I've had numerous friends come up and bust me about the contract saga with Derek Jeter and the Yankees. I shoot them down by one by one assuring them Jeter will be back in a Yankees uniform, and not a Boston one. After all this is the face of the Yankees. He's what makes us Sox fans jealous. The thought of him leaving the Yanks is just simply un-American! The Yanks have offered Jeter a three year/$46M contract which will roughly pay out to $12M/yr. Not bad for a SS who can still play the game at an above average level when age 36 is considered the decline period. Jeter is looking for six years/$90M. GM Brian Cashman gave Jeter's agent a basic "Go pound sand." Is Jeter worth $90M? I don't think with his diminished power stroke and coming off a down season in production, but should get more money for three years? Yes. Why you ask? He's still an elite SS, which is hard to find this off-season. Do the Yanks have a comparable SS in the wings? Not in my eyes and most certainly not in any Yankees fans eyes. So pony up and offer more money, it's not going to break the bank. Derek bleeds pinstripes and will take a discount if the price is right. He's committed to winning and that's what the Yankees are supposed to be committed to doing. Jeter's batting average and OBP dropped significantly this season, but he's kept pace with the last two seasons in just about every other category. This is your leader, your Mr. Postseason, legend and HOFer. Trying to settle and deal for Jose Reyes doesn't make the team any better. Pony up Steinbrenners, or you'll regret it.
In terms of other large contracts, Adrian Beltre makes me throw up. He's a contract year type of player, nothing else. The year in Boston is no different. Why did he do so well? Contract year and the advantage hitters have in Fenway Park. Don't believe me? Look at his numbers, they consistently go down and then up as a new contract approaches and then right back down once a new contract is signed. The best part is the A's are willing to pay his price and I can guarantee his numbers won't be nearly as good. Someone should give him Jason Bay's number and ask him how things are going in NY. When Boston signed Beltre last season, I can say I was hardly enthused, but got excited when I saw the player give effort. Needless to say, I knew this would be his only season in Fenway because he'd go chasing the money as he nears 35. Good luck Adrian, you'll need it.
By now, everyone has seen that Victor Martinez has signed a hefty new deal with the Tigers. Crazy money for a guy who is a dynamite on offense, but middle of the road on defense. As a Sox fan, I was disappointed to see him go offensively, but knew we had to get better defensively. Problem is the catching market is very thin now. Martinez will make the Tigers a much better team in the long run, but I feel the Tigers overpaid by about $10M.
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Showing posts with label Athletics. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Athletics. Show all posts
Friday, November 26, 2010
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Bring On The Offseason!
The season is over and congrats to the Giants on a well-deserved championship. Now we made it to the exciting part of the season( especially if your team has been sitting for awhile). Before the hot stove heats up, teams are making decisions on whose coming back already. Here's a list of players who aren't returning to their teams currently:
Adam Kennedy, 2B - Nats
Chris Young, P; Jon Garland, P; Yorvit Torrealba, C - Padres
Octavio Dotel, RP; Jeff Francis, P - Rockies
Willy Ayber, UT; Dan Wheeler, RP - Rays
Vladimir Guerrero - Rangers
Adrian Beltre, 3B - Red Sox
Orlando Cabrera, SS; Aaron Harang, P - Reds
Erik Bedard, P; Russell Branyan 1B, 2B Jose Lopez - Mariners
Eric Chavez, 3B; Boof Bonser, RP - A's
Rick Ankiel, OF; Kyle Farnsworth, RP - Braves
Jhonny Peralta, SS - Tigers
Adam LaRoche, 1B - D'Backs
Greg Zaun, C; Trevor Hoffman, RP; Doug Davis, P - Brewers
Mark Hendrickson, P - Orioles
Meanwhile, the Mets exercised Jose Reyes option, the Padres have exercised Adrian Gonzalez's option, The A's have exercised Coco Crisp and Mark Ellis's options, and finally the Reds pick up Bronson Arroyo and Jonny Gomes options. Aramis Ramirez exercised his player option with the Cubs.
Adam Kennedy, 2B - Nats
Chris Young, P; Jon Garland, P; Yorvit Torrealba, C - Padres
Octavio Dotel, RP; Jeff Francis, P - Rockies
Willy Ayber, UT; Dan Wheeler, RP - Rays
Vladimir Guerrero - Rangers
Adrian Beltre, 3B - Red Sox
Orlando Cabrera, SS; Aaron Harang, P - Reds
Erik Bedard, P; Russell Branyan 1B, 2B Jose Lopez - Mariners
Eric Chavez, 3B; Boof Bonser, RP - A's
Rick Ankiel, OF; Kyle Farnsworth, RP - Braves
Jhonny Peralta, SS - Tigers
Adam LaRoche, 1B - D'Backs
Greg Zaun, C; Trevor Hoffman, RP; Doug Davis, P - Brewers
Mark Hendrickson, P - Orioles
Meanwhile, the Mets exercised Jose Reyes option, the Padres have exercised Adrian Gonzalez's option, The A's have exercised Coco Crisp and Mark Ellis's options, and finally the Reds pick up Bronson Arroyo and Jonny Gomes options. Aramis Ramirez exercised his player option with the Cubs.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Shoring up
As we are nine days away from the holy grail, teams are scrambling to find players they need. Johnny Damon is probably sweating bullets right now. Jermaine Dye and Jarrod Washburn should start panicking soon.
The Brewers signed journeyman Scott Schoenweis to a minor league contract. Schoenweis (1-2; 7.12ERA) struggle last season, but his wife passed away so I can't blame him. I think Schoenweiss will come back and be dominant in relief this season.
The O's finally brought back Mark Hendrickson and got reliever Will Ohman. Hendrickson (6-5; 4.37ERA) got a year at $1.4M and is expected to be a reliever. Ohman, another lefty, was let go by the Dodgers. Ohman posted a 1-0 record with a 5.84ERA. The ability to get through innings is good, but he has to limit his baserunners.
Jacque Jones is making his curtain call in Minnesota where he had some of his best seasons. Jones signed a minor league deal today. Jones had a terrible 2008 campaign with a .147, 1HR, 7RBIs between Detroit and Florida.
The Indians signed reliever Jamey Wright to a minor league deal. Wright went 3-4 with a 4.33ERA for the Royals last season, but had a great groundball ratio.
