MLB 2009-2010 Off Season Thread

[Emperor Smeat]

Billy Wagner didn't retire?

[Triple Naitch]

He said he wouldn't retire if he got a chance to close somewhere.

[Heros Welcome]

Pick the destinations.

Jason Bay: Red Sox
Erik Bedard: Orioles
Adrian Beltre: Twins
Mike Cameron: Padres
Aroldis Chapman: Red Sox
Johnny Damon: Yankees
Mark DeRosa: Phillies
Jermaine Dye: Athletics
Chone Figgins: Angels
Vladimir Guerrero: Rangers
Rich Harden: Red Sox
Matt Holliday: Cardinals
Orlando Hudson: Mets
John Lackey: Mets
Hideki Matsui: Yankees
Andy Pettite: Yankees
Marco Scutaro: Blue Jays
Miguel Tejada: Astros
Jose Valverde: Tigers
Billy Wagner: Braves
Randy Wolf: Dodgers


Five guys who get traded.
1. Luis Castillo
2. Dan Uggla
3. Derek Lowe
4. Roy Halladay
5. Ryan Doumit

[The Gold Standard]

Pick the destinations.

Jason Bay: Red Sox
Erik Bedard: Orioles
Adrian Beltre: Twins
Mike Cameron: Padres
Aroldis Chapman: Red Sox
Johnny Damon: Yankees
Mark DeRosa: Phillies
Jermaine Dye: Angels
Chone Figgins: Angels
Vladimir Guerrero: White Sox
Rich Harden: Red Sox
Matt Holliday: Mets
Orlando Hudson: Mets
John Lackey: Yankees
Hideki Matsui: Yankees
Andy Pettite: Yankees
Marco Scutaro: Red Sox
Miguel Tejada: Astros
Jose Valverde: Phillies
Billy Wagner: Tigers
Randy Wolf: Mets


Five guys who get traded.
1. Luis Castillo
2. Dan Uggla
3. Derek Lowe
4. Roy Halladay
5. Juan Pierre

[Hardkore Kidd J]

Looks like Timmy boy is going to be getting a higher paycheck

*Rimshot*:lol:

I'm sorry I couldn't help it.


Jason Bay: Red Sox

Erik Bedard: Orioles

Adrian Beltre: Orioles


Mike Cameron: Padres

Aroldis Chapman: Red Sox

Johnny Damon: Yankees

Mark DeRosa: Yankees(It is foretold that his name is being thrown around that the Yankees might be trying to look to sign him as a bench guy)


Jermaine Dye: Angels

Chone Figgins: Angels

Vladimir Guerrero: White Sox

Rich Harden: Yankees

Matt Holliday: Mets

Orlando Hudson: Mets

John Lackey: Mets

Hideki Matsui: Yankees

Andy Pettite: Yankees or retirement.


Marco Scutaro: Red Sox

Miguel Tejada: Astros

Jose Valverde: Phillies

Billy Wagner: Tigers

Randy Wolf: Mets


Five guys who get traded.

1. Luis Castillo

2. Dan Uggla

3. Derek Lowe

4. Roy Halladay

5. Miguel Cabrera (After the altercation with his wife and doing badly in the playoffs he may be on his way out of the Motor City)

[Heros Welcome]

Believe me J, I am pulling for your predictions. I'll be doing back flips if the Mets landed Holliday Lackey Hudson and Wolf.

[Heros Welcome]

Free Agency is upon us all!

[The Gold Standard]

I just read that Wang is going to be non tendored and that the Dodgers may be interested in him and despite saying he wanted to stay in NY he is open to the Dodgers because of the comfort level with Torre.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Mets and Cubs involved in talks of another three way, this time with the Rangers.

Rangers get: OF Milton Bradley
Cubs get: 2B Luis Castillo
Mets get: SP Kevin Millwood

I'd definitely like that. Hope it actually happens. Millwood is decent, better than what the Mets have now, should improve in the NL, and frees up space for Orlando Hudson.</font>

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Deal dead. That didn't take long. Bradley was probably the hold-up again. Cubs aren't gonna be able to trade him.</font>

[The Gold Standard]

Bradley's contract and attitude are too crazy to trade him.

[Splaya]

Lol it took 1 hour to kill the deal

[Emperor Smeat]

Supposedly, Red Sox are evaluating Josh Beckett to see how much investment they need in pitchers for next 2 years (his current contract ends by then).

If they think Beckett can rebound and be back to a great pitcher, they probably don't go after Lackey or Halladay but fix their depth in batters or bullpen. If they think he's going to keep being a pitcher that keeps having a down year every other season, they going after Lackey or Halladay or potentially both.

[ClockShot]

Marlins and Josh Johnson couldn't work out a deal so he's on the market in 2 years.

Part of me wants Cashman to make a run at him.

[ClockShot]

Aroldis Chapman got a new agent(s). He's now represented by the Hendricks Brothers.

This, of course, may or may not change things.

[Hardkore Kidd J]

Bradley's contract and attitude are too crazy to trade him.

Just another reason why the Jays are stuck with Wells. Anytime the Jays try to deal him the other team will back out .

[YOUR Hero]

Wells doesn't have a bad attitude however. Just way over paid. I like the guy, but he was never, even in his best year(s) worth themoney they dolled out to him. It's funny, Delgado was worth the $$ (back in the day) but the Jays were always saying he was too expensive, but they overpay Wells. All under J.P. , I think JP didn't mesh well with Carlos for some reason.

[Droford]

He said he wouldn't retire if he got a chance to close somewhere.

I just heard the Orioles were interested in Wagner because they're current closer options are Jim Johnson who quite honestly doesn't have what it takes to be a Closer, and Koji Uehara who was a closer in Japan but will probably be needed in the rotation.

The Os are apparently also interested in Ben Sheets, who could be a huge wild card among pitchers in the offseason. I do doubt that they would go after both Sheets and Bedard since both have injuries but Andy McPhail has said that they will persue players even if they have a history of injuries.

The Os only have $45 million for the salary of the players currently on the roster so they could spend some money. Plus they only have 3 players signed past next season (Markakis, Roberts and Brian Matusz)..though I sure hope they get Adam Jones signed to along term deal soon.

[YOUR Hero]

Rumor lmill is really stating the Yankees want to make a run at Halladay. Man... If they do, that is it. I'm a Yankees fan until Halladay retires or moves on from the Yankees.

[YOUR Hero]

Rumor mill is really stating the Yankees want to make a run at Halladay. Man... If they do, that is it. I'm a Yankees fan until Halladay retires or moves on from the Yankees.

[RBM]

Ew, don't go to the dark side, Hero.

I have the opposite reaction if I see Felix in pin stripes. I'm buying a sniper rifle.

[Hardkore Kidd J]

Rumor mill is really stating the Yankees want to make a run at Halladay. Man... If they do, that is it. I'm a Yankees fan until Halladay retires or moves on from the Yankees.

I feel kinda "MEH" about getting Halladay right now because of 2 reasons.

1. Since we're in the same league I know for a fact that it's gonna be some Jaw Dropping package that we'd have to give for him. And I really don't want to give up a whole shit load of talent for maybe 5 or 6 years as a Yankee.

Phil orJoba/A-jax + 2 minor League pitchers is as high as I will go. And I really don't want to give up Austin . I think he will be a big star.

And 2. If we do get Halladay I am worried we're not paying for just Halladay. If we have to take Wells too then I say let the Red Sox take him, Let the Angels take him, let anyone take him. I don't care if Cy Fuckin Young came back from the dead and could be traded for if we got Vernon Wells too. If we trade for Halladay all that I hope is Wells isn't coming to us too. Cause I really don't want Vernon Wells at all.


If number 2 is the case then no offence to Roy but Halladay can go somewhere else, anywhere else. There are quite a few pitchers who could be testing free agency in the 2010 offseason. So if Toronto wants us to take Wells then I say we don't trade for Halladay and go for someone else in the 2010 offseason.

[ClockShot]

Get Halladay for half our farm system, a 1 season rental, AND sign him to a big ass extension. Toronto and that new GM of theirs can keep him.

[Hardkore Kidd J]

Get Halladay for half our farm system, a 1 season rental, AND sign him to a big ass extension. Toronto and that new GM of theirs can keep him.


My Point exactly especially if they want us to take Wells too. I would much rather sign back Andy and maybe get Lackey and then wait until the offseason of 2010 and see what we can get. I would be extremely happy if Halladay got traded to the National League though.

