2009 MLB Discussion Thread

[Turtlepower]

I like Steve Phillips now.

I laughed so hard when I read that last night.

[ccB]

The O's signed Ty Wiggington.
http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/baseball/bal-orioles203,0,359953.story


2 year deal worth 6 million


Overall I think this is a very solid move, and is most likely a precursor to another move (Scott/Huff/Roberts trade?) I have been completely pleased with the O's offseason so far.

[fischbowl]

http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/baseball/bal-orioles203,0,359953.story


2 year deal worth 6 million


Overall I think this is a very solid move, and is most likely a precursor to another move (Scott/Huff/Roberts trade?) I have been completely pleased with the O's offseason so far.

I'd love to see him start at 1B and keep Huff at DH. Love the signing. I don't see it as a precursor for any deal CCB, just don't see it.

MacPhail never fails

[bored of education]

So why does Griffey get 5 mil for the next 16 years? Some endorsement deal or something? Pension plan ?

[fischbowl]

Where we are right now:

C: Zaun > Wieters > Hammock
1B: Wigginton > Huff > Gomez > Salazar
2B: Roberts > Murphy
SS: Izturis > Gomez > Murphy
3B: Mora > Moore
OF: Markakis > Jones > Scott > Pie > Montanez > Freel

Rotation:

Guthrie
Uehara
Hendrickson
Hill
Pauley
Hennessey
Liz

Bullpen:

Sherrill
Johnson
Walker
Sarfate
Mickolio
Albers
Baez

Come to think of it we can trade Scott. Avoid Arbitration and trade him

[SuperKevin]

Thats a disgusting rotation

[fischbowl]

Thats a disgusting rotation

Come the time Troy Patton comes back from injury and Jake Arrieta/Chris Tillman develop, it won't be anymore

[BigDawg819]

Where we are right now:

C: Zaun > Wieters > Hammock
1B: Wigginton > Huff > Gomez > Salazar
2B: Roberts > Murphy
SS: Izturis > Gomez > Murphy
3B: Mora > Moore
OF: Markakis > Jones > Scott > Pie > Montanez > Freel

Rotation:

Guthrie
Uehara
Hendrickson
Hill
Pauley
Hennessey
Liz

Bullpen:

Sherrill
Johnson
Walker
Sarfate
Mickolio
Albers
Baez

Come to think of it we can trade Scott. Avoid Arbitration and trade him


Don't lose faith in LUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUKKKKKKKKKKEEEEEEEEEEEE!

[Tampa 2 4 life]

That entire pitching staff is bad.

[fenikz]

Diamondbacks

Roto:
Webb
Haren
Davis
Scherzer
Garland

Pen:
Qualls
Pena
Rauch
Rosales
Slaten
Petit


C Synder > Montero
1B Tracy > Jackson > Clark
2B Lopez > Ojeda
SS Drew > Ojeda
3B Reynolds > Tracy > Ojeda
RF Upton > Byrnes > Romero
CF Young > Byrnes
LF Jackson > Byrnes

[BigDawg819]

That entire pitching staff is bad.


Guthrie is ok at least.

[bored of education]

The Indians have Wood and Pavano.

game.set.match

[Giantsfan1080]

that's more per year then webb and haren...combined

I'm a little late on this one but that isn't true. It's close but Webb and Haren combined make more money this year than Perez.

[Jughead10]

Guthrie is ok at least.

How much talk do we have to endure about what might be the worst rotation in baseball? At least bottom 5. Are any of you clowns going to that first series against the Yankees?

[fischbowl]

How much talk do we have to endure about what might be the worst rotation in baseball? At least bottom 5. Are any of you clowns going to that first series against the Yankees?

I'm going to be at all three games in the first series in NY

[ATLDirtyBirds]

I like Steve Phillips now.


Yeah, that's god damn hilarious Steve you sack of ****.

[Jughead10]

I'm going to be at all three games in the first series in NY

I wanted to go the first game but the Orioles aren't selling single tickets unless you get a plan and I don't feel like paying on stubhub. I have to go to NC that weekend for Easter so I think I'm gonna go to the Thursday day game on the way down.

[ccB]

How much talk do we have to endure about what might be the worst rotation in baseball? At least bottom 5. Are any of you clowns going to that first series against the Yankees?

We're sorry lets all talk about the Yankees some more, their offseason hasn't been discussed nearly enough yet. Any interesting happenings in the Bronx? Has Hank Steinbrenner passed gas in the last 3 hours?

[ccB]

Guthrie is ok at least.

I think Guth is more than ok, he's actually pretty underrated. Is he an Ace? No, but he's damned good when we give him some run support.

[SuperKevin]

I can't wait to see a game at Camden Yards again.

[PACKmanN]

Where we are right now:

C: Zaun > Wieters > Hammock
1B: Wigginton > Huff > Gomez > Salazar
2B: Roberts > Murphy
SS: Izturis > Gomez > Murphy
3B: Mora > Moore
OF: Markakis > Jones > Scott > Pie > Montanez > Freel

Rotation:

Guthrie
Uehara
Hendrickson
Hill
Pauley
Hennessey
Liz

Bullpen:

Sherrill
Johnson
Walker
Sarfate
Mickolio
Albers
Baez

Come to think of it we can trade Scott. Avoid Arbitration and trade him
If you have Zaun as your starting catcher then I'm sorry, you have nothing to look forward to.

[fischbowl]

If you have Zaun as your starting catcher then I'm sorry, you have nothing to look forward to.

He's our starter until Wieters comes up in May. He has a "Longoria-Clause" you see

[ccB]

If you have Zaun as your starting catcher then I'm sorry, you have nothing to look forward to.

Matt Wieters, ever heard of him? If not you probably don't belong posting in the MLB discussion.

[PACKmanN]

Matt Wieters, ever heard of him? If not you probably don't belong posting in the MLB discussion.

I do know who he is...the poster who I quoted has Zaun starting...that is the whole point of me saying that.

[Borat]

"Note to self: do not EVER snub Matt Wieters. The natives will kill you."

[619]

I do know who he is...the poster who I quoted has Zaun starting...that is the whole point of me saying that.

But what does it matter if it's only a short - term fix ?

[Jughead10]

We're sorry lets all talk about the Yankees some more, their offseason hasn't been discussed nearly enough yet. Any interesting happenings in the Bronx? Has Hank Steinbrenner passed gas in the last 3 hours?

Personally, I haven't talked about the Yankees in sometime because I know people get bored of it. However there are plenty of other relevant teams to discuss, which quite frankly, the Orioles just aren't one of yet and haven't been so in some time.

But I should just be thankful there isn't more than one Pirates fan on here.

P.S. - I'll make sure to wear a Teixeira jersey to Camden if I go in April.

[Brodeur]

"Note to self: do not EVER snub Matt Wieters. The natives will kill you."

Matt Wieters will ******* kill you first.

[Xiomera]

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/tom_verducci/02/03/2009.rays/index.html

Is SI crazy? The Tigers? Really?

[Brodeur]

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/tom_verducci/02/03/2009.rays/index.html

Is SI crazy? The Tigers? Really?

The O's pitching sucks way too much (as much as I love their offense/defense) and the Tigers are old and broken down, so this years Rays makes no sense. The A's and Braves I both see making the playoffs anyway.

[Giantsfan1080]

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/tom_verducci/02/03/2009.rays/index.html

Is SI crazy? The Tigers? Really?

The Tigers were favored to win the AL Central last year. I don't see why they can't have a bounce back year.

[Xiomera]

The Tigers were favored to win the AL Central last year. I don't see why they can't have a bounce back year.

Tigers entire season comes down to about 5 players. If they get better seasons out of Sheffield, Rodney, and Robertson, as well as bounce backs from Verlander and Bonderman, then I think we can contend for the Wild Card.

I'm not too optimistic.

[fischbowl]

I do know who he is...the poster who I quoted has Zaun starting...that is the whole point of me saying that.

And I explained the reason why in the next post, Jesus. Do I look like a *****?

[Brodeur]

Tigers entire season comes down to about 5 players. If they get better seasons out of Sheffield, Rodney, and Robertson, as well as bounce backs from Verlander and Bonderman, then I think we can contend for the Wild Card.

I'm not too optimistic.

No chance in hell the Tigers can win the wildcard over the losers of the Red Sox/Rays/Yanks bloodbath. The AL Central kind of sucks so they COULD win.

[fischbowl]

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/tom_verducci/02/03/2009.rays/index.html

Is SI crazy? The Tigers? Really?

Tom Verducci is a ******* ******. To call any team the next Rays is a joke, no one has or will have a comparable farm system to what they have developed over the years. There is no new Tampa Bay Rays

[Giantsfan1080]

Tigers entire season comes down to about 5 players. If they get better seasons out of Sheffield, Rodney, and Robertson, as well as bounce backs from Verlander and Bonderman, then I think we can contend for the Wild Card.

I'm not too optimistic.

I think Verlander definitely bounces back. Bonderman and Rodney maybe. What's the deal with Zumaya's injury?

[Giantsfan1080]

Tom Verducci is a ******* ******. To call any team the next Rays is a joke, no one has or will have a comparable farm system to what they have developed over the years. There is no new Tampa Bay Rays

Your 100% right but I think he meant more in terms of teams coming out of nowhere to possibly get to the WS.

