A Look Back at Last Years Post New Years Rays Roster Moves
by MrNegative1 on Dec 31, 2011 10:00 AM EST
in Features & Analysis
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The 2011 portion of the offseason has seen the Rays sign Jose Molina, trade John Jaso for Josh Lueke, trade Jake Jeffries to the Marlins for Burke Badenhop, sign a handful of minor league deals most notable Juan Miranda, and most importantly sign Matt Moore to a long term contract extension. This is nothing unusual for the Rays, as shown in the infographic above, many of their transactions are completed after the new year. As we wait for the ball to drop on 2011 and the 2012 portion of the offseason to begin, let's look back at the trades, free agent signings, and other notable moments that led up to the roster construction that eventually landed the Rays in the playoffs.
On January 8, 2011 the Rays dealt Matt Garza, Zach Rosscup, and Fernando Perez to the Chicago Cubs in exchange for Sam Fuld, Robinson Chirinos, Hak Ju Lee, Chris Archer, and Brandon Guyer. The trade of Garza opened the door for Jeremy Hellickson to take a spot in the rotation and he responded by winning the AL Rookie of the Year Award by posting a record of 13-10 with a 2.95 ERA (FIP of 4.44) over 189 innings of work.
Rays fans were treated with a plethora of outstanding defensive gems by Sam Fuld through the course of the year (video here). Both Robinson Chirinos and Brandon Guyer spent time with the Rays in 2011 and both should be competing for roster spots this spring.
Hak Ju Lee increased his prospect stock (Keith Law had him as the #7 best prospect in his mid-season rankings) and participated in the Futures All Star Game. Chris Archer struggled with his command in AA but finished the regular season with two outstanding starts in AAA Durham. Both Brandon Guyer and Chris Archer received B- grade from John Sickels at Minor Leauge Ball.
On January 15, 2011 the Rays signed Kyle Farnsworth. It wasn't known at the time what his role would be but the guys at MLB Fantasy 411 certainly seemed to scoff at the idea of him being a closer. Farnsworth scoffed at the notion that he couldn't fill the void left by Rafael Soriano by posting a 5-1 record with an ERA of 2.18 including 25 saves and was an integral part of the Rays success in 2011. As long as he is healthy he will be returning to the back of the Rays bullpen in 2012.
On January 21, 2011 the Rays signed the Dirk "the Garfoose" Hayhurst. The Garfoose never made it to Tampa in 2011 but his signing did bring many of us including myself to read The Bullpen Gospels which had me laughing more times than I could count. Hayhurst has a dynamic personality, so much so that Hayhurst shared the stage with David Price at the Rays very successful Fan Fest. He also brought a new emoticon with a series of Shatometer which was described to our own Brad Woodrum in a great interview in February.
On January 26, 2011 the once promising Rocco Baldelli retired from baseball and took a job as a special adviser to the Rays front office.
"I don't anticipate ever playing baseball again. I'm retired. The paperwork will be filed," Baldelli said Tuesday night. "And you know what. The only time I feel like it's good to retire is when you're happy to retire. And I'm happy."
On January 28, 2011 the Rays signed Casey Kotchman as part reclamation project and part insurance at 1b in the event that Dan Johnson struggled. When Manny Ramirez unexpectedly failed his 3rd drug test and retired the Rays called upon Kotchman to join the big club. Kotchman, who had already sparked a mini-controversy with the fan base as to who should get the nod as the 1b by having a very good spring training hitting .354/.415/.521 picked up right where he left off and continued to impress. His final numbers for the season were .306/.372/.428 with a .351 wOBA and a 125 wRC+.
On January 31, 2011 the Rays signed Johnny Damon and Manny Ramirez to play LF and DH respectively. Damon signed for 5.25 million dollars plus up to 750K in attendance bonus' and Ramirez signed for 2 million dollars. Damon went on to hit .261/.326/.418 with 16 HR and 19 stolen bases in 647 PA with the Rays while Ramirez went 1-17 with the Rays before the news broke that he failed his 3rd drug test and was retiring from baseball.
Damon is a candidate to be re-signed by the Rays for 2012 while Ramirez is attempting to comeback from his retirement and has had his original 100 game suspension reduced to 50 games. The outcome of the whole Manny signing was very unfortunate and felt like a kick in the groin to many fans but at the time of the signing the press conference was a classic and the fan base was energized. The following video are the highlights from the press conference; the entire press conference can be seen HERE.
On February 19, 2011 the Rays held their Fan Fest and the response was outstanding. Here is what Dave Shcieber of FoxSports wrote:
Just after 10 a.m. Saturday morning, only minutes after FanFest officially got underway, Tropicana Field was already rocking with eager and enthusiastic supporters. The parking lots were nearly filled to capacity resembling a typical game-day sellout and a steady stream of fans just kept pouring through the doors.
By the time pitchers and catchers reported to spring training the Rays had assembled a number of components for Joe Maddon to cobble a bullpen together. On December 17, 2010 Andrew Friedman dealt Jason Bartlett to the San Diego Padres for infielder Cole Figueroa and relievers Adam Russell, Cesar Ramos, and Brandon Gomes, he signed Juan Cruz, Joel Peralta, and Kyle Farnsworth as free agents, and there was hope that for a healthy return by J.P. Howell who had missed 2010 with shoulder surgery would return to the club around June 1st.
On top of rebuilding the bullpen the Rays had to hope that Johnny Damon wouldn't be too much of a defensive liability in LF, Manny Ramirez could remain healthy and provide the big bat behind Evan Longoria, that Dan Johnson could replace Carlos Pena at first base, and that Reid Brignac could step in and be the everyday shortstop.
On March 8, 2011 Jonah Keri's book The Extra 2% was released. Brad Woodrum had an excellent look at the casting call for who would play Vince Namoli, Stu Sternberg, Lou Piniella, Andrew Friedman, and Joe Maddon.
One of the greatest Movie Promotions of ALL TIME:
Joe Maddon was optimistic as he sat down with Tim Kirkjian to discuss the team prior to opening day. A great interview where Maddon talks about bullpen, bullpen, and more bullpen. Admits he wouldn't be as comfortable as he is in 2011 if his rotation had left via free agency. Discusses Casey Kotchman in terms of being at the same point as Carlos Pena was when the Rays acquired him, Damon, and Manny.
On March 31, 2011 the Rays announced that they had signed Wade Davis to a contract extension for up to 7 years and be worth 35.1 million dollars.
As they say, the rest is history. We all know about the trials and tribulations of the 2011 regular season. Hopefully, the Rays will continue to acquire either through trade, free agency, or minor league signings the same sort of depth and production they received from the 2011 crop of players picked up after the ball dropped ending 2010.
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All the way down to right before ST
Friedman is always looking for the right deal. I see a very fun January coming. Starting Monday, the rumors may actually be true…
Matt Moore. That is all.
seen this while scrolling through the 2% casting call thread
Amy Winehouse (age 85) as Vince Namoli
(yep, she’s still alive. whodathunkit?)
by CBJones on Mar 8, 2011 8:26 PM PST up Star-gray Rec Story-flag Flag 2 recs
by germanshepard44 on Dec 31, 2011 1:14 PM EST reply actions
Back to who's on first...
Any thoughts about Seattle’s Mike Carp? I like him much more than Smoak. It shouldn’t take more than a Wade or Niemann to pry him away….. maybe less if the Mariners sign Fielder. Carp isn’t going to make it in Seattle anyhow playing out of position in LF.
