Thursday, December 31, 2009
The Dominos Keep Falling
Rosenthal of Fox Sports reporting that Marlon Byrd close to 3 year deal with the Cubs. I told ya'll DeRosa was the key to the outfield market. I wonder if Damon just sits by his phone checking every few seconds to see whether it's still working.
Alomar to the Hall?
This is perhaps one of the most ridiculous debates currently in baseball. Is Roberto Alomar a Hall of Famer? Is the sky blue? Did Bonds, Sosa, and McGwire take steroids? Okay, he spit on a guy. Big mistake. But it's not like he followed him home, forced his way into his house, and spit on his wife and kids too. In fact, Hirschbeck (the guy) considers Alomar a friend (see here for part of why).
More importantly, there are far worse people in the Hall. Everyone knows Ty Cobb owned slaves (or at least really wanted to), but no one doubts whether he should belong in the hall. The Hall is about greatness in the sport and numbers, the type of person you are should not come into consideration. Certainly the members of the same journalistic group (hey baseball writers of America) who turned a blind eye to an obvious steroids epidemic in the late 90s while it helped repopularize baseball and keep them employed only to hypocritically condemn the 'roiders and baseball when it became popular to do so should not be in charge of making moral judgments against HOF candidates.
Anyone who watched Alomar play throughout the 90s was treated to nothing less than art on the baseball field. What Alomar could do at second base was unmatched. When he went to Cleveland to team up with Omar Vizquel, the baseball universe collectively pissed itself it was so uncontrollably overjoyed. I realize sports writers need at least one HOF ballot controversy per year, and Alomar is the only player that presents a real opportunity to manufacture a controversy, but it is completely stupid to suggest that Alomar should be kept out of the hall because he spit on a guy once.
If he had taken PEDs then you could legitimately not vote for him, since his on-field accomplishments would be suspect. But if you think he was a jerk, that's not enough. There's probably about 3 or 4 professional athletes in history who are not complete walking cocks. These guys have pretty much everything handed to them from their teenage years on. They are not likeable guys. You think Tiger Woods is a jerk because he cheated on his wife with just about any blonde he could get his hands on? You're wrong. He's a jerk because he's a pro athlete, and these people are the walking definition of entitlement. Alomar spit on a guy. As far as being a jerk goes, that's not even that high on the scale. If guys like Gwynn, Henderson, and Ripken Jr. didn't get in unanimously, Alomar won't. But he should definitely be in on the first ballot like the rest of those guys. He was every bit as great as, and relative to his position probably greater than, any of those guys.
More importantly, there are far worse people in the Hall. Everyone knows Ty Cobb owned slaves (or at least really wanted to), but no one doubts whether he should belong in the hall. The Hall is about greatness in the sport and numbers, the type of person you are should not come into consideration. Certainly the members of the same journalistic group (hey baseball writers of America) who turned a blind eye to an obvious steroids epidemic in the late 90s while it helped repopularize baseball and keep them employed only to hypocritically condemn the 'roiders and baseball when it became popular to do so should not be in charge of making moral judgments against HOF candidates.
Anyone who watched Alomar play throughout the 90s was treated to nothing less than art on the baseball field. What Alomar could do at second base was unmatched. When he went to Cleveland to team up with Omar Vizquel, the baseball universe collectively pissed itself it was so uncontrollably overjoyed. I realize sports writers need at least one HOF ballot controversy per year, and Alomar is the only player that presents a real opportunity to manufacture a controversy, but it is completely stupid to suggest that Alomar should be kept out of the hall because he spit on a guy once.
If he had taken PEDs then you could legitimately not vote for him, since his on-field accomplishments would be suspect. But if you think he was a jerk, that's not enough. There's probably about 3 or 4 professional athletes in history who are not complete walking cocks. These guys have pretty much everything handed to them from their teenage years on. They are not likeable guys. You think Tiger Woods is a jerk because he cheated on his wife with just about any blonde he could get his hands on? You're wrong. He's a jerk because he's a pro athlete, and these people are the walking definition of entitlement. Alomar spit on a guy. As far as being a jerk goes, that's not even that high on the scale. If guys like Gwynn, Henderson, and Ripken Jr. didn't get in unanimously, Alomar won't. But he should definitely be in on the first ballot like the rest of those guys. He was every bit as great as, and relative to his position probably greater than, any of those guys.
Who Is the Team of the Decade?
If you're on Twitter much, you know that a lot of Yankees fans are upset with anyone who suggests the Red Sox, not the Yankees, are the team of the decade. Now I'm as big a Yankees fan as anyone. One time, I hit a squirrel with my car, but I didn't feel bad because the squirrel lived in Boston. That's how much of a fan I am. But the Sox are the team of the decade. Deal with it.
The Sox won two World Series and that's it. The Yanks won two World Series, appeared in two others, made the play-offs every year save one, and had the balls to fire (okay, not resign) one of the best managers in baseball. And while parting with Larry Bowa was hard, the 27th World Series in Yankees history has made any memory of those dark days pass away.
So how are the Sox the team of the decade? Simple, they broke a curse that had plagued them for 84 years. That is the baseball story of the decade (at least the one without the word 'steroids' in its title), like it or not. With the Yanks payroll, they're supposed to be in the playoffs every year. Now, Boston has plenty of resources, but they don't spend as much as we do. Whether they can or not is irrelevant to this discussion. They're also Boston, they're suppposed to choke in the second half, not win championships (ask any Boston fan, or at least listen to them come any August). They aren't expected to be in the playoffs, much less ending any season as champs.
It also doesn't help the Yankees that they entered the decade having won 3 of the last 4 World Series, and winning the first of the decade to mark 3 in a row. When you come off a run like that and then win one more World Series in the next nine years, people aren't going to be that impressed.
I know a lot of Yanks fans are probably peeved not only because they feel their team is getting robbed of 'team of the decade' honors in this decade, but because they had to live through plenty of journalists who wanted to pin that title on Atlanta last decade. I understand the frustration. But we're Yankees. We win titles, we don't need meaningless awards from sports columnists. There isn't even a trophy involved.
The Yanks have won 27 world championships since 1918. Most of us remember at least five of them. The Sox have won 2 since then, and almost everyone alive remembers them because they just happened. Let them have this. I understand we're rivals, but we are so beyond 'team of the decade' concerns. Who cares? Journalists don't give us our props, so what? We'll just keep winning championships at a pace that will always set the Yankees apart from the rest of the baseball universe.
The Sox won two World Series and that's it. The Yanks won two World Series, appeared in two others, made the play-offs every year save one, and had the balls to fire (okay, not resign) one of the best managers in baseball. And while parting with Larry Bowa was hard, the 27th World Series in Yankees history has made any memory of those dark days pass away.
So how are the Sox the team of the decade? Simple, they broke a curse that had plagued them for 84 years. That is the baseball story of the decade (at least the one without the word 'steroids' in its title), like it or not. With the Yanks payroll, they're supposed to be in the playoffs every year. Now, Boston has plenty of resources, but they don't spend as much as we do. Whether they can or not is irrelevant to this discussion. They're also Boston, they're suppposed to choke in the second half, not win championships (ask any Boston fan, or at least listen to them come any August). They aren't expected to be in the playoffs, much less ending any season as champs.
It also doesn't help the Yankees that they entered the decade having won 3 of the last 4 World Series, and winning the first of the decade to mark 3 in a row. When you come off a run like that and then win one more World Series in the next nine years, people aren't going to be that impressed.
I know a lot of Yanks fans are probably peeved not only because they feel their team is getting robbed of 'team of the decade' honors in this decade, but because they had to live through plenty of journalists who wanted to pin that title on Atlanta last decade. I understand the frustration. But we're Yankees. We win titles, we don't need meaningless awards from sports columnists. There isn't even a trophy involved.
The Yanks have won 27 world championships since 1918. Most of us remember at least five of them. The Sox have won 2 since then, and almost everyone alive remembers them because they just happened. Let them have this. I understand we're rivals, but we are so beyond 'team of the decade' concerns. Who cares? Journalists don't give us our props, so what? We'll just keep winning championships at a pace that will always set the Yankees apart from the rest of the baseball universe.
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Updating the Yankees Payroll
Earlier in the hot stove season we did a post outlining the Yankees payroll vs. the commitments they've made. As the Yankees are set to move for a left fielder I thought it would be a good time to revise and update the Yankees payroll. So here it is:
Coming off the Payroll
Johnny Damon: $13 million
Hideki Matsui: $13 million
Andy Pettitte: $10.5 million
Xavier Nady: $6.5 million
Chien Ming Wang: $5 million
Jose Molina: $2 million
Total: $50 million
Players Set to Get Raises
CC Sabathia: $9 million
Derek Jeter: $1 million
Robinson Cano: $3 million
Nick Swisher: $1.45 million
Damaso Marte: $0.25 million
Total: $14.7 million
Acquisitions
Curtis Granderson: $5.5 million
Andy Pettitte: $11.75 million
Javier Vazquez: $11.5 million
Total: $28.75 million
Players Traded
Ian Kennedy: 2009 Salary - $408,925
Austin Jackson: 2009 Salary - (??? Minor League Contract)
Phil Coke: 2009 Salary - $403,300
Brian Bruney:2009 Salary - $1.25 million
Melky Cabrera: 2009 Salary - $1.4 million
Total: $3.46 million approximately
Arbitration Eligible Players Set to Get Raises
Chad Gaudin: 2009 Salary - $2 million
Sergio Mitre: 2009 Salary - $1.25 million
Boone Logan: 2009 Salary - $427,5000
2009 Payroll: $201,449,189
2010 Payroll: $192 million Approximately
Now of course there is still some wheeling and dealing left to be done this off season. Gaudin and Mitre will get raises, but its also been reported that the Yankees will look to trade one of them in spring training. The Yankees could make a solid $5 million addition and still absorb the arbitration cases and perhaps a couple minor league deals without breaking the $200 million threshold. However, the Yankees are keeping the luxury tax in mind as well. Each contract they add at this point is 40% more expensive, making a $5 million deal worth $7 million. Ouch.
Coming off the Payroll
Johnny Damon: $13 million
Hideki Matsui: $13 million
Andy Pettitte: $10.5 million
Xavier Nady: $6.5 million
Chien Ming Wang: $5 million
Jose Molina: $2 million
Total: $50 million
Players Set to Get Raises
CC Sabathia: $9 million
Derek Jeter: $1 million
Robinson Cano: $3 million
Nick Swisher: $1.45 million
Damaso Marte: $0.25 million
Total: $14.7 million
Acquisitions
Curtis Granderson: $5.5 million
Andy Pettitte: $11.75 million
Javier Vazquez: $11.5 million
Total: $28.75 million
Players Traded
Ian Kennedy: 2009 Salary - $408,925
Austin Jackson: 2009 Salary - (??? Minor League Contract)
Phil Coke: 2009 Salary - $403,300
Brian Bruney:2009 Salary - $1.25 million
Melky Cabrera: 2009 Salary - $1.4 million
Total: $3.46 million approximately
Arbitration Eligible Players Set to Get Raises
Chad Gaudin: 2009 Salary - $2 million
Sergio Mitre: 2009 Salary - $1.25 million
Boone Logan: 2009 Salary - $427,5000
2009 Payroll: $201,449,189
2010 Payroll: $192 million Approximately
Now of course there is still some wheeling and dealing left to be done this off season. Gaudin and Mitre will get raises, but its also been reported that the Yankees will look to trade one of them in spring training. The Yankees could make a solid $5 million addition and still absorb the arbitration cases and perhaps a couple minor league deals without breaking the $200 million threshold. However, the Yankees are keeping the luxury tax in mind as well. Each contract they add at this point is 40% more expensive, making a $5 million deal worth $7 million. Ouch.
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
The Damon Market Drying Up
Right now, the potential landing places for Johnny Damon seem to be drying up. The more free agent outfielders sign with other teams, the more Damon's life becomes one of those nature shows where the polar bear is losing all his potential habitat due to global warming. The Giants and Mets have just signed left fielders. There is no real indication Boston is interested. The Cards almost certainly will sign Holliday. Mariners were once upon a time looking for an outfielder, but no longer (and that well before Christmas). Where can Damon go?
The Giants are supposedly still looking for a bat, and maybe they use DeRosa in a position other than left and try to sign Damon. That said, Damon will not get from the Giants anywhere near what he had hoped to make when he filed for free agency, nor even what he would've made from New York had he taken a more reasonable negotiating stance from the beginning. But I can't think of any other landing spots.
I know a lot of people would still like to see him on the Yanks, but that ain't happening. Damon's asking price may fall low enough to where the Yanks might reconsider, but they are skeptical about a player's likelihood of being happy when he's taken that sort of pay cut from his previous employer.
Maybe Boston is lurking out there, but that seems unlikely. I suspect my prediction that Damon will be this season's Abreu is going to become painfully true for the fan favorite left fielder. Damon probably deserves better than what he'll end up getting. Perhaps next time he'll pay less attention to Boras and more attention to common sense (was that 3 year, $39M deal ever going to materialize from anywhere?).
The Giants are supposedly still looking for a bat, and maybe they use DeRosa in a position other than left and try to sign Damon. That said, Damon will not get from the Giants anywhere near what he had hoped to make when he filed for free agency, nor even what he would've made from New York had he taken a more reasonable negotiating stance from the beginning. But I can't think of any other landing spots.
I know a lot of people would still like to see him on the Yanks, but that ain't happening. Damon's asking price may fall low enough to where the Yanks might reconsider, but they are skeptical about a player's likelihood of being happy when he's taken that sort of pay cut from his previous employer.
Maybe Boston is lurking out there, but that seems unlikely. I suspect my prediction that Damon will be this season's Abreu is going to become painfully true for the fan favorite left fielder. Damon probably deserves better than what he'll end up getting. Perhaps next time he'll pay less attention to Boras and more attention to common sense (was that 3 year, $39M deal ever going to materialize from anywhere?).
Forget About Gonzalez to Boston?
It seems the Red Sox are once again considering a run at Adrian Beltre. Earlier this week the Sox were reportedly considering another run at Jason Bay, one which might have put them over the luxury tax threshold, but this seems to have compelled the Mets to add the 5th vesting year Bay so desperately wanted. Now the Sox are considering Beltre, another signing that would likely put them over the luxury tax threshold. What this suggests to me is that the Sox know they need a bat and have realized they aren't going to acquire said bat through a trade with the Pads. Beltre is a presumed health risk, and hardly strikes me as a real difference maker, but it may be the best option out there (unless they decide to go for Holliday, which is very unlikely).
Interesting Article
This article from Bleacher Report has an interesting analysis comparing Melky Cabrera to a young Bernie Williams. While I'm not sure about the comparison, I do think that Melky was never given a real chance to be the next Yankee center fielder. He was definitely always viewed as a stop gap.
Also, as you've probably already heard, Mike Francesa broke the Bay to Mets signing on his radio show earlier today. The contract is for four years with a vesting option for a fifth.
Joel Sherman on the deal.
Also, as you've probably already heard, Mike Francesa broke the Bay to Mets signing on his radio show earlier today. The contract is for four years with a vesting option for a fifth.
Joel Sherman on the deal.
Let's Figure Out How to Get Rid of Igawa
This would be Cashman's greatest feat if he were able to do so, but Cashman should trade Igawa. If we were to pick up half of his contract, he could be a reasonable relief option on an NL team. The trick would be to get another team to eat his whole contract. Then Cashman would be a genius. Especially if he got a left fielder out of the deal.
So far the Yankees have been pretty impressive in this off season, considering that they began the off season with a goal to lower payroll under the $200 million mark, and it would seem that they are going to pull it off. Among their accomplishments, the Yankees traded for Granderson, signed Pettitte, traded for Vazquez, picked Jamie Hoffman in the rule 5 draft and signed Nick Johnson. My only issue with this off season is letting Mark Derosa go to the Giants for 2 years and $12 million. That would have been a very affordable contract for the Yankees. Think of it this way, last season Hideki Matsui and Johnny Damon made a combined $26 million. If the Yankees had signed Mark Derosa to the same contract he got from the Giants, then the Yankees would have wrapped up Derosa and Johnson for $11.75 million, otherwise known as less than half of what they were paying their DH and left fielder last season. I know they're operating with a budget and all, but is Reed Johnson/Brett Gardner/Jamie Hoffman going to give you more in left field than Derosa? I think not. But they're serious about the budget it seems, and adding Vazquez and Granderson in addition to the raise Pettitte got pretty much wraps up what the Yankees saved from losing Wang, Nady, Matsui, and Damon to free agency.
