MLB 2006-2007 Offseason Thread

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>With the WS over, it's time to move onto the offseason.

Anybody got a complete listing of FA's?</font>

[The Outlaw]

Jeez, waited a whole day...lol

[ClockShot]

Some big names filed for free agency today. Barry Bonds was the big name going around today.

Others include:

Frank Thomas
Nomar Garciaparra
Cliff Floyd
Orlando Hernandez
Miguel Cairo
Craig Wilson

All together, 59 names are out on the market right now.

[RoXer]

Frank Thomas, really? Last I heard they were working on a deal.

[ClockShot]

I found the article at yahoo.com in the headlines section. Take a look.

http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news;_ylt=Av1KPYY7XEdzKYUf.H8j5lI5nYcB?slug=ap-freeagents&prov=ap&type=lgns

[YOUR Hero]

So now that there's no deadline to re-sign with your former team, what real implications are there to this, what exactly does that mean?

[YOUR Hero]

I read that Sheff isn't happy with the Yankees. He's unhappy that he might be guaranteed 13 million next year. I can see why he'd be upset.
One rumour is that the Yankees will do this to stop the Red Sox from signing him as a free agent.

[Crippla]

Yankees don't need Sheff anyway, he's too old and they got a great young outfielder in Melky Cabrera and I don't think they'll sign him just so the Red Sox don't sign him.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

Red Sox don't really need to go after Sheffield unless they trade Manny in a deal where no outfielder is returned.

Hopefully they can get some fucking pitching, I wonder who the closer is gonna be?

[MVP]

As far as I know they're still thinking of putting Hansen in the closer spot.

Which pitchers are FA this year besides Zito and El Duque?

[ct2k]

Jesus if Steinbrenner dares to go after Bonds I'll fly to New York and shoot him in the face

[Crippla]

Red Sox don't really need to go after Sheffield unless they trade Manny in a deal where no outfielder is returned.

Hopefully they can get some fucking pitching, I wonder who the closer is gonna be?
LOL. Keith Foulke again.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

LOL!!!!

Last I heard Keith Foulke is thinking about retiring. Red Sox just resigned Timlin though so he's staying.

[Crippla]

Timlin was fucking terrible last year.

[YOUR Hero]

had a quick look but couldn't find the potential F/A's. If someone else can, great, post them.

[Crippla]

I heard there was a lot of pitchers on the market this year.

[YOUR Hero]

American League

Baltimore Orioles (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baltimore_Orioles)

Bruce Chen (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bruce_Chen),LHRP -
Chris Gomez (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chris_Gomez), IF -
John Halama (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Halama),LHRP -
LaTroy Hawkins (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LaTroy_Hawkins), RHRP -
Kevin Millar (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kevin_Millar), IF -
Fernando Tatis (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fernando_Tatis), IF -
Chris Widger (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chris_Widger), C -Boston Red Sox (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boston_Red_Sox)

Alex Cora (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alex_Cora), IF -
(m) Keith Foulke (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keith_Foulke) , RHRP -
Alex Gonzalez (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alex_Gonzalez), IF -
Mike Holtz (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mike_Holtz), LHRP -
Kevin Jarvis (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kevin_Jarvis), RHRP -
Gabe Kapler (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gabe_Kapler), OF -
Javy Lopez (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Javy_Lopez), C -
Mark Loretta (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mark_Loretta), IF -
Doug Mirabelli (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doug_Mirabelli), C -
Trot Nixon (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trot_Nixon), OF -
J.T Snow (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/J.T_Snow), IF -
Mike Timlin (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mike_Timlin), RHRP - re-signed to a $2.8 million, one-year contract
(x) Tim Wakefield (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tim_Wakefield), RHRPChicago White Sox (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chicago_White_Sox)

Sandy Alomar Jr. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sandy_Alomar_Jr.), C -
(x) Mark Buehrle (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mark_Buehrle), LHSP -
(x) Jermaine Dye (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jermaine_Dye), OF -
(x) Dustin Hermanson (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dustin_Hermanson), RHRP -
Jeff Nelson (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeff_Nelson), RHRP -
Cliff Politte (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cliff_Politte), RHRP -
David Riske (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Riske), RHRP -Cleveland Indians (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cleveland_Indians)

Aaron Boone (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aaron_Boone), IF -
Vic Darensbourg (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vic_Darensbourg), LHRP -
Tim Laker (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tim_Laker), C -
Lou Merloni (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lou_Merloni), IF -Detroit Tigers (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Detroit_Tigers)

Sean Casey (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sean_Casey), IF -
Matt Mantei (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matt_Mantei), RHRP - (expected to retire)
Troy Percival (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Troy_Percival), RHRP - (expected to retire)
Matt Stairs (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matt_Stairs), OF -
Jamie Walker (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jamie_Walker), LHRP
Dmitri Young (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dmitri_Young), IF -Kansas City Royals (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kansas_City_Royals)

Paul Bako (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paul_Bako), C -
Doug Mientkiewicz (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doug_Mientkiewicz), IF -
Mark Redman (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mark_Redman), LHSP -
Esteban Yan (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Esteban_Yan), RHRP -Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Los_Angeles_Angels_of_Anaheim)

Tim Salmon (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tim_Salmon), OF - (Retired)
Darin Erstad (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Darin_Erstad), OF -
Adam Kennedy (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adam_Kennedy), IF -
J.C Romero (http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=J.C_Romero&action=edit), LHRP -Minnesota Twins (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Minnesota_Twins)

Tony Batista (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tony_Batista), IF -
Erubiel Durazo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Erubiel_Durazo), IF -
Quinton McCracken (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quinton_McCracken), OF -
Phil Nevin (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phil_Nevin), IF -
Brad Radke (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brad_Radke), RHSP - (expected to retire)
Ruben Sierra (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ruben_Sierra), DH -
Shannon Stewart (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shannon_Stewart), OF -
(x) Rondell White (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rondell_White), OF -New York Yankees (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_York_Yankees)

Nick Green (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nick_Green), IF -
Miguel Cairo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miguel_Cairo), IF -
Octavio Dotel (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Octavio_Dotel), RHRP -
Scott Erickson (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scott_Erickson), RHSP
Richard Hidalgo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_Hidalgo), OF -
Terrence Long (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Terrence_Long), OF -
(x) Mike Mussina (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mike_Mussina), RHSP -
Sidney Ponson (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sidney_Ponson), RHSP -
(x) Gary Sheffield (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gary_Sheffield), OF -
Tanyon Sturtze (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tanyon_Sturtze), RHRP -
Ron Villone (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ron_Villone), LHRP -
Bernie Williams (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bernie_Williams), OF -
Craig Wilson (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Craig_Wilson), IF -
(x) Jaret Wright (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jaret_Wright), RHSP -Oakland Athletics (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oakland_Athletics)

Steve Karsay (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steve_Karsay), RHRP - (Retired)
Jay Payton (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jay_Payton), OF -
Scott Sauerbeck (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scott_Sauerbeck), LHRP -
Frank Thomas (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frank_Thomas), DH -
Barry Zito (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barry_Zito), LHSP -
D'Angelo Jimenez (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/D%27Angelo_Jimenez), IF -Seattle Mariners (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seattle_Mariners)

Carl Everett (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carl_Everett), DH -
Matt Lawton (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matt_Lawton), OF -
Gil Meche (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gil_Meche), RHSP
(x) Eduardo Perez (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eduardo_Perez), IF -Tampa Bay Devil Rays (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tampa_Bay_Devil_Rays)

Travis Lee (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Travis_Lee), IF -
Brian Meadows (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brian_Meadows), RHRP -
Tomas Perez (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tomas_Perez), IF -Texas Rangers (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Texas_Rangers_%28baseball%29)

Antonio Alfonseca (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antonio_Alfonseca) , RHRP -
Rod Barajas (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rod_Barajas), C -
Mark DeRosa (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mark_DeRosa), IF -
Adam Eaton (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adam_Eaton), RHSP -
Jerry Hairston Jr. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jerry_Hairston_Jr.), IF -
Carlos Lee (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carlos_Lee), OF -
Gary Matthews Jr. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gary_Matthews_Jr.), OF -
Vicente Padilla (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vicente_Padilla), RHSP -
John Wasdin (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Wasdin), RHSP -
Kip Wells (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kip_Wells), RHSP -
Eric Young (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eric_Young), OF -Toronto Blue Jays (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toronto_Blue_Jays)

Frank Catalanotto (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frank_Catalanotto), OF -
Ted Lilly (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ted_Lilly), LHSP -
(m) Bengie Molina (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bengie_Molina), C -
Justin Speier (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Justin_Speier), RHSP -
Gregg Zaun (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gregg_Zaun), C -<HR>

[YOUR Hero]

National League

Arizona Diamondbacks (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arizona_Diamondbacks)

Miguel Batista (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miguel_Batista), RHSP -
Craig Counsell (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Craig_Counsell), IF -
Damion Easley (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Damion_Easley), IF -
(m) Luis Gonzalez (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luis_Gonzalez), OF -
Jason Grimsley (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jason_Grimsley), RHRP - Announced he will not return to playing baseball. (retired)
Terry Mulholland (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Terry_Mulholland), LHRP -Atlanta Braves (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atlanta_Braves)

Brian Jordan (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brian_Jordan), IF -
Todd Pratt (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Todd_Pratt), C -
Mike Remlinger (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mike_Remlinger), LHRP -
John Thomson (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Thomson), RHSP -
Daryle Ward (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daryle_Ward), IF -Chicago Cubs (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chicago_Cubs)

Henry Blanco (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Henry_Blanco), C -
John Mabry (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Mabry), OF -
Juan Pierre (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Juan_Pierre), OF -
Tony Womack (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tony_Womack), IF -
(m) Kerry Wood (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kerry_Wood), RHSPCincinnati Reds (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cincinnati_Reds)