As I searched for Carp's write-ups/grades from Sickles, I found these:
From Mariner’s 2011 list:
For some reason I can’t copy/paste… Lueke was #20 C+, loves his talent, low grade due to make-up and personal issues.
From the M’s 2010 list:
- Carp, grade C: 2013’s Garrett Jones
From the M’s 2009 list:
- Carp, grade C+: Notes patience and power, mixed scouting reports.
From the 2008 Mets list:
- Carp, grade C.
From the 2007 Mets list:
- Carp, grade B-: Developing power bat to watch.
From the Mets 2006 list:
- Carp, grade C. (A- grades to Milledge and Pelfrey.. WHOOPS!)
Anyway, I’m a NO on Carp. MUCH rather have Smoak.
What could be better than Dan Johnson
hitting .108
Let's trade Reddick for Heyward!
by QW on Sep 28, 2011 9:47 PM CDT
by SandalsNoPants on Dec 31, 2011 2:42 PM EST up reply actions
wtf is up with this computer today?
I’m not going back to look up all the rankings, but they definitely weren’t #1.
What could be better than Dan Johnson
hitting .108
Let's trade Reddick for Heyward!
by QW on Sep 28, 2011 9:47 PM CDT
by SandalsNoPants on Dec 31, 2011 2:42 PM EST up reply actions
Maybe Carp found a tutor
He’s just not a C student anymore. Look at the 2011 numbers he put up in AAA and Seattle. He plays a reasonable IB and was clearly superior to Smoak with the bat both visually and statistically last year.
We need to rent a SS for 1 year
Time to call it quits with Brigs. Give Sean the utility role and dump EJ as soon as possible. HJL and Timmy B both need another year in AAA. Where do we find a veteran SS with a reasonable contract who can contribute for a year or so? An older SS without a future on a rebuilding team. Especially a team that can find some future potential in our cast-offs.
Why are you calling it quits on Briggy already?
He’s got to get at least one more shot. He had a solid bat, especially for SS, in 2010.
What could be better than Dan Johnson
hitting .108
Let's trade Reddick for Heyward!
by QW on Sep 28, 2011 9:47 PM CDT
by SandalsNoPants on Dec 31, 2011 2:43 PM EST up reply actions
I agree with Sandals here. Briggy was a bat first prospect that struggled with his D
And he has turned himself into a premier defensive SS IMO. This is why I don’t understand why people are just writing him off, he has shown the ability to improve his game and I think he could very easily find his game at the dish that made him a top prospect.
by JoeMasGlasses on Dec 31, 2011 2:46 PM EST up reply actions
Even if you look at his batted ball rates, it's really weird how much he sucked.
I expected to see a serious spike in FB% and dive in LD%, but they were really close to his averages. His LD% was even up a couple %s from 2010. Looks like he got BABIP’d a little, but that still doesn’t explain the complete lack of power.
I understand his swing isn’t great, but again, I thought it was surprising to see his batted ball %s right in line.
What could be better than Dan Johnson
hitting .108
Let's trade Reddick for Heyward!
by QW on Sep 28, 2011 9:47 PM CDT
by SandalsNoPants on Dec 31, 2011 3:05 PM EST up reply actions
The Padres just traded for Carlos Quentin
This doesn’t make much sense to me. The gave up two prospects outside of the org. top ten. Does anybody know about these guys? Simon Castro and Pedro Hernandez.
They were outside of Sickels's top 25 for 2012 BEFORE the Reds trade.
Probably nothing more than a salary dump, still need to field a minor league team move by CHW.
What could be better than Dan Johnson
hitting .108
Let's trade Reddick for Heyward!
by QW on Sep 28, 2011 9:47 PM CDT
by SandalsNoPants on Dec 31, 2011 2:45 PM EST up reply actions
First real disappointment of the offseason
the Rays could have easily offered more, and Quentin would have filled the DH role nicely.
by AndrewTorrez on Dec 31, 2011 3:30 PM EST up reply actions
Maybe it's a precursor to us trading for Rizzo and Quentin from the Padres.
It could be what we wanted to give them back whoever they are looking for.
by Peter Piontek on Jan 1, 2012 12:13 AM EST up reply actions
Rays do like their package deals
this would be a better combo than Damon/Ramirez
by raysfaninminnesota on Jan 1, 2012 8:03 PM EST up reply actions
Castro was arguably our best pitching prospect going into 2011
2011 was one long meltdown for him. He was dismantled in AAA, sent back to AA to regain confidence and still wasn’t very good.
He has funky mechanics, a good FB, inconsistent slider (sometimes it’s plus) and a middling change. There where whispers of him being a reliever prior to 2011, and now that seems the most likely outcome. He also looks much older than his listed age.
Hernandez isn’t much of anything.
by walnut falcons on Dec 31, 2011 11:14 PM EST up reply actions
I get it from CHI view but what is SD doing
I thought they were trying to build for the future especially after trading away their young ace in Latos. Are they just trying to put buts in the seats or do they think they can compete?
SD wants to trade Barty and Hudson because they make 6 million
Quentin is due 7 or 8 million. I think he will be flipped.
What would you trade for Quentin and Rizzo?
Matt Moore. That is all.
after looking at Quentins triple slash line avg from 2008-2011
.257/.352/.505 while averaging 21 HRs is pretty good isn’t it. If the Rays could have given up equal value and got Quenitn to split time in RF and DH with Joyce that would give us a pretty damn good lineup. I was wondering about what prospects we have that would have equaled Castro and Hernandez.
Two lumps of poo.
No one of significance.
What could be better than Dan Johnson
hitting .108
Let's trade Reddick for Heyward!
by QW on Sep 28, 2011 9:47 PM CDT
by SandalsNoPants on Dec 31, 2011 3:11 PM EST up reply actions
Rays don't have that sort of luxury
They even have to get something for little Bossman this summer while contending to keep the plan intact.
Get out.
Quentin will be worth every bit of the 7 something he’ll make is ARB3 and was acquired for almost nothing at all.
This deal would have been great for the Rays.
I'll make out with a guy if he knocks it in
by Jason Collette on Jun 11, 2011 9:00 PM CDT
(Kotchman knocked it in)
If you really like Quentin, sign him in 2013
Should be fairly cheap, his numbers will tumble even more 2012 playing in SD
Right. DON'T acquire him for nothing while he IS cheap and coming of .363 wOBA season. Instead wait for him to MAYBE tank in Petco and POSSIBLY be cheaper than he is NOW.
Sure wish “read more post less” still applied…
I'll make out with a guy if he knocks it in
by Jason Collette on Jun 11, 2011 9:00 PM CDT
(Kotchman knocked it in)
One and done
Give AF a chance to put up similar numbers using a platoon we will control for years at a fraction of the cost. We already have half of the puzzle.
that's reflected in his trade value (almost zero)
Friedman has acquired a ton of one-and-done guys, including most notably Benoit and Soriano. Those turned out okay, if I recall properly.
by AndrewTorrez on Dec 31, 2011 6:11 PM EST up reply actions
not sure AF is giving up 12 years of Cobb and Davis for that package
If Rizzo is worth Cobb or Davis (and I think that’s about right), there’s no way Quentin’s market value is the same given that he was just traded for scraps.
by AndrewTorrez on Dec 31, 2011 3:31 PM EST up reply actions
Hate Kenny Williams.
