This one from SI's Jon Heyman:
Mets GM Omar Minaya today began reaching out to the agents for free-agent closers Francisco Rodriguez and Brian Fuentes, SI.com has learned. The Mets are intent on landing an elite closer after their bullpen was the main culprit in their second straight September disappointment. It is believed Rodriguez is favored slightly over Fuentes, but they consider either pitcher an excellent candidate to take injured closer Billy Wagner's spot.
The Mets seem willing to consider Kerry Wood, as well, but have concerns about his past health issues.
The Rangers, Indians and perhaps Brewers are among other teams that may be in the market for a closer.
(emphasis in bold italics added by me)
It may be that the Cubs have the same concerns, although I don't quite understand that after Wood has been completely shoulder-healthy since August 2007 (his DL time in 2008 was blister-related; his arm was sound). Still, that doesn't explain why the Cubs wouldn't consider offering Wood an incentive-laden contract which would protect them in case of injury; it seems as if Wood would accept such a deal. I don't see Kerry going to Texas or Cleveland (he's expressed an interest in staying in the NL), and the thought of him in a Milwaukee uniform makes me cringe.
As ever, we await developments.
0 recs | 183 comments
Good morning Al...
You know what I think. I don’t know exactly why they are doing it this way; but I’m more certain by the day that Kerry will end up signing a one or two year incentive laden deal to return to the Cubs.
I don’t think it has anything to do with Lou disliking him. When both sides will finally meet & seal the deal, I have no idea, but I look forward to the day.
Jimmyeatworld - November 26, 2008
I hope you are right.
I happen to agree with your reasoning… let’s both hope it happens just that way.
Al Yellon - November 26, 2008
You really don't know if his shoulder was sound Al...
And not to beat a dead horse, but the feeling that Lou had to baby Kerry may have been worse that the medical situation itself.
I once asked an Ortho about pitchers in general, and Kerry in particular. I think the medical records on his “healthy” shoulder would surprise a lot of people. At 28, maybe I chance it. At 31, I can respect the organization if they decide to part ways.
Damen Jackson - November 26, 2008
Baby him?
He threw 66.1 innings, and that was missing four weeks.
Francisco Rodriguez, who set the ML record for saves in 2008, threw 68.1 innings. Jose Valverde, who led the NL in saves, threw 72 innings. Brad Lidge, who didn’t blow a save all year, threw 69.1.
It’s reasonable to assume that Wood would have thrown maybe 8-10 more innings had he not missed the time — it was 21 team games (including the All-Star break). I don’t see any evidence that he was “babied”.
Al Yellon - November 26, 2008
Evidently, you don't...
How many times was Kerry used on three straight days? Multiple innings? Any idea how many time Lou wanted to bring him in early rather than going with
BoobBob Howry?Lou’s MO is to find trusted relievers, and work them silly. I just don’t sense that he had that sort of confidence with Wood.
And again, no one really knows the full details about that lost month. Maybe, there was more to the story than a blister.
Damen Jackson - November 26, 2008
Maybe, but...
… to me, there wasn’t much evidence that he was used differently than any other closer. Remember, the Cubs won quite a few blowout games — so there wasn’t much need to use him on three straight days. And most modern closers don’t work multiple innings.
I don’t have time right now to go through his game log — if you do, feel free to post results of your research.
Al Yellon - November 26, 2008
No, not right now..
Let me ask you a question though. This entire thing stinks of a classic Lou Piniella vote of no confidence. Not that I’ve a problem with that. But I know you don’t think this is about the money. Would you have any impressions or thoughts as to the why?
Damen Jackson - November 26, 2008
No, I don't.
I agree with you that this has Lou’s fingerprints all over it. I just can’t figure out:
a) why
b) if this is true, why won’t they just say so?
Al Yellon - November 26, 2008
We know the answer to b.
And that is that Lou doesn’t get crticized by anyone in the Chicago Press or on the Cubs. Ryan Dempster suggested that the team wasn’t prepared, which didn’t necessarily mean Lou was at fault, but because there is a possible implication, Lou came out and said, “We lost because we walked 8 people in 4 innings.” No one wants to cross Lou.
DGU - November 26, 2008
And that isn't necessarily a good thing.
Although, I would say that they’d be better off hashing this out in private.
Al Yellon - November 26, 2008
Could it be as simple as...
A non-committal strategy of Jim and Lou keeping their options open? Not wanting to commit to anybody just yet that would squash their opportunities should a 3 way trade possibility develop?
derv - November 26, 2008
Maybe, but..
…. 3-way trades are hard to do and rare.
Al Yellon - November 26, 2008
With respect to Wood--he wasn't babied...agree with you totally on this.
He was probably used inappropriately by Lou in the first half, not so much as Marmol, but if anything he was over-used because Lou is very poor at managing his pitching staff.
I have seen enough of Lu’s poor managing to make a very easy and quick choice if I had to, i.e., if I had to choose between keeping Wood v. Lou, well Lou would have been canned the day after the season ended.
Managers have to do certain things well and those things don’t often translate in to Ws & Ls because it is still the players who have to execute. But I think Lou’s a very poor manager of pitchers and his doghouse should never be at the expense of the best roster for this team to win.
A Manager should be getting the most out of players, and the latter is one of Dusty’s true claims to fame (except for pitchers for which he is clueless as well) although with the Cubs his anything goes/players’ best friend approach led to a team that was more interested in fighting with the media than competing on the field. Lou is a very slight improvement over Dusty from what I can tell, and most of that has to do with Lou not caring whether players like him. Of course, taking the latter approach to the nth degree and creating a black hole doghouse isn’t a good approach either.
The heat is going to be on Lou this year, given 2 supreme playoff chokes. If his doghouse costs this team productive talent then I am ready to send him back to retirement today. of course then Hendry would probably bring in another “winner” of a manager like Little, so it’s best if the Cubs just have a ton of over achievers, get lucky and win it.
DudeVf11 - November 26, 2008
Your comment...
… is exactly what a couple of people posted here before Lou was signed. It’s turning out to be true.
Al Yellon - November 26, 2008
"Very slight"
Maybe I underrate Dusty’s “ability to get the most out of players” but I think Lou is quite an improvement. Compare the lead-off situation under the two managers. Dusty has absolutely no sense of OBP being valuable. Now, under Lou, the complaint is that Soriano doesn’t have enough OBP. Under Dusty, we’d be shopping for Taveras right now to lead off.
Lou is also much more conservative in pitch counts for starters. He probably ran Z long a couple times and Harden a couple times, but the starters have fared much better under Lou.
