The scrap pile of used & coming-back-from-injury pitchers continues to mount. Yesterday one commentor to the blog said he wasn't impressed by any of the pitchers that Ben has invited to compete for a spot in spring training.
I get that point of view. And I appreciate the comment.
My thought, however, is that you have a group of 6 or 7 pitchers in camp with something to prove. Last year guys like Aceves, Colon & Garcia were never thought of as being contributing pitchers in the AL East when spring training started. And look what happened. With money so big for any pitcher who has a half-decent year there is a lot of incentive for guys like Cook, Padilla, Maine, et al to get back on the gravy train of an MLB roster.
Money is a great motivator in pro sports. It may spur one or two of these guys to mnake the team. Never say never.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Sunday, January 29, 2012
Sox Sign Another Arm
The latest addition to the Red Sox arms race is John Maine, former pitcher for the NY Mets. Maine signed a minor league deal & will compete for a spot out of the bullpen.
Like several other rehab hurlers in camp, Maine is coming off shoulder surgery. He has playoff experience, in fact he won 2 playoff games as a starter, & could fill a void in the pen for multiple innings now that Dan Wheeler signed with another team.
Keep stockpiling arms, Ben. One or two might become the Alfredo Aceves of 2012.
Like several other rehab hurlers in camp, Maine is coming off shoulder surgery. He has playoff experience, in fact he won 2 playoff games as a starter, & could fill a void in the pen for multiple innings now that Dan Wheeler signed with another team.
Keep stockpiling arms, Ben. One or two might become the Alfredo Aceves of 2012.
Saturday, January 28, 2012
Oswalt, Jackson Not Interested in AL East?
I caught a quick video on-line from Buster Olney on ESPN Boston. He had a good thought on the Red Sox chances of landing a short-term deal with either Roy Oswalt or Edwin Jackson. Buster thinks that both pitchers may not want to face the AL East where 3 of the top 6 teams in run production reside.
If so & Olney is right, what a bunch of weenies! As a professional, don't you want to test yourself against the best to see how your skills match up? No, instead & as usual, it's all about money. Pitching in an easier division to inflate your stats will bring a bigger contract next year.
Let's see if Oswalt or Jackson have any you-know-what to sign on in the American League East.
If so & Olney is right, what a bunch of weenies! As a professional, don't you want to test yourself against the best to see how your skills match up? No, instead & as usual, it's all about money. Pitching in an easier division to inflate your stats will bring a bigger contract next year.
Let's see if Oswalt or Jackson have any you-know-what to sign on in the American League East.
Friday, January 27, 2012
Ross In, Oswalt Maybe
Nice move, Ben.
As previously reported, the Sox made an offer to Cody Ross & their offer was accepted this week. Ross brings a much-needed right handed bat to the outfield. Boston fans should like Ross' gritty style of play. He should be a nice fit. His contract is a 1-year deal worth $3 million plus incentives.
The Sox made an offer to Roy Oswalt this week. Oswalt would bring an experience arm to the starting rotation & give the Sox more leeway with Daniel Bard. It was odd to me that Oswalt said he preferred to pitch for Texas or St. Louis, the 2 World Series teams from last year. Really? How about pitching for a contender like Boston who is actually offering you a contract? I don't like how this is starting out.
I will say, however, that I admire Oswalt for pitching on the USA team that competed in the World Baseball Classic. No one was interested in playing on that team & he stepped up. I like his competitiveness.
We'll see if the Sox get to ring in Oswalt.
As previously reported, the Sox made an offer to Cody Ross & their offer was accepted this week. Ross brings a much-needed right handed bat to the outfield. Boston fans should like Ross' gritty style of play. He should be a nice fit. His contract is a 1-year deal worth $3 million plus incentives.
The Sox made an offer to Roy Oswalt this week. Oswalt would bring an experience arm to the starting rotation & give the Sox more leeway with Daniel Bard. It was odd to me that Oswalt said he preferred to pitch for Texas or St. Louis, the 2 World Series teams from last year. Really? How about pitching for a contender like Boston who is actually offering you a contract? I don't like how this is starting out.
I will say, however, that I admire Oswalt for pitching on the USA team that competed in the World Baseball Classic. No one was interested in playing on that team & he stepped up. I like his competitiveness.
We'll see if the Sox get to ring in Oswalt.
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Jorge Posada Retires
In my mind there are only 3 real Yankees left on that pinstriped team -- Derek Jeter, Mariano Rivera & Jorge Posada. Everyone else is a hired gun. Now there are only 2 left.
Jorge Posada, like Jason Varitek, caught thousands of games in the same uniform for many, many years. Some of those years resulted in World Series rings, the most recent being in 2009. Posada was a switch hitter & he had the knack of coming up with a big hit, usually a long ball, at a crucial time in the game. It happened in games against the Red Sox more than we would like to remember.
Last year was perhaps his toughest as a Yankee. Posada was relegated to a part-time DH since his throwing arm was no longer adequate & his batting average plummeted. He & Girardi had a very public blow-up over his lack of playing time & position in the batting order. But all got resolved as Jorge started hitting better over the second half of the season.
Jorge Posada retired a Yankee for life. Time marches on.
Jorge Posada, like Jason Varitek, caught thousands of games in the same uniform for many, many years. Some of those years resulted in World Series rings, the most recent being in 2009. Posada was a switch hitter & he had the knack of coming up with a big hit, usually a long ball, at a crucial time in the game. It happened in games against the Red Sox more than we would like to remember.
Last year was perhaps his toughest as a Yankee. Posada was relegated to a part-time DH since his throwing arm was no longer adequate & his batting average plummeted. He & Girardi had a very public blow-up over his lack of playing time & position in the batting order. But all got resolved as Jorge started hitting better over the second half of the season.
Jorge Posada retired a Yankee for life. Time marches on.
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
Prince No Longer A Pauper
Out of the blue the Detroit Tigers sign Prince Fielder to a 9 year, $200+ million contract yesterday. The Tigers were not even whispered to be in the running for Prince with the likes of Miami, Anaheim, Seattle & Washington.
The signing of Fielder immediately elevates the Tigers to favorite status to win the AL Central. At the very least the Tigers become another threat for the AL Wild Card with Anaheim & Tampa Bay. Watch out Red Sox & Yankees.