[YOUR Hero]

You guys don't realize just how good Halladay is. Ask Jeter.

[Loose Cannon]

I've been a Halliday fan from day 1. I would love him to wear the pinstripes. He's definately a "Yankee" type. The guy is a work horse and a class act. If they insist on starting Joba, I'd definately give him up to be honest.

[Dragon]

Even though Halladay is obviously one of the best the Yankees don't really need him. I mean they won the WS with a rotation of CC, AJ, Andy, Joba and a bunch of guys with ERAs around 8 (Wang, Mitre). I'm fine with the Yankees having a rotation of CC-AJ-Andy-Joba-Hughes next year. Joba has a year under his belt of starting and will have no Joba rules next year. The whole innings restriction is when he started going downhill this year.

And if they really want they can go after a guy like Lee or Halladay in FA the next year. The whole Halladay situation reminds me of the Santana thing. There won't be that many teams that will be able to trade a huge amount of prospects and sign him to a 20M+/year contract.

[YOUR Hero]

Will Pettitte play again? Will AJ not implode (usually has a good 1st year somewhere then, falls off...until contract time) Just how many burgers can CC eat? Yeah, you won the WS, but there is a shaky team behind this years championship.

[ClockShot]

I personally wanna bring in Ben Sheets. A low-risk deal that won't hurt us. We've learned from Pavano.

But that's just me.

[Dragon]

Well my whole thing is assuming Pettitte returns. Everything I've read has said he'll be back. Burnett is gonna be Burnett no matter what. He was inconsistent as hell this year and I expect he'll be the same next year. Really not worried about CC at all.

I mean no other team in baseball last year was able to match that trio in the postseason. And I really wouldn't say they were a shaky team. They were the best team in baseball a majority of the season.

The rotation of CC, AJ, Andy, Joba and Hughes with Gaudin, Aceves, Kennedy and others as spot starters when needed is fine IMO. I could see the Yankees taking a chance on someone like Sheets or Bedard though.

I dunno, like I said before the whole thing reminds me of the Santana situation all over again. How many teams in baseball are able to afford giving up a big haul of prospects and giving out a huge contract to Halladay? For Santana it was three and in the end the Twins ended up getting nothing at all. I just don't wanna give up big pieces for Halladay when I'd think there's a good chance of him or Lee becoming a free agent after next year.

[Hardkore Kidd J]

Well my whole thing is assuming Pettitte returns. Everything I've read has said he'll be back. Burnett is gonna be Burnett no matter what. He was inconsistent as hell this year and I expect he'll be the same next year. Really not worried about CC at all.

I mean no other team in baseball last year was able to match that trio in the postseason. And I really wouldn't say they were a shaky team. They were the best team in baseball a majority of the season.

The rotation of CC, AJ, Andy, Joba and Hughes with Gaudin, Aceves, Kennedy and others as spot starters when needed is fine IMO. I could see the Yankees taking a chance on someone like Sheets or Bedard though.

I dunno, like I said before the whole thing reminds me of the Santana situation all over again. How many teams in baseball are able to afford giving up a big haul of prospects and giving out a huge contract to Halladay? For Santana it was three and in the end the Twins ended up getting nothing at all. I just don't wanna give up big pieces for Halladay when I'd think there's a good chance of him or Lee becoming a free agent after next year.

Right now there's even a possibility of Josh Johnson and Beckett being free agents next year. Beckett wants Burnett money from the Red Sox and the Red Sox don't want to give him that much.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Mauer wins AL MVP, nearly unanimous. Teixeira and Jeter finish 2nd and 3rd.

Miguel Cabrera got 1 first place vote. Probably from the same Michigan sportswriter that voted Verlander for Cy Young.</font>

[Heros Welcome]

Its unreal when you look at what Mauer has done thus far as a catcher.

26 years old and he has 2 gold gloves, 3 silver sluggers, 3 batting titles and an MVP.

[ClockShot]

Surprised A-Rod didn't even get a nom for MVP.

Congrats to Joe Mauer.

[DaveWadding]

Controversial opinion: I think Joe Mauer's defense is overrated.

[Emperor Smeat]

<font color=goldenrod>Mauer wins AL MVP, nearly unanimous. Teixeira and Jeter finish 2nd and 3rd.

Miguel Cabrera got 1 first place vote. Probably from the same Michigan sportswriter that voted Verlander for Cy Young.</font>

Cabrera got the vote from a Seattle writer. They think he filled out his ballot 1-2 weeks before season ended and before Cabrera fell apart and hurt Detroit's hitting and scoring ability.

[ClockShot]

Brew Crew re-sign Chris Capuano.

White Sox sign Omar Vizquel to a 1-year deal.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>This might be the first time I've seen an official MLB article go up regarding the contract of a broadcaster. Best news of the offseason so far:</font>

http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091123&content_id=7709266&vkey=news_nym&fext=.jsp&c_id=nym

[Heros Welcome]

YES!!! Thank god Keith is BACK!

[Splaya]

Apparently, The Tigers have put Miguel Cabrera on the trade block :(

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Pujols wins unanimously. No surprises there.</font>

[Hardkore Kidd J]

Apparently, The Tigers have put Miguel Cabrera on the trade block :(

I could actually see maybe the Red Sox going after him if they don't trade for Adrian Gonzales or Halladay or Hernandez. I don't think they really have enough prospects for 1 of them + Miguel unless they get Miguel really cheap.

[Emperor Smeat]

Doubt Red Sox make 2 big name trades since they don't have that many high quality position players besides pitchers they can just give away. Before getting V-Mart, they kept refusing to trade quality catchers since they needed at least one to develop before Varitek retires or leaves.

Their bigger goal is to try to keep Bay this year and then prepare for 2 years when Beckett might leave and maybe Wakefield finally retires.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

Albert Pujols has received the 3rd most MVP votes...........of all time

[Hardkore Kidd J]

Doubt Red Sox make 2 big name trades since they don't have that many high quality position players besides pitchers they can just give away. Before getting V-Mart, they kept refusing to trade quality catchers since they needed at least one to develop before Varitek retires or leaves.

Their bigger goal is to try to keep Bay this year and then prepare for 2 years when Beckett might leave and maybe Wakefield finally retires.

I don't really think Miguel would really cost you guys that much. You can write off Halladay , Adrian, and Hernandez, but I think you could get Miguel with a modest to small package.

[Triple Naitch]

I've heard the Red Sox would go hard after Lackey, enabling them to trade Buchholz.

[ClockShot]

White Sox sign Andruw Jones to a 1-year, $500K deal to warm their bench.

Yankee favroite Shelly Duncan elects free agency instead of AAA.

News o' the day: Red Sox are going after Doc Halladay hard.

[Hardkore Kidd J]

White Sox sign Andruw Jones to a 1-year, $500K deal to warm their bench.

Yankee favroite Shelly Duncan elects free agency instead of AAA.

News o' the day: Red Sox are going after Doc Halladay hard.

I'm glad Shelley tested Free Agency. I was always hoping he'd get more playing time somewhere. You just watch some national league team will pick him up and he'll either have a full time or bench job for a year.

[ClockShot]

Blue Jays sign Alex Gonzalez to a 1-year, $2.75 mil. deal. with a $2.5 mil. team option for 2011.

Looks like Scutaro is gone, and by far the best SS out on the market.

[ClockShot]

Yankees Announcer Bob "The Voice of God" Sheppard, has formally retired.

99 years old, I'd say it's been a hell of a career.

[SammyG]

Is that the guy that says THEEEEEEEEEEE YANKEEEEEEEEES WIIIIIIN

[Hardkore Kidd J]

Is that the guy that says THEEEEEEEEEEE YANKEEEEEEEEES WIIIIIIN

I believe who you are thinking about is John Sterling. Bob Sheppard was the person who'd announce when a guy came up to bat, The lineup's, etc.

[OssMan]

Albert Pujols has received the 3rd most MVP votes...........of all time
of all time

[dablackguy]

Is that the guy that says THEEEEEEEEEEE YANKEEEEEEEEES WIIIIIIN

As noted, that's John Sterling, who is terrible from a analyst standpoint

[dablackguy]

I've heard the Red Sox would go hard after Lackey, enabling them to trade Buchholz.

The Sox are retarded if they're in any hurry to trade Buchholz

[ClockShot]

Hall of Fame ballot is out. Pick out who you would want in this time around. Here's the complete list of who's eligible.

