2009 MLB Discussion Thread

[Bruce Banner]

but I like the Yankees more than the Red Sox.

ever since frat boy nation, most people have thought this way.

speaking of RS, whats this I hear about them moving Lowell and Buchholz?

god damn double post.

[SuperKevin]

ever since frat boy nation, most people have thought this way.

speaking of RS, whats this I hear about them moving Lowell and Buchholz?

god damn double post.

I heard they are trying to move Bucholz to texas to try to get Saltamacchia.

[Bruce Banner]

I heard they are trying to move Bucholz to texas to try to get Saltamacchia.

I haven't heard Salty's name since he was moved from ATL.

[Brodeur]

no.




I'm looking at Michael Young's contract numbers.....holy freakin' god the Rangers are in a mess.

It's only around 65 million over the next 5 years because of bonuses if that helps.

[Xiomera]

It's only around 65 million over the next 5 years because of bonuses if that helps.

Bonderman for Michael Young!

Nah, just kidding.

[Brodeur]

Bonderman for Michael Young!

Nah, just kidding.

No, never Michael Young. YOU HEAR ME?!

[Bruce Banner]

It's only around 65 million over the next 5 years because of bonuses if that helps.

That does help.

[Xiomera]

No, never Michael Young. YOU HEAR ME?!

Not even as a joke!?

[Brodeur]

Not even as a joke!?

No it hurts too much.

[Xiomera]

No it hurts too much.

What about Dontrelle for Young? Would that hurt?

[Tampa 2 4 life]

What about Dontrelle for Young? Would that hurt?

Dear lord yes.

[Bruce Banner]

I remember when the Cardinals were rumored to be trading for D-Train. It involved some 19 year old throw-in named Rasmus.

[Tampa 2 4 life]

I remember when the Cardinals were rumored to be trading for D-Train. It involved some 19 year old throw-in named Rasmus.

D-Train can bounce back!

[Brodeur]

I remember when the Cardinals were rumored to be trading for D-Train. It involved some 19 year old throw-in named Rasmus.

D-Train for Rasmus? Sounds good.

[Xiomera]

D-Train can bounce back!

Give us Joyce back and he's yours.

[Zyro_1014]

D-Train can bounce back!

didnt he go down to Single A last year?

[Xiomera]

didnt he go down to Single A last year?

If it in any way lowers his trade value in your mind, the answer is no.

Otherwise, yes he did.

[Tampa 2 4 life]

Give us Joyce back and he's yours.

I was thinking more Edwi...oh wait.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

Mets offered Oliver Koufax about 3/30 according to that idiot Heyman.

[Hawk]

2009 Braves + The Big Cat = Championship

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h175/elconde_2006/galarraga.jpg

[Zyro_1014]

If it in any way lowers his trade value in your mind, the answer is no.

Otherwise, yes he did.

bro, the D train has been getting Bombed! lol

[Tampa 2 4 life]

I haven't made fun of Jim Duqette in a while.

Scott Kazmir WAR: 17.3

Victor Zambrano WAR: ~1.5

[Giantsfan1080]

no.




I'm looking at Michael Young's contract numbers.....holy freakin' god the Rangers are in a mess.

Umm yes. The NFL Hof is way worse. They have to induct a certain amount of people a year which is a joke. Like I said on the whole the MLB Hof is the best in the biz.

[yo123]

Yeah someone made a deal with the devil there.

I'm saddened that Bert didn't make the cut, he'll be in next year though. BBWAA is a ******* joke


I don't know. He only has three more years to gain 12.3% and he only gained .8% this year.

[Turtlepower]

Tim Raines better make it to the hall. One of the most underrated players in the 90s who if he had played for a team other than the Expos for most of his career, would probably have at least 50% of the vote.

[Giantsfan1080]

Derek Lowe signed with the Braves for 4 years $60 million.

[T-RICH49]

Rickey is awesome. Jim Rice making is an absolute joke while guys like McGwire and Raines sit out.

I agree about Rice and Raines but McGwire's "testimony" before congress is going to be the death nail into the coffin for him

[bored of education]

Post-Gazette - The Pirates today agreed to terms with outfielder Craig Monroe and catcher Miguel Perez on minor league contracts with invitations to spring training.

Monroe, who will turn 31 next month, has a .253 career average and 112 home runs over eight seasons in Major League Baseball. That includes a .202 average, eight home runs and 29 RBIs in 2008 with the Minnesota Twins, who released him Aug.

http://baseball.realgm.com/src_wiretap_archives/13090/20090113/pirates_sign_craig_monroe/


rejoice HINES!

[djp]

I think I'm better at baseball than Craig Monroe.

[Xiomera]

I think I'm better at baseball than Craig Monroe.

I bet your mother is so proud . . . actually . . . hmm http://draftcountdown.com/forum/images/icons/icon10.gif

[bored of education]

I bet your mother is so proud . . . actually . . . hmm http://draftcountdown.com/forum/images/icons/icon10.gif

She's actually in the kitchen making me a sammich I'll ask her when shes done...

that was wrong sorry. Is it tooooo lateeeeeeee tooo apologizeeeeeeeee?

[Xiomera]

She's actually in the kitchen making me a sammich I'll ask her when shes done...

that was wrong sorry. Is it tooooo lateeeeeeee tooo apologizeeeeeeeee?

DJP is gonna kill you.

Or just make a joke about Jared Allen and how your Chiefs no longer have him . . .

[mqtirishfan]

Derek Lowe signed with the Braves for 4 years $60 million.

Losing Smoltz hurts less today.

[BuckNaked]

DJP is gonna kill you.

Or just make a joke about Jared Allen and how your Chiefs no longer have him . . .

Wait...what team is he on now again?

[Xiomera]

Wait...what team is he on now again?

The ViQueens! Give him hell Gosder!

[bearsfan_51]

That's a lot of money/years for Lowe, but such is the FA market for starting picthers.

I'm surprised that nobody is sniffing Ben Sheets, injuries and all.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

Goddamnit Derek. You said the northeast you son of a *****.

[Hines]

Post-Gazette - The Pirates today agreed to terms with outfielder Craig Monroe and catcher Miguel Perez on minor league contracts with invitations to spring training.

Monroe, who will turn 31 next month, has a .253 career average and 112 home runs over eight seasons in Major League Baseball. That includes a .202 average, eight home runs and 29 RBIs in 2008 with the Minnesota Twins, who released him Aug.

http://baseball.realgm.com/src_wiretap_archives/13090/20090113/pirates_sign_craig_monroe/


rejoice HINES!

I was about to comment on this. But, I think it is a decent signing if he proves what he once was. I doubt he will though.

[awfullyquiet]

That's a lot of money/years for Lowe, but such is the FA market for starting picthers.

I'm surprised that nobody is sniffing Ben Sheets, injuries and all.

boggles my mind too. i'm surprised no one has touched him.

[Brodeur]

That's a lot of money/years for Lowe, but such is the FA market for starting picthers.

I'm surprised that nobody is sniffing Ben Sheets, injuries and all.

With Lowe being a GB pitcher, he'll be fine for the entirety of the contract.

[Jughead10]

Goddamnit Derek. You said the northeast you son of a *****.

Don't worry. You have Tim Redding.

[Borat]

Goddamnit Omar. You said the northeast you son of a *****.

Fixed. You need to blame Omar, not Derek. You guys tried to get Lowe on the cheap and he went elsewhere for more cash.

[yo123]

I was about to comment on this. But, I think it is a decent signing if he proves what he once was. I doubt he will though.



Craig Monroe is an absolute waste of a roster spot. I think I could count the number of at bats where he didn't strike out on one hand.

[Hines]

Craig Monroe is an absolute waste of a roster spot. I think I could count the number of at bats where he didn't strike out on one hand.

2006 FTW!!!! He will probably make the team and start in RF or something.

[Borat]

BA with a little Venezuelan League recap (http://www.baseballamerica.com/blog/prospects/?p=1984)

I'll just pull out some of the quotes and post them here for you guys. I'll just randomly pull out a couple of quotes. In no way am I biased in which quotes I used. Honestly. I swear.

Jesus Guzman, 3b/2b, Giants: Maybe it seems a little bit unusual to lead off a prospect discussion by bringing up a player signed this offseason as a minor league free agent, but Guzman is a legitimate prospect who has pulverized pitchers in Venezuela. In 269 plate appearances for Leones del Caracas, Guzman batted .349/.435/.616, ranking second in the league in OPS, fifth in OBP and third in slugging. He led the league in extra-base hits (32), runs scored (48), tied for the league lead in hits (81) and ranked third in home runs (13). He also recorded 67 RBIs, with the last two coming in Guzman’s final at-bat of the regular season, breaking the previous league record of 65 RBIs set in 1973-74 by Pete Koegel.

