2009 MLB Discussion Thread

[Brodeur]

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

The Athletics are going to win that division. The Angels offense/defense is too pathetic to win anything.

[Hines]

72 wins for the Pirates this season?

Maybe around there. Hopefully we get the number 1 pick next season.

[yodapoop]

The Athletics are going to win that division. The Angels offense/defense is too pathetic to win anything.

Did u have the Phillies winning the World Serie last year? I don't think so.

[Brodeur]

Did u have the Phillies winning the World Serie last year? I don't think so.

A broken clock is right twice a day.

[Tampa 2 4 life]

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

If the angels win I'll eat my hat.

[fischbowl]

O's just got Felix Pie in exchange for Garrett Olson and RHP prospect Henry Williamson. Despite his struggles I loved Olson and was looking forward to having him in the rotation. Our outfield is deep enough with Jones, Markakis, and Scott and to get Pie, who hasn't translated his top prospect status into major league success at all, is just a waste in my opinion.

[mqtirishfan]

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.



And .381 is still .381, which is his career OBP. I'll put a guy in my lineup who will get on base that often and hit 40 HRs any day of the week.

[BigDawg819]

O's just got Felix Pie in exchange for Garrett Olson and RHP prospect Henry Williamson. Despite his struggles I loved Olson and was looking forward to having him in the rotation. Our outfield is deep enough with Jones, Markakis, and Scott and to get Pie, who hasn't translated his top prospect status into major league success at all, is just a waste in my opinion.


Worst of all is what does this mean for Luke Scott?

[iowatreat54]

So the Cubs sign one OF with .260 career avg. and .311 career OBP so that we can trade a younger OF with .220 career avg. and a .312 career OBP.

Sigh...

[ATLDirtyBirds]

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.



Yeah, that's the only thing that he needs to work on in the outfield. I remember tons of times for the Mets were he'd out run a ball, and still be able to reach back because of his height and make it look like an amazing catch. Cargo is the ******* man.

[Borat]

And .381 is still .381, which is his career OBP. I'll put a guy in my lineup who will get on base that often and hit 40 HRs any day of the week.

Seems that all 30 MLB GMs disagree with you.

[SuperKevin]

I can't wait for Peter Angelos to die

[Tampa 2 4 life]

Update: Alvarez reported to minicamp out of shape and could start the season at Low Single-A Charleston rather than High Single-A Lynchburg, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Recommendation: According to director of player development Kyle Stark, Alvarez is above his playing weight, not as strong as usual and is experiencing tendinitis in both of his knees. Team officials confirmed that he has not been in peak shape since signing a four-year, $6 million deal in September. He’ll need to shed weight before spring training in order to start his professional career off on a positive note.



Hehehehehehehehe.

[yo123]

Yeah, that's the only thing that he needs to work on in the outfield. I remember tons of times for the Mets were he'd out run a ball, and still be able to reach back because of his height and make it look like an amazing catch. Cargo is the ******* man.



He would be the man if he wasn't one of the worst hitters in the league. He's still young but watching him at the plate last year was painful.

[D-Unit]

BA names Texas Rangers Farm System #1

http://texas.rangers.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20090116&content_id=3748074&vkey=news_tex&fext=.jsp&c_id=tex


Hellz to the yeazzzz babiezzzzzzzzzzzz!!!!!!!!!

[Borat]

Congrats Ranger fans. That is a well-deserved #1 ranking. Your system is loaded. That article was a little weird though in that they really didn't mention that the major reason the system has so much talent is that they were uber saavy in trading Tex and Gagne that netted then Salty, Andrus, Harrison, Feliz, Beltre and Murphy.

[Brodeur]

Congrats Ranger fans. That is a well-deserved #1 ranking. Your system is loaded. That article was a little weird though in that they really didn't mention that the major reason the system has so much talent is that they were uber saavy in trading Tex and Gagne that netted then Salty, Andrus, Harrison, Feliz, Beltre and Murphy.

Murphy blows.

[D-Unit]

Murphy blows.
Murphy is fine. He's not a full-time starter, but he's a good guy to have on the roster.

I'm still stoked about landing Justin Smoak.

[Hawk]

Because the old school philosophy will ruin their careers?

Its worked in the past, maybe if players weren't such pussies today, it would work again.

Look at some stats from the 50s, 60s, and 70s, pitchers used to throw a whole lot more pitches per game and their were a lot of 4 man rotations.

[mqtirishfan]

Its worked in the past, maybe if players weren't such pussies today, it would work again.

Look at some stats from the 50s, 60s, and 70s, pitchers used to throw a whole lot more pitches per game and their were a lot of 4 man rotations.

Medical professionals all agree it's stupid.

[Brodeur]

Medical professionals all agree it's stupid.

They don't understand grit.

[P-L]

Why is Adam Dunn such a polarizing player? Why do people ignore his high OBP and high HR total because he has a low batting average?

[bearsfan_51]

I don't think it's the low BA as much as it is the high K rate. I think there's an underlying assumption that guys that strikeout a lot are lazy and don't care. Add in the fact that he is lethargic on defense and the case can be made.

[Brent]

Why is Adam Dunn such a polarizing player? Why do people ignore his high OBP and high HR total because he has a low batting average?
He strikes out way, way too much. Yes, when he hits the ball it often results in good things but I think a lot of teams would rather he fly out or ground out, so at least the ball is in play.

[Brodeur]

He strikes out way, way too much. Yes, when he hits the ball it often results in good things but I think a lot of teams would rather he fly out or ground out, so at least the ball is in play.

K rates are insanely overrated when a person offsets it by walking a decent amount in the majors. They're a good indication in the minors but in the majors, eck.

[Brent]

K rates are insanely overrated when a person offsets it by walking a decent amount in the majors. They're a good indication in the minors but in the majors, eck.
You arent going to advance any runners by striking out. At least with a fly ball or grounder, the runner can tag up/score a run.

[Tampa 2 4 life]

You arent going to advance any runners by striking out. At least with a fly ball or grounder, the runner can tag up/score a run.

You aren't gonna K into a double play.

[Brent]

You aren't gonna K into a double play.
An infielder has a better chance of screwing up a double play than a catcher does of letting the ball get past him and being unable to throw the runner out at first on a botched 3rd strike.

[Brodeur]

You aren't gonna K into a double play.

I'm pretty sure Neifi Perez has managed to do that before, just because he sucks so goddamn much.

[P-L]

And, it's not like runners are on base every time he strikes out either. I mean it's not like he's constantly striking out with runners in scoring position. Dunn actually strikes out less frequently with runners in scoring position and 60% of his strikeouts come with no one on base.

[Tampa 2 4 life]

An infielder has a better chance of screwing up a double play than a catcher does of letting the ball get past him and being unable to throw the runner out at first on a botched 3rd strike.

Groundballs with a man on first also happen like 5 times more often....

[Brent]

And, it's not like runners are on base every time he strikes out either. I mean it's not like he's constantly striking out with runners in scoring position. Dunn actually strikes out less frequently with runners in scoring position and 60% of his strikeouts come with no one on base.
Yeah, I think I moved beyond Dunn in that conversation and more onto strikeouts in general.

[Borat]

Murphy blows.

I wouldn't say he blows. More of a 4th outfielder though. The rest of their haul from those trades are ridiculously good.