Pujols & Fielder become this year's version of the $200 million players club. It took a little longer to get there for Fielder, but Boras got his client the contract that he promised.
It's good to be Prince today.
The signing of Fielder immediately elevates the Tigers to favorite status to win the AL Central. At the very least the Tigers become another threat for the AL Wild Card with Anaheim & Tampa Bay. Watch out Red Sox & Yankees.
Pujols & Fielder become this year's version of the $200 million players club. It took a little longer to get there for Fielder, but Boras got his client the contract that he promised.
It's good to be Prince today.
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Cody Ross Coming to Town
The Red Sox website reports that the Sox are close to finalizing a deal to bring outfielder Cody Ross to Boston. The deal is said to be worth $3 million plus incentives.
Yes, they finally listened to me. Look back at blog a few articles ago. I mentioned Ross as the best free agent outfielder still available on the market. And I guess Ben agreed.
Ross will give the Sox a proven guy on defense & someone with post-season experience. A right-handed bat, he may also surprise with his offense like Scutaro did last year. Good addition.
Yes, they finally listened to me. Look back at blog a few articles ago. I mentioned Ross as the best free agent outfielder still available on the market. And I guess Ben agreed.
Ross will give the Sox a proven guy on defense & someone with post-season experience. A right-handed bat, he may also surprise with his offense like Scutaro did last year. Good addition.
Monday, January 23, 2012
Joe Pa Dead At 85
As a graduate of Brown University, I feel a distant connection to Joe Paterno to know that he also attended the same college in Providence, RI. His passing ends a turbulent few months that rocked his legacy at Penn State.
Joe Pa instilled the concept of team in his players. No individual names on the back of uniforms. He actually took an interest in seeing his players graduate. Paterno's graduation rate for players was over 90%, a rate unheard of by other major football powers.
However, a living person that has his statue in front of the football stadium can be elevated too high. He was not God. He was just a man with failings like all of us. Did he continue coaching too long? Maybe. Did he overlook player behaviors in his later years that would have effected his team? Probably. Did his program become isolated & insulated from pressures from the administration? Yes. A football program than brings in revenue of over $10 million a year develops its own set of problems to deal with. Money remains the root of all evil. Just look at politics.
Joe Pa was human & perhaps he read his own press clippings for too long. But let's remember the good that he did over his tenure at Penn State, not just his takedown by Jerry Sandusky over past few months.
Joe Pa instilled the concept of team in his players. No individual names on the back of uniforms. He actually took an interest in seeing his players graduate. Paterno's graduation rate for players was over 90%, a rate unheard of by other major football powers.
However, a living person that has his statue in front of the football stadium can be elevated too high. He was not God. He was just a man with failings like all of us. Did he continue coaching too long? Maybe. Did he overlook player behaviors in his later years that would have effected his team? Probably. Did his program become isolated & insulated from pressures from the administration? Yes. A football program than brings in revenue of over $10 million a year develops its own set of problems to deal with. Money remains the root of all evil. Just look at politics.
Joe Pa was human & perhaps he read his own press clippings for too long. But let's remember the good that he did over his tenure at Penn State, not just his takedown by Jerry Sandusky over past few months.
It's Boston Versus New York Again
Red Sox - Yankees. Patriots - Jets. Now Patriots - Giants in the Super Bowl again. No love lost in sports between Boston & New York.
Even though both Harbaugh teams went down in tough defeats, one on a missed field goal & one on a fumble, these were 2 excellent championship games that kept fans on the edge of their seats right up until the last play. The NFL ratings should be way up & the TV gurus at NBC are dancing over 2 big market teams meeting once again in the Super Bowl. At least we won't have to listen to Joe Buck or Michael Strahan anymore.
The Giants beat the Patriots in the regular season. The Giants beat the Patriots in their prior Super Bowl meeting. It will be interesting to see the line from Vegas on this game. I'd be surprised if it was more than 3 points either way. The Patriots will be motivated to even up their record against the G-men with a win.
Let the hype begin.
Even though both Harbaugh teams went down in tough defeats, one on a missed field goal & one on a fumble, these were 2 excellent championship games that kept fans on the edge of their seats right up until the last play. The NFL ratings should be way up & the TV gurus at NBC are dancing over 2 big market teams meeting once again in the Super Bowl. At least we won't have to listen to Joe Buck or Michael Strahan anymore.
The Giants beat the Patriots in the regular season. The Giants beat the Patriots in their prior Super Bowl meeting. It will be interesting to see the line from Vegas on this game. I'd be surprised if it was more than 3 points either way. The Patriots will be motivated to even up their record against the G-men with a win.
Let the hype begin.
Sunday, January 22, 2012
Patriots Are Super Bowl Bound
It was no work of art, but I believe that the Patriots were the tougher team mentally at the end which led them to a thrilling, fingernail-biting 23-20 win in Foxborough over the Baltimore Ravens.
The Ravens lost their opportunity to win the game in the final minute. A dropped ball in the end zone for a sure TD was followed by a very rushed try for a game-tying field goal which was pushed too far left. It was a great football game by both teams, but I feel that Ravens' coach John Harbaugh should have used his last timeout as the play clock was running out before the field goal try. Instead, a rushed field goal attempt ends up sailing wide. Game over. Baltimore goes home & the Patriots move on.
Tom Brady was very critical of his less than usual high level of performance. 2 picks including a bonehead call by the offensive coordinator to go for broke on the first play after a defensive pick of Flacco. That was just a dumb play call. Don't expect Brady to have a 2nd down game in a row during the Super Bowl in 2 weeks.
Star of the day honors easily go to Vince Wilfork. He was immense in the interior line, taking down QB's & running backs with one arm. The Law Firm also had a great day running the ball.
It's onto Indie in 2 weeks. Who would have thunk it?
The Ravens lost their opportunity to win the game in the final minute. A dropped ball in the end zone for a sure TD was followed by a very rushed try for a game-tying field goal which was pushed too far left. It was a great football game by both teams, but I feel that Ravens' coach John Harbaugh should have used his last timeout as the play clock was running out before the field goal try. Instead, a rushed field goal attempt ends up sailing wide. Game over. Baltimore goes home & the Patriots move on.