(m) Rich Aurilia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rich_Aurilia), IF -
Royce Clayton (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Royce_Clayton), IF -
Ryan Franklin (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ryan_Franklin), RHRP -
Eddie Guardado (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eddie_Guardado), LHRP -
Chris Hammond (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chris_Hammond), LHRP -
Todd Hollandsworth (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Todd_Hollandsworth), OF -
(m) Jason Johnson (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jason_Johnson), RHSP -
Joe Mays (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joe_Mays), RHSP -
Kent Mercker (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kent_Mercker), LHRP -
Scott Schoeneweis (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scott_Schoeneweis), LHRP -
David Weathers (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Weathers), RHRP -
(m) Paul Wilson (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paul_Wilson), RHSP -Colorado Rockies (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colorado_Rockies)

Vinny Castilla (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vinny_Castilla), IF -
(m) Mike DeJean (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mike_DeJean), RHRP -
(x) Byung-Hyun Kim (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Byung-Hyun_Kim), RHSP -
(x) Ray King (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ray_King), LHSP -
Tom Martin (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tom_Martin), LHRP -
(x) Jose Mesa (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jose_Mesa), RHRP -Florida Marlins (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Florida_Marlins)

Joe Borowski (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joe_Borowski), RHRP -
Jim Brower (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jim_Brower), RHRP -
Wes Helms (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wes_Helms), IF -
Matt Herges (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matt_Herges), RHRP -
Brian Moehler (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brian_Moehler), RHSPHouston Astros (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Houston_Astros)

(x) Jeff Bagwell (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeff_Bagwell), IF -
Craig Biggio (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Craig_Biggio), IF -
Roger Clemens (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roger_Clemens), RHSP -
Aubrey Huff (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aubrey_Huff), IF -
Joe McEwing (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joe_McEwing), IF -
Andy Pettitte (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andy_Pettitte), LHSP -
Russ Springer (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Russ_Springer), RHRP -Los Angeles Dodgers (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Los_Angeles_Dodgers)

Giovanni Carrara (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giovanni_Carrara), RHRP -
Jose Cruz (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jose_Cruz), OF -
Einar Diaz (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Einar_Diaz), C -
Ramon Martinez (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ramon_Martinez), IF -
(x) Eric Gagne (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eric_Gagne), CL -
Nomar Garciaparra (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nomar_Garciaparra), IF -
Kenny Lofton (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kenny_Lofton), OF -
Julio Lugo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Julio_Lugo), IF -
Greg Maddux (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greg_Maddux), RHSP -
Aaron Sele (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aaron_Sele), RHSP -Milwaukee Brewers (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Milwaukee_Brewers)

David Bell (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Bell), IF -
Jeff Cirillo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeff_Cirillo), IF -
Geremi Gonzalez (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geremi_Gonzalez), RHRP -
Tony Graffanino (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tony_Graffanino), IF -
Rick Helling (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rick_Helling), RHSP -
Dan Kolb (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dan_Kolb), RHRP -
Tomo Ohka (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tomo_Ohka), RHSP -New York Mets (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_York_Mets)

Edgardo Alfonzo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edgardo_Alfonzo), IF -
Chad Bradford (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chad_Bradford), RHRP -
Jacob Cruz (http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Jacob_Cruz&action=edit), OF -
Mike DiFelice (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mike_DiFelice), C -
Cliff Floyd (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cliff_Floyd), OF -
(xy) Tom Glavine (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tom_Glavine), LHSP -
Orlando Hernandez (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orlando_Hernandez), RHSP -
Roberto Hernandez (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roberto_Hernandez), RHRP -
Ricky Ledee (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ricky_Ledee), OF -
Jose Lima (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jose_Lima), RHSP -
Eli Marrero (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eli_Marrero), OF -
Guillermo Mota (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guillermo_Mota), RHRP -
Darren Oliver (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Darren_Oliver), LHRP -
Kelly Stinnett (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kelly_Stinnett), C -
Steve Trachsel (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steve_Trachsel), RHSP -
Michael Tucker (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michael_Tucker), OF -
Jose Valentin (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jose_Valentin), OF/IF -
Chris Woodward (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chris_Woodward), IF -
Victor Zambrano (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Victor_Zambrano), SP -Philadelphia Phillies (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philadelphia_Phillies)

(m) Jeff Conine (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeff_Conine), IF -
David Dellucci (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Dellucci), OF -
Aaron Fultz (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aaron_Fultz), LHRP -
Alex Gonzalez (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alex_Gonzalez), IF -
Jose Hernandez (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jose_Hernandez), IF -
Mike Lieberthal (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mike_Lieberthal), C -
(m) Jamie Moyer (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jamie_Moyer), LHSP - re-signed for two-years, $10.5 million
Arthur Rhodes (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arthur_Rhodes), LHRP -
Julio Santana (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Julio_Santana), RHRP -
Rick White (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rick_White), RHRP -
Randy Wolf (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Randy_Wolf), LHSPPittsburgh Pirates (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pittsburgh_Pirates)

Victor Santos (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Victor_Santos), p -
Jeromy Burnitz (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeromy_Burnitz), OF -
Joe Randa (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joe_Randa), IF -San Diego Padres (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/San_Diego_Padres)

Manny Alexander (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manny_Alexander), IF -
Mark Bellhorn (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mark_Bellhorn), IF -
Geoff Blum (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geoff_Blum), IF -
(x) Russell Branyan (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Russell_Branyan), IF -
Doug Brocail (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doug_Brocail), RHRP -
(x) Mike Cameron (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mike_Cameron), OF -
Alan Embree (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alan_Embree), LHRP -
Shawn Estes (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shawn_Estes), LHSP -
(x) Ryan Klesko (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ryan_Klesko), OF -
Chan Ho Park (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chan_Ho_Park), RHSP -
(m) *Mike Piazza (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mike_Piazza), C -
Dave Roberts (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dave_Roberts), OF -
(x) Rudy Seanez (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rudy_Seanez), RHRP -
Todd Walker (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Todd_Walker), IF -
David Wells (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Wells), LHSP -
Woody Williams (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Woody_Williams), RHSP
Scott Williamson (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scott_Williamson), RHRP -
Scott Strickland (http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Scott_Strickland&action=edit), RHRP - Signed to a one-year contract. (from Pirates Minor Leagues)

[YOUR Hero]

(con't)

San Francisco Giants (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/San_Francisco_Giants)

Moises Alou (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moises_Alou), OF -
Barry Bonds (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barry_Bonds), OF -
Ray Durham (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ray_Durham), IF -
Pedro Feliz (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pedro_Feliz), IF -
(x)Steve Finley (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steve_Finley), OF -
Todd Greene (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Todd_Greene), C -
Shea Hillenbrand (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shea_Hillenbrand), IF -
Steve Kline (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steve_Kline), LHRP -
Jason Schmidt (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jason_Schmidt), RHSP -
Mike Stanton (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mike_Stanton), LHRP
Jamey Wright (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jamey_Wright), RHSP -St. Louis Cardinals (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St._Louis_Cardinals)

Ronnie Belliard (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ronnie_Belliard), IF -
Gary Bennett (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gary_Bennett), C -
(x) Jim Edmonds (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jim_Edmonds), OF -
Jason Marquis (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jason_Marquis), RHSP -
Mark Mulder (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mark_Mulder), LHSP -
Desi Relaford (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Desi_Relaford), IF -
Scott Spiezio (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scott_Spiezio), IF -
Jeff Suppan (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeff_Suppan), RHSP -
Jose Vizcaino (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jose_Vizcaino), IF -
Jeff Weaver (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeff_Weaver), RHSP -
Preston Wilson (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Preston_Wilson), OF -Washington Nationals (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Washington_Nationals)

Tony Armas (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tony_Armas), RHSP -
Pedro Astacio (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pedro_Astacio), RHSP -
Joey Eischen (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joey_Eischen), LHRP -
Robert Fick (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Fick), C -
Jose Guillen (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jose_Guillen), OF -
Damian Jackson (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Damian_Jackson), IF
Ramon Ortiz (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ramon_Ortiz), RHSP -
Felix Rodriguez (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Felix_Rodriguez), RHRP -
Alfonso Soriano (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alfonso_Soriano), OF -<!-- Saved in parser cache with key enwiki:pcache:idhash:2321474-0!1!0!default!!en!2 and timestamp 20061029042649 -->

Based only on players currently under a contract through the 2006 season.

(x) = club option for 2007
(m) = mutual option for 2007
(y) = player option for 2007
Italics = player retired following the 2006 season (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Baseball_labor_relations)

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

Timlin was fucking terrible last year.
Ah not really

Nixon is definetly gone from the Red Sox, outside of bringing back Wakefield and Gonzo I don't know who else they are keeping on that list. Maybe Mirabelli?

[ct2k]

Mirabelli would be well worth hanging onto

[FakeLaser]

We really need to re-sign Terrance Long.

[Hanso Amore]

Bonds needs to sign with an AL team that needs a DH. He still brings a nice punch to the plate, and without the wear and tear of the field he could catch the record. I could see him going to like the orioles or the blue jays even as a DH. Of course I bet he lands as a yankee.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Here's what I think will become of the Mets' FAs:

Edgardo Alfonzo, IF - Probably will get a ST invite for the hell of it
Chad Bradford, RHRP - Will definately be re-signed
Jacob Cruz, OF - Who?
Mike DiFelice, C - Nothing more than a ST invite
Cliff Floyd, OF - Can't see him getting re-signed
(xy) Tom Glavine, LHSP - Word has it the Braves don't want him, so I think he'll be back
Orlando Hernandez, RHSP - Ditto, I think he'll be brought back
Roberto Hernandez, RHRP - He'll get an offer from the Mets but I think he'll end up elsewhere
Ricky Ledee, OF - Needs to retire
Jose Lima, RHSP - See Ricky Ledee
Eli Marrero, OF - Could end up anywhere as a ST invite
Guillermo Mota, RHRP - Will be re-signed
Darren Oliver, LHRP - See Roberto Hernandez
Kelly Stinnett, C - See Mike DiFelice
Steve Trachsel, RHSP - Later <b>Trash</b>cel
Michael Tucker, OF - See Eli Marrero
Jose Valentin, OF/IF - I think he'll be re-signed unless he asks for too much
Chris Woodward, IF - Can't see him coming back
Victor Zambrano, SP - No Rick, you cannot fix this guy. Give up</font>

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>In fact, since I have nothing better to do during study hall, I made my early ass prediction for the 2007 Mets (predicting another huge offseason here especially since Omar said money is not an issue)

