The news this morning really couldn’t be much better. Albert Pujols will most likely finish his career in the American League West, where his damage to the Cubs will be minimal. He will, however, still be able to torment the Houston Astros.
Now all we need is for Fielder to sign with the Mariners. Oh, and some starting pitching and a third baseman and a first baseman.
Comments
My favorite Phil Rogers moment ever still has to be his touting Paul Byrd as a FA power hitter the Cubs could sign.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=Berselius]There’s some confusion over the Cubs Rule 5 pick. BA says it’s Leandro Castillo, not Lendy.[/quote]
bref doesn’t know who that is
GWQuote Reply
Sucks to be the Astros (dying laughing)
BerseliusQuote Reply
Let’s try Leandro Castro instead of Lendy Castillo.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
And a first base coach.. and to dump Soriano.
WaLiQuote Reply
It’s sounding like CJ Wilson——–> LAAoLAoDoLAoALoPQoA
BerseliusQuote Reply
So Kendrys Morales may be available. It’s been 2 years but would be well worth the flyer. Also wonder if Wilson signs if they make Santana available.
JManQuote Reply
When was the last time a player of this caliber willingly left a team to go to another right after winning a championship?
GBTSQuote Reply
If it really is Castro, here’s a nice fluff piece on him: http://articles.philly.com/2011-04-19/sports/29447519_1_plate-discipline-strike-zone-pleasant-surprise
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
The downside is that the Cards have Wainwright coming back, and not signing Albert gives them payroll flexibility.
ACTQuote Reply
[quote name=ACT]The downside is that the Cards have Wainwright coming back, and not signing Albert gives them payroll flexibility.[/quote]They might have to use that money to keep Holliday supplied with Little Debbie snacks.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
https://www.facebook.com/PujolsFive?sk=wall&filter=12
BerseliusQuote Reply
[quote name=ACT]The downside is that the Cards have Wainwright coming back, and not signing Albert gives them payroll flexibility.[/quote]
St. Louis has a payroll of 84 million with 8 guys signed…they have said publicly that they will not go over last years 110 even after winning the WS…so 26 mil for 17 players…..thats not flexibility…
Snyds01Quote Reply
[quote name=GW]bref doesn’t know who that is[/quote]I’m guessing it’s Leandro Castro, a 5-tool A-ball OF with shitty plate discipline, and not Lendy Castillo, a RP project.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=Jon Heyman]Sure, albert moves 1,500 miles from home and legacy but on the bright side he’ll only be 45 miles from LA-based agent. [/quote]
I’m sure that’s exactly what he was thinking (dying laughing)
BerseliusQuote Reply
Just wanted to jump in to say something I never thought I’d say: HOORAAAY FOR ANAHEIM!!!!!
fang2415Quote Reply
Red Sox traded Marwin Gonzalez to Hou. He might actually stick on that awful roster.
BerseliusQuote Reply
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]My favorite Phil Rogers moment ever still has to be his touting Paul Byrd as a FA power hitter the Cubs could sign.[/quote]Is Paul like a left-handed version of Marlon?
fang2415Quote Reply
[quote name=fang2415]Is Paul like a left-handed version of Marlon?[/quote]Kinda. If he weren’t a pitcher.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
Orioles are close to announcing a trade today. Could be a special day if they’re acquiring Adolfo
BerseliusQuote Reply
[quote name=ACT]The downside is that the Cards have Wainwright coming back, and not signing Albert gives them payroll flexibility.[/quote]There’s a part of me that almost wishes the Cards had outbid the Angels. That contract is getting up toward fuck-ton of money territory and could have seriously screwed their budget.
OTOH, Alberto has always been better enough than expectations that I would still be worried he’d provide surplus value and kill the Cubs. So I’ll take it.
I guess what I’d want in a perfect world would be for Pujols to play for LAA but for the Cardinals to waste $260M anyway. (dying laughing)
fang2415Quote Reply
[quote name=Berselius]Orioles are close to announcing a trade today. Could be a special day if they’re acquiring Adolfo[/quote]I’d never say a bad word about Andy MacPhail again.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=fang2415]There’s a part of me that almost wishes the Cards had outbid the Angels. That contract is getting up toward fuck-ton of money territory and could have seriously screwed their budget.
OTOH, Alberto has always been better enough than expectations that I would still be worried he’d provide surplus value and kill the Cubs. So I’ll take it.
I guess what I’d want in a perfect world would be for Pujols to play for LAA but for the Cardinals to waste $260M anyway. (dying laughing)[/quote]Well, that Holliday contract isn’t exactly the picture of fiscal responsibility.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Kinda. If he weren’t a pitcher.[/quote]Not sure if you’re aware of it, but that reply actually re-doubled the double entendre
fang2415Quote Reply
[quote name=fang2415]Not sure if you’re aware of it, but that reply actually re-doubled the double entendre[/quote]FLAGGED
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
well if that isnt anti-climactic
Snyds01Quote Reply
http://unpopularopinionrickperry.tumblr.com/
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=fang2415]There’s a part of me that almost wishes the Cards had outbid the Angels. That contract is getting up toward fuck-ton of money territory and could have seriously screwed their budget.
OTOH, Alberto has always been better enough than expectations that I would still be worried he’d provide surplus value and kill the Cubs. So I’ll take it.
I guess what I’d want in a perfect world would be for Pujols to play for LAA but for the Cardinals to waste $260M anyway. (dying laughing)[/quote]Albert’s free agency would have been bad for the Cardinals either way. Over the last decade, he’s been paid way less than he’s worth, and that was going to come to an end one way or another.
ACTQuote Reply
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Well, that Holliday contract isn’t exactly the picture of fiscal responsibility.[/quote]I’d be fine with them extending him for another $260MM.
fang2415Quote Reply
Leandro Castro: http://www.baseball-reference.com/minors/player.cgi?id=castro001lea
22 year old left fielder with a career .274/.320/.432 through High A ball. He had a .305 OBP in 2010 and a .304 OBP last year so he must be Soriano’s replacement.
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=Snyds01]well if that isnt anti-climactic[/quote]I WILL MAKE A BIG ANNOUNCEMENT SHORTLY. PLEASE BE LISTENING.
I made a passable pot of coffee this morning. That is all. Thanks for your time.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=Berselius]Red Sox traded Marwin Gonzalez to Hou. He might actually stick on that awful roster.[/quote]He’s supposedly an excellent defender.
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=fang2415]I’d be fine with them extending him for another $260MM.[/quote]I think Holliday will have extended his waistline to 260 by the final years of that deal.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=mb21]He’s supposedly an excellent defender.[/quote]But how are his hill-climbing skills?
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
CJ Wilson ———> LAAoLAoDoQUoFAoA, per mlbtr
BerseliusQuote Reply
[quote name=ACT]Albert’s free agency would have been bad for the Cardinals either way. Over the last decade, he’s been paid way less than he’s worth, and that was going to come to an end one way or another.[/quote]Yeah, I remember somebody at Fangraphs making a pretty good argument that the sole reason that the Cardinals have overperformed their budget over the last decade is their crazy score on Pujols. He singlehandedly made mediocre management look like a bunch of geniuses.
IIRC they got something like $150MM of surplus value out of him over his career.
fang2415Quote Reply
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]I think Holliday will have extended his waistline to 260 by the final years of that deal.[/quote]I’d be fine with that too
fang2415Quote Reply
25 year old 3rd baseman who has a career .278/.346/.462 line with over 600 plate appearances in AA and AAA or a 22 year old left fielder with a career .274/.320/.432 line and 0 plate appearances in AA and AAA. That’s the decision the Cubs front office made, but what’s even worse is that they could have both of them. They’d then have 37 guys on the 40-man roster and presumably 36 if they nontender Koyie HIll.
This actually pisses me off. There’s no logical explanation for this.
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=fang2415]
I guess what I’d want in a perfect world would be for Pujols to play for LAA but for the Cardinals to waste $260M anyway. (dying laughing)[/quote]I’d also like a blow job from Christy Turlington.
GBTSQuote Reply
Flaherty has 9.4 WAR (Statcorner) since 2009 has 2.6 WAR. This is David Patton 2.0. It was stupid in 2009 and it’s stupid now.
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=GBTS]I’d also like
a blow job from Christy Turlingtonto date myself.[/quote].Dr. Aneus TaintQuote Reply
[quote name=Berselius]CJ Wilson ———> LAAoLAoDoQUoFAoA, per mlbtr[/quote]Jesus, man. So… did anybody see the Marlins and LAA-oA-oA-oA coming like this? If I had to guess a month ago two teams that would be spending like OPEC members, I don’t think I’d have picked those two.
fang2415Quote Reply
[quote name=GBTS]I’d also like a blow job from Christy Turlington.[/quote]She’s not objectively hot.
WenningtonsGorillaCockQuote Reply
[quote name=mb21]Flaherty has 9.4 WAR (Statcorner) since 2009 has 2.6 WAR. This is David Patton 2.0. It was stupid in 2009 and it’s stupid now.[/quote]At his age of 25 and just getting to AAA I doubt Marwin Gonzalez is anything more than replacement level. I don’t know that there’s too much to get excited over..
JManQuote Reply
[quote name=mb21]25 year old 3rd baseman who has a career .278/.346/.462 line with over 600 plate appearances in AA and AAA or a 22 year old left fielder with a career .274/.320/.432 line and 0 plate appearances in AA and AAA. That’s the decision the Cubs front office made, but what’s even worse is that they could have both of them. They’d then have 37 guys on the 40-man roster and presumably 36 if they nontender Koyie HIll.
This actually pisses me off. There’s no logical explanation for this.[/quote]Hendry-era response —-> The Cubs are fucking idiots.
Theo-era response —-> There’s just gotta be a logical explanation for this.
(dying laughing)
fang2415Quote Reply
[quote name=WenningtonsGorillaCock]She’s not objectively hot.[/quote]She’s not objectively not hot.
fang2415Quote Reply
[quote name=mb21]25 year old 3rd baseman who has a career .278/.346/.462 line with over 600 plate appearances in AA and AAA or a 22 year old left fielder with a career .274/.320/.432 line and 0 plate appearances in AA and AAA. That’s the decision the Cubs front office made, but what’s even worse is that they could have both of them. They’d then have 37 guys on the 40-man roster and presumably 36 if they nontender Koyie HIll.
This actually pisses me off. There’s no logical explanation for this.[/quote]False. It’s the Cubs. There’s your explanation.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=fang2415]She’s not objectively not hot.[/quote]She’s not not objectively not not hot.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=JMan]At his age of 25 and just getting to AAA I doubt Marwin Gonzalez is anything more than replacement level. I don’t know that there’s too much to get excited over..[/quote]I assume you meant Ryan Flaherty, but yeah, he’s probably replacement level, but this guy has little chance of being that good. He’s a left fielder with no power, doesn’t run that great, poor on base skills, and Total Zone isn’t too thrilled with his work in LF.