Tom Brady was very critical of his less than usual high level of performance. 2 picks including a bonehead call by the offensive coordinator to go for broke on the first play after a defensive pick of Flacco. That was just a dumb play call. Don't expect Brady to have a 2nd down game in a row during the Super Bowl in 2 weeks.
Star of the day honors easily go to Vince Wilfork. He was immense in the interior line, taking down QB's & running backs with one arm. The Law Firm also had a great day running the ball.
It's onto Indie in 2 weeks. Who would have thunk it?
Scutaro Traded to Rockies
WOW! I didn't see that one coming. I don't think anyone did, particularly after the Sox parted company with Jed Lowrie.
In a move that can only be seen as a cash dump, Marco Scutaro - & his $6 million salary - was traded to the Colorado Rockies for a minor league pitcher. Scutaro was penciled in as the Sox starting shortstop this year. Instead, he will be the everyday second-basemen for Colorado. This leaves the Sox will Mike Aviles, Nick Punto & Jose Iglesius to man that position throughout the season. I guess the thinking is that an average shortstop can fill the bill until Iglesius matures enough to be the everyday guy.
I have to think that Ben & Co. already have an Edwin Jackson or Roy Oswalt ready to sign for the $6 million that they just freed up. It just shows you what a scarce commodity good, or even OK, starting pitching is at the big league level. Look at Jamie Moyer who at 49 years young got invited to another MLB training camp. Even the Yankees traded their best prospect in Jesus Montero for an unproven hard thrower in Pineda.
I wouldn't think it will be too long before you hear about a new signing from Ben for a starting pitcher.
As for Marco, I think he gave the Red Sox fans everything he had & he played as well as he could have in his time in Boston. Thanks, Marco, for the memories & good luck in the NL.
In a move that can only be seen as a cash dump, Marco Scutaro - & his $6 million salary - was traded to the Colorado Rockies for a minor league pitcher. Scutaro was penciled in as the Sox starting shortstop this year. Instead, he will be the everyday second-basemen for Colorado. This leaves the Sox will Mike Aviles, Nick Punto & Jose Iglesius to man that position throughout the season. I guess the thinking is that an average shortstop can fill the bill until Iglesius matures enough to be the everyday guy.
I have to think that Ben & Co. already have an Edwin Jackson or Roy Oswalt ready to sign for the $6 million that they just freed up. It just shows you what a scarce commodity good, or even OK, starting pitching is at the big league level. Look at Jamie Moyer who at 49 years young got invited to another MLB training camp. Even the Yankees traded their best prospect in Jesus Montero for an unproven hard thrower in Pineda.
I wouldn't think it will be too long before you hear about a new signing from Ben for a starting pitcher.
As for Marco, I think he gave the Red Sox fans everything he had & he played as well as he could have in his time in Boston. Thanks, Marco, for the memories & good luck in the NL.
Saturday, January 21, 2012
A's Interested in Manny
Can you believe it? What is Billy Beane thinking?
Manny-land may be coming to the Bay area. MLB reports that the A's have interest in signing Manny Ramirez. The Lindsay Lohan of baseball quit on the Tampa Bay Rays last year after testing positive for steroids - again. His attitude is poor, no T-E-A-M in M-A-N-N-Y. And he will need to serve a suspension of at least 50 games, if not 100.
Does baseball really need Manny's act again? C'mon, Billy. You are smarter than that. But maybe it's about filling seats in that football stadium of a field. Craziness sells.
Manny-land may be coming to the Bay area. MLB reports that the A's have interest in signing Manny Ramirez. The Lindsay Lohan of baseball quit on the Tampa Bay Rays last year after testing positive for steroids - again. His attitude is poor, no T-E-A-M in M-A-N-N-Y. And he will need to serve a suspension of at least 50 games, if not 100.
Does baseball really need Manny's act again? C'mon, Billy. You are smarter than that. But maybe it's about filling seats in that football stadium of a field. Craziness sells.
Carlos Pena Back
Old friend, former Red Sox & Boston native Carlos Pena is back in the AL East with his old team, the Tampa Bay Rays. Pena will be clubbing homers again in St. Pete as he signed a 1-year deal with the Rays for $8.5 million.
His pop for the long ball will add some much needed offense to the Rays who depend mightily on their starting rotation for wins. Over the last few years Pena's average has suffered in the low .220 - .230 range, but his HR production has been steady at 25-30 homers per year. Along with Evan Longoria & BJ Upton, he makes the Rays a better middle-of-the-order team.
Note to Red Sox pitchers - Pena has a knack of killing us at crucial times late in games. Let's pitch around him whenever you can.
His pop for the long ball will add some much needed offense to the Rays who depend mightily on their starting rotation for wins. Over the last few years Pena's average has suffered in the low .220 - .230 range, but his HR production has been steady at 25-30 homers per year. Along with Evan Longoria & BJ Upton, he makes the Rays a better middle-of-the-order team.
Note to Red Sox pitchers - Pena has a knack of killing us at crucial times late in games. Let's pitch around him whenever you can.
Friday, January 20, 2012
Lavarnway & Middlebrooks in Waiting
Theo use to say that his goal was to introduce one minor leaguer into the starting lineup every year to keep the team fresh. And we saw that happen over the years with Dustin Pedroia, Kevin Youkilis, Jon Papelbon, Daniel Bard, Jon Lester & Jacoby Ellsbury.
This year's editions to the big club may include top prospects Ryan Lavarnway & Will Middlebrooks. Lavarnway made his mark briefly last year with 2 homers in game 161 against the Orioles. Middlebrooks had his best offensive season in the minors & moved along to triple A. Both played winter ball - Lavarnway in Venezuela until he got a virus infection & Middlebrooks in Arizona until he got a minor hand injury. Both will be ready for Spring Training.
Not much talk these days about Jose Iglesius. He still needs to mature as a player, stay healthy & find out how to use his bat.
Don't be surprised to see Lavarnway & Middlebrooks as first call-ups should Salty, Youk or Adrian sustain an injury.
This year's editions to the big club may include top prospects Ryan Lavarnway & Will Middlebrooks. Lavarnway made his mark briefly last year with 2 homers in game 161 against the Orioles. Middlebrooks had his best offensive season in the minors & moved along to triple A. Both played winter ball - Lavarnway in Venezuela until he got a virus infection & Middlebrooks in Arizona until he got a minor hand injury. Both will be ready for Spring Training.
