MLB 2007-2008 Offseason Thread

[Dragon]

I'm guessing Rowand instantly slots into their cleanup spot? Does seem kind of ridiculous to sign him when there is no chance they do anything for the forseeable future.

[McLegend]

Yeah that's pretty expensive in past terms, but it seem to be @ the norm anymore. Rowand's alright, he's overrated and all (I think we can all agree) but he's not useless.

Hey now last year Rowand was awsome. Truly his best year.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Mark Prior is officially a free agent. Bet the Cubs try to get him back with a lesser deal along with basically every other team. He's gonna miss the first half of the year most likely but he certainly is the definition of low risk, high reward.</font>

[Hanso Amore]

12 million for a gold clove center fielder isnt bad, he makes less than Gary MAtthews and is better with the stick.

[YOUR Hero]

He's not useless but the Giants are still going to suck. It's kind of a big contract to hand out for a team that isn't going to contend in the near future.

The Giants have to do something for their fans. To me, it's always more surprising when a player signs with a team that isn't going anywhere mores than a team signing a player. The team can state " they're trying" whereas we all know they're not. The player signs for the love of the money, which they have every right to, but I've always felt 'if it were me' I'd be interested more in signing with a competitive team for a little less $$ than just sign a big contract.

[RP]

ESPN is reporting that the personal trainer of Roger Clemens and Pettite is saying that he gave Roger Clemens steroids.

[YOUR Hero]

OMG !!

The Jays are close to signing Eckstein!!!1


...The Jays are close to pissing me off is what's happening.

[FakeLaser]

The following names are expected to be part of the report, according to WNBC:

Brady Anderson, Manny Alexander, Rick Ankiel, Jeff Bagwell, Barry Bonds, Aaron Boone, Rafaeil Bettancourt, Bret Boone, Milton Bradley, David Bell, Dante Bichette, Albert Belle, Paul Byrd, Wil Cordero, Ken Caminiti, Mike Cameron, Ramon Castro, Jose and Ozzie Canseco, Roger Clemens, Paxton Crawford, Wilson Delgado, Lenn y Dykstra, Johnny Damon, Carl Everett, Kyle Farnsoworth, Ryan Franklin, Troy Glaus, Rich Garces, Jason Grimsley, Troy Glaus, Juan Gonzalez, Eric Gagne, Nomar Garciaparra, Jason Giambi, Jeremy Giambi, Jose Guillen, Jay Gibbons, Juan Gonzalez, Clay Hensley, Jerry Hairston, Felix Heredia, Jr., Darren Holmes, Wally Joyner, Darryl Kile, Matt Lawton, Raul Mondesi, Mark McGwire, Guillermo Mota, Robert Machado, Damian Moss, Abraham Nunez, Trot Nixon, Jose Offerman, Andy Pettitte, Mark Prior, Neifi Perez, Rafael Palmiero, Albert Pujols, Brian Roberts, Juan Rincon, John Rocker, Pudge Rodriguez, Sammy Sosa, Scott Sc hoenweiis, David Segui, Alex Sanchez, Gary Sheffield, Miguel Tejada, Julian Tavarez, Fernando Tatis, Maurice Vaughn, Jason Varitek, Ismael Valdez, Matt Williams and Kerry Wood.

[FakeLaser]

A few of the names shock me but mostly no surprises. Betancourt? Damon? Jerry fucking Hariston?

Also, lol @ Felix Heredia

I'm just glad that if any "prominent" Yankees were named it was Clemens, Pettitte, Farnsworth and Sheffield. I always suspected Clemens, hence by extension, Pettitte. Damon is a shock. I could give a fuck about Farnsworth or Sheffield. I'm just glad Jeter, Bernie Williams, Paul O'Neill, A-Rod, Posada, Tino Martinez, Rivera or people I actually give more than a shit about weren't named. Kinda sad to hear Pettitte's name in there, and Damon I guess, but whatever.

[Innovator]

WOOO Farnsworth

[RP]

I really hope they have some hardcore proof for all these guys and not just he said she said cause thats a whole lot of lawsuits if not.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

lol Maurice Vaughn

[MVP]

Tek :(

[Supreme Olajuwon]

I'm a bit surprised Lenny Dykstra is on there but that's about it.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

I know that's probably not the complete list but so far my childhood has remained undamaged. Fingers crossed.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

on a positive note, 7 of the top 10 active career homerun leaders aren't on that list

[FakeLaser]

SI.com also says Brian Roberts is there, as are former Yankees Mike Stanton, Jason Grimsley and Chuck Knoblauch. Apparently, steroids don't help you throw to first base.

[Loose Cannon]

lol Variteck. fuck you

[MVP]

It's starting now. ESPN just read off Miguel Tejada and David Segui from the report itself.

[RP]

This just in according to George Mitchell, theres alot of steroids in baseball.

[SammyG]

lol Nomar

[SammyG]

omg shut the fuck up and start naming people

[RoXer]

http://assets.espn.go.com/photo/2007/1212/mlb_i_mitchell_412.jpg

:|

[Loose Cannon]

The Terminator George Mitchell

[SammyG]

lol that is my fav pic of all time.

[ClockShot]

WHOA!

That's a big list. Some of those name just blow my mind.

[RP]

WHOA!

That's a big list. Some of those name just blow my mind.

I just looked at the list and i'm like ZOMGGUYS!!!!!!!!

[FakeLaser]

Complete list:

Chad Allen
Rick Ankiel
David Bell
Mike Bell
Gary Bennett Jr
Larry Bigbie
Barry Bonds
Kevin Brown
Paul Byrd
Jose Canseco
Mark Carreon
Jason Christiansen
Howie Clark
Roger Clemens
Jack Cust
Brendan Donnelly
Chris Donnels
Lenny Dykstra
Matt Franco
Ryan Franklin
Eric Gagne
Jay Gibbons
Troy Glaus
Jason Grimsley
Jose Guillen
Jerry Hairston Jr
Matt Herges
Phil Hiatt
Glenallen Hill
Darren Holmes
Todd Hundley
David Justice
Chuck Knoblauch
Tim Laker
Mike Lansing
Paul Lo Duca
Nook Logan
Gary Matthews Jr
Josias Mazanillo
Cody McKay
Kent Mercker
Bart Miadich
Hal Morris
Denny Neagle
Jim Parque
Andy Pettitte
Adam Piatt
Todd Pratt
Stephen Randolph
Brian Roberts
John Rocker
Adam Riggs
F.P. Santangelo
David Segui
Scott Schoenweis
Mike Stanton
Miguel Tejada
Derrick Turnbow
Ismael Valdez
Mo Vaughn
Fernando Vina
Ron Villone
Rondell White
Jeff Williams
Matt Williams
Todd Williams
Steve Woodard
Kevin Young

[ClockShot]

Was listening to Mike & the Mad Dog on the fan while at work. Wern't both of them like absolutely stunned when Andy Pettitte's name got mentioned?

Also heard Jose Canseco was trying to get into one of the news conferences, but MLB Security wouldn't let him in.

[FakeLaser]

Yeah lol, Canseco wanted in but it was press only so they sent him back out in the snow.

[YOUR Hero]

Canseco is vindicated. If not for Jose, would any of this have ever been taken to this level? No.

[OssMan]

Nook Logan lol

[Hanso Amore]

Nook Logan lol

the guys still cant hit any home runs and is a buck eighty soaking wet.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Word has it Johan has upped his price. Originally seeking 5 or 6 years, Johan now says he won't sign for any less than 7 years, $140 million</font>

[ClockShot]

Alright. Enough of this Mitchell stuff. Let's get back to what this thread is really about.

Luis Vizcanio is set to sign a 2-year deal with the Rockies. The Pirates were close, but something happened. Rockies probably upped the price.

Kip Wells is set to sign a 3-year $3 mil. deal with the Rockies. (See a trend?)

Giants were making a move for Hideki Matsui, but are no longer interested.

Mark Prior is expected to sign a 1-year deal with the Padres.

Kris Benson is gonna work out for teams in Arizona on Dec. 18th to see is anybody is interested in his services. The Royals, Marlins, Yankees and Phillies are among nine teams interested. The Pirates don't want him back.

