This afternoon, the Cubs traded Jose Ceda to the Marlins for Kevin Gregg.
I'm not thrilled with this deal as Gregg is a mid-level closer who had two decent, but not outstanding, seasons as the Marlins' 9th inning pitcher the last two years. Gregg turns 31 in June and his K totals were down last year compared to 2007. The one thing he does well is not allow the long ball -- only three in 68.2 innings in 2008. One of those homers was the three-run jack that Daryle Ward hit to win this game on August 15 in Miami. Also, Gregg had knee problems that forced him to have surgery for left patellar tendinitis two weeks ago. He's supposed to be ready for spring training.
On the other hand, Kerry Wood's numbers were almost identical to Gregg's last year -- except he issued fewer walks. Unfortunately, this trade apparently means the end of Kerry Wood's tenure as a Cub, said GM Jim Hendry in a conference call:
"We felt it was time Kerry goes out and does what is best for him and his family and get a huge multiyear deal, if possible," Hendry said. "This is really the right thing to do. We’ve had some really honest conversations in the last week. We don’t have to get into how much I think of him, but at the same time I don’t think we could do for him right now what he deserves and what I think he’ll get going elsewhere."
I guess I understand this -- that article also says that the Cubs are looking to keep Ryan Dempster and add a lefthanded hitter, and although payroll is apparently going to be increased, there appear to be some limits to this.
The problem I have is that Kerry Wood is the face of the franchise. He has been loyal to the Cubs far beyond what most players would have done in similar situations, and the Cubs returned that loyalty by keeping him a year ago when he could have had a larger deal elsewhere. Many of you think I make too much out of clubhouse chemistry, but Kerry Wood was one of the leaders of this team, someone others, not just pitchers, looked up to. Who's the face of the franchise now? Bat-breaking Carlos Zambrano? Quiet Derrek Lee? Maybe Geovany Soto could step up in a couple of years, but it seems a bit early for that. I'm very sad that Wood, who is one of my favorite players, is going to be in another uniform next year -- and the team 90 miles to the north in Milwaukee is looking for a closer and I'm guessing Doug Melvin would love nothing more than to stick it to the Cubs by offering Wood a three or four year deal.
Now wouldn't you hate that? The thought of Wood in a Brewers uniform makes me sick. Let's hope some American League team -- the Angels, maybe, who might lose K-Rod -- will sign him and we won't have to worry about that.
As far as the deal itself, I hope that Carlos Marmol will now be given the full chance to take the closer's spot, with Gregg as his setup man, and someone who could step in if Marmol fails -- I don't expect that, I think Marmol is ready to close in the major leagues. I'm not that thrilled with losing Jose Ceda, but he has pitched only half a season above A ball and I suspect the Cubs didn't think he had harnessed his command yet. Maybe Ceda will become a good major league pitcher, but that could be two or three years away (though the way the Marlins promote their minor leaguers, maybe sooner).
This is a sad day in Cubs history as they part ways with someone who has been exemplary in every way, as a ballplayer and a human being. I will miss him.
2 recs | 466 comments
A sad day indeed....
it seemed like Woody would always have the good ole blue pinstripes
cubswgnrocks - November 13, 2008
yep :(
On a positive note Kerry Wood jersey’s not 1/2 price!
digitalbenjamin - November 13, 2008
I think I will buy one
to immortalize him in my cub gear.
derv - November 13, 2008
Retiring Mine
I will now officially retire my Wood jersey from the rotation. A sad, sad, sad day.
TheHawk5 - November 13, 2008
Who else is in your rotation?
DeRoMyHero - November 13, 2008
I have a Sosa I still wear...
…“Greatest Cub Ever” – Ernie Banks
(argument for another day)
derv - November 13, 2008
New Era
I think a new pitcher will begin a new era for the Cubbies.
Super Fan
urbantwin - November 16, 2008
Who?
Al Yellon - November 16, 2008
I still don't think he is gone. I think he'll end up signing a deal with the Cubs for less years...
and slightly less money.
Jimmyeatworld - November 13, 2008
I hope against hope that you are right.
But I suspect it’s done.
Al Yellon - November 13, 2008
I was going to say the same thing,
but I think it’s false hope. I don’t see Hendry playing those types of games with Wood
slocs55 - November 13, 2008
I think this deal should have been handled differently...
…but what’s done is done.
derv - November 13, 2008
Agreed.
More about Wood: it’s odd the way Hendry put it. Maybe Wood would have come back for less than a bigtime deal, but we don’t know that, all we know is that the two of them had honest discussions. Hendry probably put forth what the Cubs were willing to do — and maybe Wood said he wanted more security, more years. I’m guessing he would have taken less money, but we’ll never know now.
I know it’s a business and I realize sometimes teams move on. It’s still a sad day.
Al Yellon - November 13, 2008
This has to be very hard on Hendry
This has to be very hard on Hendry.
Let’s hope Kerry goes to the AL.
I hope wherever he goes a warm reception awaits him when he returns to Wrigley if we play his new team.
puckishcubsfan - November 13, 2008
I think Hendry did Wood a favor...
He told the whole world that the cubs are not going to pursue him. If the world really thought that the cubs would sign him, how serious would the other offers had been. Maybe the teams who would have offered him the highest pay day would have focued on Fuentes/K Rod. Now, they know that the can seriously pursue Wood.
Also, For Hendry…lets assume he was okay with a 2 or 3 year deal for Woody…don’t you think if Woody came back and said, all I can get is 3 years 30 million…If you give me 2 and 25 or 2 and 20, I will take it.
TheRiot Police - November 14, 2008
Rec'd
DGU - November 14, 2008
I think your right...
…as Hendry was doing what he could to help maintain Wood’s value with other teams. We’ll see what he gets, and I’m guessing it will be 3 years guaranteed at about 8 mil per year.
MPH73 - November 14, 2008
If that's all...
… he gets, why wouldn’t the Cubs have paid it? That’s not that much more than Gregg will get in arbitration.
Al Yellon - November 14, 2008
He may get 10 mil per...
…but I doubt it, not with the history of injury.
I really think with what the glaring holes are, Hendry knows he is going to be tight with the dollars. If he can save a few mil here or there, it could be the difference in getting what the club most needs.
MPH73 - November 14, 2008
Maybe they will...
Maybe the Market for him shapes up to be what the Cubs wanted to pay him. Maybe by letting him explore the market a little, his asking price will be more inline with what the cubs wanted to offer him.
TheRiot Police - November 14, 2008
If you're right about Gregg's salary
he’s an even worse “bargain” than I thought.
DGU - November 14, 2008
Exactly my point.
Al Yellon - November 14, 2008
Still surprised Ceda is only worth a Gregg
I’ve made my thoughts known about what I thought about Ceda and think he’ll turn out to be nothing more than a Roberto Novoa but I’m still a little surprised his return was only Gregg.
Some people thought he was the Cubs best pitching prospect in the system and had him in top 3 of overall prospects. WHat does that say about the Cubs prospects?
lemon20pie - November 14, 2008
I don't know
that I have ever been more depressed by a baseball decision before. I read the headline last night and couldn’t believe it.
The fact that I don’t know what to think about Gregg doesn’t help either.
gwood - November 14, 2008
This does not surprise me whatsoever
As a matter of fact, I believe we had a discussion about the inevitibility of this move on another fanpost and some thought he’d take less years and less money to stay with the Cubs. I thought that idea was frivolous. That if the years and money were close, then I could maybe see him staying in the City he loves and the place where his family has been raised, but that’s obviously not the case.
It’s obvious that this situation played out exactly as I speculated it would in that fanpost. That Hendry said to Kerry that unfortunately that the Cubs were not willing or able to offer Kerry a 3 or 4 year deal, one in which he’ll certainly will be offered in FA and Kerry just could not turn down the security and the millions of dollars difference of the Cubs offer. Loyalty only goes so far.
I absolutely agree with you Al that this is a big loss to the Cubs as a team and the Cub fans who idolized Kerry. Not only did he give a lot to the organization and to the fans and did all he could to bring a World Series to the Cubs, but he was great for the community and his benevolence will very much be missed. He indeed was the face of the Chicago Cubs.
It will be sad when Spring Training rolls around and there will be no Kerry Wood. There definitely will be a void there, not to see him in the dugout, bantering with the fans. He will certainly be missed.
This team that didn’t has been searching for it’s identity the last couple seasons, just lost it’s most repsected and adulated player and it is still a very sad day for me.
lemon20pie - November 14, 2008
I like Wood, but...
…I’m sure we’ll all be applauding Hendry when Kerry’s shoulder begins acting up again. From a business perspective, I think it’s the right move. So long Kerry, I wish you the best!
calicubfan - November 13, 2008
I quit the Cubs
I know, it sounds like the typical crybaby rant. Maybe part of it is. I realize baseball is a business. But for me as a fan, it’s about the guys that put on the uniform every day. And I have a special love for the guys that “get it,” like Kerry has for the past 14 years. He took less money last year. He fought back from the abyss the year before. He did everything he was supposed to for this franchise, and this is what happens? Kicked to the curb because we can’t afford him?
I’ve wanted to quit being a Cub fan sooooo many times the past 30+ years, but have never come this close. Kerry’s my 2nd favorite Cub of all-time. I’ll never forget being at Wrigley (having come all the way from San Diego to be there) and seeing him come in to close out the division championship. I hope I have the will power for that to be my last good memory as a Cub fan.
paulucla - November 13, 2008
Not exactly kicked to the curb...
He is going to make more money, and get more years than we could offer.
PurpleLineToWrigley - November 13, 2008
Have fun being a dodger's fan
TheRiot Police - November 14, 2008
So you survived the '08 postseason...
…but are giving up the ghost because Kerry Wood isn’t coming back? Interesting. So what now? Stamp collecting? Trainspotting?
daver - November 14, 2008
I knew I should have stopped being a Cubs fan
in 1974 when Ron went cross-town. Damn, I would have had a much happier life, these last 34 years.
Weeghman Park - November 14, 2008
This is simply...
the natural evolution of baseball. Older players move on, and youth will ultimately be served. I’ll miss Kerry, but it’s very encouraging that the Cubs can have a high-profile player walk, and have a capable farmhand available to replace him.
Damen Jackson - November 13, 2008
Sigh...
… I’m afraid you’re right. The value of Kerry Wood to this franchise, however, transcends his abilities on the field. That’s what they are going to miss.
They had better sign Ryan Dempster now, or the inmates are going to be running the asylum like in 2004, and it won’t be pretty.
Al Yellon - November 13, 2008
Lou ain't Dusty..
but I see your point.
Damen Jackson - November 13, 2008
I wrote that specifically thinking that.
Lou won’t let it happen to the extent that Dusty did. But every manager needs good clubhouse leaders. I only hope the Cubs still have some.
Al Yellon - November 13, 2008
I think Geo could fill that role well
Emelie - November 13, 2008
You may very well be right.
Let’s hope he steps up and does that.
Al Yellon - November 13, 2008
Al,
jbertram - November 13, 2008
Al,
sorry, hit the return button too fast. You wrote exactly what I was thinking before, this team needs more leaders, and we get rid of the one we got. Say what you will about him v gregg stat wise, Gregg is not Kerry Wood, and never will be.
jbertram - November 13, 2008
He does seem
to have that quality with the pitchers so it seems natural he could with the others on the team too.
sue369 - November 13, 2008
Agreed
there will///should be an uproar if Dempster doesn’t resign with us. Seriously, he is the main reason we aren’t going to resign Kerry Wood, everyone knows that. Hendry better get this done or I will be even more pissed
Chanman25 - November 13, 2008
Woody loves Chicago
I hope he doesn’t go away and stay.
halfblindcubbiegirl - November 13, 2008
I doubt he will move
derv - November 13, 2008
I think she might mean
She hopes he doesn’t go to the White Sox
Shanghai Badger - November 13, 2008
Well, that.
(He would look bizarre in black). But I meant it in a “he’ll still be around” thing.
halfblindcubbiegirl - November 13, 2008
Ah
Shanghai Badger - November 13, 2008
Jenks
The Sox have a very capable closer.
puckishcubsfan - November 13, 2008
Jenks traded to the Mets, Kerry signs with the Sox...
I just threw up in my mouth typing that.
jbertram - November 13, 2008
Oh, Al
The inmates will NOT be running the asylum like 2004. At least, losing Wood and Dempster wouldn’t necessarily cause that.
elgato - November 13, 2008
Here Here (or is it hear)
Nicely done.
I doubt the Brewers will get in on Wood, I would imagine they’ve learned their lesson after Sheets.
My guesses: Mets, Rangers, Angels
The Prior/Wood era is officially over, all the Maddux/Glavine scenes dancing through our heads 6 years ago can officially be put to rest.
bren - November 13, 2008
I really hope it's not the Mets...
I really don’t want to have to burn effigies of Woody in my yard, which I feel compelled to do with every other Met.
CubsWin!Oregon - November 13, 2008
Well they need a closer...
So its him, Fuentes or Krod…..so its up to Omar. If he’s smart he’d go for Krod b/c of his consistent record, but closers are just so overrated, well maybe more so the “save” so I cant see how you can justify paying a closer north of 10M
bren - November 13, 2008
Agreed.
