World Series. We want Starlin Castro.
Epstein: I suck, I'm past my prime. You can have Blake DeWitt.
Cherington: [click]
Epstein: Ben? Ben? Okay, DeWitt and Jeff Baker.
Epstein: Ben? Ben? Hello?
Epstein said the team is getting closer to a decision on Mike Quade; he said they met for "six to seven hours" last week. He expects a resolution "within a week".
A resolution has apparently already been made about Aramis Ramirez. After recapping what the Cubs did -- exercise the team option which Ramirez declined -- Theo said Ramirez "had" a great career for the Cubs, seemingly emphasizing the past tense. He went on to say he wouldn't rule anything out, but that they'd likely be looking for "different solutions" at third base.
Finally, regarding Carlos Zambrano, Epstein said he had spoken to Z's agent, Barry Praver, and said that talk was "enlightening", and went on to say he wants to meet with Z and decide "what's best for the Cubs". It sounds to me like Z is gone, but maybe that's just my interpretation.
The bottom line is that these three men have known each other for more than a decade and have had success running baseball operations. They said they're not going to "reinvent the wheel" in Chicago, but want to develop a system that everyone's happy with and that everyone in the system subscribes to. They said they do argue -- sometimes vehemently -- but say they arrive at a consensus and move forward.
Moving forward. That's something that hasn't been done on the North Side of Chicago in many years. Sounds good to me.
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Tom Ricketts
Someone on twitter said he was there, at the back of the room, but Crane K was not there.
Watched the conference online. I’m impressed. (for all that I know, anyway)
I definitely saw Tom Ricketts chatting with Len Kasper afterward.
But I think Al meant that Tom didn’t officially appear in the press conference.
Baseball is pitching, offensive production, baserunning and defense.
This would not be happening if the Cubs were still owned by Tribune.
Tom Ricketts has taken his share of criticism and some personal attacks in the last two years. Some of that criticism has been justified, but even most of his critics would have to admit that the Cubs don’t get Epstein, Hoyer and McLeod if Tribune still owns the team. Ricketts didn’t make big, sweeping changes overnight which I wasn’t really happy about at the time. I wanted Hendry gone and some roster overhaul, but now I think that perhaps this was a blessing in disguise and that Ricketts had a plan all along. If Hendry was fired in October 2009, we probably don’t have Theo Epstein as GM today.
Change hasn’t happened as fast as some Cubs fans would have liked, but it appears that the team is finally on the right track both in ownership and the front office. Now, if only they can get the management and players on the right track we’ll be even better.
by jeffmills1972 on Nov 1, 2011 5:21 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
The problem with your thesis is that it assumes that Ricketts had a crystal ball...
…that told him that the Red Sox were going to self destruct in September and react by throwing their manager under the bus. Epstein is on record as saying that he would have stayed around and finished out his contract if Francona had been retained (because he didn’t want to be put into teh uncomfortable position of hiring a guy and then leaving a year later).
Ricketts had a plan, but I never said he was a soothsayer.
I think that he wanted to give Hendry a chance based on his recent success at that time and was willing to roll the dice with Jim to see what would happen. 2010 was a huge disappointment and I was surprised that Hendry was given another year to be GM. Part of me thinks that this had more to do with money and Ricketts not wanting to fire Hendry with two years owed to him that were left on his contract.
There were and are some other impressive GM candidates out there besides Epstein. In a way, Ricketts got lucky because if Boston denies the Cubs permission to speak to Theo, there goes that.
by jeffmills1972 on Nov 1, 2011 7:43 PM CDT up reply actions
They still could have made a run at Friedman.
This is a perfect little storm creating this, now they have to make it happen.
The Angels did.......
…. and he said no.
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The angels are the angels
and the cubs are the cubs…who knows if the cubs pull would’ve been stronger. I would assume (only assume) that he would consider each situation on their own merits and decide from there.
Meh. The honeymoon is already over IMO.
It’s time to get to work and show us what they’re made of.
