BBTF's Transaction Oracle Discussion

Transaction Oracle
— A Timely Look at Transactions as They Happen

Sunday, April 04, 2004

Texas Rangers

Acquired 1B Josh McKinley and P Chris Young from the Montreal Expos for C Einar Diaz and P Justin Echols

No details on how much of Diaz’ salary the Expos will pay, unfortunately. You would think the Rangers would have to pay most of it to successfully dump Einar, but Minaya hasn’t exactly earned a sterling trade record. Schneider will hopefully still get most of the at-bats against righties. As for the other 3 players, Echols has a good fastball that goes random places, Young is that really tall guy who doesn’t throw fast and is a ways away, and McKinley can hit a bit but probably can’t stick in the majors at 2nd.

Dan Szymborski Posted: April 04, 2004 at 03:13 AM | 4 comment(s) Login to Bookmark
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1. Robert Dudek Posted: August 27, 2001 at 05:41 PM (#551694)

The 'ch' is much more aspirated (more air and with a bit of throat phlegm) version of an English 'h'.

Also like the Middle Eastern sweet, slightly hardened, nut paste - halva.

2. Robert Dudek Posted: August 27, 2001 at 05:42 PM (#551695)

The 'ch' is much more aspirated (more air and with a bit of throat phlegm) version of an English 'h'.

Also like the Middle Eastern sweet, slightly hardened, nut paste - halva.

3. rlc Posted: August 27, 2001 at 08:08 PM (#551696)

<i>

4. Cris E Posted: September 07, 2001 at 09:04 PM (#551750)

If I were Melvin I'd have a long discussion way off the record with Rodriguez and his agent well before this got ugly. I'd look into his response to a trade, for example, or moving to 1B/3B, or taking a shorter contract. In the end a sign and trade (to NYY for example) or an option like Radke got where he can choose to become a free agent might serve both their needs. Otherwise Melvin will end up taking the hit square in his PRs or the team will just end up writing a series of big checks.

5. Greg Franklin Posted: September 07, 2001 at 10:31 PM (#551751)

This is the first I've heard of Catalanotto "waiting in line" after Michael Young. Cat is hitting well enough in LF (and garnering enough praise from Jerry Narron) to make Rusty Greer a part-time 1B/OFer in 2002. Young has been anointed the 2B of the future. That's multiple positions at which Pudge is blocked.

6. Greg Franklin Posted: September 10, 2001 at 06:13 AM (#551753)

I got the speculation on Catalanotto vs. Greer from an article by AP sportswriter Stephen Hawkins (a Google search only turns up a certain physicist's site).

http://www.reporternews.com/2001/texsports/cat0829.html

Evan Grant's piece from the Dallas Morning News gives a rationale for Catalanotto's breakout year (off-season bone chip removal from his wrist, LASIK surgery) beyond just the playing time.

http://baseball.dallasnews.com/rangers_stories/461631_04rangers.html (might require free registration)

It'll be tough to make Frank a non-regular again, if he finishes in the top 5 in AL BA.

What is the basis for your suspicion that Young won't hit enough to last at 2B? Couldn't find Sickels' take, but Jerry Narron is convinced Young is the real deal (i.e. will hit "enough" for 2B) and that Cat is an extra bat who can play anywhere he's asked.

Not thinking of the defensive spectrum considerations, but surely at this pace Catalanotto could survive as an everyday LF in the AL? Consider Seattle or NY's LF situation.

7. scruff Posted: September 10, 2001 at 09:34 PM (#551755)

Assuming you meant based on what they did in Texas, to borrow one from Bill James, to call Ivan Rodriguez "one of the best players in team history" is understatement akin to calling Nolan Ryan, "one of the more prolific strikeout pitchers of the 70's and 80's". Or calling Rickey Henderson, "one of the better leadoff men in baseball," during the 80's.

Which is what makes this so tough for Doug Melvin. But he made his own bed. He should've traded him for a package before Pudge became a 10 and 5 guy. The team was awful from the beginning. Trade him at that point, and there is no PR hit. The team stunk and we couldn't take the chance on losing him for nothing. To Joe the Fan you could spin it as another greedy player. Then he's someone else's $20M problem. Have Dodgers been awful since trading Piazza? What about the Mariners since trading Randy and Griffey? Did the Indians fall apart without Manny or Belle?

