Years from now, maybe we can say that "next year" arrived on October 30, 2009.
Tom Ricketts is the new chairman of the Cubs, and with his two brothers and sister, will comprise the board of directors of the team. But it's more than just a few names you've heard of -- the Ricketts really are a large extended family; their parents Joe and Marlene and quite a number of small children were in attendance at today's press conference. Even more so than the Wrigley "family" ownership (which was really just one person at a time, William Wrigley Jr., then P.K. Wrigley after his father's death, and then William Wrigley III for the last few years), this team really is owned by a family, not just one person.
And during today's news conference, they not only emphasized their own family, but the Cubs family -- a family you and I are part of as Cubs fans. For lack of a better term, they "bleed Cubbie blue" just as all of us do. Each one of them told the story of having come to Chicago from Omaha for college and, at various times, falling in love with the city, the Wrigleyville area (where several of them lived) and the Cubs. The story you've heard about Tom meeting his wife in the bleachers -- true, corroborated with smiles from all three siblings, who were there on that day. They used to sleep out for bleacher tickets in the early 80's, went to nearly all the weekend games, and said that being a Cubs fan is "a special feeling", and that "we know owning the Cubs is an honor, and we intend to respect it".
Tom's sister Laura perhaps put it best: "The Cubs are bigger than us as owners, bigger than Wrigley itself. It's a matter of family pride for us."
But that's not what you guys want to know about. You want to know what these new owners are going to do to make our team -- their team, and I truly believe that they are "one of us" -- a winner.
The most important thing Tom Ricketts said, I believe, about his philosophy of ownership is this:
We're going to hire people we trust, give them the opportunity to succeed, and hold them accountable.
Now isn't that refreshing? Isn't that what we've wanted to hear? No Steinbrennerian overlord tactics from Tom Ricketts (although when asked whether he would be an "active owner", the response was, "Todd will coach first base and I'll coach third". Wow -- a sense of humor!). He -- and Crane Kenney, who has the new title of team president -- will bring in the best people and let them do their jobs. If they don't, they'll be replaced. For the short term, that means leaving Jim Hendry and Lou Piniella in their place. Tom Ricketts said that he thinks Lou is one of the best managers in baseball and the right guy for 2010. From my standpoint, I hope Lou gets some rest this winter and returns in March re-energized, because as we all know, Lou seemed oddly disinterested at times in 2009.
I didn't get a chance to ask any questions -- but that's because nearly all of the questions you posted here yesterday eventually did get answered. (Well, everything except the blue jersey question. I figured that could wait till later.)
Ricketts first thanked fans for sending emails and letters of support for their effort to acquire the team and then gave this three-pronged message:
First, to strive to be the best in baseball every single year and to win the World Series. To accomplish that, invest in world-class facilities and the best personnel, and (as noted above) hold them to a high standard of accountability.
Second, they love Wrigley Field and will do everything they can to improve the Wrigley Field experience for future generations.
Third, they love Chicago and intend to be good neighbors, giving back to the city and neighborhood.
The key to winning the World Series, Ricketts said, is to "make the playoffs every year", and thus to build an organization that's "playoff worthy every single year". He called that "very doable".
For lack of a better term, I'd say Tom Ricketts "gets it".
For the short term, Ricketts said there may be "slight" ticket price increases in 2010. Personally, if he asked me, in this economy and coming off the tough year the Cubs had, I'd advise him to hold the line for one year. He also said payroll would be "slightly" increased, but didn't name a specific figure. Other things that he said he'd look at right away would be improvements in the Wrigley Field concourse, restrooms, and food options. He made it clear that the Triangle Building is a top priority, "the key to bringing Wrigley to modern standards", and I believe he meant this not only for the fan amenities it might contain, but for the new and upgraded player facilities (workout rooms, batting cages, etc.) it is likely to have.
Ricketts was asked why he was going to succeed where other owners have failed. His response, again, had three parts:
First, there are no multiple agendas. The only agenda is to win.
Second, they are going to reinvest in the team, the stadium, and the organization.
Third, there are no "quarterly results", they're in it for the long term: "Our shareholders are our fans."
They mentioned, as has been stated by Kenney before, that they look to the Red Sox as a model of how a team both renovated an old ballpark to be a thriving new stadium (and added that the Red Sox did this without ever moving out, and there has never been any discussion about moving out when renovations begin. There have also been "no discussions" about selling naming rights and he "hasn't considered it". When asked what the timetable was for getting to the World Series, he said (not unexpectedly) that he thought this team could make it next year, but made no promises, and said it would be up to Jim Hendry to make the team better; he wouldn't answer a specific question about eating salary.
Only one player -- Ryan Dempster, who is living here in Chicago all winter -- attended the news conference. For his part, Dempster seemed impressed with Ricketts and his commitment to Chicago, the team and the ballpark. Dempster himself -- one of the few Cubs in recent years to live year-round in Chicago -- also "gets it". If you're looking for a clubhouse leader for 2010, Dempster might just be the guy.
There's a lot more -- and I will post the entire transcript of the news conference here early next week -- but the bottom line is this: after 28 years of ownership that was on occasion good (getting the Cubs twice to within a few outs of the World Series), on occasion bad (seven 90+ loss seasons), and often frustrating, cheaping out for bottom-line corporate reasons when divisions were there for the taking and getting rid of people (Dallas Green, for one) who could have led us to the promised land, we at last have an owner who lives and dies with this team just like we do. We haven't had such an owner since 1932, when William Wrigley Jr., the first of the Wrigleys to own the team, died. Incidentally, there will be a half-hour special with the four siblings on CSN Chicago tonight at 11 pm CDT.
Go get 'em, Tom. Build us a winner, and you'll celebrate along with the rest of us. There will be much rejoicing. I, for one, can't wait.
1 recs | 185 comments
Yeah, Finally!
Over 30 months, yikes! Now finally the Cubs can start taking the correct steps.
My only issue with any of this is that Ricketts retained Kenney. He should have got himself some baseball people and completely clear out the stench of the ivory tower and nearly 3 decades of futility.
blackhawk24 - October 30, 2009
Kenney will likely be handling...
… mostly issues related to the triangle building, spring training site, and business-side things, rather than baseball. There may be others hired on the baseball side.