I also think that Lou was excellent his first year managing the Cubs, making a lot of just right moves. My very positive impression of Lou’s first year, in fact, had a lot to do with how disappointed I was this year.
DGU - November 26, 2008
I think Lou is a very slight improvement because to me managing the pitchers is the most
…important job of the manager and he’s a slight improvement over Dusty in that regard. The Cubs would have been hard pressed to find a manager worse than Dusty given that the team’s strength was young pitchers.
I appreciate Lou’s no-nonsense v let’s be tough guy friends approach, but not to the degree where guys get banished when they can still be productive. I don’t think it’s asking a lot in a manager to A) not be the players’ best pal and B) Not write guys off completely when they are still productive players. There’s quite a bit a room in between there for a Manager to manage personalities and run a disciplined clubhouse.
Hendry takes the approach whereby the Manager is given a great deal of latitude in player decisions because Hendry does not dictate a philosophy to his managers nor does he even appear to have on tat he he cordially imparts to them.
Regarding OBP, I agree that Dusty is far worse than Lou and Dusty is still remarkably clueless given his use of Patterson with the Reds in 2008. But Lou couldhave improved the team by batting Soriano down. To me, the Cubs’ improvement at leadoff in 2007-2008 is due to them having a very good overall player in that spot, although he really shouldn’t be in tat spot.
I am not interested in whether Lou & Wood like each other. I think Wood can help the team in 2009 and to me it’s foolish to let him walk IF it’s based on some personality problem that Lou has. And then to top it off the Manager is quoted about how they need veteran bullpen help. It sounds foolish to me unless they have serious concerns about Wood’s health.
DudeVf11 - November 26, 2008
I have to laugh...
…that folks are concerned over whether players like the manager or coach. This is about the least important thing that determines whether a team wins or not, and has been proven over and over and over again in all team sports.
Dusty Baker carried himself in a fashion to get the players to like him and he did a good job of that. People got fed up with that because Baker didn’t hold players accountable (and I have heard that directly from a former Cubs player as a fact) and now the same people are saying its a problem if players don’t like Lou. My, how fickle we get with managers in this town, and then chose to glaze over more important issues that have prevented this franchise from winning for over 100 years. Just keep bringing in new managers so they can be torn up because they are either too easy on players or too hard, its a never ending issue with Cub fans when the big issues fly over everyone’s head.
To make a point, LaRussa and Leyland are two examples of managers who use the same approach as Lou and a lot of players don’t like them, because its not their primary goal to make players comfortable, it is to get them to perform. A lot of players do their best, when they are not allowed to fall asleep and Lou has had players have pretty good years under his guidance. All in all, the last thing a manager should be concerned about is whether they are “liked”, because that is not the goal of what he is trying to do.
MPH73 - November 26, 2008
For the life of me...
…does anyone else see how stupid Dempster looks by saying they (and I guess including himself) was over confident? Dempster was around last year when the club cratered, and he is a veteran, so why would he think it was a given they would breeze to the WS? Then, going out and walking 7 guys in 4 innings is not exactly the sign of a pitcher that is over flowing with confidence, but a guy who is either aiming the ball or simply doesn’t trust his stuff. Those things don’t happen if you are over confident.
If you were the manager of a veteran club that won 97 games, how would you feel about a veteran pitcher making those comments? I guess Lou did a good enouph job getting them prepared April through September, but then the players completely lost track of everything and were not prepared for one more week of games?
I’m not saying Dempster was blaming Lou (because I don’t think he was), but it really was a dumb thing to say and really makes the leadership on the club look terrible.
MPH73 - November 26, 2008
I agree, but I also think of all the Cubs' comments these days on the playoff choke are pretty dumb.
I think the team and players would love to have total closure on this and for me I don’t care anymore. I think most fans want to move on to 2009 and try again. One possible interpretation of these comments is that the Cubs have yet to put it behind them. But it could also be that they have no clue as to why, are not bothered by it, and are offering these explanations in a fumbling way to get through a difficult Q &A.
DudeVf11 - November 26, 2008
If it helps any....
…Dempster threw 66 innings as our closer in ’07.
carmen_fanzone - November 26, 2008
I want to say that if Damen is right
it annoys me quite a bit and Jim Hendry should tell Lou to use relievers differently and be glad to have a bargain in Kerry Wood. I’m not convinced he’s right, but it wouldn’t surprise me because it is one more data point in a picture of Lou being unwilling to adapt his management style to players who don’t fit exactly what he wants.
DGU - November 26, 2008
In major league baseball?...
Most GMs have good relationships with their managers, but I’m fairly certain that if Hendry “tells” Piniella something like that, he’s going to be “told” to go $%#$@ himself.
Damen Jackson - November 26, 2008
Agreed.
Al Yellon - November 26, 2008
Absolutely not.
Who reports to who here???
derv - November 26, 2008
We agree
The bosses should be able to direct the actions on the field.
Signed,
George Steinbrenner
Jerry Jones
Dan Snyder
rlpete - November 26, 2008
those are all
owners, not GM’s…. huge difference, IMO
cubbiefanTN - November 26, 2008
True but in any case
a GM that directs his manager what to do isn’t going to have a good relationship. It’s a two-way street.
rlpete - November 26, 2008
You're right.
However, I think the street is heading more in Lou’s direction than in Jim Hendry’s. In part, that’s a good thing. However, we have also seen the downside (cough Bob Howry cough).
Al Yellon - November 26, 2008
You're right, of course,
but I still wish someone would get Lou to change on this.
DGU - November 26, 2008
Changing Lou...
….wasn’t part of plan in bringing him here.
TXCub - November 26, 2008
Hindsight
How has Joe Giradi been received in New York since becoming manager? In terms or results, Lou gets my nod, but I’m curious what kind of culture Girardi has brought to the team and how their long term future looks.
trefrog66 - November 26, 2008
I agree...
…and the more I see this evolve, the more I think there are some concerns they have kept private. Who knows whether Woods 1 month long DL trip (from a blister) didn’t also include some other issues they have kept quiet. I would think word would have leaked, but 1 month for a blister is very very hard to fathom.
I also agree this has nothing to do with Piniella not liking Wood, as he has the makeup of relievers he has trusted very much in the past and showed no signs during the seaon that Wood was not trusted.
MPH73 - November 26, 2008
I have heard from other baseball people...
… that blisters can indeed last this long. I suspect if it had been something else, we would have found out about it.
Al Yellon - November 26, 2008
Blisters can extend for a long time...
