Rangers exercise option on Blalock
by Adam J. Morris on Nov 7, 2008 4:41 PM CST
166 comments
The Rangers have exercised their 2009 option on Hank Blalock.
UPDATE -- T.R. Sullivan says the plan is for Blalock to DH, and for the Rangers to try to find a third baseman.
And if you want a headache, read the comments to Sullivan's article.
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Good
Its a smart move after his nice close to 2008. Hopefully he can stay healthy (I already hear laughing) and make for a good deadline trade piece, or if not, a key piece to our miraculous 2009 playoff run.
by JBImaknee on Nov 7, 2008 4:53 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
biggest no-brainer of the offseason?
Dreaming of 2009
by RangerMoto on Nov 7, 2008 4:59 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
I would think so
The bloggerformelyknownasBigBaddBubbaJ
by NYTXFAN on Nov 7, 2008 5:00 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
i would think so
The bloggerformelyknownasBigBaddBubbaJ
by NYTXFAN on Nov 7, 2008 5:00 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Indeed.
The 40 Trumps All!!!
Rule 5? No…talk to the hand.
by thedirkatron on Nov 7, 2008 9:18 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm so ready for the Blalock DH era to begin.
He has some real good pop in his bat, when healthy. So what better way to keep him healthy you might ask? DON’T FREAKIN PLAY HIM IN THE FREAKIN FIELD!!!!
The bloggerformelyknownasBigBaddBubbaJ
by NYTXFAN on Nov 7, 2008 5:02 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
or in the batter's box...
…or on the basepaths….
…or in warmups…
…or on the dugout steps.
by Black Francis on Nov 7, 2008 6:34 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
not even on the active roster
the DL is the safest place for him
by chrisR on Nov 7, 2008 7:35 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Sad thing is
…they probably can’t even insure him. Way too cost prohibitive I would think. So if this doesn’t work out it’s truly money down the drain.
But, if by some miracle he can make it to the plate 450 times or so, he’s probably going to be decent enough to earn his contract. Let us pray.
by Black Francis on Nov 7, 2008 7:39 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Expected...
I put the odds of him being dealt before the season starts at about 25%.
"The only good is knowledge and the only evil is ignorance."-Socrates
by slc ranger on Nov 7, 2008 5:09 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
I hope it's higher than that
bur, really, at six million dollars who would want this guy? Well, except for the Rangers.
by Black Francis on Nov 7, 2008 6:36 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I don't know
that’s not a ton of money these days. Without the health risks he’d be a hell of a bargain, a steal even. If he can stay healthy through July he might be a nice trade chip and bring back a Ramirez or something.
G G G E-flat_______ F F F D__________....
by t ball on Nov 7, 2008 8:16 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I've said this before, and I'll say it again.
If he ends up bringing in some value, via a trade, or rebuilds his stats enough to be a Type A next off-season, then I’ll be more than happy, but I still don’t think he would’ve received a one-year deal at 6.2M on the free market, and as such, I think we overpaid. Personally, I’d have bought him out but offered him less to come back, and then if someone overpaid, let them deal with him and take the compensatory pick.
by venturafearsnolan on Nov 7, 2008 8:58 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yes you are...
now go away.
Someone please IP ban this moron.
"The only good is knowledge and the only evil is ignorance."-Socrates
by slc ranger on Nov 7, 2008 5:48 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah
"The only good is knowledge and the only evil is ignorance."-Socrates
by slc ranger on Nov 7, 2008 5:53 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Pretty good movie...
with a textbook story arc.
"I know you're a bit dense but no, it doesn't. Obviously lying isn't a problem for me."
by benmor78 on Nov 8, 2008 1:31 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
hank will be hurt at least 90% of the season and we are 1st in the league in hitting
this move is just another bad move by JD
by Save us on Nov 7, 2008 6:36 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
yeah, because he can't renew his IP
just ignore.
Jindal '12
by Longhorn on Nov 7, 2008 8:37 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
IP bans are actually pretty effective
""If they'd have told me you can make the team but you've got to shine the shoes, I'd have been there shining shoes." -Bradley
by ab03 on Nov 7, 2008 10:52 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
i know. we should obviously pay 6 million for a DH who rides the bench for 90% of the season
and is another lefty in lefty-heavy lineup
by Save us on Nov 8, 2008 12:04 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I looked up "retarted" on urban dictionary
the first 3 entries are:
1. The mongo spelling of the word retarded.
2. One who has been given additional tarts.
3. A retarded person’s way of spelling the word “retarded.”
I think all 3 apply in this case.
