I claim minimal responsibility for this:
From the mouth of the biggest Marlins homer ever, ladies and gentlefolk, Mr. Jesse Bryan.
Greetings fish fan(s),
Beisbol is here!!!!!! Thank goodness as these other silly sports have become a real bore. Seriously, how can you gauge how good any team is without playing AT LEAST 150 games. To commence my inaugural post of the 2010, let me give you the reasons why the Florida Marlins get (and most likely win) to the World Series this year in no particular order.
They retained pretty much everyone on a very potent offense. Losing Nick Johnson will definitely hurt (and the Yankees got a steal on him), but maybin should fill in nicely in the #2 hole. They won 87 games last year with essentially the same team which was a young one. They are now a year older. Tough luck NL East.
Emilio Bonifacio is no longer leading off. We had to endure over 80 games of his bald head on our screens last year and inefficient hardly describes his contribution. I still don’t trust him as even a utility man (we’ll miss you amezega), but that’s better than being the starting lineup.
Cameron Maybin will have a breakout season and will be in the rookie of the year hunt. After a disappointing start in 2009, Maybin killed it in AA and had a nice return to the bigs at the end of the season. I expect him to tear it up this year in the #2 spot. Coghlan, Maybin, Hanely is a pretty nasty 1-2-3.
Jorge Cantu’s wrist is completely healed. He still hit .290 with 100 rbis last year with the pain lingering, but with his wrist healed, expect those HR numbers to return to the 25-30 range.
The best 1-2 punch the game: Josh Johnson (yay for signing him) and Ricky Nolasco (he will get a multi-year contract if he pitches how he should).
A fine group of pitchers competing for the 3-5 spots with West, Volstad, Miller, Sanchez, Vandenhurk, Penn. I have my money on Sanchez, Volstad and West filling out the rotation. From what I hear, Sanchez is as healthy as he’s been since his rookie season (dropped 15 pounds and worked hard on leg strength) after the all star break last year he had a 2.80 ERA or so. Volstad needs to return to 2009 form and ASAP. West was called up too early, but showed he already has the stuff to be dominant.
Dan Uggla: I’m pretty excited they fish kept Uggla. I watched about 70-80 games last year, and I must say Uggla really got the shaft on some hard hit balls. His walks were a career high last year and his K’s a career low. I think he has a monster year hitting behind
Cantu.
Brett Carroll is the best outfielder in the MLB.
A cornucopia of relievers competing for roster spots including Derrick Turnbow and Jose Veras.
Finally, my marlins visor. Fate shined brightly upon me the other day in a thrift store where I found a near meant Marlins visor that I will proudly where inside and outside. Go fish!
Showing posts with label MLB. Show all posts
Showing posts with label MLB. Show all posts
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Sunday, July 12, 2009
the great lull
Honestly, I haven't been a big follower of Major League Baseball in a long time. The first strike hurt, but I followed through Sosa and McGuire's home run chase. It wasn't steroids that turned me away from the game. It was just that my favorite team, the Dodgers of Los Angeles, were mediocre for a long period of time after 1988. They had that run of Rookie of the Year award winners in the 1990s, but those guys could never put it together to make a serious playoff run. There's was a brief bit of excitement when Lima time hit, but that team was done in four games. Then came last year and the one incredible trade that the Dodgers have made in the last 25 years: the Manny Ramirez deal. And now I care. Yes, call me fairweather or whatever. I love this team. I have a coffee mug and an old '88 World Series T that's all worn out and was originally my brother's back in '88. Then the Manny roids thing happened. I remember when I heard that. I was in O'Hare airport waiting to catch a plane to Minnesota and I called my family. Manny, steroids, out for 50 games. Shock, disbelief, but no despair. This team was too good for that. They had built such a big lead in the West with Manny that I reasoned if they could go .500 while Manny was out, they'd still be leading the West or close enough to make a run into the playoffs. The suspension would be a blessing in disguise because Manny would come back in July completely fresh and ready for the stretch run. It worked out better than any Dodger fan could hope. The team didn't just tread water; they ran roughshod over the National League going 29-21 and opening up a seemingly insurmountable lead in the West. Manny's back and completely healthy, well-rested for the time of year that really matters. And as a result, the Dodgers look like the only legitimate team in the National League.