Dan Haren popped on the radar. D-Backs are currently the frontrunners in talks and got a few combo deals on the table. 2-3 involve Carlos Gonzalez

[Loose Cannon]

I would love to have Benson if they showed clips of Anna every time he pitched.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>lol Benson. Still remember going to a Sunday game against the Nats in '05...freaking hot outside, sweating in the sun.....and I get to see Benson surrender 6 runs in th 1st and get yanked. The game was saved only by Mike Jacobs' first at bat/hit/home run/RBIs</font>

[Supreme Olajuwon]

I would love to have Benson if they showed clips of Anna every time he pitched.



Yeah that way they could annoy the fuck out of every batter on the other team before they went up to the plate.

[Loose Cannon]

I remember when she said she would bang the whole Mets orginization if she found out Kris was having an affair. man, I bet some of the Mets were begging him to cheat

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Yankees Steroid Users in 2000 World Series:
30.2 IP, 5 ER, 1.46 ERA

Non-Steroid Users:
16.1 IP, 9 ER, 4.95 ERA</font>

[Loose Cannon]

wait, who are you naming though? If you have Stanton and Pettite as a user, they didn't start using until after that season. Actually if you read the report, Stanton purchased them in 2003, when he was with......wait for it......The Mets. lol

[OssMan]

lol Benson. Still remember going to a Sunday game against the Nats in '05...freaking hot outside, sweating in the sun.....and I get to see Benson surrender 6 runs in th 1st and get yanked. The game was saved only by Mike Jacobs' first at bat/hit/home run/RBIsha! i was at that game too

[Evil Vito]

wait, who are you naming though? If you have Stanton and Pettite as a user, they didn't start using until after that season. Actually if you read the report, Stanton purchased them in 2003, when he was with......wait for it......The Mets. lol

<font color=goldenrod>haha Stanton. Guess that's just proof that steroids don't make you a good player.

But yeah, I know Pettitte and Stanton weren't on the juice yet...just find it interesting and there are callers on all the radio stations about it. And even if not all of them were juicing yet, it is ironic that all 4 games the Yanks won in the 2000 WS were started by someone on the Report (Clemens, Pettitte, Neagle).

Clemens' 2000 playoff splits are the weirdest. Apparently he juiced up just before the playoffs, got lit the hell up in the ALDS, only to pitch brilliantly in the ALCS and WS.</font>

[FakeLaser]

A couple of big deals for the D'Backs:

The Diamondbacks have reportedly picked up Dan Haren from the A's for OF Carlos Gonzalez, LHP Brett Anderson, OF Aaron Cunningham, 1B Chris Carter, LHP Greg Smith and LHP Dana Eveland.

That's five of Arizona's top 10 prospects, plus Eveland, who no longer qualified. The A's are really going for quantity over quality here, which is pretty surprising. Gonzalez has star potential, but plate discipline is a big issue. Anderson is clearly the best bet of the pitchers. Smith and Eveland are more bottom-of-the-rotation guys, but Anderson could be a No. 2 in time. Now that Haren is gone, the A's might as well trade Joe Blanton, too.Pretty nasty rotation possibly, Webb/Haren/Davis/Ownings/Johnson. I'm assuming Livan is gone and Randy Johnson will be able to pitch though. Petit might have one of those spots, he's solid and should improve.

Astros acquired RHP Jose Valverde from the Diamondbacks for RHP Chad Qualls, 2B-OF Chris Burke and RHP Juan Gutierrez.

There was no way Ed Wade was going to enter the season without a proven closer. Now he has one, at the expense of his only other sure thing in the pen and another big chunk of the team's depth. Valverde was terrific while earning 47 saves last season, but he has a history of arm issues and inconsistency. Qualls might have been nearly as effective, so this doesn't appreciably improve the Astros' chances in 2008 and Gutierrez's departure, on the heels of Troy Patton's exit, further weakens what is probably now the game's worst farm system.I like Valverde a lot, he's fun to watch but you never know what he's going to do. Tony Pena, Brandon Lyon and Chad Qualls should be able to hold it down between them.

What they really need is a bat. Maybe take a flier on a one year deal with Brad Wilkerson or Geoff Jenkins or something.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Damn good deal for the D'Backs.

Worried for the Mets though. I really don't see Erik Bedard as an option anymore so its basically Santana or bust...which is both frightening and exciting at the same time.</font>

[ClockShot]

Connor Robertson also went along with Haren to Arizona.

I hope it's worth it. Haren said he didn't want to be traded.

[DaveWadding]

A couple of big deals for the D'Backs:

Pretty nasty rotation possibly, Webb/Haren/Davis/Ownings/Johnson. I'm assuming Livan is gone and Randy Johnson will be able to pitch though. Petit might have one of those spots, he's solid and should improve.

I like Valverde a lot, he's fun to watch but you never know what he's going to do. Tony Pena, Brandon Lyon and Chad Qualls should be able to hold it down between them.

What they really need is a bat. Maybe take a flier on a one year deal with Brad Wilkerson or Geoff Jenkins or something.


Doug Davis should be shot.

Valverde always scared the shit out of me. Say whatever you want about his 40 saves or whatever, but he NEVER made it easy. Pena will close now and Lyon and Qualls will split 7th and 8th. The only place I can see them signing anyone is on the bench.

Also, Haren was one of my favorite non-D'Back/Cub players, so I'm happen to have him.

Webb + Haren = NAAAAASTY

[RoXer]

HARENNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN

AND we got rid of "shit in your face" Valverde!!!!!!!!!!!


so excited

[Splaya]

Yankees Steroid Users in 2000 World Series:
30.2 IP, 5 ER, 1.46 ERA

Non-Steroid Users:
16.1 IP, 9 ER, 4.95 ERA


2000 World Series Champion New York Yankees*

[Dragon]

If you wanna get technical and according to the report Pettitte used it after 2000.

I still bet if reports end up coming out with sources based in a different city - Chicago, LA, etc...most of the names that would pop up would be teams in those cities. Only seems logical.

[YOUR Hero]

The report, the report, the report. What the report says is when the report knows they started. It doesn't mean that is THE REAL TIME these guys started taking. Only that is where they can go back to with what they uncovered.

Wow @ The D'Backs. Makes me happy, for I am a real O DOG fan. Wonder what the deal is going to be with Chris Burke? This guy needs to get a stasrting role somewhere, I don't see it being Arizona with them having the afformentioned Orlando Hudson. Maybe he'll be a bench guy (too bad for him) or maybe they'll try him at SS?

I've read that Oakland would either only trade Blanton or if they traded Haren, then they'd trade both he and Blanton. If those reports are true, you can expect Blanton to be moved ASAP.
WTF is Oakland doing? Seems like a poor decision considering they were and maybe still are consideing bringing in Bonds. They had control of Haren for a couple more years yet I thought... OMG BEAN IS A GENIUS!!1

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Barring Santana (and more than likely Bedard)...I'd love Blanton as a solid #2.....certainly better than just slapping together a rotation with Livan Hernandez and Bartolo Colon.

After getting 6 people for Haren, I wonder what Beane's expectations are for Blanton.</font>

[RoXer]

Gunna be a bunch of scrubs starting in Fremont.

[Hanso Amore]

The report, the report, the report. What the report says is when the report knows they started. It doesn't mean that is THE REAL TIME these guys started taking. Only that is where they can go back to with what they uncovered.

Wow @ The D'Backs. Makes me happy, for I am a real O DOG fan. Wonder what the deal is going to be with Chris Burke? This guy needs to get a stasrting role somewhere, I don't see it being Arizona with them having the afformentioned Orlando Hudson. Maybe he'll be a bench guy (too bad for him) or maybe they'll try him at SS?

I've read that Oakland would either only trade Blanton or if they traded Haren, then they'd trade both he and Blanton. If those reports are true, you can expect Blanton to be moved ASAP.
WTF is Oakland doing? Seems like a poor decision considering they were and maybe still are consideing bringing in Bonds. They had control of Haren for a couple more years yet I thought... OMG BEAN IS A GENIUS!!1

Goo old Money Ball Beane sucks.

I think he just decided that there as no ay they were competing even with those two, so might so might as well turn those 2 into 10. WOuld have been great had they gotten Prospects worth it.

[YOUR Hero]

Some of the D'Backs top prospects sure, but where do they rank according to all the propects? From what I understand, not 'that' high.

[VonErichLives]

So, Santanas agent has said whoever gets him has to give him 7yrs 140mil.

20mil/yr for a pitcher... who'se 29? (i think).

They're talking with NYY again, but I heard something that they want them to take Matsui and his contract in the deal?

