Frank Catalanatto has elected to accept a minor league contract with the Mets. The Brewers and Marlins were in on him as well. Catalanatto hit .278 with 1HR and 9RBIs in 73 games. While it looks like a low total, he played off the bench mostly. This will be a valuable asset for the Mets and he can also hit lefties well. This most certainly should resolve the Carlos Delgado problem. Catalanatto can still 1B and OF.
Rumors and Notes:
The Pittsburgh Penguins may make a run at buying the Pirates franchise. Can they save the bumbling Bucs? Yes, it'll take some patience and a star player. Associated Press cites the previous talks have all been declined.
The Reds and Orlando Cabrera are "close to a deal as Cabrera leans towards the Reds," says Tim Brown of Yahoo Sports. ESPN says Jonny Gomes is also close to a deal with the club.
Nats 1B/DH Adam Dunn says, "Orlando wants Washington as his destination, but the sides aren't close to an agreement."
With Cabrera likely headed to Cincy, the Rockies have shifted their attention to Melvin Mora.
Rumor has it that Joe Crede will not be coming back to the Twins.
The Giants avoided arbitration with closer Brian Wilson.
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Friday, January 29, 2010
More "meaningless" Acquisitons; NL East responsible
So more names came off the FA board Thursday and Friday. The question is: Does anyone care? Most of these deals familiar names, but with implications. The first was the Yankees signing of Randy Winn. Johnny Damon was simply TOO much money for the Yanks to want to spend. They gave Winn the last $2M for a year they had. Winn is a sure-fire bargain at that price, but comes nowhere near Damon's production. The Yankees should be looking to call someone up for 2011 as Winn probably won't return. Winn put up a .262 with 2HRs and 51 RBIs.
No reunion will be necessary in STL for Jim Edmonds. He came to terms with the Brewers on a minor league deal. He's had a season off since playing with Cubs and Padres in 08. Edmonds will be an extra OF if he makes the team. The odds aren't in his favor his declining numbers in every category and the Brewers OF options.
The Nationals signed RP Miguel Batista to a minor league deal. Last we knew, he was making an insane $9M with the Mariners. His numbers (7-4; 4.04ERA) weren't that good either, but considerably better than his god awful 2008.
The Marlins not to be outdone by Washington's spending spree this off-season signed RP Jose Veras (4-3;5.19ERA), who've they've been targeting to a minor league deal. After signing Derrick Turnbow earlier, the Marlins should have servicable relievers, but the bullpen is very weak still.
The Mets signed Fernando Tatis ending a week's speculation he'd return. Does this mean the end of Carlos Delgado? I doubt it. Tatis hit .282 with 8HRs and 48RBIs in 125 games for the Mets disaster-season. He was on base decently enough and his slugging percentage didn't hurt either(.438). The organization also added SP Josh Fogg (0-2;3.74ERA) to a minor league deal. I hope they don't think this is their fifth man?!? Sure he eats up innings, but gives up hits and runs galore. Omar Minaya has waited too damn long for pitching which should've been their 1st/2nd priority this off-season. As stated by SI's Jon Heyman, their falling behind in pursuit of John Smoltz.
The Mariners, who've quieted down as of late, signed OF Eric Byrnes. Byrnes hit .226 with 8 HRs and 31 RBIs after signing a previous contract with $30M. Byrnes is in sharp decline and it's a wonder they didn't pursue Randy Winn for the bench or retain Bill Hall.
Rumors and Notes:
Johnny Damon a Blue Jay?
The Angels have avoided arbitration with SP Joe Saunders. The Rangers finished their last arb-eligible player Scott Feldman.
The Reds are waiting on an answer from Orlando Cabrera on a potential deal. They offered SP Jonny Gomes a minor league deal.
The Nats are talking extensions with Adam Dunn. The Tigers are looking "long-term" with SP Justin Verlander. Jeff Passan of Yahoo says "Verlander is looking for $75M over six and the Tigers have offered five years thus far."
the Mets and two other teams are looking into INF Frank Catalanatto.
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
No reunion will be necessary in STL for Jim Edmonds. He came to terms with the Brewers on a minor league deal. He's had a season off since playing with Cubs and Padres in 08. Edmonds will be an extra OF if he makes the team. The odds aren't in his favor his declining numbers in every category and the Brewers OF options.
The Nationals signed RP Miguel Batista to a minor league deal. Last we knew, he was making an insane $9M with the Mariners. His numbers (7-4; 4.04ERA) weren't that good either, but considerably better than his god awful 2008.
The Marlins not to be outdone by Washington's spending spree this off-season signed RP Jose Veras (4-3;5.19ERA), who've they've been targeting to a minor league deal. After signing Derrick Turnbow earlier, the Marlins should have servicable relievers, but the bullpen is very weak still.
The Mets signed Fernando Tatis ending a week's speculation he'd return. Does this mean the end of Carlos Delgado? I doubt it. Tatis hit .282 with 8HRs and 48RBIs in 125 games for the Mets disaster-season. He was on base decently enough and his slugging percentage didn't hurt either(.438). The organization also added SP Josh Fogg (0-2;3.74ERA) to a minor league deal. I hope they don't think this is their fifth man?!? Sure he eats up innings, but gives up hits and runs galore. Omar Minaya has waited too damn long for pitching which should've been their 1st/2nd priority this off-season. As stated by SI's Jon Heyman, their falling behind in pursuit of John Smoltz.
The Mariners, who've quieted down as of late, signed OF Eric Byrnes. Byrnes hit .226 with 8 HRs and 31 RBIs after signing a previous contract with $30M. Byrnes is in sharp decline and it's a wonder they didn't pursue Randy Winn for the bench or retain Bill Hall.
Rumors and Notes:
Johnny Damon a Blue Jay?
The Angels have avoided arbitration with SP Joe Saunders. The Rangers finished their last arb-eligible player Scott Feldman.
The Reds are waiting on an answer from Orlando Cabrera on a potential deal. They offered SP Jonny Gomes a minor league deal.
The Nats are talking extensions with Adam Dunn. The Tigers are looking "long-term" with SP Justin Verlander. Jeff Passan of Yahoo says "Verlander is looking for $75M over six and the Tigers have offered five years thus far."
the Mets and two other teams are looking into INF Frank Catalanatto.
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Crawling Along
That's how it feels this stage of the off-season. When baseball season ends, football is there to cushion the blow. Now football is practically over( it's really been done for me since the Steelers were eliminated). Hockey has even reached the midway point to be interesting. Basketball? I can't stand it. That essentially leaves the sports horizon bleak until spring training. We're at the worst point of the year where baseball fans begin to lose sight and feel depressed. The big names have gone( with the exception of Damon). Now most teams are filling their needs with whatever lesser role players they need. The excitement of December is long gone as the dog days of January are underway. The weather is so cold in the northeast that you can't imagine any player getting out to practice and shake off the rust. The only way not to go mad is believe the season will start soon. I've already begun looking at bus trips to games, season schedules for games, and occasional trips to the sports store to see what new merchandise I can get my grubby hands on. The merchandise hasn't come in yet and the bus trips aren't listed yet, but I can prospectively start picking out trips (so far Camden in the summer). As I look, I'm renewed with a sense of hope.