Every other team is deeply flawed. The East is terrible. The Mets are broken and play like they expect to lose. Somehow Jerry Manuel isn't getting the heat that Willie Randolph felt despite the fact the two have similar records as manager of the Mets. The Phillies don't look like the Phillies of last year, and I think they only really get up when they know they have a chance to humiliate the Mets. The Marlins are young and so very up and down. I actually kinda like the Braves to win that division. They've got one of the best managers in baseball and their rotation isn't too bad. Plus, it just seems like every time this division is in flux like this and no one wants to step up, that the Braves just sort of shrug their shoulders and say "well I guess we've got to win this division again."
And then there's the Central. Milwaukee, ugh. St. Louis, a threat because of Pujols, but they've got holes all over the place. The Cubs? History is in their heads and we won't know if they can shake it until they get to the World Series. The Cubs haven't been all too good in years after going to the playoffs though and it looks like this year might be more of the same.
Every other team is deeply flawed. The East is terrible. The Mets are broken and play like they expect to lose. Somehow Jerry Manuel isn't getting the heat that Willie Randolph felt despite the fact the two have similar records as manager of the Mets. The Phillies don't look like the Phillies of last year, and I think they only really get up when they know they have a chance to humiliate the Mets. The Marlins are young and so very up and down. I actually kinda like the Braves to win that division. They've got one of the best managers in baseball and their rotation isn't too bad. Plus, it just seems like every time this division is in flux like this and no one wants to step up, that the Braves just sort of shrug their shoulders and say "well I guess we've got to win this division again."
And then there's the Central. Milwaukee, ugh. St. Louis, a threat because of Pujols, but they've got holes all over the place. The Cubs? History is in their heads and we won't know if they can shake it until they get to the World Series. The Cubs haven't been all too good in years after going to the playoffs though and it looks like this year might be more of the same.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
the lakers wake up...finally!
They needed that. The game one loss was ugly for the Lakers. They couldn't hit a three-point shot, Kobe was held in check and Bynum and Odom essentially took that night off. Only 10 fast break points, and an overall lethargic and yes, lazy effort from the most talented team in the NBA. Note: not the best team, but the most talented. Their only glaring hole is at point guard.
So just about everyone knew that the Lakers would take game two. And they did, but it was how they did it. They roughed up the Rockets. They traded blows with Ron Artest. They got under Houston's skin and put doubt in their minds. And oh yeah, Kobe became a scoring juggernaut again, racking 40 against the Battier/Artest combo. Lamar Odom showed up, although Andrew Bynum is still on vacation.
Game 3 is the big test and you have to know that Phil Jackson is going to have his team ready. If the Lakers take game 3, they can send a strong message to not just he Rockets, but the Denver Nuggets, their likely opponent in the Western Conference Finals, as well.
In other LA sports news, the Dodgers just opened up 13-0 at home. Holy cow! I will know follow baseball. Expect a more detailed post on this and how the Yankees screwed themselves by screwing their fans. In the meantime, I'll resume my tour of America's least exciting airports. LaGuardia, you're up. Next stop: O'Hare.
So just about everyone knew that the Lakers would take game two. And they did, but it was how they did it. They roughed up the Rockets. They traded blows with Ron Artest. They got under Houston's skin and put doubt in their minds. And oh yeah, Kobe became a scoring juggernaut again, racking 40 against the Battier/Artest combo. Lamar Odom showed up, although Andrew Bynum is still on vacation.
Game 3 is the big test and you have to know that Phil Jackson is going to have his team ready. If the Lakers take game 3, they can send a strong message to not just he Rockets, but the Denver Nuggets, their likely opponent in the Western Conference Finals, as well.
In other LA sports news, the Dodgers just opened up 13-0 at home. Holy cow! I will know follow baseball. Expect a more detailed post on this and how the Yankees screwed themselves by screwing their fans. In the meantime, I'll resume my tour of America's least exciting airports. LaGuardia, you're up. Next stop: O'Hare.
