MLB Exhibition Games 2013 Thread

[Damian Rey]

Love the Jays aggressive approach.

Meanwhile, Porcello seems to be on the market, with the Padres being interested. I think he posted a ridiculous groundball rate of 50% or something. Goes to show what a shitty defense can/can't do for you. I've love to have Porcello in San Diego.

There's also reports that the Pads are aggressively pursuing Edwin Jackson. Like that idea as well.

[The Condor]

Porcello isn't bad, and seems like a good fit for Petco. I think the best part is the fact that he's still young (25-26 or so) and has a veterans mentallity at this point.

[Splaya]

Damian, what have you heard about the Tigers getting in return for Porcello? Gregerson? Bass?

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>The only variables being unanimously confirmed are Dickey and d'Arnaud, with the Jays demanding Dickey agree to a 2 year extension before the trade is finalized.

Gose has been rumored, some writers saying he is included and some saying he isn't.

Conjecture says the Mets may include Josh Thole as a throw-in, since he is familiar with Dickey's unique knuckleball.

Also it's being said that the Jays are expecting a "top Mets prospect" in return. But really, outside of Harvey and Wheeler they have no untouchables. I'd imagine that they'd consider taking Wilmer Flores or Aderlin Rodriguez, both of whom are 3B by trade and have nowhere to play with Wright officially locked in long-term.</font>

[Bad News Gertner]

This deal might be bigger than I thought. D'Arnaud is a heck of a propsect, but he's always hurt and hs defence isn't the greatest.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>What baffles me is that some writers are saying the Jays won't part with anything more than d'Arnaud in any scenario and yet they'd still want another prospect back from the Mets to "balance the deal".

So a proven Cy Young Award winner, 2 extra years on his deal, and a decent unproven prospect for a high-level but ultimately unproven prospect. It doesn't seem to make sense to me why the Mets would be the ones giving up more in the deal if Dickey agrees to the extra 2 years. Don't even say age...knuckleballers have a totally different age curve and the fact is the Mets are still getting an unproven prospect in return. d'Arnaud has been injured several times and is certainly a risk.

At this point I just want this to be finalized. I'm refreshing MetsBlog every 5 minutes seemingly.</font> :o

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>So apparently it's now:

Blue Jays get:
RHP R.A. Dickey
C Josh Thole
OF Lucas Duda

Mets get:
C Travis d'Arnaud
C John Buck
RHP Noah Syndergaard
RHP Aaron Sanchez</font>

[Damian Rey]

I completely see where the Jays are coming from. For one, the sample size of knuckleballers to study is miniscule. Secondly, they're (Jays) are in a position of leverage. They already have a good pitching staff. Yes, Dickey def makes them better, but they're not the Royals, who were in dire need. Jays are just trying to get the best deal possible. Hard to banger them.

Meanwhile, the Mets are in a tough spot; keep him, let him wall and collect a pick/hope to net a deal at the deadline, or extend him and hope to compete during his tenure. Decisions, decisions.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Duda might not be the 3rd player afterall...but numerous sites are confirming the other 4.

Christ that's a haul if true. Hope it gets finalized.</font>

[Damian Rey]

As for Porcello to the Padres, MLBTR suggested Gregerson as a potential piece since the Pads won't move prospects. That would an anal rape of a trade if the Padres pulled it off. I'd take a legit mid rotation starter at worse, who's in his mid 20s, over an okay bullpen guy.

[Damian Rey]

See, Vito? Nothing to worry about.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Now reporters are waffling on Sanchez being the 4th player involved. I had a feeling it might be too good to be true.

They need to stop speculating and only post facts. Shit's getting annoying. Syndergaard is definitely involved though.</font>

[Bad News Gertner]

Blue Jays get:
RHP R.A. Dickey
C Josh Thole
OF Lucas Duda

Mets get:
C Travis d'Arnaud
C John Buck
RHP Noah Syndergaard
RHP Aaron Sanchez



If that's the trade I'm gonna puke.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Taking a complete shot in the dark, which is all it takes to be a baseball writer anyway apparently...it'll probably end up being:

Dickey
Thole
Wilmer Flores

for

d'Arnaud
Buck
Syndergaard
somebody else...seriously I don't know the Jays system well enough but surely they aren't gonna give up Sanchez too.</font>

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Mike Adams goes to the Phillies on a 2 year deal with a vesting option.

Seemingly nothing has gone right for the Rangers this offseason. Good thing they'll still get to beat the shit out of the Mariners and Astros a lot.</font>

[Emperor Smeat]

Unless the Angels struggle again, Rangers probably not making the playoffs since I think the AL East is taking both WC spots or at least the White Sox take one.

Don't see the As pulling another shocker run and the Royals are probably a year away from being a legit Wild Card team.

[screech]

Big fan of Mike Adams. Love the signing.

[screech]

Also read that John Lannan signed with the Phillies. Not sure of the details.

[Damian Rey]

I don't think the Rangers should be counted out so soon. The exact same thing happened last year add they still made the post season.

Angels, offensively, are the superior team. But the Rangers are still a team with a good pitching staff, and still have Cruz, Kinsler, Beltre, Profar and have prospects Mike Olt and Leonys Martin as possible contributers. Not to mention, they could still make a trade.

I think the ChiSox are going to be pretty mediocre. I think they're still behind the Tigers, Rays, Angels, Rangers, and Yankees for a spot in the playoffs.

[Bad News Gertner]

<font color=goldenrod>Taking a complete shot in the dark, which is all it takes to be a baseball writer anyway apparently...it'll probably end up being:

Dickey
Thole
Wilmer Flores

for

d'Arnaud
Buck
Syndergaard
somebody else...seriously I don't know the Jays system well enough but surely they aren't gonna give up Sanchez too.</font>

It'd gut the Jays system. Nicolino who was dealt for Reyes, and those three are the jays top 4

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>I've also heard Moises Sierra or Rajai Davis floated around as possibly being the 4th guy given the Mets' need for outfielders. If it's Davis that'd give the Mets 2 fill ins (him and Buck) to help supplement the big league roster for 2013. Both are free agents after the year so they're just stopgaps. d'Arnaud will probably be kept in the minors for a few weeks to give him an extra year of team control and then assume the full-time catcher's job by May.

At this point anything in addition to d'Arnaud and Syndergaard is gravy. Still doesn't sound like it'll be completed tonight.

If it goes through the Jays will be my favorite AL team. They'd be like Mets North.</font>

[Nicky Fives]

Blue Jays get:
RHP R.A. Dickey
C Josh Thole
OF Lucas Duda

Mets get:
C Travis d'Arnaud
C John Buck
RHP Noah Syndergaard
RHP Aaron Sanchez



If that's the trade I'm gonna puke.


