*2010 MLB Thread*

[MedicCook]

*2010 MLB Thread*

Spring training is just around the corner and we are in a new year. Lots of trades, free agent signings, and rumors flying around.

The biggest free agent on the market has been signed today. Matt Holliday signs with the Cardinals for a reported 7 year $120M contract. That is $17M a season.

[MedicCook]

Randy Johnson will be announcing his retirement tonight.

Here are a few of his HOF stats.
5 Cy Young awards, 303 wins, 4,875 strikeouts, and a 3.29 ERA in 4,135.3 career innings. Baseball-Reference puts his career earnings at $175.55MM.

[kelmac07]

Way top kick off the 2010 thread Ryan!! :tu Go Mets!!

[Starscream]

Way top kick off the 2010 thread Ryan!! :tu

:wo :wo

[Blueface]

Go Yankees!!!

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

The White Sox have one of their best pitching rotations going into this year. The bullpen should be solid this year as well. Only concern for the sox at this point other than injuries, is run production. Rios and Quentin need to have a good year.

[MedicCook]

On the Red Sox front it is now pretty much a guarentee that Lowell is gone with the signing of Adrian Beltre for 1 year and $10M. Now they have to find someone who actually wants the guy. Red Sox have also decided to move Ellsbury to LF & Cameron to CF. I will bet that this does not last the entire season and Ellsbury will be back in CF.

[kelmac07]

On the Red Sox front it is now pretty much a guarentee that Lowell is gone with the signing of Adrian Beltre for 1 year and $10M. Now they have to find someone who actually wants the guy. Red Sox have also decided to move Ellsbury to LF & Cameron to CF. I will bet that this does not last the entire season and Ellsbury will be back in CF.

Agreed...Ellsbury has much younger wheels. While Cameron is a great CF, I believe Jacoby covers more ground.

[Montano]

I foresee the Giants and Lincecum in the Post Season :)

[PeteSB75]

Holliday to the cards, eh? heck of a 3-4 shot with him and Pujols.

I think Beltre is a good move for the Sox, and he's not costing them too much money. We already knew Lowell was going one way or another.

[St. Lou Stu]

Holliday to the cards, eh? heck of a 3-4 shot with him and Pujols.

I think Beltre is a good move for the Sox, and he's not costing them too much money. We already knew Lowell was going one way or another.

:banger:banger Woot!!!
I thought he was going to slip away too.
On the down side of that deal is the fact that precedence is set for Pujols next year when his current contract is up.
Once they pay his new salary, which is sure to top Holliday by far, they will have 0 cash for any pitching which is exactly why they always fade in the playoffs.

[GreekGodX]

Go Yankees!!!

You're welcome for Curtis Granderson :td

Tigers could suprise some people if our pitchers produce.

[Whynot]

:banger:banger Woot!!!
I thought he was going to slip away too.
On the down side of that deal is the fact that precedence is set for Pujols next year when his current contract is up.
Once they pay his new salary, which is sure to top Holliday by far, they will have 0 cash for any pitching which is exactly why they always fade in the playoffs.

It was really only 1 pitcher that hurt in the playoffs last year. All the bats went dead at once. I'm looking for a healthy year for Ludwick and for Colby to come on strong. I wish they would set Brendan Ryan and Rasmus loose on the base paths a little more. Hopefully Freese can get his act together too. I am also very curious to see how Craig's bat plays and if Jamie Garcie can hold it together at the big league level.

[Bruins Fan]

Looks like the Red Sox are playing for the wild card this year?
The best starting rotation in baseball and a beefed up defense.
Get to the playoffs and win with pitching, I would still like to see them get a thumper.:)

[BigAsh]

Agreed...Ellsbury has much younger wheels. While Cameron is a great CF, I believe Jacoby covers more ground.

Ellsbury can cover left and half of center....guy runs like the wind....

[kelmac07]

Ellsbury can cover left and half of center....guy runs like the wind....

Yet they want to put Cameron in CF??? WTF????

[The Poet]

Yankees Magic Number is 163. :tu

[Blueface]

Yankees Magic Number is 163. :tu

Why?

162 will suffice.:r

[icehog3]

You're welcome for Curtis Granderson :td

Tigers could suprise some people if our pitchers produce.

Gosh, I hope so. ;)

[MedicCook]

Yet they want to put Cameron in CF??? WTF????

This will be an interesting year for the Red Sox. They definately don't have that same team feel they had back in 2004.

[ScottieM]

This will be an interesting year for the Red Sox. They definately don't have that same team feel they had back in 2004.

I hear you. They may have improved there Starting Pitching and Defense but, That Batting Lineup looks pretty tame compared to years past.

[MedicCook]

They are also very weak behind the plate on defense. Big Papi is a huge question mark, Beltre is a big chance for them at 3rd.

[qwerty1500]

:banger:banger Woot!!!
I thought he was going to slip away too.
On the down side of that deal is the fact that precedence is set for Pujols next year when his current contract is up.
Once they pay his new salary, which is sure to top Holliday by far, they will have 0 cash for any pitching which is exactly why they always fade in the playoffs.

"No pitching" That's the song I seem to sing every year about our Cards. Even with Carp and Wayno, I'm am probably still singing it ... force of habit I guess. This time, I wish I felt more comfortable with the bullpen ... expecially uneasy about our "closer." He seemed to fade at the end of last year and no one seems to be talking much about it. Sure hate to give all those games away in the 9th inning.

(The wife was just reading over my shoulder and said, "Yep that sounds like you.")

But, I have the give the ownership some credit for coughing up some cash. Big change from the final years when the brewery owed em.

[MedicCook]

"No pitching" That's the song I seem to sing every year about our Cards. Even with Carp and Wayno, I'm am probably still singing it ... force of habit I guess. This time, I wish I felt more comfortable with the bullpen ... expecially uneasy about our "closer." He seemed to fade at the end of last year and no one seems to be talking much about it. Sure hate to give all those games away in the 9th inning.

(The wife was just reading over my shoulder and said, "Yep that sounds like you.")

But, I have the give the ownership some credit for coughing up some cash. Big change from the final years when the brewery owed em.

They are putting up some serious money for a couple players. Hopefully they don't turn into the Marlins and have a fire sale in a year or two.

[Whynot]

"No pitching" That's the song I seem to sing every year about our Cards. Even with Carp and Wayno, I'm am probably still singing it ... force of habit I guess. This time, I wish I felt more comfortable with the bullpen ... expecially uneasy about our "closer." He seemed to fade at the end of last year and no one seems to be talking much about it. Sure hate to give all those games away in the 9th inning.

(The wife was just reading over my shoulder and said, "Yep that sounds like you.")

But, I have the give the ownership some credit for coughing up some cash. Big change from the final years when the brewery owed em.

I hope Motte can find some movement on his fastball and work out a decent second pitch. I am exited about a couple of the young arms in the system, especially Samuel.

[The Poet]

Were I a Card fan - and I don't hate them, believe me - my big worry would not be signing big-time pitching, nor would I be celebrating overmuch the longterm contract to Matt. Consider this: Pujols has two years left on his contract. If Holliday is worth $17M a year, what the hell is Albert worth - and from whence will it come?

[St. Lou Stu]

"No pitching" Sure hate to give all those games away in the 9th inning.



I am just tickled to death to know that Izzy is finally gone.... no question.

Sure, he was a good closer.... at some point in time. But, when someone loses it, DO NOT continue to put them on the mound because you paid for them and feel the need to 'get your money's worth':confused:

OK, I know he's been gone for a while.... but It still bothers me.:bh

[Whynot]

Were I a Card fan - and I don't hate them, believe me - my big worry would not be signing big-time pitching, nor would I be celebrating overmuch the longterm contract to Matt. Consider this: Pujols has two years left on his contract. If Holliday is worth $17M a year, what the hell is Albert worth - and from whence will it come?

