The potential return of Milton Bradley?
by Adam J. Morris on Nov 2, 2009 11:13 AM CST
243 comments
The local MSM has been pretty adamant that the Rangers aren't interested in Milton Bradley -- no way, no how, at no price, and even though Ron Washington says he'd like Bradley back.
So I've assumed that was the end of that.
But one of the things we should have learned by now...this front office has never seen a decision it can't stop on a dime and reverse.
And according to T.R. Sullivan, Milton Bradley may be one of them:
The Rangers refuse to rule out the possibility of Milton Bradley coming back to Texas.
Club officials aren't expecting it to happen but it's something club officials are definitely talking about as they try to figure out a way to repair an offense that scored 115 less runs in 2009 than in 2008.
A month ago, it seemed impossible that the Rangers would bring back Bradley. Now there seems some hemming and hawing.
What does this mean? It may be that the Rangers think the impact on the clubhouse will be less than had been previously feared.
I think as much as anything, though, it is that Jon Daniels and Ron Washington know that 2010 can't be 2005 all over again. The Rangers are going to have a hard time maintaining their credibility if, on the heels of a breakthrough year, and with the team seemingly on the verge of being a serious contender, they just sit back, make no moves to improve the team, and hope things break their way.
I think the front office has looked at the options that are out there and figured out that for what the Rangers need -- a legit middle of the order bat who can DH, maybe play a COF spot in a pinch, get on base, and not require a heavy lengthy commitment -- Bradley is the best available choice.
Last season, I think there was a belief that you could hope to go into 2010 with Chris Davis and Justin Smoak as your 1B and DH options. With Davis's flameout in the first half of 2009 raising serious questions about his ability to contribute at the major league level, and with Smoak struggling initially in AAA -- along with Josh Hamilton being useless in 2009 -- you don't have that luxury anymore. You can't sit back and hope a Matt Stairs-type vet, or Smoak, or Max Ramirez, will stumble into contributing at the DH spot.
And you certainly can't do that on the heels of the 2009 season, with people expecting the Rangers to take a step forward, not a step backwards. A step backwards in 2010, with new ownership in place and heightened expectations, likely would cost some folks their jobs.
So it makes sense that the Board Game option is back on the table, and the Rangers would be looking at bringing him in if the Cubs ate the bulk of his salary. It allows you to start Justin Smoak in AAA, potentially start Julio Borbon in AAA, and bring those guys up when they are ready to grab a job, not stick them in the lineup because you don't have any other choice.
If it isn't Bradley, it is going to have to be somebody, because this team can't afford to go into 2010 with its offensive game plan being, let's hope Chris Davis and Josh Hamilton get back on track.
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Best available choice
That’s probably the key point. There really isn’t anyone else out there who brings so much bat to the table at such a potentially affordable price. He fits the Rangers’ current needs pretty well.
With all the question marks surrounding Davis, Hamilton, Kinsler even, Ramirez…Milton might just be stable by comparison, at least for the games he shows up for.
G G G E-flat_______ F F F D__________....
by t ball on Nov 2, 2009 11:17 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
Hell
If he only played 60 games that would be ten times better than the shit that was Hank Blalock.
"I was going to say, 'You’re gay for Elvis.' But then I realized that I, too, am gay for Elvis." ~Adam J. Morris.
by Kinslerhomer on Nov 2, 2009 11:18 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Hit post too soon
I want the front office to be very aggressive this winter in taking the team to the next level for 2010. This would qualify as a significant and worthwhile move at the right price.
G G G E-flat_______ F F F D__________....
by t ball on Nov 2, 2009 11:19 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Agree
I think the points above are good ones, though I disagree with Adam’s remark about the FO turning on a dime and reversing course. I think it’s less that and more the fact that this FO (to their credit) has a “never say never” policy and never rules anything about, while guys like TR get FO opinions in midstream and trumpet them as official FO policy.
Just because TR was adamant that Bradley wasn’t a consideration for 2010 doesn’t mean that the FO plans to operate by that policy. TR, at best, probably got a snapshot of the opinion on that day and nothing more.
"Feldman and Feliz and and pray for…infectious disease?"--TheJeezus on Sep 9, 2009 1:01 PM PDT
by WestTxAg06 on Nov 2, 2009 11:26 AM CST via mobile up reply actions 1 recs
Well-said..
We get a lot of those sort of stories, followed by folks saying “they changed course” to cover the fact that THEY ran with a snapshot.
The Texas Rangers have been synonymous with explosive firepower ever since they emptied 130 rounds into Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow in 1934. - Alyssa Milano
by bking on Nov 2, 2009 12:10 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Talk of the "right price"
is inherently at odds with wanting the FO “to be very aggressive in taking this team to the next level for 2010.”
This point persistently eludes LSB nation’s comprehension.
by JDT217 on Nov 2, 2009 12:23 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Not necessarily
You can put together packages for arb guys who are available (Bossman JR, Nolasco, etc.) without incurring too much salary. Given the prospect depth in this system, it’s hardly impossible to be aggressive without taking on a ton of money.
by LiamP on Nov 2, 2009 12:43 PM CST via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
Right Price
I think that the term “right price” involves not only how much it will cost to pay him, but how much of the system will have to be included to acquire him.
For example, if St Louis would take Neftali Feliz, Derrick Holland, Chris Davis, Justin Smoak, Martin Perez, Robbie Ross, Julio Borbon AND Matt Harison for Albert Pujols, would that be an accptable trade? even if you could afford his salary…
by iblum on Nov 2, 2009 2:34 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
The right price simply means
not overpaying, those two things are most certainly not mutually exclusive.
G G G E-flat_______ F F F D__________....
by t ball on Nov 2, 2009 1:49 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
So "very aggressive" means...?
Selling off part of the farm for major-league-level productivity? Fine with me.
by JDT217 on Nov 2, 2009 1:59 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yes, possibly
in regards to Bradley it probably means being willing to either give up a decent prospect if the Cubs are willing to pay most of the contract, or pay more for Bradley without giving up much.
For other moves it might mean trading some significant younger talent for an established starting pitcher who can front the rotation if the opportunity is there. Very risky, but playing it safe doesn’t seem like the way to go.
G G G E-flat_______ F F F D__________....
by t ball on Nov 2, 2009 2:14 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I agree...
Let’s go get Nolasco and Dunn and moneywhip both of them when the time comes.
by JDT217 on Nov 2, 2009 2:19 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Nick Johnson or Troy Glaus might be a decent option also.
What do voluntary mean?
by JKolar on Nov 2, 2009 12:29 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Others
for that matter Bobby Abreu could do be too, and, (like a broken record), if we could acquire Vladimir Guerrero, we should.
by iblum on Nov 2, 2009 2:36 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Not sure on Vlad
I almost think he might be hitting a major decline phase and is likely the most expensive option of the lot.
What do voluntary mean?
by JKolar on Nov 2, 2009 3:07 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Matsui?
I didn't know what a mancrush was. Derek Holland showed me.
by DerekSTheRed on Nov 2, 2009 3:14 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I keep thinking Vlad, Abreu and Matsui are about to decline....
one of these years I have to be right, don’t I?
The Texas Rangers have been synonymous with explosive firepower ever since they emptied 130 rounds into Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow in 1934. - Alyssa Milano
by bking on Nov 2, 2009 3:49 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Vlad has been declining
He’s still not horrible yet, but he’s getting there.
By 2028, Mark Teixeira will be in the HOF.
"I am one of the biggest Texas Ranger fans out there but I'm also one of the smartest. Deal with it."
-The Outlaw
by Gdawg on Nov 2, 2009 4:28 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
If we expect our OBP troubles to end...
because we signed Vlad Guerrero, we need to have our collective heads checked.
by jwiscarson on Nov 2, 2009 4:49 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Get it done.
As Cahill said, any offseason moves should be benchmarked against the acquisition of Bradley. If you don’t want to pay his price, be willing to pay a steeper one.
"Nothing we do here has a point" - Czar Morris
by Chase Irwin on Nov 2, 2009 11:22 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
I'd rather see them pay a steeper price
and get a guy who’s on the right side of 30 and will likely play most of the time.
by Black Francis on Nov 2, 2009 6:06 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I don't play the "guess who?" trade game
But you can’t tell me there’s not SOMEONE in baseball they can find to DH and play a little OF.
by Black Francis on Nov 2, 2009 10:43 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Seth Smith, Brad Hawpe...
"It's kind of a new stat that's in vogue" - Joe Buck on OPS
"...he wasn’t a good hitter, just a good middle of the order bat that hit a lot of homers." - NYTXFAN on Mark McGwire
by lonestarJon on Nov 2, 2009 11:16 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
F Seth Smith
That would be such a let down.
Josh Willingham is gonna be the guy
by tyd3311 on Nov 3, 2009 7:49 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Like I said
I don’t play the “guess who?” trade game.
by Black Francis on Nov 3, 2009 4:47 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I don't want to see Borbon...
start the year in OKC. I suppose if the Rangers re-sign Byrd and brought back Board Game though that’s what they would do.
Of course I doubt Wash will start the year with Borbon in CF too. Which is where he needs to be. So if he started the year in CF in OKC that would be better than DHing him in Arlington.
