2006-07 MLB Offseason Thread

[Brian Cronin]

Here is where you can discuss MLB's offseason!

To start - what team do you think will end up with:

Alfonso Soriano?

Carlos Lee?

Daisuke Matsuzaka?

Barry Zito?

Jason Schmidt?

Barry Bonds?

Andy Pettitte?

Mike Mussina?

Gary Sheffield?

-Brian

[Frodo-X]

I've said it before and I'll say it again:

Tigers, please re-sign Sean Casey.

[Gingold]

Alfonso Soriano? Angels.

Carlos Lee? Mets?

Daisuke Matsuzaka? Yankees.

Barry Zito? Cubs.

Jason Schmidt? Red Sox.

Barry Bonds? Giants.

Andy Pettitte? Rangers.

Mike Mussina? Yankees.

Gary Sheffield? Phillies.

[Brian Cronin]

I think the Yankees should sign Pettitte AND Matsuzaka.

Next season, they could have Matsuzaka, Wang, Mussina, Pettitte and Johnson.

That would be so awesome.

They'd even have the remains of Carl Pavano for their fill-in starter.

In the alternative, I wouldn't mind Matsuzaka, Wang, Mussina, Johnson, Pavano/Rasner.

I think the Yankees ought to re-up Jaret Wright, then trade him for something (anything).

-Brian

[moebius]

Carlos Lee will almost certainly end up an Astro (heard he has property there and likes the city).

Soriano ends up an Angel.

Zito stays on the West Coast.

Matsuzaka ends up a Yankee.

Mussina stays a Yankee.

Bonds DHs.

The real burning question: Does Bernie Williams retire?

[Valmore]

To start - what team do you think will end up with:

Alfonso Soriano? Anaheim, probably.

Carlos Lee? Whoever offers him the most. Texas may have the cash to keep him. If not, wherever the $$$ comes from.

Daisuke Matsuzaka? Yanks.

Barry Zito? Boston will throw mega money at him and he'll bolt.

Jason Schmidt? If Boston doesn't get Zito, they'll probably get him. Otherwise - Philadelphia.

Barry Bonds? Yanks.

Andy Pettitte? Houston re-ups.

Mike Mussina? Yanks re-up.

Gary Sheffield? He'll get traded to someone, probably a mid-level A.L. team who'll give up a pitcher.

[moebius]

Barry Bonds? Yanks.


Wha....huh? Is that a "I think he'll go there" or "I want him to go there because I hate the Yankees and want all the players I dislike on one team?"

I think an AL team will sign Bonds, but out of desperation (they need a bat and some revenue). The Yankees don't need another full-time DH. They have Giambi and probably Matsui (giving Melky playing time) in a platoon.


Gary Sheffield? He'll get traded to someone, probably a mid-level A.L. team who'll give up a pitcher.

This sounds right, but I can't for the life of me figure out who would take Sheff's $13 million. White Sox, maybe, for Javier Vasquez (Take two)?

Actually, Detroit would be a good fit. They need bats, have pitching, and are a likely contender next year.

[foxfire]

Wow... as a Boston fan I pretty much zoned out the last two months :D. Now I can start paying attention again...

Just don't trade Manny :(

[Valmore]

Wha....huh? Is that a "I think he'll go there" or "I want him to go there because I hate the Yankees and want all the players I dislike on one team?"

I think an AL team will sign Bonds, but out of desperation (they need a bat and some revenue). The Yankees don't need another full-time DH. They have Giambi and probably Matsui (giving Melky playing time) in a platoon.

I was thinking of trying to find an A.L. team that could pay enough for him, because he won't be returning to the N.L. - he's only going to DH like Frank Thomas. Heck, I could see Boston giving him cash to do it, too, while moving Ortiz to first full time. It doesn't have to be the Yankees, but I could see him ending up there.

[Clint Barton]

Braves for Mussina or Pettite or even Zito? It'd be nice, since there's no starting pitching currently.

I think Bonds will end up a Yankee actually. They'll find a way to make him a DH for the publicity if nothing else.

[Sheldon]

The Braves have a long tradition of not going after big name free-agents, so I doubt they'll go after any of the ones you mentioned.

I highly doubt Bonds will be anywhere but SF next year.

I can see Daisuke Matsuzaka going to Seattle.

I can also see the Red Sox going after Schmidt.

[moebius]

I think Bonds will end up a Yankee actually. They'll find a way to make him a DH for the publicity if nothing else.

Again...why do the Yankees need publicity...they already have the guy who's going to break Aaron's record (Bonds' too, if he makes it) in Alex Rodriguez. And they are the Yankees...it's not like they need an attendance boost.

Much more likely? Bonds ends up with a decent, mid-level AL team with salary space and need for a bat, for one-year at $8-10 million.

Also, word on "the street" is that the Matzusaka sweepstakes will top out at $30 million just for posting rights.

[J Dog]

I think Soriano's going to play with the Angels. And for Bonds, he'll probably be given a huge salary from the Yankees.

And, I haven't said this yet, but I'm going to miss former Astro Joe Niekro. It's kinda sad to see one who played a good portion of his career with Houston pass on. But that's life for you.

[Gingold]

I can't see the Yankees shelling out the cash for Bonds. He'll stay with the Giants (or maybe play DH for the As.) He's much more valuable to the Giants than he is to any other team.

[EZMOHR]

Alfonso Soriano- Anaheim Angels of Los Angeles of Pomona of Long Beach of West Covina of Rancho Coucamunga

Carlos Lee- Houston Astros (Yah.)

Daisuke Matsuzaka-Los Angeles Dodgers

Barry Zito- San Diego Padres

Jason Schmidt- Chicago Cubs

Barry Bonds- San Francisco Giants

Andy Pettitte- Houston Astros

Mike Mussina- Toronto Blue Jays

Gary Sheffield- New York Yankees

[Valmore]

He's much more valuable to the Giants than he is to any other team.

I don't agree with this. Barry isn't capable of being an everyday outfielder anymore - his body is too banged up and prone to breaking down over the long season.

He's much more valuable to an American League team. He can occassionally play out in the outfield, but can also be an everyday DH. He has a better chance of staying healthy and being in more games when he's not shagging balls in the outfield.

[moebius]

I'm telling you, I think the Tigers are a legitimate shot to land Bonds or Sheffield. For Bonds, they have his first manager, are proven winners and need a big bat.

The A's won't do it...they already have a broken-down fielder in Frank Thomas. Another option is Seattle, which isn't all that far from CA and always needs offense.


Hey, here's one no one's talkied about yet: Roger Clemens. Retirement? Houston? Boston?

[J Dog]

Hey, here's one no one's talkied about yet: Roger Clemens. Retirement? Houston? Boston?
Everyone knows that Clemens will go off somewhere and not make up his mind until mid-season. But, since he was okay towards the end, I say he's more valuble to Houston than Boston, since they need good pitching to offest their lack of offense.

And, Gingold, I was making an idea about Bonds since, after all, Big Stein looks for high stats rather than chemistry & overall clutch (why do you think the Yankees screw up in the post season in the last couple of seasons, Boston beating them in '04?).

BTW, here's a good topic; I showed my computer teacher the average ratings of this year's so-called World Series, 10.1 (about 1.0 less than the previous low of last year, where my Astros got swept by the South Siders). He suggested a "salary cap" (in lieu of bigger markets), and to be honest, that would make baseball fair game. The NHL has a salary cap, and that helps out almost every team out there*. I think the NBA and NFL do, as well. But in baseball, a single player can make in his contract more than the entire budget for an entire team (e.g. A-Rod making more than the Florida Marlins' salary budget). Do you think baseball can even things out by doing this?

*Unless of course, your team is either the Columbus Blue Jackets or Philadelphia Flyers.

[Tadhg Adams]

Do you think baseball can even things out by doing this?


First, Baseball has a luxury tax which while not even as strict as a soft cap, does allow for a measure of parity.

Second, Your teacher has a fundamental misunderstanding of the whys of baseball ratings. Parity would not help the ratings of the World Series. Baseball is a regional sport and as such, only the regions who have an interest in the teams playing will watch; excluding a national story like the 2004 Red Sox. Overall, baseball attendance is up, there is a distinct measure of parity, and revenues are doing incredibly well.

It's specious to use the Marlins as an example, as they'd have underspent every team by a large margin, even if there was a hard cap. That's how they operate. They build a team to win, then dismantle it, and dump all the salary. While it must be somewhat frustrating for fans, it does seem to work. How many teams have won two Series in the last decade?

I'd be open to the idea of a salary cap dictating a minimum team salary so people like David Glass can't continue to field a subpar team just so they can pocket extra money.

[Gingold]

I don't agree with this. Barry isn't capable of being an everyday outfielder anymore - his body is too banged up and prone to breaking down over the long season.

He's much more valuable to an American League team. He can occassionally play out in the outfield, but can also be an everyday DH. He has a better chance of staying healthy and being in more games when he's not shagging balls in the outfield.

Yeah, but the Giants are the only team who will overpay for Bonds. He's a drawing card there, but he's hated just about every where else. The small market teams where he might put people in the seats can't pay what he's going to demand.

[Valmore]

Yeah, but the Giants are the only team who will overpay for Bonds. He's a drawing card there, but he's hated just about every where else. The small market teams where he might put people in the seats can't pay what he's going to demand.

See, here's the thing that makes sense why the Yankees could end up with Bonds.

I don't think Bonds cares about money at this point. I think his order of what he cares about are in this order:

(1) Getting the home run record.
(2) Winning a World Series ring.
(3) Making oodles of cash.

Bonds can probably get the home run record just about anywhere he goes. But where can he go that has a better chance at a ring? The Yankees are always a contender. If they trade off Gary Sheffield (likely) they'll free up some cash (like that's a problem) to give Bonds a decent enough deal to DH. It means keeping Giambi at first base a season longer, though.

Do I think the Yankees will do this? Doubtful. But it could happen.

[Frodo-X]

A day in the life of George Steinbrenner:

"Sir, we have a problem."
"Throw money at it."
"No, sir. That won't work on this particular problem."
"You're fired."