The Mets appear close to an agreement with 1B Mike Jacobs on a minor league deal. I can't see why he wouldn't make the team and I expect is insurance should Daniel Murphy falter. Jacbos hit .228 with 19HRs and 61RBIs. His drawbacks are his inability to get on base and his decreasing fielding percentage from not playing 1B as much. the Mets didn't stop here, though. They avoided arbitration with OF Angel Pagan, too. Pagan hit .306 with 6HRs and 32RBIs in 88 games. I expect Pagan to be as solid as he was last year. The Mets should score a lot more runs with a healthy Reyes and Pagan on base. The organization has been talking with the D-Backs about obtaining C Chris Snyder again, but talks have gone nowhere. I really don't understand the need for a fourth catcher. The Mets really need help in the bullpen and rotation, they should be pursuing RP Mike MacDougal.
Rumors and Notes:
Willy Taveras is a free man after being released by the A's. GM Ed Wade has hinted at making a run at him.
The Indians have added Hank Blalock to their wishlist according to Ken Rosenthal.
According to MLB.com's Corey Brock, the Padres are "highly unlikely" to sign pitcher Hasonori Takashi.
MLB.com's Bill Ladson writes, "Nats aggressively pursuing SP Chein Ming Wang. However, they have not yet made an offer as far as we know. Count the Dodgers and Mets out on him."
The Rockies aren't going to sign RP Joe Biemel and probably not SP Todd Wellemeyer. These were broke by Tony Renck of The Denver Post and ESPN's Jerry Crasnick.
The O's have interest in Jarrod Washburn, but it's unlikely he'll be signed due to low financials. They'll be settling for Smoltz, Wellemeyer, or Looper as per J.P. Morosi.
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
The Brewers signed journeyman Scott Schoenweis to a minor league contract. Schoenweis (1-2; 7.12ERA) struggle last season, but his wife passed away so I can't blame him. I think Schoenweiss will come back and be dominant in relief this season.
The O's finally brought back Mark Hendrickson and got reliever Will Ohman. Hendrickson (6-5; 4.37ERA) got a year at $1.4M and is expected to be a reliever. Ohman, another lefty, was let go by the Dodgers. Ohman posted a 1-0 record with a 5.84ERA. The ability to get through innings is good, but he has to limit his baserunners.
Jacque Jones is making his curtain call in Minnesota where he had some of his best seasons. Jones signed a minor league deal today. Jones had a terrible 2008 campaign with a .147, 1HR, 7RBIs between Detroit and Florida.
The Indians signed reliever Jamey Wright to a minor league deal. Wright went 3-4 with a 4.33ERA for the Royals last season, but had a great groundball ratio.
The Mets appear close to an agreement with 1B Mike Jacobs on a minor league deal. I can't see why he wouldn't make the team and I expect is insurance should Daniel Murphy falter. Jacbos hit .228 with 19HRs and 61RBIs. His drawbacks are his inability to get on base and his decreasing fielding percentage from not playing 1B as much. the Mets didn't stop here, though. They avoided arbitration with OF Angel Pagan, too. Pagan hit .306 with 6HRs and 32RBIs in 88 games. I expect Pagan to be as solid as he was last year. The Mets should score a lot more runs with a healthy Reyes and Pagan on base. The organization has been talking with the D-Backs about obtaining C Chris Snyder again, but talks have gone nowhere. I really don't understand the need for a fourth catcher. The Mets really need help in the bullpen and rotation, they should be pursuing RP Mike MacDougal.
Rumors and Notes:
Willy Taveras is a free man after being released by the A's. GM Ed Wade has hinted at making a run at him.
The Indians have added Hank Blalock to their wishlist according to Ken Rosenthal.
According to MLB.com's Corey Brock, the Padres are "highly unlikely" to sign pitcher Hasonori Takashi.
MLB.com's Bill Ladson writes, "Nats aggressively pursuing SP Chein Ming Wang. However, they have not yet made an offer as far as we know. Count the Dodgers and Mets out on him."
The Rockies aren't going to sign RP Joe Biemel and probably not SP Todd Wellemeyer. These were broke by Tony Renck of The Denver Post and ESPN's Jerry Crasnick.
The O's have interest in Jarrod Washburn, but it's unlikely he'll be signed due to low financials. They'll be settling for Smoltz, Wellemeyer, or Looper as per J.P. Morosi.
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
Monday, February 1, 2010
Some Deals
Shortly thereafter posting my blog last night, I found in fact that Orlando Cabrera had signed with the Reds already. The deal is worth $4M for one year as Yahoo's Tim Brown broke the news. This the best offs-season move the Reds have made. Cabrera is a solid player who can hit and field. I wished the Sox kept him after 04 campaign. Cabrera hit .284 with 9HRs and 77RBIs between the A's and Twins and was an instrumental player in the Twins playoff-push. The Reds then traded Willy Taveras and Adam Rosales for Aaron Miles and a player to be named later to the A's. The Reds saved some cash on this deal, but overall not really a spectacular trade. The A's spent some of thir fortunes on signing OF Gabe Gross to a 1yr/$750K. The A's dumped Taveras followed by SP Dana Eveland.
Ken Rosenthal reports the Rockies and Melvin Mora have reached a one year/$1.3M contract. The deal comes as no surprise after Cabrera chose the Reds over the Rockies. I really do like Melvin Mora, but his usefulness is vanishing as his numbers decline every year. He hit .260 with 8HRs and 48RBIs for the O's last season and will most likely play third for the Rox.
The Dodgers have closed a deal with OF Reed Johnson. Last year for the Cubs, Johnson hit .255 with 4HRs and 22RBIs , but only saw 65 games of action due to an injury. Not a bad addition for bench depth and a better choice than Garrett Anderson. The Dodgers need guys to get on base and that's something Johnson is good at doing consistently posting over .300 every season.
The Cubs have signed 1B Kevin Millar to a minor league deal. He hit .221 for the Jays last season. Millar (.223, 7HRs, 29RBIs) is clearly there to smooth over the broken clubhouse atmosphere because his numbers have consistently went down.
The Mariners have signed 1B Ryan Garko. Garko (.268, 13HRs, 51RBIs) didn't live up to expectations in San Fran and probably won't in Seattle. Garko's deal is worth up to $1M if he achieves x number of plate appearances.
The Red Sox have sgind another former Rays reliver in Joe Nelson. Nelson went 3-0 with a 4.02ERA for the Rays last season. He should be a good addition. The Sox I believe are still one reliver shy of a good enough bullpen.