As for Board Game, he’s the best option out there that fits what this team needs. If the price is right you have to take that gamble. You have to.
"The only good is knowledge and the only evil is ignorance."-Socrates
by slc ranger on Nov 2, 2009 11:23 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
i think Borbon should start in our CF
I don’t want to count on a guy like Bradley. I’d rather spend 2/18-20 on Abreu than waste a possible prospect and money on Bradley.
A baseball game is simply a nervous breakdown divided into nine innings.
by NothinG on Nov 2, 2009 11:26 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
That would be great.
Do you have 20mm this org can borrow?
by LiamP on Nov 2, 2009 12:45 PM CST via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
Bradley makes sense.
Can he keep his personality disorder in check is the only question. He becomes even more affordable if we let Byrd go and play Borbon in CF which is what I prefer.
Another option available is Mora who is a FA but I prefer Bradley and have no idea of the price for Mora.
by Bigfan16 on Nov 2, 2009 11:25 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
So you really want the hitter who had to sit out
games in early July v the Angels so he’d be healthy enough to play the next week in the AS game?
Don’t remember which show I heard it on (believe it was The Ticket somewhere) but there are players on that team who could not stand Milton Bradley.
I think his act wore pretty thin with the core when he wouldn’t play hurt in August (but refused to go on the DL) and made damn sure he was in the line-up in late September so he could qualify for the batting title.
"Dying ain't hard. It's living that's hard."
"Ranger players, especially veterans, weren’t surprised that Daniels couldn’t find a deal"
by Josey Wales on Nov 2, 2009 11:26 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
I ask this question every once in a while
how can a player “refuse to go on the DL”?
Go Rice Owls!
by JBImaknee on Nov 2, 2009 11:28 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
it's my understanding
that this is pretty much the case. Try to put a player on the DL when they claim they aren’t injured and you have the union jumping down your throat with a grievance.
Favorite bumper sticker of all time, seen on a VW bus:
"Gas, Grass, or Ass. Nobody rides for free"
by tricer on Nov 2, 2009 11:30 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
the union?
what do they care if there isn’t a games played incentive?
And if a guy can’t play, he can’t play. I don’t see where the fuzzy ground is
Go Rice Owls!
by JBImaknee on Nov 2, 2009 11:34 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
good point
I just think that when a team says “your injured and need to be on the DL”, and the player says “no I’m not”, then that is something that the players union would get involved in. Could be wrong though.
Favorite bumper sticker of all time, seen on a VW bus:
"Gas, Grass, or Ass. Nobody rides for free"
by tricer on Nov 2, 2009 11:41 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
They absolutely would
If the player is adament about it. Last year Bradley was out to prove he could stay healthy for a full season which mainly means staying off the DL. If the Rangers tried to put him on the DL when he wasn’t hurt or wasn’t going to be out a significant amount of time then he would have caused a fuss about 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 Nov 2, 2009 11:43 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
You don't remember this?
Bradley went something like 11-12 games in August with one ph appearance but the team wouldn’t put him on the DL cuz you see, the rap on Bradley was that he was always hurt and if he could prove that he could stay healthy for a year, that’d be better for bidness.
Bradley, ever the con man, tearfully spoke earlier in the season about how Wash was the dad he never had (Wash told him he had made the AS team). It was all bullshit. The way to become Milton Bradley’s “dad” was to rollover and let him call all the shots.
Bradley even talked about not playing in games that year when he wasn’t exactly 100% to protect his numbers so he’d cash in at free agency.
I loved the player when he actually played. One of the smartest hitters I’ve ever seen but there’s a reason he’s been with 6-7 teams in the same number of years.
"Dying ain't hard. It's living that's hard."
"Ranger players, especially veterans, weren’t surprised that Daniels couldn’t find a deal"
by Josey Wales on Nov 2, 2009 11:38 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
sure I remember
I just don’t know why JD should care what the player says when he’s out for ten days.
Go Rice Owls!
by JBImaknee on Nov 2, 2009 1:31 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
It's like others have said
If he says he’s not hurt, the Player’s Association would stir up a huge mess. If the guy were in the middle of a multi-year deal it would be another story but he was a free agent and clearly thought that going on the DL again would look bad to other teams. That’s something the union doesn’t want.
by Black Francis on Nov 2, 2009 6:12 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
How can Bradley report to the Players Union that he's not hurt
when he’s refusing to play for the Rangers because he says he’s hurt. I think the Player’s Union would tell him to get in the game.
The Players Union gets involved when teams try to put players in the DL so that they cannot reach incentive numbers.
Also, every GM in the league is smart enough to know to look at games player and plate appearances. They will not be fooled into thinking he’s healthy just because he didn’t go on the DL.
"What ... 92 miles per hour?" Feldman scoffed. "That's not gas. Feliz throws gas."
by NorCalRangersFan on Nov 2, 2009 7:07 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
ha
The Union isn’t going to tell Bradley any such thing. They will back their player no matter what. That’s their job.
The Union probably gets involved a lot more than most people think.
A GM should be smart enough, but boy they do some stupid shit sometimes, right? Like signing Milton Bradley to a huge multi-year contract, for example.
by Black Francis on Nov 2, 2009 7:43 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Name a better option that fits our budget.
Also, have we ever actually seen any negative quotes from players about Bradley? I know the columnists in town don’t like him, but have we seen anything direct from the players?
by cstorm15 on Nov 2, 2009 11:33 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah,
if the alternative to MBradley is standing pat and going with Smoak and Boggs, I’m not real excited about our chances to compete this year.
"I don't condone steroids or any other type of growth hormones or anything else, but I could care less, and, for the most part, I don't think the fans give a (bleep). The people that care about it are the people that probably don't like baseball," - Jim Leyland
by DJCahill on Nov 2, 2009 11:36 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I'd say other options, slightly more expensive
could be someone like Nick Johnson or Troy Glaus. Either one could be 1b/DH types.
What do voluntary mean?
by JKolar on Nov 2, 2009 12:34 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm starting...
to get on board with the idea of Troy Glaus if Board Game is too expensive (in terms of either salary or prospects). I think he’d be pretty cheap and he’s still only 33 years old. If healthy, I think he could put up decent #’s.
"The only good is knowledge and the only evil is ignorance."-Socrates
by slc ranger on Nov 2, 2009 1:32 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Josey
Again with the nonsense. You pointed out 1,000 times that letting Milton go and not replacing him was “this thing’s” biggest problem this year. Now, you are saying we shouldn’t bring him back? Can you go a week without contradicting yourself?
"calmer than you are dude" Walter (Big Lebowski)
Hello Win Column!!!
by Arlington Stadium Legend on Nov 2, 2009 12:15 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Replacing his production, ASL
I don’t want the player…I want his production.
"Dying ain't hard. It's living that's hard."
"Ranger players, especially veterans, weren’t surprised that Daniels couldn’t find a deal"
by Josey Wales on Nov 2, 2009 12:16 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Hey, don't expect him to have logic devoid of gigantic holes in it
Now you’re just being demanding.
"Feldman and Feliz and and pray for…infectious disease?"--TheJeezus on Sep 9, 2009 1:01 PM PDT
by WestTxAg06 on Nov 2, 2009 1:04 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Anyone have an opinion on
Noah Lowry? I know he has been hurt but he has shown some great potential and is a lefty. Apparently he is a FA and I was wondering what his price would be.
by Bigfan16 on Nov 2, 2009 11:29 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
As a starter of possible LOOGY?
If you want to bring him in as a starter thats probably pushing Holland back to AAA to start the season.
Without looking at his numbers and salary I would say I wuld be interested if he was a possible LOOGY candidate however
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 2, 2009 11:35 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Not sure of his health and readiness for a return
I was thinking of him in the rotation even if Holland gets pushed back to AAA or the pen.
by Bigfan16 on Nov 2, 2009 11:38 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I think we're beyond the point where we need to sign marginal starters
with all the potential guys we have competing for a spot in the rotation. I think we should only be going after a free agent starter is if it’s a top of the rotation type pitcher. Lowry isn’t.
by MikeEl on Nov 2, 2009 12:11 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Great pedigree
Not so great production.
by JDT217 on Nov 2, 2009 12:26 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I think we can get mid/back rotation guys from the farm right now
if your going to sign a starter it needs to be a top of the rotation horse.
What do voluntary mean?
by JKolar on Nov 2, 2009 12:35 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
x
he has shown some great potential and is a lefty.
He hasn’t shown any “great potential” since 2005.
"...he wasn’t a good hitter, just a good middle of the order bat that hit a lot of homers." - NYTXFAN
by lonestarJon on Nov 2, 2009 6:48 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Can't believe I'm going to talk about team chemistry
But if the Rangers bring back Milt but don’t re-sign Byrd, I can imagine some very loud grumbling from various players.
It breaks your heart. It is designed to break your heart. The game begins in the spring, when everything else begins again, and it blossoms in the summer, filling the afternoons and evenings, and then as soon as the chill rains come, it stops and leaves you to face the fall alone. You count on it, rely on it to buffer the passage of time, to keep the memory of sunshine and high skies alive, and then just when the days are all twilight, when you need it most, it stops.
by WyoRanger on Nov 2, 2009 11:31 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
Who fits the team better?
