Friday Morning Headlines

by Al Yellon on Jan 4, 2008 10:10 AM CST in Chicago Cubs News

As posted earlier today in kaseyi's diary, the Cubs are planning on adding 70 more "bullpen boxes" down the 3B line (probably where the photographer's box is now), and also more ad signage in the park; according to Cubs VP of community relations Mike Lufrano:
"We're also extending digital signage on the sides of the grandstands by adding fixed advertising panels on either side."

Hmmm. This puzzles me. "Digital signage" would imply that they would be longer or newer versions of the ads that now are on the edges of the upper deck. But he says they'll be "fixed advertising panels", which to me would be something else entirely. So which is it? And where will they be?
Steve Rosenbloom raises the topic of an interesting way to generate revenue:
Which North American sports league will be the first to puts ads on uniforms? Don't act like it's heresy. Ever seen a soccer jersey? Goodness, every kickball team around the world is selling something. And OMG, NASCAR. So, which league does it first?

Rosenbloom says it can't be the NHL, NBA or NFL, for various reasons, so don't be surprised if this happens sometime in baseball; purists will gag, but don't forget -- in Japan, some entire teams in NPB are named after corporations (Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks, Tokyo Yakult Swallows, and most memorably, Nippon Ham Fighters). "Chicago Motorola Cubs"?
44th Ward alderman Tom Tunney isn't thrilled with the idea of selling Wrigley Field to the city or state. And frankly, after thinking it over and reading this article, I'm starting to lean to that side, too. Tunney's quoted in the article:
"Everyone is thinking out loud," he said, adding that he is concerned about preserving the character of the neighborhood and the quality of life of local residents.

We are, as was said a couple of weeks ago by Crane Kenney, "in the bottom of the first inning" in this story.
Roger Clemens' interview on 60 Minutes on Sunday is apparently going to include the claim by Clemens that Brian McNamee injected him with lidocaine and vitamin B-12.
Comment: WAAAAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!! Let's call that the Tejada Vitamin Defense. Roger: who do you think you're kidding? That article also says that McNamee's lawyers may sue Clemens for defamation; they're waiting to see the entire interview first.
Yesterday, Jay Mariotti took note of the outdoor hockey game played in Buffalo on Tuesday and said it would be a perfect way for the Blackhawks to make a splash on the local sports scene -- either at Soldier Field, or even at Wrigley Field, next winter. Given John McDonough and Jay Blunk's marketing expertise, don't be surprised to see something like this in the Blackhawks' future, next December or January.

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Comments

Mystery Alaska

....you can count me in for tickets to the Hawks game at Soldier Field, that would be awesome.

"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry "I strongly dislike Steve Stone." ---Hammer

by Hammer on Jan 4, 2008 10:01 AM CST reply actions

It better be an Original Six opponent too

While I would hope it would be Montreal (been a fan of Les Habs since I was a kid), they were in the first modern outdoor match against Edmonton in 2003.

The logical choice would be Detroit, and I can guaran-damn-tee you that Chris Chelios would be the #1 promoter/cheerleader for this to happen. Man, Soldier Field would be rocking...

Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."

by ballhawk on Jan 4, 2008 10:13 AM CST up reply actions

A couple of years ago up in Green Bay

They iced over Lambeau Field for an outdoor hockey game between the WI Badgers and Ohio State. From the accounts I read at the time, it was a huge success. Everyone thought it was great. There was some talk of trying it again in the future, but nothing has happened on that as far as I know.

by madmf on Jan 4, 2008 2:44 PM CST up reply actions

Just not at Wrigley.

The rink would trash the field big time.

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

by Jettero2112 on Jan 4, 2008 10:18 AM CST reply actions

I am not a hockey fan at all....

but I can guarantee you they would want the much bigger seating capacity at Soldier Field. I don't see this happening at Wrigley.

"Don't complain to me about the stormy weather, boys. Just bring the ship into port." --Steve Stone, September 2004

by ctcoff99 on Jan 4, 2008 12:04 PM CST up reply actions

Here's a freebie for Cubbie Marketing...

...LEDs on all of the Bricks. Computer controlled you can broadcast Ads for everything from virtually all camera angles, and promote yourself as "environmentally friendly". Can you imagine how incredible it would be when the RF is digging the ball out of the corner you can also read an Ad. for Budweiser? I mean, this could be the deciding play that gives the Cubs WS victory and you'd be conveniently reminded to drink a beer while it happens. I am just hoping for that day, as well as the day when the broadcasters fill my ever expanding HD screen size with so much advertizing during play that they leave me with the equivalent of my old JVC 13" TV screen for viewing space. Then I can truly enjoy the expereince of the Cubs by multi-tasking, text messaging, buffooning on my cell camera for other drunken dolts/friends who are miles away on their cell phones..."Take me out to the ballgame..."

by DudeVf11 on Jan 4, 2008 10:19 AM CST reply actions

Loud Sustained Applause.