This is as hilarious as the “morans” sign
Call 1-800-DOCTORB. The B is for bargain!
by Panorama on Nov 7, 2008 6:07 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
snicker...
Hey, it’s in TX too.
"...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
Yes we can! November 04, 2008
by Rodney on Nov 7, 2008 6:17 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
lol
number two made me literally laugh out loud.
The 40 Trumps All!!!
Rule 5? No…talk to the hand.
by thedirkatron on Nov 7, 2008 9:16 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
So
llol?
Just say no to Scott Olsen.
by lonestarJon on Nov 7, 2008 9:18 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yes, imo, fwiw.
The 40 Trumps All!!!
Rule 5? No…talk to the hand.
by thedirkatron on Nov 7, 2008 9:19 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
OTOH STFU
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 Nov 7, 2008 9:22 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
EABOD.
The 40 Trumps All!!!
Rule 5? No…talk to the hand.
by thedirkatron on Nov 7, 2008 9:41 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
OHHHHHH
me toooo
heh
Bobby Jindal '08
by dstar442005 on Nov 7, 2008 9:33 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Break the Bank
What is everyone’s prediction for when “The Bank” will break this year? My guess is May 25th. This is regardless of whether or not he plays 3b or dh. I feel it is inevitable.
On a side note, I do think it was the right decision. I’m not sure where he’ll fit in the line-up (hugely contingent on whether or not Milton Bradley re-signs) but I’m much more comfortable with him dhing against righties.
by Heebs on Nov 7, 2008 5:51 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
*I miss my images *
:)
"...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
Yes we can! November 04, 2008
by Rodney on Nov 7, 2008 6:15 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I miss my images too
Just say no to Scott Olsen.
by lonestarJon on Nov 7, 2008 8:10 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Well fuck me
Six million or whatever for 50 AB’s is my prediction.
by Black Francis on Nov 7, 2008 6:32 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Thank goodness
now the rest of the guys who go on the DL next season won’t feel so lonely.
Fire Ron Washington
by pblack on Nov 7, 2008 7:15 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
no brainer
JD can still trade him though… no worries.
Jindal '12
by Longhorn on Nov 7, 2008 8:38 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Wow
I can’t believe all the people who are upset about this. First of all the price is cheap in todays market. For a 28 year old who, when healthy, can put up 20+ home runs and be a force in the middle of the lineup.
From the sounds of things the Rangers plan on using him at DH the majority of the time with an occasional appearance at 1B. This allows Chris Davis to focus on 1B mostly and doesn’t block any other young player (I don’t want to see Max as DH up here to start the year so thats why I don’t count him).
If he stays healthy and performs like he has the last two years then we will be in a wonderful position come July. We can either trade him to a contender for a pretty nice package or we can keep him if we are in the race and take the draft picks when he leaves.
For 6.2 million I really don’t see the problem with this.
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 Nov 7, 2008 8:39 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Can't believe it?
Well, he hasn’t had a decent full season since 2004. The last two years he been on the DL most of the time. So if I hear “when healthy he’s good” or whatever one more time I’m going to hit myself over the head with a blunt instrument.
You don’t sign players based on what you may be able to trade them for or what draft picks they might yield at the end of the season, because you’re dealing with too many hypotheticals there. And when you’re signing a player on the basis of a hypothetical in the first place (if he stays healthy), it’s just a bad idea.
6.2 million dollars may not sound like a lot, and I suppose it isn’t if a player produces, but if you can’t insure him and he gets hurt like he always does then it’s 6.2 million wasted dollars. I just don’t see the point in messing around with it.
by Black Francis on Nov 8, 2008 10:47 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
DH
If you are signing him to be your DH then you can assume that these ailments that he has had the last couple years won’t happen.
And yes you can sign players in anticipation of trading them or them staying healthy. See Milton Bradley, Eric Gagne, Eddie Guardado, Kenny Lofton.
When healthy the last couple years Blalock has been very good. If you let him DH and not play the field or play it sparingly then you could be getting a bargain. Nothing wrong with that.