Same here..... Duda is terrible and I love the thought of having Buck back..... I do not mind giving up D'Arnaud, butthis trade is a step back from what AA has done by raping Miami.....one step at a time.....

[The Condor]

This will not cripple the Jays farm system, trades like this seldom do. A guy will come flying out of singleA when no one expects and become the hot thing. Happens to every team every year, they see a potential star in a young guy and start building him up. In the case of the Oaskland A's, that player will be traded within a season or two.

[ClockShot]

Blue Jays are set to aquire R.A. Dickey. But it all hinges on Dickey signing an extension.

There's a 72 hour negotiation window that ends Tuesday at 2 ET.

[Damian Rey]

Update on the Edwin Jackson/Padres rumor. MLBTR is reporting both sides are nearing a three year deal. I like it. Jackson's in his prime, its reliable, and is coming to a great park/division to pitch in.

[The Condor]

Damian, I have a question for you, being a Padres fan and all. 6 of the last 7 years the Padres have had a closer make the All-Star game. Albeit, two were Heath Bell and Trevor Hoffman, but I think Huston Street is pretty damn good. What are your thoughts on him?

[The Condor]

Do you think the stadium in SD has enhanced his performance, or is he good enough and it's just gravy?

[SlickyTrickyDamon]

He went from playing in the worst pitchers park to one of the best. I think that has alot to do with it.

[ClockShot]

Twins sign Mike Pelfrey. 1-year, $4 mil. + $1.5 mil. in incentives.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>I wondered if the Mets would consider bringing Pelf back once the Dickey trade goes through. No way they'd have offered him guaranteed money coming off of TJS though.</font>

[Damian Rey]

To Crazy Edgar, I definitely think Petco has helped lower Streets stats thus far. If you look at his career numbers compared to what he did this past season, there's a glaring difference in effectiveness.

Heath Bell benefitted big time. He's a fly ball pitcher with mediocre breaking pitched who works up in the zone. That's why he was shelled last year.

Hoffman got by partly sure to PETCO, and partly due to smoke and mirrors. A mid 80s fastball with a mid 70s changeup and the uncanny ability to paint corners and hitters to chase/swing off balance.

[Skippord]

Huston Street did pitch pretty great for the Rockies

when you adjust for inflation anyway

[The Condor]

The Dickey trade is finalized and I'm listening to people say that the Mets got a "great prospect package." I remember about 8-9 years ago when the Twins sent AJ Pierzynski to SF for a boatload of prospects such as Liriano, Boof Bonser and Joe Nathan and were praised for stealing from SF in an incredible trade. Since then SF has won 2 World Series and the Twins have not won a playoff series. These trades look good and sparkly but you can never guarantee prospects. However, with where the Mets franchise is it is probably the best option for them, but I just get peeved about the prospect rhetoric.

[RoXer]

What. AJ was with San Francisco for 1 season in '04 and had no part in either of the Giants' World Series titles. Actually, he may have been an analyst in the booth at the time.

Since we have the advantage of looking back on theirs careers, neither of them being over, if Liriano and Nathan produced as they did but with the Giants it would have only helped their pitching staff.

In hindsight it was a great trade. At the time it happened it was probably considered a great trade also.

[The Condor]

I wasn't referring to SF side of the trade, but the general load blowing about the Twins prospects that would get together with their upcoming guys like Mauer and Morneau. It didn't work for MN but was considered a great trade. The results don't back that opinion.

[The Condor]

Injuries, under-performance and bad judgment happen with prospects, and getting hopes up about them is not a good idea. That's the gist of my point.

[Evil Vito]

I'm going to miss R.A. He was just so fun to watch, and his 2012 season was simply incredible. I'll go out of my way to try to watch Jays games where he's pitching.

That being said, it was an offer the Mets couldn't refuse. Sandy was pretty adamant he wouldn't move Dickey for less than 2 top prospects - and that's exactly what he did. He stuck to his guns and it paid off. I expect d'Arnaud to be in the bigs at some point during the first half of 2013, and he could wind up anchoring the Mets behind the plate for the next decade.

Wheeler should be up in early 2013 as well to get his feet wet. Harvey, Niese, and Wheeler might be a fun rotation to watch in 2014 and beyond plus Syndergaard coming up within a couple years too. Perhaps the Mets can make an A's-esque run in 2013, but if not I still think their future looks bright in 2014.

[RoXer]

Joe Nathan is the Twins all time saves leader.

It didn't work out?

[RoXer]

Injuries, under-performance and bad judgment happen with prospects, and getting hopes up about them is not a good idea. That's the gist of my point.

Fair enough

[The Condor]

I agree with the Mets here, it was the best possible move for them. But they are still unproven guys and expectations should be moderated.

[RP]

great fucking trade for the Mets. Fuck a near 40 year old knuckle ball pitcher.

[weather vane]

JAYSSSSSS

[Bad News Gertner]

great fucking trade for the Mets. Fuck a near 40 year old knuckle ball pitcher.

Cubs in 2013

[Bad News Gertner]

Hopefully for the Mets D'Arnaud's knee holds up. Kinda scary when a young catcher has early knee problems. Syndergarrd is the good and I'm glad Sanchez is staying.

Not sure why Jays fans are fretting over D'Arnaud when your young catcher can hit 30 and it's not like D'Arnaud is known for his defence.

1. Dickey
2. Buherle
3. Johnson
4. Morrow
5. Romero

Crazy that the Jays ace from last year is there #5

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>The final trade:

Blue Jays:
RHP R.A. Dickey
C Josh Thole
C Mike Nickeas

Mets get:
C Travis D'Arnaud
C John Buck
RHP Noah Syndergaard
OF Wuilmer Becerra</font>

[Droford]

Jays are still going to finish at best 3rd in the al east

[screech]

Are the O's going to finish first, Drostrodamus?

[Hanso Amore]

The Dickey trade is finalized and I'm listening to people say that the Mets got a "great prospect package." I remember about 8-9 years ago when the Twins sent AJ Pierzynski to SF for a boatload of prospects such as Liriano, Boof Bonser and Joe Nathan and were praised for stealing from SF in an incredible trade. Since then SF has won 2 World Series and the Twins have not won a playoff series. These trades look good and sparkly but you can never guarantee prospects. However, with where the Mets franchise is it is probably the best option for them, but I just get peeved about the prospect rhetoric.

I'm pretty sure that was a great package considering ah wanna mid tier catcher at best

Nathan was an all star and liriano had a few aces seaaons despite injury. Jays can hope they get that good of production.

