Despite the short amount of time since the end of the World Series, the baseball world is still turning as team's are cutting down their rosters to make a run for the hot stove in December. Here's a few players who survived the first day of cuts, but weren'l so lucky:
Bill Hall, UT; Felipe Lopez, 2B - Red Sox
Kevin Gregg, RP; Miguel Olivo, C - Blue Jays (after he was traded from the Rockies)
Edgar Renteria, SS - Giants - considering retirement.
Scott Podsednik, OF - Dodgers
Jesus Feliciano, OF; Omir Santos, C - Mets
Casey Kotchman, 1B - Mariners
Jeff Francis, P - Rockies
The Red Sox have picked up David Ortiz's option, but Ortiz is less than excited about fearing job security. Also, sub-par reliever Scott Atchinson was retained. The Marlins have offered 2B Dan Uggla a four year contract with the financials undisclosed, but would receive $8M for 2011. Uggla is seeking five years.
Rumors: Juan Uribe and Aubrey Huff may be offered contracts soon from the champion Giants. The Giants aren't sure if they will keep Pat Burrell or Mark DeRosa.
The Yankees and Derek Jeter have begun discussing a new contract.
RP Hasanori Takahashi is looking for a three yr. deal
A few teams are already calling about Brandon Webb.
Lance Berkman "won't be an Astro again" according to GM Ed Wade.
Showing posts with label Blue Jays. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Blue Jays. Show all posts
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Sunday, February 14, 2010
No love for Scott Boras; V-Day Weekend pt.1
Happy V-day to all, unless of course you're Scott Boras. Boras is having a record off-season with not getting his clients jobs. Felipe Lopez has just fired him, but Angels 1B Kendry Morales has added him. Should Johnny Damon? Damon will get a deal by next week more than likely with the Tigers. Lopez hit .310 last year, but is still unsigned. The Cardinals had vague interest in him. He's a multi-position defender with a .975 field percentage and former all-star. So why doesn't he have a deal? I can't explain it. I can tell you it wouldn't hurt the Athletics, Astros, Mets, Phillies, or Padres to sign him with their available depth. I believe Lopez's price tag is probably what's inhibiting him from getting a deal. Scott Boras needs to evolve with the changing economy of baseball. Teams are more inclined to invest in their system providing cheaper talent. Free agency has given way to previous big spenders to get the best players, but now you're down to what's left and teams who have little room to work with on their rosters. Look at the past five years of World Series competitors and you'll see more young talent than previously before to begin the decade.
Biggest news of the weekend thus far is the Giants coming to terms with SP Tim Lincecum on a 2yr/$23M contract. Lincecum was offered 3yr/$37M which is a good deal for both sides, but walked away opting for less. It leads me to believe the young phenom has had enough of the bay. Lincecum went 15-7 with a 2.48ERA on his way to a 2nd consecutive Cy Young.
Pedro and Smoltzy may have a buddy waiting to get a deal. Carlos Delgado will be waiting into mid-season for a team, but don't rule out the Mets from bringing him back. Look at how the Pedro Martinez deal worked out for the Phillies. Delgado could bring potential to bat .300 and club at least 20 balls in a half season.
The Mariners(who I'm shocked still have oodles of money) re-signed Mike Sweeney to a minor league contract. He hit .281 with 8HRs and 34 RBIs for them last season. The only thing that sucks is that he will be fighting five other guys for the DH spot. He claims, "Seattle was his first-choice," this off-season. Sometimes, first choices aren't the best buddy.
Accoring to ProSportsDaily.com, Blue Jays pitcher Scott Richmond is injured (shoulder) while getting ready for spring training. No timetable has been set for his return. Richmond went 8-11 with a 5.52ERA last season for the Jays.
Rumors and Notes:
If the Tigers get Damon, they may have to dump Ryan Raburn and Clete Thomas. Not a good idea for dumping 2 of your OF's for an aging one (Have they considered Raburn's production at all?). Nate Robinson and Carlos Guillen could be moved according to James Schmel of MLive.com.
The Nats have not committed to the notion of signing SP Kris Benson yet.
The Brewers lost their arbitration case with Corey Hart. Hart is set to make $4.85M.
The Orioles avoided arbitration with SP Jeremy Guthrie.
The Marlins have no interest in Carlos Delgado as previously reported by various news circuits. They may not bring back RP Kiko Calero due to his shoulder.
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
Biggest news of the weekend thus far is the Giants coming to terms with SP Tim Lincecum on a 2yr/$23M contract. Lincecum was offered 3yr/$37M which is a good deal for both sides, but walked away opting for less. It leads me to believe the young phenom has had enough of the bay. Lincecum went 15-7 with a 2.48ERA on his way to a 2nd consecutive Cy Young.
Pedro and Smoltzy may have a buddy waiting to get a deal. Carlos Delgado will be waiting into mid-season for a team, but don't rule out the Mets from bringing him back. Look at how the Pedro Martinez deal worked out for the Phillies. Delgado could bring potential to bat .300 and club at least 20 balls in a half season.
The Mariners(who I'm shocked still have oodles of money) re-signed Mike Sweeney to a minor league contract. He hit .281 with 8HRs and 34 RBIs for them last season. The only thing that sucks is that he will be fighting five other guys for the DH spot. He claims, "Seattle was his first-choice," this off-season. Sometimes, first choices aren't the best buddy.
Accoring to ProSportsDaily.com, Blue Jays pitcher Scott Richmond is injured (shoulder) while getting ready for spring training. No timetable has been set for his return. Richmond went 8-11 with a 5.52ERA last season for the Jays.
Rumors and Notes:
If the Tigers get Damon, they may have to dump Ryan Raburn and Clete Thomas. Not a good idea for dumping 2 of your OF's for an aging one (Have they considered Raburn's production at all?). Nate Robinson and Carlos Guillen could be moved according to James Schmel of MLive.com.
The Nats have not committed to the notion of signing SP Kris Benson yet.
