Friday a.m. stuff
by Adam J. Morris on Oct 31, 2008 9:17 AM CDT
238 comments
Some news of a sort this morning...
Five Rangers filed for free agency: Milton Bradley, Hank Blalock, Jamey Wright, Ramon Vazquez, and Jason Jennings. Blalock, of course, will be back off the market if (when?) the Rangers exercise his 2009 option.
Evan Grant has some quotes from Jon Daniels indicating that he understands that Bradley will want to test the market and see what is out there, given his desire for a multi-year deal. I would be surprised if the Rangers were willing to go more than one year on him, and if he is, in fact, a Type A free agent, he'd garner two draft picks if he left.
T.R. Sullivan says the Rangers are still waiting on Mike Maddux before they name a pitching coach. He also says the Rangers have gotten trade interest from the Mariners and the Giants vis-a-vis Hank Blalock. Both could use a first baseman, but neither seems likely to give up much for Blalock.
Doug Melvin says he's "pretty confident" Maddux will be back with the Brewers.
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DH / Milton
Wash didn’t play Ramirez at all last year, making him less of a candidate to DH.
If Blalock DHs, Davis is required at 1B and 3B becomes a situation.
Bradley departure isn’t a foregone conclusion…I at least could see a 3-year offer. Nothing more than $10m per average, but JD would at least offer that term.
Go Strangers.
by hightowersmith on Oct 31, 2008 9:21 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Well
Not looking good right now. I watched Wright make 3 costly mistakes on his first 3 possessions. People can talk about Kidd or Dirk all they want, but if we can’t get more production out of the 2 than last night, then we’re in trouble. The bench was also terrible. Still, it was a close game, and just one of 82. I’m not ready to panic just yet.
by brettgardner on Oct 31, 2008 5:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
yeah
Wright didn’t make a good first impression on people who have no idea who he is. I’m not sure he needs to be starting.. did you get to see Green at all in the preseason? I only saw numbers and some were pretty impressive, do you know if their pretty high on him?
by tyd3311 on Oct 31, 2008 5:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I
Didn’t see him, but he looked good in the box score like you said. The articles I’ve been reading say that they like him, but they’re cautious and going to work him in slowly.
I’d at least like to see him take a handful of Stack’s minutes, who just contributes so little. Ditto with Williams.
Right now, the biggest problem is that when Dirk, Kidd and Howard aren’t on the floor, they have a very hard time scoring anything.
by brettgardner on Oct 31, 2008 6:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's
Really going to piss me off if he turns out being as good as I think he will be. That’ll piss me off more than not winning the championship, since we could have had him.
by brettgardner on Nov 1, 2008 1:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
More than the Miami series?
Really?
Go back and watch the officiating in final five minutes of three non-blowout Miami wins in that series.
I honestly keep expecting to see Dwyade high five the refs in those games. How does he keep from doing it? He deserves a Best Actor nod for keeping a straight face during that shit.
The 40 Trumps All!!!
by thedirkatron on Nov 1, 2008 11:19 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No no no
I’m sorry—I was very inartful in my phrasing.
Nothing could make me more upset than the Miami series.
I was actually trying to say that if the Kidd trade fails and we don’t win the championship this year, I’d be even more upset about the draft pick given up that turned into Batum than not winning.
by brettgardner on Nov 1, 2008 1:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ah, okay. Gotcha.
The 40 Trumps All!!!
by thedirkatron on Nov 1, 2008 4:38 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wish granted..
..Looks like Green is getting some of Stacks’ minutes tonight. I pray he has something.
by tyd3311 on Nov 1, 2008 8:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Bradley Type A
If Bradley is a type A, should we let him walk and then sign Burrell? We’d lose only a 2nd rounder, get a 1st and 2nd for Bradley and pretty much get the same production.
So we would be gaining a 1st round pick.
This of course is us having Burrell mostly playing at DH (if he’s ok with it).
by Coolbean04 on Oct 31, 2008 9:25 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Burrell
I’d love to see the Rangers sign Burrell. I have heard in the past that he would prefer to stay on the East Coast, so I don’t know how open he would be to the Rangers, but I’d sure like to find out. There aren’t many players on the market this winter I’d feel more confident about- you can pretty much count on a .250-260 average, 100 walks, and a .500 SLG from him every season.
"I dont care to debate with a troll." - Sharky
by RCCook on Oct 31, 2008 9:34 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
burrell
is VERY consistantly average
saw a thing earlier this year on a fantasy site where essentially burrell had the same stats for a 3 year run coming into this year
"I don’t know of a single thing Obama’s done except talk and write." - Newt Gingrich
"That wasn’t rain, that was a band of angels pissing on your awful city. Shut the hell up and play." - robert_d_wilfong
by knockoutking on Oct 31, 2008 11:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
i've had him on my fantasy team 2 of the last 4 years
he pretty much did it all over again this year… he is a VERY streaky hitter… stretches of fire and ice but he’s got legitimate pop
he’s gonna be ’spensive though
At this rate, he’ll be throwing 107-110 by 2012
by trident on Oct 31, 2008 12:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Rangers do not
need to be spending huge amounts of money on declining outfielders of questionable defense. No on Burrell.
G G G E-flat_______ F F F D__________....
by t ball on Oct 31, 2008 9:34 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
T ball you are right on.
With that being said, lets get Ken Griffey Jr. here
by SaltyGoesYard on Oct 31, 2008 9:35 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
OT: Jacobs for Nunez
The first trade of the offseason just went down and I haven’t seen any comments on it. Florida sent 1B Jacobs to KC for RP Nunez. Any thoughts other than zzzzzz?
Fire Ron Washington
by pblack on Oct 31, 2008 9:36 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
http://www.lonestarball.com/2008/10/30/650098/series-over-business-resum
by JBImaknee on Oct 31, 2008 9:38 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Bye-bye Gload and possibly Shealy, though Shealy's young enough to have trade value it would seem.
Moore needs to make a couple more minor trades like this to reshape his club, but I can’t see what else he has to offer besides a couple of arms on the farm. He now has Shealy, Butler, and Jacobs to rotate at DH/1B, plus Kila Monster on the farm. Perhaps that might be considered a position of depth, but Shealy really needs a half season of production like his late season call up before he has value.
KC needs an OF masher. It would be quite a feat for Moore to trade for that with what he has left, I think.
Maybe they can get Ken Griffey on a big one-year or two-year contract. KCs not that far from Cinci.
Go Rangers!
by rooster on Oct 31, 2008 9:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Griffey shouldn't be playing outfield anymore
And he’s not a masher anymore either. Unless he’s playing the Twins.
by Heebs on Oct 31, 2008 10:02 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
ok i personally don't know anything about maddux or peterson but...
the fact that Wash is pushing for maddux tells me we need to sign peterson TODAY!!
by 1man5stools on Oct 31, 2008 9:44 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
although...i guess a case could be made that Wash is due to get one of these right...
NAAAHHH, i still go with peterson or hawkins
by 1man5stools on Oct 31, 2008 9:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
wash pushing for maddux?
i havent seen this anywhere. if anything, i’ve read that he’s pushed for peterson as he’s the one that suggested him
"I'm against picketing, but I don't know how to show it." - Mitch Hedberg
by rentz on Oct 31, 2008 9:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
read that wrong...disregard
rentz is a god, 1man is a stool
by 1man5stools on Oct 31, 2008 9:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maddux/Peterson
I’d be happy with either one. They’re two of the best pitching coaches in baseball.
