The first game between the Cubs and the Giants had all kinds of unusual stuff going on. Koyie Hill actually hit the ball and had it actually leave the ballpark in actual fair territory. No really. Here’s proof:
Also, Alfonso Soriano took a bases loaded walk after starting out on an 0-2 count with two outs. James Russell managed to throw more than one inning of scoreless baseball.
It also had stuff that is all too familiar. The Cubs getting men into scoring position with nobody out and then not scoring. Doug Davis remembered he was Doug Davis. John Grabow continued to have excellent recollection that he is John Grabow. Alfonso Soriano made a horrible defensive play.
After it was all over, they had lost 13-7. But the good news is, they get to do it all over again. And this time we get treated to a Rodrigo Lopez start. I expect hilarity.
Still can’t believe the Koyiey home run.
Using rWAR and defense that matches the fans scouting report, we get the following: Win value of 4 million in 2007 and 4.5 million since. Soriano has been worth $31.5 million so far. Let’s get rid of the negative WAR season because you can’t pay someone under $0. He’s now worth $35.6 million. Nobody with a .325 OBP has been worth $60 million or more.
I’m setting the O/U on IP by Lopez at 3. (dying laughing)
[quote name=mb21]Still can’t believe the Koyiey home run.[/quote]Sun ——————–> dog’s ass
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Any guesses on attendance? Place full or back to half-empty?[/quote]
The park was pretty full. There were sections of upper deck seats that were empty and the RF terrace level seats were sparse but everywhere else was at least 80% filled, including the bleachers. They said the paid attendance was 39K+ and I can believe that. At least a third of the attendees were Giants fans. Pretty cool folks, we kept talking shit about our batting practice pitcher (dying laughing)
[quote name=mb21]Using rWAR and defense that matches the fans scouting report, we get the following: Win value of 4 million in 2007 and 4.5 million since. Soriano has been worth $31.5 million so far. Let’s get rid of the negative WAR season because you can’t pay someone under $0. He’s now worth $35.6 million. Nobody with a .325 OBP has been worth $60 million or more.[/quote]I’m using Fangraphs value tables.
[quote name=mb21]Still can’t believe the Koyiey home run.[/quote]
I told the Giants fans that I hoped they gave Vogelsong shit for serving up that homer. Vogelsong should’ve been ashamed of himself.
I’d also disagree that the Grabow deal was worse at the time. you could sign Koyie Hill to a $10 million contract or sign Pujols for 8 years and $250 million and the Koyie HIll contract is better at the time they are signed. 8 years is a long ass time. A ton of money committed to one person for that many years carries significant risk. Even if it ended up working out, the risk alone makes it a worse deal at the time of the contract.
But really, if we’re sitting here arguing about which is worse, Grabow or Soriano, give Jim Hendry an extension. Because that’s what we’re really arguing. If the Grabow deal was anywhere NEAR as bad as the Soriano deal, the Soriano contract was quite awesome and Hendry needs to stick around.
Was the Grabow deal bad? Yes, even if it’s for an inconsequential amount of money it was a bad contract. There’s no getting around that.
And here’s the thing: the Cubs can easily trade John Grabow. They may have to kick in a million bucks. How many millions do they have to kick in to trade Soriano? $50? At that point you may as well keep him and “see what happens.” (dying laughing)
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]I’m using Fangraphs value tables.[/quote]Even Total Zone has him being better than average on defense with the Cubs so I’m confident in taking away at least 20 runs if not 30.
Speaking of guys that are easily tradeable, Carlos Pena has 10 HR this month and is on a cheap, one year deal. Trade this man while you can, Jimbo.
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Speaking of guys that are easily tradeable, Carlos Pena has 10 HR this month and is on a cheap, one year deal. Trade this man while you can, Jimbo.[/quote]Agreed. Cubs probably have to pay the $5 million owed to him next season, but whatever. He could bring a decent prospect.
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Speaking of guys that are easily tradeable, Carlos Pena has 10 HR this month and is on a cheap, one year deal. Trade this man while you can, Jimbo.[/quote]But they’re finally getting all their opening day roster guys healthy! Got to give it a few weeks so they can make a run!
/Cub Front Office’d
[quote name=Corms]But they’re finally getting all their opening day roster guys healthy! Got to give it a few weeks so they can make a run!
/Cub Front Office’d[/quote]What’s truly crushing about this, is that it is exactly what this FO is probably thinking.