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 Nov 8, 2008 10:58 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I don't think you can assume anything in terms of his health
At DH he still has to swing the bat and run the bases.
With the exception of Bradley all of those signings you mentioned were bargain bin, and it’s also worth noting that they weren’t signed in order to trade them. Had the Rangers been successful, they would have been kept.
by Black Francis on Nov 8, 2008 11:19 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
And so will Blalock
If we are having a good season we will just keep him. Gagne was for 6 million, Bradley for 5 million. Both of them had similar if not more injury issues than Hank does. Hanks injuries have been weird injuries. TOS, carpal tunnel. Those aren’t exactly injuries that you can say are lingering or usual. Its not like he pulls his hamstrings everytime he hits a double, he doesn’t throw his arm out when fielding. I think as a pure DH Hank could play 140-150 games this season.
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 Nov 8, 2008 11:34 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
At the time
…I thought both the Gagne and Bradley signings were poor decisions. Why is it that the Rangers are always signing guys off the medical scrap heap??? The team sucked and they were able to trade Gagne when he was still good…otherwise they would’ve kept him and gone into the tank because of him. Bradley was an exciting player this year when he was healthy, but in the end what did they get out of them? They were a sub-.500 team and he’s not even a class A FA.
Blalock’s shoulder is toast. He’s always got some kind of stupid injury going on on top of that.
We’ll see. I just think the money, roster spot, and investment in plain old time would have been better spent on something else.
by Black Francis on Nov 8, 2008 11:55 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
YOU NEED A PERIOD IN YOUR FIRST SENTENCE
by Save us on Nov 8, 2008 2:55 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I Do
What are you talking about? “At DH he still needs to swing the bat and run the bases.”
by Black Francis on Nov 8, 2008 3:04 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
"I don't think you can assume anything in terms of his health"
by Save us on Nov 8, 2008 3:49 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
That's the title
It doesn’t need a period. Your title didn’t have a period, either.
Anyway, I’m finished with you. Go play outside.
by Black Francis on Nov 8, 2008 4:28 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
its not a title. its a sentence.
and you are the one worry all about grammar on an internet blog.
Go die.
by Save us on Nov 8, 2008 4:29 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Would that hurt, though?
"...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
Yes we can! November 04, 2008
by Rodney on Nov 8, 2008 1:34 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Wait
MLB.com has opened their articles up to reader comments? Oh lordy.
Just say no to Scott Olsen.
by lonestarJon on Nov 7, 2008 9:14 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Awesome.
He might actually be able to stay healthy as a DH and we all know he can hit when he’s right in the body and right in the mind so let’s hope DH’ing doesn’t F with his mind.
This what I wanted to happen so I’m happy it’s officially what we’re gonna do.
YAY!
The 40 Trumps All!!!
Rule 5? No…talk to the hand.
by thedirkatron on Nov 7, 2008 9:18 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Does that mean
Milton Bradley isn’t coming back?
by jonthefon on Nov 7, 2008 9:28 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
I wonder what kind of contract Boras is looking for Crede
by Telegraph on Nov 7, 2008 9:33 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
My money is on
more and for longer than anyone would think.
by Brett Perryman on Nov 7, 2008 9:46 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
The Boras model
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 Nov 7, 2008 9:46 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
The Rangers desperately need a good right-handed bat to break up all that nonsense.
GREINKE HO!!!!!
by oc on Nov 7, 2008 9:45 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
This is true
In the immediate it’s a real downside to losing Bradley and a definite offensive weakness. I think that they are likely to be okay in the long run, largely because of Smoak. If they follow the blueprint that some of us would like, your catcher (whether it be Teagarden, Ramirez, Laird or Saltalamacchia) will be a RHB against lefties, as will your 2B, SS and 3B (that blueprint being Young moving over to 3B for Andrus). That’s five of your six non-OF spots, and no moves are made, I have to think that at least one of Byrd, Cruz, Boggs, Mayberry will be a factor. While some of those guys aren’t big bats, it leaves only Hamilton, Davis, and maybe a Borbon as a LHB against LHP. And I don’t know how much you could quarrel with that.
by Brett Perryman on Nov 7, 2008 9:55 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I think he will sit against most lefties
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 Nov 7, 2008 10:48 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Is mediocre at best and should not be counted on in our long term plans?
