Chisoxfn

That sucks. Hell, I have enough trouble getting back in the groove after summer. I don't even think I'm in a groove yet. Anyway, kick some ass in school and then again down in the minors this year. Hopefully your shot is just around the corner.

Its simple, our generation shouldn't expect the government to support our retirement. I know I'm not expecting them to and I dont' think anyone else should. Social Security isn't needed anymore, however, we need to make sure the people that are expecting it, which means our parents, get it but after that, I'd set up a policy trying to help people retire and would maybe have policies to help poorer people retire and be aided, but other then that, I don't think its the job of the government to support our retirements. As far as the debate goes. I think this was Bush's best fairing. He was agressive from the beginning and did very well on a topic where Kerry had to be favored. I fully believe any debate on domestic policy favors the democratic party because they can talk up all their big government policies which always sound fine and dandy. I thought Bush did a good job attacking Kerry's health care plan. He also did a good job clearly stating how his tax cut did help the middle class. He gave 4 reasons of why the tax cut helped the middle class. It was pretty clear. He also seemed to throw out good facts to support him and did a good two fold job. A, he would explain his plan and then B, he would attack his opponents plan. Kerry just didn't appear as strong in this debate, but I think part of it was Bush was definately ready and came out gunning. I don't give a s*** what CBS poll and CNNs poll told me. ABC's initial poll said something else and Fox News the same way. Myself, I know my opinion and Idon't led the pundits sway my mind and Bush won that debate. I give him a 2-1 nod, but thats me However, I'm quiet worried that a lot of people missed the debate and are going to listen to the spin which initially appears to favor Kerry....no shocker. It kills me because it isn't true. I know it when two of my very good friends, both die-hard democrats tell me Bush did better.

I think the context of his quote was along the lines of. No, I don't really worry too much about him, but he should be worried about us.