N/T

I reject your reality and substitute my own. ` Adam Savage Mythbusters

by lemon20pie on Jan 4, 2008 1:57 PM CST up reply actions

love to see McNamee lawyers act first thing Monday

..morning with a defamation suit. Clemens is delusional.

Gene Wojociechowski has a great take on this here

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 Jan 4, 2008 10:19 AM CST reply actions

I think...

... all those questions that Wojciechowski wants asked, aren't going to get asked by Mike Wallace, who considers Clemens "a friend". At 89, Wallace is likely to lob softballs at Clemens.

I expect little from this interview.

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

by Al Yellon on Jan 4, 2008 10:34 AM CST up reply actions

BCB community enhancement feature?

Al,

Sorry if this is the wrong place to post this but have you seen blogs where they have a button at the end of each person's post that allows other posters to thank the person for that post? The number of times a person has been thanked appears under their name on the screen. I only mention this because it is a way to promote the community aspect of the blog. Now for Dudevf11 there would probably be minus 100 thanks, LOL, given my cynical posts, but for many others like yourself we'd see lots of thanks and it encourages people to (at least at the margin) to have constructive/and or community building posts. This is not my bandwagon campaign for this or anything like that. I belong to a Mountain Biking Blog here in Socal and they have this "Thanks" button and stat. and it's pretty cool.

You run a great site and I am not trying to tell you how to run it, just an FYI.

by DudeVf11 on Jan 4, 2008 10:24 AM CST reply actions

I don't have the capability...

... of having this feature (as of now, anyway).

However, this is as good a time as any to let you all know that within the next two months, all of the SBN blogs are going to be upgraded to what's being termed "SBN 2.0".

I've gotten a sneak preview of what's involved, and it's really, really cool. Many new features, including some that some of you have asked for.

Now, read this carefully. Don't ask me what they are, because I can't tell you -- yet. Just know that it'll be online sometime before the end of February.

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

by Al Yellon on Jan 4, 2008 11:56 AM CST up reply actions

Al

If they're similar to what happened to a political blog I belong to way cooolll...

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 Jan 4, 2008 12:25 PM CST up reply actions

EDIT button

Please please please please please.

I reject your reality and substitute my own. ` Adam Savage Mythbusters

by lemon20pie on Jan 4, 2008 2:45 PM CST up reply actions

Clemens vs McNamee

Setting aside personal feelings - and judging from the length of that WAAAHA text, that might be kind of hard for Al and others I'm sure (including myself) - is there any real evidence here? Anecdotal evidence, sure. Related incidents, confirmed by Pettitte, sure. But if you focus strictly on what's going on between Clemens and McNamee, isn't this - at least so far - turning into a "he said, he said" pissing contest.

Seems to me reputations and livelihoods on both sides have been smeared and on their way to being ruined. Yet there doesn't seem to be any tangible proof one way or the other. So if McNamee sues Clemens or vice versa, how is either one of them going to win?

Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."

by ballhawk on Jan 4, 2008 10:26 AM CST reply actions

if I were McNamee,

I'd think twice about becoming embroiled in a difficult-to-prove, "he said, he injected" lawsuit, considering the stash of cash Clemens must have at this point.

In the article Al linked to above, McNamee's lawyer said, "There is a ton of evidence that the Mitchell report failed to explore that will corroborate Brian, and so it would be foolhardy for Clemens or Hardin to allow Clemens to trash Brian."

I wonder how much of that is accurate and how much of that is just posturing.

by Short4Fanatic on Jan 4, 2008 10:35 AM CST up reply actions

McNamee's lawyers want to sue

McNamee has hired lawyer whose SPECIALITY is libel. He has
literally daily issued a challenge to Clemens to say that McNamee lied when he said he injected Clemens with PEDs. So
far Clemens has refused to say that. His current claim that he took B12 and lidocaine does yet explicitely call McNamee a liar.

I don't think this is about winning a case a Clemens which would indeed be a difficult to prove he said/he said situation. It IS about being able to depose Clemens under oath. They are clearly itching to do this and I suspect McNamee knows enough to make this highly embarassing. I think Clemens is doing his best to avoid taking up the challange and calling McNamee a liar but eventually he will have to and McNamee will sue. Of course in one last bit of irony even if McNamee won I seriously doubt he can collect much of anything as that would require him not only to prove his reputation was damaged ( what reputation ?) but that this damage cost him money. Raise your hand if you think
McNamee has a career left as trainer.

Of course I can't wait for anyone to depose Clemens under oath.