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Another guest post about the Marlins from you know who
On vacation in beautiful sunny, hot, humid, sometimes disgusting...er..often disgusting Florida and I thought it was appropriate to throw it to our favorite guest poster, Jesse Bryan, for a look at how the Marlins are doing. They're trying to build a stadium in the least convenient part of Miami to travel to, right in the middle of a stinking shithole of a neighborhood (no offense to the people that live there, but you know) rather than building in West Broward so that the Broward and West Palm residents that make up the bulk of their season ticket holders could easily reach the stadium. Like most Miami stadium/arena ventures, I expect that it will be evident that this one is a complete failure within two years. Also, the Marlins will still draw 7,000 fans a night because the stadium has never been the big problem. A new stadium is not a cure for sports apathy. Anyway, on with the guest post. Thanks again to Jesse for doing this, he's a fine writer who loves his Marlins:
Ladies and jellyfish,
Due to the scintillating success of my first post and the non-stop demand for more marlins chatter, I will try to make my posts this relatively constant throughout the season. First, I want to once again thank Jason “Boney-Bologna” Sanchez for letting me use his forum for my expert in-depth coverage. I also want to extend a warm hug and caramel apple to you, the reader, for your continued and undying support. Even though you did not give me the curtsey of leaving a single comment on my first post, I know that in your heart you made enough comments to fill the Nile River 3 times over. And for that I thank you and dedicate this post to you, my loyal and devoted reader. Anyway, I wanted to devote this post to one of the most important events in Marlins history: the new stadium.
Say hello to your Miami Marlins (b. 2012) and adios to any talk of the Las Vegas Marlins. The stadium has been approved and will be built in Little Havana on the site of the old orange bowl. Besides the creation of the team in 1991, this has to be the most significant event in team history. It has been over a decade in the making and it is pretty impressive/shocking they were able to get this done considering the economic climate in Miami, which has been one of the hardest hit spots in the country. My gracious host, Mr. Sanchez, has expressed serious concerns about the public financing of the stadium (which I also expressed), I now must say I cautiously sort-of but not really, okay I do, but for my own selfish fish-loving reasons, support it.
$480 million of the $634 million cost will from public money (ie: from Winifred William Taxpayer). The plan here is to have tourist dollars in the form of a hotel bed tax pay for the bulk of this. Fair enough. There were also clauses included to make sure Loria doesn’t pull a fast one by selling the team once the stadium is built. If he sells (which he has repeatedly said he has no intention to do so) in the first year the city gets 90% of the profits and every year thereafter it goes down a certain percentage. Not bad, not bad. The yay-sayers say it will create vital jobs in this depressed economy. The nay-sayers say it will be short-term fix and is not a long term solution. Both have valid points. Is the city fronting too much of the bill? Probably (although this actually lower than some other stadium deals). Is this the best place for a city devastated by the current economic climate to put its money? Probably not. Do stadiums help the communities they are forced upon? Historically, this answer seems to be an emphatic “no”. So I don’t know what to think. At least Miami didn’t buy 15 or so Apache helicopters with $480 mil. Socio-economic factors aside, for the team and fans it is great news. This could finally mean retention of players and actual free-agent signings (but the no-name players and underdog spirit are a big reason what attracts me to the team, no?). Will this new stadium attract a significantly greater fan base that actually attends games? I tend to think yes. I believe the marlins potential lies within it being a Miami team. That’s where the real fan potential lies and where this team can really build up a legacy. Who needs/wants the Boca Raton/Palm Beach County yuppie scum anywho (I don’t get why people think they are so important.. Whenever I’m in WPB during a marlins game, we generally have to ask to have the game turned on, and even then no gives a rats popsickle). There is also the issue of what happens if (when) it goes over-budget. Either it’s happening. It is finally happening. Pro-Player is a horrible spot for the fish to play 81 games a year and the new stadium design is pretty impressive (retractable roof, etc) and will surely up the attendance numbers. One side of me is thrilled to have the team guaranteed a future. The other side wonders if this is the best use of money and would it not be better to invest the money into social/economic services for the same area. Are giant public works projects that ultimately put the bulk of money into the riches hands really the best way to fix an ailing economy? This whole thing is full of contradictions. So reader, I’d love to hear your thoughts on the issue so feel free to leave a comment or 2.
On the spring training front, it has been moving along about as fast as a dead slug, but opening day is coming faster than Mike Lindstrom’s fastball. I will have a post before opening day about this season’s expectations (it was supposed to be this post, but I got carried away with the stadium banter). I think the marlins have a great team this year and have the potential to take the division or wild card. Nolasaco’s pitched a rare spring training no-hitter a few nights ago so bravo to him. I fully expect him to carry that into the regular season. Until next time my little fishies!