It’s one of the few areas where strategy in Fantasy is mostly applicable in real baseball: never overpay for a closer. You’ll almost always be able to salvage someone to get the job done (well…usually).
(And yes, I beg for everyone’s forgiveness. That will be last time I ever reference fantasy when talking about real baseball :))
CubsWin!Oregon - November 13, 2008
But Wagner will be back next year after TJ
would they really get a closer for a long term deal when they’re expecting him back?
halfblindcubbiegirl - November 13, 2008
When Wagner went down
WFAN in NYC called it his career
leothelip - November 13, 2008
Really?
I hadn’t heard anything like that. I mean. I know its TJ… but its comeback-from-able.
halfblindcubbiegirl - November 13, 2008
Wagner isn't a spring chicken, though
I think he’s probably done
Shanghai Badger - November 13, 2008
Eh
I haven’t been paying attention much to baseball. Just the last I heard was that the Mets weren’t going to overhaul their pen fr some reason (saw the headline didn’t read)…
halfblindcubbiegirl - November 13, 2008
That 'pen is beyond overhauling
They need to blow it up and start over. It was awful.
I pay a lot of attention to the Mets because they are the team that I have in my local little Strat-O-Matic league. Their ‘pen flat-out sucks, and that’s putting it nicely.
Shanghai Badger - November 13, 2008
Oh I know it does
I was just vaguely remembering the article i saw the other day. but frankly I wasn’t ready to think baseball yet, so i didn’t read.
halfblindcubbiegirl - November 13, 2008
You turned a blind eye to it . . . ?
Shanghai Badger - November 13, 2008
haha
i do have one of those!! bout time the lazy bum came in handy.
halfblindcubbiegirl - November 13, 2008
This is the kind of fun I've missed!
Shanghai Badger - November 13, 2008
Was that a badger-y way of saying
you missed me? :-P
halfblindcubbiegirl - November 13, 2008
Wasn't that transparent enough?
Of course I did!
By the way — a blind AND lazy eye? How much can one be expected to endure?
Shanghai Badger - November 13, 2008
haha
:-P
halfblindcubbiegirl - November 13, 2008
Loves me some Charlie Brown
Even though Schulz grew up in Minnesota and moved to California, Charlie’s gotta be a Cub.
Shanghai Badger - November 13, 2008
Love Charlie Brown
I played Lucy when we put on “you’re a good man, charlie brown” in high school.
halfblindcubbiegirl - November 13, 2008
I think you mentioned that once
Odd, because you really seem more like Sally.
Madison Cub Fan strikes me as a Lucy type. (I keed, I keed)
Shanghai Badger - November 13, 2008
lol
but i’m so lucy.
you see my nice side because you’re a good guy. lucy is my default though.
halfblindcubbiegirl - November 13, 2008
Aw, shucks.
I am pretty sure that I wouldn’t want to piss you off, though . . . .
Shanghai Badger - November 13, 2008
i get that a lot
halfblindcubbiegirl - November 13, 2008
It's always the sweet, quiet ones
That really raise hell!
Shanghai Badger - November 13, 2008
Think about
her fiestyness, I could see her as Lucy. btw I’ve also missed you cubbiegirl.
But I must admit, yep I could be Lucy
Madison Cub Fan - November 13, 2008
and, as we all know from Gagne,
injury and closer don’t go well together
stadiumguru - November 13, 2008
It was the smart move
“Face of the ballclub” as Al states? Therein perhaps lies the problem. The face of the ballclub was an oft-injured, oft-unreliable pitcher. For as great a professional and gentleman that Kerry Wood is (and he is) I find it actually refreshing that the Cubs are permitting objective analysis to outweigh sentimentality. For too long the Cubs (and Jim Hendry) have lived in denial about certain players. Today was a black and white decision on what is in the best interest of the ballclub. While sad to see Wood go I vigorously applaud Hendry.
MDBNIU - November 13, 2008
He was reliable last year as a closer.
Except for the blister, which can happen to anyone.
Al Yellon - November 13, 2008
Al, look at his history
In good conscious it is not the wise decision to hand him a three or four year contract in the neighborhood he believes he is entitled. The Cubs have spent way, way too many dollars on way, way too much downtime and disappointing healthy time from Wood. Plus I am of the opinion Hendry has concern for his current health status.
MDBNIU - November 13, 2008
"conscience"
MDBNIU - November 13, 2008
Hendry made the right move
Marmol is our closer of the future. He has earned this. Wood is too injury prone. He is too wild and walks far too many guys. Wood blew 6 saves and could have easily blown 10, plus he missed a month of the season.
sanks - November 13, 2008
Walks too many guys?
Which stats are YOU looking at? He walked 18 in 66.1 innings. The guy we got, Kevin Gregg, walked 37 in 68.2 innings.
Want to rephrase that?
Al Yellon - November 13, 2008
Brad Lidge aside, very few closers are perfect.
Kerry had a good first year as a closer – and I’ll think he’ll continue to be a good one. That said, the Cubs made a strategic decision to allocate dollars elsewhere and, though I’m just as sad as everyone else to see Woody go, I understand that decision.
daver - November 14, 2008
Thanks for the Post Al.
I’m really upset with this. I know Wood has had his problems, but like a married couple, the team and him fought through it all and now he appears to be healthy. So what do the Cubs do? They let him go.
Regardless of the cons… there are a lot of pros with having Wood on this team. I am worried about next season because Wood is a gamer, and though we have a lot of talent on this team, we do not have much in that bulldog attitude department.
We need more players like Wood last season in the playoffs.
TheHawkRules - November 13, 2008
+1000
I am so pissed off about this. I didn’t see this coming at all.
The Cubs need Wood.
EJThunder - November 13, 2008
+1000000
Hit the nail on the head.
jbertram - November 13, 2008
+AGAZILLIONLOL!
NittanyCub - November 13, 2008
Al
It seemed like Wood walked more than that. I know every time he walked a leadoff hitter or hit the leadoff we ended up losing, Gregg should setup Marmol.
sanks - November 13, 2008
The Cubs lost two games when Kerry hit the leadoff batter of an inning.
Maybe that’s what you are thinking of.
I agree with you, Gregg should be a setup man. Or maybe flipped to another team.
Al Yellon - November 13, 2008
Well I thought Gregg would have been flipped to the Pads for Peavy
but I thought at the time Wood would resign. With his departure, I think it is safe to say that Peavy coming to the Cubs is NOT happening
Chanman25 - November 13, 2008
meh...I am just so frustrated right now
This offseason is going to SUCK.
We lose Wood and Ceda essentially in exchange for Gregg.
We’ll probably sign Dunn or Abreu
we’ll resign Dempster for an expensive contract and he’ll probably not be nearly as good next year..
Prove me wrong Hendry, but I am so frustrated with his plans so far this offseason..
Chanman25 - November 13, 2008
Yep
1. I said it in the other post Wood and Ceda for Gregg+6M = puke in my mouth
2. I like Dunn, but word on the steet has been Ibanez. Ibanez in RF = puke in my mouth
3. I like Demp and all, but I’m afraid you are probably right 4y 52-56M is my guess = no puke, just apprehensive about how it will end.
jbertram - November 13, 2008
And two draft picks.
A first-round draft pick? And closers are the sorts of things you don’t see teams in the bottom of the league (read: with protected first round picks) invest in often. (Except the Reds.)
cwyers - November 13, 2008
End of an Era
What’s really sad about this is that it is a salary dump, plain and simple. Can you see a Mark Cuban run Cubs team making this move? As much as I don’t like Cuban, I think he would write the check. There’s not another player in baseball who has as much class as Woody. I’m very concerned about who is going to fill that void in the clubhouse. Gregg is a replacement for Bob Howry, not Kerry Wood. Not by a long shot.
Good luck, Woody. You’ll be missed. Whoever is lucky enough to sign you will get much more than just a baseball player.
WelcomeToTheFukudome - November 13, 2008
Have you seen the Tribco financials recently?
derv - November 13, 2008
You can only write so many checks...
…and the Cubs have been doing a lot of that lately. At some point, a GM is going to have to make decisions like this, that may involve doing what is best for the team, but means letting go of a fan favorite. Knowing the financial resources are not unlimited, this was the right move to dedicate those resources where they need to be.
I have a great deal of respect for Wood, but this was the right baseball move to help the club.
MPH73 - November 13, 2008
So we should...
just blame this all on Jason Marquis!…hey I’m all for that.
jbertram - November 13, 2008
Blame whomever...
…but Hendry has burned through a lot of dough and no-trade clauses in the last couple of years. With the limited chips in the minors to acquire players, this was bound to limit what he could do at some point, and we have hit that point.
MPH73 - November 13, 2008
Help the Club?
Gregg for Wood, help the Club, only $$$$ wise. Thats it. To free up money to sign Demp, goodness. This did not help the club.
Grockcubs - November 13, 2008
Been a while
Hey gang! I took my “break” and have now turned the page looking forward to the 09 season! Hoping for a busy offseason
Sad news about Woody, but I can see that Hendry has Wood’s best interest at heart
Lou In Blue - November 13, 2008
We can only look at this at face value...
…and it looks like a stupid non-deal from Hendry. The guy is one of the best in the biz, and he knows sure as shit Kerry has been beyond loyal to this team, and there’s probably no ONE player on a current Chicago sports team that is more respected, admired, or enjoyed. Stupid, stupid move.
Dan
dtpollitt - November 13, 2008
It was inevitable.
Marmol’s time is now. If they had signed Wood for 2 to 4 years, where would that leave Marmol. He’s ready to be a dominant closer, not in 2 to 4 years, but now.
Wood is a great human being and like most Cubs fans, I like him a lot and wish him well. But it’s time to move on, both for him and for the Cubs.
I just hope he doesn’t go to Milwaukee or St. Louis.
Clark Addison - November 13, 2008
and then...
in a few years we jettison Marmol because he is too expensive?
jbertram - November 13, 2008
no?
The Cubs have showed they are willing to pay for their superstars such as Lee, Ramirez, Zambrano.
Wood is just too expensive for the type of productivity he would put up. If Marmol proves himself as a closer further on down the line, I have no doubt the Cubs will pay him what he is worth.
jeff_pico - November 13, 2008
Too bad
I’ll miss ya, Kerry. I hope the deal turns out OK for The Cubs.
malicedoom - November 13, 2008
Thanks !!!
Sums it up.
Kerry will be missed, what a shame if he’s not resigned
parrotinct - November 13, 2008
Wearing my Kerry Wood #34 T-shirt to school tomorrow
meh…just got the damn thing too in October…
Chanman25 - November 13, 2008
I hate this trade
I want Kerry Wood to stay a Cub, plus I think Jose Ceda has a future. We saw him pitch this summer for Tennessee and while he was a little raw he was impressive. Anybody look at his stats?
mlern - November 13, 2008
I can see trading someone like that...
… but not for Kevin Gregg.
Al Yellon - November 13, 2008
Reality
Huge sums of money paid since 1998 for an enigmatic, oft-injured and often frustrating when healthy pitcher. I’m going to miss Kerry Wood too. But today was a day about making the smart move.
98 13-6, 26 games, 3.40 ERA
99 DNP
00 8-7, 23 games, 4.80 ERA
01 12-6, 28 games, 3.36 ERA
02 12-11, 33 games, 3.66 ERA
03 14-11, 32 games, 3.20 ERA
04 8-9, 22 games, 3.72 ERA
05 3-4, 21 games, 4.23 ERA
06 1-2, 4 games, 4.12 ERA
07 1-1, 22 games, 3.33 ERA
08 5-4, 65 games, 3.26 ERA
MDBNIU - November 13, 2008
Naturally, you quote stats that don't tell the whole story.
Yes, we know he was hurt. But when he was healthy, he could be dominant. Did you forget about the 34 saves in 2008 — which he got despite missing a month?
Al Yellon - November 13, 2008
There's no reason to think that he's GOING to be healthy, though.
cwyers - November 13, 2008
Certainly not for four years
pass.
Damen Jackson - November 13, 2008
Agreed
And those are likelly Henrdy’s feelings, too – he’s just too classy of a GM to say that about the player publicly.
I’ve been a critic of Henrdy more than once — I think he’s great with the relationships and sometimes lacking in talent evaluation. He’s not a complete idiot, though — I think he realizes Wood could very well have some great years left. But he evaluated objectively, and that was the right thing to do.
Clearly, Wood wasn’t budging from the 3-4 year request, or it wouldn’t have come to this.
Shanghai Badger - November 13, 2008
The right thing to do...
would be to go back in time and give Dome’s money to Kerry.
jbertram - November 13, 2008
If it was that easy...
…we could all be a GM. Fact is, a lot of teams wanted Dome and at least one offered more money than the Cubs.
Also, even if they had more money to spend, I would not give Wood more than 2 years guaranteed at what the market will bear. In the end, I don’t think anyone will give him 4 guaranteed years, but will end up with 3.
MPH73 - November 13, 2008
Do we know for fact he wants 4 years?
There comes a time when a guy like Wood you make certain concessions, this was the time. Hell we don’t even know what Hendry offered. Was anyone in the room with them?