"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 Jan 4, 2008 12:28 PM CST up reply actions

He's done

You are right Jessica - he's done as a trainer

Cubs Win!! Cubs Win!

by Ihatethecards on Jan 4, 2008 12:50 PM CST up reply actions

Oh yeah

he's done as a trainer, but again, he had to have known that would be the consequence of his cooperation with the Mitchell "Investigation." At least he had the testicular fortitude to speak the truth. I also agree that this is more aimed at deposing Clemens than any actual lawsuit for financial gain.

"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Jan 4, 2008 3:29 PM CST up reply actions

Okay...but the list of the B-12

excuse makers includes Tejada and Palmeiro, not the best of company for the Rocket and lidocaine, if I'm not mistaken, is a local anesthetic. Why would a personal trainer inject someon in the buttocks with a local anesthetic? Ben-Gay not doing the job? Icy-Hot doesn't cut it? I don't trust Clemens as far as I could throw him and seeing as we don't have same pharmacist, that's not very far. This "excuse" is excrement, plain and simple. Strange that the baseball community should be so willing to accept "anecdotal" evidence in the case of one Barry Bonds and yet use this same descriptor as an excuse in the case of Clemens. If they played between 88-present, they're under suspicion, IMHO. Sure this trainer is a bad guy, what with the rape accusations and all, but he must have known all that would come out when his name was included, he had to know Clemens' people would dig up every shred of dirty laundry on him, yet he had the courage to do what Clemens never will: tell the damn truth.

"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Jan 4, 2008 3:25 PM CST up reply actions

Lidocaine

is also used in patch form for pain, at least one name for it is Lidoderm. Seems to me that if Clemens was taking the stuff for his joints the ass would be an odd place to have it injected, when it could have been injected closer to the affected joints or the joint could have even been covered by a patch. I have that patch myself, they're pretty effective for the ache that goes with 2 herniated cervical discs. I'm sure they would have worked for Clemens achy joints. If he is telling the truth (he's not) this could have all been avoided so easily, apparently.

I know that you believe that you understood what you think I said, but I am not sure you realize that what you heard is not what I meant. - Robert McCloskey

by pageian on Jan 4, 2008 4:11 PM CST up reply actions

well, seeing as how Clemens is pretty much...

...regarded as a royal pain in the ass, maybe the injections were close to the affected area. ;-)

Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."

by ballhawk on Jan 4, 2008 4:20 PM CST up reply actions

Lol.

In that case, the injections should've been given to all of us!

"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Jan 4, 2008 4:26 PM CST up reply actions

Do you need a prescription?

I don't know but it would be VERY interesting if you did in terms of records.
FWY My favorite Clemens article of the day

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/01/04/sports/baseball/04vecsey.html?ref=sports

"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 Jan 4, 2008 4:28 PM CST up reply actions

Yes

I don't know about Lidocaine itself but the Lidoderm form does require a prescription, in fact I was told at the pharmacy that it is considered a controlled substance. Lidoderm isn't as potent as Lidocaine to my knowledge so I assume you would need a prescription.

I know that you believe that you understood what you think I said, but I am not sure you realize that what you heard is not what I meant. - Robert McCloskey

by pageian on Jan 4, 2008 5:55 PM CST up reply actions

Aha!

So if Clemens cannot produce a prescription for Lidodcaine, he's a liar, or he's in illegal possession of a controlled substance; if he does produce a prescription and it's from an illegitmate phramacy (as most of these ballplayers prescriptions seem to be), then he's admitted to wire fraud. Oh, what a tangled web we weave when first we practice to deceive.

"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Jan 4, 2008 6:01 PM CST up reply actions

see, that's just it...

...I don't know who's telling the truth. They've all pretty much covered themselves with their own excrement - certainly there's no one that I feel sympathetic towards and/or presents a plausible case. In the absence of any hard evidence, I can easily envision Clemons doing all sorts of 'roids and HGH, but I can also easily envision McNamee offering up some big names just to cut himself a better deal. Yeah, I know all that stuff about how he'd be in hot water with the Feds if he's lying, but seriously - based on what is generally known to the public now, how can anyone prove he's lying?

and fwiw, I never subscribed to the witch hunt Barry underwent. Not that I believed he never took anything, but rather with the belief that he wasn't the only one so if you're going to go after him, you better go after everyone, including the owners and Bud.

I see that Congress has requested Roger and McNamee (hey - wonder if Michael Moore will make a documentary about this) to testify on Jan 16th. Should be interesting...

Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."

by ballhawk on Jan 4, 2008 4:18 PM CST up reply actions

Yep.

It's hard to know who to trust...but I'm definitely not going to start with Roger Clemens. That Congressional hearing looks intersting, but will probably be little more than the pathetic charade we saw last time around. "Let's not talk about the past: and all that hooey.

"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Jan 4, 2008 4:26 PM CST up reply actions

this:

"Let's not talk about the past: and all that hooey."

Should read: "Let's not alk about the past" and all that hooey.

Al, the masses cry for an edit comment function!