The concensus I see on most boards is that it will take 25-30 a yr to sign Albert. Dewitt has said he will stretch the budget for fim. The Cardinals have also been fairly creative with defered money, althought that will catch up one day. Holiday gets 1.4-1.6m(depending on option) from 2020-2029 from the Cards.

[MedicCook]

The Mets are talking with John Smoltz.

The Rangers are in negotiations with Vlad.

[Bruins Fan]

Smoltz, just don't know when to give it up?
Wow much money does he need? He can't get out big league hitters.:td

[MedicCook]

He pitched pretty good after he left the Red Sox last year.

[rack04]

Can a Phillies fan chime in on what my Astros' can expect of Brett Myers this season?

[Bruins Fan]

Can a Phillies fan chime in on what my Astros' can expect of Brett Myers this season?

Hopefully he wont get drunk and beat up his wife again.
he is not a good human being :td

[kelmac07]

The Mets are talking with John Smoltz.


NOOOOOOO!!!!!!!! No more over the hill free agents for my beloved Mets. haven't we learned our lesson yet? :td :td :td

[rack04]

Hopefully he wont get drunk and beat up his wife again.
he is not a good human being :td

Wow! Thanks for the info. Astros sure signed a real man. :mad:

[St. Lou Stu]

Wow! Thanks for the info. Astros sure signed a real man. :mad:

On a happier note:
McGwire finally admitted what we all knew!:D

[Starscream]

The reds signed Cuban lefty Aroldis Chapman today:

http://www.wcpo.com/news/local/story...YiaUkYKFA.cspx

Here's his stats:

Cuban stats:
GS IP BB K ERA
15 54 54 56 4.52
12 81.1 50 100 2.90
16 74 37 79 3.49
20 118.1 62 130 3.18

[Starscream]

On a happier note:
McGwire finally admitted what we all knew!:D

As long as Griffey is never linked to them.

[rack04]

As long as Griffey is never linked to them.

Griffey never struck me as a roid user.

[St. Lou Stu]

Griffey never struck me as a roid user.

10-4 TX. His swing is fluid power, not ape armed.

[MedicCook]

Now it is official that Roger Maris is still the single season HR King since McGwire, Sosa & Bonds are all proven roiders.

[MedicCook]

Just how the Mets want to start 2010 off. Carlos Beltran on the DL for the next 12 weeks after knee surgery.

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=4824101

[kelmac07]

Just how the Mets want to start 2010 off. Carlos Beltran on the DL for the next 12 weeks after knee surgery.

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=4824101

Why in the hell would you wait til now to have this surgery and not when the season was over??? He is hiding something. Lovely start to the 2010 season for my beloved Mets. :td

[Bruins Fan]

How does Omar Minaya keep is job?
He has to be the most incompetent GM in the history of the game, he has to have pictures?

[Whynot]

Why in the hell would you wait til now to have this surgery and not when the season was over??? He is hiding something. Lovely start to the 2010 season for my beloved Mets. :td

The Cards went through the same crap with Troy Glaus and his shoulder last year. We got a total of about 130 plate appearances out of him.

[St. Lou Stu]

Why in the hell would you wait til now to have this surgery and not when the season was over??? He is hiding something. Lovely start to the 2010 season for my beloved Mets. :td

The Cards went through the same crap with Troy Glaus and his shoulder last year. We got a total of about 130 plate appearances out of him.

Just a guess.... but similar to Glaus (Mr. Mistake).... maybe he was trying physical rehab during the off season in an attempt to avoid surgery?

I know it doesn't make sense, but he coulda skipped the rehab attempt, had the surgery, and been back and in shape by now.

Either way, he's still getting 1.2 bajillion dollars for his DL stint.

[MedicCook]

Why in the hell would you wait til now to have this surgery and not when the season was over??? He is hiding something. Lovely start to the 2010 season for my beloved Mets. :td

That is what I thought when I saw the article. Can Bay play CF? :r

[PeteSB75]

That is what I thought when I saw the article. Can Bay play CF? :r

Bay could barely play the tiny LF at Fenway. Good luck :ss

[VirtualSmitty]

How does Omar Minaya keep is job?
He has to be the most incompetent GM in the history of the game, he has to have pictures?

He is terrible. I like having him at their helm though, ensures there is only ever one good team in NYC :D

[kelmac07]

How does Omar Minaya keep is job?
He has to be the most incompetent GM in the history of the game, he has to have pictures?

I've been asking this same question for three years now. :confused:

That is what I thought when I saw the article. Can Bay play CF? :r

No wheels!!

Bay could barely play the tiny LF at Fenway. Good luck :ss

LOL!! :r

[MedicCook]

Lot's of talking back and forth over this Beltran surgery. The biggest problem with the whole thing is the person named BorASS.

[kelmac07]

Lot's of talking back and forth over this Beltran surgery. The biggest problem with the whole thing is the person named BorASS.

Guess that makes it tough to void his contract...damn Borass!!! :td

[Starscream]

Lincecum wants $13 mil in arbitration, a record for a player eligible his first time.

http://news.cincinnati.com/article/20100119/SPT0401/301190039/1071/SPT04/Lincecum+asks+for++13M+in+arbitration

[MedicCook]

Red Sox and Papelbon agreed to a 1 yr deal. They still will not commit to him long term.

[Starscream]

Red Sox and Papelbon agreed to a 1 yr deal. They still will not commit to him long term.

Good for them; bad for him.
What's his pricetag this year?

[MedicCook]

Good for them; bad for him.
What's his pricetag this year?

1yr $9.35M

[Bruins Fan]

Sox won't commit to him, he has shoulder issues,and don't throw as hard as he used to.
He is looking to be Marino Riviera's replacement in the near future and have the Yanks make him the highest paid pitcher in baseball?
A lot of people are sick of his attitude and his act.

[MedicCook]

I don't want him as a Yankee.

[kelmac07]

Lincecum wants $13 mil in arbitration, a record for a player eligible his first time.

After two consecutive Cy Youngs...I say he's earned it. :2 Plus, he is still very young. They better lock him up while they can.

[Starscream]

After two consecutive Cy Youngs...I say he's earned it. :2 Plus, he is still very young. They better lock him up while they can.

I agree.

[VirtualSmitty]

I don't want him as a Yankee.

Me neither! He's no Rivera.

[PeteSB75]

It's good for the Sox, imo, because it gives him constant incentive to perform. They also seem to be reluctant to lock up any relievers to long term deals. Bard is waiting in the wings if they decide not to sign him within the next few.

[Wanger]

After two consecutive Cy Youngs...I say he's earned it. :2 Plus, he is still very young. They better lock him up while they can.

Here's where the quandry is. He's had less than 3 years of experience in the league, and while he's been nothing short of amazing so far, I've read that there are questions about how long he'll hold up with his violent motion. My Twins had a guy like that...Francisco Liriano, and he's still trying to get his mojo back.

As for my Twinkies, I like resigning Pavano, and the trade for Hardy. But what they really need is a consistent presence at 3rd. They have a prospect who is supposed to be a stud (Valencia), but he's not ready yet. Mauer NEEDS that extension, and it would be a HUGE toll on the franchise if they don't do it. But I think they will, as he has an agent known for keeping his guys in the same place. The pitching staff has another year of experience and how they do really depends on how Liriano can bounce back and Slowey comes back from his wrist injury. I'll roll with Baker and Blackburn, and the bullpen looks fairly sound, especially with Neshek coming back.