"I dont care to debate with a troll." - Sharky
by RCCook on Oct 31, 2008 9:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wash endorsed Peterson.
Go Strangers.
by hightowersmith on Oct 31, 2008 10:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Is the consensus belief that the Rangers are going to exercise Hammer's option?
I don’t see a whole lot of downside to it. At worst, you’re wasting a couple million dollars that come off the books next year anyways. At best, he explodes offensively and Texas trades him for some nice pieces.
"One man, five scoops." -- shroomer
by ghtd36 on Oct 31, 2008 9:46 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I would say at best he explodes offensively and we keep him because he’s a superstar talent.
by aggiecurt05 on Oct 31, 2008 9:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
just outta curiosity
did you go to camp when you were a kid? maybe Rio Vista? total shot in the dark, but one of my buddies from camp was an aggie class of 05 named curt spelled the same…
At this rate, he’ll be throwing 107-110 by 2012
by trident on Oct 31, 2008 12:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm pretty sure...
…the team feels that, worst-case, they can trade him to some other team for the equivalent of Michael Hernandez this offseason.
by Adam J. Morris on Oct 31, 2008 10:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well
They could do better. But I think the team feels there is little risk to exercising his option because they can give him away to another team if they decide they don’t want him.
by Adam J. Morris on Oct 31, 2008 10:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
But trade him to who?
Who wants a 1B/DH who probably can’t be counted on for 140 games?
by FuturePants on Oct 31, 2008 10:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
According to T.R.
The M’s and Giants.
by Adam J. Morris on Oct 31, 2008 10:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
For who?
Not that it matters to me who we get for Blalock, but who would the Mariners or Giants part with? Certainly nobody of consequence.
by FuturePants on Oct 31, 2008 10:12 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I really
don’t see us giving him away to the Mariners.
Who says that he have to make a 1 on 1 trade…. we got the prospects, let’s go after Brian Wilson.
by tyd3311 on Oct 31, 2008 10:14 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'll pass
He’s a 26 year old reliever with average to below average numbers. I’d rather go after a young guy and let a Frankie Fransisco give it a try.
by Heebs on Oct 31, 2008 10:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
26 isn't young?
I haven’t looked at his numbers but 26 is considered fairly young in the majors. I damn sure isn’t considered old
Bryan Smith (12:17:17 PM PT): Justin Smoak and Josh Hamilton. The AL West might just have found their Bash Brothers, v. 2.0.
by bigsteve on Oct 31, 2008 10:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He is a power arm
Who pitched very well in save situations, FIP of 3.93., ave. FB velo of 95.
by tyd3311 on Oct 31, 2008 10:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
So you want to give up Blalock and prospects...
…for a 27 year old (as of the start of 2009) righty reliever with a FIP around 4.00 last year while pitching in an N.L. pitcher’s park?
I don’t get it.
by Adam J. Morris on Oct 31, 2008 10:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I thought Blalock was worthless?
and I thought pitcher’s park’s or not were pretty irrelevant for 1 innings relievers.
by tyd3311 on Oct 31, 2008 10:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
x
I thought pitcher’s park’s or not were pretty irrelevant for 1 innings relievers.
Who said that?
by Adam J. Morris on Oct 31, 2008 10:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
i’ve heard it mentioned, not by you.
by tyd3311 on Oct 31, 2008 10:42 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Point is
Blalock has more value to the Rangers if they keep him in that instance for now.
G G G E-flat_______ F F F D__________....
by t ball on Oct 31, 2008 10:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If he is happy playing DH
and we don’t resign bradley, sure..
by tyd3311 on Oct 31, 2008 10:37 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
When i hear Blalock say that he is willing to DH this year, then i may be of a different opinion on the situation.
by tyd3311 on Oct 31, 2008 10:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Read this quote
and tell me he will be happy as a DH…
I’ll probably throw three times a week in October and November, then four times a week and then every day for six weeks leading up to Spring Training," Blalock said. “Hopefully, that will get me to the point were my arm will be strong all year long.”
by tyd3311 on Oct 31, 2008 10:55 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Uh
Are you sure you quoted the right block of text?
by LiamP on Oct 31, 2008 11:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
uh
im not sure what you’re getting at…?
by tyd3311 on Oct 31, 2008 11:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
All you can read into that is that he'd prefer to play 3B
He knows he’d be more valuable to the Rangers (and as a FA after this year) as a 3b as opposed to a 1b/dh type. However, if the only way he can stay healthy this year is by playing DH, do you think he’d be against it in a contract year?
by LiamP on Oct 31, 2008 11:22 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
So what younger guy with better numbers should we target
And who would give someone like that away, especially for Hank. This is aimed at prognosis not you tyd
Bryan Smith (12:17:17 PM PT): Justin Smoak and Josh Hamilton. The AL West might just have found their Bash Brothers, v. 2.0.
by bigsteve on Oct 31, 2008 10:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If the Giants want to give him up for Blalock...
…I’d consider it…
But I don’t see why they would. And I don’t see why we’d want to kick in prospects, along with Blalock, to get Wilson.
I don’t see that trading for a young reliever should be a priority this offseason.
by Adam J. Morris on Oct 31, 2008 10:25 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed
I wouldn’t add anything to a Hank deal unless it was for a stud.
I disagree about the reliever part though. I wouldn’t deal anybody in our long term plans for a young reliever but a guy like Hank or a guy like Cat who is only here for another year. If we can get a young reliever who we have under control for several years I would look inot that. Maybe not a priority but I would consider it.
Bryan Smith (12:17:17 PM PT): Justin Smoak and Josh Hamilton. The AL West might just have found their Bash Brothers, v. 2.0.
by bigsteve on Oct 31, 2008 10:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
x
Drove downtown in the rain
Nine thirty on a Tuesday night,
Just to check out the late night record shop.
Call it impulsive, call it compulsive, call it insane;
But when I’m surrounded I just can’t stop.
by Adam J. Morris on Oct 31, 2008 10:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'd rather
have the Barenaked Ladies over that Brian Wilson in a heartbeat. At least the would draw fans to the stadium.
by Heebs on Oct 31, 2008 10:38 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
such a great song
such a great band
"They shouldn't throw at me. I'm the father of five or six kids."
-Tito Fuentes, after getting hit by a pitch.
by Haeger Champ on Oct 31, 2008 11:19 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I wonder if
Blalock + Byrd or Murphy could get us Jon Sanchez.
Not that I’m terribly thrilled about Sanchez, but he does strike out a guy per inning and is at least even in GB/FB.
Not that they’d be terribly thrilled with Blalock + an outfielder, but those guys would probably hit 3 & 4 for them next year and be a substantial upgrade.
by Keynes on Oct 31, 2008 12:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
id LOVE that deal
in a heartbest
"I don’t know of a single thing Obama’s done except talk and write." - Newt Gingrich
"That wasn’t rain, that was a band of angels pissing on your awful city. Shut the hell up and play." - robert_d_wilfong
by knockoutking on Oct 31, 2008 3:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
mariners and blalock
Would a Beltre for Blalock be a win for all parties involved? They get a reduced contract, a productive player in Blalock (with a very high ceiling). We get a very good defensive 3B (a supposed priority this offseason) whose production should resemble Blalock’s- but we pay his salary which is substantially higher. That frees us to play Davis on 1b and get Milton back for DH or use one of the young guys.
by aggiecurt05 on Oct 31, 2008 9:46 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Seattle needs a 1B
Hank is being viewed as a 1B in this trade scenario. I doubt a one for one swap would happen.