This is kind of spun out of the Sinclair thread and some off my stuff refers to it, but then I decided to get on a larger tangent in a sense. Lets talk Hannity. I watch the show a few times a week, more now then usual, but whenever something is going on I pay a lot more attention to politics and will pretty much flip back and forth every day now and catch segments of all the Fox News programs. Today I decided to check out some of CNN after the debate. I typically try to flip channels and see what the consensus was, but what I saw after the debate tonight was sheer garbage coming from CBS and CNN. I was absolutely disgusted and I'm not one to cray afoul...these few posts by me today and yesterday were about the first I've made on stuff like this. I try to stay out of this type of nonsense but its becoming clear to me that the democratcs are screaming bloody murder and right fully so over this sinclair thing, but they have never seemed to have a problem by the consistent hack job bulls*** coming from CBS (Viacom) and CNN (especially has of late). It amazes me how much CNN has gone downhill. They used to actually be a credible news source, now its like they are trying to play into the liberal since Fox has cornered the conservative viewership and does a far better job covering politics, imo. People told me to listen to NPR and I caught it for a full weekend when I was in Iowa. My god was I amazed at the bull coming off those airwaves, it was horribly slanted. It was almost like listening to Rush, who by the way I can't stand. But Rush doesn't act like he's impartial, NPR is supposed to be impartial, CNN is supposed to be impartial. The talking heads aren't impartial, they are typically on to argue one side or the other. However, as far as Hannidy and Colmes go, I don't know how much you watch of it, but as of late it appears to be both guys get equal time with each person to ask their questions. You must be flipping during the time where Hannidy is getting in his licks or comments because they usually go one for a few minutes and then the other gets their statements and ocassionally each will but in during the others segments. Its pretty equal, especially of late. A year ago I'd of told you it was much more Hannity but that doesn't seem to be the fact anymore. I also have never figured out how Kerry can do no wrong. People act like he's completey perfect, well at least his supporters seem to. Their is no denying the fact that this guy is a self serving asshole. Just look at how over the place he is on issues. Now I'm not going to talk about issues where he says one thing and does another, but the 87 billion was absolute garbage. To publicly state he was going to do one thing and essentially claiming to not vote for it would be stupid and then not doing it is pure assinine. I get you want to make a protest, but he said he was for it and wanted to and voted against it soley in protest of the war, not in protest of the financing. Well great, protest by putting troops on the line without the proper protection...really freaking brilliant. Or how about not attending an intelligence meeting for essentially a year after the first World Trade center attack. And then having the balls to go in and propose a 6 billion dollar intelligence cut back. Now he has the gusto to say that we have to spend more on intelligence and strengthen. Well ya, I agree with that, the problem is your 20 year record doesn't support you have the ability to do it or will do it. How about the tax cuts. He keeps talking about rolling back the cuts for people paying 200,000. While I'm not in that tax bracket, its wrong to punish those that make a lot of money. That same group, or essentially the top 20% pay 80% of our income taxes so htey are pulling their fare share and when you give a tax break of course they are goign to see a heavier savings considering they put in a whole lot more. And lets get a rid of the dividend tax break and all those things which help spur investing and help improve the economy. Any economist will tell you, put the money in the hands of the public, not the hands of the government. When the government sector has to come in, it means you've had a major failure in the private sector. Their is no reason to have failures in our private sector. Were the most sucessful country in the wordl and while the government may ocassionally have to step in and protect sectors and on rare ocassions break up ocassional monopolies. However, I will stand with him on the tax shelters with companies that move out of the US, I do think you shouldn't give them deffered tax or whatever it is they get. But don't tell me, that taking money from the people making 200,000 or more to finance the government health care program is worth it. Bulls*** the government isn't involved John Kerry. I don't know how anyone could believe that considering the government will be footing the estimated 1.3 trillion bill (was estimated to be as high as 2.3 trillion dollars but those estimates have dropped a bit, but like any government program, the estimates will be too low). Plus its not right to tell only those rich to finance government health care for everyone else, when we all know those upper class people are going to still use their same health care. Its an absolute garbage policy. I'm not syaing that health care is right, its not, but a government sustained health policy is not in the best interest of this country. Now lets talk about the war in Iraq. While Kerry may have some sensible arguments, his comments are absolutely ludicrious. He keeps saying wrong war, wrong place, wrong time. Well after Saddam was taken out and initially he didn'dt seem to be too down on it. Now until Howard Dean and his anti-war ticket caught fire in the democratic campaign for presidency did Kerry and Edwards start leaning anti war. Both of these people have numerous quotes supporting it. Whats the say when the candidates completely change their position essentially right after Dean picks up his momentum. Thats not why you make decisions and go out and do things. And he seems to think this diplomacy will work. Well put it this way France never wanted a war in Iraq. Their oil for food program with Iraq was helping France out just fine and in no way did they want to risk losing oil. Now Kerry says he will get other countries involved. How do you plan on doing that, when you yourself are now calling this war a failure. Why would any country want to get involved in something thats doomed. I got news for you, no country would want to do that. Think about it, would you go to the UN and go hey guys, I know I said this a month ago trying to get re-elected, but I need your help now, will you guys help me down in Iraq so we can get our troops the hell out of there. I know this is a failure, but I really need your help. YA right. Plus France and Germany, the two allies the democrats complain about not being involved, have already stated that they will not join the coalition if Kerry is elected. And before we call the war in Iraq a failure. Lets remember that Saddam was a ruthless killer that gassed the Kurds and his own people. The guy may of been put in power by us, but that does'nt mean we should look the other way. Well, I guess he didn't have WOMD, but their is strong evidence to indicate he was doing everything he could to get the sanctions remove and then restart his programs...to do what you ask...build weapons of mass destruction. Should I mention the people in Iraq? These were people that had absolutely no freedom. The average wage in Iraq was roughly 5 bucks a month. Now its sky-rocketing since the regime change and the tech sector in Iraq is starting to show up. Prior to this, Iraq had no tech sector. They also should have 125,000 trained soldiers by the end of the year and free elections to follow. Look at Afhghanistan, where they just held elections and had women, who were so oppressed by this regime, get their vote heard. Heck, even Iran is starting to come along and is starting to encourage both women and men to register to vote. Well, that gets a good amount off my chest, but trust me their will be more.

Sweet stuff Shuf. Congrats

In regards to Beltre, its looking more likely that he will be a free agent. The papers are reporting he's asking for roughly 11-12 million which is doable, but wants a 6 to 7 year deal, which doesn't appear doable. Remember, they also have to sign Gagne long term this offseason. DePodesta said he wants to sign Beltre quick, but will not overpay for him. And no, he isn't coming to Chicago. If your going to spend that money, go after Beltran...case closed.

To be honest, I couldn't tell you much anything about Weber's dissapearance. I went to a ton of Angel games and follow him, but not a word has been mentioned about him in the paper or anything. I remember him being absolutely brutal and booing his ass off the field. Then like a week later they were in an extra inning game and every pitcher pitched and I was like, where the hell is Weber. I figured he got hurt and thats why he was struggling but not a thing was said about him. I'm sure its on the net, I'm just too lazy too look, lol.