Lineup:
SS Jose Reyes
C Paul Lo Duca
CF Carlos Beltran
1B Carlos Delgado
2B Alfonso Soriano
3B David Wright
RF Shawn Green
LF Lastings Milledge

Rotation (Pedro Martinez due back +/- the AS Break):
-LH Barry Zito
-LH Tom Glavine
-RH Orlando Hernandez
-Young Guy (RH John Maine, LH Oliver Perez, RH Mike Pelfrey, RH Brian Bannister, LH Dave Williams, RH Phil Humber all canidates)
-Another Young Guy until Pedro comes back

Bullpen:
LH Billy Wagner
RH Duaner Sanchez
RH Aaron Heilman
RH Juan Padilla
RH Chad Bradford
LH Pedro Feliciano
RH Guillermo Mota

Bench:
IF/OF Jose Valentin
C Ramon Castro
1B Julio Franco
OF Endy Chavez
IF Anderson Hernandez</font>

[MVP]

Red Sox could use Darren Oliver in the pen.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Soriano's initial demands are reportedly going to be similar to the 7 year, $119 million deal given to Beltran

...which means he's likely to become a Yankee again as George loves his big bats and is the only one retarded enough to give Soriano a 7 year deal</font>

[ct2k]

I dunno, Cano is the man, although logic has never meant a thing to Steinbrenner

[Crippla]

I thought the Red Sox released JT Snow? Not that I care because I'm a Yankees fan but anyway Yankees need pitching more than anything.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Bruce Bochy to manage the Giants

-edit-

No idea that happened 4 days ago. This is the first I've heard of it</font>

[FakeLaser]

Sticky this shit.

[Dragon]

No way Soriano comes here, no where to put him. If Soriano or Bonds come here I will kill somebody.

And as usual Sheffield is crying about everything. He even went to Steinbrenner's house to complain directly. He doesn't want the Yankees to pick him up for 1 year, doesn't want them to pick him up and trade him either. He obviously puts up great numbers every year but I can't say I'll be sad to see him go.

I think the Yankees will be able to get something decent for him, not a top prospect or major leaguer but maybe a solid bullpen arm. A lot of teams seem to be interested so hopefully we get something for him.

[Dragon]

The Yanks are definitely gonna be going hard after Matsuzaka (26 year old Japanese ace). I guess its pretty risky for any team because he is from Japan but he looks to have good stuff anyway, hopefully it translates well. It will be a lot of money for any team who gets him, like 20-30 million just to win the rights to negotiate a contract. So hopefully the Yankees use their best resource and get him.

[weather vane]

I would cry if Nomar returned to BoSox.

[FakeLaser]

I heard rumors that the Yankees might be after Jeff Suppan. That would be a terrible, terrible move.

[ct2k]

Luckily we can afford terrible moves

[ClockShot]

21 more names filed for F.A. today. The notables.

Barry Zito
Jeff Weaver
Greg Maddux
Eric Gagne
Bengie Molina
Bernie Williams
Sean Casey

[YOUR Hero]

Nomar should stay in LA, I really do.

[BCWWF]

Nomar back in Boston would be pretty tight

[FakeLaser]

Bernie should just retire and become the Yankees hitting instructor.

[ct2k]

Bernie:'(

Also we've gotta go after Zito

I reckon a few teams might be willing to give Weaver a go again now too after his performance in the WS.

[MVP]

I could see Nomar returning to Boston as the 2B, cause is doesn't look like Loretta is gonna re-sign. I'd rather play Nomar at 2B cause Gonzalez is really solid at SS.

[Joey Slugs]

ESPN.com

NEW YORK -- Reliever Guillermo Mota (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/players/profile?statsId=6214) was suspended for 50 games Wednesday after testing positive for a performance-enhancing substance, becoming the third player penalized this year for violating Major League Baseball's toughened drug policy.

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2645976

[ClockShot]

Bernie should just retire and become the Yankees hitting instructor.

Agreed. But Don Mattingly has done a pretty good job with some of the yankee bats. Maybe a secondary instructor or send him down to one of the affiliates.

[FakeLaser]

Agreed. But Don Mattingly has done a pretty good job with some of the yankee bats. Maybe a secondary instructor or send him down to one of the affiliates.
Mattingly was promoted to bench coach so he can take over once Torre's contract is up.

[ClockShot]

Mattingly was promoted to bench coach so he can take over once Torre's contract is up.

:y:

[ClockShot]

11/1/06: 5 more filed for F.A.

Jeff Suppan the only notable.

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2646431

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Guillermo Mota suspended 50 games for violating the MLB drug policy

Guess he won't be coming back then. Though I do give props to him for coming out and saying he fucked up, rather than every other guy who gets caught and complains about how he had no idea how it got into his system</font>

[ct2k]

50 games is still incredibly lenient IMO, he should be thankful

[Adder]

I expect the Jays to make one big free agent signing, I just don't know in what direction they'll lean. They've got to re-sign Wells and Lilly, that'll cost them. I would like to see a solid middle infielder with decent offensive numbers be brought in. Their pitching, if it can remain healthy and have Towers bounce back *should* do well enough.

[FakeLaser]

Awards thus far:

Roberto Clemente Award - Carlos Delgado
Delivery Man of the Year Award (Top Closer) - Mariano Rivera
Comeback Player: AL - Jim Thome
Comeback Player: NJ - Nomar Garciaparra
Hank Aaron Award: AL - Derek Jeter
Hank Aaron Award: NL - Ryan Howard

AL Gold Glove Winners:
C - Ivan Rodriguez
1B - Mark Teixiera
2B - Mark Grudzelenek
SS - Derek Jeter
3B - Eric Chavez
OF - Torii Hunter
OF - Vernon Wells
OF - Ichiro Suzuki
P - Kenny Rogers

[FakeLaser]

No real surprises there, I guess, except for Jeter winning the Hank Aaron Award. Usually goes to a slugger.

Oh yeah, and Mark Grudzielanek. Never would have called that one.

[ct2k]

Surprised Rivera got the delivery man the way everyone was riding Papelbon all year.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

lol Jeter beat out Alex Gonzlaves for the Gold Glove at Shortstop, makes sense...Jeter only made double the errors that Gonzo did, plus far less highlight reel plays

I guess he hustled for those ground outs or something though, HEART OF A CHAMPION

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

lol remember when Palmeiro won the Gold Glove in 1999 while only playing like 30 games at first

Who selects this shit? Helen Keller?

[BCWWF]

I think the Blue Jays are going to do something big. They are really close to making the playoffs, I could see them breaking the bank and getting Zito.

As for the Twins, I wish we would add Adam Eaton to be a consistant third starter, but Terry Ryan is probably going to let Scott Baker, Matt Garza and Boof Bonser develop and fill out the rotation, and it will probably end up working. I don't know if the Twins need a bat or not. The only position that is open would be third base or DH. I think Rondell White will be good next year.

[YOUR Hero]

I'd think the Jays should go after a guy like Eaton before they go after a guy like Zito. Not that I'd mind as a Jay fan if they did land Zito.

[YOUR Hero]

People are sayng Loretta might be pursued by the Jays, I dunno....

[Nervous Ferret]

Liriano to have Tommy John surgery and miss entire 2007 season

whoa

[Nervous Ferret]

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2648521

[FakeLaser]

I saw that coming. (Lirano)

[FakeLaser]

NL Gold Glove Winners:

C - Brad Ausmus
1B - Albert Pujols
2B - Orlando Hudson
SS - Omar Vizquel
3B - Scott Rolen
OF - Mike Cameron
OF - Andruw Jones
OF - Carlos Beltran
P - Greg Maddux

Maddux ties Jim Kaat for the record for most gold gloves by a pitcher (16).

[BCWWF]

I'd like Loretta on the Jays, he is a real solid player.

[YOUR Hero]

Man, Liriano may never be the same, too bad this happened to him. I liked him.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

I can't believe you guys are bringing up Nomar going back to the Red Sox :(

ITS NEVER GONNA HAPPEN :(

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

I already made this post but it got ignored, so can anyone tell me how Jeter beat out Gonzo for the Gold Glove at Shortstop?

[BCWWF]

Because he is the captain of the greatest team of all time, duh.

Where has the Miz been?

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Matsuzaka bidding reportedly down to the Mets, Yankees, Red Sox, Cubs, and Rangers

I dunno. I just can't help but think Matsuzaka will be great anywhere BUT Shea...terrible luck with Japanese imports :(</font>

[BCWWF]

I liked the Orioles for him, too bad.

[ClockShot]

I just found this link to all free agents on the block from ESPN.

Couple of names that haven't made it on here yet.

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/features/freeagents

[Crippla]

Yankees need starting pitching and I'd like to see them pick up Ted Lily again.

[Crippla]

Jason Schmidt's also a free agent.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

If the Red Sox bring back Nomar I will jerk off

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Sheff's option officially picked up. Wonder where he's off to now</font>

[Gertner]

the jays definitley need to adress their middle infield. I like Aaron Hill, but playign another year with John McDnald and Aaron Hill just won't cut it. Also, by not pickign up the option on Benji Molina nad Ted Lilly, Justin Spier and or/ Frank Catalaotto leaving, it'll free up some cash to adress that issue.

[OssMan]

What drug was mota on

[OssMan]

I think the Blue Jays are going to do something big. They are really close to making the playoffs, I could see them breaking the bank and getting Zito.

As for the Twins, I wish we would add Adam Eaton to be a consistant third starter, but Terry Ryan is probably going to let Scott Baker, Matt Garza and Boof Bonser develop and fill out the rotation, and it will probably end up working. I don't know if the Twins need a bat or not. The only position that is open would be third base or DH. I think Rondell White will be good next year.jays aren't gonna fade

[FakeLaser]

I kind of like the idea of Sheffield for Bonderman.

[BCWWF]

Me too.

[FakeLaser]

Imagine this rotation:
Daisuke Matsuzaka
Jeremy Bonderman
Chien Ming Wang
Mike Mussina
Randy Johnson

It'd definitely be worth it for the Yankees to let Sheffield go to a contender like Detroit, who have said Bonderman is on the block. Sheffield wants to play for Leyland again anyway. Makes perfect sense for everyone.

