Class Is Now In Session!

by Al on Mar 9, 2008 5:50 PM CDT in Recaps Comment 111 comments

What have we learned from today's laugher of a win, 13-1 over the Royals?

If Daryle Ward could play defense, there'd have been no need to sign Kosuke Fukudome (or Fukudome would have had to play CF). Ward can absolutely rake. After going 4-for-4 with another double, Ward is now hitting .692/.692/1.385 (he's neither walked nor struck out so far this spring). He also has 7 RBI in 13 AB.
Kerry Wood. Closer. 98 MPH. Filthy looking stuff, resembling what he had in his rookie season ten years ago (I can hardly believe that it was that long ago, but it was). Looks terrific, both physically and in the way he carries himself on the field. And this despite the fact that Carlos Marmol also threw an efficient ninth inning (with a 12-run lead).
Ryan Dempster might, just might, be OK in the starting rotation. He allowed only one hit, but two walks, then managed to settle down enough to give the Royals only one run out of all that in his four innings of work today. Besides the one hit Dempster allowed (a double to John Buck), the Royals got only one other hit, an Alex Gordon double off Michael Wuertz.
Felix Pie singled twice, doubled and walked and is now hitting .321/.448/.607 this spring. Can we stop the Coco Crisp talk now?
The twenty-one hit barrage included five doubles (one by Micah Hoffpauir) and a triple (by Hoffpauir). Jim Hendry is a players' GM. When someone like this is blocked (Scott Moore, for example), Hendry does try to find a major league situation for him. You can bet there are plenty of scouts, particularly for AL teams, looking at Hoffpauir.
Last year, I started a minor feud with the SBN Royals site Royals Review by saying, after attending a 13-10 mess of a Cub win over the Royals (on, of all things, a three-run walkoff HR by Ronny Cedeno), that Kansas City was "a really bad team". Wound up making a bet with them, incidentally, which they have yet to pay off (short recap: whichever team had the worse record, that blogger would have to wear and be photographed in a T-shirt of the other team's site. Nothing yet from Mr. Royals Review.) The bottom line is: the Royals ARE a really bad team.
Two words: Carmen Pignatiello. OK, more than two words: "Piggy" has yet to allow a run this spring in 4.1 innings and also hasn't walked anyone. He might just be pitching his way into the major league bullpen.
Eric Patterson had a terrific game, with three hits (including his second HR of the spring) and a walk, and also looked decent in the field. Like Hoffpauir, he doesn't really have a position either (and I don't think he's suited to a utility role) -- so NOW is the time to trade him.

I'm guessing Lou Piniella is going to have a nice, relaxing Sunday evening. Let's all do the same. Till tomorrow (also televised, via CSN).

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Just because you can't see it enough...

Cubs win!

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Mar 9, 2008 5:49 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Always good to see W flag fly high

regardless of what kind of game it is.

AC 00 00 00 - BELIEVE

by mike on Mar 9, 2008 5:51 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Pie

Nice game today Felix!

by dwm on Mar 9, 2008 5:51 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Agree with everything Al.

I just wouldn't trade Eric Patterson yet. If DeRosa goes down -- I would perfer Patterson over Fontenot at second. Hell, I would even platoon EP and DeRosa at second.

"Losing is my only fear"

by Unique on Mar 9, 2008 5:58 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Unless we get he who will not be named...

...someone's going to fill in for DeRosa at second at least once a week on this team, as DeRosa fills in for others. Why not E-Patt?

I has a blog.

by cwyers on Mar 9, 2008 6:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Exactly.

I agree.

"Losing is my only fear"

by Unique on Mar 9, 2008 6:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Mike Fontenot

by PrincetonCubs on Mar 9, 2008 11:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Slight correction on Pie's stats...

I think Pie's OBP is .406, not .448. He's had 32 plate appearances so far, with 9 hits and 4 walks. That's a .406 OBP (13/32).

Regardless, he's having a very solid spring.

by SouthernCub on Mar 9, 2008 5:59 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Second correction...

I think Pie's slugging is actually higher:

He has 2 HR, 3 2B, and 4 singles, meaning 18 total bases. In 28 AB, that's a SLG of 18/28 or .643.

Again, though, REALLY good spring (this one actually shows it to be even better!).

by SouthernCub on Mar 9, 2008 6:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Correction to my second correction :)

I misread Pie's line as 2 doubles today, not just his second double and two singles. So his statline is .321/.406/.607.

Okay, I'm done arguing with myself now. :)

by SouthernCub on Mar 9, 2008 6:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Thanks.

I knew I made a calculation error somewhere, just couldn't figure out where...

Still, the point remains. Pie's line is excellent after 12 games. Yes, ST numbers can be deceiving. But he is drawing walks and not striking out as much.

We do NOT need Coco Crisp. Or Marlon Byrd. Just let Pie play.