Bradley can DH and fill a hole in the line-up. Byrd (Love him) is a very good 4th OF and we have Murphy filling that role much cheaper IMO.
by Bigfan16 on Nov 2, 2009 11:33 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
That has nothing to do with chemistry though?
Taking such a positive clubhouse force out and bringing in such a volatile one could have a huge impact on chemistry. Which, over the course of a 162 game baseball season, is a huge aspect to consider
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 2, 2009 11:36 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
So is going from a .325 OBP to .390-400 OBP.
"I was going to say, 'You’re gay for Elvis.' But then I realized that I, too, am gay for Elvis." ~Adam J. Morris.
by Kinslerhomer on Nov 2, 2009 11:37 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Team chemistry is important
but Byrd only offers so much. He has given it all and deserves a payday but not from the Rangers IMO. Bradley offers more pop, fills a hole in the line-up and can take some pressure off the the others in the line-up and the pitching IF he performs. I am not the biggest MB fan but he does fit the current needs better than Byrd.
by Bigfan16 on Nov 2, 2009 11:42 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
i think it's a BIG if
is everybody who is advocating for Bradley’s return really think he is going to have another career year. let’s not live in the past here
A baseball game is simply a nervous breakdown divided into nine innings.
by NothinG on Nov 2, 2009 11:44 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Good point
That is a BIG IF. However can we really expect Byrd to match or improve on his recent performance?
by Bigfan16 on Nov 2, 2009 11:45 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Him having a non-career year is still better than Byrd's career year.
"I was going to say, 'You’re gay for Elvis.' But then I realized that I, too, am gay for Elvis." ~Adam J. Morris.
by Kinslerhomer on Nov 2, 2009 11:45 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
i agree with both of these
i don’t want Byrd back, but I don’t think we can count on MB. Bradley has only had 2 years in his career of 400+ ABs. He just can’t stay healthy, and that doesn’t even account for his psychological issues.
A baseball game is simply a nervous breakdown divided into nine innings.
by NothinG on Nov 2, 2009 11:49 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Walks
In last year’s “down” year from Bradley, he still had a higher OBP than any Ranger with more than 10 PA’s. His 66 walks were also more than any Ranger, despite only 473 PA’s. Note that he only had 36 fewer Plate appearences last year than his “full” year with the Rangers.
His power, however, was non-existent, and he ended up with a lower OPS and OPS+ than Marlon Byrd. on the other-other hand, he did manage to hit .333 vs lefties and over his career, he’s hit 40 points better vs lefties than righties. Byrd was pretty wretched vs left handers last year, and is neutral overall against them, so the one MB does address an issue with left handed pitchers that the other MB does not.
by iblum on Nov 2, 2009 2:59 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
They will shut up if they win more games.
"I was going to say, 'You’re gay for Elvis.' But then I realized that I, too, am gay for Elvis." ~Adam J. Morris.
by Kinslerhomer on Nov 2, 2009 11:33 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Kind of like the Bronco's chemistry
and relationship with their problematic WR. Winning = good chemistry
by Bigfan16 on Nov 2, 2009 11:34 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yup
"I was going to say, 'You’re gay for Elvis.' But then I realized that I, too, am gay for Elvis." ~Adam J. Morris.
by Kinslerhomer on Nov 2, 2009 11:36 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Football and baseball are completely different IMO
In football you get to go out and release most aggression in a violent way most every single day either in practice or in a game. You spend at most 10 nights a year on the road together.
In baseball its not a violent sport. You spend 80-90 days a year on the road together.
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 2, 2009 11:39 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, but winning solves everything in any sport. It's universal.
"The only good is knowledge and the only evil is ignorance."-Socrates
by slc ranger on Nov 2, 2009 11:51 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
They won 79 games with Bradley
and 87 without.
"Dying ain't hard. It's living that's hard."
"Ranger players, especially veterans, weren’t surprised that Daniels couldn’t find a deal"
by Josey Wales on Nov 2, 2009 11:39 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah
That’s because of him… Sure dumbfuck.
"I was going to say, 'You’re gay for Elvis.' But then I realized that I, too, am gay for Elvis." ~Adam J. Morris.
by Kinslerhomer on Nov 2, 2009 11:40 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I love that you just wrote that
You’re the one complaining how the dumbsonofabitch GM failed to replace Bradley’s production. Here you point out the Rangers won more games without that production. Nice.
It breaks your heart. It is designed to break your heart. The game begins in the spring, when everything else begins again, and it blossoms in the summer, filling the afternoons and evenings, and then as soon as the chill rains come, it stops and leaves you to face the fall alone. You count on it, rely on it to buffer the passage of time, to keep the memory of sunshine and high skies alive, and then just when the days are all twilight, when you need it most, it stops.
by WyoRanger on Nov 2, 2009 12:04 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
56-52 in Bradley starts
23-31 in all other games.
If you want some slack, bring your own rope.
by rangerfaninva on Nov 2, 2009 3:07 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
What player
has said anything negative about Bradley?
"I don't condone steroids or any other type of growth hormones or anything else, but I could care less, and, for the most part, I don't think the fans give a (bleep). The people that care about it are the people that probably don't like baseball," - Jim Leyland
by DJCahill on Nov 2, 2009 11:37 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
He probably didn't kiss MY's ass enough.
"I was going to say, 'You’re gay for Elvis.' But then I realized that I, too, am gay for Elvis." ~Adam J. Morris.
by Kinslerhomer on Nov 2, 2009 11:38 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Personally,
I don’t recall any player saying anything bad about him. I just hear a whole lot of standard fan dumbassery.
"I don't condone steroids or any other type of growth hormones or anything else, but I could care less, and, for the most part, I don't think the fans give a (bleep). The people that care about it are the people that probably don't like baseball," - Jim Leyland
by DJCahill on Nov 2, 2009 11:43 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
There was nobody on the record saying
anything bad about Bradley and I’m guessing that’s because Bradley is one of Washington’s boyz.
"Dying ain't hard. It's living that's hard."
"Ranger players, especially veterans, weren’t surprised that Daniels couldn’t find a deal"
by Josey Wales on Nov 2, 2009 11:47 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Nolan also loves him
"I was going to say, 'You’re gay for Elvis.' But then I realized that I, too, am gay for Elvis." ~Adam J. Morris.
by Kinslerhomer on Nov 2, 2009 11:49 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I think he had a good relationship with the players
i tend to remember everybody having fun at the all-star game and bradley was a big part of that. I, also, remember the slip-n-slide tarp action at the NY Mets. Those are pretty good Bradley memories that make me think he had a good relationship with the players as well.
A baseball game is simply a nervous breakdown divided into nine innings.
by NothinG on Nov 2, 2009 11:51 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
So NOW the players were afraid to speak out because they fear Wash???
You might want to take a quick look around – you’re in the corner and the entire floor is painted except under your feet.
The Texas Rangers have been synonymous with explosive firepower ever since they emptied 130 rounds into Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow in 1934. - Alyssa Milano
by bking on Nov 2, 2009 12:16 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I don't know the code, bking
I definitely heard that there were several players on the team that couldn’t stand him…maybe these were fringe players who didn’t want to get on Wash’s bad side or maybe they didn’t want to appear as a clubhouse lawyer, who knows?
As for this corner you referenced, you’re the stupid sonofabitch who thought Tom Hicks was doing a great job in 2005.
The only people in that corner now are you and the Arkansas Blowhard.
"Dying ain't hard. It's living that's hard."
"Ranger players, especially veterans, weren’t surprised that Daniels couldn’t find a deal"
by Josey Wales on Nov 2, 2009 12:19 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Who exactly did you hear this from?
I heard that a lot of the players loved Bradley. I heard that he would buy everyone dinner after a win and then they’d skip to the nearest ice cream store where he’d buy everyone their favorite flavor though he only allowed one topping per player (it was a one year deal you know).
By 2028, Mark Teixeira will be in the HOF.
"I am one of the biggest Texas Ranger fans out there but I'm also one of the smartest. Deal with it."
-The Outlaw
by Gdawg on Nov 2, 2009 1:06 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
The problem here, as usual
is you try to boil every single situation down to something crudely simple, usually involving “The Room” in some mysterious way that is never supported by actual quotes or facts.
G G G E-flat_______ F F F D__________....
by t ball on Nov 2, 2009 1:54 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe Josey lurked The Room before 9/11 et al changed the security landscape ..
"Nothing we do here has a point" - Czar Morris
by Chase Irwin on Nov 2, 2009 3:23 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Nah, just more of his unsubstantiated B.S...
He honestly thinks if he says something enough times, it’s just “magically” becomes a given.
The Texas Rangers have been synonymous with explosive firepower ever since they emptied 130 rounds into Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow in 1934. - Alyssa Milano
by bking on Nov 2, 2009 3:53 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Like you extoling the masses on what a good
owner Tom Hicks was back in 2005, bking?
"Dying ain't hard. It's living that's hard."
"Ranger players, especially veterans, weren’t surprised that Daniels couldn’t find a deal"
by Josey Wales on Nov 2, 2009 4:52 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I remember seeing a quote
late last season from MY where he said he wouldn’t mind having Milton back. I think he understands that his bat would help this team win and if it does, then lots of the other stuff won’t matter.
by MikeEl on Nov 2, 2009 12:12 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
another RH DH option that might be available on a salary dump
Pat Burrell.
