Official MLB offseason thread

[cjhawks]

Sure, the offseason started about 12 hours ago, but may as well have a thread going anyway. I don't think this offseason will be as interesting as the last, but still a lot of names in free agency to watch, with Holliday and probably Jason Bay at the top of that list. Other notables:

Miguel Tejada
Placido Polanco
Vladimir Guerrero
Bobby Abreu
Carlos Delgado
Adrian Beltre


Some others found here:
http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2008/12/2010-mlb-free-a.html


Pirates didn't waste any time by aquiring Akinori Iwamura from the Rays for reliever Jesse Chavez.

White Sox have also made a few moves today - re-signing Mark Kotsay and trading Chris Getz and Josh Fields to Kansas City for Mark Teahan (who will more than likely take over RF for the departing Dye)

Some other names I would watch on the trade market this year are:

Dan Uggla - Marlins 2b (think 3b could be in his future w/ a new team)
Jorge Cantu - Marlins 1b
Doc Halladay - Blue Jays (believe new GM Alex Anthopolous will move Doc in order to restock and rebuild)
Vernon Wells - CF Blue Jays (please Jim Hendry, stay away)
Derrick Lowe - Braves SP
Javier Vazquez - Braves SP
Adrian Gonzalez - Padres 1b (think he gets moved as well for a boatload of prospects)
Heath Bell - Padres CP
Milton Bradley - Cubs RF
Mike Fontenot - Cubs 2b
Felix Hernandez - Mariners SP
Stephen Drew - D'Backs SS
BJ Upton - Rays CF
Carl Crawford - Rays LF
Jose Reyes - Mets SS
Prince Fielder - Brewers 1B
JJ Hardy - Brewers / Nashville SS
Curtis Granderson - Detroit

I'm sure there are plenty more, but these were off the top of my head. Feel free to add and or update with any moves you hear of.

Sometimes I look forward to the offseason more than I do the regular season, if only for the curiosity of how teams I root for will improve.

Oh yeah, two transactions that will be in the limelight all winter -

Will St. Louis and Minnesota get long term extensions done for Albert and Joe?

[Edgecrusher7711]

According to Olney a lot of teams are going to try and avoid arbitration with this players by cutting them loose. So we could have a lot more free agents than originally expected. He thinks the big market teams are going to swoop in and grab them all but I think that's nuts. We saw last year that even the big market teams aren't going to spend big unless its a MVP caliber player. I think this offseason is going to have less big moves but a ton of small moves that could shake up a lot of things. This is a good year to retool a team. Not a complete rebuild but those teams that are maybe 2-3 players away could possibly fill those needs easily and relatively cheaply.

[lilzaphod]

Jesus Christ, give this shit a rest.

[cjhawks]

According to Olney a lot of teams are going to try and avoid arbitration with this players by cutting them loose. So we could have a lot more free agents than originally expected. He thinks the big market teams are going to swoop in and grab them all but I think that's nuts. We saw last year that even the big market teams aren't going to spend big unless its a MVP caliber player. I think this offseason is going to have less big moves but a ton of small moves that could shake up a lot of things. This is a good year to retool a team. Not a complete rebuild but those teams that are maybe 2-3 players away could possibly fill those needs easily and relatively cheaply.

Good point. I also think that if some players are offered arbitration this year, they will more than likely accept rather than exploring free agency.

Bobby Abreu comes to mind - he signed for what, $5 million last year? He had a pretty good year, and is probably in line for a 2 year deal in the $8-9 million range I would think.

Completely forgot the Vlad is a free agent as well.

[cjhawks]

Jesus Christ, give this shit a rest.

go eat something.

[Mr. Hawk]

Jesus Christ, give this shit a rest.
It's the dying gasps of an increasingly irrelevant sport. No ones cares about the game anymore, so 90% of all baseball related discussion revolves around the periphery instead of the event itself.

[scottsdalehawk]

Holliday is going to end up in left for the Yanks.

[valp0guy]

Holliday is going to end up in left for the Yanks.

He'll stay in the NL. Wouldn't be shocked if the Mets made a big play for him.

[Edgecrusher7711]

Jesus Christ, give this shit a rest.
It's the dying gasps of an increasingly irrelevant sport. No ones cares about the game anymore, so 90% of all baseball related discussion revolves around the periphery instead of the event itself.

Clearly. No one cares at all. 75,000,000 fans attended games this year and their revenue is on par with the NFL but obviously it's irrelevant.

Of course you and zaph still can't ignore it. Showing up in it's threads. Hell for this being a college sports message board it sure does show up a lot on here.

[cjhawks]

Holliday is going to end up in left for the Yanks.

He'll stay in the NL. Wouldn't be shocked if the Mets made a big play for him.

Yeah, I was thinking the Mets as well.

Some people are saying the Cards already approached Boras with a 6 yr, $96 million offer. Now, that's probably not even close to what it will take to get it done, but I wonder if the offer was more to appease the fanbase a bit. Much like the Twins 5 yr $100 million offer to Santana before they traded him.

[valp0guy]

Holliday is going to end up in left for the Yanks.

He'll stay in the NL. Wouldn't be shocked if the Mets made a big play for him.

Yeah, I was thinking the Mets as well.

Some people are saying the Cards already approached Boras with a 6 yr, $96 million offer. Now, that's probably not even close to what it will take to get it done, but I wonder if the offer was more to appease the fanbase a bit. Much like the Twins 5 yr $100 million offer to Santana before they traded him.

If anything they did it to appease Pujols and make it look like they made an attempt to keep Holliday around. Hell, Boras was probably the one floating the rumored offer to set the basement for Holliday.

[Verbal]

90% of all baseball related discussion revolves around the periphery instead of the event itself.

BCS position jockeying bullshit, Replay officials, corruption in the SEC, coaching carousel, player suspensions/dismissals, nonstop fucking recruiting updates and discussion, injuries and rehabs, the Goddamn NFL draft...

[scottsdalehawk]

I think AZ will try and move Drew for a starting pitcher.

And its BJ, not Justin Upton as the Rays CF in the original post/list.

[Edgecrusher7711]

90% of all baseball related discussion revolves around the periphery instead of the event itself.

BCS position jockeying bullshit, Replay officials, corruption in the SEC, coaching carousel, player suspensions/dismissals, nonstop fucking recruiting updates and discussion, injuries and rehabs, the Goddamn NFL draft...

pwnage

Go look at the football board. We're in the middle of possibly Iowa's greatest season ever and there's more discussion about that crap than the on the field action.

[Verbal]

I don't understand why the Braves think they need to deal one of their starters. If they can get a big bat for Lowe or Vazquez, then maybe pull the trigger (although I'd hate to see Vazquez go - he was awesome this year). But really if they deal someone, they're one spring training injury away from having Jo Jo Reyes back in the rotation.

[cjhawks]

I think AZ will try and move Drew for a starting pitcher.

And its BJ, not Justin Upton as the Rays CF in the original post/list.

will fix that. whoops

[Edgecrusher7711]

Holliday is going to end up in left for the Yanks.

He'll stay in the NL. Wouldn't be shocked if the Mets made a big play for him.

Yeah, I was thinking the Mets as well.

Some people are saying the Cards already approached Boras with a 6 yr, $96 million offer. Now, that's probably not even close to what it will take to get it done, but I wonder if the offer was more to appease the fanbase a bit. Much like the Twins 5 yr $100 million offer to Santana before they traded him.

Yeah, I don't see the Yanks going after Holliday. Agree with the Mets. The Mets are going to be like the mid-00s Yankees. They are going to spend a butt load of cash to try and buy their way out of their problems.

[lilzaphod]

Jesus Christ, give this shit a rest.
It's the dying gasps of an increasingly irrelevant sport. No ones cares about the game anymore, so 90% of all baseball related discussion revolves around the periphery instead of the event itself.

Some days I hate you for getting rid of the pro sports forum.

Today is one of them. If I was Sal, I'd go get puffy and hit on underage chicks in protest, but sadly, I can't do that.

[Mr. Hawk]

90% of all baseball related discussion revolves around the periphery instead of the event itself.

BCS position jockeying bullshit, Replay officials, corruption in the SEC, coaching carousel, player suspensions/dismissals, nonstop fucking recruiting updates and discussion, injuries and rehabs, the Goddamn NFL draft...except the difference would be that prior to, during, and immediately after the game, football fans would be discussing the game, and baseball fans would still be discussing the peripheral baseball b.s.

[Edgecrusher7711]

90% of all baseball related discussion revolves around the periphery instead of the event itself.

BCS position jockeying bullshit, Replay officials, corruption in the SEC, coaching carousel, player suspensions/dismissals, nonstop fucking recruiting updates and discussion, injuries and rehabs, the Goddamn NFL draft...except the difference would be that prior to, during, and immediately after the game, football fans would be discussing the game, and baseball fans would still be discussing the peripheral baseball b.s.

False. You're just making shit up now. Go to Yankee boards and we're all still talking about last night and this series. When I go home this weekend that's what I'll talking to my Dad about the entire time. I treat baseball no differently than any of the other sports. I talk about the on the field and off the field stuff all the f'n time. Go check out the Yankee thread for this season. There's plenty of in game discussion.