"They sell every ticket to every game, win or lose!" - Tom Ricketts
Talk about impatient.
Theo’s been on the job a week. The other two, a day. Man, give ’em a little rope!
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by Al Yellon on Nov 2, 2011 8:09 AM CDT up reply actions 3 recs
NO
These guys stink! Theo took over during the WS and what was the first thing to happen under his watch? Our arch-rivals won the dang thing!
FIRE THEO!!!
Eamus Ursuli!
by WGNstatic on Nov 2, 2011 9:29 AM CDT up reply actions 3 recs
you are late i said that last week
and we have not won 1 single game, and i have yet to see any improvement, fire them all NOW!
Chronologically inept since 2060
Q: Why did Chuck Norris cross the road?
A: Ditka
Ditka's mustache can kill two stones with one bird
It is better to spend money like there's no tomorrow than to spend tonight like there's no money! - Irish toast.
I am always late
I admit, I was slow on the fire Hendry bandwagon too, guess I am a KoolAid drinker
Eamus Ursuli!
i would love to see a parade
……….next OCT.
by cozmotaylor123 on Nov 2, 2011 8:16 AM CDT up reply actions
Free agency doesn't even start until tomorrow
They can only do so much until then.
Cubs are building. White Sox are rebuilding.
Why else would you hire Robin Ventura to be your manager?
by jeffmills1972 on Nov 1, 2011 7:44 PM CDT up reply actions
I was thinking the exact same thing
"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry
"Cubs win....what a lucky break!!" ---Harry
rec'd for kenan and kel reference
THEOOOOOOOOO (and Hoyer)
by jesus christos on Nov 1, 2011 7:54 PM CDT up reply actions
_______ Sox
I have actually gotten a real kick out of the # of discussions around the Cubs these days that discuss the Cubs and Sox – with the presumed color being of course Red.
Eamus Ursuli!
Do you stay, or do you go.
Ramirez- Obviously Gone, great career. His legacy will be missed, but his shoulders are bad, and his defense is declining as expected at 34 years old.
Quade- Getting used for intel, then next most likely to go. Addition by subtraction at its finest. A new voice is better than a lame duck voice.
Carlos Zambrano- Likely Gone, but due to his large contract, I can see him somehow finding away to stick around till the next trade deadline at the latest. However, I dont think ricketts ever wanted that. So maybe money wont be a problem.
Soriano- is dodging bullets at this point. I pray he doesnt step on the field at wrigley ever again. I see him as a trade deadline deal too. Hopefully he starts out productive if he stays to increase his stock.
I'm psyched.
Does anyone have the link to the press conference? I’d love to see it.
So stoked for the future
and I think I may have uttered those words regarding this team a couple times. Once when it looked like the Cubs would dominate the majors with their pitching (and then that fell apart) and again when they signed Derrick Lee and it looked like they would start spending some cash for players, and then that fell apart.
Both were incredibly short sighted movements by the team though, and this looks like a foundation is being laid out, and they’re building on that, which differs from what was done before: Start at the top floor of the building and start taking bricks from the bottom to build more floors on top. We obviously crashed doing that.
www.facebook.com/craighudak
by Craig in South Bend on Nov 1, 2011 5:25 PM CDT reply actions
Does anyone think the 5 year contract for Epstein too long?
What if he has 3 miserable years in Chicago? Then what? I would think a 3 year deal would have been more reasonable for both sides.
"Hey-Hey! Home Run! Attaboy Ronnie!" ~ Jack Brickhouse
Five years is really good.
It would be different if it were 10.
www.facebook.com/craighudak
by Craig in South Bend on Nov 1, 2011 5:33 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Well, if Theo sticks to his 10-year limit...
…he’ll be outta here in 2021.
Baseball is pitching, offensive production, baserunning and defense.
Three years isn't long enough to (re)build a winning organization.
To be honest, I wonder whether five years is long enough — though he’ll obviously be extended if things go relatively well.
Baseball is pitching, offensive production, baserunning and defense.