Much like Bradley, he had a horrible year but he has a history of several years with 380-400 obp and 500 slg.
Favorite bumper sticker of all time, seen on a VW bus:
"Gas, Grass, or Ass. Nobody rides for free"
by tricer on Nov 2, 2009 11:34 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
Meh
He’s old and sucked in his one year in the MLB.
"I was going to say, 'You’re gay for Elvis.' But then I realized that I, too, am gay for Elvis." ~Adam J. Morris.
by Kinslerhomer on Nov 2, 2009 11:35 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
i would rather have Burrell than Bradley
but I would also rather have Dunn or Abreu than either the two Burrell and Bradley.
A baseball game is simply a nervous breakdown divided into nine innings.
by NothinG on Nov 2, 2009 11:42 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm really meh on Burrell but
Yes on the other two. Problem is Abreu is going to get overpayed and the Nats want way too much for Dunn.
"I was going to say, 'You’re gay for Elvis.' But then I realized that I, too, am gay for Elvis." ~Adam J. Morris.
by Kinslerhomer on Nov 2, 2009 11:44 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
the Nats, I would assume
are going to deal Dunn at some point, either in the winter, or next season, and they could be asking too much, but I definitely want to be in on him if we can. Halladay will also be traded either this winter or next season when the Blue Jays are out of it. If we are able to get either one of these guys, they’ll be able to bring us 2 first rounders that could help supplement the loss in our already deep system.
What is your opinion of bringing in someone like Nick Johnson?
A baseball game is simply a nervous breakdown divided into nine innings.
by NothinG on Nov 2, 2009 11:57 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Nick Johnson
was very available at the past deadline (and absolutely the hitter This Thing needed) went to the Marlins very cheaply but JD wouldn’t pull the trigger.
"Dying ain't hard. It's living that's hard."
"Ranger players, especially veterans, weren’t surprised that Daniels couldn’t find a deal"
by Josey Wales on Nov 2, 2009 12:15 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Or Nolan said no???
"I was going to say, 'You’re gay for Elvis.' But then I realized that I, too, am gay for Elvis." ~Adam J. Morris.
by Kinslerhomer on Nov 2, 2009 12:17 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
JD wanted to pull the trigger by Nolan vetoed it.
"What ... 92 miles per hour?" Feldman scoffed. "That's not gas. Feliz throws gas."
by NorCalRangersFan on Nov 2, 2009 7:14 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
He would have helped
when he got hurt like always and missed the back half of August and part of September…
"calmer than you are dude" Walter (Big Lebowski)
Hello Win Column!!!
by Arlington Stadium Legend on Nov 2, 2009 12:17 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, but Adam Dunn strikes out too much.
by JDT217 on Nov 2, 2009 12:32 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
lol
"I was going to say, 'You’re gay for Elvis.' But then I realized that I, too, am gay for Elvis." ~Adam J. Morris.
by Kinslerhomer on Nov 2, 2009 12:41 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Burrell had that history
when surrounded by guys like Utley, Rollins, and Howard, with plenty of protection in the lineup and in the NL. Once more was asked of him and he moved to the AL, he sucked. Don’t expect that to change as long as he’s in the AL.
by MikeEl on Nov 2, 2009 12:16 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Uh.
Burrell was signed by the Rays, and hit behind Carlos Pena (39 homers), and around Ben Zobrist, Jason Bartlet, Evan Longoria, and others. I don’t see anything to convince me that the Ray’s lineup had anything to do with hi hitting. there is something, however, to be said for the fact that the AL is a tougher league in general, which would explain both him and Matt Holliday’s resurgence on being traded back to the NL. Or he could have had a bad year.
by iblum on Nov 2, 2009 3:10 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Bradley
I hope they bring him back. If they do and he performs around his career average and Hamilton and Davis regain some semblance of their 2008 form, this has the potential to be a very good team.
Not mediocre. Right about average
by trza on Nov 2, 2009 11:36 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
The increased interest in Bradley is just as likely due to a perceived price decrease.
If he falls into the low-risk flyer category, meaning the Cubs pick up a chunk of his salary and only get mid-tier prospects back, it’s a no-brainer.
by 3hacks on Nov 2, 2009 12:10 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
I agree
at least that that’s what should sway their interest.
by Brett Perryman on Nov 2, 2009 3:13 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
How about this?
http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2009/11/al-club-interested-in-manny-ramirez.html#comments
“A baseball insider says the club has been contacted by an American League team that is interested in Manny Ramirez if the team will pay part of his $20 million salary for 2010. It’s a team that plays in a very mediocre division, has a few team officials familiar with Ramirez, and always needs a bump in notoriety.”
Do we have team officials familiar w/ Manny? That probably strikes me as CWS, but can’t say that’s not us.
by Sherman McCoy on Nov 2, 2009 12:46 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Yeah mediocre division screams Central
Either CWS or Minnesota I would imagine. CLE isn’t going to be in on a guy like Manny and I think KC needs more than a bump in notoriety. Detroit maybe but I would have to guess either CWS or MINN
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 2, 2009 12:48 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Moving into a new stadium
Means increased revenue and for a one season shot I could see it. Its a huge longshot.
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 2, 2009 1:06 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Those fucking Twins
Always looking for a notoriety bump.
by LiamP on Nov 2, 2009 1:07 PM CST via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
Detroit or CWS
maybe STL if they aren’t going to re-sign Holliday.
by MikeEl on Nov 2, 2009 1:07 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I doubt we do it
but honestly Manny would be a pretty damned good fit here for one year.
What do voluntary mean?
by JKolar on Nov 2, 2009 12:50 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Adding Manny to that circus ring would truly make it hilarious
"...he wasn’t a good hitter, just a good middle of the order bat that hit a lot of homers." - NYTXFAN
by lonestarJon on Nov 2, 2009 6:50 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Why not trade Kevin Millwood for him...
and have them pick up Bradley’s 2011 salary (since Millwood has one year remaining). I’d much rather have a rotation of Hunter, Feldman, Holland, Feliz and McCarthy/Harrison. Time to move on.
by rclarkjd10 on Nov 2, 2009 12:47 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
We need a veteran to front the rotation
Im sorry but we do. Millwood isn’t a #1 but is a damn nice veteran guy who is a solid 2-3.
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 2, 2009 12:49 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
We also need money.
He’s got the biggest salary. If the Cubs are willing to eat it and pick up most of Bradley’s, why not?
by rclarkjd10 on Nov 2, 2009 12:51 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Because this team is better off with Millwood and without Bradley
than with Bradley and without Millwood
Seriously if we headed into next year with Scott Feldman fronting our rotation this offseason would be a complete and utter failure. And I am one of Scooters biggest fans/supporters on here.
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 2, 2009 1:05 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Feldman >>>>>>> Millwood
Hunter too. Millwood is done.
by rclarkjd10 on Nov 2, 2009 1:06 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
This team is broke.
We aren’t signing Lackey, and I don’t think we should. Are there any other FA options? We’ve got a lot of high ceiling arms in the minors. Let’s see what they can do. Hunter looks really good and Holland should be much improved this season.
by rclarkjd10 on Nov 2, 2009 1:07 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Wrong
Bradley is what this offense needs. Millwood is what this pitching already has. Right now, Bradley is a much bigger need for this team than Millwood. And Bradley is also the much better player of the two.
By 2028, Mark Teixeira will be in the HOF.
"I am one of the biggest Texas Ranger fans out there but I'm also one of the smartest. Deal with it."
-The Outlaw
by Gdawg on Nov 2, 2009 1:08 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
The 2008 Bradley is what this offense needs
The 2009 is not what this offense needed. Im sorry but this club does not need another guy who bats .260 no matter what their OBP is. We were lucky in the fact we got Bradley in his career year. It also helped that Hamilton was healthy and producing and Davis produced once he came up.
Simply plugging Bradley into the middle of this lineup with his career line of .277/.371/.450 does not do much if Hamilton is still hurting, Davis is still sucking, Kinsler goes cold from May on.
I feel much more comfortable going into next season counting on a few guys bouncing back to previous forms on offense rather than relying on a bunch of young starters carrying the load all season with no veteran presence in the rotation. So I would much rather keep Millwood than trade him for Bradley
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 2, 2009 1:18 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Trading for Bradley now means we must be expecting the 2009 version of himself
His 2009 had nothing to do with his constant fighting with Big Lou and clearly, coming back to DH in Texas means that the Bradley (who had a 132 OPS+ in the 5 seasons before 09) we’ll get is going to barely be an average player. I also don’t know what you’re talking about when you are talking about him not helping things if everyone else sucks. The Rangers aren’t supposed to look at improving their offense because of the possibility that everyone else sucks? Isn’t that the whole point of bringing in more talent?
As for Millwood…I don’t know what you’re smoking if you are relying on Millwood to anchor this rotation. With this defense, you saw the kind of pitching we were able to get from everyone. We don’t need to rely on a 35 year old Millwood to be the one stable starter in the rotation. Hell, you saw how consistent he was last season when he collapsed in the middle of the season. If I have to choose between Millwood or Bradley, I go for this team’s current need (run scoring not run prevention) as well as the better talent of the two.