…but it is unusual for them to do so. Just throwing something out there, but I do agree something probably would have leaked if he had other issues.
MPH73 - November 28, 2008
I do agree that it seems like an unusual situation..
… and maybe we are skeptical because of Kerry’s history. In this case I think we were told the truth.
Al Yellon - November 28, 2008
I'll second that 'consideration'
Here’s what today’s NY Post had to say.
The headline was “AMAZIN’S DIAL UP K-ROD, FUENTES” followed by five paragraphs talking about those two relievers before you get to this
Linky
That’s it, that’s all. They’re considering Wood. It’s probably fair to say a lot of teams are considering Wood. Remains to be seen who will actually act on those considerations. In the meantime, put another
shrimpturkey on the barbie, another beer in the chef, and have a safe and fun holiday weekend.ballhawk - November 26, 2008
The Mets pitching coach
recently did an interview on XM’s MLB Home Plate’s channel and said something like K-Rod scared him and he liked the idea of signing Trevor Hoffman.
cowsarecool220 - November 26, 2008
I read somewhere (can't remember where)
someone speculating that they liked Kerry’s health over the next three years better than K-Rod’s. Best guess is that it was Keith Law, but I can’t remember.
DGU - November 26, 2008
There were reports last year
that even though he was getting saves that K-Rod’s velocity wasn’t what it was in past years. He is definitely a gamble for a long-term deal.
rlpete - November 26, 2008
If there are truly injury concern
Then absolutely caution should be the order of the day.
We can love him all we want, but it’s the organization that actually has to pay players even though they can’t get on the field.
Worf - November 26, 2008
You will have your answer Monday
The deadline for arbitration offers ( Yes I know they could re-sign even after but it won’t happen). Unless the dumpster that attacked Gaudin, goes after Gregg or Marmol I don’t see Kerry back and I await some hopefully honest and detailed answers at the convention.
Doggie Stalker - November 26, 2008
Al
I think that Kerry’s extreme medical past will mean that his career will continue with a series of short, incentive-laden, contracts. There’s nothing wrong with that other than Kerry knowing that another injury would end things on the spot.
I too hope he returns
leothelip - November 26, 2008
Which is exactly why...
… Hendry’s statement that Wood should “go after a three or four year deal” doesn’t make any sense.
Al Yellon - November 26, 2008
Perhaps
his ploy was to encourage Kerry to see if he could find one and welcome him back if he doesn’t?
This, of course, has been discussed here before. I’m just sayin’
leothelip - November 26, 2008
Maybe...
… but that still raises the question, “Why?”
Al Yellon - November 26, 2008
To respect Kerry's wishes?
It’s possible. Hendry seems like the type.
leothelip - November 26, 2008
baseball is business and possibly Hendry was actually speaking to Wood's agent
Now if Hendry is confident that Wood’s value is actually no more than one year and a possible option year based on appearances let say $5M and and a buyout of $750K if he appears 50 games where and the his agent is looking for 4 years at 25-30M.
Go and find it he says.
Now if the market says no, come back….and to protect him they offer arbitration with the understanding of the above.
Ivy Walls - November 26, 2008
It makes perfect sense...
…and meets Hendry’s MO to take care of the players that he likes. He was doing a favor for Wood to see if he could somehow land a long term deal.
In the end, I just don’t see why anyone would give him more than 2 years guaranteed, especially in such a fleeting position as closer.
MPH73 - November 26, 2008
question
off topic, but what happened to Jim Edmonds? did the cubs just decide to move on due to money and his age? did they offer and he declined? do you think he’ll retire or try to latch on somewhere again this year?
cubbiefanTN - November 26, 2008
I think the fear is that Edmonds is a highlight-reel dive away from being D-O-N-E.
DGU - November 26, 2008
Again - no decision has been made on Jim - at least that has been publicised.
derv - November 26, 2008
Well
various beat writers have said the Cubs don’t plan on bringing him back. But there’s been no actual quote from Hendry on the matter.
JohnM - November 26, 2008
Until Kerry stays healthy for more than 3 months at a time
I don’t think there’s any team that’s going to pony up a 3-4 year or even 2-3 year deal.
If Kerry had absolutely lights-out closer stuff, I think a team would be willing to roll the dice and give him 2-3 years @ 10-20m. But he simply has no recent track record to allow that, and only a team with no other options is going to pony that up.
I think that Kerry will get maybe a 2 year offer for very low money from somebody which is completely incentive laden, and the Cubs will come back and say “Hey, listen, one year, $5m, and you get to stay in Chicago.” And I think Kerry will take it. And the Cubs will have the best bullpen in the majors.
SouthsideCub - November 26, 2008
I'll agree with your last paragraph.
Al Yellon - November 26, 2008
This would be a plan
And like I said down below would fit into an overall strategy going into ‘09. Again I just don’t see an adequate path in getting a position player that fits their need right now. But baseball is about two games in one. Stopping teams from scoring (pitching & defense) and scoring (batting) all within the real world of $$.
Wood at $5M would be a good deal and then with acquiring a Beimel or ‘like’ would engineer the Cubs as having the best pitching in the league—-period. That is .600 ball going through May and into June.
They then would have to make a mid season deal when a solution path offer a better option.
Ivy Walls - November 26, 2008
last paragraph
Possible, but it will take more than $5 million. I’d say at least $8 million.
elgato - November 26, 2008
I think the Cubs would pay that
simply to keep the “face of the franchise.” Then again, Hendry may have completely cut bait when he let Kerry walk without even talking to Kerry first.
SouthsideCub - November 26, 2008
I'm not in the camp that thinks Kerry is the face of the Cubs
Frankly, I think that it would be sad if he were. He spent most of 2005-07 on the DL.
elgato - November 26, 2008
So...Soriano is? Lee is?
PurpleLineToWrigley - November 26, 2008
don't think their is a face of the Cubs
(see more below)
elgato - November 26, 2008
Don't you think
its kind of hard for him not to be labled as such? He came up through the organization as a sizzling hot prospect and has been with the organization for the last 14 years of his career. I think even the injury and “comeback” all play into why fans (some) and the media hype him up as the “face of the franchise”. I have to admit for myself I think he is a class act and represents some of my fondest memories of growing up watching the team. The time on the DL was a big dissapointment and quite frankly I thought his career was over at that time. But, he’s worked hard and pulled it together to reinvent himself…I’d say thats a pretty cool example to represent a team. Alot better than “cheeseburger” down in Milwaukee.