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]False. It’s the Cubs. There’s your explanation.[/quote]Yeah, the idea of this front office is better than the reality. This is just a combination of stupid decisions. The only way you leave Flaherty off your 40-man roster when you have so many open spots is if you’re certain he won’t be drafted in the Rule 5 Draft. Maybe he’s replacement level, but that’s who the Cubs currently have filling in at 3rd base in Baker/DeWitt. In reality he’s probably the best 3rd basemen in the system.
I’m out. This shit pisses me off too much.
mb21Quote Reply
5/75 for Wilson
BerseliusQuote Reply
[quote name=mb21]Flaherty has 9.4 WAR (Statcorner) since 2009 has 2.6 WAR. This is David Patton 2.0. It was stupid in 2009 and it’s stupid now.[/quote]In all seriousness, I really can’t bring myself to get too upset about the Cubs not keeping a guy who, if he made it, was gonna be a 4th or 5th IF and instead acquiring a guy who, if he makes it, will be a 4th or 5th OF. I’m MUCH more concerned that there are glaring holes in RF, and at 3B and 1B that the Cubs don’t seem concerned to address.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=Berselius]5/75 for Wilson[/quote]Good for CJ, but man did the Angels just saddle themselves with a hefty payroll.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=mb21]I’m out. This shit pisses me off too much.[/quote]Well, Theo had six weeks of MB being happy. The honeymoon is over.
fang2415Quote Reply
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Good for CJ, but man did the Angels just saddle themselves with a hefty payroll.[/quote]They’re still paying Vernon Wells $75M over the next three years.
Unless they’ve backloaded Wilson and Pujols so they pay them each like $1 for the first three years, their payroll is going to be insane.
fang2415Quote Reply
[quote name=mb21]Yeah, the idea of this front office is better than the reality. This is just a combination of stupid decisions. The only way you leave Flaherty off your 40-man roster when you have so many open spots is if you’re certain he won’t be drafted in the Rule 5 Draft. Maybe he’s replacement level, but that’s who the Cubs currently have filling in at 3rd base in Baker/DeWitt. In reality he’s probably the best 3rd basemen in the system.
I’m out. This shit pisses me off too much.[/quote]Don’t you like anything?
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=fang2415]They’re still paying Vernon Wells $75M over the next three years.
Unless they’ve backloaded Wilson and Pujols so they pay them each like $1 for the first three years, their payroll is going to be insane.[/quote]Hunter has a big deal, too.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
ba showing it as lendy castillo
http://www.baseballamerica.com/blog/prospects/2011/12/2011-rule-5-draft-results/
GWQuote Reply
So, does this Pujols signing mean the Cubs will trade all their prospects for Trumbo now?
ACTQuote Reply
[quote name=GW]ba showing it as lendy castillo
http://www.baseballamerica.com/blog/prospects/2011/12/2011-rule-5-draft-results/%5B/quote%5DThere hasn’t been this much handwringing over a Cubs Rule 5 pick since everyone failed to inform themselves about the details of the Hamilton pick. (dying laughing)
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Hunter has a big deal, too.[/quote]
GBTSQuote Reply
[quote name=ACT]So, does this Pujols signing mean the Cubs will trade all their prospects for Trumbo now?[/quote]Or Matt Garza…
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
(dying laughing) GBTS
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=Berselius]CJ Wilson ———> LAAoLAoDoQUoFAoA, per mlbtr[/quote]
I guess LAA decided they were sick of losing the division. What’s your response, TEX?
Dr. Aneus TaintQuote Reply
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]There hasn’t been this much handwringing over a Cubs Rule 5 pick since everyone failed to inform themselves about the details of the Hamilton pick. (dying laughing)[/quote]
someone should dig up the old draft thread where mb was pissed off at the flaherty pick because he was described as a wally joyner-type. (dying laughing)
so sad that i remember that.
GWQuote Reply
[quote name=fang2415]They’re still paying Vernon Wells $75M over the next three years.
Unless they’ve backloaded Wilson and Pujols so they pay them each like $1 for the first three years, their payroll is going to be insane.[/quote]
Don’t forget their most important signing of LaTroy Hawkins for 1/$3m (dying laughing)
WenningtonsGorillaCockQuote Reply
[quote name=Dr. Aneus Taint]I guess LAA decided they were sick of losing the division. What’s your response, TEX?[/quote]Well, they do get LAAoAoLA’s 2nd round pick now (dying laughing)
WenningtonsGorillaCockQuote Reply
[quote name=Dr. Aneus Taint]I guess LAA decided they were sick of losing the division. What’s your response, TEX?[/quote]I’m guessing one of these two teams will make a push for Garza now. LAAAAAAAAAAAAAOAAAAAAAAAAOAAAAAAAA will want to maybe block TEX from makign the move, and TEX will want to respond both to the loss of Wilson and the signing of Pujols.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=WenningtonsGorillaCock]Don’t forget their most important signing of LaTroy Hawkins for 1/$3m (dying laughing)[/quote]I wonder if they will still try and get Ramirez. It’s been a forgone conclusion for some time now that they are/were his chief suitors.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
Maybe the plan is to bring in Marquez Smith to play 3rd.
That would be funny.
fang2415Quote Reply
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]I’m guessing one of these two teams will make a push for Garza now. LAAAAAAAAAAAAAOAAAAAAAAAAOAAAAAAAA will want to maybe block TEX from makign the move, and TEX will want to respond both to the loss of Wilson and the signing of Pujols.[/quote]
I’m thinking they go for Darvish before Garza.
Dr. Aneus TaintQuote Reply
[quote name=Dr. Aneus Taint]I’m thinking they go for Darvish before Garza.[/quote]Does TEX have the cash for the posting fee, even, considering they didn’t/couldn’t really make a strong push for Wilson to re-sign?
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=fang2415]Maybe the plan is to bring in Marquez Smith to play 3rd.
That would be funny.[/quote]I think they’ll have to be exposed to the carnival of ineptitude that is Blake DeWitt at the plate for a few weeks before they get Smith in the mix.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]I wonder if they will still try and get Ramirez. It’s been a forgone conclusion for some time now that they are/were his chief suitors.[/quote]Jeez, yeah, forgot about that.
It would be (dying laughing) if they bought Pujols, Wilson, Rami, and Garza. Talk about shooting the moon.
Oh, and Hawkins of course. (dying laughing)
fang2415Quote Reply
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Does TEX have the cash for the posting fee, even, considering they didn’t/couldn’t really make a strong push for Wilson to re-sign?[/quote]
Yes.
And I don’t they couldn’t make a stronger push for CJ. They reportedly didn’t value him as much as other clubs and it was pretty much a foregone conclusion he was leaving for SoCal.
Dr. Aneus TaintQuote Reply
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]I think they’ll have to be exposed to the carnival of ineptitude that is Blake DeWitt at the plate for a few weeks before they get Smith in the mix.[/quote]Is Smith even still in the org? I want to remember that he was released or something and everybody here went “Oh, I guess there really must have been a good reason he wasn’t protected in the Rule 5 draft then.” (dying laughing)
fang2415Quote Reply
[quote name=Dr. Aneus Taint]Yes.
And I don’t they couldn’t make a stronger push for CJ. They reportedly didn’t value him as much as other clubs and it was pretty much a foregone conclusion he was leaving for SoCal.[/quote]Ah, I see. But Darvish doesn’t replace CJ. He’d prob need a year in the minors at least.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
5/75 for Wilson is not a bad deal at all. While the AAV is high, you have to love the length of that deal. I’m wondering if the Cubs ever considered him.
Rodrigo RamirezQuote Reply
[quote name=fang2415]Is Smith even still in the org? I want to remember that he was released or something and everybody here went “Oh, I guess there really must have been a good reason he wasn’t protected in the Rule 5 draft then.” (dying laughing)[/quote]He was with the Cubs last season. They left him unprotected, but I guess no one took him. Strange. All the guy has done is hit and play excellent defense.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
i keep hearing from my friends that we should stay away from Darvish because of Dice K. But it seems that Darvish is way way better.
Yankees will get him anyway
dylanjQuote Reply
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Ah, I see. But Darvish doesn’t replace CJ. He’d prob need a year in the minors at least.[/quote]
Regarding Darvish, I just saw something that said he may wait a year to post. I guess he’s going through a divorce and doesn;t want his (ex)wife to receive half of his payout (dying laughing)
Rodrigo RamirezQuote Reply
I think the most likely move for StL now is to try to sign Jimmy Rollins.
BerseliusQuote Reply
[quote name=dylanj]i keep hearing from my friends that we should stay away from Darvish because of Dice K. But it seems that Darvish is way way better.
Yankees will get him anyway[/quote]Darvish’s stats blow away Dice-K’s stats.
Also, a lot of the Dice-K mystique was his “gyro-ball,” which was supposed to be the most devastating Japanese onslaught on American soil since Pearl Harbor. After a few months the consensus from big league hitters was, “Yeah, it’s a pretty decent changeup.” (dying laughing)
GBTSQuote Reply
[quote name=Berselius]I think the most likely move for StL now is to try to sign Jimmy Rollins.[/quote]Don’t he and Pujols have the same agent?
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=Rodrigo Ramirez]5/75 for Wilson is not a bad deal at all. While the AAV is high, you have to love the length of that deal. I’m wondering if the Cubs ever considered him.[/quote]
I’m glad the Cubs stayed away from him. He’s only been a starter for 2 years! I think he’s good but not a risk I’d want to take.
BerseliusQuote Reply
I think the plan is to add Darvish or get Fielder and go with a rotation of:
Holland
Ogando
Feliz
Lewis
Harrison
…with Martin Perez and Neil Ramirez knocking on the door.
Dr. Aneus TaintQuote Reply
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Don’t he and Pujols have the same agent?[/quote]
Maybe they’ll make a push for Rodrigo Lopez instead (dying laughing)
BerseliusQuote Reply
[quote name=dylanj]i keep hearing from my friends that we should stay away from Darvish because of Dice K. But it seems that Darvish is way way better.
Yankees will get him anyway[/quote]Yes, common racial heritage is always a good predictor. Better stay away from this Pujols guy since so many other Dominican players have been garbage. (dying laughing)
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
http://brett-mcmurphy.blogs.cbssports.com/mcc/blogs/entry/29532522/33754694
AQ ——–> going away?
BerseliusQuote Reply
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]He was with the Cubs last season. They left him unprotected, but I guess no one took him. Strange. All the guy has done is hit and play excellent defense.[/quote]
According to Miles, his defense is not that great. Of course I’d love to look up where he says that, but I’m not paying for a shitty northwest herald subscription.
ABQuote Reply
[quote name=Berselius]I’m glad the Cubs stayed away from him. He’s only been a starter for 2 years! I think he’s good but not a risk I’d want to take.[/quote]Yeah, Wilson seemed like too big of a risk for me. I’d rather see how the staff shakes out in ST before spending big there. Especially with gaping holes at 3 of the 4 corners still unfilled.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=fang2415]Is Paul like a left-handed version of Marlon?[/quote]Is that like a gay joke?
Rice CubeQuote Reply
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]He was with the Cubs last season. They left him unprotected, but I guess no one took him. Strange. All the guy has done is hit and play excellent defense.[/quote]I thought something went wrong with him late in the 2011 season? Like, he retired or something? Maybe I dreamt it.