To get you salivating for more, here is a preview of words/phrases that may or not be used in my next post: team, baseball, catfish, underwear, chicken socks, Deleware, rosemary, the Great Unknown, Henry Kissinger, Ocean’s 12, that-a-boy, moonbat, zygote, hand-me-down, The fall of Babylon, furry, Chiclets, cold-cuts, underground railroad, Shinobi, hamster, ricotta cheese, quantum physics, and hair.
Ladies and jellyfish,
Due to the scintillating success of my first post and the non-stop demand for more marlins chatter, I will try to make my posts this relatively constant throughout the season. First, I want to once again thank Jason “Boney-Bologna” Sanchez for letting me use his forum for my expert in-depth coverage. I also want to extend a warm hug and caramel apple to you, the reader, for your continued and undying support. Even though you did not give me the curtsey of leaving a single comment on my first post, I know that in your heart you made enough comments to fill the Nile River 3 times over. And for that I thank you and dedicate this post to you, my loyal and devoted reader. Anyway, I wanted to devote this post to one of the most important events in Marlins history: the new stadium.
Say hello to your Miami Marlins (b. 2012) and adios to any talk of the Las Vegas Marlins. The stadium has been approved and will be built in Little Havana on the site of the old orange bowl. Besides the creation of the team in 1991, this has to be the most significant event in team history. It has been over a decade in the making and it is pretty impressive/shocking they were able to get this done considering the economic climate in Miami, which has been one of the hardest hit spots in the country. My gracious host, Mr. Sanchez, has expressed serious concerns about the public financing of the stadium (which I also expressed), I now must say I cautiously sort-of but not really, okay I do, but for my own selfish fish-loving reasons, support it.
$480 million of the $634 million cost will from public money (ie: from Winifred William Taxpayer). The plan here is to have tourist dollars in the form of a hotel bed tax pay for the bulk of this. Fair enough. There were also clauses included to make sure Loria doesn’t pull a fast one by selling the team once the stadium is built. If he sells (which he has repeatedly said he has no intention to do so) in the first year the city gets 90% of the profits and every year thereafter it goes down a certain percentage. Not bad, not bad. The yay-sayers say it will create vital jobs in this depressed economy. The nay-sayers say it will be short-term fix and is not a long term solution. Both have valid points. Is the city fronting too much of the bill? Probably (although this actually lower than some other stadium deals). Is this the best place for a city devastated by the current economic climate to put its money? Probably not. Do stadiums help the communities they are forced upon? Historically, this answer seems to be an emphatic “no”. So I don’t know what to think. At least Miami didn’t buy 15 or so Apache helicopters with $480 mil. Socio-economic factors aside, for the team and fans it is great news. This could finally mean retention of players and actual free-agent signings (but the no-name players and underdog spirit are a big reason what attracts me to the team, no?). Will this new stadium attract a significantly greater fan base that actually attends games? I tend to think yes. I believe the marlins potential lies within it being a Miami team. That’s where the real fan potential lies and where this team can really build up a legacy. Who needs/wants the Boca Raton/Palm Beach County yuppie scum anywho (I don’t get why people think they are so important.. Whenever I’m in WPB during a marlins game, we generally have to ask to have the game turned on, and even then no gives a rats popsickle). There is also the issue of what happens if (when) it goes over-budget. Either it’s happening. It is finally happening. Pro-Player is a horrible spot for the fish to play 81 games a year and the new stadium design is pretty impressive (retractable roof, etc) and will surely up the attendance numbers. One side of me is thrilled to have the team guaranteed a future. The other side wonders if this is the best use of money and would it not be better to invest the money into social/economic services for the same area. Are giant public works projects that ultimately put the bulk of money into the riches hands really the best way to fix an ailing economy? This whole thing is full of contradictions. So reader, I’d love to hear your thoughts on the issue so feel free to leave a comment or 2.
On the spring training front, it has been moving along about as fast as a dead slug, but opening day is coming faster than Mike Lindstrom’s fastball. I will have a post before opening day about this season’s expectations (it was supposed to be this post, but I got carried away with the stadium banter). I think the marlins have a great team this year and have the potential to take the division or wild card. Nolasaco’s pitched a rare spring training no-hitter a few nights ago so bravo to him. I fully expect him to carry that into the regular season. Until next time my little fishies!