"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Jan 4, 2008 4:29 PM CST up reply actions

I still cannot divulge details.

However, I think all of you will be very happy with many of the features of the new SBNation.

Coming soon to a blog near you.

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

by Al Yellon on Jan 4, 2008 9:30 PM CST up reply actions

I talked to a physician

about Clemen's Lidocain claim this weekend and he laughed.

Lidocain is a local anesthetic (often used by dentists etc.) and would have no useful purpose being injectin in your buttocks (unless you wanted to numb your ass).

I think Roger may have slipped up a bit when he choose Lidocain as one of the injected substances.

"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel

by MPH73 on Jan 6, 2008 7:55 PM CST up reply actions

Oh, what a tangled web we weave.

n/t

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

by Al Yellon on Jan 6, 2008 9:01 PM CST up reply actions

I dont see Ads on Unis happening...

In any american sport, I think that would be the final straw for most sports fans. The names on the backs are constantly changing, so the Logo and the Unis are the only constant, theyre sacrosanct.

The NHL would be the only one I could conceiveable see this happening in, afterall theyre hurting for revenue.

Again, as this all leads me to believe that the Cubs would be better off with a modern stadium. Id rather see them playing in a modern corporate named stadium than still playing at Wrigley with Frito Lays across their chests.

Toby Flenderson represents all that is wrong with the paper business.

by bren on Jan 4, 2008 10:27 AM CST reply actions

Actually, we already have ads on jerseys

They just aren't viewed by the casual fan as ads: Ever notice how prominent the Nike or Reebok logo is on certain jerseys? Especially in college football! That's a BIG contract awarded to the apparel manufacturers, in a very competitive field... they want to make sure their brand is seen on TV.

Ed Lynch is STILL on the Cubs payroll, as our D-Backs scout in Phoenix. Lynch attends all 81 D-Back home games with a notepad in hand. Really paid off for us!

by SackMan on Jan 4, 2008 10:38 AM CST up reply actions

In fact...

... MLB has a deal with Majestic, which not only has the jersey contract, but the deal for ALL official MLB souvenir apparel.

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

by Al Yellon on Jan 4, 2008 10:39 AM CST up reply actions

However

The Majestic logo is hidden when the jersey is tucked in. All that's visible is the wordless logo on the sleeve which, at least on the Cubs jersey, is overshadowed by the C-Bear patch.

You would rather sit on your couch and watch a [Cubs] game, than go out to a movie with you awesome girlfriend. / Absolutely correct.

by mastodon on Jan 4, 2008 12:59 PM CST up reply actions

Thats not the same case...

Theyre the manufacturers of the jersey,thats entirely different than having some corporate logo emblazoned right on the front of the shirt like soccer jerseys.

whast really funny with soccer is, its gotten to the point where if you dont have a sponsor on your shirt, your seen as less legitimate than those who do. Notice the recent trend in MLS teams acquiring sponsors to emulate the euro leagues. In prior years they were discretely located onteh sleeves or on the lower back,but now theyre front and center.

i would just hate to see that happen to any team in the majors

Toby Flenderson represents all that is wrong with the paper business.

by bren on Jan 4, 2008 4:02 PM CST up reply actions

The NHL

is NOT hurting for revenue. That's a myth. They're doing very well since the lockout.

What they are hurting for is TV ratings. But since the contracts are signed, the revenue is still coming in, ratings or no ratings.

Stay tuned for complete coverage of BABYWATCH 2008!

by Josh Timmers on Jan 4, 2008 4:21 PM CST up reply actions

Good point, but...

how long is that gonna last? They got a cut rate deal from a network that shows more hunting than hockey...so good luck to the nhl, if there ratings continue to fall and salaries still rise, there wont be much revenue anyway

Toby Flenderson represents all that is wrong with the paper business.

by bren on Jan 4, 2008 5:42 PM CST up reply actions

there is a salary cap

that is determined by league revenues. the cba signed after the lockout is quite favorable to the owners and has made owning a nhl profitable.

*diehard cubs fan from northern manitoba, canada

by hoppy91 on Jan 4, 2008 7:46 PM CST up reply actions

owning a team that is

*diehard cubs fan from northern manitoba, canada

by hoppy91 on Jan 4, 2008 7:47 PM CST up reply actions

Isn't MLS a north-american league

That has ads on uniforms?

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Jan 4, 2008 10:57 AM CST reply actions

Doesn't appear that way.

Here's the Chicago Fire jersey:

Looks like the only corporate logo on that jersey is the Adidas one -- they must have the same deal for jerseys in MLS that Majestic has in MLB.

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

by Al Yellon on Jan 4, 2008 11:52 AM CST up reply actions

At the same time, here is L.A.'s

That some famous guy named Beckham wears.

I guess it's up to each team.