Anyway, if he’s still in the org, bring him up, what the hell. It’ll settle MB down anyway. (dying laughing)
fang2415Quote Reply
[quote name=AB]According to Miles, his defense is not that great. Of course I’d love to look up where he says that, but I’m not paying for a shitty northwest herald subscription.[/quote]Then Miles is simply wrong. All the scouting reports on Marquez say he’s a plus defender. I’d love to know where MIles got that info.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
what can i say MO I just hang with a lot of racists. Its the kind of company i like to keep
dylanjQuote Reply
Accodring to this piece by MB: http://anothercubsblog.net/chicago-cubs/articles/marquez-smith-and-aramis-ramirez.html TZ had Smith at +37 as a defender through 2009. No idea what it is now, but the guy has always been touted as an excellent defender.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=dylanj]what can i say MO I just hang with a lot of racists. Its the kind of company i like to keep[/quote](dying laughing)
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=Rice Cube]Is that like a gay joke?[/quote]All left-handed jokes are actually gay jokes.
fang2415Quote Reply
[quote name=fang2415]I thought something went wrong with him late in the 2011 season? Like, he retired or something? Maybe I dreamt it.
Anyway, if he’s still in the org, bring him up, what the hell. It’ll settle MB down anyway. (dying laughing)[/quote]He only played 78 games due to injury. No idea what the situation is now.
Perhaps the Cubs are thinking about giving Junior Lake a shot, as well?
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=fang2415]All left-handed jokes are actually gay jokes.[/quote]Meta
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
If you guys want to read Daily Herald paywall stuff, use the Chrome browser and just hit stop right away as the page loads. You can read it all for free.
Rodrigo RamirezQuote Reply
[quote name=Rodrigo Ramirez]Regarding Darvish, I just saw something that said he may wait a year to post. I guess he’s going through a divorce and doesn;t want his (ex)wife to receive half of his payout (dying laughing)[/quote]
Well my initial comment could not have been more wrong:
http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/breaking/chi-japans-darvish-says-he-ready-for-majors-20111208,0,1375995.story
Rodrigo RamirezQuote Reply
Wasn’t Darvish posted last night?
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=Rodrigo Ramirez]If you guys want to read Daily Herald paywall stuff, use the Chrome browser and just hit stop right away as the page loads. You can read it all for free.[/quote]
i’ll flag this one myself
GWQuote Reply
[quote name=mb21]Wasn’t Darvish posted last night?[/quote]
They announced last night that he will be posted today
BerseliusQuote Reply
What’s the point of giving me a guy’s ERA and the number of K’s he had if you’re not also going to provide IP and BB numbers?
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=GW]someone should dig up the old draft thread where mb was pissed off at the flaherty pick because he was described as a wally joyner-type. (dying laughing)
so sad that i remember that.[/quote]I vaguely recall the Wally Joyner comparison. I don’t remember being pissed, but I’ll take your word for it. All the comments from the old ACB are gone. All I could find was the scouting report from BA when he was drafted.
Here was the scouting report at the time he was signed:
68 RYAN FLAHERTY, SS, Vanderbilt
.
mb21Quote Reply
Flaherty will be back. I’m still really surprised that he was let go. He had a pretty darn good year
dylanjQuote Reply
[quote name=Patrick Sullivan]Juggling the SI-CBS transition with Boras Corp PR Director duties has to be hectic.[/quote]
(dying laughing). Tweet of the day.
BerseliusQuote Reply
Heh. Cardinals tried to get Pujols to sign by having Stan Musial call him.
ACTQuote Reply
[quote name=Berselius]They announced last night that he will be posted today[/quote]With posting, is that just kind of thrown away money? Also who gets that money, the Japanese league or the player?
WaLiQuote Reply
[quote name=WaLi]With posting, is that just kind of thrown away money? Also who gets that money, the Japanese league or the player?[/quote]
IIRC, his former team. Definitely not the player.
BerseliusQuote Reply
[quote name=WaLi]With posting, is that just kind of thrown away money? Also who gets that money, the Japanese league or the player?[/quote]I think the Japanese team gets the money. If they can’t negotiate, the Japanese team has to return the money to the team with the winning bid.
Rice CubeQuote Reply
[quote name=dylanj]Flaherty will be back. I’m still really surprised that he was let go. He had a pretty darn good year[/quote]I doubt he’ll be back. The O’s aren’t going to contend so they can give him some playing time vs righties and use him him at 2nd, 3rd, LF and RF and even for a inning here or there at SS. He bats lefties, gets on base, has average power and isn’t killing the team defensively. He’s versatile and the type of player a team not in contention is going to hold onto.
Leandy Castroilla on the other hand has as much chance of making the roster as you do.
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=WaLi]With posting, is that just kind of thrown away money? Also who gets that money, the Japanese league or the player?[/quote]
the Castle Church in Wittenburg
GWQuote Reply
[quote name=Berselius]IIRC, his former team. Definitely not the player.[/quote]The posting fee goes to the team and then the contract is obviously what the players gets.
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=GW]the Castle Church in Wittenburg[/quote][quote name=mb21]The posting fee goes to the team and then the contract is obviously what the players gets.[/quote][quote name=Berselius]IIRC, his former team. Definitely not the player.[/quote][quote name=Rice Cube]I think the Japanese team gets the money. If they can’t negotiate, the Japanese team has to return the money to the team with the winning bid.[/quote]
Thanks (dying laughing)
WaLiQuote Reply
[quote name=WaLi]Thanks (dying laughing)[/quote]
Rice CubeQuote Reply
Unless the Cubs plan on sucking ass for a couple years and stashing him in the bullpenshortstopoutfieldbench until he’s 25, no good and close to earning arbitration.
mb21Quote Reply
Matt Kalil ————–> USC
Wow. Who wants to be a top 3 pick in the NFL Draft? People not named Matt Kalil.
Dr. Aneus TaintQuote Reply
Title on cubs.com feed: Cubs not taking spending spree approach.
That should read Cubs not taking spending approach.
mb21Quote Reply
http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news?slug=jp-passan_darvish_posted_japan_mlb_120811
Aisle424Quote Reply
[quote name=Dr. Aneus Taint]Matt Kalil ————–> USC
Wow. Who wants to be a top 3 pick in the NFL Draft? People not named Matt Kalil.[/quote]Would you want to be drafted by StL or Minnesota? (Assuming Colts draft Luck)
WaLiQuote Reply
The Cubs did replace Flaherty in the minors with this guy: http://www.baseball-reference.com/minors/player.cgi?id=alvare003ric
He has a .251/.294/.386 line in over 1000 plate appearances. It’s like the Cubs now like OBP less than they ever did.
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=mb21]Title on cubs.com feed: Cubs not taking spending spree approach.
That should read Cubs not taking approach.[/quote]
Fixed
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
Last year Alvarez did have only 3 more walks than home runs. I know you’re thinking that’s probably pretty good. Something like 25 home runs. Nope. 10. 13 walks. 96 strikeouts. I guess they got this guy to make Josh Vitters feel better about his approach.
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=WaLi]Would you want to be drafted by StL or Minnesota? (Assuming Colts draft Luck)[/quote]
Unless his plan is to devalue his draft stock next year, he’ll be in a similar situation but with one fewer year of getting paid to play football (by an NFL team).
And I’d be just fine being drafted by MIN.
Dr. Aneus TaintQuote Reply
[quote name=mb21]I’m out. This shit pisses me off too much.[/quote]
[quote name=mb21]I doubt he’ll be back. The O’s aren’t going to contend so they can give him some playing time vs righties and use him him at 2nd, 3rd, LF and RF and even for a inning here or there at SS. He bats lefties, gets on base, has average power and isn’t killing the team defensively. He’s versatile and the type of player a team not in contention is going to hold onto.
Leandy Castroilla on the other hand has as much chance of making the roster as you do.[/quote]
[quote name=mb21]Unless the Cubs plan on sucking ass for a couple years and stashing him in the bullpenshortstopoutfieldbench until he’s 25, no good and close to earning arbitration.[/quote]
[quote name=mb21]Title on cubs.com feed: Cubs not taking spending spree approach.
That should read Cubs not taking spending approach.[/quote]
False.
WaLiQuote Reply
By the way, that was in Low A. The only good thing to say about that is that he at least isn’t on the 40-man like Castroillo is.
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=Dr. Aneus Taint]Matt Kalil ————–> USC
Wow. Who wants to be a top 3 pick in the NFL Draft? People not named Matt Kalil.[/quote]Wow. Big risk for him.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=WaLi]False.[/quote]I took a break and realized it’s only talent. Cubs don’t like it. I have to live with that.
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=mb21]The Cubs did replace Flaherty in the minors with this guy: http://www.baseball-reference.com/minors/player.cgi?id=alvare003ric
He has a .251/.294/.386 line in over 1000 plate appearances. It’s like the Cubs now like OBP less than they ever did.[/quote]1.) I can’t get too stirred up about the Cubs moving around players that are just bench guys and AAA filler.
2.) I’m guessing that the Cubs’ thinking is that you can teach on-base skills, but you can’t teach speed or power.
3.) Go have a cigarette before you explode. (dying laughing)
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=ACT]Heh. Cardinals tried to get Pujols to sign by having Stan Musial call him.[/quote]That’s gotta be worth $70MM at least.
fang2415Quote Reply
But Flaherty wasn’t just a filler or bench player. He’s the best 3rd basemen the Cubs have (not including Baez who is 13 years away from reaching the big leagues). Flaherty can actually hit righties unlike Baker and DeWitt and since righties throw about 67% of the innings that’s kind of important. Not only that, they’re wasting a 25-man roster spot on this Castroillo guy.
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=mb21]Title on cubs.com feed: Cubs not taking spending spree approach.
That should read Cubs not taking spending approach.[/quote]Also, Cubs not taking shooting spree approach
fang2415Quote Reply
[quote name=mb21]I took a break and realized it’s only talent. Cubs don’t like it. I have to live with that.[/quote]Are you really this upset over guys taken and lost in the Rule 5? The last time any player taken that had any impact was Josh Hamilton.
It’s Ryan Fucking Flaherty.
JManQuote Reply
Flaherty just must be another case where the scouts know something we dont see in the stat line. Because on production alone there isnt a great reason to leave the kid off the 40 man
dylanjQuote Reply
So yesterday was Aisley meltdown about Pujols staying with StL.
Today MB about Flaherty.
Which one of our discredited bloggers will be next, AC or B?
WaLiQuote Reply
[quote name=ACT]Heh. Cardinals tried to get Pujols to sign by having Stan Musial call him.[/quote]Stan: Al, we really want you to stay.
Al: Sure. I want all the money back that I handed in surplus value over the past decade.
Stan: But I’m going to die soon.
Al: I’m going to retire soon.
Stan: /singing “All I Want for Christmas Is You.”
Al: …
Stan: That’s the ringtone on my cellphone. I call myself and then stare at pictures of you.
Al: How far is California from St. Louis?