[fischbowl]

Congrats Ranger fans. That is a well-deserved #1 ranking. Your system is loaded. That article was a little weird though in that they really didn't mention that the major reason the system has so much talent is that they were uber saavy in trading Tex and Gagne that netted then Salty, Andrus, Harrison, Feliz, Beltre and Murphy.

Jon Daniels pulls mad tricks yo.

But yeah, the emergence of homegrown sleepers such as Max Ramirez and Derek Holland doesn't hurt either

[mqtirishfan]

You arent going to advance any runners by striking out. At least with a fly ball or grounder, the runner can tag up/score a run.

Yeah, and you're not going to help your offense by getting out, which Dunn doesn't do as often as most others.

[Brodeur]

Jon Daniels pulls mad tricks yo.

But yeah, the emergence of homegrown sleepers such as Max Ramirez and Derek Holland doesn't hurt either

They got Ramirez for the corpse of Kenny Lofton.

[Brent]

too bad Tom Hicks is a cheap bastard and wont shell out cash.

[D-Unit]

too bad Tom Hicks is a cheap bastard and wont shell out cash.
He's actually not a cheap guy. He's just been burnt bad. So he doesn't want to do that again. The Rangers used to be a high spending team, but that didn't work, so they switched philosophies to build from within. They have also invested veterans who could help the team until the trade deadline and then they pawn them off (Kenny Lofton, Carl Everett, Eric Gagne, etc etc). The plan is working about as well as they could have hoped. True results don't show on paper though. I wanna see these youngin's do some damage.

Hicks has said that if the team is close to truly competing for a championship, then he'll spend the money to put the team over the top. He just doesn't want to buy a team and spend on every position. He wants them to build from within and put together a winning core, then he'll spend to add the icing. I think it's a good plan and he has supported it financially too by investing heavily in scouting...especially internationally.

[ccB]

Worst of all is what does this mean for Luke Scott?

C- Zaun (until Wieters is brought up)
1B- Huff
2B- Roberts
3B- Mora
SS- Izturis
LF- Pie
CF- Jones
RF- Markakis
DH- Scott


That's the plan, gives us one of, if not the best defensive outfield in baseball. That cannot hurt a young pitching staff. I don't hate the deal, and I don't love it. I was never particularly high on Olsen, he was expendable with the log jam of players at or near the same level as Olsen (Liz/Penn/Waters/Patton/Albers etc) You will see a rotation that contains Guth/Uehara/ and a mix and match of those players with Mark Hendrickson (yuck) as the 5th starter most likely.

[Jughead10]

Groundballs with a man on first also happen like 5 times more often....

Is this true? I seriously doubt this. The hole on the right side of the infield is larger when a man is on first because you often have to hold a runner on.

[Tampa 2 4 life]

Is this true? I seriously doubt this. The hole on the right side of the infield is larger when a man is on first because you often have to hold a runner on.

Not double plays, just groundballs.

[Jughead10]

Not double plays, just groundballs.

Logically it just doesn't make sense though. Why would a ground ball be significantly that much more frequent with a man on first, when the holes in the infield are most likely to be larger if anything.

[VoteLynnSwan]

Logically it just doesn't make sense though. Why would a ground ball be significantly that much more frequent with a man on first, when the holes in the infield are most likely to be larger if anything.

the fact that the holes are larger is irrelevant. In fact, one could argue the opposite of what you're saying in the case of someone like Ryan Theriot who tries to hit the ball into those holes.

The fact that the holes are larger would be much more enticing to a hitter than if they weren't as large...

[Jughead10]

the fact that the holes are larger is irrelevant. In fact, one could argue the opposite of what you're saying in the case of someone like Ryan Theriot who tries to hit the ball into those holes.

The fact that the holes are larger would be much more enticing to a hitter than if they weren't as large...

But the fact that the defense has to compensate for having a runner on is the reason most people hit for a higher average with runners on base.

[VoteLynnSwan]

But the fact that the defense has to compensate for having a runner on is the reason most people hit for a higher average with runners on base.

he said groundballs not groundouts...

[Jughead10]

he said groundballs not groundouts...

Well then that makes sense. Nevermind then.

[Brodeur]

Figures that the MLB Network would air my favorite baseball game of all time when I'm at work. Bastards.

[Hines]

With Pie, I really like the O's outfield. I dont know how well Pie will perform since he pretty much been a bust, but maybe a change of scenery will help. The O's will be really good soon.

[dabears10]

With Pie, I really like the O's outfield. I dont know how well Pie will perform since he pretty much been a bust, but maybe a change of scenery will help. The O's will be really good soon.

Yes, a guy who plays poorly in the NL Central is ready to explode and do well in the AL East.

[SimonRath]

Pretty much all of them.

that doesn't help me at all..

[kwilk103]

hines, you see alvarez at mini-camp?

hes really fat...lol

at least mccutchen put on 10lbs of muscle

[mqtirishfan]

that doesn't help me at all..

It should. Think of one defensive metric, and that metric will tell you he's awful.

[ccB]

Yes, a guy who plays poorly in the NL Central is ready to explode and do well in the AL East.

More like... a guy who played well at every level minus the ML where he did play poorly, which had a large part to do with there being a limited amount of playing time since Chicago was pretty loaded with OF'ers, and are a team that was supposed to be good and go deep into the playoffs. If he is ever going to 'explode' he will do it on the Orioles, a team that can give him 600 ab's and let him get that experience he needs, and allows him to work out his growing pains on the field as opposed to trying to work them out on while being buried on the bench without consistent playing time.

[ccB]

hines, you see alvarez at mini-camp?

hes really fat...lol

at least mccutchen put on 10lbs of muscle

Ah is it going to be 2 years in a row where the Orioles ended up taking the player the Pirates should have?

[kwilk103]

Ah is it going to be 2 years in a row where the Orioles ended up taking the player the Pirates should have?

i was happy with the alvarez pick

probably would have been a riot if we didnt; almost one when we passed on weiters

[Hines]

hines, you see alvarez at mini-camp?

hes really fat...lol

at least mccutchen put on 10lbs of muscle

Yeah I saw. I think he ends up at 1b anyways so he can get fat. JK of course. I think missing out on those 3 months really hurt him. I think he will be fine.

I hope McCutchen wins the LF job out of ST.

[ccB]

i was happy with the alvarez pick

probably would have been a riot if we didnt; almost one when we passed on weiters

Yeah, I actually wanted Alvarez over Matusz, but now it looks Alvarez is a bit of a knucklehead in comparison to Matusz, who is progressing quite quickly and should only be in the minors for a short time.

[Hines]

Yeah, I actually wanted Alvarez over Matusz, but now it looks Alvarez is a bit of a knucklehead in comparison to Matusz, who is progressing quite quickly and should only be in the minors for a short time.

Once Alvarez gets in shape, I wouldn't be surprised if he is in the majors by the end of the year, or start of next season.

[BigDawg819]

Yeah, I actually wanted Alvarez over Matusz, but now it looks Alvarez is a bit of a knucklehead in comparison to Matusz, who is progressing quite quickly and should only be in the minors for a short time.


A rotation of Matusz, Arrieta, and Tillman are one of the few hopes we can hold on too. Although that outfield now could be dangerous in another year or so.....