The 40 Trumps All!!!
Rule 5? No…talk to the hand.
by thedirkatron on Nov 7, 2008 10:55 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
We'll need the playoff experience.
GREINKE HO!!!!!
by oc on Nov 7, 2008 9:53 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Bah!
“Playoff experience”.
Jerk me off with a spoon.
The 40 Trumps All!!!
Rule 5? No…talk to the hand.
by thedirkatron on Nov 7, 2008 10:56 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
dangerous I would think?
Wooden or Metal?
by laxtonto on Nov 7, 2008 11:05 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Grapefruit.
The 40 Trumps All!!!
Rule 5? No…talk to the hand.
by thedirkatron on Nov 7, 2008 11:13 PM CST up reply actions 1 recs
now a spork is dangerous
spoons arent really that bad
by Chow Time on Nov 8, 2008 8:14 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Blake's Dad and Uncle
Are family friends from 30 years ago. But I’ve never visualized Casey playing for the Rangers.
"He uses statistics as a drunken man uses lamp-posts... for support rather than illumination." - Andrew Lang (1844-1912)
by Ed Coffin on Nov 7, 2008 9:59 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Lineup
So where does Hank hit next year? Kins/MY/Hammy has to be the first three. I think either Byrd or Cruz will hit cleanup simply to break up the lefties. Then do you go Hank then CD or CD then Hank? If Cruz hits 4th do you push Byrd all the way to 7th? Or do you push either CD or Hank to 7th?
I think this is what we will see on most occasions vs lefties
Kinsler
Young
Hamilton
Cruz/Byrd
Hank
Cruz/Byrd
Davis
catcher
3B
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 Nov 7, 2008 10:02 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Davis
He’ll hit 7th, I imagine.
by Adam J. Morris on Nov 7, 2008 10:09 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
9th
We wouldn’t want to put any pressure on him now.
Just say no to Scott Olsen.
by lonestarJon on Nov 7, 2008 10:13 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Why?
Where would you hit Salty … 9th?
"He’s basically told himself unconsciously that he can’t be any good unless he catches 130 games a year. If he played with the baseball smarts of a guy like a David Eckstein, he’d maximize his talent and be an incredible player." - Andy Seiler, Texas Rangers Analyst
by Chase Irwin on Nov 8, 2008 10:34 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
8th
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 Nov 8, 2008 10:58 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Thanks Adam.
"He’s basically told himself unconsciously that he can’t be any good unless he catches 130 games a year. If he played with the baseball smarts of a guy like a David Eckstein, he’d maximize his talent and be an incredible player." - Andy Seiler, Texas Rangers Analyst
by Chase Irwin on Nov 8, 2008 11:06 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
No prob
I listed catcher at 8th in my original just like I listed CD 7th, which Adam agreed with.
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 Nov 8, 2008 11:35 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm aware of your thoughts
and your disdain for Salty. I also disagree.
I think Davis should be swapped with Hank. Salty should bat 6th, if he were to be in the lineup.
Byrd hits 8th.
"He’s basically told himself unconsciously that he can’t be any good unless he catches 130 games a year. If he played with the baseball smarts of a guy like a David Eckstein, he’d maximize his talent and be an incredible player." - Andy Seiler, Texas Rangers Analyst
by Chase Irwin on Nov 8, 2008 12:27 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Salty
Its not disdain its simply his offensive showing last year doesn’t warrant him batting higher than 8th in our lineup. I would be willing to bet money that Byrd doesn’t hit 8th and frankly he shouldn’t due to the last two years.
Swapping Hank and CD is something you could do but I think the way Wash wants to “protect” Davis I doubt he throws him to the 5th spot so early. Maybe around June if he is hot.
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 Nov 8, 2008 12:44 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yes, someone projected to hit 40 homers
should bat 8th until he’s “ready.”
Give me a friggin break.
"He’s basically told himself unconsciously that he can’t be any good unless he catches 130 games a year. If he played with the baseball smarts of a guy like a David Eckstein, he’d maximize his talent and be an incredible player." - Andy Seiler, Texas Rangers Analyst
by Chase Irwin on Nov 8, 2008 12:54 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Saltys projected to hit 40 HRs?
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 Nov 8, 2008 1:13 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
7th
I was referring to CD.