Rumors and Notes:
Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports tweets the Marlins have offered RP Kevin Gregg his job back. Gregg was a bust in Chi-town. The Marlins may be close to an agreement with RP Seth McClung, tweets MLB.com's Adam McCalvey.
FA OF/DH Gary Sheffield is considering from two unidentified teams.
Chien Ming Wang a Phillie? Not really according to Scott Lauber of the News Journal. SI's Heyman says he expects the east or west coast for Wang.
Mariners assistant GM says, "They are seeking a right handed bat and pitcher."
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
Ken Rosenthal reports the Rockies and Melvin Mora have reached a one year/$1.3M contract. The deal comes as no surprise after Cabrera chose the Reds over the Rockies. I really do like Melvin Mora, but his usefulness is vanishing as his numbers decline every year. He hit .260 with 8HRs and 48RBIs for the O's last season and will most likely play third for the Rox.
The Dodgers have closed a deal with OF Reed Johnson. Last year for the Cubs, Johnson hit .255 with 4HRs and 22RBIs , but only saw 65 games of action due to an injury. Not a bad addition for bench depth and a better choice than Garrett Anderson. The Dodgers need guys to get on base and that's something Johnson is good at doing consistently posting over .300 every season.
The Cubs have signed 1B Kevin Millar to a minor league deal. He hit .221 for the Jays last season. Millar (.223, 7HRs, 29RBIs) is clearly there to smooth over the broken clubhouse atmosphere because his numbers have consistently went down.
The Mariners have signed 1B Ryan Garko. Garko (.268, 13HRs, 51RBIs) didn't live up to expectations in San Fran and probably won't in Seattle. Garko's deal is worth up to $1M if he achieves x number of plate appearances.
The Red Sox have sgind another former Rays reliver in Joe Nelson. Nelson went 3-0 with a 4.02ERA for the Rays last season. He should be a good addition. The Sox I believe are still one reliver shy of a good enough bullpen.
Rumors and Notes:
Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports tweets the Marlins have offered RP Kevin Gregg his job back. Gregg was a bust in Chi-town. The Marlins may be close to an agreement with RP Seth McClung, tweets MLB.com's Adam McCalvey.
FA OF/DH Gary Sheffield is considering from two unidentified teams.
Chien Ming Wang a Phillie? Not really according to Scott Lauber of the News Journal. SI's Heyman says he expects the east or west coast for Wang.
Mariners assistant GM says, "They are seeking a right handed bat and pitcher."
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
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
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
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Relief: Going, Going, Gone
Some teams in the MLB used Christmas as a time to re-fill their bullpens. Fernando Rodney got thing started off by signing with the Angels. Rodney (2-5;4.40ERA) was targeted by many teams including the puzzling Phillies, who I'm not sure where they're at right now with Park and Eyre. The deal is worth 2yrs/$11M pending a physical. Rodney saved 37 games last season for the Tigers.
Matt Capps is gone now. The Nationals have scooped him up for 1yr/$3.5M pending a physical. I wasn't surprised that he ended up there given the Nats problem ending games, but why only a year. He was intriguing, despite his struggles last season and could be a talented asset in the years to come.
Another NL East team, the Mets, have agreed to sign Kelvim Escobar. Escobar hasn't pitched much due to "wear and tear" and surgeries. The Mets plan to use him as a set-up man for K-Rod. I like the idea because I felt Escobar was at the end of the line since 2006, so bidding low was a win.
The D-Backs have agreed to a 1 year deal with reliever Bobby Howry. Howry (2-6;3.39ERA) was nothing special in San Fran last season and I don't really see much of an upside of signing him for a team that has struggled with reliable pitching.
The A's have signed back starter Justin Duchsherer to a 1yr/$5.5M deal depnding on if he can stay healthy. The Red Sox were considered his prime destination outside of returning to Oakland. I'd rather him go back there than come to the Sox because the bullpen is more of a pressing concern for the Red Sox. Also, the Yanks are forced to look at Ben Sheets now, who is still too injury prone.
The Giants have agreed to sign versatile INF Mark DeRosa to a 2yr/$12M contract. DeRosa took his physical today and an official announcement is due tomorrow. DeRosa hit a combined .250 and 23 HRs and 78RBIs between Cleveland and St. Louis.
The busy Mariners signed C Josh Bard and RP Chad Cordero to minor league deals.
Rumors and Notes:
The D-backs are keeping their eyes on Jose Valverde
Would Atlanta be getting 2B Dan Uggla? GM Frank Wren says "It's costly, but not ruled out."
The Rangers could be looking into SP Jon Garland and OF Jermaine Dye. The Rangers were rumored to be after DH Vladimir Guerrero. Dye can play the outfield, but not much better than Guerrero. Dye would be the cheaper and more productive choice.
The Red Sox have clared $48M of payroll off the books for 2010 which leaves the door open for Bay, whom they could pay easier after this season. What about the Beckett extension and V-Mart negotiations though? Has that been factored in?
The Tigers are looking for a new lead-off after dumping Curtis Granderson? Hello, Johnny Damon?
The Athletics are said to be "the only serious bidders" on 3B Adrian Beltre according to ESPN.
The Cubs are looking into reliever Kiko Calero. ESPNChicago.com thinks SP Jose Contrearas and OF Ryan Spilborghs won't be in Wrigley next season.
Matt Capps is gone now. The Nationals have scooped him up for 1yr/$3.5M pending a physical. I wasn't surprised that he ended up there given the Nats problem ending games, but why only a year. He was intriguing, despite his struggles last season and could be a talented asset in the years to come.
Another NL East team, the Mets, have agreed to sign Kelvim Escobar. Escobar hasn't pitched much due to "wear and tear" and surgeries. The Mets plan to use him as a set-up man for K-Rod. I like the idea because I felt Escobar was at the end of the line since 2006, so bidding low was a win.
The D-Backs have agreed to a 1 year deal with reliever Bobby Howry. Howry (2-6;3.39ERA) was nothing special in San Fran last season and I don't really see much of an upside of signing him for a team that has struggled with reliable pitching.
The A's have signed back starter Justin Duchsherer to a 1yr/$5.5M deal depnding on if he can stay healthy. The Red Sox were considered his prime destination outside of returning to Oakland. I'd rather him go back there than come to the Sox because the bullpen is more of a pressing concern for the Red Sox. Also, the Yanks are forced to look at Ben Sheets now, who is still too injury prone.