The Brewers lost their arbitration case with Corey Hart. Hart is set to make $4.85M.
The Orioles avoided arbitration with SP Jeremy Guthrie.
The Marlins have no interest in Carlos Delgado as previously reported by various news circuits. They may not bring back RP Kiko Calero due to his shoulder.
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
Sunday, February 7, 2010
SB Sunday
I would like to thank anybody whose read my blog in the past and especially anybody who read it today. It's Super Bowl Sundya and most people are only caring about football's finale. I, myself, haven't cared since the Steelers were knocked out, but I'm cheering for the Saints today.
Now that Erik Bedard is officially back with the M's, Yusmiero Petit got the cut. He was picked up from D-Backs earlier this off-season hoping to rebound after his abysmal '09 campaign (3-10; 5.82ERA).
The Nationals signed Shawn Estes to a minor league deal today. I hope for the sake of Nats fans, he stays in the minors. The last time we seen Estes, he was getting shelled in San Diego. The Nats have made big strides to be better this season with the signings they made. Estes can't set back the process. Estes is a career 101-93; 4.71ERA and really hasn't been good since '02 (he did go 15-8 for Colorado in '04 though).
The Blue Jays have just acquired SP Dana Eveland from the A's from a player to be named later and cash. Eveland didn't have much success at all last season posting 2-4; 7.16ERA in 13 games prompting the A's to designate him for assignment. Eveland is still a young guy in the works and has the ability to develop into a mid-bottom spot in the rotation, but needs to learn at least one more pitch.
The Dodgers have signed Brian Giles to a minor league contract worth $750K if he makes the team, otherwise the Dodgers cut him. Giles had a down season hitting only .191 with 2HRs and 23RBIs in 61 games for the Padres. I know he can produce more in LA with the hitters surrounding him in the limited action he will probably get.
Rumors and Notes:
The Reds, Rangers, and Mariners trucks have left the facilities and headed for their spring training destinations.
The Red Sox will use Roy Halladay's contract as a guide to re-sign Josh Beckett. Speculations say if he doesn't sign back with them, the Sox may pursue Cliff Lee, Rich Harden, or Ben Sheets (provided Harden and Sheets show up this season).
The Orioles are targeting a lefty, preferably Will Ohman, but they'll settle for Joe Biemel or Hasanori Takashi.
Check out:http//www.sportsjabber.net
Now that Erik Bedard is officially back with the M's, Yusmiero Petit got the cut. He was picked up from D-Backs earlier this off-season hoping to rebound after his abysmal '09 campaign (3-10; 5.82ERA).
The Nationals signed Shawn Estes to a minor league deal today. I hope for the sake of Nats fans, he stays in the minors. The last time we seen Estes, he was getting shelled in San Diego. The Nats have made big strides to be better this season with the signings they made. Estes can't set back the process. Estes is a career 101-93; 4.71ERA and really hasn't been good since '02 (he did go 15-8 for Colorado in '04 though).
The Blue Jays have just acquired SP Dana Eveland from the A's from a player to be named later and cash. Eveland didn't have much success at all last season posting 2-4; 7.16ERA in 13 games prompting the A's to designate him for assignment. Eveland is still a young guy in the works and has the ability to develop into a mid-bottom spot in the rotation, but needs to learn at least one more pitch.
The Dodgers have signed Brian Giles to a minor league contract worth $750K if he makes the team, otherwise the Dodgers cut him. Giles had a down season hitting only .191 with 2HRs and 23RBIs in 61 games for the Padres. I know he can produce more in LA with the hitters surrounding him in the limited action he will probably get.
Rumors and Notes:
The Reds, Rangers, and Mariners trucks have left the facilities and headed for their spring training destinations.
The Red Sox will use Roy Halladay's contract as a guide to re-sign Josh Beckett. Speculations say if he doesn't sign back with them, the Sox may pursue Cliff Lee, Rich Harden, or Ben Sheets (provided Harden and Sheets show up this season).
The Orioles are targeting a lefty, preferably Will Ohman, but they'll settle for Joe Biemel or Hasanori Takashi.
Check out:http//www.sportsjabber.net
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Torrealba; Bedard and more
C Yorvit Torrealba has a place he can call home...Petco Park. He signed a one year/$1.2M deal with the Padres. Torralba split time with the Rockies last season posting a .291 with 2HRs and 31RBIs . The Rockies opted to go younger and start Chris Iannetta and picked up Miguel Olivo. Torrealba will split time with C Nick Hundley. I can't see this benefiting the Padres too much.
Sources say SP Erik Bedard and the Mariners have agreed on a 1yr/%1.5M with the Mariners. Incentives make the contract worth $7.5M. That's just plain ridiculous for an average guy. Bedard (5-3; 2.82ERA) has been short of amazing with the M's thus far posting an 11-7; 3.24ERA in 30 starts for the club in two years. He's just not durable enough.
Rumors and Notes:
Steve Gilbert of MLB.com says, "D-Backs and Mark Reynolds are discussing a multi-year deal." Edwin Jackson hasn't made progress towards avoiding arbitration.
Blue Jays are out on 1B Carlos Delgado.
J.P. Morosi expects Jermaine Dye to sign with an AL club.
MLB.com's Mark Sheldon says "Reds and Jonny Gomes aren't near a reunion."
SP Todd Wellemeyer is getting looked at by the Rockies, Mets, and Giants. Tony Renck of The Denver Post says, "Rockies in the lead."
Sources say SP Erik Bedard and the Mariners have agreed on a 1yr/%1.5M with the Mariners. Incentives make the contract worth $7.5M. That's just plain ridiculous for an average guy. Bedard (5-3; 2.82ERA) has been short of amazing with the M's thus far posting an 11-7; 3.24ERA in 30 starts for the club in two years. He's just not durable enough.
Rumors and Notes:
Steve Gilbert of MLB.com says, "D-Backs and Mark Reynolds are discussing a multi-year deal." Edwin Jackson hasn't made progress towards avoiding arbitration.