I can smell the hot dogs at Camden, excited to go to CitiField for the first time, McFadden's bar before the Phillies game, and of course raucously cheering for the Red Sox. the thought just brings chills down my spine. Whose going to break out this season? Who will retire after this season? Who will be the 2010 Champs? These are the wueations racing through my mind right now. Far more important than almost any of yesterday's signings (Sorry, Thome, Garland, etc.) If there's thing that shamed me about baseball it was Ben Sheets new deal yesterday ($10M for damaged goods?!?). Thank god, it's only 26 days til spring training.
Rumors and Notes:
Cubs sign Chad Tracy and Xavier Nady.
Twins sign Jim Thome.
Dodgers re-sign Brad Ausmus and Ronnie Belliard.
Padres sign Jon Garland.
The cardinals sign Rich Hill
Angels signed Maicer Izturis to a three year contract worth $33M.
The Orioles have offered Will Ohman a minor league contract.
Check out:http://www.sportsjabber.net
I can smell the hot dogs at Camden, excited to go to CitiField for the first time, McFadden's bar before the Phillies game, and of course raucously cheering for the Red Sox. the thought just brings chills down my spine. Whose going to break out this season? Who will retire after this season? Who will be the 2010 Champs? These are the wueations racing through my mind right now. Far more important than almost any of yesterday's signings (Sorry, Thome, Garland, etc.) If there's thing that shamed me about baseball it was Ben Sheets new deal yesterday ($10M for damaged goods?!?). Thank god, it's only 26 days til spring training.
Rumors and Notes:
Cubs sign Chad Tracy and Xavier Nady.
Twins sign Jim Thome.
Dodgers re-sign Brad Ausmus and Ronnie Belliard.
Padres sign Jon Garland.
The cardinals sign Rich Hill
Angels signed Maicer Izturis to a three year contract worth $33M.
The Orioles have offered Will Ohman a minor league contract.
Check out:http://www.sportsjabber.net
Monday, January 25, 2010
Weekend in Review
I think this will have everything I missed over the weekend, or so I hope. A lot of high profile players reached deals. One of the first deals was a throwback with SS Miguel Tejada signed a 1yr/$6M contract with the O's. He will be playing 3B for the frist time there in his career. Tejada couldn't live up to the expectations of his $72M contract so they dumped him and he ended up with the Astros. Tejada batted .313 with 14 HRs and 86 RBIs. He fielded .970 which isn't great, but at third he shouldn't see as much action.
The Rockies have re-signed DH Jason Giambi to a 1yr/$1.7M contract. Giambi wa between Oakland and Colorado last season barely playing over 100 games. He hit a combined .201 with 13 HRs and 51 RBIs. He was much better with Colorado posting a stronger OBP and SLG.
The Phillies re-signed C Carlos Ruiz to a 3yr/$8.8M deal. Ruiz was the last Phillie arbitration eligible. He played in his second lowest total games (103), but was overall more productive than in any other season in most categories.
One Phillie not returning is DH Matt Stairs. The 42 year old signed a minor league deal with the Padres. He has a chance to make the majors, which shouldn't be a problem unless his bat has gone cold for good. He batted .194 last season with 5HRs and 17 RBIs, but was decent getting on base and play the OF in three different positons.
Rumors and Notes:
Mark Loretta has officially hung it up.
The Astros have agreed to a deal with arb-eligible OF Hunter Pence. The Brewers got one arb-eligible payer off their list by re-signing SP Dave Bush.
Ken Rosenthal and J.P. Morosi say, "The Cubs have engaged negotiations" with RP Kiko Calero. It's been ruled out SP Ben Sheets.
The A's are looking at OF Johnny Damon as a "Plan B." "Plan A" is Ben Sheets.
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
The Rockies have re-signed DH Jason Giambi to a 1yr/$1.7M contract. Giambi wa between Oakland and Colorado last season barely playing over 100 games. He hit a combined .201 with 13 HRs and 51 RBIs. He was much better with Colorado posting a stronger OBP and SLG.
The Phillies re-signed C Carlos Ruiz to a 3yr/$8.8M deal. Ruiz was the last Phillie arbitration eligible. He played in his second lowest total games (103), but was overall more productive than in any other season in most categories.
One Phillie not returning is DH Matt Stairs. The 42 year old signed a minor league deal with the Padres. He has a chance to make the majors, which shouldn't be a problem unless his bat has gone cold for good. He batted .194 last season with 5HRs and 17 RBIs, but was decent getting on base and play the OF in three different positons.
Rumors and Notes:
Mark Loretta has officially hung it up.
The Astros have agreed to a deal with arb-eligible OF Hunter Pence. The Brewers got one arb-eligible payer off their list by re-signing SP Dave Bush.
Ken Rosenthal and J.P. Morosi say, "The Cubs have engaged negotiations" with RP Kiko Calero. It's been ruled out SP Ben Sheets.
The A's are looking at OF Johnny Damon as a "Plan B." "Plan A" is Ben Sheets.
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
Friday, January 22, 2010
Dodgers staff; Phillies
The Dodgers got the pitcher they so desperately needed. The question is can he make up for his off-season bumble? Vincente Padilla signed a 1yr/$5M contract with the Dodgers Thursday afternoon ending weeks of speculation who was the Dodgers capable starter. Padilla (12-6; 4.46ERA) came in last season and pitched great after being dumped by Texas. Will he be able to keep the ball off the batters? And will he be able to forget about the gun problem he had? The Dodgers have no room for distraction this season.
After spending the money to retain SP Joe Blanton, the Phils locked up an important part of their line-up by re-upping OF Shane Victorino. Victorino got a similar deal as Blanton (3ys @ $24M, Victorino's only $2M less). C Carlos Ruiz is the last arbitration-eligible Phillie left. Victorino posted a .292 average, hitting 10HRs and driving in 63 RBIs. The only downside of these deals is there' not a lot of money to retain OF Jayson Werth, whose due for a big payday. The Phils have committed $130M dollars of payroll for 2011. If I had the choice between Blanton and Werth, I'm picking Werth easily. He's a great fielder and had great production this past season accompanying his good seasons before hand. The Phils are also ready to pull the trigger on a one year deal with SP Jose Contreras. Contreras (6-13; 4.92ERA) pitched horridly for the White Sox last season, but was slightly better in Colorado. More than likely, Pedro Martinez will probably not return now. I would've picked Pedro over Contreras because Martinez is more consistent and has a desire to win.
Remember when OF Rick Ankiel was a pitcher trying to make his way into the Cardinals rotation? The ugly outings filled with wild pitches and runs & bases galore for opponents? How about the demotion back to minor leagues where he struggled again. For Ankiel (.231, 11HRs, 38RBIs) it was probably hell. Luckily, he hadn't had enough suffering and signed a 1yr/$3.2M contract with the Royals. Seems an awful lot of money for a guy who underachieved previous numbers.