Stan: Thousands of miles. Why?
Al: Oh, no reason. I gotta go.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Wow. Big risk for him.[/quote]
Yeah. I don’t get it at all. He can’t improve his draft stock (unless he’s trying to go from being selected No. 2 overall to No. 1 overall).
All the top-3 picks from last year started with 4-year deals > $20 million. So essentially, Kalil is giving up $5 million to play at USC for one more year.
Does he just really want to play in a bowl or something?
I will say that I wouldn’t be surprised if Matt Barkley returned for his senior season now.
Dr. Aneus TaintQuote Reply
[quote name=WaLi]So yesterday was Aisley meltdown about Pujols staying with StL.
Today MB about Flaherty.
Which one of our discredited bloggers will be next, AC or B?[/quote]
I’m sure I’ll get really mad about something soon. Does that count?
Dr. Aneus TaintQuote Reply
Most importantly, there was room on the 40-man roster. I could understand if they had 37 guys on the roster, but they had 34 when they made the decision to not protect him. One of those 34 is Koyie Hill. They actually have 4 catchers on their 40-man roster. The Cubs didn’t have room on their 40-man roster for McGehee so that was understandable and he wasn’t nearly as good as Flaherty in the minors. I’ve never been upset over that even after he put together some solid seasons. That was the cost of contending and having a full roster. The cost of not contending and not having a full roster should not be Ryan Flaherty.
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=JMan]Are you really this upset over guys taken and lost in the Rule 5? The last time any player taken that had any impact was Josh Hamilton.
It’s Ryan Fucking Flaherty.[/quote]This. We’re talking about a guy who is a 4th IF, at best. And calling him the best 3B in the Cubs system isn’t even a tallest midget argument; it’s more like a “which paramecium is more complex” argument. (dying laughing)
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=mb21]Most importantly, there was room on the 40-man roster. I could understand if they had 37 guys on the roster, but they had 34 when they made the decision to not protect him. One of those 34 is Koyie Hill. They actually have 4 catchers on their 40-man roster. The Cubs didn’t have room on their 40-man roster for McGehee so that was understandable and he wasn’t nearly as good as Flaherty in the minors. I’ve never been upset over that even after he put together some solid seasons. That was the cost of contending and having a full roster. The cost of not contending and not having a full roster should not be Ryan Flaherty.[/quote]
this
edit: dueling this’s
GWQuote Reply
[quote name=Dr. Aneus Taint]Yeah. I don’t get it at all. He can’t improve his draft stock (unless he’s trying to go from being selected No. 2 overall to No. 1 overall).
All the top-3 picks from last year started with 4-year deals > $20 million. So essentially, Kalil is giving up $5 million to play at USC for one more year.
Does he just really want to play in a bowl or something?
I will say that I wouldn’t be surprised if Matt Barkley returned for his senior season now.[/quote]Maybe this?
Compared to
Definitely worth $5 mil (dying laughing)
WaLiQuote Reply
[quote name=mb21]Most importantly, there was room on the 40-man roster. I could understand if they had 37 guys on the roster, but they had 34 when they made the decision to not protect him. One of those 34 is Koyie Hill. They actually have 4 catchers on their 40-man roster. The Cubs didn’t have room on their 40-man roster for McGehee so that was understandable and he wasn’t nearly as good as Flaherty in the minors. I’ve never been upset over that even after he put together some solid seasons. That was the cost of contending and having a full roster. The cost of not contending and not having a full roster should not be Ryan Flaherty.[/quote]Yeah, this is the really odd part. They had room to protect more guys and they just didn’t. Mystifying.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
http://espn.go.com/blog/chicago/cubs/post/_/id/7419/pujols-deal-sets-up-well-for-cubs?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter
BerseliusQuote Reply
[quote name=JMan]Are you really this upset over guys taken and lost in the Rule 5? The last time any player taken that had any impact was Josh Hamilton.
It’s Ryan Fucking Flaherty.[/quote]Yeah, it’s Flaherty. I’m upset the Cubs chose a lesser player to protect. If the Cubs added Marwin Gonzalez to the 40-man roster at the expense of Castro it would be stupid. It’s dumb to protect lesser players and that’s what the Cubs have done.
Am I really that upset? it pissed me off, but I’m now convinced I’m going to be much more pissed off later on.
I agree with DJ that obviously the scouts see something. I think we talked about that at the time, but what the scouts say has to be weighted with other information (stats). If the scout says this guy has no chance that’s a piece of information. The fact he’s hit quite well in the minors is another piece of information.
This Lendy Castillo guy must be the second coming of Mariano Rivera or something.
mb21Quote Reply
Any chance this Rule 5 dude is part of whatever they’re sending to the Sox for Theo?
Smokestack LightningQuote Reply
[quote name=mb21]But Flaherty wasn’t just a filler or bench player. He’s the best 3rd basemen the Cubs have (not including Baez who is 13 years away from reaching the big leagues). Flaherty can actually hit righties unlike Baker and DeWitt and since righties throw about 67% of the innings that’s kind of important. Not only that, they’re wasting a 25-man roster spot on this Castroillo guy.[/quote]Don’t worry, I’m sure the Cubs beat writers will get to the bottom of this and explain once and for all the thinking behind the FO’s decisions on Flaherty, Castillo, Smith, and several other peculiarities of the rule 5 draft. Then we’ll understand.
/(dying laughing)’d
fang2415Quote Reply
[quote name=Dr. Aneus Taint]Yeah. I don’t get it at all. He can’t improve his draft stock (unless he’s trying to go from being selected No. 2 overall to No. 1 overall).
All the top-3 picks from last year started with 4-year deals > $20 million. So essentially, Kalil is giving up $5 million to play at USC for one more year.
Does he just really want to play in a bowl or something?
I will say that I wouldn’t be surprised if Matt Barkley returned for his senior season now.[/quote]Yeah, next year is their shot, so maybe that’s the idea. Oregon and Stanford will both lose a shitton of seniors and will be rebuilding a bit. The rest of the Pac-12 is garbage. If USC returns their seniors, they can write their ticket to the Rose Bowl right now.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=Berselius]http://espn.go.com/blog/chicago/cubs/post/_/id/7419/pujols-deal-sets-up-well-for-cubs?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter[/quote]Pujols average annual = $25MM-$26MM. Fielder’s —> $22MM-ish?
The Cubs not being as aggressive makes me think they have an out-of-the-box plan or that they’re just somehow unable to spend money.
Rice CubeQuote Reply
The best parts of the Vikings pic:
1.) Even other Viking fans are laughing at that douchebag
2.) He basically has a tattoo of himself on his shoulder.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
The Marlins offered CJ 6/$98?
WenningtonsGorillaCockQuote Reply
FWIW those extra 40-man slots are probably set aside for FAs, if anything.
BerseliusQuote Reply
[quote name=Berselius]http://espn.go.com/blog/chicago/cubs/post/_/id/7419/pujols-deal-sets-up-well-for-cubs?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter[/quote]
Gotta hand it to Levine, he’s beat that drum for Fielder all offseason. Gonna be one a sad little boy come Christmas morning when he finds Bryan LaHair under his tree.
Smokestack LightningQuote Reply
I want the Cubs to make smart decisions and I fail to see how this is smart. Anytime they don’t make one I’m going to be disappointed.
MO, it’s not a tallest midget type of thing. The Cubs aren’t spending money and they need a 3rd baseman. If they sign one he’ll end up on the DL for some reason for a short time and they’ll need someone to fill in. Do you want Jeff Baker who has something like a -.500 wOBA vs righties filling in? Do you want a poor fielding DeWitt who also can’t hit righties or lefties? Or do you want Flaherty who has proven he can hit righties quite well in the minors.
The reason the Cardinals can supposedly just plug in holes when players get injured is because they keep guys like Flaherty around. Again, if the roster was full, who cares? Cost of doing business. But it wasn’t full. it was nowhere near full.
I’d much rather have Flaherty protected than Josh Vitters and I said it at the time. Vitters would have no chance of sticking on an MLB roster. So even if some team took him you’re going to get him back. Dude can’t get on base, can’t field, can’t run.
mb21Quote Reply
I had forgotten about Cespedes, but it just might be the case that with the new CBA looming, the Cubs are focusing all their energies at taking the last shot they’ll have at a big splash int he Latin-American market.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=Smokestack Lightning]Any chance this Rule 5 dude is part of whatever they’re sending to the Sox for Theo?[/quote]I thought of that too. it’s about the only way it makes sense that he wasn’t on the 40-man. The Sox and Cubs agreed on a list of 3 or 4 players and the only way those guys could be traded was if they were left off the 40-man roster. So the Cubs lose Flaherty to the O’s and someone else to the Red Sox.
If that’s what it is.
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=Smokestack Lightning]Gotta hand it to Levine, he’s beat that drum for Fielder all offseason. Gonna be one a sad little boy come Christmas morning when he finds Bryan LaHair under his tree.[/quote]Levine has done well, but I hate the idea of improving only because the other teams got worse.
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=mb21]Most importantly, there was room on the 40-man roster. I could understand if they had 37 guys on the roster, but they had 34 when they made the decision to not protect him. One of those 34 is Koyie Hill. They actually have 4 catchers on their 40-man roster. The Cubs didn’t have room on their 40-man roster for McGehee so that was understandable and he wasn’t nearly as good as Flaherty in the minors. I’ve never been upset over that even after he put together some solid seasons. That was the cost of contending and having a full roster. The cost of not contending and not having a full roster should not be Ryan Flaherty.[/quote]Maybe the Cubs happen to know that the Cardinals are planning on trading something worthless for Flaherty and then offering him a $260MM contract extension.
fang2415Quote Reply
[quote name=Smokestack Lightning]Any chance this Rule 5 dude is part of whatever they’re sending to the Sox for Theo?[/quote]Wow would it be (dying laughing) if they went out of their way to pick up somebody worthless just for that reason.
fang2415Quote Reply
[quote name=mb21]I want the Cubs to make smart decisions and I fail to see how this is smart. Anytime they don’t make one I’m going to be disappointed.
MO, it’s not a tallest midget type of thing. The Cubs aren’t spending money and they need a 3rd baseman. If they sign one he’ll end up on the DL for some reason for a short time and they’ll need someone to fill in. Do you want Jeff Baker who has something like a -.500 wOBA vs righties filling in? Do you want a poor fielding DeWitt who also can’t hit righties or lefties? Or do you want Flaherty who has proven he can hit righties quite well in the minors.
The reason the Cardinals can supposedly just plug in holes when players get injured is because they keep guys like Flaherty around. Again, if the roster was full, who cares? Cost of doing business. But it wasn’t full. it was nowhere near full.
