Carlos Zambrano is convinced he’ll remain a Cub next year.
DALLAS — Carlos Zambrano has told friends that after meeting with Cubs President Theo Epstein a few weeks ago in Chicago, he’s convinced he will be able to remain a Cub in 2012.
“All the things he wanted to see gone are now gone,” said one friend, referring to former general manager Jim Hendry and pitching coach Mark Riggins. “He likes Theo and is looking forward to proving himself next year.”
Whether that can happen remains to be seen. Zambrano still has to convince Epstein he’s serious about making amends to his teammates for walking out on them during a game in Atlanta on Aug. 12, leading to his suspension. While Hendry and Riggins may be gone, many in the front office remain, and they’re familiar with previous apologies from Zambrano for past transgressions.
In that same article Theo talks about how Carlos Pena could still come back to the Cubs next year.
“I thought he did a really good job as a Cub, and from everyone I talked to, he lived up to the reputation he established in the American League East as a fine all-around player,” Epstein said. “I think he’s put himself in a position to have multiyear suitors. By offering arbitration we didn’t in any way close the door on Carlos, but we are exploring all our options at first base. My expectation is he’ll decline arbitration. but we’ll continue to have a dialogue, and he’d be an asset to the Cubs or any team.”
A lot of Cubs fans really disliked Carlos Pena. Most of that was because they thought the strikeouts were more damaging than they really were. The fans obviously want Zambrano gone. If Thoyer brings back these two, a large number of fans are going to be disappointed with the new front office.
The Cubs have talked with the agent for CJ Wilson. They’re also interested in bringing Rodrigo Lopez back. More updates to come.
——————————————
UPDATE 1: Heyman tweets that the Cubs are looking more at Prince Fielder than Albert Pujols. They won’t do 9 or 10 years for Pujols.
UPDATE 2: The Cubs did submit an offer to Pujols. It was a qualifying bid, which is to say that it wasn’t to drive up the cost. Word yesterday was they’d offer a shorter contract, but with a higher AAV than he’s been offered so far. jtsunami mentioned here he’d heard of a 5 or 6 year offer between $29 and $32 million per year.
The Chicago Cubs also engaged Lozano in talks about Pujols Monday and are believed to have made a qualifying bid. Lozano declined Monday night to address any team’s status in negotiations.
Cubs president Theo Epstein attempted to deflect speculation about his team’s interest in Pujols by noting that Lozano also represents free agent pitcher Rodrigo Lopez, another Cubs target. However, the Post-Dispatch confirmed early this morning that the Cubs submitted a bid for their rival’s longtime offensive centerpiece.
UPDATE 3: The Chicago Tribune is once again being beat by other journalists. The incompetence of the Cubs sportswriters is remarkable.
UPDATE 4: Carrie Musat is a funsucker.
The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported Tuesday that the Cubs have made a qualifying bid for free agent slugger Albert Pujols. However, that seems unlikely because Pujols, who wants a long-term, mega dollar deal, doesn’t fit into what Theo Epstein has said he wants to do in Chicago. Epstein did meet with Pujols’ agent Dan Lozano on Monday but those discussions were more about pitcher Rodrigo Lopez. The Post-Dispatch says it confirmed the Cubs did submit a bid for Pujols. A Cubs official Tuesday denied the reports.
UPDATE 5: The Rockies asked about DJ LeMahieu and Scott Maine in the Ian Stewart talks.
UPDATE 6: The Cubs back away from Ian Stewart for now.
UPDATE 7: The Cubs aren’t in any kind of process with Fielder according to Dale Sveum.
UPDATE 8: The Cubs haven’t talked about bidding on Yu Darvish according to Sveum.
Comments
My read on the Pena comments is that he isn’t coming back.
Someone mentioned yesterday that they overanalyze Theo’s comments. I underanalyze them. He has said flat out that he doesn’t discuss moves publicly and he even has asked agents to keep quiet this year. Hendry was actually the same. He never answered stuff that would reveal his hand. We could anticipate his moves a little bit because we got to know him over the years, but he actually said next to nothing about FA targets or off-season strategies except for the most general statement (i.e. we need a left handed bat –but we’ll get it through FA or trade).
Theo went back to his pat answers with a lot of questions this week. He hasn’t said anything of substance. I don’t believe he is going to say anything anytime soon about how much money they plan on spending this winter.
Suburban kidQuote Reply
Trolling level 100: http://www.baseballthinkfactory.org/files/newsstand/discussion/joyce_baseball_hall_of_fame_getting_too_crowded/#When:10:55:54Z
Wow.
MishQuote Reply
John Koronka —–> area scout for the Cubs. I don’t know why they’re throwing away young talent like this.
BerseliusQuote Reply
[quote name=Mish]Trolling level 100: http://www.baseballthinkfactory.org/files/newsstand/discussion/joyce_baseball_hall_of_fame_getting_too_crowded/#When:10:55:54Z
Wow.[/quote]
That was weird.
Was MO arguing with an Alan Solomon guy at sole point? I forgot what the argument was, but he’s now in a lengthy discussion with one of my Facebook friends about Ron Santo. Guess which one still doesn’t think Santo deserves induction.
Rice CubeQuote Reply
[quote name=Rice Cube]That was weird.