But since they never make a huge splash in the offseason, I think it'll be another 1 series and done, if they make it to the playoffs. Should be an interesting race between 3 teams for 1 playoff spot (Twins, Sox, Tiggers).

[VirtualSmitty]

Well the Mets traded for one of the most over paid, under achieving players in the game and acquired Gary Matthews Jr :r

[BigAsh]

Another notch on Omar's belt!.....I love it!:r

[MedicCook]

Mets are not paying for him though.

[kelmac07]

Well the Mets traded for one of the most over paid, under achieving players in the game and acquired Gary Matthews Jr :r

I don't know why, but I like this pick-up. I think he will fit in well and he has something to prove coming off a sh@tty year.

Mets are not paying for him though.

It's about time!!! We pay for everything else.

[MedicCook]

I think Matthews will do good with the Mets. He is an excellent fielder and with the size of CitiField he is not going to be expected to hit HR's. Plus the Mets are not paying him so it is a great deal for them.

[TheTraveler]

Mets are not paying for him though.

I don't understand? How is he playing for them but they're not paying him?

Oh, I should go ahead and admit that I know almost nothing about the behind-the-scenes stuff .... and as for salaries, well, I stopped following the game after the big strike in the nineties and I'm only coming back to the fold because I've developed an ability to avoid thinking about the money while I watch a game. :D

[VirtualSmitty]

I don't know why, but I like this pick-up. I think he will fit in well and he has something to prove coming off a sh@tty year.


He hasn't had a good year since he played in Texas. Which was a few years ago. It isn't a bad move for the mets since the Angels are picking up most of his salary (I think the mets only have to pay him 2 mill) but still I don't see a guy who has spent the last few years warming the bench making much of an impact.

[MedicCook]

He is only there to fill in while Beltran is on the DL to start the season. Before this trade they had really no options for a centerfielder.

[BigAsh]

I don't know why, but I like this pick-up. I think he will fit in well and he has something to prove coming off a sh@tty year.

Mac....The eternal optomist....I think its kinda cute :r:r:r:r

[VirtualSmitty]

Yankees signed Randy Winn today, which I guess officially closes the door on Johhny Damon. Guess they just want a stop gap till Craw ford becomes a free agent in 2011.

[The Poet]

Yankees signed Randy Winn today, which I guess officially closes the door on Johhny Damon. Guess they just want a stop gap till Craw ford becomes a free agent in 2011.

I am pissed. Like a lot of Yankee fans, I wanted them to keep both Matsui and Damon, and to hell with the pricetag. What if Godzilla can't play the field? He's proven to be clutch at the plate, and never caused a problem. And what if Damon wasn't great in the field either? He could hit for decent average and power, make more plays than he missed, steal a few bags when needed, and turned out to be a better guy than I expected when he came to us from Baastun. But the word was they'd keep only one or the other, yet it seems we'll have neither. I like Nick Johnson well enough on the bench, but do I have faith in him every day? Nope. Damon proved he can handle the pressure in NYC. Will Curtis, or would a hypothetical Crawford? Who knows?

Shoot, Hank, take a lesson from your daddy . . . it's only money.

[kelmac07]

Mac....The eternal optomist....I think its kinda cute :r

With the Mets last few years...I gotta be an optomist!! :r :r Crawford a Yankee? I hope not...he would look better in blue and orange. :tu

[Starscream]

This may be old news, but Randy "The Big Unit" Johnson has officially retired. Truly a great career and one of (if not the) the best southpaws in the game.

[The Poet]

With the Mets last few years...I gotta be an optomist!! :r :r Crawford a Yankee? I hope not...he would look better in blue and orange. :tu


What's that $#!+, Mac? I like you, but WTF? Everybody looks better in pinstripes! Even you! :D

[kelmac07]

What's that $#!+, Mac? I like you, but WTF? Everybody looks better in pinstripes! Even you! :D

Tom...that isn't gonna happen! I won't even allow Yankee atire in my house. :r :r :r

[MedicCook]

I do not want to see Crawford as a Yankee. He is past his prime and would be a bad signing to a long term big money contract.

[VirtualSmitty]

Not MLB news exactly, but did anyone else catch some of the Caribbean World Series last night? Watched the Mexico/ Venezuela , was a pretty good game. Vinny Castilla was back in uniform for team Mexico!

[MedicCook]

The Tigers sign Justin Verlander to a 5 yr contract for $80M. Now the real question is how many years will he play for the Tigers before they cry poverty and have to trade him?

[kelmac07]

The Tigers sign Justin Verlander to a 5 yr contract for $80M. Now the real question is how many years will he play for the Tigers before they cry poverty and have to trade him?

Next year...after they finish in last place this year. :D

[VirtualSmitty]

Next year...after they finish in last place this year. :D

I think longer than that, even with all the players they lost I still think they are better than Cleveland and Kansas City.

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

I think longer than that, even with all the players they lost I still think they are better than Cleveland and Kansas City.

I could see the Royals finishing better than the Tigers this year:2

[kelmac07]

I could see the Royals finishing better than the Tigers this year:2

And if the Tribes young pitching develops...look out. :D

[VirtualSmitty]

I could see the Royals finishing better than the Tigers this year:2

Doubt that. Royals don't have as good starting pitching, offense, or bullpen. I see the Tigers finishing third behind the Twins and the White Sox.

[MedicCook]

The Royals have 1 good pitcher.

[TheTraveler]

The Royals have 1 good pitcher.

Greinke?

[MedicCook]

Greinke?

Yup. Can you imagine how his stats would look if he had a team that could score runs for him?

[TheTraveler]

Yup. Can you imagine how his stats would look if he had a team that could score runs for him?

I just watched the game from 2009 (on MLB dot com) where he broke the Royal's record for K's in one game. That was a good baseball game to watch. :) It was funny because there's some fan that puts up little signs that spell his first name 'Z' 'A' 'C' 'K' and then another 'K' for every strikeout he gets. The fan ran out of 'K' signs and had to write two on paper! :r (not laughing at the fan, laughing with pleasure at the 15 K's)

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Doubt that. Royals don't have as good starting pitching, offense, or bullpen. I see the Tigers finishing third behind the Twins and the White Sox.

The Royals bullpen is a mess. As well as the offense, but I think the Royals starting pitching could hold their own to the Tigers. With that said, both teams look bad this year.

[VirtualSmitty]

The Royals bullpen is a mess. As well as the offense, but I think the Royals starting pitching could hold their own to the Tigers. With that said, both teams look bad this year.

How so exactly? The Tigers top three are Verlander-Porcello-Scherzer, the Royals have Greinke-Meche-Bannister. That's nowhere near as good as Detroit, I can't see them holding their own with only one good starting pitcher. Plus the tigers have two other pretty good starters in Galarraga and Bonderman as four and five starters. And with the tigers adding Coke, Valverde, and Schlereth they have a much better bullpen.

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

How so exactly? The Tigers top three are Verlander-Porcello-Scherzer, the Royals have Greinke-Meche-Bannister. That's nowhere near as good as Detroit, I can't see them holding their own with only one good starting pitcher. Plus the tigers have two other pretty good starters in Galarraga and Bonderman as four and five starters. And with the tigers adding Coke, Valverde, and Schlereth they have a much better bullpen.


Greinke was the best pitcher in baseball last year. Hands down. Certainly better than Verlander.

