MLB OFFSEASON DISCUSSION THREAD

[daddiefatsacks]

Well, since the World Series is long over, its time for probably one of the busiest Offseasons were going to have.

Lots of Players Declaring Free Agency:

Vladdy Guerrero
Bartolo Colon
Gary Sheffield

jussst to name a few.

anywyas, any predictions of where people are gonna land?


hopefully the Toronto Blue Jays can pick up another Free Agent starter.

[Benny]

Let me be the first to say, it's gonna be a long AND cold winter for both Yankees and Red Sox fans. I predict that Steinbrenner will go nuts and fire Joe Torre this offseason, and shake the lineup and coaching staff up big time.

[bmain77]

In my dream world Joe Torre would give Steinbrenner the double middle fingered salute and say thanks asshole as he jumps ship to take over the Red Sox job.

Maybe even throw in a chair be bashed over the back of Georgie boy WWF style for effect. It'd be an Instant Classic.

[Indiana Sev]

The Expos will sign Vladimir. If they don't, they might as well move this team to the Yukon.

[Haddonfield]

Originally posted by bmain77
In my dream world Joe Torre would give Steinbrenner the double middle fingered salute and say thanks asshole as he jumps ship to take over the Red Sox job.

Maybe even throw in a chair be bashed over the back of Georgie boy WWF style for effect. It'd be an Instant Classic.


Id like to see it but Joe has one more year left.

Please fire Torre...Please fire Torre, Please fire Torre.......

[daddiefatsacks]

So does anyone know where I can download Juan Pierre's rap about the Marlins winning the world series? hahahha

did anyone else see that?

[Rated R]

Silver Slugger awards handed out today. Pretty much all obvious choices...don't think there is anyone they left out.


AL

C - Jorge Posada, New York Yankees
1B - Carlos Delgado, Toronto Blue Jays
2B - Bret Boone, Seattle Mariners
3B - Bill Mueller, Boston Red Sox
SS - Alex Rodriguez, Texas Rangers
OF - Vernon Wells, Toronto Blue Jays
OF - Garret Anderson, Anaheim Angels
OF - Manny Ramirez, Boston Red Sox
DH - Edgar Martinez, Seattle Mariners

NL

C - Javy Lopez, Atlanta Braves
1B - Todd Helton, Colorado Rockies
2B - Jose Vidro, Montreal Expos
3B - Mike Lowell, Florida Marlins
SS - Edgar Renteria, St. Louis Cardinals
OF - Barry Bonds, San Francisco Giants
OF - Gary Sheffield, Atlanta Braves
OF - Albert Pujols, St. Louis Cardinals
P - Mike Hampton, Atlanta Braves

Also, the Baltimore Orioles let Pat Hentgen and Brook Fordyce file for free agency while the Braves have done the same with Shane Reynolds and backup catcher Henry Blanco.

[Indiana Sev]

The Boston Red Sox management are a bunch of idiots for firing their manager Brady Little. Unless they had other reasons for firing him other than "he left Pedro in", they're morons.

Suppose he pulled Pedro and the Yankees still got a hit off the reliever and won the game. Then they would've said that was the wrong decision and still fired him. It's a Catch-22. Anyway it's really pissing me off, I expected them to be smarter than this!

[jackson13]

*ahem*

WHERE THE FUCK IS SOSA ON THAT LIST?


The man is the only person to ever have 9 consecutive seasons with 40 plus home runs, and he's not on that list?


BULLSHIT! ITS BULLSHIT I TELL YOU!

[Rated R]

Sorry jackson but the three NL outfielder's chosen were not proven to be using cork in their bats...heh, I kid I kid. But seriously, I think the list is fine, Pujols and Bonds definitely deserve to be there over Sosa. Maybe switch him in for Sheffield, but even then it's close. I say the list is good

[horrorfreak13]

I agree with Rated R on this one Bonds, Pujos, and Sheffield all had a better season than Sosa did.

Also for reference here is the link to the MLB free agent list

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=1644909

[Haddonfield]

Originally posted by Indiana Sev
The Boston Red Sox management are a bunch of idiots for firing their manager Brady Little. Unless they had other reasons for firing him other than "he left Pedro in", they're morons.

Suppose he pulled Pedro and the Yankees still got a hit off the reliever and won the game. Then they would've said that was the wrong decision and still fired him. It's a Catch-22. Anyway it's really pissing me off, I expected them to be smarter than this!


Well as you could imagine around here Sev, all of the different ways that game 7 could have played out has been talked about, chewed on, and flushed, every way humanly possible and six days till Sunday.

Problem here is, it's tough to say "what if" had he taken Pedro out. From what we had seen during the playoffs it was as close as a sure thing with Timlin and Williamson. But it's hard to say that had he brought them in what would have happened.

[Grebdron]

Thought you Cub fans might like this shirt...:D:D:D

https://www.funnyasshirt.com/images/design_02_big.gif

[bmain77]

Not that anyone outside of the city of Detroit cares, but it appears Mike Illitch is finally starting to shake some things up in the front office with one of his closest aides being forced to resign today. Rumors are swirling that this will be the first of many moves in the coming days. I'll believe when I see it. Maybe his induction in the Hockey Hall of Fame today made it see what a complete embarassing failure he has been in baseball. Who knows maybe just maybe he'll even consider selling off the team.

[horrorfreak13]

The White Sox when with this Guillen guy as a manager over Cito Gaston.

I know I'm not a white Sox fan but it amazes me how Gaston who has 2 World Series rings hasn't had a managerial position since his stint with the Blue Jays. Especially when they take a guy who hasn't managed a game. It's mind boggling.

[SykkBoy]

Originally posted by horrorfreak13
The White Sox when with this Guillen guy as a manager over Cito Gaston.

I know I'm not a white Sox fan but it amazes me how Gaston who has 2 World Series rings hasn't had a managerial position since his stint with the Blue Jays. Especially when they take a guy who hasn't managed a game. It's mind boggling.

I don't agree with the logic, but I think that is more of a "get asses in the seats" ploy since Guillen was so popular in Chicago...but really who goes to watcha manager....not sure, I'm still puzzled by that move myself...

[daddiefatsacks]

horrible news today

Reds: Stenson shot, dragged to death

by Fanball Staff - Fanball.com
Thursday, November 6, 2003

News
According to published reports, Reds’ outfielder Dernell Stenson was shot and dumped by a SUV early Wednesday in a Phoenix suburb. Chandler police are treating his death as a homicide. Witnesses say they heard shots fired and then saw Stenson thrown from the SUV and run over. The truck, registered to Stenson, was tracked down a little later and the man who was driving it was jailed; no charges have been filed yet. Stenson was in Scottsdale playing for the Scorpions in the Arizona Fall League. The AFL is set up to help some of the better prospects in baseball make it to the next level. Stenson was the third round pick of the Red Sox in 1996 and played in 37 games for the Reds this season, batting .247 with three home runs and 13 RBI.

i donno what to say,he had a good future ahead of him, but thats all gone away now.

[Grebdron]

Originally posted by daddiefatsacks
According to published reports, Reds’ outfielder Dernell Stenson was shot and dumped by a SUV early Wednesday in a Phoenix suburb.

Chandler police are treating his death as a homicide.

Crackin group of investigators they got there in Chandler.:rolleyes:

[horrorfreak13]

Well the AL & NL Rookie awards were announced and the winners are

Angel Berroa of the Kansas City Royals & Dontrelle Willis of the Florida Marlins

Berroa won by 4 votes so it was close while Dontrelle Willis won decisively over Scott Podsednik.

Tommorow is the AL Cy Young award which Roy Halladay wins easily

[daddiefatsacks]

Sweet, so glad Berroa won the AL ROY, he certainly deserved it more over Matsui.

I was hoping Brandon Webb would get the NL ROY but he didnt even come close, tough luck

If Loaiza comes onto of Halladay tomorrow i'll flip, as for the NL Cy Young, Canadian Eric Gagne all the way!

[jackson13]

If Hee Sop Choi hadn't of missed most of the season due to the concussion he suffered colliding with Kerry Wood, I guarantee he would've gotten RotY for the NL. He was posting amazing numbers before he got injured.

[horrorfreak13]

With no surprise Roy Halladay won the AL Cy Young Award winning 26 out of the 28 first place votes. Loazia got the other 2 first place votes finishing 2nd Pdro Martiniz firnished 3rd.

Good for Halladay he deserved the award.

[tbone]

Originally posted by jackson13
If Hee Sop Choi hadn't of missed most of the season due to the concussion he suffered colliding with Kerry Wood, I guarantee he would've gotten RotY for the NL. He was posting amazing numbers before he got injured.

Willis would've still have won it. Ever since he came up he was the talk of baseball as far as rookies go. I thought Webb should've won. Congratulations to Halladay for a well earned Cy Young. Let us hope that Gagne wins his well earned Cy Young tomorrow.