That being said, I'd bite the bullet and spend my $20M per elsewhere. This is where the ARod deal is going to bite them. If they hadn't overpaid SOOOO much (he is worth it, but they could have gotten him cheaper is what I mean), Pudge wouldn't need quite as much. If the owner is willing to just sign the checks and there isn't going to be a cap, just pay him, and explain to the owner (name is slipping my mind right now) that we're overpaying to avoid PR problems.

If he doesn't go for that (spending extra) show him the Mariners and Indians as examples of what a team can do if they lose a star if they are managed properly, spend the money elsewhere and get a little lucky. Melvin made his own bed by not trading Pudge when he had the chance. Now he has to sleep in it. I bet Gillick would figure out a way to come out smelling like a rose though.

8. Dan Szymborski

Posted: September 11, 2001 at 04:59 AM (#551756)

Actually, I was just trying to avoid saying the best player to spare myself the wrath of the fans of Juan Gonzalez or maybe Frank Howard. I do think that Rodriguez is the best player in Ranger history, although I think it's pretty likely that it will eventually be the other Rodriguez.

Melvin can come out looking good if he can make the issue solely about money, but manage to do it in a way not to completely tick off A-Rod. When a team like Seattle lets an Alex Rodriguez go, they could get away with it by suggesting that it was Rodriguez' unreasonable demands that forced them to go another direction (whether this is true or not is an exercise I'll leave to the reader).

If, however, the Mariners had already signed Griffey for 18 million a year the previous offseason, it would've been a bit harder to sell to the public, I think. I know Greg's a Mariner fan so I would definitely like to hear Greg's (and yours too Dylan) opinion on this.

9. Liver of blaspheming 'zop Posted: November 27, 2001 at 06:20 PM (#551870)

not a bad turnaround for a guy who had one of the all-time worst seasons (1996-more BB's than K's, 136 hits allowed in 99.3 IP, 9.07 ERA!?)

10. Dan Szymborski

Posted: November 27, 2001 at 07:23 PM (#551871)

I think it's a pretty nothing signing even if Van Poppel can keep it up (he certainly looked like a real pitcher last year); I wasn't assuming he returns to the dreckmeister he was in previous years, in which case it's a horrible, horrible signing and I can bring out all the cruel jokes.

I'm just wondering if the Rangers are really not going to make a backup plan to Plan A of having Rick Helling and Kenny Rogers return to pre-2001 form.

11. Ben Posted: November 28, 2001 at 07:43 PM (#551877)

I am just a little confused as to how free agent compensation operates. I thought the Cubs had to offer VanPoppel arbitration in order to receive the compensation pick. Did they? And since I am a Brewers fan, if some other team signs Devon White this offseason, is Milwaukee entitled to compensation? Devo was not offered arbitration, but I didn't know he could be at this point in his career.

Any help someone could offer in clearing this up would be much appreciated.

12. Big Ed Posted: November 28, 2001 at 11:15 PM (#551879)

Texas also picked up Herbie Perry from the White Sox for a PTBNL. Was there any benefit to the for the Rangers? The Sox clear the way for Crede to play on a regular basis now.

13. RJ in TO Posted: December 02, 2001 at 02:01 AM (#551884)

In defense of Hart, it's not like the Indians really needed Casey at the time, and Burba has been an effective pitcher for the Indians. Besides, it Hart doesn't trade Casey, he would be getting ripped for letting Casey (Or Thome. Remember, they only have room for 1 of them in the starting lineup) waste away on the bench or in the minors, like the Diamonbacks with Rios, or the Giants (until recently) with Durazo.

And the Smiley thing wouldn't have looked like all that bad a trade if Smiley hadn't broken his arm while pitching. This isn't exactly something that Hart could have known about, and Smiley was only 32 at the time. If not for that freak accident, he could have provided the Indians with 5 quality years of pitching. Besides, I don't exactly hear people screaming about how the Indians desperately need Damian Jackson.

Despite all this, I still think the Van Popple signing is somewhat insane, seeing as how even teams like the Expos, who don't exactly have money to burn, have been able to put together a solid bullpen on the cheap.

And I am amazed at how Hart can instantly convert future All-Stars into middle relievers at the drop of a hat.

14. Danny Posted: December 03, 2001 at 10:20 PM (#551885)

"There may be a causal relationship there: pay the big money out to Williams, Jeter, Mussina, and perhaps Giambi as needed, but don't piss away long-term dollars and roster spots"

Tino, Chuck, Paul, Scott-expensive 3 or more year deals for below average players. Any combination of those signings would cripple a franchise like the A's. The Yanks have done better than their financial peers in player evaluation, but imagine the team Beane could put together if he bolted for Boston or L.A.