[quote name=mb21]Agreed. Cubs probably have to pay the $5 million owed to him next season, but whatever. He could bring a decent prospect.[/quote]Yeah, the more I think about it, if I were Jim, this is the first deal I’d make. If Byrd comes back and hits a hot streak, he’s next, then Marmol, then Soto.
I’d also add one other thing: if we’re going to change the way we evaluate contracts, we have to show why it’s as good or better. Right now what we have is the players WAR and the dollars per win. We calculate his value that way and we know what he’s being paid. This system for evaluating contracts has been used for several years now because it makes sense. If we have the player’s value and his contract, we know how much he performed above or below what he was paid. If we use his projections and a projected $WAR we get the value at the time the deal was signed.
Dan Szymborski showed recently that Soriano’s contract, while not the worst in baseball, will likely pay him $50 million more than he was worth. That’s based on what happened and what we project from this point forward. When I did the Hendry piece a year or two ago, I did it both ways. It wasn’t a terrible deal, but they did overpay. One thing I forgot to include in that piece was that players who sign 3 years or longer contracts sign for 10% less than their $WAR.
If we’re going to look at this from a different angle, why is it better than what we’ve done so far?
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Yeah, the more I think about it, if I were Jim, this is the first deal I’d make. If Byrd comes back and hits a hot streak, he’s next, then Marmol, then Soto.[/quote]Agreed. Marmol still has some value despite the longterm contract and Soto is worth a lot. Probably not as much as his projection shows since he’s so inconsistent from one season to the next, but he still has a lot of value. I’d also trade Garza.
Rather than list the players I’d trade, here’s a list of ones I would not trade: Starlin Castro and Chris Carpenter.
what are potential destinations for pena? doesn’t seem like that many. maybe the dbacks if they decide to buy, likewise the indians I guess, or the rays (dying laughing)
[quote name=GW]what are potential destinations for pena? doesn’t seem like that many. maybe the dbacks if they decide to buy, likewise the indians I guess, or the rays (dying laughing)[/quote]
I was thinking any one of the AL West teams might want a power hitting 1B.
After hitting zero homers in April, Pena has hit 17 in May and June combined. Could the Giants be a team interested? It would be nice to see him getting on their bus on Thursday but I’m sure that the Cubs won’t consider dealing him this early. Mike needs the team he broke camp with as we all know.
[quote name=mb21]Agreed. Marmol still has some value despite the longterm contract and Soto is worth a lot. Probably not as much as his projection shows since he’s so inconsistent from one season to the next, but he still has a lot of value. I’d also trade Garza.
Rather than list the players I’d trade, here’s a list of ones I would not trade: Starlin Castro and Chris Carpenter.[/quote]I wouldn’t trade Barney, either. Nice bench guy to have around with his SS-2B flexibility.
The Cubs have some nice pieces to swap for guys to stock the farm, if they can just summon the courage to make the deals.
[quote name=Rice Cube]I was thinking any one of the AL West teams might want a power hitting 1B.[/quote]
i’d have to check, but it seems like trumbo and moreland have been doing just fine. are the m’s likely to buy?
[quote name=GW]what are potential destinations for pena? doesn’t seem like that many. maybe the dbacks if they decide to buy, likewise the indians I guess, or the rays (dying laughing)[/quote]SF, AZ, LAA, off the top of my head.
[quote name=melissa]After hitting zero homers in April, Pena has hit 17 in May and June combined. Could the Giants be a team interested? It would be nice to see him getting on their bus on Thursday but I’m sure that the Cubs won’t consider dealing him this early. Mike needs the team he broke camp with as we all know.[/quote]
Unless they’re sticking Huff in the OF I don’t think the Giants make sense as a Pena destination. I think they’d want Soto more, assuming he’s available.
Giants?
[quote name=GW]i’d have to check, but it seems like trumbo and moreland have been doing just fine. are the m’s likely to buy?[/quote]
I think they’re doing fine, but you never know if someone gets injured…plus I thought Moreland could play OF but I might just be wrong.
That Mike Quade All-Star thing makes me (dying laughing)
WTF was that all about? They couldn’t find another manager?
[quote name=Rice Cube]Unless they’re sticking Huff in the OF I don’t think the Giants make sense as a Pena destination. I think they’d want Soto more, assuming he’s available.[/quote]
They need offense and yes, I think they would consider moving Huff. He certainly can’t be worse defensively than Burrell
[quote name=melissa]They need offense and yes, I think they would consider moving Huff. He certainly can’t be worse defensively than Burrell[/quote]
They’d have to release one of their OFs then because they’re so OF heavy. I can see it happening.