The three decades weren’t nearly as futile as the three preceding decades. At least there were some postseason appearances, even though there was no World Series.
Al Yellon - October 30, 2009
According to reports out there at present
Hendry will report to Kenney & Ricketts isn’t yet planning on getting someone in there for “baseball operations”. THATS where Ricketts needs to make a move; someone heading up baseball operations.
I know you like Kenney but I’d much rather see Ricketts bring in his own people for the highest levels of the organization.
blackhawk24 - October 31, 2009
I think that may happen...
… down the road. One thing I like about Ricketts is that he doesn’t have “his people” right now. He’s never been in the baseball business before, and he intends to do his “due diligence” and learn about it before just sticking people in high positions just because he can.
Al Yellon - October 31, 2009
I think your right...
…he is going about this in a very pragmatic fashion and not knee jerking anything.
Clearly, Ricketts is a smart dude and most of the time, these types of guys recognize when they need help in making the right decisions. He had very clear things to say in regards to the keys to success; scouting, drafting, developing playres through the system and not relying on “fools gold” in the short term. Again, these haven’t been the strengths of the organization, so if he hold to the accountability piece of his talk, there will need to be significant progress on several fronts in 2010.
Also, I am certain Ricketts didn’t form these opinions on success by simply being a fan and observing. With almost a billion of his families money in this thing, I have to believe he has some source of baseball knowledge he has relied on that is not part of the organization. Ricketts was asked who should be accountable for the failure in 2009, and he said he would like to refrain from that since he was not in charge, but folks would be held accountable for 2010 results. I think this partly explains why he chose to refrain from bringing in his “baseball guy” right now, he doesn’t want anything to get in the way of direct accountability on Hendry. If he brings a guy in now, some could say Hendry was handcuffed by the guy and coudn’t make his own decisions.
I’m going to guess the bar is going to be set very high by Ricketts in 2010. He has already stated this club has the talent to win the world series (may be a bit of a stretch), and that leads me to believe much short of that will cause a thorough house cleaning going into 2011.
MPH73 - November 1, 2009
Agreed.
Your conclusion makes a lot of sense. Now, if the Cubs managed to GET to the World Series but not win it — would that still cause a housecleaning? Doubtful, because once you get there, obviously you have the talent; it’s just a matter of who wins four of seven games, which can be done by just about anyone.
Get into the playoffs every year — that was his stated goal, to build a team and organization that will do that. I think that’s something we all agree on.
Al Yellon - November 1, 2009
Agree...
…if they won a playoff series, that may be enough to give the front office another year. On top of that though, I’d guess he would want to see several prospects develop and appear they will be legit major league players.
MPH73 - November 1, 2009
Which isn't likely to happen in one year.
It may take 2-3 years to see any real prospects develop.
Al Yellon - November 2, 2009
Considering Hendry...
…has had his fingers in this since 1994 and the fact that he hired Wilkens 5 years ago, I would think Ricketts is going to look at this with a very critical eye next October.
MPH73 - November 2, 2009
Actually
its 4 years ago and he basically was hired right about Christmas of 2005 and didnt start work until the next spring 2006, its not even a complete 4 yrs and he’s been in 4 drafts.
Slamdog - November 2, 2009
I, too, noticed that...
…Ricketts used the word “accountable” at least twice during the press conference referring to both Cubs players and management. And I was very happy to hear him do it.
Also, I think Ryan Dempster deserves hearty praise for showing up. That really says a lot about his commitment to the team. I’m tempted to complain about the fact that Big Z didn’t show up, as I believe he lives in Chicago year-round, too. But maybe he didn’t want to distract from the proceedings.
In any case, with the exception of maybe “throwing one outside the zone” regarding raised ticket prices (and perhaps that really is unavoidable), I think Tom Ricketts and his family threw all strikes today. Obviously, those words will have to become action. But this was a great start.
daver - October 30, 2009
I agree regarding Dempster.....
…even knowing what “good guy” he is, it kinda shocks me that he took the time to go to a press conference, although he only has a 3 block walk to the park.
JB 23 - October 30, 2009
I thought it was Lilly to lived 3 blocks away.
N Oakley - October 30, 2009
I believe they live on the same block
or at least within a block.
Doggie Stalker - October 30, 2009
Hmm...
Did not know that. Obviously, Demp has a more private location (anyone would).
N Oakley - October 30, 2009
I think he is pretty well known in the neighborhood.
Doggie Stalker - October 30, 2009
I think it is funny he is in Chicago all year.
Canada is not cold enough for him in the winter ?Actually it probably has to do with his daughters medical care. I hope it is going well.
Doggie Stalker - October 30, 2009
I believe he normally lives in Denver in the off-season.
I think you’re correct that staying in Chicago this winter may be related to his daughter’s illness.
cowsarecool220 - October 30, 2009
Actually Zambrano lives here now but still spends time in Venezuela.
Dempster was probably there possibly in his role as I believe union rep for the team,
I thought I heard somewhere today Ricketts will be drafting a letter to the players and would like to meet with them as much as he can before spring training.
puckishcubsfan - October 30, 2009
As far as I know...
… Ted Lilly is the Cubs union player rep.
Dempster was there because he lives in the neighborhood and he’s a good guy.
Al Yellon - October 31, 2009
Zambrano
Is playing winter ball in Venezuela….
IT IS A MYSTERY - November 2, 2009
You mean he's actually playing - right now?
I’d find that surprising.
daver - November 2, 2009
Well, after such a terrible season.
This has gotten me excited for the offseason and next year.
RynoHoF - October 30, 2009
I couldn't agree more.
Reading Al’s quotes from the presser has almost washed away the taint of the 2009 season.
Let’s get this series over. Double headers until someone wins and start announcing the changes to improve the Cubs for 2010.
N Oakley - October 30, 2009
I like what I'm hearing
I’ll like results even better. Check and see if the “W” flag is flying at Wrigley, it should be!
mrcubsfan - October 30, 2009
Is this close enough?
Al Yellon - October 30, 2009
I was pleased...
…with his statements and they did seem sincere.
I posted this on another thread but I’ll toss it in one more time;
I liked how Ricketts said that “short term solutions are nothing but fools gold”.
“the key to winning is to develop players through scouting and coaching players through the system”.