Not bad for a 24-year-old minor league free agent who has never been traded but is already with his third organization. Guzman was a Mariners July 2 signing in 2000, then spent three seasons in the Venezuelan Summer League before making his U.S. debut in the high Class A California League in 2004 at age 20. At 21, Guzman was already in Double-A, but in 2005 and 2006 he failed to slug over .400 in either season. So the Mariners dropped him to the California League, and Guzman flourished in one of baseball’s most hitter-friendly environments in High Desert, batting .301/.370/.539 with 25 homers in 130 games.

Oakland picked up Guzman as a minor league free agent, and this time he conquered Double-A by hitting .364/.419/.560 in 80 games with Midland. A’s officials say they wanted Guzman back for 2009, but the Giants stepped in and signed him, offering him an invitation to big league camp this spring. Defensively, Guzman is still a work in progress. With Midland, Guzman made nine errors in 49 games at third base and eight errors in 31 games at second. But the bat? He’s making believers out of those who see him.

"That kid, out of nowhere, has made himself into a major league hitter," said one scout who watched Guzman play this winter. "I don’t think he’s going to go play right now—he’s still in the learning process. But he’s got maturity at the plate and more patience than he used to have. He used to be a guy who would give you one good swing and three bad swings because he didn’t stay back enough and follow the ball. But now he just looks awesome."

Pablo Sandoval, c/1b/3b, Giants: The only player with a higher OPS than Guzman among qualified players in Venezuela? That would be Guzman’s new teammate, Pablo Sandoval. The two aren’t teammates in Venezuela—Sandoval is playing for Navegantes del Magallanes—but they could find themselves in the same lineup at some point in 2009. Sandoval batted .396/.449/.677 in 214 games this winter and played mostly first base, aside from a few games at third. Sandoval led the league in batting average and slugging, ranked fourth and OBP and tied for fourth with 12 home runs.

Sandoval isn’t a patient hitter, as eight of his 18 walks were intentional.Sandoval simply continued to do what he did all year, which is just flat out hit. Between high Class A and Double-A, Sandoval batted .350/.394/.578 in 112 games, then went .345/.357/.490 in 40 big league games. Pretty solid for a player who didn’t turn 21 until August.

Sandoval offers a hard-to-find combination of a player who is difficult to strike out but who also comes with a serious power stroke from both sides of the plate. While many power hitters have longer swings, Sandoval’s short stroke and ability to hit all types of pitches allow him to hit for average, and his strength gives him the power to hit the ball out of the park to all fields.

[fischbowl]

BA with a little Venezuelan League recap (http://www.baseballamerica.com/blog/prospects/?p=1984)

I'll just pull out some of the quotes and post them here for you guys. I'll just randomly pull out a couple of quotes. In no way am I biased in which quotes I used. Honestly. I swear.

Guzman is very interesting. Came out of ******* nowhere last year

[Borat]

Guzman is very interesting. Came out of ******* nowhere last year

"Nobody fvcks with the Jesus".

Great movie.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

Fixed. You need to blame Omar, not Derek. You guys tried to get Lowe on the cheap and he went elsewhere for more cash.


Lowe said he wanted to play in the northeast. I expect that and an extra year and 3 million more annually to slide slightly in the Mets favor.

[Bruce Banner]

Sheets...


No team wants to commit long term b/c injuries and a one year deal isn't worth the draft pick.

[Tampa 2 4 life]

Sheets...


No team wants to commit long term b/c injuries and a one year deal isn't worth the draft pick.

Even with injuries he'll still give you 3 WAR which is worth 13-14 million.

[Bruce Banner]

Even with injuries he'll still give you 3 WAR which is worth 13-14 million.

*sighs*

ok tampa

[Tampa 2 4 life]

*sighs*

ok tampa

How about you actually argue the point instead of just mocking me?

[Bruce Banner]

How about you actually argue the point instead of just mocking me?

I'm confused.....we're arguing?

Did I ever disagree?

[holt_bruce81]

Got to love how cheap the Cardinals are.

Before the offseason started, John Mozeliak was quoted as saying they will be "very aggressive" this offseason.

Good job John. You have improved nothing on the team. Love seeing the Cubs get better though, got to love that.

[SuperKevin]

Even with injuries he'll still give you 3 WAR which is worth 13-14 million.

Edwin Starr said it best

WAR, huh, yeah
What is it good for
Absolutely nothing
Uh-huh
WAR, huh, yeah
What is it good for
Absolutely nothing
Say it again, y'all

WAR, huh, good God
What is it good for
Absolutely nothing
Listen to me

[Bruce Banner]

Got to love how cheap the Cardinals are.

Before the offseason started, John Mozeliak was quoted as saying they will be "very aggressive" this offseason.

Good job John. You have improved nothing on the team. Love seeing the Cubs get better though, got to love that.

Hamstrung by ownership.

The "low hanging fruit" comment is really helping his cause though. :rolleyes:

[Tampa 2 4 life]

I'm confused.....we're arguing?

Did I ever disagree?

*sighs*

ok tampa

Not really a glowing endorsement.

[Bruce Banner]

Not really a glowing endorsement.

That's just constant sabr wearin' me out.

[Brodeur]

How about you actually argue the point instead of just mocking me?

If it helps, I agree with you. Not that I ever really disagree with you at this point.

[mqtirishfan]

If it helps, I agree with you. Not that I ever really disagree with you at this point.

You guys are nerds. Games are won with heart and grit, not weird numbers!!!

[Bruce Banner]

Apparently you people didn't understand me. Read my last post again.


When a deal like Lowe's goes down, you start to feel really bad about signing Lohse to 4/48. ****.

[Brodeur]

You guys are nerds. Games are won with heart and grit, not weird numbers!!!

SHUT UP JON HEYMAN.

[Bruce Banner]

I quit posting numbers/tidbits/topics in this thread because all we're doing is informing each other about **** we already know.

[fischbowl]

Got to love how cheap the Cardinals are.

Before the offseason started, John Mozeliak was quoted as saying they will be "very aggressive" this offseason.

Good job John. You have improved nothing on the team. Love seeing the Cubs get better though, got to love that.

What, Royce Ring ain't enough for you?

[Fogartynyy2789]

Apparently you people didn't understand me. Read my last post again.


When a deal like Lowe's goes down, you start to feel really bad about signing Lohse to 4/48. ****.

Or signing Carlos Silva to 4/48.

[Tampa 2 4 life]

Or signing Carlos Silva to 4/48.

Or trading for Jose Vidro.

Or trading for Erik Bedard.

Or tradingaway rafael soriano.

[Fogartynyy2789]

Or trading for Jose Vidro.

Or trading for Erik Bedard.

Or tradingaway rafael soriano.

Or signing Adrian Beltre. Wow I feel for you guys.

[mqtirishfan]

Or trading for Jose Vidro.

Or trading for Erik Bedard.

Or tradingaway rafael soriano.

**** outta here. Bedard is a fantastic pitcher.


WHIP under 1.10, 200 Ks since 2000:

Erik Bedard
Jake Peavy (x2)
Johan Santana (x3)
Chris Carpenter
Pedro Marinez (x4)
Randy Johnson (x3)
Ben Sheets
Curt Schilling (x3)
Jason Schmidt (x2)
Roy Halladay (X2)
Mike Mussina
Javier Vazquez
Kevin Brown

With the exceptions of perhaps Carpenter, Schmidt, Sheets and Vazquez, these are all (or were) guys you can feel good about making your number one pitcher, and Sheets is only iffy because of his injuries.

[mqtirishfan]

Also, Harold Reynolds said that he feels that Raul Ibanez is the best signing of the off-season so far, because he will improve the offense.

[Brodeur]

Or signing Adrian Beltre. Wow I feel for you guys.

Beltre was a fantastic signing actually.

And Irish, they traded so much for Bedard and he's a walking injury risk who may never be the same again, that's their biggest problem.

[Fogartynyy2789]

Beltre was a fantastic signing actually.

And Irish, they traded so much for Bedard and he's a walking injury risk who may never be the same again, that's their biggest problem.

Beltre wasn't worth the money, he had the Marcus Camby contract year and was rewarded. He's been good, but certainly not worth what we makes.

[Brodeur]

Beltre wasn't worth the money, he had the Marcus Camby contract year and was rewarded. He's been good, but certainly not worth what we makes.

He's been one of the best defensive players in baseball and his power is severely limited by Safeco. He's been a bargain.

[Fogartynyy2789]

He's been one of the best defensive players in baseball and his power is severely limited by Safeco. He's been a bargain.

.327 OBP and .216 with RISP, I'm sorry but those stats are terrible.


His defense is very, very good.

[P-L]

his power is severely limited by Safeco.
Over the past two seasons (2007 and 2008):

Beltre at home: .413 SLG

Beltre on the road: .526 SLG

[Bruce Banner]

Padres sign Prior to minor league deal.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

.327 OBP and .216 with RISP, I'm sorry but those stats are terrible.