By 2028, Mark Teixeira will be in the HOF.
"I am one of the biggest Texas Ranger fans out there but I'm also one of the smartest. Deal with it."
-The Outlaw
by Gdawg on Nov 2, 2009 1:27 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Bradley
That 132 OPS+ was bookended by a 147 and a 153. The three years in the middle were fairly mundane. 108, 118, 114 respectively. Thats probably what we should expect if we get him back. Probably a .275/.370/.445 type player. Thats not bad don’t get me wrong. But if the guys we currently have don’t bounce back from down years, plugging Bradley in is not going to generate a whole lot more offense. Its just not.
And losing Millwood on top of that would be really bad. No hes not a Cy Young candidate but hes a horse who goes out and pitches every 5 days for the most part. Hes averaged over 31 starts a season in Texas. Plugging Harrison in instead of Millwood probably leads to more runs given up than the increase in runs scored that plugging Bradley in would 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 2, 2009 1:41 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I think this is right.
And I’m a Millwood hater.
by JDT217 on Nov 2, 2009 1:43 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yes, fairly mundane...
for a guy always playing in the OF with some kind of injury, he was still way better than anything the Rangers have internally as a DH candidate. And in typical bigsteve fashion, you ignore the 2 years following those seasons or the year before those 3 seasons when he posted a 147 OPS+. You are also projecting him to have a SLG worse than Byrd, Blalock, Jones, and Murphy did this past season. You think that’s really likely to happen when the last time he was here, he had a career high SLG. That’s also a SLG below his career average which includes his first few years in the league when he was up for a bit of the season and was still adjusting to the Majors.
You also ignored the 2 seasons Millwood had here before last season. Even his first year in Texas saw him only be a LAIE. But of course, Millwood isn’t going to have an ERA+ of 87 like he did in 07 and 08, he’s going to be this stable presense in our rotation. The rotation will crumble without his veteran presence. And Harrison likely wouldn’t be the guy that gets Millwood’s spot. It either goes to a FA signing (maybe Sheets) or it probably opens up a clear window for Feliz to get a spot out of ST while Harrison and Hurley can start in the minors.
By 2028, Mark Teixeira will be in the HOF.
"I am one of the biggest Texas Ranger fans out there but I'm also one of the smartest. Deal with it."
-The Outlaw
by Gdawg on Nov 2, 2009 1:58 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Do you really think
Feliz > Millwood in 2010?
by JDT217 on Nov 2, 2009 2:00 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I think that Feliz in 2010 can be something special
I also think that Millwood is no guarantee to be anywhere near the Millwood he was overall in 2009. So:
Feliz+Bradley>Millwood in 2010.
By 2028, Mark Teixeira will be in the HOF.
"I am one of the biggest Texas Ranger fans out there but I'm also one of the smartest. Deal with it."
-The Outlaw
by Gdawg on Nov 2, 2009 2:15 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
That's a good way
to put it. I think, though, that I’d rather have all 3 on the team next year.
G G G E-flat_______ F F F D__________....
by t ball on Nov 2, 2009 2:16 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
If its possible
I’m fine with that. I’m not advocating getting rid of Millwood if the new owner can afford it. I just wouldn’t want to pass up the chance to get Bradley if Millwood’s contract is the thing holding us back and a deal could be made to swap the two.
By 2028, Mark Teixeira will be in the HOF.
"I am one of the biggest Texas Ranger fans out there but I'm also one of the smartest. Deal with it."
-The Outlaw
by Gdawg on Nov 2, 2009 2:21 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Ugh Feliz is not going to be something special next year if hes a starter
he may have games where he is but overall hes gonna struggle. Its not the bad thing people make it out to be its part of the learning process. But as we saw toward the end of this year after teams had tape on the kid he is prone to struggles. He hasn’t pitched out of the windup in the majors yet. he hasn’t had to hold many runners on yet. Starters rely alot more on secondary stuff which was erratic at best. He wasn’t nearly as dominant after facing guys multiple times this year. Hes gonna have rough spots. Dumping Millwood so you can go through his rough spots while attempting to compete for the playoffs is not possible IMO.
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 2, 2009 2:25 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Not all rookies struggle
Describing his secondary stuff as erratic at best also is one of the dumbest things I’ve heard. And this isn’t dumping Millwood to make room for Feliz. This is possibly dumping to fill a greater need while taking your chances on one of the best (if not the best) pitching prospect in baseball.
By 2028, Mark Teixeira will be in the HOF.
"I am one of the biggest Texas Ranger fans out there but I'm also one of the smartest. Deal with it."
-The Outlaw
by Gdawg on Nov 2, 2009 2:42 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
When was his secondary stuff consistently good?
It was good in spurts but also very bad at times also. Something that I believe will only worsen when he switches to starter. Reason being is that when relievers come in hitters generally look more for fastballs or the pitch the pitcher is best at because generally a reliever only has that one good pitch. So when you run a guy like Feliz out there with such a great fastball its harder for guys so tuned up to hit that one pitch to lay off breaking pitches and the like.
When he becomes a starter guys will have an easier time laying off those pitches because they usually go up with a different mindset. Early in games they try and see as many pitches as possible and get a read on the pitcher. That in turn allows them to lay off more.
If you want to dump Millwood for Feliz doing so at the trade deadline would be a much better time to do 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 Nov 2, 2009 2:47 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
His secondary stuff looked great when he was in the Majors
Did he have some problems with it at times, sure. So does just about every single pitcher in baseball.
I do love you explaining all these reasons why Feliz will bomb in the Majors. Feliz will never be able to adjust to getting ML hitters out as a starter. That’s what you have basically just said.
And once more, the point isn’t dumping Millwood for Feliz. Say it as many times as you want, it will never be true. The point is to dump Millwood for Bradley. You asked what my plan was to replace Millwood and I gave it to you. The goal of this trade proposal is to get Bradley here and getting Feliz a more guaranteed spot in the rotation is just a byproduct that I’m fine with.
By 2028, Mark Teixeira will be in the HOF.
"I am one of the biggest Texas Ranger fans out there but I'm also one of the smartest. Deal with it."
-The Outlaw
by Gdawg on Nov 2, 2009 2:58 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
The fact remains...
That we should be able to get more for Millwood than MB.
by JDT217 on Nov 2, 2009 3:00 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Okay
Shop him around and see if you can get a top offensive player with a reasonable salary. For 12 million dollars next season, my guess is that most teams won’t be that high on Millwood when they can get something similar for much less.
By 2028, Mark Teixeira will be in the HOF.
"I am one of the biggest Texas Ranger fans out there but I'm also one of the smartest. Deal with it."
-The Outlaw
by Gdawg on Nov 2, 2009 3:10 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Im not saying Feliz will bomb
Just that from what I saw this season if he is thrust into the rotation next year he is going to struggle. Will he occasionally give us a gem of a game…sure. Is his fastball still going to be an amazing pitch…sure. But he is also going to have more than his fair share of short outting giving up decent amount of runs.
His secondary stuff was good because hitters made it good. That was more a byproduct of being a reliever than the pitch being so good. Hitters were so geared up to hit his fastball they couldn’t adjust and so many times they swung at his breaking stuff that was out of the strikezone. He needs to be able to throw those pitches for strikes to get major league hitters out multiple times through an order.
I understand your point is to dump Millwood for bradley but Milton Bradley by himself is not going to give this offense enough extra production to offset what you lose by replacing Millwood with a rookie or young starter like Feliz or harrison. Its a net loss overall.
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 2, 2009 3:11 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Hitters didn't make his stuff good
Why are you so reluctant to give Feliz any credit for actually, you know, improving as a pitcher at the age of 21. Crazy, I know, but just look at the results he got last season plus all the great things people were saying about him. I don’t want to start searching through to find the quotes, but I remember one in particular from one of the prospect gurus out there saying that Feliz’s stuff looked much better than it ever did in the minors.
Do you have the data on how many times Feliz’s breaking pitch was out of the strikezone? Do you have any data to compare it too (since pitchers often do not throw pitches only in the strikezone)? You’re not actually stating any facts. Its like all you did was hear about Feliz before last year and think he hasn’t done anything different since then.
How is it a net loss? You don’t know what Millwood will do next year, what Bradley will do next year, or what Harrison/Feliz/etc. will do next year. You’re making the assumption that Millwood will be great, his replacement will suck, Bradley will not hit anywhere near what he did the last time he was here, and as a result the team will fail. Those are some might big assumptions to make on very few facts.
By 2028, Mark Teixeira will be in the HOF.
"I am one of the biggest Texas Ranger fans out there but I'm also one of the smartest. Deal with it."
-The Outlaw
by Gdawg on Nov 2, 2009 3:18 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Just out of curiosity...
How many innings is Feliz supposed to give us as a starter next year?
by JDT217 on Nov 2, 2009 3:20 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
A good guess
would be Feliz will probably be around 140 innings to maybe 160 on the outside.
What do voluntary mean?
by JKolar on Nov 2, 2009 3:21 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
well then he's the next mark prior if that happens
After Fuentes blows a save and an Angels loss to the Indians:
"Angels still in first place" - UCI Halo
"Hey you know who would have gotten those 3 outs in the 9th?