Gonna comment on Shields. He's probably as key to that bullpen as Krod is. Considering Percival is likely gone, that means he turns into the 7th inning guy with Donnelly the 8th inning guy and then Krod. Their is absolutely no way the Angels will trade him. Scios loves Shields. The guy is such an asset, he throws so many games, gets ground balls and can pitch multiple innings. I know why you want the guy, the guy is very good and his numbers don't give him enough credit. Tavarez I wouldn't want. He's always been talked about as an ass in the clubhouse and his attitude doesn't bode well for me. Wilson Alvarez is fine, however, I think the Sox need to get themselves one hard throwing reliever (I realize Cotts is one) but I'd like to see them get a strikeout guy here. Bradford is interesting. Guy was a solid reliever in Oakland although I don't know if the Sox would look past him soley because of his side-winding ways. Weber would be a nice option for a one year deal w/an option...kind of a Politte like deal (last years Politte deal). But I wouldn't just sign Weber and my belief is the Sox have one spot via FA and one via in house, but that could all change. Mendoza would definately be a good idea. I made mention of this in response to your post in the other thread where you brought his name up. I've always been a fan and he's quite versatile. Like you said, health is definately the key. Colero is a solid pitcher looking at his stats. I remember seeing him pitch like a week or two ago and thinking he was solid, but haven't seen enough of him to really comment. I doubt the Cards would let him walk though, unless he got a big contract offer, and well, I don't know if the Sox would do that.

As much as I love Zambrano and boy would I LOVE him on the southside, their is no way Jim Hendry will even think about it. If the cubs need anything this offseason, it would be left handed hitting and the Sox can't exactly offer up something they don't have. Now if the Sox were willing to take on Sosa's albatross contract, well then things could get interesting ...but I don't see that happening nor would I want to see that happen.

My dad told me Shuey retired, although I can't verify that. He's a huge Dodger fan and remembers reading that in the paper about a month ago. Ramiro Mendoza is an eye opener and I can't even tell you what happened to Ben Weber. He was brutal this year and I'm assuming he got hurt, but nothing has been talked about him down here in Anahiem. Its a shame, as much as I didn't like the guy, he was very good for a couple years in Anaheim. So in the very least, I'd think Mendoza would definately be worth looking at for the right price. We all know I love Juan Cruz, but I doubt the Braves would deal although like many have mentioned the two teams have the makings of what could be a mega deal. Furcal and Cruz obviously make sense with the Sox...Konerko or Lee and possibly Garland or whoever make sense with the Braves...Estrada makes sense with the Sox. The hard thing is putting it together. Considering Furcal's recent run ins with the law, I wonder if that means Atl is more likely to move him. I still stick to my Konerko and a prospect or even Jon Adkins for Cruz/Furcal. Thats a deal I'd make, although I don't know if the Braves would do it. Cruz is very promising and Furcal is one of the better leadoff men in baseball. I know one thing though, Furcal would look awesome on the south side. He's one guy I'd like more then Vizquel.