[ct2k]

You KNOW Bonderman would have the worst season of his career if he came over to the Bronx, then he'd be promptly traded to the White Sox and shine

[FakeLaser]

It's not like he's making the NL to AL transition like Vazquez. He already pitches in an actual major league division.

[ct2k]

I just think our pitching pick-ups (starting that is) have been average at best recently (besides Wang). Vazqeuz actually started really well (he was an all-star remember) but tailed off big time, Contreras was never consistent, Wright is even more inconsistent than Contreras, fuck knows what happened to Chacon...And Lidle? Well he died:-\

[FakeLaser]

There's a huge difference between Jeremy Bonderman and our last few pickups. Vazquez and Pavano pitched for small market NL teams. Contreares was a wild card and Jaret Wright, Lidle and Chacon were mediocre pitchers to begin with.

Bonderman is only 24 and already has 4 seasons in the majors. He's improved greatly every season and is ready for a breakout season. He strikes out 200 guys a year. He now has postseason experience. If he's not the kind of pitcher we should be going after then we shouldn't sign any free agent pitchers.

[FakeLaser]

Or trade for them, to be more accurate. He has the least question marks of any pitcher we've picked up since Mike Mussina.

[ct2k]

Loaiza was also a complete disaster but yeah you're right he's a different kettle of fish to the other guys by and large.

[ct2k]

Also I don't think Vazquez's downward spiral had anything to do with switching leagues, I'm sure he'd won 9 or 10 games by the all-star break in 2004 and had a very respectable ERA, he just lost it in the second half, weird.

[FakeLaser]

Well, I guess you could say by the second half the league got used to Vazquez' stuff and started pounding him.

Loaiza has got to be the most inconsistant pitcher of all time.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

Why would the Tigers make that trade?

[YOUR Hero]

I think it's more wishful thinking on the part of Yankee fans, Stima.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

Thats like me saying I hope the Red Sox trade Mike Lowell for Albert Pujols, it has no chance of ever happening

[RoXer]

Rangers hire Washington as manager

By STEPHEN HAWKINS, AP Sports Writer
November 6, 2006

AP - Nov 6, 10:35 am EST
More Photos



ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) -- Ron Washington has always been a popular coach with players, stressing communication and letting them be themselves.

Now he will get his chance as a manager with the Texas Rangers, who wanted and needed somebody with those characteristics.

"I am very thrilled. I don't think I can find words to express it right now," Washington said by cell phone while on a plane Monday, about to fly from his native New Orleans to Texas for his introduction. "Maybe one day I will find the words."

Washington, a coach for the Oakland Athletics the past 11 seasons, was chosen over four other candidates to replace Buck Showalter and inherit a team that has had only one winning season since last making the playoffs in 1999.

"Ron is a teacher and winner who brings a great deal of integrity to our organization," general manager Jon Daniels said. "He is a straightforward, energetic baseball man who we're excited to have lead the Rangers."

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A news conference was scheduled later Monday for Daniels and owner Tom Hicks to introduce their new manager. Washington's two-year contract includes two additional option years.

The 54-year-old Washington is Rangers' 17th full-time manager and first black manager.

When Showalter was fired after an 80-82 season with three years left on his contract, Daniels said the Rangers needed a "different perspective."

Showalter was known for his hands-on approach that led to some discontentment in the clubhouse between some players and the manager. He was 319-329 in four seasons, and the Rangers never finished higher than third in the AL West under him.

"The coaching staff and I have a hell of a task ahead," Washington said.

The New York Yankees and Arizona Diamondbacks both won the World Series the year after Showalter left them.

Washington takes over a team with three-time All-Star shortstop Michael Young, two-time Gold Glove and slugging first baseman Mark Teixeira and 16-game winner Kevin Millwood. All-Star outfielders Gary Matthews Jr. and Carlos Lee and 15-game winner Vicente Padilla are among seven Rangers who have filed for free agency.

Washington was also a candidate in Oakland to replace fired A's manager Ken Macha. He first interviewed with Texas last month and met with Hicks, Daniels and other Rangers officials during another interview Sunday.

"I've always said it's going to take a GM to convince an owner that I am the guy," Washington said. "Daniels convinced Mr. Hicks, and I'm very, very happy."


AP - Nov 6, 10:30 am EST
More Photos


Washington played in 564 major league games over parts of 10 seasons for five teams (Los Angeles Dodgers, Minnesota, Baltimore, Cleveland and Houston).

But his only managerial experience was two years in Class A in the New York Mets organization before his 11 seasons as Oakland's infield instructor and third-base coach.

"I'm going to miss Oakland, and all the experiences I had the past 11 years and all of the people," Washington said. "I'm going to take all of that with me. I can just blaze my own trail now."

Washington was popular with Oakland players, many who wanted him to be their new manager. He was instrumental in the development of six-time Gold Glove third baseman Eric Chavez and making the A's consistently one of the AL's top fielding teams.

Two years ago, Chavez gave Washington one of his Gold Glove trophies with the inscription, "Wash, not without you."

The other finalists for the Texas managerial job were Rangers bench coach Don Wakamatsu and Japan Series-winning manager Trey Hillman, an Arlington native and the Rangers' former director of player development. Both interviewed with Daniels and Hicks last week.

New York Mets third base coach Manny Acta and Phillies minor league manager John Russell, a former Rangers catcher who caught one of Nolan Ryan's seven no-hitters, also interviewed but didn't meet with Hicks.

Wakamatsu, with the Rangers the past four years, still has a year left on his contract. He is a candidate for the A's job, and the Rangers had given Oakland permission to speak with Wakamatsu if he wasn't their choice as manager.

AP Sports Writer Janie McCauley contributed to this report.

[RoXer]

:(

[FakeLaser]

Thats like me saying I hope the Red Sox trade Mike Lowell for Albert Pujols, it has no chance of ever happening
It's not anywhere near as ridiculous as that.

Detroit has an excess of young power arms and they are looking for a big bat. They've been rumored to be shopping Bonderman around.

The Yankees want to trade Sheffield and need young power arms. Sheffield is a premier slugger and he will be the cheapest one of his calibur availible at 13 million (with the Yankees possibly picking up some of the tab), which makes him a pretty attractive option.

Sheffield also has been a bitch and is saying he is going to cause problems if he isn't traded somewhere he wants to be traded. Detroit is one of the teams he wants to play for, he wants to play for Leyland again who managed him to a World Series in Florida. Not that it matters to the Yankees where he is playing next year (as long as it's not Boston or the Mets, basically), but if Sheffield actually wants to play for Detroit they'd be a lot more likely to make a deal than a team where he doesn't want to play.

It might seem stupid of the Tigers to trade a guy like Bonderman but they need a big bat if they want to contend again next year. I'm not saying they'll go for Sheffield but it's not that ridiculous.

I personally could see a Mark Texieria for Jeremy Bonderman deal going down.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

I just can't see the Tigers trading a 24 year old pitcher for an overpaid, older slugger who is coming off a season where he barely played. It seems pretty ridiculous to me.

If they make that trade I hope they never make it to the playoffs for another 20 years or whatever it was.

[YOUR Hero]

I think you put too much stock in Sheffield, FakeRazor. He's not the same guy he was 3-4-5 years ago.

[BCWWF]

Yeah, Stima is right. Bonderman is too young to trade for somebody so old and overpriced. A more realistic deal for Bonderman would be somebody like Matsui, who still has really strong years for a team in its prime.

[BCWWF]

And Your Hero, don't mean to leave you out. I agree with both.

[FakeLaser]

I think you put too much stock in Sheffield, FakeRazor. He's not the same guy he was 3-4-5 years ago.
I don't know, his numbers are pretty comparable if you take out last season. His batting average is the only thing that has dropped, and he still hits at least .290.

I'm not saying he's in his prime or anything, but he's definitely still a feared hitter and a viable middle of the order kind of guy. He's probably not worth Bonderman but it really isn't THAT out of the question. I mean if I were the Tigers I wouldn't make the deal but it isn't like it's as ridiculous as Lowell for Pujols.

I also wouldn't call Sheffield overpriced at 13 million (which they might not even have to pay all of), especially considering what Soriano and Carlos Lee are going to get. He's definitely capable of putting up similar numbers too (minus the steals, but higher OBP and BA than Soriano).

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

I think you put too much stock in Sheffield, FakeRazor. He's not the same guy he was 3-4-5 years ago.
Exactly, not to mention any stats you can bring up are going to be 2 years old since he didn't even play last year. Pretty sure he'll be 38 next season won't he?

I dunno I can't see trading a 24 year old arm for a 37 slugger just because he wants to play for the manager. Maybe Matsui, definetly not Sheffield - that trade would be ridiculous.

[YOUR Hero]

I sit here and think about the fact Detroit wants to move Bonderman for the right price and I can't help but think about Vernon Wells. OMG, I'd be pretty pissed, but I could see JP doing something like that. Wells isn't re-signed yet and the Jays do need another arm.
*If* the Jays did something like that, they'd better get Lee or Soriano to fill the power bat they'd be losing.... Hmmm. Not such a bad thing afterall.

(this is just me speculating)

[Dragon]

I'd jump on that trade in a second if the Tigers were willing to give Bonderman for Sheff. We could always throw in a prospect as well. And when Johnson or Mussina go down with an injury we have plenty of options that could fill in the number 5 spot.

Karstens, Rasner, Pavano (lol, wishful thinking I guess), and Wright if he isn't dealt this offseason. A lot of people have talked about Clippard almost being ready for the bigs. If Hughes is brought up hopefully it is towards the end of the season, no reason to rush him at all. I'd prefer him to have another full season in the minors though.

[Dragon]

I dunno, I don't know if we will be able to get Bonderman. But if Cashman waits until Soriano, Lee, etc...are off the market Sheffield will be the next best option for teams. Especially if the Yanks inevitably pay a chunk of his contract for next year. Bonderman is obviously wishful thinking but I think we could get a pretty decent return for him.

[FakeLaser]

First trade of the offseason:

Padres get:
Kevin Kouzmanoff (IF)
Andrew Brown (RP)

Indians get:
Josh Barfield (2B)

Great deal for the Tribe. I'm not really sure what San Diego was thinking here.

I guess they're counting on Kouzmanoff to play 3rd for them, or something. Brown put up decent numbers from what I see but Barfield is only a second year player and a ROY candidate.