15. Danny Posted: December 04, 2001 at 10:41 PM (#551887)

I really want to believe that the 4 year, $24 million offer was hal a public relations ploy knowing he wouldn't accept it and half driving up the price for the Rangers. I do think Izzy is underrated by most-mostly because his number of blown saves is vastly disproportionate to his level of pitching. He seems to blow almost half of the one run leads he is given and never allow a run with a 2 run or more lead. I assume this is just bad luck, both for Izzy and the A's.

But $6 million a year for a reliever when your team budget is ridiculous. With Tam, Mecir, Magnante, Vizcaino, Bradford, and Hiljus (when Ramos takes his rotation spot) returning, and Harville and whoever else Beane can find scratching at the door, Izzy just doesn't seem too necessary, even for $4 million.

I can't really decide whether it would be best for the A's to sign Giambi or not. Menechino may not play much next year, meaning the A's would have serious OBP problems without Giambi. I would love to see Beane call up Allard Baird and offer Long or Lidle for Mike Sweeney. Jeremy would be a solid first baseman, but then the A's would be getting below-average production from DH along with LF and CF

16. Voros McCracken Posted: December 08, 2001 at 02:21 AM (#551888)

Big Ed,

Crede isn't slated to start next year for the White Sox. They've dcided to play shortstops at both third base AND shortstop and if that fails they sent Jeff Liefer to instructional league this year to work on third base.

If anyone has a team who would like a young third baseman to play everyday in 2002, have your GM call the White Sox. Crede can be had.

17. Karlmagnus Posted: December 19, 2001 at 12:29 AM (#552299)

Rocker and Everett both have something to prove, and A-Rod's A-Rod. With Oakland weakened, and Seattle unable to repeat, pick Texas for the AL West in 2002, and to FINALLY knock off the Yankees and get to the World Series.

18. RJ in TO Posted: December 19, 2001 at 12:44 AM (#552300)

Too bad the Rangers weren't any good this year. Otherwise we would have a perfect test case for the elusive "clubhouse chemistry" and whether or not it exists. Lets see: Rocker, Everett, no pitching, I-Rod in his free-agent year. We may actually get to see a coaches head explode, just like in Scanners.

19. RP Posted: December 19, 2001 at 03:05 PM (#552303)

I'm still waiting for the big Rangers-Orioles trade...I know it's hopelessly wishful thinking but, as an Orioles fan, I'd love to see a trade along the lines of Ponson, Johnson, & Erickson for Kapler & Blalock. It actually makes sense for both teams IMHO -- the starters could make the Rangers serious contenders, and Kapler and Blalock are exactly the kind of young position players the Orioles need to build around (and, for the Rangers, are entirely expendable).

20. Darren

Posted: December 19, 2001 at 03:28 PM (#552304)

Ryan--

If you want a test case, how about this one:

--The Red Sox go to the playoffs twice then get Everett and miss out twice.

Doesn't prove anything but it seems to be the test case you're looking for.

21. Josh Posted: December 23, 2001 at 07:24 AM (#552340)

My god is Park going to regret signing with the Rangers. A 5.00 ERA is in the offing.

22. Bob T Posted: December 24, 2001 at 07:27 PM (#552342)

Looking at Park's log from 2001, he had a few close games, but he also had 3 disaster starts where he gave up more earned runs than innings pitched. All 3 were on the road against high scoring teams: Oakland, San Francisco, and St. Louis.

23. Dan Szymborski

Posted: December 28, 2001 at 02:55 PM (#552424)

Now that I think about it, Dante Bichette would love to play in Montreal; French food uses a lot of butter.

24. Alan Posted: December 29, 2001 at 09:37 AM (#552427)

Chad Curtis is going to be plenty busy with this team

25. Alan Posted: January 05, 2002 at 10:01 AM (#552429)

When was Curtis released? He's still on the Rangers' roster according to espn.com.

26. Alan Posted: January 09, 2002 at 06:17 AM (#552545)

Before this week, I didn't particularly want Gonzalez to sign with the Mets, if only because I think the money that would go to him is of better use to the Mets in resigning Alfonzo or going after Rolen or Abreu next year. That said, I've wanted him to sign with the Mets the last few days, because it now seems that, without Gonzalez, Phillips is going to go out and trade Chen for Trammel, or, even worse: Chen, Agbayani, Payton, and D. Gonzalez for Trammel, Darr, Tolliver, and Middlebrook. I'll take back all the good things I said about Phillips this winter if he makes this trade. I wouldn't trade Chen for all 4 of the players they'd be getting in the rumored 4 for 4 deal, let alone straight up for Trammel. I don't think there will be much, if any, improve from Agbayani to Trammel, although Agbayani will probably be left to rot on the bench anyway if he stays a Met.