The Giants have agreed to sign versatile INF Mark DeRosa to a 2yr/$12M contract. DeRosa took his physical today and an official announcement is due tomorrow. DeRosa hit a combined .250 and 23 HRs and 78RBIs between Cleveland and St. Louis.
The busy Mariners signed C Josh Bard and RP Chad Cordero to minor league deals.
Rumors and Notes:
The D-backs are keeping their eyes on Jose Valverde
Would Atlanta be getting 2B Dan Uggla? GM Frank Wren says "It's costly, but not ruled out."
The Rangers could be looking into SP Jon Garland and OF Jermaine Dye. The Rangers were rumored to be after DH Vladimir Guerrero. Dye can play the outfield, but not much better than Guerrero. Dye would be the cheaper and more productive choice.
The Red Sox have clared $48M of payroll off the books for 2010 which leaves the door open for Bay, whom they could pay easier after this season. What about the Beckett extension and V-Mart negotiations though? Has that been factored in?
The Tigers are looking for a new lead-off after dumping Curtis Granderson? Hello, Johnny Damon?
The Athletics are said to be "the only serious bidders" on 3B Adrian Beltre according to ESPN.
The Cubs are looking into reliever Kiko Calero. ESPNChicago.com thinks SP Jose Contrearas and OF Ryan Spilborghs won't be in Wrigley next season.
Monday, December 21, 2009
Things I Missed
I go away for a bit and things happen. I didn't go away by my choice either. So 3B Scott Rolen was extended through 2012 should he not fall apart by then with the Reds. I can see they signed him for the sake od leadership in the clubhouse, but that bat and fielding will be in rapid decline as he's about to hit 35. Last season between Toronto and Cincy, Rolen hit .305 with 11 HRs and 67RBIs. I'm not discrediting him for that amazing showing last season, but he's very injury-prone and he can't stay gold forever.
The Pirates signed reliever Javier Lopez(0-2 9.26ERA). Lopez was HORRIBLE in Boston last season. It was no surprise between injury and his pitching he only made 14 appearances. The previous few seasons he's proved to be a servicable reliver keeping his ERA under 3 for the most part. Amazingly, he's the only lefty in the Pirates pen now. The deal is worth $775K.
Reliever Darren Oliver has agreed to re-join the Rangers for a year worth $3.5M with an option for 2011 making the deal worth $6.25M altogether. Oliver was highly dependable and dynamite for the Angels. He holds a 15-3; 3.10ERA the past three seasons with them. Oliver attracted attention from a few teams and relatively was quiet up until his signing. I'm surprised more teams didn't make a push for him. He's seemingly become better with age. With this departure, the Angels should sounding the alarm as everything the organization has built is falling apart quickly.
OF Coco Crisp is nearing a 1yr/$5M contract with the A's. Crisp, who has struggled in roles in both Boston and Kansas City, would be getting the CF job outright. Crisp only played 49 games for the Royals last season batting .228 while batting .283 the season before in Boston before being replaced by Jacoby Ellsbury. I would agree with you that Crisp didn't get his chance fairly in KC, but basbeall in a buisness.
The Blue Jays continued their re-building spree by acquiring Brandon Morrow from the M's for reliver Brandon League (4.09ERA)and prospect Johermyn Chavez. I'm still undecided if the Jays have a legit team to make a run at the wild card, but leaning towards no.
The Yankees have finally dealt Melky Cabrera (.274, 13HRs, 68RBIs) to the Braves for Javier Vazquez (15-10; 2.87ERA). this will be Vazquez second stint with the Yanks after his first one didn't end as well(referring to the game 7 loss to the Sox). Also in the deal, the Yanks got reliever Boone Logan (1-1; 5.19ERA). The Braves received prospects Mike Dunn and Ardoys Vizcaino. As usual, the Yankees are trading away their young talent for aged veterans, so it's only a matter of time before a 2004 season repeats itself.
The Nationals have formally signed SP Jason Marquis (15-13; 4.04ERA) to a 2yr/$15M contract. Hopefully for the Nats sake, he'll be more than servicable and give them an all-star worthy season. I wasn't surprised that Marquis signed with them. Good pick-up for Washington, but they need more reliable starters to challenge anyone int he NL East. They may be signing Eddie Guardardo to a 1 year deal. Guardardo (1-2; 4.46ERA) battled injuries last season and considered retiring. This is too much of a gamble for the Nats unless the deal is coming in under $2M.
The Royals kept it cheap in replacing Coco Crisp by signing Brian Anderson (.227, 4HRs, 18RBIs). Anderson is a decent hitter and his OBP has been on the rise in recent years, but I don't think the Royals are going to see this guy become a star with everyday play.
Rumors and notes:
The Marlins have offered SP Ardolis Chapman a five year contract worth $13M. Relievers Matt Capps, Jose Veras and Tyler Walker on their Christmas list.
With the signing of Jason Marquis, The Nats appear to have a strong chance of getting Matt Capps, but the Cubs won't let them get him so easily. The cubs are also looking into SP Kei Igawa.
SP Justin Duchsherer shouldn't be ruled out returning to the A's.
The Braves are attempting to sign Troy Glaus. Glaus is coming off a lost season with the Cards and will definitely have to prove he can still be a good hitter. Hw ould be playing 1B.
Happy Holidays all and I will see you after Xmas!
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
The Pirates signed reliever Javier Lopez(0-2 9.26ERA). Lopez was HORRIBLE in Boston last season. It was no surprise between injury and his pitching he only made 14 appearances. The previous few seasons he's proved to be a servicable reliver keeping his ERA under 3 for the most part. Amazingly, he's the only lefty in the Pirates pen now. The deal is worth $775K.
Reliever Darren Oliver has agreed to re-join the Rangers for a year worth $3.5M with an option for 2011 making the deal worth $6.25M altogether. Oliver was highly dependable and dynamite for the Angels. He holds a 15-3; 3.10ERA the past three seasons with them. Oliver attracted attention from a few teams and relatively was quiet up until his signing. I'm surprised more teams didn't make a push for him. He's seemingly become better with age. With this departure, the Angels should sounding the alarm as everything the organization has built is falling apart quickly.
