beck72

A few things: *the sox won't trade a SP. B mac is good insurance in case someone gets hurt or starts stinking up the joint. The sox know how bad it is not to have 5 SP's. They trade a SP, bring up Bmac, someone goes down, they're back in the same boat of not having a dependable 5th starter. If contreras has an ERA in the mid 5's and isn't winning any games come June, then Bmac could be called up. But throwing in AAA for the first time isn't exactly wasting away *Crede deserves a shot for the first few months. If he hasn't hit better than .239, then the sox might look for a better bat.

I remember Ozuna threw someone out from the edge of the OF at SS in one of the first telecasts. He set and threw and got the runner. His arm is decent and should get the job done

It sounds a lot like KW being tired of questions about 2b--not slamming either willie or Tadahito. --"it's up to the manager" spiel but testy with the media. Interesting that only the Sun times had anything remotely resembling 2b up for grabs. Iguchi has probably shown enough that willie could be showed the door. [and a trade get a SS/ 3b man who could take over for Uribe if he or Iguchi gets hurt or are terribly slumping].

I wouldn't rule out Stone having some kind of consulting gig with the Sox. He was kind of vague about what he was going to be doing with the sox.

QUOTE(retro1983hat @ Mar 14, 2005 -> 03:40 PM) We can't win when it comes to exposure. The Sox will get exposure when they win. Winning is the only thing that will put butts in the seats and grab the Sox headlines. Until they make the playoffs [and maybe not even then], the sox will be overlooked and underappreciated around the league.

Seems the D-Rays are looking for both LH bat who can DH and play the OF, and someone to play 2b. Joe B and/or Willie for some young pitching? http://www.sptimes.com/2005/03/14/Rays/Pin...ll_wants_.shtml ******************************************** Piniella still wants a left-handed bat By MARC TOPKIN, Times Staff Writer Published March 14, 2005 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ST. PETERSBURG - Manager Lou Piniella likes what he has seen from the players in camp. Now he would like to see the Rays add a proven left-handed hitter to the group. "I think that's what we need more than anything," Piniella said. "We're talking about a frontline bat, about a guy who can come in here and swing it." Ideally, the Rays would like someone who has power and could play the outfield occasionally and/or share at-bats with right-hander Josh Phelps at DH. They had a similar goal during the offseason and talked about players such as Baltimore's Jay Gibbons and Washington's Nick Johnson , but didn't make a deal. The Rays seem to have a surplus of pitching, including some who are young and inexpensive, and it's likely a trade would come from their pool of relievers. The Rays also are looking for another infielder, either a utilityman or a second baseman, to provide an alternative should Roberto Alomar 's back problems linger. General manager Chuck LaMar said he expects to make at least one trade before opening day, and that the Rays had some "wiggle room" to add to their approximate $30-million payroll, but cautioned that it's unusual to make a big-name deal in the spring. "The arms on our pitching staff have created the most interest because (other teams) know we're not going to give up the young position players," LaMar said. "We're looking for some help. I don't want to make it out when I say that we're going to make a trade that it will be this blockbuster. This time of year, those guys aren't out there. You're looking for a veteran bat of some type. I don't think you can be too choosy whether it's a power guy or average guy, but we could use a left-handed bat. You're trying to make the best deal you can."

There's a reason Crede was [and has been] given a long leash by the Sox when he's struggled [Esp last year when Uribe could have moved to 3b and have Willie at 2b]---The sox think Crede has the talent and skills to be a solid major league player. If Joe is more consistent this yr w/ the bat, there is no reason to get rid of a guy who is under contract for a few yrs at a reasonable salary. This is the yr the real Joe Crede will step up, whether it's the .230 Joe or the .275 + Joe. I think it'll be the more consistent .275 Joe