Was MO arguing with an Alan Solomon guy at sole point? I forgot what the argument was, but he’s now in a lengthy discussion with one of my Facebook friends about Ron Santo. Guess which one still doesn’t think Santo deserves induction.[/quote]Link
Suburban kidQuote Reply
Of course there’s a site called Closer News.
Suburban kidQuote Reply
[quote name=Suburban kid]Link[/quote]I will try to post when I get to a desktop. Not sure if his profile is publicly viewable.
Rice CubeQuote Reply
What’s with the new footer advertisement on the mobile site? Now I want Rice Krispie treats.
Rice CubeQuote Reply
That was me. I agree that Hendry didn’t just openly say who he was courting or targeting…that would have been against the rules. The majority of examples was around the players on the current roster he was looking to trade. All too often he would just completely deflate a players value. Zambrano is the most recent example. I think where Theo is different is that he keeps a positive narrative around each player without hinting he wants them gone.
JManQuote Reply
[quote name=Rice Cube]What’s with the new footer advertisement on the mobile site? Now I want Rice Krispie treats.[/quote]It’s on the non-mobile version too.
mb21Quote Reply
My guess is that Pena isn’t coming back, too. However, Theo was quite clear in that he said he’d be an asset to the Cubs (or any other team). If Pena doesn’t get the type of offer that Theo is expecting then I do think he’ll be back.
mb21Quote Reply
Where exactly are the meetings?
Dr. Aneus TaintQuote Reply
nice addition by fangraphs: http://www.fangraphs.com/pitchfxo.aspx?playerid=305&position=P&pitch=FA
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=Dr. Aneus Taint]Where exactly are the meetings?[/quote]You’re hometown, bitch.
mb21Quote Reply
UPDATE 1: Heyman tweets that the Cubs are looking more at Prince Fielder than Albert Pujols. They won’t do 9 or 10 years for Pujols.
mb21Quote Reply
Ryno is hometown?
GBTSQuote Reply
Are there any numbers on that rumored 10 year Marlins deal? That’s massive if true.
GBTSQuote Reply
http://www.bleachernation.com/2011/12/06/report-chicago-cubs-have-made-an-offer-to-albert-pujols/
Not that it means anything. Appears to be the 5 year/ high AAV variety
work sucksQuote Reply
[quote name=GBTS]Ryno is hometown?[/quote]
Suburban kidQuote Reply
[quote name=work sucks]http://www.bleachernation.com/2011/12/06/report-chicago-cubs-have-made-an-offer-to-albert-pujols/
Not that it means anything. Appears to be the 5 year/ high AAV variety[/quote]I’m disappointed there isn’t a slide for each year of the proposed contract.
GBTSQuote Reply
See if this works…
http://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=10150425742433457&id=550828456&fb_source=message
If it’s private I can quote the relevant comments. I’m not really sure how one can be anti-Santo after considering all the information.
Rice CubeQuote Reply
He sort of has a point that the committee was rigged, but it’s more of a travesty that the committee had to be rigged to get Santo in as he deserved.
Rice CubeQuote Reply
(dying laughing) I thought you meant MO was arguing with your FB friend. Didn’t realize Solomon was back (Robin Ventura > Frank Thomas shtick in tow).
Suburban kidQuote Reply
Cubs made a Pujols offer:
http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/baseball/cubs/chi-report-cubs-submit-bid-for-pujols-20111206,0,22774.story
WenningtonsGorillaCockQuote Reply
[quote name=Suburban kid](dying laughing) I thought you meant MO was arguing with your FB friend. Didn’t realize Solomon was back (Robin Ventura > Frank Thomas shtick in tow).[/quote]The other guy on that thread just said Billy Williams doesn’t deserve HOF because he only hit .270…
Where’s GBTS’ Fozzie Bear gif?
Rice CubeQuote Reply
[quote name=WenningtonsGorillaCock]Alvin made a Pujols offer in the men’s room:
[/quote]
/really stretched meme
Rice CubeQuote Reply
[quote name=mb21]You’re hometown, bitch.[/quote]
That’s why I asked for specifics, you illiterate faget!
Dr. Aneus TaintQuote Reply
Once again:
Writers from any other medium (or guys in purple shirts): 1
Chicago beat writers: 0
Suburban kidQuote Reply
Nevermind! I just googled it. Fuck…
I can be at the Hilton Anatole in about 10 minutes. Anyone have any requests?
Dr. Aneus TaintQuote Reply
[quote name=Dr. Aneus Taint]Nevermind! I just googled it. Fuck…
I can be at the Hilton Anatole in about 10 minutes. Anyone have any requests?[/quote]Ask the Marlins how much money they offered Pujols.
Rice CubeQuote Reply
[quote name=WenningtonsGorillaCock]Cubs made a Pujols offer:
http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/baseball/cubs/chi-report-cubs-submit-bid-for-pujols-20111206,0,22774.story%5B/quote%5DI can’t stop laughing at how the Tribune doesn’t even do their job. They just let others do it and then quote them. The Chicago Tribune is a fucking blog. (dying laughing)
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=Dr. Aneus Taint]Nevermind! I just googled it. Fuck…
I can be at the Hilton Anatole in about 10 minutes. Anyone have any requests?[/quote]Ask Albert Pujols which team he’ll be playing for in 2012 and don’t leave until you get an answer.