OF Coco Crisp is nearing a 1yr/$5M contract with the A's. Crisp, who has struggled in roles in both Boston and Kansas City, would be getting the CF job outright. Crisp only played 49 games for the Royals last season batting .228 while batting .283 the season before in Boston before being replaced by Jacoby Ellsbury. I would agree with you that Crisp didn't get his chance fairly in KC, but basbeall in a buisness.
The Blue Jays continued their re-building spree by acquiring Brandon Morrow from the M's for reliver Brandon League (4.09ERA)and prospect Johermyn Chavez. I'm still undecided if the Jays have a legit team to make a run at the wild card, but leaning towards no.
The Yankees have finally dealt Melky Cabrera (.274, 13HRs, 68RBIs) to the Braves for Javier Vazquez (15-10; 2.87ERA). this will be Vazquez second stint with the Yanks after his first one didn't end as well(referring to the game 7 loss to the Sox). Also in the deal, the Yanks got reliever Boone Logan (1-1; 5.19ERA). The Braves received prospects Mike Dunn and Ardoys Vizcaino. As usual, the Yankees are trading away their young talent for aged veterans, so it's only a matter of time before a 2004 season repeats itself.
The Nationals have formally signed SP Jason Marquis (15-13; 4.04ERA) to a 2yr/$15M contract. Hopefully for the Nats sake, he'll be more than servicable and give them an all-star worthy season. I wasn't surprised that Marquis signed with them. Good pick-up for Washington, but they need more reliable starters to challenge anyone int he NL East. They may be signing Eddie Guardardo to a 1 year deal. Guardardo (1-2; 4.46ERA) battled injuries last season and considered retiring. This is too much of a gamble for the Nats unless the deal is coming in under $2M.
The Royals kept it cheap in replacing Coco Crisp by signing Brian Anderson (.227, 4HRs, 18RBIs). Anderson is a decent hitter and his OBP has been on the rise in recent years, but I don't think the Royals are going to see this guy become a star with everyday play.
Rumors and notes:
The Marlins have offered SP Ardolis Chapman a five year contract worth $13M. Relievers Matt Capps, Jose Veras and Tyler Walker on their Christmas list.
With the signing of Jason Marquis, The Nats appear to have a strong chance of getting Matt Capps, but the Cubs won't let them get him so easily. The cubs are also looking into SP Kei Igawa.
SP Justin Duchsherer shouldn't be ruled out returning to the A's.
The Braves are attempting to sign Troy Glaus. Glaus is coming off a lost season with the Cards and will definitely have to prove he can still be a good hitter. Hw ould be playing 1B.
Happy Holidays all and I will see you after Xmas!
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Bay; Atkins;
Finally, the Lee-Halladay trade is done. Thank god because I coudln't take anymore confusion with it and it also disgusted me. Phillies fans will regret this sooner or later. Here's a final breakdown from mlbtraderumors.com:
The Phillies get Roy Halladay, Phillippe Aumont, Tyson Gillies, Juan Ramirez, and $6MM. The Phillies will give Halladay a three-year extension plus vesting options.
The Mariners get Cliff Lee.
The Blue Jays get Kyle Drabek, Brett Wallace, and Travis d'Arnaud.
The A's get Michael Taylor.
The Mets have offered Bay a 5yr/$75M deal Wedensday in hopes of signing him. It's the amount of years he wants, but the money is a little under what he requests. He should be grateful whatever her gets because he's been nothing but a snot since the end of the Red Sox season. Talks with Bengie Molina have stalled as well. If Bay doesn't sign, the Mets are going after Matt Holliday. Former Mets reliever Lance Broadway signed a contract with the Blue Jays today. Bad deal because his numbers weren't very encouraging (5.87ERA in ML; 6.17ERA in AAA). The Mets have signed pitcher Ryota Igarashi.
3B Garret Atkins has three "mystery" teams interested in him. Atkins slumped heavily last season (.226) after being dynamite the previous season. The speculation says "he's more than likely headed to an AL team." It was confirmed this morning that a 1yr deal @ $4.5M with an option worth $8.5M for 2011. The Orioles struck gold with reliever Mike Gonzalez as well today. Gonzalez went 5-4 with a 2.42ERA and 10 saves for the Braves last season. Two good pick-ups for a club that seems stuck in neutral.
The Tigers signed SS Ramon Santiago today to a 2yr/$2.5M contract. Santiago hit .267 last season I see a trend of cheap, forgettable players coming into Detroit this off-season, no big splashes.
The Marlins reached a deal with arbitration-eligible SP Ricky Nolasco on a 1yr/$3.8M contract this afternoon. Nolasco went 13-9 with a 5.06ERA last season for the Marlins. Now if they could could get something done with that Josh Johnson guy?
The Dodgers had a brief, cheap spending spree today. The club signed 1B Doug Mintkiewicz, SS Angel Berroa (both got minor league deals), and 2B/3B Jamey Carroll. Carroll is the only one of this group who will see lots of time on the field. Carroll hit .276 with the Indians last year. Th contract is worth 2yrs/$3.85M. Carroll is a guy whose in decline and this is no way to begin replacing Orlando Hudson. He played only 93 games last season and he can play three different field positions, so this is a case of durability. Will he last an enitre Dodgers season?
Rumors and Notes:
Johnny Damon won't accept a new deal under $13M. Expect him to head west.
Cuban defector Ardolis Chapman had a great workout for 15 teams Tuesday. He needs brush-up on mechanics, but is otherwise sound.
The Red Sox are said to be "pushing hard now" to acquire Adrian Gonzalez. With the signings of Lackey and Cameron, Clay Buchholz and Jacoby Ellsbury have become expendable. I think I will snap if they trade them. Buchholz can work out of the pen and Cameron really doesn't have that much left in the tank.
The Padres and A's are looking into OF Coco Crisp.
Spoiled brat SP Josh Johnson is looking for a deal bigger than Zach Grienke's current one. Call us back when you win a Cy Young.
The Dodgers are exploring a trade with the Reds for starter Aaron Harang. The Reds would do it for two of the Dodgers starting players and they'd be picking up part of his salary as per Tim Dierkes of mlbtraderumors.com.
The M's, Giants, and Yankees are looking at 1B Nick Johnson (.291 between Washington and Florida).
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
The Phillies get Roy Halladay, Phillippe Aumont, Tyson Gillies, Juan Ramirez, and $6MM. The Phillies will give Halladay a three-year extension plus vesting options.