Grockcubs - November 13, 2008
Mixed reaction
It is clear that this is a baseball move over sentimetality, and I do agree with that. However, I’m not sure that Marmol is ready. He gets way too pumped sometimes, especially when the crowd is roaring. I hope he can get past that.
And yeah, Gregg doesn’t excite me.
Shanghai Badger - November 13, 2008
Very sad.
I feel like Woody and I have “grown up” together. His years here were my growing up period as a cub fan. I always figured there’d come a point when he wasn’t here anymore… but I figured it’d be a long time away.
Just wish they’d gotten someone better then Kevin Gregg out of losing Woody.
Bummer.
halfblindcubbiegirl - November 13, 2008
Hey!
Where have you been?
Shanghai Badger - November 13, 2008
Around. Sorta.
Lotsa football and not vey talkative. :-P
halfblindcubbiegirl - November 13, 2008
No matter where Kerry goes
He will always be the winner of the Cubs 10,000 victory.
ak123 - November 13, 2008
Here's hoping
… he’s not a Cardinal. That would be vile and disgusting.
elgato - November 13, 2008
Ugh
Dude. Thats just low.
halfblindcubbiegirl - November 13, 2008
you been hanging around with plenz?
Emelie - November 13, 2008
no kidding
sue369 - November 13, 2008
I am thoroughly upset about this,.
WHY?
Kerry Wood sure as hell be better than Gregg. I don’t get the rationale at all.
Unless Wood expressed interest in wanting to play elsewhere this just boggles my mind.
Words can;t describe how upset I am over this. I dont care if I’m the only one that feels this way.
What a joke.
EJThunder - November 13, 2008
You're not the only one who feels that way
*
paulucla - November 13, 2008
+1 more
jbertram - November 13, 2008
This is about money
There’s no question. Hendry made it clear. What I’m wondering is whether this bleeds into other areas. What the Cubs did was save money by making the bullpen worse then last year. That’s not debatable.
Will they be going that direction in other areas? Will they match huge offers for Dempster? Are they players for Peavy? Who is this magical lefty bat that’s going to appear out of nowhere at no cost? Will the $136 million man lead off again next year?
paulucla - November 13, 2008
They had better sign Dempster after this.
Al Yellon - November 13, 2008
Or what?
I’m concerned we are staring back into the abyss of “yeah, we’re going to tighten the spending and what are you going to do about it?” They’ll sell out every game anyway.
paulucla - November 13, 2008
That's not a given if they increase ticket prices in this uncertain economy.
Al Yellon - November 14, 2008
Are you serious? 50 million dollars? I know he might (or might not have) taken a discount, but how big of a discount would that actually have been? I might get flamed over this, but honestly, people here need to grow the hell up. 40 over 4 for Wood would still be crazy, considering he’ll only pitch about 70-80 innings a year.
I love him as a pitcher, and it stings, but shit, I’ll always care more about the Cubs winning than one individual player, regardless of their contribution to the team.
NittanyCub - November 13, 2008
Yeah, but
the Cubs did not even try. They just said “no thanks.” Kerry may have been willing to accept a 3 year deal from the Cubs.
paulucla - November 13, 2008
Exactly.
I just hope that Kerry SOMEHOW returns.
EJThunder - November 13, 2008
The only thing
The only thing I could see happening is he doesn’t find a big time taker and calls Hendry before signing. I think he would.
puckishcubsfan - November 13, 2008
It doesn't sound like there's any bad blood......
so let’s hope he can somehow stick around.
EJThunder - November 13, 2008
This isn't likely...
… but it’s not impossible.
Al Yellon - November 13, 2008
You have no idea if they tried or not. You're only assuming from what you read in articles,
and what they tell the press.
NittanyCub - November 13, 2008
And how do you know that?
Are we honestly to believe that there wasn’t significant contractual dialogue between them over the last few weeks? Seriously?
Damen Jackson - November 13, 2008
I can only go by what Hendry said
which was that he had a meeting with them and said the Cubs had decided to go in a different direction. He never said anything about exploring any kind of deal.
paulucla - November 13, 2008
I'm extremely confident that
a deal was discussed.
Damen Jackson - November 13, 2008
hendry also said
“I don’t need to go into how much we love Woody here”.
Look. No one’s thrilled with idea of replacing Woody with Gregg, but you’re overreacting. Hendry doesn’t owe you an explaination of the non-deal.
halfblindcubbiegirl - November 13, 2008
I guess this means my dog really went to a dog farm when I was a kid.
I mean, if we’re only going by what people are saying.
NittanyCub - November 13, 2008
lol
There is no doubt in my mind that they had significant dialogue before the decision was made.
Why do people think that the general public is going to be privvy to all the negotiating details?
Shanghai Badger - November 13, 2008
hee
sue369 - November 13, 2008
He and Kerry had dinner one night
last week and he’s talked with Kerry and his agent since then. We have no idea what they did or didn’t discuss. I’d be willing to bet they discussed everything with Kerry.
sue369 - November 13, 2008
I'm sure...
…Hendry and he had an honest man to man discussion. Hendry told him what he needed to do to improve the team for next year and what his priorities where. He probably said getting the starting staff set and adding a good LH bat were priorities 1 and 1A. And, this would mean he would not be in a position to pay him close to the same money he could make on the open market.
With the close relationship they have, Hendry wanted him to know that he understood he needed to capitalize on this contract opportunity, because it is likely to be his last chance to cash in.
MPH73 - November 13, 2008
I agree
and there is no reason for Hendry or Wood to come out and give the details.
rlpete - November 13, 2008
they just said "no thanks"?
3 years is still too long with Woody’s history.
halfblindcubbiegirl - November 13, 2008
How do you know they didn't try?
daver - November 14, 2008
I gotta say I'm surprised....
by some of the reaction over this. I mean, I’m sad to see Woody go. Woody was great (and a great human being) and I’m proud to say he was a Cub. I’ll defend him as a someone who had the talent to be a great pitcher (and would’ve been if his body had held up), instead of just a good (every once in a while /very good) pitcher when healthy.
But baseball teams need to do what’s best for the team on the field; not what makes us most sentimental to buy t-shirts. The only exception I’ve ever felt to that was Mark Grace, who I would’ve given wheelbarrows of money just to hang out in the dugout and tend a martini bar. But I also realized I was silly to feel that way.
Anyway, I’m surprised how sentimental people are over Woody, especially given that it often seemed like he was hurt as much as he was playing (and exaggeration I realize, but it often felt that way). Because I felt like that, it was hard for me ever to get extremely attached to him to the point of saying “Money be damned!”.
He’s a good guy. Glad we had the privilege of having him on the team, and best wishes towards his future (non NL central) success.
CubsWin!Oregon - November 13, 2008
Gotta agree with this
If the Cubs had a pitcher with stats identical to Woody but a different name, nobody would give 2 hoots about letting that player go.
We can’t give any player $50 million just for being a good guy.
MadHatterBlues - November 13, 2008
Unless...
He makes REALLY good martinis…
CubsWin!Oregon - November 13, 2008
See, that's just it....
Kerry Wood, a leader, a great player, even with his past injuries, is 10 times more valuable than a regular player with the same stats.
Kerry is irreplaceable due to the fact that no one in that locker room has leadership qualities.
EJThunder - November 13, 2008
The old saying goes . . .
There are cemetaries full of irreplaceable people.
He’ll be missed, but this isn’t the end of the team.
Shanghai Badger - November 13, 2008
Bingo.
And FWIW, I wasn’t unhappy to see Mark Grace go — and that proved out when he dissed the Cubs after he got his ring.
Kerry Wood would never do that.
Al Yellon - November 13, 2008
Not sure if you'll check this post again, but...
Hey Al: I was wondering to what you were referring about Grace dissing the team? I remember him being vocal about the whole Sosa thing (and about how much the Cubs would’ve known), but was there other stuff?
At least on the Sosa stuff, he [Grace] in the end seemed to be proven right…or at least that’s what it seems like to me.
Anyway, just curious.
CubsWin!Oregon - November 14, 2008
In the AZ clubhouse celebration, Grace was interviewed
He said something to the effect of, “I wasn’t good enough to play first base for the Chicago Cubs, but I was good enough to play first base for the World Champions.”
Shanghai Badger - November 14, 2008
Exactly correct.
Instead of just being happy with his ring, he had to take a cheap shot. I have no respect for Grace.
Al Yellon - November 14, 2008
It was a bit of a messy divorce, though
I don’t disagree that he could have taken the high road. And the stories that I’ve heard about his Cub tenure in the last few years aren’t so great. But I do understand why he was upset.
Shanghai Badger - November 14, 2008
And that leadership got the Cubs to how many World Series?
No one is arguing that Wood isn’t a good player and a good person but Hendry doesn’t think he is worth what he and his agent think he can get. I agree with Hendry.
rlpete - November 13, 2008
That's completely inaccurate....
Hendry didn’t say that Wood wanted more money than he was worth.
Wood deserves more money than the Cubs are able to spend.
EJThunder - November 13, 2008
I'm not so sure
Of course, Hendry will spin this in a positive light. Hendry isn’t going to come out and say that he disagrees with the demands. That is the smart thing unlike the Pads and Hoffman.
rlpete - November 13, 2008
Seniority
He was the longest serving Cub and that comes with some leadership.
He’s obviously a fan favorite. That adds more leadership qualities.
Hendry is making the right baseball decision.
jeff_pico - November 13, 2008
Tenure doesn't equal leadership
I’m not saying he didn’t have it, but that isn’t a strong argument.
Shanghai Badger - November 13, 2008
You also have to take into account what he did off the field in the clubhouse too....
As Al stated, Woody was/is one (if the THE only) leader in that clubhouse. Guys looked up to him. You can’t always go by stats.
When you take into account everything that IS Kerry Wood, Woody makes Kevin Gregg look like Todd Van Poppel.
Who the hell does that now? Who is the authority from a players standpoint in that locker room?
It isn’t Lee.
It isn’t Ramirez.
It isn’t Zambrano.
Not Soriano.
Maybe we can re-sign Jose Macias and he’ll be the team’s clubhouse leader?
EJThunder - November 13, 2008
how much?
How much are you willing to pony up for ‘leadership’?
$10 mil a year? $15? more than $15 mil?
Wood is going to get a HUGE contract.
Baseball wise Gregg can do the same job for $2.5 mil a year.
Unfortunately baseball as a business rears its ugly head now and then :(
jeff_pico - November 13, 2008
Can someone tell me what Wood did that is so much of a leader?
I never got the impression that he was that outspoken in the clubhouse. Did he call out players when they weren’t performing? A closer as team leader is a bit unusual.
rlpete - November 13, 2008
Calling out players isn't the only mark of leadership.
Al Yellon - November 13, 2008
I agree but other than
“Leadership By Example” how does he lead. Do players look to him when things aren’t going well? Does he lighten up the clubhouse? Does he try to deflect the media scrunity?
I’m not saying he isn’t a leader but I’ve never really considered him a leader. In fact, it seemed like some of the blame for this year’s failure was that there wasn’t anyone to help get the team relaxed and ready to play. Seeing a closer in that role is a bit unusual. In fact, I thought Dempster was more of a team leader than Wood.
rlpete - November 13, 2008
I don't know the answer to that.
There is anecdotal evidence that he is a player others look up to. I don’t have any statistics for this, if that’s what you are looking for, because no such statistics exist.
Al Yellon - November 13, 2008
Some antedotal evidence was all I was expecting
Obviously leadership statistics don’t exist. I wasn’t trying to be difficult with the question but I never saw him as team leader. Closers usually aren’t. That’s why I asked.
rlpete - November 13, 2008
I would say Wood's leadership lies in how he battled through injury
It would have been far easier for Kerry to bag the whole thing 2 years ago, when he didn’t know if his arm would respond to surgery.
Instead, he worked his butt off to get back and help the team, as he did when he had other injuries. He never used an injury as an excuse, and I think is where he developed into a leader in the clubhouse.
Bill Potter - November 14, 2008
Another thing is
that Kerry really understands the history of this franchise, more than any other current player. He has seen the true highs and lows, and been probably the biggest player in the “transformation” over the past 10 years and the rise in expectations.
Another thing is that it seemed he had that “old school” feel that the players of the 80s and early 90s had. He was that link to Grace and Ryno.
Not that this is all a big deal, but I think it’s important in terms of team leadership.
stadiumguru - November 13, 2008
As a fan of the Portland Trailblazers...
I’m not one to dismiss the importance of team leadership and having “good guys” on your team. But Hendry has to be realistic and work through what financials make the most sense. I mean, based on his performance last year, if Woody can command a bigger contract than the Cubs can responsibly offer, then the best course for everyone is to let Woody go where he gets what he is owed. It would be pretty silly to ignore our budget at the expense of meeting the team’s needs; and it would be selfish of Cub fans to demand we pay Woody less than he can get just because we like the guy.
There’s only one way forward that makes sense for everybody…and Hendry took it.