His defense is very, very good.


Bring the saber.


Also, Mets sign Cora.

Cora+Redding=championship.

[fischbowl]

Fisch's Official Top Prospects By Team 2009! I'd like to try and consolidate these all onto one page later. Expect a division a day starting with the AL East. I'm doing this early and will likely do a more detailed version by Pitchers and Catchers

http://www.baseballchronology.com/Common/Images/Sports/Baseball/Ipx/logo_Blue_Jays(120).gif

1. Travis Snider, OF
2. Brett Cecil, RHP
3. J.P. Arencibia, C
4. David Cooper, 1B
5. Kevin Ahrens, 3B
6. Brad Mills, LHP
7. Justin Jackson, SS
8. Mark Rzepcynski, RHP
9. Scott Campbell, 2B
10. Ricky Romero, LHP
11. Brad Emaus, INF
12. Balbino Fuenmayor, 3B
13. Andrew Liebel, RHP
14. John Tolisano, 2B
15. Markus Brisker, OF
Just Misses: 1B Brian Dopirak, C Brian Jeraloman, 3B Mark Sobolewski, RHP Robert Ray, OF Eric Thames
Sleeper: Joe Wice, LHP

http://i120.photobucket.com/albums/o176/anaconda44/TeamLogo--BaltimoreOrioles06.jpg

1. Matt Wieters, C
2. Brian Matusz, LHP
3. Chris Tillman, RHP
4. Jake Arrieta, RHP
5. Nolan Reimold, OF
6. Brandon Snyder, 1B
7. Brandon Erbe, RHP
8. Kam Mickolio, RHP
9. Troy Patton, LHP
10. Zach Britton, RHP
11. Chorye Spoone, RHP
12. L.J. Hoes, 2B
13. Bradley Bergesen, RHP
14. David Hernandez, RHP
15. Billy Rowell, 3B
Just Misses: Sean Gleason, RHP, Pedro Beato, RHP, Xavier Avery, OF, Mike Costanzo, 3B, Ryan Adams, INF
Sleeper: Elvin Polanco, 1B

http://mikeandmotoko.com/yankees-logo2.jpg

1. Jesus Montero, C
2. Austin Jackson, OF
3. Dellin Betances, RHP
4. Mark Melancon, RHP
5. Andrew Brackman, RHP
6. Austin Romine, C
7. Phil Coke, RHP
8. Zach McAllister, RHP
9. Brad Suttle, 3B
10. Brett Gardner, OF
11. George Kontos, RHP
12. Jeremy Bleich, LHP
13. Alfredo Aceves, RHP
14. Kevin Whelan, RHP
15. Pat Venditte, SHP
Just Misses: J. Brent Cox, RHP, Humberto Sanchez, RHP, Eric Hacker, RHP, Francisco Cervelli, C, Anthony Claggett, RHP
Sleeper: Ray Kruml, OF

http://www.thesportsfixradio.com/images/team_logos/devil_rays_logo.jpg

1. David Price, LHP
2. Jeremy Hellickson, RHP
3. Tim Beckham, SS
4. Wade Davis, RHP
5. Desmond Jennings, OF
6. Nick Barnese, RHP
7. Jeff Niemann, RHP
8. Reid Brignac, SS
9. Jake McGee, LHP
10. Matt Moore, LHP
11. John Jaso, C
12. Jake Jefferies, C
13. Kyle Lobstein, LHP
14. Mitch Talbot, RHP
15. Glenn Gibson, LHP
Just Misses: Jason Corder, OF, Ty Morrison, OF, James Houser, LHP, Chuck Tiffany, LHP, Mike Sheridan, 1B
Sleeper: John Matulia, OF

http://www.thetowncommon.com/Images/Red_Sox_Logo.jpg

1. Lars Anderson, 1B
2. Michael Bowden, RHP
3. Josh Reddick, OF
4. Junichi Tazawa, RHP
5. Daniel Bard, RHP
6. Nick Hagadone, LHP
7. Michael Almanzar, 3B
8. Ryan Westmoreland, OF
9. Ryan Kalish, OF
10. Casey Kelly, RHP/SS
11. Kyle Weiland, RHP
12. Yamaico Navarro, SS
13. Bryan Price, RHP
14. Stolmy Pimentel, RHP
15. Derrik Gibson, INF
Just Misses: Luis Exposito, C, Stephen Fife, RHP, Richard Lentz, RHP, Will Middlebrooks, 3B, Peter Hissey, OF
Sleeper: Eammonn Portice, RHP

[Damix]

For the Yankees, McAllister should be higher and Venditte shouldn't sniff that list. Otherwise nice job.

[ElectricEye]

Lars Anderson is going to be a monster. The power came on in 2008 and should continue to improve as he learns to pull the ball more. Should hit for a very high average as well and he's more than patient enough at the plate.

As far as that list goes, Casey Kelly is a little low. He played last year at SS and started to show something towards the end of the year after some major struggles at the plate. He's going to start next year pitching. He's raw there, but his arsenal is advanced and he's got 92-95 velocity that should only improve. He's a legit prospect at both positions.

[fischbowl]

For the Yankees, McAllister should be higher and Venditte shouldn't sniff that list. Otherwise nice job.

I admit I am a ***** for Venditte. He absolutely dominated the NYPenn League and had he not done so he wouldn't that high. How can you deny this statline:

In 33 IP:

1-0, 0.83 ERA, 23 SV, 11.57 K/9, .117 BAA

[Jughead10]

Bring the saber.


Also, Mets sign Cora.

Cora+Redding=championship.

Cora is a great signing. A great guy to have on the team. Everyone says he is a future manager and a great clubhouse guy. I wanted the Yankees to take a look at him for the bench.

[Jughead10]

I admit I am a ***** for Venditte. He absolutely dominated the NYPenn League and had he not done so he wouldn't that high. How can you deny this statline:

In 33 IP:

1-0, 0.83 ERA, 23 SV, 11.57 K/9, .117 BAA

What do you think of Cervelli? A Paul LoDuca type perhaps. With better defense and no power.

I also can't wait for Melancon to help out the pen this year.

Also SHP? You make that up yourself?

[SuperKevin]

Is Brackman for the Yankees the former PF at NC State?

[Fogartynyy2789]

What do you think of Cervelli? A Paul LoDuca type perhaps. With better defense and no power.

I also can't wait for Melancon to help out the pen this year.

Also SHP? You make that up yourself?

Cervelli is hard to judge because he missed so much time with the wrist injury. He's been hitting .270 in winter ball this year with a .380 OBP. I hope the Yankees stick with him. They already let Navarro get away.

[Jughead10]

Cervelli is hard to judge because he missed so much time with the wrist injury. He's been hitting .270 in winter ball this year with a .380 OBP. I hope the Yankees stick with him. They already let Navarro get away.

I'm not sure he'll ever be a starter. But I think he could provide some good depth starting next season when Molina is gone or if he gets hurt this year.

[Jughead10]

Is Brackman for the Yankees the former PF at NC State?

I guess. I know he went to NC State and is about 6'9" or 6'10". So I guess he probably played basketball at some point.

[SuperKevin]

For the Yankees, McAllister should be higher and Venditte shouldn't sniff that list. Otherwise nice job.

Pat Venditte is a Bill Veeck sideshow attraction

[Hawk]

Lars Anderson is going to be a monster. The power came on in 2008 and should continue to improve as he learns to pull the ball more. Should hit for a very high average as well and he's more than patient enough at the plate.

As far as that list goes, Casey Kelly is a little low. He played last year at SS and started to show something towards the end of the year after some major struggles at the plate. He's going to start next year pitching. He's raw there, but his arsenal is advanced and he's got 92-95 velocity that should only improve. He's a legit prospect at both positions.

Same Casey Kelly that was a QB and committed to Tennessee right?

[Fogartynyy2789]

I'm not sure he'll ever be a starter. But I think he could provide some good depth starting next season when Molina is gone or if he gets hurt this year.

Yea I mean, he's only 22/3 so he still might be able to develop. No one ever thought Navarro would be a big time player either. I'd keep him around for a few years because he could spell Posada/Posada's replacement eventually. Apparently a hell of defensive catcher. I can live with him hitting .240 and playing good defense 45 times a year.

[Jughead10]

Yea I mean, he's only 22/3 so he still might be able to develop. No one ever thought Navarro would be a big time player either. I'd keep him around for a few years because he could spell Posada/Posada's replacement eventually. Apparently a hell of defensive catcher. I can live with him hitting .240 and playing good defense 45 times a year.

I think his average could be better than that. But no power. Thats why I thought of a comparison of Paul Lo Duca but with even less power but better defensively.

[Fogartynyy2789]

I think his average could be better than that. But no power. Thats why I thought of a comparison of Paul Lo Duca but with even less power but better defensively.