[Damian Rey]

The Twins also had the misfortune of playing the Yankees every postseason. The fact.iud those two players brought more success to them then the player they dealt did to his new team.

[Triple Naitch]

Still dunno how Pierzynski won SF two World Series championships.

[The Condor]

It wasnt about the SF side of the trade but about the Twins haul. SF lost all those guys and still managed to bring in 2 WS titles to the Twins 0 in the last 8 years. Perhaps it wasn't the proper point to bring up and compare but I was not alluding to AJ bringing successful for SF.

[Triple Naitch]

Remember when the Cardinals traded all of those prospects for Mark McGwire? Two World Series championships later for the Cards and the A's still haven't been to World Series.

[Bad News Gertner]

Jays are still going to finish at best 3rd in the al east

Enjoy that one good year you had because it's gonna be another 20 years before Baltimore sees .500 again

[Shisen Kopf]

Tigers are rumored to looking to trade Porcello to the Angels for Trumbo. I think that would be a good trade. Need another good bat, rather have a SS but whatever .Porcello is solid but the pitching rotation is too stacked to keep him.

[ClockShot]

Some missed MLB news and notes, since the Dickey trade stole the show yesterday.


Mets just keep on trading. They aquire Colin Cowgill from the A's for minor league infielder Jefry Marte.

Giants sign Santiago Castilla. 3-years, $15 mil. with a vesting option for a 4th.

A's sign Hiroyuki Nakajima. 2-years, $6.5 mil.

Lastings Milledge goes to Japan. Signs with the Yakult Swallows for 3-years, $4.4 mil.

Red Sox sign Stephen Drew. 1-year, $9.5 mil.

[Evil Vito]

Cowgill seems like be can be decent. Could see him platooning with Mike Baxter.

[weather vane]

Stephen Drew bleh

[Hanso Amore]

Lastings Milledge was supposed to be a cant miss prospect.

[Hanso Amore]

He has also been in Japan for th last year already so stop posting lies Clockshot!

[Emperor Smeat]

:wtf: really odd signing by the Red Sox.

They are really betting Drew has a big rebound from the past few years although his defense is better than Iglesias and Bogaerts mostly because he had years at the MLB level.

If he doesn't then its basically another wasted year at the SS position since that could have been used to let Iglesias get more used to MLB level hitting.

[ClockShot]

He has also been in Japan for th last year already so stop posting lies Clockshot!

I didn't know.

Now I DO know, and knowing is half the battle.

[Damian Rey]

I beg of Padres gm Eric Byrnes to trade for Porcello. His numbers are grossly misleading thanks to a lousy defense behind him.

[DaveWadding]

Josh Byrnes.

Both of them suck, so I see how you get them confused.

[Triple Naitch]

Eric crashed into a few too many walls for him to be responsible for the success of a multi-million dollar organization.

[Damian Rey]

That might be my worst botched post ever.

Eric Byrnes is probably my favorite former player analyst on MLB Network solely for the fact that he's open to not only accepting advanced metrics as a way to analyzing players, but actually uses those metrics himself to back his opinion. Most players are homers who only look at a very small list of numbers to determine production. Byrnes has give out of his way to better himself as an unbias analyst.

Speaking of homers, local Red Sox homer Kevin Millar started that the Jays are a third place team behind NYY and the Red Sox. Didn't bother to mention that the Rays might have one of the best staffs in all of baseball, and that, as of right now, on paper, are better than the Red Sox, and right up there with Toronto.

[screech]

The Phillies are reportedly interested in Vernon Wells.

I don't know how I feel about that.

[Damian Rey]

You should feel outraged and call for the overthrow of Ruben Amaro as GM. Why anyone would want Vernon Wells is beyond me. He hasn't been even passable in ages. I read Philly was looking into Cody Ross. That's a decent pickup.

[YOUR Hero]

The Phillies are reportedly interested in Vernon Wells.

I don't know how I feel about that.

considering he makes Josh Hamilton-like money, he must be good!

[Droford]

Are the O's going to finish first, Drostrodamus?

A 1-2 finish in some form with the Rays with the other getting a wild card.

Despite no major moves so far, the only question I have about the O's is who will end up plying 2nd since they traded Andino..but I'm confident having healthy reimold, markakis and hammel back after they all missed significant portions of the season will be a good thing;

[Triple Naitch]

O's haven't done enough to keep up.

[Nicky Fives]

O's haven't done enough to keep up.

Boston has tried, but will ultimately fail yet again..... I see a 2 horse race between the Jays & Yanks in the AL East.....

[Damian Rey]

The Os have questions in lf, 2b 1b/dh depending on where the put Davis, and a suspect starting rotation. Who's the lights out ace to get them out of bad streaks? I don't know if they'll be terrible, but thy are clearly behind the Rays, Jays and Yankees.

[screech]

I mean, I don't think really WANT to see Wells on the Phillies. But the need for a right-handed power bat on the team is clouding my judgment.

[screech]

Almost referred to him as Vernon Davis for some reason.

[RP]

I mean, I don't think really WANT to see Wells on the Phillies. But the need for a right-handed power bat on the team is clouding my judgment.

Ya. He's right handed still...

[Droford]

The Os have questions in lf, 2b 1b/dh depending on where the put Davis, and a suspect starting rotation. Who's the lights out ace to get them out of bad streaks? I don't know if they'll be terrible, but thy are clearly behind the Rays, Jays and Yankees.

Word on eutaw street is Davis wants to be everyday 1b. They will probably dh reimold who has 25-30 hr potential if he can stay healthy with mcclouth in lf

Alexi cassila will probably be the 2b..good defensively, poor bat..on par with what they had in Andino..

Rotation to me, no they don't have a #1. Hammel and Chen are solid 2/3 guys. I'm hoping they resign Joe Saunders, he was very solid down the stretch and in the playoffs. Miguel Gonzalez was a nice surprise hopefully he can duplicate 2012...and the 5th spot is anyone's guess but whoever gets it is just a placeholder til they call up Dylan Bundy

[Droford]

Markakis
Hardy
Jones
Davis
Reimold
Wieters
Mcclouth
Machado
Cassilla

Weird lineup..mcclouth led off the final 2 months with markakis hurt, but mrkakis was absolutely on fire when he got switched to lead off. Jones/Davis/Reimold in the middle will be awesome..Manny could hit higher than 8th but that's where he was last year.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Dylan Bundy is an incredible name

[Emperor Smeat]

Rangers currently going after Cody Ross as both added depth for the outfield and to help offset the loss of Hamilton's numbers.