StevenABQ - November 26, 2008
I love Kerry Wood
I have his jersey, I’ve watched him since I was a senior in high school. There is no player on this team whom I enjoy watching more. I would get disappointed if the Cubs added an insurance run in the eighth last year — Kerry might not get in the game.
It goes without saying that I want him back. But the face of the team? I don’t see it. To me, the face of a team is a Sandberg/Sosa (pre-2004) type — someone who people who aren’t hardcore fans know.
I think there are times when teams don’t have that big headline guy — and I think the Cubs have been in that situation since Sosa’s swan song in 2004.
elgato - November 26, 2008
I see your point
Its true, there is no comparison now to Sandberg or Sosa in their heyday with the Cubs. But don’t you think Wood is pretty much as close as you can get with the current team? Using your logic, he probably is the most well known Cub to the casual fan/observer. Talk me down on this one…I am often wrong.
StevenABQ - November 26, 2008
In the states ...
I’d say Lee or Soriano is as well known. Maybe even Zambrano, given his incidents in 2007. Worldwide, Fukudome probably is in the mix.
Kerry was the Cubs’ elder statesman. Maybe he is the Cubs’ face — but it’s just that his face isn’t as well known as a Derek Jeter, Ortiz or Pujols.
elgato - November 26, 2008
Being "well known"...
… doesn’t make you the face of the franchise. It’s also the way you carry yourself — Wood has, for all the time he’s been a Cub, been a class act, put the team and the fans first, and never had a controversy surrounding him (even with his injuries, he was pretty upfront about them).
You can’t say that about Soriano or Zambrano.
Al Yellon - November 26, 2008
I think "face"
is directly proportional to public profile — the guy people think of when they think of the Cubs is the face.
It’s all semantics, though. I agree with the way you’ve described Wood, Al. And I sincerely hope he comes back.
elgato - November 26, 2008
Kerry for $5 million?
If I’m Jim Hendry, I do that deal in a minute.
Ihatethecards - November 26, 2008
How much money does the guy need?
If he wants to play here, money should not be the problem. Maybe a million to some is not a lot of money but Kerry has millionS anad you see that capital “S”. If he quit baseball right now no one in his family should ever have to work. I think he could scrape by on 5 mil.
mrcubsfan - November 26, 2008
I can't fault
someone for trying to maximize their worth. And his interview regarding this I think proves that JH gave him a little nudge to go and test the waters for more dough than the Cubs could cough up — even after he evidently showed interest in a 1 year deal. If he gets a longer term contract it could be the last of his career. I think most of us faced with that would try to do whats best for our family and their future progeny.
StevenABQ - November 26, 2008
While Hendry did do that...
… I can’t imagine Wood is hurting for money.
Al Yellon - November 26, 2008
Oh I agree
Not saying he is hurting, but I think its simply part of most peoples makeup (including my own) to try and make the best deal possible. I’m not suggesting he’s anything like a money grubber like Manny. But when faced with these kinds of decisions you really cannot help thinking far into the future — past your own lifetime and maybe even your childrens…I see nothing wrong with that.
StevenABQ - November 26, 2008
Yes, most people would go for a lot of money.
I would, and you would. When you get into the world of ballplayers, though, I would imagine that Wood already has made enough to ensure his children will have no money worries.
His baseball-reference page says he has made (approximately) $48 million in his career.
Now, seriously. How much more does his family need to make sure they are “set for life”?
Al Yellon - November 26, 2008
Even Bill Gates...
was once quoted as saying it’s all the same past the first 50 million.
Damen Jackson - November 26, 2008
True
And that supports the notion that he will return to the Cubs, even if it means less money. I’m with you on it, my main point was simply to say that I would not fault someone for trying to make the most they can. Which is often an argument that some fans make, ie; accusing athletes of being greedy. When in reality given the opportunity most of us would do the same.
StevenABQ - November 26, 2008
Of course we would.
But, the point at which each individual thinks he/she has “enough” is different.
Al Yellon - November 26, 2008
Here's one other factor here
Put aside whether anyone can use the money. How much a team offers is a direct gauge of how much they want you. If Team A offers you 5 mill and Team B offers you 10 mill, you may not need the 5 mill extra in money, but you have to sit there and say, “Why is Team A offering so little? How much do they really want me on the team?”
That shouldn’t be the only factor in your decision – indeed, in some cases it could even be a negative factor. But dollar amounts offered tell you how you are valued and that can be important to players making decisions.
DGU - November 26, 2008
I agree
how much does a man/family need. However the guy saved 34 games, He also needs to be treated fairly. A deal in the 6.5m-7m range on a one year, seems a tad fairer deal.
Grockcubs - November 26, 2008
Based on the past
I think Wood is pretty balanced is this regard, and I am pretty sure that he will not make a move that does not consider the chances the Cubs have given him over the years nor the money that has been given him, even through the injury years. I think your deal suggestion, with an incentive 2nd year would be on point.
StevenABQ - November 26, 2008
Good logic
Nice to see it put this way, but would you agree that Wood is also aware of the contraints that it would make offering him a 3-4 year deal difficult if not impossible for JH to make?
StevenABQ - November 26, 2008
I think Wood is aware and willing to do more than most players.
I’m talking more in general.
DGU - November 26, 2008
fwiw...
I think your point is right all in all, but for accuracy’s sake, that’s $48 million in pre-tax figures (I would assume, anyway). So his take on contracts is probably around half of that…
That’s still serious money and so I think your overall point is still true. But I imagine that for all ballplayers—like all people—that sort of calculation helps explains why they feel the need to maximize contracts (the power of marginal taxation that economist always talk about).
So that potential $5 million dollar contract is really equivalent to only a little over $2.5 (in part depending on what state you live in).
CubsWin!Oregon - November 26, 2008
I can't find much sympathy for "only" $2.5 million.
Al Yellon - November 26, 2008
+1
Think of all the people who don’t take home $25,000 a year after taxes. A lot of people in broadcasting don’t do that.
memphiscub - November 26, 2008
This is the market that baseball has established
I agree with what your saying Al, however this is major league sports and the times we live in. Based on his performance and Jermey Afeldt getting 8M for 2, I think Wood should get a contract in the 6M-7M range for a year.
Grockcubs - November 26, 2008
"Should", based on the market, yes.
But what if he truly doesn’t care and doesn’t want or need that much, and being in Chicago is more important to him?
That IS theoretically possible, right?
Al Yellon - November 26, 2008
I agree Al
I truly believe this is not about money for Wood. I guess in a way I was speaking on behalf of Woody in what he is worth and should recieve. The problem is did the Cubs even make an offer? At least from all reports they have not. So what Wood would except we really don’t know.