The Mets appear to be on the brink of a trade for Angels OF Gary Matthews Jr. for RP Brian Stokes. Not a good trade for the Mets, Stokes is no superman, but Matthews has not lived up to expetations in LA. He was a poor defender and batted only .231 with 4HRs and 50RBIs. Stokes posted a 2-4 record and 3.97ERA. The Angels are sucking up some salary and sending %500K the Mets way. Angels get the better part of this deal I think.
The Reds have signed RP Jose Arredondo to a minor league contract. Arredando (2-3; 6.00ERA) was cut by the Angels during arbitration period because of his impending surgery which will cause him to miss all of 2010. The Angels will regret this in 2011 when Arredondo pitches like he did in '08.
Rumors and Notes:
The Nationals are interested in 1B Mike Jacobs.
The Twins are interested in Jim Thome. Thome is interested in Chicago(AL).
Jayson Stark says the Rockies should actively be pursuing Orlando Carbrera, Orlando hudson, and Miguel Tejada.
The Mets have interest in Chein Ming-Wang, Ben Sheets, and Chad Tracy. This comes from multiple sources including Post's Ken Davidoff, Alan Nero(Wang's rep), and Anthony McCaron of the New York Daily News. Mike Puma of the Post hears Fernando Tatis could be in the fold if Carlos Delgado doesn't return.
SI's Jon Heyman reports, "The Yankees and Johnny Damon have talked or met, no progress made though."
Check out http://www.sportsjabber.net
After spending the money to retain SP Joe Blanton, the Phils locked up an important part of their line-up by re-upping OF Shane Victorino. Victorino got a similar deal as Blanton (3ys @ $24M, Victorino's only $2M less). C Carlos Ruiz is the last arbitration-eligible Phillie left. Victorino posted a .292 average, hitting 10HRs and driving in 63 RBIs. The only downside of these deals is there' not a lot of money to retain OF Jayson Werth, whose due for a big payday. The Phils have committed $130M dollars of payroll for 2011. If I had the choice between Blanton and Werth, I'm picking Werth easily. He's a great fielder and had great production this past season accompanying his good seasons before hand. The Phils are also ready to pull the trigger on a one year deal with SP Jose Contreras. Contreras (6-13; 4.92ERA) pitched horridly for the White Sox last season, but was slightly better in Colorado. More than likely, Pedro Martinez will probably not return now. I would've picked Pedro over Contreras because Martinez is more consistent and has a desire to win.
Remember when OF Rick Ankiel was a pitcher trying to make his way into the Cardinals rotation? The ugly outings filled with wild pitches and runs & bases galore for opponents? How about the demotion back to minor leagues where he struggled again. For Ankiel (.231, 11HRs, 38RBIs) it was probably hell. Luckily, he hadn't had enough suffering and signed a 1yr/$3.2M contract with the Royals. Seems an awful lot of money for a guy who underachieved previous numbers.
The Mets appear to be on the brink of a trade for Angels OF Gary Matthews Jr. for RP Brian Stokes. Not a good trade for the Mets, Stokes is no superman, but Matthews has not lived up to expetations in LA. He was a poor defender and batted only .231 with 4HRs and 50RBIs. Stokes posted a 2-4 record and 3.97ERA. The Angels are sucking up some salary and sending %500K the Mets way. Angels get the better part of this deal I think.
The Reds have signed RP Jose Arredondo to a minor league contract. Arredando (2-3; 6.00ERA) was cut by the Angels during arbitration period because of his impending surgery which will cause him to miss all of 2010. The Angels will regret this in 2011 when Arredondo pitches like he did in '08.
Rumors and Notes:
The Nationals are interested in 1B Mike Jacobs.
The Twins are interested in Jim Thome. Thome is interested in Chicago(AL).
Jayson Stark says the Rockies should actively be pursuing Orlando Carbrera, Orlando hudson, and Miguel Tejada.
The Mets have interest in Chein Ming-Wang, Ben Sheets, and Chad Tracy. This comes from multiple sources including Post's Ken Davidoff, Alan Nero(Wang's rep), and Anthony McCaron of the New York Daily News. Mike Puma of the Post hears Fernando Tatis could be in the fold if Carlos Delgado doesn't return.
SI's Jon Heyman reports, "The Yankees and Johnny Damon have talked or met, no progress made though."
Check out http://www.sportsjabber.net
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Last of the Arbs: Big Deals
Well the arbitration period came and went, 70 players avoided it. Notables include: Johnathon Papelbon, Ramon Ramirez, Manny Delcarmen, Tim Lincecum, Joe Blanton, Justin Verlander, Wandy Rodriguez, Francisco Liriano, Mike Napoli, Reggie Willits, Howie Kendrick, Josh Willingham, Josh Hamilton, and Zach Duke.
The Mariners have agreed to a 5yr/$78M extension with SP Felix Hernandez. Hernandez (19-5; 2.49ERA) simply blew the competition away last season and this one should be no different with Cliff Lee on board. Look out AL West, this is the team for the next few years. Hernandez's contract also has a no-trade clause with it.
Cheer up Rockies fan, your bullpen is back. Houston Street and Rafael Betancourt have re-signed multi-year deals to stay with the Rox. Street (4-1 ;3.06ERA; 35 saves) was good after coming over in the Matt Holliday trade. Betancourt (4-3; 2.73ERA) signed for 2yr/ $3.7M with a third year option. Street's deal is worth 3yrs/$22.5M with a fourth year option. The Rockies have signed C Paul Lo Duca to a minor league contract. Lo Duca has really bounced around the league after being injured and admitting to use steroids. Not a lot of promise there, but maybe Coors Field could be used to his advantage.
The Dodgers did what they needed to do to keep attendance and a fan base by signing Andre Ethier (.272; 31 HRs; 106RBIs) and Johnathon Broxton (7-2; 2.61ERA; 36 saves) to two year deals. Aside from Matt Kemp, these signings have been the only bright spot in the Dodgers offseason. Ethier's is worth $15.2M and Broxton's totals $11M.
The Brewers have reached an agreement with RP Doug Davis. Davis(9-14; 4.12ERA) agreed yesterday to a 1yr/$5.2M(which seems a bit overpaid for a sub .500 winner and career 4.31ERA). Somehow, Davis was very sought after, but will be in Milwaukee for his second stint with the Brew Crew.
Joel Pineiro has a team and it's no the Mets. Pineiro agreed to terms on a 2yr/$16M contract to fill John Lackey's void. He's no Lackey, but is serviceable. Piniero went 15-12 with a 3.29ERA in 32 games for the Cardinals.
The Pirates may have their man in RP Octavio Dotel. Dotel is slated to accept a 1r/$3M contract with a 2011 option. Dotel (3-3; 3.32ERA) has really bounced around the league since 2004, but has been good-serviceable. I expect Dotel to be the anchor of the Pirates bullpen. They just need to give him run support.
The Phils have extended SP Joe Blanton for 3yrs/$24M. Blanton, oft-criticized, went 12-8 with a 4.05ERA last season in Philly. He's a mediocre pitcher at best, but is serviceable which most people forget. Twenty-four million is too much in my opinion.