[FakeLaser]

Players Choice Awards:
Man of the Year: Albert Pujols
Player of the Year: Ryan Howard
AL Outstanding Player: Jermaine Dye
NL Outstanding Player: Ryan Howard
AL Outstanding Pitcher: Johan Santana
NL Outstanding Pitcher: Chris Carpenter
AL Outstanding Rookie: Justin Verlander
NL Outstanding Rookie: Dan Uggla
AL Comeback Player: Frank Thomas
NL Comeback Player: Nomar Garciaparra

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

NOMAAAAAAAAAA

[YOUR Hero]

Nomar is the man.
There, I said it.

The Padres must know something about their prospects or the ones they just got to be giving up Barfield.

[YOUR Hero]

The Padres also hired Bud Black as their new coach.

Sheffield's complaining again. I guess he feels he should go over everyone's head and speak directly to Steinbrenner.
read here... http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news;_ylt=AmC.tEgaDuBERAjAUwTJ1bkRvLYF?slug=ap-yankees-sheffield&prov=ap&type=lgns

[FakeLaser]

So, do you guys think Sosa has a chance of coming back?

I can't see who the hell would sign him at this point. Maybe the Nationals?

[RoXer]

Devil Rays

[RoXer]

EWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW


http://mlb.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pMLB2-3346984dt.jpg

http://mlb.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pMLB2-3346976dt.jpg

http://mlb.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pMLB2-3360917dt.jpg

http://mlb.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pMLB2-3346998dt.jpg

http://mlb.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pMLB2-3360903dt.jpg

http://mlb.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pMLB2-3346962dt.jpg


:( :( :( :( :( :( :(

[RoXer]

I'm really hating all of these changes this organization has been seeing lately.

[DaveWadding]

-edit- me too Joey, me too :'(

[RoXer]

You are beaten to the punch, Dave.


But in all fairness, Dave linked me.

[DaveWadding]

In all fairness, the new owners are FUCKING TERRIBLE.

[RoXer]

One of the reasons they decided on a color change is because it was too hard for ESPN and Fox sports to get the corect color scheme on their graphics for TV.

Imagine that. We can put a man on the moon but we cant put teal, purple, and gold on a TV.

[DaveWadding]

One of the reasons they decided on a color change is because it was too hard for ESPN and Fox sports to get the corect color scheme on their graphics for TV.

Imagine that. We can put a man on the moon but we cant put teal, purple, and gold on a TV.

teal, purple, copper and black :wavesad:

[OssMan]

LIKING THE UNIFORMS, cause i hate t h e current dbacks unifaurms

[OssMan]

kinda look like an arena football team THOUGH

[BCWWF]

They have some odd similarities to the Nationals, who already have the most lame uniforms in baseball. Apparently the Reds are also working on a change, although I doubt as drastic.

[RoXer]

http://mlb.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pMLB2-3346976dt.jpg

Looks more like a terrible Astros knock off.

[YOUR Hero]

Baseball unis are traditionally simple, so it's more like they are becoming more... traditional.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

Yeah the old DBack unis where awful, atleast those ones are a little bit of an upgrade

[BCWWF]

I want a team to wear colored pants again

[RoXer]

The old DBacks unis were unique. Now we look like the Astros/Angels/Nationals

[McLegend]

Shefield was traded to Detroit

[Dragon]

Apparently we are getting 3 quality arms for Sheffield. Humberto Sanchez (Something like Detroit's #3 prospect) and two other guys, low-A ball pitchers Kevin Whelan and Anthony Claggett.

Don't know anything about the A-ball guys but supposedly Sanchez is a top pitching prospect in baseball, although he did have elbow problems late last season.

[Hanso Amore]

They have some odd similarities to the Nationals, who already have the most lame uniforms in baseball. Apparently the Reds are also working on a change, although I doubt as drastic.


My thoughts exactly, very similar.

I dont hate the way they are designed, I just dont like the colors. A bit too sharp, the red burns my eyes.

[Hanso Amore]

Apparently we are getting 3 quality arms for Sheffield. Humberto Sanchez (Something like Detroit's #3 prospect) and two other guys, low-A ball pitchers Kevin Whelan and Anthony Claggett.

Don't know anything about the A-ball guys but supposedly Sanchez is a top pitching prospect in baseball, although he did have elbow problems late last season.


AWESOME.
Finally the yanks have made a trade for YOUNGER talent. For the last 4 years I have been calling for this. They need tore stock the farm system and team.

Ideally Sanchez pans out to a decent starter, and the other guys can be trade fodder at some point. But they did 2 great things here...

Dumped an Old Player that is paid too much (and they won the division without) and gained a young pitcher to come up to a team that is old and dying at that posistion.


Awesome trade, a step in the right direction, and a huge departure from normal Yankee front office moves.

[Dragon]

Rotoworld has some information about the other two pitchers and they seem really solid. I know they are prospects so anything can happen but Whelan has closer potential and Claggett had a .90 ERA in 60 IP in A ball.

Overall seems like a good deal. I think the Yankees could have gotten more major-league ready talent if they waited but its nice seeing Cashman build up the farm a bit. So really can't complain about this deal at all; I don't think we had to pay any of Sheffield's contract either so it frees up 13 million on the payroll.

[Gertner]

i don't like this trade for detroit. the shef is injured too much and detroit gave up 3 pretty good prospects

[ClockShot]

Shef. to the Tigers, nice.

Word around the net is that the Red Sox may have won the Daisuke Matsuzaka auction. Nothing official yet.

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2656687

[ct2k]

He managed to have a 40 HR 120 RBI season with a pretty bad shoulder problem with us so provided he's all healed up now I can't imagine smaller more common injuries will stop him playing and producing.

[Dragon]

I dunno, the biggest thing is that his big injury was his wrist. With how much he uses his wrists at the plate you have to wonder how much of a toll that will take on his power swing.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

Matsuzaka Mania!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[BCWWF]

40 million is a complete waste of money for this guy, even if the Yankees would get him otherwise. I guarantee he won't even be a top 10 pitcher in the AL by season's end. He will be an Ishii, start out great but then become just an above average pitcher.

[YOUR Hero]

Detroit's future is now. Trading for Sheffield makes a lot of sense... for the right price. Giving up a guy like (reported) Bonderman would be disasterous to them contending, unless they went out and spent money like crazy (see:Yankees/Red Sox) Detroit gave up guys that won't be MLB ready (if ever) for 2-3 years. You have to ask yourself, where will the Tigers be in 3 years? The answer is most likely on the decline because of player ages and free agency. Good move by Detroit.

[MVP]

40 million is a complete waste of money for this guy, even if the Yankees would get him otherwise. I guarantee he won't even be a top 10 pitcher in the AL by season's end. He will be an Ishii, start out great but then become just an above average pitcher.

THANK YOU

I'm not the only one who's been saying that.

[Dragon]

Not confirmed yet but I'm assuming the Red Sox won the bid. Pretty suprising if its true because I remember the end of last season the Sox saying they can't compete with the Yanks payroll-wise. Especially when they have quite a few holes to fill this offseason.

40 million just seems ridiculous though considering the reports say the next highest was at least 10 million under that. Really wouldn't be suprised if they just put in a crazy bid to block him from going to the Yankees. If a deal isn't worked out he just stays in Japan and the Red Sox would get their bid money back.

[Hanso Amore]

Not confirmed yet but I'm assuming the Red Sox won the bid. Pretty suprising if its true because I remember the end of last season the Sox saying they can't compete with the Yanks payroll-wise. Especially when they have quite a few holes to fill this offseason.

40 million just seems ridiculous though considering the reports say the next highest was at least 10 million under that. Really wouldn't be suprised if they just put in a crazy bid to block him from going to the Yankees. If a deal isn't worked out he just stays in Japan and the Red Sox would get their bid money back.


Good point. Maybe Theo is showing some balls and doing whatever it takes to keep the Yanks from getting him. In the end, no one gets him, and the sox dont lose anything. That is a great idea. They will change the rules after this, to have some kind of penalty if you fail to make a contract. If not, then the fucking Royals could bif 40 mil just to keep anyone from getting Foreign players.

[FakeLaser]

Great trade for both the Yankees and the Tigers, IMO.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

Keith Foulke delcined the 3.75 million dollar player option he had, see you at Burger King big guy

[FakeLaser]

What a retard.

Didn't he say he was going to retire?

[Crippla]

Keith Foulke delcined the 3.75 million dollar player option he had, see you at Burger King big guy
:rofl: What a fucking tard.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

I'd assume he is gonna retire but I wouldn't be surprised if he just wanted to get out of Boston. I think he thought he "deserved better" since he was on the World Series team. Don't get me wrong he was the man that year, but just for THAT year. He has been pretty much shit ever since so the fans let him know about it. He made it worse when he came out and said "I dont care what Johnny from Burger King thinks" which was a pretty hilarious comment, since he obviously did care since he flipped out in the dugout.

[The Outlaw]

i don't like this trade for detroit. the shef is injured too much and detroit gave up 3 pretty good prospects

Great trade for the Tigers. I don't see how anyone can shit on Sheff. He had 30+ homeruns and 120+ RBIs from 03-05 and was an everyday player I believe. Batted .330, .290, and .291 those three years as well. This last year was really the only year he's been injured from what i remember.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>I don't think the Sheff trade was that bad, but why you extend him through 2009 is beyond me.

Anyways, Mets officially announce that their new field will be called CitiField. I'd be pissed, but apparently they are meant to be making a ton of money from it.

Also, Mets 3B coach Manny Acta is expected to be named Washington Nationals manager</font>

[Dragon]

Yeah, extending Sheff for two years and $14 million/year (pretty sure) is a little crazy. I would have waited to see how he bounces back from that injury last year. But I guess thats what needed to be done to keep him happy.

[FakeLaser]

Apparantly Jaret Wright was just traded to the Orioles for reliever Chris Britton. Another great deal. Britton was Baltimore's best reliever not named Chris Ray. Only 24 years old too.

