After a 72-90 finish to the 2007 campaign, the White Sox come into the 2008 season with something to prove.
General Manager Ken Williams needed to show the fans that he wanted to get this team back to their winning ways, and he got off to a quick start, making a deal that surprised a lot of people. The White Sox sent Jon Garland to the Angels for SS Orlando Cabrera. They were also very close to landing center fielder Torii Hunter, but the Angels came out of nowhere and offered him more money to come out west.
The one thing this team needed was better pitching, after finishing 25th in team ERA (4.77), 29th in Team ERA from the 7th inning on (5.55). To bolster their bullpen, the White Sox signed former Padre setup man Scott Linebrink to a 4-year $19M contract. Linebrink should open the 2008 season as the White Sox closer, though he hasn't had much experience in those types of situations, just a few here and there with San Diego and Milwaukee.
Another huge problem that GM Ken Williams needed to address was the team's offense, which was dead last in team batting average (.246). Which would surprise most people, especially when you see names like Paul Konerko, Jim Thome and A.J. Pierzynski. So, Williams brought in someone he thought would help with that by making a deal with the Oakland A's for Nick Swisher who could play both 1st base as well as the outfield, he could also be put into the DH role when needed
Full list of arrivals and departures:
Arrivals:
OF Swisher (trade with A's)
SS Orlando Cabrera (trade with Angels)
OF Quentin (trade with Diamondbacks)
RHP Linebrink (free agent signing)
Departures:
RHP Garland
OF Darin Erstad
OF Podsednik
LHP Mike Myers
IF Alex Cintron
OF Luis Terrero
RHP Ryan Bukvich
LHP Heath Phillips
IF Andy Gonzalez
OF Sweeney
LHP Gonzalez
RHP De Los Santos
A battle that could take place during spring training is for the 2nd base job. Newly signed Alexei Ramirez seems to be the shoe in for the job, but Juan Uribe and Danny Richar could have something to say about it.
Prediction Time:
I don't see how their offense was upgraded much, though Nick Swisher could be a bit of an upgrade, I still don't think it's enough. Jose Contreras (5.57) needs to be much better than last season, especially as their #3 guy in the rotation. Their bullpen will be better than last season, with the addition of Linebrink and Octavio Dotel, it will certainly make a big difference in the late innings.
Has their pitching upgraded enough from last season, will their offense be better than a .246 team average? They're getting there...but it'll take a few years.
White Sox - 78-84
Friday, January 25, 2008
MLB Report: Washington Nationals
Bill Ladson of MLB.com has an update on the Washington Nationals:
The Nationals signed outfielder Alex Escobar to a non-guaranteed Minor League contract. He's expected to be in big league camp and compete for a spot in the outfield.
The Nationals have also agreed to terms on 2008 contracts with pitchers Jason Bergmann, Matt Chico, Tyler Clippard, Shawn Hill, Joel Hanrahan, Enrique Gonzalez and Saul Rivera, outfielders Roger Bernadina, Elijah Dukes, Garrett Guzman and Justin Maxwell and catcher Jesus Flores. All 12 players will be in big league camp.
The Washington Nationals promoted John Dever to senior director of baseball media relations and named Mike Gazda director of baseball media relations.
Mets close to landing Livan Hernandez
According to Anthony DiComo of MLB.com, the New York Mets are close to signing veteran free-agent right-hander Livan Hernandez.
If the deal is completed, Hernandez will join his brother Orlando Hernandez on the Mets' roster.
Livan Hernandez has eclipsed 200 IP or more 9 times in the last 10 years. The one time he didn't, he came up 1/3 of an inning short.
Morneau, Cuddyer sign long term extensions
The Twins, on Friday, signed both Justin Morneau and Michael Cuddyer to long term extensions. Keeping both in a Twins uniform for a combined 9 more years.
Justin Morneau signed a 6-year $80M extension while Cuddyer signed a 3-year $24M contract.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Looking Forward to 2008: Chicago Cubs
The Chicago Cubs come into the 2008 season after going from division cellar dweller in 2006 to division champion in 2007, their first division title since 2003.
Compared to their $300M spending spree last off-season on Alfonso Soriano, Ted Lilly, Jason Marquis and Mark DeRosa, this off-season was relatively quiet, with exception to 1 big move. The Cubs signed Japanese outfielder Kosuke Fukudome to a 4-year $48M contract, a player that was coveted by quite a few teams.
In a surprising move for the team, they released right-hander Mark Prior. The Cubs wanted to sign him to a 1-year deal with an option for 2009 but Prior did not want an option year. Prior eventually signed a 1-year deal with the San Diego Padres.
Returning to the team, however, is Kerry Wood, signing a 1-year $4.2M deal. He's one of three candidates for the closer's job along with Carlos Marmol and Bob Howry, meaning Ryan Dempster will move back to the starting rotation.
