MLB 2011 Season Thread

[Emperor Smeat]

And apparently Lester, Beckett, and Lackey all love the fried chicken. And video games. And beers. During games.

At least now there is an actual explanation to how Beckett gets soo dam fat during the season, especially when he first shows up during Spring Training.

Usually every other year he shows up with a gut larger than last time and either has it all season (struggles that year) or by June its gone (good year).

[Triple Naitch]

Not as dumb as the contracts that pay 40 year olds $25 million. They'll easily make that money back on tickets and merchandising if they sign a Pujols and the player will still be young enough to sign another huge deal.

[ClockShot]

The Astros sale should be done around mid-november and ultimately, the team will move to the AL and play in the west division.


And apparently Lester, Beckett, and Lackey all love the fried chicken. And video games. And beers. During games.

You also forgot Francona is a bit of a pill popper.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

I might not be paying close attention, but Buck and McCarver haven't been terrible during this series so far. Couple of cringe worthy moments but not too bad.

[Loose Cannon]

every time Mcarver mentions Bob Gibson, take a drink :love:

[Aguakate]

Nelson Cruz is outta his MIND!

[Emperor Smeat]

Texas has good hitting but didn't expect them to be this great against the Tigers pitching. 2nd game this series where they hit a bomb in extras to win the game.

[Aguakate]

I might not be paying close attention, but Buck and McCarver haven't been terrible during this series so far. Couple of cringe worthy moments but not too bad.

Maybe it's because the TBS guys are so bad.

[DaveWadding]

BOOMSTICK

[screech]

Texas has good hitting but didn't expect them to be this great against the Tigers pitching. 2nd game this series where they hit a bomb in extras to win the game.

Thought the same thing. Picked the Tigers on my show so I'm kinda hoping for a mammoth comeback, but I'd be happy with Texas winning.

[Aguakate]

I'm pulling for the Rangers, but I fully expect Detroit to win tomorrow. You'd think Verlander is going to go out there and pitch the game of his life.

However, if Texas beats Verlander tomorrow again, then I think it's safe to say they will win the World Series.

[RP]

Sticking with my original pick, Brewers vs Texas, but I rather see Brewers vs Verlanders

[Evil Vito]

Leyland is literally putting the entire season on Verlander. Valverde and Benoit are not available today.

[MVP]

Ben Cherington, VP of Player Personnel, named the new Red Sox GM.

[Innovator]

legend and I were talking about how players don't show any emotion in baseball, which makes Njer Morgan the most vilified player. What if players showed emotion?

What if a batter made the motion for the crowd to get loud when the bases were loaded?

What if someone hit a home run and took out a flipcam and recorded it?

What if a pitcher did the Hogan posedown after a key strikeout?

[Innovator]

OKGO

[Emperor Smeat]

Ben Cherington, VP of Player Personnel, named the new Red Sox GM.

Good move considering he's been working with Theo ever since Theo joined in 2002 and originally was meant to replace him when Theo "quit" in 2005.


Tigers are going to struggle a lot today in making Verlander have to carry the team once Leyland said no setup man or closer would be available. Its bad enough that Verlander has struggled a bit in comparison to the regular season and hasn't been as great although the rain delays messed up his pitch schedule the most.

[Aguakate]

Leyland is literally putting the entire season on Verlander. Valverde and Benoit are not available today.

Rangers lead 1-0 in the 3rd.

[Aguakate]

DAMMIT.

F'N Tigers. Just delaying the inevitable (the Rangers advancing to the World Series).

[ClockShot]

Rangers are ready to give CC Sabathia a boatload of money if he opts out of his deal.

Oh, and Lance Berkman and Jacoby Ellsbury are your Comback Players of the Year.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Wow. Coke is being hung out to dry here.

-edit-

He got out of it. Hella tense.</font>

[OssMan]

here roxer

http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/ps/y2011/gigapan.jsp

find yourself and cancerfriend and post it

[RP]

The city of Boston should be embarrassed. Smear the names of the two people who brought you two titles in seven years? Wow. I would be outraged at the Boston owners and media if I were a Red Sox fan. They should build statues for Francona and Epstein right now.

[RoXer]

I was at game 4

[RP]

Also, I realize Theo is not to big on giving long contracts to guys over 30, but Puljos is unstoppable right now and his post season numbers are some of the best in the history of the game.

[RoXer]

damn, found a pretty good doppleganger though

also found the same old dude who was sitting next to me. guess he had tix to both games

[Emperor Smeat]

Looks like there could be some issues with the Cubs attempt at getting Theo Epstien.

The club is having a problem creating a list of potential low level prospects that would be any good or even be taken by the Red Sox in the deal. The main problem is creating the actual list because nobody in Cubs management has agreed to which prospects are possible while locking away too many right now.

Theo is also still in Boston working with the GM to find a new manager and is still negotiating to bring some staff with him to Chicago. Its assumed he will get 2 low to mid-level staff members like previous GMs and managers were allowed when they left.

[Aguakate]

I'd think Theo would rather go after Prince, than Pujols.

In reality, I really DO wonder if Theo would go after both CC and Fielder, and if he could actually sign them both. The Cubs would have to pay a lot extra for all the fabric that will go into making their uniforms, but...it'd be worth it.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

glad the good guys won today

[Supreme Olajuwon]

don't dislike the Rangers tho

they're the good guys too

[Supreme Olajuwon]

although getting tired of cities winning multiple championships in the same year

[Supreme Olajuwon]

well I guess that hasn't happened in a few years either

so yeah Rangers are fine I guess

[RP]

Looks like there could be some issues with the Cubs attempt at getting Theo Epstien.