Porcello had an ERA close to 4 last year, and in 170 innings, gave up 75 ER's, 23 HR's, walked 52, and had 89 SO's. Meche, playing in 129 innings, had more strikeouts at 95. Meche had 1 shutout, Porcello had none. Meche certainly isn't a great pitcher, but he has been in the league long enough to know what it takes. Porcello, while he had more wins because he actually had offense to support him, really doesn't seem to be that great either, and comparable to Meche.

Its the same story with both teams' number 3's. Both Scherzer and Bannister are not good pitchers. Both had similar 2009's, and neither one has proven anything great.

The bullpen really isn't an argument. Tigers clearly on top.

[VirtualSmitty]

Greinke was the best pitcher in baseball last year. Hands down. Certainly better than Verlander.

Porcello had an ERA close to 4 last year, and in 170 innings, gave up 75 ER's, 23 HR's, walked 52, and had 89 SO's. Meche, playing in 129 innings, had more strikeouts at 95. Meche had 1 shutout, Porcello had none. Meche certainly isn't a great pitcher, but he has been in the league long enough to know what it takes. Porcello, while he had more wins because he actually had offense to support him, really doesn't seem to be that great either, and comparable to Meche.

Its the same story with both teams' number 3's. Both Scherzer and Bannister are not good pitchers. Both had similar 2009's, and neither one has proven anything great.

The bullpen really isn't an argument. Tigers clearly on top.

Porcello had a great year considering it was his first in the majors. He was a contender for rookie of the year, your the first person i've heard say he didn't look great. He is only going to get better with time, Meche isn't. And Scherzer is better than you give him credit, 9-11 with 174 SOs in 170 innings pitched. ERA over 4 but i'd take him over Bannister any day of the week. Guy throws gas and he's moving into a more pitcher friendly ballpark.

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Porcello had a great year considering it was his first in the majors. He was a contender for rookie of the year, your the first person i've heard say he didn't look great. He is only going to get better with time, Meche isn't. And Scherzer is better than you give him credit, 9-11 with 174 SOs in 170 innings pitched. ERA over 4 but i'd take him over Bannister any day of the week. Guy throws gas and he's moving into a more pitcher friendly ballpark.


Did Porcello pitch some good games last year, yes. But, isn't it a little early to call him a great pitcher? He is still too young, he has lots of learning to do. He has great potential in the league, don't get me wrong, but with one decent year under his belt, I'm not willing to bet on him.

[The Poet]

There seems to be a whole lotta talk here about the AL Central, so lemme toss in my two cents: I see it as being pretty much what it is nearly every year, with all the other teams falling all over themselves to give that division to the Twinkies.

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

There seems to be a whole lotta talk here about the AL Central, so lemme toss in my two cents: I see it as being pretty much what it is nearly every year, with all the other teams falling all over themselves to give that division to the Twinkies.

I don't understand why they got rid of Carlos Gomez for JJ Hardy?

What are your thoughts on the White Sox starting rotation?

[The Poet]

What are your thoughts on the White Sox starting rotation?

Don't know them that well, since they don't wear pinstripes. :r

I'd say Buehrle pretty dang good, and Peave's not bad, but what else they got to start the other 3 days? As for their pen, Jenks is a keeper, and Garcia's OK - except when he isn't. Aside from that, it's "pitch as pitch can", like most other bullpens in both leagues. Again, just :2, and worth every penny.

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Don't know them that well, since they don't wear pinstripes. :r

I'd say Buehrle pretty dang good, and Peave's not bad, but what else they got to start the other 3 days? As for their pen, Jenks is a keeper, and Garcia's OK - except when he isn't. Aside from that, it's "pitch as pitch can", like most other bullpens in both leagues. Again, just :2, and worth every penny.

Ask me what I know about the Yanks:r
IMHO, the White Sox have the best pitching(both starting rotation and bullpen) in the Al central. You know what your getting from Burls, Peavy has been proven as well. Both are aces in my book. Floyd is a solid pitcher, winning 17 games in 2008, ERA of 3.84, 206 innings, 144 SO, and batters only average .241 against him. His 2009 was ok, almost 200 innings pitched again, and 163 strikeouts with an ERA just over 4. Danks is similar, in 2009 ERA at 3.77, 200 innings pitched, 149 strikeouts, and batters averaged .245 against him.
The bullpen is the best they have had in the past 5 years. Jenks, Thornton, Putz, and Linebrink are all proven in the bullpen.

[VirtualSmitty]

What are your thoughts on the White Sox starting rotation?

Best in the division possibly. Depends if Buehrle gets over his David Cone syndrome and if Peavy manages to stay healthy all year. John Danks is pretty good I think, not sure about the rest of the rotation though.

I think it will be a toss up between the Twins and Sox. Twins are solid across the board and really upgraded their offense nicely this off season. Detroit could hang around, but I think they really gonna need another bat after all the offense they lost this of season. The AL central and west divisions should be really fun given all the changes!

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Best in the division possibly. Depends if Buehrle gets over his David Cone syndrome and if Peavy manages to stay healthy all year. John Danks is pretty good I think, not sure about the rest of the rotation though.

I think it will be a toss up between the Twins and Sox. Twins are solid across the board and really upgraded their offense nicely this off season. Detroit could hang around, but I think they really gonna need another bat after all the offense they lost this of season. The AL central and west divisions should be really fun given all the changes!

I agree. It will be close between the Twins and Sox.
The Twins look really good especially after adding Hudson.

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Left-hander Erik Bedard has passed his physical and signed a one-year contract with the Mariners. The contract, which has a $1.5 million base salary and up to $6 million in incentives, also includes a mutual option for 2011.

[MedicCook]

The Mariners might be the most improved team in baseball this off-season.

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

The Mariners might be the most improved team in baseball this off-season.

With the exception for Milton Bradley:D

[MedicCook]

With the exception for Milton Bradley:D

He could have been a great player if he was not such an a-hole and let his temper affect his game.

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

He could have been a great player if he was not such an a-hole and let his temper affect his game.

Yep. And imo, he is going to have a great year with Seattle:2

[MedicCook]

Yep. And imo, he is going to have a great year with Seattle:2

I think he will have a great first 2 months then he will be all hopped up on Starbucks and go crazy. :r

[kelmac07]

With Thome and Hudson...Twins look good too.

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

I think he will have a great first 2 months then he will be all hopped up on Starbucks and go crazy. :r

:r:r

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

With Thome and Hudson...Twins look good too.

:tf

[ScottishSmoker]

I can't say I think the Twins are going to fare all that well...every year they bolster their roster with players that are well past their peak years. The bullpen is one of the weakest places for the Twins, and maybe I missed it, I don't recall them doing anything at all too improve that...they will do well, but definitely not a Championship team...the AL Central seems way too early to call...

[kelmac07]

I can't say I think the Twins are going to fare all that well...every year they bolster their roster with players that are well past their peak years. The bullpen is one of the weakest places for the Twins, and maybe I missed it, I don't recall them doing anything at all too improve that...they will do well, but definitely not a Championship team...the AL Central seems way too early to call...

Just saying the White Sox imrpoved a bit...as did the Twins. I actually like the Twins pick-ups a bit better. The Tigers...:td. The Indians...I don't think so. Royals...need I say more. The Twins have a great shot at winning the AL Central.

[The Poet]

I have a ton of respect for the Twinkie organization . . . up to a point. No matter what they do, it always seems to come up smelling like roses. They will have a good shot at winning the Central, yet not nearly as good a chance of taking it all.

[VirtualSmitty]

Never count the Twins out.

On a side note, the Yankees brought Marcus Thames back with a minor league deal and an invite to spring training. Not a bad idea, I like him a lot more than I do Randy Winn.