Speaking of the starting rotation, with exception to Dempster, it won't change much from 2007. Carlos Zambrano, Ted Lilly, Rich Hill and Jason Marquis round out the predicted opening day rotation, but young left-hander Sean Marshall should figure in there somewhere.
Here are the full list of arrivals and departures:
Arrivals:
RF Fukudome
RHP Lahey
RHP Ascanio
IF Omar Infante.
Departures:
OF Cliff Floyd
C Jason Kendall
OF Jacque Jones
OF Craig Monroe
LHP Ohman
RHP Prior
The outfield will definitely have new faces from the 2007. Departing are Jacque Jones and Craig Monroe, so new addition Fukudome could slide into left field if they want to keep Soriano in right with Felix Pie slated to be in center. There's also been trade rumors about young outfielder Matt Murton, who the Cubs seem to like but don't really have room for him. We could see a deal with him involved sometime during spring training next month.
On paper, this offense looks as potent as any in the National League with guys like Derrek Lee, Aramis Ramirez and Alfonso Soriano, but it'll come down to how good their rotation will be.
Prediction Time:
The Cubs won the division with a record just 8 games above .500, and the division title was partly on the shoulders of the Milwaukee Brewers who collapsed down the stretch after holding an 8 1/2 game lead at one point. Can Kosuke Fukudome make that much of a difference? I think he can.
Cubs - 90-72
Compared to their $300M spending spree last off-season on Alfonso Soriano, Ted Lilly, Jason Marquis and Mark DeRosa, this off-season was relatively quiet, with exception to 1 big move. The Cubs signed Japanese outfielder Kosuke Fukudome to a 4-year $48M contract, a player that was coveted by quite a few teams.
In a surprising move for the team, they released right-hander Mark Prior. The Cubs wanted to sign him to a 1-year deal with an option for 2009 but Prior did not want an option year. Prior eventually signed a 1-year deal with the San Diego Padres.
Returning to the team, however, is Kerry Wood, signing a 1-year $4.2M deal. He's one of three candidates for the closer's job along with Carlos Marmol and Bob Howry, meaning Ryan Dempster will move back to the starting rotation.
Speaking of the starting rotation, with exception to Dempster, it won't change much from 2007. Carlos Zambrano, Ted Lilly, Rich Hill and Jason Marquis round out the predicted opening day rotation, but young left-hander Sean Marshall should figure in there somewhere.
Here are the full list of arrivals and departures:
Arrivals:
RF Fukudome
RHP Lahey
RHP Ascanio
IF Omar Infante.
Departures:
OF Cliff Floyd
C Jason Kendall
OF Jacque Jones
OF Craig Monroe
LHP Ohman
RHP Prior
The outfield will definitely have new faces from the 2007. Departing are Jacque Jones and Craig Monroe, so new addition Fukudome could slide into left field if they want to keep Soriano in right with Felix Pie slated to be in center. There's also been trade rumors about young outfielder Matt Murton, who the Cubs seem to like but don't really have room for him. We could see a deal with him involved sometime during spring training next month.
On paper, this offense looks as potent as any in the National League with guys like Derrek Lee, Aramis Ramirez and Alfonso Soriano, but it'll come down to how good their rotation will be.
Prediction Time:
The Cubs won the division with a record just 8 games above .500, and the division title was partly on the shoulders of the Milwaukee Brewers who collapsed down the stretch after holding an 8 1/2 game lead at one point. Can Kosuke Fukudome make that much of a difference? I think he can.
Cubs - 90-72
Barajas signs with Blue Jays
After a deal fell apart last offseason, the Blue Jays have signed catcher Rod Barajas to a 1-year 1.2M deal to be the backup to starter Greg Zaun.
The Jays has pursued Barajas after the 2006 season, but when the deal fell apart, it led to harsh words exchanged between the two. Seems like all that has been put aside.
Braves avoid abitration with Soriano
The Braves reached an agreement with right-hander Rafael Soriano on a 2-year contract, avoiding arbitration.
The deal includes a guaranteed $9M plus a $500,000 signing bonus. He will receive $2.4 million in 2008 and $6.1 milllion in 2009. The contract also includes a number of incentives, ranging from $50,000-$100,000 if he finishes in the Top 5 for the Cy Young Award or Rolaids Relief Man of the Year.
Yankees, Cano close to 4-year deal
According to Bryan Hoch of MLB.com, the New York Yankees are close to signing 2nd baseman Robinson Cano to a 4-year $30M extension plus 2 club options on years 5 and 6.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Mets interested in Odalis Perez?
According to the New York Post, the New York Mets apparently have interest in veteran right-hander Odalis Perez.
Perez was 8-11 for the Royals last season, with a lifetime 66-70 record and a 4.21 ERA.
Rays agree to long term deal with Shields
Bill Chastain of MLB.com reports, the Tampa Bay Rays have signed right-hander James Shields to a guaranteed 4-year deal but also includes 3 option years as well as incentives.