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Yeah, 7 years 140 million is the minimum now.

To be honest I'd still do it. 4 or so potentially brilliant years of Johan is worth 3 mediocre, broken down ones.</font>

[Hanso Amore]

Some of the D'Backs top prospects sure, but where do they rank according to all the propects? From what I understand, not 'that' high.

Let me dig up and old Column, it tanked the 100 best Prospects in baseball, and none of these were in he top 25 I remember that. They have a poor farm system.

[ClockShot]

Christ.

Andy Pettitte comes clean about using HGH. :'(

[McLegend]

Thats not good for The Rocket

[RoXer]

They have a poor farm system.

The D-Backs??

[YOUR Hero]

I wouldn't say it's poor, but the talent in it isn't top when compared to other farm systems. Least what I've read.

[Dragon]

So, Santanas agent has said whoever gets him has to give him 7yrs 140mil.

20mil/yr for a pitcher... who'se 29? (i think).

They're talking with NYY again, but I heard something that they want them to take Matsui and his contract in the deal?

I think its more like the Yankees wanting to trade Matsui and get rid of his contract (I'm guessing not to Minnesota) to another team before thinking of taking on a monster contract for Santana. I don't know if I see a deal getting done with Minnesota still. I'd be pretty pissed if they caved in and gave Melky, Hughes AND Kennedy.

[VonErichLives]

Christ.

Andy Pettitte comes clean about using HGH. :'(

Thats not good for The Rocket

Not really, Pettitte claims only to have done it in 2002 after injury...

Which would be different then the claims about Rocket that he started in Toronto while still healthy and young.

I heard David Justice is also denying it, and went on the radio himself.

[ClockShot]

I heard David Justice is also denying it, and went on the radio himself.

They're all gonna come out of the woodwork soon enough. Give them time.

[Hanso Amore]

Want to know why the D backs Farm system is poor?

beause they have so many great young players on their team.

The Farm clubs are bare because they have to field their team. Im not downing them, its just that all their top prospects are already in the majors.

[ClockShot]

Some news and rumors.

Dodgers win the Hiroki Kuroda sweepstakes. 3-years $35.3 mil. According to some experts out there, he was pretty much the only big free agent pitcher that had good talent out of everybody. Everyone else either you gotta trade for your soul(s) for, or find someone that is fairly decent.

Since D-Backs aquired Chris Burke, Tony Clark is looking for a team. But first basemen seem to the the flavor of the month. His options are running out.

There was a big deal in the works involving Jason Bay going to the Indians. But the Pirates pulled out. Details are sketchy at the moment.

A total of ten teams are confirmed to watch Kris Benson tomorrow. Teams already confirmed to be there are the Yankees, Cardinals, Royals, Marlins, Rockies, Dodgers, and Phillies. The other three are unknown at this time.

[FakeLaser]

Benson is rubbish

[Loose Cannon]

remember, 34DD comes with the package

[ClockShot]

remember, 34DD comes with the package

Along with the Post and Daily News to keep busy if things go quiet.

[FakeLaser]

Mark Prior was non-tendered. Yankees should totally take a chance on him in the pen.

[ClockShot]

Javy Lopez got a minor league deal with the Braves.

[VonErichLives]

Benson, is that the wife who said if he cheated she'd fuck every guy in the lockeroom?

[FakeLaser]

Yes.

[SammyG]

She's so hot, as well. I still have that Sporting News where she is on the cover nude, with baseballs all over.

[YOUR Hero]

Maybe my Jays will pick up Prior and put him in the bullpen.

[ClockShot]

Astros put out an offer to Mark Prior. Cardinals are also looking at Prior as well.

Astros have been confrimed to be at the Kris Benson workout.

[SammyG]

Save_us.Kuroda

ok ok ok ok ok I'll stop. Pretty excited about him though. Penny, Schmidt, Lowe, Billingsley and Kuroda for our pitching staff next year. Looks fucking amazing to me.

[YOUR Hero]

Until like 2 weeks ago, you never heard of him, why do you suddenly think he'll be the next great thing?

[Skippord]

Save_us.Kuroda

ok ok ok ok ok I'll stop. Pretty excited about him though. Penny, Schmidt, Lowe, Billingsley and Kuroda for our pitching staff next year. Looks fucking amazing to me.
Unfortunately Matt Holliday will be dominating all of them

[Skippord]

except Penny

[Hanso Amore]

Save_us.Kuroda

ok ok ok ok ok I'll stop. Pretty excited about him though. Penny, Schmidt, Lowe, Billingsley and Kuroda for our pitching staff next year. Looks fucking amazing to me.

For 2 weeks Until Schmidt and Lowe get injured.

[FakeLaser]

Brian Roberts admits to one time steroid use.

"In 2003, when I took one shot of steroids, I immediately realized that this was not what I stood for or anything that I wanted to continue doing," Roberts said. "I never used steroids, human growth hormone or any other performance-enhancing drugs prior to or since that single incident. I can honestly say before God, myself, my family and all of my fans that steroids or any performance-enhancing drugs have never had any effect on what I have worked so hard to accomplish in the game of baseball."

I don't know if I believe that, but at least he came forward and admitted to some use.

Pettitte... I'm not sure what the big deal is. HGH wasn't banned when he used it and he only used it to help rehab. Not a big deal at all, if it's the truth. I believe him.

I'd really like to see the Yankees take a gamble on Mark Prior. Kris Benson is someone they definitely should not take a gamble on.

Elijah Dukes is in more trouble over domestic abuse, or something. What a guy.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Royals offer Carlos Silva 3 years, $30 million</font>

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

Pettitte... I'm not sure what the big deal is. HGH wasn't banned when he used it and he only used it to help rehab. Not a big deal at all, if it's the truth. I believe him.Because he said he never ever used it and now that there is proof he is saying he only used it to rehab. If he came right out and said it I'd believe him but now I dunno, he is Roger's boy after all

[Hanso Amore]

<font color=goldenrod>Royals offer Carlos Silva 3 years, $30 million</font>

Lol, they deserve to suck, they let great guys wlk and give huge contracts ot shitty pitchers.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>I dunno, I wouldn't really call Silva a shitty pitcher per se.....but he's definitely one of those guys that would be much better off in the NL (hence why I wouldn't mind if the Mets signed him)</font>

[FakeLaser]

10 million a year isn't that big of a contract for a mediocre pitcher.

[Hanso Amore]

10 million a year isn't that big of a contract for a mediocre pitcher.


Are you kidding? So if you field 5 Mediocre pitchers your payroll is 50 million just for 5 players.....3 teams dont even have payrolls that big.


10 Million should be an above average pitcher.

[FakeLaser]

Yeah, but that's not what the market value is for a mediocre pitcher anymore. I'm not saying it's right, but it's the truth.

[SammyG]

Until like 2 weeks ago, you never heard of him, why do you suddenly think he'll be the next great thing?

Because I did some research on him. Dude is mad good apparently.

[FakeLaser]

I wouldn't be that excited about him. He's coming off his worst year and just had major surgery. No. 3 at best.

[OssMan]

Schedules are out

[OssMan]

Red Sox are not playing the Yankees on Sunday Night Baseball to open the season....? ESPN would rather show the Nationals opening up their new park? wtf

[ClockShot]

Speaking of Benson, he threw 60 pitches today in front of teams. Haven't found any reactions from the teams yet.

Mariners are also interested in Carlos Silva. Their offer is 4-yeas $44 mil.

There are mixed reports going around saying that A-Rod fired Scott Boras and signed with Guy Oseary.

[Dragon]

Sucks that the last game of the season for the Yanks is in Fenway. Would have been a great series to close out Yankee Stadium if it was played there.

[Evil Vito]

Sucks that the last game of the season for the Yanks is in Fenway. Would have been a great series to close out Yankee Stadium if it was played there.

<font color=goldenrod>tbh I think it had more to do with the playoff expectations MLB had. In trying to decide which NY team should end the season at home - I think they figured the Yanks have a better shot at making the playoffs than the Mets...and thus, would be guaranteed at least one extra home game.</font>

[ClockShot]

Mets sign reliever Matt Wise.

[Splaya]

10 million a year isn't that big of a contract for a mediocre pitcher.