Not much talk these days about Jose Iglesius. He still needs to mature as a player, stay healthy & find out how to use his bat.
Don't be surprised to see Lavarnway & Middlebrooks as first call-ups should Salty, Youk or Adrian sustain an injury.
Yu Darvisk, Japanese Millionaire
It's deja vu all over again.
5 years ago it was a record offer for Dice-K made by the Boston Red Sox. $50 million posting fee plus 5 years at $8+ million a year.
The Texas Rangers took the plunge yesterday. $51 million posting fee plus 6 years at $10 million per year for Yu Darvish.
The Red Sox got about 1 1/2 years of decent pitching from Dice-K over his first 4 years. He was part of the World Series team in 2007, but those days are long gone. Dice may get another 1/2 season in this year after recovering from Tommy John surgery & then he is back on the free market. You give the Sox credit for trying this move, but they certainly saw the difference from Japan in culture, practice routines & the inability for Dice-K to consistently take the ball every 5th day.
The Rangers must think they have learned from the mistakes of the Red Sox with Dice-K. Darvish will need to go from 6 days to 4, pitch every 5th day not every 7th, deal with language & cultural differences, etc. It's another bold move - but one that now takes Texas out of the running for Prince Fielder. You hope Nolan Ryan & his crew get more than 2 good years out of this contract.
5 years ago it was a record offer for Dice-K made by the Boston Red Sox. $50 million posting fee plus 5 years at $8+ million a year.
The Texas Rangers took the plunge yesterday. $51 million posting fee plus 6 years at $10 million per year for Yu Darvish.
The Red Sox got about 1 1/2 years of decent pitching from Dice-K over his first 4 years. He was part of the World Series team in 2007, but those days are long gone. Dice may get another 1/2 season in this year after recovering from Tommy John surgery & then he is back on the free market. You give the Sox credit for trying this move, but they certainly saw the difference from Japan in culture, practice routines & the inability for Dice-K to consistently take the ball every 5th day.
The Rangers must think they have learned from the mistakes of the Red Sox with Dice-K. Darvish will need to go from 6 days to 4, pitch every 5th day not every 7th, deal with language & cultural differences, etc. It's another bold move - but one that now takes Texas out of the running for Prince Fielder. You hope Nolan Ryan & his crew get more than 2 good years out of this contract.
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Third & Short
ESPN Boston posted a good comment from Steve Young which made sense to me.
Young thinks that Tom Brady needs about a 70% completion rate for the Pats to win this game. His thought is that 70% means Brady is completing a lot of short passes & keeping the team in 3rd & short situations. 3rd & 10 situations or longer favor the Ravens defense.
I like that analysis.
Young thinks that Tom Brady needs about a 70% completion rate for the Pats to win this game. His thought is that 70% means Brady is completing a lot of short passes & keeping the team in 3rd & short situations. 3rd & 10 situations or longer favor the Ravens defense.
I like that analysis.
Ells Gets Big Payday
Not many guys can go home after work & tell their wife that they got an 800% raise at work. Jacoby Ellsbury could - if he was married.
Ells avoided arbitration this week with a pay increase from $1 million to $8 million. Not bad for a guy who was injured most of 2010 & then came back to be the MVP runner-up in 2011.
2011 was a special year for Jacoby. He may never duplicate those numbers again, but we'll take something close to it for 2012. Look for Ells to continue to shine as he heads towards free agency in 2013.
Ells avoided arbitration this week with a pay increase from $1 million to $8 million. Not bad for a guy who was injured most of 2010 & then came back to be the MVP runner-up in 2011.
2011 was a special year for Jacoby. He may never duplicate those numbers again, but we'll take something close to it for 2012. Look for Ells to continue to shine as he heads towards free agency in 2013.
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Franklin Morales Signs & Avoids Arbitration
Here's an interesting guy. You just wonder if he can put it together & be a back-end of the bullpen pitcher.
Franklin Morales, 25, signed a 1-year contract with the Sox per the team website. He throws a plus fastball, 94-96 range & has a good breaking ball to get lefties out. His problem has been control - too many walks. Relievers, especially back-end guys, can't be giving up free bases.
According to reports, Morales has been lights out in the winter league & he has shown much better control. Maybe he will be the find of the year like Aceves was last year.
Franklin Morales, 25, signed a 1-year contract with the Sox per the team website. He throws a plus fastball, 94-96 range & has a good breaking ball to get lefties out. His problem has been control - too many walks. Relievers, especially back-end guys, can't be giving up free bases.
According to reports, Morales has been lights out in the winter league & he has shown much better control. Maybe he will be the find of the year like Aceves was last year.
Crawford Has Left Wrist Surgery
No one saw this coming. Carl Crawford underwent left wrist surgery yesterday & will miss the start of the regular season.
According to MLB, Crawford started ramping up his off-season workouts when he noticed the problem - pain in his left wrist. In consultation with Cherington, Valentine & the medical staff all decided it would be best for Crawford & the Sox to have corrective surgery now & get his wrist healthy.
After a poor year in 2011 Crawford was looking to bounce back in 2012. He still may, but both he & we will need to wait a bit. Perhaps Crawford's injury will make Ben more interested in finding another outfielder from outside the organization.
According to MLB, Crawford started ramping up his off-season workouts when he noticed the problem - pain in his left wrist. In consultation with Cherington, Valentine & the medical staff all decided it would be best for Crawford & the Sox to have corrective surgery now & get his wrist healthy.
After a poor year in 2011 Crawford was looking to bounce back in 2012. He still may, but both he & we will need to wait a bit. Perhaps Crawford's injury will make Ben more interested in finding another outfielder from outside the organization.
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Sox Sign Another Arm
Vincente Padilla is the newest Red Sox to have a chance at the 5th rotation spot. Sox signed Padilla to a $1.5 million contract. The 34-year old veteran was severely limited last year due to a neck injury.
The Red Sox website says Padilla has been pitching in winter ball to let scouts know that he has recovered from his injury. If healthy, Padilla is a veteran of 4 different teams that can bring his experience of over 200 starts to the mound. He will compete against the likes of Silva, Cook, Aceves & others for the final rotation job.