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

by Al on Mar 9, 2008 7:46 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Well

I honestly think that they are going to let Pie play and I dont think he will be spectacular but I defenitely dont think he will play himself out of a position this season AT ALL

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

by Hammer on Mar 9, 2008 7:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Loud, sustained applause.

n/t

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

by Al on Mar 9, 2008 8:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

although I wouldn't mind if we had a RH option as insurance. While Pie has certainly shown he can handle minor league RHP, he struggled mightily against LHP in AAA last year. It is very possible that he'll need a platoon partner in that regard.

That said, I wouldn't want to overpay for Crisp (who would likely be unhappy in the short end of a CF platoon) and Byrd (who may be overrated based on a good season in Texas).

by SouthernCub on Mar 9, 2008 8:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Pie..

Let's not get carried away with the Pie stats. Recall in 2005 ST, Nomar was on fire. Remember how he did after the season started before he went down?

"Hey-Hey! Home Run! Attaboy Ronnie!" ~ Jack Brickhouse

by ronsanto10 on Mar 9, 2008 7:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

yep...

...because every single great Spring Training leads to a horrible April.

Every single time.

Thank you for reminding us of that.

The similarities between Nomar's 2005 Spring Training and Felix Pie's 2008 are so vast it's scary.

In fact, just cut Felix now.

He's done.

by schadenfreude on Mar 10, 2008 3:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Agreed

but it was only a few days ago that several people were complaining because he was only hitting .222 or something like that. The ledge jumpers just need to relax. He's young and will still have his struggles. However, this is his year to show whether he belongs. He needs several months before people start talking about replacements. I think a RH CF'er would be ok for the tougher lefties (i.e. Santana) but otherwise CF is Pie's.

by rlpete on Mar 10, 2008 8:39 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Sorry

should have posted to RonSanto10's response.

by rlpete on Mar 10, 2008 8:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Uh oh, I sense another bet coming

for the Royal's SB person to welch on again.

"Prince Fielder Dies Of Inside-The-Park Homerun" - The Onion

by DTJchris on Mar 9, 2008 6:00 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

you know what I like about this game?

Lots of great contact -- not a SINGLE home run.

No one was really swinging for the fences (well, except maybe Fox, and he can be forgiven, with the bases loaded). Lots of good contact ball.

I'm gonna stake out the position -- as of right now, I don't think we need to make ANY trades. I think we ride this team (all 'ifs' taken into consideration) to the playoffs.

Worst to First in 2007, brought to you by Lou, Sori, A-Ram and D-Lee.

by drewishdrewid on Mar 9, 2008 6:08 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Except for the Patterson HR...

by SouthernCub on Mar 9, 2008 6:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

you're right

it came so late in the game, it had no effect, tho. :D

Worst to First in 2007, brought to you by Lou, Sori, A-Ram and D-Lee.

by drewishdrewid on Mar 9, 2008 6:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Patterson hit a home run.

And, again... would someone please tell me what's so bad about home runs!?!?

I has a blog.

by cwyers on Mar 9, 2008 6:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

nothing's wrong with home-runs

an entire team constantly trying to HIT them, however, is. Swing the bat, get on base, and you'll win games. Guys who are always swinging for the fences strike out.

Worst to First in 2007, brought to you by Lou, Sori, A-Ram and D-Lee.

by drewishdrewid on Mar 9, 2008 6:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Isn't it possible...

that this "swinging for the fences" is your interpretation of what people do when they just swing the bat and miss the damned ball?

by Maddog on Mar 9, 2008 7:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I suppose it's possible

but when someone swings so hard they take themselves off balance -- and that happened a lot last year, it seemed -- I think to myself "stop trying to hit it out". I didn't play past high-school, but I still remember the coaches telling us to try to hit it on the ground as much as possible.

Worst to First in 2007, brought to you by Lou, Sori, A-Ram and D-Lee.

by drewishdrewid on Mar 9, 2008 9:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I want the hitters to do what they can do.

I think the whole "swinging for the fence" thing is just something we say when someone loses their balance at the plate and that could happen for a number of reasons. Most hitters will tell you they rarely swing for the fence.

by Maddog on Mar 9, 2008 10:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Perfect example:

Tony Pena today was totally off balance when Wood destroyed him with a high fastball. He wasn't swing for the fences--he was swinging for survival

"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 Mar 9, 2008 10:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Major league fielders...

...are much better, as a population, than high school fielders. A ground ball will become a base hit or an error much more often against high school fielders.

The best approach to have as a major league ballplayer is to go to the plate looking to hit line drives. Line drives are a lot harder to field than ground balls, and are more likely to give you extra bases.

I has a blog.

by cwyers on Mar 10, 2008 1:37 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I agree...

HR are a good thing. The best thing you can do at the plate in an AB. We shouldn't dislike them.

by SouthernCub on Mar 9, 2008 6:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Agreed

home runs do unclog the bases.