So far the Yankees have been pretty impressive in this off season, considering that they began the off season with a goal to lower payroll under the $200 million mark, and it would seem that they are going to pull it off. Among their accomplishments, the Yankees traded for Granderson, signed Pettitte, traded for Vazquez, picked Jamie Hoffman in the rule 5 draft and signed Nick Johnson. My only issue with this off season is letting Mark Derosa go to the Giants for 2 years and $12 million. That would have been a very affordable contract for the Yankees. Think of it this way, last season Hideki Matsui and Johnny Damon made a combined $26 million. If the Yankees had signed Mark Derosa to the same contract he got from the Giants, then the Yankees would have wrapped up Derosa and Johnson for $11.75 million, otherwise known as less than half of what they were paying their DH and left fielder last season. I know they're operating with a budget and all, but is Reed Johnson/Brett Gardner/Jamie Hoffman going to give you more in left field than Derosa? I think not. But they're serious about the budget it seems, and adding Vazquez and Granderson in addition to the raise Pettitte got pretty much wraps up what the Yankees saved from losing Wang, Nady, Matsui, and Damon to free agency.
Monday, December 28, 2009
DeRosa Talks with Giants Intensifying
According to Jon Heyman over at CNNSI.com, the talks between the Giants and outfielder/infielder/DH/pitcher/catcher Mark DeRosa have intensified. The Giants had made DeRosa a two year offer prior to Christmas, and apparently DeRosa has, at the bare minimum, called them back. A signing can only be assumed to be imminent, but other teams may still be in the hunt. The Mets, Red Sox, Yankees, Mariners, Cubs, and every other team that has an outfield opening has to be assumed to be lurking with their wallets wide open according to the basic principles of sports journalism.
The New Year Approaches
As the New Year approaches, I'm hoping for a long, drawn out negotiation with whomever our next left fielder will be. That may seem like a strange thing to hope for, but if Cash signs a left fielder tomorrow, we will spend the entire rest of the Winter with absolutely nothing to talk about. Now, for a blog that basically makes things up, that's not the end of the world, but it does mean there will be significantly less inspiration out there.
Cash needs to stretch out these next negotiations, leaking every little development to the press, giving us something to talk about, blog about, and obsess over until at least Super Bowl Sunday. Announce the signing on Hangover Monday, and then it's just a small space until pitchers and catchers. Everybody wins.
Cash needs to stretch out these next negotiations, leaking every little development to the press, giving us something to talk about, blog about, and obsess over until at least Super Bowl Sunday. Announce the signing on Hangover Monday, and then it's just a small space until pitchers and catchers. Everybody wins.
Friday, December 25, 2009
@BryanHoch Pays Off for RJG
RJG Twitter responses getting some buzz over at Bryan Hoch's blog. Kind of upset we weren't his favorite, but at least the prize went to an RJG commenter.
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from RJG
We at the RJG wanted to wish everyone out there a very merry Christmas and a happy holiday season. Its been an exciting year to be a Yankee fan and there's plenty to be grateful with this team. Lets see if 2010 spells the beginning stages of a dynasty. Stay safe!
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Backloaded Contract for Bay?
Obviously there's been a fair amount of speculation about whether the Red Sox are back in the bidding for Jason Bay. Most of the coverage has mentioned that to do so they would either have to move some either pieces or, more likely, backload the contract. But if they backload the contract, they'll create one of these untradeabe contract in the late years when Bay's defensive deficiencies will be a greater issue. I mean, I won't argue if they do, but why would you do that?
RJG Hot Stove Overview
Here's something different: our first ever home produced video blog entry. That's right, we're vloggers now. Deal with it.
Hot Stove Still Simmering
Buster Olney has tweeted that Oakland is close to signing Duchscherer. There go my brilliant headlines. Enjoy this Oakland. Enjoy this.
Further, Olney is tweeting that Derosa is leaning towards signing a two year deal with the Giants. A deal is not close but, if it gets done, would drastically change the left field considerations for the Yankees.
Derosa is the name that has most often been mentioned as a potential left field target for the Yankees. I'd be surprised if the Yanks are particularly interested in matching a two year offer, regardless of the annual dollars (Carl Crawford anyone?).
Another name that has been bandied around is Jermain Dye, but his name gets mentioned every year it seems as going to the Yankees but nothing ever happens. I assume that Dye is just a name a lot of sports writers know so they just mention it when they talk about available outfielders.
That leaves Damon, guy you didn't expect/never heard of, and Roberto Alejandro, who Yankees scouts are divided over.
Further, Olney is tweeting that Derosa is leaning towards signing a two year deal with the Giants. A deal is not close but, if it gets done, would drastically change the left field considerations for the Yankees.
Derosa is the name that has most often been mentioned as a potential left field target for the Yankees. I'd be surprised if the Yanks are particularly interested in matching a two year offer, regardless of the annual dollars (Carl Crawford anyone?).
Another name that has been bandied around is Jermain Dye, but his name gets mentioned every year it seems as going to the Yankees but nothing ever happens. I assume that Dye is just a name a lot of sports writers know so they just mention it when they talk about available outfielders.
That leaves Damon, guy you didn't expect/never heard of, and Roberto Alejandro, who Yankees scouts are divided over.
Twitter Update
Some time ago I opened up a Twitter account so I could live blog during games and have another venue for interaction with our readers. Then I moved to England and stopped Tweeting, since I couldn't watch the games and, though I tried to stay up a few times to catch some play-off baseball, I simply couldn't keep going to bed at 5am every night (not to mention I was without internet access for the first month and more or less forgot about the account in the intervening time).
Recently, however, I have begun using Twitter again. I try my best not to send too many tweets, and am using it mainly to let people know when we've updated the blog, and the occasional random comment/observation.
If you're interested in following RJG on Twitter, click here.
Recently, however, I have begun using Twitter again. I try my best not to send too many tweets, and am using it mainly to let people know when we've updated the blog, and the occasional random comment/observation.
If you're interested in following RJG on Twitter, click here.
Bronny Discusses the Left Field Options
With a gaping hole in left field, it was time to call Yankees GM Brian Cashman and discuss potential left field targets, the Yankees budget, and the true spirit of Christmas. The following is a transcript of our conversation:
BC: Hello?
RJG: [Singing] I'm dreaming . . . of a white . . . Christmaaaaaaaaaas.
BC: I gotta start changing my number more regularly.
RJG: [still singing] Who's playing left, I want to know!
BC: We're considering a number of options for left. We know it's an area of need.
RJG: Ooh, I don't like the sound of that.
BC: That we're aware it's an area of need?
RJG: No, that you're considering a number of options. You really should only be thinking about signing me.
BC: We can't sign you.
RJG: Why not?
BC: Because you're not a ball player. You have no major league experience. No minor league experience. And the "highlight video" your "agent" sent over is just a bunch of clips of you drinking beer, playing wiffle ball, and trash talking your friends. What makes you think I could plausibly sign you to play left field for the Yankees?
RJG: I'll have my agent call you again.
BC: No! Do not have him ca . . .
RJG: Just sent him a text. You'll hear from him soon enough. But since you're considering other options, who are they? Do I know them?
BC: I'm not telling you.
RJG: Just give me their addresses.
BC: No.
RJG: But it's Christmas! And on Christmas, you're supposed to give people whatever they want!
BC: I thought Christmas was supposed to be about family and goodwill towards men.
RJG: You're way off. It's about gifts, and television specials. Family and goodwill. You crack me up Bronny.
BC: I guess you're right.
RJG: Damn right I'm right. So left. Think about it, I'd be perfect. I mean, everything I say to you comes out of left.
BC: Yeah, I won't disagree with that, but that doesn't qualify you to play left.
RJG: I'm pretty sure that qualifies me. Did you receive the depth chart my agent sent over?
BC: What, the list of random names titled 'Left Field Options?' You're listed third behind Mickey Mantle and President Barack Obama. The remaining names are a random collection of superhero aliases and Simpsons characters. Somehow you've determined that Rev. Lovejoy's batting average is higher than Peter Parker's. What makes you think we would take this seriously? You listed Melky Cabrera last and included a scouting report stating that his playing in Atlanta will make him ineffective as the left fielder in New York due to distance, and lack of a jet pack.
RJG: So you agree that I'm a better option than Melky.
[Click]
There you go, folks. The Bronstersaurus is aware that the Yanks need a left fielder and is considering a number of options.
BC: Hello?
RJG: [Singing] I'm dreaming . . . of a white . . . Christmaaaaaaaaaas.
BC: I gotta start changing my number more regularly.
RJG: [still singing] Who's playing left, I want to know!
BC: We're considering a number of options for left. We know it's an area of need.
RJG: Ooh, I don't like the sound of that.
BC: That we're aware it's an area of need?
RJG: No, that you're considering a number of options. You really should only be thinking about signing me.
BC: We can't sign you.
RJG: Why not?
BC: Because you're not a ball player. You have no major league experience. No minor league experience. And the "highlight video" your "agent" sent over is just a bunch of clips of you drinking beer, playing wiffle ball, and trash talking your friends. What makes you think I could plausibly sign you to play left field for the Yankees?
RJG: I'll have my agent call you again.
BC: No! Do not have him ca . . .
RJG: Just sent him a text. You'll hear from him soon enough. But since you're considering other options, who are they? Do I know them?
BC: I'm not telling you.
RJG: Just give me their addresses.
BC: No.
RJG: But it's Christmas! And on Christmas, you're supposed to give people whatever they want!
BC: I thought Christmas was supposed to be about family and goodwill towards men.
RJG: You're way off. It's about gifts, and television specials. Family and goodwill. You crack me up Bronny.
BC: I guess you're right.
RJG: Damn right I'm right. So left. Think about it, I'd be perfect. I mean, everything I say to you comes out of left.
BC: Yeah, I won't disagree with that, but that doesn't qualify you to play left.
RJG: I'm pretty sure that qualifies me. Did you receive the depth chart my agent sent over?
BC: What, the list of random names titled 'Left Field Options?' You're listed third behind Mickey Mantle and President Barack Obama. The remaining names are a random collection of superhero aliases and Simpsons characters. Somehow you've determined that Rev. Lovejoy's batting average is higher than Peter Parker's. What makes you think we would take this seriously? You listed Melky Cabrera last and included a scouting report stating that his playing in Atlanta will make him ineffective as the left fielder in New York due to distance, and lack of a jet pack.
RJG: So you agree that I'm a better option than Melky.
[Click]
There you go, folks. The Bronstersaurus is aware that the Yanks need a left fielder and is considering a number of options.
The Jason Bay Bidding Just Got Interesting
According to Jon Harper over at the Daily News, the Red Sox may have reentered the Jason Bay bidding. Originally, the Sox made Bay a 4 year, $60M offer during their exclusive negotiating window. Bay responded in a strongly worded letter, rejecting the offer, and referring to Theo Epstein as a "nerd."
Hurt by Bay's inconsiderate words, the Red Sox pulled out of the bidding. They would later make a 5 year, $82.5M offer to Matt Holliday, the rich man's Jason Bay, but Holliday rejected the offer, though he was nicer about it.
At this point the Red Sox signed John Lackey and Mike Cameron, strengthening their rotation, and making their outfield perfectly mediocre offensively. Actually, considering they play in the AL East, their outfield is sub-par offensively. The Sox hoped to address this lack of offense by either making a trade for the Padre's Gonzalez or signing free agent Adrian Beltre (though I never got the sense they really wanted to make a move here, just that he was out there and could hit if healthy). The Pads are not trading Gonzalez, and I suspect new Pads GM Jed Hoyer is worried about what it would look like for him to trade his best hitter to his former employer. If the return isn't significant, it undermines Hoyer's credibility.
So now the Red Sox have turned back to the girl that broke up with them in front of everybody at the Prom, Jason Bay. Bay has not found the five year offer he is looking for, largely because baseball GMs are generally not clinically insane, but the Mets, needing a big bat and to do something to improve if they plan on ever selling another season ticket package, have been unwilling to move from 4 years, $65M. Now Minaya has been patient before and landed big time players at his price (think Santana trade for a Wendy's coupon and a toasted sub to be named later). This time, it looks like his unwillingness to maybe throw another $5M or so in the deal may cost him his target.
The Red Sox need another hitter, because right now their biggest power threats are David Ortiz (only good when roiding), and Nancy Drew (sorry, I honestly can't remember his real first name and don't feel like looking it up). Bay definitely makes their offense more formidable, so it should be interesting to see how this one develops. Granted, it's possible that the Sox are just looking to drive up the price on the Mets. Not because there's any reason to, just for spite and 1986.
Hurt by Bay's inconsiderate words, the Red Sox pulled out of the bidding. They would later make a 5 year, $82.5M offer to Matt Holliday, the rich man's Jason Bay, but Holliday rejected the offer, though he was nicer about it.
At this point the Red Sox signed John Lackey and Mike Cameron, strengthening their rotation, and making their outfield perfectly mediocre offensively. Actually, considering they play in the AL East, their outfield is sub-par offensively. The Sox hoped to address this lack of offense by either making a trade for the Padre's Gonzalez or signing free agent Adrian Beltre (though I never got the sense they really wanted to make a move here, just that he was out there and could hit if healthy). The Pads are not trading Gonzalez, and I suspect new Pads GM Jed Hoyer is worried about what it would look like for him to trade his best hitter to his former employer. If the return isn't significant, it undermines Hoyer's credibility.
So now the Red Sox have turned back to the girl that broke up with them in front of everybody at the Prom, Jason Bay. Bay has not found the five year offer he is looking for, largely because baseball GMs are generally not clinically insane, but the Mets, needing a big bat and to do something to improve if they plan on ever selling another season ticket package, have been unwilling to move from 4 years, $65M. Now Minaya has been patient before and landed big time players at his price (think Santana trade for a Wendy's coupon and a toasted sub to be named later). This time, it looks like his unwillingness to maybe throw another $5M or so in the deal may cost him his target.
The Red Sox need another hitter, because right now their biggest power threats are David Ortiz (only good when roiding), and Nancy Drew (sorry, I honestly can't remember his real first name and don't feel like looking it up). Bay definitely makes their offense more formidable, so it should be interesting to see how this one develops. Granted, it's possible that the Sox are just looking to drive up the price on the Mets. Not because there's any reason to, just for spite and 1986.
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
WTF?
I don't know if he was joking, but Mark Feinsand earlier tweeted that the Cubs were willing to take Kei Igawa as part of a Zambrano deal. The Yankees didn't even change Kei Igawa's name and they were willing to take him. How did this not happen? I mean, hell, even if the trade talks fall apart, why not just gift them Igawa anyway for trying?
Yankees Acquire Boone Logan, Cashman Baffled
The Yankees recently worked out a deal that sent popular outfielder Melky Cabrera and two minor league pitchers to Atlanta for starting pitcher Javier Vazquez. However, somewhere along the way, the Braves stuck the Yankees with relief pitcher Boone Logan.
"Yeah, I was just as surprised as you were." Explained Cashman at the Vazquez announcement. "I worked out this deal for Vazquez, then next thing I know I hear that we have Boone Logan. I thought Hal had worked out a deal behind my back so I threw a trash can at his Bentley as he was leaving the office."
Hal agreed with Cashman's story.
"Yeah, I had just put the Miley CD in, and I was pulling out of the garage, and there was Cashman holding a trash can. He chucked it at the side of my car and yelled: 'You want war Hal!? You want WAR!!!!??!'"
But once they had a chance to discuss what happened, Cashman realized that Atlanta had included Boone Logan in the fine print of the deal.
"Frank [Wren] was real shady with the deal." Explained Cashman referring to the Braves General Manager. "He would say things like 'ifyouwantboonelogansaywhat'. And I was like 'What?' and the next thing I know Boone Logan is on the Yankees."