Darren O’Day." - FirebatM3
LOL
by hinduplaya on Nov 2, 2009 7:03 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
the Mark Prior situation
is WAAAAY different. We won’t even bring up his mechanics, but that was Dusty Baker going crazy and having him pitch 130+ pitches in games after Prior threw over 200 innings.
Look at examples from this past year. The oakland duo of Cahill and Anderson and Detroit’s Porcello all threw over 170 innings as rookies.
A baseball game is simply a nervous breakdown divided into nine innings.
by NothinG on Nov 3, 2009 1:30 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I'd say around 150
By 2028, Mark Teixeira will be in the HOF.
"I am one of the biggest Texas Ranger fans out there but I'm also one of the smartest. Deal with it."
-The Outlaw
by Gdawg on Nov 2, 2009 3:22 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
So either the bullpen is going to have to give you those extra 30-50 innings Millwood would
Or you are going to have to rely on Eric Hurley, or Matt Harrison, or Guillermo Moscoso for them. Not exactly ideal when you are talking about competeing for playoffs
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 2, 2009 3:28 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
McCarthy can get the other innings
people seem to have him slotted into the rotation ahead of Feliz. I think we have a much better shot at the playoffs when Feliz affects 150 innings rather than 70 innings
A baseball game is simply a nervous breakdown divided into nine innings.
by NothinG on Nov 2, 2009 3:44 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Innings are innings
What you seem to ignore or just not understand is that anyone can get innings. What you want is quality innings. Millwood is far from a guarantee when you’re talking about getting 30-50 more quality innings than Hurley/Harrison/Moscoso.
Also, how many times did Millwood stay out there for an extra inning this season only to have it blow up in his face at least a little. Maybe giving the bullpen an extra 30 innings or so by taking away Millwood’s persuasiveness in letting Wash keep him in an extra inning.
By 2028, Mark Teixeira will be in the HOF.
"I am one of the biggest Texas Ranger fans out there but I'm also one of the smartest. Deal with it."
-The Outlaw
by Gdawg on Nov 2, 2009 4:31 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Im assuming Millwood will make 30 starts dumbass
Please show me where in this thread I have said i expect Millwood to do anything other than make 30 starts. And thats not a big assumption considering hes averaged over 30 starts a year his 4 years in Texas.
But assuming Milton Bradley, a career 275/370/450 hitter, will reproduce his 2008 season where he hit 320/435/560 isn’t a big leap of faith? Give me a fucking break?
Im sorry i don’t think your almighty Feliz isn’t going to go 30-0 with a 0.00 ERA next year while striking out 400. It sure is a huge assumption to think a 22 year old is going to struggle in his first full season in the majors. A huge assumption that 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 Nov 2, 2009 3:22 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Wow
so much nonsense in this post
By 2028, Mark Teixeira will be in the HOF.
"I am one of the biggest Texas Ranger fans out there but I'm also one of the smartest. Deal with it."
-The Outlaw
by Gdawg on Nov 2, 2009 3:23 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
The real nonsense here...
is your apparent belief that Feliz + Bradley – Millwood is going to be a gamechanger.
by JDT217 on Nov 2, 2009 3:33 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Not all rookie pitchers struggle
This is repeated so often around here that it’s getting on my nerves. Some rookie pitchers are very good.
Favorite bumper sticker of all time, seen on a VW bus:
"Gas, Grass, or Ass. Nobody rides for free"
by tricer on Nov 2, 2009 2:55 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
This is fine...
So long as your comfortable with the notion that we’re playing for 2011.
by JDT217 on Nov 2, 2009 2:57 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Why?
Because we’re looking to address the biggest weakness of this team from this past season? You know, the one that prevented this team from making the playoffs in 2009.
By 2028, Mark Teixeira will be in the HOF.
"I am one of the biggest Texas Ranger fans out there but I'm also one of the smartest. Deal with it."
-The Outlaw
by Gdawg on Nov 2, 2009 3:00 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Sigh
You’re operating on the assumption that Feliz v. 2010 + Bradley v. 2010 – Millwood v. 2010 adds, what, 5-6 wins to this past year’s team?
You’re ready to trot out Scooter, BMac, BigGame, Dutch, and Feliz next year, while adding only MB to the lineup?
I guess we’ll just have to see. I think it’s batshit crazy to think we’re going to compete in 2010 if all we’re doing is removing Millwood and adding Feliz to the rotation, and adding MB to the lineup.
by JDT217 on Nov 2, 2009 3:06 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
You're operating on the assumption that Millwood v.2010
isn’t going to be v.2008 or v.2007. If Millwood pitches like he did in 2007 and Bradley is something closer to his last run with the Rangers than with the Cubs, you are talking about a pretty significant gain in team production.
Yes, I’m ready to go with those guys. The key to this team’s run prevention is the defense. With that rotation and a good bullpen, you are going to get similar results in run prevention next year.
By 2028, Mark Teixeira will be in the HOF.
"I am one of the biggest Texas Ranger fans out there but I'm also one of the smartest. Deal with it."
-The Outlaw
by Gdawg on Nov 2, 2009 3:13 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Hold up
Im not saying hes not better than anything we currently have as a DH candidate. This topic is simply trading Millwood for Bradley. And I didn’t ignore anything. You said quote:
who had a 132 OPS+ in the 5 seasons before 09
I merely pointed out that the 132 number was bouyed by the 147 and 153 he put up the 1st and 5th year of that window. In between those years he was fairly mundane. We got him in his career year. What I am projecting him is to be what hes been over his career. The people that expect him to come in and put up 2008 numbers again are dreaming.
As for Millwood I didn’t say anything about his numbers. The only thing i pointed out was his games started which is relevant because i don’t know if you can count on a young guy like harrison to make 30+ starts next year. Millwood can be counted on for that. Which means if you go with Harrison (currently 6th on the depth chart) and he goes down then you are relying heavily on your 7th, 8th, and 9th starters whereas if you have Millwood thats essentially one spot in the rotation you can pretty much pensil in every 5 days to make the start.
I don’t understand why people are relying on Sheets to come in and suddenly be injury free either. The guy makes McCarthy look like a picture of perfect health. And if feliz is in the rotation next year expect alot of struggles. The guy is a rookie. He dominated out of the pen for a little while and then started struggling. Expecting him to now go to the rotation and have to face major league hitters multiple times in a game and to dominate is a huge stretch. If Feliz is a starter i fully expect Holland-esque numbers next year which isn’t a bad thing unless you are planning on him anchoring your rotation.
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 2, 2009 2:21 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Check yes
next to this post. Well said.
"calmer than you are dude" Walter (Big Lebowski)
Hello Win Column!!!
by Arlington Stadium Legend on Nov 2, 2009 2:23 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
It humors me
that after all the years of Rangers baseball and us screaming to never give up pitching of any kind for offense, we struggle one year offensively and were ready to sell the ace of the staff off for a 100 game a year DH with a bad attitude…
"calmer than you are dude" Walter (Big Lebowski)
Hello Win Column!!!
by Arlington Stadium Legend on Nov 2, 2009 2:24 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Ace of the staff???
In title, he’s the ace and that’s about it. I also love Millwood’s attitude, the one that had him refusing to run or change his diet to lose weight. Got to love that attitude that sees him giving the same 110% that Bradley would give.
By 2028, Mark Teixeira will be in the HOF.
"I am one of the biggest Texas Ranger fans out there but I'm also one of the smartest. Deal with it."
-The Outlaw
by Gdawg on Nov 2, 2009 2:39 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
x
100 games of MB + 62 games of a replacement level player is still well above average production from the DH spot. I’m sorry, but if the Rangers can get him for cheap, there is absolutely no downside to this move aside from clubhouse+chemistry+intangible stuff that’s mostly speculation.
As far as calling Big Kev an ace..oof.
by LiamP on Nov 2, 2009 2:42 PM CST via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
x
I merely pointed out that the 132 number was bouyed by the 147 and 153 he put up the 1st and 5th year of that window. In between those years he was fairly mundane. We got him in his career year. What I am projecting him is to be what hes been over his career. The people that expect him to come in and put up 2008 numbers again are dreaming.
In 2007, Bradley posted a 167 OPS+. Is it a small sample size? Perhaps, but then again his 2005 and 2006 seasons didn’t see him having too much more time on the field. Sure, he might not put up his 2008 numbers again, but you can expect him to do something a hell of a lot closer to that than the crappy line you are predicting he’ll have if he’s here DHing.
Are we that desperate for pitchers that we need Millwood simply to have a body to make 30+ starts? I’ll trust a guy in his 20s to make 30 starts over a 35 year old who has had problems staying in shape in the past. I don’t know where you’re getting your depth chart from (I believe the club has said that they’d like to see Harrison and Hurley start in the minors or something to that effect), but it doesn’t matter much in this conversation. McCarthy, Harrison, and Hurley aren’t currently favorites to be 200+ IP pitchers next season, but since Harrison and McCarthy combined 28 starts last season, I think we’ll be just fine. There is no reason to be worried about bodies for the rotation right now if you’re not worried about how effective they’ll be.