[FakeLaser]

Yankees also sent 4 million. I wonder if Wright will pitch better with Mazzone again.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

Great trade for the Tigers. I don't see how anyone can shit on Sheff. He had 30+ homeruns and 120+ RBIs from 03-05 and was an everyday player I believe. Batted .330, .290, and .291 those three years as well. This last year was really the only year he's been injured from what i remember.
Yeah but he was 34-36 in those years, now he is going to be 38 (or somewhere in that range - you get the idea) I think that is the issue. He'll probably only be playing DH though, so maybe that took that into consideration too.

[MVP]

Sheffield = Next year's Frank Thomas

[BCWWF]

If Sheffield is healthy it works for the Tigers, but who knows of he will be healthy. He is hella old now.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Today's the first official day of Free Agent signings. :cool: Everyone is fair game now.</font>

[YOUR Hero]

Keith Foulke delcined the 3.75 million dollar player option he had, see you at Burger King big guy

He stated sometime last year that he didn't even like the game of baseball, that he never really did. That he plays(ed) it because he's good at it. He was saying he was seriously considering retiring.
I got to tell you, the RSOX should consider themselves lucky that a guy with this type of attitude didn't accept the offer.

[YOUR Hero]

AMERICAN LEAGUE
===============

Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
-----------------------------
Darin Erstad, OF October 28
Adam Kennedy, 2B October 29
J.C. Romero, LHP October 28

Baltimore Orioles
-----------------
Bruce Chen, LHP October 31
Chris Gomez, SS October 28
LaTroy Hawkins, RHP October 30
Kevin Millar, 1B October 30
Russ Ortiz, RHP October 28
Fernando Tatis, DH/3B November 2
Chris Widger, C October 29

Boston Red Sox
--------------
Alex Cora, SS October 31
Keith Foulke, RHP November 10
Alex Gonzalez, SS October 30
Gabe Kapler, OF October 29
Mark Loretta, 2B October 30
Doug Mirabelli, C October 28
Trot Nixon, OF OCtober 29

Chicago White Sox
-----------------
Sandy Alomar, C October 28
Dustin Hermanson, RHP November 2
Jeff Nelson, RHP October 31
David Riske, RHP October 28

Cleveland Indians
-----------------
Aaron Boone, 3B October 30
Lou Merloni, 2B October 30

Detroit Tigers
--------------
Sean Casey, 1B October 31
Troy Percival, RHP November 2
Matt Stairs, OF October 30
Jamie Walker, LHP October 30

Kansas City Royals
------------------
Paul Bako, C October 30
Doug Mientkiewicz, 1B October 28
Mark Redman, LHP November 2

Minnesota Twins
---------------
Phil Nevin, 1B October 29
Brad Radke, RHP November 6
Shannon Stewart, OF October 28
Rondell White, DH October 28

New York Yankees
----------------
Miguel Cairo, IF October 28
Octavio Dotel, RHP October 28
Mike Mussina, RHP November 11
Tanyon Sturtze, RHP October 30
Ron Villone, LHP October 31
Bernie Williams, OF October 31
Craig Wilson, 1B October 28
Jaret Wright, RHP November 11

Oakland Athletics
-----------------
Steve Karsay, RHP November 10
Jay Payton, OF October 29
Frank Thomas, DH October 28
Barry Zito, LHP October 31

Seattle Mariners
----------------
Gil Meche, RHP October 28
Eduardo Perez, 1B November 3

Tampa Bay Devil Rays
--------------------
Brian Meadows, RHP November 7
Tomas O. Perez, 3B October 30

Texas Rangers
-------------
Rod Barajas, C October 28
Mark De Rosa, OF October 28
Adam Eaton, RHP October 28
Carlos Lee, OF October 30
Gary Matthews Jr., OF October 29
Vicente Padilla, RHP October 30
Kip Wells, RHP November 6
Eric Young, 2B October 28

Toronto Blue Jays
-----------------
Frank Catalanotto, OF October 28
Ted Lilly, LHP October 28
Bengie Molina, C October 31
Justin Speier, RHP October 28
Gregg Zaun, C October 30


NATIONAL LEAGUE
===============

Arizona Diamondbacks
--------------------
Miguel Batista, RHP October 30
Craig Counsell, SS October 30
Damion Easley, SS October 30
Luis Gonzalez, 1B October 28
Brian Jordan, OF October 31

Atlanta Braves
--------------
Danys Baez, RHP October 28
Todd Pratt, C October 28
John C. Thomson, RHP October 28
Daryle Ward, 1B October 28

Chicago Cubs
------------
Henry Blanco, C October 29
John S. Mabry, 1B October 31
Wade Miller, RHP October 30
Juan Pierre, OF October 29
Aramis Ramirez, 3B October 30
Kerry Wood, RHP October 29

Cincinnati Reds
---------------
Rich Aurilia, 3B October 31
Royce Clayton, SS October 28
Ryan Franklin, RHP October 30
Eddie Guardado, LHP October 31
Todd Hollandsworth, OF October 29
Jason Johnson, RHP October 28
Kent Mercker, LHP November 2
Scott Schoeneweis, LHP October 31
Dave Weathers, RHP October 28
*-Paul Wilson, RHP October 30

Colorado Rockies
----------------
Vinny Castilla, 3B November 11
Mike DeJean, RHP November 2
*-Ray King, LHP October 28
Tom Martin, LHP October 29
Kaz Matsui, 2B October 31
Jose Mesa, RHP November 1

Florida Marlins
---------------
Joe Borowski, RHP October 29
Wes Helms, 3B October 28
Matt Herges, RHP October 28
Brian Moehler, RHP October 28

Houston Astros
--------------
Jeff Bagwell, 1B November 11
Roger Clemens, RHP November 6
Aubrey Huff, 3B October 28
Andy Pettitte, LHP November 6
Russ Springer, RHP October 30

Los Angeles Dodgers
-------------------
Einar Diaz, C October 30
J.D. Drew, OF November 10
*-Eric Gagne, RHP October 31
Nomar Garciaparra, 1B October 28
Kenny Lofton, OF November 2
Julio Lugo, SS October 28
Greg Maddux, RHP October 31
Ramon E. Martinez, RHP October 28
Aaron Sele, RHP October 30

Milwaukee Brewers
-----------------
David Bell, 3B October 30
Jeff Cirillo, 3B October 28
Tony Graffanino, 2B October 28
Rick Helling, RHP October 30
Daniel Kolb, RHP October 31
Tomo Ohka, RHP October 28

New York Mets
-------------
Chad Bradford, RHP October 30
Michael DiFelice, C November 8
Cliff Floyd, OF October 28
*-Tom Glavine, LHP November 9
Orlando Hernandez, RHP October 28
Roberto Hernandez, RHP October 30
*-Yusaku Iriki, RHP October 30
Ricky Ledee, OF October 28
Guillermo Mota, RHP October 30
Darren Oliver, LHP October 31
Steve Trachsel, RHP October 28
Michael Tucker, OF October 29
Jose Valentin, 2B October 29
Chris Woodward, 2B October 28

Philadelphia Phillies
---------------------
David Dellucci, OF November 2
Aaron Fultz, LHP October 28
Alex S. Gonzalez, 3B November 6
Jose A. Hernandez, SS October 31
Mike Lieberthal, C October 28
Arthur Rhodes, LHP October 28
Rick White, RHP October 28
Randy Wolf, LHP October 28

Pittsburgh Pirates
------------------
Jeromy Burnitz, OF November 6
Joe Randa, 3B October 29

St. Louis Cardinals
-------------------
Ron Belliard, 2B October 30
Gary Bennett, C October 29
<s>*-Jim Edmonds, OF November 2</s> (signed new 2 year deal)
Jason Marquis, RHP October 30
Mark Mulder, RHP November 2
Scott Spiezio, 3B October 30
Jeff Suppan, RHP November 1
Jose Vizcaino, SS October 30
Jeff Weaver, RHP October 31
Preston Wilson, OF November 3

San Diego Padres
----------------
Geoff Blum, 3B October 28
Doug Brocail, RHP October 30
Alan Embree, LHP October 29
Shawn Estes, LHP October 28
Sterling Hitchcock, LHP November 10
Chan Ho Park, RHP October 31
Ryan Klesko, OF November 1
Mike Piazza, C November 2
David Roberts, OF October 28
Rudy Seanez, RHP October 28
Todd Walker, 2B October 28
David Wells, LHP November 9
Woody Williams, RHP October 30

San Francisco Giants
--------------------
Moises Alou, OF October 29
Barry Bonds, OF October 28
Ray Durham, 2B October 30
Pedro Feliz, 3B November 1
Steve Finley, OF November 2
Todd Greene, C October 29
Shea Hillenbrand, 1B October 28
Steve Kline, LHP October 29
Jason Schmidt, RHP October 29
Mike Stanton, LHP October 28
Jamey Wright, RHP November 2


Washington Nationals
--------------------
Tony Armas Jr, RHP October 29
Robert Fick, C October 30
Jose Guillen, OF October 30
Ramon Ortiz, RHP November 1
Alfonso Soriano, OF October 29

* -- Provisional election pending resolution of club option on
player's contract

[Crippla]

Yankees should re-sign Mussina, I could give a fuck about the rest of their free agents.

[Dragon]

They're working on something like a 2-year 22-24 million deal with him. They need to just get that done to have some stability in the rotation. Right now for opening day we have Chien-Ming Wang.

Moose isn't signed yet
Johnson might not be ready for opening day because of his surgery
Pavano is always a question mark

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>A-Ram and Wood re-sign with the Cubs</font>

[OssMan]

JARET WRIGHT traded to Orioles for RHP Chris Britton

[Crippla]

Yeah, good trade IMO. Yankees need relief.

[Boondock Saint]

Foulke :nono:

I hope we resign Kapler and Loretta. I enjoyed watching them. Nixon too, simply because he is classic.

[Crippla]

I doubt you'll re-sign Nixon.

[RoXer]

Yankees need starting pitching and I'd like to see them pick up Ted Lily again.
Yeah, good trade IMO. Yankees need relief.

Soooo, what don't the Yankees need, CC?

[Crippla]

They need both relief and starting pitching, I know that much.

[OssMan]

Yankees need a power bat in the middle of their lineup

[DaveWadding]

A-Ram and Wood re-sign with the Cubs

5 yr/$73 mil for Ramis...

and 1 yr/1.75 mill (with incentives that could make it worth up to 6) for Wood.