So what will the Yankees do with Boone Logan?
"I'm hoping he knows how to fix dents in Bentley's. Maybe fix the scratched paint too. That's probably the first thing I'll have him do." Explained Cashman.
However you may feel about it, a major league left handed releiver's always good to have.
"Yeah, I was just as surprised as you were." Explained Cashman at the Vazquez announcement. "I worked out this deal for Vazquez, then next thing I know I hear that we have Boone Logan. I thought Hal had worked out a deal behind my back so I threw a trash can at his Bentley as he was leaving the office."
Hal agreed with Cashman's story.
"Yeah, I had just put the Miley CD in, and I was pulling out of the garage, and there was Cashman holding a trash can. He chucked it at the side of my car and yelled: 'You want war Hal!? You want WAR!!!!??!'"
But once they had a chance to discuss what happened, Cashman realized that Atlanta had included Boone Logan in the fine print of the deal.
"Frank [Wren] was real shady with the deal." Explained Cashman referring to the Braves General Manager. "He would say things like 'ifyouwantboonelogansaywhat'. And I was like 'What?' and the next thing I know Boone Logan is on the Yankees."
So what will the Yankees do with Boone Logan?
"I'm hoping he knows how to fix dents in Bentley's. Maybe fix the scratched paint too. That's probably the first thing I'll have him do." Explained Cashman.
However you may feel about it, a major league left handed releiver's always good to have.
Lee in 2011?
I know, who cares about 2011 at this point? But I've read in a number of places (here, and the 11:26pm update)that the Yanks tried to swoop in and complete a trade with Philly for Cliff Lee when it became clear that they were landing Halladay. Cliff Lee probably knows this, or at least by now his agent does. Wondering whether the Yanks will try to sign him next winter or whether they'll continue being concerned about the budget instead.
I Need to Punch a Scout
Any scout will do, really. In this article in the post, an anonymous major league scout, anonymous because he's a coward, rates the Sox starting five as better than the Yankees starting five. In fairness, with the exception of the 5 spot (Joba/Hughes v. Chamberlain), I think the analysis is fair. But I'm a die hard so I have to punch this guy.
But there's another problem with the analysis. The scout prefers Lackey to Burnett because of control, and Lester to Pettitte because of youth and stuff. Fair enough. But if either match up was happening in a game, would you really feel like the Yankees have no chance to win? Of course not. Burnett can beat Lackey and Pettitte can beat Lester. Not to mention, we have a better line-up than the Sox, so I think with the guys we have, we have the advantage. As for Buchholz v. Joba/Hughes, any opinion is based on what someone might think is the potential, because none of them have shown, yet, that they can be consistent, good major league starters.
But there's another problem with the analysis. The scout prefers Lackey to Burnett because of control, and Lester to Pettitte because of youth and stuff. Fair enough. But if either match up was happening in a game, would you really feel like the Yankees have no chance to win? Of course not. Burnett can beat Lackey and Pettitte can beat Lester. Not to mention, we have a better line-up than the Sox, so I think with the guys we have, we have the advantage. As for Buchholz v. Joba/Hughes, any opinion is based on what someone might think is the potential, because none of them have shown, yet, that they can be consistent, good major league starters.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Classy Move
Thought I'd pass this along. Roy Halladay took out a full page ad in a the Toronto Sun thanking Jays fans for their support during his time in Toronto. Class act that Roy Halladay.
Another Blast from the Past in Left?
The Yankees have now signed/acquired two former Yankees, pitcher Javier Vazquez and first baseman/DH Nick Johnson. With a gaping hole in left field, the Yankees may consider bringing back another oldie but goodie.
Bernie Williams is still available via free agency, and his refusal to officially retire means that he is still available. The Yanks may consider moving Paul O'Neil from the broadcast booth and slotting him into left. Chad Curtis is also available, one can only assume.
The best outside options that the Yankees would likely consider are Mark Derosa or perhaps Roberto Alejandro, who is willing to play for a one year contract at the league minimum. Roberto Alejandro's agent, Fernando Alejandro, has been in touch with Brian Cashman and expressed his client's interest.
Bernie Williams is still available via free agency, and his refusal to officially retire means that he is still available. The Yanks may consider moving Paul O'Neil from the broadcast booth and slotting him into left. Chad Curtis is also available, one can only assume.
The best outside options that the Yankees would likely consider are Mark Derosa or perhaps Roberto Alejandro, who is willing to play for a one year contract at the league minimum. Roberto Alejandro's agent, Fernando Alejandro, has been in touch with Brian Cashman and expressed his client's interest.
The Melk Man Delivered To Atlanta
The Yankees have traded fan favorite Melky Cabrera (along with Mike Dunn, the best lefty reliever we've never seen or heard of, and another minor leaguer) to Atlanta for 2004 ALCS hero Javier Vazquez (hero for Boston anyway) and lefty reliever Boone Logan.
This marks the end of the Melk-man era. If Cano hits under .250 next season, it will be Cash's fault for trading away his best friend.
Vazquez is an innings eater. Innings, while nutritionally deficient, are important to baseball teams. Vazquez will slot in as the fourth starter, moving one of either Joba or Hughes into the bullpen. Of course, if Vazquez struggles in the 4 spot, expect the Vazquez starter/reliever debate to heat up again.
This marks the end of the Melk-man era. If Cano hits under .250 next season, it will be Cash's fault for trading away his best friend.
Vazquez is an innings eater. Innings, while nutritionally deficient, are important to baseball teams. Vazquez will slot in as the fourth starter, moving one of either Joba or Hughes into the bullpen. Of course, if Vazquez struggles in the 4 spot, expect the Vazquez starter/reliever debate to heat up again.
Monday, December 21, 2009
I Didn't Know You Could Go to Jail for This!
According to this article in the NY Times, Brooke Astor's son has been sentenced to prison for siphoning large sums of money from his mother. But isn't that every child's prerogative? My whole life has pretty much been one continuous attempt to avoid paying for things myself and have my parents pay instead. Like that time I was about 10 or 11, and I found a $10 bill in the house and bought a GI Joe. Or taking change out of the jars in my parents room to buy candy bars. I must have kept half the candy industry going in my home town with those purchases. I used to go into my parent's room and search for loose bills in my dad's pants so I could go buy candy. Even now, when I go to my parent's house I pretty much just double their grocery bill for the week and then leave. I mean, if I knew I could go to jail for siphoning money from your parents, I probably would've thought twice about it.
Leaving No Stone Unturned
Yankees Managing General Partner Hal Steinbrenner was recently quoted as saying that the Yankees would be "leaving no stone unturned" in regards to the hot stove season. He also said that the Yankees still have room for one more move. In this exclusive interview, Hal Steinbrenner agreed to speak with RJG in our first ever interview with the man who is running the Yankees.
Hal: "One move is what we have left, and we have to make it count." Explained Hal. "When we move, you [the press] move. Just like that."
RJG: "Is that a Ludacris song?"
Hal: "Did it, done it."
RJG: "Okay. So what kind of move do you have in mind?"
Hal: "You know, I was in a board meeting the other day with Cash and some of the execs. We were discussing what options we have as a team, and trying to operate within our budget. Then Cash's cell phone rang, and his ring tone was 'Empire State of Mind' by Jay-Z. And the Jay-Z song was on. And the Jay-Z song was on. And the Jay-Z song was on. So I put my hands up, they're playing..."
RJG: "Please stop."
Hal: [Singing] "And the Jay-Z song was on! And the Jay-Z song was oooooonnn!"
RJG: "If you didn't want to talk to us about the team you could have just told us."
Hal: [Singing] "So I put my hands up they're playing my song, and the butterflies fly away."
RJG: "You know I drove 4 hours for this interview right?"
Hal: [Singing louder] "All I see is stiletto's, I must've didn't get the memo."
RJG: "Okay, thanks for the interview."
So, my 8 hour round trip has basically turned up that Hal likes Jay-Z, and apparently Miley Cyrus too. Could be worse for a Monday morning.
Hal: "One move is what we have left, and we have to make it count." Explained Hal. "When we move, you [the press] move. Just like that."
RJG: "Is that a Ludacris song?"
Hal: "Did it, done it."
RJG: "Okay. So what kind of move do you have in mind?"
Hal: "You know, I was in a board meeting the other day with Cash and some of the execs. We were discussing what options we have as a team, and trying to operate within our budget. Then Cash's cell phone rang, and his ring tone was 'Empire State of Mind' by Jay-Z. And the Jay-Z song was on. And the Jay-Z song was on. And the Jay-Z song was on. So I put my hands up, they're playing..."
RJG: "Please stop."
Hal: [Singing] "And the Jay-Z song was on! And the Jay-Z song was oooooonnn!"
RJG: "If you didn't want to talk to us about the team you could have just told us."
Hal: [Singing] "So I put my hands up they're playing my song, and the butterflies fly away."
RJG: "You know I drove 4 hours for this interview right?"
Hal: [Singing louder] "All I see is stiletto's, I must've didn't get the memo."
RJG: "Okay, thanks for the interview."
So, my 8 hour round trip has basically turned up that Hal likes Jay-Z, and apparently Miley Cyrus too. Could be worse for a Monday morning.
Sunday, December 20, 2009
The Yankees' Next Move
With Nick Johnson now in the fold, the Yankees will presumably move on to signing another starting pitcher. The top two candidates appear to be Ben Sheets and Justin Duscherer, two former aces coming back from injuries. A third name that has been floated is Kelvim Escobar, who may be more risky as he is attempting to return from shoulder surgery, versus elbow surgeries for Sheets and Duscherer. Duscherer also suffered from clinical depression.
My brother and I were discussing this last night, and I mentioned that I'm not sure the Yankees should sign a pitcher whose first syllable of their last name is Dusch (read: douche). Can you imagine the chants when he doesn't pitch well? Hell, even the roll call will be embarrassing. Besides, what will the NY Post do to him. He already has a history with depression.
Then we realized something. The Yanks need to sign Duscherer. The first syllable of his last name is Dusch. Think of the potential for RJG posts. Signing Dusch to the rotation is certifiable gold for a blog like ours. The Yanks must sign Dusch at any and all costs.
If Dusch goes shopping, we can say, "What's in Dusch's bag?" If he throws a few wild pitches, we'd go with "Dusch's wild." It's perfect. It's more than perfect, it is all the planets aligning for the Yankees to do us all a favor. Sign this kid. Quick.
My brother and I were discussing this last night, and I mentioned that I'm not sure the Yankees should sign a pitcher whose first syllable of their last name is Dusch (read: douche). Can you imagine the chants when he doesn't pitch well? Hell, even the roll call will be embarrassing. Besides, what will the NY Post do to him. He already has a history with depression.
Then we realized something. The Yanks need to sign Duscherer. The first syllable of his last name is Dusch. Think of the potential for RJG posts. Signing Dusch to the rotation is certifiable gold for a blog like ours. The Yanks must sign Dusch at any and all costs.
If Dusch goes shopping, we can say, "What's in Dusch's bag?" If he throws a few wild pitches, we'd go with "Dusch's wild." It's perfect. It's more than perfect, it is all the planets aligning for the Yankees to do us all a favor. Sign this kid. Quick.
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Cliff Lee Shocked to Be Traded
Cliff Lee is in shock. Two weeks ago he thought he would be a Philly forever, only to be "shocked" to find out he was traded to the Mariners. It seems you cannot even seek refuge from disappointment in the sanctuary of low expectations.
"I thought I was going to be a Philly the rest of my life, man," lamented Lee. "I mean, it took me a while to accept that this was as good as it would get for me. Then, I get dumped for an older man? That's bullsh*t!"
Lee was visibly upset as we spoke, though largely because we had crashed his vacation in Puerto Rico. But since we have family there, we had the home field advantage, and told him no one else would listen to his moping. His wife was out spending his money.
Lee explained how he felt when he heard from Philly's GM Ruben Amaro Jr III that he had been traded.
"Shocked. Utterly shocked. My blood pressure was real low. I felt cold and numb, and I couldn't feel me legs. I just kept screaming, 'mama' over and over again."
Told he seemed to be describing a scene in any number of war movies and some symptoms of actual shock, Lee grew despondent.
"Why don't they want me? [Sob]. I mean, I'm a good person, I pay my taxes, I never went and ran off with some other team when the Phillies were on a road trip. I used to call the Phanatic and tell him how much I appreciate how much he gives to the team when I'm out there playing. I feel so used."
Lee seemed to be taking the trade particularly hard for a guy who'd been traded before.
"Cleveland? That meant nothing to me. That was just a fling, you know? Something to pass the time. But this was different. I was the Ace, the guy you counted on when things were going bad, now I don't know what to think about my time there. Was it all a lie? How could they do this to me?"
Lee is not prepared to negotiate a contract extension with Seattle at this time.
"It's too soon. I mean, this just happened, I need to have some fun, clear my head a little. Then, after some time, I can think about making a commitment, just not right now."
"I thought I was going to be a Philly the rest of my life, man," lamented Lee. "I mean, it took me a while to accept that this was as good as it would get for me. Then, I get dumped for an older man? That's bullsh*t!"
Lee was visibly upset as we spoke, though largely because we had crashed his vacation in Puerto Rico. But since we have family there, we had the home field advantage, and told him no one else would listen to his moping. His wife was out spending his money.
Lee explained how he felt when he heard from Philly's GM Ruben Amaro Jr III that he had been traded.
"Shocked. Utterly shocked. My blood pressure was real low. I felt cold and numb, and I couldn't feel me legs. I just kept screaming, 'mama' over and over again."
Told he seemed to be describing a scene in any number of war movies and some symptoms of actual shock, Lee grew despondent.
"Why don't they want me? [Sob]. I mean, I'm a good person, I pay my taxes, I never went and ran off with some other team when the Phillies were on a road trip. I used to call the Phanatic and tell him how much I appreciate how much he gives to the team when I'm out there playing. I feel so used."
Lee seemed to be taking the trade particularly hard for a guy who'd been traded before.
"Cleveland? That meant nothing to me. That was just a fling, you know? Something to pass the time. But this was different. I was the Ace, the guy you counted on when things were going bad, now I don't know what to think about my time there. Was it all a lie? How could they do this to me?"
Lee is not prepared to negotiate a contract extension with Seattle at this time.
"It's too soon. I mean, this just happened, I need to have some fun, clear my head a little. Then, after some time, I can think about making a commitment, just not right now."
Another Perspective
Check out this column by Tim Marchman at CNNSI.com. He talks about the Lackey/Cameron and Granderson deals. What I find interesting is that he's the first person I've come across, writing for a national audience, that doesn't think Boston signing Lackey makes them the best pitching staff ever (or at least in the AL East). I've, frankly, been surprised by how much praise the Sox have received for the signing. I realize there aren't that many players to get excited about in this hot stove season, but still, Lackey is good, but he's hardly a great pitcher. If I'd asked you six months ago to name your ideal 5 man rotation, would Lackey have made the list? Hell no! You'd've picked Superman, and Wolverine, Sabathia, Halladay, and Santana. So yeah, I'm largely posting the link because he praises the Yanks as really smart and says Boston isn't as smart as everyone pretends. So what?
The Problem of Being a Boras Client
It has been widely reported that Damon offered to accept a 2 yr, $20M contract from the Yankees. By then, the Johnson deal was almost finalized, which meant that almost $6M of the $20M they had budgeted for Damon (presumably) was now wrapped up in Johnson, so they countered with 2 yrs, $14M. Considering Damon hardly wanted to take a pay cut, he wasn't going to play 2 years for $1M more than he made in one year on his previous contract. Thus ends the Johnny Damon era for the Yankees.
By all accounts, Damon wanted to return to the Yankees. His willingness to go from $13M a year for 3-4 years to $20M for 2 years shows that. But by all accounts, the Yankees never valued Damon above a 2 year, $20M contract to begin with. If you were willing to play for that, and you wanted to play for the Yankees, why did you dick around so long, only changing course when it was clear the Yanks had moved on (don't think that leak of the Johnson negotiations was an accident)? Had you said, "Yeah, I'm old, I'm rich, I can take a $3M pay cut and still feed my family," you'd be on the Yankees, your desired destination right now.