Keep stockpiling the arms, Ben.
The Red Sox website says Padilla has been pitching in winter ball to let scouts know that he has recovered from his injury. If healthy, Padilla is a veteran of 4 different teams that can bring his experience of over 200 starts to the mound. He will compete against the likes of Silva, Cook, Aceves & others for the final rotation job.
Keep stockpiling the arms, Ben.
Monday, January 16, 2012
Sox Avoid Arbitration With Salty
The Red Sox website announced that the Sox & catcher Jarrod Saltalamachia agreed to a 1-year contract, thus avoiding salary arbitration. Salty made $750,000 last year. You would think that he got a raise, but no terms were disclosed. A 1-year deal may mean that Ryan Lavarnway is not too far away from being the everyday catcher.
Other notables still eligible for arbitration are David Ortiz, Jacoby Ellsbury & Daniel Bard. Again, you would think that all three will get a raise. The question is whether or not the Sox find an agreeable number with each player before they reach arbitration.
The Sox have never went arbitration with a player while Theo was GM. Their streak may end this time around.
Other notables still eligible for arbitration are David Ortiz, Jacoby Ellsbury & Daniel Bard. Again, you would think that all three will get a raise. The question is whether or not the Sox find an agreeable number with each player before they reach arbitration.
The Sox have never went arbitration with a player while Theo was GM. Their streak may end this time around.
It's Pats & Raven, 49ers & Giants
Then there were just 4.
Both Drew Brees & the Saints & Aaron Rogers & the Packers will be fans like us next weekend. Poor ball control led to miscues & turnovers that neither team was able to overcome. It just shows that anything can happen in the playoffs. I know from experience that the hard part of losing in the playoffs is living with the stigma that you did not play your best when it counted the most.
As you look at the 4 survivers this weekend, perhaps the Giants have the most balanced team on offense & defense. The Patriots have improved on the D side of the ball with the return of players like Patrick Cheung & Brandon Spikes. Both the 49ers & Ravens sport talented defenses, although the 49ers were able to score 30+ points over the Saints. Any of these 4 teams can win the Super Bowl. It just comes down to turnovers. Whoever plays a clean game & protects the ball usually comes out on top.
I'll take the Patriots over the Ravens & the 49ers over the Giants.
Both Drew Brees & the Saints & Aaron Rogers & the Packers will be fans like us next weekend. Poor ball control led to miscues & turnovers that neither team was able to overcome. It just shows that anything can happen in the playoffs. I know from experience that the hard part of losing in the playoffs is living with the stigma that you did not play your best when it counted the most.
As you look at the 4 survivers this weekend, perhaps the Giants have the most balanced team on offense & defense. The Patriots have improved on the D side of the ball with the return of players like Patrick Cheung & Brandon Spikes. Both the 49ers & Ravens sport talented defenses, although the 49ers were able to score 30+ points over the Saints. Any of these 4 teams can win the Super Bowl. It just comes down to turnovers. Whoever plays a clean game & protects the ball usually comes out on top.
I'll take the Patriots over the Ravens & the 49ers over the Giants.
Sunday, January 15, 2012
Pats Kick Broncos, 49ers Shock Saints
Tom Brady & the New England Patriots put up 28 first half points to punch their ticket to the AFC Championship Game with a 45-10 win at home over the Denver Broncos. The Broncos never got into a rhythm on offense. This game was all but over at halftime. Gronk had a monster game, as did Aaron Hernandez. And the defense looked very good in containing Tim Tebow. Having Cheung & Spikes back certainly makes a difference.
The San Francisco 49ers shock Drew Brees & the Saints 36-32 with a winning TD drive with 9 seconds left in regulation. From the 49ers standpoint they could not have played a better game. 5 turnovers by the Saints led to their downfall.
More fun today with 2 more playoff games. Not seeing a Manning any further in the playoffs would be great. No Mannings. No Ryans.
The San Francisco 49ers shock Drew Brees & the Saints 36-32 with a winning TD drive with 9 seconds left in regulation. From the 49ers standpoint they could not have played a better game. 5 turnovers by the Saints led to their downfall.
More fun today with 2 more playoff games. Not seeing a Manning any further in the playoffs would be great. No Mannings. No Ryans.
Saturday, January 14, 2012
Yankees Get Pitching Help
MLB reports that the New York Yankees get some much needed pitching help via a trade with Seattle & a free agent acquisition.
The Yankees trade away their prize catching prospect in Jesus Montero in order to get 6'7" Michael Pineda for the Mariners. Pineda had a good first half, but struggled in the second half of 2010. Montero was thought to be untouchable & the heir to catcher Jorge Posada who retired earlier this year.
The Yankees also come to terms with the Dodgers Hiroki Kuroda for the price of $10 - $11 million for one year. Just when you thought that the New York checkbook could be opened the Yankees take a chance on a NL pitcher who eats innings. The AL East will be different than the NL West, so Kuroda becomes a big gamble in pinstripes.
This just shows you how strapped the Yankees are for pitching to trade away their version of Jose Iglesius or Ryan Lavarnway to get a young arn. It doesn't speak well for their minor league system. And there goes another $10 million over the luxury tax.
Like all moves, time will tell if they work out.
The Yankees trade away their prize catching prospect in Jesus Montero in order to get 6'7" Michael Pineda for the Mariners. Pineda had a good first half, but struggled in the second half of 2010. Montero was thought to be untouchable & the heir to catcher Jorge Posada who retired earlier this year.
The Yankees also come to terms with the Dodgers Hiroki Kuroda for the price of $10 - $11 million for one year. Just when you thought that the New York checkbook could be opened the Yankees take a chance on a NL pitcher who eats innings. The AL East will be different than the NL West, so Kuroda becomes a big gamble in pinstripes.
This just shows you how strapped the Yankees are for pitching to trade away their version of Jose Iglesius or Ryan Lavarnway to get a young arn. It doesn't speak well for their minor league system. And there goes another $10 million over the luxury tax.
Like all moves, time will tell if they work out.
Friday, January 13, 2012
How About Cody Ross??
Of all the free agent outfielders still available I like Cody Ross as a possible fit in RF at Fenway. He had a great offensive playoff run when the Giants won the World Series. And he is a good fielder with a good arm. Most of all, he is a steady right-handed bat to balance the lineup.