Grockcubs - November 27, 2008
My entry was meant to say
the guy has money. If he desire is to be a Cub, money should not stand in his way, DESIRE to be where he wants should be the determining factor. There is a point in everyones life (to a ball player it’s early 30’s, to me in my 50’s) that you say I like it where I’m at and it isn’t worth the time and effort to move my family-change jobs-upset my comfortable life for a little more money. If Kerry has made 48 million in his career, he can say he wants to stay: make me an offer. If he really wants to leave, so be it. That’s my point.
mrcubsfan - November 26, 2008
OT: Question
I don’t want to make a whole post or fanshot, so I’ll ask here.
Does anyone have a “go to” website for contract info – like how much money someone’s getting, how much time a player has left, details on option years…?
HectorVillanueva - November 26, 2008
Cot's Baseball Contracts
http://mlbcontracts.blogspot.com/
Great website
IllinoisCubs - November 26, 2008
Rec'd
Al Yellon - November 26, 2008
I'm addicted to this site...
If only to see all the bizarre requests/incentives.
Such as Zito’s potential award if he collects a FIFTH Cy Young under his current contract.
Or Dice-K’s demands for a Lincoln TownCar.
CubsWin!Oregon - November 26, 2008
Every team is going to have concerns about his health...
He’s Kerry Wood. Any team that doesn’t have concerns hasn’t been paying attention the last several years.
kanderber - November 26, 2008
Two words
Rich Harden
leothelip - November 26, 2008
Three words
What’s your point?
kanderber - November 26, 2008
Wood in Milwaukee...don't bet on it
And any suggestion that Milwaukee is an option seems far fetched and merely geographical at this point. Intent on ending their own “is he or isn’t he” health-watch with Ben Sheets, I couldn’t imagine them spending $8-$10 million to continue the charade with Wood, only this time with a pitcher that is expected to be more or less healthy every day rather than every fifth day. Just doesn’t seem to be a fit there.
krummy12 - November 26, 2008
It would seem especially unlikely
after Eric Gagne.
elgato - November 26, 2008
That being the case...
… and you may very well be right… he wouldn’t seem to have too many options.
Al Yellon - November 26, 2008
I think he ends up in Texas
It’s Nolan Ryan’s team, and it’s home (or, his original home).
elgato - November 26, 2008
He has expressed an interest in staying in the NL.
Further, he’s gone on record as saying Chicago is home. I don’t think the Rangers — especially in that launching pad — have any particular appeal to him.
Al Yellon - November 26, 2008
Well, Al
None of us really knows Kerry Wood. Who knows how much he likes Chicago compared with Texas? Maybe he said the NL preference thing as an aside.
I was a reporter in my past life (not a sports reporter, though). Sometimes, quoted people say something casually that gets blown out of proportion. Or maybe he’s REALLY dedicated to staying in the NL. Who knows?
But my guess — and it’s just a guess — is that Kerry’s a Ranger next year.
elgato - November 26, 2008
It's not that he just "likes" Chicago...
… his wife grew up here. Her whole family lives here. He has repeatedly said he’s a Chicagoan.
Would that be enough facts to sway you?
Al Yellon - November 26, 2008
I'm not trying to piss you off, Al
But if you’re asking if am I swayed to the point that I think he’ll be a Cub and not a Ranger, the answer is no. If you’re asking whether he likes Chicago more than Texas, well, that’s another story.
But after the public breakup (amicable though it was) earlier this month, I think Kerry is gone, and I think the Rangers make the most sense. That makes me sad, but it’s the way I think the wind is blowing.
Hope I’m wrong.
elgato - November 26, 2008
Well, you asked the question...
… “Who knows how much he likes Chicago compared with Texas?” I think his public pronouncements make it pretty clear.
I don’t think he goes to the Rangers. If they wanted him, they’d have already made an offer. Or maybe they have and he said no.
Al Yellon - November 26, 2008
cool
FTR, I’m not trying to be argumentative for the sake of being argumentative.
elgato - November 26, 2008
Nor am I.
Al Yellon - November 26, 2008
Milwaukee took their shot last year
Finances will dictate their world now and they will invest heavily in their development system. In fact I see the Cubs, BoSox, Yankees, LA’s, Mets having the last period of the big salary hey day’s possibly to 2010 but then all the money will go for youth.
The economy apears headed for a period of deflation and that means high ticket prices will be pressured. First they will try to value them….free parking….pre-paid concessions….package season tickets with extra deals but what also propels the ticket price market is the scalper market and that might see immediate pressures.
Worse will be the pressures on ad sales. I am friends/neighbor with TV sales exec and a publisher here and both have two major problems——accounts receivables in ads sold and broadcast/published and new sales plummeting. TV had a final hey day with politics but now that has fallen on its face. The weekly newspaper has dropped half its print.
This will have the same effect in major and middle market clubs. Ironically this all might have the Tribune and Zell still holding the bag after playing cute in the long drawn out sale where Cuban was willing to overpay.
Ivy Walls - November 26, 2008
In addition to Chicago, he also has a home in AZ
so I’m thinking Diamondbacks and White Sox are among the top possibilities., without even looking at their closes/setup situations.
Not that teams just give guys contracts because they have a house nearby, but players do tend to me more flexible in their negotiations if they are motivated by this issue.
JohnM - November 26, 2008
Roller Coaster
I don’t have to go to Great America next summer. The Kerry Wood roller coaster of emotion has satisfied my roller coastering for the next 10 years.
Heard a good wish for tomorrow “May the only turkey Jim Hendry serves up this winter be the one on his Thanksgiving table”
puckishcubsfan - November 26, 2008
I like the way you interpret articles
I mean, I’ve gotten to the point where the rumor is not worth looking into unless its either listed on Cubs.com or is a reliable source
Chanman25 - November 26, 2008
Carrie Muskrat. So reliable.
PurpleLineToWrigley - November 26, 2008
Muskrat Carrie, Muskrat Sam...
those old enough to remember what song I’m paraphrasing will now spend the rest of the day with that idiotic tune in their head…
oh, I can be so cruel at times… heh heh heh…
ballhawk - November 26, 2008
That wasn't nice.
And on a holiday week and all.
Al Yellon - November 26, 2008
Aww man
I could of done without that, thats the only other song by America I think I’ve even heard. Great holiday drunken music — off key no less.
StevenABQ - November 26, 2008
thank god I'm 17!