Blue Jays are out on 1B Carlos Delgado.
J.P. Morosi expects Jermaine Dye to sign with an AL club.
MLB.com's Mark Sheldon says "Reds and Jonny Gomes aren't near a reunion."
SP Todd Wellemeyer is getting looked at by the Rockies, Mets, and Giants. Tony Renck of The Denver Post says, "Rockies in the lead."
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Dodgers and Jays; More NL East
The Dodgers have finally stared to feel the pressure of the impending spring training report date without a full pitching staff. First, they re-signed Jeff Weaver to a minor league deal worth $900K after incentives. Weaver (6-4; 3.85ERA) wasn't dynamic, but could work out of the bullpen which gives Joe Torre versatility he needs this season. Next, they have made steps to sign UTL Alfredo Amezaga. Amezaga was limited to 27 games and outplayed by Marlins bench last season batting only .217 with 5RBIs. Upside of Amezaga is his career NL numbers are better than AL, but his injuries have piled up over the years. I don't understand why he got more than Weaver (like $400K more), but I'm not Ned Coletti. While Dodgers fans probably aren't ecstatic over the off-season, it most certainly relieves a lot of anguish of putting togehter a team under a tight budget that lost a load of production.
The blue Jays appear to have gotten RP Kevin Gregg. The deal is worth $2.75M but with incentives could total upwards of twelve mil. This deal is preposterous. Yes, Jason Frasor and Scott Downs have been ineffective, but Kevin Gregg is the same thing. His save number have gone down since 07 when he posted 33 for the Marlins with an 0-5 record. While his record improved (5-6), his ERA ballooned to 4.72ERA from the previous 3.41ERA. I'm not saying he's completely to blame because the Cubs didn't exactly have the greatest defense. This is a Jays team trying to build a core of young talent to combat the mighty AL East...Kevin Gregg isn't the answer.
Rumors and Notes:
The Marlins have made a low-ball offer to 1B Russell Branyan according to ESPN's Jayson Stark. Branyan would have to supplant Gaby Sanchez and Logan Morrison for the starting job. I think he could do it.
Bill Ladson of MLB.com says, "Money is holding up 2B Orlando Hudson from signing."
The Phillies auditioned RP Noah Lowery according to The Philly Daily News.
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
The blue Jays appear to have gotten RP Kevin Gregg. The deal is worth $2.75M but with incentives could total upwards of twelve mil. This deal is preposterous. Yes, Jason Frasor and Scott Downs have been ineffective, but Kevin Gregg is the same thing. His save number have gone down since 07 when he posted 33 for the Marlins with an 0-5 record. While his record improved (5-6), his ERA ballooned to 4.72ERA from the previous 3.41ERA. I'm not saying he's completely to blame because the Cubs didn't exactly have the greatest defense. This is a Jays team trying to build a core of young talent to combat the mighty AL East...Kevin Gregg isn't the answer.
Rumors and Notes:
The Marlins have made a low-ball offer to 1B Russell Branyan according to ESPN's Jayson Stark. Branyan would have to supplant Gaby Sanchez and Logan Morrison for the starting job. I think he could do it.
Bill Ladson of MLB.com says, "Money is holding up 2B Orlando Hudson from signing."
The Phillies auditioned RP Noah Lowery according to The Philly Daily News.
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
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
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
Monday, December 14, 2009
M.O.A.D.
Holy Friolies!!!! Today is the mother of all deal days! Big Names! Big Price Tags! This has by far eclipsed anything done at the winter meetings. Lets' get down to it.
Firstly, I'm excited and thrilled to report the Red Sox appear to have agreed to terms with SP John Lackey. The deal is worth $85M over 5 years which is significantly less than the expected $100M I thought Lackey would get. This move should make the Red Sox arguably the deepest pitching staff in the majors. Another bonus is it comes off of the pesky Angels, who always seem to meet the Sox in the opening round of the playoffs most seasons. The Sox would be giving up another draft pick to the Angels which would bump the Jays pick down for picking up Marco Scutaro. The team is having trouble negotiating with Josh Beckett, so this cushions the blow in the event, he elects free agency next season. Lackey was 11-8 with a 3.83ERA in the regular season and 1-1 with a 3.12ERA in the postseason. The Red Sox can now concentrate on getting an OF. Rumor has it Mike Cameron (who sure as hell is no Jason Bay) is in the mix.
The next biggest news is the 3 team swap including pitchers Cliff Lee and Roy Halladay. The Phillies before the trade are trying to lock up Halladay. The Phils get Halladay and two prospects from the M's. The M's get Cliff Lee. The Jays get Phillies catcher prospect Travis D'Arnuad and another to be named(OF Michael Taylor maybe?), and Seattle pitching prospect Phillipe Aumont. SP/RP J.A. Happ and Joe Blanton took physicals as well as other desired prospect Domonic Brown, who could be part of the deal. This is a bad deal for Philly, who depleted their talent to acquire Lee and now they want to do it again? Happ is going to be better than serviceable in the years to come. The Jays are looking towards the future and suppose these prospects don't produce? I looked at the numbers and these guys are all nowhere near the majors yet. How much longer will Toronto wait?!? Seattle makes off with immediate return.
The Angels have reached an agreement with DH/OF Hideki Matsui. It's a 1yr/ $6.5M deal which is far less than the $77M they doled out for Vlad Guerrero. Vlad's days are over if this deal goes through. Can Matsui play the OF if need be? This is an almost $7M dollar pay-cut from his previous Yankees contract. The Angels are said to be looking to the possibility of acquiring SP Derek Lowe from the Braves.
The Brewers re-signed 3B Craig Counsell at $2.1M plus $500K in incentives for one year. The deal is a steal for the Brewers looking at Counsell's salivating numbers last season (.285, 4 HRs, 39RBIs, 61 runs in 130 games).