When all is said and done, the deal could be as long as 7-years totaling $44M.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Looking Forward to 2008: Boston Red Sox
The Boston Red Sox will report to camp as the defending World Champions for the 2nd time in 4 years, and they may not be done.
The Sox finished off a 4-game sweep of the NL Champion Colorado Rockies in dominating fashion, winning their 2nd World Series Title, the other coming back in 2004.
Their pitching staff hasn't changed from last season. They re-signed Curt Schilling, alongside ace Josh Beckett, Daisuke Matsuzaka, Jon Lester, Tim Wakefield and young phenom Clay Buchholz. It's yet to be seen who will hold the #5 spot in the rotation, whether it be veteran Wakefield or young Buchholz. In my opinion, that's a good problem to have because they're not any less dominant one way or the other.
On the offensive side of things, the only player still yet to re-sign is 1st baseman Kevin Youkilis, both sides will go through an arbitration hearing to determine his salary for 2008. The rest of the offense won't change, led by captain Jason Varitek, 2nd baseman Dustin Pedroia, 3rd baseman Mike Lowell (signed a 3-year extension) and shortstop Julio Lugo.
The outfield remains somewhat of a question, but only to when it comes to Coco Crisp. There were trade rumors floating around about Crisp, but the Red Sox have yet to find the right deal. In the meantime, it seems they are going to go with young center fielder Jacoby Ellsbury to start the 2008 season and next to him on either side are Manny Ramirez and J.D. Drew...but who am I forgetting, gee who could it be....the big man, Big Papi David Ortiz. A guy you don't want to face with the game on the line, but a guy that every Red Sox fan wants at the plate in the same scenario, and I don't blame them one bit.
Here's a full list of the arrivals and departures:
Re-arrivals:
Lowell (signed to three-year deal)
Schilling (signed for one year)
Wakefield (club picked up 2008 option)
Julian Tavarez (club picked up 2008 option)
Timlin (signed for one year)
Departures:
RHP Eric Gagne (signed with Brewers as free agent)
If this team was this good last season, just think how much better they're going to be this season, especially with the Yankees not doing much of anything in the offseason, with exception to blowing $300M on Alex "October No Show" Rodriguez. Their pitching is, arguably, the best in baseball.
Prediction Time:
This is actually the first time I've seen the Red Sox go through an entire off season without a single big offseason move, but it's still early. There's still talk that they could make a deal with Minnesota for Johan Santana. If that does happen...YIKES! Beckett, Santana, Matsuzaka, Lester, Buchholz...I'm glad I'm a fan of a National League team.
Red Sox - 102-60
The Sox finished off a 4-game sweep of the NL Champion Colorado Rockies in dominating fashion, winning their 2nd World Series Title, the other coming back in 2004.
Their pitching staff hasn't changed from last season. They re-signed Curt Schilling, alongside ace Josh Beckett, Daisuke Matsuzaka, Jon Lester, Tim Wakefield and young phenom Clay Buchholz. It's yet to be seen who will hold the #5 spot in the rotation, whether it be veteran Wakefield or young Buchholz. In my opinion, that's a good problem to have because they're not any less dominant one way or the other.
On the offensive side of things, the only player still yet to re-sign is 1st baseman Kevin Youkilis, both sides will go through an arbitration hearing to determine his salary for 2008. The rest of the offense won't change, led by captain Jason Varitek, 2nd baseman Dustin Pedroia, 3rd baseman Mike Lowell (signed a 3-year extension) and shortstop Julio Lugo.
The outfield remains somewhat of a question, but only to when it comes to Coco Crisp. There were trade rumors floating around about Crisp, but the Red Sox have yet to find the right deal. In the meantime, it seems they are going to go with young center fielder Jacoby Ellsbury to start the 2008 season and next to him on either side are Manny Ramirez and J.D. Drew...but who am I forgetting, gee who could it be....the big man, Big Papi David Ortiz. A guy you don't want to face with the game on the line, but a guy that every Red Sox fan wants at the plate in the same scenario, and I don't blame them one bit.
Here's a full list of the arrivals and departures:
Re-arrivals:
Lowell (signed to three-year deal)
Schilling (signed for one year)
Wakefield (club picked up 2008 option)
Julian Tavarez (club picked up 2008 option)
Timlin (signed for one year)
Departures:
RHP Eric Gagne (signed with Brewers as free agent)
If this team was this good last season, just think how much better they're going to be this season, especially with the Yankees not doing much of anything in the offseason, with exception to blowing $300M on Alex "October No Show" Rodriguez. Their pitching is, arguably, the best in baseball.
Prediction Time:
This is actually the first time I've seen the Red Sox go through an entire off season without a single big offseason move, but it's still early. There's still talk that they could make a deal with Minnesota for Johan Santana. If that does happen...YIKES! Beckett, Santana, Matsuzaka, Lester, Buchholz...I'm glad I'm a fan of a National League team.