CubsWin!Oregon - November 13, 2008
true,
but I still think something could have been worked out, especially since Wood had a good year last year, and has given the Cubs the “hometown discount” in the past.
stadiumguru - November 13, 2008
and now that he's shown his arm is still attached
he’s probably resistant to doing a short deal and wants some stability so that he doesn’t have to do this every offseason.
Sounds like a mutual break-up to me. And just like when any good relationship runs its course, it sucks.
halfblindcubbiegirl - November 13, 2008
true,
I guess I’m just a little bitter.
stadiumguru - November 13, 2008
we're all a little unhappy
it sucks. and Gregg doesn’t seem overly impressive to me. But Hendry has earned the benefit of the doubt from me for now.
halfblindcubbiegirl - November 13, 2008
good point,
we have to give Hendry the benefit of the doubt
stadiumguru - November 13, 2008
+ 1000
It’s part of the business. Hendry had to make a brave call.
I’m just heartbroken and cannot believe that Kerry Wood may no longer be a Cub, even though I knew we’d probably never see him again when that hellish post-season ended.
I will miss that big tall Texan boy who became a great man among our team.
Woody will always be a Cub to me. Kerry, I hope you’ll be back but you’ve got a lot of horses under your hood yet. Whether with the Cubs or someone else, run free and strong and all the best to you is wished from this Cubs fan ..
cubnational - November 13, 2008
This day
This day will go down as truly a sad day in Cubs history. I haven’t felt this emotional over a departure since Ryno left.
Thank you Kerry for the great memories.
Thank you for alwas being at the fan events and being a pleasure to meet.
Thank you for all you did for the community.
Chicago lost a great contributor to the community today as well. Guys if everything he does in the community made the paper they;d have to have a paper just for that.
I feel like someone has taken my heart out and kicked it and stuffed it back in and then punched me in the stomach.
But from a baseball standpoint I’m waiting to see what else happens. I have full confidence in Marmol replacing Kerry in the closer role I’m more worried about Marmol’s role.
And ironically if I were to switch who’s other wife I’d be on the current roster it would be Ryan Dempster.
I predict he goes to Texas. And if they get their hometown boy can we get Tony Romo?
puckishcubsfan - November 13, 2008
+1
Your first 6 mini-paragraphs is how I feel. Ryno is the best comparison, at least for me. I wish I could just have a day or so for this to soak in and not have to read all the other stuff about who’s going to close and good or bad. This is just a sad day.
For all the injuries and all the money he made you never heard him bitch, you never saw him act like a spoiled brat, you never saw him show anyone up on the field. After those nasty balls he was capable of throwing for strike three, he hung his head and walked to the dugout. He took less money to stay and that’s what we wish all our heroes would do not matter who they play for.
I for one will miss him a lot.
mrcubsfan - November 13, 2008
Great couple of posts guys
I agree completely and thank you for expressing it. It’s a sad day in Cub history.
paulucla - November 13, 2008
To me
Wood was one of the greatest examples of honor in the game. He didn’t go out to get the biggest contract (even though he could have years ago). He didn’t feel like the game owed him anything (like some other players that seem to act as if the game owes them the biggest contract possible), but that he owed the game and the Cubs.
I will miss Wood, not only because he was an exceptional pitcher who had a string of bad luck, but because he is a fabulous person and should be an example to all the young players coming into the game.
gwood - November 14, 2008
The way I feel, it's almost as if this is an obituary.
Man…. am I caught up in this.
EJThunder - November 13, 2008
Kerry
Leaving the Cubs as a closer has always been a good career move.
puckishcubsfan - November 13, 2008
I guess the "I Love Wood" tat I have is going to get a different kind of reception now
NittanyCub - November 13, 2008
haha.
That would depend on what part of town you’re in.
CubsWin!Oregon - November 13, 2008
or where it is
haha
halfblindcubbiegirl - November 13, 2008
At first I was very surprised by this
My first thought was this is the first time since we starting spending all that money on the backloaded contracts, that we weren’t able financially, to resign somene we wanted.
However after thinking about everything, I think it was the smart decision.
Consider this:
-He’s going to command huge dollars over 4 years.
-He’s getting up there in age.
-He has been injury prone. One season does not convince me yet.
-But most importantly, we have our closer of the future waiting in the wings, who will probably be BETTER. I imagine some of the “honest discussion” Hendry and Wood had talked about how Marmol was going to be the closer in 2009 regardless.
cubswynn - November 13, 2008
Marmol...
I’m not totally convinced he has the temperment to be a closer…
While I hope he does, that period last year where he looked like a deer in headlights every pitch doesn’t make me feel real confident. Afterall, closing is usually more about what’s in your head than what’s in your arm (if Rod Beck is any indication…)
Of course, he’s also lights-out at times, so who knows…Fingers crossed I guess. And anyway, most closers seem to think it’s their job to make games more interesting and thereby shorten all our lives.
CubsWin!Oregon - November 13, 2008
I'll miss Kerry Wood to death
…and I seem to be the only one on BCB who thinks that Gregg can pitch (he pitching with an ingury in August).
“Gregg had a 10.13 ERA for August, but it was under 2.00 for every other month, including seven scoreless innings in September after he lost the closer job. He had 72 appearances and held batters to a .203 average.”
Source: http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/8790750/Cubs-land-Gregg-in-deal-with-Marlins
leothelip - November 13, 2008
to follow my own
Kerry’s splits reveal a 1.50 ERA in April, 2.70 in May, 0.82 in June (impressive), 9.00 in July, 0.82 again in August, and 6.75 in September. For the year, batters hit .247 off of him
He’s my favorite Cub of his generation, but. . .
leothelip - November 13, 2008
What's the difference between Kevin Gregg and Michael Wuertz?
DGU - November 13, 2008
61 saves in 07 and 08 for Gregg
jeff_pico - November 13, 2008
That -
and that Wuertz is a better pitcher.
DGU - November 13, 2008
seriously?
Wuertz pitched at AAA most of last year, Gregg was closing in the majors.
jeff_pico - November 13, 2008
Gregg walks batters like nobody's business.
Wuertz pitched at AAA because Lou didn’t like his lack of command. Just wait till he sees Gregg’s command.
DGU - November 13, 2008
10 years from now...
will Kerry’s number be on one of the poles? As far as “greatness” he doesn’t come close to the others that are already there. But sentimentally speaking, he’s right up there with them in my opinion.
kanderber - November 13, 2008
I would say he belongs up there
No more than the Hawk or Shawon Dunston do (neither of whom I’d put up there, even though I loved watching both of them play).
CubsWin!Oregon - November 13, 2008
Yeah, I forgot Dawson in my post below
He’d be the most deserving of the “contemporary” Cubs
Shanghai Badger - November 13, 2008
And I forgot Grace
Which is funny, since in another post I noted that he was my hero as a kid… go figure :)
CubsWin!Oregon - November 13, 2008
Ha!
You still pegged the better overall player, I think.
Shanghai Badger - November 13, 2008
You guys are absolutely drowning in the nostalgia of your childhood.
Putting Dawson, Grace of Wood up there would cheapen the HOF (and in Santo’s case, HOF worthy) career accomplishments – almost entirely with the Cubs by the way – of the guys who are up there. Ryno’s the only Cub of the past quarter century that should be up there – case closed. The rest is just weepy sentimentality.
the nth - November 13, 2008
hey
Hey don’t say Dawson would cheapen the HOF
The way the guy played the game he wouldn’t cheaten the HOF one iota.
In the end it will be the injuries that keep him out of the hall and thats a shame :(
jeff_pico - November 13, 2008
I think The Hawk needs a HOF look....
http://www.bleedcubbieblue.com/story/2007/1/24/91537/3647
San Diego Smooth Jazz Man - November 13, 2008
Indeed!
TheHawkRules - November 13, 2008
And I said guys whose career accomplishments
were mostly with the Cubs. Most of Dawson’s finest years were played in Canada.
the nth - November 14, 2008
He became much more well-known as a Cub
And your original comment was still condescending.
Shanghai Badger - November 14, 2008
Did you actually read the mini-thread?
My guess is no, because if you had, you’d realize that we were explaining why Kerry Wood’s number isn’t getting retired. None of the players we mentioned will get that honor.
And no one mentioned the HOF.
But, thanks for setting us straight.
Shanghai Badger - November 13, 2008
Ditto
It would help if people actually used their reading comprehension skills before making asinine comments…
CubsWin!Oregon - November 14, 2008
I'm tired of this leadership abilities crap.
Unless you spend every day with a team, you have no idea who the leaders really are. Some that are called the leaders in the press are just self-promoters or guys who seems sort of badass. Others that people perceive as leaders are just rah rah fist pumpers who are disliked by their teammates.
I know someone who played with Will Clark on the Giants and he says he was seen as the team leader by everyone other than actual members of the team. But the Giants fans loved him and saw him as the leader of the late 80s-early 90s teams. By the way, Clark fit into the rah rah fist pump and self-promoter categories. Many of his teammates thought he was a total asshat. He says the same went for Gary Carter. Fans loved him and would have followed him into a fire. His teammates saw him as a shameless self-promoter. I’m not saying these guys weren’t good, they just weren’t team leaders.
I share a friend with Kerry Wood and have been lucky enough to have dinner with him a couple of times. He’s a very nice guy. I can’t tell you from those meals, however, if he is a leader. He did let me order my own food so I have my doubts :)
the nth - November 13, 2008
Wanna pick up those names?
I think you dropped a few…
PurpleLineToWrigley - November 14, 2008
Good point.
Sammy too. Although he’s probably the most likely candidate of recent former Cubs.
kanderber - November 13, 2008
You're right - I neglected to mention him, too
Shanghai Badger - November 13, 2008
No.
If you do that, then you add Grace, Davis, Dunston.
Then, how do you justify no Caveretta, Pafko, Hack, Passeau, Wilson, and a host of others?
Shanghai Badger - November 13, 2008
well, Wood does have a flag
on the roof, along with most of the others you listed, which is sortof like “honorable mention” in my opinion.
stadiumguru - November 13, 2008
Yep, you're right
Although his is for one game. Others are for one or several seasons.
Shanghai Badger - November 13, 2008
BTW, how are things with the band?
Some tense days, eh? Plus, the team pretty much sucks. 19-0 at the half. Ugh.
Shanghai Badger - November 13, 2008
We’ve made some minor changes, but have moved on from UM.
things are pretty good though. I’m optimistic we will go to a warm bowl game, which will be fun despite the poor season. If we win these last 2 games, 7-5 really isn’t that bad. We just had a really tough 4 game stretch that put a damper on the season.
Plus, it’s hockey and basketball season, so that’s always fun.
Coming to either of the final 2 games?
stadiumguru - November 13, 2008
I'll be at Saturday's battle for the Axe
The bowl game itself won’t thrill me (but then, I don’t get a free trip!), but I do want them to get one. The extra practice can only help for next season.
Shanghai Badger - November 13, 2008
The extra practice
should be huge. It essentially will be an extension of spring practice, with an increase in intensity. It also gives an extra game to the seniors, the last group who played for Barry.
Enjoy the game on Saturday, it’ll be fun. I assure you halftime and the 5th quarter won’t disappoint :)
stadiumguru - November 13, 2008
Not sure how long I'll stay
My dad probably won’t want to be there the whole game and I’m his ride home.
Have a good one, though — hope you’re able to stay warm….
Shanghai Badger - November 13, 2008
With our wool uniforms and such a physical marching style, I’m sure we’ll have no problem staying warm! We also are allowed to bring gloves and hats for in the stands, which is nice. Oh, and for what it’s worth, it’s supposed to snow on Saturday. In our opinion, the more snow the better!
For a visual reason to our madness:
stadiumguru - November 13, 2008
hmm, don't know why that didn't work
lets try it again:
and if that doesn’t work, here’s the link:
http://www.badgerband.com/store/accessories/on_wis_poster.php
stadiumguru - November 13, 2008
The link worked, anyway!
Shanghai Badger - November 13, 2008
All good things come to an end
I don’t think Wood is worth some crazy contract of 4 years $50 million or something.
Its a good business decision by the Cubs not to resign him for that price.
Everyone will miss him, but Sandberg is about the only fan favorite in my lifetime who retired a Cub.
I agree with Al that baseball-wise Wood and Gregg are very similar.
As for Ceda…who knows? We’ll have to wait and see if he ever makes the majors to evaluate him.
jeff_pico - November 13, 2008
Actually a lot of my favorite Cubs were traded but later--after their careers--they were still "Cubs"
For example, Santo was traded to the Sox. Billy Williams was traded to Oakland. Fergie went to Texas and Boston. Just because they leave for a while….
zevkalman - November 13, 2008
Dickie Noles got traded for himself
Not really relevant, just felt like saying that.
Shanghai Badger - November 13, 2008
of course
Of course Wood will come back after he retires and still be a Cub…but it looks like for now he won’t end his career in a Cub uniform. If he’s still pitching after his big contract maybe he will come back for another go around, you never know.
jeff_pico - November 13, 2008
In similar news...
K-Rod is apparently on the move, per Sportscenter tonight.
No use overspending on an overhyped position.
Kansas25 - November 13, 2008
Now, on that I will agree.
Part of the reason for keeping Wood is his leadership ability. There isn’t always a way of putting a dollar amount on what that’s worth.
