Jim Thome is a great hitter, but Cleveland was worried that his back wouldn't last more than 3 years. This is year 3 and Thome's out with a bad back. No thanks. Way too risky.

Jim Thome is a great hitter, but Cleveland was worried that his back wouldn't last more than 3 years.  This is year 3 and Thome's out with a bad back.  No thanks.  Way too risky.

Exactly. Philly would probably get out of that deal now if they could, but they won't be able to.

 

Realistically, it's Konerko, Millar, Overbay, Snow, Mientkiewicz, Durazo who are going to be the most likely options for us at 1B next season.

The problem with signing Konerko is that his value to other team's is worth much more than with the WSox.

 

He's struggling right now. His 5.65 RPG is good for 29th in the AL. He finished w a 6.69 RPG in 2004 (good for 18th). His last contract was based on a 6.30 RPG (good for 16th) in 2002.

 

So at worst he's a top 30 hitter & at best he's probably top 15. If he finishes 2005 in the top 20 then some team is going to offer him at least a 40M/5yr deal.

 

I think he is a KW favorite & I think he is a solid & influential clubhouse player but I'm not sure he's an Ozzie favorite. But how much does Konerko really add in that respect?

 

I've never read a quote suggesting Konerko helps players be better hitters or fielders. On the other hand I've read several quotes suggesting Thomas helps players hit better. The latest being Uribe. Thomas' absence in July in 2004 might explain why Uribe tanked that month & why he's struggling now. If Thomas on the 25 man roster means Uribe's a better hitter what's that worth?

 

Finally numbers wise Gload got it done in 2004. His 6.18 RPG in 234 AB was good for 8th in AL among bench players. The fact he's a LH bat only increases his value to the WSox.

At the game Tues. night vs. the LAAofA's

 

J.D. spent most of BP taking grounders at first. Don't know if they're just looking to get Pauly a day off, or if something is brewing.