Paul LoDuca as a Dodger? Cause if so you have a top 5 AL catcher.

[Jughead10]

Paul LoDuca as a Dodger? Cause if so you have a top 5 AL catcher.

Paul LoDuca post steroids. As a Met think. A singles and doubles hitter. Hit around .275-.295, but with better defense than LoDuca. Not a bad player to have on the team.

[Borat]

LOL. Paul LoDuca is trying to get a minor-league contract at this point.

[Fogartynyy2789]

Paul LoDuca post steroids. As a Met think. A singles and doubles hitter. Hit around .275-.295, but with better defense than LoDuca. Not a bad player to have on the team.


If he hits anything over .275 start him and bat him ninth. No need wasting a ton of money on an overrated catcher.

[Jughead10]

LOL. Paul LoDuca is trying to get a minor-league contract at this point.

At this point he's trying to get that. But 3-4 years ago he wasn't that terrible a player. Especially if he was only going to start 40 or so games for you at catcher.

[Jughead10]

If he hits anything over .275 start him and bat him ninth. No need wasting a ton of money on an overrated catcher.

Well I was figuring that either Montero or Romine would eventually take that position.

[bsaza2358]

Lars Anderson is going to be a monster. The power came on in 2008 and should continue to improve as he learns to pull the ball more. Should hit for a very high average as well and he's more than patient enough at the plate.

As far as that list goes, Casey Kelly is a little low. He played last year at SS and started to show something towards the end of the year after some major struggles at the plate. He's going to start next year pitching. He's raw there, but his arsenal is advanced and he's got 92-95 velocity that should only improve. He's a legit prospect at both positions.

How long until Anderson is up in the majors? I haven't gotten my prospect books yet, but I know he had some awesome power and excellent plate discipline for a young kid. He's what? 22?

[bsaza2358]

If Arizona is looking to trade Montero, are they going to have Snyder as the full time catcher there?

[bored of education]

http://baseball.realgm.com/src_wiretap_archives/13098/20090114/rickey_i_could_still_lead_mlb_in_steals/

New York Daily News - Rickey Henderson was voted into the Hall of Fame earlier this week, but if a team came calling he'd come out of retirement in a heartbeat.

He said, "if a club came out and said they needed a left fielder, they needed a guy to get on base and steal a few bases, they can always ring my phone and I'll come on down and help their ballclub, that's how much I love the game."

Rickey, 50, said he would lead the majors in stolen bases if given the oppurtunity.

"I believe today, and people say I'm crazy, but if you gave me as many at-bats that you would give the runners out there today, I would out-steal every last one of them'


LOLZOLZOLZZLOZLZOLOZLOLZO

[bsaza2358]

That is pretty awesome and very much the kind of attitude that made him so great.

[Borat]

At this point he's trying to get that. But 3-4 years ago he wasn't that terrible a player. Especially if he was only going to start 40 or so games for you at catcher.

Yeah, I know. I just heard that last night and was laughing when you guys brought that up.

[luckyjackaubrey]

Same Casey Kelly that was a QB and committed to Tennessee right?

Correct. He only would sign with Boston if they allowed him to try SS first. THey see his future on the mound. He played SS in rookie leagues in FLA and later in Lowell. Did not hit well either place. The plan is for him to pitch from the get go this year in rookie or low A ball and then when he reaches his innings quota for the year they will let him play SS somewhere in the organization for the remainder of the season.

[luckyjackaubrey]

How long until Anderson is up in the majors? I haven't gotten my prospect books yet, but I know he had some awesome power and excellent plate discipline for a young kid. He's what? 22?

He turned 21 end of September '08. He spent the 2nd half of last year in AA. I believe the plan is to give him the full year at AA Portland this season. There is no need to rush him this season but he is certainly the prospect that could take some of the sting out of not signing Texiera down the road.

[bsaza2358]

I am a big fan of his. I have him as a farm prospect in my deep, deep auction league, and I expect him to be a huge stud for me for the next 4-5 years (until I have to throw him back to the auction due to contract limits).

[luckyjackaubrey]

His readiness / arrival should mesh nicely with the expiring Lowell contract.

[M.O.T.H.]

Love the Lowe signing...one of my favorites. Hopefully, Dunn is next. We initially didnt want him because, of the whole defensive factor but, we need the bat and may be the leading candidate to get him now.

[mqtirishfan]

Love the Lowe signing...one of my favorites. Hopefully, Dunn is next. We initially didnt want him because, of the whole defensive factor but, we need the bat and may be the leading candidate to get him now.

This off-season is starting to look really, really, really good.

[Tampa 2 4 life]

http://www.thesportsfixradio.com/images/team_logos/devil_rays_logo.jpg

1. David Price, LHP
2. Jeremy Hellickson, RHP
3. Tim Beckham, SS
4. Wade Davis, RHP
5. Desmond Jennings, OF
6. Nick Barnese, RHP
7. Jeff Niemann, RHP
8. Reid Brignac, SS
9. Jake McGee, LHP
10. Matt Moore, LHP
11. John Jaso, C
12. Jake Jefferies, C
13. Kyle Lobstein, LHP
14. Mitch Talbot, RHP
15. Glenn Gibson, LHP
Just Misses: Jason Corder, OF, Ty Morrison, OF, James Houser, LHP, Chuck Tiffany, LHP, Mike Sheridan, 1B
Sleeper: John Matulia, OF

T24L's official list of criticisms!

-Beckham above Davis?
-Jaso Above Jeffries?
-Mitch Talbot is extremely low, he's top 10.
-Glenn Gibson above anyone? Seriously, Glenn Gibson?
-How is chuck tiffany a just miss? He hasn't been good in 2 years.
-Mike Sheridan gets a mention, but not Kang or Otero?

[Bruce Banner]

If atl signs Dunn, they won't make the playoffs.

Heard it here first!1

Then again, will they make it anyways?

[ElectricEye]

I am a big fan of his. I have him as a farm prospect in my deep, deep auction league, and I expect him to be a huge stud for me for the next 4-5 years (until I have to throw him back to the auction due to contract limits).

He still has some things to work on but he's going to be a great hitter. The only question is if he can pull the ball. He has a tendency to go the other way with the ball like...every time. He hits a lot of big opposite field homeruns. He's made a lot of strides in that area already though.

[Brodeur]

If atl signs Dunn, they won't make the playoffs.

Heard it here first!1

Then again, will they make it anyways?

Yes they will. With that infield defense/pitching staff/bullpen, all they really need is a good hitting outfielder to compliment Chipper/McCann/Escobar/Johnson in the lineup.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

If atl signs Dunn, they won't make the playoffs.

Heard it here first!1

Then again, will they make it anyways?


Depends on what the Mets do IMO. I think the NL East sends two. If we just sign Oliver Perez, and he stays at about the same pitcher... I could see them leap-frogging us.

[Brodeur]

Depends on what the Mets do IMO. I think the NL East sends two. If we just sign Oliver Perez, and he stays at about the same pitcher... I could see them leap-frogging us.

I'd put it: Atlanta/Mets/Phillies if Atlanta gets a good outfielder. I just don't see Lidge or Moyer repeating their years, and Burrell to Ibanez is a massive downgrade.

[fischbowl]

T24L's official list of criticisms!

-Beckham above Davis?
-Jaso Above Jeffries?
-Mitch Talbot is extremely low, he's top 10.
-Glenn Gibson above anyone? Seriously, Glenn Gibson?
-How is chuck tiffany a just miss? He hasn't been good in 2 years.
-Mike Sheridan gets a mention, but not Kang or Otero?

In the cases of the first and second criticisms I found both to be interchangeable. I went with Beckham over Davis due to pure potential and Jaso over Jefferies citing lack of experience.

While Talbot had a great year, he's just average IMO

<3 Glenn Gibson. The move to the bullpen was stupid and I expect him to rebound.

Tiffany I've loved since his LA days and I still think he has the the potential to be a solid MR.

[bored of education]

Did Pavano or Wood go on the DL yet?

[Sniper]

I'd put it: Atlanta/Mets/Phillies if Atlanta gets a good outfielder. I just don't see Lidge or Moyer repeating their years, and Burrell to Ibanez is a massive downgrade.

Yes, but the Phils have Cole Hamels. Cole Hamels=automatic win.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

Yes, but the Phils have Cole Hamels. Cole Hamels=automatic win.

Cole Hamels is a ******* *****.

[Sniper]

Cole Hamels is a ******* *****.

He's a "freaking" female dog? I'm trying to read the stars.

[SuperKevin]

Yes, but the Phils have Cole Hamels. Cole Hamels=automatic win.

Except against the Mets

[Sniper]

Except against the Mets

Cole can't be bothered with second place teams. He's too busy crapping on people in the playoffs.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

He's a "freaking" female dog? I'm trying to read the stars.


Good work sir.

[bored of education]

Cole Hamels is almost as much the definition of PURE SEX as I am.