The Nats brought back SP Scott Olsen to a 1yr/$1M deal with incentives that could make it up to $5M if he makes x number of starts. Olsen struggled last season before getting injured (2-4; 6.03ERA).
The Mets have offered SP Kelvim Escobar a minor league deal. Escobar is looking to work out of the bullpen for the preservation of his shoulder. No terms to report.
News and Notes:
The Astros, D-Backs, Pirates, and Cardinals all want a piece of 2B Kelly Johnson. My guess is the Cardinals or Astros get him.
The Nationals, Cardinals, Rangers, Rockies and Marlins have set their eyes on Matt Capps. I expect the Cards or Nats to get him unless he gets the multi-year deal he's looking for and is willing to be a set-up man for the other clubs.
Jason Michaels will be back next year in an Astros uni. Claudio Vargas is returning to the Brewers as well.
The Blue Jays signed C Ramon Castro to a 1yr/$1M deal.
Check out:http://www.sportsjabber.net
Firstly, I'm excited and thrilled to report the Red Sox appear to have agreed to terms with SP John Lackey. The deal is worth $85M over 5 years which is significantly less than the expected $100M I thought Lackey would get. This move should make the Red Sox arguably the deepest pitching staff in the majors. Another bonus is it comes off of the pesky Angels, who always seem to meet the Sox in the opening round of the playoffs most seasons. The Sox would be giving up another draft pick to the Angels which would bump the Jays pick down for picking up Marco Scutaro. The team is having trouble negotiating with Josh Beckett, so this cushions the blow in the event, he elects free agency next season. Lackey was 11-8 with a 3.83ERA in the regular season and 1-1 with a 3.12ERA in the postseason. The Red Sox can now concentrate on getting an OF. Rumor has it Mike Cameron (who sure as hell is no Jason Bay) is in the mix.
The next biggest news is the 3 team swap including pitchers Cliff Lee and Roy Halladay. The Phillies before the trade are trying to lock up Halladay. The Phils get Halladay and two prospects from the M's. The M's get Cliff Lee. The Jays get Phillies catcher prospect Travis D'Arnuad and another to be named(OF Michael Taylor maybe?), and Seattle pitching prospect Phillipe Aumont. SP/RP J.A. Happ and Joe Blanton took physicals as well as other desired prospect Domonic Brown, who could be part of the deal. This is a bad deal for Philly, who depleted their talent to acquire Lee and now they want to do it again? Happ is going to be better than serviceable in the years to come. The Jays are looking towards the future and suppose these prospects don't produce? I looked at the numbers and these guys are all nowhere near the majors yet. How much longer will Toronto wait?!? Seattle makes off with immediate return.
The Angels have reached an agreement with DH/OF Hideki Matsui. It's a 1yr/ $6.5M deal which is far less than the $77M they doled out for Vlad Guerrero. Vlad's days are over if this deal goes through. Can Matsui play the OF if need be? This is an almost $7M dollar pay-cut from his previous Yankees contract. The Angels are said to be looking to the possibility of acquiring SP Derek Lowe from the Braves.
The Brewers re-signed 3B Craig Counsell at $2.1M plus $500K in incentives for one year. The deal is a steal for the Brewers looking at Counsell's salivating numbers last season (.285, 4 HRs, 39RBIs, 61 runs in 130 games).
The Nats brought back SP Scott Olsen to a 1yr/$1M deal with incentives that could make it up to $5M if he makes x number of starts. Olsen struggled last season before getting injured (2-4; 6.03ERA).
The Mets have offered SP Kelvim Escobar a minor league deal. Escobar is looking to work out of the bullpen for the preservation of his shoulder. No terms to report.
News and Notes:
The Astros, D-Backs, Pirates, and Cardinals all want a piece of 2B Kelly Johnson. My guess is the Cardinals or Astros get him.
The Nationals, Cardinals, Rangers, Rockies and Marlins have set their eyes on Matt Capps. I expect the Cards or Nats to get him unless he gets the multi-year deal he's looking for and is willing to be a set-up man for the other clubs.
Jason Michaels will be back next year in an Astros uni. Claudio Vargas is returning to the Brewers as well.
The Blue Jays signed C Ramon Castro to a 1yr/$1M 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
Thursday, November 26, 2009
A-Gon to Jays; Johnson trade rumor; Halladay
SS Alex Gonzalez has agreed to terms with the Toronto Blue Jays despite having looked into Orlando Cabrera first. The deal is worth $2.75M with a club option worth the same for 2011 after turning down Boston's 1 yr/$3M deal. Look for the Sox to pursue Marco Scutaro intensely now after A-Gon has left Boston again. Marco's agent says "Boston is on the top of Marco's list of suitors." Boston has concurred that he is probably the best option as well, but the Sox would have to slide the Jays a draft pick because of Scutaro's Type A status.
Apparently since the extension talks have died out, the Marlins may deal SP Josh Johnson for "the right package deal." While MLB.com's Joe Frisaro says not to believe this, look at how thin the market is in reliable pitching? A team looking for a complement to their ace or strengthen the rotation would jump at the chance to pick up Johnson and get it done very cheaply. Johnson went 15-5 with a 3.23ERA in 33 games last season amidst becoming an all-star.
The Yankees have been added to Roy Halladay's wish list of suitors. Hallady has to waive his no trade clause to go to any team. GM Alex Anthoupolous of the Jays will only trade him to an AL East team if he can get the best deal possible. If the Jays have to deal Hallady, which appears inevitable a this point, they can't upgrade a division rival. The Blue Jays want to commit to a new chapter where they become contenders annually in the AL and build their team from the farm up. No matter who they get from the Yankees, Red Sox, Rays, or Orioles wouldn't benefit Toronto in the long run.
The Pirates have inquired about OF Rick Ankiel and 1B/3B Hank Blalock. This comes a day after the Pirates organization said to "spend freely this off-season." Reliever Mike Gonzalez could return to Pittsburgh if the money is right. The Orioles are discussing bringing in Ben Sheets or an Erik Bedard reunion.