I’d much rather have Flaherty protected than Josh Vitters and I said it at the time. Vitters would have no chance of sticking on an MLB roster. So even if some team took him you’re going to get him back. Dude can’t get on base, can’t field, can’t run.[/quote]What about Aramis? Perhaps the Angels have tapped themselves out. Maybe the market dries up for Ramirez a bit and the Cubs can get him back. I just can’t get too upset about not protecting a guy who projects as a bench player. The use of the roster here is odd, but not worth all this angst. The Cubs are going to fucking suck next year. Ryan Flaherty wouldn’t have changed that one bit.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=Berselius]FWIW those extra 40-man slots are probably set aside for FAs, if anything.[/quote]I don’t see how they sign 6 MLB free agents this offseason, b. If they don’t go with Fielder they’ll go with LaHair. Maybe a 3rd baseman. Between Barney, DeWitt and Baker you more than have 2nd base covered (one likely gets traded). If there’s a hole in the outfield it means Soriano is traded and then you probably use Jackson. You’ve got Garza, Dempster, Zambrano, Wells for the rotation so there’s potentially 1 spot to add for the rotation.
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=mb21]I thought of that too. it’s about the only way it makes sense that he wasn’t on the 40-man. The Sox and Cubs agreed on a list of 3 or 4 players and the only way those guys could be traded was if they were left off the 40-man roster. So the Cubs lose Flaherty to the O’s and someone else to the Red Sox.
If that’s what it is.[/quote]That’s the most plausible explanation right now.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
If they signed Cespedes and Darvish (I know, I know) would both of them have to be added to the 40-man?
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]I had forgotten about Cespedes, but it just might be the case that with the new CBA looming, the Cubs are focusing all their energies at taking the last shot they’ll have at a big splash int he Latin-American market.[/quote]Cespesdes, Soler and Darvish are all available this off-season and are going to cost some serious money. Like you said, maybe they have decided to go all-in on these 3.
JManQuote Reply
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]If they signed Cespedes and Darvish (I know, I know) would both of them have to be added to the 40-man?[/quote]If those deals are MLB deals aren’t they automatically added to the 40-man?
Rice CubeQuote Reply
[quote name=mb21]I want the Cubs to make smart decisions and I fail to see how this is smart. Anytime they don’t make one I’m going to be disappointed.[/quote]
Hey, cut them some slack, they’ve been too busy with other things:
[quote name=Chicago Cubs e-mail]
December 8, 2011
Dear Mr. Gorilla Cock,
Happy Holidays!
The holiday season is well underway at the Friendly Confines. The team and its associates have been out in the community spreading holiday cheer and giving back to children and families across Chicago.
HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING
On December 3, the Chicago Cubs and the Ricketts family hosted the first-ever tree lighting ceremony at the Friendly Confines. A 30-foot Concolor fir tree is now on display at the corner of Clark and Addison. In an effort to promote environmental sustainability, the tree is adorned with energy-efficient lights and has a root ball at the base, so it can be replanted at the end of the holiday season. The tree has been embraced by the Lakeview community, as several neighborhood groups donated ornaments and students at Inter-American and Greeley Elementary Schools made baseball-shaped ornaments for the tree. Special guests at the tree lighting ceremony included Illinois Governor Pat Quinn, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley, Illinois Senate President John Cullerton, 12th District State Representative Sara Feigenholtz, 44th Ward Alderman Tom Tunney, 10th District Cook County Commissioner Bridget Gainer and Chicago Park District CEO Mike Kelly. The tree was graciously donated by Patch Landscaping and Snow Removal. The Ravinia Lawndale Music Conservatory performed at the ceremony.
RINK AT WRIGLEY
The tree ceremony was part of The Rink at Wrigley grand opening. This is the third consecutive year for the Rink, which has been a very popular attraction in the Lakeview community during the winter. Following the tree ceremony, attendees were treated to free skating, hot chocolate and cookies compliments of the Chicago Cubs, Levy Restaurants and Westrec Marinas. The Rink at Wrigley is sponsored by the Ricketts family, Chicago Park District, Westrec Marinas and Patch Landscaping and Snow Removal. The Rink will be open through February 26, 2012. For more information, visit http://www.rinkatwrigley.com.
SENIOR CITIZEN THANKSGIVING
On November 17, Cubs associates joined the 23rd Chicago Police District in serving hot Thanksgiving meals to 200 senior citizens in the Lakeview community. The group shared turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes and delicious desserts.
NATIONAL RUNAWAY SWITCHBOARD
For the sixth consecutive year, the Chicago Cubs teamed up with the National Runaway Switchboard to serve a Thanksgiving meal to runaway and homeless children. On November 22, 30 Cubs associates helped serve meals to more than 100 children and young adults. The meal was hosted at St. Luke Church on West Belmont. The Cubs have been a proud supporter of the National Runaway Switchboard for 12 years.
OPERATION SANTA
The Cubs have adopted the 7th and 8th grade classes at Goethe School in Logan Square for Operation Santa. Cubs associates are providing more than 150 books from a holiday wish list sent by Goethe students. The books will be wrapped and delivered by Santa.
KIDS HOLIDAY PARTY
On December 3, several Cubs associates volunteered at a holiday party to provide holiday cheer to some of Chicago’s neediest children at the 23rd District Town Hall Police Station. Santa dropped by for a surprise visit and the children received holiday gifts, as well as hats and mittens and delicious holiday snacks. The party was hosted by the 23rd district police station.
SOUTH SIDE TOY GIVEAWAY
The Cubs helped spread some holiday cheer on the south side. The team has purchased toys to help more than 200 deserving families celebrate the holidays. On December 17, Cubs associates and team owners will help celebrate Christmas in Englewood, bringing toys to hundreds more.
CUBS PLAYER VISITS
Chicago Cubs players were proud to participate in two local events in Mesa, Arizona, to celebrate the holidays. On November 16, Chicago Cubs players visited Sequoia School for the Deaf to run a free baseball clinic. Students had a chance to hit balls and get a few tips from Cubs players. Players also visited Cardon Children’s Medical Center in Mesa to spread Thanksgiving cheer.[/quote]
.
WenningtonsGorillaCockQuote Reply
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]What about Aramis? Perhaps the Angels have tapped themselves out. Maybe the market dries up for Ramirez a bit and the Cubs can get him back. I just can’t get too upset about not protecting a guy who projects as a bench player. The use of the roster here is odd, but not worth all this angst. The Cubs are going to fucking suck next year. Ryan Flaherty wouldn’t have changed that one bit.[/quote]Flaherty wouldn’t have changed it, but if you can fuck up something this simple, what else can they fuck up? I certainly have much less faith in this front office now than I had earlier this morning. This doesn’t hurt the Cubs much, but this was just stupid. It was terrible roster management. For a front office that talked about need a 9th fucking starter, did they not think about needing multiple infielders and perhaps one that could actually hit righties? They’ve get LeMahieu who is righty, Baker (same), DeWitt switch hits, but can’t hit righties. Vitters can’t get on base.
i don’t see how you can talk about needing 9 MLB starting pitchers and then be happy to go with the clowns they have as backups. Add Flaherty to the roster and trade him along with Zambrano or Soriano and get a little something extra in return or pay a little less.
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]If they signed Cespedes and Darvish (I know, I know) would both of them have to be added to the 40-man?[/quote]yeah assuming they’re signed to MLB contracts.
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=JMan]Cespesdes, Soler and Darvish are all available this off-season and are going to cost some serious money. Like you said, maybe they have decided to go all-in on these 3.[/quote]Perhaps that’s what is behind the inactivity in the MLB FA market, then. Cubs are going a different direction because it’s the last chance they’ll have to do so. MLB FA will always be there, but this is the last shot in the next 10 years to spend big internationally and in the draft and maybe that’s the way the Cubs will go.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
I haven’t even heard of the Cubs interest in Darvish for awhile now. Sounds like Cespedes is going to get a $60 million contract and I don’t see the Cubs wanting anything to do with a 26 year old talent who has essentially played A ball the last 8 years.
mb21Quote Reply
I see Julian Green has been hard at work…
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
According to Ramirez’s agent he wants nothing to do with the Cubs because of Bob Brenly hurting his feelings.
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=mb21]I haven’t even heard of the Cubs interest in Darvish for awhile now. Sounds like Cespedes is going to get a $60 million contract and I don’t see the Cubs wanting anything to do with a 26 year old talent who has essentially played A ball the last 8 years.[/quote]Darvish is only a year younger. What about Soler?
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=mb21]According to Ramirez’s agent he wants nothing to do with the Cubs because of Bob Brenly hurting his feelings.[/quote]I’m sure a few million will assuage those hurt feelings.
Let me also take this opportunity to say fuck Bob Brenly in the ear.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Yeah, next year is their shot, so maybe that’s the idea. Oregon and Stanford will both lose a shitton of seniors and will be rebuilding a bit. The rest of the Pac-12 is garbage. If USC returns their seniors, they can write their ticket to the Rose Bowl right now.[/quote]
Ducks lose 10 starters (including LaMichael James) total. Is that alot. (honestly don’t know)
8volumesthickQuote Reply
Friend posted a comment on FB:
Pujols = greedy
He should have worked for peanuts and bottles of Juarritos and been happy for it. He should have begged the Cardinals owners to give themselves raises so long as they let him play/mow their lawns. Greedy bastard.
binkyQuote Reply
[quote name=josh]Friend posted a comment on FB:
Pujols = greedy
He should have worked for peanuts and bottles of Juarritos and been happy for it. He should have begged the Cardinals owners to give themselves raises so long as they let him play/mow their lawns. Greedy bastard.[/quote]
Evidently the Marlins offered 10/$275
WenningtonsGorillaCockQuote Reply
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Darvish is only a year younger. What about Soler?[/quote]Gordo mentioned something about the Cubs having more interest in Soler than Cespedes awhile back.
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]I’m sure a few million will assuage those hurt feelings.
Let me also take this opportunity to say fuck Bob Brenly in the ear.[/quote]I’m sure he would, but I also think the Cubs want to improve the defense.
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=8volumesthick]Ducks lose 10 starters (including LaMichael James) total. Is that alot. (honestly don’t know)[/quote]Yes. Many of those 10 are core players, too, so the impact is greater.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
ZOMG THE CUBS HATE AMERICA
BerseliusQuote Reply
[quote name=WenningtonsGorillaCock]Evidently the Marlins offered 10/$275[/quote]
There’s no way he didn’t jump on that if true/guaranteed
BerseliusQuote Reply
[quote name=Berselius]There’s no way he didn’t jump on that if true/guaranteed[/quote]
per MLBTR:
“Pujols received ten years and around $255MM from the Angels, but Bob Nightengale of USA Today says the Marlins offered ten years and $275MM. He says that with incentives and Florida’s lack of a state income tax, the deal could have been worth nearly $300MM.
Wilson signed a five-year, $77.5MM deal with the Halos, but agent Bob Garber told Ken Rosenthal Wilson could “easily” have gotten $100MM, and the Marlins “would not let it go.” Said Wilson: “If it was about the money, I’d be a Florida Marlin.”‘
WenningtonsGorillaCockQuote Reply
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Yes. Many of those 10 are core players, too, so the impact is greater.[/quote]Put it this way: they lose their three best defensive players (Kaddu, Stuckey & Pleasant), they lose three starting OL, they lose their two best receivers (Paulson & Tuinei), and if James and Darron Thomas declare, they lose their best all-around player in James and their starting QB (although the redshirt Fr Bennett who would step in is prob a better QB).