I am so happy right now.

[FakeLaser]

I think we're fine with our relievers really.

Rivera, Farnsworth, Bruney, Proctor, Villone, Myers and now Britton (and possibly Dotel) is pretty solid.

[Dragon]

I agree that the bullpen is fine. Maybe one signing if that. We have what you said plus Karstens/Rasner as long relief and some more guys ready soon from the minors.

The rotation is the biggest concern. We need to add some stability to it with Johnson and Pavano being question marks. Its not gonna be too easy to shore up the rotation with whats out there.

After that its just bench pieces (1st basemen maybe, backup catcher, utility)

[FakeLaser]

I'm really hoping for Zito at this point. He's definitely the best option out there.

I keep hearing rumors about Schmidt and Jeff Suppan. You'd think Cashman would have learned by now about NL pitchers pitching for the Yankees. Suppan has already pitched badly in the AL. Schmidt is too old and on the decline, we already have enough of that. They keep talking about Miguel Batista as well. I don't get it.

I guess I wouldn't really mind Suppan as a 5th starter. He'll likely be serviceable. If he's that terrible Philip Hughes could come up (I'd like to see him wait another year to build up his IP though). Pavano is the wild card I guess. I don't think RJ is going to make it through the season either.

I wouldn't mind a Pettite return either, especially since we know he can pitch in New York. I just don't see it happening though.

Zito
Wang
Mussina
Johnson
Suppan

That actually looks pretty decent.

[ct2k]

AssMan we already have a big powerful bat in the line-up in Giambi, our line-up is still stacked to fuck, as everyone has said its starting pitching.

Johnson worries me, the problem is this is kinda the unknown for him at this point, he's basically never had a patchy season since very early in his career, he might only get worse from this point on:-\

[FakeLaser]

AssMan we already have a big powerful bat in the line-up in Giambi, our line-up is still stacked to fuck, as everyone has said its starting pitching.
He was being sarcastic.

[Dragon]

Pretty much confirmed that the Sox won the bidding for Matsuzaka now. There hasn't been any official reports on how much but some people are saying close to 50 million just to win the rights to talk with him. Pretty crazy, I don't see how the Sox are gonna fix all their holes on the team spending $50 million to negotiate and then whatever contract he gets.

I'm just hoping he is a bust lol, their staff will be pretty nasty if he is close to as good as he was in Japan. Won't get them that far if their bullpen is as awful as last year, especially with Papelbon moving to a starter though.

[FakeLaser]

I think they posted a really high bid to just to block us from getting Matsuzaka. They were saying the bids were going to be around 20 million, and now they're saying the Sox bid 50 million? More than double what was expected. Sounds like a bluff to me.

If they don't negotiate a contract they get the money back, no harm, no foul, and no one else gets to negotiate, as per my understanding. I could be wrong though.

[Dragon]

Yeah, if they don't negotiate a deal then he goes back to Japan and they get their bid money back. Wouldn't be suprised if that happens. I've heard that the Mets/Yanks bid around 30 million and I know Epstein isn't stupid so bidding 20 million over the rest of the teams just seems like a way to block him from the Yanks.

[FakeLaser]

AL ROY: Justin Verlander
NL ROY: Hanley Ramirez

As I expected.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

#1 Red Sox prospect for the last 3 years Hanley Ramirez :-\

Damn

[MVP]

Who knows if Hanley would have put up those numbers in the AL.

At least I had him on my fantasy team. :cool:

[FakeLaser]

Sure he would have. Imagine how well he would have hit in Boston's lineup.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

Really though it could still turn out to be a good trade if Beckett can get his shit together. Red Sox can buy players to do what Hanley does, tougher to buy pitching

Although I'd rather have him instead of Pedoria now, but what can you do...

[YOUR Hero]

Boston doesn't play the speed game, so if Hanley were around, he'd never have gotten 50+ steals. The Green Monster makes or breaks players too as many try to pepper the wall, so Hanley could very well have gone bust staring at that thing. Not to mention the depth the RedSox had thought they had in the beginning of the season, so I doubt Hanley would have gotten the ABs to develop like he did as a Marlin. Later in the season, sure, but not out of the gate. Florida is a perfect place to have a rookie season, little to no pressure.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

True, plus he would have been projected as 2B in the majors and not a SS (Unless Gonzo ends up going elsewhere in free agency)

Pretty sure he plays SS with the Marlins, which I think is his "natural position"

[MVP]

Brandon Webb wins the NL Cy Young.

[Joey Slugs]

He beat out Hoffman by thatmuch.

[ClockShot]

Just heard from P.T.I. The winner of the Daisuke Matsuzaka auction will be announced at 8 p.m. Most people are still saying Boston won it.

[Dragon]

Yeah, I thought it was confirmed already that Boston won it. The wait is just on the Japanese team to announce that they accept the bid.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

42 mil is a lot of money to pay for a bid. I dunno if they are actually gonna sign him or what but if they do he better be unreal

[Dragon]

Just saw posted on Rotoworld that the Lions accepted the bid and papers are reporting the bid was 51.1 million. That is pretty insane if true, this guy could have the highest yearly salary in baseball if you add that 50 million into his contract and without ever throwing a pitch in the US to boot.

[OssMan]

whats lions

[Dragon]

Japanese team Matsuzaka was on.

[FakeLaser]

Just saw posted on Rotoworld that the Lions accepted the bid and papers are reporting the bid was 51.1 million. That is pretty insane if true, this guy could have the highest yearly salary in baseball if you add that 50 million into his contract and without ever throwing a pitch in the US to boot.
He doesn't get the 50 million, the Lions get it as compinsation for losing Matsuzaka.

[FakeLaser]

Rotoworld updates:

Mets re-signed RHP Orlando Hernandez to a two-year, $12 million contract with a club option for 2008.

Mets re-signed infielder Jose Valentin to a one-year, $3.8 million contract with a club option for 2008.

According to Paul Hoynes of the Cleveland Plain Dealer, the Rays have won the bidding for Akinori Iwamura.

Cubs signed infielder-outfielder Mark DeRosa, who had been with the Rangers, to a three-year, $13 million contract.

-------
I still see the Mets signing Adam Kennedy. Good moves by the Rays and Cubs.

[FakeLaser]

NL Cy Young Award: Brandon Webb

The Arizona right-hander received 15 out of the possible 32 first-place votes and 103 points based on a 5-3-1 point system. San Diego's Trevor Hoffman finished second with 77 points and 12 first-place votes, while St. Louis' Chris Carpenter, the 2005 winner, was third with 63 points and two first-place votes.

Kind of shocked, I thought Carpenter would win. Hoffman 2nd?

[Dragon]

He doesn't get the 50 million, the Lions get it as compinsation for losing Matsuzaka.

Yeah, I know. Guess I kind of worded that wrong, I was talking more about what the Sox have to pay out all together.

[MVP]

If Matzusaka doesn't bomb, then this is a sweet deal.

[Jim Sorgi]

I havent read into this anywhere and i'm not sure if anyone has mentioned it yet, but i found it rather curious that Joe Giradi passed on a manager job in what i think is one of the premier jobs in the league, Washington, to take a job with the YES network and broadcast the Yanks. Curious, because as we all know, Torre is basically gone next year if he doesnt win the ring. Could the Yanks be setting Giradi up to replace Torre?

[Nervous Ferret]

YES, I have always thoguht that Torre's successor would be an old Golden Era Yankee. (Mattingly, Girardi, Bernie, Paul ONEIL?)

[Boondock Saint]

Seriously if this dude better be the greatest thing since sliced bread.

[Boondock Saint]

re: Matsuzaka

[FakeLaser]

Mattingly will probably replace Torre, which is why he was made bench coach this year. I'm not saying Girardi isn't an option, but I see Mattingly managing the Yankees.

I really can't see the Sox actually committing to Matsuzaka for that kind of money, especially since they have a few other holes to fill. I think it was just a block, which is probably the smartest thing they could have done.

[Jim Sorgi]

The Boston Redsox can never, ever , complain about how much the Yankees spend again. And lets not act like they dont roll that complaint out every year they dont win. 50 million just to talk with a guy is rediculous. Its probably worse then anything the Yankees have ever done period. If you're paying 50 million just to talk to one guy. You're a moron. Pretty simple.

[Jim Sorgi]

If Matzusaka doesn't bomb, then this is a sweet deal.


Are you serious? Your team is paying 50 million just to talk to a pitcher. Johan Santana is just as amazing, but Johan Santana didnt get to far this year. 50 million just to talk to a pitcher and hope that he signs, is probably the dumbest thing i've ever heard. Talk about horrible business men in the Red Sox organization. My god. I hope they dont sign him at all. I hope he fucks them over so i can laugh 10x more then i'm already laughing right now. 50 million just to negotiate with one player is the stupidest thing i've ever heard.

Wait, nevermind. I forgot about A-rod signing with the Rangers.

[Jim Sorgi]

Not to mention this guy has never thrown a pitch in the Major Leagues. He pitches against far less superior batters, but yah lets throw 50 mil away just to negotiate.

Isnt Paplebon moving in the rotation? Who's closing for Boston, Keith Foulke? Enjoy your wild card.

[YOUR Hero]

I think FakeRazor is correct, they don't plan on signing him. This was just a block and they get their money back.

This brings up an interesting point. This is a loophole and you know people are going to cry foul (if this is how it plays out) Not to mention the Japanese player(s) themselves that want to come to MLB. Boston *might* get away with it, but they'll be an addendum to this whole formality, whereas a team doing this with no intentions to sign a player, looses their money ... or some other sort of penalty.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

The Boston Redsox can never, ever , complain about how much the Yankees spend again. And lets not act like they dont roll that complaint out every year they dont win. 50 million just to talk with a guy is rediculous. Its probably worse then anything the Yankees have ever done period. If you're paying 50 million just to talk to one guy. You're a moron. Pretty simple.
I think the reason people complain about the Yankees is because their payroll is 80 mil higher then the Red Sox (who are in second) where as the Red Sox's payroll is something like 20 mil higher then 3rd place.

I agree though, I don't really think Red Sox fans should complain about Yankees "buying" players since the Red Sox just do the samething and if they do end up signing this guy after this bid then it will pretty much be to the same exact level.