Silva would be getting more than 2/3 of what the Marlins are going to pay their roster next year

[Loose Cannon]

Sucks that the last game of the season for the Yanks is in Fenway. Would have been a great series to close out Yankee Stadium if it was played there.

yea, that fucking sucks. I am planning to go to one of the games against Boston in July or August. Possibly the last series against the O's

[FakeLaser]

Silva would be getting more than 2/3 of what the Marlins are going to pay their roster next year
Your point being? Pitchers are all overpaid. That's not a bad deal for Carlos Silva. What do you expect him to get, 6 to 7 million per year?

I make more than the Florida Marlins.

[FakeLaser]

yea, that fucking sucks. I am planning to go to one of the games against Boston in July or August. Possibly the last series against the O's
The last game at Yankee Stadium will be played against the Baltimore Orioles? Travesty.

At least we'll go out with a win, most likely.

[OssMan]

Mets sign reliever Matt Wise.Next stop WS

[SammyG]

Really hoping Kemp and Loney dominate this year.

[FakeLaser]

Harlan Chamberlain will win the AL Cy Young and AL MVP award.

[YOUR Hero]

Rocket Roger is denying his use of steroids. http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/7580456?MSNHPHMA

[FakeLaser]

Oh yeah, I believe him. :roll:

[FakeLaser]

It looks like Silva is probably going to sign with the M's for 4 years and at $44 million.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

I guess Dan Duquette was right about Roger Clemens after all

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Rumors are the Reds are going after Erik Bedard pretty hard now. However, trade talks between the O's and them are stalling because the O's are refusing to take any deal from the Reds that doesn't involve Jay Bruce (Minor League Player of the Year). Hopefully with Silva going to Seattle that'll take the Mariners out of the Bedard race and the O's demands will be less harsh.

[Hanso Amore]

Rumors are the Reds are going after Erik Bedard pretty hard now. However, trade talks between the O's and them are stalling because the O's are refusing to take any deal from the Reds that doesn't involve Jay Bruce (Minor League Player of the Year). Hopefully with Silva going to Seattle that'll take the Mariners out of the Bedard race and the O's demands will be less harsh.


Good on the Reds. As long as they dont lose Bruce, Votto or Bailey, they could contend this year.

[FakeLaser]

Rumors are the Reds are going after Erik Bedard pretty hard now. However, trade talks between the O's and them are stalling because the O's are refusing to take any deal from the Reds that doesn't involve Jay Bruce (Minor League Player of the Year). Hopefully with Silva going to Seattle that'll take the Mariners out of the Bedard race and the O's demands will be less harsh.
Would be pretty nice if Eric Milton was replaced in your rotation by Erik Bedard. Harang/Bedard/Bailey would be pretty fucking solid. Now all you guys need is a bullpen.

[Hanso Amore]

Would be pretty nice if Eric Milton was replaced in your rotation by Erik Bedard. Harang/Bedard/Bailey would be pretty fucking solid. Now all you guys need is a bullpen.

They have a good closer, just no one to get to him.

[FakeLaser]

I don't think I'd classify David Weathers as a "good closer."

[FakeLaser]

Oh, forgot they got Cordero. Troof

[ClockShot]

Got busy overnight and today.

There's speculation going around with the White Sox sending Orlando Cabrera to the Red Sox for Coco Crisp and Julio Lugo.

Orioles and Pirates might be going after Octavio Dotel. He's pretty much the last of the reliable closers on the market right now.

Jayson Stark reports that 11 teams are involved in picking up Mark Prior. They are: Yankees, Red Sox, White Sox, Mariners, Mets, Cardinals, Padres, Astros, Giants, Reds, and Nationals. Prior is asking for a 1-year deal and is shooting for a return to the hill sometime in May.

Phillies sign Chad Durbin.

Royals sign Ron Mahay.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Would be pretty nice if Eric Milton was replaced in your rotation by Erik Bedard. Harang/Bedard/Bailey would be pretty fucking solid. Now all you guys need is a bullpen.

DON'T FORGET ABOUT "CHARLES" BRONSON OREO!

[FakeLaser]

Octavio Dotel is a reliable closer?

[VonErichLives]

So... 2004, Doug M (i'm to tired to remember how to spell his name) keeps the final out ball from the WS, gives some line about paying for his kids college and he gave the last out from the ALCS and ALDS to pitchers he was keeping it and even "lent it" to the Red Sox but kept ownership...

So, where is the 2007 WS ball?

Well, Pappelbon has it... where? he doesn't know... can't find it... finally claims to have found it, get this... his... "dog ate it"... it was on his counter and his dog loves playing with balls grabbed it and destroyed it...

this is almost as good as Griese saying he tripped over his dog..

[ClockShot]

I knew Death Grip Doug had it on loan. How the hell did Pappelbon end up with it?

[ClockShot]

News and rumors.

Yankees have been told to stay away from Mark Prior. As ordered by noneother than Hank Steinbrenner.

Indians have no interest in signing Kenny Lofton. Brewers are taking a look at him.

Tigers sign Dontrelle Willis to a 3-year extension.

[VonErichLives]

I knew Death Grip Doug had it on loan. How the hell did Pappelbon end up with it?


last out I think was a K and Tek gave it to him.

The story going around is much the way the Sox hounded Doug for the ball they didn't want to be as agressive w/ Pappelbon since he'll be a key part of the team the next 5-10yrs (hopefully) so Pappelbon gave his bulldog ate it story.

I heard a sports writer today say Pappelbon is a huge memorbila guy and they could see him claiming that while having the real ball and not careing that the ball would technicly be worthless due to his claim the actually ball was destroyed.

on a side note, just read back...

Crisp and Lugo for Cabrera? ya know the Sox go through a lot of SS when they start recycling ones they had.

Most the stories of why Cabrera was let go were club house issues... There was a rumor that besides an "attitude" that he was nailing Foulke's wife and since Foulke was already under contract they let OC go.

[FakeLaser]

lol Keith Foulke is such a homo

[YOUR Hero]

The Twins have an extra 48 million to throw at Santana now.

[ClockShot]

White Sox sign Alexi Ramirez to a 4-year contract.

The Rangers trade Edinson Volquez and Danny Ray Herrera to the Reds for Josh Hamilton.

Padres are expected to sign Mark Prior over the weekend.

[Hanso Amore]

White Sox sign Alexi Ramirez to a 4-year contract.

The Rangers trade Edinson Volquez and Danny Ray Herrera to the Reds for Josh Hamilton.

Padres are expected to sign Mark Prior over the weekend.

The reds should have kept Hamilton and dumped Griffeys overpaid ass. I know they needed to make room for Bruce, but WTF

[Hanso Amore]

The Twins have an extra 48 million to throw at Santana now.

Why and where from?

[Supreme Olajuwon]

The reds should have kept Hamilton and dumped Griffeys overpaid ass. I know they needed to make room for Bruce, but WTF

They're never going to be able to trade Junior in the offseason for anything significant in return because the health issues will always be there. The only way he'll go is at the deadline when someone desperately needs a bat and would be willing to overpay in prospects for postseason help.

Without the emotional side of Hamilton leaving, this was a pretty good trade on the Reds' part. They got Hamilton super cheap in the Rule 5 draft and swapped him for Texas' best pitching prospect. Hamilton's a nice story with a lot of upside but he was stuck in a lineup that had too many lefty hitters and really he was just keeping Bruce's spot warm for him.

[YOUR Hero]

Nice moves , imo, this off season by the Reds.

[Hanso Amore]

Texas is stocked up on prospects and young players themselves. I imagine them tradign for a big name if they are contending this year.

[ClockShot]

It's been a slow these few days. Here's the only news I could dig up.

Marlins sign Jose Castillo. He's the answer to their 3rd base vacancy.

Roger Clemens' attorney is going to launch his own investigation on The Rocket's steroid use.

[ClockShot]

Some Santana and Bedard news.

Sources report that Twins have toned down their offer to the Yankees on Johan Santana. They are willing to substitute Jeff Marquez for Ian Kennedy. The Yankees would have to give up him, Hughes, Cabrera, and one other guy.

Over at the Red Sox camp, they are staying put with a Coco Crisp, Jon Lester, Justin Masterson, and Jed Lowrie combo. But it's been really quiet over there as of late.

Mariners are pushing hard for Erik Bedard. They're shopping package of including Adam Jones, Jeff Clement, and Yung Chi Chen.

[FakeLaser]

Heard the Twins are interested in Kei Igawa

[Loose Cannon]

they can have him for free

[YOUR Hero]

Twins should just lock up Santana and be done with it.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Jayson Stark has hinted that a Santana trade probably won't come for another "several weeks" Ugh.