If the Twins are looking for guys who speak about themelves in the 3rd person to help them stay on top of the AL Central, they are in worse shape than I thought. Am I the only one who thinks losing guys like Koskie, AJ, Mientkeweiz is going to catch up with them? Replacing gamers with guys like "Jimmy" from Seinfeld certainly can't help them. ************************************************* 'Real Deal' Durbin really struggling for Twins La Velle E. Neal III, Star Tribune March 10, 2005 TWIN0310 FORT MYERS, FLA. -- The Real Deal is missing. And that's a big deal to J.D. Durbin and the Twins. The Real Deal is the self-appointed nickname for Durbin, a righthanded pitching prospect with a charismatic smile, quick wit and mid-90s fastball. The nickname stuck to him like pine tar to a bat handle as he went 38-14 as a minor leaguer after being picked in the second round of the 2000 amateur draft. Twins coaches envisioned having to curb Durbin's exuberance, although that wasn't a major concern as long as he was able to back it up on the mound. Things have been the opposite this spring, as Twins coaches have tried to keep Durbin's spirits up. In two outings, he has given up four runs over four innings and walked four. Before spring training games began, Durbin again had pledged to unleash the Real Deal. "Because the Real Deal is always mentally in the game," he said. "I'm just mentally not in the game," Durbin said.Carlos GonzalezStar TribuneOn Wednesday, as rain washed out the Twins' game against Baltimore, Durbin's mood matched the dreary weather. "I'm just mentally not in the game," he said. "I'm pressing too much, putting too much pressure on myself when all I have to do is go out and throw. I've never battled with something like this. This is why I'm in a little funk. During the season I'll go through a start or two when I give up a few runs, but then it's back to normal." That's not happening now, as Durbin has fallen behind other pitchers in camp. "I don't feel capable of throwing the ball over the plate right now," he said. Durbin hopes Sunday's outing was rock bottom for him. He gave up three runs on five hits over two innings against Toronto. He also failed to cover home plate after throwing one of his two wild pitches, allowing a run to score. Durbin was scolded by pitching coach Rick Anderson afterward. Twins manager Ron Gardenhire called Durbin into his office on Monday to do the same thing, but toned down his anger after Durbin admitted a lack of confidence. "He definitely has wound himself up too tight," Gardenhire said. "I talked to him the other day, and he needs to relax. Hopefully we will get there with him, but he needs to relax." Durbin said he feels that if he was his old self, he never would have had a mental hiccup like the one Sunday. "He said I can't have a mental lapse like that again," Durbin said of his talk with Gardenhire. "He said, 'It's an embarrassment to you and the organization.' I know I messed up. I know I screwed up big time. I don't think I've ever not backed up the plate. But I'm not throwing the ball well and was so mentally caught up in trying to throw the ball, I completely forgot to cover home. I have to get in the game more and feel comfortable. Every time I go out there, I feel uncomfortable and I'm short of breath and have trouble focusing." That's not the Real Deal. "I'm sure it will come around," he said. Durbin is struggling with his mechanics, sometimes using the proper form, then breaking down on the next pitch. He's hoping future sessions with Anderson will solve the problem. "He's got to be more consistent," Anderson said. It disappoints Durbin because he feels healthy, is in his second major league camp and is coming off a successful Arizona Fall League stint during which he improved his changeup. All he thought about during the offseason was his only major league start, during which he gave up five runs to Cleveland in three innings. He arrived at camp motivated to make it hard for the club to cut him. If he made the team, he wanted to erase memories of that Cleveland game. With righthander Grant Balfour and lefthander Terry Mulholland nursing injuries, there could be an opening in the bullpen. But Durbin will have to turn things around to earn that spot. "I worked my tail off in the offseason, getting my arm all ready to go," he said, "and I come here and can't find the arm slot. It's frustrating. "Real Deal has got to be himself."