This is only the beginning....Lou Pinella end of '07 season and Chicago Transit Authority (the band when they were really good).

by mrcubsfan on Mar 9, 2008 6:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

They're just not grindy enough.

You gotta "manufacture" runs. Homeruns just knock 'em all in with one fell swoop. That's not baseball, it's just showing off. You gotta grind out runs, man. Runs should cost blood, sweat, and tears...and that's just one run. The second one costs a limb. Homreuns are for weenies who don't want to get their uniforms dirty bunting and sliding their way around the bases.

"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 Mar 9, 2008 7:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I completely agree...

...home runs are for the birds.

Can't stand them.

I'll take good contact over great contact anyday of the week.

by schadenfreude on Mar 10, 2008 3:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Wood looked strong...

The only things between him and the closer's role are whether Piniella realizes that Marmol is most important to the team in the 6th/7th "fireman" role and (more importantly) whether he can handle pitching in back to back games.

by SouthernCub on Mar 9, 2008 6:28 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Hoffpauir should go to the Royals

Hoffpauir would be the Opening Day starter at 1B for the Royals. Gload? Sheehy?? Please... As much as I'd like Micha, given that both Ward and Soto can play 1B he's just too blocked to stay in this organization. Trade him to an AL team with an aging 1B (Yankees, Mariners) or no 1B (Royals, A's) and give him his shot before he becomes Mike Easler.

Even though they were essentially playing a AAA team, I was pleased to see the hitting performance. Especially Pie.

It's a simple question, Doctor: would you eat the moon if it were made of ribs??

by Invalid User on Mar 9, 2008 6:28 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

You read my mind.

I was thinking the exact same thing after the game. - TL

"Why shouldn't we believe that we're going to win the World Series?" - Ted Lilly, 1/19/2008, Daily Herald interview w/Barry Rozner

by timlacy on Mar 9, 2008 6:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Can someone explain to me the need to trade

Hoffpauir? Al keeps talking about it like it's a necessity. Hoffpaiur has no trade value at all and besides, who would fill in for Derrek Lee if he ended up on the DL for a month? Hoffpauir is a great guy to have in the minor leagues. He could step in for Lee and give you some production at 1st and you'd be OK for 3-5 weeks. If Hoffpauir had any value I might see the reasoning behind it, but he doesn't.

by Maddog on Mar 9, 2008 7:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Can Jake Fox play 1B?

I don't know if Hoffpauir has any trade value, but if he does, I would think that the Cubs could fill a 1b void with Derosa, with Patterson and/or Fontenot moving to second, or perhaps Fox.

by davidalanu on Mar 9, 2008 7:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Exactly.

Random Cub Fan:

"Our farm system sucks. It hasn't produced any good prospects."

/Cub prospect performs admirably

"Oh, look, this guy's good. Let's trade him for someone older and more expensive."

If we've got prospects, I say unless absolutely necessary, we hoard them.

"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 Mar 9, 2008 7:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Why doesn't Hoffpauir have value?

Besides, Daryle Ward could play first base temporarily if Lee got hurt.

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

by Al on Mar 9, 2008 7:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

BTW Al,

Hoffpauir is a very good fielding 1st baseman. He has value to both AL and NL teams. He's a patient hitter with power. If Lee gets hurt you need a 1st baseman who is good defensively also. Ask the infielders and pitchers how important that is.

by cubswin on Mar 9, 2008 8:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Power? Patience?

16 home runs the most in his career in any season (age 27 season, which is the most common age for a player's best season). .339 career OBP. 44 walks the most he had in any season and that was 5 years ago.

He may be good defensively. i don't know. But he doesn't have much power and he's not much better than league average at getting on base.

by Maddog on Mar 9, 2008 8:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

He's 28 years old, Al.

.790 minor league OPS. Would you give up anything for a 28-year old who has yet to reach the major leagues? A 28-year old 1st baseman without much power? He'd be a throw-in in any deal you have and you could probably get the deal done without throwing him in to begin with.

He provides depth for the Cubs. He has no future in the big leagues (none at all), but might be able to fill in capably for a 3 or 5 week stretch, which is something that Daryle Ward shouldn't be asked to do. Also something that Mark DeRosa shouldn't be asked to do (remember Todd Walker, 2006?). Jake Fox is a possible fill-in at first, but why not get a guy with more experience playing the position? Micah hoffpauir may not be who gets the job if Lee goes down, but he should be the guy.

I just don't see any reason to trade away a guy who has such little value when he provides depth to the system.

Same thing with Fox. I think you said he should be traded as well. I disagree. The guy can play 3 of the 4 corners and catch. in all honesty, I'd trade Murton and let Fox take over his role on the team because he can play more positions and the offensive drop off won't be that huge.

by Maddog on Mar 9, 2008 8:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You may be right...

... about Murton/Fox.

I hadn't realized that Hoffpauir is now 28. That definitely lowers his value. However, he still might be worth throwing in to a larger deal.