Bryan Smith (12:17:17 PM PT): Justin Smoak and Josh Hamilton. The AL West might just have found their Bash Brothers, v. 2.0.
by bigsteve on Oct 31, 2008 9:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The M's wouldn't do that
Beltre is a superior player when you factor in health risk.
I’d be all over it if we could do it though. Throw in a prospect and I’m still happy.
I'm undefeated in fights. Have I been in any? No. Thats because people know my f'ing status. Don't mess with the elite. - Miles
by Dirk Diggler on Oct 31, 2008 9:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sure sign me up...
The Rangers love overrated former Dodgers who sign big contracts…
by Heebs on Oct 31, 2008 9:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
109+ OPS last year
Sure, he’s making alot of money, but his bat would play extremely well in RBiA.
I'm undefeated in fights. Have I been in any? No. Thats because people know my f'ing status. Don't mess with the elite. - Miles
by Dirk Diggler on Oct 31, 2008 9:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
not to mention his glove
lol
"I don’t know of a single thing Obama’s done except talk and write." - Newt Gingrich
"That wasn’t rain, that was a band of angels pissing on your awful city. Shut the hell up and play." - robert_d_wilfong
by knockoutking on Oct 31, 2008 11:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You are outta your mind
if you think Beltre is overrated. I went over this in a previous post, OPS+ of 109, 112, and 105 the past 3 seasons and gold glove caliber defense is NOT overrated.
Do some research before you post nonsense, just cause the guy isn’t on steroids anymore doesn’t mean he’s overrated, unless YOU still rate him according to his 2004 production, which would be your inability to rate players effectively… not him being overrated.
At this rate, he’ll be throwing 107-110 by 2012
by trident on Oct 31, 2008 12:38 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
First...
I was referring to Beltre being overrated when he left the Dodgers (much like Chan Ho Park was). I am not a huge fan of Beltre, but he would be a serviceable third baseman. He’s still got years left in him as he’ll still be 29 on opening day (although 30 shortly thereafter).
However, Beltre isn’t that good of a hitter. He’s been slightly above average recently but he still isn’t anything to marvel at. and certainly isn’t worth $12MM a year His numbers would certainly improve moving away from a pitcher friendly ballpark and into a hitter friendly ballprak, but how much can you expect them to improve. Outside of 2004, his OPS has hovered around .780. Not terrible but not exactly great either. I like that he has nice OPS+ numbers however I don’t see the infatuation. At least you know what you are going to get. 25 homers, a ton of doubles, a 2-1 KK/BB rate and some good defense.
by Heebs on Oct 31, 2008 2:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
very good defense
i wonder how many runs he would have saved our team last year…
"I don’t know of a single thing Obama’s done except talk and write." - Newt Gingrich
"That wasn’t rain, that was a band of angels pissing on your awful city. Shut the hell up and play." - robert_d_wilfong
by knockoutking on Oct 31, 2008 3:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
According to this he was the 6th most valuable player in the AL
Considering how putrid we were at 3b last year and how golden godly he was, I’d say… a lot. Taking a position from a huge negative to a huge positive has to save somewhere in the neighborhood of 30-50 runs I’d think. But that’s just my totally not in the know answer.
The 40 Trumps All!!!
by thedirkatron on Oct 31, 2008 4:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Absolutely Diggler
Throw in a mid or low level guy for their rebuilding effort, but not too much b/c he’s only here for 1 year and Boras is his agent.
Wonder what his stat line would look like in Arlington….
At this rate, he’ll be throwing 107-110 by 2012
by trident on Oct 31, 2008 12:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'd do that in a heartbeat
and I’m a pretty big Blalock homer. Beltre’s glovework would be nice to see at the hot corner.
I don't hate everything. In fact, I think LSB is just groovy.
by tricer on Oct 31, 2008 9:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
x
Would a Beltre for Blalock be a win for all parties involved?
How would it be a win for Seattle?
Wouldn’t they be better off dealing Beltre for someone they can use down the road, rather than a one-year rental?
by Adam J. Morris on Oct 31, 2008 10:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was thinking there was about a 10 million dollar difference in their salaries- which would be the reason.Get comparable production at a vastly reduced price for a team that isn’t going to compete this year. I’m probably being overly optimistic. I tend to value Blalock higher than everyone else. I don’t see how a 28 year old player who was the number one prospect in all of baseball, has been to an all star game, and can still clearly hit well has no value. Injury risk? Yes, but not to the point that he’s a salary dump. I think people forget that Blalock was considered the best prospect in all of baseball…better than EVERY prospect we currently have in the minors.
With that said, we’d probably have to include a prospect, which I would be willing to do as long as it wasn’t one of our top 10 (most teams top 2 or 3)- a German Duran type would be fair.
by aggiecurt05 on Oct 31, 2008 10:28 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If the M's wanted to unload Beltre...
…just to dump his salary, they could find a better return than Blalock. Particularly given that Beltre only has one year left, and there is jack on the market in the way of 3B this offseason.
by Adam J. Morris on Oct 31, 2008 10:30 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Its "only" a 6 million dollar difference
At this rate, he’ll be throwing 107-110 by 2012
by trident on Oct 31, 2008 12:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Trade Proposal
Blalock really doesn’t seem to fit into the Rangers long-term plans. This is pretty obvious. With Chris Davis (and Smoak right behind him) the Rangers don’t really have room for a clearly inferior Blalock. Blalock doesn’t seem to have to healthy enough shoulder to play 3b anymore and he never really was an excellent defensive 3b to begin with. I could see Blalock at DH but you are probably better off putting one of Ramirez/Salty there now (if they aren’t traded) and then Davis there once Smoak arrives.
What kind of low ball package would you take right now for Blalock just to get him off the books? Would you throw some money in (after you pick up the option) and deal him for a mid-level pitching prospect? I’d personally be happy getting a live arm or two out of the deal even if it isn’t much more than a couple of Gabbard types. Live arms but not a huge upside.
by Heebs on Oct 31, 2008 10:01 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
A decent Bullpen arm
Is what I’d personally be looking for in return for Hank right now, because that’s probably the best thing he’d fetch. But really, I’d just as soon hang on to him and see if we can pump his trade value up as a DH, and try to ship him to some contender who needs a DH/1B type at the deadline.
"[Tim McCarver and Joe Buck] are the Gabe Gross and Ben Broussard of the broadcasting booth." - dirkatron
by lonestarJon on Oct 31, 2008 10:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't think...
…you do anything with Blalock until you see what happens with Bradley.
by Adam J. Morris on Oct 31, 2008 10:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I can agree with that
I’m of the assumption that Bradley is gone next year. He seems in line to get way more money than he’s worth. At least he’s better than GMJ.
by Heebs on Oct 31, 2008 10:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think there's a decent chance...
…Bradley accepts arbitration, once it is offered.
by Adam J. Morris on Oct 31, 2008 10:12 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Price
What do you think the offer will be?
by Heebs on Oct 31, 2008 10:14 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Arbitration?