The Mariners get Cliff Lee.
The Blue Jays get Kyle Drabek, Brett Wallace, and Travis d'Arnaud.
The A's get Michael Taylor.
The Mets have offered Bay a 5yr/$75M deal Wedensday in hopes of signing him. It's the amount of years he wants, but the money is a little under what he requests. He should be grateful whatever her gets because he's been nothing but a snot since the end of the Red Sox season. Talks with Bengie Molina have stalled as well. If Bay doesn't sign, the Mets are going after Matt Holliday. Former Mets reliever Lance Broadway signed a contract with the Blue Jays today. Bad deal because his numbers weren't very encouraging (5.87ERA in ML; 6.17ERA in AAA). The Mets have signed pitcher Ryota Igarashi.
3B Garret Atkins has three "mystery" teams interested in him. Atkins slumped heavily last season (.226) after being dynamite the previous season. The speculation says "he's more than likely headed to an AL team." It was confirmed this morning that a 1yr deal @ $4.5M with an option worth $8.5M for 2011. The Orioles struck gold with reliever Mike Gonzalez as well today. Gonzalez went 5-4 with a 2.42ERA and 10 saves for the Braves last season. Two good pick-ups for a club that seems stuck in neutral.
The Tigers signed SS Ramon Santiago today to a 2yr/$2.5M contract. Santiago hit .267 last season I see a trend of cheap, forgettable players coming into Detroit this off-season, no big splashes.
The Marlins reached a deal with arbitration-eligible SP Ricky Nolasco on a 1yr/$3.8M contract this afternoon. Nolasco went 13-9 with a 5.06ERA last season for the Marlins. Now if they could could get something done with that Josh Johnson guy?
The Dodgers had a brief, cheap spending spree today. The club signed 1B Doug Mintkiewicz, SS Angel Berroa (both got minor league deals), and 2B/3B Jamey Carroll. Carroll is the only one of this group who will see lots of time on the field. Carroll hit .276 with the Indians last year. Th contract is worth 2yrs/$3.85M. Carroll is a guy whose in decline and this is no way to begin replacing Orlando Hudson. He played only 93 games last season and he can play three different field positions, so this is a case of durability. Will he last an enitre Dodgers season?
Rumors and Notes:
Johnny Damon won't accept a new deal under $13M. Expect him to head west.
Cuban defector Ardolis Chapman had a great workout for 15 teams Tuesday. He needs brush-up on mechanics, but is otherwise sound.
The Red Sox are said to be "pushing hard now" to acquire Adrian Gonzalez. With the signings of Lackey and Cameron, Clay Buchholz and Jacoby Ellsbury have become expendable. I think I will snap if they trade them. Buchholz can work out of the pen and Cameron really doesn't have that much left in the tank.
The Padres and A's are looking into OF Coco Crisp.
Spoiled brat SP Josh Johnson is looking for a deal bigger than Zach Grienke's current one. Call us back when you win a Cy Young.
The Dodgers are exploring a trade with the Reds for starter Aaron Harang. The Reds would do it for two of the Dodgers starting players and they'd be picking up part of his salary as per Tim Dierkes of mlbtraderumors.com.
The M's, Giants, and Yankees are looking at 1B Nick Johnson (.291 between Washington and Florida).
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Red&White Sox; Hallady-Lee
Both pairs of AL Sox made deals today. The Red Sox have agreed to a 2 yr/$15.5M with OF Mike Cameron. This move is the worst move I've ever seen. Why when Matt Holliday is still on the market would you sign a 37 year old outfielder? Gordon Edes reported this morning that the organization cut ties with Jason Bay as of today, which was the first stupid move they made. What are the Yankees thinking after they traded for Granderson? They're probably laughing. Cameron will play LF, Ellsbury in CF and Drew in RF.
The White Sox acquired speedy OF Juan Pierre from the Dodgers for two pitchers John Ely and Jon Link. The Dodgers are hoping for these two pitchers(who I've never heard of) to contribute in the majors in the upcoming season. The Dodgers had to eat $10.5M of Pierre's contract and the White sox will be paying the other $8M. This is a poor deal for the Dodgers. Poor Frank McCourt. Pierre hit .308 and stole 30 bases in 145 games last season. The White Sox seem primed for a World Series run this season with all the bats they've acquired.
Once the Hallday-Lee deal is done, the Jays will ship OF Michael Taylor(from Phillies) to Oakland for 3B Brett Wallace. Taylor was between AA and AAA this past season hitting a combined .320 with 20HRs and 84 RBIs in 116 games. Wallace was the same leagues, but hit .302 with 9 HRs and 28RBIs. If those streaks hold steady, we should see both of them in the majors by mid-season.
The Mets are closing in on a deal with RP Ryota Igarashi. He would be setting up for K-Rod.
News and Notes:
The Lee-Halladay deal is still being worked on with more names added in. It gets more and more confusing as it goes along. No resolution is expected today.
The Yankees are rumored to be "very interested" in SP Ben Sheets and won't be going after Jason Bay.
No new progress with the Matt Holliday-Cards offer.
The Cubs are in pursuit of OF Marlon Byrd with Mike Cameron off the market.
Jason Marquis would prefer the Nationals to offer him a deal.
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
The White Sox acquired speedy OF Juan Pierre from the Dodgers for two pitchers John Ely and Jon Link. The Dodgers are hoping for these two pitchers(who I've never heard of) to contribute in the majors in the upcoming season. The Dodgers had to eat $10.5M of Pierre's contract and the White sox will be paying the other $8M. This is a poor deal for the Dodgers. Poor Frank McCourt. Pierre hit .308 and stole 30 bases in 145 games last season. The White Sox seem primed for a World Series run this season with all the bats they've acquired.
Once the Hallday-Lee deal is done, the Jays will ship OF Michael Taylor(from Phillies) to Oakland for 3B Brett Wallace. Taylor was between AA and AAA this past season hitting a combined .320 with 20HRs and 84 RBIs in 116 games. Wallace was the same leagues, but hit .302 with 9 HRs and 28RBIs. If those streaks hold steady, we should see both of them in the majors by mid-season.
The Mets are closing in on a deal with RP Ryota Igarashi. He would be setting up for K-Rod.
News and Notes:
The Lee-Halladay deal is still being worked on with more names added in. It gets more and more confusing as it goes along. No resolution is expected today.