The club is having a problem creating a list of potential low level prospects that would be any good or even be taken by the Red Sox in the deal. The main problem is creating the actual list because nobody in Cubs management has agreed to which prospects are possible while locking away too many right now.

Theo is also still in Boston working with the GM to find a new manager and is still negotiating to bring some staff with him to Chicago. Its assumed he will get 2 low to mid-level staff members like previous GMs and managers were allowed when they left.

I crack up at Sox fans who think they will sniff any of the Cubs to 20 prospects. I read somewhere that someone was thinking they should get Cashner or McNutt. Laugh.

[Hardkore Kidd J]

I'd think Theo would rather go after Prince, than Pujols.

In reality, I really DO wonder if Theo would go after both CC and Fielder, and if he could actually sign them both. The Cubs would have to pay a lot extra for all the fabric that will go into making their uniforms, but...it'd be worth it.

You don't realize how scared this post made me. If CC goes to the Cubs that's not as bad as what I was thinking about Fielder and CC going to the Sox. Okay, we all know that the Yankees aren't gonna let CC get away without a Plan B. So, I say they go hard after CJ Wilson, and make a trade. I know that I don't wanna empty out our farm system but if CC goes we might need to. Hughes can not be trusted. And neither can Burnett.

And Nova........ well don't get me wrong I really do love the guy, but it was his first year. You remember another rookie that had a really good year by the name of Joba Chamberlain? Now , I am not saying that Nova is gonna end up like that. God, I hope not.

It's simple we're gonna need a number 1 and if CC goes I am afraid we are gonna need to empty our farm to get him. Or they could just take their chances with CJ Wilson being their number 1 if CC leaves.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>LOL Cubs if the Theo deal falls apart over a prospect list.</font>

[RP]

Would be such a Cub thing to do.

[Aguakate]

You don't realize how scared this post made me. If CC goes to the Cubs that's not as bad as what I was thinking about Fielder and CC going to the Sox.

It COULD happen, I mean, if Theo Epstein finally does go to the Cubs, he's going to want to make an impact fast, make a "splash", because of the pressure and expectations.

[ClockShot]

well I guess that hasn't happened in a few years either

so yeah Rangers are fine I guess

Psst. You forgot the Mavs won the NBA title this year.

[OssMan]

why don't they have the tagorama for game 4

[OssMan]

big vito what colour do you post in? darkgoldenrod?

[Hardkore Kidd J]

It COULD happen, I mean, if Theo Epstein finally does go to the Cubs, he's going to want to make an impact fast, make a "splash", because of the pressure and expectations.

I know I think you got confused. What scared me was the fact that CC and Fielder could go to the Red Sox. I mean if the Cubs get CC and Fielder good for them. We would survive especially since they aren't in the same league. It's much scarier if CC and Fielder went to the Sox. Now if CC went to the Cubs it's easier for us we'll find a replacement somehow if CC goes to the Cubs.

[OssMan]

look at albert pujols

[OssMan]

look at yuniesky betancourt

[OssMan]

look at carlos gomez

[Aguakate]

Look at Dotel!

...and his socks. It's...beautiful.

[RoXer]

<iframe width="640" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/6eMS_zrTliI" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[Testicle]

:'(

[Aguakate]

Well, the Rangers are going to the World Series!

[Aguakate]

LOL is Nelson Cruz for real?!

[Emperor Smeat]

Rangers hammered the Tigers badly. They better hope those bats don't suddenly become cold like last year where they looked strong against the Yankees and then disappeared during the World Series.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Really hope the Brewers can pull it out in the NL. Feel like Rangers/Brewers would be the far better series, even though the Cardinals are shit hot at the moment.</font>

[DaveWadding]

Go Rangers.

Hate both of these NL teams (but the Brewers slightly less.)

[Aguakate]

I'm pulling for the Rangers to win. They've been my favorite AL team since back in the day when Juan "Igor" Gonzalez was their right fielder and was hitting Homers.

[parkmania]

http://www.sportslogos.net/blog/2011/09/22/jays-marlins-2012-logos-leaked/

Supposedly these are new logos for the Blue Jays and Marlins next year:

http://www.sportslogos.net/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Jays2012-cap-450x361.gif

http://www.sportslogos.net/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Marlins2012-cap.gif

[Triple Naitch]

http://www.sportslogos.net/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Jays2012-cap-450x361.gif
Nice. Love the old Blue Jays jerseys.


http://www.sportslogos.net/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Marlins2012-cap.gif
Ewww

[Aguakate]

Wow, the Brewers are falling apart...they are cracking under the pressure of being in an elimination game.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Brewers blowing it. This will be their last chance at a title for a while with Braun being the only big threat in their lineup.</font>

[screech]

Hate that Marlins logo a lot.

[ClockShot]

Blue Jays going back to the old logo is nice. Looks like the Mariners hacked into the Marlins secret files and stole that thing altogether.

Edit: Christ what the fuck was I reading?

[Aguakate]

I'm curious to see the Miami Marlins' new uniforms...if they use those same colors, they may be nice...very "Miami-ish".

[Aguakate]

Whichever one of these 2 NL teams make it to the World Series, will get raped by the Rangers.

They don't match up well to Texas at all.

[Emperor Smeat]

Blue Jays logo looks nice but WTF at that Marlins one. It would have made more sense if they were still at the Miami Dolphins stadium since those are also the dolphins colors.


<font color=goldenrod>Brewers blowing it. This will be their last chance at a title for a while with Braun being the only big threat in their lineup.</font>

St. Louis has the same problem if Pujols goes but at least they have good pitching to stay dominate in the division for a few more years.