It will be long enough
to show marked success at many levels.
10-25-2011. Theo Epstein joins the Cubs. Now, the fun begins.
I agree.
♪ He held me very tight under stars so bright and whispered darlin' "Who do you love tonight?" I told him "baseball, baseball...." ♫
There will be quite a bit of money coming off the books during that time.
Not that I’m advocating a quick fix via the free agency route, but some key pieces of real value could be acquired during that time to go along with the incoming youth. Then, after that 3rd year, the Cubs will be free of the Soriano contract (if not sooner).
Hoyer on CTL right now.
Says team needs to improve defense, get greater pitching depth, and have more speed on the basepaths.
Theo! Good job, Tommy Boy!
"It came to an end in Boston, it came to an end on the Southside, and it will come to an end here."
Theo! Good job, Tommy Boy!
by shoemile on Nov 1, 2011 5:48 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
The Law of Averages says
nothing…yes, nothing lasts forever. The Cubbie drought? This too shall pass. This may be our best shot at it since Dallas Green… nope…IS our best shot at it. :]
There are no facts, only interpretations.
Friedrich Nietzsche
Lets Go Theo!!! 10/13/2011
I can't really count our
“non-playoff appearances” of late…
There are no facts, only interpretations.
Friedrich Nietzsche
Lets Go Theo!!! 10/13/2011
I think they were actually "playoff non-appearances"
The Cubs were in the playoffs, but neglected to show up….
The Law of Averages says...
…“anything will happen that can”
That’s what it says
But the last time the Cubs won a National League pennant
Was the year we dropped the bomb on Japan
Baseball is pitching, offensive production, baserunning and defense.
I do believe these men will change the organization in a positive way.
But Piniella said something like, look, the bottom line is we are going to win here. But I will enjoy watching the “building” for now.
and Lou didn't have half of what we have now behind him!!!
"Well-behaved women seldom make History"---Laurel Thatcher Ulrich
by cooliogirl47 on Nov 1, 2011 6:38 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Atta (coolio) Girl!!!
There are no facts, only interpretations.
Friedrich Nietzsche
Lets Go Theo!!! 10/13/2011
I would be damn happy to sit on that stage today too!
All of these men are getting paid handsomely to play a game of “let’s make a miracle” which it appears that are driven enough to do it just for fun. For the money Ricketts has thrown at the threesome, he will expect results, just like I do. Problem is, I’m impatient. We all are.
While I’m as giddy as the next Cubs fan, I also see some very wealthy men with a job that has not been accomplished for over a century. I hope we get our monies worth. I also don’t feel like waiting. I hope they understand the magnitude of the Cubs fan angst.
We'll miss you Big Boy. #10 for Hall of Fame.
by mrcubsfan on Nov 1, 2011 5:45 PM CDT via mobile reply actions
im patient...
if i see progress from these last few years the first year ill be content ill be happy when in three or four years were developing young talent and winning world series
THEOOOOOOOOOOO to the rescue
by southsidecubbiefan on Nov 1, 2011 8:09 PM CDT up reply actions
I will be patient also.
As long as we are moving in the right direction. Nothing that is built to last is done overnight. It was started last summer with the draft and continues more so now.
Wow, get over yourself
These three aren’t who made “you” wait. Sorry, but this is going to take time.
Step Two: Develop an organizational plan
by Shanghai Badger on Nov 1, 2011 8:54 PM CDT up reply actions
He didn't make any claims about himself alone
He’s totally right. So are you. No need for an edge there.
What's the rush now all of a sudden?
Pretty sure Theo said the plan is to be contenders in the playoffs EVERY YEAR, not just a year and then disappear for 4 years. For this to happen it takes time. Relax.
MAKE THE ADJUSTMENT ALREADY. THIS GAME IS ABOUT ADJUSTMENTS.
by MaTheMeatloaf on Nov 2, 2011 10:41 AM CDT up reply actions
FWIW
… it was announced after the news conference that Randy Bush will be retained as “assistant GM”.