Mateo has been added to the Iowa Cubs of Chicago and LeMahuey has been sent down
Yankees in the process of dismantling the Brewers.
isn’t belt close to returning? I can’t see the giants going for him.
http://www.newsweek.com/2011/06/26/breaking-bad-the-finest-hour-on-television.html
[quote name=melissa]Mateo has been added to the Iowa Cubs of Chicago and LeMahuey has been sent down[/quote]
Probably because his name is so hard to Quadify.
[quote name=Rice Cube]I think they’re doing fine, but you never know if someone gets injured…plus I thought Moreland could play OF but I might just be wrong.[/quote]
but the rangers also have napoli, who I think is getting only limited at bats
[quote name=Aisle424]Probably because his name is so hard to Quadify.[/quote]Matty
Marcy (dying laughing)
[quote name=GW]but the rangers also have napoli, who I think is getting only limited at bats[/quote]
If he’s only getting limited ABs they might need a better option, but since Moreland is also lefty (I think, right?) they probably won’t go too hard for Pena.
I think “Mercy” might be more apropos
[quote name=Rice Cube]If he’s only getting limited ABs they might need a better option, but since Moreland is also lefty (I think, right?) they probably won’t go too hard for Pena.[/quote]
napoli is a beast offensively.
[quote name=GW]napoli is a beast offensively.[/quote]
Is he being squeezed out by Michael Young at DH? Seems kind of a waste.
Pena’s a good defender, so we have to consider NL destinations equally to AL destinations.
How about ATL? Lee hasn’t been so good.
Wow, McNutt is done after just 2 IP.
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Pena’s a good defender, so we have to consider NL destinations equally to AL destinations.
How about ATL? Lee hasn’t been so good.[/quote]
Lee’s in Baltimore now…I think Freddy Freeman is their 1B?
The Pirates? (dying laughing)
[quote name=Rice Cube]Lee’s in Baltimore now…I think Freddy Freeman is their 1B?[/quote]
yeah, freeman has been just ok. doesn’t seem like the braves mo to bench their 1b of the future the rest of the year. it’s possible, though.
Rodrigo manages to get out of the first inning without giving up 3 runs, Let’s See What Happens.
[quote name=Rice Cube]Wow, McNutt is done after just 2 IP.[/quote]
Sorry, 3 IP. 6 H, 4 ER, 3 BB.
This Rebel Ridling fellow is hitting pretty well. What’s the scouting report on this guy?
[quote name=Rice Cube]Sorry, 3 IP. 6 H, 4 ER, 3 BB.[/quote]
No dinner for you, at this rate you’ll never be Associate Editor of Minor League Updates around here.
[quote name=Rice Cube]Sorry, 3 IP. 6 H, 4 ER, 3 BB.[/quote]Yuck.
[quote name=melissa]No dinner for you, at this rate you’ll never be Associate Editor of Minor League Updates around here.[/quote]
*shame*
I know the speed change screws up one’s timing, but striking out on an 84-mph “fast” ball should also be shameworthy.
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Is this a balk?
hmmm… I guess trumbo hasn’t been that good, soriano-like w/ 13 hrs and .302 obp. angels could work.
[quote name=GW]hmmm… I guess trumbo hasn’t been that good, soriano-like w/ 13 hrs and .302 obp. angels could work.[/quote]They’d make a great platoon and if the Cubs cover the deferred money that makes a lot of sense.
Trumbo has actually been better vs righties, but that’s highly unlikely to continue.
[quote name=GW]hmmm… I guess trumbo hasn’t been that good, soriano-like w/ 13 hrs and .302 obp. angels could work.[/quote][quote name=mb21]They’d make a great platoon and if the Cubs cover the deferred money that makes a lot of sense.[/quote]Anyone in the LAAA system of note that represents a possible return?
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Anyone in the LAAA system of note that represents a possible return?[/quote]
Trout. (dying laughing) (dying laughing)
Cubs losing. Astros winning.
This could work to draft positioning’s favor.
Rodrigo is ducking whenever a batter is making contact even if the ball is going foul, that can’t be a good sign.
[quote name=Mish]Trout. (dying laughing) (dying laughing)[/quote]Only if they throw in Weaver. (dying laughing)
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Only if they throw in Weaver. (dying laughing)[/quote]
And then they flip him for Nolasco, right?