[ClockShot]

Whichever one of these 2 NL teams make it to the World Series, will get raped by the Rangers.

They don't match up well to Texas at all.

Tell that to the Giants.

[Aguakate]

Tell that to the Giants.

Are you watching this game?

Have you watched the series, where only Carpenter has pitched past the 4th inning?

Neither team has the pitching the Giants had last year.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Cardinals are channeling 2006. Beating the heavily favored team in the NLCS (fucking Wainwright and Molina :() and now going into the World Series where they won't be favored.</font>

[RP]

Cardinals are an incredible story this year.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

gay ass cardinals
gay ass carpenter
gay ass la russa

[Supreme Olajuwon]

oh dave duncan is a homosexual too

[Aguakate]

Cardinals are an incredible story this year.

Definitely, I'm almost pulling for them over the Rangers, even though I'd also like to see the Rangers win.

The Cardinals lost Adam Wainwright for the year...lost Matt Holliday for some time due to injury...lost Albert Pujols for some games due to injury...even Tony LaRussa was out for a couple games...

...they were 10 games out at the end of August...8 1/2 games in September...

...with 5 games left, they were 3 games out...it wasn't until the last game of the season that they made the playoffs...

...that's a heck of a story. I wouldn't bet against them.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

what kind of shitty ass Cubs fan are you, you shitty ass

[Aguakate]

what kind of shitty ass Cubs fan are you, you shitty ass

LOL ok, so I'm supposed to go like "I want the Rangers to win because I hate the Cardinals!"

...what are you, 12?

Oh, I get it! I'm supposed to go on a rant where I say that Tony LaRussa, Chris Carpenter, Dave Duncan...heck, the whole Cardinals team, are gay, right?

:nono:

[Droford]

Rangers in 5.

I cant see the Cardinals pitching holding up vs the Rangers bats and them getting the same amount of offense they got vs the Brewers.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

LOL ok, so I'm supposed to go like "I want the Rangers to win because I hate the Cardinals!"

...what are you, 12?

Oh, I get it! I'm supposed to go on a rant where I say that Tony LaRussa, Chris Carpenter, Dave Duncan...heck, the whole Cardinals team, are gay, right?

:nono:

Umm, yes, obviously?

[Aguakate]

Rangers in 5.

I cant see the Cardinals pitching holding up vs the Rangers bats and them getting the same amount of offense they got vs the Brewers.

I don't see the Cardinals' pitching holding up against the Rangers, but...who knows? I didn't see the Cards beating Philly either.

[Aguakate]

Umm, yes, obviously?

Why don't you make a "Better Manager" poll, pitting Tony LaRussa vs Ron Washington?

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Nice one. I'm glad you've spent your time learning awesome burns instead of being a real Cubs fan.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Seriously, how can you possibly consider yourself a fan of team and then openly root for their arch rivals?

[Aguakate]

Seriously, how can you possibly consider yourself a fan of team and then openly root for their arch rivals?

"Arch" rivals. Get it?

St Louis? "Arch"?

Thank you.

[SammyG]

lol, I kinda chuckled for some reason. lol @ me saying chuckled, what the fuck. Anyway, since my Rams are shitting on the city of St.Louis, kinda hope the Cards win it.

[Aguakate]

In honor of Prince's final game as a Brewer:

<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/RcvaYgWc9eY" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[screech]

Seriously, how can you possibly consider yourself a fan of team and then openly root for their arch rivals?

Gotta agree with this. Your Cubs fan card should be revoked. Seeing the Cardinals in the World Series should make you sick.

[screech]

so I'm supposed to go like "I want the Rangers to win because I hate the Cardinals!"



That should be your exact reaction.

[Aguakate]

That should be your exact reaction.

That's ignorant.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

No, that's being a real fan.

[Aguakate]

No, that's being a real fan.


...Fan...short for "Fanatic"...yeah, I guess.

I prefer to think of myself as a "supporter".

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Right, you're not a real Cubs fan. We already established that.

[parkmania]

As a fan, I'd rather the team that beat me in (or kept me out of) the playoffs do well, because at least then I can say "we could have won it all if we'd have been able to get past X."

[Aguakate]

Can't you people just enjoy the games themselves without all this "my favorite team" BS?

The Cubs aren't in the playoffs, so I just enjoy the teams that ARE, and the stories that develop...it's not that hard.

What am I going to do, spend all postseason sulking because the Cubs aren't in the playoffs and hate on any team that is in the same division with them?

[Triple Naitch]

It's like watching your high school crush go to prom with your arch nemesis, but you hope they have a really great time together because they make a cute couple.

[screech]

No one is saying you should sulk. But you shouldn't openly root for your division rival. That's ridiculous.

[Triple Naitch]

A Molina has made the World Series in 6 of the last 10 years.

[screech]

Name that Molina!

[Tb1]

That's ignorant.

Not really, that's sports. Seeing the Dodgers in the World Series would send me into a deep joyless terry funk for weeks

[Innovator]

Yeah, when the Yankees get eliminated I don't start rooting for the Red Sox.

[screech]

That's ignorant.

Don't get how not rooting for your rival is ignorant.

[Innovator]

Not really, that's sports. Seeing the Dodgers in the World Series would send me into a deep joyless terry funk for weeks

Hearing "Fly Eagles Fly" makes me want to superkick infants.

[ClockShot]

The McCourts FINALLY reach a divorce settlement. Jamie McCourt gets $130 mil. and relinquishes all claim of ownership to the Dodgers.

Pretty nice payday.

[Emperor Smeat]

Update to the Theo trade discussions as the Red Sox were willing to allow Theo to bring staff members from his "inner circle" or high valued members of the organization if the Cubs were willing to give up just Matt Garza and the Cubs could keep all their prospects in a recent deal.