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"Randy, get me an eggplant calzone!"
by EalyEagle on Nov 1, 2011 5:55 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
and a riple latte
10-25-2011. Theo Epstein joins the Cubs. Now, the fun begins.
Fred Sanford wants one of them ripple lattes
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Nov 1, 2011 6:07 PM CDT up reply actions 3 recs
Ooh...ooh! Me too!!!
There are no facts, only interpretations.
Friedrich Nietzsche
Lets Go Theo!!! 10/13/2011
Champagne n Ripple? :]
There are no facts, only interpretations.
Friedrich Nietzsche
Lets Go Theo!!! 10/13/2011
Ahhh... once again, I realize too late
that you are better educated than I… :]
There are no facts, only interpretations.
Friedrich Nietzsche
Lets Go Theo!!! 10/13/2011
Well at least Mr. Wittenmyer gets to keep his source
Guys, hitting is not about muscle. It's simple physics. Calculate the velocity, v, in relation to the trajectory, t, in which g, gravity, of course remains a constant.... It's not complicated. - George Costanza
Is ie me, or
does Jed have android eyes there?
10-25-2011. Theo Epstein joins the Cubs. Now, the fun begins.
Yes...yes... I believe
you’re right! DEFINATELY android eyes! It’s all becoming so clear to me now…
There are no facts, only interpretations.
Friedrich Nietzsche
Lets Go Theo!!! 10/13/2011
This is 1-L19. Westbound on Olympic approaching Overland.
If the Cubs still have a chance, no matter how small, it’s still Go Cubs, damn the math and pass the KoolAid. I'm a Sheeple and proud of it!
Approaching Overland?!
/OMG…must hurry!/
There are no facts, only interpretations.
Friedrich Nietzsche
Lets Go Theo!!! 10/13/2011
actually, if he'd jut his jaw out just a little more...
…from that angle, he kinda reminds me of a young Tony LaRussa.
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
TLR is an android
too?! :]
There are no facts, only interpretations.
Friedrich Nietzsche
Lets Go Theo!!! 10/13/2011
Hmmmm....
/maybe he didn’t retire…maybe he’s just goin in for maintenance/
There are no facts, only interpretations.
Friedrich Nietzsche
Lets Go Theo!!! 10/13/2011
AL!
Speed up the “it is only… until opening day clock” will ya and pass the blue ripple! Yea I know Rome wasn’t built in a day.
.
If the Cubs still have a chance, no matter how small, it’s still Go Cubs, damn the math and pass the KoolAid. I'm a Sheeple and proud of it!
AND THEN A STEP TO THE RIIIIGHT!
You put your hands on your hips
www.facebook.com/craighudak
by Craig in South Bend on Nov 1, 2011 8:56 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
I've never been more excited after a 71 win season.
"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks
Taking what you wrote literally
The Cubs have only won exactly 71 games three times before in their history. Two of them left them with winning records: in 1887 the White Stockings were 71-50 and finished in third place. After that season they sold John Clarkson, their best pitcher, and Billy Sunday, and boy, I’d love to see what the blogs of 1887 wrote about him. They did finish 2nd the next season.
The next time was 1896 when they finished 71-57, which put them fifth in a 12 team league. This was the remainders of the 1880s teams (Anson, Pfeffer, Ryan) along with a bunch of kids, called “Anson’s Colts.” Anson would play his final season the next year, the Colts would fall to 9th place and Anson would be forced into retirement. To be fair, he was 45.
The other time the Cubs finished with 71 wins was 1983. I don’t think I have to tell anyone what happened then. Whether or not you were excited, I can’t say. I know I bet a friend $5 at 20-1 that off-season that the Cubs would win the NL East in 1984. Dude never paid me.
by Josh Timmers on Nov 1, 2011 7:37 PM CDT up reply actions 5 recs
Was it the long odds or your faith in Rich Bordi?