"He’s basically told himself unconsciously that he can’t be any good unless he catches 130 games a year. If he played with the baseball smarts of a guy like a David Eckstein, he’d maximize his talent and be an incredible player." - Andy Seiler, Texas Rangers Analyst
by Chase Irwin on Nov 8, 2008 1:32 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Davis
Well in this lineup 7th isn’t an insult.
That lineup was against lefty starters. 1-3 are locked up no matter who is starting. I don’t think Wash or really any manager wants their 3-5 being all lefties against a lefty starter so you gotta break it up somehow. Thats where either Cruz (based on power potential) or Byrd (based on his last two seasons and Wash’s love for the guy) come into play.
Like I said you could switch Hank and CD around but the way Hank has swung the bat the last two years when healthy if Wash decides to go with hank 5th you really can’t argue with it.
You could put Davis 6th and the back to back lefty thing probably wouldn’t matter much but if Cruz hits 4th I doubt Wash drops Byrd all the way to 7th. If Byrd hits 4th then I could see Cruz dropping to 7th.
As for Salty until he shows something offensively besides watching alot of strikes and drawing walks then he can stay at the bottom of the lineup.
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 Nov 8, 2008 1:44 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Davis -- reverse splits
VS. LEFT: .279 avg / .916 OPS
VS. RIGHT: .287 avg / .866 OPS
Don’t matter who is pitching. Don’t matter whether it’s home or away. The dude will mash, so you’d want him to mash with as many runners on and as much protection as possible, imo.
/I’m done with this one.
"He’s basically told himself unconsciously that he can’t be any good unless he catches 130 games a year. If he played with the baseball smarts of a guy like a David Eckstein, he’d maximize his talent and be an incredible player." - Andy Seiler, Texas Rangers Analyst
by Chase Irwin on Nov 8, 2008 1:49 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
OK
Like I said you could switch Hank and CD around and it wouldn’t be a bad thing.
Plus just so you know last year hank had a OPS over 900 against lefties also.
My point is more that you don’t want to have 3 straight left handed batters in the heart of your order against a lefty starter. You have to break them up. It really doesn’t make a difference where you put CD I think he is going to succeed but based on Wash and the way he has done things I think it is much more likely you see Hank 5th and CD 6th or 7th rather than CD 5th and Hank 7th and Salty 6th like you apparantly want to do.
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 Nov 8, 2008 1:58 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Point taken
but I don’t care what Wash has done. I’ve disagreed with the majority of his lineups and with his atrocious bullpen mismanagement.
"He’s basically told himself unconsciously that he can’t be any good unless he catches 130 games a year. If he played with the baseball smarts of a guy like a David Eckstein, he’d maximize his talent and be an incredible player." - Andy Seiler, Texas Rangers Analyst
by Chase Irwin on Nov 8, 2008 2:03 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Haha!
I’d love to play this game with you.
Please, I dare you.
"He’s basically told himself unconsciously that he can’t be any good unless he catches 130 games a year. If he played with the baseball smarts of a guy like a David Eckstein, he’d maximize his talent and be an incredible player." - Andy Seiler, Texas Rangers Analyst
by Chase Irwin on Nov 8, 2008 1:31 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
i needed a tissue
after I just thought about how good the lineup can and will be next season.
Bobby Jindal '12
by dstar442005 on Nov 7, 2008 10:09 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
i know wonder
if we use one of our catchers to trade for a 3B?
Jindal '12
by Longhorn on Nov 7, 2008 10:17 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Only Laird
Why would we trade one of our young catchers for a veteran 3B? If the ultimate plan is to bring Andrus up next year and have MY slide over to 3B then why would we trade for a 3B prospect? Unless you are simply going to flip him in a year or so but I think that would be a bad use of our assets.
Laird would probably bring back the type of player we could use. No names off the top of my head but a guy who has one or two years left under contract/control who we could use this year and then flip next winter if Andrus is ready or use in 2010 until Andrus is ready.
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 Nov 7, 2008 10:21 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Not too sure if that's a very good use of our catching surplus
Sure it would be nice to obtain an above replacement-level third baseman for the here and now… but since third base seems to be where Young is going to wind up in another year or so, I don’t see the reason to expend one of our catchers for what might only quantify as a a short term fix.