I'll make out with a guy if he knocks it in
by Jason Collette on Jun 11, 2011 9:00 PM CDT
(Kotchman knocked it in)
it's always fun to trade with morons
it’s never fun watching other teams get good players for pennies on the dollar, particularly if it’s a player you want (Quentin) or a good player going to a division rival (Bailey to the Red Sox)
by AndrewTorrez on Dec 31, 2011 3:37 PM EST up reply actions
Konerko will be a great manager after he is done playing
but there are too many things going on in baseball now for a player to be a manager, it would take focus away from his preparation of playing and hurt his value as a player. He can still mash.
This could be great news
Rizzo is expected to go to the Cubs or Rays and the Cubs and Marlins are talking Garza, Cubs want Gaby Sanchez in the deal.
Matt Moore. That is all.
Is this why we flip Rizzo to the Cubs?
For Sanchez?
Why is everyone obsessed with Felix?
I would not give up the killer B’s or Montero for this guy! Why the heck is everyone obsessed with him?
by JBBY on Dec 31, 2011 2:08 PM CST
by SandalsNoPants on Dec 31, 2011 4:03 PM EST up reply actions
Ha how did rumor even get believed enough to be posted
No way we flip him if we get him
Matt Moore. That is all.
The same way the Rays were listening to offers for Longoria?
Why is everyone obsessed with Felix?
I would not give up the killer B’s or Montero for this guy! Why the heck is everyone obsessed with him?
by JBBY on Dec 31, 2011 2:08 PM CST
by SandalsNoPants on Dec 31, 2011 4:13 PM EST up reply actions
What?
Rizzo flipped for a Dirty Sanchez?
Why is everyone obsessed with Felix?
I would not give up the killer B’s or Montero for this guy! Why the heck is everyone obsessed with him?
by JBBY on Dec 31, 2011 2:08 PM CST
by SandalsNoPants on Dec 31, 2011 4:21 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Quentin would have been great for the scraps we would have had to give up to get him
His 7.5 mil would bring the payroll to around 60 mil and would make our lineup that much better, I think the Rays really missed out on the power hitting DH they needed.
He's been a part-time DH each of the last 3 seasons
and he sucks at playing the field
by AndrewTorrez on Dec 31, 2011 6:12 PM EST up reply actions
Some bozo over at LSB just told me "he's not a big bat."
Speaking of Quentin.
Why is everyone obsessed with Felix?
I would not give up the killer B’s or Montero for this guy! Why the heck is everyone obsessed with him?
by JBBY on Dec 31, 2011 2:08 PM CST
He must've been in a coma over the last 5-10yrs
I put the screw IN THE TUNA!
by Transplanted on Dec 31, 2011 4:45 PM EST up reply actions
The heat in TX can be rough.
This past summer was extremely rough. Maybe that’s it.
Why is everyone obsessed with Felix?
I would not give up the killer B’s or Montero for this guy! Why the heck is everyone obsessed with him?
by JBBY on Dec 31, 2011 2:08 PM CST
by SandalsNoPants on Dec 31, 2011 4:49 PM EST up reply actions
In Petco, he wont be
He would of been nice here if he was willing to DH. And before anyone says Joyce to DH and Quentin to RF, the guy has the defense of Johnny Damon. The 38 year old Damon, he’s slow and takes awful routes.
Matt Moore. That is all.
Are you sure he won't be?
He’s got a higher ISO than Adrian Gonzalez. He’s a beast when he’s healthy enough to swing the bat.
Why is everyone obsessed with Felix?
I would not give up the killer B’s or Montero for this guy! Why the heck is everyone obsessed with him?
by JBBY on Dec 31, 2011 2:08 PM CST
by SandalsNoPants on Dec 31, 2011 5:00 PM EST up reply actions
Davis, Lee and Ruggaino for Rizzo, Guzman, and a couple of B prospects(Keyvius Sampson(P) and Blake Tecott(OF'er)
Lee and Rizzo equal out (for 2013) Rays get a starter for 1st base(can play LF also) and a couple of prospects for the future. Beckham stays in line to be the SS of the future.
wtf?
wtf?
wtf?
wtf?
wtf?
Why is everyone obsessed with Felix?
I would not give up the killer B’s or Montero for this guy! Why the heck is everyone obsessed with him?
by JBBY on Dec 31, 2011 2:08 PM CST
by SandalsNoPants on Dec 31, 2011 4:49 PM EST up reply actions
No, those are the people it's okay to be rude to.
Why is everyone obsessed with Felix?
I would not give up the killer B’s or Montero for this guy! Why the heck is everyone obsessed with him?
by JBBY on Dec 31, 2011 2:08 PM CST
by SandalsNoPants on Dec 31, 2011 9:30 PM EST up reply actions
Rays better not trade Lee for Rizzo.
No matter how much they are hyped, my teams always find a way to disappoint.
by thedudeofdudes on Dec 31, 2011 4:49 PM EST up reply actions
That would be only slightly less dumb than trading for him just to flip him.
Matt Moore. That is all.
Explain how a 20 year old SS and a 21 year old 1st baseman who are both rated in the area of being mid #100 of prospects isn't an equal deal
Is it because Rizzo struggled in 50 AB’s as a ML’er? And in terms of team value, the Rays have a potential very good SS prospect in Beckham(and are we throwing Brignac in the trash already?). Do you think Rizzo is less value to the Padres just because they have a surplus? Some team may offer more to them then what the Rays might. If both turn out to be as good, do the Rays not need a good hitting/power 1st baseman in their system now? Were still just talking about two young players who may or may not meet expectations.
And I still say Davis is being overvalued here and should net nothing more than a good ML player and a B prospect in return.
Positional rarity
I put the screw IN THE TUNA!
by Transplanted on Dec 31, 2011 8:58 PM EST up reply actions
I'm still okay with Lee-for-Rizzo
but Davis for a pile of spare parts really doesn’t thrill me.
I think Lee-for-Rizzo is a slight overpay because of positional scarcity, but unless the Royals decide they want Lee for Wil Myers, I think it’s probably worth trading a prospect whose primary value is defense for a prospect whose primary value is his bat given the dearth of potential impact bats on the near horizon.
Put less wordily: who else is available that’s a better hitting prospect than Anthony Rizzo?
by AndrewTorrez on Dec 31, 2011 9:40 PM EST up reply actions
I can see that
and if you think Lee’s upside is an All-Star-level SS, then Lee-for-Rizzo is probably too much even with the willingness to overpay built in.
by AndrewTorrez on Jan 1, 2012 11:35 AM EST up reply actions
again, though
what bat is available better than Rizzo, regardless of position? Yelich, maybe?
by AndrewTorrez on Jan 1, 2012 11:36 AM EST up reply actions
Just trade one of our available pitchers to the Marlins for Yelich...
Apparently he’s on the table in the Garza talks. I’d totally deal one of Davis/Niemann/Cobb to the Marlins for Yelich based on potential alone. It wouldn’t help the team now, but in 3 years it will. The guys got the ability to play COF or 1B and he’s got great speed for a big fella. Marlins want a starting pitcher that can go along with Johnson/Beurhle/Sanchez. Davis would be a good fit to keep the group together long-term guaranteed. Just a thought.
by Snarfalicious on Dec 31, 2011 5:47 PM EST up reply actions
I wouldn't mind that deal if we signed Pena.
Then, we don’t really need to trade a SP for help this year, but in 3 years or so.
This meme definitely has a shelf life to it
by Jason Collette on Dec 29, 2011 11:31 AM EST upreplyactions
So do you.