“we will have a world class organization and we will hold people accoutable”
From a baseball operations standpoint, these are all areas the club has fallen woefully short on, and I believe were a direct call out to Hendry that he is on a very short leash. Furthermore, I believe you will see someone hired (in the next month or two) that will be something like a senior advisor to Ricketts, and that person will be a baseball man.
MPH73 - October 30, 2009
I agree with everything you've said here.
Al Yellon - October 30, 2009
I agree too.....its clear Ricketts "gets it"
…in all aspects.
Nice interview with Mr Ricketts on ESPN 1000 today too, should be avail via podcast tmw.
JB 23 - October 30, 2009
Al
I was just curious how did you obtain access ? I’ve tried multiple sources of mine with no luck and I’m journalism major in Chicago. Than again the Cubs are notorious for shutting out the media or at least in my case websites and small time papers.
Cubbinstrongsince86 - October 30, 2009
The media relations department...
… realizes the reach of BCB and granted me access, which I am grateful for.
Al Yellon - October 30, 2009
Well
at least they respect some of us out there. I just think its unprofessional to deny media access they way they do. I realize space is limited but I mean come on any press is good press.
Cubbinstrongsince86 - October 30, 2009
No offense,
but I can’t imagine a major sports organization in the third largest city in the United States granting press access for every journalist or undergraduate journalism major that asks. That seems quite ridiculous.
dtpollitt - October 30, 2009
I have been given
access before, but MLB brought down the hammer and started getting picky with who they did and didnt let in.
Cubbinstrongsince86 - October 30, 2009
Probably because...
… too many kids were using their “credentials” to get into events that they had no intention of covering. Press conferences are for working media, and I have seen some where hangers on come in and get in the way of the journalists actually trying to get the story.
Note, I am not saying that the OP falls into this category, just making a point. I suspect that if you or your editor had pushed, you might have gotten in.
Ross - October 30, 2009
Good for them
kudos for recognizing you and the work you do
are they as fond of other online authors/sites? I hope they recognize that BCB is the best fan community out there, but I wonder if/how they draw lines anywhere.
JCD - October 30, 2009
This all sounds very nice, but............
………..the proof will be in the pudding. From what I saw on the tube, they seem (at least at this point) committed to getting the job done.
I’m not sure about the rush to spruce up the stadium. To me this is a business decision that can be postponed. The Cubs are drawing +3 million fans, essentially at full capacity, and doing so without premium food options and gold leaf toilets. Why focus on something that is not likely to change the attendance? Unless the building is in disrepair, I see no reason to make Wrigley Field changes a priority.
Instead, plow as much as possible into the ball club, not only via free agency, but through a farm system and scouting corps that get the job done. At the end of the day, Wrigley will continue to be bulging with fans so long as the product on the field is winning.
No one should be at the ballpark for the dining experience anyway, just as kids should not need “distractions” from the game on the field (the “kid friendly” concept disgusts me). Ensure and maintain a winning team and THEN worry about expanding the concourse or adding steak tartare to the menu.
tville - October 30, 2009
Just guessing
But maybe they are showing that they care about the fans, not just the revenue stream?
vonde6 - October 30, 2009
Agreed, but.......
……….from a business perspective, it’s not important at this moment in time. It has been proven that winning baseball fills the park, so establish that as tradition and the rest will fall into place.
As a season ticket holder, I’d far prefer to see an improved team on the field and baseball organization in general as opposed to a wider concourse, Charmin toilet tissue and sushi on the menu.
tville - October 31, 2009
I don't see a problem with working on the facilities while improving the team...
Some renovations here, some sprucing up there, better restrooms, it makes good sense. You don’t necessarily want to put off those kinds of things. Sometimes, waiting until it HAS to be done costs more than fixing things as you go along.
And better workout areas and batting cages, etc. for the players. Don’t we want those for the players if it means it’ll help them with their game?
brook - October 30, 2009
I think the 2014 All Star game is a major part of it
And also the team could be making revenue from luxury boxes and whatnot that would be possible by moving some facilities across the street.
madcow256 - October 31, 2009
It all sounds nice, but the proof will be in the pudding
Clearly, Jim Hendry is on the spot in 2010. And 2010 shall be a year of observation and setting strategy by the Ricketts.
My primary hope is that they hire a serious baseball man to be Jim Hendry’s boss.
BLou - October 30, 2009
+1
eswan9 - October 30, 2009
I don't think...
…a potential new baseball man will be Hendry’s direct boss, but he will be Rickett’s eyes and ears when it comes to all things baseball related.
If the time comes where Hendry get’s canned, Rickett’s can always have Kenney do that for him.
MPH73 - October 30, 2009
Great Post
Al, thanks for putting this in terms of family. I am really impressed that his whole family showed up to show support. I think everyone in the extended Cubs family is hoping that this is the turning point we have been waiting for. And, for me at least, I was thrilled to read in the Sun Times that Ricketts also said that he is keeping Wrigley Field as Wrigley Field. Thank you Mr. Ricketts!
wccubfan - October 30, 2009
Awesome!
That is all that needs to be said. I look forward to the off-season, and the coming season!
TheHawkRules - October 30, 2009
Tom Ricketts sent a letter to season ticket holders.
Click here to see it.
Al Yellon - October 30, 2009
Nice gesture!
I liked how he signed it “Tom”.
calicubfan - October 30, 2009
Making it green so everybody sees this.
dtpollitt - October 30, 2009
Real signature? or Autopen/print?
Ross - October 30, 2009
I'll bet it's real.
The letter was delivered by email, not snail mail, but I’m guessing he signed it before it was scanned.
Al Yellon - October 30, 2009
not sure why
but I really like that letter. Simple and endearing. Atta boy Tom.
AGC - October 30, 2009
Ricketts is on the Score right now
I would prepare yourselves for the selling of naming rights at some point. They asked him about it and he admitted that it is kind of stupid to not do it financially. Personally I think its wonderful, but some might not like Wrigley Field at Coca-Cola Park.
nji232 - October 30, 2009
Naming rights?
If they can put $400 million in the bank (as the Mets did for Citi Field) by selling naming rights, which would pay for renovations and future team payroll increases, my feeling is:
GO FOR IT.