I’d just as soon trade 2 catchers for pitching and roll with Metcalf at third.
by JimBonnick84 on Nov 7, 2008 10:24 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
3B
The only reason I can see trading for a young 3B prospect is to clear up a 40 spot. But it would have to be one of the top 3B prospects in the game. Guys like Dominguez, Moustkakas, or Vitters
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 Nov 7, 2008 10:27 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Chris Davis and Gerald Laird
for Matt Cain
do you do it?
Bobby Jindal '12
by dstar442005 on Nov 7, 2008 10:40 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
doesn't matter if we do it
b/c they don’t
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 Nov 7, 2008 10:41 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
you don't think so?
Bobby Jindal '12
by dstar442005 on Nov 7, 2008 10:41 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Nope
at least according to Sabean. I’m not sure I’d do it, to be honest. I question how good Cain would be here.
by Brett Perryman on Nov 7, 2008 10:42 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Miller and Maybin were untouchables.
GREINKE HO!!!!!
by oc on Nov 7, 2008 10:44 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I like Cain
he’s still only 23 and is putting up some solid numbers.
What wouldn’t you like about him here?
Jindal '12
by Longhorn on Nov 7, 2008 10:49 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
He's 24 and
primarily the walks and general inconsistency. His margain for error would be much, much lower here. A 1.36 WHIP in SF just wouldn’t make me terribly comfortable coming here, especially when you’re talking about selling the farm to get him. Of course I’d take him, but he’s prohibitively expensive even if he became available, and I just don’t think he’d be worth it.
by Brett Perryman on Nov 7, 2008 10:53 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
what about with
Salty instead of Laird?
Bobby Jindal '12
by dstar442005 on Nov 7, 2008 10:42 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Their GM just said
they’re not trading Cain.
by Brett Perryman on Nov 7, 2008 10:43 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah
I took that to mean you’d have to completely overpay to get him. Laird/Davis isn’t enough to get it done in this case it sounds like.
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 Nov 7, 2008 10:44 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
SF isn't trading for a catcher
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 Nov 7, 2008 10:47 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
No.
The 40 Trumps All!!!
Rule 5? No…talk to the hand.
by thedirkatron on Nov 7, 2008 10:57 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Chris Davis AND Laird?
I want to get rid of Laird, but I’d only do Davis for Cain if it was straight up.
Just say no to Scott Olsen.
by lonestarJon on Nov 7, 2008 11:04 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
What does it take to get Buchholz here?
Bobby Jindal '12
by dstar442005 on Nov 7, 2008 10:44 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
lol
The 40 Trumps All!!!
Rule 5? No…talk to the hand.
by thedirkatron on Nov 7, 2008 10:58 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
"I lost 12 lbs in two weeks"
…and apparently changed skin color. What the heck?
by Brett Perryman on Nov 7, 2008 10:46 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
I saw four Black Americans fighting over the last available issue of Time Magazine at Barnes & Nobles today.
GREINKE HO!!!!!
by oc on Nov 7, 2008 10:51 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I might have fudged that a bit. It wasn't so much 'fighting' as it was... 'awww shucks'-ing.
But you knew they all wanted to rip it out of the eventual owner’s hands.
GREINKE HO!!!!!
by oc on Nov 7, 2008 10:56 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I don't know where this is going.
GREINKE HO!!!!!
by oc on Nov 7, 2008 10:57 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I do
you’re making a point about the overreaction of Obama’s election.
It’s an extremely valid point. People are trying to anoint him, but I think expectations are unfairly realistic.
"He’s basically told himself unconsciously that he can’t be any good unless he catches 130 games a year. If he played with the baseball smarts of a guy like a David Eckstein, he’d maximize his talent and be an incredible player." - Andy Seiler, Texas Rangers Analyst
by Chase Irwin on Nov 8, 2008 10:37 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
unfairly unrealistic*
"He’s basically told himself unconsciously that he can’t be any good unless he catches 130 games a year. If he played with the baseball smarts of a guy like a David Eckstein, he’d maximize his talent and be an incredible player." - Andy Seiler, Texas Rangers Analyst
by Chase Irwin on Nov 8, 2008 10:38 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
hmm?
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 Nov 7, 2008 10:52 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
The ad?