In summary: I'm really, really pissed.

27. Bob Koo Posted: January 09, 2002 at 06:36 AM (#552546)

From reports I've heard, that 4-for-4 deal is dead. But I agree that I wouldn't even trade Chen for those 4. Wouldn't mind a Payton for Darr deal, though, if that was possible.

I still think Benny can play if given the chance, but unfortunately, it looks like the Mets are intent on not giving him a chance at the starting LF job.

The signing of Gonzalez with Texas could pave the way for the Mets to trade a pitcher for Kapler, which I would like a great deal. Kapler can be the above-average CF the Mets need. A 6-7 of Agbayani-Kapler following the big 5 would suit me just fine.

28. Geoff Young Posted: January 09, 2002 at 07:27 AM (#552547)

The 4-for-4 is dead? Too bad, that could've been good for both clubs. Tollberg and Middlebrook are better than you think. I wouldn't mind a Darr for Payton deal either. Heck, I wouldn't mind a Darr for anything deal, really. But then, corner outfielders who hit like shortstops aren't my cup of tea. I miss Mike Colangelo already....

29. Liver of blaspheming 'zop Posted: January 09, 2002 at 08:21 AM (#552548)

Note also that Gabe Kapler is Jewish, which is always a nice marketing tool in NYC (remember, the Yanks have tried to bring in Shawn Green any number of times during his career.)

I personally wouldnt mind trading Chen or Rusch for Kapler, but as a member of the Tribe I am way, way too biased to consider it rationally.

30. Ben Posted: January 09, 2002 at 09:09 AM (#552549)

What is Texas's payroll running at for 2002?

31. VegasRobb Posted: January 09, 2002 at 10:53 AM (#552550)

Hm ...

2002 Texas Rangers Lineup?

1B - Pena

32. Robert Dudek Posted: January 09, 2002 at 03:15 PM (#552551)

I might bat AROD-3 GONZALEZ-4 Palmeiro-5, IROD-6.

AROD is the best hitter on the team and gets a few more PA this way, Juan Gone won't be leading off as many innings in the 4 spot as in #5. Palmeiro and I-Rod, in the 5 and 6 sports are decent secondary leadoff men. I could flip IROD and Palmeiro so IROD gets fewer chances to GIDP.

What an offense! Texas Rangers baseball will be bludgeon-ball this year.

I'm starting a contest: predict how many homers the Texas Rangers will hit in 2002 - I'm predicting 260.

33. bob mong Posted: January 09, 2002 at 08:29 PM (#552555)

"powerful" bullpen?

van poppel had his first year with an ERA under 3.00 last year (his second under 4.00). career ERA: 5.50

34. bob mong Posted: January 09, 2002 at 08:37 PM (#552556)

how about this for a "powerful" bullpen:

reliever A: ERA last year of 1.72, career ERA: 4.53

35. Dan Szymborski

Posted: January 19, 2002 at 04:46 AM (#552899)

Now I know you're trying to make me paranoid; according to the AP, Valentin left Denver today without a contract and I haven't seen anything elsewhere.

36. Eugene Freedman

Posted: January 19, 2002 at 03:30 PM (#552900)

Paging Wil Cordero, your flight to Cleveland South is now boarding.

How many former Indians will be on the Rangers this year?

37. Voros McCracken Posted: January 22, 2002 at 01:56 AM (#552901)

Woodard's one of those guys that makes me want to develop some sort of "velocity" database. I would be _so_ intrigued if I had a complete set of fairly reliable numbers as to how hard a particular pitcher throws during the season.

Particularly I'd like to see how velocity affects hits per balls in play, since this is the only area where Woodard has really struggled the last few years.

In any event, I think somebody like Woodard in a big park with a good defense behind him (like Seattle) would stun people by posting a 3.20 ish ERA one of these years.

Nevertheless, despite TExas not fitting this bill, I think both Woodard and Burba are very nice pick ups by Hart as they should represent improvements over the guys Texas thrust out there last year (other than maybe Doug Davis).