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=mb21]I’m sure he would, but I also think the Cubs want to improve the defense.[/quote]So if Smith is healthy, maybe he gets a shot, and I’ve heard some people say that Lake will need to move to 3B due to his size. Flaherty wasn’t the only option and arguably wasn’t even the best, if Smith is healthy again or Lake makes the move.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
The Ducks also kicked Cliff Harris off the team, so they lose their best cover corner. Teams looking for a late-round steal in the draft should look at him. He’ll slip on character issue concerns, but he’s a late 1st-early 2nd round talent.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
Kalil could pay $200,000 to have someone trap a few of those USC girls in his quiet room $500,000 to have someone hypnotize him to make him think he was on the 2004 USC team and still have $4.3 million left over.
Dr. Aneus TaintQuote Reply
I agree on Vitters, though. There’s nothing there that gives me hope.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]The Ducks also kicked Cliff Harris off the team, so they lose their best cover corner. Teams looking for a late-round steal in the draft should look at him. He’ll slip on character issue concerns, but he’s a late 1st-early 2nd round talent.[/quote]
Yeah, Harris and Janoris Jenkins are two really good CB values in this draft.
Dr. Aneus TaintQuote Reply
[quote name=WenningtonsGorillaCock]Evidently the Marlins offered 10/$275[/quote]Is a no-trade clause really worth so much to him that he’d turn that down?
ACTQuote Reply
[quote name=mb21]According to Ramirez’s agent he wants nothing to do with the Cubs because of Bob Brenly hurting his feelings.[/quote]So fire Brenly. Done and done.
fang2415Quote Reply
Even if we agreed that Flaherty wasn’t even the 10th best option, he’s still a player that has played well enough that you’d like to keep around. They had roster spots available so keeping him would have been as easy as notifying MLB that you’re adding him to the 40-man roster. Need 6 open spots for some unknown reason? Release Koyie Hill. Don’t draft shitty ballplayer in Rule 5 Draft. Don’t protect Vitters who would manage to walk 0 times if he got 150 MLB plate appearances. Seriously, he’d be a guy teams would face instead of the pitcher. They’d pitch around someone like Zambrano to face Vitters.
At best, this is horrible roster management. That’s as kind as anyone could be.
mb21Quote Reply
Well no fucking shit, Buster. I said that like an hour ago.
Faget.
Dr. Aneus TaintQuote Reply
[quote name=mb21]Even if we agreed that Flaherty wasn’t even the 10th best option, he’s still a player that has played well enough that you’d like to keep around. They had roster spots available so keeping him would have been as easy as notifying MLB that you’re adding him to the 40-man roster. Need 6 open spots for some unknown reason? Release Koyie Hill. Don’t draft shitty ballplayer in Rule 5 Draft. Don’t protect Vitters who would manage to walk 0 times if he got 150 MLB plate appearances. Seriously, he’d be a guy teams would face instead of the pitcher. They’d pitch around someone like Zambrano to face Vitters.
At best, this is horrible roster management. That’s as kind as anyone could be.[/quote]I am (dying laughing)
(dying laughing)
(dying laughing)
at how severely a front office consisting of every one of the smartest people in baseball has failed MB’s first test of competence. (dying laughing)
fang2415Quote Reply
[quote name=mb21]Even if we agreed that Flaherty wasn’t even the 10th best option, he’s still a player that has played well enough that you’d like to keep around. They had roster spots available so keeping him would have been as easy as notifying MLB that you’re adding him to the 40-man roster. Need 6 open spots for some unknown reason? Release Koyie Hill. Don’t draft shitty ballplayer in Rule 5 Draft. Don’t protect Vitters who would manage to walk 0 times if he got 150 MLB plate appearances. Seriously, he’d be a guy teams would face instead of the pitcher. They’d pitch around someone like Zambrano to face Vitters.
At best, this is horrible roster management. That’s as kind as anyone could be.[/quote]
Yeah, the use of the roster is exceedingly strange. Completely agree on that.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
Marlins don’t want Prince because he’s black. http://twitter.com/#!/Ken_Rosenthal/status/144828467312214016
ACTQuote Reply
The weirdest thing of all has got to be that Koyie Hill is still on the roster, now that it even matters one iota. Maybe he has the ability to control minds.
fang2415Quote Reply
[quote name=Dr. Aneus Taint]Yeah, Harris and Janoris Jenkins are two really good CB values in this draft.[/quote]Paulson is a good value at TE, too. 6-4, 240, great hands, decent blocker, good speed.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=ACT]Marlins don’t want Prince because he’s black. http://twitter.com/#!/Ken_Rosenthal/status/144828467312214016%5B/quote%5D(dying laughing) excellent paraphrase
fang2415Quote Reply
[quote name=fang2415]The weirdest thing of all has got to be that Koyie Hill is still on the roster, now that it even matters one iota. Maybe he has the ability to control minds.[/quote]I really don’t understand what the attachment of this org is to that hack.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Yeah, the use of the roster is exceedingly strange. Completely agree on that.[/quote]it is for now but the season hasn’t started. I’m more interested as to how they plan to fill the roster. With Garza on the block it’s likely they plan to get prospects that need to be on the 40-man. There was likely a lot of risk they understood with the decisions made.
JManQuote Reply
i think losing faith over Flaherty is a bit much. Im sure they listened to Bush and Fleita who have seen the kid up close for the last few years. If they dont feel he is an MLB player then why keep him?
I think the Cubs will only spend big bucks for Darvish. Which makes sense because of this new CBA
dylanjQuote Reply
[quote name=ACT]Marlins don’t want Prince because he’s black. http://twitter.com/#!/Ken_Rosenthal/status/144828467312214016%5B/quote%5DWhat the fuck does “can’t drive the Latin market” mean? That’s got to be the dumbest fucking thing I’ve heard in these winter meetings.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=fang2415]The weirdest thing of all has got to be that Koyie Hill is still on the roster, now that it even matters one iota. Maybe he has the ability to control minds.[/quote]
WenningtonsGorillaCockQuote Reply
[quote name=WenningtonsGorillaCock]per MLBTR:
“Pujols received ten years and around $255MM from the Angels, but Bob Nightengale of USA Today says the Marlins offered ten years and $275MM. He says that with incentives and Florida’s lack of a state income tax, the deal could have been worth nearly $300MM.”[/quote]
has florida adopted a negative income tax?
GWQuote Reply
[quote name=JMan]it is for now but the season hasn’t started. I’m more interested as to how they plan to fill the roster. With Garza on the block it’s likely they plan to get prospects that need to be on the 40-man. There was likely a lot of risk they understood with the decisions made.[/quote]True. Be interesting to see how things shake out.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
So, now that Alberto got a bigger contract than expected (and was apparently offered even more), does that drive up Fielder’s price as well? That Levine article said he’d be looking for *10* years…
fang2415Quote Reply
[quote name=WenningtonsGorillaCock]
[/quote]I, for one, welcome our new carpentry overlord.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]I really don’t understand what the attachment of this org is to that hack.[/quote]Maybe they’re simply valuing a different skill set altogether. Like this one, for instance:
fang2415Quote Reply
[quote name=WenningtonsGorillaCock]
[/quote]
ALL GLORY TO THE HYPNOTOAD
BerseliusQuote Reply
and I’m still not that down on Vitters. He had a good season last year. And while he hasn’t dominated a level yet he always puts up decent #’s at a young age for his level.
dylanjQuote Reply
[quote name=fang2415]So, now that Alberto got a bigger contract than expected (and was apparently offered even more), does that drive up Fielder’s price as well? That Levine article said he’d be looking for *10* years…[/quote]Boras apparently told reporters last night that Fielder won’ consider any deals less than 7 years in length. Signing Fielder for more than 5 years will be what really pisses me off unless they can trade him in his final 2 years to the O’s for Ryan Flaherty.
JManQuote Reply
[quote name=GW]has florida adopted a negative income tax?[/quote]
I think they’re taking into account the yearly hurricane relief money
BerseliusQuote Reply
You know the other thing that really gets me about the roster? Why would they leave so many spots open when they haven’t even made any moves and it doesn’t look like they’ll have many more opportun- ALL GLORY TO KOYIE HILL
fang2415Quote Reply
If any team gives Fielder a 10 year deal I’m going to laugh my ass off at that team.
mb21Quote Reply
Can one of you photoshoppers do Koyie Hill with Hypnotoad’s eyes?
fang2415Quote Reply
[quote name=mb21]If any team gives Fielder a 10 year deal I’m going to laugh my ass off at that team.[/quote]Correct. Any team but one, that is.
fang2415Quote Reply
[quote name=fang2415]Correct. Any team but one, that is.[/quote]I’ll also laugh my ass off at the Cubs if they sign him for 10 years. For that matter I’ll laugh my ass off at any team that signs him for 7 years. The guy is probably a DH right now, but in 3 or 4 years that’s the only position he could possibly play.
mb21Quote Reply
Jesus, that Marlins offer to Pujols would’ve tied A-Rod for the biggest contract ever. I can’t believe he didn’t take that shit.
fang2415Quote Reply
Gunman at large at Virginia Tech, one police officer killed.
BerseliusQuote Reply
[quote name=Berselius]Gunman at large at Virginia Tech, one police officer killed.[/quote]I disapprove of raping children.
fang2415Quote Reply
[quote name=Berselius]Gunman at large at Virginia Tech, one police officer killed.[/quote]Again?
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Again?[/quote]They better be careful or else US News and World Report is eventually going to take notice.
fang2415Quote Reply
Someone who has time should go through all of the comments on VEB and post the best ones here: http://www.vivaelbirdos.com/
mb21Quote Reply
By someone, I mean someone other than me.
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=mb21]By someone, I mean someone other than me.[/quote]Don’t tell someone other than you what to do.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Again?[/quote]Yeah, what the fuck is the deal with VT? Do all the insane children go there or something?
mb21Quote Reply
So the Cubs sold Rickey Alvarez to a team in Mexico. It’s all starting to get even weirder.
JManQuote Reply
[quote name=JMan]So the Cubs sold Rickey Alvarez to a team in Mexico. It’s all starting to get even weirder.[/quote]
(dying laughing)
GWQuote Reply
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Paulson is a good value at TE, too. 6-4, 240, great hands, decent blocker, good speed.[/quote]
The NFL Draft is so awesome.
Dr. Aneus TaintQuote Reply
[quote name=JMan]So the Cubs sold Rickey Alvarez to a team in Mexico. It’s all starting to get even weirder.[/quote]So baseball teams can just sell their players to another country now? Isn’t that fucked up?
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=GW](dying laughing)[/quote]At least they have that extra roster spot now.
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=Dr. Aneus Taint]The NFL Draft is so awesome.[/quote]I had a friend who used to play madden in franchise mode and sim everything except the draft. It was the only part of the game he actually played.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=Fangraphs chat]
Comment From Person
Nationals have officially given Hairston away for free–lost Komatsu in rule 5. on a scale of 1-10 the impact of this is negative, yes?