He’ll ask for $12 million, we’ll offer $8 or $9.
by Adam J. Morris on Oct 31, 2008 10:15 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think
there’s a better chance Blalock stays healthy at DH than Milton. Milton never puts together a full season, and Blalock has.
I hope Milton walks so we get the pick, Blalock hits the shit out of it next year and becomes type A (is that even possible?), and Metcalf is serviceable enough to hold down the fort next year.
At this rate, he’ll be throwing 107-110 by 2012
by trident on Oct 31, 2008 12:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Is Smoak in this years plans?
Does a mid level pitching prospect (with the way our system is stacked with those) make more sense for the future than having hank here this next year? Is Hank directly blocking anybody this year? Would Max or Salty be better served spending time in the minors continuing to develop defensively rather than be a DH? These are the questions you have to ask.
My personal opinion is Hank is fine for us this year. Long term…no hes not in our plans. But I would rather gamble on holding on the Blalock, play him at 1B, and hope he continues getting better offensively and can bring back a good pitching prospect instead of a mid level guy at the trade deadline. And if he can’t he will almost assuredly be a type B and possibly a type A next winter.
Bryan Smith (12:17:17 PM PT): Justin Smoak and Josh Hamilton. The AL West might just have found their Bash Brothers, v. 2.0.
by bigsteve on Oct 31, 2008 10:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I would be shocked...
if Blalock winds up a Type A. I don’t think he’s been anywhere near a Type A quality player in a few years. I wish the guy the best, but I’d rather have Ramirez up here at DH. He’s a masher and he doesn’t seem anywhere near being a good defensive catcher. Do you think a little bit of work will make much difference with a guy like Ramirez?
by Heebs on Oct 31, 2008 10:14 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Type A
Those rankings only cover the previous 2 seasons from what I recall. Thye take into account time missed due to injury and compensate for that. When healthy Blalock has been a very good player. If he puts togather a season next year of 140 games and does it at a pace like the last two years offensively I think its very possible hes a type A.
Bryan Smith (12:17:17 PM PT): Justin Smoak and Josh Hamilton. The AL West might just have found their Bash Brothers, v. 2.0.
by bigsteve on Oct 31, 2008 10:15 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
With the way things went last year; injury (and DFA) wise...
…it would not be out of the question to see Smoak. I don’t think the Rangers are counting on him to be up and contribute, but if he blasts the door down a la Davis in 2008, you never know.
DH is still a question mark, and god help me, but I would be ok with trading Davis for the right return (Buchholz).
by FuturePants on Oct 31, 2008 10:15 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Smoak
the very earliest I think you see him is August 1. Very earliest. Even that would be less than a year after being drafted. I can see him up in September if he has had a beastly year but even if its Aug 1 that gives you plenty of time to trade Blalock.
Basically there is very little, if anything, behind him for the first 4 months of the season next year to worry about.
Bryan Smith (12:17:17 PM PT): Justin Smoak and Josh Hamilton. The AL West might just have found their Bash Brothers, v. 2.0.
by bigsteve on Oct 31, 2008 10:17 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
except...a wasted season
and another 2-4 place finish in the AL West
by Heebs on Oct 31, 2008 10:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
What?
Bryan Smith (12:17:17 PM PT): Justin Smoak and Josh Hamilton. The AL West might just have found their Bash Brothers, v. 2.0.
by bigsteve on Oct 31, 2008 10:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Implying that...
Another Blalock slow start can/will lead to another crummy april/may and another wasted season. I’d rather waste a season with young guys getting some experience.
by Heebs on Oct 31, 2008 10:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Blalock
My recollection is that he’s the one guy who has hit well early in the season…it is the second half where he’s fallen off.
by Adam J. Morris on Oct 31, 2008 10:22 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Blalock didn't cause the Rangers 07 and 08 Aprils
That was a team effort of sucktitude. Do you remember Ben Broussard?
by FuturePants on Oct 31, 2008 10:22 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah,
Blalock’s usual problem was second half, where he would run out of steam. Or maybe it was because his arm went numb with TOS, I’m not sure.
Beginning of most seasons he was money.
"Oh well, McCain is pretty communist anyway,... we can be 70% communist with McCain,"-Sharky
by DJCahill on Oct 31, 2008 10:25 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
But who would take his place?
I hope you aren’t talking about Smoak. If you are saying have Davis at 1B and someone like Metcalf or Duran at 3B thats another point but even that I would still gamble on Hank having a monster season rather than Metcalf or Duran having a mediocre one at best.
Bryan Smith (12:17:17 PM PT): Justin Smoak and Josh Hamilton. The AL West might just have found their Bash Brothers, v. 2.0.
by bigsteve on Oct 31, 2008 10:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh
Like his career .292 .354 .490 .844 line before the break
and his career .253 .315 .435 .751 line after the break
Please, please, please do more research.
Blalock is perfect to start off hot, then get sold at the allstar break
At this rate, he’ll be throwing 107-110 by 2012
by trident on Oct 31, 2008 12:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I would imagine...
…we would see him in the September callups at earliest, and even that I have a hard time realistically believing that he will do that. But I don’t discount him burning his way through the system like Davis.
by FuturePants on Oct 31, 2008 10:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agree
I think Opening day 2010 is the more realistic scenario. There are alot of roster implications to also consider with adding him to the 40 this next year
Bryan Smith (12:17:17 PM PT): Justin Smoak and Josh Hamilton. The AL West might just have found their Bash Brothers, v. 2.0.
by bigsteve on Oct 31, 2008 10:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah
The 40 man is the reason I can’t believe he will make an appearance this summer.
by FuturePants on Oct 31, 2008 10:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The 40 is of upmost importance.
The 40 Trumps All!!!
by thedirkatron on Oct 31, 2008 12:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Is that the team slogan for 2009?
We won’t win…so we’ll control the 40! Rule 5? No…talk to the hand.
by Heebs on Oct 31, 2008 12:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
lol
Rule 5? No…talk to the hand.
The 40 Trumps All!!!
by thedirkatron on Oct 31, 2008 1:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
speaking of rule V
wwhen is it?
"I don’t know of a single thing Obama’s done except talk and write." - Newt Gingrich
"That wasn’t rain, that was a band of angels pissing on your awful city. Shut the hell up and play." - robert_d_wilfong
by knockoutking on Oct 31, 2008 3:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Haha
Don’t go there homeskillet!
You need a checkup from the neckup!!
Those who would sacrifice liberty for safety deserve neither.
by Brian Thomas on Nov 1, 2008 9:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Bradley is a type B
according to Grant at the DMN blog. Official Elias rankings just out.
http://rangersblog.dallasnews.com/archives/2008/10/bradley-starts-with-a-b.html
G G G E-flat_______ F F F D__________....
by t ball on Oct 31, 2008 10:32 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Not too surprsing.
The Elias system is fairly retarded.
"Oh well, McCain is pretty communist anyway,... we can be 70% communist with McCain,"-Sharky
by DJCahill on Oct 31, 2008 10:34 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Blalock a B
Which like I said above means if he has a full season this year with good numbers could vault him to an A
Bryan Smith (12:17:17 PM PT): Justin Smoak and Josh Hamilton. The AL West might just have found their Bash Brothers, v. 2.0.
by bigsteve on Oct 31, 2008 10:34 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Anyway
If he’s a B, I’d as soon re-sign him. He’s less costly so he’ll get more interest, but he seems to like Arlington.