Indians going all out to ensure Nick Swisher signs with them. Managed to get his college (OSU) to help out with the courting efforts with the special tours and meetings with top OSU sports people.

[Damian Rey]

You're not doing too well if Nate McClouth is in your starting lineup.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Angels get: LHP Jason Vargas

Mariners get: DH Kendrys Morales</font>

[Droford]

You're not doing too well if Nate McClouth is in your starting lineup.

Take his production in 55 games for the O's out to a full season and you get about 18 hrs 30 doubles, 30 steals and a .270 avg

[The Condor]

I like the Nate Dogg as much as anybody (his days in PBurgh were good) but I don't know about that production coming from him over a full season. We'll see though.

[SlickyTrickyDamon]

:wtf: really odd signing by the Red Sox.

They are really betting Drew has a big rebound from the past few years although his defense is better than Iglesias and Bogaerts mostly because he had years at the MLB level.

If he doesn't then its basically another wasted year at the SS position since that could have been used to let Iglesias get more used to MLB level hitting.

I think it's because they felt they haven't wasted enough money on the Drew Family yet.

Red Sox always get the shitty brother: Dom Dimaggio, Jeremy Giambi but we now have had both Drews!

[Damian Rey]

McClouth hasn't been even solid since 2008. You're essentially admitting to relying on a career .248 hitter to produce .30 points above his career numbers and hit more HR than he had since 2009. Stop being a homer and look at you're team objectively. They don't match up well wth the Yankees, Jays out Rays, all of which have better starting pitching just to start. They might be about even with Boston, and if Boston's veteran movement pays off, they might be better than the O's.

[screech]

Stop being a homer and look at your team objectively.

You're asking quite a bit of Droford, here.

[Hanso Amore]

<font color=goldenrod>Angels get: LHP Jason Vargas

Mariners get: DH Kendrys Morales</font>

Hottest young hitter in baseball

Blows out knee celebrating

Welcome to Seattle.

Tough fall for kendry

[Damian Rey]

He had a pretty solid comeback season last year. Seattle also might try and resign him if he duplicates the numbers. It's a good opportunity for him in a division he's done well in.. Really like this move for the M's in the short term.

In other news, looks like the Cubs might be front tuners for landing Edwin Jackson. If so, the to three in their 2013 rotation looks really solid; Garza, Samardjia (I'm sure that's spelled wrong), and Jackson. If Castro and Rizzo keep it going, they might be as good as the Pirates.

[RP]

4 years 52 million to Edwin Jackson? Theo get the fuck out. I've had enough of this shit.

[screech]

Go cubs go!

[YOUR Hero]

O's can hit.
McClouth is still a treat, getting him out from behind the plate (pretty sure he was catching at one point in his career) adds to his avg. in itself.

I don't think the O's will be the team they were last year, but they will most likely contend.

[Damian Rey]

Os can't get on base, which is why,.despite bring near the top of the league in hr, they were mediocre in runs scored. Solo hr don't do a whole lot of damage. I think they'll be ok, but they look like a fourth place team at best, atm.

And McClouth has always been an outfielder.

[Frank Drebin]

4 years 52 million to Edwin Jackson? Theo get the fuck out. I've had enough of this shit.

Not thrilled with it either, but I think Edwin is only 28 and everyone always used to rave about him. Not like there is a no trade clause in this deal.

If you are thinking of flipping some of the guys currently on your staff (Garza, Baker, I guess Feldman and Villanueva) you need other arms to take their place.

13 mill a year for a solid 200 inning starter is pretty decent.

RP, you havent liked any moves the Cubs have made this offseason it seems. What would you have them do?

[ClockShot]

Cubs got suckered, big time. Nationals got Jackson out of the bargain bin last season for a song and worked wonders for them.

Rangers sign A.J. Pierzynski to a 1-year deal.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

$13 million a year seems to be the going rate for slightly above average innings eaters nowadays. That's what the Reds gave Arroyo.

But 4 years seems like a lot.

[Frank Drebin]

I wouldnt say they got suckered. 13 mil a year for a 3rd or 4th starter in the prime of their career isnt that risky. He could improve and the deal would look like a steal, or pitch like he always has and its a deal that is neither good nor bad. All that matters is that he stays healthy and pitches 200 innings a year.

Its a surprising move (even after the failed attempt on Anibal Sanchez) because I just figured they were going to go the "suck balls for three years" route and stockpile high draft picks, TB Rays style.

[Frank Drebin]

$13 million a year seems to be the going rate for slightly above average innings eaters nowadays. That's what the Reds gave Arroyo.

But 4 years seems like a lot.

Correct on the innings eater type.

Since the deal is without a no trade clause, they can move him at any point. (Look at Mark Buehrle) No one is going to balk at his price tag at any point, especially if the Cubs kick in some cash.

If he is performing at a higher level than anticipated during any of these four years, the Cubs can flip him for more than they invested in him to begin with.

[Emperor Smeat]

Theo is pretty bad when it comes to money but its only noticeable when its a string of bad signings in a row and all of them end up as busts or wastes.

It took him about 4-5 years before all the bloated contracts started to hurt the Red Sox and had more bad than good players.

[Frank Drebin]

Im still trying to figure out Theo myself. I didnt think his contract issues got all that bad until his last year there.

Hes been hiring lots of lawyer types into his front office which I dont get it. Like, all have law backgrounds other than the on-field guys. Seems odd to me.

[Droford]

Blue jays are the new favorites to win the workd series bumping off the angels. I'd take the angels over the jays any day of the week just cause the angels get to play the astros and mariners 36 times.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

I'm willing to bet neither of those teams win the World Series. When was the last time a team that went nuts in the offseason won a title?

Gotta have chemistry to win a title.

[Emperor Smeat]

Yankees in 09?

Although that might have been more because of the amount spent than bringing in a ton of new guys.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Ya the 09 Yankees would work. Got CC and Tex and Swish and AJ. Other than that though it's it's been teams that have played together for a while.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

HEY, the Reds have been together for a while!

CHOO CHOOOOOO

WORLD SERIES TRAIN!!!!

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Been together for a while.
Been together awhile.

Dunno which is better.

[RoXer]

The Reds have never had AJ Pierzynski tho

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Carl Pavano could be in for a NY reunion - Mets have expressed interest in him along with Chris Young, Francisco Liriano, and Shaun Marcum...plus Chris Capuano and Aaron Harang of the Dodgers. Basically just looking for an extra starting pitcher to slot into the rotation until Zack Wheeler is ready for his call-up.

Injury history be damned, I like Marcum the most out of those options.</font>

[Bad News Gertner]

Huge Marcum fan. Wish he were still a Blue Jay.