Recent Cy Young winner Tim Lincecum is looking to sign a 1 yr deal to better his chances for salary arbitration.
Check out http://www.sportsjabber.net
Apparently since the extension talks have died out, the Marlins may deal SP Josh Johnson for "the right package deal." While MLB.com's Joe Frisaro says not to believe this, look at how thin the market is in reliable pitching? A team looking for a complement to their ace or strengthen the rotation would jump at the chance to pick up Johnson and get it done very cheaply. Johnson went 15-5 with a 3.23ERA in 33 games last season amidst becoming an all-star.
The Yankees have been added to Roy Halladay's wish list of suitors. Hallady has to waive his no trade clause to go to any team. GM Alex Anthoupolous of the Jays will only trade him to an AL East team if he can get the best deal possible. If the Jays have to deal Hallady, which appears inevitable a this point, they can't upgrade a division rival. The Blue Jays want to commit to a new chapter where they become contenders annually in the AL and build their team from the farm up. No matter who they get from the Yankees, Red Sox, Rays, or Orioles wouldn't benefit Toronto in the long run.
The Pirates have inquired about OF Rick Ankiel and 1B/3B Hank Blalock. This comes a day after the Pirates organization said to "spend freely this off-season." Reliever Mike Gonzalez could return to Pittsburgh if the money is right. The Orioles are discussing bringing in Ben Sheets or an Erik Bedard reunion.
Recent Cy Young winner Tim Lincecum is looking to sign a 1 yr deal to better his chances for salary arbitration.
Check out http://www.sportsjabber.net
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Rumors and Signings
The Jays have re-signed SS John McDonald to a 1yr/$1.5M deal. McDonald (.258BA) could be the starting SS opening day with the uncertainty of Marco Scutaro drawing interest in other clubs. He {McDonald} was mostly a reserve the past few seasons. The Jays will actively pursue a starting SS as of tonight. The Jays are interested in bringing C Yorvit Torreabla in for the departing Rod Barajas. The Jays aren't ready to hand the reins over to prospect Buster Posey. Torrealba would get very significant playing time while teaching the kid the ropes. Mike Polishuk of MLBtraderumors.com says "There is a 90% chance Lyle Overbay will be traded by winter meetings."
The Red Sox, one club looking at Scutaro, is also interested in Kelvim Escobar. Why? I know the front office loves to gamble on guys (Penny, Smoltz, etc), but Escobar's best days are behind him. He's a career .526 in the W-L column having his best season in 2007 with the Angels going 18-7 with a 3.40ERA. Last season, he went 0-1 with a 3.60ERA in only 5 innings and missed the whole 2008 season. Not a good gamble here. Better luck trading Buchholz and Kelly for Halladay. Rumor has it, the Sox would rather sign Matt Holliday than Jason Bay. If they couldn't offer up more than $60M for Bay, how do they plan to get Holliday? Rumor has it that the Sox are actively persuing SP Justin Duchsherer. Duchsherer missed last season with elbow & hip woes as well as clinical depression. This doesn't sound like guy that will last under the microscope in Boston. The Sox have acquired Tug Hulett (.194BA) from the Royals for cash.
The Royals have signed P Josh Rupe (15.43ERA in 4 appearances) and OF Buck Coats(.193 in AAA). When I saw this deal get done, I was totally excited (hint of sarcasm). The Royals seem to be filling slots fast since partially blowing up a core of the team. The only problem is they're not UPGRADING. You can't win games without talent.
The Yankees have parted ways with reserve Shelly Duncan. I got the joy of seeing Duncan play at AAA Scranton/Wilkes-Barre and can say he's a solid pick-up for any team and has the potential to start immediately at 1B/OF in ML. He never really had a chance with the Yankees being blocked by Giambi and Texiera. He was an IL all-star.
The Mets are said to be close to bringing back RP Elmer Dessens. He went 0-0 3.31ERA last season. Wilson Valdez signed a minor league deal with the Phillies today, so he won't be back in New York. The Phils grabbed DeWayne Wise off the White Sox today. The Phils bench is quickly taking shape after letting the 5 walk last week. The Phils are said be to be targeting 3B Adrian Beltre. With all the guys left on the market, Beltre is one you want to let slip down as close to your last resort. He's lost a lot of his power and from 2008-2009 was half the hitter he was.
Lastly, the Padres claimed Radhames Liz off the O's today. Liz was 0-0 with a sky-high era, literally.
Coco Crisp make not be a White Sock after all. The club signed OF Andruw Jones today. Jones caught on with the Rangers last season batting .217 with 17HRs and 43 RBIs after being dumped by the Dodgers.
Happy Thanksgiving to all! There may or may not be a post over the weekend because I will be in Florida for the UF-FSU game. Check out http://www.sportsjabber.net
The Red Sox, one club looking at Scutaro, is also interested in Kelvim Escobar. Why? I know the front office loves to gamble on guys (Penny, Smoltz, etc), but Escobar's best days are behind him. He's a career .526 in the W-L column having his best season in 2007 with the Angels going 18-7 with a 3.40ERA. Last season, he went 0-1 with a 3.60ERA in only 5 innings and missed the whole 2008 season. Not a good gamble here. Better luck trading Buchholz and Kelly for Halladay. Rumor has it, the Sox would rather sign Matt Holliday than Jason Bay. If they couldn't offer up more than $60M for Bay, how do they plan to get Holliday? Rumor has it that the Sox are actively persuing SP Justin Duchsherer. Duchsherer missed last season with elbow & hip woes as well as clinical depression. This doesn't sound like guy that will last under the microscope in Boston. The Sox have acquired Tug Hulett (.194BA) from the Royals for cash.