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=mb21]I can’t stop laughing at how the Tribune doesn’t even do their job. They just let others do it and then quote them. The Chicago Tribune is a fucking blog. (dying laughing)[/quote]
Tribune: “We noticed you were talking to Pujols’ agent.”
Theo: “Yes, but he’s also Rodrigo Lopez’s agent.”
Tribune: “That’s funny. We’ll go away now and print that b/c it’s so funny,”
St. Louis Post-Dispatch: “We noticed you were talking to Pujols’ agent.”
Theo: “Yes, but he’s also Rodrigo Lopez’s agent.”
St. Louis Post-Dispatch: “That’s funny. We’re real reporters though, so we’ll ask a followup question. Did you make an offer on Pujols?”
Theo: “Wow. Wasn’t prepared for that. Yes. Yes we did.”
WenningtonsGorillaCockQuote Reply
Updated the post with Carrie Muskat being a funsucker
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=mb21]UPDATE 1: Heyman tweets that the Cubs are looking more at Prince Fielder than Albert Pujols. They won’t do 9 or 10 years for Pujols.[/quote]I’m fine with it if the offer is 5/150. i’d rather pay 30M a year for only 5 years rather than 20 over 8. History just isn’t kind to players of his size.
JManQuote Reply
[quote name=mb21]Updated the post with Carrie Muskat being a funsucker[/quote]
Anything out of Cubs camp is simply not believable right now.
[quote name=WenningtonsGorillaCock]Tribune: “We noticed you were talking to Pujols’ agent.”
Theo: “Yes, but he’s also Rodrigo Lopez’s agent.”
Tribune: “That’s funny. We’ll go away now and print that b/c it’s so funny,”
St. Louis Post-Dispatch: “We noticed you were talking to Pujols’ agent.”
Theo: “Yes, but he’s also Rodrigo Lopez’s agent.”
St. Louis Post-Dispatch: “That’s funny. We’re real reporters though, so we’ll ask a followup question. Did you make an offer on Pujols?”
Theo: “Wow. Wasn’t prepared for that. Yes. Yes we did.”[/quote]
(dying laughing)
Smokestack LightningQuote Reply
Kevin Slowey —————-> Rox
http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2011/12/rockies-to-acquire-kevin-slowey.html
Smokestack LightningQuote Reply
[quote name=Rice Cube]Ask the Marlins how much money they offered Pujols.[/quote]The real question is whether he’s going to identify himself as a discredited blogger, or instead knock out a waiter with a surprise karate chop, drag him to a janitor’s closet, and change clothes with him, so he can eavesdrop on all the GMs during their meetings.
Suburban kidQuote Reply
[quote name=mb21]You’re hometown, bitch.[/quote]I don’t know why they’re holding the meetings in such a small market location.
BerseliusQuote Reply
[quote name=Rice Cube]Ask the Marlins how much money they offered Pujols.[/quote]
I’m not driving 10 minutes to ask him that. Don’t you want to know how old he really is?
Dr. Aneus TaintQuote Reply
[quote name=mb21]Ask Albert Pujols which team he’ll be playing for in 2012 and don’t leave until you get an answer.[/quote]
Give me 10 minutes.
Dr. Aneus TaintQuote Reply
[quote name=Smokestack Lightning]Kevin Slowey —————-> Rox
http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2011/12/rockies-to-acquire-kevin-slowey.html%5B/quote%5DHis extreme flyball tendencies should play great in Coors.
ACTQuote Reply
Kevin Slowey proves year after year that having a great K/BB ratio doesn’t make you a good pitcher.
ACTQuote Reply
[quote name=Dr. Aneus Taint]I’m not driving 10 minutes to ask him that. Don’t you want to know how old he really is?[/quote]Yeah, that too. While dressed as a waiter.
Rice CubeQuote Reply
ryno go deep throat Theo so you can be our deep goat
dylanjQuote Reply
Did anyone hear Gammons talk about Garza possibly going to the Rangers for Martin Perez and Mike Olt?
JManQuote Reply
Goold:
Smokestack LightningQuote Reply
[quote name=Dr. Aneus Taint]Nevermind! I just googled it. Fuck…
I can be at the Hilton Anatole in about 10 minutes. Anyone have any requests?[/quote]
Ask how much we are paying Carlos Silva this year.
Aisle424Quote Reply
Really starting to sound like Pujols will be a Marlin next year.
ACTQuote Reply
[quote name=dylanj]ryno go deep throat Theo so you can be our deep goat[/quote]
Odd request.
Dr. Aneus TaintQuote Reply
[quote name=JMan]Did anyone hear Gammons talk about Garza possibly going to the Rangers for Martin Perez and Mike Olt?[/quote]
Dr. Aneus TaintQuote Reply
Pujols said he’s going to sign with the Fagets. I don’t think he knew I was asking about baseball.
Dr. Aneus TaintQuote Reply
Now try to find out who owns the Cubs.
Aisle424Quote Reply
but a fair one.
dylanjQuote Reply
[quote name=dylanj]but a fair one.[/quote]
Well, he turned it down. Sorry.
Dr. Aneus TaintQuote Reply
[quote name=Aisle424]Now try to find out who owns the Cubs.[/quote]
I asked Theo if he knew. Despite answering the question and several variations of the question, I’m not sure he does.