Fin.

[moebius]

If they trade off Gary Sheffield (likely) they'll free up some cash (like that's a problem) to give Bonds a decent enough deal to DH.

According to SI, Cashman already has a taker for Sheffield, and is just waiting to see if the market for him improves before he pulls the trigger.

I'll make a stupid prediction and say it's to the Tigers.

[Valmore]

According to SI, Cashman already has a taker for Sheffield, and is just waiting to see if the market for him improves before he pulls the trigger.

I'll make a stupid prediction and say it's to the Tigers.

I was doubting they actually sign Barry Bonds, but I wouldn't be entirely surprised if they did do it.

As for Sheffield... it was pretty much assured he was going to get traded. I love that Cashman picked up his option so the Yankees could get something for him and almost determine exactly where he'll play next season.

I'll go for stupid and say he gets shipped to the White Sox.

[moebius]

I'll go for stupid and say he gets shipped to the White Sox.

That's not stupid at all. The Sox have what the Yankees need...pitching and more pitching.

It FEELS like all the pieces are in place for the Yanks to run the table next year. They're just one or two quality starting pitchers away from having, top to bottom, a super-intimidating team (two free agent starters makes Randy Johnson their FIFTH starter, behind Wang and Mussina).

Still no information on Bernie Williams!

[Frodo-X]

That's not stupid at all. The Sox have what the Yankees need...pitching and more pitching.

It FEELS like all the pieces are in place for the Yanks to run the table next year. They're just one or two quality starting pitchers away from having, top to bottom, a super-intimidating team (two free agent starters makes Randy Johnson their FIFTH starter, behind Wang and Mussina).

Still no information on Bernie Williams!

To be honest, they're already pretty intimidating. They're a couple pitchers away from being downright unfair.

[moebius]

According to SI.com, Derek Jeter is the AL MVP.

[Frodo-X]

Wow. I'm shocked. Knock me down with a feather. Jeter got MVP. Stunning. Really. I'm amazed.



The preceding was brought to you by the American Council for Sarcastic Replies.

[Valmore]

So the Gold Gloves are officially a joke. Seriously. Boston had one of the best defenses in recent history and not a single Gold Glove winner?

Lame.

[Frodo-X]

Congrats to Kenny and Pudge!

Does anyone know when they announce AL Manager of the Year and Rookie of the Year?

I have good feelings about Leyland and Verlander.

[Punchy]

What, no talk about where Nomar will end up? HA!

I think there's a team that will offer him and his injuries more than the Dodgers will. Besides they need to lock up Ethier and Martin.

And don't be suprised to see the Dodgers in the Zito/Matsuzaka sweepstakes.

[moebius]

Liriano needs Tommy John surgery, and won't be back next year.

[moebius]

According to SI, Cashman already has a taker for Sheffield, and is just waiting to see if the market for him improves before he pulls the trigger.

I'll make a stupid prediction and say it's to the Tigers.

From EPSN:

"The Detroit Tigers have acquired Gary Sheffield from the New York Yankees for three righthanded pitching prospects, the Tigers announced Friday.

In return for Sheffield, the Tigers sent Humberto Sanchez, Kevin Whelan and Anthony Claggett to New York. Detroit agreed to a two-year contract extension with Sheffield through the 2009 season."

I Called It! Woooh! Woooh! U-S-A! U-S-A!

[Valmore]

From EPSN:

"The Detroit Tigers have acquired Gary Sheffield from the New York Yankees for three righthanded pitching prospects, the Tigers announced Friday.

In return for Sheffield, the Tigers sent Humberto Sanchez, Kevin Whelan and Anthony Claggett to New York. Detroit agreed to a two-year contract extension with Sheffield through the 2009 season."

I Called It! Woooh! Woooh! U-S-A! U-S-A!

Wow. The Tigers really are stupid.

Cashman's a frickin' genius.

[EZMOHR]

Wow. The Tigers really are stupid.

Cashman's a frickin' genius.


No, now they get the younger Barry Bonds bat they needed at the DH position (30 HR's, 90 RBI's, .270 hitter.), that doesn't come with the Barry Bonds baggage. Good pick up for the "Youngish" Tigers. And, more mediocre recruits to go with the sub-par prospects they already have. Well, take that back...I've heard good things about Humberto Sanchez.

[Sheldon]

Buster Onley is reporting that the Red Sox won the bidding rights to Daisuke Matsuzaka. It is rumors they bid between 38 and 42 Million dollars!!!!!!

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

[moebius]

Wow. The Tigers really are stupid.

Cashman's a frickin' genius.

Dombrowski's reaction to the swap was "I winced."

I don't know. These guys all sound like they had good seasons, but I'm not that up on prospects.

As for the Matsuzaka thing: crazy, if true. 40 million bucks just to negotiate?!?

Also, I'd be lying if the news wasn't making me sweat. On the one hand, they maybe landed the number 1 free agent on the market, even if they end up trading him to someone else just to keep him from the Yanks.

On the other hand, going about 15-20 million over on the bid is going to screw them when they try and add more pieces to the team. Like Roger Clemens.

[Valmore]

No, now they get the younger Barry Bonds bat they needed at the DH position (30 HR's, 90 RBI's, .270 hitter.), that doesn't come with the Barry Bonds baggage. Good pick up for the "Youngish" Tigers. And, more mediocre recruits to go with the sub-par prospects they already have. Well, take that back...I've heard good things about Humberto Sanchez.

No, they picked up a huge contract on an aging player who is a former steroids user, who spent a good portion of last season on the DL and extended his contract two more years at 14 million a year. He'll be 38 entering the season next year and his best years are clearly behind him. And no baggage? Please - Sheffield was a malcontent in New York.

In exchange, they gave up three YOUNG pitchers that did this in the minors last season:

The 23-year-old Sanchez was a combined 10-6 with a 2.53 ERA and 129 strikeouts in 123 innings with Triple-A Toledo and Double-A Erie this year.

Whelan, 22, was 4-1 with a 2.67 ERA and 27 saves for Class A Lakeland. Claggett, 22, was 7-2 with an 0.91 ERA and 14 saves for Class A West Michigan.

This was a stupid trade for the Tigers. No question about it. They gave up three players with great potential for an aging player who's going to be making WAY too much money these next three seasons.

Cashman = genius.

[Brian Cronin]

That was a fairly big move for the Yankees.

I do not know how they will replace Bubba Crosby.

I wish him luck with the Cincinatti Reds.

-Brian

[LtMarvel]

Jim Edmonds reupped with the Redbirds for two years. Terms were not disclosed, but it is probably less than the one year option on his contract.

[Brian Cronin]

That was very cool that he's staying in St. Louis.

They should also sign Luis Gonzalez!

-Brian

[Valmore]

I can't believe Boston may have won the rights to just TALK to a Japanese pitcher for a whopping somewhere-around-$40-million. That's just crazy.

[moebius]

I do not know how they will replace Bubba Crosby.


Bubba! Noooooooo!

[EZMOHR]

No, they picked up a huge contract on an aging player who is a former steroids user, who spent a good portion of last season on the DL and extended his contract two more years at 14 million a year. He'll be 38 entering the season next year and his best years are clearly behind him. And no baggage? Please - Sheffield was a malcontent in New York.

In exchange, they gave up three YOUNG pitchers that did this in the minors last season:

The 23-year-old Sanchez was a combined 10-6 with a 2.53 ERA and 129 strikeouts in 123 innings with Triple-A Toledo and Double-A Erie this year.

Whelan, 22, was 4-1 with a 2.67 ERA and 27 saves for Class A Lakeland. Claggett, 22, was 7-2 with an 0.91 ERA and 14 saves for Class A West Michigan.

This was a stupid trade for the Tigers. No question about it. They gave up three players with great potential for an aging player who's going to be making WAY too much money these next three seasons.

Cashman = genius.

Okay, look at the Tigers right now. There youngest players....are on the pitching staff. Inge, Pudge, Sheff Now, Magglio, The Gambler, this is a team that is built to only compete fro 2-3 years....about the length of the Sheff deal.

And like I said b4, Sanchez was the only one of the three I heard of before the trade. That's nice Clagget and Whelan were great in CLASS A last year. But, well, between an established hitter, and three pitchers who aren't guaranteed to make the staff or the bullpen due to the young arms already there...I'll take Sheff who can help you compete in your years that you can compete.

I say both teams made out like bandits this year.

Oh, and did that dirty test for Sheff come back while I wasn't watching or something......I totally missed it. You until those dirty test come back now when it matters....yeah.........who gives a crap.

And Sheff doesn't have baggage w/ Jim Leyland...you know the manager that kept him quiet in Florida during the WS run.

Good for both. And Cashman only looks like a "GENIUS" when Clagget, Sanchez, and Whelan put on pin stripes and start pitching in NY...not in Class A Podunk City.

[Brian Cronin]

By the by, I call BS on the Red Sox thing.

No way they bid that much.

-Brian

[Valmore]

By the by, I call BS on the Red Sox thing.

No way they bid that much.

-Brian

I'm thinking I'm in agreement with you. In the past year or so they've been scaling back on their spending. I just can't see them spending that much for the right to 30 days of trying to sign the guy.

[Tadhg Adams]

I'd say it's a good deal for Cashman and maybe not a bad deal for the Tigers. It's certainly not the catastrophe that Val is spinning it as. They gave up 1 great prospect and 2 okay prospects. I'm not sold on Sheffield but then I wasn't sold on Rogers or Magglio either, I've learned not to doubt Dombrowski's moves until after I've seen the results.

The one thing the Tigers have is pitching. Lots and lots of pitching. They have 5 young starters ready for the Majors right now. They have 2 more young starters who are raw but show incredible potential, and they have a nice bullpen and their closer for the future as a setup man.

Payroll wise, Sheffield's contract is offset by the dumping of Young and Percival, so it's not like he's close to breaking the bank.

[Brian Cronin]

Yeah, while I think it's a better deal for the Yanks than the Tigers, this certainly isn't a bad deal for the Tigers.