Chanman25 - November 26, 2008
I've never stop detesting that song, especially because it is replays so annoyingly in my head
zevkalman - November 26, 2008
Thank a higher power you didn't
mention that awful Saved by Zero song by the Fixx Toyota is using.
Oh wait…
N Oakley - November 26, 2008
thanks, now that is in my head......
…ahhhh!
JB 23 - November 26, 2008
Oh man, this is my second "ugh" to one of your posts today
and in the words of james dean “you,re tearing me apart”
like those silly songs that say “sung to the tune of strawberry fields forever” or some such thing i,m writing in the style of nomar becasue i know that will drive people crazy so i,m just as guilty as you of being cruel to be kind, argh, another song i can,t get out of my mind
Weeghman Park - November 26, 2008
Carrie Muskat is someone I DONT rely on
however if it is listed in the news, then you know its real!
Chanman25 - November 26, 2008
hmmm....this might have some substance with Wood
Cubs and Wood might not be stupid here. Cubs will have to sell out their season ticket base this year and if I were leading the business teams I would want to make certain by March 1st almost all the single game tickets are sold as well.
Wood is not stupid either and could be thinking post player times and he could easily succeed Ronnie in the booth when his playing days are done.
Now this does not relieve the issue of a capable lefty out of the pen, but it appears to me that if the Cubs cannot get an adequate power LH bat in RF (or CF) and/or lead off bat at SS they will bank on pitching—-(a good strategy for the regular season) and wait for the league and deteriorating financial markets to bring them a player in the mid season.
You guys don’t understand the problems in middle markets that the economy will bring those clubs in attendance and secondary revenues. Many clubs survive on ticket sales throughout the year where contention is key to filling the stands selling concessions and parking places. Teams like Boston, NY, Chicago, LA if done right work to pre-sell their year.
So what team or teams might have something to offer? Let us look at TB for instance. They historically have poor attendance and they may get a boost but in TB the retirement community is really going to get hit next year with their incomes being stepped on. Let us say that the Rays don’t get out the gate strong and are not attracting 15K a game in May. They might be willing to part with Crawford now who could play RF and suddenly make the Cubs lineup very good at the rates contracted through 2010.
What I am saying is looking at the market right now it is not offering many good solution paths regardless of what someone wants. Best approach, make your strength stronger—-Cubs pitching, go into the year with the best pitching staff SP and RP and then field as solid a club as possible. It might mean going north and sucking up and playing Pie in CF and seeing if he can swim this year. It might also mean playing Fonty and DeRo in RF.
Ivy Walls - November 26, 2008
last graph
Frankly, I’m in favor of giving some guys a tryout. Maybe, if we had done that in 2008, we wouldn’t be saddled with Fukudome.
elgato - November 26, 2008
I think you will eventually eat those words on Fukudome
He will recover, to a level of respectability and production. He might actually be the lead off hitter we are seeking. Last year there were so many variables, pressures and distractions that anyone could have predicted a difficult time. I like his personal discipline and dedication on top of his natural abilities. He will figure it out.
For one the Japanese media will back out. Two he will know the grind and know how the league is approaching him and he will make some technical adjustments.
Ivy Walls - November 26, 2008
here's hoping you're right
n/t
elgato - November 26, 2008
+1
Al Yellon - November 26, 2008
I am not reaching too far on this
Fukudome is this kind of make up and we have seen this before with Japanese imports in the position. They might not be at the level that Japan has them but Matsui became a respectable component to the Yankees—only Ichiro has shined to near HOF status.
I think Fukudome will come and produce near .285-.290 with 12-15 HR’s and OBP running around .375 at the top of the order. The issue Lou will have is that okay the leadoff or #2 spot is solved. Now what about the power LHB?
Here is my take in April and May as the roster stands now.
Against RHP
Theriot SS
Fukudome CF
Lee 1B
Ramirez 3B
Soriano LF
Fontenot 2B
Soto C
DeRosa RF
Against LHP
Johnson CF
Theriot SS
Lee 1B
Ramirez 3B
Soriano LF
Soto C
DeRosa 2B
Fukudome RF
Ivy Walls - November 26, 2008
question
You think Soriano won’t be hitting leadoff when the other options are Johnson or Theriot? I don’t know if I think that’s likely …
elgato - November 26, 2008
I think Lou will draw the line in the sand
He performed well when he was in RBI situations last year but the Cubs will have to develop the “in game” ability to score runs traditionally from table setters. Fukudome and Theriot can become a very productive run and hit or hit and run tandem at the top of the lineup.
Lou will also know his bottom of order like last year will remain productive with Soto and DeRosa. The thing is Soriano has the most pop on this team.
Ivy Walls - November 26, 2008
again, I hope you're right
though I worry about Theriot.
elgato - November 26, 2008
Theriot has learned to hit within his game
done a good job to what he has. He waits on the ball and inside outs almost everything making good contact.
Ivy Walls - November 26, 2008
Line in the sand?
Lou’s always said he LIKES Soriano at the top of the order….
carmen_fanzone - November 26, 2008
IIRC he said after the playoffs
that Soriano will be moved down the order.
Ivy Walls - November 26, 2008
Oh, I missed that quote....
carmen_fanzone - November 26, 2008
I think he said they would think about it
And the story in the S-T yesterday said Lou said he was comfortable with Sori hitting leadoff if there wasn’t a better option.
elgato - November 26, 2008
Lou...
… will not take Soriano out of the lead-off spot (barring injury to Lee or Ramirez). I think he has proven that.
Even if he were to, he definitely wouldn’t put him after Lee-Ramirez. That’s just adding to the right-handedness of the team.
initram - November 26, 2008
On the contrary...
When the Cubs were talking seriously about Roberts last off-season, Soriano was batting 2nd in spring training. Lou also experimented with moving him down in ‘07. Lou’s been clear on this. He won’t move Soriano unless there is a different lead-off option. If the Cubs get Roberts or Furcal or someone similar, Soriano will move down. Anyway, that’s my read on it.
DGU - November 26, 2008
Count me in
Consider me in your corner for a Fukudome rebound. He had a horrible half and a good half. Had he switched them around, people would be talking up as though he were a cinch All-Star annually. If he makes the proper adjustments, an if, but probably not an insurmountable one, he’ll be fine.