Red Sox - 102-60
Red Sox sign Miceli, Kolb
The Red Sox wanted to have some insurance in their bullpen, so they signed right-handers Dan Miceli and Dan Kolb to minor league deals.
Kolb would get $650,000 if he's added to the major league roster and $78,000 in the minors. Miceli would make $650,000 in the big leagues and $84,000 in the minors.
Padres close to 2-year extension with Kevin Towers
According to the AP's Bernie Wilson, the San Diego Padres are set to announce a 2-year contract extension with General Manager Kevin Towers.
The deal should be announced in the next few days.
Mets, Chavez agree on 2-year deal
The Associated Press reports, the New York Mets have signed Endy Chavez to a 2-year $3.85M contract on Tuesday.
The deal also included $250,000 in performance bonuses in 2008 plus $375,000 in 2009.
Chavez was limited to only 71 games in 2007 due a strained left hamstring that kept him on the sidelines from June 6th until his return on August 28th.
Interview with MLB.com's Joe Frisaro
Joe Frisaro covers the Florida Marlins for MLB.com and he was nice enough to answer questions on the 2008 Florida Marlins.
Baseball-Rumors: How disappointed are fans that both Cabrera and Willis were dealt?
Joe Frisaro: Naturally losing two players who had been the face of the franchise hurts. They also were the final two links to the 2003 World Series squad, and they represented the future for the franchise. Fans of this team are used to seeing top names go, and that obviously is a reason why attendance remains at or near the bottom of the league. But to the organization’s credit, they’ve been able to bring in top players to replace those who move on. Until a new stadium is finalized, economic hardships will be a reality for this club. Fans don’t like to hear that, but the business side of this sport causes teams to make harsh decisions. You just hate to see two stars and proven winners like Cabrera and Willis leave when they were both two years away from free agency.
Baseball-Rumors: Hanley Ramirez is quickly becoming a fan favorite, not to mention he's one of the best young shortstops in the game. How impressed have you been with him from 2006 to 2007?
Joe Frisaro: Very impressed. He’s not just one of the top young shortstops in the game, he’s one of the best overall players. You would be hard pressed to find any objective GM who wouldn’t take Ramirez over any other shortstop in the league, and I’m including Jimmy Rollins, the MVP of a year ago. Ramirez does need to work on being more focused on defense, but offensively he is a true force who can contribute in so many ways. What people don’t know about him is he’s highly motivated to be the best. That competitive drive , I feel, will make him the premiere shortstop in the game. I am a bit concerned, though, about how he will handle dropping to third in the order, if indeed manager Fredi Gonzalez moves him out of the leadoff spot. When he is batting first, he is a threat to steal 50 bases along with post remarkable all-around numbers. If he is asked to be a true middle of the lineup hitter, striving to drive the ball out of the park may end up dropping him from a .330 hitter to a .300 hitter.
Baseball-Rumors: One of the prospects the Marlins got in the Cabrera/Willis deal was Cameron Maybin, who was one of Detroit's top outfield prospects. Are you expecting to see good things from him?
Joe Frisaro: From people that I’ve spoken to who have seen him play, they all use the word “freak” to describe Maybin. Physically, he is a marvel, being tall and athletic. Like Hanley Ramirez, Maybin is regarded as a player who eventually will steal 50 bases and hit 30 homers. Still, he won’t turn 21 until April. Ramirez won NL Rookie of the Year at age 22. So it is a matter of whether he will be truly ready to step in as a starter on Opening Day. The Marlins will give him every chance to win that job. But this is a production sport. If he produces in Spring Training, he will win the job. If not, a couple of more months in the Minor Leagues will be in order before he takes over every day.
Baseball-Rumors: Scott Olsen has shown flashes of being one of the better young pitchers in the game. Has he just not put it all together yet?
Joe Frisaro: Olsen is a fiery competitor who has let his emotions get the best of him. He’s now 24, and in interviewing him in December, he talked about having to grow up sometime. This is a big year for him, because he now is being put in a leadership spot on a team that gives opportunities to young players. He will have a new pitching coach in Mark Wiley, who has the challenge of keeping Olsen’s mind focused on his mechanics and staying poised enough to be productive.
Baseball-Rumors: Another young pitcher that's getting a lot of talk is Taylor Tankersley. What's your scouting report on him.
Joe Frisaro: Tankersley had his ups and downs in ’07 after he was so effective in ’06. The difference was he opened last Spring Training with a shoulder problem that led to him opening the season on the disabled list. His velocity didn’t really match his ’06 readings, when he was more of a 93-94 mph pitcher, compared to 90-91 mph last year. Still, he battled and had his moments being effective. If he is healthy, he should regain that confidence and command, and be a vital part of the bullpen.
Baseball-Rumors: Dontrelle Willis seemed to be the vocal leader of the Marlins the past few seasons, with him now gone, who do you think takes the reigns?