Roberto Alomar
Kevin Appier
Harold Baines
Bert Blyleven
Ellis Burks
Andre Dawson
Andres Galarraga
Pat Hentgen
Mike Jackson
Eric Karros
Ray Lankford
Barry Larkin
Edgar Martinez
Don Mattingly
Fred McGriff
Mark McGwire
Jack Morris
Dale Murphy
Dave Parker
Tim Raines
Shane Reynolds
David Segui
Lee Smith
Alan Trammell
Robin Ventura
Todd Zeile

[Loose Cannon]

Hall of Fame ballot is out. Pick out who you would want in this time around. Here's the complete list of who's eligible.

Roberto Alomar: Yes
Kevin Appier NO
Harold Baines NO
Bert Blyleven Yes
Ellis Burks NO
Andre Dawson Yes
Andres Galarraga NO
Pat Hentgen NO
Mike Jackson NO
Eric Karros NO
Ray Lankford NO
Barry Larkin Yes
Edgar Martinez Yes
Don Mattingly It pains me, but he ain't getting in
Fred McGriff NO
Mark McGwire NO
Jack Morris NO
Dale Murphy NO
Dave Parker NO
Tim Raines NO
Shane Reynolds NO
David Segui NO
Lee Smith Yes
Alan Trammell NO
Robin Ventura NO
Todd Zeile NO


So... interesting class. Not really a huge superstar. I think Dawson and maybe Alomar get in next year. The others I put "Yes' next two will eventually get in, but they will not go in 2010.

[Heros Welcome]

Marlins Looking To Deal Josh Johnson
By Zach Links [November 27 at 6:20pm CST]

The Marlins are "very willing" to trade Josh Johnson for the right package, according to John Perrotto (via Twitter). Just a few weeks ago, it seemed as though the Marlins intended on signing the 25-year-old ace to a multi-year deal.

The 6'7, 250 lb righty is arbitration eligible and due for a big raise from the $1.4MM he earned last season. Johnson earned a trip to the All-Star game in his best campaign to date, registering a 3.23 ERA with 8.2 K/9.

With a lackluster pool of available free agent starters, what teams should look to acquire Johnson? What, in your mind, would be right package for the young hurler?

Hard for me to see a deal getting down for JJ. Guys on the rise, one of the most prominant young arms in all of baseball. The return the Marlins would ask for could easily top that of what the Jays will end up giving Halladay up for.

I can't see a deal getting done this offseason. But ya never know.

[Emperor Smeat]

This is probably the best chance for Dawson and Blyleven to reach the Hall this time since no big name besides Alomar taking away votes on the ballot. Probably ends up being just Alomar and Blyleven since the writers rarely ever put more than 2 in the Hall from their votes.

[Triple Naitch]

Barry Larkin definitely is a first ballot. He had more Silver Sluggers at Shortstop than Cal Ripken.

[Loose Cannon]

he wasn't even the best shortstop in his league though. He'll get in, but I'd give him a 10% chance to make it in his 1st try

[Triple Naitch]

Who was?

[Loose Cannon]

Ozzie

Edit: well to be fair, I just took a quick look at some stats and went to my always trusted Bill James Book. Bill James actually rates Larkin as the 6th greatest short of all-time and Ozzie as 7. Although it's funny, he writes a paragraph on Larkin and almost 2 pages on Ozzie, which is pretty much the story of Larkin's career right there.

Ozzie was the better defensive shortstop; Larkin offensive.

Ozzie got to the Series 3 times and Larkin once.

It's definately going to come down to who the voters are and how they vote to see whether or not Larkin can get in on the 1st try.


That's a bad job by me right there not checking the stats first though. I never remember him as a 1st tier sort of player, but hey, if Bill James has him at 6, then who am I to argue?

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Don't forget Larkin won an MVP. Ozzie never did.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

I can't give an objective opinion of Larkin since he was one of my favorites of all time, but I don't think he's first ballot material. And I think the writers will agree. But I think once the more of the steroid guys become eligible, Larkin will get a ton of votes.

[ClockShot]

Reports around the web are saying Bud Selig will step down in 2012.

[McLegend]

That is a pretty terrible list up there.

[Evil Vito]

Reports around the web are saying Bud Selig will step down in 2012.

<font color=goldenrod>Can't come soon enough.</font>

[McLegend]

That is a pretty terrible list up there.

I take this back. I should say.

Pretty weak list up there.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Next Commissioner:

http://youbeenblinded.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/11/pete-rose.jpg

[Emperor Smeat]

Reports around the web are saying Bud Selig will step down in 2012.

The Wild Card and Inter-League play will probably be the only things positive about his reign once he's done. Still amazed how he managed to make more money than majority of the league's own players and management when he's been responsible for a lot of stupid things MLB did that made little sense ($14.5 million based on last year).

[Evil Vito]

The Wild Card and Inter-League play will probably be the only things positive about his reign once he's done. Still amazed how he managed to make more money than majority of the league's own players and management when he's been responsible for a lot of stupid things MLB did that made little sense ($14.5 million based on last year).

<font color=goldenrod>I wouldn't even say Inter-League play was that good of an idea. Nowadays it pretty much means free wins for the AL teams.</font>

[Emperor Smeat]

It did however mean less bland/predictable schedules since you could go see a NL club vs AL club match instead of the usual AL only or NL only games. Either way, the idea was partially half-assed since it barely lasts more than 10-16 games when the season itself is 162 games.

[Nervous Ferret]

Blyleven finally gets in this year. And Alomar. :y:

[RatedGSuperstar]

The Wild Card and Inter-League play will probably be the only things positive about his reign once he's done. Still amazed how he managed to make more money than majority of the league's own players and management when he's been responsible for a lot of stupid things MLB did that made little sense ($14.5 million based on last year).

I think that's being a little harsh, considering some of the headaches he's had to deal with as commissioner. I doubt anyone could have come out of the past 10 years or so looking very good, especially considering that as commissioner he's basically a mouthpiece for the league's owners, and the league's owners are a bunch of scumbags that are only really concerned with the bottom line.

Four new teams were added and one was relocated because the owners wanted it to increase revenue. Playoff expansion and interleague play happened because the owners wanted it to increase revenue. Steroid testing reform took so long because the owners were reaping the benefits of juiced up players that put butts in the seats.

Yeah, the man's not the ideal mouthpiece because PR was never his strong suit, but I do think he's gotten the harshest treatment out of any major league commissioner this side of Gary Bettman. Then again, I might be a little biased -- without Selig, there wouldn't be baseball in Milwaukee and the team would've left long ago if he didn't push for the building of Miller Park.

[Emperor Smeat]

Yeah it does kind of sound a bit harsh but when you consider who he replaced and who he was before being a commissioner, it sort explains why he is a bit "soft" on most issues. His predecessor basically got run out of the job for being tough with the owners and I think Selig might have been the 1st commissioner that actually was a current owner of a team (at the time).

I believe he basically held onto the job for a bit too long which is why most of the stuff post-2003 has looked bad for him as the head of baseball. He's been the official commissioner since 1998 but ran the office since 1992.

[ClockShot]

Mets and Alex Cora are close to a 1-year deal with a vesting option included.

[Triple Naitch]

Chip Caray's out for TBS baseball! :D

[Evil Vito]

Mets and Alex Cora are close to a 1-year deal with a vesting option included.

<font color=goldenrod>I'm glad Cora is coming back. He seems like a good clubhouse guy, and truthfully I think every team needs that one bench guy who is a good clubhouse presence. Omar's biggest problem is that far too often, he'll sign multiple guys based on their clubhouse skills.

However, given past offseasons, I'm somewhat leery about guaranteeing $2 million to a bench guy. Even something like that might price the Mets out of getting somebody late in the offseason, fucking Wilpons.</font>

[DaveWadding]

Chip Caray's out for TBS baseball! :D

Good fucking riddance. I hope I never have to hear his voice ever again.

[ClockShot]

Chip Caray's out for TBS baseball! :D

Awwwwwwww. No more fisting. :lol:

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>The Cora deal is now official.

Also, Mets sign 36-year-old C Chris Coste. The deal doesn't guarantee he'll be on the Opening Day roster, but it guarantees him a 40-man roster spot. What the fuck.</font>

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Mets also add former Reds General Manager Wayne Krivsky to their front office staff.

Better him than Ricciardi. I would have loved to have seen Kevin Towers join the staff, but there is no way they would have done that to Omar.</font>

[Loose Cannon]

which one is that Chip guy?