Finally, the Bengie Molina drama is over. Molina (.265, 20HRs, 80 RBIs) agreed to a 1yr/$4.5M deal to stay with the Giants. Bad move for San Fran, good for Mets. The Mets can now focus on Yorvit Torrealba if they really need a third catcher, but I'd worry more about pitching for them. Molina is in a cramped infield already as well as catching position. If he doesn't play well this season, it's going to hurt him next year trying to sign a contract. The Mets were prepared to hand him the starting job at $5M over two years.
Rumors and Notes:
RP Eric Gagne is going to try-out for the Phillies, Rockies, Dodgers, and Blue Jays. "We don't expect much," says GM Ruben Amaro, Jr. Why bother?
D-Backs are out on the Ben Sheets sweepstakes citing, "Broke."
The Cards may sign OF Jim Edmonds by week's end. The organization is looking at SP Chien Ming Wang's medical records.
Jay Payton has signed on with the Rockies.
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
The Mariners have agreed to a 5yr/$78M extension with SP Felix Hernandez. Hernandez (19-5; 2.49ERA) simply blew the competition away last season and this one should be no different with Cliff Lee on board. Look out AL West, this is the team for the next few years. Hernandez's contract also has a no-trade clause with it.
Cheer up Rockies fan, your bullpen is back. Houston Street and Rafael Betancourt have re-signed multi-year deals to stay with the Rox. Street (4-1 ;3.06ERA; 35 saves) was good after coming over in the Matt Holliday trade. Betancourt (4-3; 2.73ERA) signed for 2yr/ $3.7M with a third year option. Street's deal is worth 3yrs/$22.5M with a fourth year option. The Rockies have signed C Paul Lo Duca to a minor league contract. Lo Duca has really bounced around the league after being injured and admitting to use steroids. Not a lot of promise there, but maybe Coors Field could be used to his advantage.
The Dodgers did what they needed to do to keep attendance and a fan base by signing Andre Ethier (.272; 31 HRs; 106RBIs) and Johnathon Broxton (7-2; 2.61ERA; 36 saves) to two year deals. Aside from Matt Kemp, these signings have been the only bright spot in the Dodgers offseason. Ethier's is worth $15.2M and Broxton's totals $11M.
The Brewers have reached an agreement with RP Doug Davis. Davis(9-14; 4.12ERA) agreed yesterday to a 1yr/$5.2M(which seems a bit overpaid for a sub .500 winner and career 4.31ERA). Somehow, Davis was very sought after, but will be in Milwaukee for his second stint with the Brew Crew.
Joel Pineiro has a team and it's no the Mets. Pineiro agreed to terms on a 2yr/$16M contract to fill John Lackey's void. He's no Lackey, but is serviceable. Piniero went 15-12 with a 3.29ERA in 32 games for the Cardinals.
The Pirates may have their man in RP Octavio Dotel. Dotel is slated to accept a 1r/$3M contract with a 2011 option. Dotel (3-3; 3.32ERA) has really bounced around the league since 2004, but has been good-serviceable. I expect Dotel to be the anchor of the Pirates bullpen. They just need to give him run support.
The Phils have extended SP Joe Blanton for 3yrs/$24M. Blanton, oft-criticized, went 12-8 with a 4.05ERA last season in Philly. He's a mediocre pitcher at best, but is serviceable which most people forget. Twenty-four million is too much in my opinion.
Finally, the Bengie Molina drama is over. Molina (.265, 20HRs, 80 RBIs) agreed to a 1yr/$4.5M deal to stay with the Giants. Bad move for San Fran, good for Mets. The Mets can now focus on Yorvit Torrealba if they really need a third catcher, but I'd worry more about pitching for them. Molina is in a cramped infield already as well as catching position. If he doesn't play well this season, it's going to hurt him next year trying to sign a contract. The Mets were prepared to hand him the starting job at $5M over two years.
Rumors and Notes:
RP Eric Gagne is going to try-out for the Phillies, Rockies, Dodgers, and Blue Jays. "We don't expect much," says GM Ruben Amaro, Jr. Why bother?
D-Backs are out on the Ben Sheets sweepstakes citing, "Broke."
The Cards may sign OF Jim Edmonds by week's end. The organization is looking at SP Chien Ming Wang's medical records.
Jay Payton has signed on with the Rockies.
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
Monday, January 18, 2010
A Swap and More Arbs
So the biggest news other than Bobby Jenks arbitration deal over the weekend was the A's-Padres swap of 3B Kevin Kouzmanoff( now an A) and minor leaguer Erik Sogard for OF Aaron Cunningham and OF Scott Hairston( now Padres). Um, so let's get this straight--the Padres swapped a decent fielding/hitting player for a guy that use to play for them and a guy I've never heard of? They couldn't do any better?!? Dump Heath Bell and be done being a baseball club San Diego. Disgrace everything Tony Gwynn brought to your organization. Billy Beane may as well be described as "King of The West" for this deal (It's not spectacular, but it looks freakin good when you dump two meaningless players for an average star 3B). Sure, you can argue Kouz's average at the plate (.255) and OBP (.302) weren't fantastic, but do Hairston or Cunningham compare? Hairston has a better batting average when he' a Padre, but that's it.
The Pirates came to terms with RP Brenden Donnelly on a contract worth $1.5M/1 year. Donnelly pitched for the Marlins last season posting a 3-0; 1.38ERA and was targeted by the Pirates a few days ago. He's really come on since Houston Triple-A before he signed with the Marlins last season after having surgery in 2007( Tommy John).
The Padres came to terms with INF Jerry Hairston, Jr. on a 1yr/$2.1M deal. Seems a bit expensive for a player who didn't produce very much last season, especially with the Yankees. Hairston (.251, 10HRs, 39 RBIs) does have the opportunity to play alongside his brother Scott, who was acquired in the Kouzmanoff deal.
Arbitration avoids:
Rangers SP/RP Dustin Nippert, White Sox RP Bobby Jenks, P Tony Pena, and OF Carlos Quentin, Blue Jays SP Shaun Marcum, Giants RP Brandon Medders, Marlins 2B Dan Uggla, Brewers OF Jody Gerut, and Reds RP Nick Masset.
Rumors and Notes:
Cards Skip Schumaker claims "The Cards and I are close to a deal." GM Mozelik is rumored to say Ryan Ludwick will have a new deal, too. Rick Ankiel, probably not.
RP Octavio Dotel could be a Pirate very soon.
"Don't rule out RP Kiko Calero returning to Florida," says ESPN's Buster Olney.
The Rays may be tied up trying to deal with pending arbitration's with B.J. Upton, Matt Garza, Jason Bartlett, and J.P. Howell, but they could be interested in DH Jim Thome (from MLB's Scott Merkin). Not really an upgrade over Pat Burrell.
ESPN's Buster Olney says, "Rockies are staying in contact" with Jason Giambi.
J.P. Morosi writes, "The Cubs are interested in OF Xavier Nady." Nady or Dye? That's an interesting contest.