Joe Frisaro: That’s a good question that won’t be answered until the players arrive in Spring Training. In talking to some of the players, they point to veterans like Kevin Gregg and Matt Treanor. This team doesn’t have a lot of overall experience. Gregg, though, is a steady and heady player who is greatly respected. Treanor, being a catcher, and someone who was in camp with the ’03 Marlins knows what it takes to be a winner. Mark Hendrickson, who was just signed to join the rotation, is a veteran, but he will go through a process of acclimating himself to the squad. I think new catcher Mike Rabelo will step up and be vocal as well.
Baseball-Rumors: How disappointed are fans that both Cabrera and Willis were dealt?
Joe Frisaro: Naturally losing two players who had been the face of the franchise hurts. They also were the final two links to the 2003 World Series squad, and they represented the future for the franchise. Fans of this team are used to seeing top names go, and that obviously is a reason why attendance remains at or near the bottom of the league. But to the organization’s credit, they’ve been able to bring in top players to replace those who move on. Until a new stadium is finalized, economic hardships will be a reality for this club. Fans don’t like to hear that, but the business side of this sport causes teams to make harsh decisions. You just hate to see two stars and proven winners like Cabrera and Willis leave when they were both two years away from free agency.
Baseball-Rumors: Hanley Ramirez is quickly becoming a fan favorite, not to mention he's one of the best young shortstops in the game. How impressed have you been with him from 2006 to 2007?
Joe Frisaro: Very impressed. He’s not just one of the top young shortstops in the game, he’s one of the best overall players. You would be hard pressed to find any objective GM who wouldn’t take Ramirez over any other shortstop in the league, and I’m including Jimmy Rollins, the MVP of a year ago. Ramirez does need to work on being more focused on defense, but offensively he is a true force who can contribute in so many ways. What people don’t know about him is he’s highly motivated to be the best. That competitive drive , I feel, will make him the premiere shortstop in the game. I am a bit concerned, though, about how he will handle dropping to third in the order, if indeed manager Fredi Gonzalez moves him out of the leadoff spot. When he is batting first, he is a threat to steal 50 bases along with post remarkable all-around numbers. If he is asked to be a true middle of the lineup hitter, striving to drive the ball out of the park may end up dropping him from a .330 hitter to a .300 hitter.
Baseball-Rumors: One of the prospects the Marlins got in the Cabrera/Willis deal was Cameron Maybin, who was one of Detroit's top outfield prospects. Are you expecting to see good things from him?
Joe Frisaro: From people that I’ve spoken to who have seen him play, they all use the word “freak” to describe Maybin. Physically, he is a marvel, being tall and athletic. Like Hanley Ramirez, Maybin is regarded as a player who eventually will steal 50 bases and hit 30 homers. Still, he won’t turn 21 until April. Ramirez won NL Rookie of the Year at age 22. So it is a matter of whether he will be truly ready to step in as a starter on Opening Day. The Marlins will give him every chance to win that job. But this is a production sport. If he produces in Spring Training, he will win the job. If not, a couple of more months in the Minor Leagues will be in order before he takes over every day.
Baseball-Rumors: Scott Olsen has shown flashes of being one of the better young pitchers in the game. Has he just not put it all together yet?
Joe Frisaro: Olsen is a fiery competitor who has let his emotions get the best of him. He’s now 24, and in interviewing him in December, he talked about having to grow up sometime. This is a big year for him, because he now is being put in a leadership spot on a team that gives opportunities to young players. He will have a new pitching coach in Mark Wiley, who has the challenge of keeping Olsen’s mind focused on his mechanics and staying poised enough to be productive.
Baseball-Rumors: Another young pitcher that's getting a lot of talk is Taylor Tankersley. What's your scouting report on him.
Joe Frisaro: Tankersley had his ups and downs in ’07 after he was so effective in ’06. The difference was he opened last Spring Training with a shoulder problem that led to him opening the season on the disabled list. His velocity didn’t really match his ’06 readings, when he was more of a 93-94 mph pitcher, compared to 90-91 mph last year. Still, he battled and had his moments being effective. If he is healthy, he should regain that confidence and command, and be a vital part of the bullpen.
Baseball-Rumors: Dontrelle Willis seemed to be the vocal leader of the Marlins the past few seasons, with him now gone, who do you think takes the reigns?
Joe Frisaro: That’s a good question that won’t be answered until the players arrive in Spring Training. In talking to some of the players, they point to veterans like Kevin Gregg and Matt Treanor. This team doesn’t have a lot of overall experience. Gregg, though, is a steady and heady player who is greatly respected. Treanor, being a catcher, and someone who was in camp with the ’03 Marlins knows what it takes to be a winner. Mark Hendrickson, who was just signed to join the rotation, is a veteran, but he will go through a process of acclimating himself to the squad. I think new catcher Mike Rabelo will step up and be vocal as well.
Monday, January 21, 2008
Mailbag
The last time I tried this, I didn't get much of a response but I'm sure that was due to me being so new at this.
So I figured I'd give it another shot. Send in your questions to baseballrumors@gmail.com and we'll get them answered in a mailbag article on Friday.