The Yankees are rumored to be "very interested" in SP Ben Sheets and won't be going after Jason Bay.
No new progress with the Matt Holliday-Cards offer.
The Cubs are in pursuit of OF Marlon Byrd with Mike Cameron off the market.
Jason Marquis would prefer the Nationals to offer him a deal.
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
Saturday, December 12, 2009
The Aftermath Weekend
The winter meetings ended somewhat quietly this off-season leaving many big names on the board still. One reliever took himself off, J.J. Putz (1-4;5.22ERA in 29 games) signed Friday with the White Sox to a 1yr/$3M deal. This is relatively cheap for Putz, who suffered through injuries last season in a plagued stay with the Mets. The white Sox made a good move here, but it leads me to believe GM Williams is pushing Bobby Jenks out the door. I like Jenks way better as a closer than Putz. Jenks was tendered a contract Saturday.
The Royals got their man in C Jason Kendall. Kendall signed to a similar "Pudge" Rodriguez deal. This new Royals team plan is kind of bizarre. Trade away talent for minimal talent or aged vets.
Saturday was tendering day. Unfortunately that meant a few players didn't make the cut: Yanks SP Chien Ming-Wang, Brewers SP Seth McClung, Rox 3B Garret Atkins,all-purpose Marlin Alfredo Amezaga, Nat's pitcher Scott Olsen, Phillies reliever Clay Condrey, Angels reliever Jose Arredondo, Giants 1B Ryan Garko Braves 2B Kelley Johnson and OF Ryan Church,Reds OF Jonny Gomes, Atheltics DH/OF Jack Cust, and surprisingly Pirates closer Matt Capps.
The Blue Jays signed OF Joey Gathright, C John Buck, and RP Raul Chavez.
News and Notes:
The Lowell-Ramirez deal is being held-up because of Lowell's thumb injury as per Nick Cafardo's report.
ESPN's Jayson Stark(via Twitter) reports the Angels are making a significant push at retaining John Lackey now.
The Red Sox completed the Boof Bonser trade by sending Chris Province (2-4;2.60ERA in AA) to the Twins. Bonser was signed through 2010 by the Sox Saturday.
SI's John Heyman says "The Mets will go to five years to get Jason Bay if need be," while Gordon Edes says for "Sox fans not to give up on Bay." Meanwhile, Luke Adams of mlbtraderumors.com reports Bay's agent Joe Urbon says "my client is ready to move on after seeing other offers."
Check out:http://www.sportsjabber.net
The Royals got their man in C Jason Kendall. Kendall signed to a similar "Pudge" Rodriguez deal. This new Royals team plan is kind of bizarre. Trade away talent for minimal talent or aged vets.
Saturday was tendering day. Unfortunately that meant a few players didn't make the cut: Yanks SP Chien Ming-Wang, Brewers SP Seth McClung, Rox 3B Garret Atkins,all-purpose Marlin Alfredo Amezaga, Nat's pitcher Scott Olsen, Phillies reliever Clay Condrey, Angels reliever Jose Arredondo, Giants 1B Ryan Garko Braves 2B Kelley Johnson and OF Ryan Church,Reds OF Jonny Gomes, Atheltics DH/OF Jack Cust, and surprisingly Pirates closer Matt Capps.
The Blue Jays signed OF Joey Gathright, C John Buck, and RP Raul Chavez.
News and Notes:
The Lowell-Ramirez deal is being held-up because of Lowell's thumb injury as per Nick Cafardo's report.
ESPN's Jayson Stark(via Twitter) reports the Angels are making a significant push at retaining John Lackey now.
The Red Sox completed the Boof Bonser trade by sending Chris Province (2-4;2.60ERA in AA) to the Twins. Bonser was signed through 2010 by the Sox Saturday.
SI's John Heyman says "The Mets will go to five years to get Jason Bay if need be," while Gordon Edes says for "Sox fans not to give up on Bay." Meanwhile, Luke Adams of mlbtraderumors.com reports Bay's agent Joe Urbon says "my client is ready to move on after seeing other offers."
Check out:http://www.sportsjabber.net
Monday, December 7, 2009
Winter Meetings Day 1
Let it begin boys and girls. Today owners, GM's, and agents met in Indy for what will be an exciting three days. Let's recap if you were sleeping under a rock.
FA SP Andy Pettite has said he wants to return to pitch a 16th season, but has supposedly rejected the Yankees initial offer. Right now, I'm cheering, but I bet he'll break down like he did last season to return to the Yanks. As of now, though it appears he will be back for the Yanks, as I've just read in Cliff Eastham's blog. The Yanks shipped reliever Brian Bruney off to the Nats for a player to be named. Bruney during the regular season was fantastic going 5-0 with a 3.92 ERA, but broke down in the postseason. This is a solid pick-up regardless for the Nats, who need a lot of help in the bullpen.
The Red Sox came to terms with reliever Scott Atchinson. It's a minor league deal worth $420K, but with $1M+ in options. The Red Sox bought EXTREMELY LOW speculating their saving money for the higher priced relievers/outfield position/starting pitching. Atchinson hasn't pitched a ML game since 07 with the Giants posting a 4.11 ERA. Jason Bay is expected to turn down arbitration.
The Rockies released OF Matt Murton in order for him to pursue a contract with the Hanshin Tigers. He hit .389 in Triple-A last season.
The Tigers have re-signed SS Adam Everett to a 1yr/ $1.5M deal. Everett hit .238 with 3 HRs and 44 RBIs last season in 118 games for the Tigers.
The Cardinals have reached a preliminary agreement on a 1 yr deal with SP Brad Penny. Penny resurrected his career in Boston last season before falling apart and being released. He found his stride again with the Giants (4-1; 2.59ERA). The deal is worth $7.5M with $1.5M in incentives should he pass the physical. This means that John Smoltz's stay in STL is probably over. Penny can help the Cards out greatly if he can be the 2nd half Brad Penny he was this season. Mark DeRosa is expected to turn down arbitration.
The Angels have begun talks with Jason Bay's agent, Joe Urbon. There is nothing to report yet, but sources say the Mariners don't have a shot. Evidently, the Milton Bradley-Pat Burrell swap hasn't been shot down yet. I can't see this trade benefiting either team. Burrell doesn't help the Cubs offense or defense and the Rays don't want distractions in their clubhouse.
