Fukudome Will Play In USA

by Al Yellon on Dec 9, 2007 4:42 AM CST in Chicago Cubs News

No, really -- it was reported in the Japanese media early Sunday, and confirmed by this post at sfgate.com:

Japanese free-agent Kosuke Fukudome has decided not to move to the Yomiuri Giants and will sign with a major league team instead, the Nikkansports newspaper reported Sunday.

The Nikkansports article (here is the original Japanese language article if anyone wishes to try to make an accurate translation) says that the Cubs, White Sox and Padres are the three teams interested. No other MLB teams are mentioned.

Prediction: this is done by the middle of the week and he becomes a Cub. Hat tip: MLBTR

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We can reconstruct

what happened last week.

Fukudome decided on Wednesday or Thursday to come to America. (Not that there was much of a chance that he'd stay once he knew there were big offers here) Word leaked out, probably through his agent's office.

For Fukudome to have not told Yomiuri first of his intentions would have been insulting to the team almost synonymous with Japanese baseball. (And is also owned by the largest media conglomerate in the country.) So they backtracked and said no decision had been made.

This weekend, Fukudome sat down with the Kyojin and had a conversation that went something like "It is with great sadness that I must decline your generous offer, in order to pursue my dreams of testing myself against the best competition in the world. I know this is selfishness on my part and I humbly apologize."

Now he'll get everyone's final offer on Monday and almost certainly sign with the Cubs by the end of the week. The indications are all there--the White Sox are dropping hints about an Aaron Rowand's return, the Padres are deep in talks with Mike Cameron and the Rangers have talked to Corey Patterson's people. The Cubs are the only team reported to be in the hunt (unless KC is really serious) that hasn't been connected to another outfielder. The only real rumor is the Raul Ibañez one, and that was shot down by the Mariner beat writer.

The artist formerly known as JoshinLA

by Josh Timmers on Dec 9, 2007 4:49 AM CST reply actions

SF was also rumored early

and I wonder about the Giants who have money to spend. They are one team I fear might get in on this and outbid Hendry. Of course, Fukudome should know that if he signs with them for 3 years, he won't sniff the WS over the life of that contract.

All I am saying is give Pie a chance!

by DGU on Dec 9, 2007 7:21 AM CST up reply actions

My guess is...

... that he knows that already.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al Yellon on Dec 9, 2007 7:25 AM CST up reply actions

I think the White Sox

are serious contenders. I don't think it will look good for them to publically go after someone and lose out agian this winter. In the end, the Cubs will out bid them and there's no way that Hendry will lose him to KW, but I think KW is trying hard.

That's what will make the Cubs signing Fukudome all that much better.

by NO100 on Dec 9, 2007 10:19 AM CST up reply actions

It seems like

Hendry's patience was warranted. If he does sign with us and we're also able to sign Roberts, the top of our lineup is set.

Anything additional would be a bonus. Of course adding Bedard would be a perfect trifecta.

We don't need Matsui Kaz he ain't Fuku.

by tharr on Dec 9, 2007 6:06 AM CST reply actions

Roberts...

... would be a trade acquisition; he's not a free agent.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al Yellon on Dec 9, 2007 7:05 AM CST up reply actions

can't see a scenario

where the Cubs have enough to trade for Bedard and Roberts.

by elgato on Dec 9, 2007 8:21 AM CST up reply actions

Add Hill and Pie

into the mix and I think you can work out some of the other details. Plus Murton, E-Pat, Marshall, and I think you're just about there.

by NO100 on Dec 9, 2007 10:21 AM CST up reply actions

so ...

Hill, Pie, Murton, E-Patt and Marshall for Bedard and Roberts? Not sure if that would get it done. I think the O's would demand Marmol.

It's not that the Cubs don't have the pieces to trade. It's that I don't think they'll give up the pieces that would be necessary. I would be SHOCKED if Hendry trades Marmol and/or Hill.

by elgato on Dec 9, 2007 10:26 AM CST up reply actions

I would agree with that

But, I do think the Cubs have the pieces. Whether the Cubs want to give it up is another matter.

by NO100 on Dec 9, 2007 10:52 AM CST up reply actions

I would not trade Hill to get Bedard.