We get it. You and Zaph hate baseball. That's cute. Quit making shit up and go hang out on the football board and discuss Stanzi's draft prospects.

[valp0guy]

BCS position jockeying bullshit, Replay officials, corruption in the SEC, coaching carousel, player suspensions/dismissals, nonstop fucking recruiting updates and discussion, injuries and rehabs, the Goddamn NFL draft...except the difference would be that prior to, during, and immediately after the game, football fans would be discussing the game, and baseball fans would still be discussing the peripheral baseball b.s.

False. You're just making shit up now. Go to Yankee boards and we're all still talking about last night and this series. When I go home this weekend that's what I'll talking to my Dad about the entire time. I treat baseball no differently than any of the other sports. I talk about the on the field and off the field stuff all the f'n time.

We get it. You and Zaph hate baseball. That's cute. Quit making shit up and go hang out on the football board and discuss Stanzi's draft prospects.

PWND

[Verbal]

prior to, during, and immediately after the game, football fans would be discussing the game

And I imagine this comprises about 10% (or less) of all football discussion. Without the 'periphery BS', there'd be very little discussion of sports in general. You just don't like the baseball 'periphery BS', which is fine. This thread is for those that do. There are plenty of recruiting, bowl prediction and Urban Meyer discipline threads to keep you busy.

[cjhawks]

JJ Putz and Chad Tracy both had their club options declined, so both are free agents.

Putz is an interesting case, as he was dominant with the Mariners in 2008, but only pitched in 29 games for the Mets in '09 before undergoing surgery on his elbow. I could see a team like Philly taking a flyer on Putz to have as insurance if (when) Lidge implodes again.

[cjhawks]

Bobby Abreu off the market. Angels re-signed him to a 2 year deal w/ a 2012 option. Good bet he will received a nice raise from the $5M he made in '09.

[scottsdalehawk]

Bobby Abreu off the market. Angels re-signed him to a 2 year deal w/ a 2012 option. Good bet he will received a nice raise from the $5M he made in '09.

He had a very nice season. Always liked him on the Yanks. Good ball player.

[scottsdalehawk]

JJ Putz and Chad Tracy both had their club options declined, so both are free agents.

Putz is an interesting case, as he was dominant with the Mariners in 2008, but only pitched in 29 games for the Mets in '09 before undergoing surgery on his elbow. I could see a team like Philly taking a flyer on Putz to have as insurance if (when) Lidge implodes again.

Tracy is nothing more than a bench guy/pinch hitter. Due to injuries he can no longer play the field and isn't a great bat either.

[valp0guy]

Angels must've triple padded the walls to get Abreu to sign for 3 more years.

[cjhawks]

Angels must've triple padded the walls to get Abreu to sign for 3 more years.

lol.

I'm guessing the $19 mil guaranteed didn't hurt. And I'm guessing Abreu didn't want to have to go through the same thing as last offseason, so he jumped at this offer. Smart move, he is 35 afterall.

[cjhawks]

Red Sawx have aquired Jeremy Hermida from the Marlins for a couple of prospects.

[Verbal]

Braves signed Scott Proctor yesterday. Meh.

[Edgecrusher7711]

Braves signed Scott Proctor yesterday. Meh.

He finally got away from Torre. Maybe his arm won't fall off now.

[cjhawks]

Braves signed Scott Proctor yesterday. Meh.

He finally got away from Torre. Maybe his arm won't fall off now.

I thought it was already a prosthetic....and Torre even autographed it.

[Biff Loman]

Holliday is going to end up in left for the Yanks.

He'll stay in the NL. Wouldn't be shocked if the Mets made a big play for him.

I read a while back that Holliday has the Yanks as his number 1 choice followed by the Mets. Should be an interesting offseason for Cubs too. Hopefully Donuts can atone for last offseasons debacle.

[ISUFan98]

Holliday is going to end up in left for the Yanks.

He'll stay in the NL. Wouldn't be shocked if the Mets made a big play for him.

I read a while back that Holliday has the Yanks as his number 1 choice followed by the Mets. Should be an interesting offseason for Cubs too. Hopefully Donuts can atone for last offseasons debacle.

Donuts...I love that name.

[cjhawks]

White Sox bought out Jermaine Dye's option - really no surprise, especially given the Teahan trade (who no one has confirmed...yet)

For you Cards fans - St. Louis paper saying redbirds are planning on focusing on Holliday, although they will be keeping tabs on Jason Bay.
DeRosa wants to test the market, and the club is still talking to Smoltz.

Colorado re-signed a couple of relievers - Matt Belisle and Randy Flores

[Edgecrusher7711]

Twins send Carlos Gomez to Brewers for JJ Hardy.

[valp0guy]

Twins send Carlos Gomez to Brewers for JJ Hardy.

I don't get it as they desperately need starting pitching.

[The Full Monte]

No mention of Figgins?

[valp0guy]

Why would there be, he can't sign anywhere for two more weeks unless its with Anaheim.

[The Full Monte]

Holliday is going to end up in left for the Yanks.


Honestly....I'm not sure if NY makes any big moves right now. They have a bunch of interesting, umproven prospects that need to get some time.

It would be nice though if they had one guy that could play the OF AND hit. Swish was brutal to watch for around 70% of the season. I like the idea of bringing Damon back for something like 2yr/8 mil. But something has to happen with the Melky/Gardner and Austin Jackson situation. If AJax shows that he can compete in spring training...I think Melky or Garder gets shipped in a hurry

[The Full Monte]

Why would there be, he can't sign anywhere for two more weeks unless its with Anaheim.


because he may be one of the biggest FA out there. Anaheim loves him...but they have a ton of infield prospects that pushing for time.

[cjhawks]

Twins send Carlos Gomez to Brewers for JJ Hardy.

you've got to be kidding me.

I guess they have a lot more faith in Delmon living up to his potential than Gomez. I guess I don't mind the move from a Twins standpoint. You had to know that one of those outfielders were going to be moved. Now you have an OF of Young, Span, Cuddyer w/ Kubel as DH and spot starts in OF.

[valp0guy]

Why would there be, he can't sign anywhere for two more weeks unless its with Anaheim.


because he may be one of the biggest FA out there. Anaheim loves him...but they have a ton of infield prospects that pushing for time.

You won't hear anything about him until he's eligible to sign in two weeks.

[cjhawks]

Arizona exercised the option on Brandon Webb - pretty easy decision on that one.

[L. Wade Childress]

cubs finally do something positive by landing upton and uggla

[Verbal]

11/19/09 notes:

-Cubs sign John Grabow to a 2-year deal
-Brian Giles' days in San Diego appear to be over
-Marlon Byrd hitting the open market
-Jason Schmidt probably going to retire
-Pedro Feliz may be headed to Baltimore
-Cards remain hopeful on re-signing Holliday

[ISUFan98]

cubs finally do something positive by landing upton and uggla

:?::?::?:

[MickerHawk]

Some days I hate you for getting rid of the pro sports forum.

Today is one of them. If I was Sal, I'd go get puffy and hit on underage chicks in protest, but sadly, I can't do that.

This is why I dig the Zaph.

[Verbal]

Good free agent ranking/tracker by Yahoo!'s Jeff Passan. Some funny comments on some of them.

http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news?slug=jp-freeagenttracker111909&prov=yhoo&type=lgns

[The Full Monte]

As a Yankees fan...Chapman tops my wishlist. I would like to see Harden on a 1 yr-incentive based deal. Gonzalez or Soriano would be a great addition to the bullpen if they decide that Hughes is ready to move to the rotation fulltime.

That said...I'm not sold at all on offering Holliday a huge contract.

[Edgecrusher7711]

As a Yankees fan...Chapman tops my wishlist. I would like to see Harden on a 1 yr-incentive based deal. Gonzalez or Soriano would be a great addition to the bullpen if they decide that Hughes is ready to move to the rotation fulltime.

That said...I'm not sold at all on offering Holliday a huge contract.

Holliday would be a mistake.

[Edgecrusher7711]

So apparently the "poor" teams are quite as bad off as they make it out to be.

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/columns/story?columnist=stark_jayson&page=rumblings091119

[The Full Monte]

So apparently the "poor" teams are quite as bad off as they make it out to be.

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/columns/story?columnist=stark_jayson&page=rumblings091119



I've said it before...and I'll say it again....until this shit gets corrected...I don't want to hear one fuckin word from the "salary cap" crowd (That means you Ivan)

[Verbal]

The Score in Chicago is reporting the White Sox have signed Andruw Jones to a 1-year deal, reportedly with a $500k base.

[gls]

Did you guys mention John Lackey? I would think he would be sought after.

I would like to see the Dodgers pursue him.

[Verbal]

I see Lackey staying in the AL, most likely either back with the Angels or to Boston.

[MickerHawk]

So apparently the "poor" teams are quite as bad off as they make it out to be.

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/columns/story?columnist=stark_jayson&page=rumblings091119

Even worse than I thought.

The players on teams that won't even pay out what they're making in revenue sharing, or that 80-90 should simply strike and refuse to play. And, yeah I'm serious about that.