[horrorfreak13]

Originally posted by tbone
Willis would've still have won it. Ever since he came up he was the talk of baseball as far as rookies go. I thought Webb should've won. Congratulations to Halladay for a well earned Cy Young. Let us hope that Gagne wins his well earned Cy Young tomorrow.

We are going to have to wait for Thursday for that one the AL & NL Managers of the year get announced tomorrow, and then we wait for Monday for the AL MVP and Tuesday for the NL MVP

[Haddonfield]

Gagne better win it. That guy had a season like no other.

and I had to laugh (or cry) when I saw that Pedro gets $500,000 for coming in 3rd.....

That's alot of coin right there.

[jackson13]

Dusty Baker has to be the obvious choice for NL Manager. Just look at how far and much he turned the Cubs around in his first year of Manager. They go from nothing to NL Runner-ups in one year.


"In Dusty We Trusty!" It lives. Oh yes, it lives.

[horrorfreak13]

Originally posted by jackson13
Dusty Baker has to be the obvious choice for NL Manager. Just look at how far and much he turned the Cubs around in his first year of Manager. They go from nothing to NL Runner-ups in one year.


"In Dusty We Trusty!" It lives. Oh yes, it lives.

I don't know a lot of people are predicting Jack McKeon will win it. I say it's a close call between Dusty and Jack McKeon but don't be surprised if McKeon wins it.

I think Eric Gagne has to win the NL Cy Young award I don't think over the year in the NL anyone was as dominant as he was.

Oh Hideki Matsui loses rookie of the year and guess how bitches about it George Stienbrenner saying that two of the writers didn't vote for Matsui for rookie of the year voting. Hey Steinbrenner Angel Berroa wasn't on two of the voting ballots either maybe we should bitch about that now.

[RicochetShaw]

I think the NL front runners for Manager of the year are Fillipe (sp?) Alou, Dusty Baker, and McKeon. It's a tough call to predict here, but I think McKeon will win it.... with Alou getting the second most votes.


I mean c'mon, McKeon came in in MID-SEASON and turned an under .500 team into World Series champs! Impressive!

[daddiefatsacks]

Originally posted by jackson13
Dusty Baker has to be the obvious choice for NL Manager. Just look at how far and much he turned the Cubs around in his first year of Manager. They go from nothing to NL Runner-ups in one year.


"In Dusty We Trusty!" It lives. Oh yes, it lives.

Let me guess, Prior and Wood CO-Cy Young, and sosa for NL MVP?

[jackson13]

Originally posted by daddiefatsacks
Let me guess, Prior and Wood CO-Cy Young, and sosa for NL MVP?

It'd be nice.

[docholiday_13]

Apparantly the Jays are highly interested in former Blue Jays Pat Hentgen and Paul Quantrill. If we could land both these guys then our team would be bolstered dramatically. Hentgen would be a solid number 3 behind Roy and Escobar and Quantrill would bolster the bullpen and take some relief of Lopez and Kershner.

[horrorfreak13]

Originally posted by docholiday_13
Apparantly the Jays are highly interested in former Blue Jays Pat Hentgen and Paul Quantrill. If we could land both these guys then our team would be bolstered dramatically. Hentgen would be a solid number 3 behind Roy and Escobar and Quantrill would bolster the bullpen and take some relief of Lopez and Kershner.

That would be great and fixes some of their pitching problems but they got to get Escobar signed also.

This should come as no surprise to anybody Tony Pena of the Kansas City Royals won the AL Manager of the year while Jack McKeon won the NL Manager of the year. Pena got 24 of the first place votes and won by 86 points so that wasn't even close the NL wasn't much closer with McKeon getting 19 of the first place votes and ended up with 116 points Dusty Baker only got 2 but ended up 2nd overall with 62 points thanks to 15 2nd place votes, Bobby Cox finished 3rd with 6 first place votes and 56 points, Flippe Alou finished with 5 first place votes and 51 points.

The NL Cy young gets announced tomorrow and Eric Gagne has the inside track on the award and should get it too.

[jackson13]

I wonder if Jack Mckeons age had anything to do with it? :rolleyes:


"Oh, well he's 72 years old, that an accomplishment in itself, give it to him!"

[horrorfreak13]

I found this out last night anybosy remeber the Steve Bartman incident (Cubs fans don't have to answer) the ball is apparently up for auction starting Dec.1 and the starting bid is 5K.

Anybody want to touch this ball. If I'm a Cubs fan I say NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO.
It probably contains a death curse or something.

[horrorfreak13]

The NL Cy Young award was announced and it wasn't even close Eric Gagne becomes the 2nd Canadian to win the Cy Young award sice Furgeson Jenkins with the Cubbies in 1971 and the first NL reliever to win it since Mark Davis in 1989 and first reliever to win it since Dennis Eckersley in 1992 Gagne got 28 of the 32 first place votes and 146 points which is twice as many as Jason Schmidt got with 73 and Mark Prior with 60. Russ Ortis the only 30 game winner of the NL got 3 points.

Congradulation Eric Gagne you deserve it.

[jake]

Originally posted by jackson13
I wonder if Jack Mckeons age had anything to do with it? :rolleyes:


"Oh, well he's 72 years old, that an accomplishment in itself, give it to him!" He took the Marlins from nothing to World Series winners in less than a year. If taking the Cubs from nothing to NL runners up in a whole year is a good enough reason for Dusty Baker to win, then surely McKeon's accomplishment is an even better reason to win, even ignoring the fact that he clearly deserved the award for managing to make it to 72 without dying.

;)

[FeverDog420]

Busy Friday in the baseball world:

1. Steroid Stunner (http://nypost.com/sports/42669.htm)

Because the positive tests were more than 5 percent, a number that exceeded the threshold in the league's Basic Agreement, starting March 2, 2004, all players will be subject to the same testing as occurred randomly in this survey. Positive test results could lead to discipline, including suspensions.

2. Piazza seeks trade to AL club (http://www.newsday.com/sports/baseball/ny-mike1114,0,374772.story?coll=ny-homepage-right-area)

Could he be traded for...A-Rod? Or will Pizza-boy head to Fenway and hit 60 homeruns?

[Grebdron]

Curioser and curioser.

PHOENIX -- One of the four men linked to the killing of Reds outfielder Dernell Stenson was a member of the federal witness protection program, the Arizona Republic reported on Friday.


The suspect, identified as Robert Lee Maye, has disappeared after posting bail and being charged with hindering the Stenson murder investigation. Federal authorities are trying to locate him.


The man identified by police as Maye testified for the prosecution in a case against key members of a Chicago gang, top-level investigators, speaking on condition of anonymity, told the Republic.


Police arrested Maye, 32, at his home Saturday, three days after Stenson was found dead on a Chandler, Ariz., street. He had been shot in the head and chest with his hands and feet bound.


Reginald Allen Riddle, 19, of suburban Chicago, and David Griffith, 20, of Arizona's Salt River Reservation, were charged with Stenson's murder on Monday.


Riddle's half-brother, Kevin G. Riddle, 43, of Hammond, Ind., was charged with automotive theft and hindering prosecution.


According to court records, Maye, whose real name is unknown, was accused of trying to rent a motel room for Reginald Riddle shortly after Stenson was killed. He isn't considered a suspect in Stenson's death, according to the Republic.


"I cannot confirm or deny that any individual is in witness protection," U.S. Marshal David Gonzales told the newspaper.


But two other high-ranking investigators from separate agencies confirmed Maye came to the area five months ago as part of the program.


Under the Witness Security Program, more than 7,500 witnesses and 9,500 family members have been protected, relocated and given new identities since 1970. In addition to housing, protected witnesses receive medical care, job training, employment and, when necessary, full-time security.


If protected witnesses commit a crime, U.S. Marshals spokesman Dave Sacks told the newspaper, "then they're no longer in the program."


Sources told the newspaper that Maye had been a key informer in the prosecution of members of the Gangster Disciples, a Chicago gang noted for its violent enforcement of rules while running a crack-cocaine ring in the Rockwell Gardens public housing complex. Thirty-one gang members have been convicted, including two kingpins who were found guilty Wednesday, according to the Chicago Tribune.

[horrorfreak13]

Well today is the AL MVP announcement with about 7 or 8 contenders and no clear cut favourite. I believe it should be either A-Rod or Delgado. Delgado lead the league in RBI's and A-Rod lead the league in HRs again :rolleyes:

UPDATE: A-Rod finally got his due and won the AL MVP award with 242 points, Delgado finishing 2nd, 210, Jorge Posada 3rd 194, and Shannon Stewart finishing 4th 140 points, 5th David Ortiz 130 points.

Manny Ramirez, Nomar Garciaparra, Vernon Wells, Miguel Tejada and Jason Giambi all got 1 first place vote each.

Congrats A-Rod who finally should have gotten this award in 1996 and last year.