I think Hill is going to gave a fantastic season. No sense giving up one good starter for another. Doesn't get you much, maybe 1-2 extra wins, if that. Don't know that I would sell the farm for that.

Just my $0.02.

"Who are you going to believe, me or your own eyes?"

by Jettero2112 on Dec 9, 2007 10:33 AM CST up reply actions

Bedard

has been a better pitcher than Hill in a tougher league and a very tough division. Bedard would probably improve his numbers in the NL to the point where he is a substantial improvement over Hill in the NL.

That said, I don't think Bedard would be SO much better that he would be worth giving up Hill AND a lot of other pieces (say Marmol AND Murton). But if it's the right deal ...

by elgato on Dec 9, 2007 11:01 AM CST up reply actions

The Questioin Is...

... would Hendry/Piniella want to go with three lefties in the rotation?

In hearing Piniella in May of last year, he seemed hesitant with adding Marshall as the fifth starter after Miller/Guzman. It seemed to work fine, but he really didn't have much other choice.

Now, given the choice, would they want to go with a rotation of 3 lefties? Maybe that's why they have supposedly reported that they are not going after Bedard (likely because in all instances swapping one starting pitcher for another does not have that much incremental gain. So, if anything, Bedard would be added without losing Hill).

Leads us all back to that 'pen log jam. What's next?

One week at a time... let's land Fukudome by Wednesday. Let's root for Tejada to go somewhere, as that would increase the likelihood of a Roberts deal to the Cubs triggering.

This is who I think the Cubs #1 should be...

by initram on Dec 9, 2007 11:25 AM CST up reply actions

Look at how little

the Tigers gave up for Willis and Cabrera. Virtually nothing from last year's 88 win team. If they can, we can.

We don't need Matsui Kaz he ain't Fuku.

by tharr on Dec 9, 2007 1:11 PM CST up reply actions

The difference is...

The Tigers have absolutely gutted their farm system, and they had a better farm system than us.
They only gave up "nothing" if you don't value young talent. Which isn't a good way to, well, do about anything in baseball.

FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Dec 9, 2007 1:14 PM CST up reply actions

6 Prospects

is quite a blow to their prospect list. However, Willis and Cabrera are 24 and 25. So it's not like getting 2 prospects back. Add to that the fact both have been All Stars and it's a huge improvement by Dombrowski.

Usually trades contain an element of negativity on both sides. Yet almost universally the Tigers are thought to have pulled off one of the heists of the century.

Would you have even thought about not pulling the lever on this trade if you were a Tigers fan?

We don't need Matsui Kaz he ain't Fuku.

by tharr on Dec 9, 2007 3:48 PM CST up reply actions

Correction

It's like getting 2 prospects back.

We don't need Matsui Kaz he ain't Fuku.

by tharr on Dec 9, 2007 3:49 PM CST up reply actions

You and I must be reading different everybodies.

And sure, I'd do that if I was a Tigers fan.

Guess what? I'm not a Tigers fan. We don't HAVE that kind of a farm system, and we don't HAVE that sort of a team.

FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Dec 9, 2007 4:06 PM CST up reply actions

Here's a link

http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071208/SPORTS02/71208037/1049/SPORTS01

Almost universal applause. As for ranking the farm systems, here's a link rating us 4th and the Tigers 7th.
http://www.hardballtimes.com/main/article/ranking-organizations/

Now we can split hairs but the reality is that the Tigers got 2 All Stars, aged 24 and 25. They gave up 2 top prospects, still unproven, along with 4 other guys who will probably never see the majors. I never would have guessed they would have been able to make that deal. But they did. My suggestion is that we need to investigate those type trades. That's not to say we aren't. Just that we should.

I know Hendry likes the free agent business because it doesn't involve prospects. Perhaps he needs to have a more balanced approach towards building a championship team. Maybe then, we can HAVE that sort of team.

We didn't need Matsui Kaz he ain't Fuku.

by tharr on Dec 9, 2007 4:48 PM CST up reply actions

I guess I'm not sure

as to why we'd move DeRo to a sub role @ 2B and give up anything for Roberts. DeRo proved his mettle last year and showed that he can be an everyday player. If anything, I'd think that bringing Roberts on board would allow the Cubs to not trot Theriot (whom I love) out there every day near the end of season, where last year he clearly showed that he wasn't ready for 162 games.