[The Full Monte]

Scares me to see Josh Johnson officially on the market. I know the shoulder is a concern...but if he is anywhere near as good in the future as he was this season....he is going to be dangerous dangerous young guy.

Side note: How do you think Marlins fans feel watching their best SP up on the trading block because the team wont pay him?

[Costanza]

Side note: How do you think Marlins fans feel watching their best SP up on the trading block because the team wont pay him?


They should be used to it.

[valp0guy]

Scares me to see Josh Johnson officially on the market. I know the shoulder is a concern...but if he is anywhere near as good in the future as he was this season....he is going to be dangerous dangerous young guy.

Side note: How do you think Marlins fan feel watching their best SP up on the trading block because the team wont pay him?

He's probably frustrated.

[TH1974]

Side note: How do you think Marlins fans feel watching their best SP up on the trading block because the team wont pay him?


They should be used to it.

This. All 5,000 Marlin fans have seen this before.

[HawkLax6]

Scares me to see Josh Johnson officially on the market. I know the shoulder is a concern...but if he is anywhere near as good in the future as he was this season....he is going to be dangerous dangerous young guy.

Side note: How do you think Marlins fan feel watching their best SP up on the trading block because the team wont pay him?

He's probably frustrated.

Bro D?

[Verbal]

For all the Marlins seem to do "wrong", they always seem to put a competitive product on the field.

[TH1974]

For all the Marlins seem to do "wrong", they always seem to put a competitive product on the field.

True. Imagine if they actually tried.

[The Full Monte]

Don't you think this simply undermines the Salary Cap argument? If they are consistently receiving double (or triple) in revenue sharing than they spend on their roster?

[Verbal]

Today is the deadline for teams to offer arbitration to their own free agents. While most of these guys would turn down arbitration and seek a multi-year deal, it's important because teams who offer arbitration to their own Type A free agents receive the 1st round draft pick (or 2nd round pick, if a team with a pick between 1-15) from the team that ultimately signs the player, plus a supplemental 1st round pick, if that player declines arbitration. Note: teams receive a supplemental 1st round pick if a Type B free agent is offered arbitration and declines. See mlbtraderumors.com, or any various baseball sites for a full list of Type A and Type B free agents.

Notable action thus far today:

Yankees: reportedly offering none of their free agents arbitration (Damon, Matsui, Pettite, etc. are officially hitting the free agent market).

Cubs: Not offering arbitration to Rich Harden, Kevin Gregg or Reed Johnson. This is drawing the ire of some fans, particularly regarding Harden, who they could have traded in August. Now, having declined to offer arbitration, they're merely cutting the cord and getting no compensatory picks.

Red Sox: Not related to arbitration, but are considering moving Pedroia to shortstop. Interesting. Also appears Mike Lowell's days in Beantown are over.

Phillies: John Smoltz's new home? I hope not.

[lbchawkeye]

Dodgers don't offer arb to Hudson or Wolf... shaking my head on the Wolf decision.

Could be a rocky road for Dodgers fans with the McCourt(s) at the helm.

[Verbal]

Braves offer to Gonzalez & Soriano; not to Anderson or LaRoche. Soriano will get a multi-year deal from a contending club. Gonzalez may also, although I could see the Braves offering him a 2 or 3 year deal to try and bring him back. I would've offered LaRoche. He likely wouldn't have accepted, and even if he had, 1 year at 7 or 8 million seems reasonable for a first baseman of his caliber.

[Verbal]

Billy Wagner to the Braves, pending a physical. 1 year at 7 million with a 6.5 million dollar vesting option for 2011 if Wagner finishes 50 games.

[Verbal]

Phillies bring back a familiar face: Placido Polanco gets a 3-year deal. Playing 3rd base now.

[Verbal]

Dick Enberg is going to do play-by-play for the San Diego Padres. Great get.

[Verbal]

Braves sign Takashi Saito. That bullpen is shaping up nicely. Now get a freaking first baseman, Wren! And a left fielder while you're at it.

[Biff Loman]

Dick Enberg is going to do play-by-play for the San Diego Padres. Great get.

OH MY, I'm excited about this news.

[Costanza]

Dick Enberg is going to do play-by-play for the San Diego Padres. Great get.

Where did Matt Vasgersian go?

[Verbal]

Dick Enberg is going to do play-by-play for the San Diego Padres. Great get.

Where did Matt Vasgersian go?

Thought he signed with the MLB Network last year.

[Costanza]

Oh yeah. I had forgotten.

Hopefully for Padres fans, Enberg wont be the top signing of the offseason.

[roseboundhawk]

Jake Fox and (gasp) Aaron Miles traded to Oakland.

[Verbal]

Jake Fox and (gasp) Aaron Miles traded to Oakland.

For two middling prospects. Gets Miles off the payroll at least, and Fox is a born DH.

Red Sox acquire Marco Scutaro. Pretty good pickup.

[valp0guy]

Jake Fox and (gasp) Aaron Miles traded to Oakland.


Red Sox acquire Marco Scutaro. Pretty good pickup.

They give up a first round pick for a 34 year old second baseman.

[Verbal]

Jake Fox and (gasp) Aaron Miles traded to Oakland.


Red Sox acquire Marco Scutaro. Pretty good pickup.

They give up a first round pick for a 34 year old second baseman.

They got the Braves' first round pick though after the Billy Wagner signing, and could get another one if someone else signs Jason Bay, as they offered him arb.

[The Full Monte]

Jake Fox and (gasp) Aaron Miles traded to Oakland.


Red Sox acquire Marco Scutaro. Pretty good pickup.

They give up a first round pick for a 34 year old second baseman.


LMAO

[valp0guy]

Red Sox acquire Marco Scutaro. Pretty good pickup.

They give up a first round pick for a 34 year old second baseman.

They got the Braves' first round pick though after the Billy Wagner signing, and could get another one if someone else signs Jason Bay, as they offered him arb.

Both good points.

If anything it solidifies a position that has been a mess since the years of Nomah.

[Edgecrusher7711]

The Mariners are on the verge of signing Chone Figgins to a four-year deal in the $36MM range, tweets Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports.

[Verbal]

Mariners appear to be on the verge of winning the Chone Figgins sweepstakes.

[Verbal]

Holy hell, Edge.

[Edgecrusher7711]

Ooh I win ;)

[Costanza]

Brewers sign Greg Zaun....Yippee

[MickerHawk]

Jake Fox and (gasp) Aaron Miles traded to Oakland.


Red Sox acquire Marco Scutaro. Pretty good pickup.

They give up a first round pick for a 34 year old second baseman.

This made me happy. The Sawx still have pitching, but it's in decline and the bats are evaporating faster than Krispy Kremes in a black&white car.

[Edgecrusher7711]

Red Sox acquire Marco Scutaro. Pretty good pickup.

They give up a first round pick for a 34 year old second baseman.

This made me happy. The Sawx still have pitching, but it's in decline and the bats are evaporating faster than Krispy Kremes in a black&white car.

Kinda. They got nothing offensively from SS a year ago and Scutaro is a defensive upgrade. Plus while he's not a great hitter he is a patient, pesky hitter that is better than the 3 pitch auto out that was there a year ago.

[MickerHawk]

Kinda. They got nothing offensively from SS a year ago and Scutaro is a defensive upgrade. Plus while he's not a great hitter he is a patient, pesky hitter that is better than the 3 pitch auto out that was there a year ago.

True, but he's certainly not going to contend for a batting title.

If the Sawx' top two hitters are Pedroia and Youkilis, and they don't even bring back Bay who was their only guy with >100 RBI they'll be struggling far more often in close games and the pitchers will lose faith.

[roseboundhawk]

Cubs signing of Mike Cameron is waiting on deal of Milton Bradley, which has been "imminent" for about 72 hours.-

[Verbal]

Bump. Winter meetings begin today, boys. Plenty of deals are going to be made. Stay tuned.

[Edgecrusher7711]

Apparently the Yanks have traded Brian Bruney to the Nats for player to be named.

[The Full Monte]

Apparently the Yanks have traded Brian Bruney to the Nats for player to be named.


Don't really understand that one

[Verbal]

Brad Penny signs with the Cardinals.

Former Cub Matt Murton's contract sold to the Hanshin Tigers of the Japanese league.

[Debit One]

Cards sign Brad Penny. It fits the Cardinal mold of picking up pitchers who have had trouble and letting Dave Duncan work his magic.

[Verbal]

Cards sign Brad Penny. It fits the Cardinal mold of picking up pitchers who have had trouble and letting Dave Duncan work his magic.

I thought there was some talk of Duncan not returning for '10. Has that all been straightened out?

[r4hawks]

I'm seeing talks but no signing yet ?

[01BizGrad]

He has to pass the physical.

Did I hear correctly that he's only 31? I thought he was ancient.

[Verbal]

He has to pass the physical.

Did I hear correctly that he's only 31? I thought he was ancient.

Yep. He debuted in 2000 at age 22.

[Verbal]

Pudge gets a 2-year deal with the Nationals.

[The Full Monte]

Discussion about Yanks getting Granderson. I wouldn't be opposed to trying to add Edwin Jackson to the deal in a two team swap.