[Bruce Banner]

Did Pavano or Wood go on the DL yet?

After 40 mil, I think it's safe to say that Pavano's wood will never be on the DL.

[Sniper]

http://cache.daylife.com/imageserve/0csg23p49XaVd/340x.jpg

So much win in one picture.

[SuperKevin]

I get so mad everytime I enter my local 7-11 and see Cole Hamels on the cover of San Diego Magazine as "Sportsman of the Year"

[Sniper]

I get so mad everytime I enter my local 7-11 and see Cole Hamels on the cover of San Diego Magazine as "Sportsman of the Year"

No sweat. After Tate Forcier wins four Heismans, you won't have to worry about it. :D

[SuperKevin]

I really hope Alex Cora doesn't end up being our starting second baseman. It could be worse though

[Borat]

Some baseball pics. Really. There's ... like ... some baseball related stuff in there. Seriously.

http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-sf2p/v653/82/111/11519249/n11519249_36782801_6108.jpg

http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-sf2p/v653/82/111/11519249/n11519249_36782798_5177.jpg

http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-sf2p/v653/82/111/11519249/n11519249_36782799_5489.jpg
Piece of ass and a piece of **** ... all in one pic. Tremendous.

http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-sf2p/v653/82/111/11519249/n11519249_36782800_5801.jpg
More ass and **** in this one too.

http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-sf2p/v653/82/111/11519249/n11519249_36782797_4783.jpg

http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v1920/82/111/11519249/n11519249_36782794_6155.jpg

http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v1920/82/111/11519249/n11519249_36782795_6485.jpg
Whole lotta **** in this one.

http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v1920/82/111/11519249/n11519249_36782792_5391.jpg

http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v1920/82/111/11519249/n11519249_36782793_5782.jpg

[Zyro_1014]

Some baseball pics. Really. There's ... like ... some baseball related stuff in there. Seriously.

http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-sf2p/v653/82/111/11519249/n11519249_36782801_6108.jpg

http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-sf2p/v653/82/111/11519249/n11519249_36782798_5177.jpg

http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-sf2p/v653/82/111/11519249/n11519249_36782799_5489.jpg
Piece of ass and a piece of **** ... all in one pic. Tremendous.

http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-sf2p/v653/82/111/11519249/n11519249_36782800_5801.jpg
More ass and **** in this one too.

http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-sf2p/v653/82/111/11519249/n11519249_36782797_4783.jpg

http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v1920/82/111/11519249/n11519249_36782794_6155.jpg

http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v1920/82/111/11519249/n11519249_36782795_6485.jpg
Whole lotta **** in this one.

http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v1920/82/111/11519249/n11519249_36782792_5391.jpg

http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v1920/82/111/11519249/n11519249_36782793_5782.jpg

i feel sorry for the girl in the pic with Zito lol.

[Borat]

http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-sf2p/v653/82/111/11519249/n11519249_36782799_5489.jpg

Zito: "Hey hottie"
Chick: "I heard you suck at baseball"
Zito: "Don't believe everything you hear"
Chick: "I heard you are insanely rich"
Zito: "Yes, I legally stole $126 million"
Chick: "Here are my panties and the key to my hotel room"

End scene.

[Brodeur]

i feel sorry for the girl in the pic with Zito lol.

He'll bounce back to being a decent pitcher this year and everyone will RUE THE DAY. RUE I SAY.

[Vikes99ej]

I love listening to Cole Hamels talk.

[Bruce Banner]

I love listening to Harold Reynolds talk.

Hey! Me too!

[Tampa 2 4 life]

* LHP Scott Kazmir has gained close to 20 pounds since the end of last season due to an increased off-season conditioning and strengthening program designed to improve his balance.

Now you will know the true vengeance of Scott Kazmir.

[Brodeur]

Now you will know the true vengeance of Scott Kazmir.

Maybe he'll go 5.67 innings instead of just 5 on average this year!

[Tampa 2 4 life]

Maybe he'll go 5.67 innings instead of just 5 on average this year!

Remember when he threw that 1 hitter against the red sox two years ago? He only goes 6 innings to avoid disappointment.

[Jughead10]

Now you will know the true vengeance of Scott Kazmir.

You sure it's not an extra 20 pounds from having the munchies all the time.

[Tampa 2 4 life]

You sure it's not an extra 20 pounds from having the munchies all the time.

He has the munchies all the time anyway.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

I love listening to Cole Hamels talk.


Really? I hate the girly shrill of women that Cole also possesses. Might be just me though.

[Giantsfan1080]

Johan laughs at Cole. Seriously he does.

[Zyro_1014]

Remember when he threw that 1 hitter against the red sox two years ago? He only goes 6 innings to avoid disappointment.

Kazmir is a stud, Price is by far my favorite pitcher tho. I followed him when he was at Vanderbilt and....wow!

[Giantsfan1080]

Stephen Strasburg is going to be the man big time. Probably better than Price.

[Sniper]

Johan laughs at Cole. Seriously he does.

Cole looks at his WS ring and wife and then laughs in Johan's face.

/discussion.

[princefielder28]

Youkilis signs 4 year deal worth $40 mil+

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3835955&campaign=rss&source=MLBHeadlines

[Tampa 2 4 life]

Kazmir is a stud, Price is by far my favorite pitcher tho. I followed him when he was at Vanderbilt and....wow!

Just wait until we draft Strasburg via Voodoo.

[P-L]

Youkilis signs 4 year deal worth $40 mil+

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3835955&campaign=rss&source=MLBHeadlines
Theo is raping this off-season. Youkilis for $10 million/year? No way.

[Turtlepower]

Anyone see the Man v. Food with Youkilis cheering on the Red Sox guy? The Red Sox guy cheated with his massive fatness.

[Jughead10]

Theo is raping this off-season. Youkilis for $10 million/year? No way.

I wouldn't say he is raping this offseason. He is keeping players on his team locked up long term at great value. However, I don't think he has done anything to make the team better. It is probably a little bit worse.

[Turtlepower]

My question is where will Lars Anderson be playing? Do they eventually plan to make Youkilis their 3B after this season and wait until next season to bring Lars up to 1B?

[Im_a_Romosexual]

My question is where will Lars Anderson be playing? Do they eventually plan to make Youkilis their 3B after this season and wait until next season to bring Lars up to 1B?

I believe that's the plan. After Lowell retires, gets traded, etc

[bsaza2358]

Cole looks at his WS ring and wife and then laughs in Johan's face.

/discussion.

Technically, Cole hasn't gotten his ring yet, so he will do so in about 5 months. In the meantime, he's looking at his NLCS and WS MVP trophies...

[bored of education]

Theo is raping this off-season. Youkilis for $10 million/year? No way.

Not bad for a guy with 1.5 years worth of solidness. Far from raping. Short term contracts for a guy only proven to be that good for 1.5 years. Smart, not rapage.

[Brodeur]

I wouldn't say he is raping this offseason. He is keeping players on his team locked up long term at great value. However, I don't think he has done anything to make the team better. It is probably a little bit worse.

They improved their bullpen and starting rotation significantly while extending their stars. Job well done.

[Sniper]

Theo did a great job of addressing the back end of the rotation. Acquiring Smoltz to be the #4 starter was a good move, and now it allows guys like Penny, Wakefield and Buchholz to move back a slot and probably move one to the bullpen. I really like the Takashi Saito signing for the bullpen, but I think they may need one more lefty to round it out.

[Brodeur]

http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/standings;_ylt=AmHyWLDhhCJ9Jhp39YHhOKVhOJB4

Is there even a remote chance that Bonds gets jail time at this point? Because that would just make me so glad that so much money was thrown away. I'm certainly glad that he's basically going to win this case with ease though.