NL MVP is tomorrow Bonds or Pujols

[daddiefatsacks]

A-Rod it is, but pretty close

here's how it broke down

AL MVP Award Voting

Player 1st 2nd 3rd Total
A. Rodriguez 6 5 6 242
C. Delgado 5 8 3 210
J. Posada 5 4 4 194
S. Stewart 3 2 2 140
D. Ortiz 4 3 2 130

A-Rod pretty much did deserve it

as for the NL MVP tomorrow, Hands Down Pujols.

[horrorfreak13]

NL MVP award is later today I think Pujols will get it over Bonds.

In Blue Jays free agency news Pat Hentgen signed a 1 year deal today. This is a good move considering they don't have much after Halladay.

Now get a closer or something in the bullpin that won't blow 90% of their games

[daddiefatsacks]

Hentgen is back!!!!

http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news?slug=ap-bluejays-hentgen&prov=ap&type=lgns

man this is news to my ears.

[docholiday_13]

I'm stoked that we got Hentgen. If J.P can resign Escobar and pick up a closer then we can contend for the wild card.

Granted that is a lot of work for the guy to do.

[horrorfreak13]

Barry Bonds won the NL MVP award today but what was shocking about this was he got 28 of the 32 first place votes, and Pujols got 3 first place votes and 303 points, Gary Sheffield 1 first place vote and 247 points.

I thought it would have been way closer than that.

[daddiefatsacks]

man, something is rotten in the state of denmark!

[daddiefatsacks]

lots more moves today....big day today in baseball

Jays Acquire Lilly for Kielty (http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news;_ylc=X3oDMTBpcDBuM2RlBF9TAzk1ODYxNzc3BHNlYwN0 aA--?slug=ap-bluejays-athleticstrade&prov=ap&type=lgns)

and i cant find a link yet, but the A's traded Ramon Hernandez and Terrence Long to the Padres for Mark Kotsay

[docholiday_13]

OK BLUE JAYS!!


JP is really coming through for us! He's effectively shored up the rotation (heres hoping he can still sign Kelvim) which is a feat in itself. Hentgen and Lily may not be Maddux and Vasquez but for the cash strapped Jays it's not too damn shabby.

[Rated R]

Could you imagine this rotation in Toronto?

Halladay
Hentgen
Escobar
Lilly

and... why not re-sign Lidle and give him another chance?
Hell, Lidle would make a great number 5 guy! And if the Jays sign Tom Gordon like they've been talking about, they have a decent closer! Next year might be the big one for Toronto!

[daddiefatsacks]

I donno bout Lidle, after the promosing finish that Towers gave us last year, I kind of like having him as a fifth starter (assuming Esco is back, please please please JP!!)

But i also like getting rid of Kielty, and letting Reed get to be a starter. Also Werth can now be the sole holder of the 4th outfielder.


Overall, an excellent day to be a Jays fan.

[docholiday_13]

Time to drool

Halladay
Escobar
Hentgen
Lilly
Towers

Gordon
Kirshner
Lopez

Delgado}best 1-2 punch in baseball
Wells}
Hinske healthy
Phelps healthy
Myers resigned
Hudson
Johnson


Thats not AT LEAST a wild card team?? GO JAYS, BABY!!

[horrorfreak13]

I like to see Escobar resign but he wants a 3 year deal which the Blue Jays are only offering a 2 year 10 million contract. Boston and Anaheim seem interested in him.

The Jays and Escobar haven't spoke for about 2 weeks so I'm getting the feeling (hopefully it doesn't happen) that Escobar could very well be going elsewhere and hopefully not boston or else the Blue Jays could be in trouble.

[FeverDog420]

Should I resume cursing Steinbrenner under my breath for giving up Lilly for Weaver? :mad:

[horrorfreak13]

I never saw the day it would cost the Yankees too much money to sign a free agent but today the Yankees announced they will not go after Vladimir Guerrero because they think it will cost them too much. In fact GM Brian Cashman said "(He)is not really an option for us, with the money he's going to want. He's obviously an incredible player and I have a great deal of respect for him, but, financially, we've got too many other commitments that would preclude us being a player for him."

Well considering they do have too many other guys making 15 million plus and they are thinking seriously about adding Gary Sheffield who wants to play for the team and if Andy Pettite leaves and goes to Houston that will leave a huge hole in their pitching.

[Rated R]

Apparently LaTroy Hawkins has signed a 3-year 13 mil deal with the Cubs! That should help their closer situation.

As for the Jays, Escobar will not be back, but throw Towers into the rotation, I sorely forgot him and try as many young guys as possible into the fifth spot, Bob File if he's healthy might do a decent job.

[horrorfreak13]

There's a report on ESPN that Kelvim Escobar has signed a 3 year $18.75 million contract.

Click Here (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=1668122)

[daddiefatsacks]

Im pissed that Kelvim is going, he does NOT deserve that much money, since he hasn't been solid for more than half of a season at a time. I think he is better off as a starter, and he will be decent, but when he comes to the skydome i will definately boo his ass solid.


Now this isnt entirely bad news since we now get a 2nd round pick of theirs - and it frees about 8 million up in the budget, which means we can still get a relativley cheap starter, a reliever and a Bordick type infielder.

[FeverDog420]

So, who else watched Barry Zito on JAG last night? He's not much of an actor, but then again neither is anybody on this show.

Still, Zito did look good in military uniform.

[FeverDog420]

Fuck, why didn't anyone tell me Tino was traded to Tampa Bay?!? Dagger that he's on an inferior team, but diesel that he's in the same division as my Yanks! :D He's been my favorite player for years.

[horrorfreak13]

Originally posted by FeverDog420
Fuck, why didn't anyone tell me Tino was traded to Tampa Bay?!? Dagger that he's on an inferior team, but diesel that he's in the same division as my Yanks! :D He's been my favorite player for years.

Tino Martinez is on Tampa Bay that ought of up their win total by 3

[tbone]

Once again the Rays go and get a player way past his prime, that they end up overpaying.

[Haddonfield]

Sorry Jays fans but if Theo works his magic then we are all looking at this...

Pedro Martinez
Curt Schilling
Derek Lowe
Time Wakefield
B.H. Kim

And that 5th starter is still to be determined...

:)

And lets not forget the possibility of Keith Folke on the other end.

:) again.

[Haddonfield]

And another thing!

Im not liking this Manny for A-rod idea. Only for ONE reason...Nomar.

The Sox would have to trade him and I do not like the sound of that....Here is my dream sistuation tho it will never happen.

Todd Walker is a free agent so that opens up 2nd base. Move Nomar to second, which gives you an infield of Mueller, A-Rod, Nomar, Ortiz. Let it all hang out for one season...Nomar is only signed through 04 and take your chances next off-season. If Curt gets into the mix in the rotation....and after being 5 outs away to a team that is losing it's rotaion....STRIKE NOW! IT"S BEEN TOO LONG!!!!!!!!!!!

[RicochetShaw]

Originally posted by Haddonfield
And another thing!

Im not liking this Manny for A-rod idea. Only for ONE reason...Nomar.

The Sox would have to trade him and I do not like the sound of that....Here is my dream sistuation tho it will never happen.

Todd Walker is a free agent so that opens up 2nd base. Move Nomar to second, which gives you an infield of Mueller, A-Rod, Nomar, Ortiz. Let it all hang out for one season...Nomar is only signed through 04 and take your chances next off-season. If Curt gets into the mix in the rotation....and after being 5 outs away to a team that is losing it's rotaion....STRIKE NOW! IT"S BEEN TOO LONG!!!!!!!!!!!



Agreed on all counts. I admit, at first the A-Rod deal had me salivating, but then I thought about it. While Rodriguez is possibly the best player in the AL, he'd be too much of a distraction, and would take up WAY too much of the payroll. In fact I think teams may be better without him. Look at what the Mariners did when he went to the Rangers, they broke the record for most wins in a season. And what happened to the Rangers? They were the AL West champs before A-Rod came, but since he went there they've been TERRIBLE. I'm not saying he plays so well that he makes his teams lose, but putting a majority of your payroll on a SS will, well.... in all likelihood make you a losing team.


But you must realize, Nomar may be gone either way. I've heard reports that he wants to go back home to California, and wants to stay in the AL, this leadsme to believe he may go to the Angels. The Angels may also get Vlad Guerrero. Could the Angels be the best team in baseball again next year? Perhaps.

[Grebdron]

Originally posted by RicochetShaw
But you must realize, Nomar may be gone either way. I've heard reports that he wants to go back home to California, and wants to stay in the AL, this leadsme to believe he may go to the Angels. The Angels may also get Vlad Guerrero. Could the Angels be the best team in baseball again next year? Perhaps.

Preach it, Brother!

Go Angels.

[jackson13]

Cubs trade Choi for Marlins Gold Glove winner Derek Lee.


Well, whatever gets us a W.S. win next year.