[TheTraveler]

Not that it may matter to anyone and at the risk of derailing the conversation I have to make an admission: I have decided to NOT blindly hate the Yankees this year. I am by no means a fan but I've been surfing another board devoted entirely to baseball and let me tell you ... I'm VERY glad to be a member here where people seem to have a good bit of restraint, patience and acceptance of others' rights to have opinions. Those guys seem to enjoy blindly hating anyone and everyone who doesn't follow their team, or even those who aren't "true" fans for blah blah blah reason blah blah blah to infinity. It stopped me being a Yankee hater anyway.

/threadjack

I'm sure all the Twins fans are crossing their fingers in the hopes that their boys make a good showing this year at their new park like the Yankees did with theirs last year. Or at least make it to the playoffs to break in the new yard. :)

[MedicCook]

I think the Twins will take the central, Mariners take the west, Yankees take the east and the Red Sox take the wild card.

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

I'll go with the White Sox taking first in the central, the Angels taking the west, BoSox in the east, and finally the Yanks getting the wild card.

[MedicCook]

:tu

Hall of Fame Classic making return

COOPERSTOWN, N.Y. -- The Baseball Hall of Fame will hold a second annual Hall of Fame Classic on Father's Day this year.

Hall president Jeff Idelson says tickets for the June 20 old-timer's game at Doubleday Field will go on sale in Cooperstown on March 20.

The Hall began a Father's Day weekend last June, with five Hall of Famers and more than 20 other former major leaguers making the trip. The game replaced the annual exhibition game between major league teams, which was discontinued because it had become too difficult to fit into the regular-season schedule.

The Hall said Monday that this year's seven-inning exhibition game will feature seven Hall of Famers: Rollie Fingers, Goose Gossage, Bob Feller, Phil Niekro, Gary Carter, Harmon Killebrew and Mike Schmidt.

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=4898036

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Nice:tu

[VirtualSmitty]

I think the Twins will take the central, Mariners take the west, Yankees take the east and the Red Sox take the wild card.

:tpd: That's exactly how I think it will play out too.

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

D-backs ace Brandon Webb threw off a mound on Tuesday for the first time since having surgery on his right shoulder in August. The right-hander has said that if things keep progressing as they have, he does not see any reason why he would not be ready for the start of the season.

[MedicCook]

They really need Webb if they want to have a shot at a good season.

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Both Webb and Haren need good years.

[MedicCook]

This is a contract year for Webb also I think.

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

The White Sox announced Monday that Luis Aparicio has given his consent for Omar Vizquel to wear No. 11 in his first year with the White Sox, as the number will be un-retired by the organization for Vizquel to wear in tribute.

Career numbers for Vizquel and Aparicio are remarkably similar. Aparicio played 18 seasons in total, with 10 coming for the White Sox. He hit .262 with 2,677 career hits, 506 stolen bases and 10 All-Star appearances, earning the American League Rookie of the Year Award in 1956, while also picking up nine Gold Gloves for his elite defense at shortstop. His Gold Glove total stands two fewer than Vizquel's amazing total of 11 at the same position. Vizquel, who turns 43 on April 24, has a .273 career average, 2,704 hits, 389 stolen bases and three All-Star appearances. He stands as the all-time leader among shortstops in games played at 2,681 and with 1,722 double plays.

[MedicCook]

I read this earlier. Omar is definately the type of player that understand the history that goes with wearing this uniform.

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

This is a contract year for Webb also I think.

Yeah, has one year left the Dbacks.

[MedicCook]

Yeah, has one year left the Dbacks.

Which means if he is pitching good say around July 31st he could find a new home in the Northeast. :r

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

I read this earlier. Omar is definately the type of player that understand the history that goes with wearing this uniform.

It is going to be great getting to see him play in a Sox uniform, number 11 to boot. He will be great just to have around the guys even though he is not playing everday.

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Which means if he is pitching good say around July 31st he could find a new home in the Northeast. :r


You guys don't need him:r

[MedicCook]

It is going to be great getting to see him play in a Sox uniform, number 11 to boot. He will be great just to have around the guys even though he is not playing everday.

I have a feeling when he retires which will probably be after this year he is going to find himself on the coaching staff of the White Sox.

[MedicCook]

You guys don't need him:r

You can never have enough pitching. :tu

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

I have a feeling when he retires which will probably be after this year he is going to find himself on the coaching staff of the White Sox.

That would great to see. He is the type of player that can be a great coach.

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Granderson was a huge pick up for the Yankees. He will have a great year.

[MedicCook]

Granderson was a huge pick up for the Yankees. He will have a great year.

I am hoping he likes those RF seats. :r I think he may be playing more LF then center though. I stil like Gardner in CF.

[kelmac07]

I am hoping he likes those RF seats. :r I think he may be playing more LF then center though. I stil like Gardner in CF.

Gardner in CF? Come on Ryan...Granderson is head and shoulders above him.

[MedicCook]

Gardner in CF? Come on Ryan...Granderson is head and shoulders above him.

Girardi has already said that the OF spots are fluid and no set order has been made. Gardner is faster then Granderson and I think Granderson would actually be better in LF sicne he has a better arm than Brett.

[Whynot]

I do not want to see Crawford as a Yankee. He is past his prime and would be a bad signing to a long term big money contract.

? He turns 29 towards the end of the season. For a hitter, he is entering his prime years. Six stolen bases in one game. He can afford to lose a step over the next 5 years or so. That said, I don't want to see him on the Yankees either.

[kelmac07]

Girardi has already said that the OF spots are fluid and no set order has been made. Gardner is faster then Granderson and I think Granderson would actually be better in LF sicne he has a better arm than Brett.

I agree with that logic brother!! Granderson does have the better arm...and Gardner is a TAD faster. But I still think Granderson has the better glove. If nothing else, they have upgraded from Damon (no arm, iffy glove) * Matsui (no glove, weak arm). But they are going to miss Damon as he is a gamer...noone grits it out like he does.

[MedicCook]

I agree with that logic brother!! Granderson does have the better arm...and Gardner is a TAD faster. But I still think Granderson has the better glove. If nothing else, they have upgraded from Damon (no arm, iffy glove) * Matsui (no glove, weak arm). But they are going to miss Damon as he is a gamer...noone grits it out like he does.

At the plate they are going to miss Damon but at the price he wants it was not worth it. The fact that no other team is willing to even negotiate with BorASS for him should be a clue to drop BorASS and lower your price a little.

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

More players are starting to show up at spring training now.:banger

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Free-agent left-hander Jarrod Washburn said Wednesday that he is waiting for the "right offer," is in no hurry to sign a new contract and retiring is an option.

As the clock ticks toward the start of Spring Training, Washburn is on the same pre-camp routine as always, running and playing catch almost every day.

"I'm just sitting back to see what comes my way," Washburn said.


Interesting..

[kelmac07]

Free-agent left-hander Jarrod Washburn said Wednesday that he is waiting for the "right offer," is in no hurry to sign a new contract and retiring is an option.

As the clock ticks toward the start of Spring Training, Washburn is on the same pre-camp routine as always, running and playing catch almost every day.

"I'm just sitting back to see what comes my way," Washburn said.


Interesting..

Mets haven't grabbed one pitcher in the off-season. I'd take a gamble on Washburn.

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Mets haven't grabbed one pitcher in the off-season. I'd take a gamble on Washburn.

You guys could use him.

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Id put him in the 2 spot

[MedicCook]

Id put him in the 2 spot

Is that the rotation or DL. :r

[MedicCook]

Frank Thomas will be announcing his retirement. He is 18th on the career HR list with 521 and to my knowledge has never been implicated in a steroid scandal.