Last entry I told you how the Sox pitching staff is short a starter and that my thinking is the Sox will fill that opening via trade. I also told you that Jose Contreras and Jon Garland would be two guys to key in on to see if the Sox are winning or not. If the two of them have a strong year, then most likely, the 2005 Chicago White Sox will have a strong year. In today’s piece, I’ll focus my attention on the bullpen. First off, I want to state the importance of a good bullpen. A good bullpen not only enables you to win the close games, but it can be an insurance for when your starters faulter, which is inevitable. Once you have a good pen, you can start having your questionable starters go less innings, keep you in the game, and then turn it over to the pen knowing that most likely your bullpen will keep the game in check for a rally. I also think the bullpen, not the starting rotation, is one of the keys to getting to the post-season. A strong bullpen and a good offense help you win many games. If you have those two characteristics then you don’t need one ace on your staff, you just need 5 pitchers that will keep your team in the game. That philosophy won’t fair well once your in the playoffs, but it will get you to the playoffs. That’s why I’m a firm believer in the White Sox strengthening their bullpen. While their bullpen showed some improvement in key areas, most noteably the closers spot, where Shingo Takatsu converted 19 of 20 saves after replacing Billy Koch, it still isn’t good enough. The Sox had a difficult time getting the ball from the mid-relievers to closer Shingo Takatsu. . The Sox bullpen finished 19th in the majors. They went 21 and 21 with a 4.31 ERA, blowing 12 saves. The Sox bullpen was also the least worked pen in 2004, throwing 424.1 innings. Don’t expect this to happen again in 2005, although if their pitching staff is healthy, they should once again rank low in bullpen innings pitched. However, with another quality reliever (every indication is that the Sox are going to try and add another reliever) it means Ozzie will have one more guy that he can have faith in, which should increase the bullpen workload just a bit. This low IP is a nice stat because it tells you that the Sox starters are getting deep into games, but it also tells you that Ozzie Guillen has little faith in his bullpen and because of it the pitchers had to undergo more wear and tear then they should of. Of course itt also tells you that the Sox are able to keep their relievers fresh. The flaw is even with the relievers fresh for most of the year, the Sox bullpen failed to be anything more then mediocre. Despite being last in innings pitched, the White Sox bullpen was 12th in homers allowed with 61 in 424.1 innings of work. The scary thing is, of all the teams that ranked ahead of the White Sox in homers, the closest team to throwing as few innings as the Sox was Detroit’s bullpen which threw 56 more innings. Jon Adkins led all White Sox relievers with 13 homer runs allowed. However, Neal Cotts (11) and Damaso Marte (10) both gave up double digit homers as well. Sox closer Shingo Takatsu gave up 6 long balls in 62.1 innings while Jackson gave up 7 and Politte 6. Its obvious that the Sox, whose long ball numbers were inflated by pitching in a home-run park, need to put a focus on bringing in pitchers who don’t give up the long ball (DUH!!!). They also need to get at least one hard throwing reliever. It appears that the Sox are going to make a push at one good free agent reliever. This will make the Sox bullpen so much better. Troy Percival and Armando Benitez are the most attractive names on the market. Percival will probably have a little better value and is a tremendous leader, but is on the downside of his career. That’s not to say he wouldn’t be effective though, as he finished the season with 33 saves (5 BS) and a 2.90 ERA. More impressive was how he finished, giving up just 6 earned runs in his final 31 innings of work. That’s a 1.74 ERA down the stretch. He also converted 20 of his final 21 save opportunities. The downside with Percival is health. His fastball doesn’t have the zip it once did and at 35, he’s definitely begun the downturn of his career. However, that’s not to say he doesn’t have enough life in him to be a successful closer for the Sox. Nor would Armando Benitez, who scared Met fans to death, before joining up with the Marlins, where he dominated. Simply put, Benitez was amazing. What else is there to say about 47 saves (4 BS) and a 1.29 ERA (.82 WHIP). While many would have said Benitez career has been shaky, minus a down 2003, he’s always been a good closer, maybe not an elite closer, but a good one. The nice thing is, Benitez had an even better 1.03 ERA on the road, which leads you to believe his numbers weren’t inflated by pitching in Florida (a pitchers park). It is unclear how much money Benitez will command, but its clear he’s the top reliever out their and should get a long term deal somewhere, possibly the North Side of Chicago. The Sox have other options which wouldn’t involve moving Shingo to the set-up spot, which I believe would be a wise move. Shingo hasn’t proven himself over multiple seasons yet (hasn’t had the chance either), but in general I don’t see it as a bad thing to pick up a closer, meaning you have Shingo and Marte in the set up spot. This could make it a 6 inning game, especially if Marte can get his fire back. Those other options include: Rob Nenn, Scott Williamson, Felix Rodriguez, and Jose Mesa. All of these are intriguing options, especially Nenn who hasn’t pitched since 2002. However, prior to his injury there was no-doubt that Nenn was one of the elite closers in baseball and if his right shoulder is healthy he may just prove to be again. An incentive laden deal would be risky, but teamed up with another signing, possibly his former set-up men Felix Rodriguez and you could see the makings of a very good bullpen, without spending mega bucks. However, those odds are unlikely since Nenn still has a 75% tear in his rotator cuff…a tear in which surgery isn’t an option for him due to the low success rate of rotator cuff operations. My final entry on Fixing the Sox will involve me playing a little GM, and for those of you that know me, you know I love coming up with trade ideas and ways to better the team.