"I got mad hits like I was Rod Carew!"

by lostinthevines on Dec 9, 2007 7:20 AM CST reply actions

because theriot

can play short and DeRosa and Roberts, apparently, can't. Simple as that, really.

As much as Fukudome would be insurance if Pie doesn't come through, so would having Roberts and DeRosa.

If Pie falters, Fukudome could move to center and DeRosa could play every day in right (assuming Murton's an Oriole). That would be acceptable with Fukudome and Roberts, two left-handed hitters, in the lineup.

by elgato on Dec 9, 2007 8:26 AM CST up reply actions

Several reasons...

First, Theriot is the only one of the 3 that has shown he can play SS everyday (even if he's mediocre at it).

Second, Piniella, has repeatedly said he wants to get faster and more athletic. Playing DeRosa over Theriot goes against that philosophy.

Third, Piniella values the super sub player, because he buys into the theory that everybody needs regular rest. By moving DeRosa to this role, he can play DeRosa at 5 position (1B, 2B, 3B, LF, and RF) and give those spots regular rest. Further, if Fukudome can spot start in CF, DeRosa can also effectively sub for Pie by playing RF on the days Pie rests (with Fukudome in CF).

Finally, Piniella seems to think Theriot will be ready to handle the end of the season next year.

by SouthernCub on Dec 9, 2007 8:54 AM CST up reply actions

Then, if you can hold onto Cedeno as well...

... then you have a solid SS backup option, too.

I haven't counted yet, but we should have enough room for all these guys, right?

Latest report for Roberts was either Marshall or Gallagher plus either Cedeno or E. Patterson.

To me, if we can land Roberts while holding onto Cedeno, we're in good shape.

Personally, I think the Cubs have given up on Cedeno as the everyday SS. He was given his chance, multiple times, and was unable to solidify it.

The question is, will the Cubs be all right with keeping him in a utility man role? He can play a little third, a little second, and is shagging fly balls now in center. His speed late in the game can help.

This is who I think the Cubs #1 should be...

by initram on Dec 9, 2007 11:29 AM CST up reply actions

rotoworld

is reporting this as well. It was expected.

Live is boring until March 31st strolls by..

by Chanman25 on Dec 9, 2007 7:29 AM CST reply actions

When you say...

... Rotoworld is "reporting" it, what you really mean is that Rotoworld is quoting the same AP article that I found on the sfgate site, or that's been on a number of other news sites.

Rotoworld doesn't "report" anything itself; it simply picks up other news sources.

This is a reminder for anyone who uses Rotoworld as a "news" source -- always look at the original article that they link, because Rotoworld's summary doesn't always get all the facts straight.

Same thing for any other fantasy site.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al Yellon on Dec 9, 2007 7:37 AM CST up reply actions

Do you consider BCB

a fantasy site? Or is it merely the Cub fans that make it so?

We don't need Matsui Kaz he ain't Fuku.

by tharr on Dec 9, 2007 1:20 PM CST up reply actions

LOL

n/t

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al Yellon on Dec 9, 2007 1:24 PM CST up reply actions

Fukudome

My impression is probably skewed by the fact that the only time I saw Fukudome play was in the WBC finals, and the only thing I distinctly remember about him is the monster pinch hit home run he hit off of (who else) Byun Hyung Kim.

But, assuming he's still hitting like that, this can't happen fast enough.

¡BLANCO!

by 08Cubs on Dec 9, 2007 9:07 AM CST reply actions

You need to ask yourself

why Fukudome hit that pinch-hit home run. It was because he'd been benched earlier in the WBC because he wasn't hitting.

Now to be fair, he struggled in, what, three or four games before being benched? I'm sure if Sadaharo Oh was a more patient manager, he would have come around while still in the starting lineup.

You can see that home run on YouTube. A big blast at Petco off a major league pitcher. (OK, so most major leaguers can take BK Kim deep.) I think he'd be a great addition.

The artist formerly known as JoshinLA

by Josh Timmers on Dec 9, 2007 3:35 PM CST up reply actions

Indifferent to this news.