Sheffield can still rake with the best of them, and he was gotten for less money and less year-commitment for the free agents who might BARELY be better than him.

Sheffield is better than Carlos Lee, for instance.

Although, I'd like to see Detroit pick up a left-handed bat.

As for the Yankees, though, man...what a nice pick-up. Fucking Humberto Sanchez for Sheffield? That's awesome.

-Brian

[Punchy]

JD Drew opted out of his contract with the Dodgers at 3 years and $33million.

Does he really think hell get more?

[Brian Cronin]

He's better than Carlos Lee, and people are backing up dump trucks of money for Lee, so sadly, I think Drew actually WILL get more money.

-Brian

[Gingold]

Dammit! I don't want to hate the Tigers. I like the Tigers. But Gary Sheffield is probably my least favorite person on the planet not named Dick Cheney. That's why he and the Yankees were such a perfect match. Damn Cashman, creating more hate in the world.

[Sheldon]

Although it was never in doubt, I'm glad Craig Biggio is gonna play one more season in Houston.

He only needs to be hit by a pitch 6 more times and he'll pass the all-time record!

The record he beat last year was the modern day record (http://www.baseball-reference.com/leaders/HBP_career.shtml).

[Brian Cronin]

How the hell is Biggio making over 5 million dollars next year!?

-Brian

[Sheldon]

Just cause he's been around for so long....that and his chase for 3000 hits will probably draw some fans.

[EZMOHR]

How the hell is Biggio making over 5 million dollars next year!?

-Brian

1.) Die Hard Houston fans like me would kill Drayton and Puppura if they let him go.....and Biggio knows that, and he used that as a chip.

2.) Houston has 18 million coming off of Bagwell's pay from last year. Essentially 22 million from Clemens. 13 from Pettite. And, Biggio is taking a like 5 million dollar from last year. $5 million is a drop in the bucket.

3.) Biggio, at 40, can still essentially go .260, 20 HR, 75 RBI's....that is good enough for the Astros.

4.) You can't get rid of essentially the only player in your history (Nolan doesn't count because he was an Angel, Ranger, and Met, and same with Morgan, they aren't just famous for their time with Houston) that is gonna be your ONLY first ballot HOF'er as of right now (Bagwell will get in one day, but he ain't first ballot.) Plus, 70 hits from 3000, and 6 from the HBP record....the 3000 hits alone will get more tickets bought next year.

I'm glad your coming back to Houston...I remember your first game, I will watch you till your last game.

[Valmore]

JD Drew opted out of his contract with the Dodgers at 3 years and $33million.

Does he really think hell get more?

One rumor mill I saw the other day was Boston was looking at picking up J.D. Drew. Which could mean they might be looking to move Manny. But it was only a rumor.

[Valmore]

I'd say it's a good deal for Cashman and maybe not a bad deal for the Tigers. It's certainly not the catastrophe that Val is spinning it as. They gave up 1 great prospect and 2 okay prospects. I'm not sold on Sheffield but then I wasn't sold on Rogers or Magglio either, I've learned not to doubt Dombrowski's moves until after I've seen the results.

The one thing the Tigers have is pitching. Lots and lots of pitching. They have 5 young starters ready for the Majors right now. They have 2 more young starters who are raw but show incredible potential, and they have a nice bullpen and their closer for the future as a setup man.

Payroll wise, Sheffield's contract is offset by the dumping of Young and Percival, so it's not like he's close to breaking the bank.

I wouldn't call it a catastrophe - I call it stupid to give up something that comes at a premium (pitching, even as prospects) for something that isn't worth $14 million a year in a old, beat-up Sheffield who spent most of the last season on the DL and will be 38 next season. And why give a potential playoff opponent an out on an unhappy player with a high salary?

[moebius]

One rumor mill I saw the other day was Boston was looking at picking up J.D. Drew. Which could mean they might be looking to move Manny. But it was only a rumor.

Well, the second part of that is true no matter what. They HAVE to be sick of Manny, especially after he decided to end his season a few weeks early and all the "trade me/don't trade me" talk.

[Valmore]

Well, the second part of that is true no matter what. They HAVE to be sick of Manny, especially after he decided to end his season a few weeks early and all the "trade me/don't trade me" talk.

Which may be why Boston might look to pick up J.D. Drew - it would make Manny easier to trade, since they'd have a decent enough replacement for him. Not better, but good enough. He'd probably do pretty well in Fenway.

[Gingold]

JD Drew is a huge step down from Manny. Financial flexibility should be a concern for the As or the Royals, not the Red Sox. Papi without Manny might not the Ortiz we've seen over the past three seasons. (And I don't want to have to buy a new jersey.)

[Valmore]

JD Drew is a huge step down from Manny. Financial flexibility should be a concern for the As or the Royals, not the Red Sox. Papi without Manny might not the Ortiz we've seen over the past three seasons. (And I don't want to have to buy a new jersey.)

Manny only has one season left on his contract, which means he's prime to move. Given his past history of being a complete flake in the offseason and always whining about wanting out of Boston, this is the season to take what we can get for him, because I don't see him coming back if the Red Sox keep him all season.

J.D. Drew isn't as good as Manny, no. But he's a decent enough replacement. He has power from the left side of the plate (he's a lefty) which means he'll be tough to pitch around. Ortiz might get challenged a bit more, but it won't be that huge a dropoff.

This isn't about financial flexibility - it's about getting what we can while the getting's good.

[Gingold]

Manny only has one season left on his contract, which means he's prime to move. Given his past history of being a complete flake in the offseason and always whining about wanting out of Boston, this is the season to take what we can get for him, because I don't see him coming back if the Red Sox keep him all season.

J.D. Drew isn't as good as Manny, no. But he's a decent enough replacement. He has power from the left side of the plate (he's a lefty) which means he'll be tough to pitch around. Ortiz might get challenged a bit more, but it won't be that huge a dropoff.

This isn't about financial flexibility - it's about getting what we can while the getting's good.

But what about my Manny jersey?

[Valmore]

But what about my Manny jersey?

Retire it. Or, if the name is sewn on, carefully remove it.

[Brian Cronin]

Now that the shock of getting Humberto freakin' Sanchez for Gary Sheffield has worn off, I think the deal is a lot better for the Tigers than I did before.

I still think it's better for the Yankees, as it is basically free money, and Sanchez is better than the other folks I was hearing (and would have been happy with) like Linebrink.

However, young players who haven't done anything...it's a crapshoot.

-Brian

[SUPERECWFAN1]

Has anyone heard about that Japanese pitcher who is being courted ? USA Today had an article on him last week and its said he has a 97 mph fastball. Teams are getting ready to throw at least $ 30 million up front since they feel he'll be a dominating pitcher . ( Odds are the Yankees will get him. He's taking the highest offer..so to speak and the Yankees have more money than god and Steinbrenner wants to WIN at all costs as they say)


edit: Just saw the post about Matsuzka . Wow....the Red Sox bidding that much shocks me.

[Valmore]

Now that the shock of getting Humberto freakin' Sanchez for Gary Sheffield has worn off, I think the deal is a lot better for the Tigers than I did before.

I still think it's better for the Yankees, as it is basically free money, and Sanchez is better than the other folks I was hearing (and would have been happy with) like Linebrink.

However, young players who haven't done anything...it's a crapshoot.

-Brian

Yeah, those darned young pitchers. Taking the Tigers all the way to the World Series this season. Bastards.

Sheffield's old, breaking down, and making way too much cash. This is a much better deal for the Yankees, if only to get that loudmouth, malcontent out of the locker room.

[Valmore]

Has anyone heard about that Japanese pitcher who is being courted ? USA Today had an article on him last week and its said he has a 97 mph fastball. Teams are getting ready to throw at least $ 30 million up front since they feel he'll be a dominating pitcher . ( Odds are the Yankees will get him. He's taking the highest offer..so to speak and the Yankees have more money than god and Steinbrenner wants to WIN at all costs as they say)


edit: Just saw the post about Matsuzka . Wow....the Red Sox bidding that much shocks me.

It hasn't been confirmed, only rumored that the Red Sox won the bid to actually just TALK to the pitcher about a contract. The initial bidding goes directly to his current team in Japan. The TEAM gets that cash.

See, that number there - it's only a bid to enter negotiations with Matsuzka. There's no guarantee he'll sign a contract. The winning bidder has 30 days to get him to sign a contract, or he heads back to Japan for this season.

[Brian Cronin]

Yeah, those darned young pitchers. Taking the Tigers all the way to the World Series this season. Bastards.

Sheffield's old, breaking down, and making way too much cash. This is a much better deal for the Yankees, if only to get that loudmouth, malcontent out of the locker room.

You should not compare a guy who has never pitched in the major leagues to pitchers who have pitched and succeeded in the majors.

There's a significant difference.

Sanchez has potential, certainly, but so far it's unrealized potential, while Sheffield is a proven commodity.

-Brian

[Valmore]

You should not compare a guy who has never pitched in the major leagues to pitchers who have pitched and succeeded in the majors.

There's a significant difference.

Sanchez has potential, certainly, but so far it's unrealized potential, while Sheffield is a proven commodity.

Sheffield is also proven to be old, cranky, creaky and getting too much money and is superfluous to what the Yankees need, which is pitching. They ended up with young pitching, which, frankly, is all I could see them getting for that overbloated salary for an old fiddle-fart like Gary Sheffield.

In the words of Howie Mandell: "Brian Cashman made... a very good deal."

[Tadhg Adams]

Yeah, those darned young pitchers. Taking the Tigers all the way to the World Series this season. Bastards.


Last I saw, Sanchez didn't really help the Tigers get to the World Series.

[Valmore]

Last I saw, Sanchez didn't really help the Tigers get to the World Series.

No, no he didn't.

But I still like this deal better for the Yanks than I do the Tigers.

[Tadhg Adams]

No, no he didn't.

But I still like this deal better for the Yanks than I do the Tigers.

That's fine, but your stated reasoning sucks.

[Valmore]

That's fine, but your stated reasoning sucks.