[MedicCook]

Tom Glavine is also expected to announce his retirement. He is a 300 game winner. :tu

[Whynot]

2 of my favorites growing up. I think Glavine and Maddux will go in the Hall together 4 yrs from now. Glavine should be eligible then since he didn't pitch last year. I think the days of 300 game winners are dwindling.

[MedicCook]

You are correct about 300 game winners. We may see 1 or 2 more in our lifetime.

[kelmac07]

Is that the rotation or DL. :r

Ahhh...and the jokes commence!! :r :r

[Darrell]

The Giants and Tim settled before walking into the arbitration hearing this morning.

Lincecum gets 8 mil in 2010, 13mil in 2011 plus 2 mil signing bonus (1 mil each year).

[MedicCook]

Ahhh...and the jokes commence!! :r :r

Sorry Mac, it's hard not to. :D

[Starscream]

Any A's fans in here?
I want to know why the A's wanted Rosales and Tavares from Cincinnati, only to DFA Tavares as soon as he arrives? This makes no sense.:confused:
We dumped Tavares so I can't complain, I just don't see the logic in it from the A's perspective.

[kelmac07]

Didn't make sense to me either Andy. :confused:

[MedicCook]

Any A's fans in here?
I want to know why the A's wanted Rosales and Tavares from Cincinnati, only to DFA Tavares as soon as he arrives? This makes no sense.:confused:
We dumped Tavares so I can't complain, I just don't see the logic in it from the A's perspective.

Maybe they had to take him to get Rosales.

[Starscream]

Maybe they had to take him to get Rosales.

Rosales has hustle, but he's not worth the overall price they spent if that was the reason. They put pretty much paid about 1.5 to 2 million for him. Not worth it for a guy who probably won't make the 40 man roster after ST.

[MedicCook]

Well nobody said the A's were smart.

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Any predictions on where Damon will be?

[MedicCook]

If it is true that the Braves offered $4M 1yr, White Sox offered $3.5M 1yr, and the Tigers $14M 2 yr, I would put my money on Detroit.

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

If it is true that the Braves offered $4M 1yr, White Sox offered $3.5M 1yr, and the Tigers $14M 2 yr, I would put my money on Detroit.

Thats where I thought he will end up. The 2 year deal is what Damon is looking for.

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

The Big Hurt talks about his accomplishments and his path to get where he is. Imo, the BEST hitter the White Sox have ever seen. His numbers show.

http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20100212&content_id=8070570&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

The D-backs avoided arbitration with Edwin Jackson on Sunday night by agreeing to a two-year contract with the recently acquired right-hander.

[kelmac07]

Thats where I thought he will end up. The 2 year deal is what Damon is looking for.

Gonna be hard going back to those losing ways...but then again...he had years of practice with Kansas City. :r :r

[MedicCook]

Mark Mulder is going to be retiring. Has not done much since rotator cufff surgery September 2006.

[VirtualSmitty]

Gonna be hard going back to those losing ways...but then again...he had years of practice with Kansas City. :r :r

Same holds true for Carlos Beltran when he comes off the DL :r:r:r

[kelmac07]

Same holds true for Carlos Beltran when he comes off the DL :r:r:r

And the hits just keep on coming. :r :r

[Whynot]

Mark Mulder is going to be retiring. Has not done much since rotator cufff surgery September 2006.

It seemed like such a good move at the time. Dan Haren is a stud now, and Mulder ate up a lot of money. He busted his a$$ rehabbing and I wish it could have worked for him. His agent is saying he is not retired.

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Same holds true for Carlos Beltran when he comes off the DL :r:r:r

:r:r

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Mark McGwire arrived at the Cardinals' Spring Training camp today and got right to work:rolleyes:

[MedicCook]

Mark McGwire arrived at the Cardinals' Spring Training camp today and got right to work:rolleyes:

Injecting? :r

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Injecting? :r

bingo:D

[MedicCook]

It is a wonderful day today now that Spring Training is here.

[TheTraveler]

It is a wonderful day today now that Spring Training is here.

:banger

Now, just marking Xs on the calendar until Opening Day. :D

My problem is that I need to decide what team to root for. I've reached a strange point in my baseball fan life: I statyed away from MLB for 17 years. I still feel a few tugs of loyalty to my favorite teams from my teenage years but not the normal undying, FAN loyalty. It's almost as though I'm free to find new favorites, or even to root for everyone. I don't know, just rambling I guess. I'm just excited about spring training and a new season for the first time in almost two decades so I'd probably root for 9 drunk gophers if you could just put gloves and spikes on 'em and get 'em on the field! :D

So, who to root for?

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

It is a wonderful day today now that Spring Training is here.

Finally.....

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

:banger

Now, just marking Xs on the calendar until Opening Day. :D

:r

That will be an even better day

[VirtualSmitty]

:banger

Now, just marking Xs on the calendar until Opening Day. :D

My problem is that I need to decide what team to root for. I've reached a strange point in my baseball fan life: I statyed away from MLB for 17 years. I still feel a few tugs of loyalty to my favorite teams from my teenage years but not the normal undying, FAN loyalty. It's almost as though I'm free to find new favorites, or even to root for everyone. I don't know, just rambling I guess. I'm just excited about spring training and a new season for the first time in almost two decades so I'd probably root for 9 drunk gophers if you could just put gloves and spikes on 'em and get 'em on the field! :D

So, who to root for?

So many choices. It's actually pretty tough to narrow down on one team. I've been a lifelong Yankees fan, but I love good baseball and often find myself rooting for teams that play good ball. And i've always had a soft spot for the Tigers, my first ball game was a Yanks/Tigers game back in 86, I find myself rooting for them when they aren't playing the Yanks.

And then sometimes I find myself rooting for the underdogs, but only in the National League. I catch a lot of Nationals games in my parts, find myself hoping they have a better year. And if they or the Yankees aren't on, i'll pretty much root for whoever is playing against the Mets :r

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

:banger

Now, just marking Xs on the calendar until Opening Day. :D

My problem is that I need to decide what team to root for. I've reached a strange point in my baseball fan life: I statyed away from MLB for 17 years. I still feel a few tugs of loyalty to my favorite teams from my teenage years but not the normal undying, FAN loyalty. It's almost as though I'm free to find new favorites, or even to root for everyone. I don't know, just rambling I guess. I'm just excited about spring training and a new season for the first time in almost two decades so I'd probably root for 9 drunk gophers if you could just put gloves and spikes on 'em and get 'em on the field! :D

So, who to root for?


Which team did you root for in the past?

[kelmac07]

It is a wonderful day today now that Spring Training is here.

Oh yeah!!! :tu :tu

[qwerty1500]

It is a wonderful day today now that Spring Training is here.

:tu It's been a long winter.

[TheTraveler]

Which team did you root for in the past?

Mostly the Cubs, Indians and Mets.

My first and only time attending an MLB game in person was in Cleveland, I've got family in Cleveland, their stadium mustard ROCKS and they've pretty much always been the underdogs so I can't help but keep rooting for them!

I've always enjoyed watching Cubs games. When I was a kid we didn't have cable TV but my grandmother did. When I spent the summer with her I'd try to catch Cubs games on WGN - I liked Harry Carey and Wrigley Field looked great in the summer sun (on TV of course).

And I was playing little league baseball when the Mets came on so strong in the 80s and naturally gravitated towards them because my uncle and cousin were always rooting for them.

But after such a long hiatus from the game the only team I feel any tug of loyalty to is Cleveland. Harry's gone from the Cubbies and the Mets are .... well, the Mets. :) I feel like I've got an almost blank slate now.

Maybe I'll follow the Nationals for a while, see how that goes. Dunno.