Al Yellon - November 13, 2008
The problem when you don't have an unlimited amount of dollars...
…is that you HAVE to put a dollar amount on what everything is worth. The Cubs have a budget, and so those intangibles need to be priced in comparison to other, tangible assets the Cubs would like.
cwyers - November 13, 2008
I agree with you.
The Cubs apparently, in this case, were discussing the number of years rather than the number of dollars. That’s valid, of course.
Al Yellon - November 13, 2008
Al
What has Wood done to demonstrate these leadership abilities? He doesn’t seem outspoken. Having a closer as team leader is unusual. I’m not saying he isn’t be other than the pat answer of “Leadership By Example” which would apply to Lee, how would Wood be the team leader?
rlpete - November 13, 2008
As noted above...
… outspokenness isn’t the only attribute of leadership. There’s plenty of that that goes on behind closed doors in the clubhouse.
Al Yellon - November 13, 2008
None of us knows exactly what goes on behind closed doors.
There’s too much talk by people that can’t really know about the amazing leadership abilities of this guy and that guy. Unless you’re with a team day in and day out for a season, it’s impossible to know.
Some that are called the leaders in the press are just self-promoters or guys who seems sort of badass. Others that people perceive as leaders are just rah rah fist pumpers who are disliked by their teammates.
I know someone who played with Will Clark on the Giants and he says he was seen as the team leader by everyone other than actual members of the team. But the Giants fans loved him and saw him as the leader of the late 80s-early 90s teams. By the way, Clark fit into the rah rah fist pump and self-promoter categories. Many of his teammates thought he was a total asshat. He says the same went for Gary Carter. Fans loved him and would have followed him into a fire. His teammates saw him as a shameless self-promoter. I’m not saying these guys weren’t good, they just weren’t team leaders.
I share a friend with Kerry Wood and have been lucky enough to have dinner with him a couple of times. He’s a very nice guy. I can’t tell you from those meals, however, if he is a leader. He did let me order my own food so I have my doubts :)
the nth - November 13, 2008
I can speak to Clark...
…and he was an asshat, of the A1 variety.
MPH73 - November 13, 2008
Did you really need to post this twice?
daver - November 14, 2008
That's another pitcher somebody
will overpay for…..the Angels have a replacement.
San Diego Smooth Jazz Man - November 13, 2008
On other news
Z won the Silver Slugger award.
Who robbed Geo?
puckishcubsfan - November 13, 2008
McCann
Looks like McCann won it in the NL .333 24 HR 93 RBI
jeff_pico - November 13, 2008
No one robbed Soto-- Brian McCann is an absolute monster.
If anything, Soto robbed McCann of the starting spot of the ASG.
NittanyCub - November 13, 2008
I might agree on letting Wood go, if he's asking for a 3 years deal or more.
But that doesn’t mean acquiring Gregg is a good idea. A rehabbing closer who wasn’t that good before, anyway. Ughh!
Fraggin Judge - November 13, 2008
Well
This is just fitting isn’t it! After the joke they made of themselves in the playoffs. Now this. The idea of seeing Woody in a different uniform is heartbreaking for me.He can’t be replaced in many many ways.
iowacubfan69 - November 13, 2008
Bring Wood back.
Put him and Gregg at the back of that bullpen, one a closer one as a replacent for Howry.
Snake Plisskin - November 13, 2008
Its the money
I’m sure Hendry would love to bring back Wood.
The question is why would Woody accept half the money he can make to play for the Cubs?
Its in his best interest to sign with another team.
Maybe Woody will pull the ‘blank check’ stunt like Dawson, but I doubt it.
jeff_pico - November 13, 2008
It all depends on what he can find on the open market.
It very well might be that the market gets a bit tighter this offseason, for various reasons.
I don’t think Hendry would say no if Wood came back and opened talks again.
Al Yellon - November 13, 2008
What if....
money doesn’t matter to Wood.
What if he would be completely willing to accept a deal to remain with the Cubs?
I know Hendry can’t go right out and say “Hey bud, we’ll re-sign you, mind if we pay you half as much as a person your talent deserves, eh?”
Hopefully Woody still wants to stay with the team.
If what I’ve said is the case, it’s Wood’s decision.
What if Wood would want a deal with more cash per year, with 2 years + an option?
There’s no way in hell Hendry would still deny him.
EJThunder - November 13, 2008
absolutely
If Wood wants to come back for a super hometown discount I’m sure the Cubs won’t say no.
The chances of that are very slim, but its possible.
If I was advising Kerry, I would advise him to take the money and run. He’s only got a few more years to play and might as well make the big money while he can.
jeff_pico - November 13, 2008
Well,
maybe the Cubs could do one better and give him a “regular” hometown iscount instead of a “super” one.
I’m saying, take what he is worth per year, take off a couple million and give him 2 or 3 years.
EJThunder - November 13, 2008
And how do you know that wasn't discussed?
It is all speculation. The two sides couldn’t come to an agreement is all I know. I’m not trying to guess who did what and who offered what.
rlpete - November 13, 2008
You need to throw away the bong when you graduate
kcjones - November 13, 2008
Kerry Wood doesn't deserve 4 years and $40 million for being a "good guy"
Jim Hendry made the right move today. Kerry Wood has made enormous sums of money wearing the Cub uniform while he sat on the DL or was inconsistent. The absolute most I would have been comfortable giving Kerry Wood in a new contract is 2 years and $15 million w/ plenty of incentive clauses and the ability to earn a third year. Apparently that isn’t good enough for him, which I can understand and is completely within his right.
If he can get some team to give him 3 or 4 years and $30 million, $40 million or more? Than more power to him.
MDBNIU - November 13, 2008
While I agree that it was the right move, based on what we've heard
The past is irrelevant. Those are sunk costs.
Shanghai Badger - November 13, 2008
I wish the Cubs had a Yankee-esque....
type payroll, but still didn’t feel the need to go out and get every single ace, batting champ, HR leader, etc.
Then this type of thing doesn’t happen.
The Cubs = a family making the decision to buy food (aka what’s best for the team) instead of buying medicine (aka re-signing Wood)
Maybe that was a bit of a stretch but you still get my point.
EJThunder - November 13, 2008
ugh
This makes me really sad.
blacksheep - November 13, 2008
I would have loved to see Wood end his career with the Cubs (and play his entire career with them).
I think everything I felt after 2003 was expressed by this noble competitor in the interviews after game 7. I am absolutely going to hate seeing him pitch for the brewers or cards or someone else, but he’ll still be one of my favorite players.
DudeVf11 - November 13, 2008
Although I am still sadden by him leaving
at least he left Chicago on a high note. If this had happened two seasons ago, well we would have thought of Wood as being like Prior was. Sure he will never win a WS with us (unless he comes back five years down the road), but he pitched damn well as a Chicago Cub and should be an immortal figure for this organization. Even though it won’t be retired, I hope his number isn’t worn by another Cub for at least 10 years..
Chanman25 - November 13, 2008
Rec'd
Al Yellon - November 13, 2008
oh thanks man!
Chanman25 - November 13, 2008
Hendry did what he had to do.
Wood is a BIG gamble long term. Hendry couldn’t take that gamble. I hope Kerry can sign a big contract for his family. He will be missed but I don’t blame Hendry.
Rick B - November 13, 2008
Why is he a big gamble?
Al Yellon - November 13, 2008
seriously?
The guy was off and on the DL for about 5 years before 2008…thats risky in almost any dictionary.
jeff_pico - November 13, 2008
It wasn't five years. It was three (2004-05-06).
… and part of ‘07 before he came back totally healthy. There has been NO recurrence of the elbow and shoulder trouble despite taking on a closer’s load.
I would have no hesitation giving him more than one year.
Al Yellon - November 13, 2008
My idea
Was 2 years with a vesting option on a third year.
puckishcubsfan - November 13, 2008
And Kerry's agent would have laughed you out of the room.
daver - November 14, 2008
Most of 2007, actually
And 2008 would be the 5th year.
Shanghai Badger - November 13, 2008
It was the right move
but I imagine it feels as if the family dog just passed.
Still it frees up money to go after B Giles and maybe B Roberts
sanders833 - November 13, 2008
Brian Giles is not coming to the Cubs.
Why do people keep posting this? Brian Giles will not leave San Diego. Period.
Al Yellon - November 13, 2008
Probably not, but
times have changed in this border town. I wonder if Giles wants to play on a 100-game loser. He didn’t go to Boston because he’d be on the bench. Had the Bosox acquired him, they would have dealt him away. Giles isn’t a complete non-option. It probably won’t happen, but it’s not 100% any more. It’s pretty toxic in Petco right now.
San Diego Smooth Jazz Man - November 13, 2008
Perhaps.
Unlike Peavy, Giles isn’t making huge dollars and he’s playing in his home town.
Al Yellon - November 13, 2008
And, he couldn't tan as well
on the North side.
San Diego Smooth Jazz Man - November 13, 2008
However, Buster Olney.....
http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/blog/index?entryID=3697619&name=olney_buster
San Diego Smooth Jazz Man - November 13, 2008
Yes, he likes smoking that good cali bud.
CubbieintheSouth - November 13, 2008
I'll certainly miss Kerry.
I’ll never forget when he came back from being injured last year in that night game against the Mets. As awful a night as that was, I looked at my buddy and said “Kerry Wood is a badass.” That’s the Woody I’ll remember.
However, its not as terrible as a lot of people are making it out to be. It seems a lot of people here think that its a huge hit to the Cubs’ chances of winning next year. Really? Anyone notice that Wood didn’t have a save chance in the playoffs? That’s because there are bigger fish to fry than spend $50 million on a closer. Kerry Wood will forever be one of my favorite ballplayers, and if he were to tell Hendry he wants to stay, and to pay him whatever he can, no one would be happier. That being said, I think its a tremendous overstatement to say how it will hurt the Cubs in the clubhouse. Not saying Woody isn’t a leader, but where was the leadership in October? Just one guy leaving, isn’t going to make the difference. Look at Johnny Damon leaving the Red Sox, they won another title a bit down the road.
The only way this worries, is that they don’t sign Dempster, and this whole ordeal is for nothing. That kind of money can be more wisely spent than on a closer, when we have Marmol waiting to fill that role. I know it will hurt the setup role, but its not like Gregg is Salomon Torres.
TCobb1911 - November 13, 2008
I agree with you...
… that this move MUST result in the re-signing of Dempster.
Al Yellon - November 13, 2008
Why?
If we don’t get Dempster, we’ll get another pitcher, and maybe a better one.
DGU - November 13, 2008
Who?
Al Yellon - November 14, 2008
It all depends on how good you think Dempster will be.
If you think he’s a 3.00 ERA pitcher, well, then, no one.
If you think he’s a 3.75 ERA pitcher, there are a few options.
If you think he’s a 4.25 ERA pitcher, there are several options.
For the price they’re likely to be at, I’d try Koji Uehara.
DGU - November 14, 2008
Uehara is intriguing.
For one thing, he’d give us a Japanese-speaking teammate for Fukudome, which might increase his comfort level. He’s also a quality pitcher.
I, for one, think Dempster can replicate his 2008 season — he seems to be dedicated to his workouts and to continuing success.
Al Yellon - November 14, 2008
I am not saying Dempster isn't dedicated
but how do we know he is still dedicated with his workouts and such? I would think Dempster would have more than enough integrity in his character to continue with the heavy off season workout regime he started last off season, knowing it was the key to his success? It was his FA season after all and he certainly wouldn’t be the first to do something like that and hit the pay day and grow lackadaisical and return to career averages.
I’m not saying that is the case with Ryan but he is Canadian afterall.
lemon20pie - November 14, 2008
Wow.
In one post you dissed Dempster, free agents and Canadians.
Al Yellon - November 14, 2008
I have just skimmed this thread
…but any crying over the departure over a pitcher who’s next pitch could be his last is a bit much for me. So, I have the feeling this is a minority opinion. Let some idiot GM overpay for…maybe 4 years on a pitcher who, most assuredly, won’t last the length of the deal.
The Cubs got all they could out of this guy. I consider it fortunate that he had a decent 2008. Long-term deals with this individual…..way too risky. In fact, I believe any long trem deal to any pitcher with an injury history, or a sketchy past IS risky. (Could Dempster have had his career year? Will he ever pitch as well again? Who knows?) MLB is littered with terrible long-term contracts to pitchers, and historically, the Cubs have had their share. (That means YOU, Danny Jackson.)
We know Wood’s a good guy. But that’s not the point. I’ll say it again — root for the laundry to win, (again, thanks to Jerry Seinfeld) and don’t worry about individuals. Players come and go. The team is the constant. Don’t get attached to players.