Okay, let's put it like this:

Gary Sheffield's best days are clearly behind him. He was unhappy in New York the past couple years. He spent most of 2006 on the DL. He'll be 38 entering the 2007 season and making $13 million. The Yankees have a glut of outfielders, and Sheffield was clearly unwilling to play first base. The Yankees are also shy on pitching. While this gives them only prospects, that's still a very good thing. Because whenever the Yankees make mid-season trades, they tend to have to give up prospect players to get what they want. This gives them, at worst, three more prospects to trade in July, because teams love pitching prospects. At best, these guys could become the backbone of a new pitching staff in New York.

Detroit ends up shelling out another $28 million over two more years for a player who may be decent enough if he stays healthy, but he won't be the same player he was. This makes him extremely hard to move if he isn't panning out. Whereas young pitchers with potential are generally easier to move as trade bait come July.

[Brian Cronin]

The Yankees get credit for trading from their surplus to solve a need, but the Tigers get criticized for doing the same thing?

-Brian

[Valmore]

The Yankees get credit for trading from their surplus to solve a need, but the Tigers get criticized for doing the same thing?

Age factor and movability, my friend. With pitching prospects, they probably could have done better than Gary Sheffield, who is old and has a higher probability of breaking down and not being able to be moved with that high salary. The Tigers put themselves in a worse position with the trade. There's no margin for error with Sheffield.

The Yankees got rid of a higher risk option and got three guys who have potential not only to be players for the Yankees for years, but also to be moved to fill other needs the Yankees may find themselves with next season. The Yankees potentially solved two needs.

[Tadhg Adams]

Methinks someone has a bias against Sheffield.

[Valmore]

Methinks someone has a bias against Sheffield.

It's more of a bias against 38-year old players who spent most of last season on the DL with hefty salaries. The move seems risky to me - the Tigers have a good chance of paying him a lot of cash to do very little. If he plays and does well, great - no harm done. If he doesn't, those three prospects probably could have brought somebody else in July next season.

[Tadhg Adams]

It's more of a bias against 38-year old players who spent most of last season on the DL with hefty salaries. The move seems risky to me - the Tigers have a good chance of paying him a lot of cash to do very little. If he plays and does well, great - no harm done. If he doesn't, those three prospects probably could have brought somebody else in July next season.

Yes, because it's not as if the Tigers have a need right now. It's best they just wait and see who might be available come July.

[Valmore]

Yes, because it's not as if the Tigers have a need right now. It's best they just wait and see who might be available come July.

There were better options available now.

Andruw Jones of the Braves comes to mind. The Braves need pitching and love pitching prospects. And it would have kept those pitchers out of the A.L.

[Brian Cronin]

Andruw Jones would NEVER be gotten for those three prospects.

-Brian

[Tadhg Adams]

There were better options available now.

Andruw Jones of the Braves comes to mind. The Braves need pitching and love pitching prospects. And it would have kept those pitchers out of the A.L.

I wish I had your magical trading-wand.

[Brian Cronin]

In fact, you can't NAME a hitter as good as Sheffield is who could have been gotten for those three pitchers right now. Maybe in July, but the Tigers clearly want to compete BEFORE July.

The only reason Sheffield was available is because of Cashman's slick move with the option.

That is the ONLY reason.

-Brian

[Valmore]

Andruw Jones would NEVER be gotten for those three prospects.

But he COULD have been gotten. All the Tigers had to do was find the right combination of players.

They jumped early and took the riskier option. That's fine.

[Brian Cronin]

Sheffield is remarkably consistent.

When he came back from the wrist injury (which was a freak injury, not a degenerative issue), he hit the same as he did BEFORE the injury.

He had a poor playoffs, which was also consisten with 2005 (and the end of the BoSox series in 2004).

And, again, there isn't a better hitter available that the Tigers could have gotten for those three prospects. Not a one.

-Brian

[Tadhg Adams]

But he COULD have been gotten. All the Tigers had to do was find the right combination of players.

They jumped early and took the riskier option. That's fine.

It is fine. Which is what we've been saying.

[Valmore]

Sheffield is remarkably consistent.

When he came back from the wrist injury (which was a freak injury, not a degenerative issue), he hit the same as he did BEFORE the injury.

He had a poor playoffs, which was also consisten with 2005 (and the end of the BoSox series in 2004).

And, again, there isn't a better hitter available that the Tigers could have gotten for those three prospects. Not a one.

-Brian

No he didn't.

He went 7-for-28, which is all of .250. That's lower than it was when he left with a wrist injury that required surgery.

For those 3 prospects alone - no. I agree.

I just think the Tigers could have done better in the market.

[Tadhg Adams]

I just think the Tigers could have done better in the market.

They essentially gave up nothing but money for a hitter which is what their team needs.

They'd have had to give up more, most likely substantially more, to do "better in the market."

[Valmore]

Anyway, back to the pitching wars:

I'm hinging on the rumor about Boston forking over $40 million, give or take a few million, to enter negotiations with Matsuzaka.

However, as far as I can tell, the winning bidder gets 30 days to get him to sign on a contract. Failing this, he plays in Japan in 2007.

Which means if Boston did win the bid, they could end up signing him. Or at worst, keep him from signing with anyone else... like the Yankees.

Not sure if it's worth that much, though.

Guess we'll find out come this week who won the bid.

[Brian Cronin]

The market WAS those three prospects.

What are you expecting, the Tigers to trade Justin Verlander and Joel Zumaya?

In that case, sure, yes, you're right, they could totally do better than Sheffield.

Otherwise, they got a very good hitter who was available at a discount rate for reasons having to do with the Yankees being able to buy players, so they went out and bought a replacement for Sheffield, so they didn't need him. That's the only reason he is available on the cheap, not because he's old, not because he's "disgruntled," not because he isn't a good hitter, but because the Yankees are in control of his market value.

"Hot young pitching" got the Yankees David Cone. NONE of the pitchers ever went anywhere.

"Hot young pitching" got the Yankees Cecil Fielder. Matt Drews never did anything.

"Hot young pitching" has value, and I'm glad the Yankees got some, but hitters of the quality of Gary Sheffield have a lot of value, as well, more so than the three pitchers the Tigers gave up, except for times like these.

-Brian

[Valmore]

The market WAS those three prospects.

What are you expecting, the Tigers to trade Justin Verlander and Joel Zumaya?

In that case, sure, yes, you're right, they could totally do better than Sheffield.

Otherwise, they got a very good hitter who was available at a discount rate for reasons having to do with the Yankees being able to buy players, so they went out and bought a replacement for Sheffield, so they didn't need him. That's the only reason he is available on the cheap, not because he's old, not because he's "disgruntled," not because he isn't a good hitter, but because the Yankees are in control of his market value.

"Hot young pitching" got the Yankees David Cone. NONE of the pitchers ever went anywhere.

"Hot young pitching" got the Yankees Cecil Fielder. Matt Drews never did anything.

"Hot young pitching" has value, and I'm glad the Yankees got some, but hitters of the quality of Gary Sheffield have a lot of value, as well, more so than the three pitchers the Tigers gave up, except for times like these.

Sure, the Yankees controlled his value. But anyone who doesn't look at the whole picture is fooling themselves. He's old, and he's a risk. The Tigers were willing to take it. Good for them.

And it didn't come "cheap" - it cost two years at $14 million a year. Not cheap at all.

[Brian Cronin]

But my point is that he ISN'T a risk.

He's remarkably consistent.

And $14 per is expensive, but cheaper than what Sheffield would have gotten on the open market.

-Brian

[Valmore]

But my point is that he ISN'T a risk.

He's remarkably consistent.

And $14 per is expensive, but cheaper than what Sheffield would have gotten on the open market.

And my point is he IS a risk.

He's old, wearing down, had surgery on his wrist that limited him to 39 games. And by your own admittance, he's sucked in the postseason the past two seasons. Last I checked, the Tigers lost because their bats died in the postseason.

[Tadhg Adams]

I'm pretty sure the throwing errors are what killed them.

[Valmore]

I'm pretty sure the throwing errors are what killed them.

That as well.

Errors and bats that faded away.

What happened to Polanco?!?

[Valmore]

By the by, I'm also just biased against making a team older is all.

I don't believe the Tigers made a horrible trade or even a bad trade. I can see their side of it. I just don't really agree with it. But I'm just some guy on a keyboard, so of course I know better than them! :) (That was a joke.)

[EZMOHR]

By the by, I'm also just biased against making a team older is all.

I don't believe the Tigers made a horrible trade or even a bad trade. I can see their side of it. I just don't really agree with it. But I'm just some guy on a keyboard, so of course I know better than them! :) (That was a joke.)


I don't sometimes I think guys sitting at keyboards are better GM's than the regular one.....how else can you explain trades like Larry Anderson for Jeff Bagwell? Herschell Walker for 2 SuperBowls? Steve Walsh for 1 SuperBowl? AJ Pierzinsky for Joe Nathan, Francisco Liriano, and Boof Bonser? The list goes on, and on, and on...........

[Brian Cronin]

Oh, and while I know that no one really gives a crap about the Silver Sluggers, the idea that Joe Crede was the best third baseman, offensively, in the AL last year is just, well, beyond absurd.

It reaches into the realm of "We don't even slightly care about getting the best result."

-Brian

[Sheldon]

Voting for Crede is the result of people being sick of voting for A-Rod

[Brian Cronin]

Which is fine for a popularity contest, but it's so annoying when MERIT-based awards work like that.

-Brian

[Sheldon]

I just checked out who won (http://mlb.mlb.com/NASApp/mlb/mlb/awards/mlb_awards_content.jsp?content=silver_slugger_hist ory)

I had no clue Jose Reyes hit 19 homers this year. I knew Chase Utley was good (he had that streak) but I didn't think he was that good...I suppose being on the same team as Ryan Howard will take away some publicity.
I guess I need to follow NL stats a bit more closely

[moebius]

Which is fine for a popularity contest, but it's so annoying when MERIT-based awards work like that.

-Brian

And yet, Derek Jeter won the AL-SS Gold Glove [shrugs].

[moebius]

Oh, and Jaret Wright is allegedly going to Baltimore for a reliever.