I'm going to get even remotely excited unless he chooses the CUbs. Part of me thinks he'll play for the Cubs, because I believe the Cubs have the best offer on the table and the other part of me is due to being a Cubs fan for over 30 years. If money isn't the main factor in his decision, I don't think he'll choose the Cubs and opt to play in Southern California, where there's a much stronger Japanese culture than in Chicago. I actually think he'll choose the Padres.

This is just my opinion, but I think he'll make his decision public tomorrow.

"Thanks bro, see ya later" Tony Larussa to Jupiter cops after being informed he was asleep in the middle of an intersection.

by lemon20pie on Dec 9, 2007 9:09 AM CST reply actions

Not going to get remotely excited

"Thanks bro, see ya later" Tony Larussa to Jupiter cops after being informed he was asleep in the middle of an intersection.

by lemon20pie on Dec 9, 2007 9:11 AM CST up reply actions

The one thing is

there really isn't much of a Japanese population in San Diego. But I am very afraid that he will sign to play in California.

by cubswin on Dec 9, 2007 10:40 AM CST up reply actions

LA is a 30 minute plane ride from SD

Even orange County, probably has a higher Japanese population.

"Thanks bro, see ya later" Tony Larussa to Jupiter cops after being informed he was asleep in the middle of an intersection.

by lemon20pie on Dec 9, 2007 11:12 AM CST up reply actions

It looks like

the Cubs will move heaven and earth to get Fukudome. Anybody else a little concerned that $15 million per is too much? I'm just thinking of Kaz Matsui's disappointing start with the Mets.

I want the Cubs to get Fukudome, but considering the payroll we already have committed for so many years (and the fact that I think Sori will look like a bad signing in about three years) I just don't think we should do ANYTHING to get this guy.

by elgato on Dec 9, 2007 9:39 AM CST reply actions

Yes and no

he won't come cheap, but I do believe he'll be worth every penny.

Seems like Japanese players like Ichiro have a better commitment to staying in shape and preparing, so a long term deal is okay with me.

My only concern is Tyler Colvin. If Pie does pan out, there won't be a spot for Colvin. Someone will have to be moved. And as long as it's for pitching, so be it.

Cubs chances in '08? Beats the FUK-U-DO-ME!

by Hugest Canadian Cubs Fan on Dec 9, 2007 9:47 AM CST up reply actions

Colvin

He is anything but a sure thing. The Cubs folks seem to like him and he has shown some positive signs. One of them hasn't been an ability go get on base.

DmL

by dmlichte on Dec 9, 2007 10:33 AM CST up reply actions

Right.

So the Cubs would then have TWO options for, basically, one roster spot: Colvin or Pie. They both are young and have perceived upside. One will make the team on a longterm basis. The other could be traded.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al Yellon on Dec 9, 2007 11:41 AM CST up reply actions

Just curious Al

Al If you were Hendry and another GM had a player you really want and he said

OKay Jim I want Colvin or Pie

Who would you trade?

We are all waiting for that glorious October night when we finally win it all. Until then we will continue to cheer, never do the wave and hope.

by puckishcubsfan on Dec 9, 2007 2:01 PM CST up reply actions

Cubs or Padres.

I think as someone said a little earlier it comes down to either the money or the geography. Both the Cubs and Padres are playoff contenders, and I'm sure Joe Urbon has educated Fuke on all the teams involved...that's his job.

Someone mentioned that it'll be the Cubs because every other suitor is talking to other outfielders. I would say that's because they're all just covering their bases. It kind of worries me that the Cubs aren't doing the same.

This reminds me of the Furcal situation a couple years ago, when Hendry had to scramble for another option at the last minute. The only difference is this time no one will outbid the Cubs like Coletti and the Dodgers did with Furcal.

We'll find out tomorrow!

Cubs chances in '08? Beats the FUK-U-DO-ME!

by Hugest Canadian Cubs Fan on Dec 9, 2007 9:42 AM CST reply actions

The Cubs and other OFers

I think the Cubs are talking to other outfielders who are free agents or talking to other GMs who have OFers to trade. Everyone knows the Cubs want Fukudome and if we don't get him Hendry's phone will be ringing 5 seconds after the official announcement.