Darnell McDonald is shaky at the plate & in the field. His offensive numbers really came tumbling back to earth last year.
Mike Aviles is a career infield utility guy trying to learn to play the outfield. I know the Sox like his bat (personally, I'm not that impressed with his offense), but Fenway is a tough right field even for a seasoned outfielder. He would be scary out there.
Ryan Sweeney is the best option right now, but he brings another left-handed bat to the lineup. I guess we lived with J.D. Drew last year, so maybe Sweeney gets the nod at this point.
Same deal with Ryan Kalish. Once he gets back from his injuries he is another Ryan Sweeney.
Ross may be out of Cherington's price range, but maybe they can work out an incentivized contract to make it worth his while.
Other than Ross, I would take my chances with Sweeney, McDonald, Aviles & Kalish.
Darnell McDonald is shaky at the plate & in the field. His offensive numbers really came tumbling back to earth last year.
Mike Aviles is a career infield utility guy trying to learn to play the outfield. I know the Sox like his bat (personally, I'm not that impressed with his offense), but Fenway is a tough right field even for a seasoned outfielder. He would be scary out there.
Ryan Sweeney is the best option right now, but he brings another left-handed bat to the lineup. I guess we lived with J.D. Drew last year, so maybe Sweeney gets the nod at this point.
Same deal with Ryan Kalish. Once he gets back from his injuries he is another Ryan Sweeney.
Ross may be out of Cherington's price range, but maybe they can work out an incentivized contract to make it worth his while.
Other than Ross, I would take my chances with Sweeney, McDonald, Aviles & Kalish.
Round 2 of Pats Versus Broncos
Can the Pats break a 2-year drought & win a playoff game? Can the Pats D stop Tim Tebow & force turnovers?
We'll have the answer late Saturday night as Gillette will be rocking. Pat fans will be hoping for 2 playoff home wins to propel New England into another Super Bowl.
My predictions are pretty conservative. I'm taking the favorites.
Patriots over Broncos
Ravens over Texans
Packers over Giants
Saints over 49ers
If the sun, moon & stars align, I see the Pats beat the Ravens, then the Pats beat the Saints in the Super Bowl.
Go Patriots!!
We'll have the answer late Saturday night as Gillette will be rocking. Pat fans will be hoping for 2 playoff home wins to propel New England into another Super Bowl.
My predictions are pretty conservative. I'm taking the favorites.
Patriots over Broncos
Ravens over Texans
Packers over Giants
Saints over 49ers
If the sun, moon & stars align, I see the Pats beat the Ravens, then the Pats beat the Saints in the Super Bowl.
Go Patriots!!
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
Madsen to Reds for 1 Year
My, my, my... How the mighty have fallen...
Superagent Scot Boras made a super mistake. He convinced Ryan Madsen that big deals were out there, but his mouth couldn't back it up. In the end Madsen signs a 1-year deal for $8.5 million with the Cincinnati Reds.
Madsen doesn't get the 4-year, $12.5 million per year deal that Jon Papelbon got from his old team, the Phillies. He doesn't get multiple years which leaves him vulnerable should injury occur. And he doesn't get the asking price of $10 million or more per year that Boras said was out there.
Message to Ryan Madsen - get a new agent when you're looking for a new contract in 2013.
Superagent Scot Boras made a super mistake. He convinced Ryan Madsen that big deals were out there, but his mouth couldn't back it up. In the end Madsen signs a 1-year deal for $8.5 million with the Cincinnati Reds.
Madsen doesn't get the 4-year, $12.5 million per year deal that Jon Papelbon got from his old team, the Phillies. He doesn't get multiple years which leaves him vulnerable should injury occur. And he doesn't get the asking price of $10 million or more per year that Boras said was out there.
Message to Ryan Madsen - get a new agent when you're looking for a new contract in 2013.
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Top Pitchers Still Available
According to Sports Illustrated, here's the top pitchers who remain available as free agents & my thoughts on each one.
Hiroki Kuroda - Good innings eater, but probably too expensive for Cherington.
Edwin Jackson - 5 different teams in 3 years says that maybe he's not a good clubhouse guy.
Roy Oswalt - Too expensive & possibly still injured, even for a 1-year deal.
Javier Vazquez - I agree with SI that he needs to stay in the National League.
Joe Saunders - A lefty to compliment Lester would be nice, but he has not been very effective - even in the NL.
Ryan Madsen - Boras may have left him out to dry by asking too much money & too many years. Even for less money & years, I don't see the Sox as a fit for Madsen with Bailey & Melancon signed.
Dan Wheeler - Sox did not offer arbitration, but Wheeler came on strong in the 2nd half. The Sox may still negotiate a lesser salary & try to bring him back. I think Wheeler still has a lot to offer.
Darren Oliver - He may be as old as Wakefield. I'd rather see a younger Doubront or Miller take a spot in the pen.
I'm sure Cherington will still be working trades in addition to free agent acquisitions. You can bet that there will be more additional arms on the roster before Spring Training starts.
Of all the guys named above, Wheeler is the only one that interests me - if they can bring him back at a reasonable price.
Hiroki Kuroda - Good innings eater, but probably too expensive for Cherington.
Edwin Jackson - 5 different teams in 3 years says that maybe he's not a good clubhouse guy.
Roy Oswalt - Too expensive & possibly still injured, even for a 1-year deal.
Javier Vazquez - I agree with SI that he needs to stay in the National League.
Joe Saunders - A lefty to compliment Lester would be nice, but he has not been very effective - even in the NL.
Ryan Madsen - Boras may have left him out to dry by asking too much money & too many years. Even for less money & years, I don't see the Sox as a fit for Madsen with Bailey & Melancon signed.
Dan Wheeler - Sox did not offer arbitration, but Wheeler came on strong in the 2nd half. The Sox may still negotiate a lesser salary & try to bring him back. I think Wheeler still has a lot to offer.
Darren Oliver - He may be as old as Wakefield. I'd rather see a younger Doubront or Miller take a spot in the pen.
I'm sure Cherington will still be working trades in addition to free agent acquisitions. You can bet that there will be more additional arms on the roster before Spring Training starts.