[Xiomera]

I think Verlander definitely bounces back. Bonderman and Rodney maybe. What's the deal with Zumaya's injury?

Zumaya is reportedly healthy. He didn't have to have any surgery this offseason unlike the last couple years. We need him to be a solid setup guy for us.

And as for Bonderman, he's reportedly back to throwing around 97, which is considerably harder than last season before he needed surgery for a blot clot in his arm. He had a rib removed in the surgery, and he's quite optimistic.

I really think he's gonna bounce back this year. He's one of my favorite players, so I'm really pulling for him.

[ccB]

Personally, I haven't talked about the Yankees in sometime because I know people get bored of it. However there are plenty of other relevant teams to discuss, which quite frankly, the Orioles just aren't one of yet and haven't been so in some time.

But I should just be thankful there isn't more than one Pirates fan on here.

P.S. - I'll make sure to wear a Teixeira jersey to Camden if I go in April.

Oh I am sorry, maybe we should alert a moderator and change this threads title to, "Baseball teams Jughead wants to talk about thread"

Awe was your PS supposed to hurt my feelings or make me jealous perhaps? Wear whatever jersey you want to the game, I just hope Tex helps you more than A-Rod has, otherwise you will have wasted $100+ dollars on the jersey of yet another player who couldn't help your team buy a championship.

[mqtirishfan]

I think Verlander definitely bounces back. Bonderman and Rodney maybe. What's the deal with Zumaya's injury?

Am I the only one who doesn't buy into Verlander as an ace? Because dude's really only had one year I'd consider #1-worthy...

[Brodeur]

Am I the only one who doesn't buy into Verlander as an ace? Because dude's really only had one year I'd consider #1-worthy...

He was great in 06 and 07 and had a really unlucky year last year. He's also only 26 you douche.

[mqtirishfan]

He was great in 06 and 07 and had a really unlucky year last year. He's also only 26 you douche.

He was certainly great in '07, but I don't think anything but his ERA was ace-wothy in '06. Trust me, I respect him as a good pitcher in general. However, is he a great option as a #1? I'm not sure.

[ElectricEye]

Verlander is at the point where pitchers traditionally hit their stride and he's already had two very good years. I wouldn't call him an ace persay, but he's defiantly a really good two and more than passable as a frontline starter on a good team.

[Brodeur]

He was certainly great in '07, but I don't think anything but his ERA was ace-wothy in '06. Trust me, I respect him as a good pitcher in general. However, is he a great option as a #1? I'm not sure.

ERA? You're better than that Irish.

[mqtirishfan]

ERA? You're better than that Irish.

Did you bother to read my post before saying that? I said his ERA was great in '06, but I still found myself unsure because of his other numbers.

Apologize!

[Brodeur]

Did you bother to read my post before saying that? I said his ERA was great in '06, but I still found myself unsure because of his other numbers.

Apologize!

Sorry it's been a long day. And he was a 23 year old rookie in 2006, **** happens.

[mqtirishfan]

Sorry it's been a long day. And he was a 23 year old rookie in 2006, **** happens.

Well, he flipped '06 and '08 around, then.

[themaninblack]

IDK if anyone ever mentioned this so forgive me if it indeed did happen, but Sean Casey is retiring? I can't believe no one would try to pick him up.

[fischbowl]

IDK if anyone ever mentioned this so forgive me if it indeed did happen, but Sean Casey is retiring? I can't believe no one would try to pick him up.

Yeah, and he's going to be on MLB Network too. I love him but he could barely get a Minor League Deal last year.

[Giantsfan1080]

IDK if anyone ever mentioned this so forgive me if it indeed did happen, but Sean Casey is retiring? I can't believe no one would try to pick him up.

He's been a washed player the last few years now. He's a great guy so he should do really well on TV.

[ElectricEye]

He was pretty good for us in spot duty last year, but he has absolutely no power left in the tank and kinda fell off towards the end of the year. Great guy and a pretty good player, but he's probably right to retire.

[themaninblack]

Didn't realize he fell off that bad. Either way, love The Mayor and he will be great on TV.

[fenikz]

I'm a little late on this one but that isn't true. It's close but Webb and Haren combined make more money this year than Perez.


Webb - $5,500,000
Haren - $4,050,000


i win.

[SuperKevin]

Webb - $5,500,000
Haren - $4,050,000


i win.

Yeah but it's just because Perez happened to hit FA at this moment. When they are up for new contracts they'll get huge contracts also.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

Can we please stop talking about Oliver Perez? Unless he turns into Sandy Koufax this year, I'm trying really hard to forget that contract.

[SuperKevin]

Can we please stop talking about Oliver Perez? Unless he turns into Sandy Koufax this year, I'm trying really hard to forget that contract.

Why? He's a lefty starter with great value as a #3 starter. He racks up a ton of strikeouts too and with our improved bullpen, who cares if he can only go 6 innings.

[fischbowl]

Rockies acquired Matt Murton in exchange for AAA infielder Corey Wimberley. The team is stacked with OFs, good to get rid of him

Brewers traded C Eric Fryer to the Yankees for P Chase Wright. Wright, considered a bust, made his ML Debut last year with two starts early in the season

[iowatreat54]

hahahahhahaha Matt Murton

[Jughead10]

Rockies acquired Matt Murton in exchange for AAA infielder Corey Wimberley. The team is stacked with OFs, good to get rid of him

Brewers traded C Eric Fryer to the Yankees for P Chase Wright. Wright, considered a bust, made his ML Debut last year with two starts early in the season

Wright made his debut two seasons ago. And gave up 4 straight HRs in Fenway in his second start. Yankees designated him for assignment when they signed Pettitte back. I'm just glad we got anything for him.

[fischbowl]

We got Johnny Parrish Back!

Parade by the Harbor! Be There!

[Giantsfan1080]

Webb - $5,500,000
Haren - $4,050,000


i win.

No wrong. Your not taking Haren's extension into account.

Haren 09- $7,500,000
Webb 09- $6,500,000
Total 09- $14,000,000

Perez 09- $12,000,000

Like I said close but they are slightly paid more.

OWNED!!!

[fenikz]

lol

Congrats, your ****** pitcher is making 2 mil less then 2 of the best in the NL...combined

[Giantsfan1080]

lol

Congrats, your ****** pitcher is making 2 mil less then 2 of the best in the NL...combined

You are right on that but I still had you on the numbers. Don't make a statement unless you are correct next time.

[mqtirishfan]

You are right on that but I still had you on the numbers. Don't make a statement unless you are correct next time.

This is what one calls a hollow victory.

[Giantsfan1080]

This is what one calls a hollow victory.

But a victory none the less.

[Brodeur]

Sheets may need surgery for a torn flexor tendon. That explains some things.

[Giantsfan1080]

Sheets may need surgery for a torn flexor tendon. That explains some things.

Not a suprise on that.

[awfullyquiet]

Sheets may need surgery for a torn flexor tendon. That explains some things.

and hasn't had it yet?

also explains things.

[nobodyinparticular]

Brad Pitt is teaming up with the director of the "Ocean's" franchise to make a movie.

Moneyball (http://news.yahoo.com/s/eonline/20090205/en_top_eo/98652)

[Brodeur]

Brad Pitt is teaming up with the director of the "Ocean's" franchise to make a movie.

Moneyball (http://news.yahoo.com/s/eonline/20090205/en_top_eo/98652)

I am pumped for the chair throwing.

[nobodyinparticular]

I am pumped for the chair throwing.

:D Me too!!!!!

[Brodeur]

:D Me too!!!!!

Now if only Michael C. Hall can play DePodesta just so I can make a bunch of serial killer jokes.

[fischbowl]

http://www.greatertalent.com/backend/speakers/163/DePodesta,%20Paul.jpg

Eh, that may be excellent casting!

I love how I search Paul DePodesta and google says

Did you mean Billy Beane

******* Great

[themaninblack]

http://cincinnati.reds.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20090205&content_id=3801994&vkey=news_cin&fext=.jsp&c_id=cin

Big day in the Nati. Is it weird that whenever I think of the name Jacque Jones I instantly want to listen to Jock Jams?

[mqtirishfan]

And for all you stat geeks out there, MLB 2K9 also includes Sabermetrics to track all of your players including runs created, extrapolated runs basic, secondary average, equivalent average, isolated power, linear weights, marginal lineup value, stolen base runs, and range factor for all hitters. For pitchers, the stats are pitching runs, quality starts, game score, VORP, and range factor. This is a cool feature in the game and really helps you understand the value of each player in your lineup in a more detailed way.
http://sports.espn.go.com/videogames/news/story?id=3884838

Victory!!!

[yo123]

http://cincinnati.reds.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20090205&content_id=3801994&vkey=news_cin&fext=.jsp&c_id=cin

Big day in the Nati. Is it weird that whenever I think of the name Jacque Jones I instantly want to listen to Jock Jams?


Haha. The Reds don't know what they're getting themselves into. I couldn't stand Jones when he was in Minny and he's gotten a lot worse since then.

[mqtirishfan]

Haha. The Reds don't know what they're getting themselves into. I couldn't stand Jones when he was in Minny and he's gotten a lot worse since then.