[daddiefatsacks]

Originally posted by jackson13
Cubs trade Choi for Marlins Gold Glove winner Derek Lee.


Well, whatever gets us a W.S. win next year.

how does that feel coming from a cubs fan, having someone who ousted you last season, now on your team?

[FeverDog420]

Hey Cub fans, why no mention of the scalping scandal? I'm not even a fan of this team, and I'm upset at the ruling.

A runaway win Cubs fans won't appreciate (http://www.suntimes.com/output/couch/cst-spt-greg25.html)

Judge Sophia Hall ruled Monday that the Cubs can keep scalping tickets to Cubs fans. They set up a dummy company, Wrigley Field Premium Ticket Services, to skirt the scalping laws, and now it's legitimate. They saw your loyalty, Cubs fans, your undying loyalty, and they thanked you by running a bait-and-switch on their tickets. Yes, there is profit in your emotions.

[jackson13]

Originally posted by daddiefatsacks
how does that feel coming from a cubs fan, having someone who ousted you last season, now on your team?


Feels fine with me. Lee is actually a good player. And I do recall Alou being a former Marlin, also from the W.S. Champion team, and he is now a beloved Cubbie. Sure, the first couple games will be awkward, but when he puts his bat and glove to work, like in the Cubs/Marlins series, he'l be much welcomed. I'd rather have him with us and not against us.

[daddiefatsacks]

Lee is definately a better 1B than Karros and Choi, but i donno it would feel kind of weird having a player that you just boo'ed the shit out of, now become apart of the team you cheer to death.

nonetheless its a good pick up by the Cubs

[Grebdron]

Originally posted by daddiefatsacks
it would feel kind of weird having a player that you just boo'ed the shit out of, now become apart of the team you cheer to death.

Oh, that's easy. I used to HATE Karl Malone. And Gary Payton.

[Haddonfield]

Curt......Thank You.

He is in the mix. I cant wait to see how this plays out. Thank you Curt....Thank You!!!!!!!!!!!

[RicochetShaw]

Originally posted by Haddonfield
Curt......Thank You.

He is in the mix. I cant wait to see how this plays out. Thank you Curt....Thank You!!!!!!!!!!!


Ah, you beat me. :D





Anyways.....


Wooohooo! We have Schilling and you don't! Yeehaw!

[Haddonfield]

Originally posted by RicochetShaw
Ah, you beat me. :D





Anyways.....


Wooohooo! We have Schilling and you don't! Yeehaw!


I didnt beat you...:)

We are in this together....We are one! :)

WOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[horrorfreak13]

Curt Shilling
Pedro Martinez
Derek Lowe

That's an awesome 1-2-3 punch right there. Now the Yankees are going to start spending big time on pitchers

[Haddonfield]

Remember to put Pedro on top of that list....:)

Regardless of the outcome of the last game he is still the ace.


:)

[horrorfreak13]

Apparently The Yankees responded by signing Gary Sheffield in principle to a 3 year contract plus an option worth between $38 million-40 million

If they don't resign Pettite or get some pitching they are going to be screwed no matter how good their hitting is.

[Haddonfield]

Yeah Shef was going to the Bronx no matter what...and its all good. I see a team that built a dynasty on pitching and is losing that pitching...finally. I also see a team that there own mess but has everyone on board for one more year. And they know, pitching is the key, and we know they may have just unlocked that door with Schilling...and dont forget a certain closer could be on his way.

ahhhhh....being a Sox fan, let me have my fun in the offseason!!!

:)

[The Shootin Surgeon]

This is getting so freakin' annoying.

Everyday, Is there one player in MLB the Yankees aren't interested in signing?

Everydat, all I hear about is how the Yanks are raiding Baseball for every star available and signing them to their already star-studded lineup.

It reminds me of the Simpsons episode when Burns hires the ringers....

[Haddonfield]

In baseball all players seemed to get filtered through the Yanks first, either in reality or the media.

on another note...I read that at Nomar's wedding his uncle to a reporter that while he is obviously very happy on his wedding day, the only thing to make it better is if he knew he was staying with Boston.

Take that for what its worth. I for one have never heard him even speculate he would want to leave. Some punk beat writer two years ago put out some article and it has been a topic ever since.

[jackson13]

The Cubs signed a 3 year deal with former Minnesota closer Lavron, Lavon, Laron, something like that, Hawkley. The article I read also stated that Antonio Alfonseca filed for free agency.

All I can say is: Thank God! Alf was OFF more than he ever was ON, so someone else can have him. With Alf gone, we wont have to undure seeing lead after lead blown like these past 2 seasons whenever he came in to pitch. Bye Alf! Welcome Hawkley!

[horrorfreak13]

The Yankees and the Red Sox are in a complete arms race which means the only hope for the Blue Jays to ever make the playoffs is a division reallignment with Detroit and all those AL Central teams.

Speaking of that arms race the Yankees sign Paul Quantrill a former Blue Jay today to a 6 year deal worth $6.8 million

[Rated R]

Damn, I was hoping Ricciardi was going to pick Quantrill up again. At least I'll be able to see the guy play again being in the same division. The Jays aren't out of it just yet, I mean sometimes a team of superstars just won't click and they do terribly, look at the New York Rangers the past few years.

[horrorfreak13]

Or the Mets

[Haddonfield]

6 year 6.8 deal?

Damn...Thats market correctness right there.

[RicochetShaw]

Ugh, did you guys hear that Kevin Brown wants to leave LA, and the Yanks are interested in him? I'm not sure how much credibility there is ito this, but I saw it on SportsCenter. And I'm almost positive Yankees will re-sign Pettite. Pettite, Mussina, and Brown. Sounds like an unstoppable rotation to me. :(

[docholiday_13]

Originally posted by RicochetShaw
Ugh, did you guys hear that Kevin Brown wants to leave LA, and the Yanks are interested in him? I'm not sure how much credibility there is ito this, but I saw it on SportsCenter. And I'm almost positive Yankees will re-sign Pettite. Pettite, Mussina, and Brown. Sounds like an unstoppable rotation to me. :(


Strange talk from a Bosox fan :confused: .

Martinez
Shilling
Lowe
Wakefield


Punk. :D


P.s. Who won the Cy Young last year? HALLADAY!!! GO JAYS!!!

[horrorfreak13]

Back to the arms race between the Red Sox and Yankees.

The Yankees aquired Javier Vasquez from Montreal for first baseman Nick Johnson, outfielder Juan Rivera and left-handed reliever Randy Choate to Montreal

From ESPN (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=1678044)

[FeverDog420]

I really liked Nick, kinda liked Juan, and never liked Randy. Looks like a decent trade for both sides.

[Haddonfield]

Johnson is the real deal..that kid can hit the ball. But pitching is everything and damn if the Yanks didnt land a good one.

But, I still like my Schilling! :)

[horrorfreak13]

Some baseball news ESPN is reportng that Vladamir Guerrero is done in Montreal after him and his agent decilned a 5 year contract for more than $70 million Click here (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=1680985)

Also Greg Maddux's career in Atlanta as the Braves failed to offer him a contract and the same with Javy Lopez Click here (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=1681040)

[Indiana Sev]

Originally posted by horrorfreak13
The Yankees aquired Javier Vasquez from Montreal for first baseman Nick Johnson

Cool, we got an overrated, overweight, overpaid ex-Yankee.

:rolleyes:

[jackson13]

Damn Cubs, they sign Grudzie to a 1 year deal, which is great, but give nothing to Lofton. Lofton was the perfect replacement for Corey Patterson last year and should stay with us at least another year. In other good news, they have yet to sign deals with Karros (I want him to stay, so bad news there) Alonseca, Veres, Estes and Guthrie. Thats fine with me, those are 4 'pitchers' we can easily lose, and get better people, like LaTroy Hawkins who got signed last week. Strike a deal with Lofton and Karros and we're golden.

[docholiday_13]

Has there ever been an off season like this before? So many superstars are available out there and yet only a handful of teams can afford them.

Thing should get interesting. Oh how I wish the Jays could get Maddux. A one-two punch of Roy and Greg has a very nice ring to it.

I'll keep dreaming. :rolleyes:

[horrorfreak13]

Looks like the Angels could be a little busy apparently they have signed Bartolo Colon to a 4 year $48 million contract.

The Angels could be dealing again if the Alex Rodriguez-Manny Ramirez trade goes through. Five-time all-star shortstop Nomar Garciaparra would be out of a job, and it's believed the Red Sox could trade him to the Angels for a pitcher, possibly Jarrod Washburn, or second baseman Adam Kennedy.

From TSN (http://www.tsn.ca/mlb/news_story.asp?id=63621)

As for the Blue Jays getting Maddux I wouldn't put any hopes of it happening but it would be great to see.