We are all waiting for that glorious October night when we finally win it all. Until then we will continue to cheer, never do the wave and hope.

by puckishcubsfan on Dec 9, 2007 10:01 AM CST up reply actions

Padres won't outbid Cubs but

Towers has a VERY impressive track record of convincing
guys to come there or mostly stay there at below market value.
( Giles, Hoffman and now Peavy to a long term deal). The best thing in our favor is that they tend to be cheap. For those of you
who think Fukudome is the answer that is the best thing we have
going. Also while San Diego is a pitchers park they have a fairly
weak line up to put around him.

Anyway don't count your Sushi before it arrives

"It's the Cubbies. There's always a vibe. It's the greatest vibe in baseball." Greg Maddux on Cub fan's optimism even after the 06 debacle.

by jessica on Dec 9, 2007 12:57 PM CST up reply actions

One should also note...

...the Padres may well be stinking desperate for a viable outfielder right now.

FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Dec 9, 2007 1:09 PM CST up reply actions

Well I can't think Bradley was viable

Even if he did sign with the Rangers. I believe under the new rules they can actually re-sign Cameron. I am SURE they want
Fukudome just not sure how he will fit in their tight budget and how much less he will take to play in Southern California. Let's just say GMs on teams for which Greg Maddux plays have a nasty tradition of skunking the Cubs. On the other hand we did get Ceda for Walker out of them so you never know.

"It's the Cubbies. There's always a vibe. It's the greatest vibe in baseball." Greg Maddux on Cub fan's optimism even after the 06 debacle.

by jessica on Dec 9, 2007 2:13 PM CST up reply actions

Those were all

home town discounts signing players who were already Padres. If you can name a free agent who signed with the Padres from elsewhere for a discount, I don't know of one.

The artist formerly known as JoshinLA

by Josh Timmers on Dec 9, 2007 3:39 PM CST up reply actions

Outbidding isn't the only thing

sometimes you bid the most and the player still wants to go elsewhere.

My read on the situation is that Hendry has a backup offer fairly well ready to get Teahen or Ibanez if Fukudome goes elsewhere.

I predict that if the Cubs get Fukudome, Roberts will be 48 hours behind, regardless of where Tejada is. I think the only thing holding up the Roberts trade is Hendry wanting to make sure he has a backup plan he can execute in case he is blindsided by some other team.

All I am saying is give Pie a chance!

by DGU on Dec 9, 2007 1:55 PM CST up reply actions

when does the Mitchell report come out?

If it is bad as expected could the price for Fukodome skyrocket?

Surprised his agent wouldnt wait and drive up the price when the heads roll.

Let me get back to you, will ya, Charlie? I got a guy on the other line asking about some white walls.

by JB 23 on Dec 9, 2007 9:56 AM CST reply actions

It's Reportedly Out...

... this coming Thursday.

This is who I think the Cubs #1 should be...

by initram on Dec 9, 2007 11:31 AM CST up reply actions

Yeah

I have a feeling either way this is going to be a big week for the beloved.

We either do or don't get Fukudome and then I think Hendry has the rest of his moves lined up depending on what happens.

I not only want Fukudome because he seems exactly what we need but getting him for that need means nothing giving up player wise and we can use the players we would have needed to fill that role for other needs.

We are all waiting for that glorious October night when we finally win it all. Until then we will continue to cheer, never do the wave and hope.

by puckishcubsfan on Dec 9, 2007 10:00 AM CST reply actions

I had thought Cameron declined

arbitration? On the face of it, the Pads declined arb. on Cameron, and Bradley signed with the Rangers. Our Smooth Jazz Man stated K-FUK received a 4/40MM deal from the PAds.

I hope you optimistic fellows are right this time, but again, looking out my window at grey slush, if the money is anywhere close, the guy becomes a Padre.

IF the dice play this way, is our GM going after Brad Wilkerson and Mark Tea-bag as a replacement??

Wait 'til next year. And the next. And the Next. And the next after that too.

by TheEman on Dec 9, 2007 10:04 AM CST reply actions

Cameron declined arbitration...

...but that doesn't mean the Padres can't negotiate with him and sign him to a deal. New provision in the CBA.

FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Dec 9, 2007 12:07 PM CST up reply actions

prediction for the week

Fukudome gets three years, $42 million and becomes a Cub.

The Orioles trade Tejada and turn to Roberts. The Cubs offer Murton, Gallagher and Cedeno.

Prior is nontendered and becomes San Diego's consolation prize in the Fukudome derby.