[Hanso Amore]

Edwin Jackson is only 28?

Jesus it feels like he broke into the majors 13 years ago. I forgot how ping he was.

[Skippord]

he was pretty ping back then

[RP]

Not thrilled with it either, but I think Edwin is only 28 and everyone always used to rave about him. Not like there is a no trade clause in this deal.

If you are thinking of flipping some of the guys currently on your staff (Garza, Baker, I guess Feldman and Villanueva) you need other arms to take their place.

13 mill a year for a solid 200 inning starter is pretty decent.

RP, you havent liked any moves the Cubs have made this offseason it seems. What would you have them do?

I like Vilanueva. How many times do we have to see Ian Stewart before we decide he sucks? I know it's just 2 million, but put Valbuena in there or something. He's just as good on defense and he's putting the same offensive numbers up with the caveat being that he might have a ton more upside. Ian Stewart couldnt pull a .260 average in Coors Field??? Really? For someone who's suppo

[RP]

Scott Feldmans stats on a powerhouse Rangers team for the last 4 years are downright horrible. And he's getting about 65% less offensive output from the Cubs this year. Fuck my life.

[RP]

I like Vilanueva. How many times do we have to see Ian Stewart before we decide he sucks? I know it's just 2 million, but put Valbuena in there or something. He's just as good on defense and he's putting the same offensive numbers up with the caveat being that he might have a ton more upside. Ian Stewart couldnt pull a .260 average in Coors Field??? Really? For someone who's suppo

So much more to this post, but apparently some mod just deleted most of it for no reason. I'm not retyping it so whatever.

[ClockShot]

Read somewhere last night that Adam Greenberg signed a minor league deal with Baltimore.

Great, now we'll never hear the end of it here in Connecticut.

[Frank Drebin]

I like Vilanueva. How many times do we have to see Ian Stewart before we decide he sucks? I know it's just 2 million, but put Valbuena in there or something. He's just as good on defense and he's putting the same offensive numbers up with the caveat being that he might have a ton more upside. Ian Stewart couldnt pull a .260 average in Coors Field??? Really? For someone who's suppo

Maybe you have more like you said but ill respond to what you have if this is your main point. Hes never gotten his wrist fixed over a three year period for some reason. That alone might be reason enough to not want him back, but assuming he IS finally healthy, why not? What else was available at 3B this year? Maybe Mark Reynolds. Valbuena is not your answer, he is a stopgap's backup. Ask the Blue Jay fans if they miss him.

Scott Feldmans stats on a powerhouse Rangers team for the last 4 years are downright horrible. And he's getting about 65% less offensive output from the Cubs this year. Fuck my life.

Youve got the ballpark factor all wrong. Who cares if he got 20 runs or 0 runs of support every game? W's and L's are fun for fantasy baseball but they dont reflect how well a guy is actually pitching. He was pitching in one of the best hitters parks in the majors and almost anywhere else (espcially in the NL) should help his numbers.

Feldman is just an extra arm who may or may not be in the rotation when they break for camp. If not, hes up as an injury replacement. Not like they are banking the franchise on him.

[ClockShot]

Twins sign Rich Harden to a minor league deal with an invite to spring training.

Padres sign Cody Ransom to a minor league deal.

Casey McGehee is the next MLB player to do the Japan route. Signs with the Rakuten Eagles for 1-year, $1.5 mil.

Big deal of the day is Francisco Liriano to the Pirates. 2-years, about $13 mil.

And news out of Boston. Remeber during the winter meetings the BoSox sign Mike Napoli. Well, it still ain't official yet. Benny says they were "working through some issues" not to long ago. Some believe that something came up during the physcial and the contract could be in the process of being re-worked.

[Hanso Amore]

Rich Harden. What could have been.

[Hanso Amore]

Whatever happened to Brandon Webb?

[Hanso Amore]

Also I must have missed his injuries and fall, but remember when Chris Young was a legit Cy Young Contender like 6 years ago?

I bet if you look at the 2006-2008 Cy Young Votes you could find a bunch of "Oh shit I forgot about them" guys.

[Hanso Amore]

Not that I look at it, maybe I made that up. I feel like he had a really good year and fell of at the end but I dont see that in his stats. Like when Maddux was a padre.

[The Condor]

Chris Young seemed like the goods, with a Princeton education and Randy Johnson's size. Just didn't materialize.

[ClockShot]

Astros sign Jose Veras. 1-year, $2 mil.

Mariners sign Jeremy Bonderman to a minor league deal.

Indians sign Scott Kazmir to a minor league deal.



If those two can find themselves again, they can turn out to be gold for Cleveland and Seattle.

[Frank Drebin]

Chris Young seemed like the goods, with a Princeton education and Randy Johnson's size. Just didn't materialize.

Young was never a hard thrower though. Chris Volstad was supposed to be the second coming of him. :lol:

I kept drafting Chris Young as my last pick in my fantasy leagues and he always gave me a half chub when he threw four great starts to start the year...then never pitched again.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Young's a good fit in NY because he's a fly ball pitcher and benefits from the spacious dimensions of Citi Field. He actually made 20 starts last year (was called up midway through after recovering from his 2011 injury and never went on the DL again IIRC) so maybe he'll finally be able to put together 30 or so starts. He'll get you decent value for a back of the rotation guy.</font>

[Damian Rey]

Chris Young was money back in 2006. He was always a solid starter. His issues le in staying of the dl.

[Triple Naitch]

I could have sworn Jon Daniels was going to be fired after trading Chris Young and Adrian Gonzalez for Adam Eaton.

[Frank Drebin]

Wow forgot all about that trade. Good gravy.

[Frank Drebin]

Chris Young will be this years Chris Capuano.

[Damian Rey]

Probably the best trade Kevin Towers will ever make. Gave up an 8th pinning reliever in Akinora Otsuka and a journeyman starter in Adam Eaton and got a solid starter in young, and a premier first baseman on the cheap for 5 years in Gonzalez. Gonzo has been out of Petco for two years, and he has yet to even flirt with the power numbers he put up here. Man, I remember going ape shit when we got Gonzo.

[Damian Rey]

Oh, and I'm sure JD gets a pass on that trade after hosing the Braves for Andrus and I believe Harrison. Then there's also the Josh Hamilton for Edinson Volquez trade. JD has made up for his terrible AGon trade, I think.

[Nark Order]

Was really hoping a deal could be made with Brian Wilson but seems like that's getting further away from reality every day. He should at least get signed to some sort of spirit leader/mascot role.