And I don’t expect Sheets to be injury free. If he is healthy enough for the Rangers to sign him, he’s healthy enough to make the same 17+ starts he’s always made before this past season (averaged around 27 starts a season prior to last season). Feliz is also a special pitcher. Yes, he can struggle next season in the rotation, but he is an elite pitching prospect and not just some fringey guy we’re hoping works out. Treat him like you did Holland this season and hope that this past season has helped him adjust enough to improve. We’ll likely get some horrible starts from him, but you’re also going to see some gems. Again, Millwood isn’t perfect and could easily end up being the same pitcher he was in 07 and 08 which means that you’re not losing much by going with Feliz but making sure you at least get some development time out of it.
By 2028, Mark Teixeira will be in the HOF.
"I am one of the biggest Texas Ranger fans out there but I'm also one of the smartest. Deal with it."
-The Outlaw
by Gdawg on Nov 2, 2009 2:37 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
What on earth makes you think Bradley will perform any better than his career numbers?
Thats what I don’t get. Do you not understand in his one year here he had career highs in everything? BA, OBP, SLG all career highs in 2008. To expect him to duplicate or come close to that again is dumb to me.
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 2, 2009 2:53 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
What makes me think that?
-Look at what he did last time he was in Arlington instead of a pitcher’s park like he’s played in for most of his career
-Bradley’s problem has never been talent. Its been health and motivation. The DH spot minimizes his injury risk vs. playing in the OF. Wash has already proved that he can keep Bradley motivated enough to not give up on the team like he did with Chicago.
Before last season, he had a career SLG of .457 playing in parks like Dodgers Stadium, The Coliseum (or w/e Oakland calls their place now), and Petco. I could care less what his BA is, the OBP is what you’re looking for with Bradley and he has consistently shown that he is one of the more patient hitters in baseball who will post a high OBP. Even with Chicago last season, he was able to get a .378 OBP. But yeah, I’m sure we couldn’t use anything like that since its not the .436 OBP he had the last time he was in Texas.
And what I don’t get is why do you think Millwood won’t be like his 2007 or 2008 self? What makes him such a great veteran presence while Bradley has no shot of being anything but an above average offensive player. I’m also still not sure why its such a bad thing to want to get that kind of player here for an offense that scored less than 800 runs this past season but w/e.
By 2028, Mark Teixeira will be in the HOF.
"I am one of the biggest Texas Ranger fans out there but I'm also one of the smartest. Deal with it."
-The Outlaw
by Gdawg on Nov 2, 2009 3:08 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Id say playing on a one year deal coming off a major knee injury trying to get a big contract was the motivation..
not Ron Washington.
And sorry I don’t just look at OBP. I hate that line of thinking because you know what, eventually someone is going to have to drive those runs in and last time I checked that required a base hit most times. How did his .378 OBP help Chicago last year? Oh hows that…they dropped over 100 runs from 2008. But I thought that OBP was supposed to guarantee alot of runs.
Bradley is a nice player im not disputing that. A 275/370/450 guy is a nice piece but hes not the savior you make him out to be. Chicago is supposedly a pretty nice hitters park last I checked and he posted a sub 400 SLG there…care to explain?
And again the only thing I have said I expect from Millwood next year is 30 starts. Why you keep bringing up his 2007 and 2008 I don’t know because he had 31 and 29 in those years.
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 2, 2009 3:17 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
What about the last time he played with Wash?
What about Millwood’s motivation to get his option picked up?
And after reading your second paragraph. I’ll just say this. Holy shit,. You are blaming Bradley alone for the Cubs dropping 100 runs from 2008. Really?
Why do I keep bringing up 2007 and 2008? Because Millwood sucked ass those years. Feliz can go into the rotation and make 30 starts if Wash keeps his name in the rotation. That’s nothing to be proud of.
By 2028, Mark Teixeira will be in the HOF.
"I am one of the biggest Texas Ranger fans out there but I'm also one of the smartest. Deal with it."
-The Outlaw
by Gdawg on Nov 2, 2009 3:22 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
No im not blaming Bradley alone on the Cubs dropping 100 runs
The Cubs and the Rangers both dropped over 100 runs. One team lost Bradley the other gained him. Why all of a sudden adding him is going to bounce us back to 800 runs again? Its not. Like I said below this offense is going to depend alot more on if guys like hamilton, Davis, and Kinsler bounce back than if they add Milton fucking Bradley.
And why not the last time he played for Wash? Because it was his career year. Got it? Peak performance. Not gonna be duplicated again. It would be the thing thats dropped if you were dropping the best and worst. It was a fucking career year for the guy. Acting like all it takes is him playing for one mother fucking manager is going to make him duplicate that is fucking stupid. Jesus Christ I cant believe im arguing this with you.
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 2, 2009 3:26 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I really don't understand your argument.
by LiamP on Nov 2, 2009 3:59 PM CST via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
because bigsteve
is fucking stupid.
"I don't condone steroids or any other type of growth hormones or anything else, but I could care less, and, for the most part, I don't think the fans give a (bleep). The people that care about it are the people that probably don't like baseball," - Jim Leyland
by DJCahill on Nov 2, 2009 4:37 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Bradley has a career .371 OBP
He doesn’t have to repeat 2008 in order to substantially improve the offense.
by cstorm15 on Nov 2, 2009 4:17 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Adding one guy with a 371 OBP doesn't substantially improve this offense either
Does it improve it…yes it does. But not enough IMO to offset what we would lose by dumping Millwood and relying on guys like Feliz and Harrison next year to get us to the playoffs
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 2, 2009 5:26 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
You want to try putting some math behind those assertions?
by cstorm15 on Nov 2, 2009 6:18 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
please
the last thing we need is bigsteve Math™
"I don't condone steroids or any other type of growth hormones or anything else, but I could care less, and, for the most part, I don't think the fans give a (bleep). The people that care about it are the people that probably don't like baseball," - Jim Leyland
by DJCahill on Nov 3, 2009 2:09 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
...
Why all of a sudden adding him is going to bounce us back to 800 runs again?
Because he’s very good at hitting the ball and getting on base.
Like I said below this offense is going to depend alot more on if guys like hamilton, Davis, and Kinsler bounce back than if they add Milton fucking Bradley.
Cool, so lets not even consider dealing from a strength to improve a weakness because we’re going to ride or die on players bouncing back.
And why not the last time he played for Wash? Because it was his career year. Got it? Peak performance. Not gonna be duplicated again.
Yes, it was a career year. That doesn’t mean that he won’t be good again since for the rest of his career, Bradley has done a great job at being at least an above average offensive player.
.
Jesus Christ I cant believe im arguing this with you.
That’s how I’m feeling right now since you seem to think that I said Bradley will come here and post a 163 OPS+.
By 2028, Mark Teixeira will be in the HOF.
"I am one of the biggest Texas Ranger fans out there but I'm also one of the smartest. Deal with it."
-The Outlaw
by Gdawg on Nov 2, 2009 4:36 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
And how will he react when
someone asks him why he only has an .850 OPS instead of the 1.000 he had in 2008?
|Space for Rent|
by RangerMad on Nov 2, 2009 4:40 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
an 850 OPS
would be a nice upgrade on this team, especially when it comes with a 370 OBP.
"I don't condone steroids or any other type of growth hormones or anything else, but I could care less, and, for the most part, I don't think the fans give a (bleep). The people that care about it are the people that probably don't like baseball," - Jim Leyland
by DJCahill on Nov 2, 2009 4:57 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Which member of the local media do you think will ask him that question?
by LiamP on Nov 2, 2009 5:10 PM CST via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
I am sure there would be a few
willing to try to set him off.
|Space for Rent|
by RangerMad on Nov 2, 2009 6:02 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
career year?
It could be argued that his 2003 with cleveland was better. sure, it was only a .321/.421/.501, but that was as a centerfielder instead of a DH/right fielder.
In any case, its kinda specious to say that this was the best year of his career and that he’ll never hit that well again. You just don’t know. He could come here and hit .210/.325/.393 in 200 injury filled at bats. Or he could come here and hit .345/.480/.601 in 500 PA’s. Personally, as a fan, I’m rooting for the second one, but as to which will happen, you have to ask the scouts. They are better at that kind of prediction than I am.
by iblum on Nov 3, 2009 11:31 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
The Cubs wouldn't pick up most of both salaries.
If Millwood’s the guy you’re trading, then the it would be mostly a straight contract swap.
by MikeEl on Nov 2, 2009 1:09 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
There was a rumor that they were looking at V. Wells for Bradley...
I wouldn’t be surprised if they paid almost all of Bradley’s salary AND took Milton off our hands if that’s the case.
by rclarkjd10 on Nov 2, 2009 12:52 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
The Cubs very quickly came out and said that rumor was a bunch of shit.
Wells is absolutely untouchable.
by LiamP on Nov 2, 2009 12:58 PM CST via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
Are you kidding?
Vernon Wells could be had for a 6-pack of Molson.
by JDT217 on Nov 2, 2009 1:35 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Untradeable, whatever.
You know what I meant.
by LiamP on Nov 2, 2009 2:06 PM CST via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
That would be a very expensive
6-pack of beer.
|Space for Rent|
by RangerMad on Nov 2, 2009 2:12 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Because
Millwood has value and with the actions that the Cubs undertook with him means he basically has no value.
I suspect if we decided to trade Millwood, an unlikely scenario, we would get something better than Bradley back.