Al Yellon - October 30, 2009
Exactly
Wrigley could command a huge naming rights deal, and if that money is invested in the club like they say it will that is huge.
nji232 - October 30, 2009
Have to disagree.
Hate to see it turn into something like Viagra Field. Doesn’t sound like he is ready to sell the naming rights anytime soon.
wccubfan - October 30, 2009
Why give the Wrigleys the free advertising?
They drove this franchise into the toilet.
vonde6 - October 30, 2009
Just PK
William Wrigley was the best owner this team had—at least after Albert Spalding left.
PK Wrigley was the man most responsible for Wrigley Field, however, which he saw as a shrine to his father. The biggest reason that Wrigley Field is a cathedral of baseball is because of PK. The biggest reason the Cubs haven’t won a world series since 1908 is PK Wrigley.
Josh Timmers - October 30, 2009
A succinct and accurate summary of 62 years of Wrigley ownership.
Al Yellon - October 30, 2009
Best written summary of the Wrigley years :
Jim Langford’s “The Game Is Never Over.” Awesome book.
I wore it out then gave it to my 10 brother who finished it’s destruction. One of the coolest gifts I’ve ever received from family was when he found a nice mint condition of the book and gave it to me for Christmas a few years ago.
Langford’s own crisply and yet entertainingly concise account of the William and PK Wrigley years has yet to be topped, IMHO.
cubnational - October 31, 2009
Seeing how the marquee is protected...
…it would have to be something like, “Wrigley Field at Viagra Park” — So who cares what name they slap on it — It’ll always be Wrigley — Just like Sears Tower — I haven’t heard anyone call it Willis Tower yet
calicubfan - October 30, 2009
+ 1000
It will always be Sears Tower and Wrigley Field the same way the Dan Ryan and the Borman will be locked into mind .. no way it will ever be anything else.
cubnational - October 31, 2009
NOBODY will call it “Wrigley Field @ XYZ Company” outside of official entities, anyway. We will always be referring to it as Wrigley Field, so it matters naut to this guy.
dtpollitt - October 30, 2009
....renaming Wrigley
how bout Coca-Cola’s Wrigley Field….
cooliogirl47 - October 30, 2009
He also said...
…he has no plans to hire a baseball man considering Kenney has no baseball background. This was a little surprising to me, but he also talked like he would have a lot of direct interaction with Hendry himself.
Rickett’s keeps communicating a firm opinion on what the secrets of success are; scouting, player development, not relying on short term solutions etc., and I would guess that his opinion was formulated by some outside help with more knowledge on these topics than he has. With that in mind, and since the club has fallen short in the key ingrediants he has mentioned, it looks like it is simply on Hendry’s shoulders this year to show not only improvement in wins and losses, but also show the minor league system is were Rickett’s thinks it should be. I hope Rickett’s has the baseball knowledge to make a call on how things stand, or maybe he has someone behind the scenes he confers with on these things as well.
MPH73 - October 30, 2009
Me
I’ve said it all along a compromise would be Wrigley Field at Coca Cola Park or something like that.
I don’t really like it but frankly if it helps us win it could be Hooters Field.
puckishcubsfan - October 30, 2009
How could it not help us win to change it to Hooters Field?
vonde6 - October 30, 2009
Sounds about right
There is no way that a corporation is going to want to pay for the negative publicity that they’d get for re-naming Wrigley Field. But if they could get their name in there in addition to Wrigley Field, they’d love to have that.
Josh Timmers - October 30, 2009
Tom, thank God you're here .. Just a suggestion here ..
I hope you won’t do it myself, but I understand the finances today.
If you’re gonna sell naming rights, please stay away from huge banking organizations that lined up for our tax payer dollars to support their pathetically bad business practices and then decided to gouge their customers with immorally jacked interest rates.
Like ..
Just a thought, sir. So glad to see people bleeding Cubbie blue in charge. We look forward to the journey with you.
cubnational - October 31, 2009
This one will be a 2011-2012 project IMO
No sense in trying to solicit bids with the economy tanking and only getting worse.
In a better climate, $20M a year like what the Mets got isn’t out of the question.
blackhawk24 - October 30, 2009
Kinda like a new girlfriend, the Ricketts Family is making me all warm-n-fuzzy in everything they do.
I know it’s not gonna all be sandwiches and beers served to me at my beckoning (it never is), but right about now everything is all peachy. Maybe I should post on Facebook about my new crush.
dtpollitt - October 30, 2009
Yup, got that new girlfriend feeling - schwing!
N Oakley - October 30, 2009
the perfume and little evening dress is intoxicating
enjoy it, Cub Nation
Just remember it when the smell of a trip to the gym and dishevelled hair with makeup showered off shows up at your front door. That too will be life.
And I think we will like it.
cubnational - October 31, 2009
A few opinions
I’m a ways away so I don’t know as much as some of you, but here are a few of my opinions:
1) Crane Kenney has seemed to do a remarkable job and I like that they kept him. Let’s remember he’s a marketing guru not a baseball genious. Job well done IMO.
2) I’m not totally defending Hendry and Lord knows he’s made me angry but he’s accomplished quite a bit. None of us know exactly what happens behind the scenes as far as the business side goes. I’m not totally sure they(being board members etc) telling him to go out and spend to make this team more marketable for potential buyers. Alot of the big spending took place before the economic crisis which I don’t think anyone quite expected. I wanna see what he can do with a little vision and leadership from above. I will not forget the man in a hospital bed with a heart problem working tirelessly to sign Ted Lilly. I think Hendry tends to be a little of a fair weather guy with w/e mgr or other influential people are around but with a little help and guidance I think he will give us 110%, which I can respect.
3) I’m all for renaming Wrigley if it means more money but please nothing stupid like The John Doe stadium at Chicago, Illinois. Something simple would be fine. Thank You!!
4) All the things Ricketts said sounded right on the money and I’m sure he will get er done but He is still in it for money(profit) regardless what he says out loud. I don’t think he will have a problem making money especially if we start winning some WS!!
5) I really wish Al Yellon could set up a live chat for BCB members with Mr. Ricketts!!
cubsluver22 - October 30, 2009
Your live chat idea isn't a bad one.
Let me see if I can figure out a way to do that.