[Skippord]

I bet the Rockies will sign Brian Wilson, because they are a horde of retards

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>I really hope the Mets can find a way to land Cody Ross. I have a hard time seeing it, since the Red Sox and Rangers are also interested...but he'd fit in quite nicely in the #5 spot and would provide some semblance of protection for Davis. Also I'm a huge sucker for right-lefty balance:

SS Tejada (R)
2B Murphy (L)
3B Wright (R)
1B David (L)
RF Ross (R)
LF Duda (L)
C Buck (R)
CF Nieuwenhuis (L)

Not gonna set the world on fire, but a solid 1-5 and better than last year. Hairston wouldn't be a bad alternative but he's pretty much useless against RHP and would probably have to wind up in a platoon situation.</font>

[Damian Rey]

Whats the latest on Wilson these days anyways?

[ClockShot]

D-Backs sign Cody Ross to a 3-year deal. No word on what he's gettin' for money yet.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>lol that dream lasted all of an hour. Never would have wanted to give him 3 years though so whatever.</font>

[RoXer]

whoa

[RoXer]

don't get rid of Parra, dickheads. I'm turning in my random if that happens

[RoXer]

Upton too I guess but I'm pretty sure he's in his way out after this. Which I would be indifferent about.

Just keep Parra

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>*starts thinking of a potential trade that would see Upton land in Queens without totally gutting the farm system*

...I got nothing.</font> :(

[RoXer]

They might trade Kubel but why? Especially after a comeback year. Maybe they think because of that this is when they can get the most back from him. Or maybe he's more expensive than Ross? I'll look that up when I get.

Just keep Parra goddamnit

[Frank Drebin]

Gerrardo Parra = Angel Pagan?

[Skippord]

Arizona's got like 6 outfielders now

[Triple Naitch]

Arizona's got like 6 outfielders now

Nothing is gonna drop between all of one guys.

[Emperor Smeat]

Sucks to be the Rangers right now.

Ended up not being able to resign Hamilton while loosing out on their #2 (Swisher) and #3 (Ross) options. Waited too long to consider other players which is why most of the remaining quality is already locked up or a bit too old for anything beyond a year or two.


Red Sox close to getting Joel Hanrahan from the Pirates mostly as insurance in case Bailey has problems or another injury as a closer but the trade could end up falling apart since the Pirates are asking for way too much. Rumors are at least Aceves and Iglesias with another 1-2 more players the Pirates want.

[Frank Drebin]

Sure hope that means they get desperate enough to inquire about alfonso soriano

[Skippord]

I'm sure they can acquire one of the D'Backs 37 outfielders

[ClockShot]

Cody Ross is getting $26 mil. over 3 years. Which was reportedly what he wanted.

Red Sox are working on getting Joel Hanrahan from the Pirates. No word on what Pittsburgh is getting out of it yet.

[Frank Drebin]

Edwin Jackson also gets an $8 mil signing bonus.

[ClockShot]

Red Sox get the job done and get Joel Hanrahan and a PTBNL from the Pirates for Jerry Sands, Stolmy Pimentel, and 2 PTBNLs.

And with the D-Backs signing Cody Ross this morning, they're now looking to trade an outfielder. The most likely candidate at the moment is Jason Kubel.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Stoney Pimento

[RoXer]

Would riot if they got rid of Parra.
Don't care if they get rid Upton.
Wouldn't understand why they would give up on Pollack or Eaton.

So Kubel I'm fine with. Makes the most sense too, signed Ross for similar money and I'm guessing they can get a lot back after the year Kubel had.

So yeah, that's the only move I approve of.

[screech]

Did Swisher sign with someone? Heard the Indians were interested but not sure if they got him.

[ClockShot]

Raul Ibanez goes back to Seattle. 1-year, $2.75 mil. + $1.25 mil. in performance bonuses.

[Emperor Smeat]

Did Swisher sign with someone? Heard the Indians were interested but not sure if they got him.

Indians still wooing him with stuff.

[DaveWadding]

Joey, 26/3 is $8.6 mil per, Kubel is getting like $7.5 per

[DaveWadding]

not sure why the DBacks need another outfielder.

[RoXer]

Did Swisher sign with someone? Heard the Indians were interested but not sure if they got him.

He's actually signed with the D-Backs (don't tell Skippord)

[RoXer]

http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/k/kubelja01.shtml#contracts

It says 2 years $16 mil but on the bottom it says 7.5 a year.

[Emperor Smeat]

Red Sox get the job done and get Joel Hanrahan and a PTBNL from the Pirates for Jerry Sands, Stolmy Pimentel, and 2 PTBNLs.

And with the D-Backs signing Cody Ross this morning, they're now looking to trade an outfielder. The most likely candidate at the moment is Jason Kubel.

Supposedly the 2 PTBNL from the Red Sox are not prospects although the one being sent by the Pirates could be (low or mid level).

Pirates rumored to be getting Aceves and then a choice between Melancon, Morales, or Mortensen because the Red Sox have to free up 2 spots on the 40-man for Napoli and Drew. If The Pirates do send a prospect then its only one player from the list while the Red Sox send another prospect to the Pirates.

[Droford]

Raul ibanez went back to Seattle.

Thank god

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Ryan Freel commits suicide at 36. Damn.</font> :(

[Triple Naitch]

Damn. I remember he had some alcohol problems at the end of his career.

[screech]

Shit. I remember him dominating the Web Gems segment for like an entire season.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Are you f'reel right now? :'(

loved that lil nigga

[screech]

Damn. I remember he had some alcohol problems at the end of his career.

Did not know that. No bueno.

[Triple Naitch]

Damn forgot about Freel's imaginary friend, Farney.

RIP Farney.

[ClockShot]

Indians sign Nick Swisher. 4-years, $56 mil. with a $14 mil. 5th year vesting option at the end of it.

That's a fucking steal.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>It's sad that we live in a world where $56 million for Nick Swisher can be considered a steal.</font>

[ClockShot]

He probably could have gotten more somewhere else.

I was sure somebody was gonna overpay.

[Emperor Smeat]

If you consider he wanted a "Werth"-like contract ($126 million, 7 year), then its a huge steal. Also a few million per year lower than he was demanding. Doubt the 5th year ever gets picked up since he'd be around 37-38 by then.

Now him going from $10 million a year to $14 million a year probably not worth the increase considering his habit to struggle at really bad times.

[Dragon]

I don't think its a bad deal but I don't think its a steal just because he wanted a Werth-like contract and didn't get it. He obviously knew he wasn't getting a Werth type deal.

I'm sure every player that hits FA wants a Werth-like massive overpay type contract. When people don't get it I don't consider them a steal because of it.

And the 5th year of the deal is an easy vesting option based on plate appearances in 2016 so as long as he's healthy the deal is 5 years/$70M.