I have firefox + AdBlock Plus goin I don’t see the ads anymore…
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 Nov 7, 2008 10:55 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Firefox + AdBlock Plus = Crazy Delicious
by Adam J. Morris on Nov 7, 2008 10:57 PM CST up reply actions 1 recs
lol
Perhaps my favorite internet video of all time.
Certainly it’s up there.
The 40 Trumps All!!!
Rule 5? No…talk to the hand.
by thedirkatron on Nov 7, 2008 10:58 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
true that double true
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 Nov 7, 2008 11:03 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Girl acted like she'd never seen a ten before.
The 40 Trumps All!!!
Rule 5? No…talk to the hand.
by thedirkatron on Nov 7, 2008 11:14 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I was baffled by that, as well...
"I know you're a bit dense but no, it doesn't. Obviously lying isn't a problem for me."
by benmor78 on Nov 8, 2008 1:39 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
i threw this out in another thread
and modified it slightly over at mlbtr…would the giants trade Sanchez for Blalock, Harrison and Jose Vallejo? if you add in the draft picks for blalock after next season, it seems reasonable to me.
by clark on Nov 7, 2008 10:53 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
I just don't see
what the motivation would be for them to do that. Where are they going next year, and why would they want Blalock in a deal that costs them their cheap, young, left handed #3 starter?
by Brett Perryman on Nov 7, 2008 10:55 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
i agree
but they have been linked to blalock time and time again. in this scenario, they are getting a cheaper, younger left handed starter and a very intriguing prospect in Vallejo. By the time the Giants next wave of pitching comes around, Sanchez will have one foot out the door. For the Rangers, it clears two spots off the 40 and deals from areas of depth to get a potential 2 or 3 starter. That seems like a pretty fair deal for a guy who has never posted an ERA under 5.
by clark on Nov 7, 2008 10:59 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I agree that
Harrison and Vallejo could potentially be of some ineterest to them. I just wouldn’t count Blalock as basically any value in that deal, and therefore I don’t think those two are enough for a Sanchez, who has already gone through the growing pains that Harrison is headed for. I think that’s a big factor. I think the deal from SF’s view would need to be more like Holland or Main for it to make sense. Maybe once/if Vallejo shows something special…
As far as them being linked to Blalock, I think that’s under the idea that they’re basically giving up nothing but the salary to get him. It’s a totally different idea than giving up one of their more valuable assets.
by Brett Perryman on Nov 7, 2008 11:12 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
perhaps
but i think blalock does have some value. the giants offense was analogous to the rangers pitching staff last year, so while blalock is viewed as an oft injured tease who is only our 4 or fifth best hitter when healthy around here, he could join that team and instantly be one of their best hitters. with harrison and vallejo, again, i think we may undervalue them because of the other guys we have in our system. without andrus around, vallejo is a stud, and without holland around, harrison is the best lefty we have in our upper minors. after looking at the packages being thrown around for peavy, i have adjusted my expectations of what we would have to give up.
by clark on Nov 7, 2008 11:20 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Blalock
He would only be there for a year. If SF was one player away and a contending team it may make sense but they aren’t. Why give up one of your top young starters for a one year uptick on offense?
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 Nov 7, 2008 11:23 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
saying that
minimizes harrison and vallejo in the deal. one year of blalock isn’t much, but adding the other two offsets that a bit, i think. their system could really use a guy like vallejo, and harrison is a guy we could regret dealing.
by clark on Nov 7, 2008 11:25 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
i have actually
sort of talked myself out of it, after trying to defend it. if vallejo continues to progress, he could have quite a bit more value next year at this time, and trading a pitcher like harrison, who really progressed toward the end of the season, is always risky business.
by clark on Nov 7, 2008 11:26 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
It doesn't diminsh them
But would harrison and Vallejo get you Sanchez? No.
Adding a year of Blalock when they are not a contending team, which also means they incur his contract unless you want to pay that as well, doesn’t make them want to let him go IMO.
I think Harrison and Vallejo are fine players and I wouold be willing to part with them for a Sanchez type player but its gonna take more than that and the more have to be young players with multiple years of cheap control ahead of them.
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 Nov 7, 2008 11:35 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
"it clears two spots off the 40..."
You say all this as if the 40 trumps all, or something?
"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 Nov 7, 2008 11:30 PM CST up reply actions 1 recs
Um, "or something"????
The 40 Trumps All!!!