Thanks again for all those who have read the site and have enjoyed both the articles and the interviews I've done. I can tell you I've had a blast doing them.
So I figured I'd give it another shot. Send in your questions to baseballrumors@gmail.com and we'll get them answered in a mailbag article on Friday.
Thanks again for all those who have read the site and have enjoyed both the articles and the interviews I've done. I can tell you I've had a blast doing them.
Padres have interest in Cubs' Murton
According to Ken Rosenthal, the San Diego Padres apparently have interest in Cubs' outfielder Matt Murton.
The Cubs, however, may be reluctant to deal Murton to San Diego, especially if they use him to land Orioles' 2nd baseman Brian Roberts.
Padres interested in Sanders?
According to ESPN's Jerry Crasnick, Padres' GM Kevin Towers may have interest in free agent outfielder Reggie Sanders, but views him as a backup if their other trade scenarios fall through.
Sanders' agent, Mike Powers, has talked to both the Dodgers and Padres about a backup outfield job. Sanders is also going to audition for a spot on ESPN's "Baseball Tonight" sometime next week.
Looking Forward to 2008: Baltimore Orioles
For a team that hasn't had a winning season since 1997, you wouldn't think the Baltimore Orioles would be in a rebuilding mode, but that's exactly what they're doing.
The team's president of baseball operations Andy McPhail began the project by dealing SS Miguel Tejada to Houston, but got top pitching prospects Troy Patton, Matt Albers and Dennis Sarfate as well as outfielder Luke Scott and third baseman Mike Costanzo.
There has been a lot of talk that Tejada wouldn't be the only Orioles' star to be traded this offseason, left-hander Erik Bedard and 2nd baseman Brian Roberts have also been rumored to be on the move to new teams.
But, for sake of this article, let's say the Orioles' will open the 2008 season with both Bedard and Roberts in the mix. What this team has, actually isn't horrible, but let's not forget that they're in the AL East with the Yankees and Red Sox so the wild card is their only shot at getting in the playoffs and even that is a big stretch.
Here's a list of their arrivals and departures from 2007:
Arrivals:
LHP Patton
LHP Albers
LF Scott
RHP Sarfate
3B Costanzo
C Guillermo Quiroz
Departures:
CF Corey Patterson
SS Tejada
RHP Jaret Wright
RHP Kris Benson
C Paul Bako
Erik Bedard isn't the only pitcher in the rotation that has dominated teams, young right-hander Jeremy Guthrie opened eyes last season, going 7-5 with a 3.70 ERA. Though Guthrie struggled down the stretch, it was the first time he had been a full time starter in the big leagues. Behind the front two are right-hander Adam Loewen (3-0 3.56 ERA), right-hander Daniel Cabrera (9-18 5.55 ERA) and possibly left-hander Troy Patton (0-2 3.55 ERA).
Offensively there are some familiar faces. Guys like Brian Roberts, Kevin Millar, Melvin Mora, Nick Markakis and Aubrey Huff, but when you bring back Ramon Hernandez who missed a lot of last season to injury as well as newcomer Luke Scott, you're going to score runs. How many is the real question and how much will your pitching give up?
Prediction Time:
The Orioles play in the, stacked, AL East, so that should tell you that they're not going to win a lot of the games they play inside their own division, but I think they'll surprise a few teams here and there, but not many. I think until the Orioles start reaping the benefits of the prospects they received from Houston in the deal for Tejada, they'll have another couple of losing seasons.
Orioles - 60-102
The team's president of baseball operations Andy McPhail began the project by dealing SS Miguel Tejada to Houston, but got top pitching prospects Troy Patton, Matt Albers and Dennis Sarfate as well as outfielder Luke Scott and third baseman Mike Costanzo.
There has been a lot of talk that Tejada wouldn't be the only Orioles' star to be traded this offseason, left-hander Erik Bedard and 2nd baseman Brian Roberts have also been rumored to be on the move to new teams.
But, for sake of this article, let's say the Orioles' will open the 2008 season with both Bedard and Roberts in the mix. What this team has, actually isn't horrible, but let's not forget that they're in the AL East with the Yankees and Red Sox so the wild card is their only shot at getting in the playoffs and even that is a big stretch.
Here's a list of their arrivals and departures from 2007:
Arrivals:
LHP Patton
LHP Albers
LF Scott
RHP Sarfate
3B Costanzo
C Guillermo Quiroz
Departures:
CF Corey Patterson
SS Tejada
RHP Jaret Wright
RHP Kris Benson
C Paul Bako
Erik Bedard isn't the only pitcher in the rotation that has dominated teams, young right-hander Jeremy Guthrie opened eyes last season, going 7-5 with a 3.70 ERA. Though Guthrie struggled down the stretch, it was the first time he had been a full time starter in the big leagues. Behind the front two are right-hander Adam Loewen (3-0 3.56 ERA), right-hander Daniel Cabrera (9-18 5.55 ERA) and possibly left-hander Troy Patton (0-2 3.55 ERA).