38. Repoz

Posted: January 29, 2002 at 01:34 AM (#553423)

Dan

39. Mike Posted: January 29, 2002 at 02:11 AM (#553425)

He has some nice long-term and short term options here. He does not have to rely on young arms to break through this season, they can come along more slowly. I think Burba should revert to somewhere around league average; they can get the same out of Valdes. I would not be shocked if Valdes outpitched Park. Park is a wild card, he could implode. I doubt he earns his whole salary but if he is a pleasant surprise, the Rangers can challenge the A's and Mariners.

You can see in this group both The Supporting Cast of ARod, Irod, Raffy & Gonzo and the The Supporting Cast of ARod, Hank Blalock, Ryan Ludwick and Max Texeira. Not a bad off-season. It would look better without the Ramos trade but still a solid effort and there does not appear to be a Rincon-for-Giles in the bunch.

40. Dan Szymborski

Posted: January 29, 2002 at 02:14 AM (#553427)

I don't think any of the pitchers mentioned are in the Rangers' short-term plans and I doubt that any will even make the team as a garbage-time 12th man in the next few years. Heck, I don't really think the Rangers are going to use Myette, Bell, Gonzalez or Duchschurer in any capacity, but they're still options.

Most likely, the Rangers' pitching prospects will be used as trade bait as problems arise in the offense. Gonzalez and I-Rod have realistic chances to be out with injury, Palmeiro could suddenly age, or Everett could wear out his welcome. Besides Kapler and Catalanotto, they don't have a lot of outfielders in the system to fill holes that could come up.

41. Bob T Posted: January 29, 2002 at 04:50 AM (#553432)

The Rangers appear to be cornering the market on "Guys who couldn't take the pressure of playing in Dodger Stadium".

And there isn't any pressure playing there.

42. Robert Dudek Posted: January 29, 2002 at 01:26 PM (#553433)

I proposed a similar system to what John R. suggested for the D-backs last year, in order to get more starts out of Schilling and Johnson. I think the same system would work well with Maddux and Glavine in Atlanta, and indeed any team where the two best straters on the team are mature and a lot better than the othe starters.

I think the two pitchers should only occasionally go on 3-days rest, aiming to have them both start 38 times a year. I would pull them out of blowout games after 5 innings and then let them come back on 3 days after that. I would only do it with veteran pitchers who have shown the ability to handle a high workload (like the 4 pitchers I've mentioned) or have been relatively injury free in the past.

43. Lujack Posted: January 29, 2002 at 03:14 PM (#553434)

John R-

I'm not sure how effective Carr would be after starting game 8, and then coming in relief in games 10,11, and 12.

44. Cris E Posted: January 29, 2002 at 04:11 PM (#553436)

John R -

45. Shredder Posted: January 29, 2002 at 09:49 PM (#553443)

The good news is that the Rangers can virtually throw at people at will, and with all of those guys available, the suspensions wouldn't faze them in the slightest. Think of the fireworks when the Tigers conme to town. Either that, or they could just schedule a ton of double headers.

46. Buddha Posted: January 30, 2002 at 12:29 AM (#553444)

Chuck: Why would Randy Smith sign Valdes when Kenny Lofton is out there? Now THAT'S exciting.

"Shredder": You're just mad that the Angels are gonna be the best fourth place team in baseball. Which is, of course, better than the Tigers being the worst fourth place team in baseball.

47. Walt Davis Posted: January 30, 2002 at 09:55 PM (#553445)

Didn't Chuck Tanner once suggest the 3 man per day rotation -- i.e. 3 pitchers pitching 3 innings each game (potentially with a closer for the 9th inning) -- repeating every third day? I have this vague recollection that he actually tried it for a week at the end of one season.

48. Cris E Posted: January 30, 2002 at 10:19 PM (#553446)

3 man per day rotation

I think LaRussa was toying with this at the end of his Oakland stay, when they didn't have the rotation horses. I don't think he actually did it, but he did kick the tires a bit.

49. Bring Me the Head of Alfredo Griffin (Vlad) Posted: January 31, 2002 at 07:28 PM (#553448)

The Pirates already have a whole heap of arms to sort through in spring training, without adding another one.

50. David Jones Posted: January 31, 2002 at 08:51 PM (#553449)

I like what Texas is doing. Find every good arm, bad arm, decent arm, good pitcher and sorry, no-account pitcher they can and then throw all of them up against a wall and see who sticks.

Might work.

51. Repoz

Posted: February 03, 2002 at 12:58 AM (#554007)

I guess with all the pitchers Texas is bringing into camp.......they might need another catcher on the scene.