Cubs said no and now are under the clock of 7 days to get a deal done and get Theo signed or else the deal is off and either wait a year or try again. MLB might grant an extension though due to them not wanting any signings and news to take away from the World Series being the major focus.

http://espn.go.com/chicago/mlb/story/_/id/7116210/boston-red-sox-initially-wanted-matt-garza-chicago-cubs-theo-epstein


As of now, the deal doesn't look like it could happen due to nobody on the lists of prospects the Cubs have would be worth letting Theo leave with any mid or high ranking staff members by the Red Sox.

[Aguakate]

If this doesn't happen...

[OssMan]

<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/CnplXTygza8" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[DaveWadding]

I would rather have hydrochloric acid poured in my eyes than watch the Cardinals win a World Series.

[RP]

Fuck him. Id rather have Friedman from Tampa Bay. Sox are drunk if they think the Cubs are giving thee ace lol.

[RP]

I would walk away from this deal if I were the Cubs. Let the Sox have a lame duck gm for another year. Either wait for him next year or go after Freidman. Seriously, if the Red Sox think they have enough leverage to ask for Garza, then fuck them. I'd float that you're walking from the deal, in the media first. And then let the Sox take the heat.

[Innovator]

Someone wrote an article for ESPNNewYork saying the Yankees should look at Pujols, Wilson, and Yadier Molina. Cmon. We're set at 2/3 spots.

[Emperor Smeat]

Didn't the Yankees have a Molina before? I think it was even the best one out of the 3 brothers.

[Triple Naitch]

Jose?

[Innovator]

Yup, Jose Molina. He was awesome.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Jose was definitely the worst Molina.

[RP]

Yadier might be the best

[RP]

The other two Molinas have 2 rings apiece. Did not know that.

Molina's >Mannings

[RP]

I think this will be a great series. Hope Rangers win. Fuck the Cards.

Stay safe Albert.

[Aguakate]

Yeah, I hope the Rangers win, because, you know, I'm a Cubs fan, so, FUCK THE CARDS!

...you know. :shifty:

[RP]

That was a pro hit by Matt Holiday.

[ClockShot]

Assorted news & notes:

Yankees are going to decline Damasso Marte's option. Smart move.

Angels are going to interview Kim Ng for their GM opening. They're also interested in Thad Levine, Damon Oppenheimer, Jerry DiPoto, and Billy Eppler. O's have interviewed some of those names for their opening as well.

[RP]

Did mccarver just say " it's a five letter word, s t r I k e " ?

[ddpBANG]

McCarver is a moron

[screech]

Yeah, I hope the Rangers win, because, you know, I'm a Cubs fan, so, FUCK THE CARDS!



Now you're getting it!

[Aguakate]

Now you're getting it!

I don't know what took me so long.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Probably because you're not a real Cubs fan.

[Aguakate]

LOL Supreme, Supreme...

[screech]

He raises a valid point.

[Hardkore Kidd J]

Someone wrote an article for ESPNNewYork saying the Yankees should look at Pujols, Wilson, and Yadier Molina. Cmon. We're set at 2/3 spots.

I can actually see us going after Pujols and Wilson at least. I mean who is our DH gonna be? A-rod? I truly believe he still has it in him to play Third and if he didn't play Third who will? I could actually see a Platoon DH with Montero/Pujols.

And Wilson, we all know we need pitching especially if CC is gone. I wouldn't really write off not getting Albert. We all know that Cash is probably thinking that too. But, he's keeping Mum. Remember this is the same team who before signing Tex said that Nick Swisher would be their first baseman. I believe he also said Sheffield would be their center fielder before signing Damon.

So after all that I wouldn't really say there is no chance we are going after Pujols. I would say going after Wilson might be more likely then going after Pujols but I wouldn't be too surprised if they signed both.

[RP]

Don't know about Wilson tbh

[Innovator]

Don't know about Wilson tbh
He'd be a great 2/3 starter, but the Yankees will surely overpay for him. Maybe his straight edgeness can rub off on Hughes.

[DaveWadding]

http://30fps.mocksession.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2011-October-19-22-55-0.jpg

[Innovator]

Buck: Tim there is a 4 letter word o-u-t.

[screech]

He'd be a great 2/3 starter, but the Yankees will surely overpay for him. Maybe his straight edgeness can rub off on Hughes.

Do you think the Yankees would be justified in overpaying for him? I mean, he's good enough to be a number one elsewhere. Gotta wonder if that factors in his decision.

Though I suppose he'd take being 2 or 3 with the right offer.

[Innovator]

He's the best of the free agents, so he'll get Ace money probably.

[McLegend]

O Tim McCarver how I love you.

[Hardkore Kidd J]

He's the best of the free agents, so he'll get Ace money probably.

I have got a question. Do you think maybe we should trade for someone as well? I mean I am kinda worried about our rotation as is even Nova who had a AWESOME year. I don't think our success depends on one pitcher especially if it's CJ Wilson. I don't know who we can get but I think we need someone else if we get Wilson.

[RP]

You got two studs in the minors.

[Hardkore Kidd J]

You got two studs in the minors.

If you mean Banuelos and Betances. We're definitely gonna see Betances. But, we're not gonna see Man-Bam until maybe 2013. I think he's gonna be a late September call up.

[Triple Naitch]

Pujols will never platoon. Especially at DH.

[Aguakate]

WHOA! John Jay is CUBAN?

...'the heck?

[Emperor Smeat]

Huge win for the Rangers because it looked like before the 9th the bats were going to get cold at the worst time possible just like last year's WS (besides the 1st game last year being a slugfest).