Al Yellon - October 30, 2009
That would be terrific if you can do it Al.
Zeke - October 30, 2009
I would love a chance to be apart of these!!!
Certain Rules would definitely need to be apart of these but you could choose the participants and pull these off AL Yellon!!!!!
cubsluver22 - October 30, 2009
Like I said.
I’ll see if I can find a way to do it.
Al Yellon - October 30, 2009
please please please please
See if you can find a way!
cubnational - October 31, 2009
Did you ask a question at the news conf?
BatCubFan - October 31, 2009
I didn't, but primarily because...
… most of the questions I wanted answered were asked by others, as well as many of the questions everyone posted here.
Al Yellon - October 31, 2009
New ownership
I was born in August 1981 (just before the end of the strike), which means that the Tribune Company had owned the Cubs for my entire life until now. I view this transaction as the turning over of a new leaf for the franchise. I’m sick of watching the playoffs with envy, wondering how a team in the World Series can start Jerry Hairston, Jr. without irony when the Cubs haven’t won a playoff game in six years. I’m sick of remembering 2003 and wondering if that’s the closest this team is ever going to get. I’m sick of wondering if 2003 was really the Cubs’ year and if they would have taken it to the Yankees.
The Phillies are my inspiration. They got beaten handily by the Rockies in the 2007 playoffs, picked themselves up, won the WS last year, and won the pennant this year. What I wouldn’t give to not have to be concerned with whether the Cubs will make the playoffs, but how strong they’ll be when they get there.
I’m sick of our loser mentality, and it appears the Ricketts family is as well. I’m ready for the next decade to be that of the Cubs. I want us to be hated by the rest of baseball and its fans as the Red Sox sometimes are.
Al Davis isn’t good for much anymore, but you certainly can’t deny his maxim of “just win, baby”. It’s time for the Cubs to start doing that, and I think they’re headed in the right direction with this ownership change.
gauchodirk - October 30, 2009
Al Davis certainly isn't good for "just winning" anymore
vonde6 - October 30, 2009
True
But before this decade (save the 2002 season), he actually knew how to run a football team.
gauchodirk - October 30, 2009
The next few years will be interesting
if the Ricketts family lives up to their mantra here are the things we SHOULD be seeing:
1) less activity in the FA market
2) a focus on directing additional assets into draft and international signings
3) a willingness to let FA contracts expire and walk for aging players
The next two-to-three years are the “fools” gold period. We have a foundation of aging players with escalating salaries. Some of these players are our best players, but they should not be extended to market contracts, and should generally only be retained on short-term deals. We need to be willing to pay a higher average annual salary for shorter contract commitments. Maintaining financial flexibility is the key to using the financial prowess as an advantage
Players that have expiring contracts in next three years:
Carlos Zambrano (unless he basically becomes a Cy Young contender again)
Derrek Lee
Ted Lilly
Kosuke Fukudome
Milton Bradley
Players like Derrek Lee and Ted Lilly who both are in the last year of their contracts should not be retained if the cost is a 4-5 year deal. Lee will be 35, Lilly will be 34 this season. We can’t compound mistakes already made with Soriano by chasing the stated fool’s gold.
Our goal should be building an elite farm system and maintaining enough financial flexibility to be aggressive on the elite FA’s who are hitting FA while still in their prime. Guys like Mark Teixeira and CC Sabathia are current examples. Next year a guy like Carl Crawford will hit FA at age 29. In future years elite players like Justin Upton may hit FA in the midst of their primes as well. THESE are the guys you spend big bucks on. You don’t make 4-6 year commitments (or heck 8 year…) on guys that are 31, 32, 33, 34, etc. This has been the problem in the past. Instead of making marginal FA signings dump the money into the draft and development.
I can handle replacement level no-names and 78-84 win teams, if we have development and financial flexibility in the pipeline. I cannot handle 82-86 win teams with no financial flexibility and no farm system
It’s going to take some time to clean this thing up and do it right. Can we compete this year? Sure we can. But this doesn’t mean we should REACH to compete in 2011, 2012, etc by extending current guys and paying them for past production that is unlikely to maintain
DartmouthCubsFan - October 30, 2009
Very well said...
…I have been saying the same for several years now. I just don’t know whether they have the right guy running the baseball side to get this to where it needs to be. I guess we’ll see how that accountability Rickett’s discussed works out after 2010.
MPH73 - October 30, 2009
rec'd
N Oakley - October 30, 2009
+ 10000
If money is going to be spent anywhere, scouting and farming is where it needs to be.
cubnational - October 31, 2009
A word of caution here...
…yes they need to invest in these areas, but not unlike signing FA’s, you have to get the right people and have the right philosophy as well. Just spending the money on it doesn’t assure anything.
MPH73 - October 31, 2009
I'm curious about the TV contracts...
…the Cubs are currently binded to. It would be interesting to hear what Ricketts thinks about a YES style network; considering the national following his new club has.
calicubfan - October 30, 2009
He said...
…any Cub’s network would be far down the road, because they are comitted long term to their current TV deals.
MPH73 - October 30, 2009
A nice birthday present for me...
On the 40th anniversary of my birth, I am quite pleased with what I read from Mr. Ricketts. As someone else said, the proof will be in the pudding, but I am happy to hear the organization will put the emphasis on scouting and development, where it needs to be. Free agency is great, when it works for you, but all too often big name FAs are like the must have toys at Christmas – they are never quite as good as you thought they would be when you read about them in the category, and they almost always seem to break.
Ross - October 30, 2009
lOVED IT
I’m so excited I’ve been doing a jig all day.
Anyone else notice how much the Ricketts brothers look like the Smythe Furniture brothers?
puckishcubsfan - October 30, 2009
OK. Now we have to come up with a nickname for the new owner.
T-Rick?
Tommie Boy?
Ricky?
Tom-Tom?
T.R.?
Mr. Ricketts?
Mr. Ricketts, SIR? Yes, SIR!
Zeke - October 30, 2009
someone better start a poll
jesus christos - October 30, 2009
How about Tom?
ballhawk - October 30, 2009
I think that's perfect.