Sosa is one of the surprise names NOT in the Mitchell report. The Cubs are largely unscathed in the report.

by elgato on Dec 9, 2007 10:13 AM CST reply actions

Granted, Prior is in Another Diary...

... but... if this does happen as you suggest/predict, you should include:

"Padres settle with the Cubs' tampering claim pertaining to Mark Prior by offering up a couple million dollars."

:-D

This is who I think the Cubs #1 should be...

by initram on Dec 9, 2007 11:33 AM CST up reply actions

Works for me!

Cubs chances in '08? Beats the FUK-U-DO-ME!

by Hugest Canadian Cubs Fan on Dec 9, 2007 1:43 PM CST up reply actions

Bradley signs with Texas

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3147693

Probably means Texas is out of the Fukudome bidding. It also means the Cubs have fewer options if they lose out on Fukudome AND that the Padres could be more desperate.

by elgato on Dec 9, 2007 10:19 AM CST reply actions

Reply from K-FUK emails

Did anyone receive a reply back from the emails sent to K-FUK?

I did not.

Perhaps Illinois Cub would re-post the links for sending an email to Fukudome?

Every little bit might help...

Wait 'til next year. And the next. And the Next. And the next after that too.

by TheEman on Dec 9, 2007 11:46 AM CST reply actions

I'm guessing...

... that he probably will NOT want to be called "K-FUK" on this side of the Pacific.

Just a hunch.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al Yellon on Dec 9, 2007 11:55 AM CST up reply actions

I think I read in one of Mike Plugh's articles...

...that his nickname back home is "Dome."

Inventive, I know.

FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Dec 9, 2007 12:27 PM CST up reply actions

Not inventive....

... but way better than the alternative.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al Yellon on Dec 9, 2007 1:03 PM CST up reply actions

Fukudome Against Lefties?

Havent seen any info on this anywhere else. Anyone have any splits for Fukudome from Japan? If hes good against lefties and can play center I like the idea of him replacing Pie and Murton playing right when we face lefties.

by ms9av on Dec 9, 2007 11:53 AM CST reply actions

Cubs on CSN

For anyone who'd rather watch baseball apparently CSN is replaying a Cubs-Rockies game beginning at noon CST.

DmL

by dmlichte on Dec 9, 2007 12:00 PM CST reply actions

This is...

... the game in which the Cubs blew the 5-run lead in the 9th inning and came back and won anyway.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al Yellon on Dec 9, 2007 12:09 PM CST up reply actions

And for those with DirecTV's HD package...

...this is now available in high definition, even outside of the Chicago market. I'm getting the full HD cast of this in Davenport, Iowa. It's absolutely gorgeous.

FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Dec 9, 2007 12:21 PM CST up reply actions

i figured it would be this game...

instant classic.

PIE!!!

by LilLPLancer23 on Dec 9, 2007 12:35 PM CST up reply actions

This was my baby's...

...first Cubs game in person. She's no more interested in watching it this time than she was at Wrigley.

FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Dec 9, 2007 12:52 PM CST up reply actions

lets start a game thread for this one!

lol, jk.

PIE!!!

by LilLPLancer23 on Dec 9, 2007 12:35 PM CST up reply actions

From my favorite movie

"I believe. I believe. It's silly, but I believe." - (Miracle on 34th Street.)

Please let him be a Cub!!!!

"But being a nasty hateful person she can't help herself." KOW

by sue369 on Dec 9, 2007 12:08 PM CST reply actions

All of us together now.....

Let's all focus some positive mental energy in the direction of Japan at Mr. Fukudome. It is good to be a positive Cubs fan. I hope the recognition of Lou (having coached Mr. Suzuki), and the Cubs brand (from Sosa exposure) as well as the playoff appearance this year, the size of the market, etc......

and out focused mental energies help this deal come about in the next 24 hrs.

Go Cubs!!!!

Good Guys Wear Blue

by Cubskingdom on Dec 9, 2007 12:37 PM CST reply actions

Being doing that for a couple weeks now...

...but the suggestion now is very, very good.

Come on Jimbo, pull the trigger!

Our grandparents used to say, "I hope the Cubs win the Series before I die". Now the teenagers are saying it.

by blackhawk24 on Dec 9, 2007 12:44 PM CST up reply actions

Bedard AND Roberts after Fukudome

Why can't the Cubs make an offer for both guys?