BOOM. ROASTED!
by SandalsNoPants on Dec 29, 2011 11:32 AM EST upreply Rec Flag
by sc_monsta1015 on Dec 31, 2011 5:51 PM EST up reply actions
That's my thought...
Maybe sign Pena to a 2-year deal and see how Yelich can develop over that time.
As a 19-year old he put together a season line like this is A ball:
.388 OBP, 15 HR, 32 2B, 32 SB, .871 OPS, and he’s pretty solid defensively from LF.
by Snarfalicious on Dec 31, 2011 5:56 PM EST up reply actions
Yes, but if we offered, Wade Davis for him,
would the Marlins even consider it when they can add a couple of other pieces (Sanchez, Domingez) and go after Matt Garza?
This meme definitely has a shelf life to it
by Jason Collette on Dec 29, 2011 11:31 AM EST upreplyactions
So do you.
BOOM. ROASTED!
by SandalsNoPants on Dec 29, 2011 11:32 AM EST upreply Rec Flag
by sc_monsta1015 on Dec 31, 2011 6:02 PM EST up reply actions
That's the thing...
Sanchez is disposable now that they can move Ramirez to 3rd, Reyes takes SS, and then they have LoMo at 1B. It’d be all about if they would be more willing to only let Yelich go for Davis rather than a package of players for Garza.
by Snarfalicious on Dec 31, 2011 6:04 PM EST up reply actions
Also, the Cubs' asking price.
This meme definitely has a shelf life to it
by Jason Collette on Dec 29, 2011 11:31 AM EST upreplyactions
So do you.
BOOM. ROASTED!
by SandalsNoPants on Dec 29, 2011 11:32 AM EST upreply Rec Flag
by sc_monsta1015 on Dec 31, 2011 6:05 PM EST up reply actions
You have to figure both Sanchez and Domingez are disposable,
now that there are players to fill their positions.
This meme definitely has a shelf life to it
by Jason Collette on Dec 29, 2011 11:31 AM EST upreplyactions
So do you.
BOOM. ROASTED!
by SandalsNoPants on Dec 29, 2011 11:32 AM EST upreply Rec Flag
by sc_monsta1015 on Dec 31, 2011 6:08 PM EST up reply actions
Also, I'm hoping we can get a 1 year deal + an option
for Pena. I just don’t want to see us go 2 guaranteed for him.
This meme definitely has a shelf life to it
by Jason Collette on Dec 29, 2011 11:31 AM EST upreplyactions
So do you.
BOOM. ROASTED!
by SandalsNoPants on Dec 29, 2011 11:32 AM EST upreply Rec Flag
by sc_monsta1015 on Dec 31, 2011 6:05 PM EST up reply actions
I'm not sure if that's going to be reasonable with Boras as his agent
by Snarfalicious on Dec 31, 2011 6:07 PM EST up reply actions
Not exactly a long line for Pena suitors though
I put the screw IN THE TUNA!
by Transplanted on Dec 31, 2011 6:08 PM EST up reply actions
Right.
This meme definitely has a shelf life to it
by Jason Collette on Dec 29, 2011 11:31 AM EST upreplyactions
So do you.
BOOM. ROASTED!
by SandalsNoPants on Dec 29, 2011 11:32 AM EST upreply Rec Flag
by sc_monsta1015 on Dec 31, 2011 6:09 PM EST up reply actions
Unless he wants to waste the last year or so on a bad team
I put the screw IN THE TUNA!
by Transplanted on Dec 31, 2011 6:11 PM EST up reply actions
Yeah, hopefully he also prefers us over a whoever else.
That way he might even take a 1 year deal plus an option. What, $8M for the 1st year and 10 for the option? But that’s for the FO to decide.
This meme definitely has a shelf life to it
by Jason Collette on Dec 29, 2011 11:31 AM EST upreplyactions
So do you.
BOOM. ROASTED!
by SandalsNoPants on Dec 29, 2011 11:32 AM EST upreply Rec Flag
by sc_monsta1015 on Dec 31, 2011 6:14 PM EST up reply actions
Until Fielder is gone Pena is basically stuck
I put the screw IN THE TUNA!
by Transplanted on Dec 31, 2011 6:15 PM EST up reply actions
Ryan Madson will probably take forever to sign also
Boras will keep looking for a 3 or 4 year deal like Soriano got and if he gives into a 1 year deal, he wont do it until ST is about to start.
Matt Moore. That is all.
Outside of the Angels
Who else has the $$$
I put the screw IN THE TUNA!
by Transplanted on Dec 31, 2011 7:11 PM EST up reply actions
No one had it for Soriano last year
Boras will probably find the 2012 version of the Yankees for Madson.
Matt Moore. That is all.
Yeah, but that's getting harder & harder
I put the screw IN THE TUNA!
by Transplanted on Dec 31, 2011 9:00 PM EST up reply actions
agree
I really like Yelich, and I’d be okay with finding another way to improve for 2012 if the Rays could get someone with Yelich’s potential for Davis/Niemann/Cobb.
by AndrewTorrez on Dec 31, 2011 9:41 PM EST up reply actions
sounds about right
the stupid burns bright in this thread
by AndrewTorrez on Dec 31, 2011 6:13 PM EST up reply actions
relax, dude
up until now, that hasn’t meant you
by AndrewTorrez on Dec 31, 2011 9:37 PM EST up reply actions
Sorry buddy, when someone resorts to calling names its only going to bring out the stupid.
Slappy new year.
Who called who names?
Why is everyone obsessed with Felix?
I would not give up the killer B’s or Montero for this guy! Why the heck is everyone obsessed with him?
by JBBY on Dec 31, 2011 2:08 PM CST
by SandalsNoPants on Jan 1, 2012 3:34 PM EST up reply actions
Oh, Topkin why you gotta bring up Pena and Madson
1 unlikely and 1 near impossible signings. As well as Trumbo who will be overpriced prospect – wise and that ridiculous trade for Rizzo and flip him idea. Also, to cover all names, stay away from Cordero, please.
http://www.tampabay.com/sports/baseball/rays/article1208676.ece
Matt Moore. That is all.
IF Quentin decides to sweallow his pride
What do you think of Wade Davis, Nick Barnese and Josh Sale for Anthony Rizzo and Carlos Quentin. I am not giving up on Sale yet but I think him and Barnese is less valuable than Cobb and much less valuable than Lee.
Matt Moore. That is all.
No way
Definitely not Sale. Padres gave up very low ranked prospects (although one was highly rated previously) for Quentin. He shouldn’t command that much.
Why is everyone obsessed with Felix?
I would not give up the killer B’s or Montero for this guy! Why the heck is everyone obsessed with him?
by JBBY on Dec 31, 2011 2:08 PM CST
by SandalsNoPants on Jan 1, 2012 1:31 AM EST up reply actions
I wouldnt give up on Sale yet.
Mesoraco took a few years in the minors too until he started hitting and there were some rumors that a wrist injury might have been hurting Josh all season. Do you think they might take Ty Morrison or Todd Glaesman instead. Both have been somewhat underwhelming in their careers so far, but both are still young and offer potential and played at higher levels last year.
No matter how much they are hyped, my teams always find a way to disappoint.
by thedudeofdudes on Jan 1, 2012 1:46 AM EST up reply actions
Would you trade Lee for both?
It’s just…with Lee, we have a future at SS and we still have 8 SP’s. Quentin doesn’t want to DH anyway. I’ll stick to Davis or Neimann for Rizzo. I really think January will be a fun month, well, not the 1st but everyday after that, rumors may actually be true. Friedman is going to fill the holes this month and maybe an extension or 2, guys with minor league deals wont happen til near or during ST.