Check out http://www.sportsjabber.net
The Pirates came to terms with RP Brenden Donnelly on a contract worth $1.5M/1 year. Donnelly pitched for the Marlins last season posting a 3-0; 1.38ERA and was targeted by the Pirates a few days ago. He's really come on since Houston Triple-A before he signed with the Marlins last season after having surgery in 2007( Tommy John).
The Padres came to terms with INF Jerry Hairston, Jr. on a 1yr/$2.1M deal. Seems a bit expensive for a player who didn't produce very much last season, especially with the Yankees. Hairston (.251, 10HRs, 39 RBIs) does have the opportunity to play alongside his brother Scott, who was acquired in the Kouzmanoff deal.
Arbitration avoids:
Rangers SP/RP Dustin Nippert, White Sox RP Bobby Jenks, P Tony Pena, and OF Carlos Quentin, Blue Jays SP Shaun Marcum, Giants RP Brandon Medders, Marlins 2B Dan Uggla, Brewers OF Jody Gerut, and Reds RP Nick Masset.
Rumors and Notes:
Cards Skip Schumaker claims "The Cards and I are close to a deal." GM Mozelik is rumored to say Ryan Ludwick will have a new deal, too. Rick Ankiel, probably not.
RP Octavio Dotel could be a Pirate very soon.
"Don't rule out RP Kiko Calero returning to Florida," says ESPN's Buster Olney.
The Rays may be tied up trying to deal with pending arbitration's with B.J. Upton, Matt Garza, Jason Bartlett, and J.P. Howell, but they could be interested in DH Jim Thome (from MLB's Scott Merkin). Not really an upgrade over Pat Burrell.
ESPN's Buster Olney says, "Rockies are staying in contact" with Jason Giambi.
J.P. Morosi writes, "The Cubs are interested in OF Xavier Nady." Nady or Dye? That's an interesting contest.
Check out http://www.sportsjabber.net
Friday, January 15, 2010
Must Be Payday(even for the Dodgers)
That's probably what Josh Johnson and his agent woke up thinking today. Luckily for both them and the Marlins, that rang true as Johnson will remain a fish for the next four years. Johnson was stellar last season posting a 15-5; 3.23ERA season where he pitched more innings than gave up hits(also and All-Star)! The total contract is worth $39M which is a steal for a young guy like him. If this rate continues, he's due for $100M+ payday in 2014.
The Diamondbacks have signed 1B Adam LaRoche (.277, 25 HRs, 83 RBIs) to a 1yr/$7.5M(plus option) contract. This move makes Eric Byrnes an overpaid liability and he was designated for assignment today. LaRoche, 34, bounced around the MLB last season with the Pirates, Red Sox, and Braves, but spent a good portion of time injured with a hammy problem. This is quite a gamble for the D-Backs, who are only saving about $3M.
The Red Sox have agreed to sign reliever Brian Shouse. This was rumor yesterday that no one could seem to find info on. Shouse went 1-1 with a 4.50ERA in 45 games last season. I'm glad the Sox picked up him to shore-up the bullpen and also take from the Rays. I'm concerned that his oblique strain limited him at age 40. Shouse will be around for his second tour of duty with the Sox (1998 - (0-1, 5.62ERA) along with Tim Wakefield, who were teammates back in Pittsburgh. The Sox have also signed six players( most notably Jorge Sosa -Nationals and Gil Velazquez (AAA Pawtucket last season with short stint in Boston). All are invited to spring training for a shot at a roster spot.
The Tigers have agreed on a two year/$14M with a $9M option contract with closer Jose Valverde. Valverde (4-2; 2.84ERA; 25 saves) was with the Astros last season. Bet Joel Zumaya isn't going to be happy with his new teammate.
OF Matt Kemp will officially be a Dodger for the next two years. It only cost the cost-cutting Dodgers $11M. Kemp (.297, 26 HRs, 101 RBIs, and 34 SBs) has been a force in the line-up alongside, Man-Ram, Ethier, etc. The only concern is after those two years are up has Frank McCourt solved his monetary issues because Kemp(as well as Ethier) won't come cheap? This move will only matter if he signs a new deal in 2012. The Dodgers avoided arbitration ($3.85M) with Chad Billingsley today.
Rumors and Notes:
The M's are making "small progress" with a Felix Hernandez extension....Jeff Z doesn't sleep...he signs.
The Giants may be interested in reliever Kiko Calero.
The Dodgers, Rangers, Angels, Cardinals will be watching Ben Sheets session today in an attempt to re-start his injury -plagued career. Buyer-beware.
The Braves are not interested in OF Johnny Damon and the Tigers have not expressed interest in him either. Detroit should play this up to drive down his cost.
Arbitrarion avoiders: Red Sox RP Hideki Okajima, Padres RP Heath Bell, D-Backs C Miggy Montero and OF Conor Jackson, and Rangers Brandon McCarthy.
The Mets have contacted Jerry Hairston Jr. No word on how it went.
The Yankees and OF Rocco Baldelli have "mutual interest" , says Pete Caldera of NorthJersey.com. Only NY, Toronto, and Baltimore to get the rest of the AL East, buddy.
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
The Diamondbacks have signed 1B Adam LaRoche (.277, 25 HRs, 83 RBIs) to a 1yr/$7.5M(plus option) contract. This move makes Eric Byrnes an overpaid liability and he was designated for assignment today. LaRoche, 34, bounced around the MLB last season with the Pirates, Red Sox, and Braves, but spent a good portion of time injured with a hammy problem. This is quite a gamble for the D-Backs, who are only saving about $3M.
The Red Sox have agreed to sign reliever Brian Shouse. This was rumor yesterday that no one could seem to find info on. Shouse went 1-1 with a 4.50ERA in 45 games last season. I'm glad the Sox picked up him to shore-up the bullpen and also take from the Rays. I'm concerned that his oblique strain limited him at age 40. Shouse will be around for his second tour of duty with the Sox (1998 - (0-1, 5.62ERA) along with Tim Wakefield, who were teammates back in Pittsburgh. The Sox have also signed six players( most notably Jorge Sosa -Nationals and Gil Velazquez (AAA Pawtucket last season with short stint in Boston). All are invited to spring training for a shot at a roster spot.
The Tigers have agreed on a two year/$14M with a $9M option contract with closer Jose Valverde. Valverde (4-2; 2.84ERA; 25 saves) was with the Astros last season. Bet Joel Zumaya isn't going to be happy with his new teammate.
OF Matt Kemp will officially be a Dodger for the next two years. It only cost the cost-cutting Dodgers $11M. Kemp (.297, 26 HRs, 101 RBIs, and 34 SBs) has been a force in the line-up alongside, Man-Ram, Ethier, etc. The only concern is after those two years are up has Frank McCourt solved his monetary issues because Kemp(as well as Ethier) won't come cheap? This move will only matter if he signs a new deal in 2012. The Dodgers avoided arbitration ($3.85M) with Chad Billingsley today.