To get you salivating for more, here is a preview of words/phrases that may or not be used in my next post: team, baseball, catfish, underwear, chicken socks, Deleware, rosemary, the Great Unknown, Henry Kissinger, Ocean’s 12, that-a-boy, moonbat, zygote, hand-me-down, The fall of Babylon, furry, Chiclets, cold-cuts, underground railroad, Shinobi, hamster, ricotta cheese, quantum physics, and hair.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Jesse's Guest Post
So as sports slows down, so to does the Idiot Fan. But fear not, because I have opened the floor to a very special guest blogger. I probably won't ever post on the Florida Marlins except to say the state and the city should not give that team money to build a new stadium when the state and city are so far in debt that they have to cut basic social services. But no state should give any team money in this climate. Anywho, enough economic babble, on with the show..........
------------------------------------------------------------
Marlins Report
Aloha Fish fans. I'd first like to thank the Idiot Fan and his devoted readership for allowing myself to post about the most untalked about team in baseball, the Florida Marlins. So as we gear up for another season of exciting marlins diamond diggery doo, let me start by first examining the off season moves by the Teal Tossers [of baseballs]:
The Great:
Kevin Gregg for Jose Ceda. A brilliant trade by the fish to attain the powerful arm in Jose Ceda, the much heralded prospect from the Cubs (#2 or 3 prospect in the entire cubs system I believe), for the waste of space that is Kevin Gregg, who's 9 lives (with lives being a euphemism for the his league leading 9 blown saves in 2008) have been exhausted. What was worse Mr. Gregg? Was it giving up that save in that ridiculous 17-18 loss to Colorado or was it giving up that grand slam in the top of the ninth (fish had a 3 – 2 lead and were still in the hunt) to the Mets on my BIRTHDAY. Good riddance sir. I hope you catch bed bugs.
Keeping Jorge Cantu, Ricky Nolasco, and Josh Johnson for at least another year: While I wish they would sign some gosh dang multi-year contracts, at least they're keeping these guys around for another year. Ricky and Josh should have monster years. Both are ace quality pitchers and it will be nice to seem them
Extending Fredi's contract: 2 years Okay. So I haven't been the most supportive of good ole Fredi in the past. I guess I just like my managers to smoke cigars and show some emotion every now and then a la Jack McKeon. However, I do really think Fredi is the perfect manager for this super young team. Hopefully, he learned his lesson last year about overworking your bullpen too early (think Pinto) and thank god he doesn't even have to consider putting Kevin Gregg in there. It's nice to see the fish taking an interest in keeping a team for once.
The Good:
Scott Proctor: The Fish desperately needed another dependable arm in the bullpen and that's exactly what they got with this solid free agency pick up. Proctor had impressive numbers including 3.5 ERA and 1.2 WHIP in 2006 with the Yanks. He was injured last year, so those numbers do not reflect how he pitches healthy. This is a classic fish move picking up a solid reliever coming off a tough year on the cheap. The fish bullpen was certainly an issue going into 2009, making Proctor is a welcome addition. The fact is, Fredi killed Pinto last year, who after a very strong start, became a liability in the bullpen as he racked up the most appearances for a reliever before he went on IR. Proctor is an important addition to a bullpen that should be much stronger this year.
Mike Jacobs for Leo Nuñez: Another solid trade in my opinion. Jacobs was worthless and worthlesser on defense. His home runs came at the most timeliness of times, like when the fish were up or down by 7. His strikeouts always came when it mattered and they came frequently. Statistically he was the worst first baseman in baseball last year consistently making poor, lazy plays. Nunez, while untested, is another strong arm with great potential and is another fine addition to the fish bullpen which is really looking quite formidable, despite its youth. Last year in KC he posted an fine 2.98 ERA and I expect similar or better numbers from him this year.
The bad:
Scott Olsen and Josh Willingham for Emilio Bonofacio and 2 minor leaguers. What? Come again? Hello? While I have no attachment to either player and definitely glad to see Scott "Here have some jello shots Don Hopscotch and Mott McSwilly" Olsen go, is this really all they could get for them: an above-average defender/terrible bat and a few decent-at-best prospects?!?!? I DON'T BELIEVE IT!!! Top top it off, the Fish front office doesn't expect Bonofacio to make the cut in spring training. Billowing Bananas!!!!!!!!!!!! I'll retract my previous statement, as I did like Willingham (AKA Woogybottom). The fish had to cut either Woogybottom or Hermida, and since the fish FO Hermida has a love affair with Hermida, they said adios to Woogy. His numbers before he got injured last year were absolutely staggering and it would be disappointing if he were to regain that form, while Hermida doesn't find his.