San Diego Smooth Jazz Man - November 13, 2008
-1000
Woody’s not any player
cocknfire - November 13, 2008
It's an uphill battle
When people compare this to a funeral and are upset that Wood turned down a potential $15-$20 million to stay a Cub, there is no chance.
rlpete - November 13, 2008
I could not disagree more
Sometimes the players live up to and represent the uniform they wear. The Santos, the Banks, the Sandbergs. We’ve lost something with the free agent era, and it means a lot to me. I fall in love with guys who fall in love with the uniform and the city. I love Woody, and my heart is broken tonight.
paulucla - November 13, 2008
The same Ron Santo
that finished in a Sox uniform? I’m disappointed that Wood isn’t returning but I’m not sad, heart-broken or acting like it is a funeral. And I’m surely not saying that Wood should not pursue an extra $15-$20 million because he doesn’t need it as some have said. I also don’t blame Hendry for overpaying just because it is Kerry Wood.
You are right, this isn’t the old days. Those days disappeared for me the day they cancelled the World Series. It’s a business and entertainment. Wood is no different than a actor trying for extra money for the next season of their TV show.
rlpete - November 13, 2008
There you go...
DrCrawdad - November 14, 2008
Sorry to sound cold
But you’ve just figured out now that baseball is really a business?
Santo/Banks played in a era, long, long ago. Sandberg is the last of his kind — with A Trammel, and T. Gywnn. One team only.
That era ended 20+ years ago. I cannot understand this heartbreak? Real heartbreak is this team not winning in the modern era, not whining over players who come and go and come and go and come and go.
San Diego Smooth Jazz Man - November 13, 2008
Every pitcher's pitch could be his last.
Its not a unique thing.
halfblindcubbiegirl - November 13, 2008
I think you know what he means...
…its all about probability, and Wood may very well have been going on borrowed time.
MPH73 - November 13, 2008
Maybe
but who isn’t when you put that kind of stress on your body?
halfblindcubbiegirl - November 14, 2008
Yeah, but some of them are rotator cuff tears...
…simply waiting to happen, rather than rotator cuffs that were torn three seasons ago.
cwyers - November 14, 2008
And, I also agree w/TCobb
DO NOT overspend on a closer. You can develop these guys, and Marmol can probably do this. The only thing the Padres are doing right is not tendering an offer to the 41-year-old Trevor Hoffman.
San Diego Smooth Jazz Man - November 13, 2008
...and neither is George Mitterwald.
So what?
San Diego Smooth Jazz Man - November 13, 2008
I can understand this to an extent
I see why Hendry’s doing it — this is probably in the best interest of the club right now.
But this is hard to take. I do love Woody as a player, and I hatehatehate the idea of watching him go. This is different than Sosa (who wasn’t what we initially thought and waaay overstayed his welcome) or even Andre Dawson (who I loved at that time). This is more like Maddux — Woody was a Cub when he started out, has been a Cub the whole time. And, in Wood’s case, has often put the Cubs and what he felt was his responsibility/obligation ahead of himself.
It is what it is, though, and I will still root for the Cubs. The Cubs are why I liked Woody so much, not the other way around.
People who aren’t sad miss the point. It can be a good business move — and a good move for the Cubs — and also be a sad day. And it is.
cocknfire - November 13, 2008
haha I didn't watch the game
but I’ll always remember watching the video of him trembling after he threw 20 K’s….Priceles..
Chanman25 - November 13, 2008
Of course, the 25 threads on Jake Peavy
also speculate Gregg might be headed to SD, if a deal for the (talked about too much) Jake Peavy comes about. Heath Bell might not be the Padres closer-in waiting.
An easy pick up for the Cubs — and he’d be cheap, would be the Astros Doug Brocail, for more help in the pen. This guy has closed when he was with the Pads, and Hoffman was injured, or unavailable. This is how you find bull pen help on the cheap. (Brocail is a FA) Hendry overpaid for Howry and Eyre. Obviously, that mistake won’t be duplicated on Kerry Wood.
San Diego Smooth Jazz Man - November 13, 2008
How old is Brocail, anyway? 60?
Forget it.
Al Yellon - November 13, 2008
30-something...
But this is a guy, who is gonna need a job, can pitch, and will come cheap. This is how you stock a bullpen so the money can go elsewhere. You give him a 1-year deal, loaded with incentives.
San Diego Smooth Jazz Man - November 13, 2008
Brocail
I’d take Brocail to fill out the ’02 Joe Borowski role…completely unexpected great work out of the bullpen.
He actually did have a great season the first half of 08, the Cubs could do alot worse to pad out the bullpen.
jeff_pico - November 13, 2008
Brocail does not have an injury history, either
This guy is totally under everybody’s radar.
San Diego Smooth Jazz Man - November 13, 2008
I believe he missed a significaant amount time
within the last couple of years due to a medical issue. Something with his heart, maybe?
cowsarecool220 - November 13, 2008
30-something?
Did you actually look before you wrote that?
Brocail will be 42 in May. Ugh.
Al Yellon - November 14, 2008
Did you actually watch Wood Pitch?
He is not Howery or Eyre. Oh. Yeah Eyre helped win a world series,
CubbieintheSouth - November 13, 2008
I also cannot believe I agree with
Blue Mike, word for word……..shocking…
San Diego Smooth Jazz Man - November 13, 2008
Welp
Guess some people are now screwed with their free agent picks in the contest hahah
Chanman25 - November 13, 2008
I know I am.
I gave Woody my 15 confidence rating. PWNED!
daver - November 14, 2008
What to say?
I think I’m too shocked to feel sad just yet. Maybe the reality will sink in tomorrow for me. This makes me wonder about Dempster, as well.
No Southern Belle - November 13, 2008
As for Dempster...
NO I wouldn’t be shock if they don’t resign him…he’s also going to want ALOT of money and this was his first good year as a starter in 8 years.
However if they don’t sign Dempster they better bring home a true A+ list free agent.
jeff_pico - November 13, 2008
The best thing to happen might be for the Ryan Dempster bidding to get crazy and for Hendry to subsequently take a pass
I have a lot of concern over Ryan Dempster delivering on a 4 year contract in the neighborhood of $12 million plus a season. If he were to walk because the bidding got stupid I would not be heartbroken. Sean Marshall is there to compete for a spot in the rotation. And there are rehab projects we can pluck in the open market. Ideal? No. But with a rotation that already includes Carlos Zambrano, Ted Lilly, Rich Harden and Jason Marquis I’m not sure it has to be. Plus, Hendry would always have the manueverability to make a splashy mid-season trade for pitching if the strategy didn’t work out too hot.
MDBNIU - November 13, 2008
This makes me sad
but we have to move forward. Maybe some day Kerry will be back and retire in a Cubs uniform.
sue369 - November 13, 2008
I'm hurt too.
Best wishes to Woody. I must say Iam not much of a Gregg fan,
Although we won 0 world series with Wood. Here is to a new year.
CubbieintheSouth - November 13, 2008
Clearly there are strong divisions of opinion on this subject among Cubbie fans
I think all of us are sad to see the Kerry Wood era come to a close. But it does seem that a healthy number understand the objective logic in waving bye-bye to Wood. Today, I think the Cubs took another step as an organization. One that is focused more on winning and less on sentimentality. I like that. A lot actually. I’m ready for this 101 year old drought to be over.
MDBNIU - November 13, 2008
By getting rid of one of the most influential and sucessful Cubs in history?
Our bullpen was already questionable, now it’s bad.
CubbieintheSouth - November 13, 2008
does the season start tomorrow?
I think Kerry Wood has been one of the greatest people to be a Cub, he had brilliant flashes, including one of the best pitching performances ever, but he was hurt way more than he was healthy.
jeff_pico - November 13, 2008
Look, I agree that the season doesn't start tomorrow.
But, We traded a high end prospect for a pitcher coming off of surgery. We absolutely need another arm in the pen, And some lefty offense.
CubbieintheSouth - November 13, 2008
Disagree 100%
A. Closers are overrated
B. No closer is worth $10 million per season
C. Kerry Wood has spent a lifetime on the DL already
D. Kerry Wood has a right arm that could explode for the next and final time at any given moment — in early 2007 the medical professionals said as such
Carlos Marmol, Kevin Gregg and Jeff Spellcheck will be a better, more certain and more cost effective bullpen than Kerry Wood, Marmol and Bob Howry serving the headliner roles. Jim Hendry made a wise, albeit difficult, decision.
MDBNIU - November 13, 2008
The Shark is not a proven commodity yet.
Gregg is good, but I don’t think his “STUFF” is as good as Woodys. It is just a tad bit different pitching at Wrigley than it is pitching at what ever the hell they call that stadium in Florida these days.
CubbieintheSouth - November 13, 2008
small sample sizes
They are small smaple sizes but Gregg has been good both at Wrigley Field in his career (0.00 in 3.2 IP) and during the day (3.06 ERA in 141 IP)
jeff_pico - November 13, 2008
Stats are one thing...
But, let Gregg blow a couple of key spots and let’s see how he likes pitching at The Friendly Confines?
CubbieintheSouth - November 13, 2008
What are Latroy Hawkins cub and visitor stats?
CubbieintheSouth - November 13, 2008
Agree and disagree
A. Yep.
B. Yep.
C. He’s still young, but I know what you mean. His health is a concern.
D. Overstatement, but it is a concern.
It’s right for Jim to sit down and tell Kerry to take the 25 M more he’s going to get from some other team. The Cubs can’t keep taking $$$ away from what Kerry can rightfully earn.
Here’s where we disagree – if you don’t like Michael Wuertz, you are not going to like Kevin Gregg. The walks are going to drive Lou crazy. Gregg may not finish the season with the Cubs.
DGU - November 13, 2008
Walks out of the pen are the worst thing that can happen to a reliever,
CubbieintheSouth - November 13, 2008
Here's the thing...Kevin Gregg isn't Kerry Wood's replacement...Carlos Marmol is
It seems to me that Jim Hendry had lots of choices to add a bullpen arm. I’ll assume he had very good reasons why he zoned in on Kevin Gregg. I’ll guess one of those reasons is a confidence that Gregg can either capably take over the set-up role served by Carlos Marmol, OR, can be the closer outright. Another reason is that he is a relative financial bargain, which for the Cubs is important given all the fat money, back loaded contracts on this roster already.
It’s mistake to compare Gregg and Wood. The apt comparison in 2009 will be the 2009 version of Carlos Marmol the closer versus the 2008 version of Kerry Wood the closer.
MDBNIU - November 13, 2008
Look, I am not going to lose sleep
over losing Wood. I would love to have him back, but, I would rather have a rightfielder who can hit. Hendry has done a great job over the years (minus the Pierre trade). Now , let me see some bats. Must keep bats warm.
CubbieintheSouth - November 13, 2008
I'm not comparing Gregg to Wood.
I’m comparing Gregg to Wuertz and I can’t see how Lou will put up with Gregg when he couldn’t stand Wuertz. Gregg walked people at the same right Samardzija did. This is not Lou’s kind of ’pen.
DGU - November 13, 2008
Kevin Gregg isn't really a big investment despite the weeping and gnashing of teeth over the loss of Jose Ceda
He might not be lights out but I do expect him to be a quality inning eater in a setup role. Let’s not judge this bullpen until the season starts. I have a feeling Jim Hendry isn’t done making moves to improve this bullpen.
MDBNIU - November 13, 2008
Oh, there's a big lefty arm coming for sure.
DGU - November 13, 2008
Speculation?
CubbieintheSouth - November 13, 2008
Tea leaves and all that
DGU - November 13, 2008
I don't like tea,
CubbieintheSouth - November 13, 2008
Well, maybe something bigger is coming.
CubbieintheSouth - November 13, 2008
Maybe, but not from a big money addition point of view
Today’s actions make it clear that Jim Hendry is very mindful of payroll considerations. Therefore don’t expect any flashy financial moves this offseason with the exception of re-signing Ryan Dempster.
MDBNIU - November 13, 2008
Look we won 97 games, I am not in favor of blowing up
a team. But, Wood is a fixture. I watched him pitch his lasy game, before his surgery in the Dusty ERA, I watched hom pitch in spring training before he got better all of a sudden, I just Hat to se him go because as bad as it has been to be a die hard, Wood has been there for the last 10 years.
CubbieintheSouth - November 13, 2008
You are possibly mis-reading the situation.
The fact that Jim is watching his pennies doesn’t mean he isn’t going to spend dollars. It may mean that he’s budgeted out a couple big dollar expenditures and knows there won’t be pennies left.
DGU - November 13, 2008
You are right
I forget that we are talking about the Cubs. They have all the money they need
CubbieintheSouth - November 13, 2008
That's not it.
But I think plenty of families right now know what it means to eat a little more cheaply in mid-November because they’re saving money for the big Thanksgiving meal later in the month. The Cubs have a limit to their budget, but that budget isn’t limited NECESSARILY to just Dempster.
DGU - November 13, 2008
Really?
The Cubs fit in that bracket? The stands are empty all the time.
CubbieintheSouth - November 13, 2008
this pretty much justifies me ...
Any opinion expressed above should in no way be confused with fact, truth, or reality and is hereby qualified
CubbieintheSouth - November 13, 2008
Some of what GM's say...
…is BS, but when Hendry said the payroll would go up slightly from 08, he sounded sincere to me. Now, we can ask what the definition of slightly is, but I highly doubt it means; big money for Dempster, acquiring Peavy, getting a good LH bat and the other misc. things he needs to spend on.
Something has got to give, and I tend to think you won’t see them with both Peavy and Dempster.