[Loose Cannon]

ok, it's the guy without that weird accent. That's Ron Darling. I couldn't stand him

[screech]

I actually like Chip, as he really gets into the games. Don't really like his analysis, but purely commentating he is good.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Halladay says he will not waive his no-trade clause if he is still on the Blue Jays when he reports to spring training.

Christ...this couldn't be more like the Santana situation if it tried.</font>

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Phillies sign C Brian Schneider to a 2-year deal. lol good luck with that</font>

[RatedGSuperstar]

<font color=goldenrod>Christ...this couldn't be more like the Santana situation if it tried.</font>

Let's see if he gets dealt for a fast outfielder who can't hit and three pitchers who might never be real big league starters. Then it would really be like the Santana deal. :lol:

[ClockShot]

Rays aquire Kelly Shoppach from the Indians for PTBNL.

[ClockShot]

Yanks decline Arbitration to Matsui, Damon and Pettitte.

I guess we can spin this a few ways.

[Hardkore Kidd J]

Yanks decline Arbitration to Matsui, Damon and Pettitte.

I guess we can spin this a few ways.

I still think we could get Pettite . This may just be a way to free up money for Holliday/Halladay or Lackey. I wonder who the Red Sox will trade for to be a second baseman if they go with the idea of D-Ped being a SS.

[Dragon]

Yanks decline Arbitration to Matsui, Damon and Pettitte.

I guess we can spin this a few ways.

It makes sense not to offer to any of them. The only one you can really make a case for is Andy but I think he's gonna be a Yankee or retire so offering arbitration doesn't really matter. Most likely he's not signing with another team so we wouldn't get a pick out of it.

As for Damon and Matsui, chances are both of them would stand to make something like $15M in arbitration. Doubt the Yankees wanna be stuck with them on $15M deals, even if they are only for one year.

[Dragon]

I saw that Pedroia to SS rumor too. I dunno, I can't really see him being a great SS. He doesn't exactly have a great arm. Maybe he'd be decent at SS if he has the range but his lack of arm will hurt him there.

[Emperor Smeat]

Red Sox get some insurance just in case Jason Bay were to leave since they offered arbitration to him. They did the same with Wagner and if both end up leaving, the way the deal is done, Red Sox get a bonus pick in the draft.

[screech]

I saw that Pedroia to SS rumor too. I dunno, I can't really see him being a great SS. He doesn't exactly have a great arm. Maybe he'd be decent at SS if he has the range but his lack of arm will hurt him there.

Eckstein doesn't have that great of an arm and he's done well at SS. I think Pedroia has the range to do well enough.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Halladay says he will not waive his no-trade clause if he is still on the Blue Jays when he reports to spring training.

Christ...this couldn't be more like the Santana situation if it tried.
Smart move by Halladay. Now the Jays can't be picky about which team they trade him to. They can either trade him within the division or get nothing for him at all next winter.

[Hardkore Kidd J]

Smart move by Halladay. Now the Jays can't be picky about which team they trade him to. They can either trade him within the division or get nothing for him at all next winter.


And what rally pleases me is now the Blue Jays may have to lower their asking price for the Yankees. Before they wanted Jesus Montero, in the trade. That kid has some serious potential. He's only 19 years old a lot of Yankee fans consider him the real deal.

Now, I know that we won't get a huge bargain for Halladay. But at least now it could be something like

Hughes/Austin Jackson / +2 minor Leaguers. That's as high as I will go. If they want Joba INSTEAD of Hughes then so be it.

As long as we don't have to trade BOTH Hughes and Joba and Montero isn't a part of the deal I'm all for it.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

How is Montero's defense? I know he can hit but if he's not going to play behind the plate then he could be expendable.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Billy Wagner agrees to a 1-year, $7 million deal with the Braves, it includes a vesting option for 2011</font>

[Loose Cannon]

And what rally pleases me is now the Blue Jays may have to lower their asking price for the Yankees. Before they wanted Jesus Montero, in the trade. That kid has some serious potential. He's only 19 years old a lot of Yankee fans consider him the real deal.

Now, I know that we won't get a huge bargain for Halladay. But at least now it could be something like

Hughes/Austin Jackson / +2 minor Leaguers. That's as high as I will go. If they want Joba INSTEAD of Hughes then so be it.

As long as we don't have to trade BOTH Hughes and Joba and Montero isn't a part of the deal I'm all for it.

how many "real deals" have we had the past couple of years. I am sick of hearing about how this guy is tearing it up in AAA and then he gets to the majors and he's average/below average. Halladay is proven.

I mean I know they are still young, so I am not going to cast a stone yet, but our young guys haven't really stepped up like everyone said they would. The Yankees win behind the veterans. They've always won behind veteran players. So I am really not sold on the Yankees trying to build for the future with thier minor league system because frankly I think people overate the players in the system a lot.

[ClockShot]

Billy Wagner agrees to a 1-year, $7 million deal with the Braves, it includes a vesting option for 2011

Nice pick-up. Now they just gotta build around him.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Bengie Molina wasn't offered arbitration. Now it's even more likely that the Mets will sign him. I say ugh to that.

He's got decent pop, but he's also 35 years old, his defense isn't particularly good at this point, and worst off...he is in the top 3 in the NL at swinging at the first pitch. This is bad because Jeff Francoeur is also in those top 3. Having two free swingers back to back in the bottom of the lineup could be a nightmare.</font>

[Innovator]

Nice pick-up. Now they just gotta build around him.
Great job picking up a closer guaranteed to blow up in big games

[Dragon]

how many "real deals" have we had the past couple of years. I am sick of hearing about how this guy is tearing it up in AAA and then he gets to the majors and he's average/below average. Halladay is proven.

I mean I know they are still young, so I am not going to cast a stone yet, but our young guys haven't really stepped up like everyone said they would. The Yankees win behind the veterans. They've always won behind veteran players. So I am really not sold on the Yankees trying to build for the future with thier minor league system because frankly I think people overate the players in the system a lot.

In a mid-season rankings last season he was ranked #3 in all of baseball. He has been tearing up every level he's been at and chances are he'll be starting at AAA at 19-20 years old next year. I'd say he's been the biggest position player "real deal" we've had in a while.

[Innovator]

Stone Cold Rampage should be up this year

[Dragon]

How is Montero's defense? I know he can hit but if he's not going to play behind the plate then he could be expendable.

His defense is the biggest question. Apparently he has a decent arm and everything but he's pretty slow moving behind the plate. But with the offensive expectations people have placed on him, if he is average behind the plate and lives up to some of those offensive numbers he would be a huge asset.

[Dragon]

how many "real deals" have we had the past couple of years. I am sick of hearing about how this guy is tearing it up in AAA and then he gets to the majors and he's average/below average. Halladay is proven.

I mean I know they are still young, so I am not going to cast a stone yet, but our young guys haven't really stepped up like everyone said they would. The Yankees win behind the veterans. They've always won behind veteran players. So I am really not sold on the Yankees trying to build for the future with thier minor league system because frankly I think people overate the players in the system a lot.

Well I mean at one point all the current veterans were young guys coming up through the system helping us win championships in the 90s.

I think the Yankees need to keep using the minor league system like they've been doing recently. They're still gonna be big in the FA market when they need to but they need to complement those guys with young guys that aren't gonna cost 20M a year. I know we're talking about Halladay here though. I just don't see why the Yankees would or should give up some of their big young guys for him. They didn't for Santana and he was 3 or 4 years younger than Halladay currently is. I mean we really aren't getting the prime years of Roy Halladay if we trade for and extend him. We are gonna be getting him when he is 35,36,37. And while he could possibly still be as great as he is now in his mid to late 30s, chances are he won't be.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Francesa and Heyman had an interview today, they both predict the Mets will give Molina a 2-year deal for $8 million per season. That would be absolutely ridiculous.

It would be just another instance of the Mets betting against themselves, like with Cora - guarantee the Mets could have had him for $1 million, but of course their first offer is $2 million. Omar's biggest weakness by far is doing a poor job of reading the market and estimating what other teams would be willing to offer to free agents.</font>

[Loose Cannon]

Well I mean at one point all the current veterans were young guys coming up through the system helping us win championships in the 90s.

I think the Yankees need to keep using the minor league system like they've been doing recently. They're still gonna be big in the FA market when they need to but they need to complement those guys with young guys that aren't gonna cost 20M a year. I know we're talking about Halladay here though. I just don't see why the Yankees would or should give up some of their big young guys for him. They didn't for Santana and he was 3 or 4 years younger than Halladay currently is. I mean we really aren't getting the prime years of Roy Halladay if we trade for and extend him. We are gonna be getting him when he is 35,36,37. And while he could possibly still be as great as he is now in his mid to late 30s, chances are he won't be.