[Rated R]

Well the Jays did bolster their bullpen a bit with the signing of Kerry Ligtenberg to a 2 year deal. He's a quality set-up man and it's good to see Ricciardi putting initiaitve into this team. Another GM might have a firesale and start again from scratch in that division. But JP is playing small ball in hopes of squeaking through the cracks, here's hoping it works.

I doubt that Maddux will sign with the Jays very much, but you never know, we did swing a deal to get the rocket for a couple years, so why not?

[docholiday_13]

I'm stoked about getting Ligtenberg. He could easily be our closer (he had 34 saves with the Braves a few years back). With Alquilino Lopez and Jason Kershner setting him up as well as a healthy Bob File...this team isn't looking too bad right now.

J.P is doing a great job so far this off season.

[daddiefatsacks]

well the GM meetings are going to be this weekend and supposedly its going to be friggin crazy (which means it probly wont) but some of the rumours have been...

- Manny Ramirez/A-Rod trade : To me this makes no sense to boston since they have Garciaparra???

- Vladdy possibly going to the Royals

- The Tigers owner willing to shell out tons of cash including making Fernando Vina the most expensive 2B in active baseball (WTF)

- The Yanks could be making some deals which would inflate their budget to....over 200 million, jesus fuck.

As for the jays, they need a #2 starter (Maddux would be just insane) some more relief and a backup infielder since Bordick retired.

[docholiday_13]

Originally posted by daddiefatsacks


- Manny Ramirez/A-Rod trade : To me this makes no sense to boston since they have Garciaparra???




Nomar would then be traded to Anaheim for one of they're top starters or Adam Kennedy and prospects.

[horrorfreak13]

Looks like the Yankees are going to have a real problem with their pitching staff next year there's a report from ESPN.com (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=1683180) that the Astros are close to signing Andy Pettite to a contract

[AnnoyingQuestionAsker]

Pettitte is an ASTRO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!

[daddiefatsacks]

Well for 31.5 million over 3 years, Pettitte looks certainly pleased to be an Astro as he will be taking #21 (In honor of Clemens)

Pettitte is a great pitcher and one of the few things in New York that i didnt hate.

The Yanks rotation is certainly fucked, mind you Mussina is still there, but after that it gets shaky...You've got Wells who signed on for a minor league contract and a 6-pack of Bud, and then you got Weaver...after that I donno - Odds are they will probably sign Maddux, or Ponson

[horrorfreak13]

Originally posted by daddiefatsacks
The Yanks rotation is certainly fucked, mind you Mussina is still there, but after that it gets shaky...You've got Wells who signed on for a minor league contract and a 6-pack of Bud, and then you got Weaver...after that I donno - Odds are they will probably sign Maddux, or Ponson

They are appearently trying to get Kevin Brown. The Blue Jays are apparently going after Miguel Batista and are really interested in him. The Mets are also interested as well but don't feel like paying him more than 3 million. Batista is looking for a 3 year deal in the range of 12-14 million

[Grebdron]

You can have Brown, NY. He's a fucking bitter cancer, who's not worth half of his stupid salary.

[FeverDog420]

We're fucked.

[Grebdron]

Originally posted by FeverDog420
We're fucked.

Man, Fever. You have no idea how much I hope that's true.;)

But look at my Dodgers. One playoff appearance, and zero playoff wins since 1988.

Take your four or five or six fucking rings in the past 8 years, go home, and be happy.

Read this: http://espn.go.com/page2/s/simmons/031114.html and leave the rest of us sorry bastards alone.

:D:D:D

[Rated R]

Did you guys forget that the Yanks picked up Javier Vazquez? I don't think they're in too much trouble. I just hope it's enough for them to miss the playoffs, somehow!

[daddiefatsacks]

welp, looks like the Yankees got their man in Brown and in return gave up Weaver and some minor leaguers


The Jays reportadly signed Miguel Batista to a 3 year deal

Annnnnd the Royals signed Benito Santiago to a 2 year/4.3 million dollar contract

[horrorfreak13]

Originally posted by daddiefatsacks
welp, looks like the Yankees got their man in Brown and in return gave up Weaver and some minor leaguers


Wow that's going to make the Dodgers so much better :confused:

[Grebdron]

Originally posted by horrorfreak13
Wow that's going to make the Dodgers so much better :confused:

I have no faith in our GM, Evans. But, that being said, dumping that cancer Kevin Brown and his 100 plus million dollar contract, for a decent pitcher and some cash DOES clear up some room for them to sign some decent offensive talent. Don't forget the Dodgers had THE BEST pitching in the league last year. But they consistently lost games 1-0 and 2-1. They were ridiculously bad offensively. They might have been the worst in the league. So, with the best pitching, and the worst offense, they were still only a few games out of the playoffs.

I'm not saying Evans is going to turn it around, but you've got to start somewhere.

If KB thought the press were harsh here in LA, he's in for a rude awakening in NY. He just might kill someone.

Good riddance to bad rubbish.

[horrorfreak13]

Originally posted by Grebdron
I have no faith in our GM, Evans. But, that being said, dumping that cancer Kevin Brown and his 100 plus million dollar contract, for a decent pitcher and some cash DOES clear up some room for them to sign some decent offensive talent. Don't forget the Dodgers had THE BEST pitching in the league last year. But they consistently lost games 1-0 and 2-1. They were ridiculously bad offensively. They might have been the worst in the league. So, with the best pitching, and the worst offense, they were still only a few games out of the playoffs.



The Dodgers were pretty close to the worst offense 29th in batting average, last in slugging percentage and last in runs, ties for last in homers, last in RBIs, 28th in hits. Yeah I'd say that's a pretty bad offense.

[docholiday_13]

Another good pickup by JP. Batista will make 13 million over 3 years.

He isn't exactly your prototypical number two guy but his ERA is very impressive and his numbers against the Yanks and Red Sox also raise some eyebrows. If he can give the Jays 13-15 wins and pitch 200 innnings then this is a bargain of a deal.

So the Jays head into the 2004 season with a rotation of :

Halladay
Batista
Hentgen
Lilly
Towers

It can't rival the Yankees or Red Sox (or Hell, even the Angels!) but they have a bona fide ace who is arguably the best damn pitcher in baseball right now and some respectable veterans the rest of the way.

So I'm not going to make any predictions or bold declarations of winning it all but I have to give major credit to Ricciardi for his efforts in making this club competitive even with the proverbial money gun to his head.

Next up is a cheap shortstop. Mark McClemore or Royce Clayton should suffice.

[horrorfreak13]

Originally posted by docholiday_13
Another good pickup by JP. Batista will make 13 million over 3 years.

He isn't exactly your prototypical number two guy but his ERA is very impressive and his numbers against the Yanks and Red Sox also raise some eyebrows. If he can give the Jays 13-15 wins and pitch 200 innnings then this is a bargain of a deal.

So the Jays head into the 2004 season with a rotation of :

Halladay
Batista
Hentgen
Lilly
Towers

It can't rival the Yankees or Red Sox (or Hell, even the Angels!) but they have a bona fide ace who is arguably the best damn pitcher in baseball right now and some respectable veterans the rest of the way.

So I'm not going to make any predictions or bold declarations of winning it all but I have to give major credit to Ricciardi for his efforts in making this club competitive even with the proverbial money gun to his head.

Next up is a cheap shortstop. Mark McClemore or Royce Clayton should suffice.

That's a pretty good starting rotation I think Riccardi is still trying to look for a setup man for Aquilino Lopez and I heard the Blue Jays are looking at Ray Sanchez to share the shortstop duties with Chris Woodword who also comes cheap.

Also expect Kenny Lofton to sign with the Yankees in the near future and expect Vladamir Gurerro to sign with Baltimore on the weekend.

[Rated R]

Originally posted by horrorfreak13
That's a pretty good starting rotation I think Riccardi is still trying to look for a setup man for Aquilino Lopez and I heard the Blue Jays are looking at Ray Sanchez to share the shortstop duties with Chris Woodword who also comes cheap.

Also expect Kenny Lofton to sign with the Yankees in the near future and expect Vladamir Gurerro to sign with Baltimore on the weekend.

Ligtenberg is a good start on the set-up for Lopez, and with Bob File healthy all they need is another long reliever and I think the bullpen will be a huge improvement. Who knows, maybe Bruce Chen will prove to be more than we bargained for

[horrorfreak13]

Well the Blue Jays picked up another reliever Justin Speier from Colorado. I'm liking what JP Ricchardi is doing to this team. from ESPN (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=1686109)

Also Baltimore has signed Miguel Tejada to a six-year contract for $72 million. from ESPN (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=1686370)

[FeverDog420]

http://bojack.org/images/saddamshop2.jpg

[docholiday_13]

The Jays are one of three teams courting Rich Aurillia.

Now THIS would be a smart move. I had been expecting someone like Chris Gomez or Ray Sanchez to be signed. Aurillia would be the perfect fit for the Jays.

Does JP have one more steal left in him?

[Indiana Sev]

Apparently A-Rod will stay put in Texas for next year.