52. Mike Emeigh

Posted: February 03, 2002 at 01:18 AM (#554008)

Veteran catchers often serve as de facto coaches in spring training and for AAA/AA teams during the season; you usually see a lot of them signing NRIs about this time. Borders has served in that role for Tampa Bay in ST and at Durham the last couple of years. He's not usually taking playing time away from anyone; in most cases in the minors he'll be used as a DH or catcher when the regular catcher needs a break.

-- MWE

53. J. Lowenstein Apathy Club Posted: February 03, 2002 at 05:40 AM (#554009)

WHY HAS NO ONE MENTIONED THE METS YET ON THIS THREAD?!?!?!?!?!?

METSMETSMETSMETSMETSMETSMETSMETS

54. J. Lowenstein Apathy Club Posted: February 03, 2002 at 05:54 AM (#554010)

Seriously though, Texas are bringing every catcher they can think of into spring... from the wire...

"Invited RHP R.A. Dickey, Cs Brad King, Gerald Laird, and Freddy Torres, 3B Hank Blalock, SS Kelly Dransfeldt, and OF Patrick Boyd to spring training."

Heck, if Kelly Dransfeldt can catch, he might draw MLB meal money for a few extra weeks...

Is Derek Parks still active? Could the Rangers talk Nelson Santovenia out of retirement for March?

Heck, I bet Mike O'Berry can still get out of a crouch...

55. Christopher Posted: February 12, 2002 at 06:24 AM (#554267)

Sprague has put in a couple decent years as a lefty masher which could have some value in a division that features two left handed starters per team.

56. JB Posted: February 12, 2002 at 06:44 AM (#554268)

I always hated my mom's boyfriend, but when he said "Eddy's gonna win the batting title one day because he hits a lot of doubles" was the icing on the cake.

57. Repoz

Posted: February 12, 2002 at 01:25 PM (#554273)

I don't understand why teams have a problem with starting young 3rd basemen when you have a potent enough offense...Case in point,if Bobby Bonilla hadn't pulled a mully,LaLoser would still be tossing AAA seasoning burial dirt on Pujols.

58. Cris E Posted: February 12, 2002 at 05:01 PM (#554275)

Duquette had best ignore Hart's calls for a while.

I don't think he'll have to hang on much longer. As soon as Larry L manages to get through Dan won't have to worry about it anymore.

59. Steve Treder Posted: February 12, 2002 at 05:31 PM (#554276)

"I don't understand why teams have a problem with starting young 3rd basemen when you have a potent enough offense"

Come on Repoz, you know why. Proven veteran = risk avoidance = CYA. Unproven rookie = uncertain outcome = management might get blamed if things don't go well.

60. Repoz

Posted: February 13, 2002 at 04:10 AM (#554278)

Steve...Of course I understand the possible ramifying consequences for the Manager/GM of certain teams but the Rangers were ready to start an out of position rookie (Pena in left)before the trade.Why would it be so damaging to start Blalock (providing he wins job)at 3rd,bat him down in the lineup and let him play everyday.

61. Dan Szymborski

Posted: March 25, 2002 at 11:07 PM (#555601)

I would if I were them.

62. Bernal Diaz has an angel on his shoulder Posted: March 26, 2002 at 12:34 AM (#555603)

John Hart valued Rich Rodriguez because he is an ex-Indian. For some reason Hart has a major hard-on for former Indians. I am just wondering when he is gonna sign Paul Assenmacher. Can he coax Jerry Dipoto out of retirement?

63. Repoz

Posted: March 26, 2002 at 01:21 AM (#555604)

Dipoto's retired?.....How could you tell?

64. Devin has a deep burning passion for fuzzy socks Posted: March 26, 2002 at 01:54 AM (#555605)

Because the number of runs scored in the 7th inning has dropped back in line with historical levels.

65. Bernal Diaz has an angel on his shoulder Posted: April 01, 2002 at 09:54 PM (#555726)

Maybe Rivera is the gay ballplayer from the other thread.

66. Bernal Diaz has an angel on his shoulder Posted: April 01, 2002 at 11:33 PM (#555728)

I thought Piazza was banging ALF. Does having carnal relations with an alien make you gay?

67. Bernal Diaz has an angel on his shoulder Posted: April 02, 2002 at 04:03 AM (#555732)

The Luis Sojo thread.

68. Dan Szymborski

Posted: June 05, 2002 at 09:36 PM (#556969)

I do them myself as I need them.