The Yankees' effort to acquire center fielder Curtis Granderson from Detroit intensified yesterday when Arizona joined the process. Two club sources said the Yankees spent the first day of the Winter Meetings talking to the Tigers and Diamondbacks about the possible blockbuster deal. the teams discussed a three-way trade that would bring Granderson to The Bronx, send pitcher Edwin Jackson from Detroit and Ian Kennedy from the Yankees to Arizona, and the Tigers would receive right-hander Max Scherzer from Arizona as well outfield prospect Austin Jackson, and left-handed relievers Mike Dunn and Phil Coke from the Yankees.

[r4hawks]

Pudge gets a 2-year deal with the Nationals.

Thats like a prison sentence isnt it ? It does pay better though.

[valp0guy]

Discussion about Yanks getting Granderson. I wouldn't be opposed to trying to add Edwin Jackson to the deal in a two team swap.

The Yankees' effort to acquire center fielder Curtis Granderson from Detroit intensified yesterday when Arizona joined the process. Two club sources said the Yankees spent the first day of the Winter Meetings talking to the Tigers and Diamondbacks about the possible blockbuster deal. the teams discussed a three-way trade that would bring Granderson to The Bronx, send pitcher Edwin Jackson from Detroit and Ian Kennedy from the Yankees to Arizona, and the Tigers would receive right-hander Max Scherzer from Arizona as well outfield prospect Austin Jackson, and left-handed relievers Mike Dunn and Phil Coke from the Yankees.

Yankees get raped in this deal.

[Verbal]

Pudge gets a 2-year deal with the Nationals.

Thats like a prison sentence isnt it ? It does pay better though.

I think the Nats are a sleeping giant. Beautiful ballpark, big city, money to spend. They're eventually going to get it done. The NL East isn't like the AL East - the top of the league is much more reachable, especially when the last place team has a willingness to spend (the Nats allegedly outbid the Yankees for Teixeira last year, but Tex wanted to play for a WS contender).

Throw in Strasburg, who I do not think will flame out, ala Mark Prior, and there is reason to hope in DC (and I don't mean Obama).

[r4hawks]

They certainly only have one way to go.

[The Full Monte]

Discussion about Yanks getting Granderson. I wouldn't be opposed to trying to add Edwin Jackson to the deal in a two team swap.

The Yankees' effort to acquire center fielder Curtis Granderson from Detroit intensified yesterday when Arizona joined the process. Two club sources said the Yankees spent the first day of the Winter Meetings talking to the Tigers and Diamondbacks about the possible blockbuster deal. the teams discussed a three-way trade that would bring Granderson to The Bronx, send pitcher Edwin Jackson from Detroit and Ian Kennedy from the Yankees to Arizona, and the Tigers would receive right-hander Max Scherzer from Arizona as well outfield prospect Austin Jackson, and left-handed relievers Mike Dunn and Phil Coke from the Yankees.

Yankees get raped in this deal.



Agree. Sounds like they are the ones that killed it. I don't think Austin Jackson is going anywhere without a HUGE name coming back in return

[Edgecrusher7711]

Discussion about Yanks getting Granderson. I wouldn't be opposed to trying to add Edwin Jackson to the deal in a two team swap.



Yankees get raped in this deal.



Agree. Sounds like they are the ones that killed it. I don't think Austin Jackson is going anywhere without a HUGE name coming back in return

Deal is all but done. Yanks get Granderson. AZ gets IPK, Edwin. DET gets Austin Jackson, Coke, Scherzer, Schlereth. The Yanks removed Dunn from the earlier equation.

Btw the reason the Yanks are doing this is Jackson's numbers project to....Curtis Granderson. So they're basically hedging their bets and taking the current version. AJax's value has dropped quite a bit in the last two years as he has shown no power potential. Decent haul for the Tigers though.

[valp0guy]

I'd prefer to not give up Coke, but it's not a horrible deal.

OF of Damon, Granderson, Swisher with Melky and Gardner DH'ing and rotating with Damon in the field?

[valp0guy]

Montero > Jackson

[Edgecrusher7711]

I'd prefer to not give up Coke, but it's not a horrible deal.

OF of Damon, Granderson, Swisher with Melky and Gardner DH'ing and rotating with Damon in the field?

Most likely but they're still talking about perusing Cameron and platooning Granderson in left. They're also obviously hoping that Granderson's warning track outs last year in Detroit turn into HRs in Yankee stadium which will really increase his value. Only 10 of his 30 HR last season were at home. That said it was still one of his worst years and he was horrible vs lefties so we'll see. Certainly an upgrade over Melky and Gardner and probably Damon. Plus they lost nobody off their MLB roster outside of Coke and I barely count him.

[Edgecrusher7711]

Montero > Jackson

Oh, for sure. It's not really close. Montero = Top of the line prospect with elite potential. Jackson = nice prospect with maybe borderline all star potential. His power just never showed up. If it some how magically appears then obviously that's a steal for the Tigers.

[valp0guy]

I wouldn't think they'd trade Jackson for half a platoon.

[Edgecrusher7711]

I wouldn't think they'd trade Jackson for half a platoon.

Yeah but that just shows how far his value has dropped. Hell some of the bloggers think IPK is the bigger loss. Which is saying something because I've never been a big Kennedy fan. I think Cashman is just clearing out marginal players for a bit of a risk and hoping last year was an aberration. We shall see. Like I said this move with picking up one of Damon, Matsui, Cameron makes the Yanks better than a year ago but not by a lot. The bigger benefit is Granderson is pretty affordable and not old like those 3.

[The Full Monte]

Yankees get raped in this deal.



Agree. Sounds like they are the ones that killed it. I don't think Austin Jackson is going anywhere without a HUGE name coming back in return

Deal is all but done. Yanks get Granderson. AZ gets IPK, Edwin. DET gets Austin Jackson, Coke, Scherzer, Schlereth. The Yanks removed Dunn from the earlier equation.

Btw the reason the Yanks are doing this is Jackson's numbers project to....Curtis Granderson. So they're basically hedging their bets and taking the current version. AJax's value has dropped quite a bit in the last two years as he has shown no power potential. Decent haul for the Tigers though.

Good point. Jackson may only ever best Granderson in AVG...otherwise i think you're right...Grandy is a better player.

[The Full Monte]

Edge...you think this all but crushes the chance of a Halladay trade?

[The Full Monte]

Montero > Jackson

Oh, for sure. It's not really close. Montero = Top of the line prospect with elite potential. Jackson = nice prospect with maybe borderline all star potential. His power just never showed up. If it some how magically appears then obviously that's a steal for the Tigers.


Have you heard anymore about how Montero is developing defensivly?

[scottsdalehawk]

from AZ republic:
We're told this deal is getting “close” to happening. The Diamondbacks’ end of the trade hasn’t changed, not in what they’re sending or receiving. They’d be getting RHP Edwin Jackson and RHP Ian Kennedy and they’d be giving up RHP Max Scherzer and LHP Daniel Schlereth.

[scottsdalehawk]

D-backs must see something in Scherzer they don't like to be dealing him already. Kennedy is a AAAA pitcher.

[The Full Monte]

from AZ republic:
We're told this deal is getting “close” to happening. The Diamondbacks’ end of the trade hasn’t changed, not in what they’re sending or receiving. They’d be getting RHP Edwin Jackson and RHP Ian Kennedy and they’d be giving up RHP Max Scherzer and LHP Daniel Schlereth.

x

12:48pm: Heyman tweets (http://twitter.com/SI_JonHeyman/status/6471408702) that an agreement has been reached, with only medicals pending. We'll do a fresh post once this trade is official. To reiterate: the Yankees get Curtis Granderson, the D'Backs get Edwin Jackson and Ian Kennedy, and the Tigers get Max Scherzer, Daniel Schlereth, Austin Jackson, and Phil Coke.

[The Full Monte]

Kennedy is a AAAA pitcher.


Which is why he is perfect in the NL West

[scottsdalehawk]

from AZ republic:
We're told this deal is getting “close” to happening. The Diamondbacks’ end of the trade hasn’t changed, not in what they’re sending or receiving. They’d be getting RHP Edwin Jackson and RHP Ian Kennedy and they’d be giving up RHP Max Scherzer and LHP Daniel Schlereth.

x

12:48pm: Heyman tweets (http://twitter.com/SI_JonHeyman/status/6471408702) that an agreement has been reached, with only medicals pending. We'll do a fresh post once this trade is official. To reiterate: the Yankees get Curtis Granderson, the D'Backs get Edwin Jackson and Ian Kennedy, and the Tigers get Max Scherzer, Daniel Schlereth, Austin Jackson, and Phil Coke.

Geez. Schlereth was the D-backs 1st rounder last year, he's a bullpen guy only though.

[Edgecrusher7711]

Edge...you think this all but crushes the chance of a Halladay trade?

Nope. He probably would have never been part of that. That trade would be Jesus and Hughes/Joba and throw in prospects. Not sure the Yanks would ever do this.

Montero > Jackson

Oh, for sure. It's not really close. Montero = Top of the line prospect with elite potential. Jackson = nice prospect with maybe borderline all star potential. His power just never showed up. If it some how magically appears then obviously that's a steal for the Tigers.

Have you heard anymore about how Montero is developing defensivly?