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

by Al on Mar 9, 2008 8:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I wouldn't hold up any deal

if the other team wanted him, but I'm pretty sure his inclusion won't hold up any deal anyway.

i guess my issue with the whole thing is that he doesn't need to be traded. he does offer this organization something...more than he offers another organization in all likelihood.

As for Fox, I might be overly optimistic about him, but one of the things that has bothered me about the Cubs use of Murton is that they haven't moved him around the diamond. why not 1st? the cubs must believe he's incapable of it for some reason (I don't agree), but Fox can play it, both corner outfield spots and behind the plate as well. I like what he offers the team over Murton.

by Maddog on Mar 9, 2008 8:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

If he has no value...

then explain why Ross Gload is probably going to start 90-110 games at 1B for the KC Royals? What value could Ross Gload possibly have over Hoffpauir? Power? No. Speed? No. Defense? No. Age/"Potential"? No.

Hoffpauir doesn't have a lot of value. But he has far less value in this organization than he would in several others. If Lee goes on the DL, Soto and Ward will split 1B.

Eventually, he's going to run out of options or become a six-year minor league free agent, and the Cubs will get nothing for him. Trade him now, get a high A pitcher, and give the guy a shot to be the next Ross Gload.

It's a simple question, Doctor: would you eat the moon if it were made of ribs??

by Invalid User on Mar 10, 2008 8:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Well, at a glance...

Daryle Ward
Henry Blanco
Jake Fox
Mark DeRosa

It's really the Murton problem all over again. Trade these guys while the hype and value is high. He's looked great and is blocked here, so if you can move him as part of a deal, great.

But no, I wouldn't call it essential.

by Damen Jackson on Mar 9, 2008 7:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

What hype? What value?

the only people hyping Hoffpauir are a few around here. he is what he is...a 28-year old 1st baseman without the power to play the position and without age on his side. His only value is to the cubs and the depth that he provides. No team will give the Cubs anything at all for a 28-year old with no MLB experience, a .790 career MLB OPS (.450 SLG).

by Maddog on Mar 9, 2008 8:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

How old is Hoffpauir?

I really like his swing.

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

by MPH73 on Mar 9, 2008 7:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

28.

He turned 28 a week or so ago.

by Maddog on Mar 9, 2008 8:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Let's Not Get Too High

Tomko was horrible for the Royals today and the Cubs bats were hot. I know that the Cubbies added on, as Santo likes encourage, so the performance against Tomko deserves only part of the praise. But before today Tomko had actually looked like a starting pitcher for KC (despite his past history). Still, a nice TV win for us back here in the Chicago cold. - TL

"Why shouldn't we believe that we're going to win the World Series?" - Ted Lilly, 1/19/2008, Daily Herald interview w/Barry Rozner

by timlacy on Mar 9, 2008 7:13 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Good points...

...folks tend to get overly optomistic/pessimistic after only a couple good/bad games.

It is a long long season and you can't get caught up in short term success or failure.

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

by MPH73 on Mar 9, 2008 7:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Any pitcher will look bad

when he's asked to get 6 outs in an inning. Tomko will never be confused with Glavine, Smoltz, or Maddux, but he is a legitimate ML pitcher.

"I've never complained about it. I'm thankful to have a jersey." Mark DeRosa, 22 Aug 2007

by DeRoMyHero on Mar 9, 2008 7:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The Royals

I was at this game, and I can honestly say that the Royals looked flat-out awful. I mean, really, really bad. Really, really, really awfully bad. They're a good player or two away from being a Double A team bad. (Ok, not that bad, but Lord knows they aren't good.)

by megagreg on Mar 9, 2008 7:26 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

AL

This is the reason I read this site, your post states just about everything I was thinking today.

About Kerry Wood, as the sentimental favorite, if Wood makes the closer and produces and is successfull this could be special. YES its been a hundred years but when I think about a season where the Cubs would win it all I always hope for it to be special and and Woody success story would be a large part.

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

by Hammer on Mar 9, 2008 7:40 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I still don't think Woody ....

Is quite ready for a closing role. It's that back to back stuff that may--may--give him trouble. But even as short man, he is great. And gosh, he looks good and healthy.

For now, it's Marmol until he fails, I believe. Great to see Cubbie baseball today with a well-deserved W.

21 hits! 21 hits!

-LRRF

GEAUX THERIOT!

by Littlerock Rynofan on Mar 9, 2008 8:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You're right that...

... he needs to show he can pitch on back-to-back days. I assume that will be done sometime soon.

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

by Al on Mar 9, 2008 8:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Lou said

yesterday on tv that this sort of thing would happen this coming week, so we should see if Kerry can pass the test very soon. I hope he can because he was filthy today. He undressed Pena in that last AB.

"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 Mar 9, 2008 8:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

E-Patt vs. Roberts?

You can bet if Orioles scouts watching they'll want E-Patt in any deal...I wonder if Patterson couldn't produce similarly to Roberts if given a chance...that would mean playing the majority of games since most starters are RH...I wouldn't mind keeping him.