[Dragon]

I can actually see us going after Pujols and Wilson at least. I mean who is our DH gonna be? A-rod? I truly believe he still has it in him to play Third and if he didn't play Third who will? I could actually see a Platoon DH with Montero/Pujols.

And Wilson, we all know we need pitching especially if CC is gone. I wouldn't really write off not getting Albert. We all know that Cash is probably thinking that too. But, he's keeping Mum. Remember this is the same team who before signing Tex said that Nick Swisher would be their first baseman. I believe he also said Sheffield would be their center fielder before signing Damon.

So after all that I wouldn't really say there is no chance we are going after Pujols. I would say going after Wilson might be more likely then going after Pujols but I wouldn't be too surprised if they signed both.

The DH is (or at least should) be Montero.A Pujols/Montero DH platoon would be the strangest move I've ever seen.

I really think there's zero chance they go after Pujols. Its a little different situation than the Teixiera move. The Yankees have a 1B that won't be moved and have a DH for next year in Montero. And not far down the line A-Rod is most likely gonna be the DH. Cashman didn't want A-Rod's big contract in the first place, I don't think hes gonna want another monster one with Pujols.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Hey guys what do you think about signing the best hitter since Ted Williams to the largest contract in the history of the sport and then giving half his at bats to a rookie catcher?

Everybody on board? Good. Let's do it!

[Hardkore Kidd J]

The DH is (or at least should) be Montero.A Pujols/Montero DH platoon would be the strangest move I've ever seen.

I really think there's zero chance they go after Pujols. Its a little different situation than the Teixiera move. The Yankees have a 1B that won't be moved and have a DH for next year in Montero. And not far down the line A-Rod is most likely gonna be the DH. Cashman didn't want A-Rod's big contract in the first place, I don't think hes gonna want another monster one with Pujols.


I really don't see Montero as a DH anyway. I mean every one is saying he can't catch. But, I still believe that Montero can be a catcher. I think the Yankees believe that too. I think he would have been traded by now. I have seen the way he's played as Catcher and he needs some work but he isn't a strict DH like some people think. He's a much better hitter then catcher but that doesn't mean he can't catch. They better do some work with Montero. Because I truthfully want Montero to be ready when A-rod is DH.

Montero doesn't deserve to sit on the bench if platooning with A-rod. I guess he could be DH in 2012. All I just hope is that he is Yankees Catcher when A-rod becomes the DH.

[Evil Vito]

I keep reading that the Rockies are going to be "aggressive" in trying to trade for David Wright this winter. I don't even know what that entails. Pomeranz? I doubt it. They traded their ace away for him.

Also, Wright is coming off the worst season of his career by far. Even when he was healthy this year he just didn't look like the same player. Not to mention that he always seems to fold in big spots and his strikeout rate gets more Ryan Howard-like every year.

If they don't re-sign Reyes (which they most likely won't) I would definitely move Wright if a very nice offer came in. He's an excellent player and I'd be sad to see him go, but he's more of a building block player than somebody you can build your entire team around. I don't think the Wilpons or Alderson would agree though, as it would officially be waving the white flag on 2012 before it even starts even though any realistic fan will tell you that they aren't going to be contenders anyway. Attendance would be even further in the shitter. I'm reading that the Rays made a very good offer to the Mets for Reyes at the deadline and the Mets said no. Draft picks are nice, but given how deep the Rays' system is it may have been a huge mistake. Don't want history to repeat itself with Wright just to sell a few more tickets.

[Skippord]

they would probably try to trade something like Alex White, Tim Wheeler, and Christian Friedrich basing those names on absolutely nothing BTW.

I personally don't think it makes sense for the Rockies with Nolan Arenado almost ready to come up

[Skippord]

love David Wright though, so whatever

[Dragon]

I really don't see Montero as a DH anyway. I mean every one is saying he can't catch. But, I still believe that Montero can be a catcher. I think the Yankees believe that too. I think he would have been traded by now. I have seen the way he's played as Catcher and he needs some work but he isn't a strict DH like some people think. He's a much better hitter then catcher but that doesn't mean he can't catch. They better do some work with Montero. Because I truthfully want Montero to be ready when A-rod is DH.

Montero doesn't deserve to sit on the bench if platooning with A-rod. I guess he could be DH in 2012. All I just hope is that he is Yankees Catcher when A-rod becomes the DH.

I think he can be a catcher too but I think they ease him into starting full time. I think next year they give him most of the time at DH and the rest of the time at catcher. Hopefully he could take over full time by 2013. And yeah, having seen him a couple games and seen him in the minors catch a couple times I don't think he's as terrible as people make him out to be behind the plate. He probably won't ever be amazing but he seems good enough to be a major league catcher. The Yankees did pretty well with a below average defensive catcher in Posada for the last 15 years, I'm sure they can do fine with Montero back there.

As for A-Rod, hopefully he has 2-3 more years playing 3B full time. Don't think he can play there that much longer after that. I'd be happy if he made it three more years at 3B and finished the last 3 years as DH.

[Hardkore Kidd J]

I think he can be a catcher too but I think they ease him into starting full time. I think next year they give him most of the time at DH and the rest of the time at catcher. Hopefully he could take over full time by 2013. And yeah, having seen him a couple games and seen him in the minors catch a couple times I don't think he's as terrible as people make him out to be behind the plate. He probably won't ever be amazing but he seems good enough to be a major league catcher. The Yankees did pretty well with a below average defensive catcher in Posada for the last 15 years, I'm sure they can do fine with Montero back there.