Offensively there are some familiar faces. Guys like Brian Roberts, Kevin Millar, Melvin Mora, Nick Markakis and Aubrey Huff, but when you bring back Ramon Hernandez who missed a lot of last season to injury as well as newcomer Luke Scott, you're going to score runs. How many is the real question and how much will your pitching give up?
Prediction Time:
The Orioles play in the, stacked, AL East, so that should tell you that they're not going to win a lot of the games they play inside their own division, but I think they'll surprise a few teams here and there, but not many. I think until the Orioles start reaping the benefits of the prospects they received from Houston in the deal for Tejada, they'll have another couple of losing seasons.
Orioles - 60-102
Padres sign Gerut to minor league deal
The Padres seem to be stockpiling outfielders as spring training quickly approaches. They added another one on Monday, signing 30-year-old outfielder Jody Gerut to a minor league deal.
Gerut last played in the big leagues for the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2005.
Orioles close to deal with Cormier
Spencer Fordin of MLB.com reports, the Baltimore Orioles are close to a deal with right-hander Lance Cormier.
According to an AP report Cormier had signed a 1-year $450,000 contract, but sources close to the negotiations say the deal is not complete as of yet.
Introducing Goose is a dream for Mets' Wagner
Mets' closer Billy Wagner gets to do something that makes him feel like a kid again. Not only is Wagner being honored with the Ben Epstein "Good Guy" award at the 85th annual Baseball Writers' Association of America (New York Chapter) dinner this coming Sunday evening, but he will also get to introduce fellow closer, and newly inducted member of the Baseball Hall of Fame, Rich "Goose" Gossage.
Said Wagner of the honor, "I mean it's a real honor for me to introduce one of the great closers of all time. But am I the right guy to do that?" "He's going into the Hall. How do I give him his just due?"
White Sox ink Dotel
According to Scott Merkin of MLB.com, the Chicago White Sox have signed right-handed reliever Octavio Dotel to a 2-year $11M contract.
The deal is not expected to be announced until Tuesday or Wednesday because the team still needs to decide who to remove from the 40-man roster.
Could the Padres trade Khalil Greene?
In an article from Bill Center of the San Diego Union Tribune on Saturday, the San Diego Padres tried to get a 3 or 4 year deal done with SS Khalil Greene.
When asked about the conversations between the Padres and Greene's agent Mike Milchin, Padres' GM Kevin Towers said “We explored a longer contract with Greene's agent the last couple of weeks, but we heard back that they weren't interested in what we proposed.”
Towers was then asked if a long term deal would eventually get done. His response is surprising.
“A long-term contract with Khalil at this time is probably doubtful, I don't know, it might not be able to get done. Khalil's family is on the East Coast and I think there are some health concerns."
A thought that the Padres' front office may have to consider is trading the Greene to an east coast team, but they will look for the right package in order to pull the trigger. Greene is one of the best young shortstops in the game, and a player the Padres don't want to lose, but they may have no choice.
Tomko signs with Royals
The Kansas City Royals added to their pitching staff on Monday, signing free agent right-hander Brett Tomko 1-year $3M deal which also includes up to $1.5M in incentives according to ESPN.com.
Manager Trey Hillman said of Tomko "I talked to him as much as I've talked to any free agent that we've tried to lure our way, so to speak, and I'm very excited to get him. "This is another piece that we felt like will make us a better club, and we worked very hard on it.
Cardinal sign Molina to extension
MLB.com's Matthew Leach reports, the St. Louis Cardinals have signed catcher Yadier Molina to a 4-year $15.5M extension with a $7M club option for 2012 plus a $250,000 signing bonus.
Molina will make $1.75 million in 2008, $3.25 million in 2009, $4.25 million in 2010 and $5.25 million 2011.
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Cubs address sale of team
MLB.com's Carrie Muskat has an article out today. The Cubs ownership address the sale of the team with fans on Sunday during a Q&A at their annual 23rd Cubs Convention.
Cubs chairman Sam Zell, is considering selling the team to the Illinois Sports Facilities Authority who owns and operates U.S. Cellular Field (White Sox ballpark). The agency was created in 1987 for the purpose of constructing and renovating sports stadiums for professional sports teams in the state.
When asked about who the new owner should be, Zell replied, "We want to make sure it's the right owner, not just the highest bidder."
I have a name for them....Mark Cuban, who has already expressed his interest in buying the club.
Cubs chairman Sam Zell, is considering selling the team to the Illinois Sports Facilities Authority who owns and operates U.S. Cellular Field (White Sox ballpark). The agency was created in 1987 for the purpose of constructing and renovating sports stadiums for professional sports teams in the state.
When asked about who the new owner should be, Zell replied, "We want to make sure it's the right owner, not just the highest bidder."
I have a name for them....Mark Cuban, who has already expressed his interest in buying the club.