But here's the problem, you're a Boras client. And Boras never takes into account his clients' desires to be on a contender, or the actual facts of what his clients bring to the table versus what a team should pay them, he pretty much operates on the assumption that his clients only care how high his commission is. He misplayed the A-Rod opt-out badly, and ended his relationship with the slugger (though, thanks to Hank, it worked; though after this past postseason, I'm not complaining). He now has made Damon this season's Abreu, a player who will almost certainly end up playing for far less than he's worth had his agent not been a douche (granted, Abreu's agent wasn't his problem last year). Only Damon won't be as lucky as Abreu was last year because he won't be playing for a contender.
Let's consider the options. New York is obviously out, and Boston currently has Elsbury and Cameron, so the AL East is out. The Angels just signed Matsui, and don't need a half-time DH type outfielder, they're out. Seattle just traded for Bradley, they're out. The Tigers are shedding payroll, and its questionable whether they'll be competitive next year anyway, so they're out. Minnesota likes younger players generally, and as far as anyone knows are looking for neither a DH or outfielder. That's the American League. We'll do the NL quickly. The Phillies don't need him, no one else in that division matters (sorry Mets fans). St. Louis will resign Holliday unless Boras does to him what he did to Damon. That's the central, (sorry Reds fans). In the West, the Dodgers are irrelevant because of the McCourt divorce, the Giants might take him but won't pay him much and frankly, still won't be competitive (sorry Damon fans, he's not putting anybody over the top) and as far as I know the Rockies aren't interested. That leaves no real contenders or teams with money (save maybe the Mets) who might be interested in Damon. The Mets will almost certainly come to terms with Bay, whom no one else wants (coincidentally, that's the same reason St. Louis will keep Holliday).
At this point, if any of these teams decided they did need a bat/outfielder not named Holliday, they'd look to Bay before Damon. So all this just to say that Damon will probably not be on a contender or playing for anywhere near $13M. Had Boras, at the winter meetings, communicated Damon's willingness to play for 2yrs/$20M, Damon would be a Yankee, making bank, looking at a chance to repeat. Instead, Boras talked about Damon's DNA and talked Damon right out of any chance of having the sort of salary he probably is still worth. Good job, Super Agent, good job.
By all accounts, Damon wanted to return to the Yankees. His willingness to go from $13M a year for 3-4 years to $20M for 2 years shows that. But by all accounts, the Yankees never valued Damon above a 2 year, $20M contract to begin with. If you were willing to play for that, and you wanted to play for the Yankees, why did you dick around so long, only changing course when it was clear the Yanks had moved on (don't think that leak of the Johnson negotiations was an accident)? Had you said, "Yeah, I'm old, I'm rich, I can take a $3M pay cut and still feed my family," you'd be on the Yankees, your desired destination right now.
But here's the problem, you're a Boras client. And Boras never takes into account his clients' desires to be on a contender, or the actual facts of what his clients bring to the table versus what a team should pay them, he pretty much operates on the assumption that his clients only care how high his commission is. He misplayed the A-Rod opt-out badly, and ended his relationship with the slugger (though, thanks to Hank, it worked; though after this past postseason, I'm not complaining). He now has made Damon this season's Abreu, a player who will almost certainly end up playing for far less than he's worth had his agent not been a douche (granted, Abreu's agent wasn't his problem last year). Only Damon won't be as lucky as Abreu was last year because he won't be playing for a contender.
Let's consider the options. New York is obviously out, and Boston currently has Elsbury and Cameron, so the AL East is out. The Angels just signed Matsui, and don't need a half-time DH type outfielder, they're out. Seattle just traded for Bradley, they're out. The Tigers are shedding payroll, and its questionable whether they'll be competitive next year anyway, so they're out. Minnesota likes younger players generally, and as far as anyone knows are looking for neither a DH or outfielder. That's the American League. We'll do the NL quickly. The Phillies don't need him, no one else in that division matters (sorry Mets fans). St. Louis will resign Holliday unless Boras does to him what he did to Damon. That's the central, (sorry Reds fans). In the West, the Dodgers are irrelevant because of the McCourt divorce, the Giants might take him but won't pay him much and frankly, still won't be competitive (sorry Damon fans, he's not putting anybody over the top) and as far as I know the Rockies aren't interested. That leaves no real contenders or teams with money (save maybe the Mets) who might be interested in Damon. The Mets will almost certainly come to terms with Bay, whom no one else wants (coincidentally, that's the same reason St. Louis will keep Holliday).
At this point, if any of these teams decided they did need a bat/outfielder not named Holliday, they'd look to Bay before Damon. So all this just to say that Damon will probably not be on a contender or playing for anywhere near $13M. Had Boras, at the winter meetings, communicated Damon's willingness to play for 2yrs/$20M, Damon would be a Yankee, making bank, looking at a chance to repeat. Instead, Boras talked about Damon's DNA and talked Damon right out of any chance of having the sort of salary he probably is still worth. Good job, Super Agent, good job.
Friday, December 18, 2009
Johnson Deal Official
Read here and here.
The only problem, really, with Johnson hitting second, besides the approximate three weeks of actual service he'll give us due to injuries, is that you know have Johnson and Teixeira back to back. If A-Rod doesn't hit only doubles or above, he'll never drive in a run with that sort of speed in front of him.
The only problem, really, with Johnson hitting second, besides the approximate three weeks of actual service he'll give us due to injuries, is that you know have Johnson and Teixeira back to back. If A-Rod doesn't hit only doubles or above, he'll never drive in a run with that sort of speed in front of him.
Mariners Reverse Course, Give Up On Season
The Mariners are reportedly close to a deal with the Cubs that would land them Milton Bradley in exchange for Carlos Silva.
After signing Chone Figgins and trading for Cliff Lee, many believed that the Ms had essentially locked up the AL West and were ready to be competitors. However, with the signing of Milton Bradley, the Ms have chosen, instead, to throw in the towel.
Milton Bradley, known for his mad board game skills, has a reputation for tearing apart clubhouses with his post-winning-a-board-game antics. He spends most of his time in the clubhouse defeating teammates in Connect Four, then wearing down their egos with constant trash talk. By the time they get out on the field, most players are barely able to contain the tears, let alone play Major League ball. Bradley is also known for not getting along with water coolers and Lou Piniellas.
After signing Chone Figgins and trading for Cliff Lee, many believed that the Ms had essentially locked up the AL West and were ready to be competitors. However, with the signing of Milton Bradley, the Ms have chosen, instead, to throw in the towel.
Milton Bradley, known for his mad board game skills, has a reputation for tearing apart clubhouses with his post-winning-a-board-game antics. He spends most of his time in the clubhouse defeating teammates in Connect Four, then wearing down their egos with constant trash talk. By the time they get out on the field, most players are barely able to contain the tears, let alone play Major League ball. Bradley is also known for not getting along with water coolers and Lou Piniellas.
How The Yanks Could've Landed Halladay
In the aftermath of the Halladay trade, most commentators have noted that the Yanks just didn't match up well with the Jays' needs as far as being trading partners is concerned. But with a little creativity, the Yankees could have had Halladay while keeping both Joba and Hughes.
How, you ask? Simple. First, everyone knows that the Jays wanted Montero. The Yanks love his bat but probably won't have a position for him on the Major League club for another seven years, when Teixeira's contract expires. Montero is young, having celebrated his sweet sixteen not that long ago (yes, he did have a pony), but the Yankees could move him without blinking. The first step, then, is to put Montero up as part of the trade.
The second step is the key to the trade. The Yanks knew last summer, after their first attempt failed worse than the Challenger, that the Jays would be looking to move Halladay this winter. Right after winning the World Series, the Yankees needed to quickly, and quietly, legally change the name of Kei Igawa. The name doesn't matter, so let's say he is now legally Ted Smith. They could call up the Jays and say, "We're willing to part with Montero, Smith, and some lesser prospects too, or a Melky or Garner. Who is Smith you ask? Just the most dominant pitcher on our AAA staff. His numbers definitely indicate readiness to pitch at the major league level. We're surprised you've never heard of him, he's only our best AAA pitcher. This deal is only on the table for 24 hours though, so act quick, because we're not sure we really want to trade such a great pitching prospect."
At this point the Jays are real curious, not to mention upset that their scouts are utterly unaware of Smith. All sorts of player development people and scouts get fired. Smith's numbers don't lie, he's ready to pitch in the major leagues. Why has no one ever heard of him? They know no other team has a pitching prospect this dominant in their system. After completely gutting their scouting division, they take up the Yankees offer, only to find out a week later that Ted Smith is actually Kei Igawa. Anthopoulous is fired a day later. The scouts cannot be rehired because the Yankees already poached all of them, seeing as they were desperate for work in a down economy. The Jays don't recover for decades.
You see, it's all quite simple. The Yankees could've had Halladay and essentially wiped one of their division rivals off the baseball map with one simple legal name change. Think long and hard about that before the next time you want to praise the Yankees front office.
How, you ask? Simple. First, everyone knows that the Jays wanted Montero. The Yanks love his bat but probably won't have a position for him on the Major League club for another seven years, when Teixeira's contract expires. Montero is young, having celebrated his sweet sixteen not that long ago (yes, he did have a pony), but the Yankees could move him without blinking. The first step, then, is to put Montero up as part of the trade.
The second step is the key to the trade. The Yanks knew last summer, after their first attempt failed worse than the Challenger, that the Jays would be looking to move Halladay this winter. Right after winning the World Series, the Yankees needed to quickly, and quietly, legally change the name of Kei Igawa. The name doesn't matter, so let's say he is now legally Ted Smith. They could call up the Jays and say, "We're willing to part with Montero, Smith, and some lesser prospects too, or a Melky or Garner. Who is Smith you ask? Just the most dominant pitcher on our AAA staff. His numbers definitely indicate readiness to pitch at the major league level. We're surprised you've never heard of him, he's only our best AAA pitcher. This deal is only on the table for 24 hours though, so act quick, because we're not sure we really want to trade such a great pitching prospect."
At this point the Jays are real curious, not to mention upset that their scouts are utterly unaware of Smith. All sorts of player development people and scouts get fired. Smith's numbers don't lie, he's ready to pitch in the major leagues. Why has no one ever heard of him? They know no other team has a pitching prospect this dominant in their system. After completely gutting their scouting division, they take up the Yankees offer, only to find out a week later that Ted Smith is actually Kei Igawa. Anthopoulous is fired a day later. The scouts cannot be rehired because the Yankees already poached all of them, seeing as they were desperate for work in a down economy. The Jays don't recover for decades.
You see, it's all quite simple. The Yankees could've had Halladay and essentially wiped one of their division rivals off the baseball map with one simple legal name change. Think long and hard about that before the next time you want to praise the Yankees front office.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Johnson Deal Imminent
According to the Post, the Yankees are close on a one year deal with the next Carl Pavano, Nick Johnson. The deal is for one year, and probably around $6M. Considering Johnson can't play in the field w/o seriously hurting himself, this signing suggests that if Matsui had waited a week he'd be back in pinstripes. This also may be a sign that the Yanks are done waiting for Damon to realize he's old as hell. Consider this from Joel Sherman. The Yankees will now turn their attention to finding another starter, if only to avoid making Posada angry.
Why?
Now that the Yankees are working with a budget, I have to wonder whether or not this really makes sense. I'm not advocating the Yankees attempt to build a team purely based on signing expensive free agents, we've seen where that leads. However, if the right piece is out there, I'd hate to pass on it because we've already hit $185M or $195M on payroll. For any other team, I understand the need for a budget. But you are the biggest team in probably the biggest baseball market in the country, you have a license to print money, what's with the stinginess all of a sudden? I'm not writing this b/c I feel the Yanks should have gone after any particular player, I'm just wondering whether it makes sense to keep the budget under $200M just for the sake of keeping it under $200M. I'd like to know the reason why suddenly a team with almost infinite financial resources needs a self-imposed budget cap. I'm fine with trying to maximize value, and I don't want to see more Giambies and Sheffields, but I would like to know that we're imposing a budget for a reason, and not just because Hal likes the smaller numbers. The great thing about George Steinbrenner is that he always invested in the team. The team itself regularly showed losses (more than made up for by other parts of the Yankees organization) b/c of the willingness to spend. It made the Yankees the most competitive team of the decade (we didn't always win, but no team matches us in play-off appearances). So, I just want to know why all of a sudden it's important that the Yanks payroll come in below some arbitrary figure.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Its a Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood
Since things are moderately quiet here's a question to consider:
If Johnny Damon refuses to sign a reasonable offer, should the Yankees sign another player to replace him, and who should they sign?
If you think the Yankees should NOT sign another player, who should be moved to the number 2 spot in the lineup?
If Johnny Damon refuses to sign a reasonable offer, should the Yankees sign another player to replace him, and who should they sign?
If you think the Yankees should NOT sign another player, who should be moved to the number 2 spot in the lineup?
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Well That Took Shape Quickly
Just yesterday I was writing that the Red Sox seemed to be throwing in the towel for the 2010 season, then they signed Lackey for 5 years and $85 million, and were linked to Mike Cameron and all of a sudden they look like a much better team. That's how the hot stove season goes.
In an amazing three way trade, Halladay got sent to Philadelphia, Cliff Lee got sent to Seattle, and a host of prospects are going to Toronto. With such big peices falling into place the only thing left to see is where Holliday and Bay end up playing. Its also going to be interesting to see what the Yankees do about adding another rotation piece and bringing back Damon.
As was mentioned yesterday, Matsui is headed to the Angels. I think that's a good move for him, and a good thing for us. We would have been paying a premium for his past performances with us, and it wouldn't have been the best budget decision to make. That being said, Matsui was a great player, and I'm happy that he was able to see a championship in pinstripes. We at the RJG wish him well with the Angels, and hope he chokes big time if he sees us in the post season next year. That's the New York fans way of saying we'll miss you.
In an amazing three way trade, Halladay got sent to Philadelphia, Cliff Lee got sent to Seattle, and a host of prospects are going to Toronto. With such big peices falling into place the only thing left to see is where Holliday and Bay end up playing. Its also going to be interesting to see what the Yankees do about adding another rotation piece and bringing back Damon.
As was mentioned yesterday, Matsui is headed to the Angels. I think that's a good move for him, and a good thing for us. We would have been paying a premium for his past performances with us, and it wouldn't have been the best budget decision to make. That being said, Matsui was a great player, and I'm happy that he was able to see a championship in pinstripes. We at the RJG wish him well with the Angels, and hope he chokes big time if he sees us in the post season next year. That's the New York fans way of saying we'll miss you.
Monday, December 14, 2009
Remember That Time . . .
A while back, Angels Manager Mike Scioscia made a statement to the press indicating that he would love a rematch with the Yankees in the play-offs next season, regardless of how much the Yankees spent on payroll, since the Angels had "the team" to beat them. I made fun of him for it. Now, the statement sounds sad. With the Mariners on the verge of acquiring Cliff Lee and the Red Sox prepared to sign John Lackey, the Angels don't seem nearly as competitive. Don't get me wrong, they're still a good team, but they'll need more than good to think about beating the Yankees, or the Mariners for that matter. Pitching for the Angels does not look particularly strong right now, and it is unclear, to me anyway, how they will address a number of deficiencies. They are said to be close to a 1 year, $6.5M deal with Hideki Matsui, but considering Matsui's defensive limitations, that doesn't strike me as enough to counter what the Ms have done so far.
Halladay to Philly, Lee to Mariners
Jon Heyman of CNNSI is reporting that the Mariners are the third team in the Halladay blockbuster, and they will receive Cliff Lee. I find this move a little weird because Philly isn't really that much better with Halladay over Lee (awesome with both), but the Mariners may have just locked up the AL West with King Felix and Lee atop their rotation next year. The Angels have now missed out on John Lackey, Halladay, and Chone Figgins. Meanwhile the Ms have ended up with both Figgins and Lee. Someone might get fired, though I suspect part of it is Arte Moreno has not wanted to approve the sorts of contracts to land the players at issue.