Very, very well. His biggest issue last season is he had some injuries. But he's still a top flight hitting prospect. He still doesn't have a position though. They say his catching has improved and he may be a viable option back there but most people still think he'll have to move. Lots of the insiders want the Yanks to move him now to get him comfortable (outfield btw) before he comes up. But the Yanks don't want to because it really hurts his value if they were to try and trade him.

[scottsdalehawk]

Kennedy is a AAAA pitcher.


Which is why he is perfect in the NL West

NL West was the best division in the NL last season.

[Verbal]

Ryan Church DFA'd by the Braves. He'll get picked up as a 4th OF somewhere, I imagine.

[valp0guy]

Seeing on Twitter that ESPN has let Gammons go.

[Verbal]

Seeing on Twitter that ESPN has let Gammons go.

WTF? He's a Hall of Fame baseball writer, for God's sake. And this is a network that continues to employ Dick Vitale, Lou Holtz and Chris Berman.

[Edgecrusher7711]

Seeing on Twitter that ESPN has let Gammons go.

WTF? He's a Hall of Fame baseball writer, for God's sake. And this is a network that continues to employ Dick Vitale, Lou Holtz and Chris Berman.

And John Kruk. Don't forget John fucking Kruk. Gammons was biased and a bit off his rocker these past few years but he was still one of the best they had. This is only a good move if it means TV for Neyer/Law. But most likely it means even more Kruk. Ugh.

[Verbal]

Seeing on Twitter that ESPN has let Gammons go.

WTF? He's a Hall of Fame baseball writer, for God's sake. And this is a network that continues to employ Dick Vitale, Lou Holtz and Chris Berman.

And John Kruk. Don't forget John fucking Kruk. Gammons was biased and a bit off his rocker these past few years but he was still one of the best they had. This is only a good move if it means TV for Neyer/Law. But most likely it means even more Kruk. Ugh.

Ok, it looks like Gammons is leaving of his own free will:

http://www.espnmediazone3.com/us/2009/12/gammons-ends-hall-of-fame-run-with-espn/

[Edgecrusher7711]

WTF? He's a Hall of Fame baseball writer, for God's sake. And this is a network that continues to employ Dick Vitale, Lou Holtz and Chris Berman.

And John Kruk. Don't forget John fucking Kruk. Gammons was biased and a bit off his rocker these past few years but he was still one of the best they had. This is only a good move if it means TV for Neyer/Law. But most likely it means even more Kruk. Ugh.

Ok, it looks like Gammons is leaving of his own free will:

http://www.espnmediazone3.com/us/2009/12/gammons-ends-hall-of-fame-run-with-espn/

Wonder if he could spend some time working with MLB network? I would assume he has some sort of non-compete though so who knows.

[Biff Loman]

Looks like the Yanks have Granderson and just re-signed Pettitte this morning. Hopefully my Cubs are shipping Milton out today. Oh, and Montero is going to be very good.

[Verbal]

Brewers sign Randy Wolf to a 3-year/$27 million deal. They also signed LaTroy Hawkins.

[IowaWigman]

And John Kruk. Don't forget John fucking Kruk. Gammons was biased and a bit off his rocker these past few years but he was still one of the best they had. This is only a good move if it means TV for Neyer/Law. But most likely it means even more Kruk. Ugh.

Ok, it looks like Gammons is leaving of his own free will:

http://www.espnmediazone3.com/us/2009/12/gammons-ends-hall-of-fame-run-with-espn/

Wonder if he could spend some time working with MLB network? I would assume he has some sort of non-compete though so who knows.

I read on HROT that he will be working for MLB Network. That's great news. I basically quit watching Baseball Tonight and now I have really no need to watch it again.

[Verbal]

Slightly OT: Can we Dish Network subscribers ever expect to be able to get the MLB Network? I'd really love to have it.

[lbchawkeye]

Here's the latest on the Dodgers:

[Costanza]

Brewers sign Randy Wolf to a 3-year/$27 million deal. They also signed LaTroy Hawkins.

I am ok with these 2 moves. They are desperate for pitching help and they are going to have to overpay a little to get it. The current window is closing fast and if they are not in the race, Fielder will be moved at the deadline. This atleast tells the fans they are going to try and compete.

[SL]

Braves trade Soriano to the Rays for Jesse Chavez.

[Verbal]

Braves trade Soriano to the Rays for Jesse Chavez.

Salary dump. D-Lowe may be next. Hope Wren can find a 30-40 HR guy with that $.

[Verbal]

Stuff that hasn't been mentioned yet:

Rich Harden signed with the Rangers yesterday. Rangers also in serious talks with the Red Sox for Mike Lowell.

Brandon Lyon gets a 3-year deal with the Astros.

Former Cub Corey Patterson gets a minor league deal with Seattle. He'll be invited to Spring Training to compete for a roster spot.

Bobby Crosby signs with the Pirates

Ross Gload signs with the Phillies

Adam Everett re-ups with the Tigers

Boof Bonser was traded to the Red Sox for a PTBNL

Rangers and Orioles made a Kevin Millwood for Chris Ray swap

Astros traded for Matt Lindstrom (their pen is shaping up nicely)

Mike Jacobs & John Bale were released by the Royals

[Costanza]

Stuff that hasn't been mentioned yet:

Rich Harden signed with the Rangers yesterday. Rangers also in serious talks with the Red Sox for Mike Lowell.

Likely will sign Ben Sheets as well. Between the 2 of them (Harden/Sheets) they can hope to get a full season.

[Verbal]

Midnight tonight is the deadline for clubs to tender contracts to their arbitration-eligible players. Those not tendered contracts become free agents. Notable moves so far today:

Cubs: tendered contracts to Marmol, Theriot, Baker, Guzman, Marshall, Hill, Gorzelanny and Fontenot. Did not tender a contract to Neal Cotts, making him a free agent.

Yankees: reportedly will not tender a contract to Chien-Ming Wang, making him a free agent.

Braves: Did not tender a contract to Kelly Johnson or Ryan Church (who had already been DFA'd), making them both free agents.

Rockies: Did not tender a contract to Garret Atkins, making him a free agent.

[Verbal]

Marlins will reportedly non-tender Alfredo Amezaga. He's a decent player, IMO. Jonny Gomes is also being non-tendered by the Reds & Seth McClung by the Brewers.

[Verbal]

Matt Capps, DJ Carrasco, Jack Cust, Ryan Garko & John Buck all non-tendered.

[Edgecrusher7711]

Sounds like BoSox are about to sign Lackey. More big $$$ coming to the AL East.

[Edgecrusher7711]

Matsui to the Angels for 1yr/6.5 mil

[lbchawkeye]

The Phillies are in agreement on a three-team trade with the Mariners and Blue Jays (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/baseball/mlb/teams/blue_jays) to acquire star pitcher Roy Halladay (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/baseball/mlb/players/6134), SI.com has learned.
Sources say Halladay will agree to a contract extension to complete the deal.
It's likely Cliff Lee (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/baseball/mlb/players/7026) would wind up with the Mariners in the deal.
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/baseball/mlb/12/14/phillies.halladay.lee/index.html

[The Full Monte]

Things are about to get really interesting.

Angels miss out on resigning Lackey...Mariners still get a star #2, and Boston gets a solid guy in the middle of the rotation.

Intresting to see how NY and LA react. Especially if Boston starts up the A-Gon talks again

[Verbal]

Mariners seem like they're on a mission.

[danish_hawkeye]

Phils get Halladay

[The Full Monte]

Mariners seem like they're on a mission.


I think they see a window to make a strong play for team to beat in the division

[Edgecrusher7711]

The Phillies are in agreement on a three-team trade with the Mariners and Blue Jays (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/baseball/mlb/teams/blue_jays) to acquire star pitcher Roy Halladay (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/baseball/mlb/players/6134), SI.com has learned.
Sources say Halladay will agree to a contract extension to complete the deal.
It's likely Cliff Lee (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/baseball/mlb/players/7026) would wind up with the Mariners in the deal.
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/baseball/mlb/12/14/phillies.halladay.lee/index.html

I have no f'n clue why you'd give up Lee for Halladay.

[Edgecrusher7711]

I mean I know Halladay is one of the best pitchers out there and is only 2 years older but it's not a huge improvement. I was more concerned that they were going to be adding Halladay along side Lee. Now, holy shit that was a scary thought.

Either way, Halladay out of the AL East is good for the Yanks. I'm not scared of Lackey in Boston. I'll trade him for Halladay any day of the week.

[The Full Monte]

I mean I know Halladay is one of the best pitchers out there and is only 2 years older but it's not a huge improvement. I was more concerned that they were going to be adding Halladay along side Lee. Now, holy shit that was a scary thought.

Either way, Halladay out of the AL East is good for the Yanks. I'm not scared of Lackey in Boston. I'll trade him for Halladay any day of the week.


+1. As a Yanks fan, I'm really pleased with how this shakes out

[lbchawkeye]

I was more concerned that they were going to be adding Halladay along side Lee. Now, holy shit that was a scary thought.

Same here. Was also wondering if Hamels would've been part of that deal (if they kept Lee & Halladay) otherwise those three would be an insane combo.