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Jan 4, 2008 12:00 PM CST up reply actions

Actually...

The Chicago Fire advertise on the backs of the jerseys:
http://blogs.chron.com/bajolalupa/Fire_Blanco_Soccer_ILBK101.JPG
(can't find a better picture, sadly)

by MarchHare on Jan 4, 2008 12:41 PM CST up reply actions

looks like we had the same idea

you just posted a little quicker than me.

AC 00 00 00 - BELIEVE

by mike @ Bleed Cubbie Blue on Jan 4, 2008 12:57 PM CST up reply actions

That's the same idea alright...

hehe. It always makes me chuckle when stuff like that happens, even though I'm almost always the guy posting second :)

by MarchHare on Jan 4, 2008 1:13 PM CST up reply actions

the key

is knowing where to look

doesn't have to be a logo on the front of the jersey.

AC 00 00 00 - BELIEVE

by mike @ Bleed Cubbie Blue on Jan 4, 2008 12:56 PM CST up reply actions

so basically

just another idiotic and inexcusable error by one of our local journalists, this is really getting annoying.

Bill James Felix Pie 2008 Projection: .283/.333/.456 16 HR 21 SB

by kylejo on Jan 4, 2008 3:04 PM CST up reply actions

so basically

just another idiotic and inexcusable error by one of our local journalists, this is really getting annoying.

Bill James Felix Pie 2008 Projection: .283/.333/.456 16 HR 21 SB

by kylejo on Jan 4, 2008 3:04 PM CST up reply actions

yup

its a good thing he doesn't get paid to put out accurate articles.

AC 00 00 00 - BELIEVE

by mike @ Bleed Cubbie Blue on Jan 4, 2008 3:25 PM CST up reply actions

Rosenbloom specifically mentioned soccer...

...as a sport with jerseys bearing advertisements. Maybe he could have been clearer about meaning major sporting leagues, and excluding MLS from that - but c'mon. It's the MLS.

I would suggest you learn to truly interrupt all stats before using any selective stats. -- cubswin

by cwyers on Jan 4, 2008 3:39 PM CST up reply actions

Anyone want to handicap

another move by Hendry before the Convention?

Odds on Blanton? Roberts? Payton? Endy Chavez? Trading Marquis?

Odds on Fuld or Pie in CF?

Will Hendry make a trade or is he done, due to ownership instability?

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

by TheEman on Jan 4, 2008 10:57 AM CST reply actions

Whatever happened to the Bedard talk....

with Baltimore? I like Brian Roberts, but I don't want to see Mark DeRosa's playing time cut. If only Roberts was a center-fielder. And did anyone hear Steve Stone on The Score yesterday? He made a very good case for going after Blanton. This team, IMO, needs one more quality starting pitcher. If they get it, they enter spring training not as a potentially good team (as they are right now)...but a potentially great team.

"Don't complain to me about the stormy weather, boys. Just bring the ship into port." --Steve Stone, September 2004

by ctcoff99 on Jan 4, 2008 12:09 PM CST up reply actions

Most of the Bedard talk

came from bloggers and fans. From all indications, it never got that serious between MacPhail and Hendry. The Cubs really don't have a top prospect(s) needed to get Bedard.

IMO, Blanton is a little overrated. Hendry should inquire but I wouldn't mortgage the farm for Blanton. His best season was his rookie year 2 years ago. His ERA+ the past two years has been 92 and 106. His WHIP two years ago was a scary 1.5319. Last year he was better but who is the real Joe Blanton?

by rlpete on Jan 4, 2008 12:25 PM CST up reply actions

His best year

was his rookie year 3 years ago. Sorry for the typo.

by rlpete on Jan 4, 2008 12:35 PM CST up reply actions

REPLY on Blanton

did you guys see his Away splits?

Cwyers?

Ugh!

Does someone have time to compare to Marquis?

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

by TheEman on Jan 4, 2008 12:38 PM CST up reply actions

Ugh is right

A 5.11 ERA last season after 5.12 in 2006. It just reinforces my opinion that I think he is overrated and I wouldn't mortgage the farm for him. I'm almost beginning to wonder if Hendry should even inquire.

by rlpete on Jan 4, 2008 12:42 PM CST up reply actions

His career home/away splits:

Home: 3.55 ERA
Away: 4.66 ERA

Don't quote me on this, but off the top of my head I think the league adjustment from AL to NL is about half a run, so if you presume his away ERA is his true talent level (which you shouldn't, but I'm at work and really don't feel like dealing with park factors right now), you could expect something like a 4.16 ERA from Blanton, maybe?

Blanton could very well be the fourth-best starter on the Cubs if we got him, and he's not even a sure bet to outpitch Sean Gallagher if you ask me.

All of this is real back-of-the-envelope, though, so get back to me on this again later just to be sure.