Anyway, I'm really looking forward to this season. Bring on the hot dogs and peanuts and beer and cigars!!!

[Whynot]

Injecting? :r

Word is A-Rod's cousin is supplying using Pettite's dads prescription to get them.:rolleyes:

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Mostly the Cubs, Indians and Mets.

My first and only time attending an MLB game in person was in Cleveland, I've got family in Cleveland, their stadium mustard ROCKS and they've pretty much always been the underdogs so I can't help but keep rooting for them!

I've always enjoyed watching Cubs games. When I was a kid we didn't have cable TV but my grandmother did. When I spent the summer with her I'd try to catch Cubs games on WGN - I liked Harry Carey and Wrigley Field looked great in the summer sun (on TV of course).

And I was playing little league baseball when the Mets came on so strong in the 80s and naturally gravitated towards them because my uncle and cousin were always rooting for them.

But after such a long hiatus from the game the only team I feel any tug of loyalty to is Cleveland. Harry's gone from the Cubbies and the Mets are .... well, the Mets. :) I feel like I've got an almost blank slate now.

Maybe I'll follow the Nationals for a while, see how that goes. Dunno.

Anyway, I'm really looking forward to this season. Bring on the hot dogs and peanuts and beer and cigars!!!


I would follow the team(or teams) you grew up watching. They would probably be more exciting and meaningful to watch and follow:2

And yeah, bring on the sausages, beer, dogs, and cigars!!

[kelmac07]

Stick to the Mets Jonathan!! :tu :D

[BigAsh]

Stick to the Mets Jonathan!! :tu :D

Yep...Mac's right Jonathon...watch the Mets....looking UP to the Phillies!!
:r

[TheTraveler]

Yep...Mac's right Jonathon...watch the Mets....looking BACK TOWARDS the Phillies!!
:r

*fixed it for you* :r


Yep, the old Orange & Blue still pull at me. Gonna have to watch 'em. :)

[MedicCook]

*fixed it for you* :r


Yep, the old Orange & Blue still pull at me. Gonna have to watch 'em. :)

Don't worry it is not hard to watch the Mets. Usually they are sitting at the end of the bench waiting to get off the DL. :r

[kelmac07]

*fixed it for you* :r

Yep, the old Orange & Blue still pull at me. Gonna have to watch 'em. :)

Nice!! :tu

Yep...Mac's right Jonathon...watch the Mets....looking UP to the Phillies!!:r

We'll see Keith!!

Don't worry it is not hard to watch the Mets. Usually they are sitting at the end of the bench waiting to get off the DL. :r

Not this year (keeping my fingers crossed).

[MedicCook]

Some Johnny Damon news. The Tigers offerred 2 years $14M, but Damon does not want to play in Detroit. :r So now BorASS is trying to get the White Sox serious. They have a 1yr $4-5M deal out there for Damon.

[rack04]

Some Johnny Damon news. The Tigers offerred 2 years $14M, but Damon does not want to play in Detroit. :r So now BorASS is trying to get the White Sox serious. They have a 1yr $4-5M deal out there for Damon.

I f'n can't stand BorASS. Screw Carlos Beltran. GO ASTROS!

[Khafre]

Any Orioles fans in here? I'm looking forward to another losing season!

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Some Johnny Damon news. The Tigers offerred 2 years $14M, but Damon does not want to play in Detroit. :r So now BorASS is trying to get the White Sox serious. They have a 1yr $4-5M deal out there for Damon.

http://chicago.whitesox.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20100217&content_id=8089214&vkey=news_cws&fext=.jsp&c_id=cws


It looks like Damon is leaning towards Chicago:tu

[VirtualSmitty]

http://chicago.whitesox.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20100217&content_id=8089214&vkey=news_cws&fext=.jsp&c_id=cws


It looks like Damon is leaning towards Chicago:tu

Guess they won't be doing the DH by committee like Ozzie said when they elected not to resign Thome.

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Guess they won't be doing the DH by committee like Ozzie said when they elected not to resign Thome.

They will be using the "committee" dh like Ozzie said. Damon will probably rotate with Rios or Pierre. If the sox get Damon, their bench is going to be insane:D

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

The Angels announced today that they have avoided arbitration with shortstop Erick Aybar, settling on a contract for 2010. While the club has a policy of not releasing contract figures, the deal is worth $2.05 million, according to Enrique Rojas of ESPNDeportes. Aybar had been seeking $2.75 million, with the club offering $1.8 million.

[kelmac07]

Damon as a White Sock?? I guess stranger things have happened. Delgado is sitll out there...but not certain he could last a full season. :D

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Damon as a White Sock?? I guess stranger things have happened. Delgado is sitll out there...but not certain he could last a full season. :D



:r

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

The white sox pull initial offer to Damon. We should know today or tomorrow if Damon wants to play in Chicago.

[VirtualSmitty]

The white sox pull initial offer to Damon. We should know today or tomorrow if Damon wants to play in Chicago.

Looks like Damon is going to Detroit. Good pick up for the Tigers, that's for sure.

[icehog3]

Looks like Damon is going to Detroit. Good pick up for the Tigers, that's for sure.

I'd rather have Granderson back.

[kelmac07]

Looks like Damon is going to Detroit. Good pick up for the Tigers, that's for sure.

1 year for $ 7 million. He could have had that from the Yankees if he didn't trust BorASS!! Hope he gets used to losing...this year is going to a rough one on Detroit. Sorry Tom!!!

[icehog3]

1 year for $ 7 million. He could have had that from the Yankees if he didn't trust BorASS!! Hope he gets used to losing...this year is going to a rough one on Detroit. Sorry Tom!!!

The years I think the Tigers are going to be good, they suck. So maybe with low expectations, they will actually be in the race, Mac! :r

[MedicCook]

Looks like Damon is going to Detroit. Good pick up for the Tigers, that's for sure.

Which offer would you pick?

2 yrs $14M with the defending World Series Champions or 1 yr $8M for a team that will not even make the playoffs.

Johnny Damon free agency = FAIL!!!!

[kelmac07]

The years I think the Tigers are going to be good, they suck. So maybe with low expectations, they will actually be in the race, Mac! :r

They do have Verlander!! :tu

Which offer would you pick?

2 yrs $14M with the defending World Series Champions or 1 yr $8M for a team that will not even make the playoffs.

Johnny Damon free agency = FAIL!!!!

One word...BorASS!!! :td

[MedicCook]

I would never negotiate with his firm if I was a GM or owner.

[icehog3]

They do have Verlander!! :tu



One word...BorASS!!! :td

I wish Damon had signed with the Yankees too, maybe Detroit could have signed someone who wasn't on the decline.

Verlander can't do it all....maybe Dontrell Willis will suddenly become sane. :r

[MedicCook]

Dontrell Willis? :r :r :r :r

[icehog3]

Dontrell Willis? :r :r :r :r

I keed, I keed!! :r

[MedicCook]

I keed, I keed!! :r

Maybe he will pull a Rick Ankiel and go to the OF.

[VirtualSmitty]

I wish Damon had signed with the Yankees too, maybe Detroit could have signed someone who wasn't on the decline.

Verlander can't do it all....maybe Dontrell Willis will suddenly become sane. :r

I wish Damon resigned with the Yanks too, can't say i'm too excited about Randy Winn taking his place :td

Tigers could have a good year Tom. They do have some good young pitching behind Verlander, and a pretty decent offense.

[MedicCook]

Randy Winn didn't take Damon's place, Curtis Granderson did. Winn is going to be the 4th outfielder.

[kelmac07]

Maybe he will pull a Rick Ankiel and go to the OF.