Matt Moore. That is all.
Just Lee for both?
Yes, though I dont think the Pads would do it.
No matter how much they are hyped, my teams always find a way to disappoint.
by thedudeofdudes on Jan 1, 2012 2:11 AM EST up reply actions
SD has to be acquiring Quentin to try and flip him the more I think about it
They were probably coming up short for somebody they want for Rizzo and maybe Rizzo + Quentin is enough now. I wouldn’t be surprised to see them make another trade here soon, I hope its to the Rays…please. 1. DJ 2. Upton 3. Longo 4.Quentin 5. Zo 6. Joyce 7. Miranda/Rizzo 8. S Rod/Briggy 9. J Mo/Lobaton/Chirinos . Now that lineup has some promise and with that starting rotation and a very solid pen the Rays would be my pick to win the East easily if healthy.
Think less
Local Chula Vista boy nearly gets his wish to return home and play in front of friends and family for the team he adored as a child only to see this dream suddenly shattered while being forced to spend 2012 as an AL DH far, far away in the saddest city in America locked inside an equally depressing dome????
He'd need to stay on the roster to get a ring
Studies have shown that certain emotional states such as feelings of extreme hatred can raise endogenous steroid levels more than 1000 fold.
How nice of you to want people who think differently than you to just think less
Quentin is a ball player and even though SD is his home town he is going to waste his last few prime years there playing for a last place team in a park that supresses power, which just so happens to be his best tool. If he was to play for the Rays he would be on a serious WS contender and in a much better lineup. I’m not saying SD IS going to flip him I just don’t understand why they are trying to trade their valuable chips and then they add almost 8 million dollars for a bat only guy. He would have been a much better fit here in Tampa Bay, playing for the best manager in baseball.
by JoeMasGlasses on Jan 1, 2012 12:16 PM EST up reply actions
Quentin must be nuts!
Why else would the guy be willing to waste the rest of his career on a last place team when he has a chance to rack up all those World Series rings with the Rays? I guess sometimes the lure of family and money is enough to make one accept certain failure.
Different thoughts
In the longterm Quentin could earn millions more in SD and seem very happy, but how is it even possible to place a value on just one pat on the back and a “good job fella” coming from Joe Maddon?
I don`t think that they are flipping Quentin.
Blanks is the one that gets moved and soon I think.
by Moore Guerreri and Cheese on Jan 1, 2012 8:51 PM EST up reply actions
I believe it was the same source that had us flipping Rizzo.
oh Happy New Year’s everyone!
Matt Moore. That is all.
Oh Happy New Year's Joey!
Hope you got some sleep last night!
This meme definitely has a shelf life to it
by Jason Collette on Dec 29, 2011 11:31 AM EST upreplyactions
So do you.
BOOM. ROASTED!
by SandalsNoPants on Dec 29, 2011 11:32 AM EST upreply Rec Flag
by sc_monsta1015 on Jan 1, 2012 12:38 PM EST up reply actions
Absolutely stunning.
I love to hear that right now Olney thinks we are the best team in the bigs.
by Peter Piontek on Jan 1, 2012 1:05 PM EST up reply actions
I always knew I liked that Buster fella...
The write-up is actually well thought out. If we can add a couple more bats, then this team really has a legitimate shot.
by Snarfalicious on Jan 1, 2012 1:24 PM EST up reply actions
They have a shot without adding bats.
If we brought Kotch and Damon back , we could still win it all with this pitching staff.
by Peter Piontek on Jan 1, 2012 1:27 PM EST up reply actions
I really don't believe so...
Yes, we potentially add Matt Moore, but he was about as dominant as you can expect a pitcher to be against the Rangers yet it was still not enough to get past the Rangers and their offense. It’s happened 2 years in a row, we obviously need something to put us over the top, and I believe that’s going to have to come from the offensive side. Maybe a full-year, seasoned DJ will do the trick, or a BJ playing for a contract will, but I can’t stock in that.
by Snarfalicious on Jan 1, 2012 1:49 PM EST up reply actions
The Playoffs are a crapshoot.
I agree that we don’t match up well with Texas but i’m not sure a bat or 2 will change that. The Rangers are run like the Rays are but with money to spend.
by Peter Piontek on Jan 1, 2012 2:17 PM EST up reply actions
not really
the Rangers are a good team, but I don’t see any evidence that they do any of the things the Rays do in terms of player development, defensive positioning, scouring the minors and the waiver wire, etc.
I'm not sure we would scour waiver wires and Milb free agents if we had money to burn
They have a great Farm System and Front office is more where i was coming from.
by Peter Piontek on Jan 1, 2012 2:48 PM EST up reply actions
yeah, I'm not trying to pick on you
I just think the “Rays way” should mean more than “has good minor-league players and a good major-league team.”
Oh i know you're not. I just didn't look as deep into as you did.
I consider the Rays and Rangers to have very savvy Front Offices.
by Peter Piontek on Jan 1, 2012 3:02 PM EST up reply actions
This is becoming more and more evident IMO
I think the Rangers were the best team last year and look at all the bounces that STL got to win. Once you get down to the final 8 teams they are all good enough to win, its just about who makes the pitches when the pressure is on. That was the biggest difference in the ALDS this year, Gomer couldn’t get the ball over and JP couldn’t get Hamilton. Maybe I’m a big homer but I think we had the best team in 2010 but just couldn’t buy a hit off of Lee. Just get in and you have a chance.
by JoeMasGlasses on Jan 1, 2012 9:41 PM EST up reply actions
of course they do
we are not doomed if we don’t though. I believe the Padres trade was a precursor to them trading Quentin and Rizzo to Tampa bay.
by Peter Piontek on Jan 1, 2012 2:49 PM EST up reply actions
Agreed. That's where the Pena signing comes into play.
I think the guys in the Front Office see the same thing we do. This is absolutely a potential World Series team and we will make a run at it.
by Peter Piontek on Jan 1, 2012 2:57 PM EST up reply actions
I wouldn't either if i was them , but i think they need to decide if this is the year to spend.
we have the best pitching in the game. we can expand payroll again for 2 years.
by Peter Piontek on Jan 1, 2012 3:08 PM EST up reply actions
I really don't see any expanding payroll while attendence remains on the decline
The FO wants a winner but they had one last year and looked how no one showed up.
A real question I have is why should ownership cut into their profits if they can field a winning team on a low budget…especially if it won’t bring more fans to the Trop. There may be a very bad taste in ownerships mouths after last season and they may be reaching a point where they say " why bother improving the team (by adding significant payroll) when the paying customer won’t come out to see a winning team?"
Plop Quentin at 1b if he won't man up and DH.
Why is everyone obsessed with Felix?
I would not give up the killer B’s or Montero for this guy! Why the heck is everyone obsessed with him?
by JBBY on Dec 31, 2011 2:08 PM CST
by SandalsNoPants on Jan 1, 2012 3:38 PM EST up reply actions
Don't experiment with Joyce.
Plop him at DH.
What could be better than Dan Johnson
hitting .108
Let's trade Reddick for Heyward!
Herreshoff.info -- The most awesome website since the invention of the internet.
by QW on Sep 28, 2011 9:47 PM CDT
by SandalsNoPants on Jan 1, 2012 4:56 PM EST up reply actions
WITH QUENTIN AT 1B!