Dr. Aneus TaintQuote Reply
[quote name=Dr. Aneus Taint]I asked Theo if he knew. Despite answering the question and several variations of the question, I’m not sure he does.[/quote]
It’s an unknowable mystery.
Aisle424Quote Reply
Sounds like the biggest hangup in Pujols/Miami talks is the no-trade clause. The Marlins are allergic to those.
ACTQuote Reply
[quote name=ACT]Really starting to sound like Pujols will be a Marlin next year.[/quote]That offense is going to be fun to watch.
mb21Quote Reply
watching Halladay and Lee face that lineup would be pretty cool
dylanjQuote Reply
[quote name=mb21]That offense is going to be fun to watch.[/quote]Yeah, I can’t wait to see that monstrosity light up after every homer.
ACTQuote Reply
No idea who this guy is, but he says Pujols ——–> Miami a done deal. http://insidesportswithdavidv.blogspot.com/2011/12/albert-pujols-to-join-miami-marlins.html
mb21Quote Reply
C Buck
1B Pujols
2B- ?
SS Reyes
3B Hanley
LF LoMo
CF ?
RF Stanton
Thats a pretty sick lineup.
dylanjQuote Reply
Yeah, that lineup is Yankee-esque.
mb21Quote Reply
You would have either Infante or Bonifacio at 2B and Chris Coughlan in CF
dylanjQuote Reply
http://espn.go.com/mlb/story/_/id/7322538/miami-marlins-offer-st-louis-cardinals-free-agent-albert-pujols-10-year-contract-sources-say?utm_medium=referral&utm_source=pulsenews
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=mb21]No idea who this guy is, but he says Pujols ——–> Miami a done deal. http://insidesportswithdavidv.blogspot.com/2011/12/albert-pujols-to-join-miami-marlins.html%5B/quote%5DSounds like pure speculation. He is assuming that since Miami has offered a large deal that Pujols will sign. I don’t disagree that he won’t be a Marlin, but it doesn’t seam like a done deal yet.
WaLiQuote Reply
He’s a sports journalists for what it’s worth. Probably speculation, but it’s probably accurate too. I think Pujols is a Marlin no later than tomorrow.
mb21Quote Reply
The Marlins offer for 10 years is over $200 million of course. Cardinals will counter later today.
mb21Quote Reply
I’m surprised there has been very little said about Edwin Jackson. Talk about a guy that might be under-valued. Throws hard, eats innings and is still young. I’m sure his market will pick up once Wilson and Buerhle sign but still surprised very little is said.
JManQuote Reply
DrugsSteroids are bad, mmkay?.http://www.ajc.com/news/nation-world/couple-badly-injured-after-1252062.html
Steroids are obviously so much worse than “other drugs” that they are named (dying laughing)
WaLiQuote Reply
Sergio Santos———-> Blue Jays
Nestor Molina————> White Sox
JManQuote Reply
Who the eff is Nestor Molina?
JManQuote Reply
The way Pujols negotiations are going, I’m starting to hope the Cards get stuck with him.
ACTQuote Reply
Nestor Molina is who I would have wanted for Marmol. Put up some sick #’s last year
dylanjQuote Reply
[quote name=dylanj]C Buck
1B Pujols
2B- ?
SS Reyes
3B Hanley
LF LoMo
CF ?
RF Stanton
Thats a pretty sick lineup.[/quote]
Where is Profit going to fit in?
Dr. Aneus TaintQuote Reply
[quote name=dylanj]Nestor Molina is who I would have wanted for Marmol. Put up some sick #’s last year[/quote]So he isn’t a catcher? Are you sure his last name is really Molina?
WaLiQuote Reply
we really need to focus on the niners Ryno. 10-2.
dylanjQuote Reply
[quote name=dylanj]Nestor Molina is who I would have wanted for Marmol. Put up some sick #’s last year[/quote]Further evidence that trading Marmol this year is a good idea. They aren’t getting a Nestor Molina for him but should able to come close.
JManQuote Reply
http://espn.go.com/chicago/mlb/story/_/id/7322403/reports-chicago-cubs-officially-make-offer-albert-pujols
ACTQuote Reply
Robert Griffin III ——————–> Heisman
Dr. Aneus TaintQuote Reply
[quote name=ACT]http://espn.go.com/chicago/mlb/story/_/id/7322403/reports-chicago-cubs-officially-make-offer-albert-pujols[/quote]
Dr. Aneus TaintQuote Reply
[quote name=dylanj]we really need to focus on the niners Ryno. 10-2.[/quote]
Seeds
1. GB
2. SF
3. NO
4. NYG
5. ATL
6. DAL
DAL @ NO = NO
ATL @ NYG = NYG
NO @ SF = NO
NYG @ GB = GB (Though I’m reeeeeeeeeeeeeeaaaaaaaaaaaaaaly tempted to pick NYG in that game)
NO @ GB = GB
Dr. Aneus TaintQuote Reply
Boise, Idaho —> Eastern Seaboard 2013
cdwQuote Reply
Then I think we draft like this:
1. Dontari Poe, NT, Memphis
2. Jonathan Banks, CB, Miss St.
3. Andrew Datko, OT, Fla. St.
Dr. Aneus TaintQuote Reply
per Clark Spencer: Fish meeting with Lozano now, expect Pujols resolution soon.
http://twitter.com/#!/clarkspencer/status/144114314909990912
Though let’s not rule out the possibility this might really be about Rodrigo Lopez.