Rumors and Notes:
The M's are making "small progress" with a Felix Hernandez extension....Jeff Z doesn't sleep...he signs.
The Giants may be interested in reliever Kiko Calero.
The Dodgers, Rangers, Angels, Cardinals will be watching Ben Sheets session today in an attempt to re-start his injury -plagued career. Buyer-beware.
The Braves are not interested in OF Johnny Damon and the Tigers have not expressed interest in him either. Detroit should play this up to drive down his cost.
Arbitrarion avoiders: Red Sox RP Hideki Okajima, Padres RP Heath Bell, D-Backs C Miggy Montero and OF Conor Jackson, and Rangers Brandon McCarthy.
The Mets have contacted Jerry Hairston Jr. No word on how it went.
The Yankees and OF Rocco Baldelli have "mutual interest" , says Pete Caldera of NorthJersey.com. Only NY, Toronto, and Baltimore to get the rest of the AL East, buddy.
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Delgado; Rumors
The White Sox came to terms with C Ramon Castro on a 1 year $1M contract with an option for 2011. Castro hit .219 between the Mets and White Sox last season. However, he was abysmal at the plate with the Sox posting a .184 average. I don't understand this move with Pierzynski as starter and Flowers as a promising young backstop. If they really needed a third catcher, why not go with a Jose Molina or Brad Ausmus?
The Mets have been watching 1B Carlos Delgado in Puerto Rico. AOL Fanhouse's Ed Price says, "Delgado is not moving around well." Can you blame Delgado for the punishment of the weight he's placed on himself playing the field for the Mets? The perennial choke artists along with the reputation of being the team's storied hitter when he was traded for in 2006 has run its course on poor Carlos. Gone are the years of youth when he slugged 30+ HRs for 11 straight seasons, .556 slugging in the AL, and .392 OBP (AL). His points dropped a teeny bit after coming to Florida and then the Mets, but how much does he have left in the tank? I can't forsee him being useful to the Mets at his age and with this report by Price. He's suited for a AL DH role and it looks like Toronto may take their man back after being gone for almost six years. On top of that, OF Carlos Beltran will miss 12 weeks after surgery.
Rumors and Notes:
The Dodgers are working on a multiyear extension with OF Matt Kemp, RP Johnathon Broxton, and OF Andre Ethier. If the Dodgers can get this done, it locks up a core of important players for the struggling economic situation in LA. The Dodgers are also focusing on signing either SP Joel Piniero or Vincente Padilla.
J.P. Morosi says "Tigers are in the lead" for reliever Jose Valverde. The Tigers avoided arbitration with RP Joel Zumaya. Zumaya (3-3; 4.94ERA) signed a year deal.
The Padres are eyeing OF Jermaine Dye. Why I don't know, for a club cutting financial corners as tight as the Dodgers. In order for this to happen, a veteran will have to move. Morosi says, "Kouzmanoff and Bell are most likely."
The Rockies have talked with 3B/OF Fernando Tatis about a bench role.
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
The Mets have been watching 1B Carlos Delgado in Puerto Rico. AOL Fanhouse's Ed Price says, "Delgado is not moving around well." Can you blame Delgado for the punishment of the weight he's placed on himself playing the field for the Mets? The perennial choke artists along with the reputation of being the team's storied hitter when he was traded for in 2006 has run its course on poor Carlos. Gone are the years of youth when he slugged 30+ HRs for 11 straight seasons, .556 slugging in the AL, and .392 OBP (AL). His points dropped a teeny bit after coming to Florida and then the Mets, but how much does he have left in the tank? I can't forsee him being useful to the Mets at his age and with this report by Price. He's suited for a AL DH role and it looks like Toronto may take their man back after being gone for almost six years. On top of that, OF Carlos Beltran will miss 12 weeks after surgery.
Rumors and Notes:
The Dodgers are working on a multiyear extension with OF Matt Kemp, RP Johnathon Broxton, and OF Andre Ethier. If the Dodgers can get this done, it locks up a core of important players for the struggling economic situation in LA. The Dodgers are also focusing on signing either SP Joel Piniero or Vincente Padilla.
J.P. Morosi says "Tigers are in the lead" for reliever Jose Valverde. The Tigers avoided arbitration with RP Joel Zumaya. Zumaya (3-3; 4.94ERA) signed a year deal.
The Padres are eyeing OF Jermaine Dye. Why I don't know, for a club cutting financial corners as tight as the Dodgers. In order for this to happen, a veteran will have to move. Morosi says, "Kouzmanoff and Bell are most likely."
The Rockies have talked with 3B/OF Fernando Tatis about a bench role.
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Ardolis Has A Home
Yes, it's true...Ardolis Chapman has landed with a MLB team. The thing is I don't think most people realize who he signed with or the fact the team spent the money to get him. Chapman signed a deal today worth five years and $25M with a sixth year option with.....catch your breath.....seriously, I'm not responsible for heart attacks....the Cincinatti Reds. Yes, the team that is like the god-father of "fire-sales," the team that doesn't spend much money, the team that trades away anyone decent for a bunch of prospects that never produce. I'm stunned. Chapman was expected to sign with the Red Sox, Yanks, Mets, Blue Jays, or any other big market team you can think of. Is this an upgrade for the Reds? Totally. Even if this guy tanks (see Jose Contreras), the Reds can still be better than they are with the sad rotation they have. If they could just get some run support! Rumor has it Chapman may see the big leagues with the Reds and could be a good reason why he signed with them because the other suitors projected starting him in AAA first.
The Giants and 1B/DH Aubrey Huff (.241, 15 HRs and 85 RBIs) have come to an agreement on a 1yr/$3M deal pending a physical. The move doesn't make a whole lot of sense becasue the Giants have 1B covered(unless Sandoval figures to be the starting catcher) and a plethora of bench players for reserves and DH. Sure, his more than likely means Adam LaRoche isn't coming to town, but how does this upgrade the Giants?
The Dodgers came to terms with SS Nick Green on a minor league deal. Green (.236, 6HRs, and 35RBIs) was servicable for a good portion of the season with the the Red Sox batting and fielding wise. He slumped towards the end and had surgery on his back in November. Green will probably be the back-up for Rafael Furcal.
The Royals have signed reliever Matt Herges to a minor league deal. Herges was (3-1 ;3.38ERA) between the Indians and the Rockies last season. Can't say this is much, but for the Royals I guess it's something. Let's hope he doesn't have an abysmal decline at age forty.
The Pirates have agreed to a deal with oft-injured OF Ryan Church. He'll get a one year deal plus an arbitration option for 2011. Church hit .273 with 4 HRs and 40 RBI between New York (NL) and the Braves.
Rumors and Notes:
The Orioles are said to be interested in 1B Adam LaRoche. Mets may get in the mix, too.
The Mariners may be interested in 1B Ryan Garko.
Reliever Doug Davis has interest in joining the Nationals. I believe the Phillies need him desperately and can't afford to let him sign with the Nats. Rumor also has it that 2B Orlando Hudson would be willing to accept a two year deal if "the money's right".