Woot

I think this is bulls***. But I also think the s*** the liberal media does is bulls***. Two wrongs don't make a right and my principles tell me this is BS by Sinclair. However, I do think their is a place for this to be put out, I just don't think it should be forced upon viewers. And as far as hack jobs go...I can think of 60 minutes back when I was a kid (1992 I think) like a day before the election putting out this bulls*** that somehow George Senior tried to ruin Perot's wedding day. I don't give a damn what anyone tells me, the media is favored to the left. THeir have been memos out to ABC telling them to talk pro Kerry. I mean its freaking blatant. Fox News is the most centered out there. You can b**** about Hannity all you want, but Colmes always gets in his say as well. Thats fair and balanced. As far as O'Reilly goes, he was freaking saying how much bs this film is. The s*** I see on CNN is garbage. I can't even watch it anymore. Ya, I'm ready for a lot of democrats to jump on me. Just like the crap Michael Moore did in F 9/11 was garbage. However this thing belongs on tv just as much as F 9/11 does (ie it doesn't).

Good god, that reminds me of one of my best friends. He is absolutely whipped. Other then me, he won't call any of his other friends unless she is busy doing something else. Its basically he guys, my girlfriend is busy so how about we hang out. In general if I ever got like that, I'm taking Shuf's approach. I don't see it happening though, I'm usually the one that says something incredibly stupid and pisses the girl off. I'm not one to toe and I tell it like it is a lot (I'll always love the simpsons for the tell it like it is episode). But no, that marriage won't last. One day he'll wake up and go what the hell am I doing, I'm living her life....when its supposed to be their life.

I'm in my 4th year at Cal State Fullerton...oh ya, National Champs!!!! (Baseball and FENCING ) Studying to be an accountant and will probably take my CPA over the summer or at least prepare for it. Gotta get 150 Units so I can get pathway II on the CPA, which means I gotta go back for another year (really pisses me off cause I'm absoltuely sick of school). I have the worlds s***tiest classes. Well they are only s***ty cause the teachers SUCK (By suck I mean don't speak a word of english). I only enjoy one class...the rest are freaking pointless. Don't know exactly what I'm going to do next year, whether MBA or just get a dual major in finance.

Thats a really nice idea cheat. If EY couldn't teach Willie a thing or two about base running, who will. Plus Willie didn't have favorable splits against lefties so it would be a great way for a platoon system. The only problem I see is it takes at bats away from Uribe, who the Sox appear ready to give the uber utility slot to again with him getting about 500 ab's, many of which will come against LHP's because Willie will be sitting. Polanco is an idea I'm starting to open up on. I didn't realize how good some of his numbers are. Like you though, I don't think the Phils would let him go.

I think with a smaller payroll you have to take injuries much more into account. For that reason, while I love the idea of JD Drew, I would also advice against it because i feel it is too big of a risk. Drew fills so many needs for the Sox (great hitter, good power, left handed, high OBP guy, fills RF, good base runner) but at the same time one healthy year in the past 4 or so is a risky proposition. I remember reading an article saying he can finally run at full speed and how awesome he's feeling, but leg and knee injuries tend to take a toll on a player. They aren't quite as fluke and usually they have a prolonged effect and tend to flair up. Thats just my opinion and I'm not a doctor. I'd be excited if he came here, but I also think its a large gamble. I get that same feeling when talking about this years free agent market. You got Pedro: Gonna get a huge contract and probably long term. He's been very good this year, despite wearing down late in the year. However, his arm is really suspect at this point when you talk long term and its way too ridiculous of a financial risk unless your a pitcher away from the World Series. Pavano: Been very good this year and last year. Has an injury past and you have to wonder whether he's truly that ace or if he isn't, cause he's going to get ace money or so it appears (10-12 mill a year, long term). Remember we dind't think Colon was worth that and while he struggled this year in Anaheim, he had a pretty good history of sucess, a better one than Carl Pavano, imo. Clement: Ace stuff, no doubt about that. However, he tends to lose his arm angle on his slider and when that happens he'll hit a rough patch and struggle for upwards of a month to two. When on his dominant and he is a good fit for the Cell considering he is a ground ball pitcher. With all the sliders he throws, you have to consider him at least a risk health wise although he's been healthy most of his career. To me he may be the safest bet out there and would be a pitcher I'd like to see the Sox target if they went this route (I'm a proponent of trading for a Jerome Williams, Joel Piniero, etc). Odalis Perez - Good stuff, good pitcher, but has had injury questions and is pitching at an incredibly pitcher friendly park. He's gonna get #2/#3 money and the question is whether he's worth it. He also has some attitude issues. When on he's really good, but his struggles in the playoffs will drop his price. Plus, while most of us could argue W/L you have to at least take notice in the fact that he didn't factor in many of the decisions for the Dodgers. Matt Morris - This guy has been an ace and is coming off a down year. If the Cards win the series he won't be going anywhere, imo. His curve is nowhere near as good as it was throughout his career, but he's still doing good. He gets that curve back (its still solid, but he typicalyl has an awesome curve) and he's right back at that ace level. He isn't a Curt Schilling or Randy Johnson, but who is. Another solid guy to target, imo, especially considering he's had the pressure of being an ace. Why do I suggest acquiring Williams or Pineiro. Well frankly too much of the Sox money is tied up with starting pitching and with their budget you can't invest too much in one category especially when you have a lot of guys out their with some questoin marks. What would I do, make that deal and then see what Contreras and Garland do. If things work out you may not have to do something, if they don't though, then you'll be able to owrk out and free up at least one rotation spot (Garland) and possibly another (Contreras) and add one of the big name pitchers that will be on the market the following year. Also if the team does very well, you have that as an option. This may sound like a sissy way of going at it, bvut the fact is if your going to spend ace money, make sure your getting an ace and I don't know if any of the current crop is that, sans Pedro.