Of all the guys named above, Wheeler is the only one that interests me - if they can bring him back at a reasonable price.
Has Tebow Done Enough This Year?
Let's suppose Tim Tebow & the Broncos get destroyed by the Patriots 45-0 on Saturday night. Has Tim done enough with 1 playoff win to return as Denver's starting quarterback next year?
I would say there is no doubt that he returns if the Broncos pull another upset, beat the Pats & reach the AFC Championship game. I also think that he may have already shown enough to his coaches to return as their starter in the event of a loss.
It's not pretty at times. He can be controversial with the exuberance of his religious beliefs. But in pro sports it's all about wins. And Tebow has won enough games to get his team into the playoffs. Further, he beat the Pittsburgh Steelers in a playoff game with better-than-average passing skills resulting in several long plays. And he performs best when it counts the most.
Win or lose on Saturday, I think Tebow is Denver's QB next year.
I would say there is no doubt that he returns if the Broncos pull another upset, beat the Pats & reach the AFC Championship game. I also think that he may have already shown enough to his coaches to return as their starter in the event of a loss.
It's not pretty at times. He can be controversial with the exuberance of his religious beliefs. But in pro sports it's all about wins. And Tebow has won enough games to get his team into the playoffs. Further, he beat the Pittsburgh Steelers in a playoff game with better-than-average passing skills resulting in several long plays. And he performs best when it counts the most.
Win or lose on Saturday, I think Tebow is Denver's QB next year.
Monday, January 9, 2012
Anthony Rizzo Back With Theo
What a nice swing this kid has! That's the 1st thing that comes to my mind when I think about Anthony Rizzo. Rizzo was part of the 3 prospect deal with the Padres that netted the Sox Adrian Gonzalez last year.
Rizzo got rushed to the bigs by the Padres in 2011 & he didn't perform well. Theo is a believer in Rizzo, as is Jed Hoyer who was with the Padres, & they are glad to have him back in Cubbie-land. Carlos Pena will not be re-signed & 1B is a position you could see Rizzo in later in 2012.
I'm no scout, but I think this kid will be around for awhile.
Rizzo got rushed to the bigs by the Padres in 2011 & he didn't perform well. Theo is a believer in Rizzo, as is Jed Hoyer who was with the Padres, & they are glad to have him back in Cubbie-land. Carlos Pena will not be re-signed & 1B is a position you could see Rizzo in later in 2012.
I'm no scout, but I think this kid will be around for awhile.
Sox Continue to Stockpile Arms
There are guys that just hang around the big leagues for years because they had success at some point & a team is willing to see if the player can find that magic again.
Good example - Alfredo Aceves. Put on the scrap heep by the Yankees because of multiple injuries he re-surfaces with the Sox last year at low cost & plays a significant role in the bullpen. Aceves is now in line to be a starter or back-end bullpen guy in 2012.
The Sox hope to find a similar storyline with Carlos Silva &/or Aaron Cook. The former Cubs & Rockies starters are coming off injuries that limited their success over the past few years. Maybe one or both will play a role in the Sox success this year. Maybe neither will work out. But Cherington is stockpiling arms to give the organization a chance to find another Aceves.
As we have seen with the Lackey & Crawford signings to date, the size of the contract does not equate to future success. There is safety in numbers & I expect the Sox to look for more reclamation projects like Cook & Silva.
Good example - Alfredo Aceves. Put on the scrap heep by the Yankees because of multiple injuries he re-surfaces with the Sox last year at low cost & plays a significant role in the bullpen. Aceves is now in line to be a starter or back-end bullpen guy in 2012.
The Sox hope to find a similar storyline with Carlos Silva &/or Aaron Cook. The former Cubs & Rockies starters are coming off injuries that limited their success over the past few years. Maybe one or both will play a role in the Sox success this year. Maybe neither will work out. But Cherington is stockpiling arms to give the organization a chance to find another Aceves.
As we have seen with the Lackey & Crawford signings to date, the size of the contract does not equate to future success. There is safety in numbers & I expect the Sox to look for more reclamation projects like Cook & Silva.
Tebow Time Once Again
Tim Tebow & the Denver Broncos pulled off the upset of Wild Card Weekend by beating the Steel Curtain in OT 29-23. Denver utilized multiple long pass plays to bring down the season on ailing Big Ben & Co.
Now the Broncos take the momentum of their playoff win into Foxborough to play the Pats who beat the Broncos soundly in Denver a few weeks ago. The Patriots used several miscues by Tebow & Co. to win in comeback fashion at Mile High. However, like the Steelers game, if the Broncos do not turn the ball over, it will be a much closer game than analysts are predicting.
From the Patriots standpoint you have to like their matchup with Denver better than playing against Pittsburgh. But Bill better have his players ready to play an errorless game as well.
Should be a fun week of Tebow talk again.
Now the Broncos take the momentum of their playoff win into Foxborough to play the Pats who beat the Broncos soundly in Denver a few weeks ago. The Patriots used several miscues by Tebow & Co. to win in comeback fashion at Mile High. However, like the Steelers game, if the Broncos do not turn the ball over, it will be a much closer game than analysts are predicting.
From the Patriots standpoint you have to like their matchup with Denver better than playing against Pittsburgh. But Bill better have his players ready to play an errorless game as well.
Should be a fun week of Tebow talk again.
Friday, January 6, 2012
Jenks Has 2nd Procedure
Bobby Jenks will be delayed this year. He had a 2nd procedure on his back which requires about 8 weeks of recovery, pushing him past the start of Spring Training.
Jenks was a no-show in 2011 & starts 2012 behind the 8-ball. For $20 million the Sox have not gotten much return thus far. We can only hope Jenks is available in May or June & can be effective once healthy.
Jenks was a no-show in 2011 & starts 2012 behind the 8-ball. For $20 million the Sox have not gotten much return thus far. We can only hope Jenks is available in May or June & can be effective once healthy.
Zambrano to Marlins
Theo didn't wait too long to get rid of Cubs bad boy Carlos Zambrano. Zambrano goes to the Marlins for Volstad & the Cubs eat a ton of money in the process. I guess Theo had enough practice in Boston with Manny & didn't want a cancer like Zambrano to return to the Cubs dugout.