However, the reason behind it is because they are constantly trying to work something out with the Mets because they want to get Santana in the NL. Tbh I still think the Mets are just being used for leverage.</font> :-\

[Dragon]

I dunno, I do think the Mets could get him but it would involve clearing out their whole system which would be stupid. It seems like the price for Santana keeps dropping and when it does it gives the Mets more of a chance to jump in. I've heard the Twins wanted both Martinez and Gomez in any deal with the Mets. But they also wanted Kennedy and Hughes from the Yankees and just said that the Yankees could take Kennedy out of the deal and replace him with someone else.

If the Yankees stick with what they're doing (taking Hughes off the table) then I think he will be a Red Sox eventually. All comes down to if the Yankees crack and offer Hughes.

[ClockShot]

Holy shit.

Jim Leyritz arrested on suspicion of drunk driving and vehicular homicide.

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3171228

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>I've heard reports that you can expect the market (namely Santana) to heat up shortly. All the teams interested in Johan are getting restless and want a deal done with ST just over a month away. Time for the Twins to decide to make one last run this year or trade him away.

Seriously worried about the Mets' long term rotation future if they can't nab a guy like Santana. After this year the only sure thing to return for 2009 is John Maine. Pedro will be a FA and Oliver Perez is a hard-throwing lefty with Scott Boras as his agent...therefore if he has a good year he'll be looking for big money. I mean, I seriously think that if Maine can stay the way he was most of last year for ALL of this season, he can be the ace of the staff...but Maine and 4 fill-ins ain't gonna cut it.</font>

[Hanso Amore]

Nick Swisher is an A. TRaded for 3 minor prospects.

Man, the A's are getting 60 cents on the dollar for their guys.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

*White Sock

[FakeLaser]

Cardinals signed Matt Clement to a one year deal with a club option. Not a bad signing I guess. If he sucks then whatever, but if he regains form they got him for 2 years.

[Hanso Amore]

*White Sock

Im retarded

[SammyG]

Dodgers lose Luis Gonzalez to free agency. Meh, it was expected, we got Andruw Jones in the outfield now. So we are looking at an outfield of Juan Pierre, Andruw Jones, and Andre Ethier/Matt Kemp.

[ClockShot]

Hideo Nomo signs a minor league deal with the Royals.

Two big things coming out of the Yankees camp.

1. Alex Rodriguez is trying to get the Yankees to make a move on Mike Cameron.

2. Tensions are mounting between the Brothers Steinbrenner. We've heard much out of the mouth of Hank Steinbrenner, but not much from Hal. A source reports that Hank still wants to make a move on Johan Santana. While Hal wants to show some financial restraint.

[FakeLaser]

If the Yankees are going after Cameron, they're probably pretty confident that they'll get Johan.

Cameron would be a decent stopgap. He's still got a great glove and decent arm. He's not a great hitter but he's got some power and is at least as good as Melky with the bat overall. He'll also swipe a few bags, and he's been healthy the past 2 years. He gets crap for being injured a lot but his only real down years were with the Mets. He'll be way better than Damon in center, who should definitely be playing left.

If the Johan deal is gonna go down, I'd trade Matsui for Lowry and Sanchez. Give the Twins Hughes, Melky, Lowry and Marquez. Sign Cameron and wait for Jose Tabata or Austin Jackson. Not bad. We get the best pitcher in baseball, free up the lockjam at DH, gain a solid bullpen arm and our CF production won't skip a beat.

[Dragon]

I dunno. The more I've seen the more I want to stay pat with Hughes and the other guys. Obviously if you can get Santana without Hughes I would do it but I still don't want to if it involves him. Some people might think thats crazy but a bunch of prospects and the $140 million extension plus the $56 million they said he'd cost in luxury tax is ridiculous. I'm hoping Cashman and Hal win out in this one, as crazy as that might sound. I'd trade for Santana in a second if Kennedy and more was in the deal instead of Hughes.

Cameron would be decent but he has to serve a 50-game suspension at the beginning of the season I think right? That will hurt quite a bit if Damon is forced back into center.

[Dragon]

And for some reason I'm skeptical about Santana holding up well. His small size, all the innings he's had on his arm and the fact that his stats have been getting worse each year for the past 3 years makes me a little worrisome. Not saying I wouldn't love to have him; I would but just not for the price of Hughes.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>I'm actually hearing the Mets may have the best offer on the table now of basically "take any 4 prospects"...especially since the Twins have a hardon for Fernando Martinez. Maybe its just me...but I really wouldn't hesitate to trade Fernando. He may be a great player in the future, but he's only as old as me FFS. He can easily fall off.

And the Red Sox are thinking of shipping Coco Crisp over to Oakland...presumably, they would trade a couple others in there to bring back Joe Blanton, which would take them out of the Johan sweepstakes I'm sure.</font>

[FakeLaser]

I dunno. The more I've seen the more I want to stay pat with Hughes and the other guys. Obviously if you can get Santana without Hughes I would do it but I still don't want to if it involves him. Some people might think thats crazy but a bunch of prospects and the $140 million extension plus the $56 million they said he'd cost in luxury tax is ridiculous. I'm hoping Cashman and Hal win out in this one, as crazy as that might sound. I'd trade for Santana in a second if Kennedy and more was in the deal instead of Hughes.

Cameron would be decent but he has to serve a 50-game suspension at the beginning of the season I think right? That will hurt quite a bit if Damon is forced back into center.
I'm with you, I want to keep Hughes, but if the Santana deal were to go down, that's how I'd like to see it played out.

Forgot about Cameron's suspension.

[FakeLaser]

Roger Clemens and former trainer Brian McNamee have been asked to testify before the House Oversight Committee at a Jan. 16 hearing, The Associated Press is reporting.

[OssMan]

Clemens, "They stuck a needle in my butt but it was not HGH"

[Hanso Amore]

Dodgers lose Luis Gonzalez to free agency. Meh, it was expected, we got Andruw Jones in the outfield now. So we are looking at an outfield of Juan Pierre, Andruw Jones, and Andre Ethier/Matt Kemp.

Solid fucking outfield.

Although i think Pierre will get moved....maybe if Melky goes in a trade, the yanks bring in pierre. He would comes cheap, as I think LA would want to drop his salary. Ethier and Kemp can start the corners.

I wouldnt mind a 200 hit machine with speed leading off in NY rather than signing a suspended Cameron.

[FakeLaser]

Pierre is a horrible leadoff man at this stage in his career. Definitely would bat 9th for the Yankees. He doesn't walk at all which accounts for his OBP being under .330 for most of his career. He has to hit for a high average to be effective, and he hasn't hit .300 since 2004. His glove is alright, but his arm might be worse than Johnny Damon's. All he really gives you is steals. Terrible move for the Yankees if they were to do it. They might as well just keep Damon in center as they're comparable outfielders and Matsui in left if Pierre is the solution.

[SammyG]

Yeah Pierre can not draw a walk to save his life. Also, he is a liability in the outfield. The good thing is though, we have Pierre-Furcal batting 1-2 so if one of those gets on base, it is most probably gonna be a stolen base, with Kent or Ethier coming up. We don't have any sluggers on the team really, we get the RBIs basehit way.

[ClockShot]

Roger Clemens and former trainer Brian McNamee have been asked to testify before the House Oversight Committee at a Jan. 16 hearing, The Associated Press is reporting.

Here's the full list. I think Selig, the head of the Union and Mitchell himself got asked also.

Brian McNamee
Kirk Radomski
Andy Pettitte
Chuck Knoblauch
Roger Clemens

[Hanso Amore]

I think Pierre's walk numbers would slightly improve batting in front of Jeter, Abreau, Arod. He has never hit in front of bats like that. He would see better pitches, and his average would climb. The guy is a slap hitter bit his speed overwhelms it. Before landing in LA's anemic line up, the guy was an all star and the NLs premium Lead Off. I just dont think his career is over, I think he is just in a bad spot. Also, with that speed in front of those guys, even when he doesn't steal, he will score from first on doubles. And his speed helps on pop flies, he can leg out extra bases tagging.

More walks
Better average
Higher OBP
Steals
Total Bases.

I think he would be a good lead off. And if he fails, they have Damon. Damon's OBP isnt much better these days, and his power is nearly gone.

[SammyG]

Steinbrenner leaning towards the Santana deal.