They just put up with Corey Patterson, I think they'll manage.

[dabears10]

Haha. The Reds don't know what they're getting themselves into. I couldn't stand Jones when he was in Minny and he's gotten a lot worse since then.

Yes, but they get Daryle Ward baby. DARRYYYYYYYYLE DARYYYYLE. Love that big man.

[nobodyinparticular]

http://sports.espn.go.com/videogames/news/story?id=3884838

Victory!!!

WOOT!!!!!!

[djp]

WOOT!!!!!!

Cool, the same damn game it was last year.

I'll pass.

[themaninblack]

Yes, but they get Daryle Ward baby. DARRYYYYYYYYLE DARYYYYLE. Love that big man.

Is he actually worth something or are you just displaying man love?

[Brodeur]

http://sports.espn.go.com/videogames/news/story?id=3884838

Victory!!!

This is not MVP Baseball 2009.

[Sniper]

This is not MVP Baseball 2005.

Fixed it for you.

[Brodeur]

Fixed it for you.

I thought the exclusive rights ******** ended this year and we'd be getting a new MVP game. Guess not.

[awfullyquiet]

Yes, but they get Daryle Ward baby. DARRYYYYYYYYLE DARYYYYLE. Love that big man.

and his oversized badonkadonk

[awfullyquiet]

This is not MVP Baseball 2009.

And for all you stat geeks out there, MLB 2K9 also includes Sabermetrics to track all of your players including runs created, extrapolated runs basic, secondary average, equivalent average, isolated power, linear weights, marginal lineup value, stolen base runs, and range factor for all hitters. For pitchers, the stats are pitching runs, quality starts, game score, VORP, and range factor. This is a cool feature in the game and really helps you understand the value of each player in your lineup in a more detailed way.

now only if players played in the game the way their SABR's worked out.

fyi, i'm playing the show 08. my AAA CF'er is batting .444 in the leadoff spot with 34 SB's half way into the seasons. i'm getting bitched at because i don't take enough BB's, is it my fault i can hit to all fields from anywhere in the box? i miss a few opportunities with RISP (i mean, i am batting over .500 with RISP), and they push me down in the order to... 9th. move the ******* pitcher to 1st. and the very next day i complain to my manager that. wtf. move me up in the lineup. So... where do they move me up. to third... makes sense... but. god. if videogames were programmed to billy beane specs... i don't know what i'd make of it.

[fischbowl]

now only if players played in the game the way their SABR's worked out.

fyi, i'm playing the show 08. my AAA CF'er is batting .444 in the leadoff spot with 34 SB's half way into the seasons. i'm getting bitched at because i don't take enough BB's, is it my fault i can hit to all fields from anywhere in the box? i miss a few opportunities with RISP (i mean, i am batting over .500 with RISP), and they push me down in the order to... 9th. move the ******* pitcher to 1st. and the very next day i complain to my manager that. wtf. move me up in the lineup. So... where do they move me up. to third... makes sense... but. god. if videogames were programmed to billy beane specs... i don't know what i'd make of it.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/b/b5/Mlbfom_logo.jpg

[djp]

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/b/b5/Mlbfom_logo.jpg

That game is horrendous, too. All the reviews I've read on it were like

"This game makes you want to kill yourself"

or

"I'd rather run a cheese grater over my nutsack than play this"

[ATLDirtyBirds]

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/b/b5/Mlbfom_logo.jpg


Yeah. I wanted this game, but I was smart and read the reviews. Supposedly, it is a lot like the first NFL HC. Ugh.

[bored of education]

That game is horrendous, too. All the reviews I've read on it were like

"This game makes you want to kill yourself"

or

"I'd rather run a cheese grater over my nutsack than play this"

Running a cheese grater over your nutsack is a very underrated experience.

[mqtirishfan]

This is not MVP Baseball 2009.

I know, but 2k's use of stats such as VORP to determine how a player will progress is badass, and takes some of the sting out of not having the best baseball franchise producing a game.

[fischbowl]

That game is horrendous, too. All the reviews I've read on it were like

"This game makes you want to kill yourself"

or

"I'd rather run a cheese grater over my nutsack than play this"

Yeah I bought it for the comp and it is terrible.

Billy Beane endorses it, hence the post

[awfullyquiet]

Yeah. I wanted this game, but I was smart and read the reviews. Supposedly, it is a lot like the first NFL HC. Ugh.

can't we just put these games on a computer instead?

really.

wait. we might as well play fantasy games with real players instead! BRILLIANT!

[GET LOOSE]

I personally hate Baseball games they will never be as good as basketball games or Madden. The player ratings are pretty bad most of the time and just the basic judgment of everything. I used to like MVP baseball before they took over the rights.

[Jughead10]

I was really into last years MLB the Show. Apparently the have redone the franchise mode for the new one that allows for more realistic roster control as far as 40 man rosters go, designating for assignment, arbitration, etc. Comes out in less than a month, can't wait.

[GET LOOSE]

I was really into last years MLB the Show. Apparently the have redone the franchise mode for the new one that allows for more realistic roster control as far as 40 man rosters go, designating for assignment, arbitration, etc. Comes out in less than a month, can't wait.

I had the first one for my psp but then got bored and figured out the psp was such a waist of money and sold it.

[M.O.T.H.]

The 2K series is a joke, though. The franchise mode or w/e it's called is flawed and always glitchy. It's hard as balls to pitch on higher difficulty levels and regardless of level, all you do at the plate is hit home runs. I'm trying to push a nice little bloop single to right and end up hitting a 470 foot home run instead. blah.

Also the progression in these games blow as well. The same can be said for most sports video games but, it's especially bad here. You hit .330 w/ 46 homers and 120 Rbi with some 24 year old and when you get to the progression screen, you see the ole', "getting much worse" for some unknown reason. ugh.

[fischbowl]

I was really into last years MLB the Show. Apparently the have redone the franchise mode for the new one that allows for more realistic roster control as far as 40 man rosters go, designating for assignment, arbitration, etc. Comes out in less than a month, can't wait.

May sell Front Office Manager for The Show 09. I stupidly unreserved The Show 09 for Front Office Manager but I'm sure I'll love the new Franchise Feature.

I don't know whether to buy it for PS2 or wait about another half year until I finally buckle and buy a 360

[Jughead10]

May sell Front Office Manager for The Show 09. I stupidly unreserved The Show 09 for Front Office Manager but I'm sure I'll love the new Franchise Feature.

I don't know whether to buy it for PS2 or wait about another half year until I finally buckle and buy a 360

The Show is only on Sony platforms. Also some guy on a board creates amazing rosters for the show, with real minor league players who have not yet made their pro debut. Makes the game much more fun. Easy to download for free.

[mqtirishfan]

The 2K series is a joke, though. The franchise mode or w/e it's called is flawed and always glitchy. It's hard as balls to pitch on higher difficulty levels and regardless of level, all you do at the plate is hit home runs. I'm trying to push a nice little bloop single to right and end up hitting a 470 foot home run instead. blah.

Also the progression in these games blow as well. The same can be said for most sports video games but, it's especially bad here. You hit .330 w/ 46 homers and 120 Rbi with some 24 year old and when you get to the progression screen, you see the ole', "getting much worse" for some unknown reason. ugh.

2k made pitching easier this year, and changed the progression system to reward players with superior stats.

[M.O.T.H.]

The Show is exclusive to the PS3 and made by Sony...so, if you want a next-gen version of it, you'd have to buy a PS3.

[M.O.T.H.]

2k made pitching easier this year, and changed the progression system to reward players with superior stats.

Yeah? You can obviously tell that I didnt buy 2K8 this year because, of how disappointed I was in 2K6 and 2K7. That's good to hear but, when I played the demo...I absolutely hated the new pitching and I was still just hitting homer after homer at the plate. When it comes to baseball, it's difficult to make a really realistic game but, that is what I'm looking for. None of this 10 homers a game crap, or a box score consisting of 12 hits and 11 runs...the 11 runs all coming by way of solo home runs.

[mqtirishfan]

Yeah? You can obviously tell that I didnt buy 2K8 this year because, of how disappointed I was in 2K6 and 2K7. That's good to hear but, when I played the demo...I absolutely hated the new pitching and I was still just hitting homer after homer at the plate. When it comes to baseball, it's difficult to make a really realistic game but, that is what I'm looking for. None of this 10 homers a game crap, or a box score consisting of 12 hits and 11 runs...the 11 runs all coming by way of solo home runs.


2k9's demo isn't out yet, is it?

[M.O.T.H.]

2k9's demo isn't out yet, is it?

Talking about the 2K8 demo.

[M.O.T.H.]

I havent been able to find a baseball game that i could actually finish a full season in since the MVP series. MVP 04 and MVP 05, i actually went two played seasons deep into MVP 05...that is a lot of games. damn.

[fischbowl]

The Show is only on Sony platforms. Also some guy on a board creates amazing rosters for the show, with real minor league players who have not yet made their pro debut. Makes the game much more fun. Easy to download for free.

I don't have online.

Can you link me this?

[Borat]

I miss the old N64 All-Star Baseball Series. That game consumed my life (and the 3 college baseball players I lived with.) We had insane leagues. Sooooooooo much fun.