Al Yellon - October 30, 2009
the genius behind this suggestion astonishes me
I don’t think Tom would like this image coming to mind if a certain term comes up
cubnational - October 31, 2009
rec'd
katie casey - October 30, 2009
That works for me.
sue369 - October 30, 2009
We have a motion on the floor ( ... well, someone had better clean it up! )
All those in favor of “Tom”, say “Arrrrrrr!”
Zeke - October 30, 2009
Arrrrrrr!Al Yellon - October 30, 2009
IT'S HAPPENING!?!?!?!?!?!?
lexmarklover - October 30, 2009
Well stated
vonde6 - October 30, 2009
gets me every time
Mapmaker - October 30, 2009
LOL
It HAPPENED.
Al Yellon - October 30, 2009
Excellent!
First, congratulations to the Ricketts family on closing the sale. No purchaser in the history of MLB has had to go through more gyrations or work longer than the Ricketts. If they bring the same drive to winning that they did to acquiring, the next few years are going to be a delight.
Second, Tom Ricketts is saying the right words, at least. He knows what needs to be done and seems to be committing to do it. Whether he can or will break out the wallet for those missing pieces is another thing, of course. If Cliff Lee were playing for the Cubs and not the Phillies, the Cubs might be in the WS.
Third and last, good luck to the Ricketts as well. Luck – whether it’s stumbling onto an Aramis Ramirez or avoiding injuries to key players – counts for a lot. The Cubs need some good luck, and if the Ricketts family can bring that to the team, God bless them.
AlaskaFan - October 30, 2009
don't stumble onto Aramis
or he might get injured.
Oh, you meant stumbling into trading for him.
Great to hear improved scouting and player development are planned. If we can be a top dozen farm system most of the time, we should be arrright. Now if we can teach our kids to not get picked off base so gol derned often.
tim815 - October 30, 2009
Best news I heard was NO baseball consultant to be brought in
SO NO STONEY THANK GOD. Let that little whiny bitch stay doing Sox games with Hawk. LOL!!!
cubswin - October 30, 2009
totally unnecessary
n/t
dmlichte - October 30, 2009
he was on the score before the interview with mr. ricketts
i turned it off after he starting talking about how the cubs should be worried about ramirez because his arm has popped out of his shoulder joint ‘a couple times in the past few years’ and that ‘every time it happens the ligaments are stretched/torn more and never fully recover’ – to me that’s the post-wgn stoney -
doofus cubs guy - October 31, 2009
the post-WGN Stoney?
What about those comments are untrue? Seriously? I listened to the entire interview where Stone had a lot of complimentary things to say about Hendry, who he feels deserves to stick around, as does Crane Kenney?
dmlichte - November 1, 2009
The Interesting part will be the short term
Particularly, this offseason. If he suggests that there will be a slightly higher payroll than before, that will be great news, as that means we might be looking at, in terms of money that could spent, pre-Bradley move, closer to 12-15 million than the anticipated 8-10 million. That’s a huge difference, and if you add in any Bradley savings, it’s possible we could be looking at closer to 15-18 million.
Long run, they just need to keep building on the positive advances the system has made in the last couple of years. Keeping Tim Wilken would be nice. Not everyone likes him, but I’m pleased with the turnaround in our system the last couple of years and I like his drafting strategy and focus. Certainly, there’s going to be a lot of failures along the way, but it’s a good start.
The organization has done a good job of identifying coaching talent and finding coaching talent. Casey Kopitzke might’ve failed as a minor leaguer, but he’s a very promising coaching candidate, and guys like Matt Matulia and Robinson Chirinos have been speculated as possibilities in that regards. There’s some tinkering that I’d like to see with the minor league organization, particularly on the hitting side of things, but things are headed in the right direction.
The organization has also had a targeted plan in recent years in regards to spending developmental money. I expect an increase in budget won’t substantially change the way they spread money around, but maybe it will allow us to be in one some of the top foreign signings. It seems rather unlikely that a new owner will try to break Bud Selig’s slotting system early in his tenure.
That said, the best part of the intro is the implication that he’ll let the baseball people do their job. That promise will likely be tested right away. It seems likely that his baseball people will tell him that they believe they can compete, and it’ll be interesting what direction they pursue. At the end of the day, what he needs to encourage is for his baseball people to take chances on what options they believe is best for the organization. The worst thing for an organization isn’t making a bad decision – it’s an unwillingness to make a decision that is more troubling to me. If he is pushing them to make educated decisions and choices, then that’s all I can ask for.
One thing I will be very, very curious about is one of the up and comers in baseball (front office wise) get asked to join the organization. There currently isn’t really a dynamic youngster in the front office, and I wonder if they go after some of the folks out there to be molded as Hendry’s replacement down the line.
toonsterwu - October 30, 2009
I have to disagree
Fact is Sam Zell let Jim Hendry run free and wild for two seasons. And he even handed him blank checks to spend money. Where did that get this team? Nowhere.
Hendry should NEVER be able to dip into free agency again. Build a quality and reliable player development system first and foremost, then use free agency selectively from that point.
BLou - October 30, 2009
I have no idea what you are disagreeing with
I didn’t say to let Jim Hendry run free.
And saying a GM should NEVER dip into FA again is just foolish. No team is built solely on internal assets, which is why all those “future lineup” projections are usually a waste of time.
Maybe you disagreeing with the advances in the system? If so, I’d be curious where. Most people have the Cubs system jumping from the back end to the middle tier. There’s been no question that the coaching has improved in the system. Certainly still work to do …
Again … I have no idea what part of my statement you are disagreeing with. I started off buy saying that if they bump payroll a bit, that could mean 15-18 mil of available space. Maybe you are disagreeing that? If so, fine. The next 3 paragraphs were discussing the improvements in the system in the last couple of years. If you are disagreeing with that … okay … but your statements don’t suggest that. I conclude by saying that it’s good that he’s promising to let his baseball people do their job. If you are disagreeing with that, fine. I’m not real sure I want Tom Ricketts as my GM, though. I conclude with saying that I wonder if they bring in one of the top young names out there to be potentially groomed as Hendry’s replacement, akin to Epstein and Friedman, amongst others.
Again … no idea what you are disagreeing with. Maybe you are disagreeing with the idea that making a bad decision is better than not having the gumption to make a tough decision. Fine, that’s a debatable area … but I didn’t reference letting the GM go wild anywhere.
toonsterwu - October 30, 2009
My way of saying I have minimal faith in Jim Hendry
He is not the right person to run the baseball operation. I think in 2010 the Ricketts will come to realize that and he will be gone by next October. Thankfully.