[Verbal]

Boston also signed Mike Cameron, per MLBTR

[Verbal]

News & Notes:

-Juan Pierre traded to the White Sox for minor leaguers
-Orioles sign Mike Gonzalez & Garrett Atkins
-Dodgers sign Jamey Carroll & Luis Ayala
-63 days until pitchers & catchers report

[ISUFan98]

News & Notes:

-63 days until pitchers & catchers report

That's all you needed to say.

[Verbal]

News & Notes:

-63 days until pitchers & catchers report

That's all you needed to say.

:)

Oh come on, would you be more excited if I passed on the rumor that the Cubs have reportedly "ramped up" their pursuit of Marlon Byrd?! That could be the move that puts them over the top!

[cjhawks]

Braves sign ex-Card Joe Thurston.

In a sure sign Jim Hendry should be fired, it appears he is about to trade Milton Bradley to Seattle for Carlos f'ing Silva.

Seriously Jim? You couldn't find a better deal than that? Or were you that desperate to unload Bradley that you had no problem taking a pitcher whose biggest threat is to the buffet line. Good move Jim.

Despite the fanbase (you've already done enough to piss them off) you should have just held on to Bradley and hoped Jaramillo could work his magic and Milton would return to form.

[Kerky]

BTW, for you Cubs fans, Milton Bradley was traded to Seattle for a more expensive and injured Carlos Silva.

[MickerHawk]

I mean I know Halladay is one of the best pitchers out there and is only 2 years older but it's not a huge improvement. I was more concerned that they were going to be adding Halladay along side Lee. Now, holy shit that was a scary thought.

Either way, Halladay out of the AL East is good for the Yanks. I'm not scared of Lackey in Boston. I'll trade him for Halladay any day of the week.


+1. As a Yanks fan, I'm really pleased with how this shakes out

+2. Remember how the Jays used to contend well into July? Yeah, not so much anymore.

[SL]

Braves trade Javier Vazquez and Boone Logan to the Yanks for Melky Cabrera and Mike Dunn.

[scottsdalehawk]

Braves trade Javier Vazquez and Boone Logan to the Yanks for Melky Cabrera and Mike Dunn.

love it for the yanks

[cjhawks]

Braves trade Javier Vazquez and Boone Logan to the Yanks for Melky Cabrera and Mike Dunn.

love it for the yanks

That's a helluva deal for the Yanks. Logan gives them speed off the bench, and Cabrera was expendable with the acquisition of Granderson.

A rotation of CC, AJ, Pettitte, Vazquez, and Joba / Hughes is pretty damn solid. Probably the best in the East, based on experience of the staff. In terms of upside, I'd still give the nod slightly to Bahstahn.

Regardless though, the Yanks have made some pretty good moves through trades this year. I'm a Yankee hater, but I'm pretty impressed with the offseason the champs are having. I'm in the minority, but I think losing both Damon and Matsui is actually addition by subtraction.

[Edgecrusher7711]

Braves trade Javier Vazquez and Boone Logan to the Yanks for Melky Cabrera and Mike Dunn.

love it for the yanks

Braves trade Javier Vazquez and Boone Logan to the Yanks for Melky Cabrera and Mike Dunn.

love it for the yanks

That's a helluva deal for the Yanks. Logan gives them speed off the bench, and Cabrera was expendable with the acquisition of Granderson.

A rotation of CC, AJ, Pettitte, Vazquez, and Joba / Hughes is pretty damn solid. Probably the best in the East, based on experience of the staff. In terms of upside, I'd still give the nod slightly to Bahstahn.

Regardless though, the Yanks have made some pretty good moves through trades this year. I'm a Yankee hater, but I'm pretty impressed with the offseason the champs are having. I'm in the minority, but I think losing both Damon and Matsui is actually addition by subtraction.

Agreed. Although I wouldn't hate seeing Damon coming back for a cheap year. Either way they will be still hunting somebody down for left field. Not sure who they're going to go with. They can go pricing with Holliday/Bay, midrange with Damon/Derosa, cheap with Hinske.

Also, this seems like the Yanks butt raped the Braves. Why did they make this move? Melky is a nice player but far from anything special.

[Verbal]

It frees up salary for the Braves to pursue a big bat for 1B or RF. I had hoped they'd move Lowe and extend Vazquez sometime this year. Oh well. Also, it sounds like this Arodys Vizcaino that the Yankees threw in the deal is supposed to be a good player.

[scottsdalehawk]

Yanks are paying the entire salary, I think that is why ATL did it.

Does this move keep Hughes in the pen?

[Edgecrusher7711]

Yanks are paying the entire salary, I think that is why ATL did it.

Does this move keep Hughes in the pen?

If anything it will move Joba to the pen. Most still think Hughes has better start potential. But I wouldn't be surprised to see them both do both next season. Hughes didn't get his needed innings this year so he won't be able to go all season as a starter. I imagine if Joba starts in the rotation at the beginning of the season he will have a short leash. This is a big move though. Before this they were going to NEED both of them to be starters. Now they have a little wiggle room. Especially since Pettitte and AJ going two years completely healthy might be a minor miracle. Plus they'll keep one of Gaudin/Mitre as the extra insurance and move the other sometime this winter.

[The Full Monte]

Bay signs with the Mets.

LF....in Citi...ouch

[Verbal]

Former Cub legend Mark DeRosa signed a 2-year deal with the Giants.

[TH1974]

Troy Glaus signs with Atlanta. Braves will move him to first base.

http://www.ajc.com/sports/atlanta-braves/braves-have-new-first-253681.html

[Debit One]

How do fellow Cardinal fans feel about the idea of dropping this much coin on Matt Holliday?

Would they be better served to spend less on LF (perhaps Damon) and devote some of the Holliday money to third base?

[Wild Onion]

I think they have to do it. $18 million is outrageous, but they can always dump his salary to the Yankees or Red Sox, if need be.

3B David Freese is probably ready, so no need to spend a bunch of money on a 1-2 year role player.

[Verbal]

Friendly reminder: 7 weeks until pitchers and catchers report.

[TH1974]

I think they have to do it. $18 million is outrageous, but they can always dump his salary to the Yankees or Red Sox, if need be.

3B David Freese is probably ready, so no need to spend a bunch of money on a 1-2 year role player.

I really don't like them spending so much on Holliday (especially since it looks like there's no one else bidding on him at this point), but in general, I agree with WO. I think it's the way to go.

[The Full Monte]

I LOVE the way this offseason is working out for the Yanks.

Halladay is out of the AL East, Sox lose thier best hitter, and Holliday looks like he staying in St Louis.

[Bovert]

Cubs new CF...Marlon Byrd.

http://sports.espn.go.com/chicago/mlb/news/story?id=4785125

[cjhawks]

Cubs new CF...Marlon Byrd.

http://sports.espn.go.com/chicago/mlb/news/story?id=4785125

Because the last ex-Ranger represented by the Levinson brothers worked out so well for the Cubs.

Overall though, I don't mind the signing. $5 mil is not that steep of a price to pay, and it sounds like the contract is significantly backloaded to create more flexibility this year w/ payroll. If Byrd can produce anywhere close to his .285, 20 hr, 89 rbi line last year, it won't be that bad..

[lbchawkeye]

Red Sox sign Beltre

[Verbal]

Good get for the Sox. Now they get to try to trade Lowell for the second time this offseason.

Other signings: Miguel Olivo to the Rockies, Juan Uribe to the Giants, Shelley Duncan to the Indians.

[Edgecrusher7711]

Red Sox sign Beltre

Sweet Ass. Much better than a trade for Gonzalez. Not one bit scared of the Bosox offense right now.

[TH1974]

Looks like Holliday will sign with STL.

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=4799313

Matt Holliday has chosen the St. Louis Cardinals.

On Tuesday, the free-agent slugger announced on The Doug Gottlieb Show on ESPN Radio that he is re-signing with the Cardinals.

Holliday said that the deal was for seven years and between $119 million and $120 million with a team option at the end of the contract. He also said the deal is pending a physical.

The three-time All-Star came to St. Louis from the Oakland Athletics in a July deadline trade last season. He batted .313 with 24 home runs and 109 RBIs between the two clubs.

Holliday is a career .318 hitter in six seasons.

[SL]

Randy Johnson reportedly set to announce retirement tonight.

[Verbal]

Red Sox sign Beltre

Sweet Ass. Much better than a trade for Gonzalez. Not one bit scared of the Bosox offense right now.

It certainly isn't as powerful as NY's, but an infield of Youkilis, Pedroia, Scutaro & Beltre is nothing to sneeze at. Their pitching is good enough to keep them around. Still, I think Tampa will bounce back this year and the Sox may be sitting out the '10 postseason.

Other news: Braves finalize the Glaus signing & add Eric Hinske. Good get for the bench. Matt Capps officially signs with the improving Nationals.

6 weeks from tomorrow pitchers & catchers report. Can't fucking wait.

[Costanza]

Red Sox sign Beltre

Sweet Ass. Much better than a trade for Gonzalez. Not one bit scared of the Bosox offense right now.

It certainly isn't as powerful as NY's, but an infield of Youkilis, Pedroia, Scutaro & Beltre is nothing to sneeze at. Their pitching is good enough to keep them around. Still, I think Tampa will bounce back this year and the Sox may be sitting out the '10 postseason.