Lackey, Matsui, and Halladay
It is being reported in multiple sources (three different links there), that John Lackey is taking a physical for the Red Sox and is close to signing a deal in the 5 year $82.5M range (similar to AJ Burnett's). Obviously such a deal strengthens the Red Sox rotation, though not to the point that it is superior to the Yankees (frankly, I didn't think landing Halladay would give them that). It is, however, a definite improvement if not outright cause for concern. A Lackey signing almost certainly means Bay and the Sox will not be reunited next season.
CNNSI.com is reporting that the Angels have begun discussions with Hideki Matsui. Meanwhile, Damon has been reported as saying that the Yankees have yet to even make him an offer. Granted, Boras has told the Yanks not to bother if it isn't at least 3 year, $39M ($13M per), and so the Yankees have apparently not bothered. The only problem this raises is that Matsui is the Yanks back-up plan if Damon goes elsewhere. If Matsui signs, it's Damon or bust (though I still don't think they'll upgrade their offer beyond Abreu money).
Lastly, Fox Sports is reporting that the Jays and Phillies may be close on a three team deal that sends Halladay to Philly and Cliff Lee somewhere else. It is not clear who that third team might be, but the article has theories (Angels and Mariners). Frankly, I hope it's us, because in such a scenario we may only need to lose Montero and not much else for a top-tier pitcher, that, however, may be a long shot. Apparently the speculation of a three-team deal is being driven by Halladay's appearance in Philly, since there is absolutely no reason to go there unless you're taking a physical (ouch).
CNNSI.com is reporting that the Angels have begun discussions with Hideki Matsui. Meanwhile, Damon has been reported as saying that the Yankees have yet to even make him an offer. Granted, Boras has told the Yanks not to bother if it isn't at least 3 year, $39M ($13M per), and so the Yankees have apparently not bothered. The only problem this raises is that Matsui is the Yanks back-up plan if Damon goes elsewhere. If Matsui signs, it's Damon or bust (though I still don't think they'll upgrade their offer beyond Abreu money).
Lastly, Fox Sports is reporting that the Jays and Phillies may be close on a three team deal that sends Halladay to Philly and Cliff Lee somewhere else. It is not clear who that third team might be, but the article has theories (Angels and Mariners). Frankly, I hope it's us, because in such a scenario we may only need to lose Montero and not much else for a top-tier pitcher, that, however, may be a long shot. Apparently the speculation of a three-team deal is being driven by Halladay's appearance in Philly, since there is absolutely no reason to go there unless you're taking a physical (ouch).
Since the Yankees are Being Super Quiet...
Over the past couple weeks, we've been commenting on how the Red Sox appear to be throwing in the towel for next season and building for 2011. Many Yankee fans won't care, but I care for this one reason: its no fun when the Red Sox suck. Yankees vs. Red Sox is always exciting, and in the playoffs its the best baseball you'll ever see. 2003 and 2004 prove that. What if our biggest rivals next season are the Rays? Its just not as fun. Now, the Red Sox could still be competitive next season, they're definitely not poised to finish under .500 or anything like that, but it does appear that they're going to be a first half team. Then, they may look to make some competitive splashes in the 2010-2011 free agent market, which should be a ripe one. Could the Red Sox be competitive this coming season? Absolutely. If they re-sign Bay, and either trade for Halladay or sign Lackey, then all of a sudden they look much better. But they don't appear to be moving in that direction, and I beleive I know why.
According to Cot's Baseball Contracts, the Red Sox have $10.5 million in payroll commitments in 2010 for players who don't even play for them (Lugo, Wagner, and Gonzalez). If the Mike Lowell deal goes through, that number jumps to $19.5 million. These are all obligations that end at the end of this coming season.
There's also a few other pieces to consider. David Ortiz is under contract this season at $12.5 million. He has a club option for 2011 at the same rate and with no buyout. I suspect the Red Sox will decline this option and free up the $12.5 million.
Josh Beckett makes $12 million this season, and will be a free agent for 2011. If he re-signs you can expect him to make bank, but otherwise it frees up an additional $12 million. Victor Martinez and Jason Varitek will also be free agents, and they make a combined $10 million this year.
Lastly, Tim Wakefield makes $3.5 million this season, and will earn $1.5 million in 2011.
So what's my point? Well, the Sox have $56 million coming off the books after next season, and though some of those positions will leave glaring holes (Namely Beckett and Victor Martinez), that's a decent amount of money to hold in a great free agent market. Expect next years off season to be much more exciting than this years, because you know the Yankees will be players as well.
According to Cot's Baseball Contracts, the Red Sox have $10.5 million in payroll commitments in 2010 for players who don't even play for them (Lugo, Wagner, and Gonzalez). If the Mike Lowell deal goes through, that number jumps to $19.5 million. These are all obligations that end at the end of this coming season.
There's also a few other pieces to consider. David Ortiz is under contract this season at $12.5 million. He has a club option for 2011 at the same rate and with no buyout. I suspect the Red Sox will decline this option and free up the $12.5 million.
Josh Beckett makes $12 million this season, and will be a free agent for 2011. If he re-signs you can expect him to make bank, but otherwise it frees up an additional $12 million. Victor Martinez and Jason Varitek will also be free agents, and they make a combined $10 million this year.
Lastly, Tim Wakefield makes $3.5 million this season, and will earn $1.5 million in 2011.
So what's my point? Well, the Sox have $56 million coming off the books after next season, and though some of those positions will leave glaring holes (Namely Beckett and Victor Martinez), that's a decent amount of money to hold in a great free agent market. Expect next years off season to be much more exciting than this years, because you know the Yankees will be players as well.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Bay Not Likely to Return to Boston
I've read in a number of sources today that it would appear that Jason Bay's time in Boston is over. Bay has rejected Boston's latest contract offer and is currently considering superior offers from other teams. Boston was considered an ideal destination for Bay, whose pull hitting works well in Fenway Park and whose overall creepiness (this guy definitely drives around in a white van) blended seamlessly into the Boston landscape.
There wouldn't appear to be many good options to replace Bay. I think most people believe that Holliday would not succeed in the AL, especially the AL East. I'm sorry, he sucked in Oakland, and there's no excuse for that. It has been said that, in Oakland, the pressure of having to be 'the guy' got to him. But when you're the best player on a team going nowhere fast, your only job is to pad your stats. There is no pressure to win or be 'the guy.' Holliday is an outfielder, you really think the team's success was riding on his shoulders? He's not that good a hitter, even at his best. And Oakland fans could care less if their team wins or loses. They're Cali fans, and Cali fans are nothing like AL East fans. In Cali you could go 0-1 Million in the post-season, single-handedly blow the World Series by yelling out what pitch was coming to the opposing players during every at bat, and the average Cali fan would still be like, "oh well, maybe next year. Ooh, it's sunny again." An AL East fan will threaten you with violence if he notices you're not shifting your weight efficiently with your new leg kick. Holliday would not be a good fit for Boston, which pretty much leaves nobody with even the potential to make-up for Bay's production.
Boston is right not to give Bay the five year deal that he's seeking. It would be good in the short-run, but that's one of those contracts you regret later and is impossible to move unless you're willing to pay most of the salary (hi Mike Lowell). With the Yankees having seemingly improved with the acquisition of Granderson, with Damon still a possibility to rejoin, and with the Yankees still looking to add another starting pitcher, it is unclear how the Sox plan to be competitive in the coming season in what should be a tough AL East (the Rays are still there guys). The more this offseason progresses, the more it looks like the Sox, who are a smart organization, are building more for 2011 than for 2010.
There wouldn't appear to be many good options to replace Bay. I think most people believe that Holliday would not succeed in the AL, especially the AL East. I'm sorry, he sucked in Oakland, and there's no excuse for that. It has been said that, in Oakland, the pressure of having to be 'the guy' got to him. But when you're the best player on a team going nowhere fast, your only job is to pad your stats. There is no pressure to win or be 'the guy.' Holliday is an outfielder, you really think the team's success was riding on his shoulders? He's not that good a hitter, even at his best. And Oakland fans could care less if their team wins or loses. They're Cali fans, and Cali fans are nothing like AL East fans. In Cali you could go 0-1 Million in the post-season, single-handedly blow the World Series by yelling out what pitch was coming to the opposing players during every at bat, and the average Cali fan would still be like, "oh well, maybe next year. Ooh, it's sunny again." An AL East fan will threaten you with violence if he notices you're not shifting your weight efficiently with your new leg kick. Holliday would not be a good fit for Boston, which pretty much leaves nobody with even the potential to make-up for Bay's production.
Boston is right not to give Bay the five year deal that he's seeking. It would be good in the short-run, but that's one of those contracts you regret later and is impossible to move unless you're willing to pay most of the salary (hi Mike Lowell). With the Yankees having seemingly improved with the acquisition of Granderson, with Damon still a possibility to rejoin, and with the Yankees still looking to add another starting pitcher, it is unclear how the Sox plan to be competitive in the coming season in what should be a tough AL East (the Rays are still there guys). The more this offseason progresses, the more it looks like the Sox, who are a smart organization, are building more for 2011 than for 2010.
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Hot Stove Updates
Fox Sports is reporting two things of interest (you'll have to scroll down a bit). First, though we kind of already knew this, Damon and the Yankees are about $20M apart in their negotiations. The Yanks are offering an Abreu like 2 years at $19M, while Damon wants at least at $39M or four at $52M. Obviously the Yanks are not going to give him that. Should be interesting.
Second, apparently the Red Sox do not have it within their budget to address all their problem areas with high-end talent. At least one of the three areas will have to be accommodated by a bargain type player. John Henry is apparently upset at Theo's insistence on not trading prospects for Halladay and is getting back at him by withholding money for player acquisitions. It is said the two are not speaking, but that sometimes Henry asks his girlfriends if Theo has said anything about him, or if he looks down at all.
The next decision the Yankees have to make is whether to non-tender Wang. That is, they have to decide when to announce it, because everyone knows they're going to non-tender him.
Lastly, Nick Swisher will be appearing on an episode of How I Met Your Mother.
Second, apparently the Red Sox do not have it within their budget to address all their problem areas with high-end talent. At least one of the three areas will have to be accommodated by a bargain type player. John Henry is apparently upset at Theo's insistence on not trading prospects for Halladay and is getting back at him by withholding money for player acquisitions. It is said the two are not speaking, but that sometimes Henry asks his girlfriends if Theo has said anything about him, or if he looks down at all.
The next decision the Yankees have to make is whether to non-tender Wang. That is, they have to decide when to announce it, because everyone knows they're going to non-tender him.
Lastly, Nick Swisher will be appearing on an episode of How I Met Your Mother.
Friday, December 11, 2009
Some Sad Yankee Related News
Some @$$holes decided to torch a church in the Bronx, whose soup kitchen had been set up using a donation from the late Yankee, Bobby Murcer. Obviously, Murcer's legacy is much more than one soup kitchen, but still, it's upsetting to see that good deed literally go up in flames. The arson was reported in the Washington Post.
Bronny Discusses the Granderson Trade
With a busy Winter Meetings having just wrapped up, we decided we would touch base again with our old pal Brian Cashman via satellite video phone. As usual, he was gracious with his time and insight into the inner machinations of the Yankees organization. The transcript follows:
BC: Hello?
RJG: Hello? Bronny? This isn't Hank again is it?
BC: Yeah, sorry about that, sometimes Hank answers my phone and pretends to be me. I really have to stop leaving it in rooms he has access to.
RJG: No problem. So, busy few days for you. You traded Bruney, resigned Pettitte, and in the biggest move of the Winter so far, you traded for Curtis Granderson.
BC: Well, we had a plan after our organizational meetings and we are now in the process of implementing that plan. It's important to our club that we are competitive not only now, but well into the future.
RJG: And Granderson furthers that goal because he's young and should be playing for a while at a high level, right?
BC: No, that's not it at all.
RJG: What do you mean?
BC: We don't care about that. We're a multi-media empire, you're talking about defensive range.
RJG: So why did you . . .
BC: Isnt' it obvious?! We traded for Granderson so he could play center field in the short-term, but be one of our announcers on the YES Network in the long-term.
RJG: Why would you make baseball decisions based on the YES Network?
BC: We're a multi-media empire. Have you ever heard this guy talk? He doesn't talk like a baseball player, he talks like a broadcaster. Ask him what he's wearing, it sounds like in-game analysis. Most players are all like, "duhhhhhhhh, I hit ball go boom boom. Yay!" But Granderson knows how to break it down. He can speak a sentence without going, "ahhhhhh, ahhhhh" the whole time. We're happy with Michael Kay and Kenny Singleton up there, but eventually we need to get younger and more athletic in the broadcast division.
RJG: What the hell does younger and more athletic have to do with broadcasting?!
BC: What happens if Michael Kay hurts his back and can no longer sit in a broadcast booth for nine innings. What if Ken's knees give and he doesn't have AFLAC, and he's all like, "what insurance is that, Yogi?" We need younger, more athletic guys.
RJG: Bronny. What. Are. You. Talking about!
BC: The Yankees aren't like some small market club, all "duhhhhhhhh, we need money for ball to go bye bye." We're a multi-media empire. We have TV, internet, radio, mail order catalogs. You can't just make plans for what happens on the field, you have to look at the big picture.
RJG: No! You're the GM. Your job is specifically to worry about the team. Let Lonn Trost and those jackasses worry about the YES Network.
BC: Duhhhhhhhhhhhhh. I blogger. I type baseball. Duhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh.
RJG: WTF?
[Click]
There you have it folks. Curtis Granderson makes the Yankees younger, more athletic, and is slotted for a future role on the YES Network broadcast team.
BC: Hello?
RJG: Hello? Bronny? This isn't Hank again is it?
BC: Yeah, sorry about that, sometimes Hank answers my phone and pretends to be me. I really have to stop leaving it in rooms he has access to.
RJG: No problem. So, busy few days for you. You traded Bruney, resigned Pettitte, and in the biggest move of the Winter so far, you traded for Curtis Granderson.
BC: Well, we had a plan after our organizational meetings and we are now in the process of implementing that plan. It's important to our club that we are competitive not only now, but well into the future.
RJG: And Granderson furthers that goal because he's young and should be playing for a while at a high level, right?
BC: No, that's not it at all.
RJG: What do you mean?
BC: We don't care about that. We're a multi-media empire, you're talking about defensive range.
RJG: So why did you . . .
BC: Isnt' it obvious?! We traded for Granderson so he could play center field in the short-term, but be one of our announcers on the YES Network in the long-term.
RJG: Why would you make baseball decisions based on the YES Network?
BC: We're a multi-media empire. Have you ever heard this guy talk? He doesn't talk like a baseball player, he talks like a broadcaster. Ask him what he's wearing, it sounds like in-game analysis. Most players are all like, "duhhhhhhhh, I hit ball go boom boom. Yay!" But Granderson knows how to break it down. He can speak a sentence without going, "ahhhhhh, ahhhhh" the whole time. We're happy with Michael Kay and Kenny Singleton up there, but eventually we need to get younger and more athletic in the broadcast division.
RJG: What the hell does younger and more athletic have to do with broadcasting?!
BC: What happens if Michael Kay hurts his back and can no longer sit in a broadcast booth for nine innings. What if Ken's knees give and he doesn't have AFLAC, and he's all like, "what insurance is that, Yogi?" We need younger, more athletic guys.
RJG: Bronny. What. Are. You. Talking about!
BC: The Yankees aren't like some small market club, all "duhhhhhhhh, we need money for ball to go bye bye." We're a multi-media empire. We have TV, internet, radio, mail order catalogs. You can't just make plans for what happens on the field, you have to look at the big picture.
RJG: No! You're the GM. Your job is specifically to worry about the team. Let Lonn Trost and those jackasses worry about the YES Network.
BC: Duhhhhhhhhhhhhh. I blogger. I type baseball. Duhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh.
RJG: WTF?
[Click]
There you have it folks. Curtis Granderson makes the Yankees younger, more athletic, and is slotted for a future role on the YES Network broadcast team.
What's Next for the Yankees?