[fischbowl]

I miss the old N64 All-Star Baseball Series. That game consumed my life (and the 3 college baseball players I lived with.) We had insane leagues. Sooooooooo much fun.

Borat: Paul Lussier?

Any injury history?

[Borat]

Borat: Paul Lussier?

Any injury history?

Don't know him. His stats look pretty poor. You got something on him?

[mqtirishfan]

Talking about the 2K8 demo.

It's 2k9 where these fixes occur.

[M.O.T.H.]

It's 2k9 where these fixes occur.

Oh, I gotcha. Glad I didnt buy 2K8 then.

[fischbowl]

Don't know him. His stats look pretty poor. You got something on him?

He was just released. I'd like to have something based on his 06? stats. Looking for injury history

[Forenci]

Hah, I'm actually just downloading MLB 09 The Show demo. I bought MLB 08 The Show reluctantly last year because MLB 2k8 was too atrocious to even force myself to play it for the sake of having a baseball fix in terms of a video game.

I really fell in love with it too. Excellent game. Road to the Show mode is a blast too.

[fischbowl]

Hah, I'm actually just downloading MLB 09 The Show demo. I bought MLB 08 The Show reluctantly last year because MLB 2k8 was too atrocious to even force myself to play it for the sake of having a baseball fix in terms of a video game.

I really fell in love with it too. Excellent game. Road to the Show mode is a blast too.

Love Road to the Show. I'm a beast closer

[M.O.T.H.]

How does that work...game just sims up until they call your number? Or can you just come in any time you want?

[Forenci]

How does that work...game just sims up until they call your number? Or can you just come in any time you want?

Depends. Pitchers you basically just do your thing and pitch when you're called on (depending whether you're a closer or starter). Being a position player is a bit different. You only hit for your player whenever he comes up in the line up. If you get a hit you run the bases as you would in real life to try and score a run. In terms of defense (between your next at bat) it will sim until something happens where the ball comes to you or you're in some way related to the play that is going on (like if you have to cover second if you're the 2nd basemen or short stop when someone steals a base, or need to turn the double play).

After each game you get points which you can use to increase your attributes for your player. It's supposed to be changing a bit where now you can train your player with these in-game mini games or something.

Personally I love being a starting pitcher because I enjoy really trying to out smart hitters in the game.

Overall, it's a superb mode. You start off in double A, work your way through triple A and eventually get called up to the big leagues.

[M.O.T.H.]

Sounds great...I may end up buying the Show this year. I need more PS3 games, anyway.

[Borat]

I want. But you guys say this is only available on PS?

[ATLDirtyBirds]

Ugh. I wish I could get The Show.

[PACKmanN]

yup, man I loved the demo for 09. The hitting is a little more harder now. I find myself swinging early sometimes.

[Forenci]

Sounds great...I may end up buying the Show this year. I need more PS3 games, anyway.

I highly reccomend it. If anyone has a PS3 then I'd grab The Show.

[Zyro_1014]

Sounds great...I may end up buying the Show this year. I need more PS3 games, anyway.

its a very fun game, ive tryed out every position. My most successful guy was a starting pitcher.

also had a first basemen that was pretty good.

[Brodeur]

I know, but 2k's use of stats such as VORP to determine how a player will progress is badass, and takes some of the sting out of not having the best baseball franchise producing a game.

UZR or bust.

[mqtirishfan]

UZR or bust.

Good luck with that. This is the best you'll get.

[Brodeur]

Good luck with that. This is the best you'll get.

Regardless, if Pujols is not an infinity then I will throw things.

[the_legend_killer]

I enjoyed '08 The Show on the PS2, and I got a 360 last summer, so I'm pretty bummed out that I can't get '09 for it (It looks very very solid), so I guess I'll settle for 2K9.

[Brodeur]

How the hell did Chris Davis last until the 20th Round in the little ESPN budget thing?

[holt_bruce81]

Skip Schumaker potentially moving to 2nd base

http://stlouis.cardinals.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20090205&content_id=3801824&vkey=news_stl&fext=.jsp&c_id=stl

Schumaker is going to get a good bit of work at second base this spring, not only to add depth to the club and versatility to his game for 2009, but to open up some possibilities in 2010 and beyond.

Ever a team player, Schumaker is simultaneously intrigued by the opportunity and deferential to the man who holds the second base job now for St. Louis. He worked out a good bit with Adam Kennedy this winter, and urgently wants to avoid any suggestion that he's coming for Kennedy's job.

[fischbowl]

Skip Schumaker potentially moving to 2nd base

http://stlouis.cardinals.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20090205&content_id=3801824&vkey=news_stl&fext=.jsp&c_id=stl

Yeah, this is old news. I love Schuie and I'd love to see him stick.

[holt_bruce81]

Yeah, this is old news. I love Schuie and I'd love to see him stick.

Oh whoops. Yea Skip is very important to the Cards success, he's a heck of a leadoff hitter.

[DHVF]

Twins signed Luis Ayala to a 1 year 1.3 million dollar deal. Whoop whoop!

[ATLDirtyBirds]

In 2003, when he won the American League home run title and the AL Most Valuable Player award as a shortstop for the Texas Rangers, Alex Rodriguez tested positive for two anabolic steroids, four sources have independently told Sports Illustrated.

Rodriguez's name appears on a list of 104 players who tested positive for performance-enhancing drugs in Major League Baseball's '03 survey testing, SI's sources say. As part of a joint agreement with the MLB Players Association, the testing was conducted to determine if it was necessary to impose mandatory random drug testing across the major leagues in 2004.

When approached by an SI reporter on Thursday at a gym in Miami, Rodriguez declined to discuss his 2003 test results. "You'll have to talk to the union," said Rodriguez, the Yankees' third baseman since his trade to New York in February 2004. When asked if there was an explanation for his positive test, he said, "I'm not saying anything."

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/baseball/mlb/02/07/alex-rodriguez-steroids/index.html

[awfullyquiet]

In 2003, when he won the American League home run title and the AL Most Valuable Player award as a shortstop for the Texas Rangers, Alex Rodriguez tested positive for two anabolic steroids, four sources have independently told Sports Illustrated.

Rodriguez's name appears on a list of 104 players who tested positive for performance-enhancing drugs in Major League Baseball's '03 survey testing, SI's sources say. As part of a joint agreement with the MLB Players Association, the testing was conducted to determine if it was necessary to impose mandatory random drug testing across the major leagues in 2004.

When approached by an SI reporter on Thursday at a gym in Miami, Rodriguez declined to discuss his 2003 test results. "You'll have to talk to the union," said Rodriguez, the Yankees' third baseman since his trade to New York in February 2004. When asked if there was an explanation for his positive test, he said, "I'm not saying anything."

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/baseball/mlb/02/07/alex-rodriguez-steroids/index.html

bonds > arod...

lawl.

[Jughead10]

I kind of always thought he did steroids at some point. I mean the odds weren't in favor of him not doing them. It seems that half of baseball or more was on something at some point in their career. However I wonder if A-Rod has himself a lawsuit if this is true. Those tests in 2003 were supposed to anonymous. Did investigators ever legally get baseball to turn them over with names attached to them?

[Turtlepower]

At first I thought it said he tested positive for steroids RIGHT NOW. That 50 game suspension would've sucked. But I feel like it is at the point where everyone and their mother has taken some form of performance enhancing drug.

[Borat]

HAHAHAHA. I love it. I lost count of all the Yankee fans (not necessarily those on this board) that spewed a bunch of junk about "ARod will break the HR record and he'll do it clean" and "Arod is clean, Bonds was using" etc. What a crock of ****. You can't really trust anyone at this point.

[Jughead10]

HAHAHAHA. I love it. I lost count of all the Yankee fans (not necessarily those on this board) that spewed a bunch of junk about "ARod will break the HR record and he'll do it clean" and "Arod is clean, Bonds was using" etc. What a crock of ****. You can't really trust anyone at this point.

Except Jeter. You can trust him. He's clean. I don't care about the HR record. Give me more World Series and I don't care if A-Rod ever hits another HR.

[Borat]

Will the baseball media skewer AFraud with the same veracity they did Bonds? That's the real question. AF doesn't seem to be liked by the media too much, but he isn't hated the way Bonds was.

[Damix]

I don't think A-Rod has committed any perjury as well, which I'm sure will help him a little.

[Jughead10]

Will the baseball media skewer AFraud with the same veracity they did Bonds? That's the real question. AF doesn't seem to be liked by the media too much, but he isn't hated the way Bonds was.

I think A-Rod is liked my the media. The media just knows anything written on him is a big story. The media dislikes Bonds personally because he is an asshole. In A-Rod's case they just know a story about him struggling in a big spot, is going to sell a ton of papers in NY.

[Borat]

Been a good couple of weeks for ARoids. First Torre throws him under the bus, then he gets outed as a steroid user.

Canseco was right again BTW.

[Donno]

I am not surprised at all just look at him, he has A-fraud written all over him.

[Jughead10]

Been a good couple of weeks for ARoids. First Torre throws him under the bus, then he gets outed as a steroid user.

Canseco was right again BTW.

The Torre thing is overblown, i'm reading the book now. Torre is a self conscious ass though.

[comahan]

Same reaction as always from me.

Who cares.