Guyer in RF.
What could be better than Dan Johnson
hitting .108
Let's trade Reddick for Heyward!
Herreshoff.info -- The most awesome website since the invention of the internet.
by QW on Sep 28, 2011 9:47 PM CDT
by SandalsNoPants on Jan 1, 2012 5:10 PM EST up reply actions
But if the Rays are experimenting with Joyce
they can just change their plans to Quentin. Whatever. If he doesn’t want to DH, he will probably be game.
What could be better than Dan Johnson
hitting .108
Let's trade Reddick for Heyward!
Herreshoff.info -- The most awesome website since the invention of the internet.
by QW on Sep 28, 2011 9:47 PM CDT
by SandalsNoPants on Jan 2, 2012 9:30 AM EST up reply actions
I remember seeing somewhere that Quentin hated DH'ing...
And his defense is so bad he makes no sense for the Rays. I doubt the Rays would add a guy that would be pissed to go from playing LF in San Diego to playing a position he dislikes (DH) in a dome. Imagining Quentin roaming in LF at Petco is pretty laughable, though.
by Snarfalicious on Jan 1, 2012 2:54 PM EST up reply actions
Interesting.
Almost the same team as last year. Where’d he rank us then?
Why is everyone obsessed with Felix?
I would not give up the killer B’s or Montero for this guy! Why the heck is everyone obsessed with him?
by JBBY on Dec 31, 2011 2:08 PM CST
by SandalsNoPants on Jan 1, 2012 3:36 PM EST up reply actions
take a wild guess
behind NY and BOS, of course
Were we ahead of Toronto and Baltimore still?
haha I remember a lot of Baltimore talk. Holy crap.
What could be better than Dan Johnson
hitting .108
Let's trade Reddick for Heyward!
Herreshoff.info -- The most awesome website since the invention of the internet.
by QW on Sep 28, 2011 9:47 PM CDT
by SandalsNoPants on Jan 1, 2012 5:48 PM EST up reply actions
yeah, that's why I'm not repeating the Joe Sheehan nonsense
he was huge on BAL this time last year. (“Nick Markakis is an underrated star,” I think he said, which was as preposterous then as it is now.)
White Sox fire sale
CWS sends Jason Frasor to TOR for scraps, which got me thinking:
Konerko is owed $12MM in 2012 and $6.5MM in 2013 (with an additional $7MM in deferred payments from 2014-2020).
$12MM would be on the high side of reasonable to add to the 2012 payroll. $6.5MM is obviously doable. If the CWS picked up the deferred payments, maybe the time is now to go get Konerko?
If they could pick up the payments it might work out...
But I’d imagine there might be a team willing to pick him up, without making the White Sox adding cash considerations.
by Snarfalicious on Jan 1, 2012 2:06 PM EST up reply actions
always a risk
but there aren’t really any rich teams out there looking for a 1B. (Look at the market for Fielder, for example.)
Very true...
Although I don’t think it has to be a rich team, any team that thinks they may have a shot or wants to just show their fans they care could make a deal. I instantly think of the Orioles since they know they won’t get Fielder.
by Snarfalicious on Jan 1, 2012 2:31 PM EST up reply actions
Picking up a lot of salary or deferred payments means the Sox will want a premium prospect.
With the Rays taking on most of the amount, the prospect becomes less talented. Either way, the Sox will be hard pressed to trade away their most popular player right now, IMO.
in the middle of a complete fire sale
I don’t think there’s an additional cost to “trading away their most popular player.”
Picking up only the deferred payments means the Rays are on the hook for $18.5MM of the $25.5MM Konerko is owed (72.5%), and that’s actually considerably higher given that the balance is paid out in $1MM installments through 2010.
Obviously it has to work in terms of prospects — and obviously the Rays aren’t parting with any top-tier guys — but the system is so deep I could see them giving up 2-3 guys outside the top 20 and it still being considerably more value than the scraps the White Sox got for Quentin.
But really: I’m still confused and annoyed the Rays didn’t just go get Quentin.
he's garbage now, though
only the FB rates as plus
the White Sox seem to value Castro like it's still 2010 - pre 2011
If i recall he was rated really high in 2010 and Started the futures game for the World Team. That’s all i’ve got.
by Peter Piontek on Jan 1, 2012 3:59 PM EST up reply actions
I wonder if the Rays value Quentin enough to trade Davis and Lee to the Pads..
…and including Rizzo and Guzman. Rays include Canzler to replace the 1st base/C’OF’ers) the Pads lose?
They better not.
That’s a stupid overpay.
What could be better than Dan Johnson
hitting .108
Let's trade Reddick for Heyward!
Herreshoff.info -- The most awesome website since the invention of the internet.
by QW on Sep 28, 2011 9:47 PM CDT
by SandalsNoPants on Jan 1, 2012 5:11 PM EST up reply actions
is it that much of an overpay?
Lee for Rizzo is a slight overpay — one I think is defensible, although if you think Lee has 110 wRC+ potential, I can see why you wouldn’t want to do it.
So then the question is: Davis for Quentin and Guzman. Quentin is in his final year at $7MM; Guzman has less than a year’s worth of service time. I think Guzman was playing well over his head last year, but he strikes me as having at least as much value as Gaby Sanchez going forward.
I don’t love that deal, but if nothing else materialized, I would certainly do it. I think adding Guzman and Quentin to the 2012 lineup would be two huge additions at no cost to the 2012 team, and I think Rizzo’s potential (plus five more years of Guzman) helps the Rays in the long-term.
Is it possible that Lee will have Jurickson Profar-like value at this time next year? It’s possible. It’s also possible he’ll have Alcides Escobar value or less. And, you know, there’s the opportunity loss in terms of not upgrading the obvious holes in the 2012 lineup.
oh, and also
SD would not have any interest in DH Russ Canzler.
And if Guzman continues to hit, he can play LF, should Upton be traded at some point.
I happen to like how well Guzman hit in a tough park, sprayed the ball around, got on base and continued to perform as he did in the minors.
If we didn't trade Davis for Dunn in 2010, why would we trade him for Quentin now?
I would like to get at least a team controlled player for Davis. Trading him for 1 year of a bat doesn’t seem like getting good value for his contract and position.
What could be better than Dan Johnson
hitting .108
Let's trade Reddick for Heyward!
Herreshoff.info -- The most awesome website since the invention of the internet.
by QW on Sep 28, 2011 9:47 PM CDT
by SandalsNoPants on Jan 1, 2012 5:50 PM EST up reply actions
If you are looking for a team controlled player, that's is where Guzman comes in.
Quentin than becomes a 7 million dollar DH for 2012 and he may be far more productive in that role than Damon(at 4-5 million) or Scott at about the same. Pena’s offense may be cost prohibitive even just as a 1st baseman, because you would still probably have to pay 4-7 million for a DH. Rays may be trying to balance the cost of a DH along with a 1st baseman(for 2012). Which is why I have said that your favorite player to never be mentioned.. DB..could still be an option(at least as a platoon 1st baseman) in the big picture of spending more on a DH for next year.
You may not like Guzman but he could fit the bill for a cheaper alternative to 1st base if you add a Quentin as a more costly DH. And there is your team controlled player moving forward.
I don't think Guzman is all that good.
I wish you would start recommending better players. Guzman is going to be 28 already next season, and he’s been hitting in the PCL. He is probably not as good as he seems, despite his nice half season in SD.
What could be better than Dan Johnson
hitting .108
Let's trade Reddick for Heyward!