It sounded from Bob and Len that Cintron is gonna make the team, too...think this sorta aces out Cedeno whom I still think has potential to produce more at SS than Theriot.

Crisp deal sounds/looks good but it might block Pie which doesn't make a lot of sense the way he's swinging.

by writerinwrigley on Mar 9, 2008 7:56 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Well

Your argument fails to acknowledge that the Cubs no longer view Eric Patterson an option at 2nd base defensively. Eric Patterson is screwed by the fact that he doesn't have a position on the field right now.

by MDBNIU on Mar 9, 2008 8:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Patterson

has looked pretty good at 2B so far; definitely better than Fontenot to this point. Maybe he's corrected somethings and tightened his defense up. Surely he should then supplant Fontenot as the backup to Derosa.

"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 Mar 9, 2008 8:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Well...

Neither Eric Patterson or Mike Fontenot are going to make this ballclub in my estimation. They simply lack the defensive chops and versatility to be useful coming off the bench. Fontenot is a career minor leaguer who had a lightning in a bottle big league moment in 2007. Patterson is at a crossroads. I think he needs to learn several postions and pin his major league fortunes on becoming a versatile multi-tasker. Willie Harris is a good comparison player for him.

by MDBNIU on Mar 9, 2008 8:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think if that were true...

...we would've seen an end to his playing second already. Since he first played second, I think he's played exclusively there. If the Cubs have completely soured on him as a second baseman, I don't think that happens.

I has a blog.

by cwyers on Mar 9, 2008 8:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

He played some RF one game, but

you're right. Obviously the fact that he keeps playing 2nd means the Cubs (probably Lou) have changed their minds and his play from what I've seen has been pretty solid defensively.

by Maddog on Mar 9, 2008 8:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Agreed

MDBNIU has given up on Patterson's ability to play 2B, but the Cubs have not completely given up on the idea. The fact that he has played 2B multiple times this spring illustrates that fact.

by SouthernCub on Mar 9, 2008 8:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

My response would be...

Assuming you are correct and the Cubs do have re-instilled faith in Eric Patterson to play 2nd base?? Well then he still is ticketed for Triple A because you're not going to carry a utility infielder who can only help you at one position (and not altogether well).

It's the Matt Murton dilemma all over again.

by MDBNIU on Mar 9, 2008 9:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

He's played all the outfield positions...

...in the minors for just that reason. He's never going to be a shortstop or third baseman, though. You want he should learn to catch? Pitch?

I has a blog.

by cwyers on Mar 9, 2008 9:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

beat me to the punch...

by SouthernCub on Mar 9, 2008 9:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Whatever

Check back when the 25 man roster is set.

by MDBNIU on Mar 9, 2008 9:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

But he's not limited to 2B...

he has played the OF as well. Patterson MAY wind up back in AAA this year. But if he does, it will probably be because he couldn't outhit Fontenot. He has something Lou cherishes (speed) and another thing Lou cherishes (the ability to play a few positions).

I wouldn't be completely shocked if Patterson and Cedeno make the MLB roster. Cedeno has played some 3B, SS, and CF, and Patterson has played 2B and LF. With Ward a backup at 1B and RF (though that's scary) and DeRosa capable of playing a bunch of places if subs are necessary, that's the kind of versatility Piniella likes.

I'm not saying this is what I expect to happen. I'm just saying that it's a possibility that shouldn't be completely discarded.

by SouthernCub on Mar 9, 2008 9:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Fontenot

IMO has no chance to make the team. He's a reserve who can't really play multiple positions nor is a great hitter. Cedeno, Cintron and Patterson are likely all ahead of Fontenot.

by rlpete on Mar 10, 2008 8:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Al- Random question

Any idea when SBN 2.0 will be up? I've seen AN's site and love how it looks, and was just wondering when the changes would become SBN-wide. I know earlier you'd said it would be in February, so I'm just curious.

by Stoa on Mar 9, 2008 8:06 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

As soon as I know, you'll know.

They're still working out some of the bugs at AN. It may be a little while yet.

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

by Al on Mar 9, 2008 8:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Al...

couldn't you get Chad/Les in florida to send those Royal bloggers a BCB Shirt?

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on Mar 9, 2008 8:22 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

LOL

Sure! That would be so easy!

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

by Al on Mar 9, 2008 8:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Public humiliation

can be a motivator; maybe you could put a counter on the blog, fashioned like the AC sign, and have it say something like "Days since Royals Review Crawfished on our Bet" and have it roll over every day

"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 Mar 9, 2008 8:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Carmen Pignatello

Piggy is making a strong bid to be in the Cub bullpen. No doubt about it. Looks like maybe the pen will be Wood, Howry, Marmol, Wuertz, Eyre, Pignatello...with the final spot dependent on whether Marquis is shipped off. If he is, then that 7th spot is probably is Ascanio's to lose I imagine.

by MDBNIU on Mar 9, 2008 8:33 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

12 pitchers to open??