Other news: Braves finalize the Glaus signing & add Eric Hinske. Good get for the bench. Matt Capps officially signs with the improving Nationals.

6 weeks from tomorrow pitchers & catchers report. Can't fucking wait.


The time of year I wish I still lived in Arizona. I would just go hang out at Spring Training sites when I was supposed to be working.

[Edgecrusher7711]

Red Sox sign Beltre

Sweet Ass. Much better than a trade for Gonzalez. Not one bit scared of the Bosox offense right now.

It certainly isn't as powerful as NY's, but an infield of Youkilis, Pedroia, Scutaro & Beltre is nothing to sneeze at. Their pitching is good enough to keep them around. Still, I think Tampa will bounce back this year and the Sox may be sitting out the '10 postseason.

Other news: Braves finalize the Glaus signing & add Eric Hinske. Good get for the bench. Matt Capps officially signs with the improving Nationals.

6 weeks from tomorrow pitchers & catchers report. Can't fucking wait.

I'm not saying they're bad. But I think they've taken a step back offensively. And that makes me happy. Also while upgrading their defense is nice I think the park they play in makes it a little less important. Moving either Cameron or Ellsbury to LF in Fenway absolutely kills their defensive value (and for Ellsbury that kills almost all his value) and I'll take a wait on see on Scutaro off that friendly turf in Toronto. I agree on Tampa. Those 3 will most certainly be battling out the AL East to the end once again.

Btw if Boston were in any other division I would say these are great moves. They have built a really solid playoff style team. However over the long haul of the season I think their offensive deficiencies may come back to bite them in a division where they're going to need to win a min of 95 games.

[Edgecrusher7711]

Interesting read on the "hitters" park that is new Yankee Stadium...
http://riveraveblues.com/2010/01/after-one-year-a-home-run-park-but-nothing-else-22068/

[Verbal]

Vlad to the Rangers.

[Verbal]

The latest buzz is that the Cincinnati Reds have won the Aroldis Chapman sweepstakes.

[Andy Dufresne]

The latest buzz is that the Cincinnati Reds have won the Aroldis Chapman sweepstakes.

That is surprising.

[Verbal]

News for 1/11/10:

-Aubrey Huff signs a 1-year deal with the Giants
-Ryan Church close to signing with the Pirates
-Nick Green signs minor league deal with the Dodgers
-Missed this last week, but spousal abuser Brett Myers signed with the Astros
-Greg Maddux got a job with the Cubs as an assistant to Hendry. Some brains in the front office - good news for Cub fans.

[Verbal]

Most of the news this week was arb-eligible players reaching agreements with their teams before the filing date.

Only a couple big name free agents fell off the list:
-Adam LaRoche to the Diamondbacks
-Jose Valverde to the Tigers

[scottsdalehawk]

Most of the news this week was arb-eligible players reaching agreements with their teams before the filing date.

Only a couple big name free agents fell off the list:
-Adam LaRoche to the Diamondbacks
-Jose Valverde to the Tigers

I like the LaRoche signing, they got him cheap. The D-backs also waived Eric Byrnes yesterday to make room for LaRoche on the 40 man roster.

[Verbal]

Most of the news this week was arb-eligible players reaching agreements with their teams before the filing date.

Only a couple big name free agents fell off the list:
-Adam LaRoche to the Diamondbacks
-Jose Valverde to the Tigers

I like the LaRoche signing, they got him cheap. The D-backs also waived Eric Byrnes yesterday to make room for LaRoche on the 40 man roster.

They didn't waive Byrnes, they designated him for assignment. They now have 10 days to trade him or release him. Here's guessing the 10 days run, Byrnes is released and becomes a free agent for about an hour, at which time someone will sign him for the league minimum, with the Dbacks on the hook for the remainder of his $11 million salary.

[Costanza]

Most of the news this week was arb-eligible players reaching agreements with their teams before the filing date.

Only a couple big name free agents fell off the list:
-Adam LaRoche to the Diamondbacks
-Jose Valverde to the Tigers

I like the LaRoche signing, they got him cheap. The D-backs also waived Eric Byrnes yesterday to make room for LaRoche on the 40 man roster.

They didn't waive Byrnes, they designated him for assignment. They now have 10 days to trade him or release him. Here's guessing the 10 days run, Byrnes is released and becomes a free agent for about an hour, at which time someone will sign him for the league minimum, with the Dbacks on the hook for the remainder of his $11 million salary.

So, not that cheap if you look at the big picture.

[scottsdalehawk]

I like the LaRoche signing, they got him cheap. The D-backs also waived Eric Byrnes yesterday to make room for LaRoche on the 40 man roster.

They didn't waive Byrnes, they designated him for assignment. They now have 10 days to trade him or release him. Here's guessing the 10 days run, Byrnes is released and becomes a free agent for about an hour, at which time someone will sign him for the league minimum, with the Dbacks on the hook for the remainder of his $11 million salary.

So, not that cheap if you look at the big picture.

Byrnes was gone either way, they were not going to pay him 10 million to be the 4th or 5th outfielder.

[Verbal]

They didn't waive Byrnes, they designated him for assignment. They now have 10 days to trade him or release him. Here's guessing the 10 days run, Byrnes is released and becomes a free agent for about an hour, at which time someone will sign him for the league minimum, with the Dbacks on the hook for the remainder of his $11 million salary.

So, not that cheap if you look at the big picture.

Byrnes was gone either way, they were not going to pay him 10 million to be the 4th or 5th outfielder.

They'll pay him roughly 10.6 million to play for another team, unless they can somehow work out a trade.

[Mo T]

Interesting read on the "hitters" park that is new Yankee Stadium...
http://riveraveblues.com/2010/01/after-one-year-a-home-run-park-but-nothing-else-22068/

However, for the next 50 years, we will be hearing about homerun heaven.

[scottsdalehawk]

So, not that cheap if you look at the big picture.

Byrnes was gone either way, they were not going to pay him 10 million to be the 4th or 5th outfielder.

They'll pay him roughly 10.6 million to play for another team, unless they can somehow work out a trade.

I thought they could buy him out.....perhaps not. The day he signed that deal everyone knew it was an awful contract for the team......I think they were afraid of upsetting the fans by losing another fan favorite after Luis Gonzalez left.

So Verbal, you are a Braves fan.........tell me about LaRoche. I know he's got some power, how is his glove? 30 homerun threat playing half his games in AZ?

[Verbal]

LaRoche is a second half player. Pretty good power, probably will hit 25 HRs or so in the 5 or 6 spot in the lineup. Plays an excellent first base. Likeable guy, been very open about his ADD problems, which manifested themselves at times on the field earlier in his career.

[Verbal]

1 month from today...

http://redsintern.mlblogs.com/greetingsST_AZ2.jpg

[r4hawks]

Cant wait. I watched some of the 2006 World Series yesterday on MLB tv.

[Edgecrusher7711]

Some year I am going to make it down to Florida for Spring Training. Sitting back in shorts, drinking a beer, watching the Yanks with nothing on the line. Couldn't be more relaxing. Especially knowing that it's ass cold back in Iowa.

[MickerHawk]

Some year I am going to make it down to Florida for Spring Training. Sitting back in shorts, drinking a beer, watching the Yanks with nothing on the line. Couldn't be more relaxing. Especially knowing that it's ass cold back in Iowa.

+1.

[lbchawkeye]

Thinking about making the drive over to AZ for a Dodgers-Cubs game.

[Verbal]

They didn't waive Byrnes, they designated him for assignment. They now have 10 days to trade him or release him. Here's guessing the 10 days run, Byrnes is released and becomes a free agent for about an hour, at which time someone will sign him for the league minimum, with the Dbacks on the hook for the remainder of his $11 million salary.

So, not that cheap if you look at the big picture.

Byrnes was gone either way, they were not going to pay him 10 million to be the 4th or 5th outfielder.

He has now been released, per MLBTR. Now someone will grab him at the league minimum shortly, with the D-backs picking up the rest of the tab.

[Verbal]

Also, there's a lot of Jim Edmonds comeback chatter the last couple days. He never retired but was not offered a job last year, which surprised me given his '08 performance in Chicago.

[Verbal]

-Throw Preston Wilson's name in the potential comeback ring as well.

-Angels sign Joel Pineiro

-Brewers sign Doug Davis

-Cubs reportedly in talks with Kiko Calero, who would be a big boost to their bullpen

-Eric Gagne getting a tryout with the Phillies. Don't see that one panning out.

-Bengie Molina re-signs with Giants

-Lots of guys signing 1 and 2 year deals, avoiding arbitration hearings.

-Lincecum looking for $13 million. If it goes to hearing, he'll get it, IMO. Here's guessing he gets a 3-4 year deal instead.

[TH1974]

1 month from today...

http://redsintern.mlblogs.com/greetingsST_AZ2.jpg

Hell yes.


fuck the Yankees.

[Mo T]

-Lincecum looking for $13 million.

That would buy about 50,000 pounds of marijuana

[Edgecrusher7711]

-Lincecum looking for $13 million.