I’d go 2/$20m or 3/$30m.
Go Strangers.
by hightowersmith on Oct 31, 2008 10:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'd offer him arb
and if he takes it, we have him one more year, if he goes elsewhere, he goes elsewhere.
"Oh well, McCain is pretty communist anyway,... we can be 70% communist with McCain,"-Sharky
by DJCahill on Oct 31, 2008 10:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
welll
considering he was quoted as saying something to the effect that he would quit baseball before taking another one year deal, I highly doubt he takes arbitration.
by tyd3311 on Oct 31, 2008 10:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well
That depends on what the market bears.
But yeah, if teams aren’t losing a pick he’ll probably get multiyear offers.
It’s weird weighing his FA value with the vacuum of trade interest in him this past deadline.
Go Strangers.
by hightowersmith on Oct 31, 2008 10:55 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I've heard people say they would quit
rather than take another $6-$8 million paycheck, or whatever. I don’t see them actually doing it much though.
Who was the Cowboys player who said he’d chuck it all and run a Limo service?
"Oh well, McCain is pretty communist anyway,... we can be 70% communist with McCain,"-Sharky
by DJCahill on Oct 31, 2008 11:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I once told a girl
that I coined the phrase “Pardon my French”.
by SteveP on Oct 31, 2008 11:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's so ridiculous it's genius
Those who would sacrifice liberty for safety deserve neither.
by Brian Thomas on Oct 31, 2008 12:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Did you also invent the question mark?
by Telegraph on Oct 31, 2008 12:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
al gore invented the internet…and pants.
"I don’t know of a single thing Obama’s done except talk and write." - Newt Gingrich
"That wasn’t rain, that was a band of angels pissing on your awful city. Shut the hell up and play." - robert_d_wilfong
by knockoutking on Oct 31, 2008 3:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I once convinced a girl
that Cocoon was based on a true story.
by jparks77 on Oct 31, 2008 4:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
heh
Those who would sacrifice liberty for safety deserve neither.
by Brian Thomas on Nov 1, 2008 9:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wouldn't you want something more incentive-laden?
GREINKE HO!!!!!
by oc on Oct 31, 2008 11:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't see how
Garrett Anderson is ranked higher on the B-list than Bradley. I guess it doesn’t matter really, but that is just odd to me. I guess his 114+ OPS in 2007 helped him.
I'm undefeated in fights. Have I been in any? No. Thats because people know my f'ing status. Don't mess with the elite. - Miles
by Dirk Diggler on Oct 31, 2008 11:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
How embarrasing...
…Everybody assumed he’d be an ‘A’.
GREINKE HO!!!!!
by oc on Oct 31, 2008 11:05 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'll ask again
Does this quote mean anything?
I’ll probably throw three times a week in October and November, then four times a week and then every day for six weeks leading up to Spring Training," Blalock said. “Hopefully, that will get me to the point were my arm will be strong all year long.”
by tyd3311 on Oct 31, 2008 11:02 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
It means
his arm is no good right now, but we knew that going in. I’d have doubts his arm will ever be good enough for 3B again.
"Oh well, McCain is pretty communist anyway,... we can be 70% communist with McCain,"-Sharky
by DJCahill on Oct 31, 2008 11:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It means
He does not want to play DH.
by tyd3311 on Oct 31, 2008 11:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No
I see nothing in that quote that indicates that.
by LiamP on Oct 31, 2008 11:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thats the way I read it
I have read quotes that he says he would like to get back to playing 3B. Whether he does or not i don’t know but he has made it pretty clear he wants to be out in the field not a DH
Bryan Smith (12:17:17 PM PT): Justin Smoak and Josh Hamilton. The AL West might just have found their Bash Brothers, v. 2.0.
by bigsteve on Oct 31, 2008 11:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hank Blalock believes he is a 3rd baseman as much as Michael Young believes he is a Shortstop.
by tyd3311 on Oct 31, 2008 11:38 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Then
That is bad news for this club. Throwing defensive liabilities out in the field for no reason other than their own pride will continue to kill the pitching staff. Good fielding might not win championships but it sure isn’t a bad place to start.
by Heebs on Oct 31, 2008 11:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’m all about upgrading the defense and bullpen.
by tyd3311 on Oct 31, 2008 11:53 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Bullpen
I actually like the bullpen. I think the rotation’s injuries killed the bullpen this year. There were too many starts by rookies/injured/bad players which lead to a ton of innings from already average guys like Jamey Wright. Upgrade the Rotation and you keep the pen fresh. That is the solution. Now where is Aaron Sele when you need him.
by Heebs on Oct 31, 2008 11:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He may believe he is a 3B
But I have a hard time believing he will play 3B for the Rangers ever again. Unless Washington comes out and says it I think if Blalock is on the Rangers on Opening day it will be as either a 1B or DH with my money going on 1B.
Bryan Smith (12:17:17 PM PT): Justin Smoak and Josh Hamilton. The AL West might just have found their Bash Brothers, v. 2.0.
by bigsteve on Oct 31, 2008 11:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Chavez
How about Blalock and Wash’s GG trophy that he got from Chavez for Eric Chavez himself? Think they’d do it? Wash loves Chavez!
by Heebs on Oct 31, 2008 11:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wouldn't be opposed to it
We have enough options down in the minors to where if he goes down to injury we won’t be scrambling. I wouldn’t have him as my first option.
Bryan Smith (12:17:17 PM PT): Justin Smoak and Josh Hamilton. The AL West might just have found their Bash Brothers, v. 2.0.
by bigsteve on Oct 31, 2008 11:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I will be so upset
if Chris Davis is our 3B on opening day.
by tyd3311 on Oct 31, 2008 11:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ehh
Id be fine with it.
Bryan Smith (12:17:17 PM PT): Justin Smoak and Josh Hamilton. The AL West might just have found their Bash Brothers, v. 2.0.
by bigsteve on Oct 31, 2008 11:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
This just in
Chris Davis…Bizarro Mark Teixeira.
by Heebs on Oct 31, 2008 11:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If our starting 3rd baseman isn't Face then you might as well go with CD
cause our IF defense is gonna be putrid no matter what so you may as well just try to outslug everyone everywhere all the time, cause your sure as hell not gonna prevent any runs.
The 40 Trumps All!!!
by thedirkatron on Oct 31, 2008 12:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I just don't get that mentality...
Let me preface this all by saying that I agree with most people here: Michael Young should be moved off SS very soon. Nevertheless, I don’t agree with Adam that we should consider trading for someone like J.J. Hardy. Andrus seems like he will be ready by 2010, and I would not feel good about trading a significant package of prospects for a positional player a few years away form free agency.
Regardless of whether we like it or not, it doesn’t seem like the Rangers will be moving Young off of short this off-season. But I don’t think that means that we cannot improve our defense in other ways.
I know SS is an important defensive position, but last year 3B was a giant defensive hole as well. Davis, from most indicators, would be a below average defensive 3B.
If we sign Crede (a well above average defender) to play 3B, then we would massively improve the 3rd base defense. This team could also improve the outfield defense by adding a better defensive CF and moving Hamilton over to RF.