The Yankees have made a handful of moves already, and addressed some needs, but no one truly beleives the Yankees are finished dealing. Signing Pettitte got us back our front 3, and the Granderson trade got us back some power that we had lost from Damon and Matsui's free agency. Even acquiring Hoffman adds depth to the outfield, and a solid bat against left handed batters. But there some areas that can use improvement, and here are some of the obvious ones:
Rotation: Though the Yankees have their front 3 set, the last 2 are a little shaky. Joba and Hughes would likely fill those roles now, and Hughes has serious innings limits while Joba was a little less than inspiring in that role last season. Though we have some servicable backups who can give us a start in a pinch, I don't think any of us feel that Chad Gaudin, Sergio Mitre, or Alfredo Aceves should be in the rotation permanently.
Bullpen: If the Yankees do not add another starter, its likely that both Joba and Hughes will be in the rotation. That eliminates two prominent bullpen options. We also traded away Brian Bruney and Phil Coke, and lost some decent minor league options in the rule 5 draft with Zach Kroenke and Kanekoa Texeira being selected. That being said, we do have options, but it wouldn't be a terrible idea to try and pick up a couple cheap releivers just to have depth. It may also serve to trade some our weaker bullpen pieces (Albaladejo and Ramirez for example) who may have more success outside of the AL.
Offense: With Damon and Matsui becoming free agents, it marks a combined production loss of 52 homeruns and 172 RBI's. Granderson was a solid addition to the offense, but it wouldn't hurt to try to add another bat. The combination of Jeter and Damon as the 1-2 hitters was very succesful last season, and if we had to choose one, Damon should be it. I happen to agree with Boras that Granderson would not be a good number 2 hitter. Too many strikeouts for that. If they do not bring back Damon, Swisher would be a better number 2 guy.
If the Yankees are serious about lowering payroll, and they do not plan on trading anyone with a prominent contract, then they are somewhat limited in their options. If they are not serious about lowering payroll, then Halladay and Damon would both be solid additions. Are there any other needs you think the Yankees should address?
Rotation: Though the Yankees have their front 3 set, the last 2 are a little shaky. Joba and Hughes would likely fill those roles now, and Hughes has serious innings limits while Joba was a little less than inspiring in that role last season. Though we have some servicable backups who can give us a start in a pinch, I don't think any of us feel that Chad Gaudin, Sergio Mitre, or Alfredo Aceves should be in the rotation permanently.
Bullpen: If the Yankees do not add another starter, its likely that both Joba and Hughes will be in the rotation. That eliminates two prominent bullpen options. We also traded away Brian Bruney and Phil Coke, and lost some decent minor league options in the rule 5 draft with Zach Kroenke and Kanekoa Texeira being selected. That being said, we do have options, but it wouldn't be a terrible idea to try and pick up a couple cheap releivers just to have depth. It may also serve to trade some our weaker bullpen pieces (Albaladejo and Ramirez for example) who may have more success outside of the AL.
Offense: With Damon and Matsui becoming free agents, it marks a combined production loss of 52 homeruns and 172 RBI's. Granderson was a solid addition to the offense, but it wouldn't hurt to try to add another bat. The combination of Jeter and Damon as the 1-2 hitters was very succesful last season, and if we had to choose one, Damon should be it. I happen to agree with Boras that Granderson would not be a good number 2 hitter. Too many strikeouts for that. If they do not bring back Damon, Swisher would be a better number 2 guy.
If the Yankees are serious about lowering payroll, and they do not plan on trading anyone with a prominent contract, then they are somewhat limited in their options. If they are not serious about lowering payroll, then Halladay and Damon would both be solid additions. Are there any other needs you think the Yankees should address?
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Yankees Pick Up Hoffman in Draft (No Not That Hoffman)
The Yankees picked up outfielder Jamie Hoffman in the rule 5 draft. Chad Jennings has a good break down on him on the Lohud blog. He apparently kills left handed hitters, and this is just a guess, but it seems like the Yankees may be considering platooning Curtis Granderson. Through 68 at bats in the winter leagues he's hitting .184 against righties and .368 against lefties. Though its a small sample size, its apparently indicative of the kind of player he is. He's also really good at hockey, and I'm sure that can only be a good thing.
Damon Negotiations
Mlbtraderumors.com is reporting that the Yankees are currently negotiating with Damon and hoping to use market forces to force him to sign quickly. We're not talking 'invisible hand' here, we're talking roving bands of unemployed grocers who have converged into paramilitary units and are at the behest of the highest bidder, which is always the Yankees.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Brewers: The New NL Threat
The Brewers made a big splash in the secondary free agent market as they are rumored to have deals worked out with former Yankee Latroy Hawkins, starter Randy Wolf and catcher Greg Zaun. Hawkins deal is rumored to be for 2 years at $7.5 million. I always liked Hawkins, but he didn't get a fair chance in New York after he wore Roberto Clemente's number which also happened to be Paul O'Neil's number. Yankee fans, decided this was a slight against O'Neil, and booed him from there on out. Since leaving the Yankees he's had a pretty successful career, thus the 2 year $7.5 million contract from the Brewers. He does seem better suited for the NL though.
Greg Zaun was with Toronto for a long time, so we should know him, but don't feel bad if you don't. His deal is worth $2.25 million, has an option for a second year, and includes a $250,000 buyout. Its always nice when you can get paid $250,000 just to not play for a team.
Randy Wolf was the only other type A free agent starter this year besides John Lackey. That being said, its a weak free agent crop. Wolf is reportedly signing for 3 years and $29.75 million. Not a bad number in this market.
Where does this place the Brewers for 2010? I don't know, but I was kind of getting bored with the Andy Pettitte and Curtis Granderson talks. I will say this though, with Prince Fielder and Ryan Braun, they have two legitimate power threats in their lineup.
In other news, our AL East friends the Baltimore Orioles are closing in on a trade for Kevin Millwood. Baltimore's a good baseball city, but they need to put out a better product. Pittsburgh's the same way. Not that I want Baltimore to win, but just be competitive is all.
Greg Zaun was with Toronto for a long time, so we should know him, but don't feel bad if you don't. His deal is worth $2.25 million, has an option for a second year, and includes a $250,000 buyout. Its always nice when you can get paid $250,000 just to not play for a team.
Randy Wolf was the only other type A free agent starter this year besides John Lackey. That being said, its a weak free agent crop. Wolf is reportedly signing for 3 years and $29.75 million. Not a bad number in this market.
Where does this place the Brewers for 2010? I don't know, but I was kind of getting bored with the Andy Pettitte and Curtis Granderson talks. I will say this though, with Prince Fielder and Ryan Braun, they have two legitimate power threats in their lineup.
In other news, our AL East friends the Baltimore Orioles are closing in on a trade for Kevin Millwood. Baltimore's a good baseball city, but they need to put out a better product. Pittsburgh's the same way. Not that I want Baltimore to win, but just be competitive is all.
How Does This Sound?
Jon Heyman is reporting that the Yanks are still in discussions with the Jays for Roy Halladay. The Jays have asked for Jesus Montero, either Joba or Hughes, and some other prospects. The Yanks have turned this down so far but remain engaged.
A lot will be said about the wisdom of trading Montero, especially after we just lost AJax, but the truth is that Montero is not our top catching prospect. Montero is considered our best hitting prospect (especially at his age), but Austin Romine projects to be Posada's replacement.
We just traded IPK, AJax, and Coke for an outfielder. Is it worth trading Montero and, let's say Joba, plus some assorted prospects for Halladay? I don't know who those prospects are, but if we traded three guys for Granderson, I'm thinking you have to consider at least four players total for Halladay. So assume two mid-level prospects or possibly one and a Gardner or Melky. Worth it then?
A lot will be said about the wisdom of trading Montero, especially after we just lost AJax, but the truth is that Montero is not our top catching prospect. Montero is considered our best hitting prospect (especially at his age), but Austin Romine projects to be Posada's replacement.
We just traded IPK, AJax, and Coke for an outfielder. Is it worth trading Montero and, let's say Joba, plus some assorted prospects for Halladay? I don't know who those prospects are, but if we traded three guys for Granderson, I'm thinking you have to consider at least four players total for Halladay. So assume two mid-level prospects or possibly one and a Gardner or Melky. Worth it then?
Its Official
Andy Pettitte has signed for $11.75 million. That's a good deal for him. The article basically says that with the incentives last season he made $10.5 million, and this new contract marks a decent raise for him. So now here's what the Yankees off season has produced (contract figures provided by Cot's Baseball Contracts):
Coming off the Payroll
Johnny Damon: $13 million
Hideki Matsui: $13 million
Andy Pettitte: $10.5 million
Xavier Nady: $6.5 million
Chien Ming Wang: $5 million
Jose Molina: $2 million
Total: $50 million
Players Set to Get Raises
CC Sabathia: $9 million
Derek Jeter: $1 million
Robinson Cano: $3 million
Nick Swisher: $1.45 million
Damaso Marte: $0.25 million
Total: $14.7 million
Acquisitions
Curtis Granderson: $5.5 million
Andy Pettitte: $11.75 million
Total: $17.25 million
Players Traded
Ian Kennedy: 2009 Salary - $408,925
Austin Jackson: 2009 Salary - (??? Minor League Contract)
Phil Coke: 2009 Salary - $403,300
Brian Bruney:2009 Salary - $1.25 million
Total: $2.06 million approximately
Arbitration Eligible Players Set to Get Raises
Melky Cabrera: 2009 Salary - $1.4 million
Chad Gaudin: 2009 Salary - $2 million
Sergio Mitre: 2009 Salary - $1.25 million
2009 Payroll: $201,449,189
2010 Payroll: Approximately $181 million
So far the Yankees have definetely lowered payroll, but there is plenty of wheeling and dealing left. We can also assume that a few million will be added for the arbitration players. The good news is that if the Yankees add $3 million to cover the arbitration raises, they would still be able to add Halladay next season and be under the $200 million mark. However, I doubt the Yankees are done, and after 2010, the payroll would skyrocket back up.
Coming off the Payroll
Johnny Damon: $13 million
Hideki Matsui: $13 million
Andy Pettitte: $10.5 million
Xavier Nady: $6.5 million
Chien Ming Wang: $5 million
Jose Molina: $2 million
Total: $50 million
Players Set to Get Raises
CC Sabathia: $9 million
Derek Jeter: $1 million
Robinson Cano: $3 million
Nick Swisher: $1.45 million
Damaso Marte: $0.25 million
Total: $14.7 million
Acquisitions
Curtis Granderson: $5.5 million
Andy Pettitte: $11.75 million
Total: $17.25 million
Players Traded
Ian Kennedy: 2009 Salary - $408,925
Austin Jackson: 2009 Salary - (??? Minor League Contract)
Phil Coke: 2009 Salary - $403,300
Brian Bruney:2009 Salary - $1.25 million
Total: $2.06 million approximately
Arbitration Eligible Players Set to Get Raises
Melky Cabrera: 2009 Salary - $1.4 million
Chad Gaudin: 2009 Salary - $2 million
Sergio Mitre: 2009 Salary - $1.25 million
2009 Payroll: $201,449,189
2010 Payroll: Approximately $181 million
So far the Yankees have definetely lowered payroll, but there is plenty of wheeling and dealing left. We can also assume that a few million will be added for the arbitration players. The good news is that if the Yankees add $3 million to cover the arbitration raises, they would still be able to add Halladay next season and be under the $200 million mark. However, I doubt the Yankees are done, and after 2010, the payroll would skyrocket back up.
Cash Has Been Busy
CNNSI is reporting that Pettitte and the Yanks have reached terms on a one-year deal worth $11-12M.
Breaking Down the Trade, One Yankee Prospect at a Time
By now, I'm sure you have all been able to figure out the following:
The Yankees Get: Curtis Granderson
The Yankee Gave: IPK, A-Jax, and Phil Coke.
Now, to figure out whether this deal is beneficial for us we have to see what we gave up, and what we got back, and do the pro's and con's. However, this is tougher to do with prospects. We may not know if this is a good deal for a few years. If A-Jax and IPK never become big league talents, this trade will look genius. If IPK wins a Cy Young, and A-Jax an MVP, we'll look like idiots. So it may take a few years before we can see anything but for now, lets just evaluate each player, beginning with what we gave:
Ian Patrick Kennedy
Player Compared to Most: Mike Mussina.
Player he May Become: Jeff Karstens.
RJG Scouting Report: IPK impressed many when he first came up in 2007, posting a 1.89 ERA through three starts and averaging 6.1 innings a start. It was enough to make the Yankees think he could start regularly in 2008, which he did, terribly. Through 9 starts he posted an 8.17 ERA. Good for a demotion back to the minors. Kennedy missed a large stretch of the 2009 season in need of surgery, but in his 4 starts in AAA he did post a 1.59 ERA. He's not exactly tearing it up in the winter leagues, but for someone coming off the DL, he was showing some promising signs.
Our take? IPK may become a decent pitcher if allowed to develop correctly, but we beleive he may amount to more of a bottom of the rotation NL pitcher. The AL East would have been tough grounds for him to thrive in, and he may have either been traded down the road, or left as a free agent.
Austin Jackson
Player Compared to Most: Curtis Granderson.
Player he May Become: Brett Gardner.
RJG Scouting Report: A-Jax hit .300 this last season at AAA, driving in 65 runs and stealing 24 bases. The lack of power (4 homeruns in 505 AB) is a concern for some critics, and his strikeouts (123 last season) is another. He will be 23 next season, and could be very close to the big leagues.
Our take? Hard to say with A-Jax since we've yet to see a lot of him. Power could develop with age, but as a leadoff guy, he really doesn't need to be a 20 homerun guy to be effective. If he continued to grow, I'd say that A-Jax could develop into a good leadoff hitter who hits for average, but power lags behind. Think Carl Crawford. If his bat doesn't develop, (striking out that often against AAA pitching is a bit concerning) he may be little more than a 4th outfielder.
Phil Coke
Player Compared to Most: ???
Player he May Become: Ron Villone.
RJG Scouting Report: Coke was a late season call up in 2008, and he impressed in his short time pitching. Through 14.2 innings he posted a paltry 0.61 ERA out of the bullpen. This basically earned him a regular spot in the bullpen for 2009, where he had moments of brilliance and moments of despair. He ended the season with a 4.50 ERA through 60 innings. He gave up 10 homeruns, which was a bit concerning.
Our take? As lefty releivers go, he was passable, but eventually the league picked up on him, and his numbers suffered. He's still very effective at getting out lefties, but righties may be a different story. His ceiling may be as a lefty specialist.
Curtis Granderson
Player Compared to Most: Curtis Granderson.
Player he May Become: Curtis Granderson.
RJG Scouting Report: The good thing about acquiring a player like Curtis Granderson is that he's a known commodity. He's been in the big leagues since 2004, and has played regularly since 2006. What he's shown is he's a speedy player, with solid defense, and a good amount of pop in his bat. He strikes out a lot, and can't seem to hit lefties, but last season he hit lower than his career average against lefties (which tells me that he can improve), and just two seasons back he hit .300 while leading the league with 23 triples.
RJG take? There have been reports that the Yankees beleive he'll have more power hitting with the short porch in Yankee stadium. I agree. Take a look at his hit chart in Comerica Park, and see where he hit his doubles and triples. Some of those would be easy homeruns in Yankee stadium. I'm also intrigued by what a guy like Kevin Long could do with Granderson.
So was the trade worth it? Again, its hard to say now. If IPK amounts to a bottom of the rotation NL pitcher, AJax amounts to a 4th outfielder, and Phil Coke a lefty specialist, then yes, I would say its worth it. But if IPK becomes Mike Mussina, AJax becomes Carl Crawford, and Coke becomes Mike Gonzalez, then perhaps we got robbed.
The Yankees Get: Curtis Granderson
The Yankee Gave: IPK, A-Jax, and Phil Coke.
Now, to figure out whether this deal is beneficial for us we have to see what we gave up, and what we got back, and do the pro's and con's. However, this is tougher to do with prospects. We may not know if this is a good deal for a few years. If A-Jax and IPK never become big league talents, this trade will look genius. If IPK wins a Cy Young, and A-Jax an MVP, we'll look like idiots. So it may take a few years before we can see anything but for now, lets just evaluate each player, beginning with what we gave:
Ian Patrick Kennedy
Player Compared to Most: Mike Mussina.