I see what you're saying and it makes sense, but when I look back at the Yankees Post season pitching, it always seems like it's the veteran pitchers that get the job done. I could just be seeing things like that for the sake of my argument, but guys like David Cone, David Wells, Andy Pettite, Doc Gooden, Jimmy Key, Mike Mussina, El Duque I just remember being the type of guys you wanted out there.

I would definately start a 36 year old Roy Halladay over a 20 something Joba Chamberlain/Phil Hughes.

But I could be dead wrong on this. Joba could go 20-6 next year and pitch gems in the post season and totally shut me up

[Hardkore Kidd J]

Well I mean at one point all the current veterans were young guys coming up through the system helping us win championships in the 90s.

I think the Yankees need to keep using the minor league system like they've been doing recently. They're still gonna be big in the FA market when they need to but they need to complement those guys with young guys that aren't gonna cost 20M a year. I know we're talking about Halladay here though. I just don't see why the Yankees would or should give up some of their big young guys for him. They didn't for Santana and he was 3 or 4 years younger than Halladay currently is. I mean we really aren't getting the prime years of Roy Halladay if we trade for and extend him. We are gonna be getting him when he is 35,36,37. And while he could possibly still be as great as he is now in his mid to late 30s, chances are he won't be.

Quite frankly I wouldn't really dream of trading Montero unless it was for someone like king Felix. For him I'd go above and beyond to get him.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Mets close to signing C Henry Blanco to a one-year deal. Good, awesome defense.

But apparently they are STILL looking for a #1 catcher after that. Why? If you get Blanco that will now be 4 catchers on the 40-man roster...how many do you need? Santos and Blanco is serviceable enough. Focus on getting a left fielder and starting pitcher.</font>

[ClockShot]

Phillies are in the lead for landing Placidio Polanco. But, they want him to play 3B.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Wow. I'm shocked that nobody would make an offer for Placido to play 2B.</font>

[Big Fat Mike]

<font color=goldenrod>Mets close to signing C Henry Blanco to a one-year deal. Good, awesome defense.

But apparently they are STILL looking for a #1 catcher after that. Why? If you get Blanco that will now be 4 catchers on the 40-man roster...how many do you need? Santos and Blanco is serviceable enough. Focus on getting a left fielder and starting pitcher.</font>

I guess they figure if they collide all four catchers at high speed than they might actually get one guy that can actually HIT. Why don't you send the Wilpons and e-mail asking them to try and coax Piazza out of retirement? He has bad EVERYTHING and is old, but could still probably put up better offensive numbers in half a season than any catcher on the current roster could put up in a full one.

[ClockShot]

Phillies are in the lead for landing Placidio Polanco. But, they want him to play 3B.

Update:

Signed. 3-years, $18 mil.

[ClockShot]

Braves sign Takashi Saito. 1-year, $3 mil.

Come on Cashman, what's the hold-up?

[Emperor Smeat]

Bit surprised Red Sox didn't keep Saito since he was a decent bullpen/setup pitcher to get to the closer. Picked up some of the slack when Oki and Bard struggled as setup men.

[Boomer]

Pretty happy with what the Braves have done so far. Still missing any good power in our lineup though.

[ClockShot]

Cubs trade Aaron Miles, Jake Fox, and cash to Oakland for Jeff Gray, Ronny Morla, and Matt Spencer.

[SammyG]

Dodgers.... don't do anything.

[Heros Welcome]

Red Sox Sign Scutaro
By Ben Nicholson-Smith [December 3 at 9:37pm CST]

9:37pm: The Red Sox have agreed to terms with Scutaro, according to Ed Price (via Twitter).

[Hardkore Kidd J]

I had a feeling Red Sox would get Marco. Now, the question is should they go with their original idea and keep Marco at Shortstop or have him play second base?

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Scutaro's ok but he was definitely playing for a contract last year. Still an upgrade from what Boston had though.

[RP]

Comon Cubs, gotta find some sucker to take Bradley.

[YOUR Hero]

Scutaro :'(

Also brings good character.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>It'll never happen, but it'd be funny if Mike Gonzalez and Rafael Soriano decided to accept their arbitration offers...giving the Braves no picks for them and tying up around $25 million in four relievers.</font> :lol:

[Triple Naitch]

Scutaro wasn't my first choice for the Sox, but for $6 million it's not a horrible signing. Yeah, they gotta surrender their first round pick, but they're getting the Braves pick. I would have rather seen Brandon Phillips or Orlando Hudson man second with Pedroia moving to short, but better safe than sorry.

[Dragon]

Scutaro's ok but he was definitely playing for a contract last year. Still an upgrade from what Boston had though.

Yeah, I mean last year was his first above average offensive year ever and he was a utility man just a couple years back. I guess the Sox didn't have much choice though since there wasn't much out there in the way of shortstops.

[ClockShot]

Gregg Zaun signs with the Brew Crew. 1-year, 1.9 mil. with club option for '11.

Mariners are about to be suckered into signing Chone Figgins.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Boston would have been better off letting Pedroia shift over to SS and signing Orlando Hudson.

That being said, I've always had a soft spot for Scutaro. Met him down in Norfolk when he was on the Mets' AAA team.</font>

[DaveWadding]

Comon Cubs, gotta find some sucker to take Bradley.

They are still trying to get the Rays to take him and sending Burrell back in return. Which I want.

[Skippord]

I hope the Texas Rangers do something this offseason

[Droford]

Figgins to the Mariners for 4 years/$36 million.

Hmm. He was one of the options the Os were looking at for 3B but I figured hed end up elsewhere. he'll probably hit pretty well at Safeco.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

This should make Vito happy:


NEW YORK CITY (AP) -- Former Cincinnati Reds general manager Wayne Krivsky is returning to the New York Mets' front office.
The Mets announced Friday that Krivsky has been hired as a special assistant to general manager Omar Minaya. Krivsky, 55, held the same position with New York in 2008 and served as a special assistant to Orioles president Andy MacPhail last season.
Krivsky, who was born in Niagara Falls, was the Reds' GM from 2006-08.
The move came one day after New York agreed to one-year contracts with backup catchers Henry Blanco and Chris Coste. Blanco's deal is worth $750,000 and Coste got $650,000.
(Copyright ©2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)


Omar better be on his toes, cause Krivsky is the real deal. I was so disappointed when he got fired. He was fantastic for the Reds. This is a guy who acquired Bronson Arroyo and Brandon Phillips for Wily Mo Pena and Jeff Stevens

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Yeah, Krivsky seems good. I don't even know why exactly he got fired except for the fact that maybe the Reds really wanted Walt Jocketty instead.

The good definitely seems to outweigh the bad. Yeah, he hired Dusty Baker and did that stupid Kearns/Lopez for Bray/Majewski deal...but he also got Phillips, picked up Josh Hamilton and got Edinson Volquez for him, encouraged development of Votto, Bruce, and Cueto, etc.

But yeah, he's a definite candidate if Omar gets canned (which, if the Mets fail to make the postseason in 2010, I'm pretty sure he will).</font>

[Supreme Olajuwon]

When Castellini came over from St. Louis, he wanted to bring his guy with him. So by no fault of his own, Krivsky was the odd man out.

Also that Kearns/Lopez trade wasn't as stupid as it seems. Kearns turned out to be a huge bust but made $8 million last year batting .195. Lopez did absolutely nothing when he was in Washington. Bray is only 26 and when healthy has been dominant.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>True, I always forget how terrible Kearns wound up.

Seriously am worried about how this offseason is gonna shake out. The consensus around baseball is that unless he is absolutely blown away (which he won't be), Holliday will be one of the last free agents to sign; probably around January.

I think he should be the Mets' top target, but if they don't get him...all of their other options will be off the board.</font> :o

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Was downtown at a bar tonight and a bunch of Reds were down there: Edinson Volquez, Johnny Cueto, Chris Dickerson, and such. Johnny Cueto was blackout drunk. Just stumbling around aimlessly through the bar. It was hilarious. At one point he left the bar and was walking down the street and had to be led back.

[ClockShot]

Winter meetings get going tomorrow in Indy. Get ready for a week of hot stove chaos.

:love:

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>The winter meetings last year were when Omar signed K-Rod AND traded for J.J. Putz on back to back days. Can't see anything that crazy happening this year from him...pretty sure his main focus is still to unload Luis Castillo and then probably sign Orlando Hudson.