"Elder White! Look at the talent on those Cubs!" Harry Caray, KMOX Radio, 4/22/62
"And you have to wonder – What's the matter with Broglio?" Harry, KMOX, 5/24/64
It was a Bill James article
in the 1984 Abstract that the conditions in the NL East were all perfect for the Cubs to be a miracle team.
I remember that article.
He said something to the effect that to be competitive at Wrigley Field the Cubs had to lead the NL in runs scored, and that given their lineup, a miracle was in the offing. Those early Abstracts were great.
"Elder White! Look at the talent on those Cubs!" Harry Caray, KMOX Radio, 4/22/62
"And you have to wonder – What's the matter with Broglio?" Harry, KMOX, 5/24/64
Yes, they were.
I still have all of them.
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what is the guys name that didn't pay you?
no reason we can’t track him down for you.
by cozmotaylor123 on Nov 2, 2011 8:19 AM CDT up reply actions
I think that he's just Joshing
"Wait, are you saying I'm a sunshine-pumping, koolaid-drinking, Soriano-loving, rainbow-rising, unicorn-riding, double-clutching, Sweet Lou-backing, Hendry-supporting, hey hey whaddya saying, Cubs are going all the waying, glass is overflowing, Rothschild is all-knowing, Cubs fan? - ballhawk
FIP! UZR! wOBA! BABIP! WAR!
by your powers combined, we are the Stat Pack!
THEOOOOOOOOO (and Hoyer)
by jesus christos on Nov 1, 2011 7:05 PM CDT reply actions 6 recs
My recommendations.
Take them.
"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks
Those three men
up there today are a breath of fresh air. I’m really excited about the future of the Chicago Cubs.
by sue369 on Nov 1, 2011 7:21 PM CDT reply actions 4 recs
me too... me too...
If the Cubs still have a chance, no matter how small, it’s still Go Cubs, damn the math and pass the KoolAid. I'm a Sheeple and proud of it!
me 2 sue
nice to feel semi happy again
especially with no basketball around
Did you guys hear about the new Lebron James Iphone?
You have to keep it on vibrate because it has no rings.
The thing I'm most excited about is the overall philosophy...
We all want a team that challenges for the playoffs year in and year out. You give me a team that makes the playoffs 9-10 times over the next 15 years and I’ll take my chances that one of those teams will win the World Series. Let the building begin…
Get 'em on, Get 'em over, Get 'em in!
by DKT on Nov 2, 2011 8:48 AM CDT up reply actions
Yes!
"Wait, are you saying I'm a sunshine-pumping, koolaid-drinking, Soriano-loving, rainbow-rising, unicorn-riding, double-clutching, Sweet Lou-backing, Hendry-supporting, hey hey whaddya saying, Cubs are going all the waying, glass is overflowing, Rothschild is all-knowing, Cubs fan? - ballhawk
Man, I'm feeling my age.....
…. because with the exception of McLeod, the others look like kids.
Help bring Boys of Spring The Movie to life!
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You know, I thought the same thing.
If the Cubs still have a chance, no matter how small, it’s still Go Cubs, damn the math and pass the KoolAid. I'm a Sheeple and proud of it!
And McLeod is only two years older than Epstein and Hoyer.
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They are all kids
But very smart Kids!
"I've got a head full of whiskey and some bad ideas" - Scott Holt
by Ihatethecards on Nov 2, 2011 8:57 AM CDT up reply actions
I never thought I’d see the day or at least see it before I was 50 when the Cubs front office management team were all born after I started kindergarten.
And as a woman I have to say they are all very hot.
Best looking trio the Cubs have ever had. Although I had a Stanton Cook poster and lusted after Don Grenesko Theo is the best looking President they’ve ever had.
Nothing happens unless it's first a dream
by puckishcubsfan on Nov 2, 2011 10:35 AM CDT up reply actions
Although I had a Stanton Cook poster and lusted after Don Grenesko
This is too bizarre to even comment on.
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I hope you realize I was kidding. I was referring to past team presidents.