Player he May Become: Jeff Karstens.
RJG Scouting Report: IPK impressed many when he first came up in 2007, posting a 1.89 ERA through three starts and averaging 6.1 innings a start. It was enough to make the Yankees think he could start regularly in 2008, which he did, terribly. Through 9 starts he posted an 8.17 ERA. Good for a demotion back to the minors. Kennedy missed a large stretch of the 2009 season in need of surgery, but in his 4 starts in AAA he did post a 1.59 ERA. He's not exactly tearing it up in the winter leagues, but for someone coming off the DL, he was showing some promising signs.
Our take? IPK may become a decent pitcher if allowed to develop correctly, but we beleive he may amount to more of a bottom of the rotation NL pitcher. The AL East would have been tough grounds for him to thrive in, and he may have either been traded down the road, or left as a free agent.
Austin Jackson
Player Compared to Most: Curtis Granderson.
Player he May Become: Brett Gardner.
RJG Scouting Report: A-Jax hit .300 this last season at AAA, driving in 65 runs and stealing 24 bases. The lack of power (4 homeruns in 505 AB) is a concern for some critics, and his strikeouts (123 last season) is another. He will be 23 next season, and could be very close to the big leagues.
Our take? Hard to say with A-Jax since we've yet to see a lot of him. Power could develop with age, but as a leadoff guy, he really doesn't need to be a 20 homerun guy to be effective. If he continued to grow, I'd say that A-Jax could develop into a good leadoff hitter who hits for average, but power lags behind. Think Carl Crawford. If his bat doesn't develop, (striking out that often against AAA pitching is a bit concerning) he may be little more than a 4th outfielder.
Phil Coke
Player Compared to Most: ???
Player he May Become: Ron Villone.
RJG Scouting Report: Coke was a late season call up in 2008, and he impressed in his short time pitching. Through 14.2 innings he posted a paltry 0.61 ERA out of the bullpen. This basically earned him a regular spot in the bullpen for 2009, where he had moments of brilliance and moments of despair. He ended the season with a 4.50 ERA through 60 innings. He gave up 10 homeruns, which was a bit concerning.
Our take? As lefty releivers go, he was passable, but eventually the league picked up on him, and his numbers suffered. He's still very effective at getting out lefties, but righties may be a different story. His ceiling may be as a lefty specialist.
Curtis Granderson
Player Compared to Most: Curtis Granderson.
Player he May Become: Curtis Granderson.
RJG Scouting Report: The good thing about acquiring a player like Curtis Granderson is that he's a known commodity. He's been in the big leagues since 2004, and has played regularly since 2006. What he's shown is he's a speedy player, with solid defense, and a good amount of pop in his bat. He strikes out a lot, and can't seem to hit lefties, but last season he hit lower than his career average against lefties (which tells me that he can improve), and just two seasons back he hit .300 while leading the league with 23 triples.
RJG take? There have been reports that the Yankees beleive he'll have more power hitting with the short porch in Yankee stadium. I agree. Take a look at his hit chart in Comerica Park, and see where he hit his doubles and triples. Some of those would be easy homeruns in Yankee stadium. I'm also intrigued by what a guy like Kevin Long could do with Granderson.
So was the trade worth it? Again, its hard to say now. If IPK amounts to a bottom of the rotation NL pitcher, AJax amounts to a 4th outfielder, and Phil Coke a lefty specialist, then yes, I would say its worth it. But if IPK becomes Mike Mussina, AJax becomes Carl Crawford, and Coke becomes Mike Gonzalez, then perhaps we got robbed.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Maybe Cash IS a Genius
Here are the best three breakdowns I've come across of the Granderson trade:
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More importantly, Jon Heyman is reporting that the Red Sox are unwilling to part with either Clay Buchholz or top prospect Casey Kelly (wow, two girl's names, tough break kid) for Roy Halladay. Fox Sports had reported earlier today that the Jays were considering three and four team scenarios for Halladay (under the 3:25p.m. update). All this suggests that the Jays aren't getting any offers that give them what they want from any one team, which may spell an opportunity for the Yanks to swoop in, Bronny Cash ninja style, and get a trade done. Don't really understand the Sox thinking on this one, but if this is true they may have shot themselves in the foot a bit as far as getting Halladay goes. Granted, they may feel that way because they happen to know the Yanks aren't involved on Halladay, making it easy for them to effectively pull themselves out of the bidding (think Santana talks).
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2
3
More importantly, Jon Heyman is reporting that the Red Sox are unwilling to part with either Clay Buchholz or top prospect Casey Kelly (wow, two girl's names, tough break kid) for Roy Halladay. Fox Sports had reported earlier today that the Jays were considering three and four team scenarios for Halladay (under the 3:25p.m. update). All this suggests that the Jays aren't getting any offers that give them what they want from any one team, which may spell an opportunity for the Yanks to swoop in, Bronny Cash ninja style, and get a trade done. Don't really understand the Sox thinking on this one, but if this is true they may have shot themselves in the foot a bit as far as getting Halladay goes. Granted, they may feel that way because they happen to know the Yanks aren't involved on Halladay, making it easy for them to effectively pull themselves out of the bidding (think Santana talks).
Granderson to Yankees Seems a Done Deal
CNNSI is reporting that, pending a review of medical records, the three-team deal that would send Granderson to the Yankees has been completed. The Yankees receive Granderson, and in exchange, the D-Backs get Ian Kennedy while the Detroit receives Coke and AJax.
My initial response to this trade is that it seems somewhat steep. I like Granderson but am not in love with him, and losing AJax for a good but not great centerfielder seems expensive considering some of the other trades out there. It also takes Edwin Jackson off the market (he's going to Arizona), a possible back-up if Halladay doesn't work out. Detroit didn't get a whole lot here, so it seems we could've made a play for Jackson in the future had we waited and felt the need to.
Granted, my first reaction to the Swisher deal last year was that we got an essentially identical player to Wilson Betemit, and I couldn't have been more wrong. I want to give Cash the benefit of the doubt, but I'm worried he just blew our chance to be players for Halladay or (and now definitely) Jackson.
You have to give up something to get a legit major leaguer, and parting with Coke and Kennedy doesn't hurt that much. AJax is not a known commodity as far as his major league abilities, so only time will tell whether it was better to have a reasonably priced Granderson (25M over the next three years hardly breaks the bank, especially considering Damon will probably get 20M for two years) or a very cheap AJax.
My initial response to this trade is that it seems somewhat steep. I like Granderson but am not in love with him, and losing AJax for a good but not great centerfielder seems expensive considering some of the other trades out there. It also takes Edwin Jackson off the market (he's going to Arizona), a possible back-up if Halladay doesn't work out. Detroit didn't get a whole lot here, so it seems we could've made a play for Jackson in the future had we waited and felt the need to.
Granted, my first reaction to the Swisher deal last year was that we got an essentially identical player to Wilson Betemit, and I couldn't have been more wrong. I want to give Cash the benefit of the doubt, but I'm worried he just blew our chance to be players for Halladay or (and now definitely) Jackson.
You have to give up something to get a legit major leaguer, and parting with Coke and Kennedy doesn't hurt that much. AJax is not a known commodity as far as his major league abilities, so only time will tell whether it was better to have a reasonably priced Granderson (25M over the next three years hardly breaks the bank, especially considering Damon will probably get 20M for two years) or a very cheap AJax.
A Thought on the Granderson Trade
The inclusion of Austin Jackson in a trade for Detroit's Curtis Granderson troubled me a bit when I first read it. If the Yankees are serious about making a run at Roy Halladay, why would they be looking to get rid of one of their best prospects prior to Halladay moving anywhere? I have read that the Jays are more interested in Montero, and that they are looking for cheap MLB ready players who will be under control for a few years. Neither AJax or Montero are MLB ready yet. I wonder if the Jays haven't preliminarily expressed interest in some other players besides one of the pitchers (Joba or Hughes). Maybe a Melky is in the conversation. Not sure, but I don't see why else the Yankees would consider moving AJax for an outfield position they don't claim is a priority if the Jays might trade a starting pitcher (a stated priority) for a package including said prospect.
Would You Make This Trade?
Both the Post and Fox Sports are reporting a supposed three-way, blockbuster trade between the Tigers, Yankees, and Diamondbacks. Looking at it from only the Yankees perspective, the trade would consist of receiving Curtis Granderson and a couple prospects in exchange for Austin Jackson, Phil Coke, and Michael Dunn (a left-handed reliever).
Supposedly one of the teams is not playing ball. Hmm, I wonder which. Why would the Yankees trade a the guy who is supposedly their very cheap future in center field, a cheap left-handed reliever who, though inconsistent at times, has had success in the Majors, and another left-handed reliever for a good center-fielder who doesn't hit for much average, has power, but strikes out a lot. Would you give up all that for a more athletic Jason Giambi? I wouldn't. Honestly, I'm not surprised to read that it's the Diamondbacks who are really pushing this trade, though the Tigers would get a pretty nice crop themselves. The trade seems least beneficial for the Yankees, especially considering the prospects would be coming from the D-Backs. Nothing against Arizona, but we just traded the only D-Back who ever did anything for us at the Major League level and the other guys we picked up when we traded for Randy Johnson haven't exactly lit the world on fire.
Supposedly one of the teams is not playing ball. Hmm, I wonder which. Why would the Yankees trade a the guy who is supposedly their very cheap future in center field, a cheap left-handed reliever who, though inconsistent at times, has had success in the Majors, and another left-handed reliever for a good center-fielder who doesn't hit for much average, has power, but strikes out a lot. Would you give up all that for a more athletic Jason Giambi? I wouldn't. Honestly, I'm not surprised to read that it's the Diamondbacks who are really pushing this trade, though the Tigers would get a pretty nice crop themselves. The trade seems least beneficial for the Yankees, especially considering the prospects would be coming from the D-Backs. Nothing against Arizona, but we just traded the only D-Back who ever did anything for us at the Major League level and the other guys we picked up when we traded for Randy Johnson haven't exactly lit the world on fire.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Good Stuff From Fox Sports
Click here for some live updates on the progress at the Winter Meetings. Of most relevance to the Yankees are the report that the Tigers are close to completing a trade for Jackson to an unknown team, and that the Angels have entered the bidding for Jason Bay. If Boston can't lock down Bay, their offense starts to look pretty shakey for next year, even with the addition of Marco Scutaro.
Brian Bruney Traded to Nationals
Joel Sherman from the New York Post is reporting that Brian Bruney is being traded for a player to be named later. Of course, it was reported through his twitter account. Its a smart move in that Brian Bruney was eligible for arbitration, was going to get a raise, and already made $1.25 million this last year. For a releiver, he was going to start getting expensive. Then there's the fact that he didn't pitch great after his injury.
This does make it seem like the Yankees are trying to cut payroll which is their stated goal. Player-to-be-named-later deals tend to be all about getting rid of a guy. That's why they don't bother to actually work out a trade.
Allegedly, Andy Pettitte turned down a deal in the $10 million range. I have a feeling this is going to be another drawn out negotiation. They should just guarantee him $12 million and be done with it. Unless he wants the $16 million he made two seasons ago in which case he's over projecting his value again.
This does make it seem like the Yankees are trying to cut payroll which is their stated goal. Player-to-be-named-later deals tend to be all about getting rid of a guy. That's why they don't bother to actually work out a trade.
Allegedly, Andy Pettitte turned down a deal in the $10 million range. I have a feeling this is going to be another drawn out negotiation. They should just guarantee him $12 million and be done with it. Unless he wants the $16 million he made two seasons ago in which case he's over projecting his value again.
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Since It's Slow Right Now . . .
This Daily News feature is a collection of 'Sport' most Gruesome Injuries.' There are some doozies.
Friday, December 4, 2009
Balance of AL East Shifts to Red Sox
Coming off their 27th World Championship, it looked like the New York Yankees would be favorites to win the AL East next season, however, the Red Sox have put a road block in the Yankees hopes by signing the game changer, Marco Scutaro. Scutaro had a monster year for Toronto batting in out-of-this-world .282 with 12 homeruns and 60 RBI's. With Scutaro joining the Red Sox, Pedroia no longer has to worry about moving to short. Scutaro is a known winner, having played for such powerhouse teams as the Mets, Athletics, and Blue Jays. Now that he's with Boston, the Red Sox have secured their position as contenders.
"We've been planing this move since last spring." Explained Boston GM Theo Epstein. "We knew Scutaro would be a free agent this year, and we started saving up money. We put out tip cups at our stadium vendors that said 'Please Donate to the Sign Scutaro Foundation', we knew this opportunity was too good to let slip by. Now that we've signed him, I can feel the Yankees trembling. Derek Jeter needs to know that we've now brought the best shortstop in the game to the AL East."
When explained that Scutaro was already in the AL East last season with Toronto, Epstein lashed out.
"You tell Derek Jeter that Scutaro's with us now! You tell him and see how he reacts! We're winning the AL East this year!"
When told that Scutaro would be playing for Boston next season, Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter became thoughtful:
"Who?"
When told that he was the shortstop for the Blue Jays, Jeter replied:
"Alex Gonzalez?"
When told that Alex Gonzalez hasn't been the Blue Jays shortstop since 2000, Jeter replied:
"Manuel Lee?"
When told that Manuel Lee was the Blue Jays shortstop in 1992, Jeter replied:
"Good year. I got drafted."
So there you have it. Derek Jeter was drafted in '92, and the Red Sox hold the balance of power in the AL East.
"We've been planing this move since last spring." Explained Boston GM Theo Epstein. "We knew Scutaro would be a free agent this year, and we started saving up money. We put out tip cups at our stadium vendors that said 'Please Donate to the Sign Scutaro Foundation', we knew this opportunity was too good to let slip by. Now that we've signed him, I can feel the Yankees trembling. Derek Jeter needs to know that we've now brought the best shortstop in the game to the AL East."
When explained that Scutaro was already in the AL East last season with Toronto, Epstein lashed out.
"You tell Derek Jeter that Scutaro's with us now! You tell him and see how he reacts! We're winning the AL East this year!"
When told that Scutaro would be playing for Boston next season, Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter became thoughtful:
"Who?"
When told that he was the shortstop for the Blue Jays, Jeter replied:
"Alex Gonzalez?"
When told that Alex Gonzalez hasn't been the Blue Jays shortstop since 2000, Jeter replied:
"Manuel Lee?"
When told that Manuel Lee was the Blue Jays shortstop in 1992, Jeter replied:
"Good year. I got drafted."
So there you have it. Derek Jeter was drafted in '92, and the Red Sox hold the balance of power in the AL East.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Organizational Meetings Disrupted by RJG
With the Yankees finally sitting down to find out what their budget for next year looks like, we thought it would be a good time to call our good friend Brian Cashman and offer him our advice on the upcoming Winter Meetings, potential free agents and trade prospects. As always, he was gracious with his time. Below is a transcript of our conversation.
BC: [Whispering] Hello?
RJG: [singing loudly] Bronny the magic dragon, lived by the sea . . .
BC: [still whispering] Keep it down, I'm in a meeting right now.
RJG: [still singing] Why'd you answer then?
BC: [still whispering] Lonn Trost is giving some bullsh*t presentation on how we should air-condition the legends seats in order to sell more of them at full price.
RJG: Oh come on, Bronny, you know Lonn can't hear anything over the sound of his own voice.
BC: [no longer whispering] You're right. This may be a while and it's boring as hell, what's up?
RJG: Just wondering what next year's payroll is looking like and whe. . .
BC: Hal is right here, ask him. Hey Hal, phone call.
Hal: Hello?
RJG: Um, hello Hal. So, what's the payroll? Should you be on the phone right now?
Hal: Yeah, Lonn's explaining the benefits of gold-plating the Legends Seats. The budget will be determined shortly. We'd like to drop payroll, but we have a bajillion dollars to work with.
RJG: A bajillion?
Hal: uh-huh.
RJG: Can I speak with Cash again?
Hal: No problem, here you go Cashmanizstan.