[RP]

Swisher wanted a Werth contract? That's nuts.

[Damian Rey]

Werth getting a Werth like contract was pretty nuts at the time.

[DaveWadding]

probably going to end up like the Jason Bay/Mets thing. Everyone thought his contract was a steal at the time.

[DaveWadding]

Nick Swisher Similar Players


Similar Batters

1. Jason Bay (946)

[Damian Rey]

I think Swish will do well for the first two years of the contract. He has really good plate discipline, and I don't expect that to deteriorate much. His power will likely be the first thing to go, but I'm guessing not till year three. I think he's either at first base full time by then our splitting time between first and DH

[RP]

probably going to end up like the Jason Bay/Mets thing. Everyone thought his contract was a steal at the time.

Havent checked the stats, but i think i can say for sure that i witnessed Jason Bays only homerun in like 5 years, last year a Reds/Mets game. Me and my buddy were stunned. I think we talked about it for the rest of the game. It was like witnessing a white whale.

[The Condor]

Jay Bay has become such a parody that I feel sorry that anyone is compared to him in any capacity. Loved him in PBurgh though.

[Hanso Amore]

Andruw Jones spends X MAs in jail for Domestic assault

[Hanso Amore]

Cannot fucking believe he played in the 1996 World Series and is only 35.

Andrew Jones, who is a 16 year MLB player is only 6 years older than me. I watched him when I was a fucking Kid in middle school.

[Hanso Amore]

I remember being in like 7th grade, talking about this awesome rookie for Atlanta. Damn he was young then.

And seems like a lifetime since he hit 50 homeruns for Atlanta and he was only 28 when he did that!

[ClockShot]

Kinda wondering if this is gonna cancel is his deal with Rakuten.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

man this thread died down quick

[Supreme Olajuwon]

COLD FUCKING STOVE

[Emperor Smeat]

All the PTBNL were revealed in the recent Red Sox-Pirates deal

Red Sox get:
Joel Hanrahan
Brock Holt (infielder prospect)

Pirates get:
Mark Melancon
Ivan De Jesus (prospect from the earlier Dodgers-Red Sox deal)
Stolmy Pimentel (prospect)
Jerry Sands (prospect from the earlier Dodgers-Red Sox deal)

[Innovator]

Just wait Supreme, when you think the FUCKING STOVE is cold, it'll HEAT THE FUCK BACK UP

[Supreme Olajuwon]

We've been edited!!!

[Triple Naitch]

Shit is about to get real hot with Ugueth Urbina out of jail.

[YOUR Hero]

Hoping my Jays pick up a power bat

[Innovator]

Hoping my Jays pick up a power bat

Do you want a third baseman?

[ClockShot]

After 10 years in Major League Baseball, Hideki Matsui is going to call it a career.

As a Yankee fan, I thank you for your service, sir. You will be missed.

[The Condor]

He was a hell of a hitter and seemed like a good guy. I always feared his glove, however. The outfield of Matsui, Damon and Sheffield was frightening.

[The Condor]

And I say that as a Yankee fan that cringed when the ball was hit out there.

[Bad News Gertner]

Hoping my Jays pick up a power bat

Adam Laroche would be nice

[The Condor]

Unfortunately, there is a media uproar over the Atlanta Braves bringing back their "screaming savage" logo for spring training. Funny thing is that I don't believe the Braves ever refered to it as that, but the media used it to make it seem more egregious than it really is. Personally, I think he looks more cheerful, like he's laughing, than a blood thirsty redskin of America's past.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

http://www.gannett-cdn.com/media/USATODAY/gameon/2012/12/27/braves-4_3_r560.jpg?f061b7ce9937c38b702e6f308816ac2a14e2a4ec


I dunno, it's kinda racist. I dunno if it's more racist than the Indians logo.

Dunno why the Braves would even want to bring the logo back and have this conversation.

[screech]

Looks like the final boss in a Sega game.

[ClockShot]

Brewers sign Mike Gonzalez. 1-year, $2.25 mil. + incentives.

Takashi Saito goes home to Japan. Signed a 1-year, $350k deal with the Rakuten Golden Eagles.

[YOUR Hero]

http://www.gannett-cdn.com/media/USATODAY/gameon/2012/12/27/braves-4_3_r560.jpg?f061b7ce9937c38b702e6f308816ac2a14e2a4ec


I dunno, it's kinda racist. I dunno if it's more racist than the Indians logo.

Dunno why the Braves would even want to bring the logo back and have this conversation.

I like it.
Nice homage to Andruw Jones

[Emperor Smeat]

Red Sox negotiating with 1B Adam LaRoche as a backup plan should the Napoli deal fall apart because of the big concerns over his hip.

Should the Nats sign LaRoche then the Red Sox willing to make a deal to get Michael Morse from them. Probably wouldn't involve any high level prospects or draft picks since the Red Sox need both to rebuild their farm system.

[Damian Rey]

If I'm the Nats I say goodbye to Laroche. He was a nice player for them last year, but at his age, how many more years like are left in the tank? I think they'd be better off with a younger, cheaper Morse.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

The Nats have zero left handed power without Laroche.

[Skippord]

except Bryce Harper

[RoXer]

I like a lot of those new batting practice hats. Might get an A's one

[Frank Drebin]

Laroche is tied to draft pick compensation isnt he? That gives the Nats a considerable advantage.

[Triple Naitch]

I like a lot of those new batting practice hats. Might get an A's one

Agree. I also like the Astros and Nationals caps. Kinda reminds me of the old Expos hats.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8081/8310663632_743eabdc63.jpg


http://www.cheapsnapbacksclubs.com/images/3046_p.jpg

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Draft pick compensation is why teams have been weary of signing guys like Soriano too. A first round pick for a closer is pretty difficult to justify unless he really is the final piece.</font>

[Triple Naitch]

For the Tigers, though, I think Soriano is the final piece. They have everything except for a dominant closer. I wouldn't trust a 300 lb. rookie closer for a championship caliber team, but then again I've never managed in the big leagues.

[screech]

Thought you guys were talking about Alfonso Soriano and got really confused.

[The Condor]

For the Tigers, though, I think Soriano is the final piece. They have everything except for a dominant closer. I wouldn't trust a 300 lb. rookie closer for a championship caliber team, but then again I've never managed in the big leagues.

Think you pretty much nailed it here. I would think their confidence would be higher in someone like Soriano, especially for a team of Detroits caliber, who is only missing someone competent in that spot.

[The Condor]

Plus, they have the money to pay him. I think risking a 1st round pick for the possibility of a championship or two is worth it. The team is young enough and constructed to be good enough for a few more years. Rolling the dice is something I would do here.