I picked the ugliest ones. MacPhail was nice looking. McDonough is actually kind of handsome.
Nothing happens unless it's first a dream
by puckishcubsfan on Nov 2, 2011 10:56 AM CDT up reply actions
watching hardcore pawn...
maybe we could sell Z on this show….
THEOOOOOOOOOOO to the rescue
by southsidecubbiefan on Nov 1, 2011 8:06 PM CDT reply actions
it depends the guy who bought the gordy howe pictures
would probly overpay us for him otherwise we may get ripped off
THEOOOOOOOOOOO to the rescue
by southsidecubbiefan on Nov 1, 2011 8:41 PM CDT up reply actions
true
but if we pulled the whole switcharoo and had les on our side maybe we could get verlander
THEOOOOOOOOOOO to the rescue
by southsidecubbiefan on Nov 1, 2011 9:47 PM CDT up reply actions
Maybe that billionaire from Baseketball would take Z
He can lock him up in a glass cage in his museum next to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
It says something about Ricketts' humility
that he was not on the stage today. Many owners would be there preening in the good feelings of looky what I did. Aren’t I great?
Ricketts was content to sit in the background and let Epstein have the moment. It says a lot good about his character.
"Manny Trillo is coming in to pinch run. You know, for a lot of teams, you would pinch run FOR Manny Trillo." - Harry Caray
by Archie on Nov 1, 2011 8:37 PM CDT reply actions 2 recs
agreed
He doesn’t really have to mingle in the crowd at Wrigley as often as he does, either.
"Wait, are you saying I'm a sunshine-pumping, koolaid-drinking, Soriano-loving, rainbow-rising, unicorn-riding, double-clutching, Sweet Lou-backing, Hendry-supporting, hey hey whaddya saying, Cubs are going all the waying, glass is overflowing, Rothschild is all-knowing, Cubs fan? - ballhawk
i always liked the Ricketts
despite the first few years the guy seeks out the fans in order to get there input which isnt something you can say for a lot of CEO’s
THEOOOOOOOOOOO to the rescue
by southsidecubbiefan on Nov 1, 2011 8:43 PM CDT reply actions
OT, sort of.
McNutt and Cashner struggled once again today for Mesa.
What a nice photo.
Lets hope from this day forward the Cubs become the model, not a continuous train wreck.
Next year will be tough, but I sure hope 2013 will become the start of many runs into the playoffs.
kool-aid drinker
"Wait, are you saying I'm a sunshine-pumping, koolaid-drinking, Soriano-loving, rainbow-rising, unicorn-riding, double-clutching, Sweet Lou-backing, Hendry-supporting, hey hey whaddya saying, Cubs are going all the waying, glass is overflowing, Rothschild is all-knowing, Cubs fan? - ballhawk
Where does Maddux's future lye in all this?
He was a special assistant to mr Jim, right? The front office seems a bit crowded now (with great additions — don’t get me wrong). Is there room for Sir Maddux. Pitching coach?
"OFFENCE IS TO WEAK" -- cooltrev
Yeah, well we didn't think he was making soap
Maddux doesn’t want to be the pitching coach. He also may not want to be in the front office. I’m sure Jessica can tell you more, but Greg has a sick child. He may not have been back even if Hendry had come back.
But I’m sure that Theo and Jed would find a place for him in the organization if he wants to come back. Heck, they found a job for Randy Bush.
Well since you asked
I think he will be in baseball for many years to come, but I doubt it will be with the Cubs. No updates on his daughter, but he sounded chipper when last heard from and rooting for brother Mike’s Rangers. Maddux had a pretty unique position last year, he mainly roved around the minor league teams both scouting and teaching and participated in all the major exec meetings. I just don’t see how that works with Theo and the brain trust. I am sure Theo has enormous respect for Maddux and his knowledge and be more than happy to see him stay as super scout/ instructor, but Maddux probably wants more and also may want to be closer to home. Funny thing Maddux is in many ways a Sabrematics guy before the term was invented. Nothing pisses him off more than unprepared players and guys who don’t work their butt off and of course he literally knows more than stat sheets ( I will retell the Ned Colletti story at another time). I could see him working for D’backs in particular and Towers wants him.