Smokestack LightningQuote Reply
If the Marlins have gone over 200MM I can’t imagine it is by a whole lot.
I guess Pujols is more about the years than the AAV.
Smokestack LightningQuote Reply
[quote name=Smokestack Lightning]If the Marlins have gone over 200MM I can’t imagine it is by a whole lot.
[/quote]That sounds pretty thin for 10 years, considering there are several first basemen making over $20 million/year.
ACTQuote Reply
I’d also guess the same thing, SL, but only for contracts that take him into his 40s. At his age there’s no way he could expect to sign another free agent contract after 9 or 10 years. So $220 million is more than $198 million despite it being $22 million per year. If the Cardinals offered $198 million, why wouldn’t they just go to 10 years and $220 million? $22 million 10 years from now is worth a lot less than it is now. I still think you could get Pujols for 5 years and $145 million or so. He can still sign another free agent contract at age 36.
mb21Quote Reply
My guess is that the Marlins offered closer to $240 million over 10 years. Either that or they believe Pujols wants out of St. Louis so it’s not necessary. The Cardinals can, and I assume they would match a 10-year, $220 million contract.
mb21Quote Reply
i dont see us making any kind of early pick for a NT
dylanjQuote Reply
[quote name=ACT]That sounds pretty thin for 10 years, considering there are several first basemen making over $20 million/year.[/quote]
Exactly, but then I always thought the Cardinal offer was rather shitty to begin with. I guess Pujols would rather have the guaranteed 210-225MM than a guaranteed 160 over 6 or so and then see if he can pull an extra 60MM at age 38 (or older).
Anyway it pans out from here though, it seems the Cubs win. I don’t think Allen Craig is going to put up Albert’s 6 WAR next year.
Smokestack LightningQuote Reply
[quote name=Smokestack Lightning]Exactly, but then I always thought the Cardinal offer was rather shitty to begin with. I guess Pujols would rather have the guaranteed 210-225MM than a guaranteed 160 over 6 or so and then see if he can pull an extra 60MM at age 38 (or older).
Anyway it pans out from here though, it seems the Cubs win. I don’t think Allen Craig is going to put up Albert’s 6 WAR next year.[/quote]Apparently Craig just had knee surgery and may not be ready for Opening Day.
JManQuote Reply
[quote name=Smokestack Lightning]I don’t think Allen Craig is going to put up Albert’s 6 WAR next year.[/quote]This won’t help.
http://hardballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/12/06/allen-craig-undergoes-knee-surgery-status-for-opening-day-in-doubt?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter
GBTSQuote Reply
[quote name=GBTS]This won’t help.
http://hardballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/12/06/allen-craig-undergoes-knee-surgery-status-for-opening-day-in-doubt?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter%5B/quote%5D
They just need to make sure that he goes to the same surgeon that did Holliday’s appendectomy. He was barely out a week. Insane.
BerseliusQuote Reply
Fangraphs —————> BBWAA membership
SB Nation ————–> not so much
BerseliusQuote Reply
[quote name=dylanj]i dont see us making any kind of early pick for a NT[/quote]
They probably won’t. And even if they did, it probably wouldn’t be a kid out of Memphis because Baalke has a boner for major conferences.
That said, we’re a little thin on the DL and one injury could set us back.
Dr. Aneus TaintQuote Reply
RJF has looked pretty good at NT this year.
dylanjQuote Reply
I finally found your high school yearbook picture, dj.
Dr. Aneus TaintQuote Reply
[quote name=dylanj]RJF has looked pretty good at NT this year.[/quote]
Yeah. I’ve thought he was Ratliff-light since he was drafted…if he got his shit together.
Frankly, they could use a little help just about everywhere. I think OL and DB are the two biggest needs, but nothing really stands out. They should be able to sit back and take the BPA all the way through.
Dr. Aneus TaintQuote Reply
Word is Hanley Ramirez is awful pissed off about being forced off SS by Reyes. Given Ozzie’s odd pay-no-attention-to-the-man-behind-the-curtain rant that the team is still all about Hanley (hard to claim centerpiece status for a player you’re shifting around to suit another, and once Albert hits town it’ll be Hanley who? within ten seconds), and what appears to be the impending Albert Pujols acquisition, could the Fish be convinced to deal him for pitching needs? Should the Cubs make a play with Garza as the main piece?
Smokestack LightningQuote Reply
I’d like to see some WR help, a replacement for Chilo, CB and another MLB and OLB. But yeah just trust Baalke and go with BPA
dylanjQuote Reply
I know he was hurt last year, but Hanley seems like he’s declining. IIRC, he was slumping pretty bad even before he got hurt last year.
GBTSQuote Reply
[quote name=Berselius]Fangraphs —————> BBWAA membership
SB Nation ————–> not so much[/quote]I don’t want either in the BBWAA. I want that stupid fucking association torn apart. The best thing that could happen to the BBWAA is if nobody ever applied for membership. Those who apply are only making it worse so fuck ’em.