MPH73 - November 13, 2008
TWSS
Just trying to lighten the mood…
PurpleLineToWrigley - November 14, 2008
Come one.
Thats absurd in two counts. If you measured success by DL stints and value in a overrated role, than maybe. And losing a Woody, does not all of a sudden make a bullpen bad. Last I checked they have Marmol to close (who is unquestionably better) and they didn’t trade Ceda for Jose Conseco to pitch the 8th. You’re talking about Gregg like he’s fresh out of the Iowa High School State Tourney.
TCobb1911 - November 13, 2008
Wow
thats a terrible typing error I just had. I meant to say losing Woody. Not losing A Woody. Viva Viagra…
TCobb1911 - November 13, 2008
Look you confused me.
Do I argue with you or against?
CubbieintheSouth - November 13, 2008
I would say
by you saying the ’pen is now “bad” and Woody “one of the most successful Cubs in history”, you would argue against me.
TCobb1911 - November 13, 2008
I guess so
CubbieintheSouth - November 13, 2008
Come all!
daver - November 14, 2008
One of the most successful in Cubs history?!?!
Not even in the top 20.
Shanghai Badger - November 13, 2008
I’ll forgive some people with being sentimental.
The 20 strikeout game will always be a special memory for any Cub fan.
jeff_pico - November 13, 2008
Yeah, but still
Milt Pappas threw a no-hitter. Is he one of the most successful players in Cubs history?
Shanghai Badger - November 13, 2008
and Kenny Holtzman threw 2
rlpete - November 14, 2008
And, successful in what way?
He struck out 20 batters in one game. He’s injury prone. The Cubs won a WC and 2 Division titles….
Excuse me, but — BFD.
He’s a good pitcher who was dogged by injuries which prevented him from establishing a HOF career, that’s all.
Besides, Ernie Banks was one of the greatest individuals to wear a Cubs uni. Wood may be a distant……some where down the line. This love for Wood is so overblown, it’s hard to fathom. If he was responsible for a number of NL Pennants, or WS victories, then…fine.
This is just so over the top, it’s typical of this fan base. I’d rather have a World Championship than Kerry Wood’s ‘loyalty.’
I’m looking for championships. I’m tired of fawning over players who come and go. If you all want to worship players, go for it.
San Diego Smooth Jazz Man - November 14, 2008
Dude
WTF does this:
even mean?
You’re not allowed to appreciate a player’s career, potential and past without being a typical fan who doesn’t want a championship? Bull.
I’ve seen Woody’s career. I know what it is and what it could’ve been. I don’t know what a world series title looks like (yet) but the first has NOTHING to do with me not wanting the second.
halfblindcubbiegirl - November 14, 2008
Actually, I agree to a point. It's not the BCB crowd.
It is typical of the Cub fan base.
The “give me a Bud, halter tops, Ronnie Woo and throw it back!” fan base that can’t tell you who is pitching for either team.
Shanghai Badger - November 14, 2008
I wil hear no shit-talking the halter tops!
:-)
CaliCub - November 15, 2008
Good point
I suppose I could have left that one off
Shanghai Badger - November 17, 2008
In general....
…I happen to agree with him. There is little question in my mind, that a high percentage of Cub fans can’t think objectively during times like this. Too many people tend to put an emotional connection to a certain player ahead of decisions that are more likely to make the team better.
For a long time, I have said all of Hendry’s backloaded deals were going to make things difficult. The Wood decision is the first major sign of this (from an emotional standpoint), but it is still THE RIGHT BASEBALL DECISION.
It’s possible that the long period of time without a championship causes a lot of Cub fans to cling to players to fill that void, but objectivity is certainly lacking.
MPH73 - November 15, 2008
Not much to say here...
I certainly hope Hendry knows what he is doing. I will miss Woody a great deal and wish him the best. Here is to great service, honorable actions, solid pitching, and an all around stand up guy.
Cheers to Woody. Now go far away where we will see you but once a season and I don’t have to root against you.
Kinky Reggae - November 13, 2008
Not enough "solid pitching" out of Wood over the years
What I can’t understand is how so many are quick to dismiss Kerry Wood’s history of being on the DL combined with all those times when he has imploded on the mound. Yes, he did have many great flashes. But they were way, way, way too often punctuated with times where you just want to pull your hair out and scream. And I’d like to know how come the Cubs get so little credit for sticking with Wood and paying him all those millions for all that downtime over the years?
The Cub organization has been exceptionally good to Kerry Wood.
MDBNIU - November 13, 2008
Says you Mike.
Woody has always been a great pitcher. Sure he spent too much time on the DL but not by choice. He has always been a pitcher who would have if he could have. The Cubs were good to him and he was good in return. Why is it you have so much trouble simply giving the guy credit where it is due?
As always, your posts are about you and not the players we are actually talking about. I could care less what you do with your hair. Pull it all out if you’d like. I say Woody was good to this club and he will be missed. If not by you, well……oh well.
Kinky Reggae - November 13, 2008
I need an IPA.
CubbieintheSouth - November 13, 2008
You need an Institute for Public Accuracy?
daver - November 14, 2008
Hmmmmmmmm.....
Try to picture Wood put together with……mmmmmmm, say…… Dave Duncan. There is a team with money and needs, and what a better person to jump start a career.
James031 - November 13, 2008
oh NOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
CubbieintheSouth - November 13, 2008
I will be SHOCKED if Kerry Wood signs with an NL Central team
I think the chances are strong he deliberately moves to the American League. I’m betting he is wearing an Angels uniform next season.
MDBNIU - November 13, 2008
Maybe so but........
Wouldn’t the Cardinals like a little Edmonds payback…….. and it’s just business these days with everyone….. follow the money so to speak….
James031 - November 13, 2008
They have their own issues
and won’t take another pitcher with an Injury Risk. They are looking for a stopgap until Perez and Mott can develop as a closer. Not a 4 year deal for a closer.
TheRiot Police - November 14, 2008
Agreed
Cardinals have no middle infield. They have bigger needs than a high-priced closer.
rlpete - November 14, 2008
Rangers
Rangers are my prediction. They want Dempster too.
puckishcubsfan - November 13, 2008
Rangers would be a minimum stress place for Kerry Wood
But on the flip side Wood going to the Rangers would be proof positive that it is all about the money for him at this stage. Texas is awful and will remain awful.
MDBNIU - November 13, 2008
It wouldn't mean it is all about the money. That's absurd.
Texas is his home state. If it was all about the money, he would have taken the Red Sox deal last year.
DGU - November 13, 2008
Kerry Wood hasn't lived in Texas since his high school days living with family
He lives in Scottsdale Arizona. Has for a long time now. His Texas allegiance is over blown. It was a storyline because he was a power pitcher coming out of Texas in the famous mold of Nolan Ryan and Roger Clemens.
MDBNIU - November 13, 2008
Either way
playing Kerry as being all about the money is absurd. He’s turned down larger deals in the past. But it isn’t fair to the union for him to pass up 25 M or more.
DGU - November 13, 2008
'Tros......????
…is in Texas I think…..!
James031 - November 13, 2008
Before you say it is "all for the money" if Woody signs with the Rangers,
think about who the president of the Rangers is and what his reputation is among pitchers.
DeRoMyHero - November 14, 2008
I can't but wonder...
…whether Woody will factor that into what other teams he seriously considers. I mean, I get the whole “to the highest bidder” thing, but Kerry was one guy who definitely understood the Cubs-Cards and Cubs-Brewers rivalries. I guess we’ll see what we see.
daver - November 14, 2008
td pats
CubbieintheSouth - November 13, 2008
Pardon?
daver - November 14, 2008
This guy actually watched that game last night.
willie mays hayes' gloves - November 14, 2008
Ohhhh...football.
Maybe he was trying to start an instant gamethread.
daver - November 14, 2008
Just a bad day
Certain players should finish careers on one team, Wood is one. Florida just loves us, Willis, Nolasco now Ceda.
Kerry you will be missed, They screwed Maddux and now they pinch pennies on you.
34 on another player won’t be the same.
Good luck.
Grockcubs - November 13, 2008
I agree
CubbieintheSouth - November 13, 2008
Hmmmm
$15 million or more is a lot of pennies to pinch. This situation is so much different than Maddux.
rlpete - November 14, 2008
Your GM's main goal...
…can be to win a championship or it can be to make sure and keep all popular players no matter what the cost. At some point, these two goals will not coincide with each other.
MPH73 - November 14, 2008
Wood is not at all like Maddux
Greg Maddux leaving was about Larry Slime being on a power kick and not understanding the extraordinary value of Greg Maddux in his prime on the mound. Kerry Wood leaving is wise business decision because it would be insane to give an oft-injured, enigmatic closer $8 million plus per season for several seasons when there will forever be concern his arm blows up again and the Cubs are left paying millions for still more DL time. Carlos Marmol is ready to step up and be our closer. We no longer need Kerry Wood. Certainly not at the price he thinks he can command.
MDBNIU - November 14, 2008
Sometimes you think
with your heart. I guess that is where I am coming from to a certain degree. To me the Cubs bullpen did not get better with Marmol and Gregg. This was all about the money, this did not make the Cubs better.
However I see where you guys are coming from, hell we all know Woodys lengthy DL scorecard, so yes BUSINESS wise, good move.
I guess my Maddux comment was more out of frustration. It is just tough seeing these two in other teams uniforms.
Grockcubs - November 14, 2008
You are living in another era.
That might be relevent on ABC’s “Life On Mars,” set in 1973 — but it’s not a factor in 21st Century Pro Sports.
San Diego Smooth Jazz Man - November 14, 2008
OT: is that a good show?
It looks like it could be good. Has anyone seen it?
CaliCub - November 15, 2008
It's not bad
Shanghai Badger - November 17, 2008
Evening
I spent the last couple of hours with my social group that is made up of non sports fans for the most part. They know how much Kerry means to me and were asking me if I was okay and patting me on the back. That’s how much this has made the general news,.
Got an email from a Sox fan who is very involved in the Chicago charity community and knows Kerry and Sarah quite well and adores them. She would love to see him on the south side but they have a closer. She is very sad to see him leave Chicago.
puckishcubsfan - November 13, 2008
If he goes to the Brewers or Cards,
I will be a very unhappy person. The thought of Wood closing a game out against the Cubs in one of those uniforms, makes me throw up in my mouth.
Now the Pats just tied it up, at least tomorrow is Friday.
slocs55 - November 13, 2008
Wood isn't going to put himself in the stressful condition of pitching for an NL Central competitor
I’m betting the Angels is his next destination.
MDBNIU - November 13, 2008
Rays
Rays seem to be interested in Woody also….I think the Cards have some in-house closer possibilities.
The Brewers are a possibility unfortunately ;(
jeff_pico - November 13, 2008
Hope you are right.....
Edmonds still has his home in St. Louis……just saying.
James031 - November 13, 2008
Angels are a good possibility
with K-Rod gone. They hope to compete next year so they will want someone proven. It might depend on whether they go overboard for Texeira.
rlpete - November 14, 2008
Ironically
Ironically the player on last year’s team I could picture most stepping into Kerry’s clubhouse and off the field role is Ryan Dempster. Let’s hope he stays.
I’m just glad he is leaving not for the reason we’ve all feared over the years he’d leave early and that’s due to early retirement,
Call me goofy but if he does go to the AL I may go to US Cellular for his first game in Chicago. I’m sure I won’t be the only Cub fan there that day.
puckishcubsfan - November 13, 2008
Is it revealing that the Kevin Gregg acquisition wasn't expanded to include Jeremy Hermida??
Seems to me we can officially put to rest any interest on the part of the Cubs in Hermida as the answer for left-handed bat addition. Otherwise today’s deal would have been bigger in scope to include him.
MDBNIU - November 13, 2008
It doesn't necessarily mean that.
The Cubs may have been interested but the Fish unwilling to sell.
What we do know is that we told FL to “keep the change” with Ceda and maybe Hendry wanted to get this deal done prior to the market opening up larger, but most likely a Hermida trade is not coming.
DGU - November 13, 2008
Jose Ceda is an interesting prospect
Lets leave it at that. I’m not sure I understand all these wondrous projections for a pitcher who has yet to go above A-ball. He’s got a big arm and certainly shows promise, obviously so because the smart Larry Beinfast acquired him in a deal to give up his closer in Kevin Gregg. All I know is that the minor leagues are overwhelmed with “big arms,” many who don’t make it. Especially those like Ceda who have has historical control problems.
MDBNIU - November 13, 2008
In the end, it doesn't matter whether you thought Ceda would make it or if I did.
What mattered is that the general consensus of scouts was that Ceda was a prospect with significant value. Keith Law wrote:
When FL was giving away Scott Olsen and Josh Willingham for the used infield rake, we somehow decided to give one of our five best trade chips. This is a trade chip that could have been put to better use.
This is what irks me about this trade. It’s supposedly all about saving money for some other budget expenditure – but we pinched the pennies while being liberal with our prospect capital.
DGU - November 13, 2008
Ceda
This guy could just as easily never throw a pitch in the majors.
You can’t judge that part of the trade until Ceda actually throws pitch #1 in the majors, anything now is pure speculation.