69. RJ in TO Posted: July 04, 2002 at 06:20 AM (#557486)

Yeah, but all it cost the Rangers was Darren Oliver. It's not like they gave up something good, and didn't Boston pick up a good chunk of the contract?

70. There are no words... (Met Fan Charlie) Posted: July 16, 2002 at 07:32 PM (#557756)

Dan,

I've had blodd clots in my lung. They originated in my legs and travelled there. If that's the case with Irabu, he's a very very VERY lucky man -- as am I.

When blood clots migrate, there are only 3 places they can end up, and 2 of them are fatal: in a lung, in the heart or in the brain.

You can count on Hideki being flat on his back with a Heparin IV drip in his arm for at least 2 weeks, then you'd figure it'll be at least another 3 weeks before he's able to throw a ball again.

When he'll be "effective" again -- that being the most relative of terms -- is anybody's guess.

71. Vance W Posted: August 29, 2002 at 07:51 PM (#558589)

Well, the Rangers needed a catcher with Haselman being hurt and Hafner has looked real lost lately. I don't think it says anything about Hart's philosophy.

It will be hard to cut ties with Pudge, who is very popular Ranger fans but the dirty deed must be done.

72. Steve Posted: October 09, 2002 at 08:01 PM (#558993)

Sign him & trade him to the Mets.

73. Bring Me the Head of Alfredo Griffin (Vlad) Posted: October 10, 2002 at 03:40 AM (#558995)

I'd take Rocker as an NRI. I wouldn't give him guaranteed money, but that doesn't separate him from the rest of the bullpen world.

74. True Blue n/k/a "DeJesusFreak" Posted: October 11, 2002 at 04:41 PM (#559018)

I always had some problems with the whole "Buck Showalter -- control freak" notion. I'm not trying to suggest that he doesn't like things his way, but isn't it odd that the same organization that is propagating this stereotype is the one that hired him 2 1/2 years before they ever played a game, with the understanding and instructions to take complete control of the organization -- at least as far as setting up a Dominican academy, helping to assemble a farm system, creating a spring training regimen, hiring coaches, working on the expansion draft, creating a "Diamondback image" (even to the point of approving uniforms), and ultimately managing the team?

For the D-Backs to complain that Showalter was a control freak is like a child who kills his parents asking for leniency because he's an orphan.

75. Benji Posted: October 11, 2002 at 05:07 PM (#559020)

i think Buck will do great there. Obviously, he'll veto any Rockers or Micelis being brought in, and give young pitchers a break. He's too smart not to. And it's gotta be nice to start a new job with the best player in baseball on your roster.

76. scruff Posted: October 11, 2002 at 06:09 PM (#559022)

In the interest of consolidating the threads (I didn't realize this had been posted here when I set up the clutch hit . . .)

Posted 1:20 p.m., October 11, 2002 (#1) - Mikael

77. Gideon Posted: October 11, 2002 at 06:15 PM (#559023)

Anyone else think John Hart is finding his collar a little tight right now?

78. Darren

Posted: October 11, 2002 at 07:07 PM (#559026)

ARod has to be a very happy guy about now. He seems to be a hard-working straight arrow who will fit right in with Buck. And I'm sure he's glad to have someone with Buck's track record.

79. Andere Richtingen

Posted: October 11, 2002 at 07:22 PM (#559028)

Damn it all. Now who's gonna manage the Cubs?

Ken Macha, hopefully.

80. Benji Posted: October 12, 2002 at 05:40 PM (#559035)

Did we stick the Brewers with Burnitz again? I only wish. I'm watching the Mets manipulate the idiotic media by tossing them Piniella and Baker when 1) Phillips doesn't want a strong manager, and 2) neither of them is gonna kowtow to that jerk. It will probably be Mazzilli or Kennedy (especially since MoVP wants him), because then Phillips can dominate them.

81. Andere Richtingen

Posted: October 12, 2002 at 08:03 PM (#559036)

Who's going to manage the Mets is my big question now...While I don't think Paul Molitor will be managing a team any time soon, I'm gonna say Don Baylor has a good chance at getting the job.

Oh, how that would warm the cockles of my heart. I've jokingly brought this up as a possibility, but never would have taken it seriously. I still don't.

FWIW, Baylor is perhaps the worst manager I've ever seen.

82. User unknown in local recipient table (Craig B) Posted: October 13, 2002 at 04:33 PM (#559039)

Oh, how that would warm the cockles of my heart... FWIW, Baylor is perhaps the worst manager I've ever seen.