[BigDawg819]

C- Zaun (until Wieters is brought up)
1B- Huff
2B- Roberts
3B- Mora
SS- Izturis
LF- Pie
CF- Jones
RF- Markakis
DH- Scott


That's the plan, gives us one of, if not the best defensive outfield in baseball. That cannot hurt a young pitching staff. I don't hate the deal, and I don't love it. I was never particularly high on Olsen, he was expendable with the log jam of players at or near the same level as Olsen (Liz/Penn/Waters/Patton/Albers etc) You will see a rotation that contains Guth/Uehara/ and a mix and match of those players with Mark Hendrickson (yuck) as the 5th starter most likely.

The only thing I worry about is Luke's dislike for a permanent DH role.

[ccB]

Once Alvarez gets in shape, I wouldn't be surprised if he is in the majors by the end of the year, or start of next season.

Yeah but his physical condition shows you the lack of work ethic he has. Pair that with the fact that his hitting is going to come from LF or 1b and not 3B and the "uber" prospect suddenly doesn't look as great. Like I said, I really wanted Pedro, but it's news like this that makes me happy we have Matusz. But hey maybe he turns into the next Manny and you guys get good production for your semi-cancerous yet pudgy LF-er.

[ccB]

The only thing I worry about is Luke's dislike for a permanent DH role.

Yeah well he has a foot issue so he might realize this is what's best for him and if not, ship him out and bring up Reimold or let Montanez continue to get some AB's. It's not like Luke is a spring chicken and plans to be a major contributer to any long term success we have in the future. I like the guy and it's good to keep a player of his character in the locker room but Pie is a clear upgrade defensively and a great defensive OF is one of the best luxuries a young unproven pitching staff can have. Hopefully Luke understands this and accepts the role, having him as a full time DH and not having to worry about defense could really help out his offensive numbers.

[ccB]

A rotation of Matusz, Arrieta, and Tillman are one of the few hopes we can hold on too. Although that outfield now could be dangerous in another year or so.....

Yup, and its nice to get Nick Markakis locked up for 6 years as well. Between the Big 3 pitching prospects, extending Nick, drafting Wieters, and pulling in guys like Adam Jones, Chris Tillman, and crew through trades, Orioles fans finally have something to atleast be halfway happy about.

[Brodeur]

The one thing I don't really understand is why they saw such a need to move Luke Scott to DH. He's an above average fielder so it's not like he's crippling them out there, which is what the DH position should be used for. Huff will be worse at 1st than Scott would at left.

[BigDawg819]

The one thing I don't really understand is why they saw such a need to move Luke Scott to DH. He's an above average fielder so it's not like he's crippling them out there, which is what the DH position should be used for. Huff will be worse at 1st than Scott would at left.

Huff will be fine in his permanent transition, although him at 3rd is always a possibility. Luke's bat is whats important to this lineup because he can drive in runs plus the addition of Pie gives us some more speed into this lineup.

1. Brian Roberts
2. Adam Jones
3. Nick Markakis
4. Aubrey Huff
5. Luke Scott
6. Melvin Mora ?
7. Gregg Zaun ?
8. Felix Pie
9. Cesar Izturis

Could be dynamic and add Wieters in the summer and it could be deadly in years to come.

[ccB]

Huff will be fine in his permanent transition, although him at 3rd is always a possibility. Luke's bat is whats important to this lineup because he can drive in runs plus the addition of Pie gives us some more speed into this lineup.

1. Brian Roberts
2. Adam Jones
3. Nick Markakis
4. Aubrey Huff
5. Luke Scott
6. Melvin Mora ?
7. Gregg Zaun ?
8. Felix Pie
9. Cesar Izturis

Could be dynamic and add Wieters in the summer and it could be deadly in years to come.

It all hinges on pitching development, let's cross our fingers.

[VoteLynnSwan]

it's a shame to see Pie go... the reasoning behind the trade was that with Joey ******* Gathright in the picture... Pie wouldn't get any opportunities. Tell me why it would be beneficial to play Gathright instead of Pie.

I see this trade as nothing... we probably won't get anything in return for this, and it's just another talented prospect that we've failed to develop. Josh Vitters beware.

[BigDawg819]

It all hinges on pitching development, let's cross our fingers.

Indeed, still it will be nice to have an offense that is potent. Although I'm really excited about the late inning bullpen:

Chris Ray
Jim Johnson
George Sherrill

Any combination when healthy could be lights out.

[ccB]

Indeed, still it will be nice to have an offense that is potent. Although I'm really excited about the late inning bullpen:

Chris Ray
Jim Johnson
George Sherrill

Any combination when healthy could be lights out.


Yessir, but the problem is past Guthrie we have no pitcher who can consistently get past the 5th inning, hell we don't have anyone who can get TO the 5th inning. Here is hoping Koji can give us a solid year so that we only have to worry about 3 spots in the rotation as opposed to 4.

[BigDawg819]

Yessir, but the problem is past Guthrie we have no pitcher who can consistently get past the 5th inning, hell we don't have anyone who can get TO the 5th inning. Here is hoping Koji can give us a solid year so that we only have to worry about 3 spots in the rotation as opposed to 4.

Call me crazy, but I see Rad Liz and Hayden Penn locking down 2 of those spots.

[ccB]

Call me crazy, but I see Rad Liz and Hayden Penn locking down 2 of those spots.

Well if Rad Liz can continue the pace he had closing out last year the job is all his. I think Albers claims one of the spots, and the dark horse to me is Troy Patton. Plus I am sure Pauley, the guy we got from the Red Sox today will figure in somewhere, I believe he is out of options so he will be on the roster in some capacity. I could see him being the #5 starter for us. I just hope to god Hendrickson doesn't start, I'd rather watch our young guys learning on the job then see him starting games.

[BigDawg819]

Well if Rad Liz can continue the pace he had closing out last year the job is all his. I think Albers claims one of the spots, and the dark horse to me is Troy Patton. Plus I am sure Pauley, the guy we got from the Red Sox today will figure in somewhere, I believe he is out of options so he will be on the roster in some capacity. I could see him being the #5 starter for us. I just hope to god Hendrickson doesn't start, I'd rather watch our young guys learning on the job then see him starting games.

With Albers' injury last year and lack of surgery I think he might be tagged for a relief role. Still love the guy and wish him all the best for this season. Patton could be nasty if healthy.

[Tampa 2 4 life]

Australia: RHP Grant Balfour
Dominican Republic: 1B Carlos Pena
Japan: INF Akinoi Iwamura
United States: LHP J.P. Howell, LHP Scott Kazmir, 3B Evan Longoria
Mexico: RHP Matt Garza
Venezuela: C Dioner Navarro


Kill me.

[Giantsfan1080]

I'm not a fan of the WBC at all.

[Brodeur]

Australia: RHP Grant Balfour
Dominican Republic: 1B Carlos Pena
Japan: INF Akinoi Iwamura
United States: LHP J.P. Howell, LHP Scott Kazmir, 3B Evan Longoria
Mexico: RHP Matt Garza
Venezuela: C Dioner Navarro


Kill me.

Kazmir's arm is already screwed up so that should be fun.

And I like the WBC but that's just me.

[Tampa 2 4 life]

Kazmir's arm is already screwed up so that should be fun.

And I like the WBC but that's just me.

That's because the tigers don't have their #2 starter, their #4 starter, and their relief ace in it.