How many time have experts, including Keith Law, been wrong about ‘prospects’? ALOT
jeff_pico - November 13, 2008
Yes, you can judge a trade by the value at the time.
Say I give you my house for your 14 year-old, arthritis-ridden dog.
If lightning strikes my house a week later and it burns down, it doesn’t change the fact that I overpaid for your dog.
DGU - November 13, 2008
Ceda's value
So what is Ceda’s value? How do you know the value of a player who has never pitched an inning in the major leagues?
You simply just don’t know if he will ever play in the major leagues, let alone be successful.
If he never plays in the majors, the Cubs didn’t give up anything at all.
jeff_pico - November 13, 2008
That's just not the way it works, Jeff.
Let’s say Jose Ceda could have gotten us Kevin Gregg or Jonathan Papelbon. Just grant this for the sake of argument for the moment. If we had the opportunity to use Ceda to get Papelbon and we passed it up to get Gregg, then we did give up something.
Well, we know Ceda wasn’t going to get us Papelbon, but the odds are he could have gotten us something better than Gregg. The Marlins were giving away their arb-eligible players. We took a 100 dollar bill to a garage sale and said, “Keep the change.”
DGU - November 14, 2008
Bull...Cubs did not "overpay" for Kevin Gregg
Kevin Gregg is an established and good major league relief pitcher. The Cubs gave up an A-ball prospect to acquire him, period. Cubs are built to win NOW and the addition of Gregg fits with that strategy. Jose Ceda may one day become a good major league contributor, or he may crap out. The deal was a good one for the Cubs and presumably a good one for the payroll shedding Marlins. But they are the ones who are taking the risk on Ceda turning into something.
MDBNIU - November 14, 2008
Sometimes I get the impression
that for you – if we had included Felix Pie and Ronny Cedeno in the offer for Gregg, it still wouldn’t have been overpaying.
You don’t have to value the prospect as a potential ML player to still value the prospect’s worth in the trade market. Rosenthal reported several teams were “surpised” the Cubs gave up Ceda for Gregg. I think “surprised” was the polite way of putting things.
DGU - November 14, 2008
You live on the word of every Internet word and sports journalist, don't you.
Braves are “really, really, really, really” impatient with San Diego….
Ken Rosenthal is “surprised” the Cubs gave up Ceda….
Ernie from www.sandiegopadressuck.com says Peavy only wants to come to the Cubs and doesn’t want them to trade more than Ronny Cedeno and a two year subscription to Vineline to get him….
Whatever. It takes quality to get quality. Kevin Gregg is quality. End of subject.
MDBNIU - November 14, 2008
Al...I'm not thrilled either...
as I find Gregg to be another CFL.
Hendry….find the door, AND Jerry Angelo….and don’t let it hit y’all on the a$$ on the way out.
kcjones - November 13, 2008
eye roll
halfblindcubbiegirl - November 13, 2008
Is that like a spicy tuna roll?
kcjones - November 13, 2008
Al......the Marlins have REAL...
Scouts and what not….
(you said) “Maybe Ceda will become a good major league pitcher, but that could be two or three years away (though the way the Marlins promote their minor leaguers, maybe sooner).”……
How do you think they get all their pitcching? I always wonder if the Marlins aren’t paying Hendry as much as the Cubs….
kcjones - November 13, 2008
Marlins
The Marlins have got Nolasco who has had 2 good years. I don’t know if Hendry made the Willis deal, but I’m not crying any tears over that guy he’s pretty much flamed out. Reynel Pinto doesn’t look like anything particularly special.
Will Ceda ever pitch in the majors? who knows?
jeff_pico - November 13, 2008
And Sergio Mitre
was released I believe.
rlpete - November 14, 2008
K
Gleebo - November 14, 2008
Great job!
That is great did you do that or find it somewhere?
Mind if I borrow it for use as a signature not here but other places?
puckishcubsfan - November 14, 2008
Well, I for one will be furious if Dempster doesn't resign within the week
or if he signs with another team today..
Chanman25 - November 14, 2008
Show of hands
Show of hands. Anyone else seriously considering making a trip to US Cellular if he winds up in the AL on a team the Cubs won’t face at home?
puckishcubsfan - November 14, 2008
Hendry
Hendry has been accused of being overly sentimental and attached to players. Guys this couldn’t have been easy on him. They came to the Cubs together.
I think Hendry has earned some of our trust to see how this all plays out.
puckishcubsfan - November 14, 2008
I under the setiment...
…but without a Yankees payroll to toss around, Hendry made the right move here. The frustrating part for me is again seeing all the people being more concerned with one player vs wanting to improve the clubs chances to win a championship. I realize that nostalga and setiment help to soften the blow of no championships, but its time to think “team” and not “player”.
MPH73 - November 14, 2008
+20K
See what I did there….
TheRiot Police - November 14, 2008
+ 1,000,000,000
It’s about building a winning franchise. Letting Kerry Wood go was a business decision. The right business decision. Cub fans need to let go the sentimentality for all things Wrigley, Kerry Wood, etc. Let’s have passion for winning a friggin World Series.
MDBNIU - November 14, 2008
Just.
very sad.
MOCubsfan - November 14, 2008
"Face of the ballclub" is an overrated concept
I’m not even sure what that really means. Kerry Wood was a swell guy, but I don’t think I ever saw him serve as a leader to anything except perhaps leading the commando raid to smash Sammy Sosa’s boombox.
Do the Boston Red Sox have a “face of the ballclub”? I don’t think so. Do the Los Angeles Angels? Did the Florida Marlins when they were winning their two World Series?
MDBNIU - November 14, 2008
Sometimes the right decisions simply suck
The news that Woods will no longer be a Cub put a huge pit in my stomach. He has been the face of the franchise, classy through all the ups and downs, making sacrifices for the benefit of the team, and always giving his best effort. But I do believe that the Cubs are doing the right thing by them and by Kerry. He will be able to get a larger, longer offer elsewhere, and he has earned the right to do so. Eventually, teams do need to move on (e.g., 49ers and Joe Montana), and this relationship reached that point.
I live in Houston and have witnessed Brad Lidge’s saga. He handled his blown saves with more class than I could ever expect of a player, and because of that, he earned the right to be traded to a new situation that happened to turn out much better for him. Even though this decision with Kerry is different in that performance on the field is less the issue than it is contract details, the same principle applies: it is the right thing to do.
And it sucks.
Lastly, to Kerry Wood: Thanks for giving Cubs fans actual confidence that this team can actually win. Life in Wrigleyville changed when you struck out those 20 Astros.
Cubbiedaddy - November 14, 2008
Rec'd and this should be the last posting on this topic
Free Agency starts today!
rlpete - November 14, 2008
Rec'd
DeRoMyHero - November 14, 2008
Part of the problem is...
…the face of the franchise should be that real heavy trophy with a bunch of flags sticking out of it. Sure, certain players are identified with teams, but this is 2008, not 1968 and you have to do what is best for the club.
MPH73 - November 15, 2008
Every franchise has a "face" player.
That’s not the problem. The problem here is, the Cubs got rid of a productive player and so far, have replaced him with a lesser player. How is that a good baseball decision?
Al Yellon - November 16, 2008
Well said
There are parallels to the end of the line for Joe Montana in San Francisco. The 49ers recognized it was time to move on and turn the reins over to Steve Young. Montana was old, broken down and wanted a lot of money to stay. The situation with the Cubs and Kerry Wood is similar, though Wood has accomplished little on the pitcher mound to be putting him in the same breath as a Joe Montana in terms of impact.
I like Kerry Wood. I’ll miss Kerry Wood. But I applaud the Cubs on this move.
MDBNIU - November 14, 2008
It sad that money walks in MLB..
Wood can really show his loyalty to the Cubs by offering to take ANY reasonable offer that Hendry can give him. He really doesn’t need the money and it would be great PR for the team. On the other hand, if he walks because he gets some huge offer, then I guess greed wins over loyalty. Come on Kerry-show your True Blue colors and do what Andre Dawson did years ago.
ronsanto10 - November 14, 2008
Greed?
You have GOT to be kidding. Come on dude…
PurpleLineToWrigley - November 14, 2008
I'm sorry I just don't understand this Pollyanna thinking
How in anyway is this a negative reflection on Wood? We are talking potentially $15 Million dollars or more. It is easy for a fan to say, “Don’t take the money and stay here because I love you Kerry”.
Dawson was a different case, he needed to play in Chicago or another grass field to keep his career alive. The Cubs were the logical choice since they would pay him and had the open spot.
rlpete - November 14, 2008
I'll never fault a professional athlete for looking out for number one
I can’t fault Kerry Wood for getting the best contract for himself. If some team is willing to give him a three or four year deal then more power to Kerry Wood. So long as it is not the Cubs handing out a foolish contract like that then I don’t care.
MDBNIU - November 14, 2008
Wait, money walks? I thought it talks.
daver - November 14, 2008
Money walks. Bullshit talks.
willie mays hayes' gloves - November 14, 2008
"Sexy? What's wrong with sexy?"
“Not sexy, Nigel. Sexist!”
daver - November 14, 2008
It's such a fine line between stupid, and clever.
willie mays hayes' gloves - November 14, 2008
"Hi, guys. I'm Bobbi Flekman. Yes, Bobbi Flekman, hello."
daver - November 14, 2008
As long as there's, you know, sex and drugs, I can do without the rock and roll.
willie mays hayes' gloves - November 14, 2008
There's no sex and drugs for Ian.
daver - November 14, 2008
Dozens of people spontaneously combust each year. It's just not really widely reported.
willie mays hayes' gloves - November 14, 2008
Two words: Shit sandwich.
They can’t print that!
daver - November 14, 2008
He died in a bizarre gardening accident...
Authorities said… best leave it… unsolved.
willie mays hayes' gloves - November 14, 2008
So you're saying you feel like a preserved moose on stage.
daver - November 14, 2008
That's it. You win. I bow to the master.
willie mays hayes' gloves - November 14, 2008
Spinal Tap Rules!
willie mays hayes' gloves - November 14, 2008
LOL, I can do Tap references all day long.
I’ve seen that movie probably around 20 times.
Smell the glove!
daver - November 14, 2008
::adds another need to see movie to the evergrowing list::
halfblindcubbiegirl - November 14, 2008
I'm sorry I missed this conversation
it would have been fun. Had lunch at Hard Rock Cafe today and it must have been heavy metal day because every song was Whitesnake or Bon Jovi or Guns and Roses and all I could think about was how Spinal Tap was better than those guys.
Someone once met Rob Reiner at a party and said, “You know, I really liked your movie but why did’t you pick a band that was more famous?”
Weeghman Park - November 14, 2008
So easy to say
When it isn’t your money
Shanghai Badger - November 14, 2008
Sad Day.
I understand that it is business, but this is an end of a era. Best of luck to Kerry. IMHO he is the ultimate professional and gentleman, and I wish him nothing but the best.
Tangled Up In Blue - November 14, 2008
last
daver - November 14, 2008
but one
Weeghman Park - November 14, 2008
I'm watching CTL and
Paul Sullivan (I know…consider the source) but he says Kerry was willing to take a one year deal but the Cubs turned him down. He says it’s Lou that didn’t want Kerry. Paul also isn’t sure they will sign Demp either. I know it’s Sullivan so believe what you want.
sue369 - November 14, 2008
Any word on why Lou didn't want Kerry,
or if Lou’s welcome to return to Chicago? I say trade Lou to San Francisco for Randy Winn.
DGU - November 14, 2008
They didn't say why.
sue369 - November 14, 2008
Do you think it may have been...
…as simple as this; well guys, we can sign Wood, but then we likely won’t be able to fill one of the other needs we have identified. Or, we can put Marmol in as closer and go ahead and use that money for something more pressing.
I really really don’t understand why this is so frigging difficult.
MPH73 - November 15, 2008
I was multi-tasking
when it was on and my husband said the guys on there said it was because Lou said Woody was inconsistant.
sue369 - November 15, 2008
I trust nothing Sullivan says
With Lou’s obsession with “power arms” the idea he wouldn’t want Woody just doesn’t sound right.
halfblindcubbiegirl - November 14, 2008
I know its hard....
…but lets try and use some logic here.
During the organizational meetings, can we all agree the powers at be discussed how to improve the team? Good, now at some point, Hendry gave them an idea how much he would have to spend and most of the increase was probably eaten up by the “beautiful backloaded deals” the Trib wanted him to do so they could sell and get out from under those. Now, they have not been able to sell and those backloaded deals are starting to climb and costing them more of their revenues. So, Hendry and the gang determined they could save money by not signing Wood and using that money in other areas. And by the way, Wood’s replacement is likey to be better than Wood at closing.
MPH73 - November 15, 2008
Dude, I was just
commenting on what they said. If you have a problem with what they said contact Comcast Sports Net.
sue369 - November 15, 2008
wood
unlike the employee kerry will always be loved and welcomed back with open arms.is the budget that tight that we could,nt keep him on a 1 yr????look for the mets and brewers to be aggressive i think.how many players last 10 yrs with one team,let,s appreciate that anyways.still a very sad day.
NOMAR - November 15, 2008
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