Dodgers sign Proctor to 1-year deal
According to Ken Gurnick of MLB.com, the Los Angeles Dodgers signed right-hander Scott Proctor to a 1-year $1.115M deal on Sunday.
Proctor was 3-0 with a 3.38 ERA in 31 games for the Dodgers after being traded from the Yankees in July.
Rockies sign Tulowitzki to extension
The Colorado Rockies made a lot of Rockies' fans very happy on Sunday. They came to an agreement with young shortstop Troy Tulowitzki on a 6-year $30M extension.
The extension is the largest ever for a player with less than 2-years of major league experience and surpasses the 6-year $23.45M deal that the Indians signed with Grady Sizemore in 2006.
Looking forward to 2008: Atlanta Braves
The Atlanta Braves come into the 2008 season after missing the playoffs in back-to-back seasons, something Braves' fans aren't used to after winning the NL East an impressive 14 straight times (1991-2005).
Though, one familiar face from those NL East Championships is returning to the Braves' rotation, Tom Glavine. Glavine has spent the last 5 seasons with the Mets, picking up career victory #300 in 2007. He adds another veteran to an already experienced staff, along side John Smoltz, Tim Hudson and Chuck James. The Braves may also get Mike Hampton back after missing the last 2 seasons.
Offensively, they lose a big bat in Andruw Jones to free agency but having Mark Teixeira back for one more season, especially after the production he gave them after coming over from Atlanta, should more than make up for it.
The Braves will have to replace shortstop Edgar Renteria, who was traded to Detroit for 22-year-old right-hander Jair Jurrjens, with possibly Yunel Escobar. The rest of the infield remains in tact, with Brian McCann (C), Mark Teixeira (1B), Kelly Johnson (2B) and Chipper Jones (3B).
As far as the outfield goes, there will be a battle for positions during spring training between Matt Diaz, Brandon Jones, Josh Anderson and Jordon Schafer. Assuming Jeff Francoeur will replace Andruw Jones in center field.
Here are the full list of arrivals and departures:
Arrivals:
LHP Glavine
INF Infante
LHP Ohman
RHP Jurrjens
C Javier Lopez
RHP Chris Resop
Departures:
CF Jones
SS Renteria
LHP Ron Mahay
RHP Octavio Dotel
INF Julio Franco
OF Willie Harris
RHP Lance Cormier
RHP Ascanio
INF Chris Woodward
The Braves no doubt will have a good young squad for next season, but how well they do will depend on their pitching staff. The Mets and Phillies still have two of the more potent offenses in the NL East, so the Braves will have to come up with their own spark at the right time and not let either team get too far in front of them.
Prediction Time:
Tom Glavine, Tim Hudson and John Smoltz will need to shoulder the load, but look for Craig James to be a big part of the rotation in 2008.
Braves - 88-74
Though, one familiar face from those NL East Championships is returning to the Braves' rotation, Tom Glavine. Glavine has spent the last 5 seasons with the Mets, picking up career victory #300 in 2007. He adds another veteran to an already experienced staff, along side John Smoltz, Tim Hudson and Chuck James. The Braves may also get Mike Hampton back after missing the last 2 seasons.
Offensively, they lose a big bat in Andruw Jones to free agency but having Mark Teixeira back for one more season, especially after the production he gave them after coming over from Atlanta, should more than make up for it.
The Braves will have to replace shortstop Edgar Renteria, who was traded to Detroit for 22-year-old right-hander Jair Jurrjens, with possibly Yunel Escobar. The rest of the infield remains in tact, with Brian McCann (C), Mark Teixeira (1B), Kelly Johnson (2B) and Chipper Jones (3B).
As far as the outfield goes, there will be a battle for positions during spring training between Matt Diaz, Brandon Jones, Josh Anderson and Jordon Schafer. Assuming Jeff Francoeur will replace Andruw Jones in center field.
Here are the full list of arrivals and departures:
Arrivals:
LHP Glavine
INF Infante
LHP Ohman
RHP Jurrjens
C Javier Lopez
RHP Chris Resop
Departures:
CF Jones
SS Renteria
LHP Ron Mahay
RHP Octavio Dotel
INF Julio Franco
OF Willie Harris
RHP Lance Cormier
RHP Ascanio
INF Chris Woodward
The Braves no doubt will have a good young squad for next season, but how well they do will depend on their pitching staff. The Mets and Phillies still have two of the more potent offenses in the NL East, so the Braves will have to come up with their own spark at the right time and not let either team get too far in front of them.
Prediction Time:
Tom Glavine, Tim Hudson and John Smoltz will need to shoulder the load, but look for Craig James to be a big part of the rotation in 2008.
Braves - 88-74
Reds, Affeldt nearing deal?
According to Mark Sheldon of MLB.com, the Cincinnati Reds are apparently close to a deal with free agent left-hander Jeremy Affeldt.
The deal is still pending a final dollar amount and a physical which is already scheduled for early next week.
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