I'm just glad we don't have to hear about this anymore. *Yawn*

[Rated R]

Hooray for Paul Molitor and Dennis Eckersley who were both inducted into the hall of fame during their first eligible year! These guys were two of the greats. Molitor was a class act all the way and Eck, well he was a wily vet who didn't shy away from showing his emotions. These two deserve the award.

[horrorfreak13]

Originally posted by Rated R
Hooray for Paul Molitor and Dennis Eckersley who were both inducted into the hall of fame during their first eligible year! These guys were two of the greats. Molitor was a class act all the way and Eck, well he was a wily vet who didn't shy away from showing his emotions. These two deserve the award.

I'm happy for both and they deserve it what I have a problem with is Joe Carter got 19 votes 3.8% and you need to have a 5% to be on the ballot next year and I don't understand why he only got so few votes. I think his numbers are close to hall of fame material but I was shocked that he got so few votes.

[horrorfreak13]

The Blue Jays signed relief pitcher Terry Adams. I'm still trying to figure out who in the blue hell is Terry Adams?

[PapaJupe2k]

Originally posted by horrorfreak13
The Blue Jays signed relief pitcher Terry Adams. I'm still trying to figure out who in the blue hell is Terry Adams? If it is the Terry Adams I'm thinking of he spent some time with the Cubs who desperately wanted to make him a closer, but it just didn't work out. He then went on to the Dodgers I believe and pitched in the bullpen. He is just another anonymous middle reliever, nothing to get excited about.

[horrorfreak13]

Originally posted by PapaJupe2k
If it is the Terry Adams I'm thinking of he spent some time with the Cubs who desperately wanted to make him a closer, but it just didn't work out. He then went on to the Dodgers I believe and pitched in the bullpen. He is just another anonymous middle reliever, nothing to get excited about.

They also signed Chris Gomez YEEEAAHHH!!! Wait a minute who's Chris Gomez?

It appears the day Expos fans are regretting are here it appears Vladimir Guerrero is close to signing a deal with the Baltimore Orioles. Just what we need the O's to start spending on free agents. The Blue Jays might as well tranfer to the Central because they will always come up third the way this keeps happenning.

[FeverDog420]

I believe Terry Adams was also an ineffectual reliever/closer for the Phillies.

[docholiday_13]

Terry Adams had good numbers with the Phillies last season. He gives the Jays another experienced, veteran arm out of the bullpen. Now if only they had a bona fide closer...

Gomez is a smart pick-up. Part of me wishes the Jays would have tried harder for Aurilla (or even *gulp* Alomar).


2004 looks to be an interesting season.

[horrorfreak13]

Well Vladimir Guerrero has chosen to sign with the Anaheim Angels for a 5 year $70 million contract.

I fell the tide completely turning to the American League.

[docholiday_13]

Anaheim is flat out scary now. A rotation of Colon, Washburn, Escobar, Ortiz and Sele is pretty freaking good. Add Tim Salmon, Darin Erstad, Troy Glaus, Garret Anderson and Vladdy to the mix and this team is NUTS! And that doesn't even include Percival in the pen. Think Oakland and Seattle are shitting a few bricks?

And who does Baltimore think they are? Tejada, Lopez and now Palmeiro? They don't worry me though. Unless those three can pitch into the seventh inning, this team will be all flash.

[RicochetShaw]

Originally posted by RicochetShaw 2 months ago
The Angels may also get Vlad Guerrero. Could the Angels be the best team in baseball again next year? Perhaps.


What did I tell you? I have my sources :D

[bmain77]

Just thought I'd share yet another reason why the Tigers are so pathetic:

As a Tigers fan I'm almost as excited about the acquisitions of Rondell WHite, Fernando Vina, Jason Johnson, and Carlos Guillen as Angel fans are about Vladie. But then again the only other free agent signed in the past 5 years was Craig Paquette.

However, if they do somehow land Pudge I will then be legitemately excited about this season. I think they have a good shot. I don't understand all the talk of his going to Baltimore with them having signed Javey Lopez already. Pudge has said he won't change positions and I have to think Javey feels the same way.

[FeverDog420]

Ooh, my papi Vina is a Tiger? Thanks for the heads up.

http://detroit.tigers.mlb.com/images/2003/12/17/r6zx8KBs.jpg

Think I'll be buying some bleacher seats when the Tigers are in the Bronx this year! :D

[horrorfreak13]

Well so much for the retirement Roger Clemens signed with the Houston Astros today 1 year worth $5 million

[Haddonfield]

The Stros seem like they could have a sick starting rotation.

[daddiefatsacks]

i can't wait for this season to start....but I feel like my jays are gonna be fucked, the East is going to be probly the toughest division in the MLB.

As for the recent signings, let me shed some light

Terry Adams - i feel like he could be the best reliever we have on our team right now, he had a SOLID 2.60 ERA last year and thats great nowadays, but yes the Jays still don't have a bonafide closer which is going to be a question all year

Chris gomez - a very solid pickup indeed, Aurilla was going to be more pricey, so this way we get a solid backup/possible starter in the infield with a steady glove.

The opening day roster seems to be set but who knows what J.P. has up his sleeve.

[FeverDog420]

That. Fucker. How dare Roger bask in Yankee fans' adulation when there was a possibility he wasn't really retiring. Isn't it a sign of the Apocalyse when Yankee and Red Sox fans agree on something?

[docholiday_13]

Originally posted by FeverDog420
That. Fucker. How dare Roger bask in Yankee fans' adulation when there was a possibility he wasn't really retiring. Isn't it a sign of the Apocalyse when Yankee and Red Sox fans agree on something?


Indeed.

Very poor taste by Clemons. But then again, Roger has always been a prick so whatever.


As for the AL East, it looks like another third place year for the Jays. Unless Halladay matches last years totals, Batista wins 15, Delgado and Vern continue to tear the cover off the ball, Hinske and Phelps get over the sophomore jinx and someone steps up in the bullpen to save 40 games.

That's a lot of ifs but with a BADASS core of Halladay, Delgado and Wells, anything is possible.

[Grebdron]

Is nobody paying any attention to the Angels' offseason?

Boston or NY are no lock for the pennant, folks. Arte Moreno has DEEP pockets, and a willingness to spend, and a passion to win.

Hell, the first thing he did as owner was lower beer prices.

He could run for mayor.

[RicochetShaw]

Originally posted by Grebdron
Is nobody paying any attention to the Angels' offseason?

Boston or NY are no lock for the pennant, folks. Arte Moreno has DEEP pockets, and a willingness to spend, and a passion to win.


*AHEM* :D;)


The Angels will win the toughest conference in the MLB, the AL West. If they stay healthy, they have a very legit chance of winning it all.

[horrorfreak13]

Well to combat with the Astros signings the Cubs have offerred Gred Maddux a two year contract worth around $6-7 million a year.

The Cardinals and the Mets are the other two teams that have shown interest.

It would be good for the Cubs to get him because it's going to be tougher to win the NL Central this year.

[Haddonfield]

Originally posted by FeverDog420
That. Fucker. How dare Roger bask in Yankee fans' adulation when there was a possibility he wasn't really retiring. Isn't it a sign of the Apocalyse when Yankee and Red Sox fans agree on something?


Just took Roger being a jerk to NY for you guys to finally understand why we hate him! :)

[Rated R]

The Jays signed their acquisition Ted Lilly to a 2-year contract worth 5 million. I really think they did the smart thing this year, they got quality role players that can make a difference. I think they could make the playoffs this year...maybe

[bmain77]

Pudge's agent is in town tonight as I write this talking to the Tigers. I still can't believe the Tigers are finally spending some money finally. I wonder what made Mike Illitch change his mind. If us Tiger fans are lucky perhaps he is just trying to make the team look more attractive to potential buyers.

[horrorfreak13]

http://espn.go.com/i/page2/quickie/040121_quickie.jpg

Yes the media still thinks this is going to happen. Media get over it it's not happenning now let's talk about something that might have a chance of happenning.

According to reports the Blue Jays and Roy Halladay are $2.5 million apart in their contract talks as they are trying to get a long term deal done before arbitration. Halladay wants $9 million.

Also the Expos might be trading Livan Hernandez to Baltimore for I think some prospects which makes the Blue Jays chances of making the playoffs very much like a race for 3rd the way this is going.

EDIT: The Blue Jays have signed Roy Halladay to a 4 year $42 million contract rrported by the Globe and Mail. That's good news and Halladay the best pitcher in the AL with be with the Blue Jays for a long while.

[bmain77]

Well I have another canidate for the biggest asshole in the sports world. I am referring to Pudge Rodriguez's agent Scott Boras. I suppose I shouldn't be shocked at the behavior of a sports agent considering they just might rank lower than lawyers on the honesty scale.

Anyways, Boras appeared on a local sports talk show today to talk about Pudge and the Tigers. The hosts of the show are awesome, better than a lot of national shows.