That shows how much respect the Yankees have for Wright, keeping him within the division (even if it is the Os)...it also means they have only two starters under contract + (probably) Mussina and Carl Pavano.

[Frodo-X]

Re: Sheffield.

When I first heard, I wasn't real happy. Now that I've thought about it, I like it. Sure he's older, but keep in mind everyone said Dombrowski was nuts for paying Pudge so much.

And even more nuts for getting Kenny, who wound up being our best pitcher.

I think Dave's earned the benefit of the doubt by now.

[Valmore]

And yet, Derek Jeter won the AL-SS Gold Glove [shrugs].

The Gold Gloves are a joke, too.

[EZMOHR]

And the Cubs start the signing period by signing..............Kerry Wood for 1 year and Aramis Ramirez for 5 years.

[Valmore]

And the Cubs start the signing period by signing..............Kerry Wood for 1 year and Aramis Ramirez for 5 years.

A 1-year deal at $1.75 million is a steal for the Cubs if Kerry Wood actually pitches this season, which would kick in some incentives to make it worth $6 million. Not a bad signing.

Keeping Ramirez is a good move as well.

[moebius]

Those are good moves by the Cubs. I would say "surprisingly good," but then I remember the problem was more Dusty Baker than anything.

[moebius]

Sox bid $42 million for Matsuzaka.

[Valmore]

Sox bid $42 million for Matsuzaka.

For the right to NEGOTIATE with Matsuzaka - if his team even accepts it!

And if the Red Sox fail to sign him, they pay nothing. If they do sign him, they're shelling out probably near $100 million for one pitcher. $42 million to his team for negotiating and probably a 5-year, $50 million contract.

That's insane!

[Brian Cronin]

What's cool about this is that it basically means the BoSox really can't ever bitch about the Yankees in the future, spending-wise. :D

I mean, jaysus, FORTY-TWO MILLION!?!?!?

-Brian

[Valmore]

What's cool about this is that it basically means the BoSox really can't ever bitch about the Yankees in the future, spending-wise. :D

I mean, jaysus, FORTY-TWO MILLION!?!?!?

-Brian

Hey, in Rita's last week I said the Red Sox were basically the Yankees, except they shell out money on the wrong people more often than not.

[Gingold]

Damn, that's a lot of money. I don't know what else to say.

[Frodo-X]

Rookies of the Year:

NL-Hanley Ramirez

AL-Justin Verlander (YAY!)

[EZMOHR]

Cool that Verlander won. He deserved it. And Hanley...yeah I'm cool with that too....though I would have given it to Dan Uggla.

[Frodo-X]

I would have been stunned if Verlander lost. I mean, the other two (Papelbon and Liriano) broke down before the season ended.

I'll also be stunned if Leyland doesn't get Manager of the Year.

[Brian Cronin]

Really?

You'd be stunned if Gardenhire won it?

I think Leyland WILL win it - but I don't think Gardenhire winning it would be all that stunning.

-Brian

[Frodo-X]

I do, because Leyland went farther with a team that wasn't even expected to compete.

Gardenhire mounted a great comeback with a team that wasn't ever supposed to be that far behind.

The difference is in the expectations. Twins winning AL Central wasn't a crazy notion in April. Tigers winning the AL Championship was.

[Valmore]

Yeah, but by July the Tigers had a wrap on the A.L. Central and the Twins were supposed to be finished. By the end, the Twins had the A.L. Central and the Tigers were lucky to be in the playoffs.

So I wouldn't be surprised either way.

[Valmore]

YIKES!

$51 million for the right to negotitate a contract?!?

INSANE!!!

[Brian Cronin]

Insane like a FOX!

Seriously, though, I've warmed to the idea. He brings Boston their first Japanese guy. So it is worth more money to them than to other teams.

-Brian

[Gingold]

It's a disgusting amount of money, to be sure. But if he's even marginally successful, the revenue stream from broadcasts and merchandizing in Japan is going to bring in a heck of a lot more money that that. And placing the winning bid prevents the Yankees from signing him. It's not a bad move for the Sox really. Doesn't stop it from being fucking obscene, but it's not a bad move.

[Valmore]

Insane like a FOX!

Seriously, though, I've warmed to the idea. He brings Boston their first Japanese guy. So it is worth more money to them than to other teams.

I like the move, but man... $51 million! I wonder what the second-place bid amount was for. However, he won't be the first Japanese guy Boston has ever had - nor the first Japanese pitcher.

Hideo Nomo pitched in Boston in 2001.

[Brian Cronin]

Yeah, but first one anyone cares about!

Now, if they had Nomo in 1995...

-Brian

[Valmore]

Yeah, but first one anyone cares about!

Now, if they had Nomo in 1995...

-Brian

Hey - Nomo, pitched a no-hitter in Boston! I cared about him then!

[moebius]

Hmm....$100 million on Matzusaka + $40-50 million on J.D. Drew. Very interesting.

[Gingold]

Is Girardi the first manager to lose his job and be named Manager of the Year in the same season?

EDIT: Answering my own question- I forgot that Davey Johnson won in 97 and was let go.

[Frodo-X]

Today was a case of good news/bad news for the Tigers.

Good news- Leyland wins AL Manager of the Year. YAY!

Bad news- Jamie Walker is now an Oriole. I'm not that upset about it. He's a good pitcher, sure, but he wasn't one of my favorites. I just hope they don't plan on relying too heavily on Miller. Unless he gets a hell of a lot better over the off-season, I don't think he'll be consistent enough.

[moebius]

I like the move, but man... $51 million! I wonder what the second-place bid amount was for. However, he won't be the first Japanese guy Boston has ever had - nor the first Japanese pitcher.

Hideo Nomo pitched in Boston in 2001.

I think the Yankees actually came in 4th, behind the Mets (high 30s) and Rangers (mid-30s).

[Sheldon]

It looks like the Jays are gonna sign Frank Thomas (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2663691) for a two year package for aroung 20-23 million.

I'm excited by the pick up. This year's off season is gonna be crazy.

[moebius]

Talk is that with Thomas leaving for the Jays and the Tigers picking up Sheff, Barry Bonds might be a fit for Oakland. I mean, the guy is a sabremetrician's wet dream no matter how he's priced.

[Brian Cronin]

Razza frazza...stupid Toronto.

I was so happy to keep Sheffield away from them, and they go and add the Big Hurt?!?!

I can't even root against him, because I love him!!

-Brian

[Ryan Day]

A bit too much money for the Big Hurt, but I think I'm happy: If he's healthy, he'll do a lot of hitting. Good start for Toronto.

[Ryan Day]

Surprising no one, Johan Santana unanimously wins the AL Cy.

But Wang gets more second-place votes than Halladay? Whatever. Apparently the lower ERA, lower WHIP, more strikeouts, and fewer walks don't count as much a two more wins.

[Lone Ranger]

A bit too much money for the Big Hurt, but I think I'm happy: If he's healthy, he'll do a lot of hitting. Good start for Toronto.

My fingers are crossed that he stays happy and healthy.

This is a team that needs everyone moving in the same direction, and they do not need any bad vibes in the clubhouse.

I'll take 1.5 good years from him - that's ok.

[Dennis K]

Haven't Girardi and Leyland been named managers of the year? Didn't I "predict" that awhile ago?

[Brian Cronin]

Suck it, Halladay!!!

-Brian

[Valmore]

What, Josh Beckett didn't get any votes?!?







That was sarcasm.

[Sheldon]

Suck it, Halladay!!!

-Brian


Damn you Wang!!!!!

[EZMOHR]

Surprising no one, Johan Santana unanimously wins the AL Cy.

But Wang gets more second-place votes than Halladay? Whatever. Apparently the lower ERA, lower WHIP, more strikeouts, and fewer walks don't count as much a two more wins.


I think the fact that Wang pitched well at the end of season in games that mattered, and Halladay did nothing the last month may have swayed more votes to Wang.

[Ryan Day]

I think the fact that Wang pitched well at the end of season in games that mattered, and Halladay did nothing the last month may have swayed more votes to Wang.

That's probably the perception, but there's not much to it: On August 31, the Yankees had an 8 game lead in the division, and the Red Sox were completely falling apart. The Yankees had about as much chance of losing the division as the Jays did of winning it, which is to say "none at all". Neither team was playing meaningful games, unless you count the Jays sneaking past the Red Sox for 2nd. (which I don't, really)

[EZMOHR]

I also think the fact Wang won 19 games on the Yankess, and Roy Halladay plays for the Jays swayed a lot of voters as well.:)

Damn Yankees.

[Frodo-X]

YAY!

Tigers signed Sean Casey to a one-year deal!

I was so hoping they'd keep him, and they did!

:)

[Bright-Raven]

Cubs seem to have some potential improvement for upcoming season.

INFIELD:

THIRD BASE - Aramis Ramiriez was arguably the Cubs' most productive player on offense last season, so his recent long term contract signing was not a surprise.

While he had a decent fielding percentage at .965, I would not be surprised if Lou Pinella rides him a bit, as he did commit 13 errors this past season.

SHORTSTOP: Ceasar Izturis. Yes, I know Ronny Cedeno played the position last season after the Cubs acquired Izturis from the Dodgers for Greg Maddux. (Which I will never forgive them for - the idiots never should have parted ways with Maddux to let him go to Atlanta years ago, and then they move him again?) But Ceasar Izturis should likely be the starting shortstop assuming he is healthy (he was the NL Gold Glove winner in 2004, when he was with the Dodgers). I would not be surprised if Cedeno gets traded for a solid outfielder with a decent bat.

SECOND BASE: They picked up Mark DeRosa from the Rangers to take over second base as an everyday player (plus he's experienced at all of the infield positions, so can maintain a backup role for other positions). His fielding percentage (1.000 in 2006, .992 in 2005) is so vastly better than Ronny Cedeno (who committed 25 errors last year), with Iztsuris at short, it should shore up the middle infield defense.