That would buy about 50,000 pounds of marijuana

I want to hang out with him.

[Verbal]

-Royals sign Rick Ankiel
-Mets to sign Gary Matthews, Jr.
-Pirates officially sign Octavio Dotel

[ISUFan98]

-Pirates officially sign Octavio Dotel

Wow.

[lbchawkeye]

Doyers sign Padilla to a one year contract. With the way they've been spending, I guess this is as good as it is going to get. Hope he doesn't go mental this year.

[Mo T]

-Royals sign Rick Ankiel


The Royals make me laugh. They put on a show, making it look like they are really trying to improve, every year. They sign washed up guys that are nothing better than quality back-ups. The list goes on and on. Royals fans deserve much better than this crap.

[r4hawks]

Knowing them they will likely DH him.

[LutherBlue89]

Royals fans deserve much better than this crap.All seven of them.

[Kerky]

-Pirates officially sign Octavio Dotel

Wow.

As their closer (LOL)

[imissjoeyrange]

-Royals sign Rick Ankiel


The Royals make me laugh. They put on a show, making it look like they are really trying to improve, every year. They sign washed up guys that are nothing better than quality back-ups. The list goes on and on. Royals fans deserve much better than this crap.


The good news is that they have been spending a lot of money on the draft and bolstering the farm system since hiring Dayton Moore. But yes, signings like this suck. I can't wait to see Pods and Ankiel in the outfield together.:rolleyes:

[valp0guy]

-Royals sign Rick Ankiel


The Royals, Orioles, Indians, Athletics, Nationals, Pirates, Reds and Padres make me laugh. They put on a show, making it look like they are really trying to improve, every year. They sign washed up guys that are nothing better than quality back-ups. The list goes on and on. Royals, Orioles, Indians, Athletics, Nationals, Pirates, Reds and Padres fans deserve much better than this crap.

.

[Verbal]

-Pirates officially sign Octavio Dotel

Wow.

As their closer (LOL)

Again,

Pirates baseball: Where unwanted relief pitchers go for employment.

[Verbal]

-Royals sign Rick Ankiel


The Royals, Orioles, Indians, Athletics, Nationals, Pirates, Reds and Padres make me laugh. They put on a show, making it look like they are really trying to improve, every year. They sign washed up guys that are nothing better than quality back-ups. The list goes on and on. Royals, Orioles, Indians, Athletics, Nationals, Pirates, Reds and Padres fans deserve much better than this crap.

.

The Padres have won several division titles this decade. The Indians are only 3 years removed from a playoff run. I believe the Nationals actually are getting better. But I agree on the Royals, Orioles, Reds (Chapman signing, notwithstanding) and Pirates.

[Verbal]

Xavier Nady to the Cubs, pending a physical.

[CUIHAWk]

That should put the Cubs over the top!

[Mo T]

I believe the Nationals actually are getting better.

Strasburg is a make it or break it type signing. It's an absolute crapload of money if he isn't a star.

I think he will be.

[Edgecrusher7711]

Ben Sheets to A's.

[bigazzturkeylegs]

Ben Sheets to the A's. 1 year, 8 mil.

[Mo T]

Ben Sheets to the A's. 1 year, 8 mil.

Moneyball fails on that one.

[Edgecrusher7711]

Ben Sheets to the A's. 1 year, 8 mil.

Moneyball fails on that one.

Why? Sheets at 1yr/8mil is probably worth the risk to them. If he's not that good it's only a 1yr deal. If he's good and they're good they keep him for the season. If he's good and they're not then they'll trade him. Seems like a standard A's move to me.

[cjhawks]

Ben Sheets to the A's. 1 year, 8 mil.

Moneyball fails on that one.

Why? Sheets at 1yr/8mil is probably worth the risk to them. If he's not that good it's only a 1yr deal. If he's good and they're good they keep him for the season. If he's good and they're not then they'll trade him. Seems like a standard A's move to me.

Agree 100% Edge

[Mo T]

The A's have some decent young pitching. They have no hitting. The money could have been better spent on some hitting, IMO.

[Edgecrusher7711]

The A's have some decent young pitching. They have no hitting. The money could have been better spent on some hitting, IMO.

Not sure there's much out there to spend it on. Apparently they're talking to Damon but outside of that, eh.

[valp0guy]

I don't get how this deal makes sense from Sheets' side. There had to have been a contender that was willing to give him in the neighborhood of $8 million a year.

[Edgecrusher7711]

I don't get how this deal makes sense from Sheets' side. There had to have been a contender that was willing to give him in the neighborhood of $8 million a year.

No clue on that. Maybe he wanted the West Coast and didn't want to hit?

[Mo T]

The A's have some decent young pitching. They have no hitting. The money could have been better spent on some hitting, IMO.

Not sure there's much out there to spend it on. Apparently they're talking to Damon but outside of that, eh.

Not now, but Vlad signed for 1 yr/ 7 mil. It is the same type risk, but gives you some offense.

Matsui 1 yr/ 6.5 mil

[Edgecrusher7711]

The A's have some decent young pitching. They have no hitting. The money could have been better spent on some hitting, IMO.

Not sure there's much out there to spend it on. Apparently they're talking to Damon but outside of that, eh.

Not now, but Vlad signed for 1 yr/ 7 mil. It is the same type risk, but gives you some offense.

Matsui 1 yr/ 6.5 mil

Yeah but you also have to consider if those guys want to play there. I guess I could have maybe seen Vlad going there but most certainly not Matsui. I agree with Verbal, I'm surprised Sheets agreed to this.

[Mo T]

Do I think that Sheets at 8 mil is an ok signing? Sure, but not for the A's. That's my major gripe with this.

I haven't looked at every team, but I think a person would be hard pressed to find a weaker hitting outfield, or team, in the majors. It's horrid what they are putting out there.

[Edgecrusher7711]

Do I think that Sheets at 8 mil is an ok signing? Sure, but not for the A's. That's my major gripe with this.

I haven't looked at every team, but I think a person would be hard pressed to find a weaker hitting outfield, or team, in the majors. It's horrid what they are putting out there.

Look across the bay.

[cjhawks]

Now the signing is looking strange coming from Beane. John Heyman is saying Sheets will get $10 million in 2010, plus performance incentives. That's a little ridiculous for someone who is coming off major shoulder surgery and hasn't pitched in more than a year, IMO.

[Mo T]

Do I think that Sheets at 8 mil is an ok signing? Sure, but not for the A's. That's my major gripe with this.

I haven't looked at every team, but I think a person would be hard pressed to find a weaker hitting outfield, or team, in the majors. It's horrid what they are putting out there.

Look across the bay.

Yeah, they are weak, but in the national league, a little more understandable. heck, the Royals look like a good lineup compared to the A's. The Indians are pretty pathetic, also.

[Edgecrusher7711]

Now the signing is looking strange coming from Beane. John Heyman is saying Sheets will get $10 million in 2010, plus performance incentives. That's a little ridiculous for someone who is coming off major shoulder surgery and hasn't pitched in more than a year, IMO.

So maybe that's what swung him coming to Oakland? I agree if it's at those numbers it seems high and especially for them. I still think they A's are hoping he's solid and they can trade him for more prospects. I'm pretty sure they know that competing this year is out. But hey maybe they see the Angels falling back and aren't impressed with the Mariners moves and want to go for it this season. If they don't sign Damon and another player this will be a very weird move at that price though.

[Mo T]

The A's are two good bats away from competing in that division. They have a very good bullpen, and 5 dependable starters.

The way it looks now, they are candidates to lose 90 games.

[Edgecrusher7711]

wow rumor is the Sheets signing was plan A and Damon was plan B. So that means no Damon which really does make this move seem weird. Good news for the Yanks though. That's possibly one more team gone for Damon. He may not have a choice but to lower his price tag back down to the Yanks range.

[The Full Monte]

Oakland's ballpark is a perfect place for Sheets to play for a year. Being so big will cover for a lot of bad pitches

[Edgecrusher7711]

Oakland's ballpark is a perfect place for Sheets to play for a year. Being so big will cover for a lot of bad pitches

Yeah, forgot how much of pitchers park they have there. Might help him look better for a big contract next year. If he stays healthy (which he won't).

[valp0guy]

The national league is a perfect place for Sheets to play for a year. Being so bad at 7-8-9 will cover for a lot of bad pitches

/and he could have played on a playoff contender.

[LutherBlue89]

I read that Sheets has had some eye-opening workouts. He obviously has great stuff when he's healthy.

[funnelcake]

Whatever happened with the Twins/Thome rumors?

[Lime]

Early Sunday Night Baseball schedule:

April 4 - Yankees at Boston
April 11 - Cardinals at Milwaukee
April 18 - Mets at Cardinals
April 25 - Braves at Mets
May 2 - Mets at Phillies
May 9 - Yankees at Red Sox
May 16 - Phillies at Brewers
May 23 - Yankees at Mets
May 30 - Rangers at Twins
June 6-27 - TBD
July 4 - Royals at Angels
July 11 - Cubs at Dodgers
July 18 - Phillies at Cubs

[valp0guy]

Whatever happened with the Twins/Thome rumors?

JI

JIM THOME signed with them today, 1 year/1.5 mil.