BLou - October 30, 2009
that's fair
i just had no idea what you were disagreeing with.
toonsterwu - October 30, 2009
This is really....
…the first year of Hendry’s tenure that he knows (without much doubt) that he is on the clock.
To date, he has had minimal pressure applied to him (in regards to accountability) and has obviously had big dollars to spend. It will be interesting to see how he responds with the check book not being an option.
MPH73 - October 30, 2009
BLou, we knew you were here
cubnational - October 31, 2009
Man, what did this kid do to piss off this bird?
Judging from what’s on the ground, it looks like a strafing run…
Zeke - October 31, 2009
Regarding payroll....
…it will go up slightly just from the fact the Cubs have several backloaded deals. They don’t have to add one player to the roster to have an increase, and unless they are able to uload salary, you aren’t looking at any signficant player acquisitions.
MPH73 - October 30, 2009
I did some rough calculations the other day
Including Bradley, we’re looking at 130-135 mil committed for 2010 right now and last year, our payroll was in the low 140’s.
toonsterwu - October 30, 2009
Ran through the numbers again
Made a projection on Grabow’s contract based on past LOOGY deals, estimated some arb raises, and at the end of the day, including Bradley’s 9 mil, the high end of committed money is still around 135 mil, give or take a mil or two there. Opening day payroll was around 135 last year, and it finished in the low 140’s. It comes down to if they are referencing a high payroll from opening day numbers or from year end numbers. If it’s a higher payroll from opening day numbers, you are right, there won’t be a big acquisition unless they can clear Bradley and make another move or two. If they are talking about a higher payroll from year-end numbers, then there’s some room there.
toonsterwu - October 30, 2009
I'm sure...
…your numbers are correct.
Bottom line here; there won’t be any big signings for 2010, and Ricketts himself said as much yesterday.
You hope guys stay healthy (especially Ramirez), and a few of them have much better years in 2010. That’s the formula for success next year.
Beyond that, If you read between the lines, there will be significant changes in after 2010 if the year is not a success in Ricketts mind, and what we don’t know is how he would define a successful 2010 at this point.
MPH73 - October 31, 2009
whether they will or won't
only time will tell. I’ve heard from two separate folks that payroll will be in the lower 140-145 million, as DeLuca speculated on weeks ago. Whether or not there will be a big signing, I don’t know. But the room is there to make a key signing if the FO opted for it, even with Bradley’s contract in the picture. If some of his salary is cleared, that does offer the opportunity to make a key move, if they so desire.
toonsterwu - October 31, 2009
So you don't consider Randy Bush a young "up and comer"?
Neither do I, but I’m just checking.
cubzfan - October 30, 2009
I think I just fell in love
eths - October 30, 2009 via mobile
Digesting everything...
2010 is a lameduck year for Jim Hendry. I think the Ricketts are taking the conservative approach of observing for a full season before instituting their full blown baseball operations strategy. Suffice to say, I think Hendry will be gone after 2010.
I also like the fact that Tom Ricketts talked about the payroll directly. No more of this blank check philosophy and, hopefully, and end to the ridiculous addiction to free agency. Build a player development system FIRST.
BLou - October 30, 2009
I agree with the lame duck point
There wouldn’t be time to install a new baseball executive staff before the busy Fall season, so Ricketts are just going to stick with Hendry. By keeping the payroll close to this year’s, they essentially say no big FA signings this offseason.
cubzfan - October 30, 2009
I have to agree
I think Hendry and Lou are done after 2010 no matter what the success the team has. Tom will search long and hard to find “there” manager and GM
Grockcubs - October 30, 2009
One important point of clarification is in order
It is not Tom Ricketts who owns the Cubs. Rather it is the Ricketts family. Tom is simply the point person for the family. But make no mistake his siblings have a significant role in this new organization. It’s FAMILY money at stake, not only Tom’s money.
BLou - October 30, 2009
So?
eths - October 30, 2009 via mobile
So?
eths - October 30, 2009 via mobile
That's kind of a "so-so" question...
Zeke - October 30, 2009
gee willikers
jesus christos - October 30, 2009
I just want you to know....
… that you are only the third person to ever say “gee willikers” on this site.
Al Yellon - October 30, 2009
and you're the fourth
jesus christos - October 30, 2009
unless he was already counting himself...
as one of the people who pointed out to someone else that they were the first to say “gee willikers.”
CubFan81 - October 30, 2009
that is possible
so then that means you could be the fourth
jesus christos - October 31, 2009
Great Googlie Mooglie!
Zeke - October 31, 2009
Great Scott!
Ace Venom - October 31, 2009
Gadzooks.
katie casey - October 31, 2009
Crikey!
Shanghai Badger - October 31, 2009
fer cry-eye!
katie casey - October 31, 2009
Sweet Fancy Moses!
Zeke - October 31, 2009
Criminy!
Al Yellon - October 31, 2009
Holy Socks! (Sux)!
Zeke - October 31, 2009
dangnabit!
katie casey - October 31, 2009
jiminy!
Emelie - October 31, 2009
Tattyboggler
eths - October 31, 2009
(OK. This is one I've never heard)
Zeke - October 31, 2009
Yumpin' Yiminy!
vonde6 - October 31, 2009
Doggone it
Shanghai Badger - October 31, 2009
Zounds!
Zeke - October 31, 2009
Great Caesar's Ghost!
Al Yellon - October 31, 2009
Shanghai Badger - October 31, 2009
Hokey Smoke, Bullwinkle!
Zeke - November 1, 2009
"Olsen, don't call me Chief!"
Zeke - November 1, 2009
what have i started!??!!?!
jesus christos - October 31, 2009
Dats whud u git fo usin dem big fancy like woids...
eths - October 31, 2009
I saw most of the "show"
and the “after-sets” with Kap, Ricketts, “Weasely” Paul Sullivan, et. at.
I am really glad the Tribune and Zell are out of the picture, and Kenny said an interesting comment pointing to McFail putting the financial muzzle on the club during 2005.