FIRST BASE: Derek Lee should remain in place, and as he should be recovered from the injury he sustained, you'll have Ramirez and Lee as two of your power bats likely to hit in 100 + runs over the season at the corners (keep in mind Lee hit 30 runs in only 50 games played last season. Assuming he's healthy for the entire season in 2007, maintaining the same pace will set him around 115 to 120 RBIS), and DeRosa and Itzuris in there for defense and honestly mediocre to slightly above average batting - they'll get on base enough to let Ramirez and Lee knock them in.

CATCHER: In my opinion, Henry Blanco should be the starting catcher instead of Michael Barrett, but Barrett will almost certainly be listed as the starter and Blanco will be the backup. Blanco's not "old" at 35, and is second only to Ivan Rodriguez in the entire Major Leagues in throwing out base runners at 41.4 percent. With a lot of the National League teams playing "small ball", one would think you'd want your best defensive guy out there to counteract opposing baserunners. Their batting averages and OBP and other stats are practically mirror images. About the only reason I can see Barrett starting is he's five years younger so his knees aren't quite as worn down as Blanco's may be. But since the stats are so close, I don't think age is a factor here. We'll have to wait and see.

Conclusion: It's a solid upgrade in fielding, which is fine as long as the Cubs pitching holds up in the friendly confines of Wrigley Field.

OUTFIELDERS:

Juan Pierre SHOULD be a lock. No fielding errors in 2006, 2nd in the league in steals with 58, and played in all 162 games.

BUT - the Giants are trying to negotiate for him. The Cubs would be stupid to let go of Pierre. He's a fine lead off batter who handles the bat well, a speed demon on the bases, and while his arm isn't the greatest, he covers more ground than damn near anyone else in the league with his speed. And who the hell could the Giants possibly offer in return? The Cubs sure as hell wouldn't want Bonds - they had enough with "Swingin' Sammy's" antics. Also, while the Cubs have plenty of corner fielders, they have absolutely no one with Pierre's range to replace him at centerfield.

Matt Murton will be the starting left fielder barring unforeseen injury. Three errors in 133 games played, he's a solid .988 fielding percentage and his batting numbers are better than the other outfielders currently on the roster.

Jacques Jones will be the starting right fielder, or if the Cubs are idiots and trade Pierre, they'll move him to center because he was always a utility outfielder throughout his career in Minnesota(though statistically he's played the corner outfields on average about 8 to 1 to his centerfield games).

Assuming they drop Pierre, then the Cubs will probably try and bring up Angel Pagan to fill the right field starting position because he's a switch hitter which theoretically helps when an opposing team wants to bring in relief pitchers.

Conclusion: The outfield's batting averages are mediocre, but at Wrigley you desperately need the gloves, with the wind conditions. Pierre gives them a higher on base percentage and helps create scoring opportunities that otherwise are denied the team, and he's just too damn important a fielder for the Cubs to even consider trading. But then, the Cubs are well known for trading their best players away and keeping the ones that are injury prone.

PITCHING:

It's very simple: GET RID OF KERRY WOOD AND MARK PRIOR.

But no, they've already resigned Wood (see what I mean about keeping injury prone players?). The man will NEVER live up to what is expected of him. NEVER. Let him go and reload. Hell, trade him to an American League team, if you're so worried about having to face him. But good luck finding anyone who'll want a benchwarmer.

And Prior might as well just give it up - he can't even stay off the 15 Day DL list for more than 15 days at a time! If it's not his achilles, it's his pectoral muscle on his throwing side. If it's not that, then it's a strained oblique. If it's not that, it's a hangnail. :rolleyes:

Carlos Zambrano is the current star of the pitching roster. They need to build the staff around this guy NOW, and stop waiting for wild fantasies to come true.

Ryan Dempster... may be on the trading block. The Cubs just got White Sox reliever Neal Cotts for David Aardsma and a minor leaguer. They're either going to build Cotts up to be the closer, and put Dempster back into the starting rotation (possible), or they're looking to get rid of Dempster for other pitching prospects.

Conclusion: Cubs might be realizing their weakness is in their pitching - as in they have great paper stats, but nothing doing on the mound. Are they reloading? In my opinion, yes. The question is, can they reload enough and stabilize the roster for next season, or is it another year of rebuilding?

OVERALL CONCLUSION: If they remain healthy and don't trade half their team by the trading deadlines, the Cubs will probably not contend in the postseason but might give a race to whomever comes in 2nd in the NL Central, which may determine who gets the NL Wild Card.

[Valmore]

Nah, the Cubs did a good thing by re-signing Kerry Wood to a one-year throwaway deal. It's only worth $1.75 million, which is chump change to the Cubs. And if he actually hits his incentives in the contract (which means he pitches to a certain amount of success) THEN he gets more money.

At worst, the Cubs lose less then two million. At best, they lose $6 million but actually have Wood pitching to his potential for once.

It's a good deal.

[cable guy]

It looks like the Jays are gonna sign Frank Thomas (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2663691) for a two year package for aroung 20-23 million.

I'm excited by the pick up. This year's off season is gonna be crazy.

That would be ok, I guess.

I heard yesterday it's gonna be 3 years and 30 mil.

That's a big chunk of change for the Big Hurt at this point in his career.

[moebius]

Interesting statement by Santana on whether he should be AL MVP:

"For what it's worth, he would pick Twins teammate Justin Morneau for MVP.

" 'I pitch every five days. He played every day. He helped the team every day,' Santana said. 'There's a lot of things that are involved, but I think the MVP has to go to a player that helps his team every single day'. "

[Brian Cronin]

I think the MVP should go to the player who had the biggest impact overall.

Almost always that's going to be a hitter, but occaisonally, it CAN be a pitcher.

This year, the American League crop is pretty light, with only ONE player having a higher value over replacement player than Santana - Derek Jeter, who likely WILL be the AL MVP.

-Brian

[Punchy]

Looks like Nomar is going to stay around LA for a few more years. If we get a good 100-125 games out of him, its a good deal.

[Valmore]

I think the MVP should go to the player who had the biggest impact overall.

Almost always that's going to be a hitter, but occaisonally, it CAN be a pitcher.

This year, the American League crop is pretty light, with only ONE player having a higher value over replacement player than Santana - Derek Jeter, who likely WILL be the AL MVP.

In general a pitcher will need to dominate, like Roger Clemens in 1986, to win the MVP. It can happen, but in general your everyday player will be more valuable.

[Brian Cronin]

Holy to the crap!!

Cubs get Soriano! (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2668465)

-Brian

[Valmore]

Holy to the crap!!

Cubs get Soriano! (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2668465)

-Brian

Eight years, $136 million. But will he insist on playing second base?

[moebius]

Pretty sure he'd be cool with CF at this point.

So far the Cubs seem like the big winners this post-season, locking up the two best free-agent position players on the market.

[Sheldon]

Holy to the crap!!

Cubs get Soriano! (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2668465)

-Brian

Indeed...I didn't see that one coming....

He's getting some serious cash....

[Frodo-X]

Jeez! You'd swear the Cubs want to win or something...

:p

[Gingold]

Wow. The NL Central is going to be crazy competitive next year, if nothing else.

[Valmore]

What were the N.L. MVP voters thinking? Ryan Howard? The Phillies didn't even make the playoffs.

I'd take Albert Pujols over Howard every single day of the millenium.

[Brian Cronin]

MVP voters have weird guidelines.

-Brian

[Valmore]

MVP voters have weird guidelines.

-Brian

Makes me wonder if they'll give it to David Ortiz now, you know - since he led the A.L. in homers and RBIs and Boston missed the playoffs.

It's pretty much the same crtieria they gave it to Ryan Howard for.

[Brian Cronin]

Ortiz is a DH.

One of their weird guidelines is that DHs should never win MVPs.

-Brian

[Ryan Day]

Pujols is the better hitter by a bit, but Howard played in 16 more games, which probably makes up the difference. It's a pretty good choice.

Even if you want to talk about making the playoffs - which I don't think is terribly relevant - the Phillies had a better record than the Cardinals.

[Valmore]

Ortiz is a DH.

One of their weird guidelines is that DHs should never win MVPs.

-Brian

I was pretty much being sarcastic. But Ortiz did play a few games at first base! WOOT!

If anyone other than Jeter gets the award, I'll be surprised.

[Brian Cronin]

Go Jeter!!!

-Brian

[Brian Cronin]

Pujols missing those games makes it closer, but just that.

Closer.

And that's not even taking into consideration the fact that Pujols is a much better defender (heck, he won a Gold Glove, as meaningless as those usually are!).

-Brian

[Ryan Day]

"Best Defensive First Baseman" is a lot like "Prettiest Bearded Lady."

I'd probably have voted for Pujols. But they're really close, so i can't blame the writers for being wooed by Howard's sexy homers and RBI. Either choice is good.

[Brian Cronin]

Oh yeah, I'm not as irked as I would have been if, say, Ortiz had beaten A-Rod last year.

But, all said and done, I like it best when they choose the best choice.

2nd best choice, though, is better than some of the previous years. :)

-Brian

[moebius]

MVP voters have weird guidelines.

-Brian


VORP. Jeter's was the 3rd highest (http://www.baseballprospectus.com/statistics/sortable/index.php?cid=99976) in the majors this year, behind Pujols (1) and Howard (2).

Think Pujols should have one, but he'll have to settle for a ring.

[Ryan Day]

To make the Alfonso Soriano signing even wackier (and I think it was pretty crazy to begin with), apparently the Cubs are planning on batting him leadoff (http://mlb.mlb.com/NASApp/mlb/news/article.jsp?ymd=20061120&content_id=1743683&vkey=hotstove2006&fext=.jsp).

Yep, the guy with the career .325 OBP that's only once crept above .350, and even that was largely due to 16 intentional walks.

The speed is nice, but Soriano is there to hit the ball really hard. Wouldn't it be cool if there were men on base for him? Or if someone was on base for the next few batters?

[moebius]

Yeah, I never got that about Soriano. He's a pure hacker who can hit the hell out of the ball. Why not bat him 3rd or 5th, see if you can get something extra for your 40+ home runs.