THey were nothing but polite to Boras who was being a complete a-hole with this irritating laugh after each pompous statement. Finally they asked him straight out if Pudge is genuinely interested in the Tigers. Boras broke into this flippant response about how there is nothing going for detroit...$10,000,000 a year isn't enough to bring him to D-Town...he managed to throw in a Jewish slam on one of the hosts. When asked about the success of the wings and pistons he said somethign like, "Does Rodriguez skate or does any Rodriguez skate for that matter!" When asked if he realized he was slamming the city of Detroit and its people he said "Who cares." Just a giant jackass. Eventually they just hung up on him.

I really hope someone floats a tape of this interview to Jim Rome or maybe even ESPN. As irritating as Drew Rosenhaus can be, Boras made him look like a very nice guy.

It's fine that I-Rod doesn't want to sign with the TIgers. I really can't blame him. It don't even bother me that they are probably using to TIgers to get some better offers. That comes with the business. But to slam Detroit and it's people is completely and totally out of line. It would have been one thing if the hosts were trying to start an argument or something like alot of hosts do, but like I said they were nothing but polite. The interview was on an hour and a half ago and my blood is still boiling.

Yet another reason for me to just stop watching professional sports at all.

[Haddonfield]

Boras has been and always will be an ass. I am not surprised by anything you posted. Ive seen this guy in action. He is what is wrong in sports, people like him who suck the bones dry and sometimes, yes somtimes, the owners and left hanging by people like him.

Scott can kiss my arse.

[horrorfreak13]

Well I-Rod sign with the Tigers what in the hell is he thinking. It will rise the Tigers win total up from 41 to about 50 YAY!!!!!!!!!

Also not to bring back an old topic from the year but I found this picture and it's quite funny.

http://www.cbc.ca/sports/hockey/hnic/instigator/gfx/ontheloose/corky2.jpg

[Haddonfield]

Nice to see the BoSox brought Ellis Burks back. Now only if we go into our wayback machine say about 10 years and never let him walk in the first place.

The curse of Mike Greenwell strikes again!

[bmain77]

Pudge may know what he is doing. With The Tigers play in by far the weakest division in baseball. It's a little bit of a long shot, but if a couple of the Tigers younger pitchers really pick it up this year and if all the new signings pay off they could actually compete for the division. The Royals, of course, will be the favorites, but it not like they are a dynamite team or anything.

[Haddonfield]

another month...another A-Rod rumor

A-Rod to the Yanks for Contraes amd Soriano. Mr MVP would then move to third base.

as a Red Sox fan I have to say...interesting...ya think George knows he is going to have to score 15 runs a game with the pitching staff he has now?

[tbone]

The Yanks can only dream about getting A-Rod.

[tbone]

Originally posted by bmain77
Pudge may know what he is doing. With The Tigers play in by far the weakest division in baseball. It's a little bit of a long shot, but if a couple of the Tigers younger pitchers really pick it up this year and if all the new signings pay off they could actually compete for the division. The Royals, of course, will be the favorites, but it not like they are a dynamite team or anything.

I don't think they can compete, but if they may climb out of the basement.

[horrorfreak13]

The Union has apparently approved the potiential A-Rod to the Evil Empire deal now it only needs Bud Selig's apporval.

Ok this is fucking bullshit they wouldn't approve his deal with the Red Sox but they will to the fucking Evil Empire.

From ESPN (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=1735937)

I seiously hope the Evil Empire just collapses and falls completely flat this year and their pitching will prove it.

[Haddonfield]

Ill agree that there is some strange doings it seems behind the Sox deal and the Yanks deal, but overall it seems the Yanks getting A-Rod was just an eaiser deal. They give up a guy not making "much" and the Rangers eat some money. Thats almost about it besides this whole deffereing money until 2025 shite I cant understand.

Fact is, while this may seem like a "big deal" for Yank fans thinking they stuck it to the Red Sox, well they didnt. Ive said all along id rather have Nomar and Manny than just A-Rod (someone has to hit in the lineup) I tho wonder what the Sox could have done differently. Could they have tried to trade another player than Manny and moved A-Rod to third? Seems like the best idea but then u realise that it wouldnt have worked for one good reason.....

$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$MONEY$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$

The Yanks are walking into next season with a 200 million payroll. If they dont win the series, it will be a flat out embassasment. 200 million people in one season!! that is insane. Im lucky enough that my team is a big spender but come on...say it with me...200 million dollar payroll.

Even a Yank fan has to see how nuts that is.

But, it all comes down to pitching, and the Sox top 3 starters are proven 20 game winners. Were as the Yanks pitching staff has undergone a dramatic overhaul. I am very interested in how the new Yank starters pan out. There bullpen seems to be OK with there new additions.

This is going to be fun. very fun. Im already ranting in February!!

Sev, Im saying sorry right now for what I say come April :)

[RicochetShaw]

Originally posted by Haddonfield
IFact is, while this may seem like a "big deal" for Yank fans thinking they stuck it to the Red Sox, well they didnt. Ive said all along id rather have Nomar and Manny than just A-Rod (someone has to hit in the lineup) I tho wonder what the Sox could have done differently. Could they have tried to trade another player than Manny and moved A-Rod to third? Seems like the best idea but then u realise that it wouldnt have worked for one good reason.....



Yeah man, they were saying if the A-Rod/Nomar deal went through, then we would have also gotten Magglio Ordonez from the White Sox.

Now, while that deal had me salivating, thinking we'd have an invincible batting line-up, I knew in my heart that I didn't want that deal to go through. It would be too "Yankee-ish". ;)

[Haddonfield]

I never liked the Magglio idea, sure it seemed cool at the time but fact is with me, give me Nomar or give me death.

The only thing that sucks with A-Rod going to NY is the fact that it never would have happened if it wasnt for the Sox. We never heard about him changing positions...the Sox were all about getting rid of Manny. Shite, we could have coughed up Nixon and a prospect, ate some cash, and moved his ass over a base.

bty....A-Rod...have fun striking out against Curt about 16 times this season. :)

[horrorfreak13]

Well Bud Selig has apporved the deal which means only 1 thing comes to mind and thats

http://espn.go.com/i/page2/quickie/040216_quickie.jpg

[Benny]

This A-Rod news is awesome. It does suck to give up Soriano though, he was turning into a really good player. He sucked in the playoffs, but he won't be returning to them anytime soon anyway. :D This makes things more even between us and the Red Sox now, I think we still need another pitcher and help in the bullpen.

By the way Red Sox fans, you cannot complain about the Yankees spending money left and right, as your team has the second-highest payroll. Plus look at teams like the Mets, Dodgers, and Rangers who spend a lot but still suck.

This deal has my hyped for next season; let's play ball!

[RicochetShaw]

http://espn.go.com/media/mlb/2004/0215/photo/arod_m.jpg




Goodbye, Yankee dynasty! You now have two cancers on your team, Kevin Brown and A-Rod. Look for the Yankees to miss the playoffs next year.

:)




....ok, so maybe I'm in denial

[docholiday_13]

The Rangers must be estatic about this deal.

Unloading A-Rod's contract is a victory in itself but to aquire Soriano too is amazing.

[horror maniac]

While the A-rod trade might be good for the Yankee-Red sox rivalry, it does little for the rest of baseball. Just goes to show that George Steinbrenner's pockets are as deep as the Grand Canyon.

[Haddonfield]

According to ESPN Maddox is on the verge of signing with the Yanks.

If that happens, it pisses me off more than the Arod deal.

Greg is a guy I have been silently waiting for my boys to lock up cheap...now it seems his price is going up and up and I DO not want the Yanks to get him.

Come on Theo...time to strike...DO SOMETHING WILL YA?!!!!

[sharkstank]

god i hate the Yankees

WWWWHHHHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

[Rated R]

BOOOOOORING!

I hate it when things like this happens in sports, two teams stack up with the most expensive players and the smaller market teams suffer because of it. I hope that both the Yankees and Red Sox implode this year, it makes me sick. I like the Sox, but I hate the direction they're taking.

[horrorfreak13]

Originally posted by Haddonfield
According to ESPN Maddox is on the verge of signing with the Yanks.


Fuck man they have everything else this is bullshit. Maddux only won 14 games last year but this is ridiculous I seriously hope the Yankees fucking implode and miss the playoffs.

[Haddonfield]

Now according to other sources Maddox has no intentions on playing for NY and George said he is done spending money (yeah ok)

Seems the Red Sox offered Greg a decent contract a few months ago but he turned it down saying he has no desire to play on the east coast. Shame too...a rotation of Pedro, Schilling, Lowe, Maddox, and Wakfield sounds pretty sweet...oh well.