I don't know how much of an effect its had, but to me, Neal Cotts changeup wasn't as effective this year as it was down in the minors. I'm hoping he'll make the necessary adjustments and improve upon it this year. The big thing with Cotts was that he made some really foolish pitches, especially to left handers. I remember two times off the top of my head where he would throw them all fastballs and then try to trick a lefty with a changeup after this hitter has been doing nothing but fouling the ball off...what happened, kaboom and the ball left the building. However, its one year in the bigs and his minor league numbers aren't something to look past. Its obvious hitters can't turn on him at the major league level and thats a hard to find talent, especially considering his velocity. My stats on Santana weren't really comparing the two, just showing that he too had to develop, just like every other pitcher does. I always say Johan as a FB, changeup guy and then his slider came along and bam. Yes, he does throw harder like I mention ,but both have the same effect on keeping hitters from pulling their fastball. Cotts, he was a fastball changeup guy and then started adding his curve, which has looked rather good at times this year, but tends to flatten out on ocassions as well. Plus hitters have it pretty easy cause Neal essentially only throws his fastball for a strike. The big thing is, even with them knowing whats coming they are behind more often then not. He's got a year in the league, understands some things he will have to improve on and we all knew command was one of his weaknesses entering the majors. He looked better at times this year throwing strikes and when he was on, he'd put up some very very good numbers out of the pen. Like Johan, if he became a starter, I'd expect him to struggle making it deep into games for a while, simply because he tends to pitch with a higher pitch count, just like Johan did and in a sense still does (although not much during his insane 2nd half).

My bad, meant to say strikeout to innings pitched. Will fix it right now. As far as my assessment of Santana I didn't put this stats in, but maybe I should of. I'm going to throw out Neals 2003 beacause it was just 4 starts and not near enough to make any type of assessment. In 2004: 4-4, 4 Hlds, 65.1 Inn, 61 H, 58 K, 30 BB (Basically one every 2.17 innings). He also has a 1.93 K/BB and a 7.99 K/9. Johan Santana 2000: 6.49 ERA in 86 innings. If I recall he was Rule V so this is pretty much him getting a lot of time and experience cause he couldn't be pitching down in the minors. 2001 he came up and did much better in 15 games. 4.74 ERA, 5.77 K/9 2002 his dominance began as he better developed his slider and changeup. It took him a lot of time and his stats jumped up. Looking at Neal's minor league numbers, their is no reason to not think he couldn't make this jump. They definately share some similarities. He also had some of the control problems Neal did, but to a lesser extent. I know this was a pretty radical statement, but from watching Neal, you can see hitters and they aren't comfortable against him. He still has to work on improving his secondary pitches. But from last year to this year his curve has come a long way and his changeup is getting better. Is next year going to be the year it happens, I don't know, but it would be insane to give up on a guy that can make hitters look so foolish. I just think they have similar talent and that knack to hide a fastball well and get it on top of hitters is something you shouldn't estimate. As far as previous player, I stick to my prior comparisons to Mark Langston. Many may of given up on Neal, but I am not one of those people. We'll see though and I'm not a proponent of giving him the job right away, but if the Sox go cheap, he's the best option..case closed, imo. I don't want Diaz as a starter, Munoz is a reliever and Grilli and Stewart are ehhh. I still say if the Sox can get Jerome Williams and a reliever or hell, Jerome Williams and AJ Pyrz (this would be a contract coming back and to be honest I see no chance in hell that the Giants would do this straight up, unless they really don't like Pyrz) then I would do the deal. I'd prefer seeing the contract essentially dumped and it is no secret that the Giants need a power bat in their lineup. Williams is 22 so I'd say their is a great chance the Giants would scoff at this deal (Williams and a reliever or prospect for Konerko or Lee). He also has a 3.77 ERA in 43 career starts with 2 complete games and a shutout. If the Sox could get him, I'd do it in a heartbeat. Come to think of it, if Pyrz is on the market, you could legitimately see the Sox come up with a package deal to get him and a pitcher from the Giants. It would just involve more then just Konerko/Lee imo.