QUOTE(Chisoxfn @ Mar 12, 2005 -> 08:04 AM) Over 4 mill set aside right now for free agents and then can cut Tucker/Rdub and free up another 1.5-2 million. Don't the bears have to set aside some of that cash for draft picks? The #4 pick should get a decent chunk of change

QUOTE(JUGGERNAUT @ Mar 11, 2005 -> 05:28 PM) I disagree with all of you. If this kid continues to impress in ST & is lights out in AAA prior to the AS break & the Sox rotation is healthy either Garland or Contreras are gone. Probably Contreras. It doesn't matter what they do. The better they perform the higher their trade value but one of them is gone for sure if BMac shows he's ready. I never believed the Sox would carry a mid 70's payroll for the whole year & I still don't. If Koney hasn't signed an extension by the break he's gone as well. That will be the surest sign that Thomas will be kept for 10M (if he hasn't renegotiated a new contract by then) & Gload will take over 1B. Likely trade bait around the break: Contreras, Garland, Koney, & Crede. I would not be surprised if all 4 are gone from the 2nd half. They are likely to cost the team 20-25M in 06. If garland and contreras are doing well, they won't be going anywhere. If they are fading fast like E-Lo did last yr, then maybe. But they won't trade these guys just because BMac is doing well. Bmac is insurance in case of injury/ ineffectiveness. Every SP is one pitch away from a season ending injury. Trading away a good SP [like Garland or Jose] at the deadline because they have a guy in the minors isn't a strategy a playoff contending team will employ. the sox have shown themselves to be buyers not sellers when they are close to first place. PK won't go anywhere during the season either. The sox might not re-sign him. But they certainly won't trade him for lesser talent mid yr.

after bringing in everyone and their mothers for the 5th spot last yr, Ozzie isn't going to screw around trying Hermanson, Adkins, Diaz, Munoz, etc before BMac. If a starter is needed BMac will be the guy. You go with the best guy who could help the sox win games. So far, BMac has shown that he's the sox best option as the "6th" SP. Let's hope he continues and has good health

Freddy G is starting vs the pads

QUOTE(Jabroni @ Mar 10, 2005 -> 10:44 PM) Indeed. What is Kevin Walker doing? Walker finished the game retiring them 1,2, 3. He seems to be a junkballer who can throw strikes. He was down in the count like 2-0 and threw an offspeed pitch to retire a batter. If he can keep the ball in the park, he could be useful this yr.

No doubt. The fact is this kid knows how to pitch, throws strikes, and lets the other team get themselves out. He showed today he's got the smarts to be successful. Diaz and Munoz may yet be decent. If this was 2004 spring training this kid could come north and make this team. I'm much more confident that the 5th spot would be OK should someone go down with him in AAA

QUOTE(AddisonStSox @ Mar 10, 2005 -> 04:58 PM) A guy like Mackowiak would better serve this club because he can hit MLB pitching while playing a few positions. He has played OF, 3B, and even a little 2B in his career. He's not going to win a batting title, but he doesn't have to. In my estimation, this club is in the "must win now" frame of mind, and Joe simply doesn't fit into that setting. Someone like Mackowiak can come in and instantly add depth at a few positions while giving you some confidence to start him if someone goes down for a longer period of time. It's hard to gauge Joe's value and what a team would be willing to part with. And would the sox go with a vet or a young guy with some potential in the trade. I'm not sure if Mackowiak is a good fit for the sox right now, as they wait on Crede. If it was June and Crede was hitting near .200, maybe. But the sox have too many LH's on the bench already. And it wouldn't solve the sox SS problem. I definitely could see Rob available come the deadline, though, if Pitt. is in the cellar. He's been given a few chances to be an everyday player [in 02 and 04] Yet seems best fit as a bench guy.

QUOTE(3E8 @ Mar 10, 2005 -> 03:56 PM) After just watching yesterday's game, I noticed something about Crede's at-bat in the 4th inning. On the two breaking balls Crede got, his swing looked just as long as it did last year. No improvement. But on the last two fastballs, the one he fouled and the one he doubled on, offensively he looked like a completely different hitter. His swing was incredibly short. So I'm not sure which Joe we're going to get, hopefully the latter. I thought the same thing. Those offspeed pitches made Joe look worse than he did last yr. that's all Joe is likely to see though if he can't make the adjustments. And if he can't hit a breaking ball, the sox should be looking for someone to take his spot midseason