[Tampa 2 4 life]

Scotty Dangerous and Jay Pee Howell ---> WBC

[fischbowl]

http://minnesota.twins.mlb.com/min/images/ticketing/b2b/mn_state_logo.gif

1. Aaron Hicks, OF
2. Ben Revere, OF
3. Kevin Mulvey, RHP
4. Wilson Ramos, C
5. Shooter Hunt, RHP
6. Danny Valencia, 3B
7. Carlos Gutierrez, RHP
8. Jose Mijares, LHP
9. Anthony Swarzak, RHP
10. Rob Delaney, RHP
11. Angel Morales, OF
12. Anthony Slama, RHP
13. Luke Hughes, 2B
14. Jason Pridie, OF
15. Tyler Robertson, LHP
Just Misses: Blair Erickson, RHP, Bobby Lanigan, RHP, Deolis Guerra, RHP, Trevor Plouffe, SS, Chris Parmalee, OF
Sleeper: Yohan Pino, RHP

http://www.brockforbroglio.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/caps-logo-detroit-tigers1983-2007road-000024066-000024066.png

1. Rick Porcello, RHP
2. Ryan Perry, RHP
3. Casey Crosby, LHP
4. Jeff Larish, 1B
5. Cale Iorg, SS
6. Scott Green, RHP
7. Wilkin Ramirez, OF
8. Scott Sizemore, 2B
9. Brett Jacobsen, RHP
10. Casper Wells, OF
11. Chris Lambert, RHP
12. Cody Satterwhite, RHP
13. Luis Marte, RHP
14. Alex Avila, C
15. Casey Fien, RHP
Just Misses: Eddie Bonine, RHP, Danny Worth, SS, Jay Sborz, RHP, Rudy Darrow, RHP, Alfredo Figaro, RHP
Sleeper: Josh Workman, OF

http://www.avatarist.com/avatars/Sports/Baseball/Chicago-White-Sox/Chicago-White-Sox-Logo-2.gif

1. Gordon Beckham, SS
2. Aaron Poreda, LHP
3. Jordan Danks, OF
4. Clayton Richard, LHP
5. Brandon Allen, 1B
6. Dayan Viciedo, 3B
7. Tyler Flowers, C
8. Chris Getz, 2B
9. John Shelby, OF
10. Jeff Marquez, RHP
11. John Ely, RHP
12. Brent Morel, 3B
13. Jack Egbert, RHP
14. Jon Gilmore, 3B
15. Jose Martinez, OF
Just Misses: Brian Omogrosso, RHP, Eduardo Escobar, SS, Nevin Griffith, RHP, CJ Retherford, 3B, Brent Lillibridge, 2B
Sleeper: Dan Remenowsky, RHP

http://gaindians.com/images/Indians_logo.gif

1. Carlos Santana, C
2. Matt LaPorta, 1B
3. David Huff, LHP
4. Nick Weglarz, OF
5. Beau Mills, 1B
6. Adam Miller, RHP
7. Lonnie Chisenhall, 3B
8. Michael Brantley, OF
9. Hector Rondon, RHP
10. Wes Hodges, 3B
11. Kelvin de la Cruz, LHP
12. Carlos Rivero, SS
13. John Meloan, RHP
14. Scott Lewis, LHP
15. Randy Newsom, RHP
Just Misses: Trevor Crowe, OF, Frank Herrmann, RHP, Matt McBride, C, Luis Valbuena, SS, Ryan Edell, LHP
Sleeper: Delvi Cid, OF

http://images.wikia.com/openserving/sports/images/thumb/a/ac/Kc_royals_logo.gif/107px-Kc_royals_logo.gif

1. Mike Moustakas, 3B
2. Eric Hosmer, 1B
3. Mike Montgomery, LHP
4. Daniel Cortes, RHP
5. Tim Melville, RHP
6. Kila Ka’aihue, 1B
7. Danny Duffy, LHP
8. Johnny Giavotella, 2B
9. Carlos Rosa, RHP
10. Blake Wood, RHP
11. Joe Dickerson, OF
12. Danny Gutierrez, RHP
13. Tyler Sample, RHP
14. Julio Cesar Pimentel, RHP
15. Matt Kniginyzky, RHP
Just Misses: Chris Nicoll, RHP, David Lough, OF, Adrian Ortiz, OF, Sam Runion, RHP, Gilbert de la Vara, LHP
Sleeper: Devery van de Keere, OF

[djp]

Nice Twins list fischy.

I love Hicks. His tools are incredible.

Mulvey is too high, though, imo. I'd put Ramos over him.

[Jughead10]

They improved their bullpen and starting rotation significantly while extending their stars. Job well done.

Who'd they get for their bullpen? I must have missed an acquisition.

[Sniper]

Who'd they get for their bullpen? I must have missed an acquisition.

Takashi Saito and Ramon Ramirez. Plus, you have to figure with the Smoltz and Penny signings that one of Wakefield or Buchholz will drop down to the bullpen.

[SimonRath]

Bostons pitching staff is absolutely loaded!

[Sniper]

Bostons pitching staff is absolutely loaded!

I like it. Expecting 50 wins from the top 3 guys (Beckett, Lester, Matsuzaka) isn't out of the question if they stay healthy. They got 46 wins between the three of them last year and Beckett missed a decent chunk of the season. Throw in Smoltz, who, if healthy, will be the best #4 starter in baseball and you could have roughly 60 or so wins from the top four starters. Wakefield and Penny could easily get another 10 wins.

I think it's the best starting staff in baseball, but I'm biased. Other opinions?

[SimonRath]

I like it. Expecting 50 wins from the top 3 guys (Beckett, Lester, Matsuzaka) isn't out of the question if they stay healthy. They got 46 wins between the three of them last year and Beckett missed a decent chunk of the season. Throw in Smoltz, who, if healthy, will be the best #4 starter in baseball and you could have roughly 60 or so wins from the top four starters. Wakefield and Penny could easily get another 10 wins.

I think it's the best starting staff in baseball, but I'm biased. Other opinions?

i agree 100%. no other team in baseball has as many top quality pitchers as boston does. If Beckett stays healthy then our top 3 guys can match up with any other teams top 3 guys.

[P-L]

I think it's the best starting staff in baseball, but I'm biased. Other opinions?

If A.J. Burnett stays healthy, the Yankees' is probably a little bit better.

[SimonRath]

If A.J. Burnett stays healthy, the Yankees' is probably a little bit better.

nah, i still personally think bostons is better.

Sabathia vs Beckett
A.J. Burnett vs Lester
Wang vs Matsuzaka

you don't know how Sabathia and Burnett will handle the pressure of New York, they may be good or they may stink it up. We already know how Beckett, Lester and Matsuzaka will handle it

[Sniper]

nah, i still personally think bostons is better.

Sabathia vs Beckett
A.J. Burnett vs Lester
Wang vs Matsuzaka

you don't know how Sabathia and Burnett will handle the pressure of New York, they may be good or they may stink it up. We already know how Beckett, Lester and Matsuzaka will handle it

If Sabathia handles the pressure of New York as well as he handles the post-season pressure, he'll be great!








For the Red Sox and Rays.

[ElectricEye]

I'm not sure I would say we have the best staff in baseball, but it should be real good. I'm really hoping Daisuke steps his game up this year. He showed some real good things last year and the three year adjustment period everybody talked about is starting to come to an end. If he can just cut down on those walks a little bit, he'll have a monster year.

Beckett should bounce back rather nicely. Not near as much post season fatigue this year. Should be one of the elite pitchers in the American League again this season.

Lester...well, he's young and he's talented and he's on the rise. If he pitches like he did the last half of the season, we could be looking at a special pitcher.

[Sniper]

Am I the only one who thinks Smoltz could get 12-14 wins?

[Jughead10]

Takashi Saito and Ramon Ramirez. Plus, you have to figure with the Smoltz and Penny signings that one of Wakefield or Buchholz will drop down to the bullpen.

Ramon Ramirez turned out to be a decent pitcher. We traded him for Shawn Chacon 3-4 years ago.

[Jughead10]

Am I the only one who thinks Smoltz could get 12-14 wins?

Is he going to start the season? Or will he start on the DL?

Also Dice-K does need to improve. He was extremely lucky with his results last season.

[ElectricEye]

Am I the only one who thinks Smoltz could get 12-14 wins?

He's starting the year on the DL though. I think 6-8 wins down the stretch is much more realistic.

The thing I love about the Smoltz signing is that he's useful to us no matter what. If Buchholz steps up and finally starts living up to his potential and Smoltz isn't healthy enough to start(maybe more of one than the other), at the very least he's going to be a stud reliever for us.

[Sniper]

He's starting the year on the DL though. I think 6-8 wins down the stretch is much more realistic.

The thing I love about the Smoltz signing is that he's useful to us no matter what. If Buchholz steps up and finally starts living up to his potential and Smoltz isn't healthy enough to start(maybe more of one than the other), at the very least he's going to be a stud reliever for us.

Oh, didn't realize he was starting on the DL.

[Hines]

BA put Pedro Alvarez as the top prospect in the National League this season. If it were the top 50, I think he will be in the top 5.

http://www.baseballamerica.com/today/prospects/ask-ba/2009/267429.html

McCutchen will be in the top 50, but I hope that Tabata can crack into the top 100 or so.

[ElectricEye]

Oh, didn't realize he was starting on the DL.

He had shoulder surgery last season.

The Sox really are going to do all they can not to push him. After the All Star Break at the earliest. Should be pitching for us by mid June.

[Sniper]

He had shoulder surgery last season.

The Sox really are going to do all they can not to push him. After the All Star Break at the earliest. Should be pitching for us by mid June.

I knew he had surgery. I did not know he was still out.

I can still tolerate Wakefield/Penny/Buchholz taking up two spots.

[ElectricEye]

I knew he had surgery. I did not know he was still out.

I can still tolerate Wakefield/Penny/Buchholz taking up two spots.