[quote name=melissa]Rodrigo is ducking whenever a batter is making contact even if the ball is going foul, that can’t be a good sign.[/quote]
[quote name=Rice Cube]And then they flip him for Nolasco, right?[/quote]Well, I just assumed that was implied.
if the jays get hot, i could see them giving pena a shot, assuming they are content to leave snider at AAA for the rest of the year
Rich Harden ——> Will start friday for A’s
[quote name=Mish]Rich Harden ——> Will start friday for A’s[/quote]That’s great. Good for him.
So you’re telling me there’s a chance? (dying laughing)
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]That’s great. Good for him.[/quote]
+1
[quote name=Mish]Rich Harden ——> Will start friday for A’s[/quote]
Billy Beane told him before the season that he would start on July 1st and return to the DL July 2nd.
Rodrigo seems to be stumbling backwards after he releases the ball. I don’t know if it’s normal for him but it looks awkward and would seem inefficient in regard to follow through and fielding.
Zack Greinke’s got shelled today. Not as bad as Davis, though.
[quote name=ACT]Zack Greinke’s got shelled today. Not as bad as Davis, though.[/quote]Greinke hasn’t been particularly good with the Brewers in terms of runs allowed.
Astros no longer winning.
[quote name=mb21]Greinke hasn’t been particularly good with the Brewers in terms of runs allowed.[/quote]He’s cited FIP as his favorite stat. Maybe someone should introduce him to the runs allowed stat.
[quote name=Rice Cube]Astros no longer winning.[/quote]Cubs can still pick up half a game today. (dying laughing)
[quote name=mb21]Cubs can still pick up half a game today. (dying laughing)[/quote]
One of the few times I wish the Astros didn’t suck so much.
Luis!
MONTY!
Welcome to the Cubs, Lou Montanez.
[quote name=Rice Cube]Welcome to the Cubs, Lou Montanez.[/quote]
I don’t actually know if he had another HR as a Cub (dying laughing)
[quote name=Rice Cube]I don’t actually know if he had another HR as a Cub (dying laughing)[/quote]
No was a good guess and the correct answer
louuuuuuuuuuuuu
Starlin!
New hitting streak starts tonight.
Montanez reminds me of Hendry Rodriguez for some reason. Maybe he should grow a bad mustache. (dying laughing)
Stupid shortstop (dying laughing)
The Pirates might not be a bad place to kick the tires for Pena.
If the Cubs pay his salary (or most of it, including next year’s deferred money), they could get a pretty decent prospect from a system that has produced a number of good players recently.
Aren’t they starting Overbay at 1st? Plus Pena is supposed to be such a positive clubhouse guy and he has playoff experience from the Rays. He’s not a major commitment by Pittsburgh, but if things go well, he isn’t someone that they absolutely couldn’t re-sign so he’s not necessarily a rental.
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Montanez reminds me of Hendry Rodriguez for some reason. Maybe he should grow a bad mustache. (dying laughing)[/quote]
You should know there’s no such thing as “a bad mustache,” in Chicago.
South Carolina —> leading in clinching game
[quote name=melissa]You should know there’s no such thing as “a bad mustache,” in Chicago.[/quote]Oh, that is so unfortunately true.
[quote name=Rice Cube]South Carolina —> leading in clinching game[/quote]Meaning we should all be on guard for some Dutch courage from Bubbles later on. (dying laughing)
Baker apparently can play defense.
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Meaning we should all be on guard for some Dutch courage from Bubbles later on. (dying laughing)[/quote]
Signs point to yes.
I think actually the Rays are a good spot for Pena; they really need a 1B. Also maybe LAA. I wonder if Boston would want Byrd for RF. I’d also like to trade Soto to BOS.
[quote name=Recalcitrant Blogger Nate]I think actually the Rays are a good spot for Pena; they really need a 1B. Also maybe LAA. I wonder if Boston would want Byrd for RF. I’d also like to trade Soto to BOS.[/quote]
Boo. Soto to Giants.
[quote name=Recalcitrant Blogger Nate]I think actually the Rays are a good spot for Pena; they really need a 1B. [/quote]
I heard they have a young shortstop playing pretty well in the fsl. mb would hate him, though. (dying laughing)
I’d be shocked if the Rays pursue Pena. I think they’d try to do the half buy/sell thing and go after someone like Brandon Allen or Yonder Alonso.