It is always possible he could stay and I would be overjoyed, but I don’t think it is likely
"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry
Me either
by Doggie Stalker on Nov 1, 2011 10:31 PM CDT up reply actions
swipe at Henry?
There was a question today about a time when Hoyer and Theo disagreed. Hoyer responded that they have disagreed often, but that that disagreement would NEVER be made public.
I can’t help but see a pretty notable swipe at John Henry and his recent comments regarding Carl Crawford.
Eamus Ursuli!
I would like to make a motion
that from here on we refer to Henry as “Red Sox Owner” because I always read it as Hendry.
I do too.
♪ He held me very tight under stars so bright and whispered darlin' "Who do you love tonight?" I told him "baseball, baseball...." ♫
Hendry did a good job...It was just time for a change.
He will catch on with another team. No worries for him.
by TJ11 on Nov 2, 2011 9:09 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
It is a great time to be a Cub fan, Dont you agree?
New leadership and a winning future.
Can’t help but be excited.
NONSENSE!!
Nothing is going right!! Theo isn’t acting quick enough!
Why hasn’t Mike Quade been dragged through the streets and then shot in the head!?!?!
SAME OLD CUBS.
by Nunyabidness on Nov 2, 2011 11:29 AM CDT up reply actions
Hoping you're serious about that.
because it will be.
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He's not. I guaran-freaking-tee it.
by Nunyabidness on Nov 2, 2011 11:44 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
I am....its about time to be able to root for the Cubs again.
by TJ11 on Nov 2, 2011 11:45 AM CDT up reply actions 3 recs
Rec'd
Even if TJ is being snarky.
by BrewCrew'sPrinceofDarkness on Nov 2, 2011 12:00 PM CDT up reply actions
Have a KoolAid and join in the fun!
If the Cubs still have a chance, no matter how small, it’s still Go Cubs, damn the math and pass the KoolAid. I'm a Sheeple and proud of it!
One of my closest friends name happens to be Jim Henry. He always wonders why so many people hate him.
A friend knows someone named Kerry Woods. She gets teased a lot.
Nothing happens unless it's first a dream
by puckishcubsfan on Nov 2, 2011 10:37 AM CDT up reply actions
These guys ooze competence
Listening to Epstein speak conjures-up recollections of Robert Duvall’s famous napalm line in Apocalypse Now…
Theo sounds like victory.
I'm wet nurse to a last-place, dead-to-the-neck-up ball club, and I'm choking to death!
Len brought up an interesting name during his interview with B&B.
Josh Willingham. If they can somehow get rid of Soriano, this would make sense.
17'$ h4pp3n1n9!?!?!?
David DeJesus is a good low buy for a year or two.
"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks
Lifetime in Wrigley Field
… Willingham has hit .333/.471/.630. Small sample size and all (70 PA), and off Cubs pitching, yes, I know.
He might be worth it. Warning: he strikes out a lot.
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He's been a good hitter period
OBP over his 6-year career: .364, .364, .367,.389,.332
OPS over his 6-year career: .852, .827, .834, .863, .810
He’s never had a season below 115 in OPS+.
I liked the comment from Hoyer "Injuries cant be an excuse for a bad season"
Already they are different.
The future is bright!
That's the spirit TJ!!!
Things ARE different finally.
Another good thing – I saw Hoyer on one of the news shows last night – and he was asked what one thing needed improvement the most – and he said the defense. He really called out last season’s defense. That bodes well for Soriano being replaced, I hope and gives another indication why they are saying goodbye to Ramirez.
Hang in there TJ
I know it’s tough to sell patience to fans like me and you – and probably everyone else here – because we’ve been at it for so long. We’re tired of waiting! But one thing I’ve always said is that if the effort to retool is an honest one that’s laid out and explained by someone who has done it before, then it’s worth the first couple transition years.