That's as wrong as two boys in bed!! :r :r :r

[icehog3]

Tigers could have a good year Tom. They do have some good young pitching behind Verlander, and a pretty decent offense.

Hope lives. :)

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

We didn't need him anyway:D

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Which offer would you pick?

2 yrs $14M with the defending World Series Champions or 1 yr $8M for a team that will not even make the playoffs.

Johnny Damon free agency = FAIL!!!!


:r:r

[VirtualSmitty]

Randy Winn didn't take Damon's place, Curtis Granderson did. Winn is going to be the 4th outfielder.

I don't think we'll know for sure until after spring training. Not like it really matters, neither Winn or Gardner can hit.

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Buehrle will start opening day for the white sox.

[kelmac07]

Buehrle will start opening day for the white sox.

Saw this and was wondering why they are throwing Peavey second? :confused:

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Saw this and was wondering why they are throwing Peavey second? :confused:

Burls is more worthy of starting day.

[kelmac07]

Burls is more worthy of starting day.

Not disagreeing!! :D Just wondering why they aren't using Peavey as the ace.

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Not disagreeing!! :D Just wondering why they aren't using Peavey as the ace.

This will be Buehrle's 8th opening day start in Chicago, we love him here, and it would be hard to see him not start on opening day. Don't get me wrong, Peavy is an ace pitcher and would get the nod in most other starting 5 rotations.

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Mac, Santana is pitching opening day right?

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

The Braves have made a splash in the international market with the signing of highly-regarded Dominican shortstop Edward Salcedo.

[kelmac07]

Mac, Santana is pitching opening day right?

He better be...who else are we gonna throw? :r :r 2-5 looks pretty shaky this year. Hopefully Maine is healthy and Perez gets his head out of his a$$. :D

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Major League Baseball plans to implement blood testing for human growth hormone in the Minor Leagues later this year, an official in baseball with direct knowledge of the matter told The New York Times for a story published on its Web site late Tuesday night. It's about damn time.

[MedicCook]

I am surprised the Union is allowing that during a current contract.

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

I am surprised the Union is allowing that during a current contract.


How much control does the Union have over that issue?

[MedicCook]

How much control does the Union have over that issue?

They have had lot's of control in the past. That is one of the reason it took so long to even get any steroid testing. The Union always refused to put it in the contracts. It was not until the Mitchell Report came out that the Union agreed to an addendum to the current contract.

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Anyone know the current status of testing in the majors?

[Whynot]

They have had lot's of control in the past. That is one of the reason it took so long to even get any steroid testing. The Union always refused to put it in the contracts. It was not until the Mitchell Report came out that the Union agreed to an addendum to the current contract.

Until a minor league player is put on the 40 man roster the union does not have any say in the testing. The minors had testing years before MLB did and the guidelines were more stringent.

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Until a minor league player is put on the 40 man roster the union does not have any say in the testing. The minors had testing years before MLB did and the guidelines were more stringent.

Thats what I was wanting to know. Is there a separate union entity for the minors then?

[Whynot]

Negative, if they are not on the 40, they are directly controlled by the parent organization.

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Negative, if they are not on the 40, they are directly controlled by the parent organization.

Thanks, I never knew that.

[Whynot]

I have been trying to learn more about the business and minor league side of baseball the last couple of years. There are some convoluted rules.

[MedicCook]

I was watching ESPN this afternoon and they said not to expect this on the MLB level until after the next contract. They are going to want to make sure that the 2 years of minor league testing has been proven to be effective. This is also going to cost MLB a ton of money to do.

[Whynot]

I was watching ESPN this afternoon and they said not to expect this on the MLB level until after the next contract. They are going to want to make sure that the 2 years of minor league testing has been proven to be effective. This is also going to cost MLB a ton of money to do.

I am curious to see what all goes down in the next agreement. I think the Union will cave to most testing standards, but I am wondering if a salary cap is going to be back on the table. I hope so, I know owners are still making money hand over fist, but I would like to be able to still afford to got to games.

[MedicCook]

I am curious to see what all goes down in the next agreement. I think the Union will cave to most testing standards, but I am wondering if a salary cap is going to be back on the table. I hope so, I know owners are still making money hand over fist, but I would like to be able to still afford to got to games.

I don't think you will see a salary cap without a salary minimum which the owners don't want.

[VirtualSmitty]

I hope so, I know owners are still making money hand over fist, but I would like to be able to still afford to got to games.

:r Tell that to the Dodgers and Indians owners.

[Whynot]

I don't think you will see a salary cap without a salary minimum which the owners don't want.

There is somewhat since the player minimum is 400K, but you probably hit the nail on the head with the team minimum. I just hope Albert doesn't bust the Cardinals bank. By which I mean I hope Dewitt is willing to forgo some personel profit for the team/city.

[Whynot]

I like what Felipe Lopez has done with the bat the last couple of years, but I don't know that I see the value in adding him with the Cards current roster.

[qwerty1500]

I like what Felipe Lopez has done with the bat the last couple of years, but I don't know that I see the value in adding him with the Cards current roster.

I like it. He adds a needed left handed bat off the bench and a little defensive protection at 3rd in case Freese doesn't work out as they hope.

[qwerty1500]

I like what Felipe Lopez has done with the bat the last couple of years, but I don't know that I see the value in adding him with the Cards current roster.

Signed him.

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Alright, here goes with my 2010 division title predictions fwiw.

AL East:
Yankees
BoSox
Rays
O's
Jays

AL Central:
White Sox
Twins
Tigers
KC
Tribe

AL West:
LA
Mariners
Rangers
A's

For the AL wild card, BoSox


NL East:
Phillies
Mets
Marlins
Braves
Nats

NL Central:
Cards
Reds
Brew crew
Cubbies
Stros
Pirates

NL West:
Rockies
Dodgers
Giants
Dbacks
Padres

NL wildcard, Dodgers


Anyone else want to throw their predictions in?

[kelmac07]

Here are mine:

AL East:
Yankees
BoSox
O's
Rays
Jays

AL Central:

Twins
White Sox
Cleveland
KC
Tigers

AL West:
Seattle
Rangers
LA
A's

For the AL wild card, White Sox

NL East:
Mets
Phillies
Braves
Marlins
Nats

NL Central:
Cards
Reds
Brew crew
Cubbies
Stros
Pirates

NL West:
Giants
Dodgers
Dbacks
Rockies
Padres

NL wildcard, Phillies

[MedicCook]

Here are mine:

NL East:
Mets
Phillies
Braves
Marlins
Nats


:r

Sorry Mac.

[kelmac07]

:r

Sorry Mac.

It's spring training...everyone is even right now!! Did you actually think I would pick my Mets to finish other than first? :D

[MedicCook]

It's spring training...everyone is even right now!! Did you actually think I would pick my Mets to finish other than first? :D

That's the best thing about this time of the year. Everyone has a chance.

[MiamiE]

Marlins in the wild card!

[kelmac07]

Marlins in the wild card!

Trying not to laugh to hard Erick. I predict a firesale by mid Jun. ;s But hey...I picked my Mets to finish first. :D

[MedicCook]

Here are mine:

AL East:
Yankees
Red Sox
Ray's
Blue Jay's
Orioles

AL Central:
Twins
White Sox
Tigers
Cleveland
KC

AL West:
Seattle
Rangers
Angels
A's

AL wild card, Red Sox

NL East:
Phillies
Braves
Mets
Marlins
Nats

NL Central:
Cardinals
Cubs
Reds
Brewers
Astros
Pirates

NL West:
Giants
Dodgers
Diamondbacks
Rockies
Padres

NL wildcard, Dodgers