Yeah, that would be hilarity itself. The NY media would love Baylor, too... I love watching the Mets suffer.

83. Walt Davis Posted: October 13, 2002 at 05:57 PM (#559040)

Baylor to the Brewers makes the most sense. Bud gets to hire another minority manager, Baylor has the sort of "clubhouse respect" that bad teams fall for, and everybody else on the Brewers is an ex-Cub. After all, Eric Young had his best years under Baylor. :-)

84. Ned Garvin: Male Prostitute Posted: October 14, 2002 at 09:07 AM (#559041)

The Mets need an OF - I wonder how long until Billy Beane tries to hock them T Long for a bargain price.

And I second the call for the NYM to hire Baylor immediately.

85. There are no words... (Met Fan Charlie) Posted: October 15, 2002 at 02:29 PM (#559044)

I'm with Glenn...

86. Bunny Vincennes Posted: October 15, 2002 at 05:14 PM (#559046)

Brian C:

I'm with you on the Ken Macha front. I really wanted to see Showalter in Chicago. I think the forgotten man, who may be the best major league candidate is once again Larry Dierker. I can't tell you how much I'd love to see Larry and the young Cubs pitching staff. I heard some nonsense about the Cubs trading Kyle Farnsworth. He was all over the place this year but I think its a tad bit early to say he's done.

87. Benji Posted: October 15, 2002 at 05:16 PM (#559047)

I never liked the concept of trading for managers. But I'd make an exception of getting rid of Alomar is involved.

88. Eugene Posted: November 14, 2002 at 02:08 AM (#559330)

I don't know. What's the highest score?

89. User unknown in local recipient table (Craig B) Posted: November 14, 2002 at 04:43 AM (#559334)

Santos refused assignment to the minors last month and became a free agent

Yeah, considering how he pitchd in Coors, I don't think Colorado Springs is going to agree with him either.

A 10.38 ERA? Well, in case Victor wants to be the second coming of Roy Halladay, he's at least got the first part right.

90. Bring Me the Head of Alfredo Griffin (Vlad) Posted: November 14, 2002 at 05:41 AM (#559336)

I could easily see Johnson sneaking into some PT in center for the Rangers. He's earned a shot at a bench job, at least; I had him down as the best minor-league free agent CF.

91. John Posted: November 15, 2002 at 02:49 AM (#559338)

Sadler is around because he is amazingly versatile. He can play decent to good defense while hitting like a pitcher at whatever position you desire. He's also fast as the wind so you can use him as a PRer. Its not what I'd call a wonderful player, but in the AL where you don't have to worry about PHing for the pitcher he can be vaguely useful in the proper role (which does not involve batting often).

92. NTNgod Posted: December 07, 2002 at 03:07 AM (#560224)

I don't like this at all.

I mean, who does Shapiro think he is?

93. TribeGuy Posted: December 07, 2002 at 08:32 AM (#560226)

My guess at a depth chart

RF: Garcia

94. TribeGuy Posted: December 07, 2002 at 08:25 PM (#560232)

Mea Culpa.

Yes I had a brain cramp. Omar, of course is the one regular still in Cleveland.

95. Larry Bowa Posted: December 19, 2002 at 02:48 AM (#561196)

F@#&!

Looks like I'm going to have to settle for Marlon Byrd and Bobby Abreu in the outfield.

SH$^! G#$D@#$^! F@#$ING!

96. JMac Posted: December 19, 2002 at 03:01 AM (#561198)

As a Phillies' fan I just want to thank the Rangers for signing Glanville.

97. Darren

Posted: December 19, 2002 at 03:11 AM (#561200)

I think it was clear to everyone that the Rangers needed another 10 or 15 outfielders in the mix.

98. Jolly Old St. Nick Done Jumped The Ship

Posted: December 19, 2002 at 03:19 AM (#561202)

Did you notice his Glanville's comment that he wants to compete for a starting role. He doesn't want to be a "third or fourth outfielder." Um...how many outfielders does he think there are?

Do the Rangers actually lose a pick over this? Wasn't Glanville given arbitration?

99. Brian

Posted: December 19, 2002 at 03:32 AM (#561204)

At www.baseballamerica.com they list "none" under the type of abirtration that Glanville was classified as. Does that mean, he didn't even warrant a "C" rating?

100. Bill Posted: December 19, 2002 at 03:46 AM (#561205)

Was a "designated fielder" rule included in the new labor agreement and we just missed it?

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