I would suggest you learn to truly interrupt all stats before using any selective stats. -- cubswin

by cwyers on Jan 4, 2008 2:43 PM CST up reply actions

You're right except

that his road ERA is helped by the 3.73 from 3 years ago. The past two years it has been over 5. As you say, best case he might be the Cubs #4.

The more I look at this, I think that rolling the dice with Marquis, Gallagher or a free agent like Jennings may result in similar numbers to Blanton. Considering what Blanton will cost in prospects, I'm not sure I like the idea.

On Jennings, I'm not sure yet if he is completely healthy but starting him in AAA and bringing him up in May/June wouldn't be the worst thing. I'm also not against Benson.

by rlpete on Jan 4, 2008 4:12 PM CST up reply actions

I can't predict trades

but I really doubt Hendry is limited on trades based on ownership instability. It didn't impact the Fukudome signing. The guys the Cubs want (i.e., Roberts, maybe Blanton) are being looked at by their original teams as bargaining chips for rebuilding. I expect any deals for them will take some time and especially in the case of Blanton and Bedard won't be cheap.

Barring a complete Spring Training meltdown, Pie is the CF'er. It won't matter if Fuld outhits him as long as Pie has a respectable spring, he will be the CF'er (barring a trade).

by rlpete on Jan 4, 2008 12:16 PM CST up reply actions

Hmmm

If the Cubs did get Blanton for some youngsters , I wonder if a swap of Marquis for Payton and a minor leaguer would work for both clubs.

Free the upper deck!

by cubzfan on Jan 4, 2008 12:17 PM CST up reply actions

Right now the O's don't have a CF'er

so I'm not sure how available Payton would be for someone like Marquis.

by rlpete on Jan 4, 2008 12:28 PM CST up reply actions

Jay Payton, ugh.

Payton's line last year: .256/.292/.376. I think Felix Pie can do way better than that.

Payton is 35 and overpriced. Let the Orioles keep him.

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

by Al Yellon on Jan 4, 2008 12:31 PM CST up reply actions

Not really the question I was answering

If the Cubs acquired Payton for Marquis, they would use Payton as the fourth outfielder, and possible platoon partner with Pie. They would be saving a few million in salary, and unloading Marquis to someplace he can start. Hendry has said they are looking for a RH hitter who can play all three OF positions off the bench. Payton's career OPS against lefties is just over .800, although it has dropped to around .750 the last couple of years.

IF the Cubs acquire another starter (like Blanton), they have to unload somebody, and I think Marquis would be the guy. I don't believe the Orioles consider Payton a full-time centerfielder.

Free the upper deck!

by cubzfan on Jan 4, 2008 3:14 PM CST up reply actions

Still, ugh.

Payton's been on a decline, as you point out, even in an area that was his strength (vs. LHP). He's 35, and not likely to get any better, and VERY likely to get worse.

No thanks. I'll stick with Marquis.

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

by Al Yellon on Jan 4, 2008 9:32 PM CST up reply actions

Oops, forgot

they do have Tike Redman.

What a sorry franchise they have become under Angelos. They always seemed like one of the top franchises when I was growing up.

by rlpete on Jan 4, 2008 12:34 PM CST up reply actions

The Microsoft Mariners

Will happen eventually.

Besides the obvious - Go Irish.

Z. He doesn't need an exclamtion point. He is one.

by PopeFlick on Jan 4, 2008 11:16 AM CST reply actions

Wrong Company

They're going to become the Nintendo Mariners since Nintendo (or the owner of Nintendo) owns them.

Old Style is the nectar of life.

by Mordecai on Jan 4, 2008 2:40 PM CST up reply actions

Tunney

I think that Tunney has asked the right question:

"The key is why [government would] get involved in Wrigley if there are private people willing to step up to the plate," he said.

Let the free market settle this.

by NO100 on Jan 4, 2008 11:46 AM CST reply actions

That is...

... the statement that changed my mind.

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

by Al Yellon on Jan 4, 2008 11:50 AM CST up reply actions

Al,

I APPLAUD your change of opinion on this matter. I think what the Alderman says makes more sense than anything any other political official has said on this idea.

by ccd on Jan 4, 2008 1:59 PM CST up reply actions

Agreed.

Loud sustained applause.

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

by TheEman on Jan 4, 2008 2:40 PM CST up reply actions

Well, thanks.

It was indeed Ald. Tunney's statement that made the difference here. I have great respect for him and how he's handled relations between the community and the Cubs.

Now we'll see what happens. If Zell is serious about selling the Cubs before Opening Day, this is likely to come to a head very soon.

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

by Al Yellon on Jan 5, 2008 4:40 AM CST up reply actions

Blackhawks @ Ryan Field

I think that Ryan Field would be a better venue for outdoor Hockey than either Wrigley or Soldiers Field, but for outdoor hockey to survive the NHL is going to have to get a lot better at logistics.

by CHS on Jan 4, 2008 11:58 AM CST reply actions

What logistics?