[DaveWadding]

h8 the white C on the Cubs BP hats. like the new DBacks one though, even though I just scored the old one for $10.

[Frank Drebin]

Always was a fan of the expos logo. Never was a big jersey purchaser but I love my powder blue Andre Dawson Expos road jersey.

Get lots of odd reactions when I sport it.

[Frank Drebin]

Feel burned out on baseball right now which is odd. Can't remember the last time I felt like this. Every time I've tried to read an article or column over the last couple of weeks I just can't bring myself to finish it or absorb its contents.

[ClockShot]

Edit:

Wrong thread. Disregard.

[Frank Drebin]

Yes, this thread is such a hotbed of activity right now that a random baseball musing deserved to get shat on.

[Triple Naitch]

What?

[Evil Vito]

Supposedly the Marlins have finally put Stanton on the trading block.

Can't even to begin to imagine how much he's going to cost. More than the Mets could possibly offer.

[ClockShot]

Oh, NOW they put Stanton out there. Yankees should have gotten in on him the minute the Blue Jays worked out their deal.

[RoXer]

Supposedly the Marlins have finally put Stanton on the trading block.

Can't even to begin to imagine how much he's going to cost. More than the Mets could possibly offer.

If that's true then Suprme can you please turn up the temperature on this f'n thread

[RoXer]

ESPECIALLY if this is true:

http://m.espn.go.com/mlb/story?storyId=8789519

[The Condor]

Uggie "Human Torch" Urbina

[ClockShot]

Endy Chavez signs a minor league deal with the Royals.

Red Sox haved worked out Bobby Abreu down in Venezuela and did some work at first base. It's said to be a "due diligence" move. *chuckles*

[Emperor Smeat]

Sounds like they probably are close to screwing up the potential Napoli and LaRoche deals considering Abreu never played 1B before.

[The Condor]

Good thing there isn't a wall or warning track he'll have to frequent if playing First base.

[ClockShot]

Royals sign Miguel Tejada to a 1-year, $1.1 mil. minor league deal. With $400k in incentives.

Here's the catch. There's no room on the 40 man roster for him right now, as soon as their is, it gets converted into a major league deal.

I think something snapped in Dayton Moore's head ever since he made that deal with the Rays.

[SlickyTrickyDamon]

ESPECIALLY if this is true:

http://m.espn.go.com/mlb/story?storyId=8789519

Triple U!

[SlickyTrickyDamon]

Supposedly the Marlins have finally put Stanton on the trading block.

Can't even to begin to imagine how much he's going to cost. More than the Mets could possibly offer.

Booo. Sox should already have gotten him.

[OssMan]

Hate the nationals stupid walgreens logo

[ClockShot]

Indians sign Brett Myers to a 1-year deal.

Rays and David Price avoid arbitration. 1-year deal.

[Droford]

Royals sign Miguel Tejada to a 1-year, $1.1 mil. minor league deal. With $400k in incentives.

Here's the catch. There's no room on the 40 man roster for him right now, as soon as their is, it gets converted into a major league deal.

I think something snapped in Dayton Moore's head ever since he made that deal with the Rays.


Signing all those former orioles..Guthrie, Chen, George sherrill, tejada, endy chavez

Kc is like the Midwest orioles..

[DAMN iNATOR]

For the Tigers, though, I think Soriano is the final piece. They have everything except for a dominant closer. I wouldn't trust a 300 lb. rookie closer for a championship caliber team, but then again I've never managed in the big leagues.

Think you pretty much nailed it here. I would think their confidence would be higher in someone like Soriano, especially for a team of Detroits caliber, who is only missing someone competent in that spot.

I think they should give first consideration to a reliever they already have in the bullpen who performed way above and beyond Valverde’s shitty efforts in the postseason. I’ve been thinking it could be a good idea to try Phil Coke as a closer. He did pretty well as I recall.

[The Condor]

I liked Phil Coke as a NYY. He probably deserves at least a look.

[Emperor Smeat]

Astros-Rangers got chosen for the national Sunday night game on Opening Day this year.

The other choices were Red Sox at Yanks and Dodgers at Giants (LA refused since original plans was Giants at LA before MLB wanted a switch because SF was the champs).

[ClockShot]

Astros are not ready for this in-state rivalry MLB cooked up. Maybe in a few years, but not yet.

Not to be a homer, but Sox/Yanks is always a safe bet. Yeah the games go about 5 hours, but still.

[The Condor]

I can understand the branding of a "new rivalry," but that as the Primetime kickoff game is complete poppycock.

[ClockShot]

Damn, I forgot.

It was 40 years ago today.......

[Bad News Gertner]

Rangers sign Jason Frasor 1 year 1.5 mill. Good reliever. Just can't handle pressure.

[Innovator]

I can see the Jays finishing ahead of the Yankees this year.

[Evil Vito]

http://i.imgur.com/xgE10l.jpg

<font color=goldenrod>MLB Network really needs some more progressive minds to go along with Brian Kenny. Also Billy Ripken must be Dusty Baker's biggest fan.</font>

[The Condor]

Nothing like Matt Vasgersian's brand of humor, I really like the guy. As for Kenny, I think I would like him more if he didn't portray himself so authoritatively and unquestionably right due to sabermetrics. I think there's a place for them in baseball, but they are not the be all and end all.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

I don't understand how you can be mad at a statistic.

Bill James is a modern day Galileo.

[The Condor]

Not the statistic, but the God-complex attitude people that spout off the statistics. Sabermetrics are fine but are not law and people who think that ONLY sabermetrics matter are very condescending. That's my only issue.

[Emperor Smeat]

Rangers sign Lance Berkman to a 1 year. $10 million with an option for a second year. Will play mostly as a DH for the Rangers this season.

[DaveWadding]

Apparently the DBacks are talking to the Padres about Justin Upton for Chase Headley. :|

[YOUR Hero]

apparently Justin Upton is going to be traded to every team before he's traded to one

[Damian Rey]

The Headley/Upton trade was updated as not being a fit. Thank God. That wouldve ben a lateral move for both teams. I'd love Upton, but not for Headley.

[DaveWadding]

Dude, Justin Upton hit a HR to the upper deck of the Western Metal Supply Co. and you would rather have Chase Headley? :|

[Damian Rey]

I said I wouldn't trade Headley for Upton. One homerun means nothing. And really how does a team get better by trading one good player for another? The Padres don't get better making that move, so I wouldn't make it. Now, if they're adding Upton to a team that still has Quentin and Healey, I'm all for it, depending on who they have to give up.