Herreshoff.info -- The most awesome website since the invention of the internet.
by QW on Sep 28, 2011 9:47 PM CDT
by SandalsNoPants on Jan 1, 2012 6:31 PM EST up reply actions
Guzman is a less powerful version. Also less patient.
I’d equate him to Kotchman.
What could be better than Dan Johnson
hitting .108
Let's trade Reddick for Heyward!
Herreshoff.info -- The most awesome website since the invention of the internet.
by QW on Sep 28, 2011 9:47 PM CDT
by SandalsNoPants on Jan 1, 2012 9:03 PM EST up reply actions
Guzman and Sanchez have very similar numbers as minor leaguers
And that includes power and that includes time in the PCL. Guzman is one year younger than Sanchez. Gabby has a head start in the majors with his power but they are evenly patient(along with Kotchman) in p/PA last season. Guzman did hit 50 points higher.
You like Sanchez. I like Guzman. Both are reasonable options. The only difference is you think you are right all the time and feel the need to belittle others who don’t agree with you. And if he is similar to Kotchman, I’ll take the much less expensive option with more team control.
I don't really like Sanchez.
I just think he’s better than Guzman. I’m sorry I made fun of you for liking really bad players with powers. I thought you could handle it. I’ll support all of your ideas now, whether they make the team worse or not.
What could be better than Dan Johnson
hitting .108
Let's trade Reddick for Heyward!
Herreshoff.info -- The most awesome website since the invention of the internet.
by QW on Sep 28, 2011 9:47 PM CDT
by SandalsNoPants on Jan 2, 2012 9:35 AM EST up reply actions
with powers really means with no power.
Superheros on the brain.
What could be better than Dan Johnson
hitting .108
Let's trade Reddick for Heyward!
Herreshoff.info -- The most awesome website since the invention of the internet.
by QW on Sep 28, 2011 9:47 PM CDT
by SandalsNoPants on Jan 2, 2012 9:35 AM EST up reply actions
Doesn't Konerko having 10 and 5 rights mean he can veto any trade?
I have to think if CHI was going to send him to a bad team he might just say screw it and stay in CHI. But if he wants to win another ring he would give the Rays a hell of a boost. I think that is a little rich and he’ll probably cost a lot more than scraps.
by JoeMasGlasses on Jan 1, 2012 9:46 PM EST up reply actions
Unreal, this sig got me a warning at PSA.
Happy New Year!
Why is everyone obsessed with Felix?
I would not give up the killer B’s or Montero for this guy! Why the heck is everyone obsessed with him?
by JBBY on Dec 31, 2011 2:08 PM CST
Wishing for Quentin now is a complete waste of time.
The FO in SD is counting that returning home is enough of an attraction for Quentin to ink a longterm contract at a discount before spring training starts. They are very comfortable with him in LF and possibly filling in for Alonso against lefties at 1B initially.
If we really wanted Rizzo, his bags have been packed
SD would accept any 1 of our 4————— HJL, Becks, WD40 or The Giraffe. It shouldn’t take our FO more than an hour to pick the least painful option and make a reasonable request for a little more. Possibility of Trumbo puts this deal on the back burner.
I think we get Rizzo by mid January
I never did and never will believe he gets flipped.
Matt Moore. That is all.
I know this isn't the best place to vent but geesh are the Bucs the worst football team right now
Thank goodness the season is over, I can’t believe they quit on Raheem that quickly.
Josh Freeman was the catalyst of the suckage.
by Snarfalicious on Jan 1, 2012 10:45 PM EST up reply actions
Freeman will be alright, they need to get some WR that can get open consiistently
All teams had to do was double K2 and load the box and the offense had no chance. Doesn’t help that the D couldn’t stop anybody either, no QB outside of Brady can be effective down 21 and everybody in the stadium knowing your throwing.
by JoeMasGlasses on Jan 2, 2012 8:51 AM EST up reply actions
Hey, 5th overall pick at least.
Or 4th, I don’t know how the tie with the Browns works.
Matt Moore. That is all.
Question
Assuming, and I think this is safe to assume that we get ONE of these guys: Carlos Pena, Anthony Rizzo, Mark Trumbo, Kendrys Morales. It’s probably only Boras holding up the re signing of Damon for DH and while it wont be Madson, Friedman loves to add a guy or 2 to the bullpen mix for ST. Benoit and Cruz are recent examples of it working out.
Is 2012 our best team, on paper at least or is it still the 2010 team that might of went all the way if we could hit Cliff Lee.
Matt Moore. That is all.
I wouldn't jump the gun quite yet...
But I think it’s a far better starting rotation now with Helly/Moore as presumably our 3/4 starters.
It all comes down to the offense. We know we’re going to pitch, we know we’re going to hit, and I actually am very excited about our bullpen. But, are we going to have a fully complimentary team where we can expect to have some offensive force. A full year of DJ may help, and BJ hopefully playing like a man possessed searching for a big payday will as well. I actually believe Guyer could be a big part of our success as well.
by Snarfalicious on Jan 2, 2012 3:41 AM EST up reply actions
Agree on Guyer, if he's given a chance to help
I see Joyce in RF and Damon back for DH, Guyer as nothing but a spot starter and for the tougher lefties. Knowing us, he’s most likely Durham bound to start the season.
I think we will get a lot more than expected out of S-Rod though.
Matt Moore. That is all.
It's such a crappy situation because the OF is so full...
I want to see Joyce get more time, but I also want to see Guyer get a bunch of time as well. Maybe you put Joyce at DH full-time, and Guyer in RF and then you go out and get a guy to play 1B (Carlos Pena). I’d be okay with that honestly, but like you alluded to, he will probably be in Durham to start.
by Snarfalicious on Jan 2, 2012 12:27 PM EST up reply actions
This is what I've been campaigning for for a while now.
What could be better than Dan Johnson
hitting .108
Let's trade Reddick for Heyward!
Herreshoff.info -- The most awesome website since the invention of the internet.
by QW on Sep 28, 2011 9:47 PM CDT
by SandalsNoPants on Jan 2, 2012 12:56 PM EST up reply actions
yea I would be okay with moving Joyce to DH and trading one of our pitchers for a young OF as well
Guyer is good but I’m not sure he is the awnser in 2012 and we will need another OF to replace BJ next year unless we want to go with Jennings, Guyer, Joyce but than we have nothing else in the system.
Mahtook may not take too long in the minors.
Also, Zobrist can play RF while Rodriguez takes 2b, Beckham/Briggy can be SS, or Becks can be 2b, who knows?
But as long as Zobrist is around, he can always play OF if the Rays are short players. Even Rodriguez could play OF if they want to keep Zob’s glove at 2b, not that Rodriguez isn’t good at the position.
What could be better than Dan Johnson
hitting .108
Let's trade Reddick for Heyward!
Herreshoff.info -- The most awesome website since the invention of the internet.
by QW on Sep 28, 2011 9:47 PM CDT
by SandalsNoPants on Jan 2, 2012 2:31 PM EST up reply actions
I agree but it opens a lot more options than just we have to trade for a 1B
when I think we could improve by adding an OF bat and moving Joyce to DH as well. Not sure who is available though.
Well, my rationale behind moving Joyce to DH is that he is the worst defensive OF on the team.
He’s good, but Guyer’s probably a lot better. If the Rays go after another OF to move Joyce to DH, that OF would have to be at least defensively better than Joyce and a better option than Guyer.