[FakeLaser]

Damon still has power. He had one down year riddled with injuries. I think he'll bounce back nicely. He hit very well in the second half once he settled in at left.

Damon's second half #'s
.296/.364/.450 = .814 OPS, 7 HR, 36 RBI, 49 R, 12 SB

Pretty well in line with his career numbers.

[Dragon]

Yeah. Damon came to spring training really out of shape last year. He even said he hadn't done much over the winter. I don't think he'd be stupid enough to make the same mistake twice.

And he actually looks really good in left. Runners can't take advantage of his arm as much from left field and his range/speed looks much better there. Never really want to see him in center for long stretches of games again though.

[ClockShot]

Nationals pitcher Luis Ayala hit in the arm by a shotgun pellet during a hunting trip. Nothing serious, he'll be at Spring Training on time.

[FakeLaser]

Angels are looking at Paul Konerko. I guess he could be the big bat they need, but I'm hearing they'd have to trade Figgins or Kendrick for him. I don't think Konerko is worth either of those guys.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Mets re-acquired Angel Pagan. He's good, a solid pickup. :cool:

Also, I wonder if this is Omar saying that they are close to getting Santana (therefore trading Gomez and Pagan is meant to replace him.</font>

[OssMan]

Nah Angel Pagan was on the Cubs right

Everytime I saw that guy play he was freaking terrible.

[ClockShot]

Rumor going around is that the Twins have backed down on their demands to the Yankees involving Phil Hughes and Ian Kennedy in a trade. Instead it could be Jeff Marquez, Kei Igawa and some others instead of Ian Kennedy.

Cubs are eyeing Jon Lieber.

[Hanso Amore]

Fuck yeah, if they can land Santana without losing any of the big names I will shit,

A rotation of Santan/Wang/Hughes/Pettite/Kennedy would own. Send Mussina to the pen if he gets incosistent again like the 2nd half of last year. Shit, then they could just groom Joba to close. With those 5 starters, then Joba/Mo as a 8/9 inning, they would be one of the best in the league.

[YOUR Hero]

Hey Stima.

White Sox

[Dragon]

Fuck yeah, if they can land Santana without losing any of the big names I will shit,

A rotation of Santan/Wang/Hughes/Pettite/Kennedy would own. Send Mussina to the pen if he gets incosistent again like the 2nd half of last year. Shit, then they could just groom Joba to close. With those 5 starters, then Joba/Mo as a 8/9 inning, they would be one of the best in the league.

They backed off wanting Hughes as well as Kennedy in the same deal. They still want Hughes but know they won't be able to get both in the same deal so are backing off Kennedy.

[Hanso Amore]

They backed off wanting Hughes as well as Kennedy in the same deal. They still want Hughes but know they won't be able to get both in the same deal so are backing off Kennedy.

Oh, My bad, I misread that.

I would give up Kennedy and some guys, but not Hughes.


This fucking thing needs to happen or not, its fucking annoying.

The sox only want to do it so the yanks cant have him, the Yanks only want it because they dont want the sox to have him.

Its like the cold fucking war.

[ClockShot]

I read that the Twins pretty much figured it out that the Mets won't part with Jose Reyes. So they are trying a new plan with them. Vito might be on to something with that signing of Angel Pagan.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Yeah, everything I've heard suggests the Mets' offer now is "any 4 prospects", thats a hard offer to top.

A lot of Mets fans on the message boards are panicking saying the system will be leveled...but I dunno, I'm not too worried. As I said before, they've got like 3 of the top 33 picks this year. Perfect chance to rebuild straight away.</font>

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

Hey Stima.

White Sox

....what?

[Hanso Amore]

<font color=goldenrod>Yeah, everything I've heard suggests the Mets' offer now is "any 4 prospects", thats a hard offer to top.

A lot of Mets fans on the message boards are panicking saying the system will be leveled...but I dunno, I'm not too worried. As I said before, they've got like 3 of the top 33 picks this year. Perfect chance to rebuild straight away.</font>

I think people make too much out of the farm systems.

YEah its nice to have a stocked system, but all that matters is that you have the best 25 man MAJORS team, ya know?

The Angels have always been stocked, and ya know what, most of their guys never land in the majors, or they dont have room. They are an example of too much, as to where the Yanks are finally in a good spot. They have enough to restock the team, and enough to trade away.

[YOUR Hero]

That A's deal with Swisher... I was just looking over who they got. Two very highly rated pitching prospects as well as a good young, up&coming power hitter.

[McLegend]

It's almost time for the Rocket.

[McLegend]

Get your popcorn ready

[SammyG]

It's time.

[YOUR Hero]

what station? - I can't find it.

Also, he and McNanamee.. or whatever, had a 1 on 1 private meeting on Friday. Wonder if they reached some sort of deal.

[McLegend]

It's on CBS after the football game on 60 mintues.

[Dragon]

That A's deal with Swisher... I was just looking over who they got. Two very highly rated pitching prospects as well as a good young, up&coming power hitter.

Yeah, apparently it was Chicago's top two pitching prospects and a solid position prospect.

The A's have gotten some pretty decent hauls for their players they've traded so far.

[SammyG]

Hey Stima.... Black Sox

[ClockShot]

So Roger Clemens says he's willing to take a Polygraph test to prove his innocence.

Rafael Palmeiro went on 60 Minutes to prove his innocence, and in the end it sorta backfired on him. While on the subject, an article surfaced that he wants to make a comeback.

Definately gonna try to catch the Committee telecast.

[McLegend]

Yeah the Rocket was pretty weak there

[Splaya]

I think people make too much out of the farm systems.

YEah its nice to have a stocked system, but all that matters is that you have the best 25 man MAJORS team, ya know?

The Angels have always been stocked, and ya know what, most of their guys never land in the majors, or they dont have room. They are an example of too much, as to where the Yanks are finally in a good spot. They have enough to restock the team, and enough to trade away.


The Tigers are a PERFECT example of this

[YOUR Hero]

If it's proven that McNamee lied, he goes to jail for perjury. Given the fact that he named other people that have since admitted they've used steroids or HGH, it's pretty hard to fathom him mentioning Clemens if he hadn't injected/supplied him too. To me that's what it all boils down to.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

But the same case could be made that since the other's were true, perhaps McNamee figured he could slip Clemens' name in there on his word and without substantial evidence.

Still, given his career swings, it just makes so much sense that Clemens took steroids in Toronto.

[Hanso Amore]

The Tigers are a PERFECT example of this

No kidding.

Would you rather have the best AAA team, or land 2 major stars.

[Hardkore Kidd J]

I am sick of this shit. Why is Hughes still even on the table? I mean I love Santana but really is he worth the best pitching prospect on the farm? Santana is one of the best. I can't deny that but why do we need him now? I say we wait till 2009. By the 2008 offseason Santana might be a free agent. And then we wouldn't have to lose anyone. Just think of a rotation of Hughes/Santana/Wang/Kennedy/Joba. I don't want Santana if it costs us Hughes. Before I didn't care but now I think it's an extremely retarded move to give Hughes up for Santana. Unless I can get a written guarentee from Santana about winning number 27 in 2008. Name me any pitcher on the farm system and I'd probably do it in a heart beat. And Matt Clement got signed? Isn't he like the Carl Pavano of the Red Sox? Maybe some team would take Pavano off our hands then. I would be so fuckin happy if another team traded for Pavano.

[ClockShot]

I am sick of this shit. Why is Hughes still even on the table? I mean I love Santana but really is he worth the best pitching prospect on the farm? Santana is one of the best. I can't deny that but why do we need him now? I say we wait till 2009. By the 2008 offseason Santana might be a free agent. And then we wouldn't have to lose anyone. Just think of a rotation of Hughes/Santana/Wang/Kennedy/Joba. I don't want Santana if it costs us Hughes. Before I didn't care but now I think it's an extremely retarded move to give Hughes up for Santana. Unless I can get a written guarentee from Santana about winning number 27 in 2008. Name me any pitcher on the farm system and I'd probably do it in a heart beat. And Matt Clement got signed? Isn't he like the Carl Pavano of the Red Sox? Maybe some team would take Pavano off our hands then. I would be so fuckin happy if another team traded for Pavano.

We still need that 4th and 5th guy. Clemens ain't coming back. And Hank Steinbrenner is just as crazy and insane as his father. Unless Hal steps in and becomes the voice of reason for him to back down, this is going to keep going on and on.