Exactly
The new approach is SO refreshing. No more generalities and bullshit – these guys know the fans are tired of hearing the same old run around and lack of direction, and all that most of the diehard fans have asked for is a plan. If they have to struggle while they put the pieces together – as long as we see a vision – the Cubs fans CAN be very tolerant when they know there is a good plan in place.
That's the point, I think.
We’ve waited this long. Now that we know that people who have a track record of success are in place, I can wait a little longer.
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And it’s not a freight train coming to run us over.
Nothing happens unless it's first a dream
by puckishcubsfan on Nov 2, 2011 10:57 AM CDT up reply actions
zambrano...
i’ve said it before, but I would hope that Z is back this year. not for any love of the man, but because he is going to get paid 18 million dollars and we need pitching and his trade value is at absolutely the lowest it can get. new regime, organizational control, direction, and i think Z will do well with that, plus he could come out and pitch well, build some trade value and if not build trade value then he’s only here for this year, we can deal with that and then his contract is done and then so long Z.
So i you can give you can take it.
I interpreted like Al above.
I highly doubt he’s back.
♪ He held me very tight under stars so bright and whispered darlin' "Who do you love tonight?" I told him "baseball, baseball...." ♫
I hope he's back...
for many of the reasons listed above.
Proud recipient of a hot dog shot from the Iowa Cubs hot dog gun.
And maybe with this new diet
I will be able to keep the weight off this time…
♪ He held me very tight under stars so bright and whispered darlin' "Who do you love tonight?" I told him "baseball, baseball...." ♫
yeah, i make no promises about the guy...
i just think its silly to eat 18 million on a position we are sorely lacking in, and then have to eat 50ish on Soriano as well…. either way i wont be carrying a torch or pitchfork on the decision i just think a new direction among the Cubs would give Z some new direction of his own. then, its my hope, we can trade him or let him walk…
So i you can give you can take it.
I dunno.
His GM was one of the most indulgent in MLB to player transgressions. Jim Hendry gave him four or five last chances, and even Hendry had enough after last August.
I can’t imagine this new leadership wanting to tolerate that kind of thing even for one minute.
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Exactly.
When I heard Theo talk about wanting players that have each other’s backs, etc. I got the impression he’s gone.
♪ He held me very tight under stars so bright and whispered darlin' "Who do you love tonight?" I told him "baseball, baseball...." ♫
Which is probably the reason Theo is talking about him the way he is.
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Hendry was fired before the last Z outburst
so who really had the say that enough was enough,,,I am guessing Rickets.
by cozmotaylor123 on Nov 2, 2011 10:26 AM CDT up reply actions
A new day
I’ve been following this team since 1960, and I can again believe I might still see a pennant & WS winner in my lifetime. The next few years could be the most interesting & exciting times in Cub history! I want to be proud to be a Cub fan again. BTW, I see where the Cards home opener is against us. I’m sure their fans can’t wait to lord it over us at the WS ceremony. Better they watch their step, the reckoning is coming!
"It's a funny old world. Man's lucky if he gets out of it alive." W.C. Fields
Epstein quote about managerial search...
he must have managerial or coaching experience at the major league level."
Does this rule out Ryno?
"Beisbol been berry berry good to me." -Tony Oliva
He was a bench coach for a month.
Works for me!
Francona/Torre type
Francona and Torre remind me of Phil Jackson. Aside from winning, they are professional (unlike Lou), they are calm under pressure (unlike Dusty), and smart and make wise baseball decisions that have nothing to do with emotion (unlike Quade). They have good relationships with their players, and aside from the alcohol issue toward the end of the Boston era, they don’t let the players walk all over them. They establish good relationships by being appreciative and respectful of hard work, and by being good motivators.
Who fits Epsteins new criteria, while providing the above?
I just want to thank Mike Quade for being such a positive and strong manager in September of 2010, and for being such a great third base coach before that.
-- Jerome Horwitz
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