Sometimes you get what you ask for. Zambrano requested a trade last year & now gets to interact with Ozzie Guillen on a daily basis. We may seem some sparks from the Miami dugout with those two personalities.
The Marlins will certainly be a different team this year. I'm sure Cub fans are relieved also.
Sometimes you get what you ask for. Zambrano requested a trade last year & now gets to interact with Ozzie Guillen on a daily basis. We may seem some sparks from the Miami dugout with those two personalities.
The Marlins will certainly be a different team this year. I'm sure Cub fans are relieved also.
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
A Healthy Youk & Buck This Year
Kevin Youkilis & Clay Buchholz are hoping for better health as their New Years resolution for 2012. Both guys can contribute mightily to the Sox success this year by staying on the field.
Youk is injury-free & working hard in California to get ready for the grind of the upcoming season. He has missed valuable time in each of the last 2 seasons. His name came up in trade talks with Oakland over Gio Gonzalez. However, the Sox never parted with the MVP candidate & I think it's a good thing that they didn't. I look for Youk to have a comeback year like Ells did in 2011.
Clay Buchholz is also throwing freely & pain-free in his back. Last year Buck was shutdown shortly after the all-star break & never made it back to the hill. He was arguably the #1 pitcher in 2010 & he is hoping for a return to throwing every 5 days to make his 30+ starts in 2012. Like Youk, I think Buck is headed towards a great comeback year with 15 or more wins.
Having both of these guys back is huge.
Youk is injury-free & working hard in California to get ready for the grind of the upcoming season. He has missed valuable time in each of the last 2 seasons. His name came up in trade talks with Oakland over Gio Gonzalez. However, the Sox never parted with the MVP candidate & I think it's a good thing that they didn't. I look for Youk to have a comeback year like Ells did in 2011.
Clay Buchholz is also throwing freely & pain-free in his back. Last year Buck was shutdown shortly after the all-star break & never made it back to the hill. He was arguably the #1 pitcher in 2010 & he is hoping for a return to throwing every 5 days to make his 30+ starts in 2012. Like Youk, I think Buck is headed towards a great comeback year with 15 or more wins.
Having both of these guys back is huge.
Monday, January 2, 2012
No More Ryans
It was great last year when the Heat lost in the NBA Finals to the Dallas Mavericks. We didn't have to see or hear LeBron James anymore.
Now that the J-E-T-S & the Cowboys are both out of the playoffs we don't have to see or hear the Ryan boys anymore. Rex's prediction about his team winning the Super Bowl never materialized. And Jerry Jones' Cowboys threw away too many games in the 4th quarter to make the playoffs. Both teams finish 8-8. Both teams have quarterback issues in Sanchez & Romo. Both teams have Ryan boys not playing in January.
Life is good.
Now that the J-E-T-S & the Cowboys are both out of the playoffs we don't have to see or hear the Ryan boys anymore. Rex's prediction about his team winning the Super Bowl never materialized. And Jerry Jones' Cowboys threw away too many games in the 4th quarter to make the playoffs. Both teams finish 8-8. Both teams have quarterback issues in Sanchez & Romo. Both teams have Ryan boys not playing in January.
Life is good.
Pats Overcome Deficit, Then Destroy Bills
21-0 after 15 minutes. No problem.
The slow-starting Pats did it again on Sunday, falling behind to the Buffalo Bills 21-0 in the 1st quarter. The Bills ran & passed up & down the field at will.
Over the next 3 quarters the Pats scored 49 unanswered points in an offensive explosion that saw Tom Brady surpass 5,000 passing yards for the 1st time in his career. The contributors on offense were many, but it tight end combo of Gronk & Hernandez did most of the damage. Welker, Green-Ellis & Ridley had good games. Even Ocho threw a block at one point to help the offense waltz into the playoffs as the #1 seed.
The Pats get a week off before playing in Gillette a week from Saturday. The opponent could be Pittsburgh, Denver or Cincinnati. The Pats need to shake off 2 playoff losses in a row during the past 2 years.
Regardless of whether you think Belichick & Co. drafted poorly to be stuck with a subpar secondary, having this team at 13-3 & the #1 seed is quite a fete. Congrats to the Pats on a regular season that no one could have anticipated with all the questions on defense.
The slow-starting Pats did it again on Sunday, falling behind to the Buffalo Bills 21-0 in the 1st quarter. The Bills ran & passed up & down the field at will.
Over the next 3 quarters the Pats scored 49 unanswered points in an offensive explosion that saw Tom Brady surpass 5,000 passing yards for the 1st time in his career. The contributors on offense were many, but it tight end combo of Gronk & Hernandez did most of the damage. Welker, Green-Ellis & Ridley had good games. Even Ocho threw a block at one point to help the offense waltz into the playoffs as the #1 seed.
The Pats get a week off before playing in Gillette a week from Saturday. The opponent could be Pittsburgh, Denver or Cincinnati. The Pats need to shake off 2 playoff losses in a row during the past 2 years.
Regardless of whether you think Belichick & Co. drafted poorly to be stuck with a subpar secondary, having this team at 13-3 & the #1 seed is quite a fete. Congrats to the Pats on a regular season that no one could have anticipated with all the questions on defense.
Sunday, January 1, 2012
X + Y = NFL Playoffs
You need a math degree to figure out some of the happenings that need to occur for certain teams to make the NFL playoffs. By the end of the day, however, we will know which potential team the Patriots will play in 2 weeks.
The Pats are gunning for the #1 seed in the AFC with a win over the Bills at Gillette today. If the Pats can jump out to a comfortable lead, look for Belichick to pull his starters nursing injuries like tom Brady.
Like every week, however, we never know which defense will turn up. The Bills are coming off a big win against Denver & they would like nothing more than a 2nd win this season over the Pats.
Enjoy a fun afternoon of football on day 1 of 2012. Happy New Years!
The Pats are gunning for the #1 seed in the AFC with a win over the Bills at Gillette today. If the Pats can jump out to a comfortable lead, look for Belichick to pull his starters nursing injuries like tom Brady.
Like every week, however, we never know which defense will turn up. The Bills are coming off a big win against Denver & they would like nothing more than a 2nd win this season over the Pats.
Enjoy a fun afternoon of football on day 1 of 2012. Happy New Years!
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