[Brodeur]

That's because the tigers don't have their #2 starter, their #4 starter, and their relief ace in it.

The Tigers number 4 starter is Edwin Jackson...

[Tampa 2 4 life]

The Tigers number 4 starter is Edwin Jackson...

At least you're not the pirates.

[mqtirishfan]

The Tigers number 4 starter is Edwin Jackson...

I saw an article a little while back proclaiming the Tigers to be the most improved team in baseball and almost died.

[Giantsfan1080]

The Mets currently have about 10 starters that are going to play for WBC teams including as Rodriguez, Putz, Santana(maybe). Those are just the big pitchers from our team.

[scottyboy]

here's to this being the year Robby proves me right!

Cano for MVP!

please?

*sigh*

[Brodeur]

Jonny Gomes is going to be kicking asses in Cincy next year now?

[Jughead10]

Kazmir's arm is already screwed up so that should be fun.

And I like the WBC but that's just me.

I like the WBC as well, but at the same time I'm glad most Yankees turned it down.

[Tampa 2 4 life]

Jonny Gomes is going to be kicking asses in Cincy next year now?

Alfonso Soriano better watch himself.

[SuperKevin]

http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20090120&content_id=3751417&vkey=hotstove2008&fext=.jsp

Eric Bedard signs a 1 year 7.75 million doallr contract with Seattle.

Injuries turned Bedard from one of the most coveted left handed pitchers in the league to an afterthought in less than a year. Sad.

[SuperKevin]

http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20090119&content_id=3750081&vkey=hotstove2008&fext=.jsp

Pretty happy that the Orioles locked up Nick Markakis for 6 years

[ccB]

http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20090120&content_id=3751417&vkey=hotstove2008&fext=.jsp

Eric Bedard signs a 1 year 7.75 million doallr contract with Seattle.

Injuries turned Bedard from one of the most coveted left handed pitchers in the league to an afterthought in less than a year. Sad.

I still cannot believe we got: Adam Jones, Chris Tillman, George Sherrill, Kam Mickilo, and Tony Butler for Bedard, Andy McPhail is my hero for that one.
It's also nice to have Kakes locked up into his 30's.

[fischbowl]

I'm going to be honest here. As menial as it is, the acquisition of David Pauley really excites me. He was near perfect at Pawtucket last year and I can definitely see him having a Guthrie like emergence in the rotation this year

[Brodeur]

Howard wants $18 million in arbitration? God damn.

[Xiomera]

Howard wants $18 million in arbitration? God damn.

Give it to him on the condition that he hits above .280.

Otherwise, he isn't even close to worthy.

[Brodeur]

Give it to him on the condition that he hits above .280.

Otherwise, he isn't even close to worthy.

Eh not necessarily, but with the market the way it is, he's only worth about $12 million. Also:

http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news;_ylt=Ao_1RqpISvzRzNXbEx.8L.4RvLYF?slug=ap-arbitration&prov=ap&type=lgns

Nice Ryan Howard picture.

[princefielder28]

Eh not necessarily, but with the market the way it is, he's only worth about $12 million. Also:

http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news;_ylt=Ao_1RqpISvzRzNXbEx.8L.4RvLYF?slug=ap-arbitration&prov=ap&type=lgns

Nice Ryan Howard picture.

hahaha great work yahoo!

[Xiomera]

hahaha great work yahoo!

I might have understood had they posted this instead . . .

http://i.cdn.turner.com/v5cache/TBS/Images/Dynamic/i38/Office_BJ_NOVAK_240x260_081620070952.jpg

[fischbowl]

Ryan Howard is looking more pale than I remember

[Tampa 2 4 life]

Give it to him on the condition that he gets on base over .380.

Otherwise, he isn't even close to worthy.

Fixed this.

[Xiomera]

Ryan Howard is looking more pale than I remember

Reverse Sun Tan.

[Tha Wootster]

they are showing laroche who is in the article :)

[Brodeur]

they are showing laroche who is in the article :)

Ruin all the fun some more.

[Tha Wootster]

Ruin all the fun some more.

I love doing that :D

[Brodeur]

Pssh at MLB Network saying a catcher will never repeat Piazza's 1997 season. That will be a down year for Wieters.

[Tampa 2 4 life]

Pssh at MLB Network saying a catcher will never repeat Piazza's 1997 season. That will be a down year for Wieters.

The one where Price eats him?

[Brodeur]

The one where Price eats him?

Wieters will eat Price alive.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

Pssh at MLB Network saying a catcher will never repeat Piazza's 1997 season. That will be a down year for Wieters.


Wieters can't touch Piazza's offense.

[Brodeur]

Wieters can't touch Piazza's offense.

You'll regret that statement.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

You'll regret that statement.

Vintage Piazza takes a steamy **** all over Wieters.

[Brodeur]

Vintage Piazza takes a steamy **** all over Wieters.

Not if his first full season is any indication.

[sbh15]

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3846966

yay paps is back! can any of you guys tell me if he's worth it?

[Brodeur]

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3846966

yay paps is back! can any of you guys tell me if he's worth it?

Ummm.......of course he is.

[sbh15]

Ummm.......of course he is.

I meant based on all those crazy stats and what not. Obviously I know he's vital to the bullpen, but is he really worthy of the record salary?

[Brodeur]

I meant based on all those crazy stats and what not. Obviously I know he's vital to the bullpen, but is he really worthy of the record salary?

According to value stats, he was worth $17.1 million last year, so there ya go.

[sbh15]

According to value stats, he was worth $17.1 million last year, so there ya go.

Well geeze they got a bargain then. Thanks.

[Turtlepower]

Ummm.......of course he is.

He is still only the 2nd best closer in the division. =P

[Brodeur]

He is still only the 2nd best closer in the division. =P

Most relievers don't have the best years of their career at the age of 38 so I refuse to believe that'll last.

[Xiomera]

Most relievers don't have the best years of their career at the age of 38 so I refuse to believe that'll last.


Must have been the 'roids. Oh . . . should I not have said that? :confused:

[scottyboy]

Most relievers don't have the best years of their career at the age of 38 so I refuse to believe that'll last.

but you should know he's not most relievers ;)

[mqtirishfan]

Most relievers don't have the best years of their career at the age of 38 so I refuse to believe that'll last.

Mariano Rivera is not a reliever, he is a god.

[Brodeur]

Mariano Rivera is not a reliever, he is a god.

Anyone who can survive Torre's horrid bullpen management skills for that long has to be some sort of genetic freak.

[Giantsfan1080]

As a Mets fan I hate to say it but it's true. Rivera is some sort of freak. He might be from a different world all together.

[Stash]

As a Mets fan I hate to say it but it's true. Rivera is some sort of freak. He might be from a different world all together.
He does look like an alien....

[Turtlepower]

As a Mets fan I hate to say it but it's true. Rivera is some sort of freak. He might be from a different world all together.

I think that Rivera is only 2nd to Eckersly as far as greatest closer of all-time goes.

[Giantsfan1080]

You'll regret that statement.

I think the world of Wieters as a prospect but to compare him to the greatest hitting catcher of all time before he's even seen one MLB pitch is a little ridiculous.

[Giantsfan1080]

I think that Rivera is only 2nd to Eckersly as far as greatest closer of all-time goes.

No Rivera is #1. It's not even close. Rivera is a first ballot HOF. If Eckersley was a closer his whole career then maybe but I think it's Rivera.