[quote name=Recalcitrant Blogger Nate]I think actually the Rays are a good spot for Pena; they really need a 1B. Also maybe LAA. I wonder if Boston would want Byrd for RF. I’d also like to trade Soto to BOS.[/quote]
http://hardballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/06/28/report-mlb-likely-to-file-motion-to-seize-the-dodgers/
Since y’all were discussing it earlier, here’s what MLB is trying to do re: Dodgers.
[quote name=Mish]I’d be shocked if the Rays pursue Pena. I think they’d try to do the half buy/sell thing and go after someone like Brandon Allen or Yonder Alonso.[/quote]
I heard kila is available.
[quote name=GW]I heard kila is available.[/quote]
Countdown to Al’s post lobbying to trade for Kila in 3…2….1….
Uh. How is that not an out?
[quote name=Rice Cube]Uh. How is that not an out?[/quote]
Guess it popped out of Geo’s glove or something. Radio guys were incredulous.
[quote name=Rice Cube]Guess it popped out of Geo’s glove or something. Radio guys were incredulous.[/quote]Zonk eventually concluded it was the right call
Grabow!
Grabow in.
Just saw the Gameday replay, looked like Torres’ leg was on the plate before Soto applied the tag anyway.
Grabow in —> Cubs lose
(dying laughing)
(dying laughing)
(dying laughing)
Grabow sucks so much.
I love Grabow so goddamn much.
(dying laughing)
6-2 Giants. Good gravy.
[quote name=Rice Cube]This Rebel Ridling fellow is hitting pretty well. [/quote]
He just homered for the 2nd time tonight.
The concerning thing about McNutt is that he threw 23 strikes out of 51 pitches. That’s two Rick Ankiel-ish starts in a row.
Cliff Lee has 3 straight CG shutouts, including Boston tonight
[quote name=ACT]I love Grabow so goddamn much.[/quote]That’s Grabow’s hidden value. He’s going to get the Cubs the number 1 draft pick next year.
BB to opposing pitcher who can’t hit. Nice.
[quote name=mb21]That’s Grabow’s hidden value. He’s going to get the Cubs the number 1 draft pick next year.[/quote]Make him the closer.
No! Make him a starter!
[quote name=ACT]No! Make him a starter![/quote]
He’d reach his pitch count before the third inning.
Make him pitch every remaining inning of the season.
[quote name=Rice Cube]He’d reach his pitch count before the third inning.[/quote]Quade doesn’t pay attention before the 5th anyway.
Make him a three hitter.
[quote name=mb21]Quade doesn’t pay attention before the 5th anyway.[/quote]
I can’t argue with you today.
[quote name=Recalcitrant Blogger Nate]Cliff Lee has 3 straight CG shutouts, including Boston tonight[/quote]He’s no Grabow.
Went downstairs for a little while and they were tied, came back up, 4 runs down.
/Grabow’d
Grabow is a trooper. He sucked in both games of the doubleheader. Team player.
Brett Jackson strikes out a ton…
If Pittsburgh holds on, they will be 3 out of 1st. I’m going to be a Pirates fan this year.
It’s annoying that the Cubs can’t even beat up on the Giants’ worst starter.
Evan Longoria is good at baseball.
[quote name=Rice Cube]It’s annoying that the Cubs can’t even beat up on the Giants’ worst starter.[/quote]
Zito has had a nice start for a guy coming off the DL.
[quote name=melissa]Zito has had a nice start for a guy coming off the DL.[/quote]Well, he got that extra AAA start today, so that should help.
Stupid Astros.
Nice to see Rami still has some power.
Ace says Josh Byrnes is a possibility to replace Hendry:
http://www.bleachernation.com/2011/06/28/rumor-josh-byrnes-is-interested-in-a-front-office-job-with-the-chicago-cubs/
[quote name=Rice Cube]Ace says Josh Byrnes is a possibility to replace Hendry:
http://www.bleachernation.com/2011/06/28/rumor-josh-byrnes-is-interested-in-a-front-office-job-with-the-chicago-cubs//quote
meh
Bubbles=====> bout to be a fucking happy chimp
but bubbles has to say that Roth threw 129 pitches on three dyas rest tonight.. If i am a high school pitcher i am not going to college.. Just not happeneing. These guys get abused an unreal amount..
What is the webstie that moitors pitcher abuse. Bubbles would love to see a study on Matt price.