J.P. Morosi says "Indians have not shopped Jhonny Peralta". The club signed INF Mark Grudzielanek (.299) as well to a minor league deal. Grudielanek's physical play should add some backbone to the struggling Indians.
The Cubs are making a run at SP Ben Sheets.
The Dodgers and Mets are making pitches to SP Joel Piniero. The Mets have offered 2yr/$15M.
Check out http://www.sportsjabber.net
The Giants and 1B/DH Aubrey Huff (.241, 15 HRs and 85 RBIs) have come to an agreement on a 1yr/$3M deal pending a physical. The move doesn't make a whole lot of sense becasue the Giants have 1B covered(unless Sandoval figures to be the starting catcher) and a plethora of bench players for reserves and DH. Sure, his more than likely means Adam LaRoche isn't coming to town, but how does this upgrade the Giants?
The Dodgers came to terms with SS Nick Green on a minor league deal. Green (.236, 6HRs, and 35RBIs) was servicable for a good portion of the season with the the Red Sox batting and fielding wise. He slumped towards the end and had surgery on his back in November. Green will probably be the back-up for Rafael Furcal.
The Royals have signed reliever Matt Herges to a minor league deal. Herges was (3-1 ;3.38ERA) between the Indians and the Rockies last season. Can't say this is much, but for the Royals I guess it's something. Let's hope he doesn't have an abysmal decline at age forty.
The Pirates have agreed to a deal with oft-injured OF Ryan Church. He'll get a one year deal plus an arbitration option for 2011. Church hit .273 with 4 HRs and 40 RBI between New York (NL) and the Braves.
Rumors and Notes:
The Orioles are said to be interested in 1B Adam LaRoche. Mets may get in the mix, too.
The Mariners may be interested in 1B Ryan Garko.
Reliever Doug Davis has interest in joining the Nationals. I believe the Phillies need him desperately and can't afford to let him sign with the Nats. Rumor also has it that 2B Orlando Hudson would be willing to accept a two year deal if "the money's right".
J.P. Morosi says "Indians have not shopped Jhonny Peralta". The club signed INF Mark Grudzielanek (.299) as well to a minor league deal. Grudielanek's physical play should add some backbone to the struggling Indians.
The Cubs are making a run at SP Ben Sheets.
The Dodgers and Mets are making pitches to SP Joel Piniero. The Mets have offered 2yr/$15M.
Check out http://www.sportsjabber.net
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Say What?!?
The Rangers are in the process of scooping up Vladimair Guerrero. The deal is rumored to be worth 1 year with $5M dollars worth of incentives and a 2011 option( I'm assuming the base is worth $7M). I really thought the Rangers were too low-balled to get this deal done, but evidently I thought wrong. Vlad has declined in the outfield a lot and his power really showed its fade last season. Guerrero had his second lowest number of home runs, hits, and RBIs this season(3 if you count 1996 when he played in 9 games). Is this a good gamble for the Rangers? Why not? I mean it's $7M they lost, not $77M like the Angels contract (Up to last year, he was worth that money). This could turn-out much like the Andruw Jones experience did. The real question is: Does this put the Rangers over the hump and into the playoffs?The Rangers also signed SS Khalil Greene (.200, 6HRs, 24RBIs in 77 games). Greene won't get the opportunity to start, but at least it's a contract (1yr/$750K) and a chance to come back after his meltdown last season.
The Royals have signed OF Scott Podsednik to a 1yr/$1.7M contract. Podsednik was very under the radar in terms of power and RBIs, but his batting average (.304), slugging (.412), and OBP (.353) were fantastic. Why this move is good for the Royals is who wants Mitch Maier or Brain Anderson as your starting OF? Certainly, not me. The opportunities he creates for extra bases won't hurt either.
Sound the alarm Phillies! Brett Myers has just left a VERY beleaugered bullpen. Myers has really slumped the past two years with Philadelphia being shuffled through all parts of the rotation and even demoted to AAA. Myers (4-3; 4.84ERA) gets a year to prove himself in Houston ($5M with an option for 2011). I can't see Houston resurrecting his career( Remember Randy Wolf's stint there?).
Rumors and Notes:
The Yankees are in "serious talks" with Jerry Hairston Jr.
The Twins made an offer to SP Jarrod Washburn. He rejected it.
Could Carlos Delgado end up in San Fran?
The Dodgers have signed SP Russ Ortiz to a minor league deal.
The O's may end up re-signing Mark Hendrickson if they don't get Erik Bedard or Ben Sheets.
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
The Royals have signed OF Scott Podsednik to a 1yr/$1.7M contract. Podsednik was very under the radar in terms of power and RBIs, but his batting average (.304), slugging (.412), and OBP (.353) were fantastic. Why this move is good for the Royals is who wants Mitch Maier or Brain Anderson as your starting OF? Certainly, not me. The opportunities he creates for extra bases won't hurt either.
Sound the alarm Phillies! Brett Myers has just left a VERY beleaugered bullpen. Myers has really slumped the past two years with Philadelphia being shuffled through all parts of the rotation and even demoted to AAA. Myers (4-3; 4.84ERA) gets a year to prove himself in Houston ($5M with an option for 2011). I can't see Houston resurrecting his career( Remember Randy Wolf's stint there?).
Rumors and Notes:
The Yankees are in "serious talks" with Jerry Hairston Jr.
The Twins made an offer to SP Jarrod Washburn. He rejected it.
Could Carlos Delgado end up in San Fran?
The Dodgers have signed SP Russ Ortiz to a minor league deal.
The O's may end up re-signing Mark Hendrickson if they don't get Erik Bedard or Ben Sheets.
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Hinske, Holliday, Beltre and more
I'm at a loss for words....Adrian Beltre (.265, 8HRs and 77 RBIs) has signed a 1yr/$10M contract with an option for another year with the Red Sox. Why did we go after a hitter who was mostly noted for his horrendous slump last year? How will we dump Lowell might be the better question. On top of that, the Sox announced CF Jacoby Ellsbury will move to left and Mike Cameron will take his place in center. Are you kidding? This is a guy{Ellsbury} who was knocked for being a poor CF (.994% FLD) last season and he's gonna play the Monster (his last left field numbers were 1.000% in 24 games in 2008) ? Where's the logic? Ellsbury is far more athletic than Mike Cameron now. I don't see Cameron in CF working out very well. To add to my debate, Elssbury's fielding was .04% higher than Cameron's fielding. There's a talk of trading 1B Casey Kotchman to the M's for UTL Bill Hall and possibly minor league catching prospect Hassiel Jimenez. This deal is fairly stupid as far as I'm concered because of Bill Hall's $8.4M contract to basically be a reserve and Jimenez has even reached Single-A ball yet.
The Cards officially have the NL Central wrapped up and possibly a World Series appearance(I'm re-thinking my Phillies prediction) after coming to terms with OF Matt Holliday on a 7yr/$120M contract.
The Phillies lost another bullpen arm as of yesterday. Clay Condrey (6-2; 3.00ERA) has agreed to terms with the Twins. Condrey pitched 42 innings because of an oblique strain last season, but his 55.2% groundball is a best among free agent relievers. this is quite a shot to take after Scott Eyre retired Wedensday for Philadelphia.