I understand that Young at 3B makes the most defensive sense. But if he ends up at SS, that doesn’t mean that the rest of the defense will just be horrible. We can still improve the defense elsewhere and improve run prevention.
Hell, if this team added Coco Crisp to play CF and Joe Crede to play 3B, I think this could be an above average defensive team in spite of Young as SS. I also don’t think adding Crede/Crisp would make this team any worse offensively.
So there you go. Add Crede and Crisp. The defense is improved, the offense is probably about the same, and we wouldn’t have to give up too much to get them. (Probably a 1 year deal for Crede and maybe trade Laird to get Crisp.) Then when Borbon and Andrus are ready to join the club in 2010, you can move MY over to 3B and let Crisp/Crede walk.
by Stephen Rushin on Oct 31, 2008 1:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Crisp
We don’t need another OF. We already have Hammy, Byrd, Cruz and Murphy who should be playing everyday. Boggs is a nice piece to have sitting on the bench.
Hammy and Byrd will probably play the majority of games. Murphy and Cruz will probably platoon. Boggs will get mop up duties. Adding Crisp pushes Murphy or Cruz to mop up duties. Our OF is fine the way it is.
Bryan Smith (12:17:17 PM PT): Justin Smoak and Josh Hamilton. The AL West might just have found their Bash Brothers, v. 2.0.
by bigsteve on Oct 31, 2008 1:46 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
crisp > byrd and murphy
id rather have him going fowad
"I don’t know of a single thing Obama’s done except talk and write." - Newt Gingrich
"That wasn’t rain, that was a band of angels pissing on your awful city. Shut the hell up and play." - robert_d_wilfong
by knockoutking on Oct 31, 2008 3:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
and probably id rather have him than boggs as well
"I don’t know of a single thing Obama’s done except talk and write." - Newt Gingrich
"That wasn’t rain, that was a band of angels pissing on your awful city. Shut the hell up and play." - robert_d_wilfong
by knockoutking on Oct 31, 2008 3:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
its only for one year though
If the goal is developing toward the future why would you take time away from Murphy, Boggs, and Cruz for Crisp. The improvement he gives us defensively over Byrd is not enough for me to hold those guys back.
If we didn’t have Borbon almost ready I would be all for him but since he is a one year rental basically I can’t find enpough of a reason to go get him.
Bryan Smith (12:17:17 PM PT): Justin Smoak and Josh Hamilton. The AL West might just have found their Bash Brothers, v. 2.0.
by bigsteve on Oct 31, 2008 3:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
IMO, Murphy and Boggs are replacment level over the long run, so I have no problem with blocking them.
And Crisp has a team option for ‘10 so it could be a two year thing even if we don’t want to extend it beyond that.
It would drastically improve our OF defense to throw a plus defender in CF and let Hambone become a plus COF.
Also this would free us up to use Borbon as a trade chip, which might allow us to bring in a nicey nice pitcher this off season.
If Boston wanted to send us Crisp for Laird I’d be all over that like ants on a stick that’s been sprayed with some sort of chemical that attracts ants.
The 40 Trumps All!!!
by thedirkatron on Oct 31, 2008 4:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Defense
I see your point. I just don’t think the gain we would get defensively would make up for the loss offensively. Even if Murphy is only an average player his defense isn’t so bad that I would want to replace him with a guy who has averaged about an 85 OPS+ the last three years.
Plus I think this next year we really need to find out about Nelson Cruz. Cruz is a RF. Thats all. Unfortunately that means that most days Hammy will have to play CF because I don’t think he would fit in LF very well. Bringing in Crisp would force Cruz out or to a very diminished role. And I would rather suffer with slightly less defense to find out about guys like Cruz and let guys like Murphy and to a lesser extent Boggs play more.
Bryan Smith (12:17:17 PM PT): Justin Smoak and Josh Hamilton. The AL West might just have found their Bash Brothers, v. 2.0.
by bigsteve on Oct 31, 2008 4:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
"Also this would free us up to use Borbon as a trade chip..."
This is me, shouting a reasonable facsimile of Eureka…
Those who would sacrifice liberty for safety deserve neither.
by Brian Thomas on Nov 1, 2008 9:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was being semi-sarcastic.
And I’d be totally down with adding Covelli Crisp. It’s something I advocate whenever a “catcher to Boston?” thread gets thrown up. Defensively Hambone is a slight negative in CF, but he’d be a big plus in RF or LF, so adding a plussy-plus defensive CF like Covelli would turn our OF into a beastly beast of a defensive OF. Plus it would allow us to trade Borbon now while his value is still really high without risking what his bat might do against AAA/ML pitching.
But, Crede? No. Too brittle. He’s suffered two season ending injuries while I was typing this reply.
The 40 Trumps All!!!
by thedirkatron on Oct 31, 2008 2:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Does it really matter
what he wants to do?
"Oh well, McCain is pretty communist anyway,... we can be 70% communist with McCain,"-Sharky
by DJCahill on Oct 31, 2008 11:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Some guy on SI predicts all the FA's new teams
He has Sheets to the Rangers and Bradley signing with the Rays.
I'm undefeated in fights. Have I been in any? No. Thats because people know my f'ing status. Don't mess with the elite. - Miles
by Dirk Diggler on Oct 31, 2008 11:11 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Bradley with the Rays is my prediction as well.
GREINKE HO!!!!!
by oc on Oct 31, 2008 11:14 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Sheets to the Rangers
Great idea…this team already has enough injury concerns with its starting pitching. Taxing the bullpen was an obvious issue with this team in August/September. Signing a guy like Sheets, which sounds nice on paper, probably isn’t a good idea for an already unstable rotation.
by Heebs on Oct 31, 2008 11:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't see how signing Sheets would hurt the bullpen or an unstable rotation.
When he’s pitching, it’s usually deep into ballgames. And if the rotation is already unstable, how would adding a pitcher make it worst? It’s not like we have to drop someone who is stable out.
I’m not saying signing Sheets is a great idea for a team in the position that we’re in but that’s only because of money and timing not Sheets.
by slimshadty12 on Oct 31, 2008 12:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
On Jason Varitek...
Ben Reiter, the writer of the Sports Illustrated piece you’re referring to, has Jason Varitek returning to the Boston Red Sox, and, in his comments, says Varitek could help mentor the catcher Boston tries to acquire. The name Reiter throws out as a possibility the Red Sox might go after? Gerald Laird.
Never say you can't do something, because when you do, you're likely creating a self-fulfilling prophecy. Oh yeah, and know your limits.
by YourNameHere on Oct 31, 2008 12:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's confusing
Why keep Tek to mentor a veteran catcher like Laird? Surely a guy like Salty would be a better fit in that scenario.
by LiamP on Oct 31, 2008 12:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
and im sure
Laird would be thrilled to again be splitting time.
by tyd3311 on Oct 31, 2008 12:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
right
and why would Laird need a mentor at 29?
by Goyogringo on Nov 1, 2008 7:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
OT: Lookalikes
Academy Award-Winning Actor Chris Cooper…
Meet World Series Champion Philadelphia Phillies Starting Pitcher Jamie Moyer
Yes or No? You make the call.
Never say you can't do something, because when you do, you're likely creating a self-fulfilling prophecy. Oh yeah, and know your limits.
by YourNameHere on Oct 31, 2008 12:50 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
How about this?