Butter...I really like the idea of Delucci. He's a solid player who has never really gotten much of an opportunity and this year he really excelled. His bat would fit in very nicely in the back of the lineup. I can also remember him making some very nice defensive plays back in his days with the Dodgers. Off the top of my head he strikes out a little more then I'd like, but this is a definate potential solution to the outfield. I think if you get Delucci then you could potentially at least hold onto Konerko and Lee and let David play right field, although I'm not sure on his arm strength and what not. Of course with Everett stuck here, the odds of the Sox signing a guy like Delucci are probably less. This leads me to believe when ti comes to the outfield either Lee gets dealt and they pick up a big name bat and go with Everett/Gload in LF or they keep Lee and go with Everett/Gload in RF and chance it defensively (hoping that Escobar or Borchard can break out).

Depends which Cabrera. You could also say he's under-rated because he's not going to get paid on the scale of what he can do, but on what he's down. However, the Red Sox over-rate him because he was so much better defensively then Nomar. He's also a good hitter and has the tools to be, but he has a lot of questionable things going on when at the plate. Poor eye, basically a lot of bad habits that put him in prolonged slumps. However, sheer talent wise I think he could bust out and start putting up Renteria like numbers. Right now I'd go with Omar because I have a lot of faith in Uribe becoming the starting shortstop in a year or two. He may be the starting 2nd baseman and eventually slide over once Omar is done. We all know Juan can play shortstop. The key is for him to continue to cut back on his flaws at the plate because he too has what it takes to be a stellar hitter. When I see Uribe, I see Tejada like numbers in his future...if he can continue to work on patience and drive the ball opposite field like he does when he's hot, cause it opens up his ability to pull the ball and he can hit the piss out of it.

If I recall the team option isn't what you would consider cheap. I'm not positive, I may be off and its 3.5 mill, but I was thinking it was more along the lines of 5-6 million which may not be as much of a guarantee. With a few good pitchers out their, the Yanks could use this time as an opportunity to sign two younger starters that can be around for a while. Then again they could go after Pavano and Pedro. However, if Liebers option is declined I think the Sox should look at him. He knows how to pitch and should be even better this year, considering he'll be 100% entering the season.