Penny takes one of those spots for sure. Hopefully he works out there. Another guy to throw in there is Masterson, although I'm not sure I'm comfortable giving him up in the pen.

[Tampa 2 4 life]

i agree 100%. no other team in baseball has as many top quality pitchers as boston does. If Beckett stays healthy then our top 3 guys can match up with any other teams top 3 guys.


Shieldsy
Kaz
Garza
Sonny
Price

But you're right, nobody can match the BRAD PENNY EXPERIENCE!

[Turtlepower]

I think that if all stay healthy, the Yankees have the best staff in baseball. As far as depth goes, the Red Sox might have the most in baseball, but that is assuming that Smoltz comes back from the DL prior to the all-star break. As far as the Rays go, I think they have the potential to have the best staff in MLB. But let's all agree that the 3 best pitching staffs are all in the AL East.

[bored of education]

Pavaboe > all

[NYGibril28]

I think that if all stay healthy, the Yankees have the best staff in baseball. As far as depth goes, the Red Sox might have the most in baseball, but that is assuming that Smoltz comes back from the DL prior to the all-star break. As far as the Rays go, I think they have the potential to have the best staff in MLB. But let's all agree that the 3 best pitching staffs are all in the AL East.

I'll agree to that, but i still have to put Tampa Bay at the top. That's one man's opinion. Others will vary I'm sure.

[Brodeur]

I think that if all stay healthy, the Yankees have the best staff in baseball. As far as depth goes, the Red Sox might have the most in baseball, but that is assuming that Smoltz comes back from the DL prior to the all-star break. As far as the Rays go, I think they have the potential to have the best staff in MLB. But let's all agree that the 3 best pitching staffs are all in the AL East.

The Giants will disagree if Zito can go back to being decent (which I think he very well can) and Sanchez gains some consistency.

[Turtlepower]

The Giants will disagree if Zito can go back to being decent (which I think he very well can) and Sanchez gains some consistency.

The Diamondbacks have a better rotation than the Giants, so I can't honestly say the Giants have one of the best rotations. Also, there is no chance that Zito could ever be decent.

[Brodeur]

Two straight years that a smart general manager has signed David Eckstein. It boggles the mind.

[Tampa 2 4 life]

Cory also explained that we can expect the roll out of Hit-f/x, a system similar to Pitch-f/x that would use the technology already in place to track the initial batted ball data. Trajectory, angel [sic], velocity, etc. measurements would all be recorded but the technology would be limited to just the initial batted ball data. The Hit-f/x system would not be able to track the entire trajectory of batted balls ... I was told that [the Hit-f/x system] is definitely on the radar for the ‘09 season.


OH MY GOD OH MY GOD.

Defensive stats won't suck anymore!

[mqtirishfan]

If Glavine or Hanson can do well for Atlanta, the Braves will be right there, I think.

[fischbowl]

AL Central Prospects one page back

[mqtirishfan]

So, Eckstein gets to bring his grit to San Diego. I was looking at his numbers, and found out he actually got ******* MVP votes in a season where his OPS+ was 99.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

So, Eckstein gets to bring his grit to San Diego. I was looking at his numbers, and found out he actually got ******* MVP votes in a season where his OPS+ was 99.

I see that you are referring to 05. See, what you aren't seeing is that his Grit+ was a league high 213.

[M.O.T.H.]

If Glavine or Hanson can do well for Atlanta, the Braves will be right there, I think.

Only glaring problem is the lack of a lefty...I'm sure Glavine will be back but, if not...Hanson probably beats our Reyes, who is terrible. That's a rotation of righties w/ Hudson coming back in August or so, as well.

[Giantsfan1080]

Only glaring problem is the lack of a lefty...I'm sure Glavine will be back but, if not...Hanson probably beats our Reyes, who is terrible. That's a rotation of righties w/ Hudson coming back in August or so, as well.

Still probably 3rd in the division with all these moves.

[M.O.T.H.]

MLB is becoming increasing more unpredictable, imo. I think pretty much anyone could emerge in the NL East in any given year. I'm not picking them to make the playoffs or anything but, nothing would surprise me.

[M.O.T.H.]

May sound crazy...but, i want the Braves to gamble on Andruw. If he sucks in Spring Training, just cut him and start Schafer or Anderson. Andruw wont cost anything and he wants to come back, we should take a flyer on him.

But can you imagine if they also sign Dunn...Dunn, Frenchy, and Jones in the same lineup. vomit-inducing.

[fenikz]

Penny takes one of those spots for sure. Hopefully he works out there. Another guy to throw in there is Masterson, although I'm not sure I'm comfortable giving him up in the pen.

A lot of rumors are that the Diamondbacks are going to trade Montero for Masterson, i would very much like this deal, could be our 5th this year

[bored of education]

Cole Hamels signed a 3 year extension for 20.1 mil. NOW THAT IS A ******* DEAL!

[Giantsfan1080]

Cole Hamels signed a 3 year extension for 20.1 mil. NOW THAT IS A ******* DEAL!

Damn. Great extension. Wonder why Hamels was willing to sign for so cheap. In 3 years he's going to get a ton of money.

[djp]

Here's what the Twins have done so far in the offseason :

1) Signed RA Dickey to a minor league contract


Here's what the Twins should have done

1) Swung a deal for either Beltre or DeRosa (Beltre would cost more but he's a beast)
2) Re-signed Mauer to a 10 year contract
3) Done SOMETHING with Cuddyer, either trade him for bullpen help or try to move him to 3B
4) Signed Jeremy Affeldt
5) Flash back in time a year and put Neshek on the operating table instead of stupidly trying to rehab his elbow injury and costing him three years instead of two

[Brodeur]

A lot of rumors are that the Diamondbacks are going to trade Montero for Masterson, i would very much like this deal, could be our 5th this year

No there are not because there is no chance of that ever happening ever.

[SimonRath]

A lot of rumors are that the Diamondbacks are going to trade Montero for Masterson, i would very much like this deal, could be our 5th this year

we are no, i repeat, we are not gonna trade Masterson.

[mqtirishfan]

May sound crazy...but, i want the Braves to gamble on Andruw. If he sucks in Spring Training, just cut him and start Schafer or Anderson. Andruw wont cost anything and he wants to come back, we should take a flyer on him.

But can you imagine if they also sign Dunn...Dunn, Frenchy, and Jones in the same lineup. vomit-inducing.

Yes, having two awful hitters alongside a fantastic hitter would be nauseating?

[mqtirishfan]

we are no, i repeat, we are not gonna trade Masterson.

I don't think Masterson is nearly as untouchable as you seem to think he is.

[Tampa 2 4 life]

I don't think Masterson is nearly as untouchable as you seem to think he is.

1.70 K/BB = Amazing

[Brodeur]

Yes, having two awful hitters alongside a fantastic hitter would be nauseating?

I don't know if I would call Dunn fantastic but point made. And Masterson is a great groundball guy, so he's got that going for him, which is nice.

[Tha Wootster]

I wouldn't mind a Victor Martinez or Garko trade for the indians. Supposively they want to try garko in the OF :\

[bored of education]

I wouldn't mind a Victor Martinez or Garko trade for the indians. Supposively they want to try garko in the OF :\

Victor Martinez for Clay Bucholz

GOGOGOGO

[mqtirishfan]

I don't know if I would call Dunn fantastic but point made.

Really?

High OPS, guaranteed 40 HRs, high EQA, high VORP, high BB rate. Sounds pretty good to me.

[Hines]

Cub fans, how bout sending us two of the three of Hill, Cedeno, and Pie for John Grabow?

[iowatreat54]

Cub fans, how bout sending us two of the three of Hill, Cedeno, and Pie for John Grabow?

We rape the Pirates on trades, not the other way around. Also, relievers are the least of our worries.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

Really?

High OPS, guaranteed 40 HRs, high EQA, high VORP, high BB rate. Sounds pretty good to me.



Along with just awful, awful defense. Good? Yes. Fantastic? No.

[mqtirishfan]

Along with just awful, awful defense. Good? Yes. Fantastic? No.

His awful, awful defense surely makes him less fantastic of a hitter.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

His awful, awful defense surely makes him less fantastic of a hitter.


It makes him less fantastic of a baseball player. Fielding sort of matters.

[mqtirishfan]

It makes him less fantastic of a baseball player.

Yeah, but I simply called him a fantastic hitter.

[P-L]

But mqt was talking about him being a fantastic hitter, not a fantastic player...

[ATLDirtyBirds]

Yeah, but I simply called him a fantastic hitter.


My apologies. I only read Brodeur's post and went from there.

[D-Unit]

Michael Young agreed to move to 3B to allow for Elvis Andrus to make the move up. Rangers defense just got better.

I'm anxious to see Andrus develop in the Bigs.

[Brodeur]

Yeah, but I simply called him a fantastic hitter.