The Braves signed UTL Eric Hinske(is this guy always on the move?) to a 1yr/%1M contract. Hinske hit a combined .242 with the Yankees and Pirates last season. It's a solid option for the Braves offensively and defensively, but there maiun problem is pitching.
The Mariners have re-signed OF Franklin Guiterrez to a 4 year, $20M extension. Guiterrez was phenomenal after coming over from Cleveland hitting .283. His CF defense was the best in the najors last season. Seattle is back baby!
The seemingly quiet Rays have signed C Kelly Shoppach to a 2yr/$5.5M deal. Shoppach hit .214 last season in a shortened seasoned, but his overall numbers are very productive. I wish the Sox never let him go. Shoppach proveds a solid option at the plate over Navarro, but Navarro has a better defensive skills.
A team I literally forgot about (Sorry to your fans) was the Indians. They signed OF Austin Kearns to a minor league deal. Kearns was abominable last season in the time he got to play. His career numbers go up and down consistently, but 2009 was an all-time low for him. Thankfully, there's a bright spot Indians fans--Shelley Duncan. This is the smartest move the organization has made towards rebuilding. I've gotten the pleasure( or maybe displeasure) of watching Duncan with the AAA Yankees. The guy has a nice swing and is insanely productive. His fielding isn't bad either. It's going to be a long road in Cleveland, but Duncan will be a fixture there in the years to come.
Another move that makes me wonder why is the A's re-signing Jack Cust. The team, opposing hitters and fans alike know this guy can't play D worth a dime. Offensively, he's consistently low-mid .200's and has a huge number of strike-outs. So why did he get a 1yr/$2.5M? Ask Billy Beane or your Prozac bottle.
Rumors and Notes:
Jose Valverde has four offers to choose from (Tigers,D-Backs and two mystery teams).
The Rangers offered DH Vlad Guerrero a 1yr/$7M contract. My guess is he turns it down.
Russell Branyan most likely will not return to the M's with the impending Kotchman-Hall deal.
John Smoltz is drwaing interest from 3/5 of the NL East(Phils, Nats, and Mets). i wish he'd hang it up already. Speaking off, congrats to Randy Johnson on a fantastic career.
Congratulations to Andre Dawson for making the HoF.
check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
The Cards officially have the NL Central wrapped up and possibly a World Series appearance(I'm re-thinking my Phillies prediction) after coming to terms with OF Matt Holliday on a 7yr/$120M contract.
The Phillies lost another bullpen arm as of yesterday. Clay Condrey (6-2; 3.00ERA) has agreed to terms with the Twins. Condrey pitched 42 innings because of an oblique strain last season, but his 55.2% groundball is a best among free agent relievers. this is quite a shot to take after Scott Eyre retired Wedensday for Philadelphia.
The Braves signed UTL Eric Hinske(is this guy always on the move?) to a 1yr/%1M contract. Hinske hit a combined .242 with the Yankees and Pirates last season. It's a solid option for the Braves offensively and defensively, but there maiun problem is pitching.
The Mariners have re-signed OF Franklin Guiterrez to a 4 year, $20M extension. Guiterrez was phenomenal after coming over from Cleveland hitting .283. His CF defense was the best in the najors last season. Seattle is back baby!
The seemingly quiet Rays have signed C Kelly Shoppach to a 2yr/$5.5M deal. Shoppach hit .214 last season in a shortened seasoned, but his overall numbers are very productive. I wish the Sox never let him go. Shoppach proveds a solid option at the plate over Navarro, but Navarro has a better defensive skills.
A team I literally forgot about (Sorry to your fans) was the Indians. They signed OF Austin Kearns to a minor league deal. Kearns was abominable last season in the time he got to play. His career numbers go up and down consistently, but 2009 was an all-time low for him. Thankfully, there's a bright spot Indians fans--Shelley Duncan. This is the smartest move the organization has made towards rebuilding. I've gotten the pleasure( or maybe displeasure) of watching Duncan with the AAA Yankees. The guy has a nice swing and is insanely productive. His fielding isn't bad either. It's going to be a long road in Cleveland, but Duncan will be a fixture there in the years to come.
Another move that makes me wonder why is the A's re-signing Jack Cust. The team, opposing hitters and fans alike know this guy can't play D worth a dime. Offensively, he's consistently low-mid .200's and has a huge number of strike-outs. So why did he get a 1yr/$2.5M? Ask Billy Beane or your Prozac bottle.
Rumors and Notes:
Jose Valverde has four offers to choose from (Tigers,D-Backs and two mystery teams).
The Rangers offered DH Vlad Guerrero a 1yr/$7M contract. My guess is he turns it down.
Russell Branyan most likely will not return to the M's with the impending Kotchman-Hall deal.
John Smoltz is drwaing interest from 3/5 of the NL East(Phils, Nats, and Mets). i wish he'd hang it up already. Speaking off, congrats to Randy Johnson on a fantastic career.
Congratulations to Andre Dawson for making the HoF.
check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
Saturday, January 2, 2010
2010: Fire It Up!
Happy New Year to all. We're getting so close to spring training I can smell it. only 90+ days to Opening Day! The Hot Stove isn't done yet either. Bay's physical has passed, so, it's a done deal basically. The official announcemnet should be coming. Interesting note with football and baseball, Florida Gator senior WR Riley "Coooooooooooooop" Cooper was drafted by Texas, but hasn't been contacted by the club. He may go for the NFL instead. Either way, best of luck Coop, your years as a Gator were fantastic.
My 2010 predictions:
Phillies Own the NL East again, with the Mets as wild card.
Giants win the NL West
NL Central goes to the Cards.
Yanks win AL East, Boston wild card
AL Central is the White Sox
AL West is the Mariners.
World series has Boston against Phillies. Boston takes it in 7 dramatic games (and I'm not being biased cuz I love the Sox).
Rumors and Notes:
The Blue Jays are pursuing Ardolis Chapman. Guess there gonna need someone to replace Halladay?
The Dodgers are working on a multi-year deal with OF Matt Kemp.
Rumor has it that 3B Adrian Beltre is close ot a deal with either the Red Sox, A's, or a mystery team reports MLBtraderumors.com
Check out http://www.sportsjabber.net
My 2010 predictions:
Phillies Own the NL East again, with the Mets as wild card.
Giants win the NL West
NL Central goes to the Cards.
Yanks win AL East, Boston wild card
AL Central is the White Sox
AL West is the Mariners.
World series has Boston against Phillies. Boston takes it in 7 dramatic games (and I'm not being biased cuz I love the Sox).
Rumors and Notes:
The Blue Jays are pursuing Ardolis Chapman. Guess there gonna need someone to replace Halladay?
The Dodgers are working on a multi-year deal with OF Matt Kemp.
Rumor has it that 3B Adrian Beltre is close ot a deal with either the Red Sox, A's, or a mystery team reports MLBtraderumors.com
Check out http://www.sportsjabber.net
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