My last piece talked about the White Sox offense and how it wasn’t the problem. That puts the emphasis on pitching. In this piece, I will talk specifically about the starting pitching. When you take a look at the Sox earned run average, you get a quick glance at why the 2004 White Sox fell short. A 4.91 team ERA, which is good for 25th in the majors and 12th in the American League. Just divisional foes Detroit and Kansas City ranked worse. The starting rotation was even worse, posting a brutal 5.17 ERA. The bullpen had a 4.31 ERA. The rotations ERA is inflated due to the numerous poundings given up by the varying 5th starters. That list included Dan Wright, Arnie Munoz, Felix Diaz, Scott Schoeneweis, Jon Rauch, Jason Grilli, Neal Cotts and Josh Stewart. Their combined ERA’s is flat brutal. Truth be told though, the White Sox rotation was much worse after the trade deadline. This is a scary proposition, considering the Sox bolstered their rotation with Freddy Garcia and Jose Contreras. Part of the reason behind this was Jon Garland and Jose Contreras. Plus this is 4/5ths of next years starting rotation. Garland had a 5.44 ERA after the break, with a more alarming 1.46 WHIP. Contreras wasn’t much better with a 5.30 ERA and a 1.54 WHIP. These two are going to play an integral part on the 2005 season. While Buehrle and Garcia are the Sox aces, at this point and time they aren’t capable of carrying a team. Garcia has ace potential and some would say Buehrle is an ace, especially when you look at his VORP which ranks him as the 17th most valuable player, just behind Pedro Martinez. When adjusting his ERA for playing half of his games at the hitters paradise known as US Cellular, you get an even better sense of value for Mark Buehrle. The man may not have ace stuff, but he knows how to pitch and performs like an ace. But the focus of the White Sox rotation will be the back of the rotation, which contains a talented Garland/Contreras duo. The mystery 5th men is yet to be known and while this years free agent crop offers some attractive names. From the likes of Pedro Martinez, Carl Pavano, Matt Morris, and Matt Clement…just to name a few. But don’t expect those names to be mentioned on the South Side this year. In fact, what the Sox need is consistency from Contreras and Garland. The only thing consistent about them thus far in their careers is that they will put up average to below average numbers, while flashing signs of why you keep them in the rotation. Did I just knock you out of your chair???? I sure as hell hope not, because this is no revelation, I wish I could of came up with something more creative, but luckily that’s not the case, cause I don’t know if I have faith on Kenny being uber creative. I have faith on him being cheap and on him acquiring veterans in the deadline (sometimes the wrong ones), but creativity implies numerous moves and that’s not something the Sox will do. Garland looked incredibly comfortable in many starts this year, but early in the season (late in the games) he would get batted up and hit trouble. As the year went on he was harped by the big inning. To check out more on this, see Cheat’s ChiSox Blog. The bad news is, statistically Jon Garland didn’t grow, although he once again was able to get deep into games and in general keep the Sox in games. Jose Contreras on the other hand improved after being traded to the White Sox. But really, how much better was he? Contreras posted a 5.30 ERA on the southside. However, minus a string of two starts (Sept 7th and 12th) he was more then solid. His big flaw is working on not tipping his pitches as well as improving his control, which is brutal. Contreras has a strong strikeout to walk ratio (7.93) and limits opponents to a .253 batting average. What am I getting at, well I’m getting at the fact that the success of the 2005 Chicago White Sox is going to come down to these two talented pitchers, the top of the lineup, and the bullpen. Now you ask, who do I propose to be the 5th starter? To be honest, I don’t know, but I don’t see the Chicago White Sox signing any starter to a big contract (this off-season). The Sox have trade bait in Carlos Lee/Paul Konerko and appear willing to move one of them while potentially signing another lefty bat to replace them. Its quite likely that either one of the duo could bring the White Sox a young talented starting pitcher, who could step in and be a 5th starter and potentially develop into more by the end of the season. This pitcher would also help keep the payroll down, because realistically the Sox can’t spend more money on starting pitching. They project to have roughly 25 million spent on their starting four. Out of the in-house candidates, there is only one person I consider and that’s Neal Cotts. Cotts didn’t have a strong campaign, but regardless of the fact he boasts some impressive secondary stats (.247 OBA, 7.99 K/9). He limits opponents batting average and is capable of getting the strikeouts. In fact, he has some resemblance to Johan Santana. Now before everyone calls me crazy, lets think about their two fastballs. While Santana can get it up to 94, both utilize sneaky quick delivers that helps the ball getting to the plate faster. In Lehman’s terms, the ball jumps on the hitter leaving it practically impossible to turn on the ball. Unfortunately numerous times this season Cotts made some questionable pitches and would help speed a hitters bat up and then flash his change-up, which is still not where it should be. After that, the hitter got to run them bases as slow as he wanted to. If Neal can improve his control and get a better grasp of his changeup, which has potential, along with his improving curveball then he has a strong shot to not only make the rotation, but eventually become an ace. Brandon McCarthy, the Sox best prospect, will wait in the wings down in Charlotte or Birmingham. He will be the first one up if a pitcher goes down or if Garland/Contreras/5th starter fail to live up to their expectations. Prediction: White Sox deal Paul Konerko or Carlos Lee (more likely of the two) to a team like San Francisco, Seattle or Baltimore. Think Jerome Williams, Joel Piniero and pitchers like them. Talented pitchers that have proven themselves in the majors to a point, but can go a lot farther with time. Check back next for the piece on the bullpen, an area I would rank as important as the rotation. In my opinion, you get to the playoffs with a solid staff (not a great one) and a good bullpen and offense. You win in the post-season with a great staff, a good bullpen, and great defense.

Its more comcast being a bunch of assholes. I think in the end the teams are going to have to tell Comcast to f*** off and get them on every station.

http://www.soxnet.blogspot.com I figured I'd use the name SoxNet. Still got to do some customizing of the blog and get up links and all that. Thanks for the kind words everyone, hopefully the stats make sense. I used 0-3 runs because you'd like to think 4 runs or more you win the game more often or not.