Nine-win predictors are still in the mix for that OV T-shirt!
http://www.boydsworld.com/data/pitchcount.html
lets lose two
[quote name=GW]http://www.boydsworld.com/data/pitchcount.html[/quote]
Thanks.. SHocked that a releiver throwing 95 pitches didnt get on it.. Roth tonight will be added..
[quote name=bubblesdachimp]Thanks.. SHocked that a releiver throwing 95 pitches didnt get on it.. Roth tonight will be added..[/quote]
yeah, I think it’s just one dude adding them when he sees them. probably lots of missed cases
There are an inordinate amount of bunts in these College World Series games.
[quote name=Rice Cube]There are an inordinate amount of bunts in these College World Series games.[/quote]
Its absurd// We cant hit so i kinda get it.. Somewhere Berselius is having a heart attack..
1 more out…
why did the CF throw the ball in the stands?? keep that fucker!
anyway, congrats to SC for repeat CWS national champs!
[quote name=Rice Cube]There are an inordinate amount of bunts in these College World Series games.[/quote]
college baseball always has more bunts, and it’s hard to hit HRs in this new park, I guess (dying laughing)
Bubbles====>> Happy and proud chimp
[quote name=Aisle424]If Pittsburgh holds on, they will be 3 out of 1st. I’m going to be a Pirates fan this year.[/quote]I’m kind of jealous of all those Pirates fans who stuck through all those crappy years and are finally seeing them winning (a little). The must be like the Second Coming to them.
[quote name=ACT]I’m kind of jealous of all those Pirates fans who stuck through all those crappy years and are finally seeing them winning (a little). The must be like the Second Coming to them.[/quote]
The best is yet to come.
http://insider.espn.go.com/mlb/insider/news/story?id=6712238
(dying laughing)
(dying laughing)
Injury adjusted standings by Symborski. The Cubs record would change by “0″ wins if they’d been healthy all year.
Cubs =
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]http://www.newsweek.com/2011/06/26/breaking-bad-the-finest-hour-on-television.html[/quote]
I will always sympathize with Walt. I can totally relate.
[quote name=Jame Gumb]Cubs =
[/quote]
(dying laughing) (dying laughing)
http://www.chicagonow.com/blogs/cubs-insider/
Is Alvin asking if the person who wrote that article put his name on it? Because it’s right under the headline.
If not, he must be talking about the source’s actual name, which would be hypocritical by even his standards.
The backflips and cartwheels Al does during his mental gymnastics are a sight to behold.
[quote name=Mish]The backflips and cartwheels Al does during his mental gymnastics are a sight to behold.[/quote]
Did you put your actual name on this post?
I didn’t think so.
[quote name=Jame Gumb]
I didn’t think so.[/quote]
You think, I feel.
[quote name=Mish]You think, I feel.[/quote]
You know, sometimes I feel like taking a day off. But I never do. Thanks again. For nothing.
[quote name=Jame Gumb]You know, sometimes I feel like taking a day off. But I never do. Thanks again. For nothing.[/quote]k
So, possible destinations for Pena? I’m thinking CLE, SEA, LAA, and PIT would have the clearest spots to fill (at first or DH), with the possibility that maybe Texas (some 3-way with Young and Moreland at 1B/DH), SF, and ATL (the latter two having 1B prospects) tries to get involved. I don’t see the Rays pursuing Pena, and just about everyone else in any sort of hunt is set at 1B and/or DH.
I’m thinking that TEX is only looking to upgrade pitching (especially relief). Chris Davis and Holland are going to be their major chips.
They might like to upgrade C, but no team has ever won when changing catchers mid-season.
[quote name=Mish]So, possible destinations for Pena? I’m thinking CLE, SEA, LAA, and PIT would have the clearest spots to fill (at first or DH), with the possibility that maybe Texas (some 3-way with Young and Moreland at 1B/DH), SF, and ATL (the latter two having 1B prospects) tries to get involved. I don’t see the Rays pursuing Pena, and just about everyone else in any sort of hunt is set at 1B and/or DH.[/quote]Any speculation on possible trade destinations for Pena in this comment?
I didn’t think so.
[quote name=Jame Gumb]I’m thinking that TEX is only looking to upgrade pitching (especially relief). Chris Davis and Holland are going to be their major chips.
They might like to upgrade C, but no team has ever won when changing catchers mid-season.[/quote]
2007 Cubs?
[quote name=Jame Gumb]
They might like to upgrade C, but no team has ever won when changing catchers mid-season.[/quote]What if it drastically improves their WP+PB/IP?