Jayson Werth
WWE Star Edge
by venturafearsnolan on Oct 31, 2008 3:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Happy Halloween everybody!!!!!
Anybody dressing up in an interesting costume tonight?
Steal Home R.I.P. 9/10/08
by LAMuscleFag on Oct 31, 2008 12:53 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I'm a matador
I shaved yesterday for the first time since Sept 12th, but I left the most awesomest mustache you’ve ever seen… I’ll post pics after tonight.
You?
At this rate, he’ll be throwing 107-110 by 2012
by trident on Oct 31, 2008 12:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
that sounds really cool..
yes post the pics! I usually do the Incredible Hulk all painted in green with a torn shirt and all but it’s awfully chilly and rainy here in San Fran so I think I may pass this year.. I left all my Clark Kent stuff back in L A …the glasses, press pass, tie etc so I can’t do that either..oh well I guess I’ll just live vicariously through others this year.
Steal Home R.I.P. 9/10/08
by LAMuscleFag on Oct 31, 2008 1:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You going to the Exoctic Erotic Ball LA?
I went one year back in the early 90’s, and it was awesome.
1/20/09 - The end of a error.
by Parman on Oct 31, 2008 2:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
what the hell?
is that a gay gathering or mixed?
Steal Home R.I.P. 9/10/08
by LAMuscleFag on Oct 31, 2008 2:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Matador
Ok, but what is your costume?
G G G E-flat_______ F F F D__________....
by t ball on Oct 31, 2008 1:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
dont know how to post a pic
http://www.costumediscounters.com/cd/prod/24868/i/1/product.web
At this rate, he’ll be throwing 107-110 by 2012
by trident on Oct 31, 2008 1:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
heh
you in that w/ a stache will be pretty funny.
I'm undefeated in fights. Have I been in any? No. Thats because people know my f'ing status. Don't mess with the elite. - Miles
by Dirk Diggler on Oct 31, 2008 1:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
dude
it’s gonna be hilarious! i’m so pumped! Bonnie is a senorita and will look pretty sexy in contrast…
btw, having a mustache is great. you catch people looking at you like, “why the hell does that kid have a ’stache… and such a thick one at that?” and you forget you have it sometimes until you look in the mirror or catch your reflection walking into a building or getting in the car… always worth a chuckle
At this rate, he’ll be throwing 107-110 by 2012
by trident on Oct 31, 2008 1:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Nice
Everytime I shave I leave the stache and ask the girl “What do you think?” She just gives me a look that says “not if you want to get laid” so, yeah I shave it.
I'm undefeated in fights. Have I been in any? No. Thats because people know my f'ing status. Don't mess with the elite. - Miles
by Dirk Diggler on Oct 31, 2008 1:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Beauty of Halloween
she’ll be hammered when we get home tonight…. and you know what that means, stache or no stache!
At this rate, he’ll be throwing 107-110 by 2012
by trident on Oct 31, 2008 1:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
True
Halloween is of course different. You have to like how slutty it has become.
I'm undefeated in fights. Have I been in any? No. Thats because people know my f'ing status. Don't mess with the elite. - Miles
by Dirk Diggler on Oct 31, 2008 1:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
this may be my new sig lol
"I don’t know of a single thing Obama’s done except talk and write." - Newt Gingrich
"That wasn’t rain, that was a band of angels pissing on your awful city. Shut the hell up and play." - robert_d_wilfong
by knockoutking on Oct 31, 2008 3:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
haha that sounds hysterical!
I did a fanpost for halloween pics so put em on there please!
Steal Home R.I.P. 9/10/08
by LAMuscleFag on Oct 31, 2008 1:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
oh thats the "macho matador"
does the gay one come with a pink cape?
Steal Home R.I.P. 9/10/08
by LAMuscleFag on Oct 31, 2008 1:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Poor attempt at a joke
I meant, ok, you are a (real) matador, but what is your costume?
G G G E-flat_______ F F F D__________....
by t ball on Oct 31, 2008 1:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
who you gonna be T?
Steal Home R.I.P. 9/10/08
by LAMuscleFag on Oct 31, 2008 1:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
right over my head
swingandamiss
At this rate, he’ll be throwing 107-110 by 2012
by trident on Oct 31, 2008 1:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
But aren't you glad you saw that?
I'm undefeated in fights. Have I been in any? No. Thats because people know my f'ing status. Don't mess with the elite. - Miles
by Dirk Diggler on Oct 31, 2008 1:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
here from photobucket:
1) click “direct link” and it will automatically copy link
2) click tree here (image)
3) right click on the blue shaded http inside the box that has popped up and then click paste
3b) click OK
4) click preview
5) if you see the picture click post
Steal Home R.I.P. 9/10/08
by LAMuscleFag on Oct 31, 2008 1:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
post in your other thread
too
"I don’t know of a single thing Obama’s done except talk and write." - Newt Gingrich
"That wasn’t rain, that was a band of angels pissing on your awful city. Shut the hell up and play." - robert_d_wilfong
by knockoutking on Oct 31, 2008 3:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Which one are you?
"...my balls are really like a veiny flesh color" blueballlefty on Jun 4, 2008 7:44 PM EDT
"you gonna lose your horse. seriously." FX2
by Rodney on Oct 31, 2008 2:38 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
awesome website
"I don’t know of a single thing Obama’s done except talk and write." - Newt Gingrich
"That wasn’t rain, that was a band of angels pissing on your awful city. Shut the hell up and play." - robert_d_wilfong
by knockoutking on Oct 31, 2008 3:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I won my office's Halloween costume contest...
dressed as the game Operation.
by ghostofErikThompson on Oct 31, 2008 1:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
you take any pics?
Steal Home R.I.P. 9/10/08
by LAMuscleFag on Oct 31, 2008 1:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm sure some will surface...
I’m hosting a party tonight at my apartment and am going to wear the costume again so I’ll be sure to get a few shots of its glory.
by ghostofErikThompson on Oct 31, 2008 1:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sarah Palin
I’m sure that’s what most idiots will be dressing up as.
GREINKE HO!!!!!
by oc on Oct 31, 2008 1:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That
or the Joker or heath ledger
I'm undefeated in fights. Have I been in any? No. Thats because people know my f'ing status. Don't mess with the elite. - Miles
by Dirk Diggler on Oct 31, 2008 1:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
heh
i have a friend whose dressing up as the joker in the nurse costume lol
ill post his pics there when they go up tonite/tomrow
"I don’t know of a single thing Obama’s done except talk and write." - Newt Gingrich
"That wasn’t rain, that was a band of angels pissing on your awful city. Shut the hell up and play." - robert_d_wilfong
by knockoutking on Oct 31, 2008 3:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was gonna do that one
Prolly should have. Instead, I spotted a beautiful, full length purple coat in the womens section of goodwill, so I went as the regular joker…but I was really good!
"...my balls are really like a veiny flesh color" blueballlefty on Jun 4, 2008 7:44 PM EDT
"you gonna lose your horse. seriously." FX2
by Rodney on Oct 31, 2008 4:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes...
three people (two guys, by the way) had this “idea” at said office party Costume Contest. We all thought it was a little pathetic so we made them fight for our amusement.
by ghostofErikThompson on Oct 31, 2008 2:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm being a cheap SOB
I’m going to go buy some $5 goatee at Party City. When people ask who I am, I’m going to say my evil twin brother.