And no for this year I doubt which ever young pitcher you move in to replace Millwood would be better than he is.
What do voluntary mean?
by JKolar on Nov 2, 2009 12:51 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
This is the correct answer.
"The only good is knowledge and the only evil is ignorance."-Socrates
by slc ranger on Nov 2, 2009 1:37 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
This isn't a bad idea
especially if they still ate some of Milton’s salary. If they did, we could go get Ben Sheets and a healthy Sheets is an upgrade over Milly imo.
by Agreen07 on Nov 2, 2009 12:54 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
hmm
a healthy Sheets is an upgrade over Milly imo.
I don’t think such a thing exists anymore.
"He will not coddle them. Nolan Ryan doesn’t coddle." - Jeff Passan
by Dirk Diggler on Nov 2, 2009 12:57 PM CST up reply actions 1 recs
What is this mythical creature you call a healthy sheets
What do voluntary mean?
by JKolar on Nov 2, 2009 12:58 PM CST up reply actions 4 recs
Rec!
"I don't condone steroids or any other type of growth hormones or anything else, but I could care less, and, for the most part, I don't think the fans give a (bleep). The people that care about it are the people that probably don't like baseball," - Jim Leyland
by DJCahill on Nov 2, 2009 1:00 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I wouldn't mind Sheets here
but depending on him as the cornerstone pitcher in your rotation is asking for problems.
What do voluntary mean?
by JKolar on Nov 2, 2009 3:20 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I agree with you
the folks who are sizing up sheets as the #1 starter are sniffing glue.
"I don't condone steroids or any other type of growth hormones or anything else, but I could care less, and, for the most part, I don't think the fans give a (bleep). The people that care about it are the people that probably don't like baseball," - Jim Leyland
by DJCahill on Nov 2, 2009 4:08 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I had the same post
and his gets rec’d. Harumph.
"He will not coddle them. Nolan Ryan doesn’t coddle." - Jeff Passan
by Dirk Diggler on Nov 2, 2009 3:43 PM CST up reply actions 1 recs
lol
here ya go. charity rec
A baseball game is simply a nervous breakdown divided into nine innings.
by NothinG on Nov 2, 2009 3:45 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
gracias
"He will not coddle them. Nolan Ryan doesn’t coddle." - Jeff Passan
by Dirk Diggler on Nov 2, 2009 4:02 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
He'd probably sign a really cheap one year deal...
ala Brad Penny.
by rclarkjd10 on Nov 2, 2009 1:01 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I all see is disappointment if he returns
People will expect him to repeat 2008 when he posted a .999 OPS be he just as likely will only put up a .821 OPS
|Space for Rent|
by RangerMad on Nov 2, 2009 1:08 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
On the front office possibly changing their minds on Bradley
I wonder how much of that is due to a new owner likely buying the team soon. Before, it looked like we were going to go a while with the team ownership situation in limbo. Now, its very possible for the team to have some money to make moves this offseason and Bradley is an option again.
By 2028, Mark Teixeira will be in the HOF.
"I am one of the biggest Texas Ranger fans out there but I'm also one of the smartest. Deal with it."
-The Outlaw
by Gdawg on Nov 2, 2009 1:12 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
I salivate at the thought
of Milton Bradley in the lineup, and an Anti-Rudy hitting coach on the bench… Mmmm, OBP.
by cmkelly29 on Nov 2, 2009 1:46 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
My question
At the bottom you put the plan can’t be go into 2010 hoping those guys get back on track. Is that really a horrible plan? Is take a risk on a malcontent oft-injured DH really a better plan? I’m not trying to be sarcastic or anything, but I really want to know. Daniels is in a real tough spot here. If you sign Bradley or someone like him and he excels, you are seen as having done something positive. If you sign him and he sucks, you are slammed for taking a chance on a guy who is injury-prone or whatever the warts might be. If you don’t sign one of them and those 3 do bounce back, you look like a genius for sticking with your guys. If you don’t sign him and he does well elsewhere while those 3 suck again, you are seen as having been to passive.
Bottom line is this: Are the Rangers really better off signing one of the above mentioned guys just to say they did something this off-season, or should they consider hoping that those 3 rebound and the offense gets back on track? I think it’s a really tough call.
"calmer than you are dude" Walter (Big Lebowski)
Hello Win Column!!!
by Arlington Stadium Legend on Nov 2, 2009 2:19 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Its a very tough call
If Hamilton, Davis, and Kinsler bounce back next year this offense will be better with or without a guy like Bradley. Hell if those guys had produced this year with our pitching we would most likely have made the playoffs.
And if those guys continue to suck next year our offense isn’t going to be good regardless if a guy like Bradley is in the lineup or not. Adding a guy like Bradley to the 2009 Texas Rangers would not have made much of a difference. It amazes me how many people believe one person can affect a whole lineup when 7 of the other 8 guys (Young being the only one excluded in this) were below average.
So:
3 guys bouncing back + Bradley = really good team
3 guys bouncing back + no Bradley = really good team
3 guys continuing to suck + Bradley = average at best team
3 guys continuing to suck + no Bradley = average at best team
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 2, 2009 2:32 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Why do you batch all 3 together?
There’s a good chance the 2 guys who’s last name don’t end in avis will bounce back. Counting on Chris Davis to fill a major offensive role next season would be foolish
by tyd3311 on Nov 2, 2009 2:43 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Kinsler was a 30/30 hitter.
What is he suppose to bounce back from? :)
|Space for Rent|
by RangerMad on Nov 2, 2009 2:52 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Kinsler bouncing back
well, in many ways you have a point:
Batting average isn’t a great indicator of overal quality, but Kinsler’s batting averages in his 4 year career are as followes:
2006: .286
2007: .263
2008: .319
2009: .253
Now, considering he was 26 in 2008 and 27 last year, its not inconceivable that he’ll comeback and hit .290-.300 next year.
Now, lets look at more relavent to production stats:
2006:.347/.454
2007:.355/.441
2008:.375/.517
2009:.327/.488
yeah, we’re going to want those 50 points of OBA back. If any of it comes from the 66 point drop in batting average, then he’ll exceed even 2008’s SLG if he maintains 2009’s ISO (overall power). Of course, many here have claimed that his swing for the fences style much of the year in pursuit of that 30-30 led to his 66 point drop in batting average. So, that means that a bounce back might cause some drop in his power numbers.
by iblum on Nov 3, 2009 1:14 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Im kind of excited to see if a new coach
can get something out of all the talent Salty has too.
"I was going to say, 'You’re gay for Elvis.' But then I realized that I, too, am gay for Elvis." ~Adam J. Morris.
by Kinslerhomer on Nov 2, 2009 2:57 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Salty' was on the verge of a break through with the bat right as he got injured
by tyd3311 on Nov 2, 2009 2:59 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
There is no statistical data to back up this assumption
so don’t bother checking, because the numbers would suggest otherwise
by tyd3311 on Nov 2, 2009 3:59 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
So having a near 400 OBP guy
has no impact to the roster?
Yeah, that makes sense.
"I don't condone steroids or any other type of growth hormones or anything else, but I could care less, and, for the most part, I don't think the fans give a (bleep). The people that care about it are the people that probably don't like baseball," - Jim Leyland
by DJCahill on Nov 2, 2009 4:10 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
it will have some impact...yes
But if other guys don’t bounce back then it won’t have much of one. And if those guys do bounce back this team is in fine shape without Bradley.
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 2, 2009 5:28 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
What if
2 of those guys bounce back? Or 1 guy bounces back?
"I don't condone steroids or any other type of growth hormones or anything else, but I could care less, and, for the most part, I don't think the fans give a (bleep). The people that care about it are the people that probably don't like baseball," - Jim Leyland
by DJCahill on Nov 3, 2009 3:23 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
bounce back
Again, what level of bouncing back are we looking for here?
Davis is either going to hit or get benched. either way, it will be an improvement, providing we have a suitable backup.
Kinsler you are looking for more average, more OBP, w/o a drop in power. But, even last year he was still insanely valuable (moreso than any other Ranger including Young and all of the pitchers). That was mainly due to his defense, however.
Hamilton, you are looking for power and health (and a bit more average).
by iblum on Nov 3, 2009 4:26 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
anyone know why Harrison was pulled in the 1st in the AFL
it says injury delay….
JD’s like, "you want some fucking pitching? Here’s all the pitching you can stand. Now choke on it, bitches!"- RCCook
by laxtonto on Nov 2, 2009 2:42 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
More like suck delay.
"I was going to say, 'You’re gay for Elvis.' But then I realized that I, too, am gay for Elvis." ~Adam J. Morris.
by Kinslerhomer on Nov 2, 2009 2:50 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
AJM with the same old obsessions
Injury prone, the worst attitudes in sports, aging, declining, Adam loves ’em.
Still lusts after Mike Cameron, and I know for a fact Manny Ramirez too…
Milton Bradley, sideshow.
by Sharky on Nov 3, 2009 11:51 AM CST reply actions 1 recs
Bradley could be bi-polar
He is a loose cannon waiting to blow up. He reminds me of another bi-polar player, who once played for this franchise briefly, Jimmy Piersall.
by SanDiegoKev on Nov 3, 2009 12:10 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
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