[quote name=GBTS]Any speculation on possible trade destinations for Pena in this comment?
I didn’t think so.[/quote]Is this a new meme that’s unbeknownst to me?
I’d be surprised if sfg or tex were interested. texas has young/moreland/napoli. the giants have huff/belt.
If the Cubs trade Pena, expect the latin faction to explode out of control in the clubhouse.
[quote name=Mish]So, possible destinations for Pena? I’m thinking CLE, SEA, LAA, and PIT would have the clearest spots to fill (at first or DH), with the possibility that maybe Texas (some 3-way with Young and Moreland at 1B/DH), SF, and ATL (the latter two having 1B prospects) tries to get involved. I don’t see the Rays pursuing Pena, and just about everyone else in any sort of hunt is set at 1B and/or DH.[/quote]
June isn’t even over and you’re thinking about next month?
Sorry, I’ll wait a while.
for the rays, otoh, the upgrade would be unambiguous and probably cheap.
[quote name=Mish]The backflips and cartwheels Al does during his mental gymnastics are a sight to behold.[/quote]
Also, this was impressive as I was sitting in an almost direct line with the throw:
http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/blog/big_league_stew/post/Cubs-fan-s-incredible-throw-returns-Tejada-homer?urn=mlb-wp11089
[quote name=GW]I’d be surprised if sfg or tex were interested. texas has young/moreland/napoli. the giants have huff/belt.[/quote] I completely agree, which is why I put them in the maybe pile. It would mostly work if the teams start employing some platoons – like Pena/Moreland vs Righties and Young/Napoli vs lefties (and I’m sure Young doesn’t want to be a platoon player).
In SF, it would either involve holding Belt down all year (not sure if there’d be any benefit to be had here for SF), or working a rotation with Belt/Huff/Burrell/Ross in the corner OF.
Neither are likely, but I’m trying my hardest to see where he could possibly make sense. Flat out open 1B positions are few.
i imagine sea/pit/cle would wait a while lest they fall out of the race early
Impossible.
[quote name=GW]for the rays, otoh, the upgrade would be unambiguous and probably cheap.[/quote]
I don’t necessarily disagree, but it’s worth pointing out that Casey Kotchman is posting a .374 wOBA, and while I don’t think that’s sustainable, it’s not where the Rays are hurting. I personally see them trying to trade someone like Upton and/or Niemann for a near-ready 1B bat, but mainly looking for the offensive upgrade internally (Jennings and Guyer). I also haven’t checked on his numbers, but I know Russ Canzler started out hot, he may get a look if Kotchman falters (which I’ve been waiting for but still hasn’t happened).
[quote name=Rice Cube]Also, this was impressive as I was sitting in an almost direct line with the throw:
http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/blog/big_league_stew/post/Cubs-fan-s-incredible-throw-returns-Tejada-homer?urn=mlb-wp11089/quote
Meh. The story oversells the throw.
[quote name=Jame Gumb]Impossible.[/quote]
(dying laughing), yeah the most unrealistic part about that idea is z going to the al.
[quote name=Jame Gumb]Impossible.[/quote]Yes, not impossible because you’re targeting arguably the best position prospect, but because the pitcher wants to hit. Christ, does Al listen to himself?
[quote name=Jame Gumb]Meh. The story oversells the throw.[/quote]
The catch was pretty good. The throw was helped by his relative elevation, but he didn’t get much of a running start, it was almost all arm.
[quote name=Mish]Yes, not impossible because you’re targeting arguably the best position prospect, but because the pitcher wants to hit. Christ, does Al listen to himself?[/quote]
It would be hilarious if you could get Deep Thoughts By Al Yellon on iTunes.
[quote name=Mish]I personally see them trying to trade someone like Upton and/or Niemann for a near-ready 1B bat[/quote]
Impossible. Upton said he likes Tampa yesterday.
[quote name=Rice Cube]The catch was pretty good. The throw was helped by his relative elevation, but he didn’t get much of a running start, it was almost all arm.[/quote]
It was a good throw, but not so much better than a throw you or I could make.
[quote name=Jame Gumb]Impossible. Upton said he likes Tampa yesterday.[/quote]You’re impossible today.
[quote name=Mish]You’re impossible today.[/quote]
STOP THE NAMECALLING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
OR I WILL NAMECALL LIKE A MOTHERFUCKER!
[quote name=Jame Gumb]It was a good throw, but not so much better than a throw you or I could make.[/quote]The catch was fucking sweet too. Could you make that catch too?