With respect to the lineup you provided though, I wouldn’t want Ramirez hitting between Lee and Soriano. Ramirez is the Cubs best hitter and he wouldn’t see anything to hit with those two around him. Pitchers would challenge Lee and Soriano endlessly. I’d rather hit Lee in between the other two no matter that he’d be well-below average power-wise for a cleanup hitter.
krummy12 - November 26, 2008
Ivy, you hit it right on
Why do we have to have the wrong guy now just to have someone that can bat left handed? If pitching is what we have go with it. Hendry got us a couple of pretty good deals in trades late in the season. Randall Simon comes quickly to mind. In July would we take a 38 year old left hand hitting player who is having a strong year and fills everything we’re looking for and we can rent him for 3 months? Hell ya! Does anyone want us to sign a 38 year old next week? Good things come to those who wait. This might be a wait and see off season. Look what we picked up off the DFA heap last year, Edmonds and Johnson. That turned out much better than anyone could have EVER guessed.
mrcubsfan - November 26, 2008
King Kerry
Man, I wish Hendry and Lou would get their crap together and sign Wood. I still think there is something more to this. Though I hope I am wrong, I still can’t picture them signing him after coming out in public and saying they won’t. I am still trying to understand the reasoning behind that, especially so early in the off season. They still could have waited a bit without worrying about “leading him on.” I just get the feeling that Hendry and Lou wanted to wash their hands with him, but maybe public pressure may make them have to rethink some things…. i dunno.
This crazy thing called baseball can make you laugh, cheer, cry, and can break your heart in a second.
TheHawkRules - November 26, 2008
Off-season Theatre
Go back and read this.
DGU - November 26, 2008
LOL
Well… first off, that’s NY. Secondly, that’s the Yankees. Ever here of the Bronx Zoo? Need I say anything more?
TheHawkRules - November 26, 2008
OT: Nomination for most misleading headline of the off-season
The headline is “Theriot unfazed by speculation,” suggesting that Mr. The Riot isn’t worried about losing his job. In the article, there’s this quote, however [emphasis added]:
So, the off-season isn’t yet a month old and poor Randy Bush has had to reassure little Ryan a few times already that the Cubs value him? Assuming that “few” means more than “a couple” what, are we we looking at once a week?
Here’s hoping for Randy’s sake that Furcal signs with the A’s soon.
DGU - November 26, 2008
Here's My Take On What's Happening...
… at no time during this has Hendry closed the door on Wood. At least, none that I know of. I’ve heard “we are prepared to move on”, “we will not be extending an offer [before exclusivity time runs out?]”, and the like.
Because Woody’s shoulder stood the test of time over the 2008 season, I wouldn’t doubt if he and his agent were looking for (what may be) his last shot at a long term deal. I bet Hendry agrees, and is financially strapped to offer one. Perhaps there’s some posturing going on on both sides, and Hendry ultimately said go out on the market and see what you get. Woody did this last year, and he signed a year ago today. Kerry and his agent then probably said, “well, we may not get serious offers from others because they would think that I would just come back to the Cubs anyways.” So, perhaps Hendry said that he would try to help the situation by publicly announcing that the Cubs were “prepared to move without Wood”. This is true, because Hendry is running the risk of him being swept up by another team with a multi-year contract.
However, I think that this may have backfired. Regardless of whether there is something wrong with Kerry’s shoulder, don’t you think that the other teams that would consider signing Wood would think, “wait, this life-time Cubbie is being turned down? There’s gotta be something wrong with him”.
I hope that this is the situation, because it could lead to the eventuality that he will be re-signed by the Cubs. If not, what I and others have speculated can be the root cause: (1) Woody is entering the Piniella dog house, (2) there really is something medically wearing down in Kerry’s shoulder, (3) Piniella just doesn’t want to have to babysit a potentially fragile closer, (4) the Cubs are financially strapped.
initram - November 26, 2008
Rec'd
I like this read on the situation, because it puts the best possible construction on everyone involved.
Let me comment on the “potential backfire.” I don’t think there has been a backfire as much as there is just market saturation for closers right now. There’s no movement in the market because there are so few buyers compared to closers who could be bought. That market saturation also means the Cubs and Rox both overpaid for Street and Gregg, unfortunately buying too early in this market. I wonder if Hendry had pushed harder if he could have gotten Hermida and Gregg for not much more than Ceda.
DGU - November 26, 2008
Kerry
I had a couple of friends look at the articles when they got Greg and all that stuff about him leaving who are baseball but not Cubs fans because I wanted an objective look.
They never said they closed the door on him coming back. It appeared there was a crack even then.
puckishcubsfan - November 26, 2008
Silly idea
But the Cubs ought to pony up $5 million for Kerry and then raise ticket prices by $1 per ticket. The Cubs drew around 3 million people again last year (if I’m not mistaken), thus this would raise an extra $3 million. The extra $3 million would go to Kerry to bump up his contract to $8 million.
Okay I know that’s not gonna happen, but find me a Cubs fan that wouldn’t pay an extra buck to see Kerry come back next year….
cubswynn - November 26, 2008
No To Mention...
… the money that was raised here at BCB. What were we at? Like $154.34?
initram - November 26, 2008
Keep it up!
It’s a holiday weekend! Hit up your family members for donations!
Al Yellon - November 26, 2008
John Perotto has a new bit for us
Over at Baseball Prospectus
Now there’s a different take on the Teahen/DeJesus rumors. The Royals may have been asking for Fontenot/Marshall with the Cubs offering Marquis. If the Cubs could manage to trade Marquis and Cedeno for DeJesus, I’d say that would be a good deal.
DGU - November 26, 2008
I doubt anyone could disagree with that logic.
Freeing up the Marquis cash and securing a starting RF while including Cedeno? Okay. Now?
N Oakley - November 26, 2008
You Think The Royals Would Go For That?
If we would want the Royals to pick up the majority of Marquis’ contract, I think we’d need to sweeten the pot a bit…
initram - November 26, 2008
Cedeno's not a bad pot-sweetener for them.
They get a SS with potential at relatively low cost. The market for SSs is a good one for us to be trading Cedeno in.
DGU - November 26, 2008
With Your Trade Proposal...
… you think the Royals would pick up 75% of Marquis’ contract?
initram - November 26, 2008
Yes.
The Royals have money; they can afford it. And, honestly, Marquis is not overpriced at 7 M for one year.
DGU - November 26, 2008
I Just Have a Feeling...
… that they would be willing to pay it if we take Teahen off their hands, not DeJesus. They’d probably would want to hold on to him, and so sweetening the deal (beyond Cedeno) would likely be needed.
initram - November 26, 2008
I don't see why...
… the Royals would be interested in Marquis.
Al Yellon - November 26, 2008
Innings and a Type B FA for 2010?
DGU - November 26, 2008
And pay him $10 million?
Doubt it.