Seems a lot in April with more open dates and rainouts more likely...

A point made by Sullivan somewhere in response to a Q...that Howry/Wood/Marmol closer quandry could be solved by using them the old-fashioned Goose Gossage way, for 2-3 inning "saves'' in rotation, then a day or 2 off...they all have the durability to do this, but modern managers (since LaRussa or mid-1980's) have been so locked into having a "seventh inning'' guy and an "eighth inning guy'' to set up the closer.

I wish someone would break the mold but it may not be the Cubbies.

by writerinwrigley on Mar 9, 2008 8:41 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

But the fact is...

... no matter what a sportswriter writes about such an arrangement, no modern manager will do this. Nobody. Period. It just isn't done.

Whether it should be done is a legitimate question. But it simply won't happen, especially not with a manager like Lou.

He'll pick one of the three to throw the ninth inning, and the others will be setup men.

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

by Al on Mar 10, 2008 4:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I look at the pitchers

in the Spring and for the most part the ones that will go north have done well.
I believe Wood will win the closers battle, however Marmol and Howry will have opportunties as the season moves on. I just think you still have to be cautious with Wood, I just can't see him closing 4-5 games in a week in July.
Can someone in Arizona kindly go up to the Oriole scouts and tell them to go home, enough of the trade talk. All the talk of having 4 Cubs ( pick the 4 ) go to the O's for Roberts makes me ill. I just don't see Roberts being the "key" to put the Cubs over the hump.
Throw strikes, Hit with runners on, and win one run games. Go CUBS.

by Johnny Callison was a Cub on Mar 9, 2008 9:47 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

11 or 12 Pitchers?

If they keep 12 --

Marshall and Gallagher are off to Iowa
Dempster, Lieber, and Marquis battle for #4 and #5 in the rotation. The odd man out here is gone -- none of them will be used in middle relief.

Hart has the edge over Ascaino for the long relief role. What has this guy done to "unearn" the long relief spot?

If they keep 11 -- which they should do early in the year -- Eyre should be the one to go; not Pignatello.

by ceegeewow on Mar 9, 2008 10:21 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Best guess as of now...

I will assume that the Cubs are unsuccessful in moving Jason Marquis, meaning he is in the rotation and Jon Lieber gets shuffled into long relief. Which I'm not happy about by the way.

Rotation....Zambrano, Lilly, Dempster, Hill, Marquis (insert Lieber if Marquis traded)

Pen (7)....Wood, Howry, Wuertz, Marmol, Eyre, Pignatello, Lieber (insert Ascanio if Marquis is traded and Lieber is in the rotation)

Ticketed for Triple A....Fox, Gallagher, Marshall, Hart

by MDBNIU on Mar 9, 2008 10:38 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Marquis will be traded

even if all we get back is Soriano's old infielder's mitt. Hendry's not making the same mistake he made with JJ, two years in a row.

Soriano must leadoff... to provide adequate protection for Big Z!

by DGU on Mar 9, 2008 10:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I can think of $16.5 million reasons why he won't

Jason Marquis' contract makes him difficult to move. Unless Hendry can engineer a salary swap type deal, ala the move to dump Todd Hundley and acquire Mark Grudzielanek and Eric Karros.

by MDBNIU on Mar 9, 2008 10:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

What's the difference between Marquis

and Carlos Silva? Silva's got more dollars and more years than Marquis is being paid. The Marquis contract is really not that bad. Livan Hernandez got 5 mill, and I'd much rather have Marquis than Livan at this stage of his career.

Ken Rosenthal has maintained through this off-season that Marquis has trade value and he generally knows what he's talking about with these things.

Soriano must leadoff... to provide adequate protection for Big Z!

by DGU on Mar 9, 2008 11:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Kevin Hart

Kevin Hart should not be shipped off to Iowa --
He pitched really well at the end of last year and has looked good again this spring.
Why would you keep Ascanio instead of Hart?

by ceegeewow on Mar 9, 2008 10:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

And what is your thinking...

for Tim Lahey?

by Damen Jackson on Mar 9, 2008 11:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Dempster

Dempster's performance today illustrates why I am optimistic he will translate better from reliever to starter than other pitchers have in the past.

Dempster gets into these situations where he loses command and gets himself in trouble. When he's the closer, he's left out there and it leads to blown saves and ugly ERA spikes. But when he's a starter, as long as he can get out of the jam he got himself into, he can regain his command and pitch another good inning or three. When he's the closer, his loss of command leads to a loss. When he's a starter, his loss of command still hurts, but it doesn't necessarily mean a loss and it could still be a part of an overall quality start.

Soriano must leadoff... to provide adequate protection for Big Z!

by DGU on Mar 9, 2008 10:40 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Dempster

He also had a rough third inning following an extended Cubs rally. Its not uncommon for any pitcher to ave some troubles when coming off a long sit on the bench and him not having started in a few years... this is exactly the kind of situation that he needs to get back in the swing of.