I will say though...although I view Hudson as a definite improvement over Castillo, especially with the glove, if they give him anything longer than a 2-year guaranteed deal I'll be kinda upset. Just makes me leery to get rid of one big 2B contract just to dish out another.</font>

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Yahoo Sports names the top 10 worst baseball contracts of the 2000s:</font>

http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/blog/big_league_stew/post/The-10-worst-baseball-contracts-of-the-2000s;_ylt=AmD_qU4dymIye3YUJDfgbI4RvLYF?urn=mlb,206780

[Jeritron]

Just to weigh in on a discussion from earlier in the thread...Larkin is going in first ballot. I have very little doubt of it

[SammyG]

lol @ so many Dodger signings there.

[ClockShot]

Vets Committee votes Manager Whitey Herzog and Umpire Doug Harvey into the Hall of Fame.

[ClockShot]

Winter Meetings start, and the Yanks finally break their silence.

Andy Pettitte will return to the Yankees. They just gotta figure out a dollar figure. He turned down a 1-year, $10 mil. offer.

A bit too much in my opinion. He got that this year through all his incentives and bounses he reached.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Francisco Cordero should be wearing a new uniform by the end of the meetings. Reds are working on a budget and Cordero's $25 million remaining on his contract have to be the first thing to cut.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Yankees trade Brian Bruney to the Nationals for a PTBNL</font>

[Dragon]

Winter Meetings start, and the Yanks finally break their silence.

Andy Pettitte will return to the Yankees. They just gotta figure out a dollar figure. He turned down a 1-year, $10 mil. offer.

A bit too much in my opinion. He got that this year through all his incentives and bounses he reached.

I dunno, I'm a huge Pettitte fan and always have been, but 10M for a guy going into his age 38 season and who isn't exactly dominating during the season is more than fair. That even seems like overpaying a bit in terms of what he'd get on the open market. Pettitte always says he wants to come back to the Yankees on these 1 year deals, but he sure is good at waiting to get more money than he should.

[ClockShot]

Of all the teams in the league we send Bruney to hell. Poor guy.

I doubt we'll be getting Strasburg. So we'll be saving some poor soul from D.C.

[Loose Cannon]

we'll take Strasburg thank you very much

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Dodgers desperately trying to move Juan Pierre, even if they have to take a bad-contract starting pitcher in return.

Oliver Perez, please.</font>

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>The Hot Stove is even more fucking nuts now that pretty much every baseball writer there has a Twitter account. They'll make a tweet one minute of an impending transaction and then another writer will usually then deny it on their own account. Rinse, lather, and repeat all day.</font> :o

[Heros Welcome]

Well I won't lie I got really excited about that Edwin Jackson rumor. 11 minutes later its all over. Gotta love how the hot stove gets ya.

[Splaya]

LOL the best part about the hot stove was Ozzie Guillen getting interviewed

Reporter: What was wrong with Alexis Rios, was it mechanical or Mental?

Ozzie: Everything

:lol:

[Splaya]

Dodgers desperately trying to move Juan Pierre, even if they have to take a bad-contract starting pitcher in return.

Oliver Perez, please.

We will give Jeremy Bonderman, Brandon Inge's ugly ass wife, and a million dollars for him. Can you top that?

[Jeritron]

I love MLB Network so much. I mean, it was amazing during the summer and I had it on constantly, but their offseason coverage and programming is really clutch. They could easily pack it in, but the channels even better because it delivers nothing but baseball talk during a time where you can't get it anywhere else.

[ClockShot]

Yankees trade Brian Bruney to the Nationals for a PTBNL

Update:

We get the Nats pick in the Rule 5 Draft. The #1 pick exactly.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>That's actually an even better trade for the Nats then, because even if the Yanks were to pick somebody in the Rule 5 draft, they'd have a helluva time making the roster AND staying there the entire season.</font>

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>It's now making the rounds that the Cardinals have signed Brad Penny to a 1-year deal for $7.5 million, plus $1.5 million in incentives.</font>

[Droford]

The Os want Kevin Millwood from the Rangers..why I dont know..

[Heros Welcome]

Brewers could be closing in on a 3 yr deal with Randy Wolf.

[SammyG]

well fuck. we need starters.

[Heros Welcome]

Yanks, Tigers, D'Backs Discussed Blockbuster
By Ben Nicholson-Smith [December 7 at 9:59pm CST]

The D'Backs pushed for a blockbuster three-way deal with the Yankees and Tigers today, only to see one of those two teams veto it, according to Jon Paul Morosi and Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports. The deal would have sent Curtis Granderson to the Yanks and Edwin Jackson to the D'Backs.

Talks are apparently at an "impasse" now, though the D'Backs continue to push for a trade

[Dragon]

Wonder what it would have taken on the Yanks end. I know earlier I saw the Tigers wanting Hughes and Austin Jackson for him. Definitely wouldn't include Hughes in a deal for Granderson. I mean he's good but not as great as I'm sure the Tigers are making him out to be.

[Heros Welcome]

The deal would send Curtis Granderson to the Yanks, along with a prospect or two from the D'Backs. Arizona would obtain Edwin Jackson from the Tigers and Ian Kennedy from the Yankees. The Tigers would obtain Max Scherzer from the D'Backs and Austin Jackson, Phil Coke and Michael Dunn from the Yanks.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Didn't realize the Tigers were gutting their roster this offseason.

[Emperor Smeat]

Yeah they basically announced their intent once the season ended. Past 2-3 years they bloated their team salary past $100 million and have gotten worse or choke away the division each time. It doesn't help that Detroit is in a mess because of the recession so the fans might not show up or be willing to pay current prices for tickets regardless if the team is great next year.

[Dragon]

I don't really understand why Arizona would give up Scherzer for Jackson. And apparently they're the team pushing the whole trade.

[Splaya]

IF DAVE DOMBROWSKI DOES THIS TRADE I WILL WET MYSELF

[DaveWadding]

I don't really understand why Arizona would give up Scherzer for Jackson. And apparently they're the team pushing the whole trade.

I don't get it at all.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Nationals sign Pudge to a 2-year deal. God dammit, now Bengie Molina is going to want 2 guaranteed years.</font> :mad:

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Think it's kinda funny to see guys who waited too long and had to settle for one-year deals in '09 (Abreu, Wolf, Pudge, etc) immediately locking in to the first multi-year offer they can get.</font>

[ClockShot]

Nationals sign Pudge to a 2-year deal. God dammit, now Bengie Molina is going to want 2 guaranteed years. :mad:

Pudge is that desperate....

Figured you guys would have swooped in and picked him up.

[ClockShot]

In other news:

Tigers re-sign Adam Everett to a 1-year, $1.55 mil. deal.

Randy Wolf seems to be on his way to Milwaukee. A 3-year deal is in the works.

[Loose Cannon]

I'm on the fence about that Granderson deal. I think he would fit in nicely in the outfield, but I think we were giving up too much for him. Coke was pretty good in the playoffs and one of the guys I was comfortable with pitching the 6th/7th.

You guys know I'm not sold on Jackson yet until he does anything in the big leagues, but he's still our #1 prospect

And Ian Kennedy; meh deal him.

[Innovator]

Scutaro, 34 years old after a contract year...not a typical Red Sox move

[Evil Vito]

Pudge is that desperate....

Figured you guys would have swooped in and picked him up.

<font color=goldenrod>Yeah, I think I would have preferred Pudge.

Like I said though, I don't think Bengie Molina is a bad player...but he swings at everything (only like 7 walks all of last year) and he'll likely be batting next to Jeff Francoeur, who also is a free swinger. Plus he's slow as shit and 35 years old.

I'd be happy to give him a one-year deal with an option, but now with Pudge getting two years, the Mets might be cornered into doing the same.</font>

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>lol Mets sign Mike Hessman, perhaps best known for spending an inning at all 9 positions in a AAA game last September.</font> :lol:

[Dragon]

I'm on the fence about that Granderson deal. I think he would fit in nicely in the outfield, but I think we were giving up too much for him. Coke was pretty good in the playoffs and one of the guys I was comfortable with pitching the 6th/7th.

You guys know I'm not sold on Jackson yet until he does anything in the big leagues, but he's still our #1 prospect

And Ian Kennedy; meh deal him.

Same here. Don't know how I feel about it. Montero is probably #1 in our system but Jackson is a clear #2.