Al Yellon - November 26, 2008
How About $7M
initram - November 26, 2008
Similarly
I don’t see any reason why any team, Cubs included, would be interested in Cedeno.
krummy12 - November 26, 2008
Try this, then -
What’s the difference between Ronny Cedeno and Orlando Cabrera (the guy most see as the #2 SS on the market)?
DGU - November 26, 2008
Well
For starters, without getting sabermetric and all, about 1,400 hits, a higher career BA, about 700 runs, around 600 RBI’s, and a world of baseball instincts. I’m not sure whose list Cabrera shows up as the second best anything right now at age 34, but if you’re comparing an obviously declining Cabrera to a just plain bad Cedeno…I’m not sure a comparison needs to be made. Neither one of them would be fit for everyday duty.
krummy12 - November 26, 2008
Carbrera will get an everyday job
and at this point in their careers, Ronny Cedeno is as good as Cabrera v. RHP.
DGU - November 26, 2008
Another silly idea
But is there any scenario in which you would take a risk on Andruw Jones?
- Would you trade Marquis for Jones straight up? I wouldn’t.
- What about Marquis for Jones and $3 million? I just might do that, because I refuse to believe he is D.O.N.E.
I randomly thought about him this offseason. I’m sure the Dodgers want to get rid of him, but like Soriano I think his contract makes him impossible to trade.
Okay bring the heat….I’m ready for it.
cubswynn - November 26, 2008
Not a bad idea... but Andruw's knees are shot.
Jimmyeatworld - November 26, 2008
Really?
I hadn’t heard that, I just thought he was fat.
cubswynn - November 26, 2008
He is fat. Probably b/c of his knees.
If we thought we could get anything out of him, even as a pinch hitter… then maybe- but he’s probably an idea past it’s prime.
Jimmyeatworld - November 26, 2008
Agreed.
I wouldn’t take Andruw. Besides his physical problems, he has a reputation as being a bit lazy.
Al Yellon - November 26, 2008
Yeah probably
When did the lazy reputation come about? I don’t seem to remember it, until he got to L.A.
I guess I look at him being 2 years removed from being a STUD. He’s still only 31 and I can’t believe he is totally D.O.N.E. (I love that saying Al haha). Under the above situation, the Cubs would being taking a risk on him for the price of $5 million bucks and our faithful 5th starter. If the Cubs needed a right handed bopper, this would be a lot more intriguing.
Has there ever been talk of him being on the juice?
cubswynn - November 26, 2008
Being on juice or not.....
the guy doesn’t know how to make adjustments at the plate. He IS lazy. Even when he was a Brave a couple years ago, I watched some games on good ol’ TBS and I could almost predict what pitch would make him look like a little leaguer in the batter’s box.
Fukudome didn’t / couldn’t make an adjustment the 2nd half of last season…….
Andruw hasn’t been able to come up with an answer in 2+ years.
I think that Fukudome’s slump had a lot to do with his body not being ready for a 162-game season. I have faith that he’ll turn it around next season. He seems like the guy that really gives a you-know-what about how good of a ballplayer he is and how he looks in the batter’s box.
Fukudome needs to chill and train with Iwamura this winter.
EJThunder - November 26, 2008
I would want a thorough search of his health records
but let’s say they turn out to suggest he could do something for us. I’d want the Dodgers to take one of Soriano or Fukudome for us to take Andruw and I’d also want at least another productive young player to make up the difference in talent and production.
For example, I’d trade Fukudome for Jones and Ethier.
DGU - November 26, 2008
I wouldn't do Fukudome for Jones and Either
For the financial reasons of taking on Jones remaining year and I still have faith Dome will turn it around and be the left handed bat we need.
cubswynn - November 26, 2008
My view is that the Cubs will only plan to have one position with some uncertainty.
It’s either Pie or Dome next year. They won’t give both a shot. I’d rather give the shot to Pie because he has a small edge in defense a large edge in monetary cost. So, if you play Pie and Andruw, you’ve got a good chance of at least ending up with a decent platoon. Plus, Ethier can bat 5th and appease Lou.
DGU - November 26, 2008
To be clear
I believe in Dome, too. But I believe in Pie almost as much as I believe in Dome.
DGU - November 26, 2008
Just want to clarify
Who are you playing where?
cubswynn - November 26, 2008
Pie CF and Ethier RF
DGU - November 26, 2008
I would rather do that than sign Ibañez for the following reasons:
1. Andruw — fat Andruw — is still a better defensive CF than Dome.
2. Andruw has a lot of incentive to work out and get his act together this season — about $30M worth of incentives.
3. Andruw isn’t old — 32 next season — so there is more reason to believe in him than in Abreu.
4. Dome could stay in RF.
5. Cubs wouldn’t need 5 OFs, so they could carry a PH like Hoff and 2 backup MIs.
6. If the Cubs get him, he will have a training partner riding him constantly to work harder.
7. If Andruw finds his stroke, he has as much power as anybody.
The main downside is that Dome would be put in the position of being the middle-of-the-order LHB, which is more pressure than he needs.
DeRoMyHero - November 26, 2008
If I have to see Kerry Wood....
…. in a frickin’ Brewers uniform I’d have to shoot myself.
That’s like how the Cardinals felt about Edmonds in Cubbie blue except about a hundred times worse.
EJThunder - November 26, 2008
I think Cardinal fans were OK with it after a while.
They did give him a huge ovation the first time he appeared in St. Louis.
The difference is, Edmonds was close to or at the end of his career. Wood could still be in the middle of his.
Al Yellon - November 26, 2008
True, true.
EJThunder - November 26, 2008
I'd love to see a dominant bullpen..
and i think marmol, gregg, wood, samardzja (I still cant spell his name right), guzman, and cotts would be a pretty good bullpen. Sign wood and then its game over if the cubs have the lead going into the 6th or 7th inning
cubsmania - November 26, 2008
More on an interesting comment about David de Jesús above, by DGU, quoting BP.
De Jesús is looking good in the Puerto Rico Winter League, and he’s hitting leadoff. His father, Cubs’ Iván De Jesús, is watching over as bench coach for his son’s team. Here’s a link to De Jesús numbers until Nov. 25 in the Winter League.
Unfortunately, De Jesús’s BB totals and BA are below what I would expect from a leadoff hitter.
Fraggin Judge - November 26, 2008
wood
how about wood in a cardinal uniform.???echhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh
NOMAR - November 29, 2008
I could almost take that...
… as opposed to a Milwaukee uniform.
Al Yellon - November 29, 2008
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