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=GBTS]I know he was hurt last year, but Hanley seems like he’s declining. IIRC, he was slumping pretty bad even before he got hurt last year.[/quote]He’s been worth 4.2 rWAR the last 2 years. He’s still capable of hitting the shit out of the baseball, but I wouldn’t give up what some other team would undoubtedly give up to acquire him.
mb21Quote Reply
If the Cardinals don’t sign Pujols I’m guessing they quickly sign Fielder. They’ll obviously have the money and they’ll be in a much better situation having signed him rather than Fielder.
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=mb21]He’s been worth 4.2 rWAR the last 2 years. He’s still capable of hitting the shit out of the baseball, but I wouldn’t give up what some other team would undoubtedly give up to acquire him.[/quote]
Probably the more likely move is the Cubs inquire on Gaby Sanchez. 2-3 WAR 1B making league min. If no Fielder, might be the best the Cubs can hope for.
Smokestack LightningQuote Reply
[quote name=mb21]If the Cardinals don’t sign Pujols I’m guessing they quickly sign Fielder. They’ll obviously have the money and they’ll be in a much better situation having signed him rather than Fielder.[/quote]
I hope they do that but I don’t think they will. The reason the Cards seem ok with letting Pujols go is because even at their current offer he would kill their payroll flexibility. Hard to see them turning around to do the same thing with a lesser player who will likely age even worse than Albert. They have Berkman to serve as a bridge for a year or two. Then Joey Votto hits the market.
Smokestack LightningQuote Reply
[quote name=mb21]If the Cardinals don’t sign Pujols I’m guessing they quickly sign Fielder. They’ll obviously have the money and they’ll be in a much better situation having signed him rather than Fielder.[/quote]haven’t they already indiciated Berkman will move to 1B?
JManQuote Reply
[quote name=cdw]Boise, Idaho —> Eastern Seaboard 2013[/quote]Is there going to be an earthquake? Is Pangaea reforming?
You will forgive me if Boise —> East makes absolutely no sense (dying laughing)
Rice CubeQuote Reply
I’m really not sure how much of a lesser players Fielder is to be honest. Offensively I think the two are fairly similar. I’m guessing the Cardinals will care more about replacing that offense than the defense. They can probably upgrade defensively elsewhere to make up the difference.
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=Rice Cube]Is there going to be an earthquake? Is Pangaea reforming?
You will forgive me if Boise —> East makes absolutely no sense (dying laughing)[/quote]I didn’t get it either, RC. (dying laughing)
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=Rice Cube]Is there going to be an earthquake? Is Pangaea reforming?
You will forgive me if Boise —> East makes absolutely no sense (dying laughing)[/quote]
http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/2011/12/6/2615709/big-east-expansion-2011-realignment-boise-state
Snyds01Quote Reply
[quote name=mb21]I didn’t get it either, RC. (dying laughing)[/quote]
boise state –> big east
is what he meant, right?
GWQuote Reply
[quote name=GW]boise state –> big east
is what he meant, right?[/quote]Yeah, I know that, but Boise is not in the East (dying laughing)
That’s going to be some crazy logistics, but if it’s football only I guess one game a week isn’t going to kill anyone. Although that’s a lot of jetlag for the kids.
Rice CubeQuote Reply
Jayson Stark tweets that Madson might go to arb with the Phillies now that the closer market is drying up. I’m sure they would love that (dying laughing)
BerseliusQuote Reply
[quote name=dylanj]I’d like to see some WR help, a replacement for Chilo, CB and another MLB and OLB. But yeah just trust Baalke and go with BPA[/quote]
I didn’t trust Baalke before, but I think Singletary was too involved before. I didn’t like much about the 2008-2010 drafts at the time, but the 2011 draft gave me hope.
Dr. Aneus TaintQuote Reply
[quote name=Berselius]Jayson Stark tweets that Madson might go to arb with the Phillies now that the closer market is drying up. I’m sure they would love that (dying laughing)[/quote]
(dying laughing), same with the Brewers and K-Rod.
Smokestack LightningQuote Reply
[quote name=Rice Cube]Yeah, I know that, but Boise is not in the East (dying laughing)
[/quote]
ah
GWQuote Reply
[quote name=Berselius]Jayson Stark tweets that Madson might go to arb with the Phillies now that the closer market is drying up. I’m sure they would love that (dying laughing)[/quote]
(dying laughing)
GWQuote Reply
Per Jon Morosi, Fish done meeting with Lozano, looking awfully “smiley.”
Smokestack LightningQuote Reply
Dr. Aneus TaintQuote Reply
Clark Spencer ——-> Fish will give Pujols NTC.
Joe Strauss ——> Cards still in it “for now”.
http://twitter.com/#!/clarkspencer/status/144141195197681665
http://twitter.com/#!/JoeStrauss/statuses/144141510915526657
Smokestack LightningQuote Reply
[quote name=Smokestack Lightning]Per Jon Morosi, Fish done meeting with Lozano, looking awfully “smiley.”[/quote]
Sounds like they’re really close. Lozano is probably putting the screws on them now, since everyone knows they’re close and really want Pujols. Nothing like negotiating against yourself.
BerseliusQuote Reply
Marlins might be willing to give Pujols a no-trade clause. http://twitter.com/#!/clarkspencer/status/144141195197681665
ACTQuote Reply
I’m too slow.