Dave Cameron:
Thing I learned here this week – Erik Komatsu is apparently a fantastic rapper. The winter meetings are full of interesting nuggets.[/quote](dying laughing). Even Fangraphs doesn’t give a shit about the rule 5 draft.
fang2415Quote Reply
[quote name=mb21]So baseball teams can just sell their players to another country now? Isn’t that fucked up?[/quote]OCCUPY WRIGLEY
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
Per Gammons, Cubs…don’t have any money for Fielder:
http://twitter.com/#!/pgammo/status/144845962077147136
Smokestack LightningQuote Reply
http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2011/12/teams-wary-of-seven-or-eight-year-deal-for-fielder.html
what is this i dont even
fang2415Quote Reply
[quote name=JMan]So the Cubs sold Rickey Alvarez to a team in Mexico. It’s all starting to get even weirder.[/quote]That is taking the idea of being sellers to a new level.
fang2415Quote Reply
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]I had a friend who used to play madden in franchise mode and sim everything except the draft. It was the only part of the game he actually played.[/quote]
Cool story, bro.
Dr. Aneus TaintQuote Reply
[quote name=Dr. Aneus Taint]Cool story, bro.[/quote]
For real. That’s a good idea.
Dr. Aneus TaintQuote Reply
[quote name=Smokestack Lightning]Per Gammons, Cubs…don’t have any money for Fielder:
http://twitter.com/#!/pgammo/status/144845962077147136%5B/quote%5DHe must not have heard the Cubs sold Ricky Alvarez to Mexico.
mb21Quote Reply
I wonder if Theo was told the team wouldn’t have any money to sign anybody.
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=mb21]I wonder if Theo was told the team wouldn’t have any money to sign anybody.[/quote]
I’m thinking Todd Ricketts must’ve left the money bin unlocked after going for a swim.
Smokestack LightningQuote Reply
Maybe the Cubs are going to buy an entire Japanese franchise and use their players to fill the 40-man.
fang2415Quote Reply
[quote name=Smokestack Lightning]Per Gammons, Cubs…don’t have any money for Fielder:
http://twitter.com/#!/pgammo/status/144845962077147136%5B/quote%5D
Strange since the Cubs HAVE A SHITLOAD OF MONEY
Rodrigo RamirezQuote Reply
[quote name=Berselius]There’s no way he didn’t jump on that if true/guaranteed[/quote]Not only that, but CJ claims he turned down $100M from the Marlins. As far as Pujols goes, though, maybe he turned down a little more cash so that he could DH eventually. If he wants to maximize the chances of not switching teams again, then an AL team is a better choice.
binkyQuote Reply
Didn’t Gammons tweet yesterday that the Angels only had 15-20M to spend?
JManQuote Reply
I’m wondering if the Cubs sold Ricky Alvarez because they didn’t have the money.
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=Dr. Aneus Taint]For real. That’s a good idea.[/quote]
(dying laughing), it used to drive me nuts.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=mb21]I wonder if Theo was told the team wouldn’t have any money to sign anybody.[/quote]
pretty sure we have money and Theo knew what he was getting into
dylanjQuote Reply
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]I had a friend who used to play madden in franchise mode and sim everything except the draft. It was the only part of the game he actually played.[/quote]
I do this sometimes, even on MLB The Show and NBA. I love constructing rosters more than the game itself.
MishQuote Reply
[quote name=Rodrigo Ramirez]Strange since the Cubs HAVE A SHITLOAD OF MONEY[/quote]yeah, but it’s not not to be used on talented players anymore.
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=mb21]I wonder if Theo was told the team wouldn’t have any money to sign anybody.[/quote]
Then again, consider the source. It’s fucking Gammons.
If there’s no money how the fuck were the Cubs offering a bid, qualifying or otherwise, on Pujols? Was Theo calling Lozano and asking “what can we get for fifty cents?” every five minutes?
Smokestack LightningQuote Reply
[quote name=Smokestack Lightning]I’m thinking Todd Ricketts must’ve left the money bin unlocked after going for a swim.[/quote]
I hear Lake Michigan is a great place to swin this time of year (dying laughing)
BerseliusQuote Reply
[quote name=dylanj]pretty sure we have money and Theo knew what he was getting into[/quote]
Yes, this and that
BerseliusQuote Reply
[quote name=Rodrigo Ramirez]Strange since the Cubs HAVE A SHITLOAD OF MONEY[/quote]Well, they also have a state too bankrupted to give them the $300-400 mil to remodel the crumbling relic of a ballpark, and a minor league system in dire need of replenishing.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=Smokestack Lightning]Then again, consider the source. It’s fucking Gammons.
If there’s no money how the fuck were the Cubs offering a bid, qualifying or otherwise, on Pujols? Was Theo calling Lozano and asking “what can we get for fifty cents?” every five minutes?[/quote]Some said the Cubs never did bid on Pujols (or Fielder). I tend to believe that. i think the Cubs allowed themselves to be used to push up the price for Pujols.
The Cubs obviously have money and what Gammons meant was they don’t want to spend that kind of money, but it’s still funny.
mb21Quote Reply
If Gammons means they don’t have 300M to spend on a player that is going to be a DH in 5 years then yes he’s correct.
JManQuote Reply
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Well, they also have a state too bankrupted to give them the $300-400 mil to remodel the crumbling relic of a ballpark, and a minor league system in dire need of replenishing.[/quote]and limited funds to invest in the farm system.
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=Smokestack Lightning]Then again, consider the source. It’s fucking Gammons.
If there’s no money how the fuck were the Cubs offering a bid, qualifying or otherwise, on Pujols? Was Theo calling Lozano and asking “what can we get for fifty cents?” every five minutes?[/quote]Also keep in mind Gammons is for all intents and purposes an employee of the Red Sox PR dept. I would consider anything he says about Theo’s dealings to be highly suspect, given the conflict of interests involved.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=Rodrigo Ramirez]Strange since the Cubs HAVE A SHITLOAD OF MONEY[/quote]
WenningtonsGorillaCockQuote Reply
[quote name=JMan]If Gammons means they don’t have 300M to spend on a player that is going to be a DH in 5 years then yes he’s correct.[/quote]Agreed, but I don’t think that information comes out if Pujols hadn’t signed already. The Cubs never had interest in either of them, but they weren’t going to allow that to come out until Pujols was already re-signed for a shitload of money or signed elsewhere. Surprised they aren’t going to price the Brewers out of it too though.
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Well, they also have a state too bankrupted to give them the $300-400 mil to remodel the crumbling relic of a ballpark, and a minor league system in dire need of replenishing.[/quote]
True, but they are only a few smart decisions away from growing even more as a baseball cash cow.
Rodrigo RamirezQuote Reply
http://www.sportspickle.com/news/9103/st-louis-reports-that-former-selfless-humanitarian-albert-pujols-is-a-big-asshole
(dying laughing)
GBTSQuote Reply
[quote name=mb21]and limited funds to invest in the farm system.[/quote]Right. That’s why I say I think the Cubs may be sandbagging for the new CBA and planning to go all out in draft and elsewhere while they can.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
It’s like Theo said at his introductory press conference. They have to rebuild the farm system and THEN they can use the resources the Cubs have to sign elite free agents. It’s going to take awhile to rebuild a pile of shit though.
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=JMan]If Gammons means they don’t have 300M to spend on a player that is going to be a DH in 5 years then yes he’s correct.[/quote]Well put.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=mb21]yeah, but it’s not not to be used on talented players anymore.[/quote]Not like the old days.
fang2415Quote Reply
[quote name=mb21]It’s like Theo said at his introductory press conference. They have to rebuild the farm system and THEN they can use the resources the Cubs have to sign elite free agents. It’s going to take awhile to rebuild a pile of shit though.[/quote]It took Hoyer and McCleod 2 years to rebuild the Padres system into something decent.
JManQuote Reply
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Right. That’s why I say I think the Cubs may be sandbagging for the new CBA and planning to go all out in draft and elsewhere while they can.[/quote]The draft and international free agent changes are immediate, right? I think the reason we no longer hear the Cubs interest in Darvish or Cespedes is that they simply aren’t going to spend that kind of money. It’s clear to me the team won’t spend money until they have a farm system producing talent. I don’t know how many times Theo has said precisely that, but it’s been at least half a dozen times. Don’t know why we didn’t believe him.
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=mb21]It’s like Theo said at his introductory press conference. They have to rebuild the farm system and THEN they can use the resources the Cubs have to sign elite free agents. It’s going to take awhile to rebuild a pile of shit though.[/quote]Yep. Theo came here and people expect him to build a skyscraper on a foundation of sand. The Red Sox success did not happen overnight and it wasn’t sustained by people there being rash. At least not all the time. (dying laughing)
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=JMan]It took Hoyer and McCleod 2 years to rebuild the Padres system into something decent.[/quote]They traded one of the best players in the game and weren’t limited by how much they could spend on amateur talent.
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=Smokestack Lightning]If there’s no money how the fuck were the Cubs offering a bid, qualifying or otherwise, on Pujols? Was Theo calling Lozano and asking “what can we get for fifty cents?” every five minutes?[/quote]
wtf did the whole qualifying offer thing mean, anyway? were the cubs hoping to get a draft pick out of the deal?
GWQuote Reply
http://www.grantland.com/story/_/id/7328539/the-economics-moneyball
MishQuote Reply
[quote name=mb21]The draft and international free agent changes are immediate, right? I think the reason we no longer hear the Cubs interest in Darvish or Cespedes is that they simply aren’t going to spend that kind of money. It’s clear to me the team won’t spend money until they have a farm system producing talent. I don’t know how many times Theo has said precisely that, but it’s been at least half a dozen times. Don’t know why we didn’t believe him.[/quote]I thought not until next season. Maybe I’m all fucked up, though.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
Especially without Ryan Flaherty and the guy they sold in chains to Mexico.
Smokestack LightningQuote Reply
Theo and Hoyer will undoubtedly rebuild the farm system, but it’s not going to happen in a year or two. Certainly not with the changes in the CBA. The Cubs don’t have an Adrian Gonzalez to trade unless they trade 21 year old Starlin Castro. That won’t happen.
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]I thought not until next season. Maybe I’m all fucked up, though.[/quote]The international free agent signing period ends in August so the next draft and signing period are next year.
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=GW]wtf did the whole qualifying offer thing mean, anyway? were the cubs hoping to get a draft pick out of the deal?[/quote]5 years for $5 million and Pujols could name 2 teams he won’t accept a trade for. 6th year option for league minimum. Shares hotel room with 4 teammates and 2 coaches. 1 family seat.
mb21Quote Reply
BerseliusQuote Reply
the CBA changes just mean that Cespedes and Darvish are the logical choices we need want to add impact young talent. Because the rules dont apply to them since they are over 23
dylanjQuote Reply
[quote name=dylanj]the CBA changes just mean that Cespedes and Darvish are the logical choices we need want to add impact young talent. Because the rules dont apply to them since they are over 23[/quote]That’s what I thought as well.