[mqtirishfan]

*Yawn*

Wake me when someone isn't doing steroids.

[mqtirishfan]

Except Jeter. You can trust him. He's clean. I don't care about the HR record. Give me more World Series and I don't care if A-Rod ever hits another HR.

I'd say there's at least a 50% chance you're wrong.

[Borat]

Same reaction as always from me.

Who cares.

Unfortunately, I have to care. I've been **** on for many years by Yankee fans. I got some mental unloading to do now.

[scottyboy]

as long as this man never did steroids, I'm fine

http://artfiles.art.com/images/-/Tino-Martinez---2005-Studio-Plus-Photograph-C12188671.jpeg

[mqtirishfan]

as long as this man never did steroids, I'm fine

http://artfiles.art.com/images/-/Tino-Martinez---2005-Studio-Plus-Photograph-C12188671.jpeg

I bet he did.

[Borat]

1997 was abnormally awesome for him. Hmmmmm.

[Michigan]

http://thatsonpoint.blogspot.com/uploaded_images/todd%20jones-734795.jpg

He's the only man we can trust!

[Jughead10]

1997 was abnormally awesome for him. Hmmmmm.

Yeah but no other year was. Unless he did it for that one year and then never again, which seems unlikely. Funny the one year the Yankees had a guy hit over 30 HRs in the late 90's, was the only year they didn't win from 1996-2000.

[Tampa 2 4 life]

At this point I say everybody did steroids, so if you were better you still go to the hall.

[nobodyinparticular]

Yeah but no other year was. Unless he did it for that one year and then never again, which seems unlikely. Funny the one year the Yankees had a guy hit over 30 HRs in the late 90's, was the only year they didn't win from 1996-2000.

Brady Anderson had only one abnormally good year and it seems that those HRs were fueled by steroids. I'm not saying this means that Tino Martinez took steroids; it's just that I don't think you have a great argument that he didn't based on this info.

[nobodyinparticular]

At this point I say everybody did steroids, so if you were better you still go to the hall.

It's beginning to look that way, isn't it? So maybe McGwire, Bonds and A-Rod all make it. Otherwise the only people who make the Hall will be some 'roiders who slip through just because they somehow weren't named in any reports.

At this point, I would be surprised if Albert Pujols wasn't taking some form of PEDs.

[Jughead10]

It's beginning to look that way, isn't it? So maybe McGwire, Bonds and A-Rod all make it. Otherwise the only people who make the Hall will be some 'roiders who slip through just because they somehow weren't named in any reports.

At this point, I would be surprised if Albert Pujols wasn't taking some form of PEDs.

I definitely think Pujols has at some point. There was something linking him to some trainer in Kansas City a while ago but nothing really came of it. The only power hitter these days who I truly think never took it, is Manny. And I don't even know why I feel that way.

[nobodyinparticular]

I definitely think Pujols has at some point. There was something linking him to some trainer in Kansas City a while ago but nothing really came of it. The only power hitter these days who I truly think never took it, is Manny. And I don't even know why I feel that way.

Honestly, I question him as well. And David Ortiz too. Interesting that Ortiz' numbers jumped when he joined up with Manny in Boston, eh? Ever think of that? Perhaps Manny shared his "weight training" secrets with Ortiz.

I'm not normally this skeptical, but when something like A-Rod taking steroids comes out, I have to assume everyone did them.

[Jughead10]

Honestly, I question him as well. And David Ortiz too. Interesting that Ortiz' numbers jumped when he joined up with Manny in Boston, eh? Ever think of that? Perhaps Manny shared his "weight training" secrets with Ortiz.

I'm not normally this skeptical, but when something like A-Rod taking steroids comes out, I have to assume everyone did them.

I've always thought Ortiz did. He nearly doubled in size compared to when he came up with the Twins. Granted it isn't muscle, but still. But I think Ortiz becoming such a great hitter has more to do with Manny always being more feared. Ortiz is going to struggle this year without a full season of Manny. He did last year once Manny left.

But I like you said, I think more people did use than people who didn't. All of it was readily available in any clubhouse. Everyone knew about it. Reading Torre's book, McNamee was quoted that everyone knew there was a guy in the Anaheim clubhouse who would provide greenies to most of baseball. Anytime a team would be on the road against the Angels, players would stock up. Except this guy took signed bats, ball, caps, etc as payment. Pretty smart. Granted that isn't a steroid, but all this stuff was easy to get.

[Sniper]

I've always thought Ortiz did. He nearly doubled in size compared to when he came up with the Twins. Granted it isn't muscle, but still. But I think Ortiz becoming such a great hitter has more to do with Manny always being more feared. Ortiz is going to struggle this year without a full season of Manny. He did last year once Manny left.

Yes, Ortiz' bum wrist had nothing at all to do with the drop in production.

[gameplaya2435]

Well this news certainly explains A Rod's power-slap against the Sox in 04.

[Borat]

Well this news certainly explains A Rod's power-slap against the Sox in 04.

This one?

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n247/sabufoo/Afraud-1.jpg

[Stash]

This one?

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n247/sabufoo/Afraud-1.jpg
Is that the new Prada bag?

[Vikes99ej]

Who the hell is Luis Ayala?

[fischbowl]

Who the hell is Luis Ayala?

Former reliever with the Nationals and Mets. Pretty good started the year off on the wrong foot in Washington but turned it around in New York

[Vikes99ej]

Former reliever with the Nationals and Mets. Pretty good started the year off on the wrong foot in Washington but turned it around in New York

Okay, apparently the Twins signed him today. Just needed some info.

[Brent]

Let's see, the Giants signed Edgar Renteria and Juan Uribe. You just got to love Brian Sabean and his knack for signing washed up old players. Excuse me while I go watch the 1954 World Series flashback and pretend we're still good.

For those not in the know:
7dK6zPbkFnE

[yodapoop]

I definitely think Pujols has at some point. There was something linking him to some trainer in Kansas City a while ago but nothing really came of it. The only power hitter these days who I truly think never took it, is Manny. And I don't even know why I feel that way.

I question everyone pretty much except for the Nick Puntos, Jason Tyners, David Ecksteins, and the like. And yes, that includes even the players on my team. This isn't saying I think Pujols did the juice, I certainly hope he didn't, but if he did it would not shock me.

[Brodeur]

Let's see, the Giants signed Edgar Renteria and Juan Uribe. You just got to love Brian Sabean and his knack for signing washed up old players.

Sabean's had a fantastic offseason so shush. And who gives a flying **** if A-Rod took roids, he's still the best SS of all time (and it's not his fault the idiotic Torre kept the horrible fielding Jeter at short over him).

[Philliez01]

ESPN must be salivating right now though, A-Rod and more steroid (funny how it comes in the "downtime" in between NFL and MLB seasons and the NBA/NHL seasons are midseason) conversations is like a blessing to them. The only thing that would be better would be if say, Brett Favre married Joba Chamberlain.

[jayceheathman]

http://thatsonpoint.blogspot.com/uploaded_images/todd%20jones-734795.jpg

He's the only man we can trust!

Oh man, I hated Todd Jones growing up. I cant believe he is still playing. I remember being a kid and going to Astros games in the Astrodome and dreading the time Todd Jones pitches. He was horrible.

[Brodeur]

I saw a post on the NYYFans message board saying they wish Aaron Boone had never gotten hurt playing basketball. Man some Yankee fans are ******* idiots (strangely though, none on this forum).

[Borat]

Let's see, the Giants signed Edgar Renteria and Juan Uribe. You just got to love Brian Sabean and his knack for signing washed up old players.


Nobody hates Sabean more than me, but I can't fault him for the moves he made this winter. I'm not sure what other SS you would have wanted him to sign. They all pretty much suck. And Uribe was signed to a minor-league deal. I doubt he makes the team. They'd have to open up a spot on the 40-man to keep him. That's probably not happening.

[Tampa 2 4 life]

http://lfw.org/jminc/Steroids/http://espn.go.com/mlb/

[Brodeur]

http://lfw.org/jminc/Steroids/http://espn.go.com/mlb/

It's Yankees, Red Sox, and steroids. Get it right Tampa.

[Brent]

Nobody hates Sabean more than me, but I can't fault him for the moves he made this winter. I'm not sure what other SS you would have wanted him to sign. They all pretty much suck. And Uribe was signed to a minor-league deal. I doubt he makes the team. They'd have to open up a spot on the 40-man to keep him. That's probably not happening.
I dont know but it just feels like he isnt even trying. I cant ******* stand Sabean. WORST GM EVER. Trust me, I am sure we hate him equally, I just dont most often in here because every time I think about the Giants I get upset ahha.

[fischbowl]

Brodeur, Tampa, P-L are ya'll good for SWDC Touts?

[LonghornsLegend]

At this point I say everybody did steroids

http://images.wikia.com/openserving/sports/images/2/2d/KenGriffeyJr.jpg


These newest allegations should just make everyone appreciate KGJ and his 600+ homeruns even more.

[Tampa 2 4 life]

Brodeur, Tampa, P-L are ya'll good for SWDC Touts?

Hellz yeah.