ACTQuote Reply
weren’t you pissed about not picking Everette Brown a few years ago?
dylanjQuote Reply
[quote name=Berselius]Jayson Stark tweets that Madson might go to arb with the Phillies now that the closer market is drying up. I’m sure they would love that (dying laughing)[/quote]
here’s hoping ibanez renegs and accepts also
GWQuote Reply
Still holding out some hope the Cardinals lose their nerve here, but it seems they don’t want to repeat the Holliday mistake.
Smokestack LightningQuote Reply
i think Madson ends up with the BoSox
dylanjQuote Reply
(dying laughing), apparently Manny Ramirez is calling teams begging for work. Something tells me Theo isn’t on his list.
Smokestack LightningQuote Reply
[quote name=Smokestack Lightning](dying laughing), apparently Manny Ramirez is calling teams begging for work. Something tells me Theo isn’t on his list.[/quote](dying laughing) after Theo threw him under the bus I’m guessing he’s the one executive he hasn’t called.
mb21Quote Reply
Cubs ———-> no longer very interested in Ian Stewart.
http://harding.mlblogs.com/2011/12/06/cubs-interest-in-stewart-wanes/
Smokestack LightningQuote Reply
I wouldn’t give up much to get Stewart. Not sure I’d give up anything.
mb21Quote Reply
[quote name=mb21]I wouldn’t give up much to get Stewart. Not sure I’d give up anything.[/quote]
They might as well just take the chance and wait for COL to nontender him.
BerseliusQuote Reply
Not sure why the Cubs were interested in Stewart in the first place.
ACTQuote Reply
[quote name=dylanj]weren’t you pissed about not picking Everette Brown a few years ago?[/quote]
I was a little upset they passed on him in the second that year, but I preferred the trade they made instead. I WAS pissed they picked Crabtree over Orakpo. Still am.
In 2010, I wanted Earl Thomas and Bulaga. Earl is still hit or miss for SEA, but he’d be playing CB if I picked him. So who knows? Bulaga > A. Davis.
I think I wanted Kenny Phillips in 2008. Totally fine with their 2006 and 2007 firsts.
Dr. Aneus TaintQuote Reply
From ye olde Levine chat:
That’s about how I feel about Theo…
Rice CubeQuote Reply
A Davis will come around. Kid’s only 21 and has great games and then bad ones.
dylanjQuote Reply
Marlins Prez ————–> no NTC.
https://twitter.com/#!/clarkspencer/status/144149010352050176
Doesn’t much matter anyway once Pujols hits five years.
Smokestack LightningQuote Reply
[quote name=Smokestack Lightning]Marlins Prez ————–> no NTC.
https://twitter.com/#!/clarkspencer/status/144149010352050176
Doesn’t much matter anyway once Pujols hits five years.[/quote]Yup. Not to mention, someone with a huge contract like his would be really hard to trade anyway.
ACTQuote Reply
Jim Bowden ——-> Mariners front-runners for Fielder. Jays, Cubs and Brew Crew lagging behind due to reticence to go beyond five years.
http://twitter.com/#!/JimBowdenESPNxm/statuses/144151591723872257
Smokestack LightningQuote Reply
This is kind of fun:
http://www.beyondtheboxscore.com/2011/12/6/2614545/a-graphic-look-at-mlb-contracts-the-100-milli-club
Rice CubeQuote Reply
Hey B, now you can be part owner of the Packers
http://packersowner.com/faq/
With this piece of paper you’ll get to vote on if Rodgers starts or not!
WaLiQuote Reply
Mariners now the favorites in the Fielder sweepstakes.
Rice CubeQuote Reply
The M’s have the advantage that they can move him to DH.
ACTQuote Reply
Per Robin Ventura, Dunn will see time on defense next year, at 1B and (dying laughing) (dying laughing) the OF (dying laughing).
BerseliusQuote Reply
Perhaps the Cubs could nab Smoak If Fielder goes to the M’s.
Smokestack LightningQuote Reply
http://twitter.com/#!/clarkspencer/status/144114314909990912
.
ACTQuote Reply
Heyman ———-> Pujols will give Cards every opportunity.
Starting to sound like the momentum is slowing a bit.
Smokestack LightningQuote Reply
i honestly think LaHair can put up league average #’s for peanuts for the next few years. Might as well give him a shot in 2012
dylanjQuote Reply
Yeah, I’m thinking Pujols re-signs with the Cards at this point. The Marlins didn’t help by not offering a no-trade clause.
ACTQuote Reply
[quote name=Smokestack Lightning]Heyman ———-> Pujols will give Cards every opportunity.
Starting to sound like the momentum is slowing a bit.[/quote]Cubs’ chances of stealing Pujols with an Aisley contract are probably less than 10%.
Rice CubeQuote Reply
http://twitter.com/#!/Ken_Rosenthal/status/144162289271062528
What the…
ACTQuote Reply
[quote name=ACT]http://twitter.com/#!/Ken_Rosenthal/status/144162289271062528
What the…[/quote]
Couldn’t find one with $100s.
Rice CubeQuote Reply
I guess this would be more appropriate if they were Cubans.