Not signing Joe Nelson. COME ON FISH!!! Joe had a great year last year, and while yes he is in the twilight of his career, it would only of taken a few more hundred thousand to have him for another season. In 54 innings he posted a 2 ERA with a 1.18 WHIP and 60 K's. Sad to see you go Joe, but I'm glad you found a spot on the Rays who paid you a lot more.
The Fish front office being the Fish front office
Back-up catcher. While I am happy with Baker (although realistic that he can't repeat last year's performance), it would have been nice to sign one of the zillion catchers out there. Or even better, it would have been nice to actually of gotten value for Olsen and Woogybottom. There is still talk of signing Pudge, and while that is a long shot, every day that goes by ups the chances ever so little. I'm also a bit dismayed to see Treanor go, and I wonder if the fish regret not retaining him now that they have been unable to land another catcher.
Not signing Uggla to a multi-year contract: I know the Fish hate signing multi-year contracts, and I also know Uggla was downright horrendous after the all-star break, but still, give the man some love!!! I'm happy he won his arbitration case as he certainly deserves it.
Dan Meyer from free agency: With the unfortunate loss of Rhode, who was downright dominating in limited timelast year, the fish needed a situational lefty. They got it with Meyer. He has only pitched 47 innings of major league ball and while his era has been astronomical, his whip is only 1.76. The fish seem to have a knack for finding these bullpen types so hopefully he'll turn into another one of those fish finds.
Wes Helms 2 year contract: Hmmmm....So, you don't sign multi-year contracts, but you sign, off all people, Wes Helms to a 2 year contract. Wes is a solid utility player and I'm happy to see him stay, but sheesh! Oh fish.
Overall: Not bad fish. Not bad. No huge surprises one way or the other. They retained a majority of last year's team while taking out the trash (Jacobs, Olsen, Gregg). The Willingham/Olsen trade is downright mindboggling, but I think the Jacobs and Gregg trades almost make up for it. They've certainly shored up the bullpen which was a big concern need. A backup catcher (Rabelo isn't going to cut it) is still an issue as the fish should of been more aggressive in landing someone in that position. But I really can't complain. The front office did what they said they would do.
Okay Fish Fans. That's my off-season moves report. In the coming days I will update with my predictions for the season, my evaluation of the team, spring training news, and other various fish facts, like what was Billy the Marlins major in college.
------------------------------------------------------------
Marlins Report
Aloha Fish fans. I'd first like to thank the Idiot Fan and his devoted readership for allowing myself to post about the most untalked about team in baseball, the Florida Marlins. So as we gear up for another season of exciting marlins diamond diggery doo, let me start by first examining the off season moves by the Teal Tossers [of baseballs]:
The Great:
Kevin Gregg for Jose Ceda. A brilliant trade by the fish to attain the powerful arm in Jose Ceda, the much heralded prospect from the Cubs (#2 or 3 prospect in the entire cubs system I believe), for the waste of space that is Kevin Gregg, who's 9 lives (with lives being a euphemism for the his league leading 9 blown saves in 2008) have been exhausted. What was worse Mr. Gregg? Was it giving up that save in that ridiculous 17-18 loss to Colorado or was it giving up that grand slam in the top of the ninth (fish had a 3 – 2 lead and were still in the hunt) to the Mets on my BIRTHDAY. Good riddance sir. I hope you catch bed bugs.
Keeping Jorge Cantu, Ricky Nolasco, and Josh Johnson for at least another year: While I wish they would sign some gosh dang multi-year contracts, at least they're keeping these guys around for another year. Ricky and Josh should have monster years. Both are ace quality pitchers and it will be nice to seem them
Extending Fredi's contract: 2 years Okay. So I haven't been the most supportive of good ole Fredi in the past. I guess I just like my managers to smoke cigars and show some emotion every now and then a la Jack McKeon. However, I do really think Fredi is the perfect manager for this super young team. Hopefully, he learned his lesson last year about overworking your bullpen too early (think Pinto) and thank god he doesn't even have to consider putting Kevin Gregg in there. It's nice to see the fish taking an interest in keeping a team for once.