[quote name=Muckey]The catch was fucking sweet too. Could you make that catch too?[/quote]
I don’t think I’m mean enough to almost knock people backwards to make that catch. Barehanded off a line drive too.
But I don’t think I would’ve gotten it to the infield grass in the air.
[quote name=Muckey]The catch was fucking sweet too. Could you make that catch too?[/quote]
Probably not, but I can snark better than he.
[quote name=Rice Cube]I don’t think I’m mean enough to almost knock people backwards to make that catch. Barehanded off a line drive too.
But I don’t think I would’ve gotten it to the infield grass in the air.[/quote]Yeah, I don’t think I would’ve jumped to catch a ball off a bleacher. I think I could’ve have made the throw, but the catch would have failed me.
I’d have to say though, if a homer were hit by a big name like Chase Utley or the like, I’d almost be inclined to keep it.
[quote name=Rice Cube]I’d have to say though, if a homer were hit by a big name like Chase Utley or the like, I’d almost be inclined to keep it.[/quote]
In pace requiescat.
[quote name=Rice Cube]I’d have to say though, if a homer were hit by a big name like Chase Utley or the like, I’d almost be inclined to keep it.[/quote]Agreed. I’ll be god damned if I throw that ball back. I’d give it to my nephew or a little kid next to me.
[quote name=Muckey]Agreed. I’ll be god damned if I throw that ball back. I’d give it to my nephew or a little kid next to me.[/quote]
^^^^WTF? (dying laughing) (dying laughing) (dying laughing)
It seems Muckey is not familiar with PedoBear.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pedobear
[quote name=Rice Cube]It seems Muckey is not familiar with PedoBear.[/quote]No, I’ve never seen that critter before. Reading my post though it did sound kind of gay.
[quote name=Jame Gumb]They might like to upgrade C, but no team has ever won when changing catchers mid-season.[/quote]
Do the 2010 Giants not count?
[quote name=Chris Dickerson]Do the 2010 Giants not count?[/quote]
I don’t think he’s being serial. It just seems like a common charge from braindead fans that the catcher has to know the staff. Nevermind the 2007 Cubs not only changed midseason (Barrett to Kendall) but again in September (Kendall to Soto). We’ve seen guys like V-Mart and Pudge be moved in recent years at the deadline, too.
[quote name=Mish]I don’t think he’s being serial.[/quote]
I actually originally wrote “or am I just missing a hilarious joke” but cut it at the last second. Thanks.
[quote name=Chris Dickerson]I actually originally wrote “or am I just missing a hilarious joke” but cut it at the last second. Thanks.[/quote]Yes. It’s from ACB and goes back to 2007 when some unbelievably idiotic person insisted that no team can win if they change catchers midseason. The same person also insisted that no team can win a game after teammates get into a fight with one another. He also insisted Michael Barrett cost the Cubs more than 10 wins in his less than half season with the Cubs in 2007 simply because of his defense. Perhaps funniest of all, he argued, day and night, that Koyie Hill was a valuable player because of the won/loss record in the games he started. It’s too bad he deleted his own blog, but thanks to Baseball Think Factory, some of it lives on forever.
http://www.baseballthinkfactory.org/files/newsstand/discussion/the_bad_news_cubs_the_great_rbi_statistic/www.crookedbrook.com/custom-embroidered-jackets.htm/P0/ (one of the most hilarious comment threads ever on that site)
http://www.baseballthinkfactory.org/files/newsstand/discussion/the_bad_news_cubs_thank_god_for_another_cubs_blog/
[quote name=mb21]
http://www.baseballthinkfactory.org/files/newsstand/discussion/the_bad_news_cubs_the_great_rbi_statistic/www.crookedbrook.com/custom-embroidered-jackets.htm/P0/ (one of the most hilarious comment threads ever on that site)
http://www.baseballthinkfactory.org/files/newsstand/discussion/the_bad_news_cubs_thank_god_for_another_cubs_blog//quote
Vaguely remember that but bookmarked for some comedic reading later.
[quote name=Mish]Vaguely remember that but bookmarked for some comedic reading later.[/quote]It’s a good time for sure.
new stuff: http://www.obstructedview.net/chicago-cubs/articles/looking-back-at-the-matt-garza-trade.html
How much concern should there be for Brett Jackson’s 30% K-rate??
[quote name=mb21]It’s a good time for sure.[/quote]TWSS