I think most of us believe Borchard should have a career in the majors, where he can hit for HR power. He'll probably always have a high strikeout total, a low OBP, and a low avg [between .250-.275 at best] though. [There are guys who strike out a lot and have a high OBP. But Joe hasn't ever done that, and there is no reason to expect his hitting eye to turn around] The question then becomes, does Joe fit with the Sox in 2005 or 2006, in the best case scenario [high HR's, high K's, low OBP and low AVG]? It certainly seems the Sox brain trust are going in the opposite direction. With Anderson almost ready [power, avg and OBP], and sweet swinging Sweeney [avg, OBP and Power to develop] almost there, I find it hard to see where Joe fits

QUOTE(JUGGERNAUT @ Mar 10, 2005 -> 04:14 PM) Try to imagine this scenario: Borchy hits 275, 100+RBI, 30+HR at Charlotte. As a late season call-up he puts up similar #'s with the Chi-Sox. What's his trade value worth then? I hope Sox fans will realize that all Borchy needs is to show more than glimmer of hope to other GM's that he can be the real deal & his stock will soar quickly. No GM in the league looks at him like they do other players. Those numbers in AAA would certainly drop in the bigs. Realistically, Joe B would be lucky to hit .250 in the bigs, if he hit .275 in AAA, and have an OBP hovering near .300. [A Jose Valentin comparison comes to mind] Even with those power numbers, Brian Anderson and Ryan Sweeney project to be better fits [esp, offensively with high OBP, good avg] than Joe B---given that Rowand, Pods and Dye are locked in for at least the next two yrs. You said yourself all Joe needs is to show a "glimmer of hope" [2 Hr's in spring?]. Joe has a good spring and he should have some value. Not quite what he could given your projection for 2005. But enough to get a decent player in return

I know Freddy Sanchez fractured his right ankle in 2003. And he only played in 44 games in AAA last yr, hitting .264/.326/.360. Yet prior to 2004, he avg'd .323/.385/.446 in the minors. If he could play decent defense, the Sox could use his RH bat off the bench. Or he could concentrate on his defense in AAA, and be ready in case of injury. Pitt. may be ready to cut ties with him, like the Sox seem set to do with Joe B. Getting a solid bat like his off the bench would be a decent move, esp. if the Sox could help Sanchez improve a little on defense. Tony Graf was never the best defensive guy. Yet he could always hit and do the little things. Sanchez sounds like he's got the makeup suited for the Sox. Here's Sanchez' BA Prospect Handbook writeup for 04: "A career .323 hitter in the minors, Sanchez sprays line drives to all fields and has a good understanding of the strike zone. He has good pop for a middle infielder and drove the ball better than ever in 2003. He also wins high marks for his enthusiasm, hustle and instincts. Sanchez has played a lot of SS, but his below avg arm makes him better suited for 2b. His ankle problem may hurt his speed and range, which were average to begin with. Sanchez will battle Bobby Hill...., for the starting job at 2b. He could go back to SS, particularly if Jack Wilson...doesn't improve offensively." BA's 2002 handbook also said Sanchez was a "gritty player who has soft hands on defense".

I could see a deal along the lines of Borchard and a bullpen arm like Matt Smith or Josh Fields for a young UTL guy from Pitt. like Freddy Sanchez. Bobby Hill likely wouldn't be traded, and Pitt also has Jose Castillo who can play SS and 2b. One of those guys should be available. Most likely Sanchez who's 27 and hasn't played much in the bigs. Sanchez came up as a SS but can also play 2b and 3b. He might not beat out Ozuna for the UTL infield spot. But Sanchez could stay in AAA and be insurance in case of injury/ ineffectiveness to one of the 3 IF spots. He's always hit in the minors.

QUOTE(JUGGERNAUT @ Mar 9, 2005 -> 06:14 PM) Who said anything about fine? I said adequate. Which is another way of saying a slight dropoff from the person he's replacing. It's been said that Harris is arguably the best pure athlete on the team. Guys like him usually make the best utility players. If not Harris then who? Let's here your options. Keep them real. The Sox don't have a few million to trade for Polanco. Right now, Valdez and Ozuna are better fits than Willie. But I think the sox should upgrade with a guy like Cintron or even a guy like Bill Hall from MILW. Both are also good RH bats off the bench.