Rice CubeQuote Reply
Hanley Ramirez —-> hates 3B, wants out of Miami.
https://twitter.com/#!/SedanoShow/status/144161710926864385
Smokestack LightningQuote Reply
[quote name=Rice Cube]Cubs’ chances of stealing Pujols with an Aisley contract are probably less than 10%.[/quote]
I pretty much gave up on Fielder and Pujols after my silly rants last night.
Theo knows best. I trust in Theo. Just not last night for a couple of hours.
Smokestack LightningQuote Reply
[quote name=Smokestack Lightning]Hanley Ramirez —-> hates 3B, wants out of Miami.
https://twitter.com/#!/SedanoShow/status/144161710926864385%5B/quote%5DThey can always get Pujols to play 3B and sign Fielder for 1B.
ACTQuote Reply
[quote name=Smokestack Lightning]I pretty much gave up on Fielder and Pujols after my silly rants last night.
Theo knows best. I trust in Theo. Just not last night for a couple of hours.[/quote]I’d be all for signing one or the other to a reasonable contract, but I don’t think that’s too realistic.
ACTQuote Reply
Theo —–> outbids Patrick Sharp for new Lakeview home.
http://www.nbcchicago.com/the-scene/real-estate/135105663.html
Smokestack LightningQuote Reply
Brewers fans on possibly acquiring Aramis. This is my favorite:
“PackerGacker – Today at 3:42 PM – Report Abuse
If we sign Ramirez we would not have to sign Bozo the Clown since we would already have the biggest Bozo in baseball.” (dying laughing)
http://www.jsonline.com/blogs/sports/135119573.html
WenningtonsGorillaCockQuote Reply
Sun times ———> paywall
BerseliusQuote Reply
[quote name=Berselius]Sun times ———> paywall[/quote]
(dying laughing)
(dying laughing)
(dying laughing)
Aisle424Quote Reply
[quote name=Berselius]Sun times ———> paywall[/quote]
We have to pay for Gary Karton’s shit now? Good luck with that, Sun-Times.
Aisle424Quote Reply
[quote name=WenningtonsGorillaCock]Brewers fans on possibly acquiring Aramis. This is my favorite:
“PackerGacker – Today at 3:42 PM – Report Abuse
If we sign Ramirez we would not have to sign Bozo the Clown since we would already have the biggest Bozo in baseball.” (dying laughing)
http://www.jsonline.com/blogs/sports/135119573.html%5B/quote%5DWere they playing the Brewers that one time when a pop up landed on the top of A-Ram’s head? (dying laughing)
Suburban kidQuote Reply
I agree with DJ that LaHair can provide league average numbers for league minimum
mb21Quote Reply
If Hanley’s being a bitch, how much would it cost the Cubs to get him to Chicago and have him play SS with Castro shifting somewhere?
I realize it’s not ideal, but just a thought exercise.
Rice CubeQuote Reply
According to Jon Morosi, the Cards have a new offer for Pujols, but owner DeWitt won’t say whether it matched the Marlins.
Most telling quote (perhaps): “We’re realistic about the fact that it may not happen.”
Smokestack LightningQuote Reply
Another DeWitt quote: “I’m hopeful, but I don’t like to use the word ‘optimistic.'”
Smokestack LightningQuote Reply
[quote name=Rice Cube]If Hanley’s being a bitch, how much would it cost the Cubs to get him to Chicago and have him play SS with Castro shifting somewhere?
I realize it’s not ideal, but just a thought exercise.[/quote]If the Marlins put Hanley on the market at least a few other teams would present offers that would be better than the Cubs.
The first question regarding trading for Hanley is this: How good is Hanley Ramirez? As I said above, he’s basically been league average the last 2 years using rWAR and slightly better than league average using fWAR. He still has tremendous potential, but he’s not so young anymore. I’d be hesitant to give up what at least a few other teams would consider. I also don’t think the Cubs have the talent to even get involved. I’m OK with that because I think whoever trades for him will be disappointed.
mb21Quote Reply
Per Robothal: all the Marlins top brass are in a meeting with the Commish’s office, ostensibly to discuss contractual issues with Pujols.
http://twitter.com/#!/Ken_Rosenthal
Also, he asked Loria whether decision was in Pujols’s hands. Response: “I wouldn’t say that.”
Smokestack LightningQuote Reply
New shit: http://obstructedview.net/chicago-cubs/articles/pujols-is-coming-tra-la-tra-la-wait-no-he-isnt.html
Aisle424Quote Reply
[quote name=GBTS]I’m disappointed there isn’t a slide for each year of the proposed contract.[/quote]
I know I’m massively late to the game, but Bleacher Nation /= Bleacher Report. Similar name, very different sites. Ridiculous slideshows are the exclusive province of the latter.
Ace@BleacherNationQuote Reply
[quote name=Ace@BleacherNation]I know I’m massively late to the game, but Bleacher Nation /= Bleacher Report. Similar name, very different sites. Ridiculous slideshows are the exclusive province of the latter.[/quote]I didn’t even know what GBTS meant by that. I was confused. I don’t think anyone here mixes up your site and Bleacher Report. I hope not.
mb21Quote Reply
(dying laughing), lesbian Hobbit suggests Cubs trade for Sanchez and platoon him with LaHair.
Acquire quality cost controlled 1b, play him in less than half the games.
???
World Series
BerseliusQuote Reply