I am the motherfucking shore patrol, motherfucker! I am the motherfucking shore patrol! Give this man a beer.
by TheBZA on Oct 31, 2008 1:30 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
You need to rock the "This is my clone" t-shirt.
When people ask you what’s going on say that regular you found a better party but didn’t want to be rude.
The 40 Trumps All!!!
by thedirkatron on Oct 31, 2008 2:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
interesting
Joe Sheehan, Baseball Prospectus has this.
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2008/baseball/mlb/10/31/sheehan.trades/index.html?eref=T1
by austin p. on Oct 31, 2008 1:49 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Like it
But you have to sub Lemon/Vallejo for Andrus.
Andrus has to be off-limits…I’m not even worried.
Go Strangers.
by hightowersmith on Oct 31, 2008 2:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I like Liriano
Giving up Elvis is tough though….really tough. Salty/Poveda/Blalock I won’t lose any sleep over.
But, if we could do someone other than Elvis I would like that deal better.
I'm undefeated in fights. Have I been in any? No. Thats because people know my f'ing status. Don't mess with the elite. - Miles
by Dirk Diggler on Oct 31, 2008 2:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Of course you'd like the deal better.
But if you’re Minnesota and you just came one win away from the playoffs, why are you gonna trade one of the most potentialy dominant young arms in the big leagues for a bunch of good-but-not-great pieces? Sans Andrus that’s a fireable offense for the Minny GM if he makes it.
If Minny offers you Liriano for that package I don’t know how you don’t take it and run.
But I don’t think they would.
Doesn’t make much sense for them even with Andrus.
The 40 Trumps All!!!
by thedirkatron on Oct 31, 2008 3:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm not sure it's that fireable of an offense.
It could be a case of them knowing the dangers of Liriano’s repaired arm better than the Rangers and taking an offer and running before it’s pulled off the table.
I'm undefeated in fights. Have I been in any? No. Thats because people know my f'ing status. Don't mess with the elite. - Miles
by Dirk Diggler on Oct 31, 2008 3:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
As others said
sub someone for Andrus…and I’d do that deal. However, Liriano was not an ace last season, so it would be a huge gamble.
Lemme go check with Gleeman…BRB.
"...my balls are really like a veiny flesh color" blueballlefty on Jun 4, 2008 7:44 PM EDT
"you gonna lose your horse. seriously." FX2
by Rodney on Oct 31, 2008 2:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It all depends on how you interpret his splits.
Cause imo they tried to bring him back WAY to fast at the beginning of the season and he got rocked to sleep.
First stint:
3 GS, 10.1 innings, 11.32 ERA, 7/13 k/bb .366 BAA
Second stint:
11 GS, 65.2 innings, 2.74 ERA, 60/19 k/bb, .236 BAA
So, yah. Overall he wasn’t very acely. But I think with his injury woes and the fact that he was rehabbing, there’s a pretty good rationale for throwing those first three start out and focusing on those last 11. And if you focus on those last 11, he looks pretty damn acely.
The 40 Trumps All!!!
by thedirkatron on Oct 31, 2008 2:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
True, but,
Aug 4, 2008:
No longer having to rely on reports filled with hype and jacked-up velocity readings, we now know that Liriano’s fastball has improved 0.8 miles per hour since April while remaining 3.7 MPH off compared to his 2006 heater.
If nothing else he’s had a tangible change in velocity heading in the right direction, however minimal. Plus, more encouraging than the relatively modest gains on his fastball is that Liriano’s slider looked much different than the curve-like breaking ball that he shied away from using in April. On April 13 his slider averaged 80.7 miles per hour and had very little bite to it, but yesterday’s version averaged 83.6 miles per hour while diving out of the strike zone often enough to bring back memories of 2006.
At his peak Liriano’s slider averaged 87.7 MPH, leaving yesterday’s version even further away from his 2006 levels than his fastball. However, as with the fastball Liriano is clearly moving in the right direction with his slider and even 4.1 MPH less than his 2006 velocity the pitch was tough to hit. Four of his five strikeouts came on sliders, as he got one left-handed hitter (Grady Sizemore) and three right-handed hitters (Ben Francisco, Kelly Shoppach, Andy Gonzalez) to swing over the pitch with two strikes.
And then this brings us full circle to TD concerns:
The good news is that Liriano’s second return to the majors was a massive improvement over his first attempt and the pitcher who took the mound yesterday afternoon is clearly capable of having long-term success. The bad news is that pitchers often return from Tommy John surgery throwing even harder than before and by the 20-month mark many of them have regained their pre-surgery form, but Liriano has done neither and now has question marks attached to his future upside.
Compared to the pitcher who was rushed back in April he was hugely improved and compared to the washed-up veteran who was bumped from the rotation he represents a sizable upgrade. However, compared to the guy who was arguably baseball’s best pitcher in 2006 he still has a very long way to go even after taking a big first (or second) step yesterday.
"...my balls are really like a veiny flesh color" blueballlefty on Jun 4, 2008 7:44 PM EDT
"you gonna lose your horse. seriously." FX2
by Rodney on Oct 31, 2008 2:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's fine by me.
There was talk he altered his mechanics a little to get some of the ridiculous torque out, which is A-Okay by me if true.
He’s still sitting at 90-92 (while occasionally touching 94-95) with good secondary pitches and striking out nearly a batter an inning while posting a 3:1 k/bb ratio.
He might never get back to that ‘05-’06 form where he was sitting 94-96 and striking out everyone who dared step into the box against him, but, like I said, that’s okay.
If you believe in his long term health then you have to do the trade mentioned above. If you believe his mechanics are never gonna let him stay healthy, then you don’t. That’s the only consideration, imo.
The 40 Trumps All!!!
by thedirkatron on Oct 31, 2008 3:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
and you'll have to include
one of our top 10 prospects to do it. If the ranger’s want a top arm we are going to lose one or 2 of our top 10 prospects. They would sneeze at an offer of lemon or vallejo instead of andrus or a top arm. Poveda’s ceiling is a #3 I think so they might want more.
by Goyogringo on Nov 1, 2008 7:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
not as interesting
Project Prospect’s under 25 risers
http://www.projectprospect.com/article/2008/10/30/top-5-risers-under-25-by-org-al-west
Call 1-800-DOCTORB. The B is for bargain!
by Panorama on Oct 31, 2008 2:03 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
2009 Outlook: With a system oozing with young talent, Texas should make its big jump next season, where they could be a serious contender for the AL West.
by tyd3311 on Oct 31, 2008 2:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
T.R. on possible starter trade targets.
by Kinslerhomer on Oct 31, 2008 3:49 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
What he said
The only interesting name really is Bailey and the Boston guys.
Go Strangers.
by hightowersmith on Oct 31, 2008 4:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Some interesting names in there.
But some real bottom of the barrel crap in there as well.
The 40 Trumps All!!!
by thedirkatron on Oct 31, 2008 4:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
yeah
we have a lot of 4/5 guys in the system so we should just see if they can get any better at AAA next year: Hunter, Hurley, Feldman, Gabbard, Diamond (Nippert). The good thing about this depth at AAA is that it should allow the ranger’s to avoid signing the kind of Jenning’s-like reclamation projects that TJ brings up. Hopefully those ugly day’s are finally behind us…
by Goyogringo on Nov 1, 2008 7:35 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
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