[Jim Sorgi]

I didnt know they would get there money back if they didnt sign him. But still, if they do sign him, that would be insane.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

Another thing is though, that 51 mil or whatever is won't count againest the Luxury tax. I'm not totally sure how that works but I guess that is kind of a big deal

[Boondock Saint]

Isnt Paplebon moving in the rotation? Who's closing for Boston, Keith Foulke? Enjoy your wild card.

Nah, no more Foulke.

[Jim Sorgi]

Who then?

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

Do they have to have a closer in November? They don't have anyone yet, I'm sure they are working on it

[Jim Sorgi]

Do they have to have a closer in November? They don't have anyone yet, I'm sure they are working on it

It'd probably be nice to know that you'll have a closer to sure up your potential 100 million dollar pitching investment.

Also, from what i'm reading, they're gunna pay this Jap the money.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

Yeah that would be nice, but who are they suppose to get? Its not there is a Rivera out on the market or something

I am sure they will have a closer by the time the season starts in about 6 months

[MVP]

Are you serious? Your team is paying 50 million just to talk to a pitcher. Johan Santana is just as amazing, but Johan Santana didnt get to far this year. 50 million just to talk to a pitcher and hope that he signs, is probably the dumbest thing i've ever heard. Talk about horrible business men in the Red Sox organization. My god. I hope they dont sign him at all. I hope he fucks them over so i can laugh 10x more then i'm already laughing right now. 50 million just to negotiate with one player is the stupidest thing i've ever heard.

Wait, nevermind. I forgot about A-rod signing with the Rangers.

OK lemme rephrase that since no player is really worth that much money. It's all worth it if Matzusaka doesn't end up being shitty, cause the WBC is no guarantee since Japan lagues are only compared to AAA. But face it, professional baseball is full of horrible businessmen taking huge gambles on players by overpaying them (i.e. AJ Burnett, Adrian Beltre, A-Rod).

[Jim Sorgi]

Yeah that would be nice, but who are they suppose to get? Its not there is a Rivera out on the market or something

I am sure they will have a closer by the time the season starts in about 6 months


Yah, but if theirs not one out there right now, who do you think will be out there in 6 months. I guess they could make a trade, but i thats a crapshoot.

[Dragon]

The Sox will be making huge money off Matsuzaka down the road though, from international markets and stuff. I heard they might even broadcast the games he pitches over in Japan. If he completely bombs though it will look like a horrible deal.

Kind of disappointed we didn't get him actually, but hopefully this hurts the Sox this offseason and limits what they can get. From what I understand they need a lot of pieces.

[Dragon]

I actually thought the Sox would end up with Gagne as their closer, but after spending that much on Matsuzaka I don't know if they will take a risk on him.

Who do they have for their bullpen for next year right now? I know it was pretty awful last season, but who do they have coming back?

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

Even though he didn't pitch well last season, I got a feeling the Red Sox will be banking on Craig Hansen in the pen this year. For some reason I can see him winding up as the closer, we'll see though.

Right now in the pen I know they have; Mike Timlin, Craig Hansen, Manny Delcarmen (listed as a starter on the Red Sox site though?), Tavarez I think? and Lenny DiNardo I guess? I dunno not looking too hot so yeah, not totally sure what to think. If they do end up getting Matsuzaka though

Schilling
Papelbon
Beckett
Wakefield
Matsuzaka

Haven't heard much about Lester, from what I understand he is still battling cancer and not much as been said about his future in baseball (got some important shit going on obviously) so should be interesting. Definetly aren't looking that good on paper.

Red Sox kind of got a free pass last year because of all the injuries they had, don't think that'll be happening again though. So Epstein better hope this works out because if he thinks he has a free pass from the World Series he is sadly mistaken (Keith Foulke anyone?)

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

I thought about Gagne as well, you say they can't afford him and maybe you are right, but hasn't he not pitched for like 2 years or something? They could probably afford the risk if the money was right.

[ct2k]

How well/quickly dya think Papelbon will settle into the rotation then?

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

Right away

He came up through the system as a starter

[ct2k]

That has the potential to be a pretty good rotation really, no idea what the Jap is like though, anyone got any info?:-\

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

I honestly don't know much about him but I've been catching a bit of Matsuzaka Mania fever thats going around. He tore up the World Baseball Cup and reportedly has a ridiculous amount of big league pitches.

I wonder whats going on with Manny Ramirez, Jerry Remy came out and said he figured the Red Sox where going to dealing him this off-season. Usually I would just write it off as a "yeah ok" statement but Jerry Remy is probably as close as you can get to being apart of the team without actually being on the team and usually is pretty (tpww's favorite word) credible when it comes to things like this.

[FakeLaser]

I was just going to ask about Manny.

How about a Manny Ramirez for Brad Lidge deal?

[ct2k]

I was also just about to ask about Manny, surprised we've not heard anything re: him yet

[Dragon]

I thought about Gagne as well, you say they can't afford him and maybe you are right, but hasn't he not pitched for like 2 years or something? They could probably afford the risk if the money was right.

Yeah, he hasn't really pitched much at all but I could some team throwing decent money his way. Not any huge amount or anything. So I guess he has as much a chance of going to Boston as anywhere. I just don't know if they want to spend money on somebody who is bound to be injured. Especially when their pen is so weak right now.

Would be kind of ridiculous of he ends up being the Gagne of old though.

[ct2k]

It'd be quite a change going from LA to Boston after 2 years out

[FakeLaser]

"Mike Mussina and the New York Yankees have agreed to a two-year, $22.5 million contract extension, the New York Post reported, citing unnamed industry sources."

Very happy about this. Not that I didn't see it coming, but yeah. Pretty good deal at about 11 million a year compared to 17.

[FakeLaser]

AL Manager of the Year: Jim Leyland
NL Manager of the Year: Joe Girardi

As it should be. Girardi's probably the first manager of the year to be fired.

[ClockShot]

My. Supposedly Toronto may be picking up Frank Thomas. D-Rays paid 4.5 million to talk to Japaneese 3rd Baseman Akinori Iwamura.

And another thing about Daisuke Matsuzaka, this guy has one nasty pitch called a "gyroball". Never heard of it but it's like a screwball. And it's earned him a good amout of strikeouts.

[YOUR Hero]

Yeah the big rumour is Thomas to Toronto, 2 year deal, I missed what the reported $$ was.

[YOUR Hero]

Sounds like Philly wants Soriano. Nothing yet has been announced, except they are making a lot of noise in regards to wanting someone to protect Howard. The Phillies signed Wes Helms, who I think, might breakout and put up some big-ish numbers.

[CNM]

Damn, no wonder Frank is going to Toronto. Might be a 3 yr/$30 mil deal.

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2663691

[YOUR Hero]

Atlanta wants to move Giles. Toronto needs a better 2B. Just saying.
Vernon Wells neeeeeeds to be re-signed :'(

[BCWWF]

Jesus, if Frank Thomas goes to the Blue Jays then the A's are going to miss the playoffs again, Billy Beane will have once again failed to resign an important player, and the Jays will be a true contender to make the playoffs.

[Joey Slugs]

Fuck. Frank going to Oakland was fine with me because I'm a Billy Beane fan and I didn't mind rooting for the A's to succeed.

Now... I will NEVER root for an AL East team that isn't in Boston. Pretty much fuck everyone else.

I'm torn.

[FakeLaser]

Watch Frank Thomas sign this deal with Toronto and average about 40 games a season. Billy Beane will once again look like a genius.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Mets get: RP Jon Adkins, OF Ben Johnson

Padres get: RP Heath Bell, RP Royce Ring

---

I like it. Johnson was rated the Pads' #4 prospect. Plus Adkins is solid and I really don't trust Bell or Ring on an everyday basis</font>

[BCWWF]

Yeah, Tejada, Dye and Giambi have been awful since Dye decided they weren't worth having.

[ct2k]

My. Supposedly Toronto may be picking up Frank Thomas. D-Rays paid 4.5 million to talk to Japaneese 3rd Baseman Akinori Iwamura.

And another thing about Daisuke Matsuzaka, this guy has one nasty pitch called a "gyroball". Never heard of it but it's like a screwball. And it's earned him a good amout of strikeouts.

Any mention of a screwball would put warning lights up for me with the amounts of money being talked about.

[ct2k]

Also pretty happy to have Mussina back, he's filled that Mr Dependable role left by Pettitte pretty damn well

[Gertner]

Yeah the big rumour is Thomas to Toronto, 2 year deal, I missed what the reported $$ was.

not too sure how i feel about this. i hate my fav teams taking on injury prone players. I think this could go either way.

[FakeLaser]

"The Rockies have reportedly inquired about Carl Pavano, telling the Yankees they'd be willing to cover about half of the $23 million he's owed over the next two years."

It said we weren't interested. I guess we don't really have enough starters but Christ I'll take anything for Pavano right about now.

[YOUR Hero]

not too sure how i feel about this. i hate my fav teams taking on injury prone players. I think this could go either way.

I hear you

[ct2k]

Its a fucking shame yknow, I remember when we signed Pavano I was pretty damn excited, now It just seems like every time I hear his name its another disappointment

[FakeLaser]

Apparantly they're saying the possibility of a Pavano deal could be revisited in the spring.

[ct2k]

I assume that will depend upon what they see during ST?

[Joey Slugs]

Santana is unanimous Cy Young winner (http://mlb.mlb.com/NASApp/mlb/news/article.jsp?ymd=20061116&content_id=1741588&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb)

[Gertner]

i still am trying to find out why the jays need thomas. They have bullpen issues, need a 2nd baseman or shortstop, and another starter

[Jim Sorgi]

I was just going to ask about Manny.

How about a Manny Ramirez for Brad Lidge deal?


Yah that'd work. Just what the Red Sox need. I can see it now. 9th inning in the division series. Brad Lidge shakes off the catcher 4 times. Waiting for the catcher to give him th " Brad Lidge playoff meltdown " pitching sign. I'd watch.:lol:

[Jim Sorgi]

Also pretty happy to have Mussina back, he's filled that Mr Dependable role left by Pettitte pretty damn well

He has? He's so inconsistant and the guy notoriously disapears in the playoffs.