As for A-Rod, hopefully he has 2-3 more years playing 3B full time. Don't think he can play there that much longer after that. I'd be happy if he made it three more years at 3B and finished the last 3 years as DH.

Which brings me to my next question. 2-3 years is a while but what should be done about our 3rd base situation then? I am thinking we have about 3 options then

1. Free Agent!

2. Trade!

3. Nunez

Nunez spent a little bit of time at third last year for a short period of time while A-rod was on the DL. And he did pretty good at that role. I think by 2-3 years he could really be a good short stop or 3rd baseman. That is if we don't trade him for someone by that time.

[ClockShot]

Selig is thinking about sending in a mediator to get the Theo Epstien/Cubs/Red Sox deal/compensation talks over and done with.

I don't blame him. What the hell is the hold up? Throw some dollar figures and names in a hat, pick 2 or 3, and wham-o. Done deal.

[Innovator]

This way see to it someone holds a gun to the Cubs head and make them fork over Garza.

[Emperor Smeat]

Selig is thinking about sending in a mediator to get the Theo Epstien/Cubs/Red Sox deal/compensation talks over and done with.

I don't blame him. What the hell is the hold up? Throw some dollar figures and names in a hat, pick 2 or 3, and wham-o. Done deal.

It probably has to do with who exactly Theo wants to go with him to Chicago. Its supposedly from his "inner circle" and probably people who could impact the club enough that instead of needing years to rebuild just the farm, the whole team can be done within 1-2 years.

The fact the Red Sox tried to get Matt Garza means Theo made an offer to management for some really high-level staff members.

Supposedly the prospect lists the Cubs keep sending are either names of too low quality or just full of players Red Sox already have depth at those spots. One reason is due to the Cubs are split on exactly who to offer which is why some lists have certain players locked and others have those players available.

[RP]

The Red Sox will not get Garza.

[Emperor Smeat]

Looks like the CJ Wilson and his agent are looking for $100 million contract as the starting point to any offers and could even move the starting point higher depending on what C.C. does this offseason.

If CC stays, then Wilson becomes the de facto #1 pitcher in free agency while having less room to increase his demand offers, but if CC leaves then Wilson can increase his demands based on what CC gets for offers.

[Evil Vito]

they would probably try to trade something like Alex White, Tim Wheeler, and Christian Friedrich basing those names on absolutely nothing BTW.

I personally don't think it makes sense for the Rockies with Nolan Arenado almost ready to come up

<font color=goldenrod>From what I can tell, the Rockies would want to negotiate an extension with Wright. He's only signed through 2012 and while he does have a 2013 option, it gets automatically voided if he gets traded. Hypothetically, if the Rockies gave Wright a big extension it could make Arenado expendable. Maybe the Mets could let Murphy play there for a year before Arenado comes up.</font>

[ClockShot]

Looks like the CJ Wilson and his agent are looking for $100 million contract as the starting point to any offers and could even move the starting point higher depending on what C.C. does this offseason.

If CC stays, then Wilson becomes the de facto #1 pitcher in free agency while having less room to increase his demand offers, but if CC leaves then Wilson can increase his demands based on what CC gets for offers.

If CC opts out, the Yankees are gonna be flies on shit to get him locked back in. Wilson is ain't going to have much wiggle room for a big money contract. Oswalt sitting on a mutual option, me may get out of philly which could make things interesting.

However, Adam Wainwright is in an interesting position right now. Since he missed all of 2011, Cardinals have the right to void his last 2 option years and make him a free agent. The only way they kick in was if he finished in the top 5 in pitching back in 2010, or was in Cy Young voting in 2011. I don't know how he did in 2010, but it's something to keep an eye on.

[Triple Naitch]

Cardinals have already said they will pick up Wainwright's option unless something really bad happens health-wise.

[Aguakate]

We'll see tomorrow if last night's 9th inning loss will insipire the Cardinals, or if it will turn out to be demoralizing, and dealt them a blow that killed their confidence.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Thanks Tim.

[Skippord]

fucking Bob Costas over here

[RP]

Bob Sanders

[Aguakate]

It's official, the Cubs finally got Theo.

http://espn.go.com/mlb/story/_/id/7133082/theo-epstein-leaves-boston-red-sox-chicago-cubs



LOL at this though:

(From the article)

The Red Sox aimed high in asking for compensation for Epstein. A baseball source told ESPNBoston.com they initially asked for the Cubs shortstop, Starlin Castro.

Pfffft...fuck THAT, Boston.

[Hardkore Kidd J]

What do you think Cubs fans would have done if Castro was traded for Epstein?

[Innovator]

Glad to see Jed Hoyer's true colors are revealed.

[ClockShot]

Josh Byrnes is expected to take over as GM for San Diego. Unless the make some interviews.

[Aguakate]

Theo Epstein is putting together a power team in Chicago...should be interesting.

[Aguakate]

Tom Emanski has joined TPWW.

[OssMan]

ali shaheed muhammad got me doin calisthenics

[Emperor Smeat]

It's official, the Cubs finally got Theo.

http://espn.go.com/mlb/story/_/id/7133082/theo-epstein-leaves-boston-red-sox-chicago-cubs



LOL at this though:

(From the article)

The Red Sox aimed high in asking for compensation for Epstein. A baseball source told ESPNBoston.com they initially asked for the Cubs shortstop, Starlin Castro.

Pfffft...fuck THAT, Boston.

Pretty smart of Theo to go after the previous package of staff members who left to the Padres when he couldn't get any from the Red Sox. Of course it sucks for the Padres who can't get any compensation but now former people who worked with Theo are back with him in Chicago.