If it goes down I don't think I'll hate it, but if it doesn't go through it doesn't matter to me. Either way this goes I can't say I'd be upset. One thing that I just read is the Tigers might let the Yanks keep one of the relievers. Which is kinda big I guess because if Coke gets dealt Dunn would have been his replacement. Would be nice to keep at least Dunn.

If that happens the only real piece I'd hate losing is Jackson. I'm not sure Kennedy will ever get another shot with us, while he actually might be a decent back-end starter in the NL. And losing Coke isn't a big deal to me.

Granderson does worry me a little bit though. I mean the splits are just brutal and in a perfect world he'd actually be a platoon player and sit against lefties. I mean usually a player would have decent power and a lower average against lefties, Granderson can't do anything against them.

One thing that trading Jackson does is it probably means it'll be the only big trade of the offseason. I can't see the Yankees getting someone like Halladay with Jackson gone. That means they'd have to give up at least two of Hughes, Montero and Joba which I can't see them doing. With Jackson there was a chance they gave up one of them (probably a pitcher) plus Jackson and some lesser "B" prospects.

[ClockShot]

Supposedly this 3-way deal is close. Could be done by day's end.

[Loose Cannon]

fuck, there goes Halladay :'(

[ClockShot]

One of the Yankee leftys got dropped from the deal. Either Coke or Dunn.

Just waiting for the Yanks to give the green light. About 40 minutes or so.

[Dragon]

Glad we get to keep one of them. I'm assuming Coke is going. So at least we have Dunn to replace him.

[ClockShot]

Pretty much a done deal. Just ironing out the minor things.

Yanks get: Curtis Granderson
D-Backs get: Ian Kennedy, Edwin Jackson
Tigers get: Austin Jackson, Phil Coke, Daniel Schlereth, and Max Scherzer

[Loose Cannon]

SO Damon or Matsui or both are surely gone

[ClockShot]

Damon's options as I see right now:

1. Come back for lower money in LF or lose your job.

2. Fight for/share the DH spot with Matsui.

3. Fight another place of employment.

I heard the Angels were looking in on Matsui.

[Dragon]

Not a steal for the Yanks by any means (I guess all trades can't be Betemit for Swisher). Seems pretty even value wise. Except for the DBacks. I think they kinda get screwed.

[Loose Cannon]

who knows, Kennedy could turn out to be a stud in the NL West

[Splaya]

I love the trade, but I hate giving up Granderson. LC, you will notice how he will do great things for your community when he gets there.

[Triple Naitch]

Tigers are getting a good young core in this deal. Schlereth could be a really good lefty in the bullpen. Is Jackson MLB ready, even for a rebuilding team like Detroit?

Granderson really is one of the few good guys in baseball today.

I wouldn't be surprised now to see Damon re-sign and the Yankees try and move Cabrera to a team like the Cubs.

[Dragon]

Tigers are getting a good young core in this deal. Schlereth could be a really good lefty in the bullpen. Is Jackson MLB ready, even for a rebuilding team like Detroit?

Granderson really is one of the few good guys in baseball today.

I wouldn't be surprised now to see Damon re-sign and the Yankees try and move Cabrera to a team like the Cubs.

Ideally Jackson would be in the minors one more year. He needs to cut down on his strikeouts and show some power. With Detroit seemingly going into rebuild mode maybe they let him work out his problems at the major league level. But realistically I'd think he would be in the minors for at least half a season.

[Dragon]

I have a feeling the Yankees are planning on going for an outfield of Melky-Granderson-Swisher and have Damon as the DH. Gives them a much better defensive outfield and gives them a lot of flexibility with the DH spot. When Posada, A-Rod or Jeter need a DH day they can put Damon in left and really not lose much offense.

[Dragon]

I love the trade, but I hate giving up Granderson. LC, you will notice how he will do great things for your community when he gets there.

Hopefully he hits more like 2007 than 2009.

[Triple Naitch]

Wow. Peter Gammons is leaving ESPN following the Winter Meetings. Hope he goes to MLB Network.

[Jeritron]

That would be awesome. MLB Network is already better than ESPN but that would just seal it

[Hardkore Kidd J]

fuck, there goes Halladay :'(


I wouldn't say that. I think we could still easily get Halladay with a Hughes package. I really liked Jackson though.:(:(

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>So, apparently the Red Sox have been telling people that they are NOT going after Matt Holliday, even if they don't get Jason Bay (who I guess has been telling his old Pirates teammates that he wants to play for the Mariners).

So...if the Red Sox, Angels, and Giants are not interested...and the Yankees just got Granderson...and the Mariners get Bay...think that just leaves the Cardinals and Mets, and the Cardinals don't seem to think they have enough to get him unless the price drops a ton, whereas the Mets want the price to drop but are willing to spend more.

Of course, Boras will probably have Holliday wait it out, and he'll pit the Mets against a "Mystery Team" like he ALWAYS does...but it's looking pretty good right now.</font>

[FakeLaser]

Yankees and Tigers raped AZ today

Austin Jackson's ceiling is Curtis Granderson. Ian Kennedy was too far down on the depth chart to make an impact. Phil Coke is expendable.

Granderson gives the Yankees the ability to say peace to Damon or Matsui. I think they let Damon go and slide Cabrera to left, deal Gardner. They need a number 5 hitter which Damon is not and Matsui is. Matsui you can have for cheaper than Damon and for one year instead of two. Matsui leaves, Posada can slide to DH and Montero can catch.

I don't know what AZ was thinking. They got Edwin Jackson but this was a deal to win now, which they aren't in the position to do. They gave up Scherzer, easily the best pitcher in the deal. The other pitcher they gave up projects as a future closer as well and was AZ's top pick in the 2008 draft.

Detroit... let the rebuild begin. They get A-Jax who will replace Granderson, Scherzer who slots in nicely behind Verlander and Porcello, a guy to battle Zumaya for closer of the future and Phil Coke who can start or relieve.

Dbacks got a pitcher to win now when they aren't winning shit and a guy who can maybe be a #3 starter in the NL West one day.

[FakeLaser]

Cabrera in left, Granderson in center and Swisher in right... cheap, productive, solid defense and good arms.

[ClockShot]

Problem with your plan, Frazor.

Monstero is not even close to ready for the big leagues. Frankie Cervelli is catcher in waiting.

[ClockShot]

Cubs might be close to finally trading off Miltion Bradley to a "surprise AL team".

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>to the Mariners...for Carlos Silva

I know the Cubs are desperate to move Bradley, but goddamn. Silva just made the Top 10 "Worst Contracts of the 2000s" lists</font>

[Loose Cannon]

I'm liking this deal more and more now that I've had time to think about it. The good thing is now we have a base running threat at the top of our lineup. HUGE in the playoffs

[Triple Naitch]

So, apparently the Red Sox have been telling people that they are NOT going after Matt Holliday, even if they don't get Jason Bay (who I guess has been telling his old Pirates teammates that he wants to play for the Mariners).


I'll believe this when I see it. Didn't the Yankees say they weren't interested in Teixiera in the beginning of last winter?

[Splaya]

Jackson could be as good as Granderson.

I've heard rumors that people in New York are pissed over this deal

[Skippord]

god being a Rockies fan makes the offseason incredibly boring

[Innovator]

I'm not happy dealing Austin away

[Nervous Ferret]

I'm with Fake here. In 3 years who knows if Austin Jackson will be nearly as good as Granderson. How much higher could his ceiling really be then what Granderson is now? Works out great for Kennedy who was probably not going to get another shot with the Yankees and losing Coke just isn't that big of a deal. Plus I am a Granderson fan so that is great

[ClockShot]

god being a Rockies fan makes the offseason incredibly boring


Awwww. Feeling left out in Denver, here's some Rockies new for ya.

Your team just offered Yorvit Torrealba a 2-year, $4.5-6 mil. deal. It could be finalized sometime tonight or tomorrow. And he's a catcher, apparently a hot commodity this season.

[Skippord]

woooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

I love Yorvit

[Dragon]

Cabrera in left, Granderson in center and Swisher in right... cheap, productive, solid defense and good arms.

I like that outfield. I do think Damon as the DH would be great though. He'd allow a lot of flexibility for Posada/A-Rod to DH when needed. Melky can sit on those days and the offense doesn't take a hit at all.

And yeah, Jackson at his best is Granderson. With probably a lot less power. He's definitely a good prospect and I hope he does well but the deal made sense for the Yankees.

[FakeLaser]

Who bats 5th if you have Damon instead of Matsui... that's my only question

Plus flexibility of Matsui for 1 year instead of Damon for 2. I mean, I love Damon and I would like to see him back but Granderson essentially replaces his bat and plays much better D. Matsui makes more sense at this point.