Good news for the Twins, Carl Pavano will accept arbitration. Pavano went a combined 14-12 with a 5.10ERA between Cleveland and Minnesota in '09.
SP Justin Duchsherer has declined arbitration with the A's. For him to go anywhere, the team that signs him will have to give up draft picks. With the Sox already having to deal picks to Toronto, I expect that to shoot down Duchsherer coming to Boston.
Check out http://www.sportsjabber.net
FA SP Andy Pettite has said he wants to return to pitch a 16th season, but has supposedly rejected the Yankees initial offer. Right now, I'm cheering, but I bet he'll break down like he did last season to return to the Yanks. As of now, though it appears he will be back for the Yanks, as I've just read in Cliff Eastham's blog. The Yanks shipped reliever Brian Bruney off to the Nats for a player to be named. Bruney during the regular season was fantastic going 5-0 with a 3.92 ERA, but broke down in the postseason. This is a solid pick-up regardless for the Nats, who need a lot of help in the bullpen.
The Red Sox came to terms with reliever Scott Atchinson. It's a minor league deal worth $420K, but with $1M+ in options. The Red Sox bought EXTREMELY LOW speculating their saving money for the higher priced relievers/outfield position/starting pitching. Atchinson hasn't pitched a ML game since 07 with the Giants posting a 4.11 ERA. Jason Bay is expected to turn down arbitration.
The Rockies released OF Matt Murton in order for him to pursue a contract with the Hanshin Tigers. He hit .389 in Triple-A last season.
The Tigers have re-signed SS Adam Everett to a 1yr/ $1.5M deal. Everett hit .238 with 3 HRs and 44 RBIs last season in 118 games for the Tigers.
The Cardinals have reached a preliminary agreement on a 1 yr deal with SP Brad Penny. Penny resurrected his career in Boston last season before falling apart and being released. He found his stride again with the Giants (4-1; 2.59ERA). The deal is worth $7.5M with $1.5M in incentives should he pass the physical. This means that John Smoltz's stay in STL is probably over. Penny can help the Cards out greatly if he can be the 2nd half Brad Penny he was this season. Mark DeRosa is expected to turn down arbitration.
The Angels have begun talks with Jason Bay's agent, Joe Urbon. There is nothing to report yet, but sources say the Mariners don't have a shot. Evidently, the Milton Bradley-Pat Burrell swap hasn't been shot down yet. I can't see this trade benefiting either team. Burrell doesn't help the Cubs offense or defense and the Rays don't want distractions in their clubhouse.
Good news for the Twins, Carl Pavano will accept arbitration. Pavano went a combined 14-12 with a 5.10ERA between Cleveland and Minnesota in '09.
SP Justin Duchsherer has declined arbitration with the A's. For him to go anywhere, the team that signs him will have to give up draft picks. With the Sox already having to deal picks to Toronto, I expect that to shoot down Duchsherer coming to Boston.
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Thursday, December 3, 2009
Attack of the NL East part deux
The Phils got a 3B now; his name: Placido Polanco. The former Tiger signed a 3 yr/$18M deal to play for the Phils. The door is still open for Pedro Feliz to return at a cheaper price, but he probably won't with Polanco starting. This will be his second stint in Philly after joining them in 2002. I don't understand why the Phils didn't see if they could get Chone Figgins beforehand.
Another Brave signing and another Red sox departure today as reliever Takashi Saito joined Atlanta for a 1yr/$3.2M deal with incentives. Saito had to prove his worth to teams last season after coming off surgery and joined the Red Sox where he went 3-3 with a 2.56ERA. Most definitely, the Sox can add relievers to their wishlist after losing Wagner yesterday and Saito today.
After some speculation, the Mets have signed C Henry Blanco to a 1yr/$1.5M deal.
The A's traded pitcher Jeff Gray (0-1; 3.76ERA) and two minor leaguers for 2B Aaron Miles (.185 with 5 RBIs) and Jake Fox (.259 11HRs and 44RBIs).The A's got a good deal(also got $1M) even if Miles was terrible at the plate. Fox can play many positions as he did in '09 with the Cubbies. Gray should develop into something for the Chicago organization, but I don't see return immediately.
According to J.P. Morosi of Fox Sports, The M's are the frontrunners for 3B Chone Figgins. The deal could be worth 4yr/$30M.
Check out http://www.sportsjabber.net
Another Brave signing and another Red sox departure today as reliever Takashi Saito joined Atlanta for a 1yr/$3.2M deal with incentives. Saito had to prove his worth to teams last season after coming off surgery and joined the Red Sox where he went 3-3 with a 2.56ERA. Most definitely, the Sox can add relievers to their wishlist after losing Wagner yesterday and Saito today.
After some speculation, the Mets have signed C Henry Blanco to a 1yr/$1.5M deal.
The A's traded pitcher Jeff Gray (0-1; 3.76ERA) and two minor leaguers for 2B Aaron Miles (.185 with 5 RBIs) and Jake Fox (.259 11HRs and 44RBIs).The A's got a good deal(also got $1M) even if Miles was terrible at the plate. Fox can play many positions as he did in '09 with the Cubbies. Gray should develop into something for the Chicago organization, but I don't see return immediately.
According to J.P. Morosi of Fox Sports, The M's are the frontrunners for 3B Chone Figgins. The deal could be worth 4yr/$30M.
Check out http://www.sportsjabber.net
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Notes
It is said by Ken Rosenthal that OF Johnny Damon will be seeking a 2yr/$19M deal for any team. Damon had a good year (.284 24 HRs; 82 RBIs) at 35 years of age. The Yankees believe Damon is heading for a decline, but may still negotiate with him.
Boston OF J.D. Drew has undergone surgery on his left shoulder. If it was his right, the club could've opted out of his contract if he spent more than 35 days on the DL. Drew is in the fourth year of a five year deal.
The Royals picked up C Vance Wilson and reliever Jorge Campillo. The A's signed 3B Dallas McPherson.
That's all for today..check out http://www.sportsjabber.net
Boston OF J.D. Drew has undergone surgery on his left shoulder. If it was his right, the club could've opted out of his contract if he spent more than 35 days on the DL. Drew is in the fourth year of a five year deal.
The Royals picked up C Vance Wilson and reliever Jorge Campillo. The A's signed 3B Dallas McPherson.
That's all for today..check out http://www.sportsjabber.net
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