RJG: Cashmanizstan! That's the best nickname ever. I'm hurt that I didn't think of it.
BC: Did he answer your questions?
RJG: I think Hal may be on drugs or something.
BC: That was Hank b--ch! [Laughs hysterically] I can't believe you thought Hal would talk to you. That's classic.
RJG: That's not nice. So are you trading for Halladay or what? Can you give him an extension with Jete and Rivera coming up for new contracts next year and still reduce payroll?
BC: Actually, according to my new proposal, yes.
RJG: What's that?
BC: Well, if we measure payroll in 1998 dollars, when the dollar was actually stronger, we're paying far less than we ever have before. So I could throw money at Halladay, Jete, Rivera and still "reduce" payroll.
RJG: I don't think they're going to go for that.
BC: Why not?
RJG: Because I'm pretty sure they want to reduce payroll regardless of the relative strength of our currency.
BC: Are you sure about that?
RJG: Yes.
BC: You know what your problem is, Roberto?
RJG: What?
BC: You're a bigot!
RJG: That doesn't make any sense! Can I speak to Hank again?
BC: Why don't you go to the "lame" store and buy yourself some more lameness since you're so lame?
RJG: Am I already talking to Hank?
Hank: Yep.
RJG: Can I speak to Cash?
[Click]
There you have it folks, the organizational meetings are underway. We will soon have a sense of what the Yankees are able to do this off-season in terms of payroll. Well, we won't but the Yankees will.
BC: [Whispering] Hello?
RJG: [singing loudly] Bronny the magic dragon, lived by the sea . . .
BC: [still whispering] Keep it down, I'm in a meeting right now.
RJG: [still singing] Why'd you answer then?
BC: [still whispering] Lonn Trost is giving some bullsh*t presentation on how we should air-condition the legends seats in order to sell more of them at full price.
RJG: Oh come on, Bronny, you know Lonn can't hear anything over the sound of his own voice.
BC: [no longer whispering] You're right. This may be a while and it's boring as hell, what's up?
RJG: Just wondering what next year's payroll is looking like and whe. . .
BC: Hal is right here, ask him. Hey Hal, phone call.
Hal: Hello?
RJG: Um, hello Hal. So, what's the payroll? Should you be on the phone right now?
Hal: Yeah, Lonn's explaining the benefits of gold-plating the Legends Seats. The budget will be determined shortly. We'd like to drop payroll, but we have a bajillion dollars to work with.
RJG: A bajillion?
Hal: uh-huh.
RJG: Can I speak with Cash again?
Hal: No problem, here you go Cashmanizstan.
RJG: Cashmanizstan! That's the best nickname ever. I'm hurt that I didn't think of it.
BC: Did he answer your questions?
RJG: I think Hal may be on drugs or something.
BC: That was Hank b--ch! [Laughs hysterically] I can't believe you thought Hal would talk to you. That's classic.
RJG: That's not nice. So are you trading for Halladay or what? Can you give him an extension with Jete and Rivera coming up for new contracts next year and still reduce payroll?
BC: Actually, according to my new proposal, yes.
RJG: What's that?
BC: Well, if we measure payroll in 1998 dollars, when the dollar was actually stronger, we're paying far less than we ever have before. So I could throw money at Halladay, Jete, Rivera and still "reduce" payroll.
RJG: I don't think they're going to go for that.
BC: Why not?
RJG: Because I'm pretty sure they want to reduce payroll regardless of the relative strength of our currency.
BC: Are you sure about that?
RJG: Yes.
BC: You know what your problem is, Roberto?
RJG: What?
BC: You're a bigot!
RJG: That doesn't make any sense! Can I speak to Hank again?
BC: Why don't you go to the "lame" store and buy yourself some more lameness since you're so lame?
RJG: Am I already talking to Hank?
Hank: Yep.
RJG: Can I speak to Cash?
[Click]
There you have it folks, the organizational meetings are underway. We will soon have a sense of what the Yankees are able to do this off-season in terms of payroll. Well, we won't but the Yankees will.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Let the Sanctimony Begin
Just finished reading this article on Golf.com, then finished throwing up in my mouth. Okay, I get it. Tiger messed up. I had fun with it here on a couple posts, but please, let's stop talking about how his legacy is ruined and he'll never be Jack Nicklaus and blah blah blah. Tiger's legacy is as a golfer, not a nice guy. I don't hang out with him, neither does the author of that article, none of us does. All I know about Tiger is he shaves with a Gillete Fusion, plays Golf better than most human beings, and drives a Buick. Oh wait . . . Nooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo! He crashed a Cadillac . . . I don't know what to believe anymore. So does Jesus actually hang out with Santa Claus or is all that a lie too?!
Let's be serious. Tiger was a great golfer before this and he will be a great golfer after. People, mostly people who write for newspapers will feign shock and disappointment and then when he wins another Major will write a bunch of BS about redemption. I hate the sports media sometimes.
Tiger is human, the same way A-Rod is human, and Michael Phelps is human. Remember the Charles Barkley "I am not a role model" commercial? Well, he was right. Stop deifying these guys and they won't "disappoint" you. Tiger plays Golf. He's still going to get paid a lot of money to do so and we're still going to watch. And yeah, we watch. In fact, if it wasn't for Tiger most of us would never watch, but because of him, we do. It will stay that way. Within a few days or weeks most Americans will have forgotten about this anyway and just be looking forward to the Yankee press conference announcing the Halladay trade.
Let's be serious. Tiger was a great golfer before this and he will be a great golfer after. People, mostly people who write for newspapers will feign shock and disappointment and then when he wins another Major will write a bunch of BS about redemption. I hate the sports media sometimes.
Tiger is human, the same way A-Rod is human, and Michael Phelps is human. Remember the Charles Barkley "I am not a role model" commercial? Well, he was right. Stop deifying these guys and they won't "disappoint" you. Tiger plays Golf. He's still going to get paid a lot of money to do so and we're still going to watch. And yeah, we watch. In fact, if it wasn't for Tiger most of us would never watch, but because of him, we do. It will stay that way. Within a few days or weeks most Americans will have forgotten about this anyway and just be looking forward to the Yankee press conference announcing the Halladay trade.
Dustin Pedroia Considering a Move to Shallow Left
According to a report at Fanhouse, The Red Sox are considering moving second baseman Dustin Pedroia to shortstop and pursuing one of a number of second base options on the free agent market. The 5'8" Pedroia has said he'd welcome the challenge.
"I've got a good arm, I know I'll probably have to set up in shallow left if I'm going to get to any balls at shortstop, but I think I can still throw guys out," explained Pedroia. "Besides, then I can talk to Bay or whoever we end up with in Left, it'll be fun."
"I've got a good arm, I know I'll probably have to set up in shallow left if I'm going to get to any balls at shortstop, but I think I can still throw guys out," explained Pedroia. "Besides, then I can talk to Bay or whoever we end up with in Left, it'll be fun."
Braves Sign Wagner, Yankee Payroll
The Braves are set to sign Billy Wagner to a 1 year $7 million deal that has a $6.5 million vesting option for another deal. The impact on us? Almost none. But it did get me thinking about the upcoming meeting Cashman was having about payroll, and the subsequent development of a plan for the off season. The Yankees have some money coming off of payroll, namely the following:
Johnny Damon: $13 million
Hideki Matsui: $13 million
Andy Pettitte: $11 million (payout with incentives)
Xavier Nady: $6.5 million
Chien Ming Wang: $5 million
Jose Molina: $2 million
Which added up gives a combined $50.5 million coming off the books. However, this is somewhat deceptive because the Yankees still need to fill the roles that some of these players leave open, so some of that money will be coming right back on the books. Beyond this, built into their contracts the following players are set to earn raises:
CC Sabathia: $9 million
Derek Jeter: $1 million
Robinson Cano: $3 million
Nick Swisher: $1.45 million
Damaso Marte: $0.25 million
That's a combined $14.7 million in raises to current Yankee players. Lastly, the following players are arbitration eligible and will likely get raises:
Brian Bruney
Melky Cabrera
Chad Gaudin
Sergio Mitre
They probably won't be getting huge increases, but its worth a mention. Let's say that they commit half of the $50.5 million coming off of payroll into filling some of the vacancies left by our free agents. That leaves roughly $25 million of saved money to devote to the $14.7 million in contractual pay raises, and whatever raises players would get through arbitration. In this scenario, the Yankees will have less than $10 million of the $50.5 million that came off the books, remain off the books. This means little for now, with such a bad free agent crop, but next season it will be interesting to see how the Yankees manuever between trying to keep their payroll down with Derek Jeter and Mariano Rivera becoming free agents, more of their young players becoming eligible for arbitration, and a rich crop of free agent pitchers that will likely be available.
Johnny Damon: $13 million
Hideki Matsui: $13 million
Andy Pettitte: $11 million (payout with incentives)
Xavier Nady: $6.5 million
Chien Ming Wang: $5 million
Jose Molina: $2 million
Which added up gives a combined $50.5 million coming off the books. However, this is somewhat deceptive because the Yankees still need to fill the roles that some of these players leave open, so some of that money will be coming right back on the books. Beyond this, built into their contracts the following players are set to earn raises:
CC Sabathia: $9 million
Derek Jeter: $1 million
Robinson Cano: $3 million
Nick Swisher: $1.45 million
Damaso Marte: $0.25 million
That's a combined $14.7 million in raises to current Yankee players. Lastly, the following players are arbitration eligible and will likely get raises:
Brian Bruney
Melky Cabrera
Chad Gaudin
Sergio Mitre
They probably won't be getting huge increases, but its worth a mention. Let's say that they commit half of the $50.5 million coming off of payroll into filling some of the vacancies left by our free agents. That leaves roughly $25 million of saved money to devote to the $14.7 million in contractual pay raises, and whatever raises players would get through arbitration. In this scenario, the Yankees will have less than $10 million of the $50.5 million that came off the books, remain off the books. This means little for now, with such a bad free agent crop, but next season it will be interesting to see how the Yankees manuever between trying to keep their payroll down with Derek Jeter and Mariano Rivera becoming free agents, more of their young players becoming eligible for arbitration, and a rich crop of free agent pitchers that will likely be available.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
What Yankee Players Do With Their Post Season Shares
The post season shares were announced yesterday and a full share for the Yankees was a whopping $365,052.73. 46 full shares were awarded, and we were able to catch up with a number of players to see what their thoughts were on the extra money.
"Its a great feeling. Kind of like when you look in your bank account one day, and realize there's $48,876,938.46 instead of the paltry $48,511,885.73 that would have been there otherwise. There's no better feeling." Explained Yankee third baseman Alex Rodriguez.
"I'm probably going to spend my post season share on a new addition on my home. And by addition I mean, I'm buying my neighbors house and then connecting the two with a 8 car garage in between." Explained left fielder and free agent Johnny Damon.
"Me? I'm going to buy a dog." Explained Nick Swisher.
For $365,000 we asked?
"They're giving us $365,000!! I never knew post season shares went that high! That's more than I made all year!"
When asked what he would do with his post season share, first baseman Mark Teixeira said this:
"I'm going to buy the entire Bionic 6 collection. Not the DVDs mind you, but the actual copy rights to it. Then I'm going to wait for the movie to come out and rake in the big money."
Is there a Bionic 6 movie coming out?
"With $365,000, I'll just bribe James Cameron." Explained Mark Teixeira.
And lastly, we asked Derek Jeter what he would do with his share.
"I'll probably take a vacation with it."
Where to?
"The moon."
"Its a great feeling. Kind of like when you look in your bank account one day, and realize there's $48,876,938.46 instead of the paltry $48,511,885.73 that would have been there otherwise. There's no better feeling." Explained Yankee third baseman Alex Rodriguez.
"I'm probably going to spend my post season share on a new addition on my home. And by addition I mean, I'm buying my neighbors house and then connecting the two with a 8 car garage in between." Explained left fielder and free agent Johnny Damon.
"Me? I'm going to buy a dog." Explained Nick Swisher.
For $365,000 we asked?
"They're giving us $365,000!! I never knew post season shares went that high! That's more than I made all year!"
When asked what he would do with his post season share, first baseman Mark Teixeira said this:
"I'm going to buy the entire Bionic 6 collection. Not the DVDs mind you, but the actual copy rights to it. Then I'm going to wait for the movie to come out and rake in the big money."
Is there a Bionic 6 movie coming out?
"With $365,000, I'll just bribe James Cameron." Explained Mark Teixeira.
And lastly, we asked Derek Jeter what he would do with his share.
"I'll probably take a vacation with it."
Where to?
"The moon."
Monday, November 30, 2009
Tiger, We Have A Right to Know
Dear Tiger,
Last week you crashed into a fire hydrant and tree after your wife went after you with your own golf clubs. At least that's what I've decided happened. Please just admit it. I have a right to know. What gives me that right, you ask? Let me list the ways.
One time, I was watching Golf on television, and you missed your putt. So let's recap, I was watching Golf (you already owe me) and you missed your putt.
Another time, you won a major championship that I didn't even know was being played, or existed, and I read about it in the paper. Well, I saw the headline anyway, and to be honest, it may have just been an article about Tigers, but either way you owe me.
I've also seen Buick ads on any number of websites that bore your image. I even thought about buying a Buick once, so I have earned the right to know every detail of your personal life, as well as to speculate online about it, and to expect you to respond to my irresponsible speculations.
So let's recap. I've seen you on TV, I've read about you in the papers, and I've seen you in advertisements. How do you not owe me the most personal details of your life? Asshole.
Last week you crashed into a fire hydrant and tree after your wife went after you with your own golf clubs. At least that's what I've decided happened. Please just admit it. I have a right to know. What gives me that right, you ask? Let me list the ways.
One time, I was watching Golf on television, and you missed your putt. So let's recap, I was watching Golf (you already owe me) and you missed your putt.
Another time, you won a major championship that I didn't even know was being played, or existed, and I read about it in the paper. Well, I saw the headline anyway, and to be honest, it may have just been an article about Tigers, but either way you owe me.
I've also seen Buick ads on any number of websites that bore your image. I even thought about buying a Buick once, so I have earned the right to know every detail of your personal life, as well as to speculate online about it, and to expect you to respond to my irresponsible speculations.
So let's recap. I've seen you on TV, I've read about you in the papers, and I've seen you in advertisements. How do you not owe me the most personal details of your life? Asshole.
The Daily News Attempts to Start Bidding War for Halladay
Last week, the Daily News reported that the Red Sox were itching to get a deal done with Roy Halladay before the start of the Winter Meetings next Monday. Then, they reported that Halladay would accept a trade to the Yankees. Now, the Daily News is reporting that, while John Henry really wants to trade for Halladay, Theo Epstein is not in any way interested in doing so. Hard to see how the Red Sox are furiously working to get a trade done when their GM is still fighting their boss about it. That said, it seems like the Daily News is trying to single-handedly get the Yankees involved in the Halladay hunt, starting a bidding war between them and Boston, and finally giving them some actual news to write about. It's genius. Evil genius. But genius.
Jeter Named Sports Illustrated Sportsman of the Year
Sports Illustrated has honored Jeter with their Sportsman of the Year award, making Jeter the first Yankee player to be given the award since its inception in 1954. Though I'm not surprised that Jeter was chosen for this award, I was a little surprised that no other Yankee had been. Since 1954, such Yankee greats as Mickey Mantle, Yogi Berra, Whitey Ford, Elston Howard, Allie Reynolds, Ron Guidry, Reggie Jackson, Thurman Munson, Bobby Murcer, Willie Randolph, Goose Gossage, Don Mattingly, Bernie Williams, etc. played. Is there a bias against the Yankees? With 27 world championships, it really doesn't matter.
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Prophetic Vision?
Last night I had a dream. There was a breaking report on a sports themed television show (think Sportscenter, though I no longer watch ESPN). Halladay had been traded to the Yankees for the cost of only two players. One was a pitcher, and the other a minor league position player. The broadcasters did not tell me who those position players were, as they left that cliffhanger for when they returned from commercial break. That, of course, was the extent of the dream. I can only assume it was a prophetic vision, so prepare yourselves for Roy Halladay in the near future, at a surprisingly lower cost than we'd expected.
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