[Valmore]

What I find funny about the Soriano signing is he's clearly not even that great of a batter - his career batting average is only .280 and he hasn't even hit .300 since 2002. His OBP is only average as well, and he's a huge strikeout liability. His 67 walks last season were a career high, but so were his 160 whiff/watch outs. He's also getting slower, as he was also caught stealing 17 times last season, another career high. He's also only an average fielder no matter where you stick him - 11 errors in the outfield last season, and usually around 20 or so at second base. Sure, he also got 46 dingers.

I'm not certain he was worth an 8 year, $136 million deal, especially since he'll be trailing 38 at the end of the contract.

The Cubs may have overspent a little too much on him.

[Sheldon]

The Cubs may have overspent a little too much on him.

I think that's an understatement.
Heck He's probably even older than 30. In two seasons's that contract is gonna be a huge problem, not a Chan Ho Park problem, but still a pretty big one.

[moebius]

Justin Morneau won a fairly close MVP race.

[Brian Cronin]

Fairly wrong decision, too. ;)

-Brian

[Mike Marino]

Fairly wrong decision, too. ;)

-Brian

I don't agree with the Justin Morneau pick. I think I would have ranked him the 3rd most important on the Twins this year.

Who would you guys have picked? I'm going with Mauer.

[Ryan Day]

I definitely liked Mauer - led the AL in BA, 3rd in OBP, 7th in OPS+ - basically the best hitter in the league who wasn't a DH, 1st baseman, or corner outfielder.

Jeter wouldn't have been a bad choice, but I hate him and everything he stands for, so yay.

I'd probably have voted for Ortiz before Morneau. Once you give it to a 1b, you're really saying "defensive value isn't a big deal", so why not go with the flat-out best hitter? (which would actually be Travis Hafner, but he didn't play in nearly as many games)

[Brian Cronin]

Jeter was the best pick among the offensive players, but I certainly have no problem with Mauer, as the difference between the two is neglible.

I also would have been fine with Santana.

Mourneau not an AWFUL choice, but he's definitely at best fourth.

This is going to be one of those Mo Vaughn MVPs, where we look back in a few years and say, "Seriously? Justin Mourneau? Seriously?"

-Brian

[Valmore]

Justin Morneau won a fairly close MVP race.

How the heck did that happen?

Geez, I don't like the Yankees, and even I say Jeter should have been the MVP.

[moebius]

Jeter wouldn't have been a bad choice, but I hate him and everything he stands for, so yay.


Working hard, making money and playing baseball?

[Brian Cronin]

Working hard, making money and playing baseball?

Playing for the Yankees, I think, is what Ryan was getting at. :)

-Brian

[Valmore]

I don't get it, if you're going to pick a slugging guy, why not just pick David Ortiz and get it over with? He had more homers and RBIs than Justin Morneau, and he had a much better OBP.

This is just a dumb pick.

[Gingold]

Hm. I feel strangely bummed that Jeter didn't win the award. What's happening to me?

[Valmore]

Hm. I feel strangely bummed that Jeter didn't win the award. What's happening to me?

Because Jeter should have won the MVP award.

It's really that simple, even if he is a Yankee, it's not cool to deny him what was pretty clearly his.

[Lone Ranger]

Jeter was the best pick among the offensive players, but I certainly have no problem with Mauer, as the difference between the two is neglible.

I also would have been fine with Santana.

Mourneau not an AWFUL choice, but he's definitely at best fourth.

This is going to be one of those Mo Vaughn MVPs, where we look back in a few years and say, "Seriously? Justin Mourneau? Seriously?"

-Brian

You guys are just mad that MVP awards keep travelling north of the border!


Seriously - I agree with the 'If not Jeter, then Mauer' argument. Dude's a freakin' catcher for crying out loud.

If points get deducted for being a DH, they should be awarded for being a catcher.

[Gingold]

Because Jeter should have won the MVP award.

It's really that simple, even if he is a Yankee, it's not cool to deny him what was pretty clearly his.

Yeah, absolutely. I'm just usually not this level-headed about the Yankees.

[Mike Marino]

I don't get it, if you're going to pick a slugging guy, why not just pick David Ortiz and get it over with? He had more homers and RBIs than Justin Morneau, and he had a much better OBP.

This is just a dumb pick.

I think a lot of people wouldn't listen to that argument on one of those silly baseball axioms "But he didn't make the playoffs, the other guy did!"

I'm guessing those may be the same people who ignored that argument when they picked Ryan Howard over Pujols.

[Brian Cronin]

It is not a surprising pick, though.

The way it usually goes is:

1. Find the guy who had the most RBI

2. Make sure his team was in the playoff chase

3. Make sure he is not a DH.

This is how George Bell won an MVP. This is how Mo Vaughn won an MVP. This is how Juan Gonzalez won TWO MVPs.

-Brian

[Sheldon]

Wow...I really like Morneau, but that was silly...

[Nick Soapdish]

I don't get it, if you're going to pick a slugging guy, why not just pick David Ortiz and get it over with? He had more homers and RBIs than Justin Morneau, and he had a much better OBP.

This is just a dumb pick.

But what about the rest of the BoSox?

Morneau was far and away the Twins leader in RBIs. Both Cuddy and Torii managed around 100 RBIs which marked the first time that two Twins managed 100 RBIs in the same season for over 20 years. I don't remember one Twin even managing it for the last several.

He also led in HR and had the second highest batting average on the team and the second highest number of runs.

His BA was way below Mauer's, but his RBIs and runs were way above his. I have no idea how he compared defensively or how to calculate in how well Mauer called games so I'm ignoring that.

But offensively, I think he was clearly the most valuable Twin.

His stats might not be awesome compared to Jeter's or Ortiz's, but I'm willing to argue that he was more valuable to his team than either of them (although it's really close and I'm blinded a bit by homerism).

Having said that, I always got the impression that MVP was more about who was the best player rather than most valuable and I probably would've chosen Jeter.

[Valmore]

But what about the rest of the BoSox?

Morneau was far and away the Twins leader in RBIs. Both Cuddy and Torii managed around 100 RBIs which marked the first time that two Twins managed 100 RBIs in the same season for over 20 years. I don't remember one Twin even managing it for the last several.

He also led in HR and had the second highest batting average on the team and the second highest number of runs.

His BA was way below Mauer's, but his RBIs and runs were way above his. I have no idea how he compared defensively or how to calculate in how well Mauer called games so I'm ignoring that.

But offensively, I think he was clearly the most valuable Twin.

His stats might not be awesome compared to Jeter's or Ortiz's, but I'm willing to argue that he was more valuable to his team than either of them (although it's really close and I'm blinded a bit by homerism).

Having said that, I always got the impression that MVP was more about who was the best player rather than most valuable and I probably would've chosen Jeter.

I wouldn't even say he's the most valuable Twin, let alone player in the league. Mauer plays catcher, which means he's handling all of the pitchers on the Twins staff. Morneau plays frickin' first base. The only place easier to play than first base is right field. There's a reason why David Ortiz plays first base against National League teams on the road - just about any goober can do it.

Which means the voters based it on slugging around the plate. Fine - Ortiz's numbers are superior to Morneau's. And he can play first base if needed. And for awhile, Boston was a contender.

I'd rather see a controversy of "why'd they give it to a DH" instead of this. This is just a copout against Derek Jeter. Frankly, I'm thinking it's anti-Yankee bias. The writers hate the idea of giving it to Jeter, despite having a clearly outstanding year. And I'm a frickin' Red Sox fan.

Morneau was no better than fourth.

[Mike Marino]

I wouldn't even say he's the most valuable Twin, let alone player in the league. Mauer plays catcher, which means he's handling all of the pitchers on the Twins staff. Morneau plays frickin' first base. The only place easier to play than first base is right field. There's a reason why David Ortiz plays first base against National League teams on the road - just about any goober can do it.

Which means the voters based it on slugging around the plate. Fine - Ortiz's numbers are superior to Morneau's. And he can play first base if needed. And for awhile, Boston was a contender.

I'd rather see a controversy of "why'd they give it to a DH" instead of this. This is just a copout against Derek Jeter. Frankly, I'm thinking it's anti-Yankee bias. The writers hate the idea of giving it to Jeter, despite having a clearly outstanding year. And I'm a frickin' Red Sox fan.

Morneau was no better than fourth.

I too am really surpised Jeter didn't get the award. Like I mentioned earlier, I thought it should have went to Mauer, but either way, I was sure Jeter would win because I figured 3 twins near the top would certainly split the vote, allowing Jeter to run away with it.

I don't agree with you though on the voting having to do with an anti-yankee bias. Through all the Yankee hate, Jeter almost always gets a free pass in the press. Even when Jeter does poorly, the press always seems to back him with articles praising his intangibles.

This isn't the worst MVP mess ever though. Arod losing to Juan Gonzalez in the late 90's was pretty bad. Pudge beating out Pedro in 99 because 2 writers refused to give Pedro even a 10th place vote because "Pitchers can't be MVP's" was really bad too. I know Brian mentioned the Mo Vaughn win a page or two back, what are some others?

[Brian Cronin]

Well, before today, I would agree that writers all love Jeter, but after hearing from the Chicago jerk who voted Jeter sixth (SIXTH!), I will have to amend my feelings, as listening to the dude, he clearly was no fan of Derek Jeter.

Anyhow, as to the worst AL MVPs of, say, the last two decades?

A-Rod was good
Vlad was good
A-Rod was good
Tejada was okay
Ichiro I didn't like - but it wasn't disgusting or anything
Giambi was good, although Pedro would have been a fine choice, too. A-Rod, as well.
Pudge was bad - either Jeter or Pedro should have gotten it, especially as George King gave David Wells a 3rd place vote the year before and Rich freakin' Helling an 8th place vote! But he then said someone convinced him it was wrong to put pitchers on the ballot
Juan Gonzalez in 98 was bad, as there were quite literally about eight players better than him
Ken Griffey in 97 was good, although Clemens would have been a fine choice, too.
Juan Gonzalez in 96 was worse than 98, as A-Rod just outright DEMOLISHED Juan Gone that year, but Juan walked away with the close victory
Mo Vaughn in 95 was a bad choice, especially because even though Edgar Martinez probably deserved it, even if you wanted to not give it to a DH, Albert Belle was almost as deserving. And Randy Johnson was pretty damn valuable, too.
Frank Thomas in 94 was good
Frank Thomas in 93 was good
Eckersley in 92 was bad - Thomas should have three in a row!
Ripken in 91 was good
Henderson in 90 was good
Yount in 89 was good
Canseco in 88 was bad - both Boggs and Puckett were better, Boggs a good deal better
Bell in 87 was bad - Alan Trammell had an amazing year - for a team who made the playoffs, and got no respect. Boggs, too, was great. So was Molitor. Clemens also deserved consideration.