[DaveWadding]

Albert Fucking Pujols. Jesus Christ

[Aguakate]

Wow, only Babe Ruth and Reggie Jackson had done it before Pujols...and he becomes the first player EVER in the National League to do it.

CRAZY.

[Kris P Lettus]

Pujols

[DaveWadding]

Are we sure that Aguakate isn't just Tim McCarver in disguise?

[screech]

He does suck, so that's a step in the right direction.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Cardinals really just need to hand Pujols a blank check.</font>

[Aguakate]

Are we sure that Aguakate isn't just Tim McCarver in disguise?

It's not my fault I know what I'm talking about.

[screech]

<font color=goldenrod>Cardinals really just need to hand Pujols a blank check.</font>

Whatever team signs him is gonna go broke.

[Aguakate]

(This post is dedicated to DaveWadding and screech)


The Cardinals responded after their Game 2 9th inning meltdown, with a huge victory tonight in the Rangers' hometurf.

Now the spotlight turns over to the Rangers. Will this big loss have a lasting effect in their confidence? Or will they just forget about it and come out tomorrow ready to play and even up the series and avoid being down 3-1?

We will find out.

[RP]

Cards would look so foolish if they don't sign Puljos.

[Aguakate]

If they win the World Series, there's no way Pujols leaves.

Ditto for LaRussa.

[RP]

Napoli just destroyed that pitch lol

[screech]

I had Napoli on my team in The Show 11. He hit 54 HR. Couldn't believe it.

I know guys put up ridiculous stats in video games, but still.

[Triple Naitch]

When did McCarver's hair turn white?

[ClockShot]

Bud Selig gave the Cubs and Red Sox until November 1st to work out a compensation deal or he steps in and mediates.

[Emperor Smeat]

Joe Torre says because of the negative public reaction to the stories of the Red Sox drinking issues, MLB might issue a league-wide ban on beer in the dugout and clubhouse. Only 13 teams so far allow drinking in the clubhouse in the entire league.

http://espn.go.com/boston/mlb/story/_/id/7142018/joe-torre-mlb-look-boston-red-sox-drinking-beer-ban

[ClockShot]

Phillies decline the options of Roy Oswalt and Brad Lidge.

C.J. Wilson's big deal might not happen now.

[OssMan]

one of the great WS catches off all time is made by DAVID MURPHY

[RP]

Jesus! Moreland must of hit that ball with a bat, fashioned by Tim Tebow.

[RP]

Kaboom!

[RP]

Great world series so far.

[RP]

Moreland has to make that pick

[RP]

Totally see Beltre launching it again.

[RP]

Nm

[screech]

Mike muthafuckin Napoli

[RP]

This just in. Allen Craig is slow

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>How many times must they show Nolan Ryan during the broadcast?

I know that his prediction is now in a position to come true, but damn.</font>

[RP]

If the guy who traded Napoli has been fired already, he needs to be fired again.

[MVP]

Apparently the bullpen coach thought Tony La Russa said "Lynn" when he called for Jason Motte to warm up. You know, cause Motte and Lynn sound exactly alike.

[Evil Vito]

25 year anniversary of the Buckner game.

Oh how I wish I were alive for that. :(

[Aguakate]

...BOOM!

http://i55.tinypic.com/2aj7ypv.jpg

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>John Lackey to have Tommy John Surgery, out for the 2012 season.

At least I can take comfort in knowing that Lackey was a worse signing than Bay. At least Bay showed occasional flashes last year and they are altering the Citi Field dimensions which should help him hit a few more dingers.</font>

[Emperor Smeat]

Only good thing that came from the Lackey trade was how it weakened the Angels who used to give the Red Sox a lot of troubles outside the division. Since Lackey used to be the one who caused the most trouble pitching-wise it made sense to grab him to weaken the Angels.

It worked since the Angels haven't been to the playoffs once Lackey left and it opened the way for Texas to dominate the division. Unfortunately, Lackey stopped caring about being good once he got the fat contract.

[Triple Naitch]

Good news is Red Sox won't feel obligated to put Lackey out there every five days for a year.

[Damian Rey]

Even better news about Lackey is it will kill any and all rumors of him going to the Padres, which was surfacing for a while. Thank God.

And I have said it for a while, but the Angels' front office situation with Tony Reagins and managerial situation with Scioscia has been hurting them. Reagins did absolutely nothing after the Teixeira deal to improve the ball club over the long term. Trading away Napoli, who is a premiere offensive catcher, for what's left of Vernon Wells and his .218/.248/.412 slash line that cost $24 million this year was absolutely one of the worst trades ever. Add to that Reagins missed the boat on signing Crawford and Beltre in the same damn off season, and his firing should have happened long ago.

Scioscia irritates me for the sole purpose that he has his little favorites in players, and will play them regardless of talent level. Hank Conger, a kid who's supposed to be a pretty good catcher once he develops, is rotting while scubs like Jeff Mathis and Bobby Wilson get playing time behind the dish. What a fucking idiot. First he runs Napoli out of town, and now he's ruining the development of Conger by benching him behind two schlubs who have no business starting. Excellent work.

Back to the WS, it's been a fucking roller coaster thus far. But then again, the entire post season has been pretty stellar thus far. One of of the most dramatic, balanced post seasons in a long while. The Rays are really the only team to get smoked thus far. Every other team has seemed somehow stay in it up to getting eliminated.

[Evil Vito]

Game 6 postponed to tomorrow, opening up the possibility for Carpenter to go on 3 days rest if the series goes to 7.

[Gertner]

lol and the Red Sox trying to get Farrell from the Jays. What's more disappointing is my Jays not letting him leave.