The Boston Herald reported that this is not even that big of a distraction for the Red Sox, they got other things going on. The last thing we did was grab Latroy Hawkins to bolster the pen.

*sigh* I miss Cory Lidle. :'(

[Dragon]

We don't really need a 4th or 5th starter at all (if thats what you're talking about).

Wang, Pettitte, Hughes, Joba, Kennedy and Mussina is already 6 starters.

[ClockShot]

We don't really need a 4th or 5th starter at all (if thats what you're talking about).

Wang, Pettitte, Hughes, Joba, Kennedy and Mussina is already 6 starters.

I know where you're coming from. But I went the route since the Santana trade talks were still going on.

Honestly, I'm on the boat where I'd keep Joba in the pen. And Kennedy and Hughes (if Santana talks fall through or someone else gets him), the last two spots. My only worry is Igawa since we brought him over in the first place to start. Chances are if he flunks spring training, he's in the the pen also.

[Dragon]

I dunno. I'm really still for Joba to start. I definitely have the feeling Mussina will be terrible again in the rotation.

With Oakland doing this whole fire sale thing I wonder what they'd want for Street. Probably a lot but if we could somehow get him that would be incredible. It would end questions about Joba starting or going to the pen and would also give us the heir apparent to Mo.

[Hanso Amore]

Joba has the chance to be the best closer since Eric Gagne before he got injured, in his cy young years. It takes alot of mental metal to do that job, and Joba has got it. I would loe him as a starter, but you never know, he might not be as dominant over 7 innings. But the guy is lightning in a bottle coming out of the pen. We can field 5 starters with him in the pen, and another year as the setup man will get him ready to step up and close. too bad they signed mo for 3 years, he will soon be a 15 mill a year liability.

[Hardkore Kidd J]

I know where you're coming from. But I went the route since the Santana trade talks were still going on.

Honestly, I'm on the boat where I'd keep Joba in the pen. And Kennedy and Hughes (if Santana talks fall through or someone else gets him), the last two spots. My only worry is Igawa since we brought him over in the first place to start. Chances are if he flunks spring training, he's in the the pen also.


But, think about this even if we leave Joba in the pen. Know, that we have quite a few pitchers in our farm who could be starters. Not just Igawa, but Horne etc.etc.etc. At some point there gonna be on the Yankees and I think 2 or more of them will be dominant starters.

So then we'd have Mussina/Kennedy/ Hughes/Pettitte/ Horne(?) If Joba isn't on the starting rotation we're gonna be fine because there must be a farm guy who would be ready to be the fifth starter.

[ClockShot]

But, think about this even if we leave Joba in the pen. Know, that we have quite a few pitchers in our farm who could be starters. Not just Igawa, but Horne etc.etc.etc. At some point there gonna be on the Yankees and I think 2 or more of them will be dominant starters.

So then we'd have Mussina/Kennedy/ Hughes/Pettitte/ Horne(?) If Joba isn't on the starting rotation we're gonna be fine because there must be a farm guy who would be ready to be the fifth starter.

Karstens, DeSalvo, Rasner, Clippard, etc. Pick a name. Joe used most of them when we had our rocky start.

Then again. Maybe this is gonna sit on Girardi's pitching coach. Anybody got any info on him?

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

I bet Clemens is gonna use the Bonds' defense "The guy stuck a needle in my ass but I didn't know it was HGH, I thought it was B12" Atleast that is what he seems to be setting up.

If he did do steriods he should just come out and admit it, nobody seems to be riding Jason Giambi too hard these days do they?

[SammyG]

Yeah but this is Roger Clemens, ya know? Arguably the best pitcher in a long ass time. Best pitcher in the last 50 years and the best hitter in the last 50 years both busted for roids. Damn.

[Hanso Amore]

Roger is coming off as a dick who is taking the 5 year old defense

"Nuh-uh, I didnt do it, you lied."

"Roger, your injecting HGH right now"

"No im not, umm, its b12"

[YOUR Hero]

He taped his 'private' call he made Friday to McNamee and released it. In it you hear nothing from McNamee that changes what he's saying. Clemens tries to play this off as some sort of proof? - Laughable.

And yes, if he did the same thing Pettitte did, I believe this would have blown over. Sure he'd have taken some extra flack being that he's 'Roger Clemens', but so what he'd have survived it. I can't believe after everything he's seen Bonds go through that he'd chose to follow that same path.

[Hanso Amore]

He just comes off guilty. An innocent guy wouldnt have started this crusade.

The tape does nothing but make him look like he was trying to set Mcnamee up, which he couldnt get done.

He is ruining his own legacy.

[Hanso Amore]

Why would the guy drop names on people who admit to it, and just throw in his close friend for no reason? Obviously he isnt proud he had to turn in Clemens, but as he said "I dont want to go to jail". The fact that Clemens is treating the guy like this when his kid is dying makes me sick.

[ClockShot]

Your 2008 MLB Hall of Fame class.


GOOSE GOSSAGE!

:cool:

[ClockShot]

He just comes off guilty. An innocent guy wouldnt have started this crusade.

The tape does nothing but make him look like he was trying to set Mcnamee up, which he couldnt get done.

He is ruining his own legacy.

Totally agree with you. The more you keep talking and denying, the more you're likely to get crucified. Someone should duct tape his mouth shut and just wait and plead your case at the Capitol.

Speaking of which, caught some Mike and Mike on TV this morning. They had Steve Phillips and Buster Olney on to talk about the Clemens press conference. A point got brought up saying that Andy Pettitte might be sitting on the future of Clemens and McNamee. People are wondering who's side is he gonna take.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>About time.

Rice will probably get in next year.</font>

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Rod Beck, Travis Fryman, Robb Nen, Shawon Dunston, Chuck Finley, David Justice, Chuck Knoblauch, Todd Stottlymyre, Jose Rijo, and Brady Anderson are all ineligible for future consideration for getting under 5% of votes. The latter two got no votes at all.</font>

[FakeLaser]

Hell yeah Goose

Why the fuck didn't Blyleven get in? I'll never understand it. 287 wins despite pitching for garbage teams, 3.31 lifetime ERA, 1.19 WHIP, 3701 K's (5th all-time), never walked anyone (2.80 SO to walk), 242 CGs, 13th all-time in innings pitched and so forth. No Cy Youngs but that's probably the product of pitching for poor teams. He did get a WS ring. 120.5 on the HOF Monitor (100 or greater = Likely HOFer), plus all of his similar pitchers on Baseball Reference are in except Tommy John and Jim Kaat.

[YOUR Hero]

....what?

*White Sock

Hey Stima.

White Sox

....what?

*White Sock

Hey Stima.

White Sox


That's what!

[YOUR Hero]

But the same case could be made that since the other's were true, perhaps McNamee figured he could slip Clemens' name in there on his word and without substantial evidence.

Still, given his career swings, it just makes so much sense that Clemens took steroids in Toronto.

Why take the chance of trying to slip an extra name in there? There's no reward for doing it, it's all risk.

[Hanso Amore]

Hell yeah Goose

Why the fuck didn't Blyleven get in? I'll never understand it. 287 wins despite pitching for garbage teams, 3.31 lifetime ERA, 1.19 WHIP, 3701 K's (5th all-time), never walked anyone (2.80 SO to walk), 242 CGs, 13th all-time in innings pitched and so forth. No Cy Youngs but that's probably the product of pitching for poor teams. He did get a WS ring. 120.5 on the HOF Monitor (100 or greater = Likely HOFer), plus all of his similar pitchers on Baseball Reference are in except Tommy John and Jim Kaat.

No shit. Blyleven deserves to be in. I just dont understand what voters want. They say he wasnt dominant enough, and that his wins came over many years, but then with other guys that doesnt matter.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

That's what!
Well TrannyLover made a mistake and said Nick Swisher was now an "A" as in an he got traded to the Oakland A's..I was merely saying he is now a White Sock, as in he got traded to the White Sox

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

Damn No Jim Rice in the Hall though, I doubt he'll get in next year either with all the new canidates lined up (Ricky Henderson for one) and its his 15th, and last chance.

[Hanso Amore]

Well TrannyLover made a mistake and said Nick Swisher was now an "A" as in an he got traded to the Oakland A's..I was merely saying he is now a White Sock, as in he got traded to the White Sox

IS that all I am to you? A TRanny Lover! You son of a bitch. Im leaving you for Your Hero.