[Brodeur]

I think the world of Wieters as a prospect but to compare him to the greatest hitting catcher of all time before he's even seen one MLB pitch is a little ridiculous.

Maybe that came out wrong. What I meant to say was that Wieters is Mike Piazza with more patience and better defense. That better?

And Rivera has longer staying power than Eck so he's clearly better.

[Giantsfan1080]

Maybe that came out wrong. What I meant to say was that Wieters is Mike Piazza with more patience and better defense. That better?

And Rivera has longer staying power than Eck so he's clearly better.

Wieters is going to be better defensively but I don't think he ever matchers Piazza's numbers at the plate.

[Zyro_1014]

Wieters is going to be better defensively but I don't think he ever matchers Piazza's numbers at the plate.

Wieters swings a wicked stick...lol

i wouldnt be surprised one bit.

[luckyjackaubrey]

I'm going to be honest here. As menial as it is, the acquisition of David Pauley really excites me. He was near perfect at Pawtucket last year and I can definitely see him having a Guthrie like emergence in the rotation this year

IF that's your biggest brightest what if for this season, you are in for a heavy dose of dissapointment. He is pedestrian once you get him up to the big leagues. What qualifies as perfect in AAA is batting practice fodder in the bigs. He was lit up in Boston at every chance he was given over the last 2-3 years.

[SuperKevin]

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3849334

Jeff Kent retires

Probably one of the greatest offensive 2B of all time.

[Hawk]

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3849334

Jeff Kent retires

Probably one of the greatest offensive 2B of all time.

The greatest offensive 2B of all time IMO.

[Scotty D]

WBC rosters were released.

http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/news/wbc_09/roster.jsp?team=940

[SuperKevin]

The greatest offensive 2B of all time IMO.

I didn't want to make that claim to avoid argument

[iowatreat54]

Joe Morgan still won't vote him.

[djp]

As stupid as Joe Morgan is, he was a brilliant baseball player.

[Brodeur]

The greatest offensive 2B of all time IMO.

Joe Morgan, Eddie Collins, Nap Lajoie, and Rogers Hornsby are considerably better.

[Hawk]

Joe Morgan, Eddie Collins, Nap Lajoie, and Rogers Hornsby are considerably better.

I've never seen any of them play but based on statistics, Hornsby is the only one that really comes close.

But I know how ridiculous it is to argue based on stats. He's a HOF, lets leave it at that.

[dabears10]

Ryne Sandberg ftw.

[bsaza2358]

Sandberg was nowhere near the offensive player that Kent was from a power/RBI perspective. No way, no how. In terms of all around, I love Rhino, but he wasn't a huge power/RBI/average guy outside of one steroid-infused year where he exploded for no good reason. I'll take Kent in my offensive lineup ahead of Sandberg any day.

[dabears10]

Sandberg was nowhere near the offensive player that Kent was from a power/RBI perspective. No way, no how. In terms of all around, I love Rhino, but he wasn't a huge power/RBI/average guy outside of one steroid-infused year where he exploded for no good reason. I'll take Kent in my offensive lineup ahead of Sandberg any day.

I agree. Still had to say it.

Edit: You accuse Sandberg of steroid use but don't believe Kent used it at all. Or am I just missing the point of that statement.

[mqtirishfan]

I've never seen any of them play but based on statistics, Hornsby is the only one that really comes close.

But I know how ridiculous it is to argue based on stats. He's a HOF, lets leave it at that.

The stats disagree with you.

[iowatreat54]

Lol Sandberg on steroids. That's a funny joke.

[Tampa 2 4 life]

Things I learned today:

Scoreless innings by Replacement Level Reliever: 75%
Scoreless Innings By Brad Lidge-Esque Closer: 83%

About 1.5 wins.

This is why you don't pay big money to relievers unless they are absolute studs.

[Brodeur]

Things I learned today:

Scoreless innings by Replacement Level Reliever: 75%
Scoreless Innings By Brad Lidge-Esque Closer: 83%

About 1.5 wins.

This is why you don't pay big money to relievers unless they are absolute studs.

$4 million for Troy Percival woooooo.

[Tampa 2 4 life]

$4 million for Troy Percival woooooo.

It seemed like a good idea at the time. ;_;

Edit: Wait, no it didn't.

[fischbowl]

WBC rosters were released.

http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/news/wbc_09/roster.jsp?team=940

I spent all day for the last two days adding no name players from South Africa and Italy amongst others. ***.

[Hines]

I sure hope to catch a South America game during the WBC because of a Pirate prospect by the name of Gift Ngoepe.

[Jughead10]

I spent all day for the last two days adding no name players from South Africa and Italy amongst others. ***.

Francisco Cervelli is playing for Italy though.

[SuperKevin]

Canada has like 7 catchers on the roster

[fischbowl]

Francisco Cervelli is playing for Italy though.

Yeah, but so is Davide Dellospedale

[fischbowl]

Canada has like 7 catchers on the roster

These are only provisional rosters

[djp]

Fisch, I heard Canada is going to name Morneau the captain. You think they will?

[kwilk103]

mcgwires brother says he took steroids

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3851381

[Sniper]

mcgwires brother says he took steroids

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3851381

Things could get awkward at the family dinner table the next time they're all together...

[kwilk103]

Things could get awkward at the family dinner table the next time they're all together...

article says they are estranged

anyways, im shocked at this news

[Sniper]

article says they are estranged

anyways, im shocked at this news

I should probably try to read the article next time.

[ElectricEye]

That's pretty screwed up. The entire McGwire thing is starting to get sad. I still have no sympathy, but man.

[Brodeur]

mcgwires brother says he took steroids

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3851381

Still a hall of famer.

[kwilk103]

Still a hall of famer.

i say no...

[SimonRath]

Still a hall of famer.

noooooo
i don't think he is

[VoteLynnSwan]

what's the deal with Puerto Rico and producing MLB catchers?

Ivan Rodriguez, Geovany Soto, Bengie Molina, Yadier Molina, Jose Molina (not on roster) Raul Casanova has been around, as has Javier Valentin...

that's just an oddity.

[Borat]

Things could get awkward at the family dinner table the next time they're all together...

"I'm not here to talk about the past."

"Pass the salt please."

[D-Unit]

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/columns/story?columnist=law_keith&id=3840355

Keith Law's Top 100 prospects.


Surprised to see Justin Smoak so high, so soon at #15. Can't wait for Neftali Perez #4 and Derek Holland #21 to be ready for the bigs. Wrapping up the rest are SP Martin Perez #37, SS Elvis Andrus #39, SP Michael Main #64, C Taylor Teagarden #70, C Max Ramirez #77, CF Julio Borbon #85



Also Farm System Rankings for all Teams:

http://insider.espn.go.com/mlb/insider/columns/story?columnist=law_keith&id=3848691

[Borat]

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/columns/story?columnist=law_keith&id=3840355

Keith Law's Top 100 prospects.


Surprised to see Justin Smoak so high, so soon at #15. Can't wait for Neftali Perez #4 and Derek Holland #21 to be ready for the bigs. Wrapping up the rest are SP Martin Perez #37, SS Elvis Andrus #39, SP Michael Main #64, C Taylor Teagarden #70, C Max Ramirez #77, CF Julio Borbon #85


Also Farm System Rankings for all Teams:

http://insider.espn.go.com/mlb/insider/columns/story?columnist=law_keith&id=3848691

Holy ****, he's got Buster Posey at No. 8? Even in my homerific wet dreams, I don't have Posey that high. But I'll take it.