If they do it once a year (which seems to be the going rate), what's the problem?

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

by Al Yellon on Jan 4, 2008 12:19 PM CST up reply actions

Logistics

If you're going to use outdoor games as a showcase, you'd better put on a good show. The Buffalo game didn't quite get there.

While the fans in Buffalo were wonderful, the holes and cracks in the ice and extra Zamboni sweeps were not. Apparently part of the problem was that the NHL forgot that football surface was designed with a slight crown to it.

The weather was a mixed blessing. It really brought home the outdoor setting, but it made the following the 3rd period action almost impossible. That plus the two intermission format, plus the extra change of sides in both the 3rd period and the overtime made for a tiring game to watch on television.

So to get specific about the logistics, the NHL has to work harder on making the play surface right, work with the network for camera positioning, be better prepared for weather and do a better job of time management during the game.

by CHS on Jan 4, 2008 1:39 PM CST up reply actions

Au contraire

The Buffalo game was a great show. Sure, it wasn't great (or even good) hockey, for the reasons you cite, but it was fascinating viewing for casual fans who loved watching these rich athletes skate around in a blizzard like little kids on a pond.

And casual fans almost certainly liked the crummy ice conditions. Again, it gave the game a "kids on a pond" atmosphere that humanized these athletes.

The ratings, for the NHL, were awesome. The highest rated hockey game in almost twelve years. That's because anyone flipping around the dial and catching it couldn't move on.

The problem for the NHL, however, is how do they order up a blizzard for each and every one of these outdoor games?

Stay tuned for complete coverage of BABYWATCH 2008!

by Josh Timmers on Jan 4, 2008 4:30 PM CST up reply actions

I loved the game

However, wasn't it a break for the NHL that the Buffalo Bills were NOT in the playoffs? How would the football field have been possibly reassembled in time for a game? How could this possibly happen at Soldier Field if a playoff game was just ahead?

If the NHL moves the game to the week before the Super Bowl, then this game could be played in any football stadium in a cold weather climate....whether the field was grass or turf. Outside of Soldier Field, this concept might work better at The Cell rather than Wrigley Field.

In any event, the NHL should schedule this again.

by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on Jan 5, 2008 12:28 AM CST up reply actions

Your idea...

... about the week before the Super Bowl, which is generally a non-bigtime sports week, would be a good one. It could become a real event, both for TV and for the cities involved.

And you're right, if Soldier Field wasn't available, the Cell would work, although then you're talking about 20,000 fewer seats available. I have no doubt that the Blackhawks could sell out Soldier Field for an outdoor game.

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

by Al Yellon on Jan 5, 2008 4:39 AM CST up reply actions

Ryan field

I love Ryan Field and if they schedule it for January they don't have to worry about a Bears playoff game conflicting.

Not that I think there's a high chance the Bears get into next year's playoffs.

Speaking of Ryan Field I found an old tape of an interview on WGN radio with Grace and during the interview they played one of those funny commercials for Northwestern Football.

It was the late Randy Walker singing to the Tune of the NU Fight Song

All 6 home games are at home!

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 Jan 4, 2008 12:28 PM CST up reply actions

The Bears played at least their first game of

1970 at Ryan Field (then Dyche Stadium) One problem - I don't think Evanston would grant a liquor license to the Hawks. And I'm not sure that you could legally have a hockey game without beer.

by TR on Jan 4, 2008 9:23 PM CST up reply actions

I live in Evanston

You can bet that the neighborhood would have the game only if there was no alcohol. Also, as I recall, I do not think that Ryan concessions serve brews. Tailgating is something else - but no hops in the stadium.

I wouldn't hold your breath, although for the unbelievable taxes we pay here (we pay for NU's prime property taxes that they get total relief from) we sure could use the money.

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

by TheEman on Jan 4, 2008 10:13 PM CST up reply actions

I too live in Evanston and no,

beer is not sold inside the stadium. Adding to the tax woes of living here, aside from NU, are the number of churches, temples etc. - also off the tax rolls obviously. I read somewhere that when you add up all the untaxed land in Evanston, NU, churches, parks - it comes to almost 40% of the total.

by TR on Jan 5, 2008 10:39 AM CST up reply actions

The earliest "professional" teams...

...were corporate teams, where employers would hire a few ringers and give them out-of-the-way jobs to bolster the company's chances of winning. It seems at first blush that that element just never went away in the NPB. I'll admit that my baseball history gets really shaky when you get outside of the country, though.

I would suggest you learn to truly interrupt all stats before using any selective stats. -- cubswin

by cwyers on Jan 4, 2008 12:16 PM CST reply actions

Here's a good one

The hated (loved) Green Bay Packers started out as the Acme Packers when Acme bought out Curly Lambeau's old meat packing employer, Indian Meat Packing.