Also, not mentioned in my other post, Sam Fuld is still around as a player who can play (but hopefully not very often) every OF position.
What could be better than Dan Johnson
hitting .108
Let's trade Reddick for Heyward!
Herreshoff.info -- The most awesome website since the invention of the internet.
by QW on Sep 28, 2011 9:47 PM CDT
by SandalsNoPants on Jan 2, 2012 2:47 PM EST up reply actions
I would include Ike Davis, Lucas Duda, Gabby Sanchez, Logan Morrison,
and depending on where Prince Fielder lands, either Justin Smoak or Mike Morse to your list. Possibly even Kyle Blanks as well if the Padres don`t want much for him.
by Moore Guerreri and Cheese on Jan 2, 2012 3:39 PM EST up reply actions
Morrison is #1 on my list even if a guy like Ike is available
But latest rumor about him is he wont be dealt, even if it was for Shields straight up.
Matt Moore. That is all.
No way I believe that rumor haha
What could be better than Dan Johnson
hitting .108
Let's trade Reddick for Heyward!
Herreshoff.info -- The most awesome website since the invention of the internet.
by QW on Sep 28, 2011 9:47 PM CDT
by SandalsNoPants on Jan 2, 2012 5:05 PM EST up reply actions
I think this is all just a big stance they are taking...
People have to have tight buttholes when dealing with the Rays. They all don’t want to be the next victim of Friedman.
by Snarfalicious on Jan 2, 2012 5:09 PM EST up reply actions
Konerko
I know bobR mentioned this before but what about konerko? I just saw sickles top 20 prospect list for the white sox and it looks pretty bad, likely the worst farm system in baseball. only 2 prospects with a grade higher than a c+ and only 10 prospects rated higher than a c. with how bad there farm system is, I’m sure they would rather get more depth than high end prospects. if there is 1 thing the rays have its depth to spare. I wonder if 2 to 3 c+ prospects would be enough. sadly those 2 to 3 prospect would probably be in there top 10 once aquired. the other positive is that konerkos contract is back loaded. the one big negative is that konerko has 10/5 rights and can veto any trade to any team. I don’t know how open he would be to coming here, but 1 thing is for sure, he would offer some great protection beehind longo. right now getting him and rizzo would be my dream offseason.
by BossmanJunior333 on Jan 2, 2012 4:31 AM EST via mobile reply actions
Maybe we flip Rizzo for Konerko?
Not sold on Rizzo yet, but we have a lot more than the CWS to offer SD. Konerko may agree to a sign and trade after a contract revision where we split some pain with Chicago. Since they are stuck with Dunn, it gives him a more important role and allows the White Sox to be a bigger player with 2012 free agents.
Let me take that one back
If the CWS had any interest at all in Rizzo and didn’t obtain him in the Quentin trade, they would rank as the dumbest FO in the game.
if CWS are in a firesale how about AJP, he is only making 6 mil in 2011
he will be a FA next year so I wouldn’t want to give up too much, but at the same time we could possibly flip him at the deadline but I think it would be better to keep him.
White Sox aren't having a fire sale
Dumping Quentin is a positive for their team because of his awful defense. They have a prospect (Viciedo) ready to fill RF.
And by clearing the contracts of Quentin and Frasor they can make a push for a certain Cuban CF.
We Americans are a peculiar people. We are for the underdog, no matter how much of a dog he is. - Happy Chandler
by ThreeRunHomer on Jan 2, 2012 10:53 AM EST up reply actions
And AJP is just about the worst defensive catcher in the game
We Americans are a peculiar people. We are for the underdog, no matter how much of a dog he is. - Happy Chandler
by ThreeRunHomer on Jan 2, 2012 10:54 AM EST up reply actions
Viciedo also plays 1B
I wonder if the White Sox FO is aware that Justin Ruggiano has only 1 error in RF in his entire major league career?
If the Nats land Fielder
LaRoche would be dirt cheap in a trade, no?
What could be better than Dan Johnson
hitting .108
Let's trade Reddick for Heyward!
Herreshoff.info -- The most awesome website since the invention of the internet.
by QW on Sep 28, 2011 9:47 PM CDT
at $9MM for 2012?
doesn’t seem like an option
Yeah, I'm not interested.
This meme definitely has a shelf life to it
by Jason Collette on Dec 29, 2011 11:31 AM EST upreplyactions
So do you.
BOOM. ROASTED!
by SandalsNoPants on Dec 29, 2011 11:32 AM EST upreply Rec Flag
by sc_monsta1015 on Jan 2, 2012 8:45 PM EST up reply actions
Nats would have to give him away and a team could probably part with a C prospect witht he Nats paying half his salary.
Is he worth maybe 5 million dollars for one year? With a rebound year(from injuries)
he probably could at least come close to what Pena’s numbers have been over the last two seasons…… better average, high KO’s, less walks, about equal defense with a lower WAR.
Maybe a fallback, fall back option.
That'd be fine with me as a fallback option
at $5M next year…
This meme definitely has a shelf life to it
by Jason Collette on Dec 29, 2011 11:31 AM EST upreplyactions
So do you.
BOOM. ROASTED!
by SandalsNoPants on Dec 29, 2011 11:32 AM EST upreply Rec Flag
by sc_monsta1015 on Jan 3, 2012 12:28 PM EST up reply actions
If Nats land Fielder,
What about Morse in a trade? He has hit well these last few years.
No matter how much they are hyped, my teams always find a way to disappoint.
by thedudeofdudes on Jan 2, 2012 10:04 PM EST up reply actions
Nats aren't moving Morse
he can go to a corner OF spot
by AndrewTorrez on Jan 2, 2012 10:06 PM EST up reply actions
So...is the draysbay staff on vacation
Just suprised to see zero posts the past two days. I need my fix. You forced me to read other rays blogs ha
by BossmanJunior333 on Jan 2, 2012 9:12 PM EST via mobile reply actions
I just go to PSA, BBB, and BCB.
The commotion over the combination between common sense and being a fan of a different team is amazing.
What could be better than Dan Johnson
hitting .108
Let's trade Reddick for Heyward!
Herreshoff.info -- The most awesome website since the invention of the internet.
by QW on Sep 28, 2011 9:47 PM CDT
by SandalsNoPants on Jan 2, 2012 9:17 PM EST up reply actions
there isn't enough alcohol in my basement
to get me through dealing with Yankees fans, unless it’s visiting PSA the day after they’ve lost to the Rays.
by AndrewTorrez on Jan 2, 2012 10:07 PM EST up reply actions
Sickels Yankee ratings came out.
He is not as high on Banuelos and Betances giving each a B the same grade as Alex Colome a gut we are ready to trade for the slugger of the week. He projects neither of the remaining B’s as a #1 starter.
I agree with John on both the highs and the lows
I think Montero is a legit grade-A bat even if he’s a 20-year DH, and I think Banuelos and Betances are good but overrated.
Keep in mind that “B” is a pretty big tier, and Sickels flags both of those guys as “borderline B+” — I don’t think anyone out there thinks Alex Colome is a better prospect than either Banuelos or Betances.
John has Torres as borderline B+ as well
Do you think Torres is as good a prospect as either Yank?
Better than Betances, maybe.
What could be better than Dan Johnson
hitting .108
Let's trade Reddick for Heyward!
Herreshoff.info -- The most awesome website since the invention of the internet.
by QW on Sep 28, 2011 9:47 PM CDT
by SandalsNoPants on Jan 3, 2012 8:32 PM EST up reply actions
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