The Good:
Scott Proctor: The Fish desperately needed another dependable arm in the bullpen and that's exactly what they got with this solid free agency pick up. Proctor had impressive numbers including 3.5 ERA and 1.2 WHIP in 2006 with the Yanks. He was injured last year, so those numbers do not reflect how he pitches healthy. This is a classic fish move picking up a solid reliever coming off a tough year on the cheap. The fish bullpen was certainly an issue going into 2009, making Proctor is a welcome addition. The fact is, Fredi killed Pinto last year, who after a very strong start, became a liability in the bullpen as he racked up the most appearances for a reliever before he went on IR. Proctor is an important addition to a bullpen that should be much stronger this year.
Mike Jacobs for Leo Nuñez: Another solid trade in my opinion. Jacobs was worthless and worthlesser on defense. His home runs came at the most timeliness of times, like when the fish were up or down by 7. His strikeouts always came when it mattered and they came frequently. Statistically he was the worst first baseman in baseball last year consistently making poor, lazy plays. Nunez, while untested, is another strong arm with great potential and is another fine addition to the fish bullpen which is really looking quite formidable, despite its youth. Last year in KC he posted an fine 2.98 ERA and I expect similar or better numbers from him this year.
The bad:
Scott Olsen and Josh Willingham for Emilio Bonofacio and 2 minor leaguers. What? Come again? Hello? While I have no attachment to either player and definitely glad to see Scott "Here have some jello shots Don Hopscotch and Mott McSwilly" Olsen go, is this really all they could get for them: an above-average defender/terrible bat and a few decent-at-best prospects?!?!? I DON'T BELIEVE IT!!! Top top it off, the Fish front office doesn't expect Bonofacio to make the cut in spring training. Billowing Bananas!!!!!!!!!!!! I'll retract my previous statement, as I did like Willingham (AKA Woogybottom). The fish had to cut either Woogybottom or Hermida, and since the fish FO Hermida has a love affair with Hermida, they said adios to Woogy. His numbers before he got injured last year were absolutely staggering and it would be disappointing if he were to regain that form, while Hermida doesn't find his.
Not signing Joe Nelson. COME ON FISH!!! Joe had a great year last year, and while yes he is in the twilight of his career, it would only of taken a few more hundred thousand to have him for another season. In 54 innings he posted a 2 ERA with a 1.18 WHIP and 60 K's. Sad to see you go Joe, but I'm glad you found a spot on the Rays who paid you a lot more.
The Fish front office being the Fish front office
Back-up catcher. While I am happy with Baker (although realistic that he can't repeat last year's performance), it would have been nice to sign one of the zillion catchers out there. Or even better, it would have been nice to actually of gotten value for Olsen and Woogybottom. There is still talk of signing Pudge, and while that is a long shot, every day that goes by ups the chances ever so little. I'm also a bit dismayed to see Treanor go, and I wonder if the fish regret not retaining him now that they have been unable to land another catcher.
Not signing Uggla to a multi-year contract: I know the Fish hate signing multi-year contracts, and I also know Uggla was downright horrendous after the all-star break, but still, give the man some love!!! I'm happy he won his arbitration case as he certainly deserves it.
Dan Meyer from free agency: With the unfortunate loss of Rhode, who was downright dominating in limited timelast year, the fish needed a situational lefty. They got it with Meyer. He has only pitched 47 innings of major league ball and while his era has been astronomical, his whip is only 1.76. The fish seem to have a knack for finding these bullpen types so hopefully he'll turn into another one of those fish finds.
Wes Helms 2 year contract: Hmmmm....So, you don't sign multi-year contracts, but you sign, off all people, Wes Helms to a 2 year contract. Wes is a solid utility player and I'm happy to see him stay, but sheesh! Oh fish.
Overall: Not bad fish. Not bad. No huge surprises one way or the other. They retained a majority of last year's team while taking out the trash (Jacobs, Olsen, Gregg). The Willingham/Olsen trade is downright mindboggling, but I think the Jacobs and Gregg trades almost make up for it. They've certainly shored up the bullpen which was a big concern need. A backup catcher (Rabelo isn't going to cut it) is still an issue as the fish should of been more aggressive in landing someone in that position. But I really can't complain. The front office did what they said they would do.