And Cervelli is nothing more than a backup catcher - he's not Posada's heir.

[FakeLaser]

The problem with Montero is that they say he might be too big to stay a catcher. At that point I don't know what to do him because he has an 80 bat and Texieira is playing 1B for the next 74 years. Maybe he can play LF or something

Austin Romine might be the catcher of the future, decent bat and glove

[Dragon]

Who bats 5th if you have Damon instead of Matsui... that's my only question

Plus flexibility of Matsui for 1 year instead of Damon for 2. I mean, I love Damon and I would like to see him back but Granderson essentially replaces his bat and plays much better D. Matsui makes more sense at this point.

And Cervelli is nothing more than a backup catcher - he's not Posada's heir.

I just think Damon has a lot more value because he can play LF when needed. With the amount of days Posada and A-Rod are presumably gonna need at DH this year I think it'd be huge to be able to play Damon in LF when those guys are DH'ing. With Matsui he's just gonna have to be benched when the DH spot is needed.

I wouldn't mind Matsui if Damon keeps asking for too much but Damon just seems like the far better bet to stay healthy and add some value by playing LF when needed.

[Dragon]

The problem with Montero is that they say he might be too big to stay a catcher. At that point I don't know what to do him because he has an 80 bat and Texieira is playing 1B for the next 74 years. Maybe he can play LF or something

Austin Romine might be the catcher of the future, decent bat and glove

I think the Yanks will and should give him every possible chance to stay at catcher. He doesn't even have to be good defensively. If he is average and his offense is as big as expected he could be an all-star.

Next year should be pretty big for Montero since its the first year he'll actually have full-time catching duties. The past couple years they've had Romine and Montero climbing the ranks at the same time and they split catching duties. Next year should be big in giving Montero needed experience at the position.

[screech]

Gammons said he is joining MLB Network. In addition, he will become an analyst and reporter for NESN, the regional sports network in New England affiliated with the owners of the Boston Red Sox.

Full article: http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=4725366

[screech]

Peter Gammons is probably my favorite sports analyst next to Bob Costas. Sad to see him leave ESPN (it's gonna be weird), but I'm pretty pumped he's going to MLB Network with Bob. My head may explode seeing the two on TV together.

[Droford]

Gammons is gonna cover the Red Sox for NESN?

NO WAY!

[Emperor Smeat]

Hasn't he always worked with NESN while in ESPN since NESN has ties to the Boston Globe. I think it was mainly when ESPN would show a Red Sox game live or once in a while when they do the pre-game show/analyst for the day's game.

[screech]

Yeah I think he's always been a "partner" to NESN or something like that. I guess now it's more full-time and "official."

[FakeLaser]

ESPN and NESN are basically the same thing anyway

[Droford]

ESPN and NESN are basically the same thing anyway

ESPN Boston

[ClockShot]

Brad Penny to the Cardinals.

[YOUR Hero]

Boof Bonsor was DFA by the Twins. Kinda surprising. He'll get picked up pretty quick by someone. Probably the SOX

[Innovator]

Thank god Gammons is gone, the homerism was too much to handle

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Yanks about to sign Pettitte to a 1 year, $12 million deal

Pretty happy about that, makes it even less likely they'll go after Lackey</font>

[Innovator]

We don't need Lackey, don't get the whole deal about him

That said, he'd fit in with the Mets as a solid 2

[Innovator]

Unless the Mets actually get Halladay

[Heros Welcome]

If the Angels happen to land Halladay, I think that really lowers the market for Lackey and would drive his price to be more reasonable. That being said I still think the Yankees will players for him. Mets better man up and sign him!

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>I honestly don't know who I'd rather have between Lackey and Holliday. Like I said in the beginning of the offseason, the need for a big bat and a #2 pitcher can be described as 1-A and 1-B, solid arguments either way as to what's more important.</font>

[Loose Cannon]

I just think Damon has a lot more value because he can play LF when needed. With the amount of days Posada and A-Rod are presumably gonna need at DH this year I think it'd be huge to be able to play Damon in LF when those guys are DH'ing. With Matsui he's just gonna have to be benched when the DH spot is needed.

I wouldn't mind Matsui if Damon keeps asking for too much but Damon just seems like the far better bet to stay healthy and add some value by playing LF when needed.

I was thinking Damon was surely gone, but you are correct in saying that it does make a little more sense keeping him because of the defense.

But you are going to have to shake up the lineup. Maybe slotting in Damon @ 9 to give us good speed starting from there

[Loose Cannon]

<font color=goldenrod>I honestly don't know who I'd rather have between Lackey and Holliday. Like I said in the beginning of the offseason, the need for a big bat and a #2 pitcher can be described as 1-A and 1-B, solid arguments either way as to what's more important.</font>

Lackey. I always take pitching over offense. I think the Mets have plenty off good potential (key word) offense.

[ClockShot]

Pettitte's back.

1-year, $11.75 mil.

[Hanso Amore]

Why not play Melkman in right, Damon in left, Swish can DH (Maybe platoon DH with a mid level bat) and they can all spell each other.

[Dragon]

I was thinking Damon was surely gone, but you are correct in saying that it does make a little more sense keeping him because of the defense.

But you are going to have to shake up the lineup. Maybe slotting in Damon @ 9 to give us good speed starting from there

If I put anyone 9 it would probably be Granderson. His OBP has fluctuated quite a bit the last couple years and I don't want him batting 2nd if he has an OBP in the .320s again.

[Dragon]

Why not play Melkman in right, Damon in left, Swish can DH (Maybe platoon DH with a mid level bat) and they can all spell each other.

If anything I think Damon would be the DH because he's the worst outfielder out of the bunch by pretty far.

[SammyG]

fuck,wolf

[Dragon]

With Pettitte locked up the Yankees really shouldn't have much more to do.

Apparently Harden is willing to take a one year incentive laden deal so I would hope the Yankees look into him. If they signed him and Damon they would be done.

CC-AJ-Andy-Harden-Joba/Hughes (Hughes being on an innings limit it makes sense to have another starter)

Jeter (SS)
Damon (DH)
Tex (1B)
A-Rod (3B)
Posada (C)
Cano (2B)
Swisher (RF)
Granderson (CF)
Melky (LF)

The bottom of the lineup could really go in any order. When Posada DH's Damon goes to LF and Melky to the bench.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Rich Harden signs with the Rangers. 1 year, $7.5 million plus a $11.5 million club option for 2011.

Marlins trade Matt Lindstrom to the Astros for 2 players to be named later</font>

[ClockShot]

Harden will probably be #1 starter now that the Rangers traded Kevin Milwood to the O's.

Mariners sign Corey Patterson to a minor league deal.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Phillies and Angels in the lead to acquire Roy Halladay...it sounds like Roy is willing to waive his no-trade clause even to a West coast team...although he might not want to sign there long-term.

I will cry if the Phillies get him. Halladay AND Lee at the top of the rotation with that stacked lineup? Probably clinches them the division right there unless they pull a 2009 Mets and everybody gets injured.</font>

[Jeritron]

ESPN and NESN are basically the same thing anyway

Gotta say no way to this

[Loose Cannon]

if the Angles get him I'll fucking cry

[Innovator]

As will I

[Emperor Smeat]

According to NESN's Red Sox Hot Stove episode today, Roy Halladay might not even be dealt any time soon since rumor is Yankees keep feining interest not so much in wanting him but to jack up the price on him so nobody gets him for a "cheap" deal. It was the same tactic they did this week when the Red Sox were thought to have him ready and then the deal fell flat.

Same episode had Cashman keep talking about Damon and Matsui in the past tense as in how many home runs and scoring potential Yankees will lose rather than if they were to lose him.

[Droford]

Os got Millwood for Chris Ray.

Chris Ray wont ever be the same after his injury and trading him for a halfway decent starting pitcher is a pretty good deal. If they can get one more starter and bolster their bullpen I might feel good about the pitching. Too bad they have as many holes in their offense as swiss cheese (3B, 1B, DH) to address as well.

[Splaya]

So I guess the Tigers were trying to acquire Juan Pierre earlier today.

If they get him, I will cry

[Skippord]

why?

[Hardkore Kidd J]

if the Angles get him I'll fucking cry


Why? I'm really not afraid of the Angels much anymore. They will lose quite a few of their young guys to get Halladay and without Lackey or Chone Figgins I think the Yankees should be fine.