[PACKmanN]

Yankees, Red Sox, Rays, and Orioles I got some good news for you guys, Shawn Camp is back with the Blue Jays. -_-

[Brent]

These newest allegations should just make everyone appreciate KGJ and his 600+ homeruns even more.
If he hadn't gone to Cincinnati and stayed in the American League to play DH. We're talking about him crossing 700, easily. I used have those black and teal cleats of his when I was like 12 haha.

[Brodeur]

Brodeur, Tampa, P-L are ya'll good for SWDC Touts?

Works for me.

And who says that Junior didn't take roids?

[awfullyquiet]

Works for me.

And who says that Junior didn't take roids?

i did.

if he did. the poos took them too... he's the last bastion of hope.

[M.O.T.H.]

Andruw Jones to Rangers per ESPN News.

[D-Unit]

Andruw Jones to Rangers per ESPN News.
Yep. A minor league deal that will pay him $500,000 if he makes the major league team.

Would be pretty cool if he could resurrect his career.

[M.O.T.H.]

Really that's it? Damn.

Well, I hope he does come back but, I doubt it.

He's stubborn and has constant weight issues. I also think he may have been an HGH/steroid user who is now off of it. Have had those suspicions for a long time.

[Brodeur]

They would be better off if they ran with an outfield formation of:
LF- Nelson Cruz
CF- Marlon Byrd
RF- Josh Hamilton

But whatever.

[LonghornsLegend]

If he hadn't gone to Cincinnati and stayed in the American League to play DH. We're talking about him crossing 700, easily. I used have those black and teal cleats of his when I was like 12 haha.

Agreed on the 1st point, and I also had the cleats lol, as well as all his batting gloves, Griff was the **** when I was growing up and still is.



Yep. A minor league deal that will pay him $500,000 if he makes the major league team.

Would be pretty cool if he could resurrect his career.

I doubt it, but we'd probably just get rid of him anyway...We don't like anyone on the team unless they are minor leaguers or incredibly cheap for some reason...We traded A-Rod for Soriano and turned him into 3 nobodies, I don't get why we trade every player that starts to look like a franchise player, it's not like we have one too many, they just trade off anyway that plays well for prospects for some reason.


That's cool if you work it like the Marlins and you can be competitive but the Rangers are far from it...I can't even root for them anymore.

[Brodeur]

That's cool if you work it like the Marlins and you can be competitive but the Rangers are far from it...I can't even root for them anymore.

Shame you're bailing now because they have the best farm system in baseball and they already are a great offensive team. If they can get anything mediocre from their rotation this year, they could contend in the AL West because the Angels are going to decline rapidly.

[Borat]

Wait, what? The Rangers have the No. 1 farm system. They have an incredible amount of talent that is nearly MLB-ready. They're going to be AL West contenders for the next decade. Nothing to be ashamed of over there. Hell, I'm kind of becoming a Ranger fan just to enjoy their prospects that are going to be breaking through soon.

[Sniper]

Phils re-sign Ryan Howard to a 3 year deal for $54 million.

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3892759

[themaninblack]

If he hadn't gone to Cincinnati and stayed in the American League to play DH. We're talking about him crossing 700, easily. I used have those black and teal cleats of his when I was like 12 haha.

He really just hit a string of bad luck as far as health is concerned. His hamstrings are completely FUBAR at this point. When healthy, he still could rake when he was here.

[IndyColtScout]

So can someone tell me if the Dback are planning on making Tom Gordon their new closer because if that is the case, sooooo dumb. I think Garland is overrated a little, but I think he will actually work out in AZ. They need a real closer though badly.

[M.O.T.H.]

So can someone tell me if the Dback are planning on making Tom Gordon their new closer because if that is the case, sooooo dumb. I think Garland is overrated a little, but I think he will actually work out in AZ. They need a real closer though badly.

Chad Qualls. Gordon will be the primary set-up man more than likely.

However, the closer role is open...Qualls gets first shot but, Pena and Rauch are right there waiting.

[IndyColtScout]

Chad Qualls. Gordon will be the primary set-up man more than likely.

Still just terrible

[IndyColtScout]

Chad Qualls. Gordon will be the primary set-up man more than likely.

Qualls and Gordon is going to be a waste. I think the Dbacks might have the team they need again, but they need a legit closer.

[M.O.T.H.]

Still just terrible

Not ideal but, better than Gordon closing them off. :)

[Brodeur]

Phils re-sign Ryan Howard to a 3 year deal for $54 million.

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3892759

I don't think they overpayed him enough.

[IndyColtScout]

I know we got some guys on here who know a lot. Anyone want to throw me a bone, and give me some ideas on who the top minor league prospects are right now.

[IndyColtScout]

I know we got some guys on here who know a lot. Anyone want to throw me a bone, and give me some ideas on who the top minor league prospects are right now.


Should re-phrase, besides the guys that were considered top prospects last year like McCutcheon, LaPorta, Wieters..... who are the new top prospects i might not know about?

[djp]

I don't think they overpayed him enough.

18 mil a year.. yuck

[IndyColtScout]

18 mil a year.. yuck

Howard could get more than that from another team. Just about every high profile player in every league get overpaid nowadays.

[D-Unit]

Wait, what? The Rangers have the No. 1 farm system. They have an incredible amount of talent that is nearly MLB-ready. They're going to be AL West contenders for the next decade. Nothing to be ashamed of over there. Hell, I'm kind of becoming a Ranger fan just to enjoy their prospects that are going to be breaking through soon.
Alriiiight! Cool! More Rangers conversation the better! :D

I like how the Rangers are at least trying things this offseason. They pursued Sheets and signed him pending a physical...that he failed... Omar Vizquel is a great leader for a young ball club and gives them some veteran experience if Elvis Andrus slips up at SS. Making them move Michael Young to 3B and then convincing him to be fine with it is a slick move... They signed Derrick Turnbow and Eddie Guardado who aren't great, but provide veteran depth in the bullpen... if they have a decent season, I could see them pawning them off at the trade deadline. ...and sure Andruw Jones could continue to be a bum. But hey, a move to the AL for the first time in his career could help...

[djp]

Guardado is worthless.

He was so bad for the Twins last year.

[themaninblack]

Guardado is worthless.

He was so bad for the Twins last year.

Eddie? I liked him when he was a Red but he could never stay healthy.

[IndyColtScout]

Drays would be sick had they just called up Hamilton and let him sit on the bench all strung out for a year.

[nobodyinparticular]

Should re-phrase, besides the guys that were considered top prospects last year like McCutcheon, LaPorta, Wieters..... who are the new top prospects i might not know about?

Trevor Cahill and Brett Anderson--A's pitching prospect duo who will take the league by storm.

[nobodyinparticular]

Alriiiight! Cool! More Rangers conversation the better! :D

I like how the Rangers are at least trying things this offseason. They pursued Sheets and signed him pending a physical...that he failed... Omar Vizquel is a great leader for a young ball club and gives them some veteran experience if Elvis Andrus slips up at SS. Making them move Michael Young to 3B and then convincing him to be fine with it is a slick move... They signed Derrick Turnbow and Eddie Guardado who aren't great, but provide veteran depth in the bullpen... if they have a decent season, I could see them pawning them off at the trade deadline. ...and sure Andruw Jones could continue to be a bum. But hey, a move to the AL for the first time in his career could help...

Wait, you guys are moving Andrus to the majors? He may have a major league glove, but he couldn't even hit AA pitching. Do the Rangers really expect him to hit major league pitching?

[IndyColtScout]

Trevor Cahill and Brett Anderson--A's pitching prospect duo who will take the league by storm.

I heard the A's have a stud lefty prospect. Are one of these guys that lefty?

Also, on a side note has anyone DLed the new Show 09 Demo?

I think its great, and I know the actual game will be a lot better.

I am so pumped because the Show is the best sports game ever made, and Madden nor Fifa can even touch it. It's not even close. The Show is beautiful visually, and the detail is great. Franchise could use a little work, but still very solid. The only thing that bothers me about the Show is the fact that they put the team hats on every MLB player. I hate that. I would rather everyone just have a face because when someone gets traded I hate seeing one random Astro's hat with the rest of my DBack or DRays teams. Madden got it right this year by putting everyone in generic white jersies. It make the game more fun for me. Oh well, still love this game.

[619]

Wait, you guys are moving Andrus to the majors? He may have a major league glove, but he couldn't even hit AA pitching. Do the Rangers really expect him to hit major league pitching?

He's 20 years old, one would think he's still 2-3 years away, while he works on that developing bat. Then again, Reyes was a similar player at around the same age when he first broke into the league and over time he eventually learned to hit major league pitching as well.

[nobodyinparticular]

I heard the A's have a stud lefty prospect. Are one of these guys that lefty?

Also, on a side note has anyone DLed the new Show 09 Demo?

I think its great, and I know the actual game will be a lot better.

I am so pumped because the Show is the best sports game ever made, and Madden nor Fifa can even touch it. It's not even close. The Show is beautiful visually, and the detail is great. Franchise could use a little work, but still very solid. The only thing that bothers me about the Show is the fact that they put the team hats on every MLB player. I hate that. I would rather everyone just have a face because when someone gets traded I hate seeing one random Astro's hat with the rest of my DBack or DRays teams. Madden got it right this year by putting everyone in generic white jersies. It make the game more fun for me. Oh well, still love this game.