Ozzie seems to really like Cotts in the bullpen. The better Neal does there, the less likely they'll need him to start. Unless something dramatic happens, Cotts likely won't be the 4th or 5th option to start games should the sox need a starter [behind BMac, Hermanson, Adkins]. Maybe next yr he'd be an option to start. But not this year. The only scenario I'd see Neal starting is if he was doing horrible in the sox pen, and had to be sent down to AAA. But that isn't likely

QUOTE(Texsox @ Mar 8, 2005 -> 11:59 PM) I'm a Harris fan and think he has the athleticism to play SS or 3b. I don't mind him getting 10-12 games at 3rd, another 15-20 at SS and 2nd. Hell Frank will probably get 4-6 1st base starts this season. If we can live with that, we can live with Willie at 3rd. I guess we'll see. I for one would be disappointed if the sox don't have someone in the UTL role who could play average to above avg defense at both 3B and SS

QUOTE(JUGGERNAUT @ Mar 8, 2005 -> 05:23 PM) There is nothing in Harris' past (ML + ml) that suggests that is likely to happen. If happens so what? You're not looking at the alternative. The alternative is giving a struggling Crede the ab or leaving him on. If you manage your team in fear of what could happen you are asking for a loss. You should manage your team in hope of what could happen. I think everyone would agree that replacing Crede in cl & late situations with Harris either at the plate or on the base pads increases the Sox chances of scoring a run. Likewise I think everyone could agree that those odds overshadow the possibility of Harris commiting an error when he takes the field. Harris' speed is not something that should be forgotten lightly. As for whether Harris can play 3B it all comes down to the throw. Uribe has proven to the Sox he can both field the position & make the throw. My understanding is that Harris' biggest weakness as a CF is his arm. So I'm not certain he can consistently make the throw. Let's not forget that we are debating this primarily because of Crede's past failure. Crede is young enough to where there should not be an overt need to spell him that often. Ramirez had 547 AB in 145G, Crede had 490AB in 144G. If Crede can finally produce consistently then the primary need to replace him would be to gain an edge in foot speed. Who better to serve that role than Harris? For close & late the ideal situation would be for Harris to take over for Crede. When you look at his CF & 2B #'s you come to the conclusion he should be able to adequately replace Crede at 3B. Crede is no where near a GG & we should stop thinking of him in that context. Again considering that Bal started him as a CF I have to believe he can make the throw. When you look at Harris in the context of a super-sub then you can ignore his pathetic #'s vs LH because as a manager you can control those matchups. A solid hitter vs RH, excellent foot speed, quality backup at 2B, & an adequate backup for CF, SS, & possibly 3B. I wouldn't be quick to trade him if I were KW. Harris has played one B game at SS and 0 at 3b. Yet you believe he could be a "super sub" who could play at least average defense at these spots? Absurd. The key is not that I would want to trade Willie. The key is getting a guy who could conceivably take over for Crede or Uribe [at the bare minimum] for a game or two without hurting the club with his defense. Yet the ideal situation is this same UTL player could take over on a full time basis if one of those two should get hurt. Harris isn't the answer for either situations

Just another example that explains how and why the Sox roster is filled with guys who have a chip on their shoulders. Most guys on the sox aren't given much credit for their baseball talent or are expected to do well this yr. Even if they have had success in recent yrs. Look at the key guys on the sox roster--Rowand, Uribe, Frank, PK, AJ, CArl, Dye, Pods, El Duque, Contreras, Marte, shingo--most experts predict a drop off. Most don't expect these guys to come close to their best years. Yet I don't think its us fans drinking the "kool-aid" when we expect that most of these guys should come closer to their best years and above avg yrs than their avg or worst yrs. Pods knows his limitations and his role as a leadoff guy. Dye is healthy. AJ is back in the AL. CArl is in shape and healthy. Rowand won't except being avg. Marte needs to be more aggressive. Frank just needs to be in the lineup. Most of these "experts" don't take the time to research guys on the sox. they look at last yrs numbers and expect more of the same [except with rowand and Uribe they expect them to do worse].