The Royals have signed P Josh Rupe (15.43ERA in 4 appearances) and OF Buck Coats(.193 in AAA). When I saw this deal get done, I was totally excited (hint of sarcasm). The Royals seem to be filling slots fast since partially blowing up a core of the team. The only problem is they're not UPGRADING. You can't win games without talent.
The Yankees have parted ways with reserve Shelly Duncan. I got the joy of seeing Duncan play at AAA Scranton/Wilkes-Barre and can say he's a solid pick-up for any team and has the potential to start immediately at 1B/OF in ML. He never really had a chance with the Yankees being blocked by Giambi and Texiera. He was an IL all-star.
The Mets are said to be close to bringing back RP Elmer Dessens. He went 0-0 3.31ERA last season. Wilson Valdez signed a minor league deal with the Phillies today, so he won't be back in New York. The Phils grabbed DeWayne Wise off the White Sox today. The Phils bench is quickly taking shape after letting the 5 walk last week. The Phils are said be to be targeting 3B Adrian Beltre. With all the guys left on the market, Beltre is one you want to let slip down as close to your last resort. He's lost a lot of his power and from 2008-2009 was half the hitter he was.
Lastly, the Padres claimed Radhames Liz off the O's today. Liz was 0-0 with a sky-high era, literally.
Coco Crisp make not be a White Sock after all. The club signed OF Andruw Jones today. Jones caught on with the Rangers last season batting .217 with 17HRs and 43 RBIs after being dumped by the Dodgers.
Happy Thanksgiving to all! There may or may not be a post over the weekend because I will be in Florida for the UF-FSU game. Check out http://www.sportsjabber.net
Sunday, November 8, 2009
More options declined
The end of Sunday brought important decisions to two teams. The Phillies decline their option on 3B Pedro Feliz and the Red Sox declined their option on Alex Gonzalez. Both moves cause me to question the confidence in Amaro Jr and Epstein as to "upgrading." The Phillies will be scrapping with many teams over Chone Figgins. Adrian Beltre is next on their list and from there it's Crede, Mora, DeRosa, Tejada, etc. My guess is they shoot for Figgins, Beltre, and Tejada or DeRosa. Anything less would totally shock me and any Phillies fan. Rumor has it today from Howard Medgal of mlbtraderumors.com that the Phils are very interested in Mark DeRosa, who graduated from Penn U. Another rumor is the Phils will persue SP Roy Halladay. This deal couldn't get done this year and the Phils acquired Cliff Lee instead. The Jays are looking for something they can build their team around and the Phils farm system is quite depleted after the Lee acquisition. The Red Sox released Gonzalez once, but that was because any Sox fan would've agreed he was horrid at the plate. This 2009 A-Gon was completely different (.284, 5 HRs, 15 RBIs and 2 SB's in 44 games). It's a guess who will be signed by the Sox who clearly don't have faith in Jed Lowrie. They could revive the Miguel Tejada talks from years ago and bring him in. Two Sox almuni are available (Alex Cora and Orlando Cabrera). Other than Jack Wilson and Marco Scutaro, the options are very slim. I'd like to see Cabrera, Cora or Tejada in at SS, but I'm not sure of the range Tejada has left seeing as he hasn't played short much. By any means, both Feliz and A-Gon could return to their teams at a cheaper price, but more than likely that will not happen. The Red Sox today decline C Jason Varitek's (.209) option. I can't say that anyone didn't see this coming. The fact that manager Terry Francona got Tek a standing ovation in the final homestand pretty much summed up the fate of Varitek. Varitek could and is expected to pick up his player option($3Mil) and return. Smartly, the Sox picked up Victor Martinez's option($71.Mil) to return. V-Mart hit .336 with 8 HRs and 41 RBI's after being acquired at the deadline. The Red Sox have finalized a 2 yr/$5M(with incentives) contract with SP Tim Wakefield. Wakefield (11-5; 4.58ERA) did have trouble staying healthy for the second half, but was a pitching strength in the rotation. I'm glad they got it done because Tim has been one of my favorite pitchers in Red Sox history.
The Nationals appear to be the team ready to make a splash. They are interested in persuing reliever Mike Gonzalez in the event of Gonzalez not re-signing with the Braves. The organization is exploring the option of Mike MacDogual (3.60ERA) last season as the next closer. If that's the case MacDougal will have to get more K's this season instead of balancing them with walks. OF Elijah Dukes is finally going to get his shot this season and prove his worth.The Nats are looking to rid themselves of C Wil Nieves(.259, 1HR, 26 RBIs in 72 games). Who they will pick-up is beyond anyone's guess. They may make a run at Rich Harden, but if they get him it's going to cost them.
The Rays picked up OF Carl Crawford's options today($10Mil). Crawford hit .305 with 15 HRs and 68 RBIs.A good move to smooth over the Pat Burrell situation, but with all the money spent on Crawford, what does that mean for B.J. Upton? The Rays declined C Greg Zaun and reliever Brain Shouse options. Shouse definitely will not be returning, but Zaun could if he exercises his player option($2Mil). I'd be surprised if they Rays could find a cheaper, quality back-up catcher below two mil with the OBP and SLG Zaun put up.
The Rockies continue to blow things up as they try to re-sign Rafael Betancourt. C Yorvit Torrealba is definitely gone after declining his option. Garrett Atkins will not be tendered a contract. The team is now listening to trade offers for Brad Hawpe. Doesn't make sense for a team only looking to add reserve players and re-sign Betancourt? I think there's something we're not being told.
The White Sox claim that free agent Chone Figgins will cost them too much and they have a better chance of re-signing Scott Podsednik. So now that the smoke and mirrors has been thwarted by GM Kenny Phillips, what do the White Sox plan to do? They've got a little money to throw since Jermaine Dye is gone.
The Jays are backing off of Chris Snyder because of his back issues, but are said to be negotiating a three team trade with the Cubs and Mets to acquire OF Milton Bradley. They'd be sending 1B Lyle Overbay to the Mets and 2B Luis Castillo to the Cubs. Sounds good for the Jays if Bradley can keep his mouth shut and play the game. I'm not big on Overbay, especially with Mets suffering at 1B with an aged Carlos Delgado and young Daniel Murphy. Overbay is going down the Delgado road only quicker I believe. Castillo would be blocking Ryan Theriot in the Cubbies line-up, and Cubs fans won't be pleased with a declining Castillo. Overbay did slug better than Bradley this season, but is it worth in the long run? This goes against the Jays idea of "building from the ground up." Regardless, Cubs lose this deal.
If a New York team is going to get John Lackey, it will be the Yankees. The Mets are said to be passing on him because of injury problems Lackey has had and concentrating more on Jason Bay and Matt Holliday.
The Mariners appear to want Jarrod Washburn and Erik Bedard back, but will not make the mistake of overpaying them. While Bedard and Washburn had good numbers in their limited role, he will have to find a way to stay healthy. Russell Branyan (.251, 31HRs; 76 RBIs) is another teammate hoping to return after an injury ended his season. ESPN's Buster Olney says Lackey could be a sleeper pick-up for Seattle.
The Giants sent OF Randy Winn packing today. Winn can still play the outfield well. He hit .261 with 2 HRs and 51 RBIs in 149 games. He can be a weapon in a potent line-up on base with 65 runs scored and .300+ OBP. Lastly, the Braves are negotiating an extension with SP Javier Vazquez. Vazquez was serviceable last season going 15-10 with a 2.87 ERA. He struck out 238 batters while giving up just 44 walks. If only his team got him some more wins!
The Nationals appear to be the team ready to make a splash. They are interested in persuing reliever Mike Gonzalez in the event of Gonzalez not re-signing with the Braves. The organization is exploring the option of Mike MacDogual (3.60ERA) last season as the next closer. If that's the case MacDougal will have to get more K's this season instead of balancing them with walks. OF Elijah Dukes is finally going to get his shot this season and prove his worth.The Nats are looking to rid themselves of C Wil Nieves(.259, 1HR, 26 RBIs in 72 games). Who they will pick-up is beyond anyone's guess. They may make a run at Rich Harden, but if they get him it's going to cost them.
The Rays picked up OF Carl Crawford's options today($10Mil). Crawford hit .305 with 15 HRs and 68 RBIs.A good move to smooth over the Pat Burrell situation, but with all the money spent on Crawford, what does that mean for B.J. Upton? The Rays declined C Greg Zaun and reliever Brain Shouse options. Shouse definitely will not be returning, but Zaun could if he exercises his player option($2Mil). I'd be surprised if they Rays could find a cheaper, quality back-up catcher below two mil with the OBP and SLG Zaun put up.
The Rockies continue to blow things up as they try to re-sign Rafael Betancourt. C Yorvit Torrealba is definitely gone after declining his option. Garrett Atkins will not be tendered a contract. The team is now listening to trade offers for Brad Hawpe. Doesn't make sense for a team only looking to add reserve players and re-sign Betancourt? I think there's something we're not being told.
The White Sox claim that free agent Chone Figgins will cost them too much and they have a better chance of re-signing Scott Podsednik. So now that the smoke and mirrors has been thwarted by GM Kenny Phillips, what do the White Sox plan to do? They've got a little money to throw since Jermaine Dye is gone.
The Jays are backing off of Chris Snyder because of his back issues, but are said to be negotiating a three team trade with the Cubs and Mets to acquire OF Milton Bradley. They'd be sending 1B Lyle Overbay to the Mets and 2B Luis Castillo to the Cubs. Sounds good for the Jays if Bradley can keep his mouth shut and play the game. I'm not big on Overbay, especially with Mets suffering at 1B with an aged Carlos Delgado and young Daniel Murphy. Overbay is going down the Delgado road only quicker I believe. Castillo would be blocking Ryan Theriot in the Cubbies line-up, and Cubs fans won't be pleased with a declining Castillo. Overbay did slug better than Bradley this season, but is it worth in the long run? This goes against the Jays idea of "building from the ground up." Regardless, Cubs lose this deal.
If a New York team is going to get John Lackey, it will be the Yankees. The Mets are said to be passing on him because of injury problems Lackey has had and concentrating more on Jason Bay and Matt Holliday.
The Mariners appear to want Jarrod Washburn and Erik Bedard back, but will not make the mistake of overpaying them. While Bedard and Washburn had good numbers in their limited role, he will have to find a way to stay healthy. Russell Branyan (.251, 31HRs; 76 RBIs) is another teammate hoping to return after an injury ended his season. ESPN's Buster Olney says Lackey could be a sleeper pick-up for Seattle.
The Giants sent OF Randy Winn packing today. Winn can still play the outfield well. He hit .261 with 2 HRs and 51 RBIs in 149 games. He can be a weapon in a potent line-up on base with 65 runs scored and .300+ OBP. Lastly, the Braves are negotiating an extension with SP Javier Vazquez. Vazquez was serviceable last season going 15-10 with a 2.87 ERA. He struck out 238 batters while giving up just 44 walks. If only his team got him some more wins!
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Winter Meetings Begin
From now until Nov.11th, owners and executives of all ML teams will be laying the groundwork for their 2010 operations. This means little will go on in the few days and then the explosion will happen. I'm looking quite forward the big moves. What die-hard baseball fan isn't? So far the biggest news I have today is the Twins exercised their option on 1B/OF Michael Cuddyer ($10.5M). Cuddyer hit .276 with 32 HRs, 93 runs, 162 hits, 94 RBIs, and 6 SB's. Cuddyer took over for 1B Justin Morneau, who went down with a season ending injury( finished similarily to Cuddyer statistically). The question is does Cuddyer go back to the outfield with a healthy Morneau or do the Twins deal Morneau? Morneau has 5 yrs left on his $80M on his deal which would be very hard to deal for a career .280 hitter. I expect both to remain Twins.