I was thinking about the Yanks payroll, estimates say its going to come in at 190 mill...and they now have to pay 80 mill in revenu sharing...so in total the Yanks are spending 270,000,000.00 in ONE season on payroll expense. Even more scary is more than half of that amount is already covered in his ridiculous TV contract which I want to say gets him 150 mill (I could be wrong) but if thats the case, in reality he is only spending 120 mill out of his own pocket for that payroll. By comparison some NHL clubs get 10 mill if they are lucky for the TV rights.

Welcome to The Big Apple.

Can we now call it the Big Green Apple?

[Indiana Sev]

Originally posted by horrorfreak13
I seriously hope the Yankees fucking implode and miss the playoffs.

That just might happen, they're considering hiring Slats for GM!!??

:D:p

[jackson13]

Cubs got Greg Maddux! Cubs got Greg Maddux!

This is awesome news! I knew they already had the best pitching rotation in baseball but with the addition of Maxie, there is no stopping them.

Prior, Wood, Maddux, Clement, Zambrano.........wow, this is definitely The Year.

[horrorfreak13]

Originally posted by jackson13
Prior, Wood, Maddux, Clement, Zambrano.........wow, this is definitely The Year.

That's an impressive starting rotation one that could get them to the World Series.

[horrorfreak13]

Looks like someone now supports a Salary Cap after the Yankees uploaded thier payroll to be more than the entire American League

http://www.tsn.ca/mlb/news_story.asp?id=72611

[Haddonfield]

Originally posted by horrorfreak13
That's an impressive starting rotation one that could get them to the World Series.


I still think my BoSox have the best rotation in the game but I am bias :)

Pedro, Schilling, Lowe, Wakefield, Kim

Wake has over a 100 wins which is impressive since he has been bumped around from starter to bullpen to closer many many times. and has won 11 or more games 6 times in 10 full seasons.

The first three guys are 20 game winners. And Kim can look impressive when he starts but he is the wild card. He has to keep his head on strait in order to survive and if he cant the Sox will no doubt give someone else a try.

[Haddonfield]

Originally posted by horrorfreak13
Looks like someone now supports a Salary Cap after the Yankees uploaded thier payroll to be more than the entire American League

http://www.tsn.ca/mlb/news_story.asp?id=72611


Id like to personaly tell John Henry to shut his mouth. He is pissed about the Arod thing, thats fine, but he has to understand that his team is one of the few "Have's" in the game and his team has the next highest payroll (tho there is a conciderable distance)

I like what "Theo and the Trio" have done with the Red Sox but they HAVE to start keeping some things out of the media. They leaked too much information when trying to get Arod and him ranting about money isnt going to help his image. I dont mind him and George throwing bombs at each other, I think thats fun...but keep the politics out of it. Take a page out of the Patriots play book and keep EVERYTHING InHouse will ya!!!!!

:mad:

[horrorfreak13]

This is from ESPN :D

http://espn.go.com/i/magazine/new/sportoon_040220.jpg

[jackson13]

Lofton went to the Yankees? Why Kenny? WHY?!

[scarecrow2012]

so i'm a little scared...i thought i wouldn't watch baseball anymore after the braves went straight downhill in the post season..but hey don't they do that every postseason...But now the cubs are lookin better and better and so are the red sox...i can't wait to see how it goes down this year

[horror maniac]

I might be a little biased here but the Philadelphia Phillies have a pretty good starting rotation as well:

Kevin Millwood
Randy Wolf
Vicente Padilla
Eric Milton
Brett Myers

Not to mention they've upgraded their bullpen by getting one of the best closers in the game Billy Wagner. They also went out and signed a couple of setup pitchers too.

Pat Burrell will have a bounce back year. Jim Thome will continue to put up big numbers.

The phillies could win their first NL East pennant since '93.

[daddiefatsacks]

Originally posted by horror maniac
I might be a little biased here but the Philadelphia Phillies have a pretty good starting rotation as well:

Kevin Millwood
Randy Wolf
Vicente Padilla
Eric Milton
Brett Myers

Not to mention they've upgraded their bullpen by getting one of the best closers in the game Billy Wagner. They also went out and signed a couple of setup pitchers too.

Pat Burrell will have a bounce back year. Jim Thome will continue to put up big numbers.

The phillies could win their first NL East pennant since '93.

all of this is true, the phillies quietly have built a playoff calibre team that will contend with every team in the NL

[Haddonfield]

Last year was strange for the Phills...they were neck n neck with the Phish then got swept in a huge series and that killed them. They have a good club.

Unlike the AL, the NL looks wide open. There are a handfull of teams I am interested in seeing. The Astros top that list followed by the Phils, Cubs, Phish, Giants, to name a few.

in the AL, did anyone catch Jason Giambi? The guy must have lost at least 30 pounds, says he only lost 2, and got all pissed about the 'roid questions...plus has suffered from an injury that they say is common in people who take such things...hhhhhhhmmmmmmm....u do have to wonder.

[docholiday_13]

Originally posted by Haddonfield
Last year was strange for the Phills...they were neck n neck with the Phish then got swept in a huge series and that killed them. They have a good club.

Unlike the AL, the NL looks wide open. There are a handfull of teams I am interested in seeing. The Astros top that list followed by the Phils, Cubs, Phish, Giants, to name a few.

in the AL, did anyone catch Jason Giambi? The guy must have lost at least 30 pounds, says he only lost 2, and got all pissed about the 'roid questions...plus has suffered from an injury that they say is common in people who take such things...hhhhhhhmmmmmmm....u do have to wonder.


Remember when Giambi first came into the league and he was a 180 pound dude who only had gap power.

I think Mark McGuire's "supplements" must have found their way into Giambi when they were teamates in Oakland.

I can't believe these players actually try to deny steroid use. They look like NFL linebackers.

[horrorfreak13]

Apparently the war between the Red Sox and the Yankees is not over. Both teams are after Jose Vidro of the Montreal Expos, plus the Dodgers are also interested in his services. The Dodgers need him more considering the Red Sox scored more runs in the first half of the season than the Dodgers did all of last season.

Also you know the Dodgers are really desperate when they invite Jose Canseco to training camp.

[Haddonfield]

Originally posted by horrorfreak13
Also you know the Dodgers are really desperate when they invite Jose Canseco to training camp.


Problem is he will only be allowed to play home games because he cant leave the state! His ankle bracelet will give him away.

:)

[Haddonfield]

ya know, sitting here watching this Yanks/Sox spring training game and man the hype here is insane. Tickets to this game were going for 500 bucks. The TV station billed it as "The Rematch" they said with a wink..."well its only spring training....right?"

this is going to be a very odd year. :)

[RicochetShaw]

Man, I wish I still lived in Florida, I would have gone to the BoSox/Yankees Spring Training game for sure. But alas, the Sox lose 11-7. But remember, it's only Spring Training! :)

[horrorfreak13]

I found this on ESPN it's quite a funny game it's called the Red Sox-Yankees overboard game check it out. :D

http://espn.go.com/i/magazine/new/040308sportoon.jpg

[Indiana Sev]

^

Christ, those Johnny Damon lines made me crack up! :D

[Haddonfield]

Originally posted by Indiana Sev
^

Christ, those Johnny Damon lines made me crack up! :D


The Passion of the Damon.

They say if Boston makes the post season this year they will forget about there head shaving they did last year and all grow there hair out and beards.

Forget the World Series, I just want to see that!

[Indiana Sev]

From TSN.com

http://tsn.ca/mlb/news_story.asp?id=76737

I actually like this idea. I mean, if they have to move, I'd prefer Connecticut than any other place. It's still pretty close to home base, here in Montreal. The die-hard fans can travel fairly easily to watch them play once in a while...

It might just make up for the Whalers leaving Hartford.

I said might. :D

I like the name Colonials too.

[horrorfreak13]

Originally posted by Indiana Sev
From TSN.com

http://tsn.ca/mlb/news_story.asp?id=76737

I actually like this idea. I mean, if they have to move, I'd prefer Connecticut than any other place. It's still pretty close to home base, here in Montreal. The die-hard fans can travel fairly easily to watch them play once in a while...

It might just make up for the Whalers leaving Hartford.

I said might. :D

I like the name Colonials too.

This is actually from the same group that got the Blue Jays their expansion franchise. We all know the Expos are moving it's a matter of when.

[Indiana Sev]

Originally posted by horrorfreak13
This is actually from the same group that got the Blue Jays their expansion franchise. We all know the Expos are moving it's a matter of when.

I'm positive this will be their final year in Montreal. Sad, but true.

[daddiefatsacks]

just imagine if they won the world series in 94...would things be different?

[horrorfreak13]

Originally posted by daddiefatsacks
just imagine if they won the world series in 94...would things be different?

probably and they should have gotten it but the bastards had to go on strike. FUCKERS!!!!

[horrorfreak13]

Some good news for Expos fans as they will be on English TV for the first time in a long while. 25 games will be broadcasted on The Score next season.

[Indiana Sev]

Click below for the official MLB Discussion Thread...

http://www.joblo.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=73972