EDIT: Nevermind. These rankings are terrible. Keith Law is dumb.

[Brodeur]

EDIT: Nevermind. These rankings are terrible. Keith Law is dumb.

Keith Law is the best mainstream guy there is, and certainly the best on ESPN (except maybe Rob Neyer).

[Jughead10]

what's the deal with Puerto Rico and producing MLB catchers?

Ivan Rodriguez, Geovany Soto, Bengie Molina, Yadier Molina, Jose Molina (not on roster) Raul Casanova has been around, as has Javier Valentin...

that's just an oddity.

And Jorge Posada. But he wasn't eligible to play because he ended last season on the DL.

[Jughead10]

Didn't Jason Heyward get busted for steroids? Law doesn't even mention that but points to him as a physical specimen.

Edit: Nevermind, that was Schafer. These rankings seem to be horrible though.

[Malaka]

what's the deal with Puerto Rico and producing MLB catchers?

Ivan Rodriguez, Geovany Soto, Bengie Molina, Yadier Molina, Jose Molina (not on roster) Raul Casanova has been around, as has Javier Valentin...

that's just an oddity.

Don't forget Jorge Posada.

http://hitlesswanderings.mlblogs.com/photos/midwest_trip/jorge.jpg

[Borat]

So I was wasting time at work and decided to look through the 2007 MLB thread and found this gem by Eaglez.Fan:


And any Giants fans who think they are getting ripped off with the Lincecum for Rios trade are ********. Rios is better than most think, last year he batted .300 with 24 HR's. And is still young, and improving.

Oh yeah and yesterday The Jays owner was on OTR and hinted at it being a good idea to buy a jays Lincecum jersey.

OMG. That's funny. There are a bunch of gems in there too about Zito being better than CC Sabathia etc. I got some great laughs out of it.

[Zyro_1014]

Surprised to see Justin Smoak so high, so soon at #15.

Smoak hits the crap out of the ball, doesnt surprise me a ton lol

[Jughead10]

So I was wasting time at work and decided to look through the 2007 MLB thread and found this gem by Eaglez.Fan:



OMG. That's funny. There are a bunch of gems in there too about Zito being better than CC Sabathia etc. I got some great laughs out of it.

I thought that would have been a good trade for the Giants at the time as well. Mainly because I didn't think Lincecum could stay healthy, and I thought Zito would turn it around some. I was wrong.

[Brodeur]

So I was wasting time at work and decided to look through the 2007 MLB thread and found this gem by Eaglez.Fan:



OMG. That's funny. There are a bunch of gems in there too about Zito being better than CC Sabathia etc. I got some great laughs out of it.

Zito will bounce back this year, YOULL SEE.

[Stash]

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/columns/story?columnist=law_keith&id=3840355

Keith Law's Top 100 prospects.


Surprised to see Justin Smoak so high, so soon at #15. Can't wait for Neftali Perez #4 and Derek Holland #21 to be ready for the bigs. Wrapping up the rest are SP Martin Perez #37, SS Elvis Andrus #39, SP Michael Main #64, C Taylor Teagarden #70, C Max Ramirez #77, CF Julio Borbon #85

Who's Neftali Perez? ;)

[Borat]

Zito will bounce back this year, YOULL SEE.

It's YOU'LL

/Sniper

And I'd call a sub 4.50 ERA a good bounce back for Zito. You really think he could pull that off?

[Brodeur]

It's YOU'LL

/Sniper

And I'd call a sub 4.50 ERA a good bounce back for Zito. You really think he could pull that off?

I'm thinking a 3.98 ERA with a 4.55 FIP. And I don't include apostrophes when I type things in all caps.

[mqtirishfan]

I'm thinking a 3.98 ERA with a 4.55 FIP. And I don't include apostrophes when I type things in all caps.

CRUISE CONTROL MAKES IT EASY TO INCLUDE APOSTROPHES.

[Borat]

I'm thinking a 3.98 ERA


You have smoked yourself re-tarded(sic)

[bearsfan_51]

I think it's very likely that Zito will have an ERA with a 3, 9, and 8 in it. Just not in that order.

[Tampa 2 4 life]

You have smoked yourself re-tarded(sic)

Yeah, wtf, Zito will be lucky to be replacement level unless he becomes a groundballer again and stops walking the world.

[Brodeur]

Yeah, wtf, Zito will be lucky to be replacement level unless he becomes a groundballer again and stops walking the world.

Groundballs with that infield?

[Tampa 2 4 life]

Groundballs with that infield?

Better than Home Runs...

[ATLDirtyBirds]

Freddy Garcia is now a Met. You stand no chance.

[T-RICH49]

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/columns/story?columnist=law_keith&id=3840355

Keith Law's Top 100 prospects.


Surprised to see Justin Smoak so high, so soon at #15. Can't wait for Neftali Perez #4 and Derek Holland #21 to be ready for the bigs. Wrapping up the rest are SP Martin Perez #37, SS Elvis Andrus #39, SP Michael Main #64, C Taylor Teagarden #70, C Max Ramirez #77, CF Julio Borbon #85



Also Farm System Rankings for all Teams:

http://insider.espn.go.com/mlb/insider/columns/story?columnist=law_keith&id=3848691


how is Moose Tacos not in the top 25?Keith Law you SUCK

[M.O.T.H.]

what's the deal with Puerto Rico and producing MLB catchers?

Ivan Rodriguez, Geovany Soto, Bengie Molina, Yadier Molina, Jose Molina (not on roster) Raul Casanova has been around, as has Javier Valentin...

that's just an oddity.

Javy Lopez as well...

steroids played a part in that, I'm sure though.

[Brodeur]

Freddy Garcia is now a Met. You stand no chance.

Whoop-te-doo.

[Xiomera]

Whoop-te-doo.

Hey, with Freddy there is one big advantage in having him. Fans can always take a bathroom break between the time the ball leaves his hand and when it finally reaches the plate. http://draftcountdown.com/forum/images/icons/icon7.gif

[ATLDirtyBirds]

Hey, with Freddy there is one big advantage in having him. Fans can always take a bathroom break between the time the ball leaves his hand and when it finally reaches the plate. http://draftcountdown.com/forum/images/icons/icon7.gif

It's cool. We used to be able to eat, digest the food, and then take a **** all before something Pedro threw got to the plate. We were able to repeat this as we watched the ball fly out of the park.

[Hawk]

It's cool. We used to be able to eat, digest the food, and then take a **** all before something Pedro threw got to the plate. We were able to repeat this as we watched the ball fly out of the park.

Steve Trachsel was even better. I once Tivo'ed a Pedro start and watched the whole thing twice between Trachsel pitches.

[VoteLynnSwan]

Javy Lopez as well...

steroids played a part in that, I'm sure though.

he also had Adrien Beltre syndrome... comes out of nowhere in a contract year to put up GIGANTIC numbers only to sink back to average the next year...

[Brodeur]

he also had Adrien Beltre syndrome... comes out of nowhere in a contract year to put up GIGANTIC numbers only to sink back to average the next year...