DmL

by dmlichte on Mar 9, 2008 11:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

That's a good point

He was sitting on the bench getting "cold" for quite a long time during that rally. One thing though about Dempster and getting out of jams. Brenly made the point that Dempster did this a lot as closer, with the result being a 30-35 pitch inning. That's fine if you're only pitching one inning maximum, but a disaster if you are supposed to pitch 6-7 innings.

Why does everybody stand up and sing "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" when they're already there? ~Larry Anderson

by JohnM on Mar 10, 2008 5:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

And just to make it clear

this is more of a starter-tommy john-reliever-starter transformation, but I'm optimistic too. Apparently he's in the best shape of his life, I admire the dedication.

by lilkimmer77 on Mar 10, 2008 2:16 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm not giving this a separate diary...

Peter Gammons wrote today:
http://insider.espn.go.com/espn/blog/index?entryID=3284876&name=gammons_peter
"The Cubs will eventually get Brian Roberts. Andy MacPhail has to decide whom he wants. But the Cubs are convinced it will happen."

Can you imagine this lineup?
Sori LF
BRob SS
DLee 1B
ARam 3B
Dome RF
DeRo 2B
FPie CF
Soto C

Soriano must leadoff... to provide adequate protection for Big Z!

by DGU on Mar 9, 2008 11:36 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

It's own diary?

Why even write a comment about it? Nothing we haven't heard since, oh, mid-winter.

"Hey! If the moon were made of ribs, wouldja eat it? I know I would!"

by cubs0505 on Mar 10, 2008 2:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

His comment...

is as relevant as any other on this board. In fact, it is probably more relvenant than most.

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

by MPH73 on Mar 10, 2008 9:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Is it?

What would give him the idea that Roberts could be an everyday SS?

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

by Al on Mar 10, 2008 9:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I didn't see anything is his post about

Roberts playing SS. If it was in the ESPN article so be it. I just don't understand why people are given a hard time for discussing this and stating their opinions on it.

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

by MPH73 on Mar 10, 2008 9:35 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Look again.

His proposed lineup has Roberts playing SS.

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

by Al on Mar 10, 2008 9:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

There were a couple of throwaway lines

in a few articles a month or so back (so I'm not going to be able to find them to link to them) that the Cubs might try Roberts at SS. Roberts played SS coming up through the minors and was only moved off the position because the O's signed Miguel Tejada. As long as his arm (post-injury) is still strong enough for it, I expect he would do no worse than Theriot at SS defense and perhaps a little bit better. I also find it interesting that the two 2B the Cubs have targetted this off-season (as far as we know) played SS in their past. Maybe I missed it, but I didn't read any interest in the free agent Luis Castillo before he signed.

Soriano must leadoff... to provide adequate protection for Big Z!

by DGU on Mar 10, 2008 10:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

With the exception of the fact...

that he had Roberts at SS in his hypothetical lineup, I agree with you.

The Roberts topic was in an article by Peter Gammons (who is a well-respected baseball insider) posted on ESPN (a mainstream media site). As far as posts go, the post has as much merit and relevance as most on here, in my opinion.

I, too, really don't understand the angst the anti-Roberts crowd has for posting. Just because some disagree with the idea of getting him doesn't mean that such a post is irrelevant.

by SouthernCub on Mar 10, 2008 9:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I missed the Roberts at SS...

...deal, but so what, let the guy state his opinion. I don't agree with it, but I don't think that should determine whether someone can post it or not.

Clearly, there are people who absolutely oppose the Roberts deal because they are either in love with DeRosa, or they just don't feel its the right move. I feel much differently, but have no problem with those who disagree. I just don't understand the big deal about posting comments about this when you have all the major outlets covering it as well, and there are plenty of other topics that are beat to death that will have less impact on the club.

I had coversation recently with someone who has been in the game a long long time, and has contacts inside the Cubs. In his opinion, the Cubs need Roberts and want him badly. The only reason the trade will not happen is if McPhail just gets completely unrealistic with his demands.

We'll see.

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

by MPH73 on Mar 10, 2008 10:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Agreed completely...

personally, I have no idea or inside sources with regard to whether there's any chance of a deal happening. And I think Roberts is a definite upgrade over DeRosa and strengthens the team in both the starting lineup and the bench. But I can't say for sure whether I like the idea of a Roberts trade until I know what the trade parameters would be.

But I completely defend a person's right to post about the topic, especially when someone as prominent as Peter Gammons says something like what he says.

by SouthernCub on Mar 10, 2008 10:10 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Thanks -

The reason I suggested imagining a lineup with Roberts at SS is to give some of the readers here who are so dead set against this trade a different perspective on it. (I defend the possibility of Roberts at SS in a post above.)