Rule 5? No…talk to the hand.
by thedirkatron on Nov 7, 2008 11:46 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
+1
Don’t come talking nonsense in here, Haeger Chump.
"He’s basically told himself unconsciously that he can’t be any good unless he catches 130 games a year. If he played with the baseball smarts of a guy like a David Eckstein, he’d maximize his talent and be an incredible player." - Andy Seiler, Texas Rangers Analyst
by Chase Irwin on Nov 8, 2008 10:35 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
doubt it
The draft picks can’t really be emphasized right now with Blalock. He was barely a Type B and going to SF would mean he would have to play the field everyday which he hasn’t been able to do the last two years. Now at midseason you could use that as a negotiating tool because for one you would have a better handle on what his season looks like and what type of FA he will be. And for two you could hope he stays healthy the last two months alot easier than hoping he stays healthy the entire season.
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 Nov 7, 2008 10:57 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
the most likely scenario
would be blalock getting dealt mid-season, hopefully for half of the return Blake netted the Indians.
by clark on Nov 7, 2008 11:00 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
That would be fantastic
I wouldn’t dare to dream that high though.
by Brett Perryman on Nov 7, 2008 11:12 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
the great circle of life
gave them carlos santana after they gave us max ramirez.
i wish the world was always so fair.
by clark on Nov 7, 2008 11:21 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah it's sort of
a beautiful symmetry the way that worked out for Cle.
by Brett Perryman on Nov 8, 2008 12:18 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Blalock for $6.2m
That pretty much closes the book on the John Hart era, no?
Go Strangers.
by hightowersmith on Nov 7, 2008 11:05 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Kevin Kouzmanoff
Wonder what his asking price is…. Wouldn’t mind him manning the corner if it the price is reasonable.
Fire Todd Dodge. Seriously. But in the mean time, SUCK IT WESTERN KENTUCKY! 1-8 baby!
by sprite on Nov 8, 2008 12:35 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
Kouz?
The Kouz who had a .299 OBP in 2008 and whose career line is .264/.311/.433? I don’t know about his defense, but I don’t really see that as an upgrade over Travis Metcalf.
Just say no to Scott Olsen.
by lonestarJon on Nov 8, 2008 12:48 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
His D is shaky
I don’t know, just throwing the name out there because they have Headley ready to step in and he should be available.
Fire Todd Dodge. Seriously. But in the mean time, SUCK IT WESTERN KENTUCKY! 1-8 baby!
by sprite on Nov 8, 2008 12:56 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
another name at third...
what about Wilson Betemit? He is coming off an abysmal season with the Yankees where two of his stronger suits, his patience at the place and his defense, seemed to let him down.
historically, however, he is known for having solid range and a great arm, as he came up as a SS. The Yankees have used him all over the diamond, and that may contribute to his lackluster defensive campaign last year. I would not mind bringing him in and letting him have a good ol’ fashioned position battle with Travis Metcalf this spring. Perhaps he will flop, but perhaps he will go Carlos Pena all over our asses.
Here is a little literature on the man.
He seems very expendable right now, having worn out his welcome in pinstripes. The Yankees are known to at least have passing interest in Laird, pending Posada’s recovery. If that falls the Rangers way, we could offer Laird for a bullpen arm (of which they have many high potential options) and Betemit and see what happens…
by clark on Nov 8, 2008 5:47 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
that is a really, really good idea
I like Betemit much more than any other 3b option that I’ve seen tossed around. That dude still has a lot of upside that could be realized.
I’d do Laird for Betemit and a low minors starter or high minors reliever and feel real good about that.
I don't hate everything. In fact, I think LSB is just groovy.
by tricer on Nov 8, 2008 10:44 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I like this
a good chance to take if you can get a bullpen arm in addition.
G G G E-flat_______ F F F D__________....
by t ball on Nov 8, 2008 12:55 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
No. We're trading for Marco Scutaro. I've decided. That is all.
Thank you, come again.
The 40 Trumps All!!!
Rule 5? No…talk to the hand.
by thedirkatron on Nov 8, 2008 5:01 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Does he have
any MVP votes?
Didn’t think so…
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 Nov 9, 2008 5:59 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
How could I have been so foolish!!!
The 40 Trumps All!!!
Rule 5? No…talk to the hand.
by thedirkatron on Nov 9, 2008 9:21 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
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