Anderson is the lefty. He really doesn't have any single pitch that is amazing. He doesn't have a Zito curve, he doesn't have a Johnson (or even Beckett for that matter) fastball, he doesn't have a filthy slider. But last season, he was only 20 year old and he dominated AA with 4 very good (not great) pitches along with great command and poise. (all pluses, only command and poise are plus-plus) He's extremely advanced as a pitcher, especially for his age.

Cahill is a righty who, up until last season was hanging around 89-90 MPH topping out at 92, but added a couple MPH to his fastball, staying around 90-92 and topping out at 94. He has 3 main pitches he throws--a fastball with ridiculously heavy sink, a knuckle curve and a changeup. The sinker is his bread and butter pitch that will get him twice as many grounders as flyballs and saw off a ton of bats (he's gotten a lot of comparisons to Brandon Webb, but it's more likely that he's Kevin Brown when he was with the Marlins). The knuckle curve is another plus pitch that is his strikeout pitch. His changeup is about average to slightly above average. He has pretty good command of all of his pitches, but walks a few more batters than Anderson although he also strikes more out. All-in-all it's the combination of the plus-plus sinker and the plus k-curve that gives Cahill the rare combination of being a groundball and strikeout pitcher. His poise is incredible for any minor league pitcher, but especially for a 20-year old who just started pitching fulltime three years ago as a senior in high school. Anderson carved up single- and double-A, but Cahill did just a little bit better at each level.

These players are often lumped together in prospect lists, and interchangeable between who is valued as a better pitcher, Anderson or Cahill.

[nobodyinparticular]

He's 20 years old, one would think he's still 2-3 years away, while he works on that developing bat. Then again, Reyes was a similar player at around the same age when he first broke into the league and over time he eventually learned to hit major league pitching as well.

And that cost the Mets money and wins. When they could have had a better player at SS during that development time, they had Reyes stealing wins from them. And then he starts to get good right as he needs an extension. No free years. Loss of production.

Bad management. And what if Andrus gets discouraged, as many young ballplayers can, as he is unable to hit major league pitching?

[Tampa 2 4 life]

Phillies Grossly Overpaying for a 1B who doesn't walk? Doesn't surprise me.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

Phillies Grossly Overpaying for a 1B who doesn't walk? Doesn't surprise me.


I would like to mock them, but I can't because of stupid Oliver Perez.

[Brodeur]

Phillies Grossly Overpaying for a 1B who doesn't walk? Doesn't surprise me.

Huh? Ryan Howard has patience...

[D-Unit]

And that cost the Mets money and wins. When they could have had a better player at SS during that development time, they had Reyes stealing wins from them. And then he starts to get good right as he needs an extension. No free years. Loss of production.

Bad management. And what if Andrus gets discouraged, as many young ballplayers can, as he is unable to hit major league pitching?

If you generalize your philosophy then sure there is some sense in that, but Jon Daniels is looking at this from the Rangers point of view. Their hitting has been one of their strengths. Giving up a little offense for a lot of defense makes some sense here. Furthermore, they had a gap at the hot corner and instead of a pricey FA, they were able to continue their youth movement and keep Michael Young instead of selling him low on the trade front. They put him out there, but were really getting crappy offers. Now, Andrus may very well stumble along the way, but they covered themselves somewhat with Vizquel, and you have to admit the upside is amazing. He's not Jose Reyes but he could be the Rangers poor man version and that is still very good.

[iowatreat54]

Phillies Grossly Overpaying for a 1B who doesn't walk? Doesn't surprise me.

Yea, those 81 walks sure are a travesty. He strikes out a lot and has a low avg./OBP, but he takes walks just fine (even if a bunch are IBB).

[twista6002]

I can't see why Philly shouldn't be favored to win again

[scottyboy]

I can't see why Philly shouldn't be favored to win again

because the Yankees opened up their wallets and laced the new stadium with candy for CC

[Brodeur]

I can't see why Philly shouldn't be favored to win again

Because they got worse in LF for no reason whatsoever and their rotation is not very good outside of Cole Hamels.

[Sniper]

because the Yankees opened up their wallets and laced the new stadium with candy for CC

Opening up the wallet sure has worked out swimmingly for them lately...C.C is a pitcher's version of Alex Rodriguez. Phenomenal regular-season player, incredibly underwhelming post-season player.

[Brent]

Wait, what? The Rangers have the No. 1 farm system. They have an incredible amount of talent that is nearly MLB-ready. They're going to be AL West contenders for the next decade. Nothing to be ashamed of over there. Hell, I'm kind of becoming a Ranger fan just to enjoy their prospects that are going to be breaking through soon.
I have been to so many Rangers games ($20 for first row, 3rd baseline seats!) since moving here; they've been adopted as my 2nd favorite team. Their farm system has always been great the problem is that The Ballpark is nothing but a ******* launch pad. They need to get guys who are groundball-type pitchers because it seems that if someone throws a fastball in Arlington, that thing is headed to the bleacher seats.

[scottyboy]

Opening up the wallet sure has worked out swimmingly for them lately...C.C is a pitcher's version of Alex Rodriguez. Phenomenal regular-season player, incredibly underwhelming post-season player.

oh hush you!

i pretty much burned my own team there too hahah

[Brodeur]

Opening up the wallet sure has worked out swimmingly for them lately...C.C is a pitcher's version of Alex Rodriguez. Phenomenal regular-season player, incredibly underwhelming post-season player.

No he isn't. He was overworked to hell last season right before the playoffs and the year before he had a couple of bad starts. Plus, A-Rod has identical overall postseason stats to Jeter, so shush with that.

And the reason the Yankees will lose in the playoffs is because their middle infielders are horrifyingly atrocious defenders.

[twista6002]

Because they got worse in LF for no reason whatsoever and their rotation is not very good outside of Cole Hamels.

Joking right?

Ibanez is an upgrade over Burrell and for our rotation being no good, did you even bother to watch the postseason last year?

[Turtlepower]

Joking right?

Ibanez is an upgrade over Burrell and for our rotation being no good, did you even bother to watch the postseason last year?

There is no way in bloody hell that Ibanez is an upgrade over Burrell. Ibanez is worse offensively, defensively and just has the look of a worse player.

[twista6002]

There is no way in bloody hell that Ibanez is an upgrade over Burrell. Ibanez is worse offensively, defensively and just has the look of a worse player.

Ibanez 2008: .293 avg, .358 obp, 23 HR, 110 RBI career average: .283
Burrell 2008: .250 avg, .367 OBP, 33 HR, 86 RBI career average .257

Not to mention there's no way in hell Ibanez has worse range than Burrell and Burrell put up those stats despite being in one of the game's best lineups, where Ibanez was in one of the worst

[P-L]

I too fail to see how Ibanez is in any way an upgrade over Burrell.

[twista6002]

I too fail to see how Ibanez is in any way an upgrade over Burrell.

Ibanez has put up better offensive stats despite being in a much worse lineup. Not to mention he has better range than Burrell out in the field. Look at the post above you.

[Turtlepower]

Ibanez has put up better offensive stats despite being in a much worse lineup. Not to mention he has better range than Burrell out in the field. Look at the post above you.

A: Ibanez does not have better range than Burrell. If anything, they are a wash at horribly sucking at one of the easiest positions in baseball.

B: Being in a worse lineup usually allows for certain individuals to play better. And what is with Ibanez not even knowing how to take a walk. It is pretty awful when you have 40 points higher in average than one guy, but you still don't have a higher OBP.

[Tha Wootster]

ibanez and upgrade in the same sentence what ?

[Brodeur]

Joking right?

Ibanez is an upgrade over Burrell and for our rotation being no good, did you even bother to watch the postseason last year?

If you think Ibanez is an upgrade over Burrell you may be insane, as he is a much much worse player as TP above me already pointed out. And here's the Phillies projected rotation:

Cole Hamels- greatness
Joe Blanton- decent innings eater at best
Brett Meyers- Jekyll and Hyde act has worked so well aka incredibly inconsistent
Jamie Moyer- Old and had an incredibly fluky year last year
Adam Eaton/Kyle Kendrick- whoever wins is the worst starting pitcher in baseball

[twista6002]

A: Ibanez does not have better range than Burrell. If anything, they are a wash at horribly sucking at one of the easiest positions in baseball.

B: Being in a worse lineup usually allows for certain individuals to play better. And what is with Ibanez not even knowing how to take a walk. It is pretty awful when you have 40 points higher in average than one guy, but you still don't have a higher OBP.

Being in a worse lineup doesn't benefit you. It means other teams won't throw you many fastballs or throw around the plate too much. And Ibanez takes walks at a decent amount he just doesn't take as many as Burrell. Luckily he can hit for average a lot better than Burrell can, which is likely why his run production is better. I still would like to hear someone prove that Ibanez isn't an upgrade.

[Brodeur]

Ibanez has put up better offensive stats despite being in a much worse lineup. Not to mention he has better range than Burrell out in the field. Look at the post above you.

http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/27021/IbanezWallMiss_medium.gif

http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/29431/IbanezOffGlove3_medium.gif

http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/29434/IbanezOffGlove4_medium.gif

http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/29815/IbanezBobble4_medium.gif

There is like 80 more out there. Ok fine my favorite:

http://assets.sbnation.com/imported_assets/27348/28akex2_jpg_medium.gif

[Turtlepower]

Thank you Brodeur. That made my day.