As far as the validity of the post... I understand the Roberts fatigue. That's why this post is a single line at the end of Al's front page diary, instead of a diary all to itself.

Still, the relevance of this Gammons quote cannot be questioned rationally. There has been an ongoing question on this site about whether or not the Roberts trade is still alive. That debate has led to at least two series of "Is too" - "Is not" exchanges in the past week. Some sources seem to suggest the Cubs are done with it; others are suggesting that things continue to smolder.

That Peter Gammons reports the Cubs being "certain" the trade will get done, I think, puts an end to our question of whether or not the trade is alive. The trade is very much alive. If Gammons had reported that the O's still thought the trade would get done, I'd take that with a grain of salt, since they are the ones supposedly asking for the moon. If a lesser reporter said the Cubs still thought the trade would get done, I'd still balance that claim with the claims we hear reported hear by Al's source.

But Gammons knows what he's talking about. He won't say the Cubs are certain unless the Cubs are certain. The trade is alive.

Soriano must leadoff... to provide adequate protection for Big Z!

by DGU on Mar 10, 2008 10:17 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

There have been...

...far more reaching things posted here than Roberts playing SS. Could it work? He would appear to be athletic enouph, but that is beyond the main issue here.

I understand people have personal feeling about certain players etc., and a lot of folks don't want those things disturbed. But, to deny the obvious (the Cubs want Roberts, and will try to get him) is really just ignoring something that is real, and could have a big impact on the club.

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

by MPH73 on Mar 10, 2008 10:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Unless Roberts is just really weak-armed...

...you'd have to think a Gold Glove second baseman could at least be a passable shortstop. Now, whether or not you want to trade half the farm and then try to get a guy to (re)learn a position at his age... another story.

I has a blog.

by cwyers on Mar 10, 2008 11:55 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I wonder

if Roberts wouldn't be glad for the opportunity. His paycheck in the next contract as a SS should be higher than if he's just a 2B. This is different than when the Nats asked Soriano to move to the OF. Roberts should be looking at the difference between getting Luis Castillo's contract and Rafael Furcal's next contract if he moves from 2B to SS.

Soriano must leadoff... to provide adequate protection for Big Z!

by DGU on Mar 10, 2008 12:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Once more on Hoff-POWER

I agree with most of you that at 28, it will be tough to trade Micah unless as Al says, "a throw in".

But he had a stellar Spring last year as well, including a GWH in the ninth inning. He was doing very well in Iowa until an injury forced him to miss most of the season.

He is scouted as an "above average" fielder and certainly is more athletic than DWARD.

But, unfortunately, unless a majory injury occurs (JINX!), I just can't see how he'd get a chance with the team in the regular season.

If not starting, I could see him AT LEAST on the 25 man with the Rays, Royals, Marlins, Indians, or Giants, perhaps. Maybe Jays.

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

by TheEman on Mar 10, 2008 8:33 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Agree with some but not the Indians

with Garko, VMartinez and if necessary Hafner, they are well stocked there.

by rlpete on Mar 10, 2008 8:53 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Oh! Forgot..

They completely re-tooled with their youngsters who are now doing great.

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

by TheEman on Mar 10, 2008 8:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Not likely the Rays, either...

They just signed Carlos Pena, fresh off a 46 HR, 1.037 OPS season, to an extension to play 1B. And they have a plethora of OF (Floyd, Gomes, Upton, Baldelli, and Crawford) to fill the DH role. And they have Joel Guzman, who is a pretty decent young prospect, backing up at both 3B and 1B.

Hoffpauir might be able to displace Gload in KC, but that's probably a lateral move. And Butler is likely to be the starter there at 1B. He's a pretty good young prospect for them.

by SouthernCub on Mar 10, 2008 9:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Micah Hoffpauier

Hoffpauier is a career minor leaguer. Triple A is littered with guys of his profile. He has talent, but not the degree of talent that would result in a sustainable major league career. Especially given that he plays 1st base, and is limited to playing just 1st base.

A very likable guy I might add.

by MDBNIU on Mar 10, 2008 10:17 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Roster moves HAVE to be coming, right??

The season starts in three weeks. The start of season will be here in the blink of an eye.

As things stand right now the club would love to peddle Jason Marquis, find a new home for Matt Murton, and identify a right-handed hitting 4th outfielder type who can platoon in CF. And of course, the Brian Roberts thing continues to hang stale in the air.

Quite frankly, I'm stunned that Jim Hendry hasn't already acquired the right-handed hitting 4th outfielder who can play CF. The ONLY thing my small brain can think of is that Hendry believes that a trade for Brian Roberts WILL go down, and that Jay Payton will be part of the return package.

What to do with Jason Marquis is a thorny issue. I don't have any idea how this plays out. I have a hard time believing that the rebuilding Orioles will be interested in taking Marquis off our hands. So what happens to him??? Do you bury him on the DL with a phantom injury???

by MDBNIU on Mar 10, 2008 10:24 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs