MLB 2010-2011 Off Season Thread

[Emperor Smeat]

:wtf: ESPN is pushing hard saying the Rays has a legit chance to win the AL East title this season.

They lost more than they gained this offseason and their new batch of youth players are untested compared to their previous set of players. Depending on how Toronto plays, Rays will probably end up fighting for the #3 to #4 spot with #2 going to Toronto or NY.

[Hardkore Kidd J]

With Manny, Damon, and the rest I can see the Rays being the in the 3rd spot. I really hope the Yankees can stay in the running this year.

[Droford]

http://deadspin.com/5749453/wrigley-field-roof-damaged-by-tonights-blizzard

The Cubs 2011 collapse starts on Groundhog Day. Appropriate, I bet Cubs fans think they're stuck in the movie too.

[Loose Cannon]

alright, Yankees making some hot moves. Colon, Garcia, maybe throw some money at Matt Morris or Mark Mulder next

[RP]

lol who's next? Andruw Jones?

[ClockShot]

Yankees aquire Justin Maxwell from the Nats for some guy down on the farm.

Yeah, whatever.

[Innovator]

Is it an actual major league contract? I don't even know anymore.

[ClockShot]

Is it an actual major league contract? I don't even know anymore.

Just another utility guy for the outfield, bro.

Colin Curtis, Greg Golson, and Andruw Jones are there now.

Why add another?

[Innovator]

He better be packaging some of these guys.

[Dragon]

Just another utility guy for the outfield, bro.

Colin Curtis, Greg Golson, and Andruw Jones are there now.

Why add another?

Need to fill out the minor leagues.

[Aguakate]

So many unknowns in the AL East this year.

Will the Red Sox live up to the hype?

Will the Yankees overcome odds and play to their usual standard?

How will the Rays end up? Has their window closed?

What about the Orioles? Will they finish close to, or above, .500 under Buck Showalter for a full season?

And the Blue Jays...can they continue to improve, and perhaps, pull off a surprise?

Call me crazy, but the AL East is wide-open.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Seems like there's two unknowns in the AL East this year:

1. ?
2. ?
3. Rays
4. Blue Jays
5. Orioles

Pretty compelling stuff.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Calling the AL East wide open seems pretty fucking stupid to me.

[Loose Cannon]

I dunno, honestly the Yanks pitching could really go either way.

[Aguakate]

Calling the AL East wide open seems pretty fucking stupid to me.

Maybe I didn't explain myself correctly.

What I meant to say is that there are alot of compelling stories, and alot of unknowns, in the AL East.

Not to say ANY TEAM can win it, but of those who can, there's not a clear-cut winner...

...and of those teams who most of us say "they're not going to win", granted, they may not, but it's not a foregone conclusion they will be horrible.

[DaveWadding]

God dammit. Petco fucking park has been open since 2004. It is one of the most beautiful parks in all of baseball. Not trying to knock Citi Field, as it is a lovely upgrade over Shea, but come the fuck on.

The weather here in San Diego is perfect come the All Star game.

Chase Field has been open since 1998 and is JUST getting the game this year. Stop crying.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Great American Ball Park hasn't had a game yet and we're much better than you faggy expansion teams.

[McLegend]

Whiney bitches

[Aguakate]

There needs to be an All Star Game at Wrigley Field.

Fenway got it in '99, so...how 'bout going to the other "old" ballpark again?

[Hardkore Kidd J]

Just another utility guy for the outfield, bro.

Colin Curtis, Greg Golson, and Andruw Jones are there now.

Why add another?

I don't care. All I care about is when they did it Golson and or Curtis didn't go to the minors. And luckily they sent that Jordan Parazz kid back to the minors. Haven't seen him play. All I am going to say is a 4 people on the bench couldn't hurt.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Rob Neyer left ESPN and now he's on SB Nation. Woooooooooo.

[Innovator]

SOURCE: Pettite to announce retirement.

Inno is sad...

[Splaya]

Splaya is sad. Pettite is prolly like one of my top 5 pitchers.

Also, if the Yanks are so desperate for OF help, why don't they go get Vlad Guerrero

[Triple Naitch]

Because he can't play OF anymore.

[Hardkore Kidd J]

Yeah, didn't the Orioles get him yet? I thought he was picked up all ready. Must still be in talks.

[Innovator]

Yankees have enough washed up players

[Emperor Smeat]

Orioles are currently in discussion with Vlad but his agent pulled the "mystery team" ploy to get the Orioles to $8+ million this supposed mystery team is offering.

[ClockShot]

Andy, please, DON'T GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!


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[Splaya]

Orioles are currently in discussion with Vlad but his agent pulled the "mystery team" ploy to get the Orioles to $8+ million this supposed mystery team is offering.


It's Detroit

[ClockShot]

Vlad to the O's

1-year, $8 mil.

[Droford]

Part of me figures he plays with the Os til the deadline and they trade him to a contender though there might not be as much interest in him considering he usually tanks in the playoffs..

Still, I suppose the offense will be one of the best the Os have had in a long time. If the pitching is as decent as it was the last half of the season last year, they might at least be able to stay in contention through September for a WC spot.

C - Wieters
1B - Lee
2B - Roberts
SS - Hardy
3B - Reynolds
LF - Scott
CF - Jones
RF - Markakis
DH - Guerrero

[Loose Cannon]

yea, was talking to my friend yesterday who's an O's fan and said the same thing. They look good enough to grab a WC. They remind me of the Rays a couple years back.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Surprised at how solid the Orioles 25 man roster looks right now. Can't really pinpoint a weakness. Plus you gotta figure at least one of Weiters, Jones, Bell, Matusz, Arrieta, Tillman is gonna have a breakout season.

Dunno if they're postseason material but they'll definitely compete.

[Hanso Amore]

Meh, I think the Os have a shotto be a surprise Wild Card Contender. I dont think they will win it. I am not that impressed with that roster. Alot of guys whos best days are behind them. If some kids do step up, then yeah, they could be much better than last year.

I dont see Vlad having nearly as productive a year in that park and that lineup as he did in Texas. Roberts is over the hill and without the PEDs not the same player. Reynolds is going to whiff 200 times and hit 30 homes runs with no one on base. Lee is on the decline.

And these guys are going to get eaten up in the east.

So Its all on Markakis, Jones and Wieters. I dont buy any of them as true super stars to carry a team from the cellar.

[Hanso Amore]

The Rays are rebuilding. The Jays are primed for their breakout year. Into 3rd place.

[Aguakate]

...I don't care what people say about Steroids...

...this is awesome (Check out 1:04):

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[Loose Cannon]

the good ol days

[Loose Cannon]

I still remember the Joe Buck call.

[Aguakate]

I'm sorry, but Steroids don't give you that swing.

[Innovator]

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[Damian Rey]

Pretty sure Bonds wasn't on the juice at that point in his career. I also agree that, while making you stronger, roids doesn't automatically make you a great player. McGuire had the talent and skill set to play in the MLB, juice or not. PEDs just allowed him to hit homeruns on some balls that may not have gotten out, and added an extra 50 feet to those that did.

[Snowden]

No, it doesn't at all. But what it does do is make the balls go farther, and harder, once you hit them. Ground balls find holes easier, line drives shoot the gap before outfielders can grab them. Its not JUST home runs, people act like having more strength only makes a difference on balls that get out of the park.

Yeah, you still have to make contact well, thats why bodybuilders couldn't play baseball. But it sure as shit helps.

[Droford]

Someone has too much time on their hands (http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/blog/big_league_stew/post/Bueller-For-which-Cubs-game-did-Ferris-play-hoo;_ylt=Al6sDwSH07LxYY5PrqDICOI5nYcB?urn=mlb-318065)

[ClockShot]

Michael Young wants out of Texas. He doesn't want to be a full time DH. He'll accept trades to Cardinals, Yankees, Twins, Astros, Rockies, Dodgers, Angels, and Padres.

Less than a week 'til pitchers and catchers report! :love:

[Aguakate]

Part of me figures he plays with the Os til the deadline and they trade him to a contender though there might not be as much interest in him considering he usually tanks in the playoffs..

Still, I suppose the offense will be one of the best the Os have had in a long time. If the pitching is as decent as it was the last half of the season last year, they might at least be able to stay in contention through September for a WC spot.

C - Wieters
1B - Lee
2B - Roberts
SS - Hardy
3B - Reynolds
LF - Scott
CF - Jones
RF - Markakis
DH - Guerrero


That is a real good line-up, people...if they get any kind of good pitching, look out.

[ClockShot]

Alfredo Aceves signs with the Red Sox.

*coughcoughtraitorcoughcough*

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>I try not to get too bogged down in ownership rumors, but this one if too juicy to pass up: a group of investors are going to be making an offer to buy 100% ownership of the Mets and SNY.

Among those in the group are: Martin Luther King III, Ed Kranepool, Charles Dolan, Mark Cuban, and Peter Kalikow.

I have my doubts of this since it is basically every single person rumored in the past few weeks as potential suitors to buy the Mets...but hot damn it would be crazy.</font>

[ClockShot]

Who the fuck would be top dog of that group. I heard MLK was working on getting 50%. When did Cuban and Dolan get in?

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>King had wanted 50%. Cuban had wanted all or nothing. Not sure what the others wanted. All the while, the Wilpons kept saying they only wanted to sell 25% of the team and that they had no intention of selling all of it.

I can see why they'd all decide to team up though. An overwhelming offer could get the Wilpons to budge, and Cuban might realize that there is no way in hell the other owners would let him own a team by himself.</font>

[Innovator]

Alfredo Aceves signs with the Red Sox.

*coughcoughtraitorcoughcough*
GOD DAMMIT

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Well, we wind up doing this every year right when camp's open: time to predict your team's Opening Day roster.

<b>Lineup</b>
SS Jose Reyes (S)
RF Angel Pagan (S)
3B David Wright (R)
CF Carlos Beltran (S)
LF Jason Bay (R)
1B Ike Davis (L)
C Josh Thole (L)
2B Daniel Murphy (L)

<b>Rotation</b>
RHP Mike Pelfrey
RHP R.A. Dickey
LHP Jonathon Niese
RHP Chris Young
LHP Chris Capuano

<b>Bullpen</b>
RHP Francisco Rodriguez (Closer)
RHP Bobby Parnell (8th Inning)
RHP DJ Carrasco
RHP Taylor Buchholz
LHP Taylor Tankersley
RHP Manny Acosta
LHP Pat Misch

<b>Bench</b>
C Mike Nickeas (R, would be Ronny Paulino but he's suspended to start)
2B/3B Brad Emaus (R)
2B/SS Chin-Lung Hu (R)
OF Willie Harris (L)
OF Scott Hairston (R)

The lack of Castillo, Perez, and Maine automatically make this better than last year's Opening Day roster.</font>

[MVP]

Lineup
CF Jacoby Ellsbury
2B Dustin Pedroia
LF Carl Crawford
3B Kevin Youkilis
1B Adrian Gonzalez
DH David Ortiz
RF J.D. Drew
SS Jed Lowrie
C Jarrod Saltalamachia

Rotation
LHP Jon Lester
RHP Clay Buchholz
RHP Josh Beckett
RHP John Lackey
RHP Daisuke Matsuzaka

Bullpen
RHP Jonathan Papelbon
RHP Daniel Bard
RHP Bobby Jenks
RHP Dan Wheeler
LHP Hideki Okajima
LHP Rich Hill
RHP Tim Wakefield

Bench
C Jason Varitek
IF Marco Scutaro
OF Mike Cameron
OF Darnell McDonald

I'll add my explanation later.

[ClockShot]

Ross Ohlendorf beats the Pirates in his Arbitration hearing today. He'll make $2.025 mil. instead of the $1.4 mil. the Pirates offered him.

Oh, by the way, he was 1-11 last year. Hell of a pay raise.

[Dragon]

Lineup
LF Bret Gardner
SS Derek Jeter
1B Mark Teixeira
3B Alex Rodriguez
2B Robinson Cano
RF Nick Swisher
DH Jorge Posada
CF Curtis Granderson
C Russell Martin

Rotation
LHP CC Sabathia
RHP Phil Hughes
RHP AJ Burnett
RHP Ivan Nova
RHP Freddy Garcia


Bullpen
RHP Mariano Rivera
RHP Rafael Soriano
RHP David Robertson
RHP Joba Chamberlain
LHP Pedro Feliciano
LHP Boone Logan
RHP Sergio Mitre

Bench
OF Andruw Jones
IF Eduardo Nunez
C Francisco Cervelli
3B/DH Eric Chavez


Guessing thats the most likely team to start out the season. Lineup is set and bullpen is pretty close to being set. Jones and Cervelli are locks for the bench I would think. Montero isn't coming up to be a back-up C so he won't be up until later on in the season to be the starting catcher, unless Martin is terrible from the start. Last spot on the bench will go to Chavez if healthy (huge if obviously) I think. He'd be able to give A-Rod and Tex days off at the corners when needed. If not him then probably Brandon Laird.

The back of the rotation will be changing a lot I'm guessing. Nova's a lock for the 4th spot and I like Garcia as the 5th guy to start the year. If Garcia could repeat what he did last year I'd be pretty happy. Had 18 QS starts as a 5th starter - should get him a decent amount of wins on the Yankees. Throughout the year they'll have quite a few guys fighting for these spots I assume. Brackman, Noesi, Warren, Phelps, etc...are all prospects close to being ML ready so I don't think the #4 and #5 spots will be the same the whole season.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Oh yeah, forgot about my explanations.

The big competition this spring is obviously 2B. Castillo, Murphy, Emaus, and Justin Turner have been identified as candidates. Turner would have to have a beast spring to win it since he can be safely optioned back to Triple A. Castillo doesn't have the versatility to be a backup, so add that to the fact that Emaus will definitely be taken back by the Jays if he isn't on the roster and Castillo is gone. Murph and Emaus probably split time at 2B throughout the year.

Bullpen competition is also pretty open outside of the first 4 spots. There's a million lefties fighting for one spot so I just guessed Tankersley. Acosta is out of options and had a good year despite giving up some big HRs so he probably gets the benefit of the doubt to start. Misch is also out of options and can serve as both a second lefty and longman, so I like his chances more than the other 5,000 guys looking to get the spot.

Rotation is set except for the 5th spot. Dillon Gee has a chance at winning it from Capuano, which would send Capuano to the bullpen and send Misch packing. Young and the 5th starter are gonna be competing throughout the first half sicne Santana will take one of their spots at some point, probably the 5th guy.

Excited to get camp underway.</font>

[Emperor Smeat]

I just hope that the bullpen for the Red Sox doesn't become a huge disappointment and failure like last season. Also include starting pitching outside of Lester and Buchholz but at least Beckett shouldn't have a "fat Beckett" year since he had one last year.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Lineup
CF Drew Stubbs
2B Brandon Phillips
1B Joey Votto
3B Scott Rolen
RF Jay Bruce
LF Jonny Gomes
C Ramon Hernandez
SS Paul Janish

Rotation
RHP Johhny Cueto
RHP Bronson Arroyo
RHP Edinson Volquez
LHP Travis Wood
RHP Homer Bailey

Bullpen
RHP Francisco Cordero
RHP Nick Masset
LHP Aroldis Chapman
RHP Logan Ondrusek
RHP Jose Arredondo
LHP Bill Bray
RHP Sam LeCure

Bench
C Ryan Hanigan
IF Edgar Renteria
UT Miguel Cairo
OF Chris Heisey
OF Fred Lewis

[ClockShot]

Yankees void their deal with Luis Vizcaino. Tore his Achilles tendon during Winter ball.

[Damian Rey]

San Diego Padres

LINEUP
Jason Bartlett-SS, RH
Orlando Hudson-2B, SH
Chase Headley-3B, SH
Ryan Ludwick-LF, RH
Brad Hawpe-1B, LH
Will Venable-RF, LH
Nick Hundley-C, RH
Cameron Maybin-CF, RH

BENCH
Jorge Cantu-1B/3B, RH
Kevin Frandsen-UTIL., RH
Eric Patterson-OF/2B, LH
Chris Denorfia-OF, RH
Greg Zaun-C, SH

STARTING ROTATION
Matt Latos-RHP
Clayton Richard-LHP
Tim Stauffer-RHP
Aaron Harang-RHP
Wade LeBlanc-LHP

BULLPEN
Dustin Mosely-RHP, long relief
Chad Qualls-RHP, mid relief/setup
Ernesto Frier-RHP, mid relief/setup
Joe Thatcher-LHP, lefty specialist
Luke Gregerson-RHP, 7th inn.
Mike Adama-RHP, 8th inn.
Heath Bell-RHP, Closer

Patterson was aqcuired via the Gonzalez trade, and he provides speed off the bench. He's also out of options so I think he's a lock.

Frandsen is going to be competing for a backup job, but there really isn't any other player who is as versatile, so he's almost a done deal unless he gets hurt or hits .050 in ST.

I think Zaun being a switch hitter is going to edge him over Rob Johnson and Guileermo Quiroz for the backup backstop job.

The biggest question mark is both the bullpen and the starting rotation. George Kontos was the Padres' Rule 5 pick from the Yanks' system. His fate relies on both his performance in ST, and who ever locks down the 5th starter spot.

Luebke was the org's top pitching prospect last year, and is close to if not ready, and was solid in his four outings last year.

Wade LeBlanc has options, as does Luebke, but he doesn't offer the same ceiling and with his velocity being in the mid 80s, he's a goner if he can't locate.

Moseley is on the team regardless of his role, but is going to be given a legit chance to lock up the 5th spot in the rotation. If he does, it becomes a win for the Padres in that Luebke can be optioned down to AAA Tuscon and get more time, and Leblanc can fill the spot start/long relief role out of the pen. I don't think there is much hope for Kontos.

I think this is Chase Headley's last year to show he's the guy going forward. Defensively, he was astounding last year. But he fell off a cliff the second half with the bat, and he has still yet to display the power he showed in 2007 and 2008 in the minors. He really doesn't fit into the middle of the order, so I think he's best slotted for the 3 hole if he hits the way he did the first half of 2010.

[Skippord]

Rockies

Lineup:
CF Dexter Fowler
2B Jose Lopez
LF Carlos Gonzalez
SS Troy Tulowitzki
1B Todd Helton
RF Seth Smith
C Chris Iannetta
3B Ian Stewart

Rotation:
RHP Ubaldo Jimenez
LHP Jorge De La Rosa
RHP Aaron Cook
RHP Jhoulys Chacin
RHP Jason Hammel

Bullpen:
RHP Huston Street
RHP Matt Lindstrom
LHP Franklin Morales
RHP Matt Belisle
RHP Esmil Rogers
LHP Matt Reynolds
RHP Felipe Paulino

Bench:
1B Jason Giambi
2B/3B Jonathan Herrera
UTIL Ty Wigginton
OF Ryan Spilborghs
C Jose Morales

[Vox Populi]

Lineup
CF Jacoby Ellsbury
2B Dustin Pedroia
LF Carl Crawford
3B Kevin Youkilis
1B Adrian Gonzalez
DH David Ortiz
RF J.D. Drew
SS Jed Lowrie
C Jarrod Saltalamachia

Rotation
LHP Jon Lester
RHP Clay Buchholz
RHP Josh Beckett
RHP John Lackey
RHP Daisuke Matsuzaka

Bullpen
RHP Jonathan Papelbon
RHP Daniel Bard
RHP Bobby Jenks
RHP Dan Wheeler
LHP Hideki Okajima
LHP Rich Hill
RHP Tim Wakefield

Bench
C Jason Varitek
IF Marco Scutaro
1B/DH Lars Anderson
OF Darnell McDonald

I'll add my explanation later.

I love rational Red Sox fans.

My only disputes here are that SS, based upon salary alone, has got to be Scutaro's job to lose, and I'd flip-flop A-Gone and Youk in the lineup. I know and fully understand your defense of your lineup, I'd still do it.

See you in October, my friend.

[Innovator]

I saw Brian Cashman at dinner last night, he was getting out of his car when I got into mine. His wife is pretty hot. That is all.

[ClockShot]

I saw Brian Cashman at dinner last night, he was getting out of his car when I got into mine. His wife is pretty hot. That is all.

Whereabouts was this?

[ClockShot]

Josh Hamilton stays with the Rangers. 2-years, $24 mil.

Orlando Cabrera to the Indians. Don't know the numbers, but he's on a major league deal, yet he they're making him compete for the 2nd baseman job and keeping Asdrubal Cabrera at SS.

[Loose Cannon]

didn't know the Yanks signed Chavez. Big fan of his

[Aguakate]

So ya'll don't think Bartolo Colon will make the Yankees?

[ClockShot]

It all depends on who impresses Girardi and Rothschild at spring training. Garcia, Prior, Colon, Nova, Mitre all got an equal shot with 2 spots up for grabs.

Of course, Colon got the opt out if he don't make the team out of spring training.

[MVP]

I love rational Red Sox fans.

My only disputes here are that SS, based upon salary alone, has got to be Scutaro's job to lose, and I'd flip-flop A-Gone and Youk in the lineup. I know and fully understand your defense of your lineup, I'd still do it.

See you in October, my friend.

Word

I think if Lowrie has a full healthy season he'll be an offensive threat at the bottom of the order. I'm pretty indifferent between Youk and Gonzalez being flipped. Youk will probably walk more in the 5-hole and hit more in the cleanup spot and Gonzalez will be a major threat where ever he hits in the order.

[Dragon]

Sox still have Mike Cameron don't they? Didn't see him on the roster.

[Emperor Smeat]

2-year deal so yeah he's still on the team even though he missed out on most of 2010.

He probably gets pushed to 4th/5th OF role for both depth and to keep him healthy.

[MVP]

Sox still have Mike Cameron don't they? Didn't see him on the roster.

I forgot all about Cameron actually. I'll replace Lars Anderson with him.

[Innovator]

Whereabouts was this?

Rowayton, CT, I think he lives in Stamford.

[Damian Rey]

I think Youk becomes more dangerous hitting behind Gonzalez, who is a walks machine. Add Ellsbury, Crawford and Pedroia infront of both Gonzo and Youk, and those two could be looking at 120 RBI a piece.

Also, Lowrie could be a line drive machine hitting in the 8th or 9th spot in an already stacked lineup. I think his bat offers more than Scutaro's.

[Innovator]

I was gonna say if I was the Red Sox I'd put Douchkalis in front of Gonzalez so he'd see more pitches, but then I forgot about Crawford...now I'm worried as a Yankee fan.

[Damian Rey]

So...the Padres had their fan fest today, and just like last year, I had a blast. Got some autographs and got to do a bit of Q&A that made the Padres video site. All in all, pretty sweet day.

Only complaint was, some of the security guards were being dicks and when I went up to the player table for autographs with two photos to sign (one for me, one for my grandfather), security would quickly mention "only one per person".

Thankfully, most of the players didn't mind and signed both my photos anyways.

I cannot wait for Opening Day.

[Evil Vito]

I cannot wait for Opening Day.

<font color=goldenrod>Ditto. Fucking love this time of year. If you can't get a sense of optimism and embrace the feel-good vibe of spring you should just give up. No matter what team you root for, spring just makes you think "maybe everything will go right".

It's probably the one thing that irks me about MLB Network. They do a great job of getting everybody hyped about the spring but then Hot Stove they'll bluntly state which teams have "no chance". Spring isn't the time to focus on the negatives - that's what the meaningful games are for.</font>

[Damian Rey]

That's true Vito, but at the same time, you have to be realistic. The Pirates have no chance this year. And if they say that, it's because they're analyzing the team.

What I don't like about MLB Network is some of their analysts. Harold Reynolds and Kevin Millar are my least favorites.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

LOL @ Big Vito telling people to be optimistic. That's like Glenn Beck telling people to be rational.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Speaking of the MLB Network, I really really hate these lists they're coming out with. They are just atrocious. There does not seem to be any reasoning for how they rank stuff. It's just a bunch of names thrown into a random list generator. And the analysts breaking down the rankings are so terrible.

[Aguakate]

Ahhhh...Spring Training is finally here...

...awesome.

[Damian Rey]

Speaking of the MLB Network, I really really hate these lists they're coming out with. They are just atrocious. There does not seem to be any reasoning for how they rank stuff. It's just a bunch of names thrown into a random list generator. And the analysts breaking down the rankings are so terrible.

Agreed. For instance; Vernon Wells and Brian Robers ranked higher in the top 100 than Justin Morneau. Are you fucking serious? I'd take Morneau over both of them in a hearbeat.

Other things like Martin Prado being ranked in the top 10 LF's even though he was at 2nd last year.

I honestly watch those for the highlight reels on the players I enjoy watching but don't get to see.

[RP]

if Pujos signs with the Cubs, will the t-shirt vendors in Wrigleyville have to stop selling the racist Pujos t-shirts?

[Evil Vito]

LOL @ Big Vito telling people to be optimistic. That's like Glenn Beck telling people to be rational.

<font color=goldenrod>Hey now - I always look for the silver lining at the start of the year. Usually takes a couple of months before I'm willing to give up on the year and start focusing on 2012.

When predictions time rolls around - will I pick the Mets? Probably not...but that doesn't mean I don't think they're capable. I see the potential for one of the best lineups in the league, their best since '06/'07. I also see a pitching staff headed with three improving guys that should have decent campaigns.

On the flipside, most Mets fans have already given up on the year and the only time MLB Network has talked about them was talking about the Madoff situation or talking about how Reyes and Beltran need to have good years so they can be traded. Nobody on that network has given them a remote chance of doing anything this year, and most "early season predictions" have them finishing no higher than 4th.

The Phillies obv have the best team on paper but I really don't think the Braves and certainly not the Marlins look a whole lot better than the Mets.</font>

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Pujols declined the Cards' most recent offer. He's not backing down from 10 years.

Albert has all the leverage too. He knows he's getting the biggest contract in MLB history after this year anyway.</font>

[Innovator]

50 DEGREES OUTSIDE AND PITCHERS AND CATCHERS. LETS DO THIS.

[DaveWadding]

Cubs reup Marmol for 3 years/$20 mil

[Supreme Olajuwon]

That's a pretty great deal for the Cubs. Which is surprising because, you know, the Cubs.

[Dragon]

<font color=goldenrod>Pujols declined the Cards' most recent offer. He's not backing down from 10 years.

Albert has all the leverage too. He knows he's getting the biggest contract in MLB history after this year anyway.</font>

I dunno, I can't imagine Pujols getting that 300M he's looking for. Not with the Yankees, Red Sox and Phillies presumably out.

He'll get paid a ton but I can't picture what team is giving him 30M for 10 years. A lot of the teams in baseball would be crippled having a 3rd of their payroll locked up in one guy. Looking at last years payrolls there were 8 teams with 100M+ payrolls. Yankees, Red Sox, Phillies, Tigers, White Sox and Angels have 1B out of those 8.

[MVP]

Heard a report here in New England this morning stating that there's a strong possibility that C.C. Sabathia will opt out of his contract at the end of this season. All I know is that when asked about it, C.C. replied with "anything is possible in a contract". I don't interpret that as a "strong possibility". It sounds more like in the off-chance that he does opt out after this season he said that so he doesn't look like an asshole if he told the media that he wouldn't opt out and then did.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Well he'll only be 31 at the end of the year and he's always got that extra leverage of heading back to Frisco or LA. But I can't see what else would motivate him because even though Cliff Lee's yearly salary averages out to $1 million more than CC's, is that really worth opting out of a guaranteed $92 million while pitching for the Yankees? I dunno.

[OssMan]

Isn't Pujols "a great guy" who is all about his family and religion and "loves God" and is "just happy to be playing baseball." Shut the fuck up and stop asking for 300 million dollars.

[Dragon]

I can't imagine CC not opting out. Or at least not leveraging the opt out to get a couple years tacked on to his deal.

[Emperor Smeat]

If he opts out, he'll pull what A-Rod did and what Jeter and Mariano sort of hinted this offseason and use it as leverage for more money.

Very few teams would be willing to lock CC for that much money based on his age even though he's a good pitcher but everyone also knows the Yankees tend to panic and outbid themselves a lot of times as well.

Same for Pujols using his deadline as a way to gain more money since he knows his best value is at St. Louis but also knows that once A-Rod got his $300 million, he was going to give a shot at it. Also helps that Pujols is compared a lot to Babe Ruth in stats.

[Aguakate]

I don't think Albert Pujols will play anywhere else BUT St Louis, I just can't see it happening. Eventually, somehow, they'll come to an agreement. I don't even see the situation getting as nasty as what Derek Jeter and the Yankees went through this winter.

However...if somehow Pujols didn't sign with the Cardinals, I could see them taking that money and making a push for CC Sabathia, if he was to opt out.

[Emperor Smeat]

Based on the pre-Spring Training Vegas odds, Vegas has the Phillies winning the World Series and most likely going against the Yankees (#2 in odds rank).

If the matchups were to work out correctly, then Giants (#4 in odds) would face Phillies (#1) and Red Sox (#3 in odds) vs Yankees (#2) based on Vegas odds. #5 was Chicago White Sox.

[Damian Rey]

The Yanks, to me, have far too many question marks at the moment to be a lock for a WS birth. After CC, their rotation is suspect. Can Hughes repeat? can Burnett regain form? Will Nova emerge? Will Duchsherer be healthy?

I'd vote for the BoSox as WS favs at the moment.

[McLegend]

Cashman on Joba

"he's heavier." How much heavier? "He's heavier." Is he out of shape? "He's heavier."

[McLegend]

Innovator, was Cashman out to dinner with Joba when you saw him? That could explain a few things.

[Innovator]

Negative ghostrider. The female he was with was not heavy at all.

[Emperor Smeat]

Pujols rejected last pre-season offer from Cardinals. Pujols and his agent liked the years but not the money.

The Cards offered Top 10 player money (around Lee/Sabathia $25 million per year as max) but Pujols and his agent wanted Top 5 player money (Jeter/A-Rod $27-$30 million per year as max).

[Supreme Olajuwon]

So what is Top 1 player money then

[Emperor Smeat]

A-Rod at $33 million a year but that might be with all the incentives he gained so far.

Jeter's old deal was around the $26-27 million after all the incentives were factored in.

[Vox Populi]

A-Rod made 33 mil a year pre-incentives the past 2 seasons. When you consider that, you really can't fault the superior, nearly 5 years younger (as far as we know) Pujols for expecting at least as much.

[ClockShot]

Brewers give Rickie Weeks a 4-year, $38.5 mil. deal.

Russell Branyan hooks on with the D-Backs on a minor league deal. He got an invite to spring training.

Blue Jays sign Scott Podsednik to a minor league deal. Also got an invite to spring training.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

So it seems like either Pujols goes somewhere else next year or the Cardinals sign him and don't have money to field a decent team.

[Dragon]

A-Rod at $33 million a year but that might be with all the incentives he gained so far.

Jeter's old deal was around the $26-27 million after all the incentives were factored in.

Jeter's tops was $21M last year. I think his contract averaged out to 18M a year.

A-Rod's deal averages $27M over the course of it. If he gets all the incentives near the end - mostly all HR record type stuff it'll average out to 30M a year over the life of it.

Just saw some report that the Cards offered an average salary of $19-21M a year. Thats obviously not close to what he deserves.

[Dragon]

Blue Jays close to agreeing to a contract with Jose Bautista. 5 years $65M.

I've liked almost every move the new Jays GM has done recently but this seems like a pretty bad deal for a 30 year who just had his first good year, even if it was a monster one.

[Dragon]

Didn't realize he's a free agent after this season. Understand it a little more knowing that but still seems like a lot.

[Snowden]

Really doubted up until today that Pujols would have gone anywhere but the Cards...but if he hits the open market, anything is possible.

Olney and Kurkjian mentioned today that Pujols has been making less than top 10 money these past five or so seasons and that it may be his desire to be recognized as the best in the game, more so than the money, thats actually halting the contract talks.

[Loose Cannon]

dunno, just came across this again.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/multimedia/photo_gallery/2005/03/23/gallery.zito/2zito.jpg

[OssMan]

Remember that thread where everybody posted pics of Eric Byrnes and he looked ridiculous in each one.

[weather vane]

Blue Jays close to agreeing to a contract with Jose Bautista. 5 years $65M.

I've liked almost every move the new Jays GM has done recently but this seems like a pretty bad deal for a 30 year who just had his first good year, even if it was a monster one.


Well it was either this or let him walk. I would say it's a gamble... the guy plays with heart at least. They HAD to sign him.

[Innovator]

Spring Training Kicks Off With First Miguel Cabrera DUI Of The Year


Barry Petchesky — So, not good news obviously for the Tigers, but more to the point, not good news for the man who spent last year's offseason in rehab. Pushing a deputy, talking to imaginary friends, and drinking Scotch straight from the bottle while being arrested? Yeah, it was an eventful night.

Cabrera's car was on the side of the road, his engine smoking, when a deputy pulled over to assist. With bloodshoot eyes and slurred speech,

"I am going to (expletive) kill him," Cabrera is quoted as saying.

The deputy saw no one else in the vehicle or in the area. Cabrera, of Boca Raton, grabbed a bottle of James Buchanan's scotch and started drinking.

Cabrera refused to follow the deputy's orders, saying "Do you know who I am, you don't know anything about my problems" and at one point, pushing off the car into the arresting officer. He was brought down with knee strikes and cuffed. He's charged with DUI and two counts of resisting arrest.

It makes you sad, because just last year Cabrera said he hadn't touched a drop of alcohol since his 2009 incident. But it also makes you made, because drinking and driving is about the worst, most dangerous decision you can make for everyone else on the road. And the 2011 Tigers, who had a great offseason, have their first major roadblock before intrasquad games even begin.



BASEBALL IS IN THE AIR FOLKS!

[Hanso Amore]

I love it. IT sounds like a scene from cops.

[Splaya]

Want to punch him in his fucking face right now

[Nervous Ferret]

Haha

[ClockShot]

Joe Crede is back on the free agent market after not reporting to Rockies spring training.

The Rockies in turn sign John Maine to a minor league deal. He got an invite to spring training.

Gary Sheffield calls it a career. Hall of Fame worthy?

[Hanso Amore]

Nope, and the Roids didnt help him.

[Hardkore Kidd J]

The Yanks, to me, have far too many question marks at the moment to be a lock for a WS birth. After CC, their rotation is suspect. Can Hughes repeat? can Burnett regain form? Will Nova emerge? Will Duchsherer be healthy?

I'd vote for the BoSox as WS favs at the moment.

The Yankees got Duchsherer? When the hell did that happen? I have been following the Yankees off season since day 1. I don't think Yankees got him cause I would have known.

Right now the five man rotation will probably be....

1. CC

2. Burnett

3. Hughes

4. Nova

5. Garcia

Unless I am missing out on something I don't think we got Duchsherer. There had been talks but never happened. The O'S got Duchsherer you probably just got confused.

[Triple Naitch]

Gary Sheffield calls it a career. Hall of Fame worthy?

Only if he goes in as the first Florida Marlin.

[Emperor Smeat]

Its the only team he managed to stay on for more than 2-3 years so it would make sense if he had the Marlin cap.

He probably won't go in the Hall since his name is on the Mitchell Report and the voters are too hesitant to put any potential roid players in the Hall. Griffey Jr probably will be the only mega-slugger from that era to go in the Hall without a debate or waiting years for the selection.

[MVP]

Sheffield won't get in. Palmiero probably won't get in and he's in the 3000/500 club. Not sure how much of that is a result of steroid use, but still.

[Gertner]

Blue Jays close to agreeing to a contract with Jose Bautista. 5 years $65M.

I've liked almost every move the new Jays GM has done recently but this seems like a pretty bad deal for a 30 year who just had his first good year, even if it was a monster one.

They took so much money off the books with Wells and Roy and B.J Ryan's contract now that it's worth it. I don't mind this one bit.

[DaveWadding]

Russell Branyan hooks on with the D-Backs on a minor league deal. He got an invite to spring training.



I'm a fan of this move.

[Nervous Ferret]

God I love Griffey Jr. He's the greatest.

[Vox Populi]

Palmiero probably won't get in and he's in the 3000/500 club. Not sure how much of that is a result of steroid use, but still.

I would say that it's 100% related to steroid use, as he'd be a mortal first ballot lock without that stench all over him.

[Hanso Amore]

I wish griffey could have stayed healthy and been a legit record breaker.

[MVP]

I would say that it's 100% related to steroid use, as he'd be a mortal first ballot lock without that stench all over him.

I meant his stats actually, but I agree that he'd have been a sure-fire first ballot lock.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>It's gonna be a shit show in 2013 when Bonds and Clemens are eligible. No matter who gets in that year (Mikey P :() the story won't be about them, it will be about whether or not those two guys made it.

On the flipside, a lot of people think A-Rod is a first ballot lock no matter what despite everybody knowing he juiced. I guess the fact that he fessed up helps his cause, but McGwire fessing up didn't help him at all this year. Of course, A-Rod has a long way to go before he gets in (won't be eligible til like 2023 assuming he retires when his contract is up) by which point most of the "old school" voters who won't allow the roiders in will be gone.

I think it's a bit ridiculous that a lot of these guys are going to miss out on the HOF because of this. Yeah it's unfortunate that so many of them were roiding up but I'm certain that there are plenty of guys in the HOF from decades ago that also cheated in one way or another. Again, the voters are way too old school. That's why there will never be a unanimous first ballot HOFer, because some crotchety old fuck says "Well Ruth wasn't unanimous, so Ken Griffey Jr. shouldn't be either!"</font>

[McLegend]

Hall of Fame voting is so stupid. It took Joe DiMaggio 3 years to get into the Hall of Fame after reaching eligibly.

Like C'mon

[ClockShot]

Jim Edmonds had to retire. Signed a minor league deal with the Cardinals not too long ago, but doctors wouldn't clear him after the achilles tendon he tore back in september hasn't gotten back to 100%

That sucks.

[Hanso Amore]

Man, I just looked at Cabreras stats. WOW.

If he could get his shit together, he could be the best hitter in baseball. I knew he was good, but never really looked at the body of work.

[Hanso Amore]

Imagine where Cabrera would be today stats wise if he wasnt a fat drunk.

[Damian Rey]

The Yankees got Duchsherer? When the hell did that happen? I have been following the Yankees off season since day 1. I don't think Yankees got him cause I would have known.

Right now the five man rotation will probably be....

1. CC

2. Burnett

3. Hughes

4. Nova

5. Garcia

Unless I am missing out on something I don't think we got Duchsherer. There had been talks but never happened. The O'S got Duchsherer you probably just got confused.

Yea, I don't know how I missed that, but you are correct. I still stand by my statement that the Yanks have far too many question marks at the moment to be penciled into the World Series.

[Hardkore Kidd J]

Yea, I don't know how I missed that, but you are correct. I still stand by my statement that the Yanks have far too many question marks at the moment to be penciled into the World Series.

I agree with you somewhat. I don't even know if we'll make the playoffs but somehow I think we will. We will either go through 1 or 2 options.

option number 1: Our pitching and hitting remains steady for the season.

option number 2: We tread water until the trade deadline at which point we will trade for a decent pitcher or two.

I'm leaning toward option 2. What do you think? And with Sabathia opting out I think a piece or two would be needed if we don't have him in 2012. So it just seems more likely we'll trade for a pitcher or two.

[Snowden]

If the Cards fall out of contention, there's rumblings that they'll put Carpenter on the market...who the Yankees would make a HUGE play for.

The Yankees have an abundance of catching prospects on top of Montero, so I have no doubt in my mind they'll make a deal at the deadline. I just hope they move someone like Romine and not Jesus...he's supposed to be a young Manny Ramirez, and I don't think the Yanks, even with an extra arm, are WS contenders when stacked against the Sox and Phillies.

[Aguakate]

Man, I just looked at Cabreras stats. WOW.

If he could get his shit together, he could be the best hitter in baseball. I knew he was good, but never really looked at the body of work.

Imagine where Cabrera would be today stats wise if he wasnt a fat drunk.

http://i56.tinypic.com/2wrp8jc.jpg

100% right.

He has the ability to be even better than Pujols, but it seems he either doesn't take his position as one of the best pure hitters in baseball seriously, or he can't handle whatever problems he has in his personal life.

[Hardkore Kidd J]

If the Cards fall out of contention, there's rumblings that they'll put Carpenter on the market...who the Yankees would make a HUGE play for.

The Yankees have an abundance of catching prospects on top of Montero, so I have no doubt in my mind they'll make a deal at the deadline. I just hope they move someone like Romine and not Jesus...he's supposed to be a young Manny Ramirez, and I don't think the Yanks, even with an extra arm, are WS contenders when stacked against the Sox and Phillies.

I never said they were. But getting to the playoffs is not the same as being "World Series competitors" . Yankees will make it there by some way or another. I would prefer anyone more then Montero to be traded. By the deadline Montero could be up and that could be the piece that makes the Yankees say no. I love Carpenter but there are only a select few I would trade Montero for.

If the Yankees got King Felix for example there's a possibility that I will give Seattle a Montero package. But, yeah we need Carpenter if it means we will have to give up Sanchez and a few more of our pitchers to hold on to Montero I'd do it.

[Damian Rey]

I agree with you somewhat. I don't even know if we'll make the playoffs but somehow I think we will. We will either go through 1 or 2 options.

option number 1: Our pitching and hitting remains steady for the season.

option number 2: We tread water until the trade deadline at which point we will trade for a decent pitcher or two.

I'm leaning toward option 2. What do you think? And with Sabathia opting out I think a piece or two would be needed if we don't have him in 2012. So it just seems more likely we'll trade for a pitcher or two.

I think Sabathia would be an idiot to opt out of his contract, personally. I also think that, if anything, the Yankees are going to be riding their offense. With the addition of Montero (if he breaks camp, and he should as a DH), the Yankees will be fine.

I don't think any team in the East, sans the BoSox, can compete with them. I think the teams they should be worried about are the Twins, ChiSox, Rangers and A's, who are all wild card contenders if they don't win their division. The AL is looking pretty stacked at the moment.

[Hardkore Kidd J]

I think Sabathia would be an idiot to opt out of his contract, personally. I also think that, if anything, the Yankees are going to be riding their offense. With the addition of Montero (if he breaks camp, and he should as a DH), the Yankees will be fine.

I don't think any team in the East, sans the BoSox, can compete with them. I think the teams they should be worried about are the Twins, ChiSox, Rangers and A's, who are all wild card contenders if they don't win their division. The AL is looking pretty stacked at the moment.

It was just as stupid in personal opinion for the Yankees to put the opt out clause in his contract to begin with. Frankly I don't think they should have done that in the first place.

You forgot Tampa, believe me I am worried about all five of those teams getting to the wild card.

But, I really think the Yankees stand a chance.

[Aguakate]

My team to watch out for are the Orioles.

Even if they don't make the Playoffs, they have a real chance of finishing above .500 and playing real well the role of spoilers.

[Emperor Smeat]

It was just as stupid in personal opinion for the Yankees to put the opt out clause in his contract to begin with. Frankly I don't think they should have done that in the first place.

You forgot Tampa, believe me I am worried about all five of those teams getting to the wild card.

But, I really think the Yankees stand a chance.

They probably wouldn't have been able to get Sabathia without the clause since he was really hesitant about moving to NY but the clause and money ended up tipping his decision to go to New York.

[Aguakate]

They probably wouldn't have been able to get Sabathia without the clause since he was really hesitant about moving to NY but the clause and money ended up tipping his decision to go to New York.

He already got his ring, so maybe winning won't be as much of a factor as it was in 2008 when he was a Free Agent. I'm not saying he'll go to a losing franchise, but it won't be a "win at all costs even if it means becoming a Yankee" thing. He'll probably look at other good teams where he may be a little bit more comfortable, with less pressure.

[Damian Rey]

It was just as stupid in personal opinion for the Yankees to put the opt out clause in his contract to begin with. Frankly I don't think they should have done that in the first place.

You forgot Tampa, believe me I am worried about all five of those teams getting to the wild card.

But, I really think the Yankees stand a chance.

Agreed, but like Smelly said, that may have been the selling point. Honestly, there really is no other franchise outside of New York and Boston that is going to give him a legit year in/year out shot at winning a ring, so he shouldn't be too serious about opt'n out, but we shall see.

Tampa is going to have some really good pitching. Hellickson, I believe, has the ceiling to be an ace, and he should be an upgrade over Garza if he continues to develop. But they have pretty much his the reset button on their bullpen. I don't think they're competing for anything other than 3rd place this year.

Yanks will do fine. They had a plethora of pitching issues last year and they got to the ALCS. This year, they could try and move some pieces to get a solid middle of the order starter if their staff falters.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Is Yuniesky Betancourt really the Brewers starting shortstop? How is this guy still in the majors, let alone a starting shortstop? Since he debuted in 2005, he has the worst fielding numbers of any shortstop in baseball. Worse than Jeter, Hanley, and Young who are all great hitters. But Bentancourt is a terrible, terrible hitter. Career OBP is .296.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Wainwright has an elbow injury. He's flying to St. Louis for exams but club officials think he'll need Tommy John.

Wow that was sudden.</font>

[Hardkore Kidd J]

Agreed, but like Smelly said, that may have been the selling point. Honestly, there really is no other franchise outside of New York and Boston that is going to give him a legit year in/year out shot at winning a ring, so he shouldn't be too serious about opt'n out, but we shall see.

Tampa is going to have some really good pitching. Hellickson, I believe, has the ceiling to be an ace, and he should be an upgrade over Garza if he continues to develop. But they have pretty much his the reset button on their bullpen. I don't think they're competing for anything other than 3rd place this year.

Yanks will do fine. They had a plethora of pitching issues last year and they got to the ALCS. This year, they could try and move some pieces to get a solid middle of the order starter if their staff falters.

All that I can say is at least our bats will do great.Starters is the only thing I am worried about. Starting pitchers seems to be our only issue. Our bats will be the same as last year if not even better. Their bullpen has gotten even stronger with Feliciano, and Soriano.

Really with the team we have we are not expected to win the World Series with the starters we have out there. So I'm all ready expecting them to not be in the world series. I just don't want the Yankees to be so far behind they don't stand a chance.

But, I know the Yanks and seeing that the only visible problem is the starting pitching I think we'll be right in the middle of the fray fighting for the WC. And then maybe losing in the first or second round. But, I pray it's not the Red Sox/Phillies. With every world series there's always been a clear cut favorite. A team I want to win more then anyone else. If it's Red Sox vs. Phils I can't do that because there won't be a favorite. I hate both teams an equal amount.

[Boomer]

<font color=goldenrod>Wainwright has an elbow injury. He's flying to St. Louis for exams but club officials think he'll need Tommy John.

Wow that was sudden.</font>

Well there goes their chances this year. And w/o Pujols next year, I wonder how much their pitching overall can carry the team.

[Vox Populi]

And w/o Pujols next year...


That's more than a little bit presumptive, wouldn't you say?

[Boomer]

It's certainly presumptive, but they had a chance to sign him without any opposition and didn't get it done. Do you really think they want to have a bidding match with a team like the Cubs or someone else with a lot of money to kill?

[Vox Populi]

It's still unlikely to come down to a bidding war. Refusing to negotiate during the season isn't by any stretch a unique tactic, and Pujols' camp continues to claim that the Cardinals will have first crack at him when the negotiating window re-opens.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>I think the Cards can still be competetive this year, but they have basically no margin for error now.

This is also reason #1 why you don't draft until near the end of Spring Training. So many people draft their teams as soon as Yahoo Fantasy Baseball opens up. Bet those people who spent 2nd/3rd round picks on Wainwright are shedding a tear.</font>

[Innovator]

http://cache.gawker.com/assets/images/deadspin/2011/02/cubs-billboard-derek-jeter.jpg

[ClockShot]

Adam Wainwright is getting Tommy John surgery. No 2011 season for him.

Scratch him off my fantasy pre-draft rankings.

[Aguakate]

People are writing off the Cardinals for '11 after this injury, but I wouldn't be so quick to do so...

...they could sign Kevin Millwood or Jeremy Bonderman, have Pitching Coach Dave Duncan work with them, and they could have a decent year, which could keep the Cardinals in the running for the NL Central Division, which normally isn't that strong of a division, or perhaps the Wild Card.

Or they could always make a deal for someone...who knows? It's just I'm not buying the whole "OMG this is a DISASTER! Forget about 2011 for the Cardinals, they're DONE!"

[Hardkore Kidd J]

People are writing off the Cardinals for '11 after this injury, but I wouldn't be so quick to do so...

...they could sign Kevin Millwood or Jeremy Bonderman, have Pitching Coach Dave Duncan work with them, and they could have a decent year, which could keep the Cardinals in the running for the NL Central Division, which normally isn't that strong of a division, or perhaps the Wild Card.

Or they could always make a deal for someone...who knows? It's just I'm not buying the whole "OMG this is a DISASTER! Forget about 2011 for the Cardinals, they're DONE!"

I think the wild card might go to the NL West. I'm still wondering why the Yankees didn't pick up Bonderman. If I was the Cards I'd be worried about the Brewers. With their offseason it looks like the Brewers are on the path to win.

[Splaya]

<font color=goldenrod>I think the Cards can still be competetive this year, but they have basically no margin for error now.

This is also reason #1 why you don't draft until near the end of Spring Training. So many people draft their teams as soon as Yahoo Fantasy Baseball opens up. Bet those people who spent 2nd/3rd round picks on Wainwright are shedding a tear.</font>

We run a keeper league and a buddy of mine kept him. Now we are discussing whether or not he should be able to keep a player that he had previously from last year or get a compensation pick. I originally said he should get nothing as it is risk versus reward

[screech]

We run a keeper league and a buddy of mine kept him. Now we are discussing whether or not he should be able to keep a player that he had previously from last year or get a compensation pick. I originally said he should get nothing as it is risk versus reward

I can understand why he'd want a compensation pick, but at the same time he decided to keep Wainwright so I agree with you. Can't predict the future.

[Triple Naitch]

People are writing off the Cardinals for '11 after this injury, but I wouldn't be so quick to do so...

...they could sign Kevin Millwood or Jeremy Bonderman, have Pitching Coach Dave Duncan work with them, and they could have a decent year, which could keep the Cardinals in the running for the NL Central Division, which normally isn't that strong of a division, or perhaps the Wild Card.

Or they could always make a deal for someone...who knows? It's just I'm not buying the whole "OMG this is a DISASTER! Forget about 2011 for the Cardinals, they're DONE!"

But the thing is that this year the NL Central is very strong. The Brewers have a great Big 3 starters, Prince, and Braun. The Reds are the reigning division champs; have Votto, Bruce should have a great full season, and Chapman for a whole year in the 'pen. The Cubs have a pretty solid rotation and have added more pop to their lineup compared to this time last year.

[ClockShot]

Joe Torre is your new MLB Vice President of Baseball Operations.

And at long last, spring training games get underway. Giants and D-Backs are playing the opener right now, 6 more games saturday.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

I think the wild card might go to the NL West. I'm still wondering why the Yankees didn't pick up Bonderman. If I was the Cards I'd be worried about the Brewers. With their offseason it looks like the Brewers are on the path to win.

UGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGH

[Aguakate]

Joe Torre is your new MLB Vice President of Baseball Operations.

And at long last, spring training games get underway. Giants and D-Backs are playing the opener right now, 6 more games saturday.

Wow, games already started?!

[Emperor Smeat]

Looks like the Mets financial issues got a little more interesting with today's report of the MLB loaning the team $25 million to help cover some costs from last year.

With this report, it looks like Mets ownership will have to sell off a higher percentage of the team than the 20-25% they want. At the same time, they are under investigation as being somewhat involved in the Madoff scheme or reimbursement fraud. As well as lowered stock and team value to a "negative" value for potential investors.

http://sports.espn.go.com/new-york/mlb/news/story?id=6159722

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>First ST game today :love: in HD no less</font>

[Loose Cannon]

I think I'm going to get this MLBTV thing this year. I have the applicaiton on my bluray. $99/year for all the games sounds way worth it. anybody else have this?

[Triple Naitch]

As soon as I get an iPad I will.

[DaveWadding]

I think I'm going to get this MLBTV thing this year. I have the applicaiton on my bluray. $99/year for all the games sounds way worth it. anybody else have this?

I had it last year. Really awesome, especially if you live outside of your team's home market (ex: a Cubs fan in Phoenix or a Yankees fan in N. Carolina). Definitely worth the $120. I'll have to look and see which Blu-Ray players have the app for it.

And I'm getting it on my Droid this year too.

[Hardkore Kidd J]

I think I'm going to get this MLBTV thing this year. I have the applicaiton on my bluray. $99/year for all the games sounds way worth it. anybody else have this?

It's my first year too. But you gotta figure in the Black out restrictions. But, getting a lot of the games from different teams is awesome.

[ClockShot]

My PS3 got it, but It's games only. No anaylsis or other shows. They did a free weekend with it. Don't really need it since I got YES by default.

[Skippord]

damn the new Rockies/ Diamondbacks facility is awesome

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Ollie "Jekyll & Hyde" Perez strikes again. Looked good to start today, then at the flip of a switch he proceeded to walk the ballpark en route to giving up 3 runs.

Fuck yes. Just a couple more shitty outings and Sandy can send him packing for good.</font>

[ClockShot]

Duke Snider passed away. He was 84.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Seems like the Mets' CF situation has been worked out way sooner than anybody expected. Carlos Beltran is moving to right field with Angel Pagan in center. Didn't think this would happen until Beltran got into a game or two.

Good on Carlos. I think he realizes that even if he is running well, Pagan is more equipped to play the position at this point.</font>

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Beltran might be one of the most underappreciated Mets ever. With the exception of 2005, he's consistently proven himself to be a great hitter when healthy. Dude hit fucking 41 jacks in '06, technically tying the team record but since everybody knows Hundley was on roids he was the only one to do it cleanly.

It's unfortunate that he's been hampered with injuries the last two years - but even then he showed flashes of brilliance pre-injury in '09 and in September last year. A lot of Mets fans have wanted to run him out of town for quite some time now and I just really don't get it.</font>

[DaveWadding]

Beltran is on roids too.

[Aguakate]

Beltran is on roids too.

Yeah, they have really helped him have monster seasons as of late.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

I thought roids didn't help

[DaveWadding]

They sure helped Joey Votto win the MVP.

[McLegend]

I wish Chase Utley would take steriods.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

They sure helped Joey Votto win the MVP.

Aww are you and Zambrano gonna cry now

[DaveWadding]

Nah, I have a date with a baseball bat and a Gatorade machine.

[Aguakate]

I thought roids didn't help

They don't, but if you're going to accuse someone of using, accuse a guy who has a huge season out of nowhere...

...I don't know, like... JOSE BAUTISTA?

[Hardkore Kidd J]

I hope Beckett is okay, he got hit in the head with a batted ball yesterday and had "Concussion like symptoms"

[Droford]

Markakis, Guerrero and Jones hit HRs in the 1st off Andy Sonnastine in todays game vs the Rays.

hmm...nice

[Hanso Amore]

I hope Beckett never plays again.

[ClockShot]

Chris Carpenter tweaked his hamstring in his spring training game today.

Ever since this bullshit with Pujols and his contract, it's been nothing but bad juju for the Cardinals.

[Innovator]

Tex drops Boras as his agent.

[Aguakate]

Markakis, Guerrero and Jones hit HRs in the 1st off Andy Sonnastine in todays game vs the Rays.

hmm...nice

Manny homered too! Yeah!

[ClockShot]

Tex drops Boras as his agent.

Smart man.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Mike Quade's gonna have the Cubs focused and playing winning team ball this year.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Oh hey did you guys hear about Carlos Silva and Aramis Ramirez getting in a fight because Silva was pissed that the Cubs were making errors in a SPRING TRAINING game

[Evil Vito]

http://www.interpretationbydesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/IBD_baseball_flowchart.jpg

<font color=goldenrod>lol wow - I actually got the Mets on my first try</font> :o

[Damian Rey]

Oh hey did you guys hear about Carlos Silva and Aramis Ramirez getting in a fight because Silva was pissed that the Cubs were making errors in a SPRING TRAINING game

Yea I read that. Fucking ridiculous. I really don't think Lou Pinella nor Mike Quade have anything to do with the players.

Not to mention, if Ramirez doesn't like being called out for errors, he should'nt make them, and if he does, he should own up to it, spring training or not.

[Aguakate]

Oh hey did you guys hear about Carlos Silva and Aramis Ramirez getting in a fight because Silva was pissed that the Cubs were making errors in a SPRING TRAINING game

Spring Training is the time to correct those little things that may not seem important. Better for it to happen in Spring, than midseason.

So I think it's ok.

[Triple Naitch]

Pretty sure I saw Silva give up a BOMB before that so he has no right to talk.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Pretty sure I saw Silva eat a barrel of gravy before that so he has no right to talk.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

<object width="464" height="295" id="1925215" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" alt="Fan Calls Jay Bruce's Walk-Off Home Run To Clinch Division For R Sports"><param name="movie" value="http://embed.break.com/MTkyNTIxNQ=="></param><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://embed.break.com/MTkyNTIxNQ==" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowScriptAccess=always width="464" height="295"></embed></object><br><font size=1><a href="http://sports.break.com/fan-calls-jay-bruces-walk-off-home-run-to-clinch-division-for-reds" target="_blank">Fan Calls Jay Bruce's Walk-Off Home Run To Clinch Division For R</a> - Watch more <a href="http://sports.break.com/" target="_blank">Sports</a></font>

Got a serious boner right now, fellas.

[DaveWadding]

think I'll go to the park tomorrow and watch the Reds play the Mariners...

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Jesus Montero's odds of making the Opening Day roster just went up. Cervelli's out for at least a month. Montero is now the favorite to be the backup catcher to start the year with Romine also in the mix.

Don't really see the point in starting either guy's arbitration clock if they're only gonna play 1-2 games a week for 2-3 weeks or so. Unless they rake in spring and supplant Martin as the starter, they should probably just stick some veteran catcher onto the roster for that. Or they can just have Martin play basically every game with Posada as the emergency.</font>

[Damian Rey]

<font color=goldenrod>Jesus Montero's odds of making the Opening Day roster just went up. Cervelli's out for at least a month. Montero is now the favorite to be the backup catcher to start the year with Romine also in the mix.

Don't really see the point in starting either guy's arbitration clock if they're only gonna play 1-2 games a week for 2-3 weeks or so. Unless they rake in spring and supplant Martin as the starter, they should probably just stick some veteran catcher onto the roster for that. Or they can just have Martin play basically every game with Posada as the emergency.</font>

I didn't even realize how young Montero was. Honestly, I don't think Martin is going to be very much for them. He had a really good run from 06-08, but has declined the last two years, especially last year with the injurie(s).

If Montero is ready, and looking at his minor league numbers, he could be very close, I say run him out there and give him a shot. Arbritration doesn't mean to the Yankees what it does to other teams. If his bat gives them a better chance to win (which it should if Martin is his main competition), he deserves at least a 2 to 3 month test run.

[Vox Populi]

<font color=goldenrod>
Don't really see the point in starting either guy's arbitration clock if they're only gonna play 1-2 games a week for 2-3 weeks or so. Unless they rake in spring and supplant Martin as the starter, they should probably just stick some veteran catcher onto the roster for that. Or they can just have Martin play basically every game with Posada as the emergency.</font>

Considering that this is the Yankees we're talking about here, and since Montero is clearly in their long-term future plans, they'd be wise to lock him up for 6 years on arrival in the bigs, like the Rays did with Longoria.

Sure, there's some level of risk, but that's limited in this case - again, this is the Yankees we're talking about - but look at how many tens of millions such a move will have saved Tampa when all is said and done.

[Aguakate]

I don't know why, but I think having both Cano and Montero in the lineup, along with Rodriguez and Teixeira, who will both be around a couple more years, is going to make for very exciting Yankee baseball.

[Damian Rey]

Considering that this is the Yankees we're talking about here, and since Montero is clearly in their long-term future plans, they'd be wise to lock him up for 6 years on arrival in the bigs, like the Rays did with Longoria.

Sure, there's some level of risk, but that's limited in this case - again, this is the Yankees we're talking about - but look at how many tens of millions such a move will have saved Tampa when all is said and done.

While I agree on principle, I think Longoria was much more polished when he came up and the Rays really didn't have much other options at 3rd base.

Montero is two years younger than what Longoria was when he came up in 2008, so there shouldn't be a rush to get him up and sign him. Like I said, he probably gives them a better shot to win than Martin, so I'd like to see him get a chance.

But like you stated, this is the Yankees. They have deep pockets, and with all the payroll they have already, and Montero having yet to prove anything at this point, I don't see a need to rush and extend him, yet. Let him have one to three really good years, then lock him up when he's 24 or 25 years old for five to seven years. If they go that route, he'd be 32 by the time a seven year deal is done, and being a catcher who is scouted as to having questions about a long term future behind the plate, he could be hitting his regression years by then.

[Vox Populi]

We pretty much agree on the foundation that since it's the Yankees, money doesn't factor in. Me, I'm thinking that the Yankees ought to put their money where their mouth is.

I agree that there was less question about Longoria's MLB readiness than there is Montero's, but not by a wide margin. What's more, catcher is a much thinner position that corner infield.

Frankly, they'd be doing the lesser teams (all of them, really, but mostly the perennial bottom 2/3rd payroll) a service by taking care of their top prospect now. Paves the way in a big way for other teams to make such deals. From NYY's perspective, mutually beneficial even if it goes south from the team's perspective, but I've gotta tell you, this isn't gonna go south. Montero is worth every word of the hype, and this is coming from a die-hard Sox fan. This is the most they've protected a prospect in years, and for fantastic reason - he's that good.

[Damian Rey]

We pretty much agree on the foundation that since it's the Yankees, money doesn't factor in. Me, I'm thinking that the Yankees ought to put their money where their mouth is.

I agree that there was less question about Longoria's MLB readiness than there is Montero's, but not by a wide margin. What's more, catcher is a much thinner position that corner infield.

Frankly, they'd be doing the lesser teams (all of them, really, but mostly the perennial bottom 2/3rd payroll) a service by taking care of their top prospect now. Paves the way in a big way for other teams to make such deals. From NYY's perspective, mutually beneficial even if it goes south from the team's perspective, but I've gotta tell you, this isn't gonna go south. Montero is worth every word of the hype, and this is coming from a die-hard Sox fan. This is the most they've protected a prospect in years, and for fantastic reason - he's that good.

Oh I agree, he is that good...offensively. Like I said, there's a lot of question of whether he's going to stick longterm as a catcher, and as of right now, the scouting pundits are thinking not. So while catcher is thin, Montero isn't projecting as a catcher for the duration of his career. I've outfield, first base and DH. Now way he's moving Tex out of the way. DH is a good chance, and frankly, I think that cuts down his worth in the long run.

I really don't feel anything the Yankees do is beneficial to anyone sans themselves and elite players. When Derek Jeter got locked up as a young player, it was a 10 year deal. How, in any way, does that pave the way for other teams? What team would have/could have done the same? If anything, it tells players, like Longoria, who is better than Jeter was at the same age, that if they hold out, bigger dollar signs await. How would lesser teams benefit from this? I'm a Padres fan, and Mat Latos, bar none, is the very best player we have. He's going to be making big time money when he hits free agency. If a team, say the Giants, were to have given Linecum, a reason comp., and 5 year, $80mil dollar extension to buy his arbitration years and then some, I'd be willing to concede that Latos is a guarenteed goner.

The Yanks put their money where their mouth was in 2008, when they signed Burnett, Tex, and Sabathia. The won a WS for their "efforts" in 2009. I just don't see the rush in paying Montero. Especially when his future position is in such question. I get he is a legit prospect, which I agree with. But he's not worth locking up, yet. They should wait and see how he progresses on both sides of the ball before making any rash decisions.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Oh look, it's time for John Kruk's annual insane stat prediction. This year he says Adrian Gonzalez will have 50 HRs and 50 doubles.

Does Kruk realize that that feat has only been accomplished ONCE in the history of baseball? He should beast and everything and might even win the MVP, but god damn.</font>

[Droford]

Super pumped to watch the Os and Yankees first tv game tonight..

Oh look, it's time for John Kruk's annual insane stat prediction. This year he says Adrian Gonzalez will have 50 HRs and 50 doubles.

Does Kruk realize that that feat has only been accomplished ONCE in the history of baseball? He should beast and everything and might even win the MVP, but god damn.

A-Gonz could probably hit 60 HRS+ not having to play 1/2 a season in PETCO Park.

[Droford]

Whats with the Yankees and guys named Melky? Melky Mesa?

[Triple Naitch]

John Sterling didn't wanna give up on his "Melk man delivers" quip.

[Droford]

My favorite is Swisherlicous for Swisher. Ben Maller plays all of his dumb calls all the time on his show but thats the most ridiculous one.

Hmm..predicting now.."Its Andruw..with a U!" for Andruw Jones

[Droford]

0-0 tie...ugh

but on the bright side:


I'm Derek Jeter's car, doggone it!

A funny scene played out outside Ed Smith Stadium about 90 minutes before tonight's Yankees-Orioles game. A pristine gunmetal gray Mercedez with blinding chrome wheels pulled up to a private parking lot right across from the player's entrance. The young man driving the car asked a lady standing out fron if he could park there.

"Sure,'' she said. "Twenty dollars.''

"But this is Jeter's car,'' the young man, who was not Jeter, said. (Although a Yankee publicist confirmed Jeter drives a car fitting that description).

"Great,'' the lady said. "It's still twenty dollars.''

The young man drove off in search, presumably, of a cheaper parking spot. And the lady turned with a perplexed look on her face to an ESPNNewYork.com reporter who happened to be standing there. "Who's Jeter?,'' she asked.

[Skippord]

going to phoenix to see the Colorado Baseball Rockies

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>aaaaaand 2 days after finally DH'ing in a game, Beltran is shut down with tendinitis in his OTHER knee.

Unreal. He is physically incapable of staying healthy, his knees are shot. I feel bad for the guy because he works hard to get out there but he's turning into the new Moises Alou. Mets are downplaying it of course and saying he'll be back in games within a week - but truthfully I see no way he's in right field on Opening Day.

The thing that worries me more is that these Beltran and Santana injuries make it even more likely that Alderson (who already is against long-term contracts) won't re-sign Reyes. Hell, Wright's a free agent after 2012 and he'll want a huge deal too. Good thing Sandy's got good draft reputation.</font>

[Innovator]

I'm pretty sure Reyes is getting traded halfway through the season if he starts decent.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>The decision to trade Reyes has always been two-fold. If they're still in contention at the deadline they won't move him - but if they have a bad first half they basically have to decide right then and there if they are going to re-sign him.

But yeah, if he gets back to his 2008 production he's going to want Crawford money and I don't see any way the Mets pay that.</font>

[Innovator]

His agent already said he wants Crawford money.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Whether he's traded or not, I wonder who his suitors are going to be once he hits free agency. There don't seem to be too many teams who could afford to hand out a Crawford-esque contract.

Yanks could but even if they wanted Jeter to play a different position or DH I doubt they'd bump him in favor of the crosstown shortstop. Plus there's a good chance they'll have to pay CC more than he's already getting if he opts out.

Scutaro's deal is up so the Sox would have a vacancy. But three mega-deals (Gonzo, Crawford, Reyes) seems like a lot even by the Sox' standards.

Angels just took on Wells' horrible contract for the next few years so that could price them out.

Rollins' deal expires after this year but the Phils would probably try to get him back. If Reyes went there I'd probably off myself.

Cubs have Starlin Castro who I doubt it going to change positions - plus their goal is going to be to get Albert.

Cards could be interested but only if Albert leaves.</font>

[MVP]

I don't see the Red Sox going after Reyes. Lowrie has shown signs of brilliance even though his stats and ability to stay healthy don't show much, so a strong showing from him this season should earn him the starting SS job by next year the latest since I doubt Scutaro will be re-signed, and if so, he'll likely be the utility infielder.

[Aguakate]

I don't see the Red Sox going after Reyes, not with the possibility of CC Sabathia hitting the free agent market after the season is over.

[Vox Populi]

The Red Sox would likely not be huge players for Jose Reyes, as the organization is completely and fully sold on (not to mention financially committed to) Jose Iglesias as their center fielder of the future, which likely leaves Lowrie as gone by way of trade and Scutaro elsewhere come a year from today.

[Emperor Smeat]

Red Sox won't get him but definitely would be involved just to raise the price should the Yankees go after him.

Red Sox also know its much better for them to go on a mega-spending spree once every few years than to over-spend yearly like the Yankees tend to do.

I think in the end Reyes might take a lower contract which can put him on a lot more teams than being restricted to just the Yankees or Cardinals (if Pujols leaves).

[RoXer]

Went to a Spring Training game today at the awesome new D-Backs/Rockies stadium.

We get up to the ticket counter and all I wanted were the $15 seats and she goes "No sorry, that section is sold out. The section next to it is available for $5 more" so I was like that's cool and she goes "and they're 1st row too".

Place is nice. The lawn section looks really well kept. Almost better than the outfield grass. Food prices were decent and players signed stuff. Good ballpark.

[RoXer]

It felt like I was member of a club when she said that. Like I winked at her and she goes "oh these are for you" and a giant security guard unhinged a velvet rope scetioning off our seats as we went to sit down

[Skippord]

I also sat in the front row yesterday

met Huston Street too

[RoXer]

No you didn't shut up

[Skippord]

you shut up

[Skippord]

JERK!

[RoXer]

No you

[Droford]

Ive watched 2 Os games on TV vs the Yankees and Red Sox (tonight). Total Combined score of both games Os 1, Yankees and Red Sox 1

Two fucking tie games (asuming this game now which is in the 9th ends tied at 1)..wtf

The B-Team was tonight though the regulars scored 11 earlier in a win.

EDIT: Spoke too soon, Sox are gonna win 2-1..ugh

[Skippord]

you first

[RoXer]

Make me

[Droford]

Red Sox win on a walk off hit by pitch

[Skippord]

why don't you come over here and say that?

[RoXer]

Meet me somewhere

[Skippord]

how about the Four Corners?

[Damian Rey]

Watched a replay of the Indians/Padres game last night. Padres lefty Corey Luebke, who was the org's top pitching prospect heading into 2010, got the nod and went a very good 4.1 innings. He looked sharp, keeping the ball down and the hitters off balance. My only gripe with him is that, though it's down at the knees, he missed his spot quite a few times when the catcher set up outside against a lefty, and it cost him in one at bat as a ball that was down the pike and at the knees was called ball four because the location was so far from where the catcher had set up.

Also, Anthony Rizzo, the first baseman included in the Gonzo to the BoSox deal, got the start at first and hit a booming homerun about 390ft. into the left center (opposite field) of off Carlos Carrasco. Even though its just spring training, I love what I'm seeing from this kid Rizzo. MLB Network had his ETA at 2012. I'm hoping so cause this kid looks like he's going to be star with the bat.

[Aguakate]

Wow, Zack Greinke will most likely begin the season on the DL after breaking one rib and bruising another while playing BASKETBALL. He'll miss 3 starts.

Ouch, Brewers.

http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/Milwaukee-Brewers-ace-Zack-Greinke-breaks-rib-playing-basketball-and-will-miss-first-3-starts-030811

[Damian Rey]

Wow, Zack Greinke will most likely begin the season on the DL after breaking one rib and bruising another while playing BASKETBALL. He'll miss 3 starts.

Ouch, Brewers.

http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/Milwaukee-Brewers-ace-Zack-Greinke-breaks-rib-playing-basketball-and-will-miss-first-3-starts-030811

Yea, I read that yesterday. What a bummer. Good thing is they still have Gallardo and Marcum, who are very capable. 3 starts is not bad, so it's not like they have to scrape together a 5th guy for three months waiting on Grienke.

[Vox Populi]

The Brewers' schedule sets up where they'd planned on using a 4 man rotation for the first 3 or 4 turns anyhow. Essentially, all this changes is the 4 men that they'll be using.

[Hardkore Kidd J]

Watched a replay of the Indians/Padres game last night. Padres lefty Corey Luebke, who was the org's top pitching prospect heading into 2010, got the nod and went a very good 4.1 innings. He looked sharp, keeping the ball down and the hitters off balance. My only gripe with him is that, though it's down at the knees, he missed his spot quite a few times when the catcher set up outside against a lefty, and it cost him in one at bat as a ball that was down the pike and at the knees was called ball four because the location was so far from where the catcher had set up.

Also, Anthony Rizzo, the first baseman included in the Gonzo to the BoSox deal, got the start at first and hit a booming homerun about 390ft. into the left center (opposite field) of off Carlos Carrasco. Even though its just spring training, I love what I'm seeing from this kid Rizzo. MLB Network had his ETA at 2012. I'm hoping so cause this kid looks like he's going to be star with the bat.

Yeah, I was watching him on MLB TV. This kid does look to be a star with the bat it seems. I can see why the Pads wanted him.

[RoXer]

But can you see why the Yankees didn't sign him?

[Damian Rey]

Was Rizzo passed up by the Yankees or something?

And it's starting to look a little clearer that San Diego didn't get fleeced in the Gonzo deal. Sure, niether Kelly nor Rizzo will see time till maybe mid 2012, but both are projecting to be high production, all star caliber players. Getting a middle of the order threat and an top of the rotation ace for one guy is a pretty good haul.

[Hardkore Kidd J]

But can you see why the Yankees didn't sign him?

Huh? What do you mean? I never realized that Rizzo ever had a chance to be in the Yankees minor Leagues. Do you remember any chance who the Yankees went after instead? Cause I have no idea. I have never even heard of this Richard Weems we went after instead. I'm just glad we went after Montero. He has some really great batting ability himself.

[Droford]

<object style="height: 390px; width: 640px">


<embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/HW053_oHP3I?version=3" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" width="640" height="390"></object>



http://img.pikchur.com/pic_ADe7_l.jpg?lm

Keith Olbermann taking pics of Vlad before an Os/Pirates ST game. I feel dirty now..eww..why the hell was he there?

[Emperor Smeat]

Red Sox put a bunch of players on potential trade block for future deals.

Red Sox are are only willing to give up either Cameron or McDonald and not both due to needing some experience for OF depth.

Wakefield could be dealt for a younger pitcher (developing or starting quality) but he wants to retire as a Red Sox. Dice-K would need to drop his no-trade clause for any deal while the Red Sox would have to eat most of his contract in any deal done.

Marco Scutaro is also on the list due to the Red Sox finding more long term value in Jed Lowrie and Jose Iglesias.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

"a Red Sox"

I can't deal with that. Just goes against everything I've ever learned.

[Damian Rey]

Marco Scutaro is also on the list due to the Red Sox finding more long term value in Jed Lowrie and Jose Iglesias.

When reports that the fourth player in the Gonzalez deal stated that the Padres would be getting a MLB level player as the PTBNL, I was praying that Lowrie was the guy.

Solid defense, and a really good stick. His only issue has been staying healthy, but if you look him up on baseball-reference.com, and see what his career numbers average out to over 162 games, you'd see that, offensively, he's be an above average shortstop.

http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/l/lowrije01.shtml

If he stayed healthy and punched 40 doubles at Petco Park year in and year, he'd be insanely valuable. Alas, we got stuck with Eric Patterson, instead :(

[Vox Populi]

Red Sox put a bunch of players on potential trade block for future deals.

Red Sox are are only willing to give up either Cameron or McDonald and not both due to needing some experience for OF depth.

Wakefield could be dealt for a younger pitcher (developing or starting quality) but he wants to retire as a Red Sox. Dice-K would need to drop his no-trade clause for any deal while the Red Sox would have to eat most of his contract in any deal done.

Marco Scutaro is also on the list due to the Red Sox finding more long term value in Jed Lowrie and Jose Iglesias.

Gordon Edes is the source here, and he's not exactly a beacon of reliable information in the first place, never mind the fact that some of the names he's tossed out there have zero trade value.

[Aguakate]

<object style="height: 390px; width: 640px">


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http://img.pikchur.com/pic_ADe7_l.jpg?lm

Keith Olbermann taking pics of Vlad before an Os/Pirates ST game. I feel dirty now..eww..why the hell was he there?


It IS kinda weird to see Keith Olbermann at an Orioles batting practice, just taking pics of Vladimir Guerrero...

...it's an odd pairing, to say the least...

[Skippord]

who is trading for Tim Wakefield at this point?