Not necessarily true. Beltre is extremely valuable because of his defense and Safeco is a very difficult park for righties.

[themaninblack]

Jonny Gomes is going to be kicking asses in Cincy next year now?

Whats the deal with him? Haven't been paying attention to this thread or the Reds for awhile because of school.

[Brodeur]

Whats the deal with him? Haven't been paying attention to this thread or the Reds for awhile because of school.

He's like a homeless man's Adam Dunn, but with fighting.

[VoteLynnSwan]

Not necessarily true. Beltre is extremely valuable because of his defense and Safeco is a very difficult park for righties.

while i will agree with the latter point... his defense has nothing to do with my statement.

I'm not saying Beltre isn't valuable, i'm saying that he had a monster offensive year in a contract year, and then couldn't come close to matching those numbers. I'm not saying it's BECAUSE he got his money... but i am saying that it happened.

[iowatreat54]

http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news;_ylt=AuZR_lLnqkWh61oIIUneJs45nYcB?slug=ap-cubssale&prov=ap&type=lgns

God bless America and go **** yourself Sam Zell.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

If the Mets go with Oliver Perez instead of Ben Sheets, I will go ballistic.

[Brodeur]

Someone needs to sign Jon Garland soon so I can make fun of them. I'm sick of waiting for the opportunity.

[Tampa 2 4 life]

Someone needs to sign Jon Garland soon so I can make fun of them. I'm sick of waiting for the opportunity.

Ask and Colletti will be a dumbass.

Jon Garland's agent says his client could sign by next week. Garland grew up rooting for the Dodgers and his agent says he's a "good fit" for National League baseball.

God yes.

[Brodeur]

That's what happens when you fire a certified genius (who's probably a sociopath that has horrid people skills, but who gives a ****) because Bill Plaschke wanted dumbass Ned.

[Xiomera]

Tigers signed the great Brandon Lyon.

Discuss . . . haha

(I really just wanted to bump this from the bottom of the page)

[bearsfan_51]

Lyon could very well close for the Tigers. Then again so could I.

[Tampa 2 4 life]

Tigers signed the great Brandon Lyon.

Discuss . . . haha

(I really just wanted to bump this from the bottom of the page)

http://www.beyondtheboxscore.com/2009/1/24/735174/brandon-lyon-s-2008-declin

[Xiomera]

http://www.beyondtheboxscore.com/2009/1/24/735174/brandon-lyon-s-2008-declin

I can't make any sense of that madness. In my mind, Lyon is a slightly older Jonathan Papelbon. http://draftcountdown.com/forum/images/icons/icon7.gif

[Brodeur]

Tigers signed the great Brandon Lyon.

Discuss . . . haha

(I really just wanted to bump this from the bottom of the page)

I'm so tired of Dombrowski's only look for closers and no control powerful fastball relief pitcher crap. HIRE DEPO!

[Xiomera]

I'm so tired of Dombrowski's only look for closers and no control powerful fastball relief pitcher crap. HIRE DIPO!

I agree. I want bullpen help, not just closers.

That said, Eric Karabell of ESPN already said he's taking the over on 30 saves this year for Lyon. Not that saves are all that matters, but that'd be solid for the Tigers considering last year . . .

[Hines]

The Pirates need to get off their lazy asses and try to sign Ben Sheets. When healthy and on, I think he is a top 5 pitcher. I dont care if he wouldn't want to come here, but he has no other offers to pawn over.

Connely, get off your ass and sign Sheets!!!!!

I would be happy with a top three of Maholm, Snell, and Sheets. Gorzy, Karstens, McCutchen, Duke can battle it for the 4th and 5th spots.

[Tampa 2 4 life]

The Pirates need to get off their lazy asses and try to sign Ben Sheets. When healthy and on, I think he is a top 5 pitcher. I dont care if he wouldn't want to come here, but he has no other offers to pawn over.

Connely, get off your ass and sign Sheets!!!!!

I would be happy with a top three of Maholm, Snell, and Sheets. Gorzy, Karstens, McCutchen, Duke can battle it for the 4th and 5th spots.

Because the pirates are so close to contending.

[Hines]

Because the pirates are so close to contending.

I know they're not, but at least could be pleasent at times. Sheets, Snell and Maholm would be a good top 3, add in our young bats in the system, and we have a respectable team in a few years.

[M.O.T.H.]

He'll be a Ranger or Yankee before long...more than likely.

[kwilk103]

The Pirates need to get off their lazy asses and try to sign Ben Sheets. When healthy and on, I think he is a top 5 pitcher. I dont care if he wouldn't want to come here, but he has no other offers to pawn over.

Connely, get off your ass and sign Sheets!!!!!

I would be happy with a top three of Maholm, Snell, and Sheets. Gorzy, Karstens, McCutchen, Duke can battle it for the 4th and 5th spots.

that would involve spending money

which means it wont happen

[Hines]

that would involve spending money

which means it wont happen

Which is a shame.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

If anyone signs Ben Sheets, it's going to be the Mets, alright? Or else I'm going to be an angry man.

[Brodeur]

If anyone signs Ben Sheets, it's going to be the Mets, alright? Or else I'm going to be an angry man.

Nah, the Mets would prefer Garland, Wolf, or Perez because they suck.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

Nah, the Mets would prefer Garland, Wolf, or Perez because they suck.


I feel the urge to go Vic Mackey on someone whenever I hear us bidding against ourselves for Ollie and leaving Sheets out there.

[Forenci]

He'll be a Ranger or Yankee before long...more than likely.

I don't understand why he'd ever want to go to the Rangers. Nolan Ryan will completely destroy his arm. I mean he's injury prone as hell all ready as it is.

[Giantsfan1080]

I feel the urge to go Vic Mackey on someone whenever I hear us bidding against ourselves for Ollie and leaving Sheets out there.

Not for nothing, but how do you know who is bidding for Perez or Sheets? Just because it's not reported in the media doesn't mean a team has a good offer on the table for either of them.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

Not for nothing, but how do you know who is bidding for Perez or Sheets? Just because it's not reported in the media doesn't mean a team has a good offer on the table for either of them.

It's been pretty well reported we are the only team to have made an offer to Oliver. And If you don't believe that, I could rephrase it. I hate us possibly bidding against other stupid as **** teams for Oliver Perez because he has "potential".

[D-Unit]

I don't understand why he'd ever want to go to the Rangers. Nolan Ryan will completely destroy his arm. I mean he's injury prone as hell all ready as it is.
1. He's from Texas.
2. The Rangers new pitching coach is Mike Maddux, who is coming to the team from Milwaukee.
3. Texas is showing the most interest. Yankees are looking at Petitte, Mets are looking at Oliver, Dodgers are looking at Wolf/Garland.

That said, the Rangers are being very cautious and are only talking a 1 year deal with an option.

http://texas.rangers.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20090125&content_id=3770890&vkey=news_tex&fext=.jsp&c_id=tex

[fischbowl]

http://mlb.mlb.com/images/2009/01/25/95YYqypi.jpg

Franklin Gutierrez's goatee splits his ass-chin into perfect cheeks

[djp]

Only 1 more year till this beauty

http://images.publicradio.org/content/2008/09/15/20080915_3rd_base_skyline_view_33.jpg

[mqtirishfan]

Only 1 more year till this beauty

http://images.publicradio.org/content/2008/09/15/20080915_3rd_base_skyline_view_33.jpg


Nobody is going to be happy if the Twins are playing in October...