[Triple Naitch]

Really want Farrell to manage the Sox. :(

Apparently, Cherington is going to go outside the box and Gammons thinks Dale Sveum may be a name. All I remember from him is that he is the worst 3rd base coach the Sox ever had. Maybe he'll be different as a manager.

But to be fair, Gammons hasn't gotten a prediction right in over ten years.

[Droford]

Brian Roberts is healthy for the first time in 6 forevers, lets just see how long that holds up. I've got odds on him hurt by the end of spring training at 2:1. Os should move JJ Hardy to 2B and bring up Manny Machado to play SS and stop messing around with Roberts who is now apparently more fragile than Mr Glass.

Also got 2 Fitted Os hats (sized 7 5/8) and a Orange Os BP Jersey off Amazon's 70% off sale. Together full price they would have been $150, got all 3 for $45. Only negative is the jersey isn't customized but Im ok with that with it since it only cost $24.

[ClockShot]

As expected, Theo Epstein's first order of business was to make San Diego GM Jed Hoyer and assistant GM Jason McLeod as his new flunkies. Hoyer will be GM and executive VP. McLeod will be Senior VP of Scouting and Player Development.

Josh Byrnes will be introduced as the new Padres GM.

Yankees are close to having a new offer for Sabathia before his opt out date.

[MVP]

Really want Farrell to manage the Sox. :(

Yeah me too. I never wanted him to leave in the first place.

[screech]

I guess I missed this part: What is Theo's position in Chicago?

[Gertner]

You can have Farrell. Can't fucking manage a pitching staff to save his life.

[Damian Rey]

As expected, Theo Epstein's first order of business was to make San Diego GM Jed Hoyer and assistant GM Jason McLeod as his new flunkies. Hoyer will be GM and executive VP. McLeod will be Senior VP of Scouting and Player Development.

Josh Byrnes will be introduced as the new Padres GM.

:'(

[Aguakate]

I guess I missed this part: What is Theo's position in Chicago?

President of Baseball Operations...

...or something like that.

[Emperor Smeat]

Dodgers file a civil complaint against the two men who attacked the Giants fan earlier in the year trying to shift blame just to them for why the attack took place and get rid of any blame from the owner or management for lack of security.

They want the jury and/or judge to toss the Dodgers out of the Stow family lawsuit because it listed the owner as part of the blame for the attacks taking place. They also hinted Stow should have some blame for being involved in the attack.

http://espn.go.com/los-angeles/mlb/story/_/id/7155602/los-angeles-dodgers-lawsuit-bryan-stow-shares-blame-beating

[Kris P Lettus]

Just flipped back to the game (after the new Beavis and Butthead) just in time to see the back to back HR's..

Knew that the Cards weak bullpin would catch up with them..

[Aguakate]

Cardinals are done.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>And Aguakate jinxes it.</font>

[Loose Cannon]

wow unbelievable

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Best World Series in years.</font>

[Loose Cannon]

had to be Hamilton. amazing

[Corndad]

This game has been crazy

[Skippord]

wish that would have happened in Texas, if only for The Natural music

[Skippord]

old man about town Darren Oliver in for the save opp

[Loose Cannon]

you've got to be kidding me

[Corndad]

Here we go again...

[Emperor Smeat]

Last couple of innings have been both crazy and amazing.

Easily the best game in this year's WS so far.

[Loose Cannon]

holy shit that bunt was close to disaster for the Cardinals and then for the Rangers

[Corndad]

WOW

[Loose Cannon]

wtf

[Supreme Olajuwon]

hmm I guess the prevent defense doesn't work in baseball either

[Skippord]

the Cardinals are a collective Tim Tebow right now

[Loose Cannon]

jesus christmas

[Corndad]

This has been incredible.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>God this game is incredible.</font>

[Tb1]

Absolutely tremendous game.

[Loose Cannon]

might as well go ahead and transition right into Game 7 right here since they won't top this one

[Loose Cannon]

uh oh mistake right here

[Tb1]

AHHHHHHH!

[Corndad]

Un believeable.

[Loose Cannon]

my god

[Loose Cannon]

that just kills Texas

[Skippord]

the Cardinals just kicked some ice

[Emperor Smeat]

Texas is really going to regret giving away the game should the Cards win tommorrow.

Texas already had their comeback moment earlier in the series when it looked like the Cards would have taken control of the series.

Best non-title clinching game in years for the WS.

[D Mac]

Awesome. Missouri teams rule minus Rams.

[screech]

That game was amazing. Can't wait for tomorrow night.

[D Mac]

<iframe width="640" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/UMjBohnO7uY" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[Wake Up Call]

Best ball game I think I've ever seen, not to mention, the best World Series in a very long time. I don't know if the Rangers can come back from such a heart breaker in such a short amount of time. Hoping for a great game tomorrow night.

[Team Sheep]

:eek: Incredible.

[Aguakate]

No wonder this World Series has beaten the NFL.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

The 2001 Series was so epic and awesome that I don't know how any WS will top it for me outside of the Reds winning, but this year's may be the second best in my lifetime.

[Kris P Lettus]

I fell asleep..

:(

[Kris P Lettus]

No wonder this World Series has beaten the NFL.

Not to downplay how good this series is, but the NFL games that have been up against it haven't been anything to write home about..

[Kris P Lettus]

...unless yr a Saints fan, of course..

[ClockShot]

Angels hire Jerry Dipoto as their new GM.

[Damian Rey]

The game last night was so good that even a casual fan like my girlfriend was incredibly into it. She flew out of her seat when Hamilton went yard, and did the same when Freese put the Rangers celebration...ON ICE :shifty:

What a great fucking series. Said it already, but this has been some of the best 6 weeks of baseball ever.