"Hello again, everybody. It's a bee-yooo-tiful day for baseball."- Harry Caray

by TkGoUWGB on Jan 4, 2008 10:12 PM CST up reply actions

All advertisements should have to be stylized as if it were 1907. This would retain the charm of the ballpark. Plus a unique challenge for the advertisers.

by coral on Jan 4, 2008 2:58 PM CST reply actions

Ads on Unis...

If I recall correctly...weren't there ads onthe Cubs and Mets uniforms when they played in Toyko a few years back? I have to dig out my copy of that game and check it out. If I find it...I'll post a picture

Kasey

See the Cubs 2008 schedule at http://ignarski.tripod.com/sched2008.html

by kaseyi on Jan 4, 2008 3:23 PM CST reply actions

Thought so...

here is a screen capture from that game in Tokyo. It is of Mets player Darryl Hamilton. Notice the AM/PM Mini Mart ad on his helmet.

Kasey

See the Cubs 2008 schedule at http://ignarski.tripod.com/sched2008.html

by kaseyi on Jan 4, 2008 3:50 PM CST up reply actions

and for the cubs...

Here is a picture of Sammy with the logo a bit clearer

Kasey

See the Cubs 2008 schedule at http://ignarski.tripod.com/sched2008.html

by kaseyi on Jan 4, 2008 8:50 PM CST up reply actions

That was a one-time thing...

... for that series in Japan, which was sponsored over there by am/pm, a chain of convenience stores. I think MLB made a deal with them to defray some of the costs associated with the series.

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

by Al Yellon on Jan 4, 2008 9:33 PM CST up reply actions

As a person who wants to get into sports marketing

I have a couple opinions on what I've read here:

-My guess is that they will extend those current LED boards on either end of the grandstand and just extend them all the way round. They're called ribbon boards and we should be happy we're getting these. The Cubs can sell the ribbon spots for a lot more money, they can sell more advertising, and it looks nicer than any permanent ad alternative.

-Hockey at Soldier has been a dream of mine since I went to the Wisconsin/Ohio State outdoor hockey game at Lambeau Field. I'll be bold and say it was the greatest sporting event I have ever been to, and thats saying alot because I have a bottle full of ticket stubs from Cubs, Packers, Bears, Wolves, T-Rats, Cougars, etc. games. They allowed 2 days of free community skates, which were managed through a raffle where people could register for one of the 30-20 minute sessions (15 sessions a day). The day before they had a hockey fest where both teams appeared for autographs and press conferences at the Lambeau Field Atrium and free photographs were taken of every fan that wanted to in front of the Stanley Cup and the Packers' 3 Super Bowl Trophies. They only drew 40,000 because they arranged it so the sightlines were better than most would imagine.

That being said, here's what I would do:
4 days in January MLK Weekend. Friday and Monday are the free skates and Hockeyfest. Saturday you have three games consisting of two marquee high school games or snag Notre Dame University and have them play Wisconsin who draws well, and cap Saturday with a Chicago Wolves/Milwaukee Admirals game. Sunday you showcase the USHL with the Chicago Steel playing league foe and my employer Green Bay Gamblers and you cap the evening with a Blackhawks/Red Wings game. Intermissions of all games are pee-wee scrimmages.

Whew. Jay and John: Gimme a call ;)

"Hello again, everybody. It's a bee-yooo-tiful day for baseball."- Harry Caray

by TkGoUWGB on Jan 4, 2008 10:26 PM CST reply actions

I've gone on record before...

... as saying that I wouldn't be opposed to a larger board, even a ribbon board, on the side of the upper deck.

Let's hope that in addition to more advertising, they use this new board for more information, something that is lacking on Wrigley Field scoreboards.

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

by Al Yellon on Jan 5, 2008 4:38 AM CST up reply actions

Wolves, T-Rats, Cougars...

I'd certainly count these as MY greatest sporting events ever ;-)

What the hell IS a "T-Rat", anyway?

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

by TheEman on Jan 5, 2008 8:34 AM CST up reply actions

haha its short for Timber Rattlers

I was just listing off the home teams I've seen in my 22 years of existence. But I think I should give props to College Night. $1 reserved seats, $1 pop, $1 hot dogs, and $1 domestic and microbrews. Tuesdays in Grand Chute make it a spectacle too I guess.

"Hello again, everybody. It's a bee-yooo-tiful day for baseball."- Harry Caray

by TkGoUWGB on Jan 5, 2008 10:17 AM CST up reply actions

And...

... I remember the Chicago Cougars fondly. I saw quite a few of their games in the old Amphitheater at 43rd & Halsted. What a dump, but some fun hockey.

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

by Al Yellon on Jan 5, 2008 11:07 AM CST up reply actions