[iowatreat54]

I love those. It makes me feel a little bit better knowing that Soriano has only been playing LF for like 3 years, and he isn't that bad and at least he has an excuse.

[twista6002]

If you think Ibanez is an upgrade over Burrell you may be insane, as he is a much much worse player as TP above me already pointed out. And here's the Phillies projected rotation:

Cole Hamels- greatness
Joe Blanton- decent innings eater at best
Brett Meyers- Jekyll and Hyde act has worked so well aka incredibly inconsistent
Jamie Moyer- Old and had an incredibly fluky year last year
Adam Eaton/Kyle Kendrick- whoever wins is the worst starting pitcher in baseball

Well, the stats speak for themselves when it comes to proving who's better between Burrell and Ibanez.

And as for our rotation:

Blanton is a quality innings eater. The Phillies lost a grand total of 4 games in 13 starts which he started last year. There's a slightly better than 2/3 chance we'll win when he starts. Not to mention he came through big whenever we needed him. He's a glorified #3 starter, that's what we thought of him when we traded for him and that's what he is, and he's a damn good one.

Myers is in the same category as Blanton when it comes to clutch. He pitched great when we needed him and when he's on, he is defintely one of the better righties in the game. As evident since his demotion, he's on more times than not.

Moyer may have had some dumb luck but he's not the type of player you can look at his age when judging him. He doesn't use speed or skill, attributes of young players, he's a finesse veteran that relies on his brain and savvy. Not to mention the dude came through clutch when we needed him. Basically if the team wins half of the games he starts this year, it'll be a good season for him.

Kendrick hasn't shown me very much but he has potential to be decent. To call him potentially the worst starter in baseball leads me to believe you're a Mets fan. If I have my druthers, this will be Happ's spot in the rotation. And if you are indeed a Mets fan, you'd be best off to hope this spot goes to Kendrick instead.

To think Adam Eaton will even make the roster just shows you don't even know what you're talking about when it comes to the Phillies.

I think what separates us and the other teams in our division is we win games when it matters. We don't have a big payroll, flashy names or the favor of the media, but the Phillies play together as a team and understand and embrace the intensity of meaningful games rather than fold.

[twista6002]

http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/27021/IbanezWallMiss_medium.gif

http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/29431/IbanezOffGlove3_medium.gif

http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/29434/IbanezOffGlove4_medium.gif

http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/29815/IbanezBobble4_medium.gif

There is like 80 more out there. Ok fine my favorite:

http://assets.sbnation.com/imported_assets/27348/28akex2_jpg_medium.gif

If I knew how to post those, I could find just as many if not more Pat Burrell blunders.

[twista6002]

Actually besides that last one those are all common mistakes I'm sure every outfielder makes

[VoteLynnSwan]

Well, the stats speak for themselves when it comes to proving who's better between Burrell and Ibanez.

see... this is where you're wrong. The stats prove that BURRELL is better... Batting average is really irrelevant in the grand scheme of things. On base percentage is far more important, because even though Burrell had a much worse batting average, he still got on base more than Ibanez.

RBIs are pretty meaningless because it depends on who you have hitting in front of you. Burrell was hitting behind Utley and Howard, and thus didn't have the opportunities to drive in runs that Ibanez had hitting behind a guy like Ichiro.

Defense is a useless argument here for all involved because both are equally awful, but in the end we're talking about the least important defensive position on the field.

[twista6002]

see... this is where you're wrong. The stats prove that BURRELL is better... Batting average is really irrelevant in the grand scheme of things. On base percentage is far more important, because even though Burrell had a much worse batting average, he still got on base more than Ibanez.

RBIs are pretty meaningless because it depends on who you have hitting in front of you. Burrell was hitting behind Utley and Howard, and thus didn't have the opportunities to drive in runs that Ibanez had hitting behind a guy like Ichiro.

Defense is a useless argument here for all involved because both are equally awful, but in the end we're talking about the least important defensive position on the field.

Burrell's OBP was only 9 points higher. And even if Burrell's RBI opportunities were less, Ibanez's average with runners on was 100 points higher than Burrell, and he makes contact more often.

[Brodeur]

Two more things you are failing to acknowledge in the whole Burrell/Ibanez clusterfuck is that they lost a first round pick by signing Ibanez, and they are now have an extreme left handed lineup.

And clutch really doesn't change the fact that Blanton/Myers really aren't anything special and that rotation just isn't very good. Even if Happ takes the 5th spot, it's just a bunch of mediocrity four out of the five days. Considering how much the Braves and Mets have improved, the Phillies have really ****** up this offseason.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

Thanks for the new technique twista. I'm going to start doing it as well. How's this for you?

SHUT THE **** UP.

[VoteLynnSwan]

Burrell's OBP was only 9 points higher. And even if Burrell's RBI opportunities were less, Ibanez's average with runners on was 100 points higher than Burrell, and he makes contact more often.

you did not quote the RISP numbers... you were basing your argument off BA and RBIs.

[twista6002]

Two more things you are failing to acknowledge in the whole Burrell/Ibanez clusterfuck is that they lost a first round pick by signing Ibanez, and they are now have an extreme left handed lineup.

And clutch really doesn't change the fact that Blanton/Myers really aren't anything special and that rotation just isn't very good. Even if Happ takes the 5th spot, it's just a bunch of mediocrity four out of the five days. Considering how much the Braves and Mets have improved, the Phillies have really ****** up this offseason.

LOL people were saying the same exact things last year at this time, and look how that turned out :rolleyes:

Boo hoo we don't have a 1st round pick. This is baseball, not football, it won't effect us.

And yea, winning 9 out of 13 games is special. And to say Myers didn't pitch like a premeir righty we thought he'd be after his demotion is ********.

And calling Happ mediocre proves you've never watched more than a few innings of a Phillies game.

And yes the name of the game is coming through when the team needs it, ask the Mets.

I don't care who the Mets sign, it won't make them not let us win the division again

[bsaza2358]

Posted this in the Phillies forum:

Ibanez is an upgrade over Burrell in the field (but admittedly not by that much). Both guys are below average LF's. Burrell's lack of speed was offset somewhat by his rocket arm (with accuracy). However, he was a negative impact in LF. At the plate, Burrell was good for .400 OBP, 25-30 HR and around 100 RBI. On the bases, he was terribly slow.

Ibanez is less of an OBP threat, but he has a stronger contact rate than Burrell. His average with RISP is much higher, and he put up strong numbers the last 3 years in Seattle, which is a pitchers park. He should expect a boost from CB. In the end, he will probably be a net positive for the team in 2009 with his fielding and overall hitting. In the end, I'd rather have Burrell for 2/$16mm than Ibanez for 3/$30mm. Matt Holliday is a FA after the season, and he is the perfect fit for the Phils. With Ibanez in the mix, that won't happen.

That is how I see it, and I consider myself a pretty realistic fan. I'm not going to say that the Mets aren't better. At the same time, their overall rotation doesn't impress me much. KRod is a huge upgrade, but what Beltran will we see? What Reyes will show up? Can Delgado really do it again? Lots to consider. I think the Mets and Phils will battle it out this year for the division, but I think the Cubs are the best team in the NL (based on talent).

[Borat]

Phillies pitching staff is borderline terrible (Cole MF Hamels excluded of course).

[nobodyinparticular]

Who had the better OPS last year twista?

Burrell--.874
Ibanez--.837

wOBA
Burrell--.374
Ibanez--.356

UZR/150
Burrell-- (-14.7)
Ibanez-- (-11.0)

Ibanez is about 3 runs less bad than Burrell defensively, but Burrell more than makes up for that with his .018 wOBA advantage.

It's not a blowout, but it looks like Burrell is slightly better than Ibanez. And the Phillies lost a draft pick, paid more for Ibanez, traded out a much-needed righty for a lefty stick, and got the guy who is 4 years older.

The Phillies made a bad choice.

[IndyColtScout]

Anabolic Rodriguez admits to using performane enhancing drugs on ESPN right now.

[nobodyinparticular]

Posted this in the Phillies forum:



That is how I see it, and I consider myself a pretty realistic fan. I'm not going to say that the Mets aren't better. At the same time, their overall rotation doesn't impress me much. KRod is a huge upgrade, but what Beltran will we see? What Reyes will show up? Can Delgado really do it again? Lots to consider. I think the Mets and Phils will battle it out this year for the division, but I think the Cubs are the best team in the NL (based on talent).

You could try to dump Ibanez with a prospect of value next offseason if you really want Holliday. I don't see it happening though.

[VoteLynnSwan]

Posted this in the Phillies forum:



That is how I see it, and I consider myself a pretty realistic fan. I'm not going to say that the Mets aren't better. At the same time, their overall rotation doesn't impress me much. KRod is a huge upgrade, but what Beltran will we see? What Reyes will show up? Can Delgado really do it again? Lots to consider. I think the Mets and Phils will battle it out this year for the division, but I think the Cubs are the best team in the NL (based on talent).

the Cubs most certainly are the best team in the NL... good thing for the rest of the NL however that the Cubs don't have the greatest postseason history around.