So, where does Mourneau's victory rank? I'd probably put him with George Bell's 1987 win.

Pretty damn bad.

Mourneau barely had a better year than A-ROD.

-Brian

[Brian Cronin]

It's funny, if you go just by "Years in which he was the best technical choice," A-Rod would have, like, seven MVPs.

1996, 1998, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2005

-Brian

[Sheldon]

One of the arguements for Morneau I heard, was back in June when the Twins were 12 games under .500, he was hitting .250, with very little power. But the Twin's big comeback was linked to his hot hitting. Mauer and Santana were playing well most of the year (except Santana's traditional poor April). But It was Morneau's hot hitting that brought the team back.

[Mike Marino]

It's funny, if you go just by "Years in which he was the best technical choice," A-Rod would have, like, seven MVPs.

1996, 1998, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2005

-Brian

Ha, I know. It's funny that baseball always finds ways to redefine the MVP award. One year it's solely based on stats, the next it's based on whoever had the hot bat for a winning team, etc. I think that's why I love baseball so much, there's always so much room for debate.

Awesome list with all the AL MVP's. I'd say out of all of those, the 96 debacle is the one that sticks out in my head the most as the worst. I just looked up the stats on the 87 one with George Bell winning, and man, that was really bad. I was only 5 back then and didn't watch anything but the Mets, so I have zero memory of any of that. Interesting stuff. How did they justify that pick?

[Ryan Day]

The ballots of individual writers (http://www.newsday.com/sports/baseball/yankees/ny-spvotes1122,0,2346956.htmlstory?coll=ny-main-bigpix).

Clearly, some of these peole are idiots. Several writers left Joe Mauer off their ballots completely - how on earth is the guy not one of the ten best players in the AL? Joe Cowley in Chicago voted for A.J. Pierzynski, but not Joe Mauer, and Jeter was sixth. Both Oakland writers apparently believed that Frank Thomas was the second most valuable player in the AL; I like the Big Hurt, but that's insane. One of the Seattle writers listed Raul Ibanez.

Maybe they should just turn the award over to a computer program. It might still be wrong, but at least it would make sense.

[Nick Soapdish]

I wouldn't even say he's the most valuable Twin, let alone player in the league. Mauer plays catcher, which means he's handling all of the pitchers on the Twins staff. Morneau plays frickin' first base. The only place easier to play than first base is right field. There's a reason why David Ortiz plays first base against National League teams on the road - just about any goober can do it.

Which means the voters based it on slugging around the plate. Fine - Ortiz's numbers are superior to Morneau's. And he can play first base if needed. And for awhile, Boston was a contender.


But I wasn't comparing Morneau's numbers to Ortiz's. I was comparing him to the rest of the Twins.

And since I've already said that I don't know how to quantify Mauer's ability to handle pitchers or even whether he's good at it or not, I'm looking at offensive numbers. Morneau was #1 or 2 in all major categories for the Twins - HRs, BA, RBIs, runs, ... doubles? ;)

Being able to play first base "if needed" isn't the same as doing it on a regular basis. It's not like the Twins are shuffling him off to the DH which has been a pretty consistent lack of offensive production for us.

[Nick Soapdish]

The ballots of individual writers (http://www.newsday.com/sports/baseball/yankees/ny-spvotes1122,0,2346956.htmlstory?coll=ny-main-bigpix).

Clearly, some of these peole are idiots. Several writers left Joe Mauer off their ballots completely - how on earth is the guy not one of the ten best players in the AL? Joe Cowley in Chicago voted for A.J. Pierzynski, but not Joe Mauer, and Jeter was sixth. Both Oakland writers apparently believed that Frank Thomas was the second most valuable player in the AL; I like the Big Hurt, but that's insane. One of the Seattle writers listed Raul Ibanez.

Maybe they should just turn the award over to a computer program. It might still be wrong, but at least it would make sense.

Well, they're sportswriters. It's their job to be idiots. :rolleyes:

I'm dumbfounded that anyone voted Jeter sixth.

I can kinda see leaving Mauer or other Twins off their ballots ... or ranking them lower ... because the Twins have three viable candidates. Although that kind of falls flat since one of them won it.

[Lone Ranger]

So, where does Mourneau's victory rank? I'd probably put him with George Bell's 1987 win.

Pretty damn bad.

Mourneau barely had a better year than A-ROD.

-Brian

Why do you hate Canada?

[Ryan Day]

One of the arguements for Morneau I heard, was back in June when the Twins were 12 games under .500, he was hitting .250, with very little power. But the Twin's big comeback was linked to his hot hitting. Mauer and Santana were playing well most of the year (except Santana's traditional poor April). But It was Morneau's hot hitting that brought the team back.

I love it. Morneau deserved the MVP because he really sucked in April.

[Punchy]

Dodgers sign Juan Pierre, this is huge!!!!!!


really


huge

[Nick Soapdish]

I love it. Morneau deserved the MVP because he really sucked in April.

It's better than sucking in September.

If it makes you feel better, just take those stats out entirely and pretend that his season started in May.

Here's an analysis from Cardville. (http://www.stltoday.com/blogs/sports-bird-land/2006/11/seametry-aggregate-mvps/) It totally ignores pitchers, but it's fairly interesting otherwise. YMMV.

[Ryan Day]

The market is officially insane: Almost $9 million a year for a guy whose career-high in home runs is 3 and career SLG is under .400, a leadoff hitter who's had a .330 OBP the last two seasons. Isn't his defence pretty weak, too?

But he's, um, really fast. Woo.

[Ryan Day]

Never mind. The Juan Pierre signing looks perfectly reasonable now.

Gary Matthews Jr. Angels. $50 million. 5 years. (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2672448)

[Brian Cronin]

YES!!! AWESOME!!!! I LOVE IT!!

GO ANGELS!!

THAT IS HILARIOUSLY AWFUL!!!

YES!!!!!

-Brian (who is crowing now, but just waiting for the Yankees to give, like, Jeff Suppan 8 years/$100 million ;))

[Ryan Day]

Apparently the Yankees have been talking to Shea Hillenbrand. That would suck pretty bad for you.

[Brian Cronin]

One of the arguements for Morneau I heard, was back in June when the Twins were 12 games under .500, he was hitting .250, with very little power. But the Twin's big comeback was linked to his hot hitting. Mauer and Santana were playing well most of the year (except Santana's traditional poor April). But It was Morneau's hot hitting that brought the team back.

Yeah, exactly. It's just amazingly absurd.

Sportswriters have a really hard time grasping the concept that two events happening at the same time do not mean the two events are inexorably linked together.

Steve Nash joining the Suns the same year that Amare Stoudemire became one of the best players in the NBA does not equal "Steve Nash made Amare Stoudemire one of the best players in the NBA."

Justin Mourneau playing better when the rest of the team began playing better does not equal "The Twins began playing well because of Justin Mourneau."

-Brian

[Brian Cronin]

Apparently the Yankees have been talking to Shea Hillenbrand. That would suck pretty bad for you.

Yeah, but that's just them saying, "Let's pick someone up on the cheap."

Not committing $50 million dollars to a dude who IS going to be not too great next year.

High-larious.

-Brian

[Brian Cronin]

The ballots of individual writers (http://www.newsday.com/sports/baseball/yankees/ny-spvotes1122,0,2346956.htmlstory?coll=ny-main-bigpix).

Clearly, some of these peole are idiots. Several writers left Joe Mauer off their ballots completely - how on earth is the guy not one of the ten best players in the AL? Joe Cowley in Chicago voted for A.J. Pierzynski, but not Joe Mauer, and Jeter was sixth. Both Oakland writers apparently believed that Frank Thomas was the second most valuable player in the AL; I like the Big Hurt, but that's insane. One of the Seattle writers listed Raul Ibanez.

Maybe they should just turn the award over to a computer program. It might still be wrong, but at least it would make sense.

Yeah, the ballots were mostly depressing. Bunch of homers.

The WORST thing is that the New York writers are the opposite, because they're close to being "national" writers, so they often go out of their way to be TOO "fair." Note that Jeter didn't even get a first place vote from one of the New York writers!!

Cowley is the worst, though. What a jerk.

He should be stripped of voting privileges. Tadhg Adams can have it.

-Brian

[Brian Cronin]

Ha, I know. It's funny that baseball always finds ways to redefine the MVP award. One year it's solely based on stats, the next it's based on whoever had the hot bat for a winning team, etc. I think that's why I love baseball so much, there's always so much room for debate.

Awesome list with all the AL MVP's. I'd say out of all of those, the 96 debacle is the one that sticks out in my head the most as the worst. I just looked up the stats on the 87 one with George Bell winning, and man, that was really bad. I was only 5 back then and didn't watch anything but the Mets, so I have zero memory of any of that. Interesting stuff. How did they justify that pick?

It's really doesn't change THAT much, it is just that their usual choices sometimes aren't available.

As I said before, they like to go with the following:

1. A position player
2. with a lot of RBI
3. who played for a team that contended for the playoffs.

That matched George Bell in 1987 and it matches Justin Mourneau this year.

The fact of the matter is that MOST of the time, those three criteria WILL get you the best player available, just not all the time.

This is one of the times that it got one who was not.

-Brian

[Brian Cronin]

Why do you hate Canada?

It's funny, because I do also complain about Nash's MVPs a lot, too. :)

Maybe I DO hate Canada!!! :D

-Brian