Okay Fish Fans. That's my off-season moves report. In the coming days I will update with my predictions for the season, my evaluation of the team, spring training news, and other various fish facts, like what was Billy the Marlins major in college.
Saturday, December 13, 2008
The Obligatory Baseball Post
Move over Carl Pavano. There's a new worst ever Yankee contract in town. C.C. Sabathia, $161 million, 7 years, with an opt-out clause after 3 years and boy, will the Yanks fans hope that C.C. exercises that option. That would be the first bit of exercise Mr. 290 pounds has done in some time. He's a good pitcher, and I think every critic of this contract won't question that. He's a really good pitcher sometimes. But if I'm a Yankee fan, and thank god I'm not, there are a few HUGE things that worry me.
1. He was begging West Coast teams to sign him at the winter meetings after getting the Yankee's huge contract offer. He took like two weeks to sign that deal. $161 million and he took two weeks to decide on that. He has a history of pitching well in small market, no pressure teams (Cleveland, Milwaukee). He said he wasn't sure about living in New York and wanted to live and play on the West Coast.
2. Even after begging the Giants, Dodgers and Angels to sign him, no one threw him anything even close to the Yankee's offer. I can see the Dodgers and Giants being cheap, though the Dodgers could use a number one guy like C.C., but the Angels? They throw money around like there's no tomorrow. They're the Yankees of the West Coast. And nothing, no offer, nada. And C.C. wanted to play for them and probably would have taken quite a bit less to do so.
3. $161 million, 7 years. I'm sorry but no one is worth that kind of money. That's a terrible deal, anyway you slice it. I know it's the Yankees, and they have an endless supply of money with the YES network and the new stadium, but there was once a time when people wanted to play in New York. The Yankees have an unmatched history and legacy of winning. They play in the biggest market of all with the most potential for fame and endorsements. Their fans care. A lot. They shouldn't need to grossly overpay for players. Players should want to come to the Yankees and in some cases, take less money to do so because they know they'd make it back up in endorsement deals.
And then the Yanks go out and sign soon-to-be 32-year-old A.J. Burnett to a 5 year, $82.5 million deal. A.J., by the way, has only played like one complete season without being injured. He has an electric arm but can't control it. He's never had an ERA that's even close to under 3.00. Is this worth $82.5 million? Do injury-prone pitchers all of sudden become great when they hit 32? Unless A.J.'s hitting up Roger Clemens for some training and pharmaceutical advice, I don't see it happening.
And that sound you hear? That's the sound of the Red Sox and the three real Tampa Bay (Devil) Ray fans rejoicing.
1. He was begging West Coast teams to sign him at the winter meetings after getting the Yankee's huge contract offer. He took like two weeks to sign that deal. $161 million and he took two weeks to decide on that. He has a history of pitching well in small market, no pressure teams (Cleveland, Milwaukee). He said he wasn't sure about living in New York and wanted to live and play on the West Coast.
2. Even after begging the Giants, Dodgers and Angels to sign him, no one threw him anything even close to the Yankee's offer. I can see the Dodgers and Giants being cheap, though the Dodgers could use a number one guy like C.C., but the Angels? They throw money around like there's no tomorrow. They're the Yankees of the West Coast. And nothing, no offer, nada. And C.C. wanted to play for them and probably would have taken quite a bit less to do so.
3. $161 million, 7 years. I'm sorry but no one is worth that kind of money. That's a terrible deal, anyway you slice it. I know it's the Yankees, and they have an endless supply of money with the YES network and the new stadium, but there was once a time when people wanted to play in New York. The Yankees have an unmatched history and legacy of winning. They play in the biggest market of all with the most potential for fame and endorsements. Their fans care. A lot. They shouldn't need to grossly overpay for players. Players should want to come to the Yankees and in some cases, take less money to do so because they know they'd make it back up in endorsement deals.
And then the Yanks go out and sign soon-to-be 32-year-old A.J. Burnett to a 5 year, $82.5 million deal. A.J., by the way, has only played like one complete season without being injured. He has an electric arm but can't control it. He's never had an ERA that's even close to under 3.00. Is this worth $82.5 million? Do injury-prone pitchers all of sudden become great when they hit 32? Unless A.J.'s hitting up Roger Clemens for some training and pharmaceutical advice, I don't see it happening.
And that sound you hear? That's the sound of the Red Sox and the three real Tampa Bay (Devil) Ray fans rejoicing.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)