[Skippord]

*Lara Emily

[YOUR Hero]

Well TrannyLover made a mistake and said Nick Swisher was now an "A" as in an he got traded to the Oakland A's..I was merely saying he is now a White Sock, as in he got traded to the White Sox

There is no White Sock. There is no Red Sock. It's Sox.

Now get outta here and go play frisbee

[YOUR Hero]

IS that all I am to you? A TRanny Lover! You son of a bitch. Im leaving you for Your Hero.

It won't work Matt. You like girls with penises, I like girls without penises. You like girls with adam's apples, I like girls without adam's apples. I am the light, you are the dark. We a born to never walk in the same moments.

...never thought I'd have ever typed THAT out in my life.

[Hanso Amore]

Actually, a single player on the Red Sox isnt Red Sox.....Sox is a weird spelling but it refers to all. If your a single player, you would be a Red Sock or White Sock.


Oh Your Hero....>We are like Romeo and Juliet.....if she had a penis.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

X is plural I thought

[OssMan]

They are not the White Socks, which would imply plural, sounds funny but Hero is 100% right :y:

[FakeLaser]

Chicago White Stockings

[Hanso Amore]

So your saying the singular of Sox is Sox?

[FakeLaser]

Boston Red Stockings

[SammyG]

Michael Jordan White Socks

[OssMan]

So your saying the singular of Sox is Sox?
Ya

sayin like

Blue Jays----Blue Jay

Indians----Indian

Nationals----National

White Sox----White Sox or just say White Sox Player, but no White Sock.

[YOUR Hero]

I said go play frisbee!

[ClockShot]

The MLB Congressional Hearing scheduled for next week has been delayed until February 13th.

Whoa. Sounds like they're gonna gather all the firepower they can get and rip Clemens and company apart.

[Hanso Amore]

I can take Red Sox Member, but I cant take Red Sox.

"hey, I heard so and so got picked up by New York"

"yeah, never thought he would be a Yankee"

Now apply your method.

hey, I heard so and so got picked up by Boston"

"yeah, never thought he would be a Red Sox"

[ClockShot]

Some minor news and rumors.

Reliver Justin Duchscherer and the Athletcs agree to a one year deal.

Alex Cabrera agrees to a 1-year 2.2 mil. deal with the Orix Buffaloes in Japan.

Rockies sign Marcus Giles to a minor league deal.

Rangers might be close to signing Eddie Guardado.

[Hanso Amore]

Giles was a good signing. With the right coaching he could be an all star again.

Why does Everyday Eddie still have people signing him?

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>According to Joe Christensen of the Minnesota Star Tribune, the Mets have been told that they can land Johan Santana if they add OF Fernando Martinez to their current offer of OF Carlos Gomez and RHPs Deolis Guerra, Kevin Mulvey and Phil Humber.

Holy mother of Christ.</font>

[Hanso Amore]

<font color=goldenrod>According to Joe Christensen of the Minnesota Star Tribune, the Mets have been told that they can land Johan Santana if they add OF Fernando Martinez to their current offer of OF Carlos Gomez and RHPs Deolis Guerra, Kevin Mulvey and Phil Humber.

Holy mother of Christ.</font>

After last years collapse, they have no choice, they NEED to land Johan, and it will keep him out of boston :)

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Yeah this honestly feels like 10 years ago when the Expos put Pedro Martinez on the block and they regrettably didn't go all-out for him. They need to do it.

Admittedly, rather than the rumored Martinez, Gomez, Guerra, Mulvey, Humber for Santana deal...I'd rather see something like

Martinez, Gomez, Guerra/Humber/Mulvey (pick two), and Heilman for Santana and Nathan. But its not gonna happen as the Twins wanna ship out Nathan in a separate deal, probably to the Red Sox or Yankees.</font>

[Dragon]

That is definitely a lot for the Mets to give up but they also probably need Santana the most out of the Red Sox, Yankees and them.

I don't see the Red Sox or Yankees trying to top that offer.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Yeah, the deal is definitely a must for the Mets, not just for this year but also long term. Grabbing Santana would guarantee a 1-2 punch of Santana and Maine for the next few seasons which is crucial as there's no guarantees that Oliver Perez will return to the Mets with a good 2008 (fucking Boras is his agent) and Pedro will be a FA and he might totally break down.

If Fernando Martinez is what causes Omar to not make a deal...then the poor kid is gonna be the most heavily scrutinized player ever once he gets to the majors.</font>

[SammyG]

Yo the Mets need to pull the trigger on this already.

[OssMan]

The MLB Congressional Hearing scheduled for next week has been delayed until February 13th.

Whoa. Sounds like they're gonna gather all the firepower they can get and rip Clemens and company apart.MAH BIRTH DAY

[OssMan]

I can take Red Sox Member, but I cant take Red Sox.

"hey, I heard so and so got picked up by New York"

"yeah, never thought he would be a Yankee"

Now apply your method.

hey, I heard so and so got picked up by Boston"

"yeah, never thought he would be a Red Sox"YO I KNOW but Yankee is already a word and it just has an S at the end. The team is not named Red Socks so you cannot apply this here.

[Hardkore Kidd J]

All though I would really like to get Santana as a FA in the 2008 offseason . This might be the best move for all parties.

1. The Yankees don't want Boston to get Santana.

2. Boston doesn't want the Yankees to get Santana

3. The Mets get an all star pitcher.

All though I would of liked it if it wasn't the Mets since we compete with them. But if there in the National League. It helps us out because we don't play the Mets as much as we play the Red Sox. I wonder how Santana will be at the bat for the Mets.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Seriously, fuck corporate sponsors.

The Jake is no more...instead, make way for Progressive Field!</font> :roll:

[FakeLaser]

The Mets need to do that, like right now

[ClockShot]

Alright. Some news. A couple of big things going down.

Just about 2 hours ago Mike Cameron signed with the Brewers. 1-year deal with a club option for '09.

In the Santana talks. Yankees are pretty much out of it. Big Mouth Hank should be announcing this pretty soon. Mets are now the frontrunners and Santana's camp is pretty much in lockdown kicking this over. Ken Rosenthal thinks this could go down anytime right now.

A deal involving Mark Kotsay to the Braves is in the works.

[Hardkore Kidd J]

Alright. Some news. A couple of big things going down.

Just about 2 hours ago Mike Cameron signed with the Brewers. 1-year deal with a club option for '09.

In the Santana talks. Yankees are pretty much out of it. Big Mouth Hank should be announcing this pretty soon. Mets are now the frontrunners and Santana's camp is pretty much in lockdown kicking this over. Ken Rosenthal thinks this could go down anytime right now.

A deal involving Mark Kotsay to the Braves is in the works.

Hopefully this time Hank doesn't open his mouth again and says that "Trading Hughes is still a possibilty".

[MVP]

It sounds like Hank has burned his bridges with the Twins staff. Can't say the Red Sox are in better shape, but they've left Ellsbury entirely out of it due to wide objection. The Mets seem to be the best team for him to end up on since he'd still be the ace, whereas on the Sox he would share that role with Beckett.

[ClockShot]

Ken Rosenthal reports that Scott Rolen has been traded for Troy Glaus.

Details to follow.

[SammyG]

Good deal for both teams.

[ClockShot]

Ken Rosenthal reports that Scott Rolen has been traded for Troy Glaus.

Details to follow.

Alright. It's not a done deal yet. But it's gonna be. Both gotta pass physicals first. And I think some money is gonna be involved.

Also. A's trade Mark Kotsay to the Braves for Joey Devine.

[YOUR Hero]

I'd rather have Glaus than Rolen.

[YOUR Hero]

so fuck

[SammyG]

They both wanted out though.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>“I’m a Minnesota Twin. That’s all I know. It’s up to them. Whatever they have to do is going to happen. It has nothing to do with me at all. I said it from the beginning during the season last year, whatever will be the best for this team and this organization, I’ll agree with that.”

-1/11, Johan Santana to the News-Press (So. Fla)

---

That's usually what a player says when he knows he's gonna get traded really soon. I swear if the Mets don't come away with Johan it's gonna be hard to even look forward to the 2008 season...just way too big a tease.</font> :-\

[YOUR Hero]

They both wanted out though.

No. Not really.

Rolen seems to always want out of where he is after a couple years. Glaus was breaking down on the artificial turf. He liked it there, but it's best for him to be moved.

So giving up a guy that likes your city for a guy that keeps wanting to be moved isn't a great deal IMO.