I'd only call a person fantastic if they are elite, which I don't think Dunn necessarily is.

[djp]

Michael Young agreed to move to 3B to allow for Elvis Andrus to make the move up. Rangers defense just got better.

I'm anxious to see Andrus develop in the Bigs.

Now they just need some pitching....

[Tampa 2 4 life]

It makes him less fantastic of a baseball player. Fielding sort of matters.

Surprisingly, he grades out average defensively.

[Brodeur]

Now they just need some pitching....

That's kind of why they have the best set of pitching prospects in baseball.

[Turtlepower]

We rape the Pirates on trades, not the other way around. Also, relievers are the least of our worries.

Everyone rapes the Pirates in trades... Everyone.

[Stash]

Everyone rapes the Pirates in trades... Everyone.
They're the jailhouse ***** of the MLB.

[Tampa 2 4 life]

That's kind of why they have the best set of pitching prospects in baseball.

Too bad all of their arms are going to die because Ryan doesn't believe in pitch counts.

[Hines]

The Baltimore Sun reports that Nick Markakis and the Orioles are close to agreeing to a six-year contract extension worth around $65 million.

Markakis is arbitration eligible for the first time, so the newspaper expects a deal to be announced before figures must be submitted to the commissioner's office Tuesday. The seventh overall pick in the 2003 draft, Markakis has emerged as one of the best all-around outfielders in baseball and hit .306/.406/.491 with 20 homers, 10 steals and 99 walks in 157 games last season. A six-year deal would buy out his first three seasons of free agency, keeping Markakis under the Orioles' control through the age of 30.

[aNYtitan]

A six-year deal would buy out his first three seasons of free agency, keeping Markakis under the Orioles' control through the age of 30.

Thats a good age to know whether or not your player has reached his peak

[D-Unit]

Too bad all of their arms are going to die because Ryan doesn't believe in pitch counts.
How can you hate on old school philosophy???

I really don't even want a pitcher if he can't be durable. I love what Ryan has planned.

The Rangers are bringing 19 of their top young pitchers into Arlington next week.

This will be the first chance for new pitching coach Mike Maddux to see these pitchers throw. The Rangers had a conditioning camp in November but now the pitchers will be throwing off a mound.

"I want to meet these guys and put faces to names and arms to faces," said Maddux, who joined the club in the offseason. "I know how big some of these guys' futures are and I'm looking forward to seeing them. I want to see who has a work ethic, who is in shape and who has been pushing themselves."

One group will throw Monday and Wednesday and the other group will throw Tuesday and Thursday. There will be an optional session on Friday.

"It's pretty simple," Maddux said. "We're not going to win a World Series in January. We want to stretch them out and play long-toss. We're going to videotape them off the stadium mound and we'll use the tape later to go over it with them."

The first group will have Matt Harrison, Luis Mendoza, Thomas Diamond, Derek Holland, John Bannister, Kasey Kiker, Blake Beavan, Guillermo Moscoso and Tim Murphy. The second group will consist of Warner Madrigal, Brandon McCarthy, Tommy Hunter, Doug Mathis, Neftali Feliz, Michael Ballard, Omar Poveda, Andrew Laughter, Michael Main and Eric Hurley.

Maddux wants to see them throw but not try to win a job in January. The Rangers have had young pitchers injure themselves in January minicamps in the past by trying too hard to impress coaches.

[mqtirishfan]

How can you hate on old school philosophy???


Because the old school philosophy will ruin their careers?

[mqtirishfan]

I'd only call a person fantastic if they are elite, which I don't think Dunn necessarily is.

Oh. I just use the word elite in that case.

[M.O.T.H.]

Yes, having two awful hitters alongside a fantastic hitter would be nauseating?

Having three players who could all amass 150 Ks in your lineup is yes, indeed nauseating.

You can praise Dunn all you want but, he's still going to strike out anywhere from 170-190 times and leave a lot of runs on the table. .240 is still .240. Yes, he does a lot of things well, we all know that but, he is also one of the league's most frustrating players to watch. Not even taking into account his piss poor defensive efforts.

This coming from a Dunn fan...sabremetrics, thumbs up but, actually watching him play every day, frustrations do mount.

[BrownsTown]

I hate Adam Dunn as a player. I wouldn't want him on the Indians.

[Brodeur]

Having three players who could all amass 150 Ks in your lineup is yes, indeed nauseating.

You can praise Dunn all you want but, he's still going to strike out anywhere from 170-190 times and leave a lot of runs on the table. .240 is still .240. Yes, he does a lot of things well, we all know that but, he is also one of the league's most frustrating players to watch. Not even taking into account his piss poor defensive efforts.

This coming from a Dunn fan...sabremetrics, thumbs up but, actually watching him play every day, frustrations do mount.

He's a better defender than Francoeur and most Reds fans didn't really seem to have a problem watching him play for the last few years.

[BrownsTown]

He's a better defender than Francoeur and most Reds fans didn't really seem to have a problem watching him play for the last few years.

Except Francouer has a ridiculous arm to make up for his lack of speed.

[Brodeur]

Except Francouer has a ridiculous arm to make up for his lack of speed.

That is literally his only skill. And Vlad has a great arm but he still has always sucked balls in the field.

[SimonRath]

Francouer doesn't suck in the field guys

[Brodeur]

Francouer doesn't suck in the field guys

Yes he does. He does very much.

[Tampa 2 4 life]

Yes he does. He does very much.

List of RFers worse than jeff Francouer:

Brad Hawpe
Bobby Abreu
Ken Griffey Jr.
Jermaine Dye

List of RFers better:
Vlad
Maggs
Matt Kemp
Mark Teahan
everyone else

[SimonRath]

List of RFers worse than jeff Francouer:

Brad Hawpe
Bobby Abreu
Ken Griffey Jr.
Jermaine Dye

List of RFers better:
Vlad
Maggs
Matt Kemp
Mark Teahan
everyone else

okay first of all Vlad is not better in the field then Francouer.
second of all, hes not that bad. i watch like every braves game and he wasnt that bad

[Tampa 2 4 life]

okay first of all Vlad is not better in the field then Francouer.
second of all, hes not that bad. i watch like every braves game and he wasnt that bad

Dude, French has the range of a dead moose.

[SimonRath]

Dude, French has the range of a dead moose.

have you never watched braves baseball?

[Tampa 2 4 life]

have you never watched braves baseball?

I have. I'm also aware of the numbers that say he's god awful.

[SimonRath]

I have. I'm also aware of the numbers that say he's god awful.

well okay then. thats your opinion.

[Brodeur]

List of RFers worse than jeff Francouer:

Brad Hawpe
Bobby Abreu
Ken Griffey Jr.
Jermaine Dye

List of RFers better:
Vlad
Maggs
Matt Kemp
Mark Teahan
everyone else

It's going to be awesome to watch Sizemore and Granderson try to cover for Hawpe for Team USA.

[djp]

I can't wait to see Carlos Gomez continue to develop as a defensive centerfielder. He's already one of the better ones in the American League and if he can take some better routes to the ball he's going to be the best in the game.

Span in rightfield ain't bad, either.

Delmon in left.... on the other hand.... no good

[Hines]

You can expect a Monroe/Morgan-McClouth-Moss/Pearce outfield for pretty much all of the season from the Pirates. Hopefully McCutchen shows enough to stay with the big club out of ST to win the LF job.

I kinda am excited for this season.

[VoteLynnSwan]

well okay then. thats your opinion.

stats are not opinions...

[Brodeur]

You can expect a Monroe/Morgan-McClouth-Moss/Pearce outfield for pretty much all of the season from the Pirates. Hopefully McCutchen shows enough to stay with the big club out of ST to win the LF job.

I kinda am excited for this season.

72 wins for the Pirates this season?

[Vikes99ej]

I can't wait to see Carlos Gomez continue to develop as a defensive centerfielder. He's already one of the better ones in the American League and if he can take some better routes to the ball he's going to be the best in the game.

Span in rightfield ain't bad, either.

Delmon in left.... on the other hand.... no good

It's actually fun to watch Delmon Young try to play in the outfield.

[Tampa 2 4 life]

72 wins for the Pirates this season?

I've got them at 74 by WAR.

[SimonRath]

stats are not opinions...

what stats say hes god awful?

[Tampa 2 4 life]

It's actually fun to watch Delmon Young try to play in the outfield.

Watching him play CF, BJ Upton at 2B, Brendan Harris at SS, and Jonny Gomes at RF is pretty much the best thing ever.

[Tampa 2 4 life]

what stats say hes god awful?

Pretty much all of them.

[yodapoop]

Another long awaited Yodachu prediction...........the LOS ANGELES ANGELS OF ANAHEIM will win the American League Western Division.

YODACHU'S PREDICTIONS SO FAR
NL Central=CHICAGO CUBS
AL West=LOS ANGELES ANGELS OF ANAHEIM