While I am not please folks like Al and I will be paying MORE for the 3rd of the last 4th years, it seems like a necessity. Just like health insurance. lol
However, I have heard this “we’re gonna win” before, and have personally lived through 69, 84, 89, 91, 98, 03, 07, 08, and Milton Bradley.
Not an optimist like Al, after all of this, but I can root for the Ricketts big time. At least they will suffer along with me and also be jumping up and down with joy.
It is a welcome change that I am happy to see. Welcome!
The E-Man - October 30, 2009
One year
I think it will be a year before we see major changes.
I think Hendry has earned another year based on his body of work.
Wouldn’t it be nice if we’re all clamoring for Hendry to be kept after 2010 (because it would mean at least a pennant).
puckishcubsfan - October 30, 2009
Money and the farm system
I have said for years the big problem with the Cubs has been the lack of a productive farm system. If you have a few young players who are earning low end you have more money to add some high priced talent. If you have to have mid price talent everywhere it eats the payroll.
puckishcubsfan - October 30, 2009
……….
dtpollitt - October 31, 2009
Good for the Ricketts family
You can tell that the owning of the Cubs is truly a honor. I do like the idea that they are sold on accountability. Welcome change for this franchise.
I can see some tweaks here and there this year, then with more payroll flexibility maybe more moves.
Just a breath of fresh air today.
Grockcubs - October 30, 2009
Fun Questions on the Ricketts' Cubs Pedigree
From the press conference today, a reporter asked the Ricketts what their individual Cubs pedigree was as fans. Each member of the family told the story of how they became a Cubs fan and sat in the bleachers when they were younger.
What he should have asked was:
Bleachers – Left field or Right field?
Beer – Old Style or Budweiser?
RiskyBusiness - October 30, 2009
I was impressed with...
Tom Ricketts adressing the media from along side of the podium, instead of hiding behind it. That tells me alot about his character. He wants to be interactive with the media and fans, instead of telling people what they want to hear with half truths.
montecarlo - October 31, 2009
excellent point
which I would believe reality shows to be true
cubnational - October 31, 2009
finally
an owner. and yes they should look towards boston in making changes. a team that plays post season every year can obviously evaluate talent. something this organization has been lacking in for some time. but it all comes down to the players. if they do their jjobs you win and if they dont you lose. pretty much in 09 that applied to almost everyone. i think for 2010 there womnt be many changes as the team expects their returning players to step up.
NOMAR - October 31, 2009
Refreshing and full of optimism,
for the many reasons stated above.
But – and I’m not trying to find the negative – , but the more they talked especially the siblings, the more I got the feel they were real fans, but real fans who love the Wrigley experience, the bleacher scene, more than the hard core baseball type. (e.g. Tom’s story of sitting next to the beer vendor).
Most of the tangible details were just echos of what Kenney has been dreaming the last couple years. Good stuff, but not original.
Not sure that it matters, it"s certaintly far better to have them, someone with vision and a plan, than what we have suffered through since Zell got in. My concern is that the Wrigley experience, having a good time at the ballpark, doesn’t supercede on-field product.
All that said, it is great to someone who seems to care leading the charge.
BatCubFan - October 31, 2009
I just hope this doesn't get other teams fired up to beat us.
OT: Wisconsin is about to begin its victory over Purdue.
And another OT: No health issues have made themselves apparent, and the H1N1 incubation period ended last night (meaning if I had it, I’d have a full-blown flu right now). No H1N1 for me.
Vermont Cubs Fan - October 31, 2009
80-yard drive for the Badgers, nothing but rushing plays.
Wisconsin 7, Purdue 0
Vermont Cubs Fan - October 31, 2009
Purdue just fumbled it away.
Per replays, it should be Wisconsin ball, deep in Purdue territory.
Vermont Cubs Fan - October 31, 2009
Ruling on field overturned.
Absolutely terrible call.
Vermont Cubs Fan - October 31, 2009
There were some bad ones against Indiana today, too.
Iowa finds a way again, though – good for them.
Shanghai Badger - October 31, 2009
Oh, forgot something.
Happy Halloween, everyone!
Vermont Cubs Fan - October 31, 2009
You too!
katie casey - October 31, 2009
And since it's Halloween, join me!
Do the Monster Mash!
Note: that version of the song was recorded by Boris Pickett and the Cryptkickers, not Dr. Demento, as the video suggests.
Vermont Cubs Fan - October 31, 2009
I'm skeptical, but open-minded.
The Ricketts clan hasn’t said anything yet about the way he’s going to run the team on the field. My hope was that the Cubs would get an ownership group similar to the one that took over the Red Sox that employed some of the best minds in baseball. This group hasn’t said anything one way or the other yet. I’m going to (as Al often says) “take a wait and see approach.”
Shawn Domagal-Goldman - October 31, 2009
I will say that...
they essentially seemed to crush the softball questions, which is a minimum for a group that will have to deal with a rabid fan base.
Shawn Domagal-Goldman - October 31, 2009
Agreed
Seemed to get nothing but softball questions, but I guess what do you expect? Would have been kind of nice if they came in firing (Hendry, Tribune suit) but I guess thats asking too much. Seriously, do you need a year to “observe” Hendry after seeing a farm system (which he’s had a hand in for a long time) produce NOTHING? The free agent disasters of the last few off seasons aren’t indictment enough (Soriano, Fukudome, Bradley)?
It’s nice to know they want clean bathrooms and better food, but it’s going to be tough for me to follow this team while Hendry is still here.
wicubfan - November 3, 2009
did anyone listen to score interview with ricketts
i thought bernsie was going to wet himself trying to figure out how he could phrase his multiple questions all asking the same thing – why don’t you fire crane kenney now?
doofus cubs guy - October 31, 2009
I like everything I've heard so far
The Ricketts clan are clearly decent people and fellow fans. This could be the breakthrough we need. It’ll be a fun off season to watch.
Emelie - October 31, 2009
video of ricketts meeting media is on cubs.com
jesus christos - October 31, 2009
my favorite line
forget curses. if anybody thinks they are cursed then we will trade them to a less cursed team. fantastic. the team that finally does win it needs to forget about curses and the 100 year crap. as we saw that 100 year pressure squashed the 2008 team.
NOMAR - November 1, 2009
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