The Blue Jays have been showing interest in D'backs C Chris Snyder. Snyder, who was supplanted by Miggy Montero this season as starting catcher, had a poor showing in only 61 games this season (.200, 20 runs, 33 hits, 6 HRs, and 22 RBIs). The Jays are slated to let Barajas go in free agency leaving only injury prone Michael Barrett, who was recently designated for assignment. Synder hit .237 in the 2008 season playing almost 2x more games. I think if the Jays want to get it done they will, but Snyder is only a few points higher than Barajas. The Rogers Centre is the 23rd most hitter friendly park in baseball. Maybe time to look into the FA catcher market? The catcher market is extensive in options, but most catchers are very aged and have been used at back-ups. Just broke as I typed the draft of this blog @ 1:38pm, the Jays are looking to unload over-priced 1B Lyle Overbay for Snyder.
Phillies are considering Chone Figgins and Adrian Beltre as 3B options in the event of deciding against exercising Pedro Feliz's options. Figgins is going to be courted by many teams (White Sox, Orioles, Phillies, and Cubs) and The Angels will persue him I'm sure. The Phillies have never been a team that likes to spend a lot of money and Figgins will be looking for a significant increase from the $5.5 he made. Figgins led the AL in runs and had a .400 OBP last season. He's proven he's a consistent force on the basepaths. The Phillies should take this into consideration seeing as they had five players above .300 in the regular season. If you didn't remember Beltre (.265 in 2009) had a horrid slump this season(He rode bench for a week on my fantasy league before being dropped). Safer alternative is Figgins who can benefit more from the dimensions of Citizen's Bank Park (.298 hitter for 2009).
The Yankees are specualted to let DH Hideki Matsui and OF Johnny Damon walk in order to persue LF Jason Bay and Matt Holliday. I will probably have a melt-down if Bay goes to the Yankees even with the market for outfielders the Red Sox have the options to choose from. Andy Pettite is expected to re-sign with the Yankees.
Other news and notes: With newly acquired OF Carlos Gomez, the Brewers will unload Mike Cameron in an effort to save money to buy-up pitching in the offseason. Gomez doesn't have hte power Cameron has/once had, but provides speed and better defense. After exercising Manny's option, the Dodgers are looking to unload Juan Pierre. Pierre should easily land on a team's roster after the performance he gave in Manny's absence this season. The Dodgers will spend considerably less this off-season due to Frank McCourt's divorce. It's specualted as per Tim Kurkijan that Randy Wolf will not return. Unfortunately, Pierre enters a market with Matt Holliday, Johnny Damon, Jason Bay, and Carl Crawford. The Cards, Mets, Tigers, and Rangers are a good fit for Pierre who could benefit from his hitting and base-running. the Marlins declined Ross Gload's option. Gload (1B/OF) was a .261 hitter this season, but excelled in pinh-hitting opportunities hitting .318. The Marlins save 2.6M by declining. The Cubs will have a hard time trying to trade OF Milton Bradley with 2 yrs and $20M left on his contract.
The Blue Jays have been showing interest in D'backs C Chris Snyder. Snyder, who was supplanted by Miggy Montero this season as starting catcher, had a poor showing in only 61 games this season (.200, 20 runs, 33 hits, 6 HRs, and 22 RBIs). The Jays are slated to let Barajas go in free agency leaving only injury prone Michael Barrett, who was recently designated for assignment. Synder hit .237 in the 2008 season playing almost 2x more games. I think if the Jays want to get it done they will, but Snyder is only a few points higher than Barajas. The Rogers Centre is the 23rd most hitter friendly park in baseball. Maybe time to look into the FA catcher market? The catcher market is extensive in options, but most catchers are very aged and have been used at back-ups. Just broke as I typed the draft of this blog @ 1:38pm, the Jays are looking to unload over-priced 1B Lyle Overbay for Snyder.
Phillies are considering Chone Figgins and Adrian Beltre as 3B options in the event of deciding against exercising Pedro Feliz's options. Figgins is going to be courted by many teams (White Sox, Orioles, Phillies, and Cubs) and The Angels will persue him I'm sure. The Phillies have never been a team that likes to spend a lot of money and Figgins will be looking for a significant increase from the $5.5 he made. Figgins led the AL in runs and had a .400 OBP last season. He's proven he's a consistent force on the basepaths. The Phillies should take this into consideration seeing as they had five players above .300 in the regular season. If you didn't remember Beltre (.265 in 2009) had a horrid slump this season(He rode bench for a week on my fantasy league before being dropped). Safer alternative is Figgins who can benefit more from the dimensions of Citizen's Bank Park (.298 hitter for 2009).
The Yankees are specualted to let DH Hideki Matsui and OF Johnny Damon walk in order to persue LF Jason Bay and Matt Holliday. I will probably have a melt-down if Bay goes to the Yankees even with the market for outfielders the Red Sox have the options to choose from. Andy Pettite is expected to re-sign with the Yankees.
Other news and notes: With newly acquired OF Carlos Gomez, the Brewers will unload Mike Cameron in an effort to save money to buy-up pitching in the offseason. Gomez doesn't have hte power Cameron has/once had, but provides speed and better defense. After exercising Manny's option, the Dodgers are looking to unload Juan Pierre. Pierre should easily land on a team's roster after the performance he gave in Manny's absence this season. The Dodgers will spend considerably less this off-season due to Frank McCourt's divorce. It's specualted as per Tim Kurkijan that Randy Wolf will not return. Unfortunately, Pierre enters a market with Matt Holliday, Johnny Damon, Jason Bay, and Carl Crawford. The Cards, Mets, Tigers, and Rangers are a good fit for Pierre who could benefit from his hitting and base-running. the Marlins declined Ross Gload's option. Gload (1B/OF) was a .261 hitter this season, but excelled in pinh-hitting opportunities hitting .318. The Marlins save 2.6M by declining. The Cubs will have a hard time trying to trade OF Milton Bradley with 2 yrs and $20M left on his contract.
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