Rice CubeQuote Reply
[quote name=Mish]http://www.grantland.com/story/_/id/7328539/the-economics-moneyball[/quote]
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
Wait, rebuilding piles of shit is what they have always done. I was kind of hoping Thoyer would not rebuild a pile of shit.
Suburban kidQuote Reply
(dying laughing)
(dying laughing)
(dying laughing)
GBTSQuote Reply
This always makes me laugh. Every. Damn. Time.
Aisle424Quote Reply
Muskat: “lots accomplished” this week:
http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20111208&content_id=26129064&vkey=news_chc&c_id=chc&partnerId=rss_chc
Smokestack LightningQuote Reply
[quote name=mb21]Theo and Hoyer will undoubtedly rebuild the farm system, but it’s not going to happen in a year or two. Certainly not with the changes in the CBA. The Cubs don’t have an Adrian Gonzalez to trade unless they trade 21 year old Starlin Castro. That won’t happen.[/quote]But anybody could rebuild the farm system in five years. It’s easy. All you need to do is ensure that your MLB team sucks the whole time and that you don’t piss away your top draft picks. The Royals have built a great farm system by doing that.
That’s basically what small-market, traditional-minded teams do: rebuild, win, rebuild again. (Or in the case of the Royals, skip the win part.) Teams with the Cubs resources shouldn’t be hiring Theo Epstein and 19 of the other smartest execs in baseball to do that.
fang2415Quote Reply
[quote name=dylanj]the CBA changes just mean that Cespedes and Darvish are the logical choices we need want to add impact young talent. Because the rules dont apply to them since they are over 23[/quote]I agree they need to go after those types of player, but can you point me to anything suggesting they will? It seems like a hell of a risk for the new front office to invest $150 million in guys like that. If they do, great. It would take some huge balls to do it. If both fail, so does the front office. I just don’t see them taking that risk. If Cespedes comes cheaper than expected I could see that, but he’s already in that peak age that Theo talked about adding after the farm system was producing talent year after year.
This is a rebuilding project without it officially being called one. Hopefully they can get something nice in return for Garza. Especially if it’s some talent not far away from the big leagues.
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=fang2415]But anybody could rebuild the farm system in five years. It’s easy. All you need to do is ensure that your MLB team sucks the whole time and that you don’t piss away your top draft picks. The Royals have built a great farm system by doing that.
That’s basically what small-market, traditional-minded teams do: rebuild, win, rebuild again. (Or in the case of the Royals, skip the win part.) Teams with the Cubs resources shouldn’t be hiring Theo Epstein and 19 of the other smartest execs in baseball to do that.[/quote]I think the difference is that when the farm system begins to produce impact talent on a yearly basis (Theo’s words) they will invest heavily in the free agent market unlike the Royals. The Cubs will likely be getting top 5 picks the next couple years so that should help. Trading Garza, Soto and Marmol (even Marshall) would be a huge boost too.
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=Smokestack Lightning]Muskat: “lots accomplished” this week:
http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20111208&content_id=26129064&vkey=news_chc&c_id=chc&partnerId=rss_chc%5B/quote%5D
Comment #1:
“They need to do something sign some free agents get a veterin 3B like DeRosa hes not going to be that much even if its for a few years it gives time to truly develope some of the younger talent they need to get on it the fans want to get into instant contention and im sorry I beleive the money for Pujols or Fielder would have been worth it get an established player that is amazing at what they do and why didnt they persue C.J Wilson they need pitching”
(dying laughing)
WenningtonsGorillaCockQuote Reply
develope, persue, beleive, (dying laughing)
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=WenningtonsGorillaCock]Comment #1:
“They need to do something sign some free agents get a veterin 3B like DeRosa hes not going to be that much even if its for a few years it gives time to truly develope some of the younger talent they need to get on it the fans want to get into instant contention and im sorry I beleive the money for Pujols or Fielder would have been worth it get an established player that is amazing at what they do and why didnt they persue C.J Wilson they need pitching”
(dying laughing)[/quote]Due to the punctuation I can only assume the persons name is Al.
JManQuote Reply
Maybe this whole Cubs have no money stuff is part of the “stealth” campaign.
http://www.csnchicago.com/blog/cubs-talk/post/Cubs-stealthily-pursuing-Fielder?blockID=608206&feedID=661
And your source for the Cubs planned sneak attack on Fielder?
Peter Gammons.
Smokestack LightningQuote Reply
That guy’s laptop must have suffered a horrific accident that destroyed the right side.
BerseliusQuote Reply
[quote name=mb21]I think the difference is that when the farm system begins to produce impact talent on a yearly basis (Theo’s words) they will invest heavily in the free agent market unlike the Royals. The Cubs will likely be getting top 5 picks the next couple years so that should help. Trading Garza, Soto and Marmol (even Marshall) would be a huge boost too.[/quote]Well, then in the meantime it won’t do them any good to go over the Royals’ budget. I guess they can take the extra $100M and use it to buy hot dogs, now that the CBA won’t allow it to be used to build the farm.
My point is that lots of GMs could save money and build a farm. Hendry could have done that if Ricketts told him that’s what they wanted to do. Why hire Theo and 100 other FO guys to do it?
fang2415Quote Reply
http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/blog/big_league_stew/post/The-Albert-Pujols-statue-now-has-a-security-guar?urn=mlb-wp28287
Oh my.
Rice CubeQuote Reply
Gammons is senile.
mb21Quote Reply
Available just in time for the holidays!
GBTSQuote Reply
We need a +1 million button ^^^^^
mb21Quote Reply
It should be on a purple shirt (dying laughing)
BerseliusQuote Reply
[quote name=GBTS]
Available just in time for the holidays![/quote]Available in OV Store in 3…2…1…
But you probably have to change the Cubs logo somewhat if you don’t wanna get sued.
Rice CubeQuote Reply
[quote name=JMan]Due to the punctuation I can only assume the persons name is Al.[/quote]Quite the opposite, actually:
[quote name=Al]They, need, to, do, something, sign, some, free, agents, get, a, veterin, 3, B, like, DeRosa, hes, not, going, to, be, that, much, even, if, its, for, a, few, years, it, gives, time, to, truly, develope, some, of, the, younger, talent, they, need, to, get, on, it, the, fans, want, to, get, into, instant, contention, and, im, sorry, I, beleive, the, money, for, Pujols, or, Fielder, would, have, been, worth, it, get, an, established, player, that, is, amazing, at, what, they, do, and, why, didnt, they, persue, C., J, Wilson, they, need, pitching,[/quote],
fang2415Quote Reply
[quote name=mb21]develope, persue, beleive, (dying laughing)[/quote]Obviously Dan Quayle is a regular reader of Carrie’s blog.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=Berselius]It should be on a purple shirt (dying laughing)[/quote]That’s a separate collection.
GBTSQuote Reply
Okay, I really need to go study. (dying laughing)
GBTSQuote Reply
I hate it when a signing is referred to as a “real possibility.” Yes it’s a “real possibility.” Anything conceivable in the confines of natural laws is “really possible.” Whether a certain person signs with a certain team is not a question of possibility, it’s a question of probability and all questions to that affect should be framed accordingly.
/pedantic rant over
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
ye gods: http://twitter.com/#!/TasMelas/status/144831279748222977
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]ye gods: http://twitter.com/#!/TasMelas/status/144831279748222977%5B/quote%5DI'm sure those two would refuse a $250M offer to move somewhere else.
GBTSQuote Reply
[quote name=mb21]Someone who has time should go through all of the comments on VEB and post the best ones here: http://www.vivaelbirdos.com/%5B/quote%5D
Yeah, I got through about 100 of the 1146 in the 1st of THREE Albert threads. Nothing overtly hilarious. I think I was looking for some BCB-level comedy and shockingly, nothing reached that level of absurdity. Speaking of which, maybe BCB has some good insight…
Aisle424Quote Reply
I would seriously buy both of those shirts. Probably several, to give as gifts
WenningtonsGorillaCockQuote Reply
[quote name=GBTS]I’m sure those two would refuse a $250M offer to move somewhere else.[/quote]Well, you’re assuming that they’d been underpaid by $125M in the first place.
fang2415Quote Reply
[quote name=GBTS]I’m sure those two would refuse a $250M offer to move somewhere else.[/quote]You’d have to quantify it for them in terms of number of propane tanks required to heat their Jimmy Johnson-themed mobile home at the infield at Talledega.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]ye gods: http://twitter.com/#!/TasMelas/status/144831279748222977%5B/quote%5D
(dying laughing)
(dying laughing)
(dying laughing)
The dude referred to him as “Poo-poo.” Hard to imagine why he wanted to get the fuck away from those people.
Aisle424Quote Reply
Sandusky is now facing over 50 counts of child sexual abuse from at least 11 accusers.
No charges yet for the bureaucracy that allowed him to operate his child rape ring with impunity and implicitly condoned his career as a rapist of young boys.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
[quote name=Aisle424](dying laughing)
(dying laughing)
(dying laughing)
The dude referred to him as “Poo-poo.” Hard to imagine why he wanted to get the fuck away from those people.[/quote]He just won a WS for them, at least one game by himself, and that’s the reaction. Unreal.
Mercurial OutfielderQuote Reply
This guy is awesome – can you guys hire him to a permanent writing gig over here at OV? He goes by “commenter”. Here are all his comments so far:
“You got that right dont sign the guys who can put you in playoffs thats smart and i thought things would change all epstien did was creat a buddies club with all his friends
They need to do something sign some free agents get a veterin 3B like DeRosa hes not going to be that much even if its for a few years it gives time to truly develope some of the younger talent they need to get on it the fans want to get into instant contention and im sorry I beleive the money for Pujols or Fielder would have been worth it get an established player that is amazing at what they do and why didnt they persue C.J Wilson they need pitching
Feel like all they did was bring half the old redsox front office and all the buddies from the brewers for what so they continue the tradition of losing
i get not signing pujols for 10 years but fielder is a lot younger and cj wilson is the best starter out there and hes young i dont get it
The bottom line is that the Cubs dont want to pull the trigger on a big time free agent with a big name on the roster it makes any offer the cubs put out to be a more attractive offer the money will be made up with ticket sales and merchendice sales so why not go for it bring in a big name
I just ranted to my gf about how upset I was and she just stared at me like I was crazy :/ if only women understood
pujols and fielder are not soriano i agree pujols not worth 10 years but fielder is young enough and solid enough to go after
Fielder is solid he is durable he has proved that playing every game the past 2 seasons he can play and just because he is a bigger guy does not meen he is out of shape no out of shape guy could do what he does on a daily basis”
WenningtonsGorillaCockQuote Reply
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]He just won a WS for them, at least one game by himself, and that’s the reaction. Unreal.[/quote]I’ve seen several Cards fans ask, “What’s the difference between $220M and $250M?” Maybe he thought each of those Game 3 homers were $10M a pop. (dying laughing)
GBTSQuote Reply
Has nothing to do with baseball, bro.
GBTSQuote Reply
blueisthecolourQuote Reply
new shit: http://obstructedview.net/articles/major-league-baseball/how-does-losing-pujols-and-fielder-affect-the-cardinals-and-brewers.html
mb21Quote Reply