[Hawk]

Nobody is going to be happy if the Twins are playing in October...

That's what I'm thinking. At least make a retractable roof, cause I don't want playoff games delayed til next April.

[Xiomera]

That's what I'm thinking. At least make a retractable roof, cause I don't want playoff games delayed til next April.

More like delayed til June, haha.

April still isn't warm in the AL Central most of the time.

[themaninblack]

He's like a homeless man's Adam Dunn, but with fighting.

Well, we really went all out then.

[Jughead10]

More like delayed til June, haha.

April still isn't warm in the AL Central most of the time.

Yeah, Twins better open the first two weeks on the road every year.

We saw the mess in Cleveland a year or two ago. That is so much more likely to happen in Minnesota.

[SuperKevin]

I want Sheets in a Mets uniform badly. I think we finally have the bullpen depth to prevent him from having to over work his arm. As long as he can give us 6 strong innings a start I'll be ecstatic

[SuperKevin]

Nobody is going to be happy if the Twins are playing in October...

Don't worry about them playing in October.

As a Mets fan I feel ashamed to say that about anyone else

[fischbowl]

Don't worry about them playing in October.

As a Mets fan I feel ashamed to say that about anyone else

Anything is possible in the AL Central

[Brodeur]

Don't worry about them playing in October.

As a Mets fan I feel ashamed to say that about anyone else

The world's dumbest manager has won the AL Central twice in four years. Weird **** happens.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

The world's dumbest manager has won the AL Central twice in four years. Weird **** happens.


I didn't know Art Howe was managing the the AL Central now.

[Brodeur]

I didn't know Art Howe was managing the the AL Central now.

I don't consider him a person. He was Billy Beane's puppet who somehow was able to get a managing job where he wasn't a puppet.

[Turtlepower]

Andy Pettitte to sign one-year deal: http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/baseball/yankees/2009/01/26/2009-01-26_andy_pettitte_to_sign_oneyear_deal_with_.html

Final details are still being worked out, according to two baseball sources, but Pettitte will apparently accept a base salary between $5-6 million, with innings-pitched and days-on-the-roster incentives that could raise the value of the contract to $12 million.

If those are the numbers, then this is a fantastic signing.

[Brodeur]

Andy Pettitte to sign one-year deal: http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/baseball/yankees/2009/01/26/2009-01-26_andy_pettitte_to_sign_oneyear_deal_with_.html



If those are the numbers, then this is a fantastic signing.

So CC/Pettitte/Burnett/Wang/Hughes or Joba vs Shields/Kazmir/Garza/Sonnastine/Price vs Beckett/Lester/Dice-K/Wakefield or Masterson or Penny or Smoltz or Bucholz for the final two. Fun little division coming.

[Turtlepower]

So CC/Pettitte/Burnett/Wang/Hughes or Joba vs Shields/Kazmir/Garza/Sonnastine/Price vs Beckett/Lester/Dice-K/Wakefield or Masterson or Penny or Smoltz or Bucholz for the final two. Fun little division coming.

Joba will definitely get the nod over Hughes. I imagine that if Pettitte collapses like he did last year, then Hughes will come in and replace him. Wow, this division is just loaded this year.

[bsaza2358]

Let's not forget that Ian Kennedy is also there and has good stuff if he can keep up his consistency.

[Turtlepower]

Let's not forget that Ian Kennedy is also there and has good stuff if he can keep up his consistency.

Well, I don't think anyone will be surprised when he is gone by mid-season.

Also, Ian Kennedy was my pick for ROY last year. =O

[Hines]

Pirates are after Braden Looper. Meh, could be a decent starter, but could be a better player in the bullpen. I still want Ben Sheets.

[PACKmanN]

So CC/Pettitte/Burnett/Wang/Hughes or Joba vs Shields/Kazmir/Garza/Sonnastine/Price vs Beckett/Lester/Dice-K/Wakefield or Masterson or Penny or Smoltz or Bucholz for the final two. Fun little division coming.

Halladay pwns them all, :)

[Giantsfan1080]

Halladay pwns them all, :)

A shame there isn't as much after Halladay as there is on the other teams though.

[PACKmanN]

A shame there isn't as much after Halladay as there is on the other teams though.

I'm use to it, its been like that for ever.

[bsaza2358]

Well, I don't think anyone will be surprised when he is gone by mid-season.

Also, Ian Kennedy was my pick for ROY last year. =O

Kennedy could be gone preseason as an incentive for some team to take on Nady's contract...

[Jughead10]

Kennedy could be gone preseason as an incentive for some team to take on Nady's contract...

I doubt that. Nady was only rumored to get dealt if the Yankees were going to trade for a more proven back of the rotation starter. With Pettitte likely back, I think they hold onto Nady and let him walk after the season.

[Giantsfan1080]

Kennedy could be gone preseason as an incentive for some team to take on Nady's contract...

Also, Nady's contract isn't that bad besides him being a FA. For his production his salary is pretty reasonable.

[bsaza2358]

Well, if you're trying to get rid of him or Swisher to save a little bit (ha), you have him as bait. Surely some team can use one or the other, but maybe they need some more to take it on in this environment. It is a possibility. Not saying probable. Could, not will...

[Giantsfan1080]

Zack Greinke signed to a 4 year extension today.

http://kansascity.royals.mlb.com/news/press_releases/press_release.jsp?ymd=20090126&content_id=3772608&vkey=pr_kc&fext=.jsp&c_id=kc

[Damix]

Halladay pwns them all, :)

http://riveraveblues.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/doc-vs-cc-vs-johan.jpg

Sabathia = Halladay

[nobodyinparticular]

Let's not forget that Ian Kennedy is also there and has good stuff if he can keep up his consistency.

Ian Kennedy doesn't have good stuff, he has command. That's it. I don't think he's a better prospect than James Simmons.

[T-RICH49]

Zack Greinke signed to a 4 year extension today.

http://kansascity.royals.mlb.com/news/press_releases/press_release.jsp?ymd=20090126&content_id=3772608&vkey=pr_kc&fext=.jsp&c_id=kc



YYYYEEEEEESSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Brodeur]

Zack Greinke signed to a 4 year extension today.

http://kansascity.royals.mlb.com/news/press_releases/press_release.jsp?ymd=20090126&content_id=3772608&vkey=pr_kc&fext=.jsp&c_id=kc

Moore isn't a complete idiot afterall.

[Tampa 2 4 life]

By the way:

http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/62274/jayspadres.jpg

It's all about the aces baby.

[T-RICH49]

Greinke's contract is 4 years for $38 million

[fischbowl]

By the way:

http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/62274/jayspadres.jpg

It's all about the aces baby.

Take into account injuries to Chris Young and the Maddux/Wolf deals. I'm sure we'd see a much different picture

[bearsfan_51]

Take into account injuries to Chris Young and the Maddux/Wolf deals. I'm sure we'd see a much different picture
How dare you consider contingencies when comparing statistical data. The data knows all.

[awfullyquiet]

YYYYEEEEEESSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

i share this sentiment. Greinke is great.

But i must bring up this point.

Which is a worse game to have to sit through?

Pirates at Kansas City on a day when Greinke isn't pitching or Oakland Raiders at Detroit Lions, this year.