Wouldn't the O's be interested in guys like Marshall, Gallagher and Colvin?

Don't get me wrong, I like all three of these kids but you have to give to get.

Throw in a Fontenot and/or Cedeno plus another middle/high prospect and swap a couple higher salaries (Marquis or Dempster would be one of those for the Cubs) and I think the Cubs are close.

All the writers around here are talking about Roberts being the final big acquisition after Fukudome (assuming the Cubs get hime) but are ignoring the pitching staff, in particular the ROTATION. I can't believe Lou AND Jim are OK with going into '08 with both Marquis and Dempster possibly being in the starting 5. Either one and I'm not happy.

Our grandparents used to say, "I hope the Cubs win the Series before I die". Now the teenagers are saying it.

by blackhawk24 on Dec 9, 2007 12:43 PM CST reply actions

Why would the Orioles want...

...to take on a couple higher salaries? I guarantee other teams won't be trying to slip their salary dumps into a potential Bedard trade.

This isn't basketball; nobody has to match salaries in a trade. And unless you're talking a trash-for-trash swap, they don't do that in baseball.

FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Dec 9, 2007 12:47 PM CST up reply actions

"either one"

Well, then you're probably not going to be happy. There is a VERY small chance that the rotation won't have EITHER Marquis or Dempster.

by elgato on Dec 9, 2007 1:02 PM CST up reply actions

An organization building trade

Andy MacPhail has been charged with the responsibility of rebuilding the Orioles and knowing he has to go up against the Yankees and Red Sox, he wisely is taking the valuable players that the O's have (and Bedard and Roberts are valuable players) and trying to parlay them into young players that can be the cornerstone of the Orioles organization in a few years. Look at what the Tigers gave the Marlins, a potential ace in Andrew Miller and a top CF prospect in Cameron Maybin, along with four other players. Trades like these land you players like Hanley Ramirez.

Are any of Marshall, Gallagher, Colvin, Fontenot,or Cedeno future stars? I don't think so. I think Marshall could be a #2/3 starter at best, which is solid, but not what the Orioles are looking for. Fontenot and Cedeno are likely utility infielders and Colvin is far from a lock.

DmL

by dmlichte on Dec 9, 2007 1:02 PM CST up reply actions

I'd rate Gallagher's upside

as higher than Marshall's, given everything I've seen. Otherwise, I agree.

by elgato on Dec 9, 2007 1:06 PM CST up reply actions

Maybin and Miller

Maybin is a Felix Pie clone, only RH. Miller is a Hill clone. Granted both might be outstanding, but their claim to fame is potential, not quality performance at the big league level. Maybin was a strikeout champ when called up to Detroit. Miller was knocked around hard after only 74 innings in A and AA ball.

The difference is that our prospects have spent more time in the minors and majors. That means we've seen more warts on them. Maybe Detroit is smarter to sell early but certainly the 2 guys they gave up are not even close to Willis and Cabrera in proving themselves.

We don't need Matsui Kaz he ain't Fuku.

by tharr on Dec 9, 2007 2:01 PM CST up reply actions

Prospects

All prospects claim to fame is potential. The bottom line is that these days prospects are key in trades, perhaps more than ever, with teams attempting to keep payrolls down along with attempts to develop their future.

Maybin and Miller are both A- prospects according to John Sickles. Looking through some of his other reports, rarely does he rate anyone higher. Most organizations don't have anyone above a B+. Pie, for comparison, is a B+. Hill, of course, is no longer considered a prospect.

DmL

by dmlichte on Dec 9, 2007 4:01 PM CST up reply actions

All true

but recall that Hill and pie were once A prospects. And Theriot was rated a C+ and now starts for us. The reality is until a prospect gets to the bigs and he faces big leaguers, we really can't be certain of his future.

The Tigers took a pair of highly rated prospects along with 4 middling guys and got 2 very young All Stars.

What I suggest is the possibility exists for trading prospects for major leaguers rather than paying a fortune through the free agent market. And this is coming from someone who places a very high value on the farm system.

We didn't need Matsui Kaz he ain't Fuku.

by tharr on Dec 9, 2007 4:56 PM CST up reply actions